Auto News – Page 707 – Automobiles Review

KTW Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Black Daimler With Extra Power

KTW Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Black Daimler hides under its hood a V8 unit which is originally called M 156 and it comes with 6.2 liters of displacement. The car is completely black, including the rims which signifies that it is a genuine Black Series coupe.

The high-performance Mercedes-Benz now has an enhanced power thanks to the team at KTW Tuning. To be more precise the engine got a performance increase up to 525 hp (386 kW). At the same time the tuners made an annulment of the Vmax in order to bring forward the unbridled maximum forward urge.

In addition, they have also installed new sports grille which gives the Black Daimler even more aggressive appearance. They have also included unique wheel and tire combination that emphasizes the sporting ambitions of the C 63 AMG.

We are speaking here about Black light alloy wheels in 8.5 x 20 inches with 235/30ZR20 tires at the front axle and in 10 x 20 inches with 275/25ZR20 at the rear axle. The rear and side windows got also a tint by KTW Tuning.

Source: KTW Autohaus

March 28, 2013

Subaru WRX Concept

Subaru has released some nice pictures of their all-new performance concept car. This will be the next generation WRX car.

It looks a lot different than the Impreza. The front boasts a prominent front grille, a big front hood intake and aggressive headlights. The car is a lot lower and wider than the current saloon model. The roof is made from carbon fiber for lower weight and better handling. At the rear, there is a new trunk lid with a built-in lip spoiler.

Last, but not least, Subaru fitted the Concept with quad sports exhaust system with nice fluorescent yellow finish. We can see the same finish on the brake calipers and WRX badging.

The exterior is finished in Blue Pearl III paint.

There is also a set of 20” BBS forged alloy wheels fitted with Dunlop performance tires.

Nothing is mentioned about the engine, but we are expected over 300HP from 2.0 liter turbocharged engine.

Source: Subaru

March 28, 2013

2014 Chevrolet Camaro Z28

Chevrolet has announced the new 2014 Camaro Z28. The car made its official debut at the 2013 New York Auto Show.

The 2014 Camaro models feature a revised exterior design that integrates high-performance aerodynamics for more efficient cooling and stability at high speeds. The new Camaro Z/28 also features a full aerodynamics package that creates downforce at speed, which helps make it the most track-capable offering in Camaro’s history.

The aerodynamics body kit includes a new front splitter, flared fenders and extended side skirts. There is also a prominent spoiler, a new rear diffuser and underbody paneling. The exterior also features a quad sports exhaust system and a set of enormous 19” alloy wheels fitted with Pirelli PZero Trofeo R ultra-performance tires.

The interior boasts a pair of Recaro sport seats, a flat-bottom sports steering wheel, Octane matte trim and a new rear seat from high-density foam for more rigid structure.

The power is coming from a 7.0 liter LS7 V8 with 500HP (373 kW) and 637Nm (470 lb-ft) of torque. It is connected to a 6-speed Tremec gearbox powering the rear wheels, where an LSD takes care about the traction… or losing it.

It is interesting that Z28 weighs whopping 136 kg (300 lbs) less than the powerful ZL1 model. That’s why, it is considered to be faster at the race track.

Other nice feature is the Brembo carbon ceramic brake system. There’s also a track-tuned suspension with stiffer springs and adjustable spool-valve dampers.

The 2014 Camaro is expected to hit the market in the begging of the next year.

Source: GM

March 28, 2013

2014 Porsche 911 GT3 – US Price $130,400

Porsche has announced the pricing of the new high-performance 911 GT3 model for the US. The sports car made its official debut at the 2013 New York Auto Show. The starting price is $130,400 without destination charge. Still, it is a lot less than the EU price without changing the currency.

It is powered by the famous 3.8 liter flat-six with 475HP (349 kW) and 438Nm (324 lb-ft) of torque. The engine is connected to a 7-speed DCT gearbox sending the power to the rear wheels. The LSD (limited-slip differential) takes care about the traction, so 0-100 km/h is in 3.5 seconds and a top speed is 315 km/h (195 mph).

All other components, such as the crankshaft, valve gear and Porsche-designed titanium connecting rods and forged pistons, were adapted or designed for the GT3. In addition, the 911 GT3 is 1.7 inches wider than the 911 Carrera S in the rear. Another distinctive feature is the large fixed rear wing, which contributes to the exemplary aerodynamics.

The highlights include a more aggressive front bumper, bigger rear fenders, widened side skirts, fixed rear wing and a new rear bumper. The 911 GT3 rolls 20” forged alloys with central locking fitted with performance tires. Last, but not least is the center-mounted dual sports exhaust system with sensational sound. As an option, Porsche offer LED headlights.

The 2014 Porsche 911 GT3 will hit the US market in the end of this year.

Source: Porsche

March 27, 2013

2014 Range Rover Sport Revealed In New York

2014 Range Rover Sport has just been revealed on the streets of New York today. The ultimate premium sports SUV is the fastest, most agile and responsive Land Rover ever built in company’s history.

The new Range Rover Sport features brands best-ever on-road dynamics combined with class-leading all-terrain capability. The model exudes assertive and muscular exterior, and has more luxurious interior and the flexibility provided by the option of occasional 5+2 seating.

In addition, through lightweight suspension design and innovative dynamic chassis technologies this model is lighter with 420 kg compared to the previous generation. The result is better performance, agility mixed with exceptional comfort, energetic driving experience and CO2 emissions reduced to 194g/km.

The official world premiere pf the vehicle will happen at the New York International Auto Show after it has been teased twice two weeks ago. The bold and progressive exterior design now features improved driving performance.

Moreover, the vehicle has a sleek and contemporary appearance combined with improved utilization of space. To be more precise, the new Sport is just 62mm longer than its predecessor, yet at 4850mm, it is shorter than other 7-seater SUVs and most E segment sedans. Nevertheless, the longer wheelbase delivers greater room and comfortability.

Furthermore, this Range Rover model is offered with a choice of wheel designs ranging through 19-, 20-, 21- and 22-inches in diameter including the iconic “Viper’s Nest”. Fifth generation air suspension included here offers up to 115 mm of regular movement. On the other hand an automatic extension, triggered by sensors, and a manually-selected extension, both raise the Sport by 35mm, giving a total movement range of 185mm.

Another innovation that is to be found in the model is the electric power steering which results in a lighter, more direct steering feel. A choice of two full-time 4WD systems will be offered: the first one will offer two-speed transfer case with low-range option with a front-rear 50/50 percent default torque split, and 100 percent locking capability.

The other system is 18 kg lighter and includes a single-speed transfer case with a Torsen differential, which automatically distributes torque to the axle with most grip, working in conjunction with the traction control systems.

2014-Range-Rover-Sport-651

In terms of power, this emblematic Land Rover model will be offered with a choice of two powertrains from launch, one new Hybrid and two further diesel engines to follow.

The first engines are the supercharged 5.0-litre 510 PS (375 kW) V8 petrol engine and the 3.0-litre 292 PS (2015 kW) SDV6 diesel engine. In the future, the powertrain line-up will be expanded with the addition of the 3.0-litre 258 PS (190 kW) TDV6 and high performance 4.4-litre 339 PS (250 kW) SDV8 diesel engine. What is more, a high-efficiency diesel Hybrid model will be also available to order.

Across the range of the afore mentioned engines, the acceleration times for the 0-60 mph dash start from 5 seconds. All petrol and diesel engines in the new Range Rover Sport are mated with the advanced electronically controlled ZF 8HP70 eight-speed automatic gearbox.

To go even further into details, the all-new Range Rover Sport is the first vehicle in its segment to include an advanced all-aluminium body structure. This results in excellent agility and driving dynamics, but also offers significantly reduced weight and enhanced sustainability.

In terms of interior, the new Sport provides distinctive design cues, superior detailing and craftsmanship. It is unique blend of style and luxury with strong, elegant lines, top quality materials and an extra sporting character.

The sports feeling of the interior is additionally enhanced through the smaller diameter, thicker steering wheel, vertical gear shifter, higher centre console, configurable mood lighting and more generous seat bolsters. The Sports Command Driving Position (CDP) combines the supreme sense of confidence and control offered by the Range Rover, with a more sporting seating position similar to the Evoque.

What is more, the interior packaging improved thanks to the 24mm more knee room, and in addition, the occupants also benefit from the wider cabin. A neatly integrated third row, occasional 5+2 seating can be specified. These powered seats leave a flat floor with no loss of boot space and are split 50/50.

2014 Range Rover Sport has been engineered to embody the latest developments in technologies and safety features. Some of them are the Adaptive Dynamics featuring continuously variable dampers (CVD), Dynamic Response active lean control, a Dynamic Active Rear Locking Differential, and Torque Vectoring by Braking.

In the new model is also introduced a digital camera system with three driver assistance features: Lane Departure Warning, Traffic Sign Recognition and Automatic High Beam Assist. Another unique innovation on the Sport is the new Wade Sensing™ feature that provides ‘depth’ information when driving through water, made even more beneficial to the driver now that the Sport’s maximum wading depth has increased by 150mm over the previous model to 850mm.

Source: Land Rover

March 27, 2013

Lumma Design BMW 1-Series F20

Lumma Design has presented their tuning package for BMW 1-Series F20. The hatchback comes with some exterior and interior upgrades, but no performance modifications.

The front gets new lip spoiler for the bumper available for the variant without the M-Technik package. The price is €249 with all necessary fittings. It also can be pre-painted upon request.

The suspension gets new lowering springs for an additional €269. The ride height is reduced by 35 mm giving better stance and improved handling. Last, but not least, the exterior can get a stripe set for €179 available in different colors.

The Lumma F20 rolls big 18” anthracite-polished alloy wheels fitted with 215/40 R18 tires. The set is €1,700.

The interior boasts a set of anodized aluminum pedals – €220 EUR. There are also velour floor mats with the tuner’s logo priced at €179.

Source: Lumma Design

March 27, 2013

2014 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite To Debut In New York

2014 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite is going to make its global debut at this year’s New York International Auto Show. This is Honda’s ultimate family vehicle which aimes to set a standard in the automotive industry.

The model is thoroughly refreshed and offers key safety upgrades, sharpened exterior styling and a revised interior that features a wide range of new features and technologies. For instance, one of the innovations included is the HondaVAC™, which is the first-ever in-vehicle vacuum system.

This system was developed in conjunction with Shop-Vac®, and is composed of a powerful vacuum, replaceable filter and canister bag, with nozzle accessories neatly integrated into a especially designed space on the driver’s side bulkhead of the rear cargo area.

Furthermore, some structural upgrades are also included which are expected to help achieve top marks in the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s (IIHS). 2014 Odyssey Touring Elite will be also equipped with advanced Honda driver assistive and visibility technologies such as an Expanded View Driver’s Mirror, Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and Lane Departure Warning (LDW).

Next, the exterior styling of the car is sleeker, more sophisticated and features more deeply sculpted aluminum hood, new aluminum front fenders, a new bolder twin-bar grille, and a revised lower front fascia with integrated chrome-trimmed fog lights. New two-tone mirror housings, darker-finish projector-beam headlight housings, LED taillight bars and new badging add to the vehicle’s new look.

The interior of the 2014 Odyssey includes new finishes that enliven the cabin and an all-new center stack showcases a host of new features. Moreover, here are also included more standard technology features in comparison to the old version of the car.

Odyssey Touring Elite promises to bring new levels of ease and connectivity with the keyless Smart Entry with Push Button Start, HD Radio®, an SMS text messaging function, and HondaLink™ featuring Aha™ Mobile interface.

Next to 2014 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite, which will go on sale this summer, the Japanese brand will also exhibit at the show its complete lineup of fun-to-drive cars and trucks, including the 2014 Honda Accord Plug-In Hybrid and 2013 Honda Fit EV.

Source: Honda

March 27, 2013

2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG – US Price $47,450

Mercedes-Benz has presented the new 2014 CLA 45 AMG at the 2013 New York Auto Show.

The philosophy behind this four-door mid-series coupe matches that of the successful CLS 63 AMG, the trendsetter among four-door high-performance coupes.

As expected, it is powered by the same engine as A45 AMG. A turbocharged 2.0 liter four-cylinder petrol with 360HP (265 kW) and 450Nm (332 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph).

The engine is mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7 transmission sending power to a front-biased 4MATIC all-wheel drive system.

Another special feature designed to enhance dynamic performance and driving enjoyment is the so-called “Momentary M mode”. In C and S mode, this enables the driver to activate manual mode (“M”) without having to remove a hand from the steering wheel, by pressing the “up” or “down” shift paddle once. In Momentary M mode the driver experiences the dynamism and performance of gear-shifting in manual mode in all the automatic driving programmes, with automatic up-shifting on meeting the rpm limit into the bargain. This allows the driver to devote his full attention to the vehicle’s impressive performance.

Other highlights include AMG independent sports suspension, 3-stage ESP with Curve Dynamic Assist, a set of 18” AMG alloy wheels fitted with performance tires.

Here comes the interesting part. The 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG is priced from €56,078 for European market and just $47,450 (around €37,000). Nobody knows, why the same car has almost 20,000 difference in price…

	Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG
Displacement	1991 cc
Bore x stroke	83.0 x 92.0 mm
Compression ratio	8.6 : 1
Output	265 kW (360 hp) at 6000 rpm
Max. torque	450 Nm at 2250-5000 rpm
Engine weight (dry)	148 kg
Maximum engine speed	6700 rpm
Power density	133 kW (181 hp)
Peak pressure	up to 140 bar
Maximum charge pressure	1.8 bar
Fuel consumption NEDC combined	6.9 – 7.1 l/100 km
CO2 emissions	161 – 165 g/km
Efficiency class	C – D
Emissions standard	EU6
Acceleration 0-100 km/h	4.6 s
Top speed	250 km/h*

*Electronically limited

Source: Mercedes-Benz

March 27, 2013

2014 Jaguar XJR Unveiled Just Ahead Of New York Auto Show

2014 Jaguar XJR has just made its world debut at an exclusive event for media in New York. The model will be on display at the New York Auto Show alongside the new Jaguar XKR-S GT.

The new XJR develops 550 PS (404 kW) and combines supercar performance and attractive looks. Thanks to this great amount of power it is able to sprint form from zero to 100 km/h in only 4.4 seconds on to an electronically limited Vmax of 174 mph.

The performance of this Jaguar is provided by a 5.0-litre supercharged V8 engine which in addition to the 550 PS develops 680 Nm (502 lb-ft) peak torque. The power is delivered to the rear wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission. The all-aluminium quad-cam engine delivers exhilarating performance and tremendous efficiency thanks to spray-guided direct injection (SGDI) and dual-independent variable cam timing (DIVCT).

The flow of air over and around the car is optimized, which results in a distinctively assertive appearance. The dynamism of the car is underscored by the technical palette of materials utilized on the interior. This includes optional semi-aniline leather and veneers in either Carbon Fibre or Piano Black. In addition, contrasting colour stitching emphasizes the design of the seats.

Next, the chrome-rimmed intakes on the front bumper have become an ‘R’ model ‘signature element’. They serve as a visual reference to the car’s twin superchargers. At the same time, the front aero splitters are complemented by the rear spoiler.

The rear lift has been also reduced through the bootlid-mounted lip spoiler that manages the airflow off the top rear surface of the car. The ‘R’ bonnet louvres aid aerodynamics and engine cooling.

The model runs on five-spoke, lightweight, 20-inch ‘Farallon’ forged alloy wheels which contribute towards model’s broad shouldered stance can be either in Sparkle silver or Technical grey finishes. Pirelli PZero Corsa tyres are 265/35 and 295/30 front/rear and have been selected to deliver optimal cornering grip, traction and stability over a wide range of speed and performance parameters.

The Sport Pack grille with chrome surround and black mesh completes the aggressive visual stance of this Jaguar. XJR customers have the option to choose from ten exterior colors: Polaris White; Ebony; Ultimate Black; Stratus Grey; Lunar Grey; Rhodium Silver; Cashmere; Caviar; Carnelian Red; and Black Amethyst.

The exterior styling is transferred to the interior with combination of colourways. Jet leather trim is available with a choice of Ivory, London Tan or Red Zone inserts on the seat facings. The seats are embossed with the ‘R’ logo and can be finished with a choice of stitching in either Red or London Tan. The standard headlining is Jet suedecloth with Jet leather an option.

Furthermore, a number of advanced electronic stability controls work in harmony with the suspension, wheels and tyres. For instance, the Adaptive Dynamics system actively controls vertical body movement, roll and pitch rates through the use of continuously variable dampers.

Next, Jaguar’s active electronic differential applies full locking torque almost instantaneously when necessary. It has been calibrated so that now it exploits the high levels of grip offered by the wide rear tyres, the more precisely controlled suspension and the engine output.

In addition, the Trac DSC works in combination with the differential through the setting of the Dynamic Stability Control system and delivers more dynamism. The High Performance Braking System offers an unmatched combination of power, stability and fine modulation. The 380mm front and 376mm rear discs are internally ventilated for assured, repeated stopping power.

2014 Jaguar XJR is equipped with 380W 12-speaker surround-sound system from Meridian. The latter utilizes digital signal processing in order to create a sound field that is second to none. An optional 825W, 18-speaker system features Meridian’s proprietary Trifield System which places every occupant at the centre of their own perfectly focused surround-sound arena.

2014 Jaguar XJR Technical Specifications

Engine	5.0-litre V8 supercharged petrol
Capacity (cc)	5,000
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, RWD
Intelligent Stop/Start	Yes
0-60mph (secs)	4.4
Top speed (MPH}	174 [Electronically Limited]
Fuel Economy (combined)	24.4 MPG
CO2 (g/km)	270

Source: Jaguar

March 27, 2013

Leib BMW M3 GT 500 Delivers 470 Horsepower

Leib BMW M3 GT 500 is a tuning worth the attention. The performance specialists at Leib Engineering have presented their first project vehicle which is the perfect balance between the fast club sport racing element and the element of the representative “Boulevard-Beau“.

In other words the BMW looks stunningly beautiful, because the tuners gave it high-grade finishing through a OEM carbon fiber parts. They in turn contrast the alpine white paintwork. In particular, the carbon flaps are positioned under the front spoiler, the side-view mirror and the tear-off edge are also made of carbon.

Another highlight in this transformed car is the new in-house valve exhaust system which is made of high-grade steel and which covers a 100-cell HJS catalyzer, an X-pipe with middle silencers and an end muffler with vacuum-controlled Pierburg valves. The sound of the system is controlled through the M-key.

To go even further into detials, the performance boost equals circa 27.5 horsepower achieved through the optimization of the engine software in such a way that altogether, a good 470 hp (345 kW) is sent in the direction of the drive train – Suction Tuning par excellence.

The additional power is balanced through the instalation of Brembo GT braking system, whose red six-piston fixed saddles on the front axle hold perforated 380×32-millimeter discs firmly in their grip. The four-piston saddles on perforated 320×28-millimeter brake discs act on the rear.

Moreover, the Leib BMW M3 GT 500 runs on BMW M220 forged alloy wheels of size 8.5×19 and 9.5×19 inches for the front and the rear respectively. They were matched with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup semi-slicks in sizes 235/35R19 and 265/30R19.

On the other hand the ABS software was especially designed for motor sport application with semi-slicks, in such a way that even shorter breaking distance can now be achieved. The dual clutch transmission system oprates with even shorter shifting times after a software update.

What is more, the electronic system of the KW DDC ECU chassis suspension was tuned by Leib Engineering. The result is that now the electronic damper control system of the high-tech coilover suspension can controlled through the original EDC key or M key.

At last, the interior has been also „touched“. Throughout the cabin one can see fine alcantara, in fact the BMW Performance seats and the steering wheel were all wrapped with this material.

Source: Leib Engineering

March 27, 2013

2014 Jaguar XKR-S GT [video]

Jaguar has announced the new 2014 XKR-S GT at the New York Auto Show. Extensive aerodynamic and suspension changes, as well as the addition of carbon ceramic brakes, have combined to give the XKR-S GT race-car inspired connected feel and braking performance.

Some of the highlights include:

Carbon ceramic brake system with 398mm and 380mm discs front/rear, gripped respectively by six- and four-piston monoblock calipers

Electronic Pre-Fill system pressurises braking system and maximises braking performance
Addition of carbon-fibre front splitter, dive planes, extended wheelarch spats, an elevated rear wing, a rear diffuser and an optimised aluminium front valance contribute to a maximum downforce figure of 145kg (320lb) at the XKR-S GT’s electronically limited top speed of 186mph (300km/h)
The addition of race-derived, height-adjustable and retuned adaptive dampers with twin-spring system. Spring rates up by 68% at the front and 25% at the rear
New development of front and rear suspension from the F-TYPE sports car
The fitment of an F-TYPE steering rack for enhanced agility
Wider 20” forged alloy wheels shod with Pirelli Corsa 255/35 front and 305/30 rear tyres for maximised grip
Bonnet louvres aid engine cooling and reduce under-bonnet air pressure

The sports car is limited to just 30 units available exclusively in Polaris White finish.

The engine is the well-known supercharged 5.0 liter V8 – 550HP (404 kW) and 680Nm (501 lb-ft) of torque. It is mated to a 6-speed automatic gearbox. 0-100 km/h in 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 300 km/h (186 mph).

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

Source: Jaguar

March 26, 2013

HOT: Vilner Enhances The Interior Of Mercedes-Benz SL

When it comes to interior, the Bulgarian luxury tuning specialists at Vilner are among those who always deliver the best. This time they have worked on the emblematic Mercedes-Benz SL model and made it even more exceptional then before.

Vilner reveals that this is one of their bravest projects. The reason lies in the fact that during the work they have worked with five different materials which were carefully chosen in one tonality. In addition, through this they have proved that with the utilization of several exotic materials and exotic leather in one project, the end result might not seem that flamboyant.

In general, the floor mats, the ceiling, the leather, the seat belts and the plastic elements in the original Mercedes-Benz are in grey and are combined with brown wooden applications.

In order to enhance the unique feeling that the car leaves in the occupants, Vilner decided to use in this project Nappa leather with antique effect, crocodile leather and brown Alcantara. They were sewed with a contrast stitching.

Furthermore, after the modification of the steering wheel, it now has more aggressive stance and it is more ergonomically viable. The ceiling on the other hand as well as the rearview mirror and all plastic elements on the seats and the thresholds are wrapped in Alcantara.

The floor mats and the carpet are changed with brown-grey ones. Something very impressive in this project is that all wooden applications, some of the plastic elements and the gearshift lever are hand-painted in order to give them a look of patinated steel.

What is even more, the audio system has been entirely replaced with DLS speakers and amplifiers. In addition, the interior was made noiseless which contributes towards better comfort and now even the slightest vibrations felt in the coupe are tamed. At last in the doors have been incorporated lasers that project Vilner’s logo.

March 26, 2013

Category: Auto News