Category: Auto News

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

  • Cadillac Partners With Saks Fifth Avenue For White Diamond ELR

    2014-Cadillac-ELR-THUMBCadillac is partnering with Saks Fifth Avenue in order to create a unique limited edition 2015 Cadillac Escalade luxury SUV, as well as an exclusive special-edition 2014 Saks Fifth Avenue Cadillac ELR electrified luxury coupe through the 2013 Saks Holiday Catalog.

    On 25th of November, they will unveil a specially designed “Frozen Escalade” window display at the Saks flagship store near Rockefeller Center on Fifth Avenue in New York City. The display will feature the brand new limited edition series White Diamond 2015 Escalade with functioning light-emitting diode, or LED, running lamps, which appear embedded and breaking through a wall of ice.

    The other star at the display will be the 2014 Saks Fifth Avenue Special Edition Cadillac ELR, which has a production limited up to 100 units. Among them is the one-and-only 2014 Cadillac ELR with a White Diamond exterior paint.

    The Saks Fifth Avenue Special Edition ELR package is priced at $89 500 with deliveries expected in the beginning of March.

    To go further into details, the 2014 Cadillac ELR is equipped with Extended-Range Electric Vehicle (EREV) propulsion system that generates 295 lb-ft (400 Nm) of torque. If the driver selects the Sport mode, the reconfigured accelerator pedal provides quicker torque application and more sensitive feedback through altered suspension and steering settings.

    The ELR is also equipped with LED lights. In particular, the design of the main projectors for instance extends from the ELR’s front fascia up into the fenders. The result is a sleek and dramatic appearance. The LED lights are more advantageous, because they last much longer and use less energy than the halogen bulbs.


    Source: Cadillac

  • TEASER: DMC Ferrari 458 Italia ESTREMO Edizione 10/10

    Estremo_Teaser_Japan-THUMBThe German luxury tuner DMC has just released the firs teaser image of its latest Limited Edition project. In it the designers and engineers at the refining company are again expressing the freedom to use the latest high-tech, without any boundaries. DMC proudly presents the DMC Ferrari 458 Italia ESTREMO Edizione 10/10.

    The transformed Ferrari vehicle is kept in secret and is currently being assembled by DMC’s partner in Japan for the 1st client in Tokyo. As one can see from the image, the car has a completely new front fascia that has extreme air channels for better cooling and in addition supports additional downforce.

    Furthermore, there is also modified new side-vented front hood which creates lighter specs and a one-of-a-kind visual stance. The side panels in this project add an aggressive touch and were redeveloped to smoothen windflow.

    At the back, the entire rear facia is made of carbon fiber, and creates additional dowforce thanks to the massive wing spoiler, which further contributes towards the design character of DMC’s kit. The total weight saving is roughly 60 KG compared with the stock car.

    Plenty of photos and more details will be unveiled near official launch.

    Source: DMC

  • EVR Proto VX-101 Rally Raid Concept To Enter 2014 Dakar

    EVR-Proto-VX-101-Rally-Raid-Concept-THUMBEric Vigouroux Racing has two developed pickup trucks which are going to be featured in 2014 Le Dakar. The specialists have worked in close collaboration with Jefferies Racing. At the rece, the experienced Dakar pilot Eric Vigouroux will team up with American off road racing ace ‘Ballistic’ BJ Baldwin.

    The vehicle carries the name EVR Proto VX 101 Rally Raid Concept which is the latest and technically most advanced desert racer. It is powered by a LS7 Corvette Racing engine mated with a Fortin sequential gearbox.

    Eric Vigouroux has reced in the past several seasons with Chevrolet Silverado and has achieved top honours. His experience and this of Jefferies Racing resulted in the development of a totally new race truck. In fact, the 2014 Dakar will be the first real competition for the EVR Proto VX 101 Rally Raid Concept vehicle. However, the team aims to show excellent results.

    Another interesting fact is that Eric Vigouroux, who is a veteran off-road racer, has won almost every rally he had entered the last four years. In 2010 he became FIA World Cup Champion in the 2WD category and last year Eric was the overall winner of the 2012 Rally of Morocco. BJ Baldwin on the other hand is also a well-known rally raid driver in the USA, who holds four championships in the last six years with several race wins including the Baja 500.

    Source: Eric Vigouroux Racing

  • Porsche Macan SUV To Make Official World Debut At LA Auto Show

    Porsche-Macan-THUMBAt the 2013 Los Angeles Auto Show which will start on 20th of November, the luxury brand Porsche will make two world premieres and three North American debuts. For this occasion, the company is releasing the first teaser image of the much anticipated Porsche Macan compact SUV, which is automaker’s fifth model line.

    Other debuts include the 911 Turbo Cabriolet and 911 Turbo S Cabriolet models, which show astonishing acceleration time of 3.3 and 3.1 seconds respectively, from zero to 100 km/h. Their top speed is 195 mph.

    The Porsche 918 Spyder is going to be shown for the first time in North America at the Auto Show as well. This is a plug-in hybrid super sports car that is destined to be a high-performance hybrid, and offers an unprecedented combination of performance by combining the 887 hp (652 kW) output of a super sports car and the silent propulsion of an electric vehicle.

    The acceleration time here is estimated at 2.8 seconds for the sprint from standstill to 100 km/h. As a hybrid this car also offers extraordinary low fuel consumption.

    At last, also on display will be Porsche Panamera Turbo S and Panamera Turbo S Executive models. The Turbo S models are the fastest, most powerful and most luxurious models in the Panamera range.

    They have a power output of 570 hp (416 kW) and a top track speed of 192 mph. The models also include wide range of technology and luxury features. For the first time the Executive version will be available with a wheelbase that is extended by 5.9 inches.

    httpv://youtu.be/tMKAF7xq6Po

    Video Source: YouTube

    Source: Porsche

  • G-Power BMW E92 M3 Hurricane RS – 720HP and 700Nm

    G-Power has revealed their latest project based on BMW E92 M3. The sports coupe has received a number of upgrades, but the most important is the performance package – SK III “Sporty Drive”.

    The performance upgrade include an ASA T1-724 supercharger, MAHLE forged pistons and new connecting rods. There is also a full titanium sports exhaust system and a modified crankshaft. The engine displacement has grown up to 4.6 liters, instead of 4.0.

    The result is spectacular – 720HP (530 kW) and 700Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 3.7 seconds, 0-200 km/h in 9.5 seconds and a top seed of 340 km/h (211 mph).

    The exterior comes with full aerodynamics body kit including a front spoiler, bonnet and a boot lid with tear-off edge. The M3 HURRICANE RS aerodynamic program is manufactured from supremely light and highly strong Carbon fibre in a gas-proof autoclave. The package saves more than 10kg.

    Other highlights include G-Power Clubsport coil-over suspension and 20” G-Power Silverstone Diamond forged wheels. The tires are Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires in the dimension 255/30 ZR 20 on the front axle and 295/25 ZR 20 for the rear axle to keep the vehicle in contact with the road. Braking is done with the G-POWER-ceramic brakes on the front and rear axle, which provide low-weight and reliable high-performance braking. „Fade“ is therefore a foreign word for the 6-piston brake calipers in front which bite on 396 mm rotors and the 4-piston calipers at the rear axle which clamp on 380 mm rotors.

    Source: G-Power

  • 2014 Mercedes-Benz S 65 AMG – 630HP and 1,000Nm

    Mercedes-Benz has announced the high-performance luxurious saloon 2014 S 65 AMG. The car will make its public debut at the 2013 Tokyo Motor Show.

    S 65 AMG

    Displacement

    5980 cc

    Output

    630HP (463 kW) at 4800-5400 rpm

    Max. torque

    1000 Nm (741 lb-ft) at 2300-4300 rpm

    Fuel consumption, NEDC combined

    23.7 mpg

    CO2 emissions

    279 g/km

    Acceleration 0-62 mph

    4.3 s

    Top speed

    250 km/h (155 mph)

    The engine is connected to a 7G-Tronic 7-speed automatic transmission. The S65 AMG is able to return 23.7 mpg UK – 11.9 liters / 100 km with corresponding CO2 emissions of 279 g/km. This makes the S-Class 65 AMG world’s most fuel-efficient V12 high-performance saloon in terms of power and torque.

    Other highlights include 20” multi-spoke lightweight alloy wheels fitted with 285/35 R20 tires. Behind them, there is a high-performance ceramic composite braking system which is 20 percent lighter than the standard braking kit and comes with 420 mm discs and specially painted brake calipers.

    The 2014 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG is fitted as standard with MAGIC BODY CONTROL system with ROAD SURFACE SCAN, along with ESP Dynamic Cornering Assist which eliminates understeer when turning into corners by braking the inside rear wheel.

    2014 Mercedes-Benz S 65 AMG will hit the market in the beginning of the next year with pricing starting from €232,050.

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q1ohCq35OPc

    Also included in the standard equipment package of the S 65 AMG:

    • AIR-BALANCE package
    • AMG full-pile footmats, with edging in nappa leather and AMG badge in solid metal
    • AMG sports pedals of brushed stainless steel with rubber studs
    • Ambient lighting
    • ATTENTION ASSIST
    • Burmester® high-end 3D surround sound system
    • Chauffeur package
    • Exclusive package
    • COMAND Online
    • Driving Assistance package Plus
    • KEYLESS-GO package
    • Convenience telephony
    • 10 loudspeakers with Frontbass
    • LED Intelligent Light System
    • MAGIC VISION CONTROL
    • Media Interface
    • Metallic paintwork
    • Panoramic sliding sunroof
    • Parking package
    • PRE-SAFE® PLUS
    • Tyre pressure loss warning system
    • Electrically adjustable rear seats
    • Seat Comfort package incl. ENERGIZING massage function
    • SPLITVIEW
    • Sun Protection package
    • Exclusive trim package

    Numerous personalisation options are available from the AMG Performance Studio (selection):

    • AMG Exterior Carbon-Fibre package
    • AMG ceramic high-performance composite braking system
    • AMG performance steering wheel in nappa leather/DINAMICA, black
    • AMG trim in carbon fibre/black piano lacquer
    • Brake calipers, painted red

    Additional optional extras (selection):

    • 360° camera
    • Business Telephony in the rear
    • designo appointments packages
    • Executive seat
    • First-Class rear suite
    • Individual Entertainment System in the rear
    • Folding tables in the rear
    • Warmth Comfort package

    Source: Mercedes-Benz

  • 2013 Volkswagen CC R-Line – Price £29,505

    Volkswagen has announced the price list of the 2013 CC R-Line. The R-Line offers even higher level of equipment than standard and GT trims. It also gives the CC a unique styling and appearance.

    The R-Line builds on the already generous equipment list of the GT, adding a distinctive R-Line front grille with round fog lights, R-Line front bumper, R-Line logo in the radiator grille, sill extensions, LED daytime running lights and 18″ Mallory alloy wheels.  The interior features an R-Line multi-function steering wheel and trim adds a distinctive touch to complete the look.  Despite the additional kit, the R-Line commands a premium of just £650 over the equivalent GT, with prices starting at £29,505.

    Two engines will be available with R-Line trim – a 2.0 litre 210HP TSI petrol and a 2.0 litre 177HP TDI with BlueMotion Technology which includes battery regeneration and Stop/Start systems.  Both engines come with a choice of either a 6-speed manual or smooth-shifting DSG gearbox.  The petrol engine returns up to 38.7 mpg UK on the combined cycle, while the manual TDI returns a very frugal 58.9 mpg UK.

    The CC R-Line is available to order from Volkswagen Retailers from tomorrow, with first customer deliveries due in late January.

    The CC R-Line line-up:

    Engine Price, OTR RRP, £ Combined mpg CO2 emissions, g/km
    2.0-litre TSI 210 PS 6spd manual 29,505.00 38.7 169
    2.0-litre TSI 210 PS 6spd auto DSG 30,905.00 36.7 179
    2.0-litre TDI BMT 177 PS 6spd manual 30,045.00 58.9 125
    2.0-litre TDI BMT 177 PS 6spd auto DSG 31,520.00 54.3 137

    Source: Volkswagen

  • Lykan Hypersport – Price $3,400,000

    W Motors has unveiled the production-ready version of Lykan Hypersport. The hyper car will be exhibited this at the 2013 Dubai International Motor Show. The production is limited to just 7 units each priced from $3,400,000.

    Lykan Hypersport is powered by a flat-six 3.7 liter twin-turbo engine (developed by RUF) – 770HP (566 kW) and 1,000Nm (741 lb-ft). The engine is connected to a 6-speed sequential gearbox. 0-100 km/h in 2.8 seconds and a top speed of 395 km/h (245 mph).

    The spectacular Lykan boasts diamond-coated LED headlights and gold-stitched leather seats. There are a lot of  titanium and carbon fiber accents as well as precious stone inserts.

    The buyers of Lykan Hypersport will get a Special Edition Cyrus Klepcys Watch worth $200,000.

    Source: W Motors

  • 2014 Nissan Qashqai Finally Revealed [VIDEO]

    2014 Nissan Qashqai has been finally revealed today. The second generation of the model was unveiled during a 3D social media digital mapping show in London. At the event, the design of the car was revealed via images which were submitted by more than 2,500 people. These images represent the best of technology innovation. Then they came together to form the shape of the all-new Qashqai.

    2015 Qashqai comes to enhance Nissan’s crossover leadership position. It will go on sale in January 2014. In the new SUV are included premium technologies, enhanced dynamics and a revised visual appearance.

    The second generation model is 20mm wider, 49mm longer and 15mm lower than the current one. Yet despite this reduction in height, front and rear headroom levels have actually increased by 10mm and the raised driving position remains.

    This gives it dynamic and sleek stance, while keeping the compact dimensions and raised driving position. Some of the distinctive features included here are clamshell-style bonnet, a comprehensive suite of advanced technology comprising of Front Collision Avoidance, Driver Attention Support and Traffic Sign Recognition and Intelligent Park Assist.

    Other innovations included here is the new powertrain range, which is wider and more efficient than ever. Each engine utilizes a turbocharger to reduce capacity, emissions and fuel consumption while maintaining excellent performance with class-leading CO2 emissions – from only 99g/km.

    The fuel efficiency is additionally improved by the reduction of the weight of the vehicle. It is 40kg lighter than the previous generation. In addition, the four-wheel drive ALL-MODE 4×4-i versions will be offered with a choice of six-speed manual or all-new Xtronic transmissions.

    The interior of the vehicle embodies versatility in terms of material and design. The SUV offers greater occupant space and a larger luggage capacity enhanced by a variable floor system. The new Qashqai is based on the new CMF (Common Module Family) platform.

    At the heart of the 2015 Qashqai lies a suite of innovations which not only significantly add to the safety and convenience, but also delivers exceptional value. Precisely, Nissan Safety Shield is a collection of features designed to improve the safety of occupants. It comprises of the following features: Front Collision Avoidance, Driver Attention Support, Traffic Sign Recognition, Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Warning, Moving Object Detection and High Beam Assist.

    Safety Shield is just the start of the Qashqai’s list of technology story. Other highlights included here are Chassis Control that enhances both ride and handling, Intelligent Parking Assist, that automatically measuring the size of an available parallel parking space, and new NissanConnect.

    In addition to the main NissanConnect screen, there is also included a five-inch TFT colour display within the instrument panel. It offers information such as average and actual speeds, fuel economy, turn-by-turn navigation instructions, audio content, traffic sign recognition, Nissan Safety Shield, Chassis Control, eco driving advice, as well as tyre pressure information and torque distribution settings in 4WD mode.

    Furthermore, Qashqai’s front end is equipped with LED daytime running lights. The utilization of LED instead of Xenon, delivers whiter, crisper light, and demands 50 per cent less power. The lights also display Nissan’s unique LED lighting signature that sweeps up from the centre of the car.

    New technologies were also incorporated in the exterior design of the model. For instance, Nissan has been able to relocate the Qashqai’s radar behind the bumper facia to give the car a smoother look.

    More importantly, the next generation Qashqai includes a range of supremely efficient and refined petrol and diesel. The line-up consists of four engines: two petrol and two diesel, with the option of two- or four-wheel-drive. Customers can also choose between manual and all-new Xtronic automatic transmissions.

    First, the petrol 1.2 DIG-T unit drives through a six-speed manual transmission, and delivers 115 hp (85 kW) and 190 Nm (140 lb-ft) of torque. It emits 129g/km of CO2 and has a fuel consumption figure of 50.4mpg . It is equipped with Start/Stop ignition as standard, and benefits from a raft of fuel-saving technologies, including a regenerative alternator, optimised gear ratios and special low-viscosity oils.

    Next, the 1.6 DIG-T produces 150 hp (110 kW) and 240Nm (177 lb-ft) of torque. Its fuel consumption is 50.4mpg, while CO2 emissions are 132g/km.

    The first of the diesel engines is the 1.5 dCi which is capable of generating 110 hp (81 kW). In fact, this is the cleanest and most fuel-efficient engine ever offered in a Qashqai with CO2 emissions of just 99g/km. In terms of fuel consumption, the 1.5 dCi sets new standards in the crossover sector with an EU combined figure of just 74.3mpg.

    At last, at the top of the Qashqai’s diesel range is the 1.6 dCi unit offered with the option of two and four-wheel-drive. It delivers 130 hp (96kW) and is one of the most advanced diesel powerplants in its sector. In two-wheel-drive manual form, the 1.6 dCi has CO2 emissions of 115g/km and combined fuel consumption figure of 64.2mpg. The Xtronic version emits 119g/km and returns 61.4mpg, while the four-wheel-drive manual version enjoys figures of 129g/km and 57.6mpg.

    2015 Qashqai technology highlights:

    • Nissan Safety Shield packages comprising:
    • Front Collision Avoidance
    • Driver Attention Support
    • Traffic Sign Recognition
    • Lane Departure Warning
    • Blind Spot Warning
    • Moving Object Detection
    • High Beam Assist
    • Chassis Control
    • Full LED headlamps which consume 50 per cent of the power of previous Xenon lamps
    • Intelligent Parking Assist
    • New NissanConnect with smartphone app integration
    • Around View Monitor

    httpv://youtu.be/C1AOjaL9ccw

    Video Source: YouTube

    Source: Nissan

  • 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe Police Concept Offers More Power

    2015-Chevrolet-Tahoe-Police-Concept-THUMB2015 Chevrolet Tahoe Police Concept comes to offer more power, greater efficiency and improved features developed for law enforcement. The vehicle has a brand new interior, exterior as well as EcoTec3 powertrain.

    At the same time it retains its basic dimensions, sturdy body-on-frame architecture and versatility. In addition, it has more space in the rear seat, which provides more leg room and easier access.

    2015 Tahoe PPV utilizes as a standard the EcoTec3 5.3L V-8 engine which includes direct injection, cylinder deactivation, continuously variable valve timing and an advanced combustion system. The result of the addition of these technologies is of course more power, torque and efficiency.

    Precisely, the EcoTec3 powertrain, generates 355 horsepower (261 kW) and 519 Nm (383 lb-ft) of torque and improved acceleration. The unit is matched to a Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed automatic transmission with a unique police-service calibration.

    Moreover, the new vehicle has also improved steering and braking responsiveness compared to previous models. With the addition of electric power steering, the Tahoe has precisely tuned responsiveness needed in pursuit situations. It also offers improved ride and handling designed for those situations.

    As a standard the PPV also includes 730-CCA Auxiliary Battery, which serves in terms of helping officers to power their equipment. The vehicle also has a 110V power outlet and USB input.

    The following key components remain:

    • V-rated, P265/60R17 Goodyear RSA tires, mounted on 17-inch steel wheels
    • Heavy-duty four-wheel-disc brakes with ABS, tuned for police driving
    • StabiliTrak electronic stability control system with Proactive Roll Avoidance and traction control
    • A fully integrated electrical system makes it easier to upfit police-specific equipment

    As mentioned, the interior of the vehicle was completely redesigned and now it offers greater safety thanks to the new standard features such as rear park assist, backup camera and optional adjustable pedals.

    As an option, there is being offered the river Alert Package that features lane departure warning, forward collision alert and Chevrolet’s Safety Alert seat. Furthermore, the increased utilization of high-strength steel next to the new inlaid doors deliver safer and quieter ride.

    OnStar advanced information technology is now standard on the Tahoe PPV and it provides automatic crash notification, stolen vehicle slowdown and recovery. The vehicle also features as a standard Bluetooth.

    Security features included in the PPV are new door locks, side-milled keys and a steering column lock.

    2015 Chevrolet Tahoe Police Concept will be offered in 2WD pursuit and 4WD special service variants and will be available for order in the first and respectively the second quarter of 2014.

    Source: Chevrolet

  • Nissan Introduces BladeGlider Concept

    Nissan-BladeGlider-Concept-THUMBNissan BladeGlider is more than a concept because it combines brand’s proposal for the future direction of Nissan electric vehicle (EV) development as well as is an exploratory prototype of an upcoming production vehicle. As one can see the vehicle has special forms, which in particular were crafted to give the driver and passengers “sustainable exhilaration”.

    This Nissan concept targets those who seek visceral driving and sustainability. The starting point for this project was a clean slate, led by Francois Bancon. The shape of the BladeGlider has defintely challenges the orthodoxy with its narrow front track.

    The main focus in the architecture of this unique EV was in terms of engineering, and expecially – aerodynamics. The car achieves low drag (cdA) while generating road-hugging downforce. With its narrow, 1.0 metre lightweight front track and wide, stable rear track, the BladeGlider looks extremely radical.

    However, this architecture is connected to the enhanced aerodynamics and balance. To be more precise, having the front wheels close together reduces drag and improves maneuverability for high-G cornering power, assisted by its 30/70 front/rear weight distribution ratio.

    In addition, what also contributes for the better aerodynamics is the highly rigid but lightweight carbon-fibre underbody. The electric motors use Nissan’s innovative lithium-ion battery technology, which we have seen in Nissan LEAF. The battery modules are positioned low and towards the rear to enhance stability and handling. BladeGlider is a rear-drive performance car that exhibits a coherent and linear handling

    Undoubtedly the exterior design of the BladeGlider envisions the EV future in very different way. Its tightly streamlined deltoid body comprises a structurally enhanced chassis wrapped in carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP). The car is painted with pearlescent white colour.

    The interior is designed for three persons and the seats there are in a triangular configuration with the driver centre-forward. Seating appointments feature special light and comfortable coverings with yellow fluorescent lines. The steering-wheel is reminiscent to those used in the aircraft, while the futuristic instrumentation technology completes the glider-like image. When one opens the door, the driver’s seat automatically slides laterally, which allow easy access to passenger seats.

    Source: Nissan

  • Vilner Transforms 1976 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray C3

    Art design Studio Vilner, known as the “Atelier of unlimited possibilities”, has just shared with us its latest project. A classical 1976 Chevrolet Corvette has received fine makeover, which refreshes the forms of the legendary Stingray C3 and at the same time keeps the classic lines of the U.S. muscle car.

    In order to turn this car in to another magnificent project of Vilner, the work on this Corvette started with the engine. The 5.7 liter V8 Small Block unit got new head, shafts and two twin carburetors.

    All of them were delivered by the U.S. experts at Edelbrock Performance. The generation was shortened and was carried over to the side of the body. The machine hasn’t been put through a dyno test, which means that the results of the power tuning are not known. What is expected however is a peak power of 300 hp (220 kW).

    The exterior of the car has also been modified and has received new varnish in pearl brown color, while the targa roof trim got upholstery from calf leather adorned by decorative stitching. The original nickel-plated wheels were left untouched as well as the form of the tail-lights.

    The latter, however, have entirely new bodies that rely on new LED lights that in turn add a note of futurism in the classic stance of the carosserie. In order to be convenient for driving, this Corvette got new daytime running lights as well as new turn signals.

    To go even further into details, into the original bodies of the parking-lights and indicators were integrated LED-daytime running lights and LED-indicators, as well as into those of the tail-lights. They were created specifically for this automobile and indeed they are unique.

    In the opening of the front fenders were inbuilt two chrome-plated grills, while the rear bumper of the car is with completely changed design for a better line. One of the most attractive features here is the original chrome-plated boot on which is attached a vintage suitcase made of camel leather.

    The interior is where the true power of Vilner lies and this classic Corvette took the maximum advantage of this fact. The dashboard was entirely transformed; new is also the design of the dials of the tachometer and speedometer.

    The Audio system here is made of high quality source by Mcintosh, three amplifiers and three-band front system delivered by Ground Zero, as well as two subwoofers by Peerless.

    Furthermore, the seat’s upholstery was made of a combination between calf-nappa leather and box, while the laser engraving provided an additional note of personalization. At last, the elements made of wood veneer were replaced by inserts made of high-tech Corian material.