Category: Auto News

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

  • Mercedes-Benz S 500 Plug-In Hybrid To Debut In Frankfurt

    Mercedes-Benz-S-500-Plug-In-Hybrid-THUMBMercedes-Benz S 500 Plug-In Hybrid is the third hybrid model of the new S-Class. It comes to new standards in terms of efficiency, drive-system and climate comfort. The new Mercedes-Benz hybrid vehicle emits only 69 g/km of CO2 and returns 94.2 mpg.

    In fact, the new S-Calss can cover 100 kilometres with just three litres of fuel. It is equipped with 80-kW electric drive with externally rechargeable battery which contributes towards emission-free driving for about 18 miles. The electric motor is coupled 3.0-litre V6 turbocharged engine.

    Some additional features included in the new model are the second-generation recuperative braking system and the anticipatory Intelligent HYBRID energy management system. What is more, the high-voltage lithium-ion battery of the car offers the option of being recharged from an external source with a charging socket located on the right side of the rear bumper.

    Four hybrid operating modes can be selected at the push of a button, these are HYBRID, E-MODE (electric power only), E-SAVE (fully charged battery is reserved to be able to drive on electric power alone later), CHARGE (battery is charged while driving).

    However, the most important highlight of the S 500 Plug-In Hybrid is its power output of 333 hp (245 kW) of the combustion engine plus 109 hp (80 kW) electric motor and torque of 480 Nm (354 lb-ft) of the combustion engine plus 340 Nm (250 lb-ft) of the electric motor.

    These figures make it possible for the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h for only 5.5 seconds. The top speed here is 155 mph.

    The second-generation S-Class hybrids include an anticipatory energy management system which serves in terms of enhancing the energy efficiency. The operating strategy of the hybrid drive system accounts for the current driving condition and driver input. Additionally, it also adjusts to the likely route for the next five miles.

    Moreover, the new S-Class is the first to use a recuperative braking system (RBS) of the second generation. It basically ensures an unnoticeable overlapping of the conventional mechanical brakes and the electric braking performance of the electric motor in alternator mode.

    Mercedes-Benz S 500 Plug-In Hybrid will make its official debut in Frankfurt next month, while the market launch of the car will in 2014.

    Source: Mercedes-Benz

  • Land Rover Launches First Hybrid Range Rover Models

    2014 Range Rover HybridLand Rover has just presented its first-ever hybrid models: Range Rover Hybrid and Range Rover Sport Hybrid. With them, the brand aims to deliver better fuel economy, reduced CO2 emissions, but also to keep the emblematic for the Range Rover capability and performance.

    The two all-aluminium models are based on Land Rover’s Premium Lightweight Architecture. In addition, they are also equipped with an identical powertrain, thanks to which they will become world’s first premium diesel SUV hybrids.

    2014 Range Rover Hybrid has a powertrain which includes three driver-selectable modes and combines Land Rover’s popular 3-litre SDV6 diesel engine with a 35 kW electric motor. The car is equipped with 8-speed ZF automatic transmission. Furthermore, the hybrid system, which also features lithium ion battery pack, inverter and electric motor weighs less than 120kg.

    In fact, the electric motor produces 170 Nm (125 lb-ft) torque and is active when the vehicle is in EV Mode. What is more, it is also used as a generator, harvesting kinetic energy through regenerative braking. This means that it charges the battery when the vehicle is slowing.

    When the driver selects the EV mode, the Range Rover Hybrid can travel at speeds of up to 30 mph (48km/h) for a range of up to one mile (1.6 km). Afterwards, the diesel engine restarts. Both the diesel engine and electric motor has a combined output of 340 hp (250 kW) at 4,000 rpm and generate 700 Nm (517 lb-ft) of torque between 1,500-3,000rpm.

    Range Rover Sport Hybrid and Sport Hybrid accelerate to 62mph (100km/h) in under seven seconds on their way to a top speed of 135mph (218km/h). The CO2 emissions are estimated at 169g/km, equivalent to 44.1mpg on the combined cycle.

    The design of the new models is created according to the new hybrid technology included in them. For instance, the liquid cooled battery pack is mounted beneath the floor of the vehicle in a protective boron-steel cradle. The vehicle however, retains its five-seat capacity and luggage space as well as the full-size spare wheel. Both hybrid Range Rover models also include Land Rover’s four-wheel drive system that features Terrain Response 2.

    Technical Specifications

    Range Rover Hybrid Range Rover Sport Hybrid
    Engine type 3.0 SDV6 HEV 3.0 SDV6 HEV
    Power PS/rpm 340PS@4000 340PS@4000
    Torque Nm/rpm 700@1500-3000 700@1500-3000
    0-62mph / 0-100km/h secs 6.9 6.7
    Top speed mph (km/h) 135 (218) 140 (225)
    CO2 Combined g/km 169 169
    Combined consumption mpg (L/100km) 44.1 (6.4) 44.1 (6.4)
    Weight From… kg 2394 2372

    Source: Land Rover

  • 2014 Audi A8 Facelift – Price €74,500 [video]

    Audi has finally revealed the facelift version of the A8. The 2014 A8/S8 range will be available in Germany starting November – from €74,500.

    The exterior boasts a revised front bumper, new front grille and more sculpted hood. There are also LED headlights (standard for V8 models) and Matrix LED headlights available as an option featuring 25 25 individual light-emitting diodes per unit which can be switched on/off individually depending on road conditions. Other highlight are the sequentially illuminated LED turn signals with 18 LEDs in the headlights and 24 LEDs in the taillights.

    At the rear, there are also LED taillights as well as reworked rear bumper featuring two rhomboid tailpipes (except the S8 model). There are new chrome strips and high-gloss black window frames. The manufacturer offers twelve paint schemes and wheels in sizes up to 21”.

    The Audi A8 3.0 TFSI with the normal wheelbase has a curb weight of just 1,830 kilograms (4,034 lbs) – best-in-class for models with all-wheel drive. The body is made almost entirely of aluminum; an Audi Space Frame (ASF) design, it weighs just 231 kilograms (509 lbs).

    The engine range includes a 3.0 liter V6 TFSI with 310HP (228 kW), a 4.0 liter V8 TFSI with 435HP (320 kW) and 3.0 liter V6 TDI with 258HP (190 kW) as well as 4.2 liter V8 TDI with 385HP (283 kW). The top-of-range A8 L W12 quattro comes with a 6.3 liter W12 petrol with 500HP (368 kW). The S8 has a 4.0 liter twin-turbo V8 TFSI with 520HP (380 kW).

    The 2014 Audi A8 Hybrid is powered by a 2.0 liter TFSI and and an electric motor – combined power of 245HP (180 kW) and 480Nm (354 lb-ft), which is more than enough for decent dynamics. The conventional engine drives the front wheels while the electric motor powers the rear axle.

    The 3.0 TDI clean diesel needs just 5.9 liters / 100 km (40 mpg US) with CO2 emissions of just 155 g/km. The 6.3 liter W12 boasts best-in-class fuel consumption of 11.7 liters / 100 km (20 mpg US). The hybrid version averages 6.3 liters / 100 km (37.3 mpg US). All engines satisfy the Euro 6 standard. Friction-reducing measures reduce consumption by as much as 10 %.

    The interior boasts super luxury like ventilated front seats with massage function, along with individual electrically-adjustable rear seats optionally available for the A8 and A8 L. The latter can also be configured with a continuous, leather-wrapped center console, as well as other optional goodies like four-zone automatic AC and relaxation seat with power footrest.

    As is typical for Audi, the new A8 features exemplarily clear controls despite the abundance of functions. Taking center stage is the MMI control element on the tunnel’s center console. MMI navigation plus also includes a touchpad. The driver draws characters on the pad (MMI touch) to control numerous navigation and multimedia functions.

    Audi connect including car phone is available as a supplement to MMI navigation plus. It uses an integrated UMTS module to connect the new A8 to the Internet. Passengers can surf and e-mail freely via a WLAN hotspot. For the driver, the system delivers the tailored online services from Audi connect to the car, such as online traffic information, Google Earth, Google Street View and online news. The multimedia highlight is the Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound System. The Rear Seat Entertainment system includes two displays, Bluetooth headphones and a DVD player.

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MM5yGR1LWIo

    Source: Audi

  • 2014 Chevrolet Camaro Convertible – EU Price €44,990

    Chevrolet has announced the 2014 Camaro Convertible, which will make its official debut at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. The new Camaro is expected to hit the market in the end of this year with German pricing starting from €39,990 for the coupe and €44,990 for the convertible.

    The 2014 Camaro Convertible has new front and rear bumpers, revised front grille and new head- and taillights. The stylish car also has a new MyLink infotainment system with a 7” touchscreen display and Bluetooth/ USB/AUX connectivity.

    The European version is powered by a 6.2 liter naturally aspirated V8 with 432HP (318 kW) and 569Nm (420 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 5.2 seconds for the coupe and 5.4 seconds for the slightly more heavier convertible.

    “Camaro has always been associated with iconic design, high performance and driving fun, and we are particularly proud of the new coupe and convertible models,” said Dr. Thomas Sedran, President and Managing Director, Chevrolet Europe.

    “They incorporate new high-tech features that add extra convenience and give customers even more value for their money”, he added.

    Source: Chevrolet

  • Vauxhall Monza Concept at Frankfurt Motor Show

    Vauxhall has published some pictures of their Monza Concept, which is expected to make its official debut at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. The futuristic vehicle boasts cutting-edge LED projection infotainment and an evolution of the Ampera’s revolutionary powertrain.

    The Monza is a 4-seater concept 4,690 mm long, 1,310 mm tall and has been modeled after “ocean waves lapping on the shore”. It also has a lot of headroom and a generous cargo capacity of 500 liters. The gullwing doors help getting inside easily.

    The interior features a wide and sculpted dashboard that extends from one door to the other which is used as a single projection surface. There are 18 LEDs creating the multi-functional display showing information and decorative elements.

    Vauxhall Monza is powered by an electric drive with a compressed natural gas (CNG) range extender. The three-cylinder 1.0 liter SIDI turbo has been modified to run on natural gas giving even better results in fuel economy.

    “The Monza Concept represents the Opel/Vauxhall car of tomorrow. On one hand, it embodies everything that already characterises Opel/Vauxhall – precision engineering combined with innovative technologies wrapped in captivating design. In addition, it addresses the themes that will be the development-focus of the next generation of Opel/Vauxhall cars: maximum connectivity and optimum efficiency.” ,” commented Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann, Opel/Vauxhall CEO.

    Source: Monza

  • 2014 Lexus IS Sport deviantART To Be Displayed At SEMA

    2014-Lexus-IS-Sport-deviantART-THUMB2014 Lexus IS Sport Sedan was revealed to the world at this year’s North American International Auto Show. In November the model will make a big entrance at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, where it will catch the attention thanks to its new aggressive exterior styling visible through the new spindle grille, wider stance and sporty rocker panels.

    In order to make the IS Spsort stand out even more, Lexus joined forces with DeviantART to find creative personas who have their own vision of the exterior presence of the car. For this reason, they have challenged the design community to show their interpretations of the 2014 IS with custom exterior treatments and modifications.

    Then, the best IS Sport Sedan concept will be modified by VIP Auto Salon in 10 weeks and will be also displayed at SEMA. There has been more than 600 submissions, and a jury of four judges narrowed them down to 25. The selected top 25 were expressing the true essence of the 2014 Lexus IS Sport Sedan and were original as well as had executable design.

    Today, Lexus and DeviantART announced the first, second and third place winners. The first place was given to Rob Evans from Seattle, who will be certainly proud to see his rendering taking a real form at the SEMA show. The second place winner was Lucia Lee of Pasadena, while Guanghao Huang from Southfield, took the third place.

    Source: Lexus

  • 2014 Jaguar XJ Now With Enhanced Luxury Features

    2014-Jaguar-XJ-THUMB2014 Jaguar XJ is the latest luxurious sports saloon produced by the iconic brand and it includes improved rear cabin luxury features, delivers more comfort and is equipped with in-car technologies. The model will be available with a choice of diesel and supercharged petrol 3.0-litre V6 engines and two supercharged 5.0-litre V8 petrol engines.

    Each of them will be matched with eight-speed automatic gearbox thus delivering smooth-shifting, economy and driver control. The new long-wheelbase models will include improved rear cabin luxury options such as ‘airline’ style reclining seats with massage function, increased headroom and fold-out business tables.

    In addition, the re-tuned rear suspension will deliver more rear seat ride comfort. Furthermore, the entertainment system now will include Rear Seat Entertainment options: two hi-resolution touchscreens and premium Meridian Reference Audio System with Conversation Assist.

    Throughout the interior are utilized special materials such as Bond grain, soft grain and semi-aniline leather, and versaatile veneers including Piano Black, Carbon Fibre, Gloss Burr Walnut and Satin Rosewood.

    The 2014 14 Jaguar XJ ‘R’ version on the other hand is equipped with bespoke chassis and aerodynamic developments. The car is capable of generating 550 horsepower (404 kW) and 680 Nm (502 lb-ft) of torque thanks to its 5.0-litre supercharged V8 engine. These numbers makes it possible for the XJR to accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds on its way to an electronically limited top speed of 174mph (280km/h).

    To go further into details, the interior of the 2014 XJ includes a range of enhanced features which are mainly focused on the rear cabin of the car. The rear passenger compartment includes two separate ‘airline style’ reclining seats that both feature cushion and squab adjustment, three massage programs – Wave/Rolling, Lumbar and Shoulder.

    In addition, in the new centre armrest are positioned all the seat controls as well as the Front Seat Activation button. On the other hand, the front seat improvements include massage functions for each seat with five levels of intensity.

    What is more, the rear-seat passengers will enjoy many entertainment features included in the Rear Seat Entertainment package. The latter consists of two 10.2” high-resolution screens mounted on the back of the front seat headrests, which can display inputs from a number of sources.

    LWB XJ will also deliver to the occupants leather-surfaced business tables in the rear. In order to keep rear seat passengers shielded from the sun, there is available electric rear-side window blinds. Moreover, the rear headroom is increased by 13 mm thus resulting in more comfort for the rear-seat passengers.

    Going further to the engine range, the 2014 XJ will be available with powerful and efficient 3.0-litre V6 petrol and diesel engines, as well as two supercharged 5.0-litre units which will deliver 510 hp (375 kW), and in the XJR – 550 hp (405 kW).

    A standard eight-speed automatic transmission will be matched to each of them. What is more, steering wheel-mounted gearshift paddles will deliver the driver higher levels of control.

    Another technology included in this Jaguar model range is the Intelligent Stop-Start system. The latter utilizes Twin Solenoid Starter (TSS) in order to shut down the engine when the car comes to a halt, and restart it when the driver’s foot to move from the brake to the accelerator.

    Next, the LWB version of the XJ will include an updated rear suspension for optimized performance. XJ has a lightweight aluminium construction which effects in great advantages in terms of agility, acceleration, braking and driver feedback and involvement.

    The exterior color palette has been also enhanced and now consists of 15 colours: Polaris White, Ebony, Ultimate Black, Stratus Grey, Lunar Grey, Rhodium Silver, Cashmere, Osmium Blue, Dark Sapphire, Caviar, Carnelian Red, Black Amethyst, Italian Racing Red, British Racing Green and Satellite Grey.

    As an option Jaguar will offer 1300W Meridian™ Reference Audio System and Conversation Assist. The latter uses a microphone above each seating position and digital audio processing technology in order to enhance the occupant’s voice via the vehicle’s audio system.

    Technical Specifications

    2014 JAGUAR XJ 3.0-LITRE V6
    Engine 3.0-litre V6 SC petrol XJ 3.0L V6 Diesel
    Capacity (cc) 2995 2993
    Peak Power (PS@rpm) 340@6500 275@4000
    Peak Torque (Nm@rpm) 450@3500-5000 680@2500-5500
    Transmission Eight-speed automatic Eight-speed automatic
    Intelligent Stop/Start Yes Yes
    0-60mph (secs) 5.7 6.0
    0-100km/h (secs) 5.9 6.4
    Top Speed (mph | km/h) 155 | 250
    (electronically limited)
    155 | 250
    (electronically limited)
    Combined Economy
    (EU mpg | l/100km)
    29.4 | 9.6 44.8 | 6.3
    CO2 Emissions (g/km) 224 167
    2014 JAGUAR XJ 5.0-LITRE V8
    Engine XJ 5.0L Supersport
    Capacity (cc) 5000
    Cylinders 8
    Transmission 8-speed automatic
    0-60mph (seconds) 4.7
    0-100km/h (seconds) 4.9
    Top Speed (mph/km/h) 155 | 250
    (electronically limited)
    Peak Power (PS@rpm) 510@6000-6500
    Peak Torque (Nm@rpm) 625@2500-5500
    Intelligent Stop/Start Yes
    Combined Economy (mpg) 24.4
    Combined Economy (l/100km) 11.6
    CO2 Emissions (g/km) 270
    2014 JAGUAR XJR
    Engine 5.0-litre V8 supercharged petrol
    Capacity (cc) 5000
    Bore/Stroke (mm) 92.5/93
    Peak Power (PS@rpm) 550@6500
    Peak Power (kW@rpm) 405@6500
    Peak Torque (lb/ft @rpm) 502@2500-5500
    Peak Torque (Nm@rpm) 680@2500-5500
    Transmission Eight-speed automatic
    Intelligent Stop/Start Yes
    0-60mph (secs) 4.4
    0-100km/h (secs) 4.6
    Top Speed (mph | km/h) 174 | 280 (electronically limited)
    Combined Economy
    (EU mpg | l/100km)
    24.4 | 11.6
    CO2 Emissions (g/km) 270

    Source: Jaguar

  • 2014 Range Rover Evoque With New Nine-Speed Automatic Transmission

    2014-Range-Rover-Evoque-THUMB2014 Range Rover Evoque is now even more attractive because it will be equipped with a host of new technologies, including a new 9-speed automatic transmission, new driveline technologies, seven new driver assistance features and more details in the design of the interior and exterior.

    The ZF-9HP automatic transmission debuted this year at the Geneva Motor Show and it is among the world’s first 9-speed units fitted to a passenger car. It not only has an ultra-fast response time, but is also equipped with adaptive shift programme which quickly matches the driving style. Moreover, the new transmission delivers enhanced fuel economy, reduced emissions, improved performance and much greater comfort.

    The driver assistance features included in the Evoque are feature Park Exit, Perpendicular Park, Closing Vehicle Sensing and Reverse Traffic Detection, Lane Departure Warning, Traffic Sign Recognition and Wade Sensing. As an option, customers can choose Land Rover InControlTM connected car system.

    The latter incorporates two new features – InControlTM Remote and InControlTM Secure. The first one allows owners to trigger an SOS Emergency Call which automatically informs the emergency services of the vehicle’s position. The second feature tracks the vehicle in the event of a theft utilizing advance tracking technology.

    Another option is the Active Driveline, which is an ‘on demand’ four-wheel drive system that is capable of improving the agility as well as the fuel efficiency of the car. It does that by operating in front-wheel drive only during steady-state driving at speeds above 22 mph. This new feature also includes Active Torque Biasing with electronic-Diff (e-Diff) technology. It distributes torque between the rear wheels, thus maximizing the traction and stability.

    What also enhances the agility and safety through the redirection of the torque between the four wheels is the Torque Vectoring by Braking feature. It will be also available as an option.

    Furthermore, the design of the interior and exterior of this Land Rover model was also improved. There are detail changes, new colour options, four new alloy wheel styles, new style of Land Rover badge on the grille, wheel centres and tailgate.

    2014 Range Rover Evoque will be equipped with economical and light weight four-cylinder engines: 2.2 diesel 150 hp (110 kW), 2.2 diesel 190 hp (140 kW) and 2.0 Petrol 240 hp (176 kW). The combined fuel consumption is estimated up to 57.6 mpg, while the CO2 emissions begin from 129 g/km.

    Source: Range Rover

  • Ferrari 458 Speciale To Make Official Debut In Frankfurt

    Ferrari-458-Speciale-THUMBFerrari 458 Speciale is the latest project of the famous Italian brand, which of course will deliver excellent innovations in terms of technology, power and aerodynamics. The sports car concept includes many applied sophisticated solutions including its advanced active aerodynamics.

    In addition, Ferrari has now built its most powerful naturally aspirated V8 engine ever. It has an specific power output of 135 cv/l. The Speciale is capable of generating 596 horsepower (438 kW) and 540 Nm (398 lb-ft) of torque. Due to the exceptional weight/power ratio of just 2.13 kg/cv, this model can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in a mere 3.0 seconds, while the acceleration time for the 0-200 km/h sprint is 9.1 seconds.

    Furthermore, this model is more performance-oriented than one can expect. The reasons for this are the front and rear movable aerodynamics. They serve in terms to balance downforce and cut drag. The result is that the Ferrari 458 Speciale is the most aerodynamically efficient range production car in brand’s history.

    The vehicle is also equipped with technology which delivers more control at high speeds. Adding to this, the natural power oversteer management and precise response to commands, further benefit the car.

    What is more, one of the most innovative features is the Side Slip angle Control system (SSC). The latter makes it easier to achieve car control and enhances the driving emotions. In fact, SSC performs instant-to-instant analysis of the car’s side slip. First it compares it with the target value and then maximizes both torque management and torque distribution between the two wheels.

    Another highlight is that the model is fitted with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup2 tyres which acted perfectly in the numerous track test and simulator sessions. They not only improve performance, but also allow the car to avail of maximum available grip in the wet.

    Ferrari 458 Speciale will make its first world appearance at Frankfurt Motor Show in September

    Source: Ferrari

  • 2014 Volkswagen Golf VII R – 300HP and 380Nm

    Volkswagen has announced the 2014 Golf VII R, which will make its official debut at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. The hot hatchback comes with a lot of additional equipment and powerful engine.

    The range-topping Golf VII is powered by a 2.0 liter turbocharged petrol engine with 300HP (221 kW) at 5,500RPM and 380Nm (280 lb-ft) at 1,800RPM, which is an increase of 30HP and 30Nm compared to its predecessor.

    The result is thanks to a new engine head, exhaust valves, valve seats and springs, bigger turbocharger, high-pressure injection valves and pistons. The power is put on the road through a 6-speed manual gearbox and AWD 4Motion system with fifth-gen Haldex coupling.

    0-100 km/h in 5.1 seconds (4.9 seconds with optional 6-speed DSG) and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). The fuel consumption is 7.1 liters / 100 km (33.1 mpg US) with CO2 emissions of 165 g/km for manual and 6.9 liters / 100 km (34 mpg US) with CO2 emissions of 159 g/km.

    2014 Volkswagen Golf VII R comes with lowered suspension, 18” alloy wheels (19” available as an option), MacPherson front suspension and an improved multi-link rear arrangement to provide better handling and stability.

    The exterior boasts an aggressive body kit including new front and rear bumpers, modified side skirts, a new rear diffuser, smoked LED taillights and a chromed quad exhaust system. There are also standard bi-xenon headlights and new DRLs.

    The interior comes with and Alcantara with carbon-like leather, a new speedometer (320 km/h) and an infotainment system with 5”, 5.8” or 8” display.

    2014 Volkswagen Golf VII R is priced from €38,325.

    • Automatic gearbox:
    – 6-speed DSG
    • Cargo capacity:
    – 343 litres to 1,233 litres
    • Character:
    – Flagship with racing DNA
    • Colours:
    – “Tornado Red”, “Pure White”, “Lapis Blue Metallic”,
    “Reflex Silver Metallic”, “Limestone Grey Metallic”,
    “Night Blue Metallic”, “Deep Black Pearl Effect” and
    “Oryx White Mother of Pearl Effect”
    • Drive system:
    – All-wheel drive
    • Driver assistance and performance systems:
    – Electronic Stability Control (ESC) including ABS,
    brake assist, traction control, XDS+ electronic
    differential lock, four-wheel EDS, engine –
    drag torque control, countersteering assist (standard)
    – ESC Sport (ESC mode, e.g. for race courses)
    – Driver Alert System (standard)
    – Automatic post-collision braking system (standard)
    – Progressive steering (standard)
    – ParkPilot (standard)
    – Tyre pressure monitoring indicator (standard)
    – DCC dynamic chassis control
    – ACC plus adaptive cruise control
    Front Assist surroundings monitoring system with
    City Emergency Braking
    – Dynamic Light Assist dynamic main beam control
    – Driving profile selector including Race mode
    – Light Assist main beam control
    – Cruise control system
    – PreCrash occupant protective system
    – Rear Assist
    – Lane Assist lane-keeping assistant
    – Road sign recognition
    • Engines – petrol:
    2.0 TSI with output of 221 kW / 300 PS
    • Equipment line:
    – R
    – Standard radio: “Composition Touch” (5-inch screen)
    – “Composition Colour” radio (5-inch screen)
    – “Composition Media” radio (5.8-inch screen)
    – “Composition Media” radio with navigation function
    “Discover Media” (5.8-inch screen)
    – “Discover Pro” radio-navigation system (8-inch screen)
    – Dynaudio sound system
    – Car Net (Online services)
    • Market launch, Europe:
    – Fourth quarter of 2013
    • Prices (Germany):
    – Golf R – from 38,325 euros
    • Production location:
    Wolfsburg plant
    • Running gear:
    – Front: MacPherson strut suspension
    – Rear: modular performance suspension
    – Progressive steering
    • Standard gearbox:
    6-speed manual gearbox
    • Wheels:
    – Standard wheels: 18-inch “Cadiz” alloy wheels
    – Optional wheels: 19-inch “Cadiz” alloy wheels and
    “Pretoria”

    Source: Volkswagen

  • German Special Customs 2013 Mercedes-Benz ML Widebody Kit

    German Special Customs has announced their latest project based on the 2013 Mercedes-Benz ML-Class. The big SUV comes with a complete widebody kit and some other interesting styling upgrades.

    The exterior boasts a massive front spoiler lip with narrow ventilation openings for supplying the front brake system with fresh air. Specially manufactured mud guard extensions for the front and rear axles ensure a clearly massive and intimidating appearance. GSC developed a completely new bumper bar including diffuser for the rear side as well as integrated end-pipe covers made of the company’s own stainless steel sports exhaust system. The optical modification of ML’s body shell is rounded up by a set of carbon covers for the external mirrors.

    The stance is improved thanks to an air suspension lowering module and a set of 10J x 22” light alloy wheels fitted with 295/30 R22 tires.

    The interior received offers a complete set of ornamental parts made of carbon fibre as well as tailor-made leather/Alcantara solutions for the seats and an upgrade of the speed indicator scaling to 350 km/h.

    Source: GSC

  • Senner Tuning Nissan Juke Nismo

    Senner Tuning has introduced their version of Nissan Juke Nismo. The crossover comes with styling and performance upgrades. The name of the project is Juke Sport Box.

    The exterior boasts a set of Barracuda Tzunamee rims – 9J x 20” fiited with 255/30 R20 Vredestein Ultrac Sessanta tyres. There are also 35 mm lowering springs, candy red carbon fiber mirror caps and Philips Silver Vision Chromium lights and a PDC (park distance control system).

    The 1.6 liter turbocharged petrol is boosted to 225HP (165 kW) and 275Nm (202 lb-ft) –an increase of 25HP and 25Nm. The result is thanks to a high-flow air filter, an optimized ECU and a stainless steel sports exhaust system.

    The price of the new vehicle including extra equipment and tuning is €37,650.

    Source: Senner