Auto News – Page 824 – Automobiles Review

2013 Mercedes-Benz ML 500 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY – pricing announced

2013 Mercedes-Benz ML 500 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY is the third generation of the ML-Class, equipped with a V8 petrol version. Furthermore, it includes new safety features such as COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST (CPA)*. The new ML 500 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY will be arriving at dealerships in autumn this year.

First, the new turbocharged BlueDIRECT V8 of this Mercedes-Benz SUV model is a direct injection petrol engine. More importantly however, it offers excellent performance along with top-class efficiency. The powerful V8 engine generates 300 kW (408 hp) at 600 Nm of torque and is available at a much lower engine speed of 1600 rpm.

Despite reduced displacement, the high output is achieved thanks to the two exhaust gas turbochargers – one for each bank of cylinders. V8 also includes third-generation direct fuel injection system with spray-guided combustion and piezo injectors combined with multi-spark ignition.

All this results in outstanding fuel economy, which is additionally improved by the comprehensive package of BlueEFFICIENCY measures. For example it includes the ECO start/stop function which comes as standard, the seven-speed 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission, low-friction axle drives, electric steering, optimised belt drive, on-demand control of the ancillary components.

2013 Mercedes-Benz ML 500 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY

Summary of key data for all ML-Class models:

	ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC	ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC	ML 350 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY	ML 500 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY	ML 63 AMG
No. of cylinders/ arrangement	4 in-line	V6	V6	V8	V8
Displacement cc	2143	2987	3498	4663	5461
Rated output kW (hp)	150 (204)	190 (258)	225 (306)	300 (408)	386 (525)
Max. torque Nm	500	620	370	600	700
NEDC combined consumption l/100 km g CO2/km	6.0 – 6.5 158 – 170	6.8 – 7.4 179 – 194	8.5 – 8.8 199 – 206	11.0 – 11.5 258 – 269	11.8 276
0-100 km/h s	9.0	7.4	7.6	5.6	4.8
Top speed km/h	210	224	235	250*	250*
Emissions standard	EU6	EU6	EU 5	EU 5	EU 5

Furthermore the new ML 500 features a comprehensive package of safety features. Active safety is further enhanced thanks to the COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST (CPA)* with adaptive Brake Assist as standard.

The Mercedes-Benz runs on the elegant 5-twin-spoke 48.3 cm (19″) alloy wheels, included in the ML 500 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY delivery package, or on the all-new 5-spoke 53.3 cm (21″) alloy wheels from Mercedes-Benz Accessories.

The interior of the vehicle features multicontour seats for driver and front passenger, which of course offer more comfort due to the new massage functions included. In the cockpit can be found the TFT display positioned between the two instrument dials.

The emblematic exterior of the ML can be further enhanced by the AMG Exterior Sports package, which is optional, and includes special body-colored front apron, rear apron and side skirts, in addition to 48.3 cm (19″) 5-spoke high-sheen AMG alloy wheels.

The same package improves the outlook of the exterior thanks to the luxurious designo Exclusive package in black, maroon or porcelain. This feature includes seats, instrument display, door centre panels, door arm rests, beltlines and centre console upholstered in nappa leather, in addition to the designo roof lining in black DINAMICA microfibre.

The new ML 500 features ON&OFFROAD package. It has six driving modes, which optimize the driving dynamics and handling safety of the vehicle and deliver optimum drive system control. In particular, the driver can select from one automatic mode, two special off-road modes and three on-road modes using a rotary control in the centre console.

2013 ML-Class models prices:

ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC	€46,550.00	€55,394.50
ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC	€49,700.00	€59,143.00
ML 350 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY	€48,050.00	€57,179.50
ML 500 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY	€63,050.00	€75,029.50
ML 63 AMG	€91,500.00	€108,885.00

Source: Mercedes-Benz

June 20, 2012

Behind the Smoke Two – Palm Beach Rain Drifting and Wrecking

A great video with some nice drifts has been published on youtube by GTchannel.

Daijiro Yoshihara suffered a devastating defeat at Formula Drift round 2 Atlanta. After that he flew to Malaysia to judge FD Asia, but now he is back in the US to take on round 3 Palm Beach.

There are sour memories of Palm Beach from last year when he was knocked out at top 32 but this time around he can’t afford to miss the podium. Both first place JTP and second place Daigo Saito lead the overall standings and could leave Dai behind if he doesn’t perform well this round.

He’s off to a rough start as it starts raining minutes before his qualifying run…

Round 3 Palm Beach was very emotional and difficult for the racers, because of the rain. There were a lot of crashes, but still everybody are happy and satisfied.

Behind the Smoke gives a look into the real life of 2011 Formula Drift champion, Daijiro Yoshihara.

GTChannel’s cameras follow Dai throughout the 2012 FD season both on and off the track giving drifting fans an exclusive look into what it takes to compete in the top professional drifting series of N.America.

The episode is produced by GTChannel in association with Discount Tire/America’s Tire and supported by Falken Tire, GoPro and Netflix.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z4S9P_z8jaU&feature=plcp

Source: GTchannel via Youtube

June 20, 2012

2013 Ford Tourneo Custom

Ford has announced the new dynamic Tourneo Custom, which will hit the market later this year. It was presented as a concept at the Geneva Motor Show and the production version will be unveiled at the 2012 Birmingham Commercial Vehicle Show in April.

“The bold new Tourneo Custom signals the start of a revolution in Ford’s commercial vehicle range,” commented Stephen Odell, chairman and CEO, Ford of Europe.

“It’s a fantastic-looking people mover – inside and out – and offers outstanding day-to-day, real world practicality as well as being great to drive.”, he added.

The Tourneo Custom has an advanced, streamlined profile based on the same “Kinetic” design approach popular on Ford passenger cars. This includes a sportier stance, bold rising shoulder line, flush glazing, distinctive trapezoidal grille and prominent wheel lips.

The van is available in 8 or 9-seat configurations and a choice of short wheelbase (4.97 metres) and long wheelbase (5.34 metres).

The interior also features car-like style and sophistication. The stylish, sculpted driver-focussed instrument panel features technologies closely-related to those found in the Ford car range. The cockpit is further enhanced by a highly adjustable driving position with the steering column adjustable for reach and rake.

The rear seats boast completely new design that can be easily folded into multiple configurations and removed in segments or completely. Rear passengers enjoy a spacious environment and comfortable, fully-trimmed cabin.

The high level of technology offered by Tourneo Custom includes the following features:

ECOnetic Technologies – Ford’s advanced low-CO2 features including standard Auto-Start-Stop and Smart Regenerative Charging on all Stage V emission vehicles
SYNC voice-activated, in-car connectivity system – enables mobile phones and music players to be connected to the vehicle, and operated by voice control
Emergency Assistance – enabled by SYNC, this award-winning new feature is designed to assist occupants to contact the Emergency Services in the event of an accident, providing vehicle location information
Advanced restraint system – includes driver, passenger, side and curtain airbags
Rear-view camera – integrated into the rear view mirror
Lane Keeping Alert and Driver Alert – latest driver assistance features alert the driver if the system detects the vehicle is inadvertently drifting out of the lane, or the driver is becoming tired behind the wheel

There is only one engine, but with three power ratings: 100 PS, 125 PS and 155 PS. It is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox and has a standard Auto-Start-Stop. Tourneo Custom has superb fuel consumption of 6.9 l/100 km and 182 g/km CO2 emissions.

The Tourneo Custom and other all-new Ford Commercial Vehicles will be revealed in 2012, starting at the Birmingham CV Show in April.

no images were found

Source: Ford

June 20, 2012

Vorsteiner GTRS5 BMW M3

With a grand gesture of their own, Vorsteiner bid farewell to the E92 BMW series. It’s the latest generation of GTRS programes – the Vorsteiner GTRS5 for the BMW M3. It’s pretty much the same as the last one, the GTRS3, but Vorsteiner say that the difference is in the details.

The lower front bumper now has more vents for an even more efficient air-flow. The fins of the diffuser at the back longer than before thus providing greater downforce. There are also vertical vents on the sides of the rear bumper which now have carbon-fiber inserts – a fashion statement? Maybe, but Vorsteiner are adamant that the end product excels in performance. We’ll have to take their word for it.

In a nutshell here’s the complete GTRS5 kit :

Carbon Fiber Front Bumper Integrated with Optical Carbon Fiber Chin Spoiler
Carbon Fiber Wide Arch Front Fenders
Carbon Fiber Extended Side Skirts
Carbon Fiber Wide Arch Rear Quater Panels
Vorsteiner Embroidered Floor Mats
Vorsteiner Chrome Trunk Badge Emblem
Vorsteiner VS-310 3-Piece Concave Forged Aluminum Wheels
Nitto Invo Performance Tires

Optionally, one can go for the:

GTS3 Carbon Fiber Vented Race Hood
GTRS3 Carbon Fiber Boot Lid
E9X M3 Titanium Sport Exhaust System

Only 40 examples will be seen on the streets ever so it’s exclusive as well.

Source: Vorsteiner

June 20, 2012

Vilner Gentle Pagoda Mercedes-Benz W113

What constitutes having class? Wine and cheese, caviar? Or maybe golf… going to the opera every now and then? We don’t know. If someone asks us to show up at a party we’ll most probably go for our Hawaiian shirt, shorts and flip-flop gear. The one thing that would be on our minds however, will be our ride. There’s much to choose from… in our alternate reality where we own Jay Leno’s garage. Today though, we stumbled upon a prime candidate – A Mercedes-Benz Pagoda from the 60s. It has however, been renovated by the guys at Studio Vilner so it’s now the Gentlie Pagoda.

Keeping faithful to their own signature, Vilner have made little to no modifications on the outside but once you step in, the premium stuff becomes noticeable. There’s a prevailing latte/coffee theme that’s been achieved with a two-toned leather material. Chrome and mahogany shine again on the dashboard and the steering wheel. The trunk has been specially tailored and comes with a jewelry box while on-purpose-faded aluminum sill plates read “Gentle Pagoda”.

At Studio Vilner, they know their classics, and that has to make them classy, right?

Source: Vilner

June 20, 2012

Hennessey HPE1000 Twin Turbo Upgrade

Hennessey Performance now offers an incredible HPE1000 Twin Turbo ZL1 Upgrade boosting the mighty Camaro ZL1 to more than 1000HP.

Originally the Camaro ZL1 is one of the most powerful road legal vehicles in the world with its – 588HP (432 kW) and 754Nm (556 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 296 km/h (184 mph) with the optional TapShift automatic gearbox.

All this power comes from the mighty 6.2 liter supercharged V8, which obviously is not enough for Hennessey.

The upgrades include:

• Forged Low Compression Pistons

• Forged Steel Connecting Rods

• Callies 4340 Forged Steel Crank

• Balanced and Blueprinted Rotating Assembly

• ARP Main Studs & Head Bolts

• High Flow Cylinder Heads

• Hennessey HPE1000 Camshaft

• Upgraded Fuel Injectors

• Upgraded Fuel System (Includes Lines, Rails & Pump)

• Twin Ball Bearing Turbochargers

• Dual Wastegates

• Electronic Boost Controller

• Stainless Steel Piping and Exhaust

• Air-to-Air Intercooler

• High-Flow K&N Air Filter

• 160 Degree Thermostat

• Professional Installation

• HPE Engine Management Calibration

• Dyno Tuning & Road Testing

• Hennessey HPE1000 Exterior Badging

• Serial-Numbered Dash & Engine Plaques

• Hennessey Premium Floormats

• Hennessey Embroidered Headrests

REQUIRED TRANSMISSION UPGRADE:

• Manual: Centerforce Dual Friction Clutch Upgrade

And the result is sensantional – 1021 BHP (751 kW). The tuned car comes with a 1 Year / 12 000 Mile Limited Warranty.

Source: Hennessey

June 19, 2012

Hennessey HPE700 Supercharged Boss 302 Mustang

Hennessey HPE700 Supercharged Boss 302 Mustang
Hennessey Performance has introduced their monster HPE700 Supercharged Boss 302 Mustang. The car is based on 2012 Ford Mustang Boss 302 Laguna Seca, which is powered by a 5.0 liter V8 with 444 HP (325 kW) at 7500RPM.

The tuned version – HPE700 Supercharged Boss 302 Mustang is boosted to whopping 700BHP (515 kW) thanks to a number of upgrades

HPE700 Supercharged Upgrade Includes:

• TVS2300 Supercharger System

• Supercharger Pulley Upgrade

• Air to Water Intercooler

• High Flow Air Induction

• High Flow Throttle Body Upgrade

• High Flow Fuel Injector Upgrade

• Boost-A-Pump Fuel System Upgrade

• Hennessey Strut Tower Brace

• Side Exhaust Bypass Opened

• All Necessary Gaskets & Fluids

• Professional Installation

• HPE Engine Management Calibration

• Dyno Tuning & Road Testing

• Hennessey HPE700 Exterior Badging

• Serial-Numbered Dash & Engine Plaques

• Hennessey Carbon Fiber Door Sills

• Hennessey Premium Floor Mats

• 3 Year / 36,000 Mile Limited Warranty

Source: Hennessey

June 19, 2012

2013 BMW Alpina B7 super-high performance luxury sedan

BMW has announced the new ALPINA B7 super-high performance luxury sedan, which boasts more performance, fresh design and improved efficiency.

The new B7 will make its official public debut at the at the historic Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in August. It will be priced from $128 495 for B7 Standard Wheelbase and $132 395 for the extended version – B7 Long Wheelbase.

The new B7 is based on the 2013 BMW 7-Series. It is powered by a 4.4 liter twin-turbocharged V8 boosted to 540HP and 728Nm (538 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 4.3 seconds and a top speed of 312 km/h (194 mph). The engine is mated to the famous 8-speed ZF automatic gearbox sending all that power to rear-wheels or to the world’s most intelligent AWD system – xDrive.

The exterior features complete Alpina package including new bumpers, new kidney grilles, updated Xenon Adaptive headlights, LED front fog lights, and updated tail lights.

Other now-standard features will include ceramic secondary controls, engine Automatic Start-Stop, and the Active protection system. Optionally, the B7 Sedan will offer Full LED Headlights, Bang & Olufsen Surround Sound System, new exterior colors and interior upholstery choices in-line with the 7 Series update. Renewed BMW individual color and trim offerings complete the package. The appearance remains unmistakable on signature 21” ALPINA Classic 20-spoke wheels and stunning ALPINA Blue Metallic paint.

The BMW ALPINA B7 is available as a special order vehicle with capacity-limited production underscoring its exclusivity.

Source: BMW

June 19, 2012

Inden Design Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG: where fashion and tuning meets

The new Inden Design Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG shows great style and powerful stance. However, it tells a story not not only about that. It serves the purpose to be „co-acting“ star next to photo model Katja Runiello in her latest photoshoot.

The beautiful model, dancer and actor is a well known personality, since her appearance in the RTL television series “The Bachelor”. SLS AMG’s popularity can be described simply by two words: „living legend“.

But what has Inden Design done to improve this splendind car. First, they have implanted 21-inch light metal rims. Rim stars were painted in high-gloss black as well as gloss-lathed beddings.

Inden Design Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG and Katja Runiello

The 10.5 and 11.5-inch wide single part product were combined with Continental Sport Contact high-performance tires of the dimensions 265/30R21 for the front and 295/25R21 for the rear.

Inden Design tuned the serially produced coilover kit of the Mercedes-Benz, so that it now cowers more flatly on the surface.

More importantly, the 6.2 liter V8 engine shows great dynamic portfolio from the gentle rumbling in Piano up until the thunderous roaring of the Fortissimo. This is achieved thanks to the serially produced exhaust system in high-grade steel in non-ostentatious visual appearance with electronic valve control.

However, Inden Design even increased the maximum performance of the high-revolving eight-cylinder powerhouse by further maximizing the engine software from 571 hp (420 kW) in standard production to the present 623 horsepower (458 kW).

The pictures below, are creation of the photographer Olaf Pitzer from Nauroth. Katja’s feminine dress was designed by the Haute Couture designer Elvira Kirsch. And the perfect make-up was made by the stylist Katharina Freitag.

Source: Inden Design

June 19, 2012

2013 Skoda Rapid debuts this autumn

2013 Skoda Rapid is the new compact saloon by Skoda which aims to play important role in the company’s growth strategy and will be released on European markets from the autumn of this year.

The first important highlight about the new Skoda model is that impresses with lots of roominess and has an expressive design. Next, it offers comprehensive safety features and efficient engines.

The Rapid is includes the brand’s newly formulated design language. It stands for: clear, precise, fresh and emotional. As you can see Skoda Rapid has perfect proportions, clear and cleanly modelled surfaces and sharply drawn lines.

The front end portrays a new take on the brand’s typical design elements. The new brand logo confidently stands out on the harmonically rounded front edge of the bonnet. On the other hand, the grille shows a finely drawn chrome frame and is formed by vertical slats.

The body displays a long wheelbase and a coupé-like silhouette. At the rear the car has a large tailgate which acts as a design element. Furthermore, the distinctly shaped taillights in the brand’s typical C shape and the new brand logo join together to make the Rapid unmistakable.

The roominess that is offered by the car is impressive. Despite the compact exterior dimensions of 4.48 metres in length and 1.7 metres in width, the compact saloon offers enough space for five occupants and their baggage.

At last but not least, five petrol and two diesel engine unites are going to be offered with the Skoda.

2013 Skoda Rapid will debut at Paris Auto Salon this autumn.

Source: Skoda

June 19, 2012

Volvo S60 Polestar revealed at Gothenburg City Race

Volvo S60 Polestar is the latest concept road-car created by Polestar. It is based on the S60 model of Volvo and it is going to take part in the 2012 season in the new Swedish racing series TTA – Racing Elite League.

Furthermore, there has been developed not only a race-car model, but also a street-version. The official launch of the vehicle already happened few days ago at the third race round of the TTA series held at Polestar’s home track in downtown Gothenburg, Sweden.

Polestar focuses on the development and competition in racing. The development and marketing of performance products for Volvo cars are based on the experience from racing. Polestar started research and evaluation-program to collect and compile vehicle data from the S60 platform, and eventually ended up creating the following product.

In fact, Volvo S60Polestar is very strong Volvo with great potential for motorsport applications and also an almost ideal platform for a road-going performance car. We all know that Volvo bodies are strong and have solid designs, which make them ideal for building race cars.

S60 Polestar is to a great extent based on standard Volvo S60 T6 components. It is another result motorsport and performance experience in combination with in-depth knowledge about the car and its technology.

Source: Polestar

June 19, 2012

Novitec Rosso Ferrari FF with exclusive upgrade delivers 702 horsepower

Novitec Rosso Ferrari FF received enhancements by adding carbon-fiber aerodynamic-enhancement kit, ultra-light forged wheels and an extra 42 horsepower.

Novitec Rosso upgraded the Ferrari with sophisticated program, which comprises of sty stylish and aerodynamically efficient carbon-fiber bodywork components. Furthermore, the tuners have added ultra-light forged wheels with diameters of 21 and 22 inches.

In fact, htis performance kit boosts the power output of the V12 engine by 42 horsepower (30.9 kW).

The bodywork components are made from lightweight high-strength carbon fiber. This gives the sportsvehicle even more dynamic appearance.

And as you can see the Ferrarri now has a lower stance thanks to the front spoiler lip for the production bumper. The optimal aerodynamic balance is with a combination of roof and rear spoiler plus a diffuser.

Furthermore, the rear end is additionally transformed with an add-on component for the production fascia and carbon-fiber surrounds for the black taillights. The tuners have also included matching black side markers and LED rear fog lamps.

Even sportier look is conveyed by the new side skirts and carbon-fiber trim for the exterior mirrors. Carbon-fiber roof cladding and a carbon-fiber radiator grille add even more racing-flair highlights.

The Novitec Rosso suspension engineers have developed custom-tailored lightweight forged wheels. They received the NF4 wheel design with five delicate double spokes. The wheels at the front are 21-inch diameter and at the rear are 22 inches. Both are matched with Pirelli PZero high-performance tires. They additionally emphasize the wedge-shaped appearance.

More importantly, the engine specialists have given more power to the Ferrari with the Novitec Rosso performance kit which boosts power output of the 6.3-liter 12-cylinder four-valve engine by an extra 42 hp (30.9 kW).

In particular, the conversion consists of newly calibrated engine electronics and a complete new stainless-steel high-performance exhaust system. The exhaust is also available in a version that features a butterfly valve actuated from the steering wheel.

In combination with the quad sport exhaust the custom-programmed mapping for ignition and injection plus a new higher redline speed of 8,200 rpm result in a performance of 702 horsepower (516.6 kW) at 8,200 rpm.

After the conversion the car has new tops speed of 340 km/h, which is five km/h faster than the production car.

The gear shifts are quicker and more precise thanks to the longer carbon-fiber shift paddles. They operate the seven speeds of the dual-clutch transmission of the Ferrari FF.

The interior of the car includes program which is destined to offer maximum level of individuality. The program provides countless options from carbon-fiber scuff plates to fully custom leather and Alcantara interiors. They are of course perfectly finished down to the last detail.

Source: Novitec Rosso

June 19, 2012

Category: Auto News