Auto News – Page 808 – Automobiles Review

Mercedes G-Class refined Prior Design

Prior Design has announced their tuning package for the new facelift of Mercedes-Benz G-Class. The luxurious off-road vehicle will get a complete styling package as well as some interior modifications.

Outside Prior G-Class boasts a new front bumper with four fog lights and LED daylights beneath the headlights. The vehicle also comes with a ventilated hood and a roof-mounted air intake. Last, but not least, the tuning company has installed a new rear diffuser.

The big vehicle rolls enormous 23” alloy wheels fitted with low-profile tires.

The interior features a complete carbon fiber package.

Nothing is mentioned about performance packages, but probably some will be available.

Source: Prior Design

July 31, 2012

Porsche 997 Carrera S with Emotion Wheels Concave

This Porsche 997 Carrera S is equipped with new Emotion Wheels Concave. Looks fantastic, doesn’t it? The philosophy behind these alloy wheel rims is pure geometry. In addition, the wheel bears the highly promising name “Concave“ and has a characteristic inward bulging rim-star. Yet this is not the only characteristic of the Emotion Wheels Concave.

In particular the Porsche is equipped with Emotion Wheels Concave in the black matt finishing with the upgraded carbon-wrap finishing of the rim wells. The rims measuring 8.5×19 / 11×19 inches bear the original tires of the dimensions 235/35ZR19 and 295/30ZR19.

Another highlight here is that the rims are factory-fitted with fully winterproof light alloy wheel and a replaceable high-grade steel rim-well. This leaves little possibility for scrapes and damages which can happen even to the most experienced of all drivers.

Porsche 997 Carrera S with Emotion Wheels Concave

Source: Emotion Wheels

July 31, 2012

SR Chevrolet Corvette C6 Inspired Autosport Project M47

The Corvette C6 is indeed emblematic machine. With its unique body work it can be recognized whenever it appears on the streets. And as the outlook speaks, it is fantastic sportscar with great amount of power.

In particular it can generate 400 horsepower (300 kW) at 6000 rpm and 400 lb•ft (542 N•m) of torque at 4400 rpm thanks to its 6.0 L LS2 V8 engine. But this wasn’t enough for the specialists at Inspired Autosport, who have been building this gorgeous C6 Corvette.

With the release of the much anticipated C7 Corvette around the corner, the current platform will be undoubtedly missed. SR Chevrolet Corvette C6 Inspired Autosport Project M47 was in the beginning the regular C6 Corvette Convertible, with the characteristics typical for the production car.

SR Chevrolet Corvette C6 Inspired Autosport Project M47

However, huge transformations took place. Some of them included modifications on the power plant, the chassis and of course – some cosmetic improvements. For instance, the original set of wheels has been light weight and wide one.

Here the tuners have equipped the Chevrolet with factory wide body kit from the 2012 Corvette Grand Sport model. Furthermore they have installed new front bumper, front and rear fenders installed.

This allowed the professionals from PUR Wheels to step in the creation of the project. They have equipped the Corvette with a 20×13 fitment which would support massive stream roller size 345/25/20 tires out rear.

In fact, the exact design is named PUR design 4OUR, which is in a stealthy high gloss black finish and matches the new gloss black paint job on the car. Other improvements include the addition of many extensive engine bolt-ons, suspension tweaks and full race exhaust front to back.

Source: SR Auto Group

July 31, 2012

Vilner Ducati Monster 1100 Evo

Vilner Ducati Monster 1100 Evo is the latest project of our talented friends from the Bulgarian tuning company Vilner. Although it is not a car, their exquisite and excellent work has grabbed our attention and as you can see from the pictures, it is high-quality craftsmanship they have showed here.

The main purpose of Studio is minimal optical tuning on the Ducati Monster Evo 1100, which has served as a basis. They didn’t want to exaggerate the details. The reason for this is that the bike had to be more compact in order to maneuver flawlessly through the narrow streets of the city and during traffic.

Moreover the designers have revealed that they had as an inspiration the mantis, because it has such clean lines of its body and elegant movements, which by the way served as a basis for the martial art of Kung Fu.

But what have basically Vilner done here is the following: they have included two side pieces secured with aluminum holders to the frame. They are connected with third detail, which strengthens the construction and tames the vibrations.

Furthermore a new detail is included on the seat as well as new lighthouse. The tuners have taken car the power of the engine as well which now is raised with 10 horsepower. The tail is now shorter with a 10 cm-design.

All parts and details are painted in white pearl color that is not factory offered. Unlike the standard Ducati white pearl, which is with golden tone, this one is with gray tone. The rims are also painted – this time in two colors to make the bike even more exceptional.

Vilner Custom Bike will produce 100 kits.

Source: Vilner

July 31, 2012

Lexus LS reinvented flagship finally revealed

2013 Lexus LS Range has just been unveiled. Since its launch, which dated back in 2007, this flagship has undergone over 2500 improvements. This year, Lexus is to add 3000 improvements and component changes to the vehicle model line-up.

The exterior of the new LS has been significantly redesigned. Every panel, excluding the roof, rear quarter panel and doors, has been transformed in some way. This not only enhances the visual appeal, but also serves in terms of functionality, and reduces wind noise.

Furthermore all LS hybrid models will include three-bulb LED headlamps for low and high beam with i-AFS (Intelligent Adaptive Front lighting System). The new LS 460 models will gain in turn Bi-Xenon HID headlamps with AFS.

In the new range one can see front guards, bumper and bonnet that give LS a wider, lower appearance. In addition, when observed from the rear, all models include resculpted boot lid, tail lamps and bumper.

The LS range is set to run on new wheel rim designs as well. For instance, the F Sport is equipped with exclusive 19-inch alloy wheels, and Sport Luxury models will come with new 14-spoke hollow rim 19-inch alloys.

What has been even more significantly modified here us the LS interior. The instrument panel is divided into two distinct zones: an upper display zone, with the new-to-LS standard 12.3-inch wide LCD multi-display screen – and a lower operation zone, including Lexus Remote Touch (LRT) and a new Drive Mode Select system.

The centre console is flanked by new aluminum and asymmetric gear shift lever that has been leather-clad for a comfortable grip and the new five-mode Drive Mode Select.

Next, the front seats now have enhanced heating and cooling systems. The cabin is complemented by the world’s first Advanced Illumination System (AIS).

The range is fitted as standard with a 450-Watt, 19-speaker Mark Levinson® Reference Surround System with 7.1 channel surround sound, which will entertain the passengers. The audio system is complemented by a comprehensive rear seat entertainment system, including a separate DVD player and a nine-inch VGA screen for the 5.1-channel home theatre entertainment experience of the Mark Levinson® Reference Surround System.

Furthermore, there are new interior color options: Mellow White, Ivory, Light Grey, Black, and Black and Saddle Tan. The variety of ornamentation has also been expanded and now includes Walnut and matt Ashburl finishes, as well as Shimamoku, bamboo and aluminum on F Sport.

The driving dynamics of the LS flagship has also been improved. A lot of engineering improvements have been done which eventually result in a more rigid platform. It provides a stable base for suspension improvements, while also enhancing overall vehicle safety and comfort, and reducing vibration.

Some important highlights included here are: Adaptive Variable air Suspension (AVS) system, revised Electro Powering Steering (EPS) system calibration, and enhanced braking system.

More importantly, for the first time in the history of the brand, a new F Sport model is featured in the LS range. Here the body height is lowered further by 10 millimeters, which ensures more exciting and sporty driving.

The rear-wheel drive 2013 Lexus LS 460 F Sport is equipped with a torque-sensing, Torsen® limited-slip rear differential, which optimally distributes torque between the rear wheels and Brembo six-piston front brake callipers which offer smooth, highly stable braking performance, Active Stabiliser system for enhanced body control and steering response precision, Sports Program Direct Shift (SPDS).

At last but not least, some important technology and safety features have been also included here: Dubbed Lexus Climate Concierge system, which combines automatic operation of front and rear seat climate control; steering wheel rim heater; LS Climate Control systems with Nanoe® air purifying technology; Pre-Collision Safety System’s (PCS) Driver Alert Monitor, which constantly monitors the movement of the driver’s head when looking from side to side, via two built-in near infra-red LEDs and a CCD camera; Blind Spot Monitor (BSM), which plays a significant role in lane changing safety; and Automatic High Beam system, which now comes as a standard.

Source: Lexus

July 31, 2012

PUR Design Lexus LFA – the aggressive beauty

PUR Design has released their tuning package for one of the fastest cars in the world – Lexus LFA. The hyper car is now even more stunning and aggressive. It comes with complete aerodynamics package, but without any performance mods, which are not needed.

The LFA is powered by a 4.8 liter naturally aspirated V10 engine equipped with dual VVT-I. It has 560HP (412 kW) at 8700RPM and 480Nm (354 lb-ft) of torque at 6800RPM. The red line is at whopping 9500RPM. The engine has forged aluminum pistons, forged titanium connecting rods, and solid titanium valves.

The curb weight of the vehicle is just 1 480kg (3 263 lbs), so the performance is sensational. 0-100 km/h in 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 326 km/h (203 mph). Power-to-weight ratio is 2,64kg / hp. The more interesting 0-200 km/h discipline is covered in 11.4 seconds and ¼ mile in 11.6 seconds with 201 km/h (125 mph) terminal speed.

The Nürburgring Package LFA was tested at the Nürburgring in June 2011. Driven by Akira Iida, the LFA set a time of 7:22.85.

Source: PUR Design

July 30, 2012

NLC Porsche Panamera GP – 970

NLC has revealed their latest tuning package based on Porsche Panamera. The name of the project is Concept GP-970. The tuning company aims to create new more aggressive design and overall stance of the mighty Gran Toruismo.

The aerodynamics package includes a new front bumper, bonnet, side skirts, roof spoiler and rear bumper. Everything is made from lightweight carbon fiber guaranteeing perfect quality and strength. Of course, all parts are also available individually.

The sound is a sport exhaust system featuring cat back with throttle control in black or polished rounded.

The car rolls enormous 9.5J x 22” wheels at the front fitted with 265/30 ZR22 tires and 11J x 22” with 315/25 ZR22 at the rear axle. The rims are custom manufactured by NLC.

The parts are available for all Panamera models from 2009, for the hybrid, diesel, and S models.

Later, packages for the Turbo and the GTS models will be also available.

Source: NLC

July 30, 2012

Beefy Porsche Cayenne by JE Design

JE Design have come up with a bodykit for the Porsche Cayenne that’s going to set you back 28,038 Euros ($34,338). It’s as if they have skinned an Alfa-Romeo Giulietta in a bit to create an exotic coat.

The kit does not even sound that sophisticated – The front skirt (which comes in two versions, one for the Cayenne Turbo/GTS and one for the Cayenne Diesel/S) utilizes the standard LED daytime running lights. Both skirts however do boast an optimized airflow and some low-mounted fog lights as well as long beam lights next to them. The JE Design hood also showcases some airflow thanks to three air outlets. At the back, 100 millimeter pipes (four of them) surround a diffuser while the C pillars get a pair extension. Also the wheel arches flare more know thanks to the new fenders. In case one feels like towing something with the now even more muscular Cayenne, there’s a cover on the rear bumper that hides the coupling device. The side sills also blend into the standard Cayenne design yet they radiate their own sportishness.

An aggressive stance is achievable through the suspension as well. A JE Design air module can be controlled through an iPhone app and does not hinder Porsche‘s Active Suspension Management damping system. Add to that four 10 x 22-inch alloy rims that have either five double spokes or five single spokes. The 295/30 R22 tires fill in nicely the beefed up wheel arches especially when we consider the 60 mm front and 80 mm back spacers.

It’s not all show and tell though. The Cayenne can seriously start shifting down the road with the JE Design engine management upgrades which are available for both petrol and diesel engines. The end power output may end up at 610 hp – serious stuff.

Source: JE Design

July 30, 2012

Mcchip-Dkr Porsche Panamera Diesel with power upgrade

Another tuning for Panamera today. This time it is delivered by the specialists from Mcchip-Dkr, who have enhanced a Porsche Panamera Diesel model. Tha latter has only 250 horsepower generated from the strong 3.0 litre V6 Common Rail Turbo-Diesel Engine.

Obviously this wasn’t enough for the tuners, who specialize in particular in software optimization and chip tuning. Via targeted manipulations of the engine characteristics, the electronic experts achieved a boost in the performance.

As a result, the diesel engine now generates 285 horsepower, developed at 3,900 rotations per minute. The maximum torque now is 600 Newton meter, achieved at 1,850 rotations per minute.

Another important effect of the improvements made is that the Porsche now sprints about half-a-second faster from 0 to 100 km/h than its serial counterpart. Maximum speed is boosted uo to the number of 246 km/h.

Enhancements in the lateral dynamics have been made as well. In order to increase longitudinal dynamics, mcchip-dkr also installed a set of performance springs from H&R. Their purpose is to lower the big Porsche with 30 millimetres.

To round up the spory stance of the Panamera, the three-part cargraphic rims of the sizes 9×22 and 10.5×22 inches were included. In fact, they were soled with the Dunlop Sport Maxx GT high-performance tires of the dimensions 265/30R22 in front and 295/25R22 in the rear.

Source: mcchip-dkr

July 30, 2012

Hamann Porsche Panamera Cyrano

The latest project of the German based tuning company HAMANN-Motorsport is named Hamann Porsche Panamera Cyrano. As we all know the Porsche is coming from the factory with great amount of power and shows significant performance.

However, even more power has been given to this Gran Turismo which is 603 hp/ 443 kW.

The torque has been increased as well and is now up to 870 Nm at 2,250 – 4,500 rpm. Given these numbers, it is no surprise that the ttuned vehicle can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.9 seconds.

Furthermore, the Panamera can be also equipped with the Sport Chrono Package. With it, the vehicle accelerates even faster. Here we are speaking about 3.7 seconds for the acceleration sprint from 0 to 100 km/h.

With the increase of the aforementioned data, the top speed increases as well to the impressive 315 km/h and thus it conclusively thumbs its proverbial nose at the series models (Turbo 303 km/h, Turbo S 306 km/h).

In the process of transformation, the HAMANN designers and engineers revamped the front completely. Here now can be seen larger air intakes in connection with perfectly integrated daytime running lights. They give the Porsche more dynamic stance.

The bonnet has been redesigned as well, so now the airflow is optimized. Furthermore, there has been added 60 mm width to the front and rear fenders. The aim of this is to make the GranTurismo look even more imposing.

In order to reduce the up-lift forces at the rear axle, there has been developed a special diffuser rear apron, which encases the striking dual tailpipes of the sports exhaust system.

To enhance even further the powerful and sporty stance of the Cyrano, the German engineers have added new unique forged “Gunmetal” 22-inch rims. The rear is fitted with 11.0Jx22 inch rims and 305/25 ZR 22 tyres.

It is good also to mention that the handling of the car is significantly improved as well. In addition, what grab the eye are the new alu wheels with special suspensions or a lowering module for the air suspension. They lower the Panamera’s center of gravity up to 30 mm.

How about the interior? Although we were not given an image, the tuners say that it has been entirely redesigned as well. The interior is now wrapped with the finest leathers. The HAMANN aluminium pedal system shines in the footwell and complements perfectly the medical applications of the car’s serial production interior.

Source: HAMANN

July 30, 2012

2013 Audi R8 Range – Pricing Announced

The new Audi R8 range is now equipped with faster S tronic twin-clutch sports transmission. In addition, complementing the range is the new lighter and more powerful V10 plus model.

In fact the S tronic twin-clutch sports transmission delivers quicker gear shifts and enhanced sprinting ability. This one replaces the R tronic automated manual option and is offered as an alternative to the acclaimed six-speed manual gearbox with its open stainless steel gate. The twin-clutch S tronic transmission can make its rapid fire shifts via the selector lever or the steering wheel paddles.

Another highlight of the R8 range is the new design detailing and all-LED lighting across the board. Most important update however is the version of the V10 Coupé – which generates the amount of 550 horsepower.

Furthermore, the integration of the new 7-speed S tronic transmission has lowered CO2 emissions by up to 22 grams/km, and in V8 and V10 Coupé and V10 Spyder versions it has also improved the acceleration time from 0 to 62 mph by three-tenths of a second.

In particular, the 4.2-litre V8 FSI engine generates 430 hp (316 kW) at 7,900 rpm, and has a maximum torque of 430 Nm (582 lb-ft) between 4,500 and 6,000 rpm. The acceleration here from 0 to 62mph is 4.3 seconds and the top speed – 186mph.

On the other hand the R8 V8 Spyder in manual and S tronic forms takes care of the sprint in 4.5 and 4.8 seconds respectively. The top speed in both cases is 186mph. Next, the V10 engine generates 530 Nm (718 lb-ft) of torque at 6,500 rpm, and peak power of 525 hp (386 kW) available at 8,000 rpm. The acceleration time here is 3.6 seconds and the top speed is 195mph.

Audi-R8-V10-Plus-medium — 2013 Audi R8 V10 Plus

The new Audi R8 V10 plus develops 550 hp (405 kW) and maximum torque of 540 Nm (731 lb-ft) at 6,500 rpm. This version sprints from 0 to 62mph in 3.5 seconds and achieves a top speed of 197mph when linked to S tronic transmission.

Moreover, ll-LED headlights are now standard on all variants of the Audi R8. They go along with new strip-shaped daytime running lights. The latter form a ‘clasp’ around the lens. The light-emitting diodes for the high and low beam headlights have been positioned above and below the daytime running lights and serve as indicators.

Enhancements have been done to the interior as well. A new R8 badge appears on the gearshift or selector lever, in the door sill trims, in the instrument cluster and in the start screen of the on-board monitor, on the flattened rim of the leather-covered multifunction sports steering wheel.

The instrument cluster is transformed as well, and at the same time the centre console, the surround for the radio/navigation system and the handbrake lever are also now covered with delicately stitched leather.

As standard equipment here is featured the following: all-LED headlights, new design 19-inch alloy wheels, Audi Music Interface (iPod connection), satellite navigation, Bluetooth mobile phone preparation and heating for their Fine Nappa Leather-upholstered sports seats.

2013 Audi R8 Range Specifications and Pricing

Engine	Trim	PS	Trans	CO2	Comb mpg	OTR
4.2 FSI (V8)	Coupe	430	manual	332	19.9	£91,575
4.2 FSI (V8)	Coupe	430	S tronic	289	22.8	£94,475
5.2 FSI (V10)	Coupe	525	manual	346	19.0	£112,675
5.2 FSI (V10)	Coupe	525	S tronic	305	21.6	£115,575
5.2 FSI (V10 plus)	Coupe	550	manual	346	19.0	£124,675
5.2 FSI (V10 plus)	Coupe	550	S tronic	299	21.9	£127,575
4.2 FSI (V8)	Spyder	430	manual	337	19.6	£100,225
4.2 FSI (V8)	Spyder	430	S tronic	294	22.4	£103,125
5.2 FSI (V10)	Spyder	525	manual	349	19.0	£121,325
5.2 FSI (V10)	Spyder	525	S tronic	310	21.9	£124,225

Source: Audi

July 30, 2012

Sourcing Good Value Car Insurance

The internet is full of jokes about women’s inability to drive. It is an actual fact however that statistically, women are the more cautious on the road and are the ones less likely to cause an accident. This is where The Axa womens car insurance in Northern Ireland comes into place.

They offer a special type of insurace that’s specially for women. All of the policies involved are essentially fully beneficial, offering full coverage. One can go for a third-party or a fully comprehensive type of insurance – both of which grant a range of female car insurance producs that are designed to suit any need. If we take a closer look at the fully comprehensive one, we get 75 per cent no claims discount, use of a replacement car for up to seven days while yours is repaired and 31 days of European cover. With the comprehensice package, your car is isnured against damage casued by an accident, fire or theft. Damge to other people or other people’s propery is also covered.

The end product however, is absolutely flexible. There are a number of options which can fit any need. At a (low) price, one can opt for the folowing.

24 hour Breakdown assistance (that includes calling out for punctures)

Personal belongings cover up to £250

Personal accident cover for you or any named drivers.

What’s more, these optional extras are in no way connected to your no claims discount status.

Most importantly however, the people behind AXA Northern Ireland are out there for you, ready to provide maxium support in the event of an accident. It simply is the humane thing to do.

July 30, 2012

Category: Auto News