Category: Auto News

Auto news – automobile industry news. Articles about all the latest car models and concepts. Breaking news, uncovered secrets.

  • MTM Audi S8 Talladega has 760 Horsepower to Show-Off With

    MTM-Audi-S8-Talladega-THUMBMTM Audi S8 Talladega is probably one of the last tunings we are to see from MTM in 2014. And for this reason it is powerful, imposing, and have these extremely aggressive and sporty looks. But when one hears it, he or she definitely gets it why we like this custom Audi so much. They eight cylinders have been boosted and now delivers 760 hp (559 kW) at 5950 rpm and maximum torque of 945 Nm (697 lb-ft) between 1700 and 5500 rpm. The torque is stable over the entire range and this huge outpouring of power is being applied to the road through all four wheels.

    The power unit is based on the RS6’s eight cylinder engine. In order to achieve more power, MTM tuners have touched the turbochargers, exhaust system and water cooling. The team also intervened in the gearbox software to set the shifting points at 7000 rpm.

    Speaking in numbers, these modifications result in a 0 to 100 km/h acceleration of 3.48 seconds, passing the 200 km/h mark in 10.51 seconds and reaching its top speed at 325 km/h Carbon and ceramic brakes on the front and rear axles is what stops the Talladega.

    MTM’s 240 hp of additional power comes with M-Cantronic and V-Cantronic including turbocharger, MTM 4-pipe stainless steel exhaust system after the turbocharger with flaps in two pipes, and an in-house manufactured F-Cantronic II used to lower the air-sprung chassis.

    There is also a set of 21′ Bimoto wheels, which were shod with 295/30 Michelin Pilot Super Sports. They perfectly complement the MTM aerodynamics kit that includes high carbon fiber content. Inside, we see a premium quality interior package that makes the atmosphere cozier.

    On 24th of March 1986, Audi unleashed an Audi 5000 CS Turbo on the Talladega Speedway in Alabama in pursuit of a record. The US model, (Europeans know it as Audi 200 Turbo), was driven by a 2.2 litre, 5-cylinder turbocharged engine with five valves per cylinder and power output of 650 hp (678 kW). The Audi averaged a speed of 332 km/h around the oval track and it made it through the longest straight at a top speed of 350 km/h.

    Source: MTM

  • Chevrolet Sail 3 is Intended for China Only

    Chevrolet Sail 3Chevrolet Sail 3, as well as Camaro RS Limited Edition and Corvette Stingray Coupe have just made their China debut. In addition, Buick is showcasing a customized Regal GS and Excelle XT. In total there are 32 GM vehicles on display in Shanghai. The third generation Sail is Chevy’s entry-level family car. The model was introduced 15 years ago, and since then it has been a driving force in this car segment. As a matter of fact, there have been nearly 1.4 million Sails sold across China. The car will go on sale nationwide by the end of this year.

    Sail 3 is built on Shanghai GM’s small car architecture and has fully adopted Chevrolet’s new design language. The exterior is relatively small, exuding youthful and dynamic feel. Sail 3 is 51 mm longer and 45 mm wider than its predecessor.

    The wheelbase has been extended by 35 mm. This of course indicates for a roomier cabin. The trunk space is 366 liters and there are also many user-friendly storage compartments.

    The front fascia includes wider dual-port grille, which is also sportier than in previous models. There are also visible the eagle eye-shaped headlights. At the back, the dual-C-element taillights provide unique touch to the rear.

    The interior of the third generation Sail features a dual-cockpit design. It also includes innovative flowing instrument panel, dual-mode sunroof and sculpted seats.

    The car is driven by a 1.5L DVVT or a 1.3L VVT engine. Each can be coupled with either manual or mechanical automatic transmission with start-stop function. The fuel consumption is rated as low as 5.3 L/100 km. As a result, Sail 3 has been listed in the National Energy-Saving and Eco-Friendly Vehicle Catalogue ahead of its market launch.

    Source: Chevrolet 

  • Nissan Reveals 2015 Juke Range US Pricing

    2015-nissan-juke-THUMB2015 Nissan Juke not only features a revised exterior but also can be customized with the special Juke Color Studio and thus made really unique. Its market debut, after it made North American premiere in L.A., is already a fact and below we have listed the detailed pricing. This jewel has kept its dimensions and aggressive stance as previous years, but offers a refreshed appearance due to its new projector beam headlights and LED front Signature Accent Lamps.

    Not forgetting the grille, which incorporates the new Nissan V-Motion look, as well as the robust trim beneath the bumper. The side rearview mirrors now feature integrated LED turn signal repeaters as a standard, while the redesigned back of the car includes more aggressiveform with LED accented boomerang taillights.

    In addition, there is also wide range of new standard features included in the 2015 Juke. Some of them include Nissan Intelligent Key with Push Button Start, RearView Monitor and NissanConnect with Mobile Apps, 5.0-inch color display, USB connection port for iPod interface, Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System, Streaming audio via Bluetooth®and Hands-free Text Messaging Assistant.

    Furthermore, there are three new exterior colors offered in the new model year:  Super Black, Solar Yellow and Cosmic Blue. These three were added to the already available six exterior colors.

    The engine standard on JUKE S, SV, SL and NISMO trims is the second-generation 1.6-liter Direct Injection Gasoline (DIG) Turbo, 16-valve DOHC aluminum-alloy inline 4-cylinder engine. It produces 188 horsepower (138 kW) and 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) of torque.

    2015 Nissan JUKE US Pricing:

    Model/Transmission
    JUKE S Xtronic FWD $20,250 USD
    JUKE SV Xtronic FWD $22,300 USD
    JUKE SL Xtronic FWD $25,240 USD
    JUKE NISMO MT FWD $24,830 USD
    JUKE NISMO RS MT FWD $28,020 USD
    JUKE S Xtronic AWD $22,100 USD
    JUKE SV Xtronic AWD $24,150 USD
    JUKE SL Xtronic AWD $26,940 USD
    JUKE NISMO Xtronic AWD $27,230 USD
    JUKE NISMO RS Xtronic AWD $30,020 USD

    Source: Nissan

  • Updated 2015 Lexus RC F Delivers Performance For All

    Lexus-RC-F-THUMB2015 Lexus RC F made its global premiere at NAIAS event in the beginning of the year. Now the coupe is ready for launch before the end of the year in the United Kingdom with customer deliveries from January 2015. This is the most powerful production V8 coupe the company has ever produced. The car features contemporary styling combined with thoroughbred performance, handling and advanced new technologies. In the UK this Lexus will be launched in two versions RC F and the RC F Carbon.

    If you have ever wondered what’s the meaning of the “F” designation in car’s name, well it denotes Fuji Speedway, the Japanese track where Lexus carries out much of its high-speed product testing. The key ingredient for this performance is the 5.0-litre V8 engine. It produces 471 hp (346 kW) and 530 Nm (390 lb-ft) of torque.

    The unit is coupled with a significantly upgraded eight-speed Sports Direct Shift transmission that gives the driver a choice of five operating modes, from fuel-efficient Eco to full-blooded Sport S+. 2015 RC F covers the 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) sprint in 4.5 seconds and can reach a top speed of 168 mph.

    The RC F also received a revision in terms of Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management system due to the addition of the new Sport and Expert settings. They allow the driver safely exploit the car’s full performance capabilities.

    In addition, the coupe has been engineered to offer exceptional grip, agility and high-speed stability with chassis, brakes, steering and suspension. Precisely, the handling features active rear wing and Torque Vectoring Differential.

    Many of the body elements are made of carbon fiber for improved lightweight. We should also note the clever instrumentation that automatically changes display with different driving modes and a stirring engine note, project into the cabin through an Active Sound Control system.

    Throughout the United Kingdom, 2015 Lexus RC F will be offered in two versions: RC F with a starting price of £59,995, and the RC F Carbon – with a price tag beginning at £67,995.

    Source: Lexus 

  • 2015 Nissan Murano Goes on Sale

    2015-Nissan-Murano-THUMB2015 Nissan Murano which was revealed in April at the New York Auto Show and was also on display in L.A., will make its market debut across the United States at 5th of December. The new third-generation crossover has new futuristic design and concept car-like like styling, premium interior and advanced, purposeful technology. The model is offered in four trim variants: S, SV, SL and Platinum. They are all offered with a choice of front- or Intuitive all-wheel drive.

    Nissan is offering only three option packages for the Murano: Navigation Package (S), Premium Package (SV) and Tech Package (SL, Premium). No matter the trim, every Murano is equipped with the 3.5-liter DOHC V6 engine coupled with an advanced Xtronic transmission.

    The engine is rated at 260 horsepower (191 kW) and 325 Nm (240 lb-ft) of torque. In terms of exterior, the future customers will enjoy the V-motion front end, LED boomerang lights and the unique “floating” roof.

    Inside, they will be engaging in social lounge feel through features such as the refined instrument panel, low center console, advanced Zero Gravity front and outboard rear seating. The atmosphere is airy and is created by the large windows and oversized Power Panoramic Moonroof.

    Technology convenience is ensured by the NissanConnectSM with Navigation and Mobile Apps, 8-inch color display with multi-touch control, Around View Monitor and the eight-way power driver’s seat with power lumbar support as well as other features.

    2015 Nissan Murano US Pricing:

    Murano S FWD $29,560 USD
    Murano SV FWD $32,620 USD
    Murano SL FWD $36,950 USD
    Murano Platinum FWD $39,000 USD
    Murano S AWD $31,160 USD
    Murano SV AWD $34,220 USD
    Murano SL AWD $38,550 USD
    Murano Platinum AWD $40,600 USD

    Source: Nissan 

  • B&B Automobiltechnik Improves the Audi TT 8S 2.0 TFSI

    Despite the fact that the third generation of the iconic Audi TT has not been around the sales rooms for too long, the performance professionals of B&B Automobiltechnik from Siegen are delivering a tuning portfolio for the progressive Audi TT vehicle.

    Following several progression-steps, the B&B provides the Audi TT 2.0 TFSI with a power-boost from 230 PS to 360 PS. The initial 370 Nm of torque jumps to the very impressive 500 Nm of peak torque. The acceleration time is ready to score some mind-blowing rates too for the car can speed up from 0 to 100 in the screaming 4.8 seconds. What is more, the 0-200-km/h-value is improved from 24.3 to 17.4 seconds. With a maximum speed increased from 250 km/h to 276 km/h, the tuned Audi TT is able to rock your world!

    The B&B motor programme for the Audi TT 8S is firstly marked by the stage 1K (Comfort, 1,198 Euro). It increases the power output of the 2.0 liters four-piston turbo motor to 300 PS and 420 Nm. Next, the TT gains even better dynamic highlights with the B&B-stage 1S (Sport, 1,698 Euro) which mobilizes the power to 310 PS and 435 Nm.

    326 PS and 450 Nm are possible in B&B-stage 2 (3,950 Euro) by installation of an enlarged and cross-section optimized B&B-special exhaust tube, comprised of sport catalyser and increased charge pressure by approx. 0.25 bar with adjustment of the electronic injection parameters.

    Finally, stage 3 includes the currently developed performance pack of the B&B programme for the new Audi TT 8S 2.0 TFSI (9,950 Euro) at 360 PS and 500 Nm. This power package includes B&B special turbo charger with in-house charging air cooler, brand-new air intake system and a B&B sport exhaust system with exclusive exhaust pre-tube and racing sports catalyser.

    The tuner B&B offers a sports spring set (from 298 Euro upwards) to lower the car body by approx. 30 mm at the FA and by approx. 25 mm at the RA, or, as another option, a B&B-threaded chassis for the new Audi TT. The driving dynamics are perfected and finalized with weight-optimised rims in the 10×20 inch format with tyres sized 265/30R20.

    Source: XMedia-Group

  • Sporty BRABUS Refinments for the C-Class with AMG Line

    The continuous and tireless work by BRABUS has resulted in some very impressive improvements for Mercedes-Benz C-Class with AMG Line. This time around, the tuning company offers even better sporty and dynamic bodywork upgrades which propel the C-Class models further in their segment.

    It is a well-known fact that the most significant and exclusive engine tuning program for Mercedes-Benz automobiles is offered by BRABUS. Thus, BRABUS PowerXtra B18.2 performance kit is available for the C 180 model which powers it with an additional15 kW / 21 horsepower (20 bhp). The plug-and-play module is adjusted to the engine electronics, and boosts power output from 156 HP (115 kW) to 177 HP (130 kW). The maximum torque is increased from the initial 250 to the impressive 300 Nm (184 to 221 lb-ft). The car accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 8.4 seconds while top speed is boosted to 230 km/h (143 mph).

    The C 200 model is powered by BRABUS PowerXtra B20.2 performance kit. As a result, the four-cylinder turbo engine pumps out a maximum power output of 225 HP (165 kW) and a peak torque of 330 Nm (243 lb-ft). With BRABUS engine tuning the C 200 speeds up from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph) in only 7.0 seconds, accomplishing a top speed of 242 km/h (150 mph).

    Another improvement on the C-Class arrives with the BRABUS Monoblock wheels which complement the sensational BRABUS look of Mercedes-Benz. The wheels can be mounted on the C-Class in various designs and with diameters of 18, 19 or 20 inches. The largest safety-certified tire/wheel combination is comprised of BRABUS Monoblock F or R alloys of sizes 8.5Jx20 at the front and 9.5Jx20 on the rear axle. The high-performance tires of sizes 225/35 ZR 20 and 255/30 ZR 20 are available by BRABUS technology partners Continental, Pirelli and YOKOHAMA.

    The complete BRABUS appearance of the C-Class is also achieved thanks to the specifically styled BRABUS front spoiler attaches to the lower part of the AMG Line bumper which highlight the sporty look of the sedans. In addition, all vehicles in this range can be equipped with the BRABUS rear spoiler. The diffuser-look rear bumper insert is another enhancement which provides the perfect backdrop for the four chrome-plated tailpipes of the BRABUS sports exhaust system.

    Finally, the tuner provides a number of refinements for the interior of the new Mercedes C-Class. Buyers can enjoy a variety of custom accessories such as aluminum pedals and excellent velour floor mats with BRABUS logo, as well as other exceptional BRABUS breathable leather and Alcantara interior components.

    Source: BRABUS

  • 2015 Toyota Corolla RZ and its “Dark Side”

    The Toyota Corolla RZ special edition has launched in Australia, demonstrating certain darkness, edginess and value-added specifications.

    The Corolla RZ is powered by 1.8-litre four-cylinder petrol engine that is known from the rest of the line-up. It generates 138 hp (103 kW) and 173 Nm (127 lb-ft.) of maximum torque. The engine is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox or a MultiDrive S-CVT automatic transmission which offers a sequential seven-speed Sport mode.

    Perhaps the most striking part about the exterior of the new Toyota is the set of the racy 16-inch black gloss alloy wheels which perfectly suit the black caps that bear the Toyota emblem. Other enhancements include lower grille edge, lower rear bumper, and the panel beneath the tailgate glass all of which complete the sporty look of the car.

    The “dark side” of 2015 Toyota Corolla RZ  is revealed through an intensive choice of the black color which is the color chosen for the front bumper mouldings and the leading edge at the bottom of the trapezoidal lower grille. Still, there are six exterior colors available – Wildfire, Inferno, Tidal Blue, Crystal Pearl, Silver Pearl and Positano Bronze.

    The interior is equipped with “RZ” branded mats for the driver and front passenger. But this is not all of course. The cabin benefits from Corolla hatch regulars including six-speaker audio, cruise control, Bluetooth®^connectivity, air-conditioning and seatbelt warning alarm for all five seats. There is also a satellite navigation which is accessible via 6.1-inch touch-screen display.

    The special edition small car joins the Camry RZ, thus becoming the second RZ in Toyota Australia’s line-up.

    Corolla RZ prices
    (including optional paint)
    Manual – $22,290
    CVT auto – $24,540

    Source: Toyota

  • DMC Strikes Again with the New Huracan AFFARI

    DMC tuning company has been actively involved in tuning the beasts produced by Lamborghini for many years now. Its strong passion for renewing and improving a certain model results in outlining enhanced super-cars which really can blow your mind. DMC final products can be seen as a piece of art all of which stand out with their individuality and assertiveness and just point at themselves saying: “Look at us and beat us if you can!”

    When it comes to Lamborghini vehicles, DMC really knows how to break in and subordinate this wild animal. Now the tuning company turns out to be the first to show a complete body kit, wheels and performance package for the brand new Huracan Affari.

    The new styling kit created by DMC offers a phenomenal front fascia which is comprised of 2 spoiler lips and unique wide body extensions with aero-swords. The integrated side skirt diffusers have the role to deliver better overall aerodynamics which are supported by the brand-new rear diffusor. The biggest and most notable enhancement of the package is the new rear wing spoiler that is placed on a re-engineered deck lid. The wing can be set to three different angles. By doing this, it provides the driver with a number of custom settings which vary from hard to soft. All of the components are made of carbon fiber.

    The Green Goblin, uh, I mean the new DMC Lamborghini Huracan Affari has a boosted power of 630 PS due to the optimized engine electronics, an electronic load pressure control system and a brand new Exhaust system.

    The tuner gives this Lamborghini new forged alloy wheels which stabilize and secure the car on the road. Precisely, the DMC rims come in a 20″/21″ setup. The front receives a technical set up of 20×8,5J while the rear showcases specs of 21x12J. Finally, DMC is going to use a 245/30r20 / 325/25r21 tire combination with a softer P-Zero application available too.

    The finishing touch is the refined interior which is polished with Italian fine leather and carbon fiber materials.

    Source: DMC

  • Vorsteiner GTRS4 Wide Body for the BMW M4

    Vorsteiner always comes with one key goal – to create a design which will really become the quintessential design icon, representing the next-generation ultimate driving machine. The tuning company makes this possible by crafting a cutting-edge design that is so revolutionary and so innovative that succeeds in establishing new benchmarks. BMW has always had a central position in the heart of the tuner. With the new BMW M4 GTRS4 Vorsteiner once again has successfully tried to demonstrate an absolute idol among BMW automobiles which is regarded as representative symbol of audacity, craftsmanship and supremacy.

    With the GTRS4 Vorsteiner marks and celebrates its 10 year anniversary. This BMW is a full lightweight carbon composite wide body conversion that is originally based on the 2015 BMW M4 coupe.

    The team of specialists has worked to ensure that the improved wider fenders and wheels are functional and serve the best purpose possible. Vorsteiner also crafted air ducts for optimal cooling towards the front brakes, while focusing on aerodynamic ventilation for the inbound air to exit. The front fenders have a total span of 4 inches while the rear quarter panels is 7 inches wider than its previous form. The BMW M4 GTRS4 benefits from 3-Piece Forged wheels in 20×10.5J and 20×13.5J which are designed to match the 275 and 345 width tires.

    The Special Edition GTRS4 Package Includes:

    • Carbon Fiber Front Bumper with an Integrated Front Splitter Element
    • Carbon Fiber Wide Front Fenders with Ventilation (2 inches wider each side)
    • Carbon Fiber Aero Side Blade Elements
    • Carbon Fiber Wide Rear Fenders (3.5 inches wider each side)
    • Carbon Fiber Rear Bumper with an Integrated Rear Diffuser Element
    • Vorsteiner 90mm Quad Exhaust Tip Finishers (Options: Brushed | Diamond Black)
    • Vorsteiner Embroidered Colored Floor & Trunk Mat Set • Vorsteiner Chrome Trunk Badging 
    • GTRS4 Forged 3-Piece Wheels, 20×10.5J | 20×13.5J in Gloss Brushed Shadow

    Technology Partners:

    • Pirelli Tires
    • KW Suspension
    • Brembo | Race Technologies
    • ESS Tuning
    • KI Studios
    • Gold & Co. London

    Source: Vorsteiner

  • Who Has Inspired Kia for the Sorento X-Men Car?

    Kia-Sorento-X-Men-THUMBAs Kia’s ambassador Rafael Nadal is to take an unusual role: he will unveil the Kia Sorento X-Men inspired car at next year’s Australian Open. The striking project was created in collaboration with Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment and should undoubtedly exite all “X-Man” movie series enthusiasts, since they have to guess the character behind Kia’s latest model on the official Kia Facebook page.

    The visitors of the page can guess from four iconic characters: Storm, Wolverine, Mystique and Magneto. Those who have answered correctly will be entered into a prize draw to win a DVD copy of “X-Men: Days of Future Past”. What is your guess?

    In the middle of December, Kia will release a video showing how Rafael Nadal teams up with the X-Men and taking on the Sentinels. If you have no clue and haven’t watched the movie, the latter are robotic antagonists.

    They will be threatening the Australian Open and in order to save the first Grand Slam tournament of the year, the X-Men and Nadal will use the ‘Kia X-Car’, which will be leading the attack against the Sentinels.

    This special vehicle will be on show at Melbourne Park throughout the tournament. The next Australian Open takes place from 19 January to 1 February 2015. The car will then be showcased in various international motor shows for the fans.

    2016 Kia Sorento was earlier this year. The car combines exquisite style, practicality and technology. The MY2016 model is quieter and more refined and features higher quality interior, smoother ride and handling, as well as a range of new technologies.

    The car is already on sale in Korea, and will go on sale in North American market in early 2015.

    Source: Kia

  • 2015 Nissan Juke Gets More Personal with Juke Color Studio

    JUKE-Color-Studio-THUMBNext to the debut of 2015 Nissan Juke at the L.A. Auto Show, the Japanese company is also introducing the Juke Color Studio. This is a unique program that allows thousands of ways to customize the visual appearance of the car. In short: form this month, Nissan is bringing a bold new way for Juke owners to create a truly personalized look and feel through this customization program. How this creative studio works?

    It is very simple. There are 12 Genuine Nissan accessory items offered in a range of eight colors: Red, Yellow, Orange, Electric Blue, Black Purple, White, Matte Black and Carbon-fiber Look. The Piano Black is available for interior inserts. To go further into details, the parts include front and rear bumper accents, headlight trim rings, side mirror caps, door handle covers, side door sills, rear roof spoiler, hatch handle finishers, lower hatch accent, interior inserts, floor mats, 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels and center caps.

    This abundant range of options will allow customers to mix and match different color combinations. To make the Color Studio even easier, Nissan has created a dedicated website. It offers a full 360-degree view of the new 2015 Juke with all the available colors and combinations of parts.

    2015 Nissan Juke is now stronger with revised front and rear fascias, new projector headlights with LED Signature Accents and three new exterior colors. The interior improvements feature Nissan Intelligent Key with Push Button Start, RearView Monitor and NissanConnectSM with Mobile Apps.

    Not to mention the 5.0-inch color display, USB connection port for iPod interface and other compatible devices, Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System, Streaming audio via Bluetooth and Hands-free Text Messaging Assistant. There are five trim versions of the car: S, SV, SL and two special Nismo editions: Juke Nismo and Juke Nismo RS. Each of them is available in front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. 

    Source: Nissan