Auto News – Page 753 – Automobiles Review

The Fastest Christmas Song in the World – BMW ///M135i

The most powerful “normal” 1-Series – the BMW M135i is really an exceptional vehicle. It comes with everything that a track day driver needs – extremely powerful engine, sports suspension, big brakes and nice comfy interior.

The BMW ///M135i is suitable not only for going at the race track during weekends, but everyday driving. It has low fuel consumption and it is relatively quiet, until you press the pedal to the metal. When that happens, the monster under the hood – a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged six-cylinder petrol engine with 320HP (235 kW) and 450Nm (332 lb-ft) becomes furious. 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited. Without the limiter, the small sports car will easily go beyond 280 km/h.

Here is a “normal” situation perfectly suitable for the M135i – 4 people singing “Jingle Bells”, while a race driver is doing some drifts at the race track.

Enjoy!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TjncA7jau2g

Source: BMW

December 13, 2012

ABT 2012 Audi RS4 – 450HP

ABT has introduced their tuning version of Audi RS4. The car comes only with styling changes, but still is has 450HP under the hood. The only performance modification is the removing the factory speed limiter. The ABT RS4 now reaches a top speed of almost 290 km/h.

The exterior boasts a set of ABT DR alloy wheels – 9J x 20” fitted with performance tires. They are finished in cool gun metal finish and the spokes arranged like a turbine blade. The make the appearance even more aggressive, ABT also installs on the sports Audi 25mm wheel spacers on each side.

The impressive sound of the 4.2 liter V8 is boosted by optional stainless-steel exhaust system. From the catalytic converter, ABT Sportsline replaces the system with optimised components. It goes without saying that the Bavarians also offer a TÜV approval for this “brass instrument”.

Finally, ABT puts a special boot mat and the matching set of floor mats.

Source: ABT

December 13, 2012

2014 Acura MDX Prototype at the 2013 NAIAS

Acura will present the next-generation MDX Prototype at the 2013 NAIAS, held in Detroit over January 14-15, next year.

The new MDX utilizes “Aero Sculpture” design language. It affects both form and function, the 2014 MDX Prototype will feature alluring proportions with smooth, arching body lines matched to an efficient architecture.

Nothing is mentioned about the technical specs, but probably the MDX will be powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 314HP (231 kW) and 368Nm (272 lb-ft) of torque.

Stay tuned for further information, video and high resolution pictures, which will be available right after the press conference, which can be watched live at www.acurawebcast.com.

Source: Acura

December 13, 2012

New Classic MOKE Motor Vehicle

The bew “Classic MOKE” is created in a Joint Venture with Chery Motors and their subsidiary Sicar Automotive Engineering Company. The vehicle will be available in countries like Australia, Thailand, and throughout the Caribbean. It is planned to be produced as a low volume car with 1000 units per year. Production capacity will grow to an anticipated 1000 units per month after year three with markets throughout South America coming into line.

The original Moke was designed and released in 1960 -1963 as a military vehicle that was light, compact and strong. In 1964 it was first released for public sale in Britain under the names Austin Moke and Morris Moke. In 1966 the first Mokes were produced in Australia under the name BMC MINI MOKE.

The MOKE is often called a ‘Mini Moke’ as it was designed by Sir Alec Issigonis, the same designer as the famous Mini.

In 1977 the Californian Moke was released in Australia with additional features such as Roo bars, Spoked wheels and improved seating. In 1983 the company moved to Portugal before completely stopping production in 1992.

In 2012 Chery Motors and Sicar Automotive started re-engineering the Moke with new features such as 9” front disc brakes, 3-point seat belts for front and rear seats, modern car suspension technology as well as a fuel injected engine and rust proof body.

Nothing is mentioned about the price, but it is expected to be extremely low and affordable.

There are also plans for an Electric eMoke to be released in the near future.

December 13, 2012

2014 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 – Bigger is Better

Chevrolet has announced the all-new 2014 Silverado 1500 full-size pickup. The vehicle is engineered to be the strongest, smartest, and most capable Silverado ever.

Among the many updates for 2014 are a new trio of powerful, efficient EcoTec3 engines. There is also a more comfortable cab, revised steering, suspension and brakes.

“Our customers rely on their trucks to meet the day-to-day challenges of earning a living, running a business and taking care of their families,” commented Mark Reuss, president, GM North America.

“Chevrolet is committed to giving truck customers the most-refined, best-engineered pickups in the market.”, he added.

“Don’t let the work boots fool you. Truck customers are among the most discerning and demanding in the business,” said Jeff Luke, executive chief engineer for full-size and midsize trucks.

“The designers and engineers who created the new Silverado share this passion for trucks. They have built this truck – and tested it to the extremes – to give customers the right tools for the tough jobs, and they have created dozens of solutions to the challenges truck customers encounter every day.”, he finished.

2014 Silverado 1500 Preliminary Specifications

Overview

Models:	Light-duty pickup truck, 2WD and 4WD
Body styles	Regular, extended and crew cab
EPA vehicle class:	Full-size truck
Manufacturing location:	Fort Wayne, Ind.; Silao, Mexico
Key competitors:	Ford F-Series, Ram 1500, Toyota Tundra, Nissan Titan

Powertrains

	4.3L V-6 (LV3)	5.3L V-8 (L83)	6.2L V-8 (L86)
Displacement (cu in / cc):	262 / 4301	325 / 5328	376 / 6162
Bore & stroke (mm):	99.6 x 92	96 x 92	103.25 x 92
Block material:	Cast aluminum	Cast aluminum	Cast aluminum
Cylinder head material:	Cast aluminum	Cast aluminum	Cast aluminum
Compression ratio:	11.0:1	11.0:1	11.5:1
Direct fuel injection:	Yes	Yes	Yes
Cylinder deactivation:	Yes	Yes	Yes
Continuously variable valve timing:	Yes	Yes	Yes
Six-speed automatic transmission with Auto Grade Braking:	Yes	Yes	Yes

Chassis / Suspension

Front suspension:	2WD and 4WD: independent coil-over-shock; monotube shock absorbers available
Rear suspension:	Solid axle with semi-elliptic two-stage multi-leaf springs; monotube shocks available
Steering type:	Electrically-assisted power rack-and-pinion steering with variable assist
Stability control:	Standard StabiliTrak electronic stability control with Trailer Sway Control and Hill Start Assist
Brakes:	Power-assisted four-wheel disc brakes with Duralife™ long-life brake rotors; standard ABS; Hill Descent Control available

Source: GM

December 13, 2012

AC Schnitzer BMW 1-series M Coupe Unveiled

AC Schnitzer BMW 1-series M Coupe has just been unveiled through tuning company’s Facebook page. As a matter of fact this is the fastest road-legal BMW. The proof for this is that the car has achieved a lap time of 1:35.80 min on the Sachsenring.

On the outer side of the car we can clearly see that some original elements have been replaced with carbon fiber. In addition, the perfect BiColour Finish gives the Type VIII alloy wheel a sophisticated sporting look which makes perfectly the aggressive stance of the vehicle.

The interior is also entirely changed and obviously the aim was to deliver more luxurious experience of the occupants. We can see that the seats are wrapped in leather and have impressive contrast “diamond” stitching. Wrapping is also noticeable on the steering wheel. Floor mats have been changed.

Source: AC Schnitzer via Facebook

December 13, 2012

A.R.T. Mercedes-Benz G63 / G65 AMG Wide Body kit

A.R.T. Tuning takes the leash off their brand new wide body kit for G 63 and G65, the A.R.T. G streetline 65 is the brand new Body-Kit by A.R.T. tuning which is especially made to enhance the Mercedes-Benz G63 / G65 AMG. It combines the distinctive A.R.T. design with the highest technical demands.

The impressive visual appearance is complemented by technically innovative solutions, which truly exceeds all expectations. Some of the technical specifications that emotionally infect at once: first, the enormous performance increase up to 749 hp (550 kW) for the G65, 681 hp (500 kW) for the G63, and unprecedented 1000 Nm (738 lb-ft).

These modifications in power have been done by reprogramming the ECU, installing high flow catalytic converters and additional cooling systems for engine, fuel circuit and transmission.

Secondly, the awe-inspiring A.R.T. G streetline 65 wide body kit, consists of an breathtaking front bumper with integrated front spoiler, a smooth pair of running board covers with LED underfloor illumination, a set of grand fender flarings with LED running board illumination and an eye-catching rear bumper with double retroreflector units

What’s more, the innovative LED triple beam lamp set, with two additional LED high beams and one LED daytime running light per side is what brings more illumination. The extra air intakes in the front bumper, channel the air flow for improving the cooling of the brake system on the front axle.

The spectacular A.R.T. aero engine hood in bicolor design is also an element which impresses very much. It has no less than 19 air intakes for improving the thermic conduction. On the other hand A.R.T. Premium High Bi-XENON headlamp system with integrated LED daytime running light is what makes the Mercedes-Benz even more distinctive.

The imposing A.R.T. roof spoiler with LED wideboard brake light and blend in stainless steel, the towering monoART1 wheels in size 22×10 with tires in size 295/35 R22, the new A.R.T. sport exhaust system in stainless steel, culminating in three end pipes per side is what finalizes the exterior enhancements.

For the interior here the tuners have utilized leather and Alcantara, crowned by carbon and noble woods. A.R.T. There are also handmade elements that grab the attention. The delivery of the G streetline 65 will start in January 2013.

Source: A.R.T. Tuning

December 13, 2012

Lamborghini DMC Aventador LP900SV Limited Edition

After series of teaser images which has been released in the past month, DMC Lamborghini Aventador LP900SV Limited Edition has been finally revealed exuding its powerful stance and aggressive visual appearance. DMC also disclosed that the kit for the vehicle will be produced in only ten examples.

What have basically the tuners done here is to add their new SV kit where their famous STAGE 1 package ends, improving an already sound base. More importantly the kit, which is strictly limited to only ten sets worldwide, but only on those which already have DMC’s regular Molto Veloce Kit.

The application of it will be carefully scrutinized by DMC, and only approved if the car, the location, the owner and the color match DMC’s “10 of 10” criteria. Each of the kits will only be available in one shade or body finish. In other words the aim is to make every vehicle unique and different from the other nine.

Furthermore the professionals developed a brand new front and rear bumper, made from 100% carbon fiber. The front fascia receives a wider, sharper nose and the two “J” style poles, responsible to additionally improved aerodynamics. There can also be seen the new “DMC” badge. The front is perfected with two Formula1 Canards mounted on either side. They further break the airflow.

The side skirts include DMC’s diffuser panels, massive rear spoiler and corresponding wing base. The rear features a new rear bumper which has lower ‘tunnel’ system seen. The latter shows a center opening, under the custom exhaust.

Next, the performance that this Lamborghini achieve now reaches 900 horsepower (662 kW). The reason for this is that DMC decided to use 12 unique single intake throttle plates, one for each individual cylinder. Gasoline pumps and – lines, as well as pressure modulators and injection nozzles will be replaced by own new components.

Moreover, optimized engine electronics, an electronic load pressure control system and a completely new wiring will also be featured. As a consequence the engine will be rebranded as LP900. The Titanium Exhaust system supports the power-mod.

Source: DMC

December 13, 2012

Vilner Transforms Bentley Continental

After the great success that the Bulgarian tuners from Vilner achieved with their last two tunings on Audi RS6 and S5, they are now ready to bring even more luxury, style and prestige to the automotive world. The specialists are doing that with the release of their new project on Bentley Continental. Of course, the readers of automobilesreview.com are the first to see it!

In general Bentley is a vehicle which leaves us with the impression that it doesn’t need any additional tuning. For instance, in the present case the original interior is in one color and has accents of wooden applications. Undoubtedly this is something which adds to brand’s famous sense of luxury.

Despite that the professionals from Vilner wanted to refresh the interior with the aim to make it more contemporary and to underscore its sporty spirit! For this purpose they have used dark brown leather and Alcantara.

A lot of attention to the detail has been paid and the craftsmanship of the specialists is obvious. For example, the steering wheel and the airbag are given sportier look and form. For the middle part of the seats and the ceiling is used a “bespoke touch” where the stitching forms diamond-like shapes.

Furthermore, all wooden elements are painted in Brown Piano Varnish, and to make them even more individual, light-brown and white bands are applied lengthwise on them. The design of the mileage-meters is also changed.

Source: Vilner

December 12, 2012

Jota Sport Aston Martin GT4 Race Car Teased

The photography studio ASA Infinity takes great pleasure in producing creative, inspiring and beautiful imagery. One of their latest and most exciting projects is the photoshoot of the new Jota Sport Aston Martin GT4 race car.

Unfortunately this is only a sneak preview and for that reason the professionals have revealed only one image. Responsible for the perfect picture is the photographer Tony Rogers. And all we can do now is to wait for the promised additional information around this race car.

As a matter of fact, coming out from the factory, the revised sports car includes an all-new aerodynamic package plus further improvements to the rollcage and fuel tank. The aerodynamic package consists of a carbon fibre rear wing, which generates a lot of downforce, especially combined with a new larger front splitter.

The Aston Martin also includes mid-mounted, 115-litre fuel tank, which lowers the centre of gravity and helps for better weight distribution. The fuel tank has twin quick-fill entries in the rear quarter. The car is powered by a 4.7 litre V8 with 436PS (321 kW) at 7300RPM and 490Nm (361 lb-ft) at 5000RPM. Let’s wait and see what’s going to be exactly modified here.

Source: ASA Infinity Studios

December 12, 2012

Citroen DS3 WRC

Citroen Racing and Abu Dhabi now takes real shape with the presentation of the racing programmes for the 2013 season. The Citroen Total Abu Dhabi World Rally Team’s line-up for this year’s FIA World Rally Championship will feature three crews: Mikko Hirvonen/Jarmo Lehtinen, Dani Sordo/Carlos del Barrio and Sébastien Loeb/Daniel Elena. Khalid Al-Qassimi will also be taking part in the majority of the WRC events, but will be competing first and foremost in the FIA Middle East Rally Championship.

“We are very proud to have forged a relationship with a partner that is as prestigious and dynamic as Abu Dhabi,” commented Yves Matton, Citroen Racing Team Principal.

“Like our long-time partner Total, Abu Dhabi will be visible across all our 2013 programmes: on the works teams competing in the WRC and the MERC (Middle East Rally Championship), but also in the Citroen Racing Trophy held in the main countries in Europe. Together, we are also committed to establishing a rally driver development programme with Abu Dhabi Racing.”, he added.

The eight-time World Rally Championship-winning works team – including five consecutive titles between 2008 and 2012 – will now be known as the Citroen Total Abu Dhabi World Rally Team. Three cars will compete at each of the thirteen rounds on the WRC calendar. Lining up in all of the events in the no.2 DS3 WRC, Mikko Hirvonen and Jarmo Lehtinen will be looking to win the Drivers’ title.

“Now that I have my first season with Citroen under my belt, I feel ready for this new challenge,” asserted the Finn. “I have been World Championship runner-up four times, so the next logical step is to aim for first place!”

The second DS3 WRC nominated to score points towards the Manufacturers’ World Championship will be driven by Sebastien Loeb and Daniel Elena at four rallies.

“We’ll start the season in Monte-Carlo and we’ll also be competing in Sweden, because it’s a rally that I would love to win in normal racing conditions. And I couldn‘t begin to think about missing the Rallye de France,” confirmed Seb.
Source: Citroen

December 12, 2012

Hamann BMW F06 Gran Coupe Revealed!

Finally the specialists from Hamann have just revealed the tuning they have been working on for several months. It is on the famous BMW 6 series and it carries the name Hamann BMW F06 Gran Coupe.

However, the German based tuning company has only released the images of the project, without revealing additional details to the work process. All we know is that this new BMW 6-Series Gran-Coupe (F06) is equipped with a brand new upgrade kit, which makes the BMW looking more astonishing than ever.

What we can judge from the pictures is that a lot of Carbon Fiber was involved in the modification of the exterior. On the other hand the interior looks more luxurious than ever and it is designed in two toes. It include a bespoke touch, diamond stitching and it is all wrapped in premium materials.

There is no current information about any changes to the power. It probably stays the same as factory one. However, the production model is able to produce enough because it is equipped with TwinPower Turbo inline 6-cylinder engine. The unit generates 313 hp (230 kW) at 4400RPM and 630Nm of torque at just 1500RPM. Basically, this means that the Gran Coupe accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.4 seconds achieving its top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph).

Pictures Source: Hamann via Facebook

December 12, 2012

Category: Auto News