Category: Auto News

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

  • KTW Mercedes-Benz E-class Estate

    KTW tuning has announced their latest tuning program for Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate. The tuned T-model comes with both – styling and performance ugprades.

    The Brabus ECO PowerXtra D65 boosts the diesel engine (E350 CDI) to 315HP (230 kW). There is also a sports exhaust system also by Brabus.

    KTW E-Class Estate rolls a set of monobloc R-rims by Brabus – 8.5J x 19” at the front and 9.5J x 19” at the rear fitted with 245/35R19 at the front axle and 285/30R19 at the rear axle.

    The engine bonnet is adorned with a Brabus emblem, the emblem of the same origin on the boot lid is even lighted. The Brabus front skirt with attached light pack 4 carries the designation W 212 1 and is combined with the sports grille by KTW Tuning. The sill trims in turn are taken from Bottrop, they have a “Double B” logo and are also highlighted. The Brabus sport fenders are not usually mounted on diesel vehicles. This has been achieved only by the special commitment combined with the technical know-how of Brabus and the KTW Tuning GmbH.

    Also there are the window foliation as well as the Brabus door sills, aluminum pedal pads and a set-door-lock pins to be mentioned. And of course everything is approved by higher authorities through the TÜV-parts certificate.

    The complete transformation is priced at €18,999.

    Source: KTW Tuning

  • Mercedes E-Class Coupe PD850 BLACK EDITION Widebody

    Prior Design has announced their latest project based on Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe (before the facelift).

    The tuning company offers a widebody kit, which is suitable for all C207 models. It includes a new front and rear bumpers (including diffuser), a pair of big side skirts and a front hood add-on. All parts are made from Dura-Flex fiber reinforced plastic. There are also rear widenings, a rear trunk spoiler and all necessary mounting parts.

    As an option, Prior Design offers LED DRLs and a sports exhaust system.

    The price is €7,990 including installation.

    Source: Prior Design

  • 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK 250 Bluetec 4Matic – US Price $39,459

    Mercedes-Benz has published the price list for the new GLK 250 Bluetec 4Matic in the US. The compact crossover has a price tag of just $39,459. For such amount of money, you’ll get powerful and economic engine, superb comfort and good off-road capabilities.

    The GLK 250 Bluetec 4Matic is powered by a 4-cylinder 2.1 liter twin-turbocharged diesel with 204HP (150 kW) and 500Nm (369 lb-ft) of torque. The engine is coupled with a 7-speed automatic gearbox sending the power to 4Matic AWD system.

    The expected fuel economy is around 24 mpg in city / 33 mpg on the highway and 29 mpg on combined cycle. Despite the low fuel consumption, the GLK 250 Bluetec 4Matic boasts nice performance – 0-100 km/h in 7.9 seconds and a top speed of 215 km/h (133 mph).

    The GLK also comes equipped with innovative technologies. For the first time featured here for instance is the electric steering with STEER CONTROL, which supports the driver in unstable driving conditions by triggering an impulse which can be felt on the steering wheel, prompting countersteering by the driver in the correct direction.

    In other words, if you don’t need so much interior and luggage space, the GLK 250 is a perfect opportunity for an awesome ride.

    Source: Mercedes-Benz

  • Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Coupe Black Series on the Le Castellet Race Track

    Mercedes-Benz has published a new promo video of the famous SLS AMG Black Series doing some laps at the Paul Ricard Circuit.

    The SLS AMG Black series is powered by an updated 6.2 liter AMG V8 with 631HP (464 kW) at 7,400RPM and 635Nm (470 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 3.6 seconds and a top speed of 315 km/h (196 mph). The SLS-AMG Black Series is just 1550 kg, so the power/weight ratio is 2.45 kg/hp.

    Other highlights include coil-over AMG RIDE CONTROL performance suspension, AMG ceramic high-performance composite brake system and the weight-optimized forged AMG light-alloy wheels with newly developed sports tyres. There is also an electronically controlled AMG rear-axle differential lock and the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission.

    The price is €249,900.

    Enjoy the video!
    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yFGN6CzBkJ8

    Source: Mercedes-Benz

  • 2014 Mercedes S-Class [leak]

    The all-new 2014 S-Class is on its way to official revealing on May 15th. Official picture has been released by Mercedes-Benz Austria. The image has quickly been posted by BlogAutomobile.The new S-Class boasts a sportier front fascia with a prominent grille, LED-infused headlights and larger air intakes. There will be a lot of uxurious options including heated / ventilated seats, a rear seat entertainment system and an “Air Balance Package” that filters and ionizes the air and can even dispense perfume.Engine range remains unconfirmed, but probably there will be a 4.6 liter twin-turbo V8, a 5.5 liter twin-turbo V8 and a powerful new V12 engine. Also mighty diesels, hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants are expected.

  • Irmscher Chevrolet Trax – Big Wheels and Nice Style

    Irmscher has announced their latest project based on Chevrolet Trax. It combines lightness with the advantages of an SUV with the efficiency and driving dynamics of a city car. So muscular and athletic, he works from the outside, so innovative and spacious is its interior.

    The exterior boasts chrome door handles, side steps and 19-inch Aerostar alloy wheels. Customers can also order lowering springs (-30 mm) and a stainless steel or matte black exhaust system with round or oval tips.

    The interior boasts premium leather upholstery, stainless steel door sill plates, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and Irmscher branded floor mats.

    Nothing is mentioned about performance package for the 1.4 liter turbocharged petrol engine originally delivering 140HP (103 kW) and 200Nm (147 lb-ft) of torque.

    Source: Irmscher

  • Inspired Autosport Mercedes-Benz ML63 Enhanced By SR Auto

    Inspired-Autosport-Mercedes-Benz-ML63-By-SR-Auto-THUMBOne of the latest inspiring projects of the specialist at SR Auto Group is on Mercedes-Benz ML63. The SUV was a great platform to work on and has received cross country collaboration between Inspired Autosport and SR Auto.

    The exterior has been updated and it now includes a full carbon fiber styling package designed which was delivered by Revozport. To be more precise this kit includes a new carbon fiber front spoiler, carbon fiber front fender flares, carbon fiber rear fender flares and carbon fiber rear diffuser.

    In fact the black exterior of the car is perfectly complemented by the visible carbon fibre and in addition there was created an effect of a subtle contrast between the body and the kit. Furthermore, the tuners selected a set of forged PUR 2WO wheels in a 22×10.5 size for both front and rear. They are in Modern Matte Black finish which undoubtedly adds a third layer of contrast to the car.

    Source: SR Auto Group

  • Spa Debut For The Updated Toyota TS030 Hybrid

    2013-Toyota-Le-Mans-Hybrid-Challenger-THUMB2013 Toyota TS030 Hybrid – the Le Mans Hybrid Challenger is going to make its official premiere at this weekend’s Six Hours of Spa-Francorchamps, which is the second round of this year’s FIA World Endurance Championship.

    In Belgium, the team responsible for the success of the No7 machine is Alex Wurz, Nicolas Lapierre and Kazuki Nakajima. Following their podium finish at the series-opener in Silverstone, Anthony Davidson, Stéphane Sarrazin and Sébastien Biemi will return in the 2012-spec’ No8 car.

    The main changes done on the updated TS030 Hybrid are regarding its chassis and powertrain, thanks to which the car now delivers enhanced performance, reliability and serviceability. Additionally, a revised aerodynamic package has been also included. In this case we are speakin about an updated monocoque, which improves performance while mitigating the impact of new 2013 regulations of enhanced minimum weight (by 15 kg).

    The powertrain of this Toyota Racing model utilizes a unique super capacitor which automatically generates 300 hp (220 kW) of boost, on top of the 530 hp (390 kW) produced by the 3.4-litre normally aspirated V8 petrol engine. Moreover, the powertrain was finely tuned in order to bring about better power, efficiency, management of the components used and reliability.

    Source: Toyota

  • McLaren Presents Heritage And Contemporary Can-Am At Goodwood [VIDEO]

    McLaren-M8D-Can-Am-Racer-And-McLaren-12C-GT-Can-Am-Edition-THUMBAt this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed, the legendary brand McLaren will present a selection of legendary models from the company’s heritage collection as part of their fiftieth anniversary celebrations. Some of the vehicles there will be among the most famous race- and championship-winning ones.

    This means that there will also be the latest model from McLaren 12C GT Can-Am Edition which in addition will take part in the run up the Goodwood Hill. As a matter of fact, brand’s name is synonymous with Can-Am racing throughout the 1960s and 1970s. This is because the McLaren Racing team achieved five back-to-back world championships between 1969 and 1974, thus becoming the most successful team in the history of this championship.

    12C GT Can-Am Edition is the rawest and the most track-focused model built by McLaren so far. It is equipped with a fierce 3.8-litre twin-turbo V8 powerplant, which delivers a power output of up to 630 hp (463 kW).

    In addition, the 12C GT comes with an optimised aerodynamics package, which contributes to greater levels of downforce, and a passenger seat. The track-only Can-Am Edition will be produced in limited number of 30 examples.

    Below, you can view a short high definition video that shows the M8D Can-Am racer in detail and the 12C GT Can-Am Edition on track. Enjoy!

    httpv://youtu.be/xZoZME-itbE

    Video Source: YouTube

    Source: McLaren

  • 2014 Lexus IS Sedan – US Pricing Announced

    2014-Lexus-IS-Sedan-THUMBThe prices for the 2014 Lexus IS Sedan were just announced. The model arrive at dealerships this summer and will deliver new design, engaging driving dynamics, innovative technology and increased interior and cargo room.

    First of all, Lexus IS 250 is powered by a smooth 2.5-liter V6 unit, which generates 204 horsepower (150 kW) and 250 Nm (185 lb.-ft.) of torque. On the other hand, the IS 350 produces 306 horsepower (225 kW) from its 3.5L V6 engine.

    Furthermore, the new IS line will be equipped with a wide range of standard features such as HID headlamps, L-shaped LED daytime running lights, Drive Mode Select, paddle shifters, a dual zone climate control system, a next-generation Remote Touch Interface, Display Audio, a color 4.2 inch TFT multi-information display and 10 airbags.

    Premium, Luxury and F SPORT packages will be available across the model range. The firs one – the Premium Package features LED headlamps and heated and ventilated front seats. The Luxury Package adds on the Premium Package features a perforated leather-trimmed interior, linear wood trim, electrochromic exterior mirrors with reverse tilt, rain-sensing wipers, driver seat memory, a power tilt/telescopic steering wheel, center stack knee pads and Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

    The renewed F SPORT Package offers unique full-mesh grille and front bumper, LED headlamps, 18” split 5-spoke wheels, front sport seats, and sport-tuned suspension.

    The interior of the F SPORT models include a center-mounted tachometer with moving bezel adopted directly from the LFA. The IS 350 F SPORT adds standard Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) with a Sport S+ drive mode. For the first time, the F SPORT package is also available for IS AWD models.

    2014 Lexus IS Pricing:

    Model Drive Type Engine Transmission MSRP*
    IS 250 RWD 2.5L V6 6AT $35,950
    IS 250 AWD 2.5L V6 6AT $38,485
    IS 350 RWD 3.5L V6 8AT $39,465
    IS 350 AWD 3.5L V6 6AT $41,700

    Available Packages:

    Package IS 250 RWD IS 250 AWD IS 350 RWD IS 350 AWD
    Premium Package $1,050 $610 $1,050 $610
    Luxury Package $3,665 $3,225 $3,665 $3,225
    F SPORT Package $3,115 $2,675 $3,620 $3,180
    Optional Equipment
    Navigation System $2,085
    Navigation System with Mark Levinson $3,225
    Backup Monitor $350
    Power Rear Sunshade $210
    18” Wheel Package with All-season tires $935
    18” Wheel Package with Summer tires $935
    Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS) $400
    Intuitive Park Assist $500

    Source: Lexus

  • Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse – World Record [video]

    Bugatti has released an interesting video with the Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse World Record Car Edition doing the famous 408.84 km/h (254.04 mph).

    This is the fastest convertible on the planet and the record was made on Volkswagen Group’s Ehra-Lessien test track which has a 9 km (5.6 miles) long straight.

    The Grand Sport Vitesse is powered by an 8.0 liter W16 quad-turbo engine with 1200HP (883 kW) and 1500Nm (1106 lb-ft) of torque. The engine is connected to a 7-speed DSG gearbox. It sends all that torque to an AWD system. 0-100 km/h in 2.6 seconds and 0-200 km/h in 7.1 seconds, 0-300 km/h in 16 seconds. ¼ mile is covered in 10.0 seconds flat and 1 mile in just 25.0 seconds.

    Other interesting disciplines like 0-100-0 km/h take 5.9 seconds and 0-200-0 take 12.9 seconds. The interesting 0-300-0, which is brutal for the brakes take 23.9 seconds.

    Only 8 units wil be built – each price from €1,990,000.

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=csuQ0wXN7kU

    Source: Bugatti via Youtube

  • Volkswagen at the 34th International Vienna Motor Symposium

    Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn, Chairman of the Board of Management of Volkswagen AG has revealed some new details about the company’s future technologies.

    Areas of work being focussed on by Volkswagen include the development of a high-performance diesel engine delivering 136HP (100 kW) per litre of displacement and a new 10-speed DSG (dual clutch gearbox), that reduces the fuel consumption. Among the alternative drive systems plug-in hybrids in particular offer great potential.

    “Since the year 2000, we’ve reduced the fuel consumption of our TDI and TSI engines by more than 30 per cent. I’m convinced that by 2020 we can achieve further increases in efficiency of around 15 per cent.”, said Prof. Dr. Winterkorn.

    “The gas engine is environmentally friendly, economical and suitable for everyday use. The technology is fully developed and the vehicles are already on the market.” The best example is the new eco-up! – at 79 g of CO2/km the world’s most economical natural gas car.

    The Volkswagen Group will be systematically rolling out natural gas technology with the Golf TGI BlueMotion and the Audi A3 g-tron.

    Volkswagen also presented at the symposium new technologies that are finding their way into the modular diesel component system’s future engine generation. These high-performance diesel engines achieve peak power output of 136HP (100 kW) per litre of displacement and have a variable valve-train assembly, a high-pressure injection system at up to 3,000 bar and combined charging with the innovative e-Booster.

    Source: Volkswagen