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Bonhams to show ultra-rare Ferrari 250 GTO

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The UK auction house Bonhams will preview an example of perhaps the most famous and sought-after classic race car ever – the 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO. The event will take place at the Monterey Pre-Reunion on August 9 and August 10. The classic race car, of which only 39 were constructed, will be shown in the Bonhams hospitality area at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca where the historic car racing is taking place.

The Ferrari in question carries the chassis number 3851GT and comes from the Maranello Rosso Collection and has been owned by one family for 49 years. Bonhams will sell the car and nine other Ferraris from the collection at its Bonhams Quail Lodge Auction on August 14.

“Collectors around the world are eagerly awaiting auction day to see what the market will command for such a historically significant and rarely available automobile,” said Mark Osborne, head of motoring for Bonhams in the U.S. “There is no reserve on this car, meaning that it will be sold to the highest bidder regardless of what that bid is. And what better way to showcase it than in front of racers and collectors who are at the Monterey Pre-Reunion.”

The Ferrari in question is the 19^th Ferrari GTO to be completed but given that two of the preceding examples are 330 GTOs with 4-litre engines instead of the GT-homologated 3-litre “250” units this Ferrari may be regarded as the 17^th Ferrari 250 GTO. It was collected by its first owner, the experienced and rugged 34-year-old French privateer Jo Schlesser, who immediately entered it in the 1962 Tour de France Automobile, with co-driver French skiing champion Henri Oreiller. The duo covered 3418 miles and finished second overall.

The Monterey Pre-Reunion is the first event of the Monterey Classic Car Week that also includes the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion (August 14-17), Quail Motorsports Gathering (August 15) and the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance (August 17). Admission to the Monterey Pre-Reunion on August 9 and August 10 costs USD 20 at the paddock entrance of Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca.

Source: Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca

August 4, 2014

Hyundai Motor describes new i20 model

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The Korean automaker Hyundai Motor has unveiled the first design pictures of the upcoming new i20 model. According to the company the new version of Hyundai’s popular B-segment model comes with the brand’s “Fluidic Sculpture 2.0” design philosophy and sports a sophisticated and distinctive design.

The long hood and generous shape create a powerful stance for New Generation i20. The body sides are sculpted yet the overall architecture is clear and simple, with the cabin sitting cleanly on the body. In profile, the dark treatment of the C-pillar visually accentuates the car’s length.

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The front presents a bold new interpretation of the well-established Hyundai hexagonal grille and there’s a new thin horizontal strip that connects the headlamps. At the back, the wrap-around rear window and unique treatment for the lamp clusters combine with the car’s hatchback proportions to create a distinctive design.

The new i20 has been designed at the Hyundai design center, located in Rüsselsheim, Germany. The car will debut at the 2014 Mondial de l’Automobile, which will be held in October 2014 in Paris, France.

Source: Hyundai

August 4, 2014

2014 Mitsubishi Lancer named “Top Safety Pick”

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Owners of the 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer compact sports sedan have a new reason to be happy with their cars – the US Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has named the car “Top Safety Pick”. The Ralliart and Evolution models are not covered by this award, though.

To name the 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer compact sports sedan “Top Safety Pick”, the IIHS used a total of twelve “small cars” for the so-called small overlap front crash test that has 25 per cent of the vehicle’s frontal area on the driver’s side impact a barrier at 40 mph (64 km/h). Introduced in 2012, the small overlap front crash test “replicates what happens when the front corner of a vehicle collides with another vehicle or an object such as a tree or utility pole,” according to the IIHS. Half of the vehicles evaluated achieved non-passing grades of “marginal” or “poor”; the IIHS requires that a vehicle earn a grade of “good” or “acceptable” to pass the test.

“It is great to see our very popular Mitsubishi Lancer once again named as a “Top Safety Pick” by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety,” said Don Swearingen, Executive Vice President of MMNA. “Lancer is a versatile compact sports sedan that has an exceptional degree of safety, excellent fuel economy, sporty performance and plentiful standard features all at price to fit almost any budget.”

What’s even better for the Mitsubishi brand and people who consider buying a Mitsubishi Lancer compact sports sedan is that the “Top Safety Pick” designation is applicable to the 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer compact sports sedan. The new car improves on previous models by including heated side view mirrors with turn indicators (standard on all models); an advanced next-generation continuously-variable transmission (CVT) that mimics the operation of a precision 7-speed transmission (standard on SE AWC model and available on other versions); and expanded new standard features including redesigned 16-inch two-tone alloy wheels, FUSE Hands-Free Link System with USB port, high contrast meters with color multi-information display, chrome interior door handles, soft-touch upper door trim, 6-speaker audio system, fog lights, and Sport front fascia with color-keyed center bumper (SE AWC model). New available content packages for the 2015 Lancer include a feature-rich Value Package (ES model) and Sun and Sound Package (GT model).

You can have the 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer in four different models – the Lancer ES comes with loads of features and sells for USD 17 195 (fuel economy of up to 34 mpg/6.92 liters per 100 km); the Lancer SE AWC comes with a standard all-wheel control all-wheel drive system (USD 20 995); the luxurious Lancer GT sells for USD 20 595, while the turbocharged Lancer Ralliart with a sure-footed Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system and an available rapid-fire 6-speed Twin-Clutch Sportronic Shift Transmission sells for USD 29 495.

Source: Mitsubishi Motors North America

August 4, 2014

2015 Honda Odyssey – US Price $28,975

2015 Honda Odyssey is now available on the market with a starting Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $28,975. The MPV was the top selling minivan with individual (retail) car buyers in the U.S. in 2013 and in the first five months of 2014. The study based on new-vehicle registration statistics from IHS Automotive.

2015 Odyssey comes with a number of upgrades including the acclaimed in-vehicle vacuum cleaner, the HondaVAC^™, featured on the Odyssey Touring Elite. Other upgrades designed to meet the needs of active families included the addition of a standard 6-speed automatic transmission resulting in class-leading EPA fuel-economy ratings, enhanced safety equipment and connectivity features.

The engine range includes a 3.5 liter V6 – 248HP (182 kW) at 5,700RPM and 338Nm (250 lb-ft) at 4,800RPM. The EPA fuel-economy ratings are 19 mpg US in city and 28 mpg US in highway.

There are five trim levels – LX, EX, EX-L, Touring and Touring Elite. A keyless entry system with push button start on EX, EX-L, Touring and Touring Elite allows the driver to approach the vehicle, open the door and start the engine – all without touching a key.

The interior features high-grade meter illumination and interior lighting, chrome-trimmed instrument dials and door handles, an available 7” touch-screen, and an ideally positioned DVD player for the available Rear Entertainment System.

TRIM	MSRP¹	EPA MPG³ (city/highway/combined)
Odyssey LX	$28,975	19/28/22
Odyssey EX	$32,275	19/28/22
Odyssey EX-L	$35,775	19/28/22
Odyssey EX-L with RES	$37,375	19/28/22
Odyssey EX-L with Navi	$37,775	19/28/22
Odyssey Touring	$42,030	19/28/22
Odyssey Touring Elite	$44,600	19/28/22

Source: Honda

August 4, 2014

Acura TLX GT Race Car

Acura Motorsports has unveiled the new 2015 Acura TLX GT Race Car in Pirelli World Challenge competition. It held at American Honda’s “home” circuit, the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, in the hands of RealTime Racing owner/driver Peter Cunningham.

Cunningham has driven the Acura in a pair of Pirelli World Challenge events during a doubleheader race weekend. The Pirelli World Challenge series supports with the Honda Indy 200 Verizon IndyCar Series weekend at Mid-Ohio.

“We’re excited to debut the Acura TLX GT race car in front of our ‘hometown’ audience of associates from the many Honda facilities in central Ohio,” commented Art St. Cyr, President of Honda Performance Development and Vice President, Auto Operations, American Honda.

“The competition in the Pirelli World Challenge is fierce, including many of the luxury makes the TLX will compete with on the sales floor. Acura has never shied away from a challenge. Instead, we seek it out, both on-track and in the marketplace.”, he added.

Developed from the production Acura TLX by HPD and RealTime Racing, the Acura TLX GT comes with HPD chassis and aerodynamic performance parts approved for Pirelli World Challenge competition. The race car is powered by a direct-injected, twin-turbocharged V6 engine, developed by HPD from the production TLX. The TLX GT Race Car also has all-wheel drive, as found in Acura’s SH-AWD system.

Source: Acura

August 4, 2014

Skoda Extends Monte Carlo Line-up

Skoda has unveiled an extended line-up of Monte Carlo Special Editions. Due to high customer demands, the automaker will include Citigo Monte Carlo, Yeti Monte Carlo, Rapid Spaceback Monte Carlo, which are expected to hit the market in autumn 2014.

The small Citigo special edition model comes with new body graphics, some black exterior accents and a set of 15” alloy wheels fitted with corresponding tires. There are also tinted windows and a sport-tuned suspension reducing the ride height by 15 mm.

The interior boasts a leather sports steering wheel and a black roof liner. A set of new Monte Carlo seat covers and special trim elements are also available. Last, but not least are the two-tone floor mats.

The Yeti Monte Carlo boasts bi-xenon headlights, modified front and rear bumpers and 17” alloy wheels. There are also sport seats, stainless steel pedals and Monte Carlo trim elements. The special edition Yeti is based on the Ambition trim level and is available with three petrol and three diesel engines.

The Rapid Monte Carlo is coming with similar upgrades to the Citigo.

Source: Skoda

August 4, 2014

2015 Audi Q3 – US Price $32,500

Audi US has announced the pricing of the small-crossover Q3. The entry-level model Premium Plus with FWD is priced from $32,500 and the top-of-range Prestige Quattro is $38,500. The stylish Q3 comes with a rich standard equipment offering good value for money. It also offers an excellent balance of agility and functionality.

The engine range includes a 2.0 liter four-cylinder TFSI with 6-speed Tip-Tronic transmission – 211HP (155 kW) at 5,000RPM and 300Nm (222 lb-ft) of torque at just 1,800RPM. 0-100 km/h in 6.9 seconds and a top speed of 230 km/h (144 mph). It is able to cover 100 km with just 6.4 liters (on highway) – 36.8 mpg US or 10.2 liters (city cycle) – 23.0 mpg US. The curb weight is 1,640 kg (3,620 lbs).

The exterior of the 2015 Q3 boasts a low roof line and wraparound tailgate, along with Audi xenon plus and LED daytime running headlamps as well as LED taillights standard. The optional Sport package which includes sport seats, shift paddles and Audi drive select adds to the dynamic character of the Q3.

The interior features 60/40 split folding rear seats that make 48.2 cu-ft of cargo volume when folded down. Standard dual-zone automatic climate control, available power tailgate and interior LED lighting round out the interior. The Audi advanced key provides keyless access as well as keyless start/stop function.

As an options is available MMI Navigation plus with voice control and a 7.0“ display. The MMI Navigation Plus features the award-winning Audi connect infotainment system (included in Prestige model), which includes in-vehicle Wi-Fi connectivity for up to eight wireless devices for passengers. A 14-speaker, 465 WATT Bose Surround Sound System is also part of the Prestige model offering to satisfy audiophile needs.

Audi Q3 MSRP* excluding transportation, taxes, title:

Audi Q3 Premium Plus, FWD: $32,500
Audi Q3 Premium Plus, quattro: $34,600
Audi Q3 Prestige, FWD: $36,400
Audi Q3 Prestige, quattro $38,500

*transportation charge is $925

Source: Audi

August 1, 2014

Vorsteiner Shows-Off With Obsidian Black Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG

This Obsidian Black Vorsteiner Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG looks fantastic, and this is clearly visible in the latest photoshoot which the Californian tuners have done. This new project includes a lot of carbon fiber aerodynamic components which are from company’s program for the CLS63. In addition, Vorsteiner gave this vehicle a set of 21” 3-piece forged wheels, which were fitted specifically for the W218 platform.

Although the specialists did not do anything on the powertrain of the Mercedes, it is still impressive and shows amazing figures. To be more precise, this Obsidian Black CLS63 AMG is driven by a 5.5 liter bi-turbo V8 engine, which produces 557 horsepower (410 kW) at 5,500RPM and 720 Nm (533 lb-ft) of torque at 1,750RPM. It can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.7 seconds, but we suppose that after the addition of aero components, this number has decreased.

The power is transmitted onto the road via AMG Speedshift MCT seven-speed sports transmission, which offers four modes of driving: “C”, which stands for controlled efficiency, “S” – for sport, “S+” – for sport plus and “M” – for manual). Also included here are the automatic double-declutching function for downshifting and the Race Start function.

But to go back to the project, as you can see, this stunningly beautiful Mercedes has some new exterior elements it can show-off with. These are the included aero components made of Vorsteiner’s Pre-Preg carbon fiber. In details, they are the front spoiler, rear diffuser, and decklid spoiler. The result is that they deliver the signature for the tuning company graceful aggression.

The Obsidian Black Vorsteiner CLS63 AMG of course runs on custom wheels, which are a one-off three-piece variation of our Sport Challenge VSC-103 series. They have gloss brushed shadow centers as well as matte black reverse lip. The dimensions of the wheels are as following: at the front they are in the size of 21×9 inches, while at the rear – 21×11 inches.

At last, to complete the project, Vorsteiner had to add tyres in the appropriate dimension. The chosen rubbers are Pirelli P Zero and they measure at the front 255/30/21 and at the rear – 295/25/21.

Source: Vorsteiner

August 1, 2014

Citroen DS3 Cabrio DStyle by Benefit Special Edition – Price £18,745

Citroen and Benefit Cosmetics has released another special edition model. This time based on the DS3 Cabrio Dstyle VTi 120 coming with a number of nice upgrades. The limited edition model is already available on the market with pricing starting from £18,745.

The exterior boasts a Polar White paint finish, with a black fabric roof and Fuchsia Pink touches for the door mirrors and wheel centre caps. There is also a “Gabbi’s Head” logo on the “Shark Fin” B-Pillars and a Benefit badge on the rear, also in Fuchsia Pink.

Other highlights include a set of 17” Bellone black alloy wheels, automatic digital air conditioning, automatic illumination of headlamps, automatic rain sensitive wipers, electrically heated and folding door mirrors, electrochrome rear view mirror, interior mood lighting and a front central armrest.

The interior features “Stay Flawless” theme coming with bespoke black velour floor mats with Fuchsia edging and an embroidered Fuchsia Benefit logo. The dashboard, air vent surrounds and gear stick cap are finished in gloss white trim, with Benefit’s trademark ‘Stay Flawless’ black and white polka dot design on the upper part of the dashboard. The key fob also features the ‘Gabbi’s head’ logo, with a Fuchsia Pink insert.

Source: Citroen

August 1, 2014

MTM Squeezes Extra 60 HP From Audi S3 2.0 TFSI quattro

MTM tuning company is mainly famous with the power enhancements that it makes. Being German based, MTM is favoring mostly locally created vehicles. In fact, the philosophy of the tuners is not to leave a single car exiting their performance centre without being sportier and superior. Such is the case with its latest project which involves the Audi S3 2.0 TFSI quattro, be it a Cabriolet, Saloon or Sportback. The brand new 2.0-liter TFSI engine hidden under the aluminum hood of the Audi includes direct and indirect injection, clever thermal management and exhaust manifold integration.

The standard figures of the powertrain are 296 hp (218 kW) at 5,500 rpm and torque of 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) starting at 1,800 rpm. The unit is coupled with a six-speed manual gearbox. The S3 Saloon is capable of reaching the 100 km/h from standstill in 4.9 second. The MTM mechanics tweaked the engine and now it responds powerfully to the new engine management system.

Precisely the new numbers speak for themselves: the output has been raised up to 360 hp (265 kW), while the torque – up to 450 Nm (332 lb-ft). The result is a decrease in 0-100 km/h time sprint, which MTM unfortunately did not disclose. The top speed was increased up to 250 km/h.

Next, MTM added to the S3 new four-pipe stainless steel exhaust system that delivers sonorous sound. In addition, to decelerate the vehicle appropriately from 250 km/h, MTM installed brake system measuring 380×34 mm on the front axle.

There are several options of the wheels and rims for the S3: Nardo edition rims or Bimoto wheels. The dimensions are also selectable, starting from 8×18 inches to 9×20 inches. The customizations specialists have also considered MTM performance suspensions, which ensure sporty superior swagger. The adjustable coilover suspension systems included were developed in collaboration with the professionals at KW.

Source: MTM

August 1, 2014

Mercedes-Benz S-Class Pullman [leak images]

Telegraaf has published several leak images of the all-new Mercedes-Benz S-Class Pullman. The super-luxurious limousine will be the top-of-range model and will obviously substitute the famous Maybach models. The model dates from February 2013, when the German manufacturer has registered the drawings in the United States Patent and Trademark Office.

The Pullman model is practically a stretched S-Class with an overall length of whopping 6.4 meters (252“), which is longer than the large Maybach 62 (6.2 meters). The new Mercedes-Benz limousine will have a 2+2+2 seating arrangement with the four rear seats facing each other. They will be separated from the front ones by a privacy glass.

Of course, an armored version is also planned. It will carry presidents and prime-ministers as well as wealthy businessmen. The armored Pullman will be at least 5,300 kg (11,684 lbs). As you may suggest, the upcoming armored Mercedes-Benz S-Class Pullman will have a price tag of $1,270,000.

The all-new S-Class Pullman will be introduced sometime in 2015. Mercedes-Benz is also planning an extra-long wheelbase in the face of S-Class Maybach, but this is not official. Other interesting model which can face production is an S-Class Cabriolet based on the recently unveiled S-Class Coupe.

Stay tuned for more!

August 1, 2014

Best-Tuning BMW 4-Series 435i xDrive

Best-Tuning has announced their latest project based on BMW 4-Series 435i xDrive. The sports coupe comes with styling and performance upgrades as well. The ride height is lowered and the Beamer has received new set of enormous wheels.

The new wheels are provided by Schmidt Revolution – 8.5J x 20“ at the front fitted with 235/30 R20 and 10J x 20“ with 275/25 R20 tires on the rear axle. The complete set starts from €2,600 as the price varies depending on tire choice.

The stance is further improved by KW coilovers with pricing starting from €1,100 depending on the variant from 1 to 3. The new suspension improves not only the handling, but the comfort as well, because it offers a number of settings.

The performance package boosts the 3.0 liter Twinpower-turbocharged petrol engine to 365HP (268 kW) – an increase of 57HP thanks to an ECU re-map (nothing is mentioned about torque increase, but it will be around 100Nm). The price is just €1,299 – definitely a good value for money. Last, but not least Best-Tuning offers a complete sports exhaust system delivering epic soundtrack and of course slight power increase. No words about its price.

Source: Best-Tuning

August 1, 2014

Category: Auto News