Automobiles Review

Category: Auto News

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

  • VATH Takes on the Mercedes-Benz AMG SLS Roadster

    VATH-Mercedes-Benz-AMG-SLS-Roadster-thumbThe Mercedes-Benz SLS is an AMG engineering pinnacle. A completely separate project which managed to fit all of the company’s prowess in a single car. Under it’s hood there hides an AMG enhanced Mercedes-Benz V8 engine that spurs out 563 naturally aspirated, rampaging horses. Obviously, that doesn’t work for the guys at VATH who have taken a SLS and made it a bit over the top… although there really isn’t any top. It’s the VATH Mercedes-Benz AMG SLS Roadster.

    What’s the first thing they did? Slot in a supercharger of course. How did that affect the performance? 690 hp and a 0 to 100 km/h time of 3.6 seconds. The supercharger however, is not the only force at work here. VATH have also changed the air box, remapped the engine electronics and enlarged the transmission’s oil cooler.

    The newly equipped brake discs that measure up to 405 mm and have extremely robust steel flax lines will be good enough to handle 850 Nm of torques coming through, right? Zoom out a little and you’ll find three piece forged VATH 9.5×20-inch wheels with a set of tires of the following dimensions: 265/30-20 on the front and 315/25-20 – on the rear axle (the wheels there are 12×20-inch). Another handling highlight are the threaded sports springs which lower the stance with 20 – 45 mm, yet work in a complete unison with AMG‘s Ride Control. The shock absorbers on the other hand, are height and hardness adjustable.

    It goes without saying that some carbon fiber has been used as well. Shamelessly naked carbon fiber front spoiler, trunk spoiler and side skirts all add to the appeal. You can hove some inside as well as an option. If not, you still get a leather/leather combination, a sporty steering wheel and a speed counter that’s been increased to 400 km/h.

    It is evident then, that VATH have been hard at work. That’s exactly why the complete programme will cost you. 85.130 Euros ($104.097) to be precise.

    VATH Mercedes-Benz AMG SLS Roadster
    VATH Mercedes-Benz AMG SLS Roadster
    VATH Mercedes-Benz AMG SLS Roadster
    VATH Mercedes-Benz AMG SLS Roadster
    VATH Mercedes-Benz AMG SLS Roadster
    VATH Mercedes-Benz AMG SLS Roadster
    VATH Mercedes-Benz AMG SLS Roadster
    VATH Mercedes-Benz AMG SLS Roadster
    VATH Mercedes-Benz AMG SLS Roadster
    VATH Mercedes-Benz AMG SLS Roadster
    VATH Mercedes-Benz AMG SLS Roadster
    VATH Mercedes-Benz AMG SLS Roadster

    Source: VATH

  • Range Rover Evoque GTS refined by Overfinch

    Overfinch has presented their latest project – Range Rover Evoque GTS. The car comes in a stunning ultraviolet colour scheme and Lotus White leather interior. It is specially designed for the Goodwood Festival of Speed 2012.

    The body styling is giving the SAV a more sporty look. There is also a set of huge 22” Harrier alloy wheels, in diamond-turned gloss black.

    The interior is as astonishing as the exterior. It boasts Lotus White leather featuring a piano black veneer set, contrast stitching and detailing.

    A unique Ultraviolet colour was chosen for the show car and will be available as an option when the car is released in September.

    The Evoque is powered by a 2.0 liter turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine with 240HP and 380Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque. No updates for the engine are mentioned.

    Overfinch Range Rover Evoque GTS
    Overfinch Range Rover Evoque GTS
    Overfinch Range Rover Evoque GTS
    Overfinch Range Rover Evoque GTS
    Overfinch Range Rover Evoque GTS
    Overfinch Range Rover Evoque GTS
    Overfinch Range Rover Evoque GTS
    Overfinch Range Rover Evoque GTS
    Overfinch Range Rover Evoque GTS
    Overfinch Range Rover Evoque GTS
    Overfinch Range Rover Evoque GTS
    Overfinch Range Rover Evoque GTS

    Source: Overfinch

  • AC Schnitzer BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe – Tuning to Perfection

    AC Schnitzer has announced their tuning program for one of the latest BMW models – the four-door coupe 6-Series Gran Coupe. The big car comes with both styling and performance packages.

    The exterior modifications include entire aerodynamics AC Schnitzer package – a new front spoiler, a rear bumper insert and additional chrome trim. There is also a complete high performance brake system behind enormous 19” to 21” Schnitzer wheels. The tuning specialists also fitted the Gran Coupe with a sports exhaust system.

    Lightweight forged alloys and forged racing rims Type VIII BiColor are available in sizes 9J x 21″ and 10J x 21″ with 255/30 R 21 tyres on the front and 295/25 R 21 tyres on the rear.

    The interior boasts a new sport steering wheel, aluminum pedals, an aluminum iDrive knob and velour floor mats with Schnitzer logo.

    There are performance packages for the 640i and the 640d models.

    The mighty petrol is boosted to 360HP (264 kW) from 320HP (235 kW) and the diesel now develops the same amount of power like the petrol engine – 360HP (264 kW), instead of 313HP. This is an increase of 47HP (35 kW) over the factory power.

    Perfectionism is defined as striving for perfection. This is the goal of the experts at AC Schnitzer, and the 6-series Gran Coupé demonstrates that even good things can actually be improved further.

    AC Schnitzer BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe
    AC Schnitzer BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe
    AC Schnitzer BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe
    AC Schnitzer BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe
    AC Schnitzer BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe
    AC Schnitzer BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe
    AC Schnitzer BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe
    AC Schnitzer BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe
    AC Schnitzer BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe
    AC Schnitzer BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe
    AC Schnitzer BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe
    AC Schnitzer BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe
    AC Schnitzer BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe
    AC Schnitzer BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe
    AC Schnitzer BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe
    AC Schnitzer BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe

    Source: AC Schnitzer

  • 2012 Vauxhall Ampera Earth UK – Price 29 995 GBP

    Vauxhall has introduced a new entry-level Ampera for the United Kingdom. The car is priced from just £29 995. The name of the model is Earth, which screams “Eco-friendly” vehicle, so probably there would be many satisfied clients.

    Still, the car comes with a lot of standard equipment like power windows and locks, electronic climate control and a 7” touchscreen display.

    The Ampera Earth has the same electric motor with total power of 152HP (111 kW) and 370Nm (273 lb-ft) of torque. The top speed of the car is 161 km/h (100 mph) and the range is 64 km (40 miles) on electricity alone. However, when the 16 kWh lithium-ion battery is depleted, a small 1.4-liter petrol engine-generator activates to recharge it.

    Every Ampera owner also has access to ‘My Ampera Services’ a programme which provides owners with a direct number / email address to a named Ampera agent at Vauxhall HQ. Completing the package and like all Vauxhall cars, the Ampera is backed by a unique Lifetime/100,000 mile new vehicle warranty. In addition, the battery system benefits from an impressive eight year/100,000 mile warranty that is transferable to subsequent owners.

    2012 Vauxhall Ampera
    2012 Vauxhall Ampera
    2012 Vauxhall Ampera
    2012 Vauxhall Ampera
    2012 Vauxhall Ampera

    Source: Vauxhall

  • Global debut for Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster

    Aston-Martin-V12-Vantage-Roadster-THUMBAston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster is the new sports car by the famous British brand which will be available for only limited number of customers because it comes out as a limited edition model.

    It comes equipped with the astonishing power of Aston Martin’s naturally aspirated 6.0-litre V12 engine that will offer the lucky drivers the thrills of Vantage Roadster driving experience. The V12 is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox, and hence is able to produce 517 hp (380 kW) at 6,500 rpm and a muscular 570 Nm (420 lb-ft) of torque at 5,750 rpm.

    It is no surprise then that the 0-62 mph sprint is dispatched in just 4.5 seconds. The top speed here is 190 mph.

    Furthermore, the new Roadster includes modified rear boot lid and lower front air intake to maintain a level of dynamic performance that’s fully in keeping with the V12 Coupe. In addition redesigned are also the rear damper set-up, front and rear damper valve tuning and a new rear spring design. The outstanding performance of the vehicle is improved additionally by the Pirelli P Zero Corsa tyres.

    Some other stylish characteristics of the car include: carbon fibre side strakes; a carbon fibre front splitter and rear diffuser; carbon fibre mirror caps and carbon fibre rear lamp infills; new forged alloy wheel design.

    Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster
    Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster

    The interior includes some new features as well. For example, there are subtle additions as the use of glass switches in the lower centre stack. They give more luxurious ambience to the Vantage Roadster cabin.

    What is more here is the unique feature of the V12 Vantage’s which the engine’s “Sport” mode button is. What it does basically is to enables the driver to select between two different powertrain modes.

    When in Normal mode, which is active as soon as the car starts working, the Roadster has not only a more relaxed throttle response but also a quieter, more refined exhaust note.

    On the other hand, the Sport mode is made for more dynamic driving situations where sharper responses are required. Thanks to it the car has sharper throttle response, with the engine delivering more torque during the early stages of throttle pedal travel.

    Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster pricing starts at £150 000 RRP.

    Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster
    Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster
    Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster
    Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster
    Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster
    Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster
    Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster
    Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster
    Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster
    Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster
    Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster
    Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster
    Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster
    Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster
    Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster
    Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster
    Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster
    Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster
    Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster
    Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster
    Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster
    Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster
    Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster
    Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster
    Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster
    Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster

    Source: Aston Martin

  • 2013 Mazda MX-5 Roadster enters European market this Autumn

    2013-Mazda-MX-5-Roadster-THUMB2013 Mazda MX-5 Roadster is the newly-upgraded version of one of the most famous open-top sports car, and more importantly it will go on sale in Europe this autumn. It has improved safety and driving attributes, along with exterior and interior upgrades.

    The first new thing around the upgraded MX-5 to be mentioned is the new front bumper design. It gives the Roadster more aggressive-visual appearance and additionally it contributes to optimal aerodynamic performance.

    2013 Mazda MX-5 Roadster
    2013 Mazda MX-5 Roadster

    Furthermore, the MX-5 is now even more responsive to driver input. Throttle movement, and the degree to which the gas pedal is pushed, are now controlled separately on all manual transmission models. The effect of this is that it increases the feeling of linear acceleration, and gives the driver more control during acceleration.

    The brake return control is enhanced as well, which is very advantageous when the driver brakes upon entering a curve. Another advantage after the upgrade is that Mazda has introduced a new “active bonnet” pedestrian protection system to the Roadster.

    2013 Mazda MX-5 will go on sale across Europe in autumn 2012.

    2013 Mazda MX-5 Roadster
    2013 Mazda MX-5 Roadster
    2013 Mazda MX-5 Roadster

    Source: Mazda

  • 2013 Vauxhall Adam: first official images revealed

    2013-Vauxhall-Adam-THUMBThe first official images of 2013 Vauxhall Adam has just been released and we can see how excitingly stylish and sophisticated this car looks. Adam is a three-door four-seater built with the help of the highest quality materials. This Vauxhall is to be presented to the public officially at this year’s Paris Motorshow.

    The design philosophy of the car was implemented by the Brit, Mark Adams’ team in Europe. It has a “floating” roof which is visually disconnected from the body. The aim is to use more than one colour for the body and to make the vehicle even more eclectic.

    Adam carries design signatures which are typical for other Vauxhalls: the crisp line around the door handle (GTC), the wing-shaped chrome grille bar (new Astra) and the blade shape in the lower doors. However, it will include as an option a LED daytime running lights, making it the first car of the A-Segment to incorporate this.

    2013 Vauxhall Adam
    2013 Vauxhall Adam

    Furthermore, the vehicle will be available in three trims from launch – JAM (fashionable/colourful), GLAM (elegant/sophisticated) and SLAM (racy/sporty). It is all about personalization here which can match any individual taste. There are plenty of visual combinations, with a wide variety of exterior colours: two different roof colours, interior colours, equipment and materials.

    Not only will be the car unique to its driver, but also it will be offered with a choice of three efficient ecoFLEX four-cylinder petrol engines: 1.2-litre 70 hp (52 kW), plus two 1.4-litre engines with either 87 hp (64 kW) or 100 hp (74 kW). In addition the optional Start/Stop technology will further improve the efficiency of the Adam. All engines will be mated to a five-speed manual gearbox.

    2013 Vauxhall Adam Interior
    2013 Vauxhall Adam Interior

    What is more, for the first time in the A-segment, ADAM will offer a new top-of-the-range infotainment system. It was especially designed to support new media sources, including Bluetooth, as well as connectivity for smartphones with Android or Apple iOS software. Of course, this will enable access to internet-based applications, including GPS navigation.

    In particular, the system utilizes state-of-the-art seven-inch, full-colour touch screen display. Thanks to it the driver and the passenger next to them can quickly access the variety of on-board controls.

    Next, the technologies included here are also unique to the segment. An example is the Advanced Park Assist II system. With its help the drivers switch on the system with a button on the dashboard and it tells them when they reach a parking space large enough to accommodate the car.

    Adam comes equipped with a front suspension created by MacPherson and with a compound crank system at the rear. The wheels are in sizes from 16- to 18-inch, and cars that are specified with 17- or 18-inch rims come as standard with the lowered sports chassis.

    The first examples of 2013 Vauxhall Adam will be seen at dealerships in January 2013.

    2013 Vauxhall Adam
    2013 Vauxhall Adam
    2013 Vauxhall Adam
    2013 Vauxhall Adam
    2013 Vauxhall Adam
    2013 Vauxhall Adam
    2013 Vauxhall Adam
    2013 Vauxhall Adam
    2013 Vauxhall Adam
    2013 Vauxhall Adam

    Source: Vauxhall

  • 2013 Seat Mii Vibora Negra adds spice to the urban life

    2013-Seat-Mii-Vibora-Negra-THUMB2013 Seat Mii Vibora Negra is an inspirational mix between Seat’s Ibiza Bocanegra and the Mii FR concept. The Vibora Negra is going to be on sale in just one month, delivering its unique style and stance.

    In fact, in Spanish Vibora Negra means black viper. The vehicle includes a complete range of personalized accessories and in addition will mark the start of a host of planned customization packs.

    The new range of visual accessories takes the Mii onto a new level and transforms it so well so that it can be come one of the most striking, aggressive and sportiest urban cars. And if you take a look at the pictures below you’ll get the impression that Seat aims to conquer the hearts of the young people, who strive to all be individual. Well, the Vibora Negra Pack is for them!

    2013 Seat Mii Vibora Negra
    2013 Seat Mii Vibora Negra

    In details, the complete Vibora Negra pack can be added to any Mii, and includes:

    • Black Vibora Negra twin stripes (bonnet, roof and tailgate)
    • Black Vibora Negra side stripes
    • Black 14- or 15-inch alloy wheels
    • Black tailgate spoiler
    • Black side skirts
    • Black mirror caps
    • Black gloss gear knob
    • Black chequered dashboard decal
    2013 Seat Mii Vibora Negra
    2013 Seat Mii Vibora Negra
    2013 Seat Mii Vibora Negra
    2013 Seat Mii Vibora Negra
    2013 Seat Mii Vibora Negra
    2013 Seat Mii Vibora Negra
    2013 Seat Mii Vibora Negra
    2013 Seat Mii Vibora Negra
    2013 Seat Mii Vibora Negra
    2013 Seat Mii Vibora Negra
    2013 Seat Mii Vibora Negra
    2013 Seat Mii Vibora Negra
    2013 Seat Mii Vibora Negra
    2013 Seat Mii Vibora Negra

    Source: Seat

  • A Volkswagen Golf for the Summer by Schmidt

    Schmidt-VW-Golf-GTI-Convertible-thumbWhen we heard that Schmidt Revolution are bringing out yet another Golf, we got excited. It was only after when we realized that the “programme” comprised solely of a set of wheels and a fancy audio system. The upside of the story is that, since the programme is just that, all Golfs are eligible to it. We were pleased to find out that Schmidt’s weapon of choice was a Volkswagen Golf Mk 6 Convertible GTI.

    That means 210 hp coming from a 2.0-liter TSI engine which in turn uses a PDK transmission to channel that force to the wheels. This is where Schmidt made their move. The Golf here in the pictures has 8.5Jx19H2 Shift design wheels that boast 45 mm of positive offset. The color: gloss silver. Tires: Conti Sport Contact 5 sized 235/35R19. One however, can go a tad less conspicuous with the 8Jx18H2 version of the same wheels or even the 7,5x17H2 ones.

    That leaves us with the B&S Sound system with Rockford Fosgate- and Mosconi-components, a foot-mounted subwoofer and the Kenwood DNX521DAB navigation which is as sophisticated as the Starship Enterprise.

    So there you have it. The Schmidt Revolution Volkswagen Golf GTI Convertible – not a lot of work done but then again, not a lot of work needed to be done in order to end up with a genuinely good car.

    Schmidt Revolution VW Golf GTI Convertible
    Schmidt Revolution VW Golf GTI Convertible
    Schmidt Revolution Volkswagen Golf 6 GTI Convertible
    Schmidt Revolution Volkswagen Golf 6 GTI Convertible
    Schmidt Revolution Volkswagen Golf 6 GTI Convertible
    Schmidt Revolution Volkswagen Golf 6 GTI Convertible
    Schmidt Revolution Volkswagen Golf 6 GTI Convertible
    Schmidt Revolution Volkswagen Golf 6 GTI Convertible

    Source: Schmidt Revolution

  • Wheelsandmore “Pronto” Update Maserati Gran Turismo Mc Stradale

    Wheelsandmore-Maserati-Gran-Turismo-Mc-Stradale-thumbWhat we have here is the latest Wheelsandmore update on the Maserati Gran Turismo Mc Stradale. It’s called the “Pronto” and is available for both the coupe and convertible series.

    Most notably, some careful work has been done to jump the power of the standard Stradle‘s V8 – 30 extra hp and 40 Nm of torque more thanks to an ECU upgrade and a hand-made exhaust system roars through a remote-controlled valve. So that’s 480 PS and 550 Nm of torque passing through a ZF 6-speed automatic gearbox.

    There’s been a shoe shopping spree as well. The Wheelsandmore Maserati Gran Turismo Mc Stradale rolls on ultralight 6Sportz2 forged wheels that measure up to 12.5×21-inches. Wrapped around these multipiece goodies are four P Zero Nero tires from Pirelli – 255/30/21 at the front and 355/25/21 at the back.

    Another feature intended to improve not only the road appeal, but the overall performance is the compression and rebound adjustable coilover suspension, which is also available for vehicles with OEM Skyhook suspension. For it, you get 5 yars of warranty.

    When it comes to the interior, things get very flexible so be sure to be on the right mood when discussing it.

    Wheelsandmore Maserati Gran Turismo Mc Stradale
    Wheelsandmore Maserati Gran Turismo Mc Stradale
    Wheelsandmore Maserati Gran Turismo Mc Stradale
    Wheelsandmore Maserati Gran Turismo Mc Stradale

    Source: Wheelsandmore

  • Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 Hong Kong 20th Anniversary Edition

    Lamborghini has announced the new 20th Anniversary Limited Edition Gallardo LP550-2. Only 8 units will be produced specially for the Chinese market. The anniversary pays tribute to Kingsway Cars Ltd., the first official Lamborghini dealer established in 1992 to provide comprehensive presale and post-sale service to all customers in Hong Kong.

    Gallardo LP550-2 is powered by a 5.2 liter V10 with 550PS (405 kW) and 540Nm (398 lb-ft) of torque.  0-100 km/h in 4.2 seconds and a top speed of 319 km/h (198 mph).

    Thanks to systematic Lamborghini lightweight design and an extremely low dry weight of just 1 520 kg, supreme performance is guaranteed.

    The LP550-2 is distinguished by a solid white exterior finish (Bianco Monocerus) with matt gold strips running from its front bonnet to the roof and down the engine cover.

    Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 Hong Kong 20th Anniversary Edition is priced from HK$ (Hong Kong Dollar) 3 680 000.

    Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 Hong Kong 20th Anniversary Edition
    Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 Hong Kong 20th Anniversary Edition
    Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 Hong Kong 20th Anniversary Edition
    Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 Hong Kong 20th Anniversary Edition
    Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 Hong Kong 20th Anniversary Edition
    Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 Hong Kong 20th Anniversary Edition
    Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 Hong Kong 20th Anniversary Edition
    Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 Hong Kong 20th Anniversary Edition
    Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 Hong Kong 20th Anniversary Edition
    Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 Hong Kong 20th Anniversary Edition
    Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 Hong Kong 20th Anniversary Edition
    Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 Hong Kong 20th Anniversary Edition
    Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 Hong Kong 20th Anniversary Edition
    Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 Hong Kong 20th Anniversary Edition

    Source: Lamborghini

  • Subaru Impreza WRX Club Spec Limited Edition for Australia

    Subaru of Australia has announced a special limited edition Impreza WRX Club Spec. Just 300 Club Spec WRXs will be available.

    Each comes with Leather trim, Black coated 17-inch alloy wheels, Black Subaru Tecnica International (STI) spoiler, Black door mirrors, Club Spec external badge, Numbered Club and Spec interior badge.

    The limited edition is available purely as a sedan with manual transmission-only.

    Tangerine cars will also have orange stitching on the WRX logos on the front seats and on the front seat back rests.

    Seat and steering wheel stitching is black.

    The black car has standard red stitching on the seats, back rests and steering wheel.

    The front guard garnish with WRX logo is also black instead of the standard silver.

    Subaru Impreza WRX Club Spec Limited Edition
    Subaru Impreza WRX Club Spec Limited Edition

    An STI kit is also available including:

    • Front lip under spoiler
    • Short shift gear lever assembly
    • Flexible tower bar

    The normal Manufacturer’s List Price (MLP) for the kit is $2100, but is available for $1000 on the Club Spec limited edition.

    The Club Spec WRX is priced at $41 490 MLP.

    “WRX continues to have tremendous appeal in its widebody form and combined with the retained value traditionally achieved by these limited editions, there’s likely to be a lot of interest in these cars, which can be differentiated even further from standard WRX with the addition of the STI kit.”, commented Nick Senior, Managing Director, Subaru Australia.

    Source: Subaru