Category: Auto News

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

  • Caterham Supersport R Completes Iconic Range of Sevens

    Caterham-Supersport-R-THUMBCaterham Supersport R is the latest addition to the iconic range of Sevens. The two-liter Supersport R packs 180 hp (132 kW) and track-bred dynamics, and it is an elaborate version of the standard Supersport.

    Nevertheless, the new edition has many circuit-orientated performance essentials and is equipped with bigger engine and a five-speed gearbox, which delivers astounding performance. Furthermore, the new 2-litre Ford Duratec unit has proven its durability and performance on the track, having been developed during three years in Caterham’s R300 race championship.

    In fact, the Supersport R shows the brand’s aim to develop the iconic Seven, which it has been engineering and building for nearly 40 years. And it is more than obvious that this model will grab the attention of driving enthusiasts.

    The performance of the car is very impressive an given that it is combined with the accessibility of the suspension specification, this makes the vehicle perfectly balanced, satisfying and fun in terms of the driving experience it offers.

    Another highlight here is the front-mounted Caterham-developed Ford Duratec engine, which pairs up with a limited-slip differential to further improve its performance credentials. On the other hand the Avon CR500 tyres, Supersport dampers and race springs allow a highly-focused handling. Aerodynamics is further enhanced by the overall weight of the car which is just 535kg.

    At last, the interior of the car includes bespoke Supersport steering wheel, integrated change-up light, composite race seats and four-point race harnesses. An aero screen comes as standard.

    Source: Caterham

  • TEASER: 2014 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series

    2014-Mercedes-Benz-SLS-AMG-Black-Series-THUMBThe most recent and exclusive news from Mercedes-Benz is that they have just published in their official AMG page in Facebook a teaser photograph of the new 2014 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series.

    The image shows a car, wrapped in black car cover, but still carrying the emblematic shapes and forms for the SLS. More importantly, what is under this cover is going to be revealed in less than 24 hours.

    It is rumored that the new SLS Black Series is going to be equipped with the latest 6.2 liter V8 engine, which generates the outstanding 630 horsepower (463 kW). And this amazing performance will probably result in great acceleration time form standstill to 100 km/h – I bet it is under 3.5 seconds.

    The new 2014 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series will make its debut at Los Angeles Motor Show. Stay tuned today, because certainly there is to see more of it!

    Source: Mercedes-Benz via Facebook

  • Project Magnum: SR Auto Hummer

    2012-SR-Auto-Hummer-THUMbThe next exciting project that the specialists form SR Auto had undertaken recently is called Project Magnum and it is on an outstanding Hummer model. They have been working slowly on it and improving it step by step until now when it soars the sky high.

    The phases it went through included an uplifted perspective thanks to the Fabtech lift kit. The six inch lift matched perfectly to the new wheels from Fuel – the Maverick model in Matte Black Face and Gloss Black Lip. The diameter measures in at twenty inches, but the impressive part is the tires.

    The monstrous off road tires – Toyo Open Country M/T, are sized at 40×15.5×20, thus making the Hummer more noticeable than ever. The aggressive body was further enhanced by a set of extended fender flares and a Strut Grille Kit.

    In addition, the performance was improved via Magnaflow Exhaust System and the suspension extended via Brembo Big Brake Kit and Hotchkis Rear Sway Bar.

    The exterior color of the car was changed and the new one is Leios Matte Black Paint, which perfectly complements the new lightning. It is achieved with a set of Bixenon Projector Headlights, Alumina Xenon HID Conversion and PIAA Off Road Fog Lights.

    Source: SR Auto Group

  • Projcet Amadeus: SR Auto Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG

    SR-Auto-Mercedes-Benz-S63-AMG-THUMBSR Auto Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG has just made its official debut and will be also recognizable in the future under the name SR Project Amadeus. Here the specialists from SR Auto Group have worked on a brand new Mercedes-Benz.

    And in fact it wasn’t an ordinary one, but the S63 AMG model. They have used for this tuning the WALD, which comprises of WALD Black Bison Front Bumper, WALD Black Bison Side Skirt, WALD Black Bison Rear Bumper, WALD Black Bison Front Fenders, WALD Black Bison Rear Trunk Spoiler, WALD Black Bison Rear Roof Spoiler.

    Thanks to these modifications this exterior is more aggressive and exudes power. What are left are the wheels – the Vellano VKU.

    The twenty two inch wheel was paired with the Basics lowering suspension for a precise fitment with no rubbing and the better performance was ensured via the Meisterschaft Exhaust System. To offset that large white exterior, the wheels were finished in a two tone shade of matte anthracite and satin black.

    Source: SR Auto Group

  • ROUSH Performance Ford Raptor Phase 2 Gets More Power

    ROUSH-Performance-Ford-Raptor-Phase-2-THUMBFord Raptor is one of those vehicles which can not go unnoticed. The reason certainly is its huge size, but also another factor is that it has such powerful stance, that it brings about awe and admiration.

    Exactly on this model ROUSH Performance decided to do some calibrations. Although that the vehicle is initially powerful, the specialist form the tuning company decided to enhance its strength.

    The truck is something they have put together to help support Cooper Tire and Mickey Thompson for SEMA week to showcase Cooper’s tires and Mickey Thomspon’s rims. Nevertheless they have used the event to show thier new Phase 2 R2300 calbibration for the 6.2L Raptor.

    But to go further into details, now the V8 power unit under the bonnet of this Ford generates the staggering 590 hp (434 kW) and has a maximum output of 590 Nm (435)! This ensures that the ride can easily drive away from, through or over obstacles both on the road as well as off-road. This tuning is the perfect example of an amazing combination between rough power, strength, exclusive safety and passenger comfort.

    Source: ROUSH Performance via Facebook

  • DMC Ferrari F430 Scuderia Carbonio In Full Carbon Fiber

    Yesterday came news from DMC announcing and more correctly – teasing their new project DMC Lamborghini Aventador Limited Edition. Today we are pleased to be informed that the Germany’s exotic car tuning company has rolled up the sleeves and passionately working on another project.

    This time the attention isn’t put on their favorite Lamborghini brand, but on another Italian extremely powerful one – the Ferrari. And if you remember, the specialists from DMC were first to modify the Aventador with the Molto Veloce Project, and now they are also being first to customize the F430 with a conversion to the Scuderia in full carbon fiber.

    Additional details haven’t been released yet. However, it is good to remind what kind of supersportscar they are dealing with. The famous red sports car excels as a true race ride with striking sport characteristics and dynamics.

    Furthermore, the F430 is equipped in a 4.3L V8 petrol engine, which has a powerful outout. In particular, its specifications are: 483 hp (360 kW) at 8500 rpm and 465 Nm (343 lb-ft) of torque at 5250 rpm/ The Scuderia has a top speed of 196 mph (315 km/h) and can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in only 4.0 seconds

    Source: DMC via Facebook

  • IND BMW E92 M3 and F10 M5

    The specialists from IND have transformed recently not one but two BMW models, and probably inspired by the book “50 Shades Of Grey” have made them in distinctive and outstanding exterior color.

    The first model that needed to be changed was the E92 M3 one and although the owner wished initially only for some small improvements, the car eventually ended up with new grey-silverfish exterior color and unique combination of wheels.

    Here the M3, was equipped with the Lamborghini Rosso Vik BBS FI wheels and ESS Supercharger manifold, which made the perfect contrast with the new skin of the E92. Inspired by the great results they have achieved, the IND professionals continued the same tuning philosophy on the BMW F10 M5.

    Despite that this one took more introverted approach, they have given it unique modified appearance. Here the combination is achieved with Eisenmann exhaust and 3D Design aero parts, and custom painted HRE wheels are the center piece of the car.

    Firstly, HRE’s matte bronze finish was chosen as a base; then was applied a real gold leaf insert inside the HRE logo found in the spoke of each wheel, along with the HRE center cap. The last step was to utilize the custom clear coat to allow the original matte bronze finish to truly shine.

    Source: IND

  • Vliner Triumph Speed Tripple Bulldog Custom Bike [VIDEO]

    We are mainly used to see great car transformations from the talented tuning specialist of Vilner. However, a few months ago we have seen how they have modified extremely well a two-wheel drive – the Vilner Ducati Monster 1100 Evo.

    Now we are ready to see more from them in terms of enhancing two wheel bikes and making them look astonishing. Their new creation is named Vliner Triumph Speed Tripple Bulldog and it is based on the model Speed Triple of Triump, which has appeared in 1994.

    In its development it got more aggressive appearance via the increased size of the headlights. In fact this is the most popular model of Triumph. Next came the newer models which got a flashy motor with aggressive appearance, but in general the changes made on the model follow the British trends.

    The end result is Bulldog, but in the beginning it began just with few detailed sketches and 3D model. After the addition of new details, the model became even more aggressive and got more powerful stance.

    For instance, two headlamps were replaced by one, for which there was created a special box and stand. Next, the mirrors have been replaced over the handlebars, the stand number is processed and the exhaust pipes are in black.

    Furthermore, the Bulldog got new racing OZ wheels and additional details mounted in the blinkers. The added rear details were connected at the bottom with another piece. In fact this is where the vehicle got its name – the Bulldog – the optical innovation and the specific forms of broadcast additions are certainly reminiscent of dogs breed.

    httpv://youtu.be/_3E0rE4pzws

    Video Source: YouTube

    Source: Vilner

  • Lexus Launches 2013 LS Line

    2013-Lexus-LS-460-THUMBLexus LS model line has just been launched in two luxury models the new all-wheel drive short wheelbase LS 600h F Sport model and the 444 hp (327kW) LS 460 Sports Luxury. Fifty per cent of the vehicle’s components were entirely redesigned, re-engineered or even replaced as part of the major upgrade.

    And to go even further into details, the changes made here are approximately up to 3000 mechanical and component modifications. The entire LS Line benefits from significant engineering input. This enhances the vehicle’s driving dynamics, refinement and specification while reducing overall noise, vibration and harshness.

    Furthermore, another result of the engineering efforts is that the torsional rigidity has been increased by sixty per cent and the steering support rigidity by twenty per cent. Noise, vibration and harshness reductions make the Lexus with a class-leading quietness and with great rear seat conversation clarity.

    Additional improvement is made in term of exterior design. Here the brand has applied the new signature “spindle grille”, which significantly improves LS’ visual stance while increasing aerodynamic performance.

    Moreover, the interior has been modified as well. Here on can see a new dash and interior design, which enhances utilization and visual appeal. In few words – evolution is what we see in this model line, which combines sharper driving dynamics and highest levels of refinement and luxury.

    2013 Lexus LS 460 Sports Luxury and LS 600h F Sport are going to be available for order from February next year.

    Specifications for the LS Line:

    MODEL LS 460 LS 600h
    1UR-FSE 2UR-FSE
    Capacity (cc) 4608 4969
    Engine type
    90-degree V8 with four vales per cylinder, chain-driven double-overhead cam (per bank), Dual VVT-i with VVT-iE for intake 90-degree V8 with four vales per cylinder, chain-driven double-overhead cam (per bank), Dual VVT-i with VVT-iE for intake
    Fuel type 95 RON (ULP) 95 RON (ULP)
    Bore x stroke (mm) 94.0 x 83.0 94.0 x 89.5
    Compression ratio 11.8:1 11.8:1
    Max. power
    • Petrol engine 285kW@6400rpm 290kW@6400rpm
    • Combined (hybrid) 327kW
    • Max. torque 493Nm@4100rpm 520Nm@4000rpm
    Hybrid system
    Type Series/parallel, full hybrid
    System output 327kW (Combined)
    Electric motor AC synchronous, permanent magnet
    Max. power (kW) 165
    Max. torque (Nm) 300
    Voltage (V) 650
    Electric generator AC synchronous, permanent magnet
    Voltage (V) 650
    High-voltage battery Nickel Metal Hydride (Ni-MH)
    Voltage (V) 288
    Transmission
    Type Longitudinal, rear-wheel drive Electronically-controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (E-CVT) with eight-step shiftmatic system and two-stage motor-speed reduction device
    Gear ratios
    First 4.596 Eight-step CVT
    Second 2.724
    Third 1.863
    Fourth 1.464
    Fifth 1.231
    Sixth 1.000
    Seventh 0.824
    Eighth 0.685
    Reverse 2.176
    Final drive ratio 2.937 3.916:1
    Suspension
    Type Front Multi-link with upper and lower double ball joint independent
    Rear Multi-link independent
    Shock absorber/spring Adaptive Variable Suspension; Air Suspension, with Automatic Height Control
    Driveline
    Type Rear-wheel drive Permanent all-wheel drive with front and rear differentials
    Brakes
    Front 357mm x 34mm spiral-fin ventilated discs with four-piston callipers (Sports Luxury); 380mm x 36mm spiral-fin ventilated discs with six-piston callipers (F Sport, 600h)
    Rear 335mm x 22mm spiral-fin ventilated discs with two piston callipers
    Additional features Electronically Controlled Braking (ECB)
    Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM)
    Hill-start Assist Control (HAC)
    Brake Hold
    Electric Parking Brake
    Regenerative Braking (LS 600h only)
    Steering
    Type Rack and pinion, Electric Power Steering (EPS)
    Turns lock-to-lock 2.40-3.59 (Sports Luxury); 2.28-3.51 (F Sport); 2.32-3.66 (LS 600h)
    Minimum turning diameter – tyre 11.0m 11.6m
    Wheels and tyres
    Standard 245/45R19 8.0J
    Body/exterior dimensions
    Overall length (mm)

    5090

    Overall width (mm)

    1875

    Overall height (mm) 1465 1470
    Wheelbase (mm)

    2970

    Track front (mm)

    1610

    Track rear (mm) 1615 1610
    Overhang (front)

    925

    Overhang (rear)

    1195

    Coefficient of drag (Cd) 0.26 0.27
    Interior dimensions
    Room length (mm) 2175 (Sports Luxury);
    2200 (F Sport)
    2200
    Room width (mm)

    1600

    Room height (mm)

    1165

    Weights/loads
    Kerb weight (kg) 1940-2080 (Sports Luxury);
    2200 (F Sport)
    2270-2340
    Capacities
    Fuel tank (L)

    84

    Performance
    Max. speed (km/h)

    250 (speed limited)

    0-100 km/h (sec) 5.9 5.7
    0-400m (sec)

    13.8

    Fuel consumption (L/100 km)*
    Combined 10.7 8.6
    CO2 emissions (g/km)*
    Combined 249 199
    Exterior Colours: Sonic Silver, Volcanic Bronze, White Nova, White Pearl, Starlight Black, Mecury Grey, Lapis Lazuli, Vermillion, Metallic Silk, Elysium Blue, Onyx.

    Source: Lexus

  • Senner Tuning 2012 Audi S5 Coupe

    Senner Tuning has presented their latest project based on the facelift version of Audi S5 Coupe. The tuning company aimed the vision of the flagship RS5 model.

    The S5 Coupe is finished in ibis-white paint and has a new front spoiler in RS5 design with original RS5 air intakes as well as fitting an original black RS5 radiator grille. At the rear, Senner added a window spoiler and a restrained boot lid spoiler element. There are also side skirts finished in carbon-fibre. The characteristic Audi rings on the front and rear of the vehicle have been retained in black, and Senner Tuning have placed ‘Supercharged’ badges on the front fenders to give a little something extra. The vehicle’s number plates are illuminated by bright white LEDs.

    The rido rolls high-quality Work VS-XX light-alloy wheels with black-coloured anodised star-shaped rims and mirror-finish anodised outer rims. The dimensions are 9J x 20”at the front and 10.5J x 20”at the rear fitted with tein Ultra Sessanta tyres of size 245/30 R20 and 295/25 R20, respectively.

    The suspension received a full coilover kit from KW ensuring firm control while cornering at the same time as a smooth ride and great driving comfort.

    The 3.0 liter V6 TFSI engine can be boosted from 329HP (242kW) to 429HP (315 kW) and from 440Nm (326 lb-ft) to 501Nm (371 lb-ft). Thanks to the removal of the electronic Vmax (maximum speed) blocker, Senner Tuning’s Audi S5 can fully convert its enhanced performance into forward drive and top line speed.

    A four-pipe RS5 exhaust system extending from the catalytic converter, including a downpipe and exhaust flaps, ensures the Audi S5 makes a truly awesome sound.

    The interior boasts bicolour fine Nappa leather trim in black and magma-red with contrasting colour stitching either. There is also an interior set from coarse-mesh 600 carbon-fibre, an Audi R8 sports steering wheel, RS5 door handles, including illumination units. A DVD system can be activated to enable DVDs to be shown while driving.

    Senner Tuning is offering a special price of €69,990  for this particular car.

    Source: Senner Tuning

  • GAD Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG V8 Bi-Turbo

    German based tuning company – GAD has released some pictures and information about their latest project based on Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG.

    The CLS 63 AMG is powered by a 5.5 liter direct-injected V8 with 518HP (381 kW) and 700Nm (516 lb-ft). It is connected to a 7-speed MCT (multi-clutch technology) sport gearbox. If fitted with the AMG Performance Package, the performance is improved to 550HP (405 kW) and 800Nm (590 lb-ft).

    Obviously this is not enough, that’s why GAD boosted the mighty Bi-turbo V8 to whopping 803HP (590 kW) and 1149Nm (847 lb-ft) of torque.

    The results are thanks to a pair of new bigger turbochargers, a new custom exhaust manifold with downpipe and sport catalyst, bigger intercoolers, updated fuel and ignition systems and finally attentive settings.

    Source: GAD

  • ABT Audi AS7 Sportback – 306 km/h [video]

    Christian Gebhardt from Sport Auto managed to hit 306 km/h (190 mph) with an ABT Audi AS7 Sportback proving that the tuned luxurious car is really fast. Other interesting achievement is 3.9 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h.

    ABT Audi AS7 Sportback
    is powered by a 4.0 liter twin-turbocharged TFSI engine with 520HP (382 kW) and 650Nm (479 lb-ft) of torque. This is an increase of exactly 100HP and 100Nm. The new power comes from sports exhaust system, cold air intake and an ECU re-map.

    The exterior is improved by a set of new enormous 21” alloy wheels fitted with ultra-low profile tires. The stance is improved thanks to a set of sports springs and if the car is equipped with air suspension, ABT offer a special setting called Abt Level Control.

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A7HsnR3h7qE

    Source: Sportauto via Youtube