Vorsteiner seem to be preoccupied these days with BMWs. More specifically, the M3 range. Well, this time it’s not actually Vorsteiner. It’s one of their dealers – Vivid Racing, based in Glibert, Arizona. They have taken a 2008 BMW M3 Sedan (E90) and have spiced it up in the name of aesthetics. At least, that’s how some people see it.
Power is not up, but Vivid Racing are considering it as the bar for more performance is now up. By the bar, I mean the stopping power – four new Brembo 380mm crossed drilled rotors complete with six-piston calipers at the front and four-piston ones at the back.
The handling may also benefit from the newly installed H & R springs and sway bars that give the beemer some more rigidity and a lower stance. For the aerodynamics, Vivid have gone for the Vorsteiner GTS3 Carbon Fiber Front Bumper that comes with an air splitter, and a Vorsteiner Carbon Fiber Boot Lid. The rear also gets a Carbon Fiber diffuser for an overall complete feel.
Subtle, lean and sleek. We like it.
BMW M3 (E90) by Vivid RacingBMW M3 (E90) by Vivid RacingBMW M3 (E90) by Vivid RacingBMW M3 (E90) by Vivid Racing
A new world record set by the monstrous AMS Nissan GT-R at ¼ mile.
The street legal car with more than 1600HP managed to stop the clock at 8.63 seconds, when crossed the finish line at the 402 meter mark with a terminal speed of 172.15 mph (276.98 km/h). It is just insane to see a “normal” car with normal tyres do that. The parachute is much needed, because the brakes simply won’t manage too well, especially, if the AMS GT-R makes several starts.
What is more, AMS claim that this is not the end and the tuned Nissan will set even better time. As you can see in the end of the start, the rear bumper or parts of it flew away from the car, but this wasn’t the only problem.
Just before the finish line an intercooler pipe popped off, so the car didn’t run all the way on full boost (35 psi) and AMS promises that the next time, there will be more boost. We just can’t wait to see another record. Until then, enjoy the video below.
Isuzu has announced the price list for the all-new D-Max pick-up. The vehicle will be officially unveiled at the Commercial Vehicle Show (24 – 26 April at NEC, Birmingham). The new D-Max will hit the market from June available with four specification levels and, for the first time for Isuzu in the UK, with an extended cab body configuration – featuring rear-opening side-access panels – joining the single and double cab variants.
The entry-level Isuzu D-Max is priced from £14 499 for the single cab 4×2 derivative. It comes with a generous complement of standard equipment, including air conditioning, daytime running lights, electric windows and front, side and curtain airbags.
The Eiger double cab starts at £18 499 and adds projector headlamps, Bluetooth and iPod connectivity, 16” alloy wheels and body-coloured bumpers, while the ‘Yukon’ double cab (from £18,999 CVOTR) also features a leather steering wheel with cruise and audio controls, and a six-speaker sound system, chrome exterior detailing and 17” alloys.
The flagship Utah model offers luxurious creature comforts inside, including leather upholstery, heated front seats and automatic climate control. The exterior is enhanced with roof bars and rear parking sensors. The ‘Utah’ double cab automatic is priced from £21 499.
2012 Isuzu D-Max UK
The engine is only one – a highly fuel efficient 2.5-litre twin-turbo common rail diesel with 163PS and 400Nm at 1400RPM. It is mated to a 6-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission.
The Isuzu D-Max also introduces a new ‘shift-on-the-fly’ system, allowing the driver to adjust between two- and four-wheel drive modes while travelling at speeds of up to 60 mph.
Isuzu UK expects its all-new pick-up to build on the remarkable success of its predecessor, the Rodeo. Consistent year-on-year sales growth throughout its lifecycle peaked in 2011 with 2,431 units registered, a performance which saw the UK become Isuzu’s biggest European market for the first time.
Michelin has created the new Pilot Super Sport tyres specially for the brand new F12berlinetta, which is the most powerful Ferrari ever. The new tyres are the world’s fastest series-produced tyre on the track. The Italian manufacturer, after its previous successful collaborations related to the development of the tyres for the 599 GTO and the FF, has once more chosen Michelin among the original equipment suppliers for the new F12berlinetta,
The new Ferrari F12berlinetta has a naturally aspirated 65-degree 6.3 liter V12 – 740PS (544 kW) and 690Nm (509 lb-ft). To handle all that power, a number of technologies have been developed by Michelin’s Research and Development Center.
Here are some of them:
First is the Twaron Belt. Esentially, it is a high-density fibre which gives the Michelin Pilot Super Sport superior high-speed stability. A key feature of Twaron is that it is very strong, yet light; Twaron is five times stronger than steel of an equivalent weight.
The second is a variable contact patch 2.02 thatchanges its shape when cornering. That’s why the amount of rubber in contact with the road remains the same.
Last is the Tri-Compound and Bi-compound tread. Used in endurance racing, this innovation uses different rubber compounds on the left and right sides of the tread. On the outside, a unique elastomer specifically developed forracing tyres ensures exceptional endurance. On the inside, a latest-generation, high-grip elastomer enables the tyre (on wet surfaces) to break through the water’s surface and adhere to the road.
The new Michelin Pilot Super Sport tyres come in two sizes: 255/35 ZR 20 for the front wheels and 315/35 ZR 20 for the rear axle.
Renault UK has announced the full price list of the Megane Range. The new 2012 models come with minor styling changes to freshen up their original lines – modified front end, LED daytime running lights, a gloss black bumper and a lot of sets of wheels.
In terms of line-up, from April, a new entry-level Expression+ welcomes the inclusion of Bluetooth™, USB connection and upgraded audio system to 4 x 20W radio CD with fingertip remote control and AUX input, on top of an already high equipment level: 16” alloys, air conditioning and front fog lights.
The top-of-the-range GT-Line TomTom also sees several new additions: auto parking brake with Hill Start Assist, parking camera with rear parking sensors, Arkamys 3D Sound 4x35W audio system – worth £760, but an OTR price only £270 greater than the previous range (dCi 160).
The interior comes with new trims including a leather pack available in a choice of two finishes in the UK. The personality of the specific GT-Line TomTom finishes has also been enhanced inside and out thanks to specific ‘boomerang’-shaped LED lights, visible red upholstery stitching and a sports steering wheel incorporating thumb rests, plus Renault Sport-badged door sill guards and dashboard trim strip, serving as a reminder that it belongs to the Renaultsport family. Last but not least, the list of body colours available for Mégane 2012 has been extended with the addition of Azzurro Blue and Arctic White.
The engine range includes a 1.2 TCe 115 petrol, 1.5 dCi 110 and the 1.6 dCi 130 diesel powered units. All feature Stop & Start technology, which are already available in the Scenic 2012 range.
The new 1.2 TCe 115 retunrs up to 53.3 mpg on combined cycle and 119g/km CO2. The 1.5 dCi 110 gives class-leading 80.7 mpg and emits only 90 g/km CO2. The 1.6 dCi 130 boats 70.6 mpg and 104g/km CO2 emission.
2012 Megane Renaultsport 265
The Megane range now features the Visio System camera, which improves night-time vision by permanently scanning the road ahead. Lane departure warning has also been added to Megane 2012.If lane markings are crossed without the indicators having been being activated (above 44 mph), visible and audible warnings are automatically activated
All radios are now equipped with Bluetooth hands-free telephony, connectivity and audio-streaming, as well as multi-functional TunePoint and USB input which enable music stored on mobile devices to be controlled by the vehicle’s steering wheel-mounted fingertip control. Also available is Carminat TomTom® Live navigation (HD Traffic, real-time traffic information, etc.) on Expression+.
Hill Start Assist prevents the vehicle from rolling backwards when pulling away on a slope, while lane change indicators warn other motorists when the driver is about to change lanes by flashing three times following a simple flick of the indicator stalk.
To assist parking manoeuvres, a rear parking cameraprovides a precise image of the vehicle’s immediate surroundings and depicts its trajectory to help drivers adjust their line. Last but not least, the dual-zone automatic climate control is now equipped with a quality sensor which monitors cabin air quality and automatically activates the air-recycling mode whenever necessary.
Renault Megane GT Line TomTom 2012
Full range pricing:
Mégane Hatch 2012
Version
CO2
Level
CO2
Band
Combined
mpg
Benefit in
Kind
OTR
PRICE
Expression+ 1.6 110
159
G
40.9
21%
£16,275
Expression+ dCi 90 ECO
104
B
70.6
13%
£17,525
Expression+ dCi 110 ECO
106
B
68.9
13%
£18,125
Expression+ dCi 110 Stop and Start
90
A
80.7
13%
£18,800
Expression+ dCi 110 EDC Auto
110
B
67.3
13%
£19,425
Dynamique TomTom 1.6 110
159
G
40.9
21%
£17,275
Dynamique TomTom TCe 115 Stop and Start
119
C
53.3
10%
£18,325
Dynamique TomTom dCi 110 ECO
106
B
68.9
13%
£19,125
Dynamique TomTom dCi 110 Stop and Start
90
A
80.7
13%
£19,800
Dynamique TomTom dCi 110 EDC Auto
110
B
67.3
13%
£20,425
Dynamique TomTom dCi 130 Stop and Start
104
B
70.6
13%
£20,300
GT Line TomTom TCe 115 Stop and Start
119
C
53.3
10%
£19,825
GT Line TomTom dCi 110 Stop and Start
90
A
80.7
13%
£21,300
GT Line TomTom dCi 130 Stop and Start
104
B
70.6
13%
£21,800
GT Line TomTom dCi 160
150
F
47.9
23%
£22,490
Mégane Coupé 2012
Version
CO2
Level
CO2
Band
Combined
mpg
Benefit in
Kind
OTR
PRICE
Expression+ 1.6 110
159
G
40.9
21%
£16,775
Expression+ dCi 90 ECO
104
B
70.6
13%
£18,025
Expression+ dCi 110 ECO
106
B
68.9
13%
£18,625
Expression+ dCi 110 Stop and Start
90
A
80.7
13%
£19,300
Expression+ dCi 110 EDC Auto
110
B
67.3
13%
£19,925
Dynamique TomTom 1.6 110
159
G
40.9
21%
£17,775
Dynamique TomTom TCe 115 Stop and Start
119
C
53.3
10%
£18,825
Dynamique TomTom dCi 110 ECO
106
B
68.9
13%
£19,625
Dynamique TomTom dCi 110 Stop and Start
90
A
80.7
13%
£20,300
Dynamique TomTom dCi 110 EDC Auto
110
B
67.3
13%
£20,925
Dynamique TomTom dCi 130 Stop and Start
104
B
70.6
13%
£20,799
GT Line TomTom TCe 115 Stop and Start
119
C
53.3
10%
£20,325
GT Line TomTom dCi 110 Stop and Start
90
A
80.7
13%
£21,800
GT Line TomTom dCi 130 Stop and Start
104
B
70.6
13%
£22,300
GT Line TomTom dCi 160
150
F
47.9
23%
£22,990
Mégane Sport Tourer 2012
Version
CO2
Level
CO2
Band
Combined
mpg
Benefit in
Kind
OTR
PRICE
Expression+ 1.6 110
159
G
40.9
21%
£17,075
Expression+ dCi 90 ECO
104
B
70.6
13%
£18,325
Expression+ dCi 110 ECO
106
B
68.9
13%
£18,925
Expression+ dCi 110 Stop and Start
90
A
80.7
13%
£19,600
Expression+ dCi 110 EDC Auto
110
B
67.3
13%
£20,225
Dynamique TomTom 1.6 110
159
G
40.9
21%
£18,075
Dynamique TomTom TCe 115 Stop and Start
119
C
53.3
10%
£19,125
Dynamique TomTom dCi 110 ECO
106
B
68.9
13%
£19,925
Dynamique TomTom dCi 110 Stop and Start
90
A
80.7
13%
£20,600
Dynamique TomTom dCi 110 EDC Auto
110
B
67.3
13%
£21,225
Dynamique TomTom dCi 130 Stop and Start
104
B
70.6
13%
£21,100
GT Line TomTom TCe 115 Stop and Start
119
C
53.3
10%
£20,625
GT Line TomTom dCi 110 Stop and Start
90
A
80.7
13%
£22,100
GT Line TomTom dCi 130 Stop and Start
104
B
70.6
13%
£22,600
GT Line TomTom dCi 160
150
F
47.9
23%
£23,290
The new Megane 2012 range is available to order ahead of its 1st April showroom launch, priced from £16 275 (Hatch), £16 775 (Coupé) and £17 075 (Sport Tourer) on-the-road.
Here’s a Kahn Rolls Royce Ghost modified in ways you would least expect it to be. Yes, this particular one is all dressed up in a shadow line finish and riddled with subtle styling features that make a difference. But the most substantial change is underneath. And sadly, I’m not talking about the engine.
Let’s start from the top. The side indicators are now clear, the headlights have surrounds, the tail ones as well, the windows also…apparently and there’s some underfloor lighting. Four 9.5 x 22-inch Kahn Silver Mist Rolls Royce wheels complement the overall Kahn look. One still gets Rolls Royce’s original emblazoned center cap however. All and all, not ground braking work this, but enough to give the Ghost some character so that it fits the Kahn philosophy about not submitting to uniformity and striving for perfection.
The thing about this Rolls Royce is that it offers a great deal more security than the standard one. Although one can only guess by the appearance, all the glassware is bullet resistant. It’s an optional extra that comes with armor reinforced body shell underneath. We are not sure if that takes a toll on the Ghost’s 6.6L twin-turbocharged V12, 563 bhp engine and even if it does, a few extra kilos won’t maim it, right? In fact, at Kahn claim that the technology used in making all the bullet proof glasses results in an overall lighter construction. That’s a bold statement.
What goes inside the Ghost is up to the customer. For example, instead of reclining separate seats at the back, one can have a single sofa bench which greatly improves the interior atmosphere. When it comes to color – whatever fits best.
Peugeot UK now offers their EV – iOn with lower OTR price of just £21 216 after the Government’s £5,000 Plug-in Car Grant.
The EV range will be boosted additionally by other all-electric models along with the recently introduced world’s first diesel-electric HYbrid4. The manufacturer displays its commitment to addressing the environmental challenges facing carmakers, communities, businesses and private car owners.
Peugeot has also introduced a lot of technological solutions and services, adapted to an array of customer needs and designed to drive powerful breakthroughs in fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions.
These include the introduction of Stop & Start Systems, diesel-electric hybrids and zero-emission vehicles, enabling Peugeot to increase its leadership in the European low-carbon vehicle segment and extend its expertise to other markets.
The Peugeot iOn has also been included in the development of existing mobility solutions like ‘Mu by Peugeot’, a personalised mobility service, based on a new vision of mobility.
“2011 marked a return of EVs for Peugeot in the UK. We want to continue to develop our EV strategy as the technology becomes more accepted by consumers and the charging infrastructure continues to develop. Peugeot has been at the forefront of the EV market with iOn and this latest development is a key part in our low CO2 strategy.”, commented Phil Robson, Peugeot UK’s Fleet and Used Car Director.
2012 Mazda3 has achieved amazing result on the latest EcoTest from the German Automobile Club (ADAC). What they determined is that the 2012 Mazda3 1.6-litre petrol with 77 kW/105 PS was the only car of the eight tested models which used less fuel than the official average published by the manufacturer. In addition, what amazed the professionals was the fact that instead of an average fuel-consumption of 6.4 litres (the official numbers given by Mazda), Mazda3 1.6-litre showed on the stricter EcoTest just 6.3 litres per 100/km. Moreover, all other models that were tested, including vehicles with petrol, diesel and electric powertrains, were times above their officially published average for fuel consumption. Germany’s ADAC EcoTest measures fuel consumption, CO2 and toxic emissions using new and stricter criteria. And theses criteria now include NEFC measurements, test using the world cycle or WLTP, and the Autobahn driving cycle test from ADAC itself. In particular, the latter one features driving at highway speeds of 130 km/h and full-throttle acceleration. Additionally, all three cycles were measured with low-beam headlights on, and on the world and gighway test with the air conditioning on.
Two concept vehicles, both in green paint will shine in the range line among Chevrolet models. Chevrolet aims with these concept performance cars to make any enthusiast green with envy. Of course, don not take this literally. The firs concept vehicle is the outstanding Chevrolet Camaro Hot Wheels Concept, which you already might be familiar of. The car in fact can fulfill every child’s wish, who has ever played with the little model. The news here is that the Chevrolet Camaro Hot Wheels Concept will return next month to the New York International Auto Show, after its successful debut last autumn at Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show. The vehicle was inspired by the “Custom Camaro” – the dazzling green Spectraflame® 1:64-scale toy that was one of the original 16 Hot Wheels cars released back in 1968. This beautiful green paint finish was achieved using a meticulous, several-step process which included applying a liquid-metal solution and several layers of green tint.
Chevrolet Camaro Hot Wheels Concept
Next to be paid attention to is the 2013 Chevrolet Spark, which was designed to challenge preconceived notions of how an affordable mini car can look. And it definitely does this very well! More importantly, the “Spark” will begin shining in dealerships this Sumer and in addition will feature a attention-grabbing exterior finishes including Jalapeno, Salsa, Denim, Lemonade and Techno Pink. In particular, this Chevrolet is a four-passenger, five-door hatch, and it was designed to appeal to first-time buyers and city dwellers with its bold styling, affordability, 10 standard air bags, fuel efficiency and maneuverability.
Ford just announced today that the launch of the new dynamic 2012 Ford Tourneo Custom will be later this year. The concept vehicle of the model already won lot of hearts at this years Geneva Motor Show. In particular, the production vehicle of the model will be unveiled at the 2012 Birmingham Commercial Vehicle Show in April. And what we are to see then. Well, the new Tourneo has new levels of style and function which are visible at first sight because of its new dramatic appearance, car-like interior design and driving dynamics. In addition, the smart technologies and outstanding fuel economy makes the Ford Tourneo Custom even more appealing.
First of all, what we can see is that the model has an improved streamlined profile based on the “Kinetic” design approach, which includes a sportier stance, bold rising shoulder line, flush glazing, distinctive trapezoidal grille and prominent wheel lips. In addition, the vehicle is available in eight or nine seat configurations, and is offered in two variants: a short wheelbase (4.97 metres) and long wheelbase (5.34 metres). The additional length of the long wheelbase is perfect when one has to put some extra luggage. At a height of less than two metres, the Tourneo Custom also comfortably complies with most car park height limits.
The interior of the Tourneo Custom has car-like style and sophistication and is made of course from high quality materials. The stylish, sculpted driver-focussed instrument panel includes technologies closely-related to those found in the Ford car range. The cabin is further enhanced by a highly adjustable driving position with the steering column. In addition, the rear seats are a completely new design that can be easily folded into multiple configurations and removed in segments or completely. What is more important here is that the rear passengers will undoubtedly enjoy a spacious environment and comfortable, fully-trimmed cabin.
2012 Ford Tourneo Custom
Furthermore, the Ford features some importantSmart vehicle technologies: 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.
At last but not least is to be mentioned the exceptional fuel economy which the T Tourneo has. Here, the powertrain is an advanced version of Ford’s 2.2-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel engine, which is offered with three power ratings: 100 PS (74 kW), 125 PS (92 kW) and 155 PS (114 kW). To the engine is mated a six-speed manual transmission with a standard Auto-Start-Stop. Thus, the Tourneo Custom delivers combined fuel consumption of 6.9 l/100 km and 182 g/km CO2 emissions. Moerover, the vehicle is based on a new Ford global platform, engineered to deliver agile and responsive handling for car-like dynamics, enhanced ride comfort and reduced noise-levels. What it basically offers is excellent functionality, durability and low cost of ownership.
Schmidt Revolution introduced their tuning program for Audi RS6 (C6).
The powerful touring car comes with astonishing 5.0 liter twin-turbocharged V10 with 580PS (426 kW) and 650Nm (479 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 4.6 seconds, 0-200 km/h in 12.7 s and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited.
However, the tuning specialists from Schmidt Revolution consider these times slow, so they bumped the engine up to whopping 700PS (515 kW) and 790Nm (583 lb-ft), which is an increase of 120PS and 140Nm. The acceleration is not mentioned although it will be a lot faster, especially the 0-200 km/h, but the top speed is approximately 330 km/h (205 mph).
The upgrades don’t stop here and the tuned RS6 also boasts a set of new 10J x 22” CC LINE light alloy wheels with polished external bed. They are wrapped in 265/30 ZR22 tires all around.
Renault has released a teaser image in Facebook of their 2013 Talisman model. The car will make it official debut at the 2013 Beijing Motor Show. Still, we can’t see much of the car and probably it will share a lot of features from the Samsung SM7.
The luxurious four-door coupe will come with a lot of extras and some efficient engines from a new generation including a 2.5 liter V6 with 190PS (140 kW) and 243Nm (179 lb-ft) and a mighty 3.5 liter V6 with 258PS (190 kW) and 330Nm (243 lb-ft) of torque.
So, the 2013 Talisman is expected to be the new “Safrane” and if it has a connection with SM7, it will have the same platform as the Nissan Teana.
However, Renault does not have huge success in China, so the manufacturer will try to change that with this new premium model.
Stay tuned for more information and pictures about 2013 Renault Talisman.
Vorsteiner seem to be preoccupied these days with BMWs. More specifically, the M3 range. Well, this time it’s not actually Vorsteiner. It’s one of their dealers – Vivid Racing, based in Glibert, Arizona. They have taken a 2008 BMW M3 Sedan (E90) and have spiced it up in the name of aesthetics. At least, that’s how some people see it.
A new world record set by the monstrous AMS Nissan GT-R at ¼ mile.
Isuzu has announced the price list for the all-new D-Max pick-up. The vehicle will be officially unveiled at the Commercial Vehicle Show (24 – 26 April at NEC, Birmingham). The new D-Max will hit the market from June available with four specification levels and, for the first time for Isuzu in the UK, with an extended cab body configuration – featuring rear-opening side-access panels – joining the single and double cab variants.
Michelin has created the new Pilot Super Sport tyres specially for the brand new F12berlinetta, which is the most powerful Ferrari ever. The new tyres are the world’s fastest series-produced tyre on the track. The Italian manufacturer, after its previous successful collaborations related to the development of the tyres for the 599 GTO and the FF, has once more chosen Michelin among the original equipment suppliers for the new F12berlinetta,
Renault UK has announced the full price list of the Megane Range. The new 2012 models come with minor styling changes to freshen up their original lines – modified front end, LED daytime running lights, a gloss black bumper and a lot of sets of wheels.
Here’s a Kahn Rolls Royce Ghost modified in ways you would least expect it to be. Yes, this particular one is all dressed up in a shadow line finish and riddled with subtle styling features that make a difference. But the most substantial change is underneath. And sadly, I’m not talking about the engine.
Peugeot UK now offers their EV – iOn with lower OTR price of just £21 216 after the Government’s £5,000 Plug-in Car Grant.
Schmidt Revolution introduced their tuning program for 
