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Alfa Romeo Zagato Stradale TZ3 Set To Debut At The Amelia Island Concours d’ELEGANCE

Alfa-Romeo Zagato Stradale TZ3 will make a debut at the 18th annual Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance on 10th of March. It will be the last of only nine custom built models, known as the Italian sports car with “the heart of a Viper and the soul of an ALFA”.

These nine cars were constructed in order to celebrate the centenary of Carrozzeria Zagato in 2010. And this Azzurro California hued example is the final car in the exclusive series. As a matter of fact, the model was built by Carrozzeria Zagato as a design study.

The Stradale TZ3 wears the traditional Alfa-Romeo badge of the serpent and the 1925 world grand prix champion’s wreath. Under its carbon fiber bodywork, the model hides a 8.3 liter 600 hp (441 kW) V-10 engine, known from the SRT Viper. At last, it is good to mention that this supercar accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in only 3.5 seconds.

Another interesting fact is that Zagato calls the Stradale TZ3 “the first American ALFA in automotive history” that combines “unbridled American power and Italian grace”. The astonishing model was inspired by the motto “bellazza necessaria”, which means “beautiful necessity”. This is proven by the Kamm tail, “double bubble roof” and round taillights.

Source: Alfa Romeo

February 28, 2013

2013 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Special Edition for Japan

Mercedes-Benz has announced a new C63 AMG Limited Edition for Japan. The 2013 C 63 AMG is limited to just 35 units – 15 as a coupe and 20 as a sedan.

The exterior boasts a nice white body finish with red mirror caps, red brake calipers and a red boot lid spoiler. The interior features red and black designo leather.

The 6.2 liter naturally aspirated V8 is boosted to 487HP (358 kW) at 6,800RPM and 600Nm (443 lb-ft) at 5,000RPM. 0-100 km/h in 4.4 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited).

This is the second C63 AMG Limited Edition for Japan, after Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Performance Studio, which was introduced last year. Obviously, the power and the luxury offered by C63 are hugely appreciated in Japan.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

February 28, 2013

Iconic Mazda CX-5 Gets Enhanced!

Mazda is making its outstanding CX-5 a little bit more attractive with a series of drivability, design and functionality improvements. For instance, the model will include range of SKYACTIV-Drive automatic transmissions.

The latter will utilize kickdown detent, which will help drivers prevent unwanted downshifts or initiate faster ones when more torque is desired. Furthermore, the CX-5’s engines are being improved and include even more free-revving than ever due to an enhanced power train control module. The tachometers have been updated accordingly with higher redlines.

What is more, the interior has also undergone some transformations with a focus on letting the driver concentrate on driving the vehicle. First of all the Bluetooth functionality has been enhanced and now is available for the audio system. It includes a voice command feature for music management as well as display and readout capability for email and SMS received via a Bluetooth-connected smartphone.

More style is added via the new silver accent for the audio panel button. This modification also contributes for a better utilization. Robust vinyl door armrests have been added on models with fabric upholstery to improve durability.

Soul Red adds more emotion to the exterior of the CX-5. It was especially developed using a unique process by combining two different base coats. The result is an intensive red that seems to radiate from within when lit up, in contrast to its blackish appearance when shaded. Soul Red adds to the range of three new body colours for the Mazda CX-5: Stormy Blue, Meteor Grey and Jet Black.

Source: Mazda

February 28, 2013

AC Schnitzer BMW 3-Series Touring F31

AC Schnitzer will also present tuned BMW 3-Series Touring F31 in Geneva. It also features a nice Copper paint finish as well as some other interesting upgrades making the family touring car even more exclusive.

The exterior boasts 2-piece front flippers for cars with M-Technik, rear roof spoiler and the chromed front grille. There is also a front spoiler and a rear skirt insert by AC Schnitzer. The AC Schnitzer F31 rolls Type VIII BiColor rims in black or silver in 18”, 19” and 20” or AC Schnitzer Type IV BiColor black or silver also in 18”, 19” and 20”, as well as TypeVI BiColor rims in 18”.

The interior features AC Schnitzer “Black Line” aluminium cover for the “i-Drive” system controller, the “Black Line” handbrake handle, a gear knob with digital display, a leather gear knob or an aluminium gear knob. There are also aluminium pedals, AC Schnitzer foot rests and velours floor mats.

AC Schnitzer offers tuning packages for all models starting from 316i, 328i, 335i and diesel range – 318d, 320d and 330d. The power outputs vary from 171HP (126 kW) to 360HP (265 kW).

The AC Schnitzer sport s rear silencer convinces the most demanding drivers with one or two chrome “Racing” exhaust pipes (left/right combination). For pure optical purposes the chromed “Racing” tailpipe is also separately available.

The AC Schnitzer suspension spring kit combined with a lower suspension setting of 25 mm brings the Touring closer to the ground.

Source: AC Schnitzer

February 28, 2013

AC Schnitzer BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe

AC Schnitzer has announced their tuning version of BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe. The car will be presented at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show in March. The stylish four-door coupe comes with both – styling and performance modifications.

The exterior boasts complete aerodynamics upgrades by AC Schnitzer including a new carbon front spoiler and a carbon rear diffuser for M-technik models and the normal versions will get a front spoiler with optional chrome line set and a rear skirt extension. The are also chromed front grilles and bonnet vents.

AC Schnitzer 6-Series Gran Coupe rolls enormous wheels in various types – Type IV BiColor, Type IV silver,

Type VIII BiColor, black and silver in dimensions – 19” or 20”. Lightweight forged alloys and

forged racing rims Type VIII BiColor are available in sizes 9.0J x 21″ and 10.0J x 21″ with 255/30 R21 tyres on the front and 295/25 R 21 tyres on the rear.

The interior features “Black Line“ aluminium cover for the i-Drive system controller, aluminium footrests and pedals, and velours floor mats.

The 640d model is boosted from 313HP to 360HP and the 640i from 320HP to 360HP. The AC Schnitzer twin sports rear silencer with chromed “Sports Trim“ tailpipes (right/left), also available in export version, provides the matching sound track.

Source: AC Schnitzer

February 28, 2013

2013 BMW Alpina B3 Bi-Turbo – Top Speed 306 km/h

Alpina has introduced the new 2013 B3 Bi-Turbo, which is based on BMW F30 335i. The car will make its official debut at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show, next week.

The engine is the well-known 3.0 liter twin-turbocharged petrol, but boosted to 410HP (310 kW) at 5,500RPM and 598Nm (442 lb-fT) of torque. It is connected to an 8-speed automatic ZF gearbox sending power to the rear wheels.

0-100 km/h in just 4.2 seconds and a top speed of whopping 306 km/h (190 mph). Still, the engine needs just 7.6 liters / 100 km (37.2 mpg UK) with CO2 emissions of 177 g/km.

Other highlights include complete aerodynamics package including new front spoiler, modified rear diffuser, a set of big Alpina alloy wheels fitted with low-profile tires and Alpina badging.

Source: Alpina

February 28, 2013

2013 Dodge Viper SRT Track Pack – 28 kg lighter

Dodge has announced a special SRT Track Pack, which is now available for the normal 2013 Viper and Vipers GTS. At the heart of this sophisticated suite of subtle upgrades is a state-of-the-art braking package that improves upon the Viper’s already impressive brake cooling properties.

The Track Pack includes an updated brake cooling ductwork and Brembo braking kit with new rotors, which are 3.6 kg (per piece) lighter. This is a total of 14.5 kg less weight only from this system. Additionally new wheels and Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires save 13.6 kg. So, the Viper/Viper GTS Track Pack version weighs 28.1 kg less than normal variants.

The traction control has also been improved. It has four modes delivering perfect traction at all conditions.

“A customer’s perception of the brake system depends very much on the way the driver uses the car. The faster you go, the greater the advantage.”, commented Graham Henckel, Chief Engineer of the SRT Viper.

No words about pricing.

Source: Dodge

February 27, 2013

Sbarro React EV Concept To Be Revealed At Geneva Motor Show

ESPERA Sbarro students introduced last year their first electric car called ‘Intencity’. This happened at the Geneva Motor Show. Now, at the same Auto Show, the students are proud to present a new challenge: a hybrid car.

Exactly 30 Students were involved in the project which they have completed for 13 weeks. The concept is called REACT’E EV and won’t stay only as a study, but instead will participate in the Monte Carlo New Energy Rally.

Some of the technical specifications of this model disclosed so far, state that the car will be equipped with one V6 unit which will generate 210 horsepower (155 kW) and two electrical motors – DC Brushless each producing 136 hp (100 kW) and with 750 Nm (554 lb-ft).

The power from the motors will be translated through a five gear manual transmission. In addition, the drivetrain for the combustion engine will be a rear wheel drive, while the batter of the electric motors will be LFP – 24 kWh and the motor controller – MicroAutobox dSPACE.

No pictures of the concept were released so far, so we are eagerly looking forward to Geneva when more details around the Sbarro React EV will be announced.

Source: Sbarro

February 27, 2013

Range Rover Evoque Equipped With World’s First 9-Speed Automatic Transmission

Great news from Land Rover! The brand will showcase at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show the world’s first 9-speed automatic transmission for a passenger car. It is named ZF 9HP transmission and especially created for transverse applications.

It is one of the most efficient and technically advanced transmissions ever used in a production vehicle and in particular the new Range Rover Evoque will be equipped with it. The number of gear ratios has been increased from six to nine and this gives significant improvement in fuel economy and a corresponding reduction in CO2 emissions.

In addition, the smaller ratio steps deliver enhanced response during acceleration, improved shift quality, drive and refinement. What is more, the higher top gear not only decreses fuel consumption but also the lower engine revs improve comfort and reduce noise when cruising at high speed.

To go further into details, the lowest ratio in the 9HP is specifically designed for off-road use, towing and more extreme on-road conditions like gradients and altitude. The 9HP is also highly responsive and versatile too.

If the existing six-speed transmission makes shifts sequentially, the new one includes a skip-shift function for much swifter downshifting under rapid deceleration or from greater driver input demands. The torque converter incorporates a multi-stage damper system for smoother pulling away and enhanced refinement.

Furthermore, the “fast-off” mode measures the rate of throttle release, anticipates further requests by the driver for high power, then holds the gear if necessary. For instance, if there is requested a downshift when the vehicle is travelling too fast, the transmission will remember this request and make the shift when the speed drops to an appropriate level.

The extra three gear ratios add just additional length of 6 mm. Despite that, the transmission weighs 7.5 kg less than the outgoing six-speed transmission. The small package space is achieved through a new hydraulic vane-type pump, which also delivers improved efficiency, two patented dog clutches replacing bulkier conventional clutch packs, and an Intelligently Nested gear set.

Source: Land Rover

February 27, 2013

Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradale With Debut In Geneva

Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradale alongside the Quattroporte will be shown at the Geneva Motor Show thus making their official European debut. The new four seater GranTurismo MC Stradale has combined many positive attributes starting with its expression of sportiness and ending with the luxury that a coupe can deliver.

The Quattroporte is the first Maserati to be built at the new Giovanni Agnelli plant in Grugliasco (Turin). And on the other hand, the GranTurismo MC Stradale will be built at the historic factory in viale Ciro Menotti in Modena.

The four seater GranTurismo MC Stradale, like its sibling two seater, takes its inspiration from the racing version which competes in the Maserati Trofeo Championship. It will offer its customers the perfect combination of sportiness, luxury and elegance, comfort and style, functionality and dynamism.

In addition, this new Maserati model has enhanced aesthetic exterior features such as carbon fibre bonnet which frames a central air intake and two rear extractors and by the new forged 20″ alloy rims. Inside the cabin are also included new materials that contribute for an impressive new style.

Under the hood the four seater MC Stradale will have a 4.7 litre, 460 hp (338 kW) aspirated V8 engine. It will be mated to a MC Race Shift 6-speed robotised manual gearbox and will excellent performance with a top speed of 188 mph.

In terms of safety and security, the vehicle utilizes Brembo carbon ceramic brake discs. The new GranTurismo MC Stradalealso benefits from the work carried out on the latest engine range to reduce fuel consumption and emissions.

Source: Maserati

February 27, 2013

2013 Volkswagen Golf GTI Performance – 230HP and 350Nm

Volkswagen has announced the new Golf GTI, which will make its official debut at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. The 7^th generation of GTI will be also available in Performance variant with more power. Starting price is 28,350 with first order books open up in early March in Germany.

The engine is the well-known 2.0 liter turbocharged petrol with 220HP (162 kW) and 350Nm of torque. The GTI Performance will have 230HP and the same torque. 0-100 km/h in 6.5 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited. The car boasts a super-low fuel consumption of just 6.0 liters / 100 km with manual gearbox (47 mpg UK) and 6.4 liters (44.1 mpg UK) for the automatic model.

The Golf VII GTI comes with lowered suspension, 17” alloy wheels fitted with 225/45 R17 tires, a new body kit with a built-in rear diffuser and wider side sills. The interior features a pair of sports seats, a new more ergonomic steering wheels and new pedals.

The brakes are also improved – 314 mm ventilated front discs and 300mm unventilated rears. The Performance models will have lated discs on all wheels, with 342mm discs at the front and 310mm at the back.

The curb weight of the vehicle is just 1,351 kg (2,978 lbs).

Market launch in Europe: Initial markets starting May 2013.
Debut of first generation Golf GTI: 1976.
Engine: Four-cylinder TSI (turbocharged direct petrol injection); front transverse engine; displacement 1,984 cc; bore/stroke 82.5/92.8 mm; compression ratio 9.8:1.
Power: 162 kW / 220 PS from 4,500 to 6,200 rpm.
Torque: 350 Nm from 1,500 to 4,400 rpm.
Gearboxes / drive type: Manual 6-speed gearbox; automatic 6-speed DSG; front-wheel drive.
Brakes: Disc brakes front and rear, front 312 x 25 mm, ventilated; rear 300 x 12 mm.
Fuel consumption / CO2 emissions (manual): 6.0 l/100 km;
139 g/km CO2.
Driving performance (manual): 0-100 km/h in 6.5 s; V/max 246 km/h.
Unladen weight: 1,351 kg (base version including driver [68 kg], luggage [7 kg] and 90 % filled fuel tank; calculated as per RL 92/21/EEC.

GTI Performance:

Power: 169 kW / 230 PS from 4,700 to 6,200 rpm.
Torque: 350 Nm from 1,500 to 4,600 rpm.
front axle differential lock (VAQ).
Brakes: Disc brakes front and rear, front 340 x 30 mm, ventilated;
rear 310 x 22 mm, ventilated.
Driving performance (manual): 0-100 km/h in 6.4 s; V/max 250 km/h.

Source: Volkswagen

February 27, 2013

Citroen DS4 Electro Shot in Geneva

Citroen will exhibit the new DS4 Electro Shot at the Geneva Motor Show.

The model is based on the DStyle trim package and features a gloss black roof and spoiler as well as 17” alloy wheels with black accents. There are also chrome-finished door mirrors giving more prominent look.

The interior boasts leather package, some metallic accents and Citroen’s infotainment system.

DS4 Electro Shot is the first Citroën to be produced by the new customisation workshop at the Mulhouse production site – a workshop run by body specialists to satisfy the expectations of DS customers looking for a unique, high-quality product with a high level of customised content.

Source: Citroen

February 27, 2013

Category: Auto News