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German Special Customs Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG Delivers More Power

German Special Customs Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG is a pure off-roader with a monstrous 5,461 ccm V12 biturbo engine beneath the massive engine hood. Originally the engine’s power is rated at 612 horsepower (450 kW) and draws from a maximum torque of 1000 Nm (738 lb-ft).

The tuners at German Special Customs have created an optimization package for this Mercedes-Benz model, which enhances it performance. It is a multi-part broad construction kit that delivers not only a clearly more sportive appearance but also strongly expands the broadness of the G-class.

Firstly, GSC installed at the front a broad bumper bar, a new radiator cowling made of carbon fiber and a set of LED daytime running lights. Next, the engine hood look more massive due to an attachment made of carbon for the improved de-aeration of used engine air.

Massive wheelhouse expansions which run smoothly into the side skirt also contribute towards the broad appearance of the vehicle. In addition, the trapezoidal end-pipes made of stainless steel were integrated at the rear. At this part of the off-roader can also be seen a new rear bumper bar that matches the front as well as carbon cover for the spare tire in the rear.

What rounds-off the exterior are the external rearview mirrors and ventilation slits in the engine hood, all made of carbon fibre.

Another highlight in this project is that GSC has also enhanced the engine’s performance via software. The unit now develops 620 horsepower (455 kW). A modified exhaust system is also present.

What puts all this power on the road are the 23-inches forged rims fitted with special tires in the format 305/35 R23 on the four ends of the AMG chassis frame. The interior of the G63 AMG was also improved thanks to a black and red full-leather fitting and different ornamental carbon parts.

Source: German Special Customs

October 22, 2013

Lamborghini Veneno Roadster Revealed!

A few days ago the first image of the new Lamborghini Veneno Roadster leaked. Now theluxury Italian sportscar brad is releasing the official information around its new model, which was created in order to celebrate the 50th anniversary year of Automobili Lamborghini.

Veneno Roadster is an open racing prototype, and being a true Lamborghini it offers extreme design and breathtaking performance. Its exclusiveness is additionally emphasized by the fact that only nine units of it will be built, each costing 3.3 million Euros.

The intensity of the driving experience in this car is guaranteed by the fact that the vehicle has no roof, but just a strong rollover bar for optimum safety. The design is focused on optimum aerodynamics and stability through fast corners. The handling resembles that one of a racing prototype, nonetheless – this Lamborghini is absolutely road legal.

To speak in numbers, the Veneno Roadster is a capable of producing a maximum output of 750 horsepower (552 kW). This means that it achieves the acceleration sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in only 2.9 seconds on its way to the top speed of 355 km/h.

These figures are possible thanks to the twelve-cylinder engine with a displacement of 6.5 liters as well as the extremely fast-shifting ISR transmission with five modes, permanent all-wheel drive and a racing chassis with pushrod suspension and horizontal spring/damper units.

Lamborghini Veneno Roadster offers exceptional dynamics, optimum downforce with minimal drag and perfect cooling of the high-performance engine. In addition, the entire design of the Lamborghini Veneno Roadster has been laid out for perfect airflow and downforce.

For instance, the front end works as a large aerodynamic wing. A reference to the world of racing cars is the visual division of the rear fenders from the car body. This also optimizes the aerodynamic flow.

Moreover, the underbody transitions into a substantial diffuser. The latter frames the four sizable exhaust pipes divided by a splitter. Large openings serve to ventilate the engine bay and direct airflow to the rear wing, which is adjustable and is created in the manner to ensure optimum airflow in its interaction with the rear diffuser.

The new Lamborghini’s Roadster runs on alloy wheels, which have carbon-fiber ring around the wheel rim. This works like a turbine and delivers more cooling air to the carbon-ceramic brake discs. The exterior color is decided in the paint named “Rosso Veneno”, which was especially developed exclusively for the Roadster.

Lamborghini Veneno Roadster is another example of brands know-how in CFRP-based lightweight design. A monocoque made from carbon-fiber reinforced polymer forms the basis of the Roadster. What is more – all exterior parts are made from CFRP. The car also incorporates a full complement of safety systems from airbags through to the adapted ESP handling system.

Carbon fiber can be found also throughout the interior. For instance, the carbon fiber monocoque is visible inside the car around the central tunnel and the sills, while the two lightweight bucket seats are made of brand’s Forged Composite. In addition, the woven carbon-fiber CarbonSkin is utilized to clad the entire cockpit, part of the seats and the headliner.

The lightweight design results of course in impressively low kerb weight. This model weighs only 1,490 kilograms (3,278 pounds). A logical result is a power-to-weight ratio of just 1.99 kg/hp (4.38 lbs/hp) which guarantees extreme performance.

Source: Lamborghini

October 22, 2013

Nissan Announces US Pricing For 2014 Juke

2014 Nissan Juke and Juke Nismo are making an in-store debut today in all dealerships around the United States. The Nismo version was firstly introduced in the middle of this year, as a part of the growing lineup of Nismo-branded factory performance machines.

The vehicle is offered in a choice of front-wheel drive with 6-speed manual transmission or all-wheel drive with Nismo-tuned CVT transmission. In fact, this very special model takes the bold presence of Juke and transforms it into new dimension of attainable performance.

2014 Nissan Juke is also being offered with two equipment packages: the special Midnight Edition and Sport Package. The first one includes 17-inch Black Wheels, a Sapphire Black rear roof spoiler, Sapphire Black mirror caps and privacy glass.

On the other hand, the second one features a body-color rear spoiler, 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels and stainless steel exhaust finisher. A Navigation Package is also offered as an additional option.

What is also new for MY2014 in the Juke range is that the car will be available in two exterior colors: Red Alert and Bordeaux Black. All Juke models are built upon brand’s B-platform. They are equipped with advanced 1.6-liter Direct Injection Gasoline (DIGÔ) Turbo, 16-valve DOHC aluminum-alloy inline 4-cylinder engine, which can produces 188 horsepower (138 kW) and 197 horsepower (145 kW) for non-NISMO and NISMO models respectively.

In addition, the AWD models feature as a standard advanced torque vectoring AWD system, which splits torque up to 50:50 between the front and rear wheels and can also can split torque from side-to-side across the rear axle.

Another highlight featured here is the innovative Integrated Control (I-CON) system which combines control of the automatic A/C and the three-mode drive selector: Normal, Sport and Eco.

Some of the available equipment in Juke’s interior includes leather-appointed seats, Intelligent Key with Push Button Ignition, RearView Monitor, Rockford Fosgate ecoPUNCH audio system and Nissan Navigation System with NavTraffic Real-Time Traffic Information (SiriusXM subscription required, sold separately).

At last, the standard safety features in the 2014 Juke models feature six air bags, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC).

2014 Nissan JUKE:

Model/Transmission
JUKE S CVT FWD	$18,990 USD
JUKE SV MT FWD	$20,990 USD
JUKE SV CVT FWD	$22,040 USD
JUKE NISMO MT FWD	$22,990 USD
JUKE SL CVT FWD	$24,290 USD
JUKE S CVT AWD	$20,990 USD
JUKE SV CVT AWD	$23,740 USD
JUKE NISMO CVT AWD	$25,290 USD
JUKE SL CVT AWD	$25,990 USD

Source: Nissan

October 22, 2013

DMC Shows Tuned Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4 Roadster SV

DMC is probably one f the most famous tuning brands that modifies mainly Lamborghinis. For instance one of its initial kits was MV or Molto Veloce which was installed so far on up to 50 V12 Aventadors. Its evolution, the SV or Spezial Version kit is now being on trend and is going to be made only 10 times.

The first rule for obtaining the SV kit is that the customer must have installed firstly the MV kit. DMC actually wants to avoid installing this impressive Spezial Version on two cars that are similar, or even in the same part of the world. In fact, not a single one of the 10 DMC Aventador SV will look the same.

The present case of photos and information concern such lucky customer, who has obtained the highly limited DMC Spezial Version aerodynamic kit. The latter was installed on a bright orange metallic Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4 Roadster.

The Lamborghini is finished in the rather expensive option of pearl metallic Arancio Argos and includes a two tone Bicolor Sportivo interior combining Nero Ade with Arancio. The sportscar runs on Dione wheels that are in sizes 20 and 21 inch to the front and rear respectively, and cover orange brake calipers.

The owner also had installed front and rear parking sensors together with the rear view camera. The vehicle was taken to the next level with a complete DMC Spezial Version aerodynamic package. It features a carbon fiber front bumper with upright fins on either side, which include the horizontal ‘V’ shaped canards, clear carbon fiber DMC side sills mounted underneath the original Aventador units, lower rear diffuser, rear bumper and rear fascia between the air vents up to the taillights, SV style rear wing all made from carbon fibre.

Source: DMC

October 21, 2013

New Photoshoot For Vorsteiner Ferrari 599-VX Coupe

Vorsteiner Ferrari 599-VX is a project which we have already seen, but what we haven’t seen so far is the new exclusive photoshoot of the car. The tuners at Vorsteiner have also released a little bit more information about the tuning, and how they have managed to improve even more the fluidic natural lines and essence of the Ferrari.

First of all, the specialists have worked to make better the aerodynamics of this icon. They have added a 599-VX Front Bumper with integrated spoiler. In fact, these pieces keep the functionality of the car without compromising on its quality, aesthetics, or performance.

This means that the styling of these components takes the 599 a step away from sports car and a step closer to race car. In order to create them, Vorsteiner has utilized the latest in carbon technology that offers a considerable weight savings over the factory pieces. Here is also available the Primered Carbon Fiber with Optical Carbon Fiber Front Chin Spoiler.

The Vented Race Hood is another prominent element of this Ferrari. It not only gives contributes for its aggressive stance but also improves car’s weight, because it is made of Autoclaved Pre-Preg Carbon Fiber.

This element also delivers superior stiffness, aerospace strength and durability compared to traditional hand laid carbon fiber composites. Here the available option is the Carbon Fiber Primered Body with Carbon Fiber Optic Vents Pre-Preg.

Furthermore, the car now features side sill extension blades which are also made of Autoclaved Pre-Preg Carbon Fiber. As an option is being offered Carbon Fiber Pre-Preg with 4 Stage UV Inhibiting Clear Lacquer Coating.

At the rear, it is visible that the vehicle has a new rear bumper with integrated diffuser which was designed carefully to stabilize the additional down force provided by the front and side elements. The rear bumper is made of the same material as the aforementioned parts.

The Ferrari can be also optionally equipped with 599-VX Exhaust System Stainless and Primered Carbon Fiber Pre-Preg. At last to be mentioned is the Rear Deck Lid Spoiler, which rounds-off the exterior tuning of this project.

Source: Vorsteiner

October 21, 2013

Smart Fortwo BoConcept Edition Revealed

The newest addition in the Smart fleet of vehicles is the Smart Fortwo BoConcept Edition which has clear design influences referencing the latest home interior trends. For instance, in it are included matt surfaces, distinctive colors and bold material combinations. The model is a result of the cooperation between Smart brand and BoConcept – the Danish urban interior design specialist.

The exterior of the vehicle is decided in matt crystal white body panels, which is then complemented by distinctive light lemon mirror caps as well as accents on the 15-inch nine-spoke alloy wheels. In addition, on the mirror triangles can be seen BoConcept logos.

Inside the smart, one steps in to an ambient atmosphere that is created via the utilization of unique tobacco brown leather-look seats with grey quilted fabric inlays and light lemon double stitching. The dashboard, door panels and kneepad has the same color scheme. The steering wheel is two-spoke, wrapped in leather which also includes the light lemon color in terms of contrast double stitching.

Smart Fortwo BoConcept Edition is offered in two variants – coupé and cabriolet, and is based on the passion 71 hp (52 kW) mhd. However, it includes as a standard additional exclusive features such as highline multimedia and navigation system with 6.5-inch touch-screen, Bluetooth, iPod interface and CD/DVD player, air conditioning and electric windows.

Source: Smart

October 21, 2013

Ford At 2013 SEMA Show

With SEMA Show being just around the corner, many brands are preparing to showcase exquisitely tuned vehicles. One of them is Ford, which will have on its modified versions of Ford’s most popular models, including Fiesta, Focus, Fusion, Mustang, F-150 and Super Duty.

In addition, the brand will also exhibit a car-mixture between the European styling of Transit Connect Wagon and Transit Connect cargo van is mixed, thanks to the creativity of the industry’s top builders and customizers – “Vandemonium”.

The aim of the transformation is to illustrate how the vehicle can be utilized beyond family or commercial transportation. Not only was the exterior of the car given a new custom paint finish, but also features that include modern technologies.

As a teaser ahead of the Show, Ford has released renderings of the best SEMA project vehicles in Dreamcase, a digital display. The first vehicles to be featured in Dreamcase are 2014 Mustangs and Fiestas, outfitted with the best aftermarket upgrades and wearing custom colors.

Source: Ford

October 21, 2013

Lamborghini Veneno Roadster [leak images]

Autoemotionen has published several leak images of Lamborghini Veneno Roadster. The hyper car is expected to make its official debut at the 2013 Los Angeles Auto Show.The exterior is exactly the same the coupe, with the obvious exception of the roof. The manufacturer is going to produce only 4 units of Veneno Coupe, but the Roadster will be limited to 9 units and each will cost €3,300,000.The power is coming from the well-known 6.5 liter naturally aspirated V12 with 750HP (552 kW) and 720Nm (529 lb-ft). 0-100 km/h in 2.8 seconds and a top speed of over 350 km/h (220 mph).After all, you can always choose to buy an Aventador LP 700-4 Roadster for €300,000 and to order “Veneno” tuning package from a tuning company. In such case, you will save around €3 million. It is definitely a bargain.

October 18, 2013

Alfa Romeo 4C – 8:04 Nurburgring Lap Time

Alfa Romeo has confirmed the Nurburgring lap time of 4C. The small sports car manage to cross the finish line in 8 minutes and 4 seconds. For example BMW M3 E92 with 420HP has a time of 8 minutes and 5 seconds and Renault Megane RS Trophy in 8:07 (which is a new record for a FWD car).

Behind the steering wheel was Horst von Saurma who proved on September 12 the Alfa Romeo 4C is the faster car with less than 250HP to lap the Nurburgring.

2013 Alfa Romeo 4C is powered by a 1.8 liter turbocharged petrol with 240HP (177 kW) at 6,000RPM and 350Nm (258 lb-ft) at 2,000RPM of torque. The engine is connected to a dual-clutch transmission. 0-100 km/h in 4.5 seconds and a top speed of 258 km/h (160 mph). It will average 6.8 liters / 100 km (41.5 mpg UK) with CO2 emissions of 157 g/km. All these figures are thanks to the super-low weight of 4C – just 895kg (1973 lb).

It is equipped with Pirelli “AR” P Zero Trofeo tires which were specially developed for this model over the course of less than a year. They are available in two size combinations – 17” front and 18” rear or 18” front and 19” rear.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bn1OLYboRbE

Source: Alfa Romeo

October 18, 2013

2014 Audi A3 Cabriolet – Hits the Market Next Spring

Audi is starting production of the 2014 A3 Cabriolet at the company plant in Hungary. The A3 Cabriolet is distinctive already with its flowing lines and fabric soft-top. It is also at the pinnacle of its segment in technical terms – with consistently applied lightweight construction, the latest engine technology, versatile networking and highly effective assistance systems.

2014 Audi A3 is set to be launched next spring with pricing starting from €31,700. Audi also builds the next generation of the Audi TT Coupe and TT Roadster in the same plant. The company has invested a total of more than €900 million in buildings and equipment at this site.

The engine range of A3 Cabriolet includes a 1.4 liter TFSI – 140HP (103 kW), a 1.8 liter TFSI – 180HP (132 kW) and a 2.0 liter TDI with 150HP (110 kW). We also expect an S3 Cabriolet with 2.0 liter TFSI delivering 300HP (221 kW).

Source: Audi

October 18, 2013

2014 Durango Special Service SUV Joins Dodge’s Range Of Fleet Vehicles

2014 Dodge Durango Special Service SUV will be complementing the range of fleet vehicles of the police and fire agencies as well as the general fleet customers. This Durango embodies the perfect combination of capability, fuel economy and utility.

As a standard it is equipped with a new eight-speed transmission, which also contributes towards the improvement of the fuel economy of up to 25 miles per gallon. In addition, it has ability to tow as much as 7,400-pounds. Vehicle’s driving range is of over 600 miles, and what is more it features a whole host of safety technologies.

This Special Service model also includes additional components which were especially designed for the rigors of daily fleet use. Some instances are the heavy-duty brake package, heavy-duty battery, larger-output 220-amp alternator, heavy-duty water pump and engine oil cooler, and a load leveling suspension.

Other features included in the interior of the 2014 Dodge Durango Special Service are the programmable 7-inch display in the gauge cluster, the Uconnect 5.0-inch touch screen with voice command and Bluetooth, a media hub for USB, SD media card and auxiliary jack integration and Bluetooth streaming audio.

In addition, there have been also included special service headliner and red and white interior dome lamp and spot lamp wiring prep. The Durango’s third-row of seats has been removed in order to deliver more cargo capacity.

This Special Service SUV also includes a customizable rear cargo area with under-floor storage compartments and additional storage in the side compartments. For the bright visual characteristics of this Dodge Durango take car new LED daytime running lamps and rear race track tail lamps.

Some of the optional features included here are for example the Skid Plate Group for all-wheel drive models, ParkView Rear Back-Up Camera, a Trailer Tow Group, Engine Block Heater and Uconnect Access Via Mobile capability.

In terms of safety and security, the Special Service models are unsurpassed given that they offer more than 60 features: standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC), electronic roll mitigation (ERM), Hill-start Assist and standard Trailer-sway Control (TSC), Rain Brake Support and Ready Alert Braking, seat-mounted and side-curtain air bags in the front row, and standard front-row active head restraints.

This Durango is equipped with a standard 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine that is mated to an eight-speed transmission. The unit produces 290 horsepower (213 kW) and a maximum torque of 352 Nm (260 lb.-ft.). As an option the brand offers the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine, which generates 360 horsepower (265 kW) and 528 Nm (390 lb.-ft.). It has the towing capacity of 7,400 pounds.

The instrument panel has been also refined and now includes redesigned center stack. In the latter are housed 5-inch and 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreens. The bottom of the center stack houses a new media hub with an SD card slot, USB outlet, auxiliary jacks, and a storage bin.

In addition, the center console features new rotary shifter for the standard eight-speed automatic transmission. The manual shift functions have been removed and now are replaced with paddle shifters on the back of the Durango’s steering wheel. Furthermore, the instrument cluster also features high-tech treatment and now includes a full-color 7-inch thin-film transistor (TFT) screen.

2014 Dodge Durango Special Service SUV was specifically designed for the demands and rigors of fleet duty. It will meet the needs of a wide range of fleet customers across the United States and Canada.

No additional details around the distribution of the model in other countries have been released so far. The production of 2014 Dodge Durango Special Service is planned to begin in the fourth quarter of this year.

Source: Dodge

October 18, 2013

MINI John Cooper Works Paceman With Frozen Black Metallic Paint

MINI brand is expanding its range of exterior paint finishes for the current models with the inclusion of an exclusive new Frozen Black metallic paint. The latter is available as a limited edition colour for the top of the range MINI Countryman and MINI Paceman models.

The brand highlighted that the new paint has a textured, shimmering matt finish, which contributes for vehicle’s striking and impressive appearance. In addition, the Frozen Black exterior colour and finish will be also offered for the MINI Cooper S Countryman, MINI Cooper SD Countryman, MINI Cooper S Paceman, MINI Cooper SD Paceman, MINI John Cooper Works Countryman and MINI John Cooper Works Paceman.

To go even further into details, the special paint finish was developed via the utilization of a sophisticated manufacturing process which is only exclusive to BMW Group. The painting procedure includes innovative technology and a high level of manual craftsmanship.

In this case, the process is being applied for the first time by brand’s partner Magna Steyr. First of all, the special surface treatment encloses the base layer for grip and corrosion protection, secondly – the colour layer, and thirdly – the clear lacquer finish. The latter also includes silicates in order to create the matted impression and the velvet effect.

The exterior parts which are attached at a later time, like the front and rear aprons and the exterior mirror caps, were also finished separately in Frozen Black metallic. Due to the labor intensive process, typically attributed for example to an independent BMW specialist, the production of cars with this exterior color will be limited to a restricted number of cars.

What is left to be said is that the Frozen Black metallic finish has also abrasion resistance and color fidelity. It is entirely weather resistant and car wash resistant. BMW has also developed care products for the special treatment of this metallic paint finish.

Source: BMW

October 18, 2013

Category: Auto News