Category: Auto News

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

  • Audi A5 DTM Concept [renderings]

    Audi has released the first renderings of the A5 DTM concept, which will have its official premiere at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. The project name is R17 and is planned to succeed the successful A4 DTM. Shortly after these new, BMW has announced its M3 DTM Concept car. The rivalry between Audi and BMW continues.

    Audi A5 DTM Concept is powered by a V8 engine, directly taken from the A4 DTM. It delivers 460HP (340 kW). The power unit is mated to the proven 6-speed transmission.

    The car also features has a high-strength carbon-fiber monocoque with a steel roll cage that is fully-compliant with the latest safety regulations. A5 DTM Concept also has a larger rear wing and a reduction of the permitted aerodynamics components. The concept studies of the Audi A5 DTM by the Audi Design Team merely suggest the looks of the new Audi race touring car.

    “In 2012 new Technical Regulations will come into effect in the DTM,” said Head of Audi Motorsport Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich.

    “We’ve got exactly the right model for that in the A5. We’re convinced that we’ll be able to continue Audi’s success story with it in the DTM.”, he added.

    Audi A5 DTM Concept front
    Audi A5 DTM Concept front
    Audi A5 DTM Concept Rear
    Audi A5 DTM Concept Rear
    Audi A5 DTM Concept side
    Audi A5 DTM Concept side

    Source: Audi

  • BMW M3 DTM Concept Car

    BMW has introduced the new M3 DTM race car, which will be on show to motorsport fans and visitors to BMW Welt at the weekend. The car offers an initial impression of what the BMW M3 DTM will look like when it lines up at the start of the 2012 season.

    BMW M3 DTM race car is powered by the powerful V8 engine equipped with the air restrictor as detailed in the technical regulations. It develops 480BHP (353 kW), which is enough to catapult the car to 100 km/h in about 3 seconds and to hit a top speed of 300 km/h.

    “It is good to see how our DTM project is picking up speed,” said Dr. Draeger.

    “Next year, BMW returns to the DTM after two decades. We will be facing our main competitors in the premium sector – and are already looking forward to this challenge. The DTM comeback sees BMW return to its roots. We have enjoyed great success in production car racing in the past, and I am convinced we will follow on in 2012 where we left off. Everyone at BMW Motorsport is working hard to ensure we get off to a successful start next season.”, he added.

    Priaulx and Farfus have been confirmed as the first drivers to take to the track with the BMW M3 DTM in the 2012 season and during the intense test phase. Both drivers arrive in the DTM with impressive wins and titles to their names. Priaulx won the 2004 European Touring Car Championship for BMW, and followed that up with three World Championship titles between 2005 and 2007. The racing driver from the Channel Island of Guernsey (GB) has also proven his class in GT racing, with victory at the 2005 Nurburgring 24 Hours (DE) and first in the GT class at this year’s 12-hour race at Sebring (US).

    BMW M3 DTM Concept Car
    BMW M3 DTM Concept Car

    Source: BMW

  • SsangYong model range in the UK

    SsangYong Motor UK has announced the price list for all models, which will be imported in the United Kingdom.

    The future of SsangYong as a global vehicle producer has recently been secured following a 70 per cent acquisition of the Korean company by Indian engineering conglomerate Mahindra & Mahindra, and now the brand’s future in the UK is assured thanks to new investment in the importing company.

    “This is superb news for our dealers and customers who have been so loyal to the brand,” commented Paul Williams, managing director of the current importer.

    SsangYong Motor UK will operate from the existing parts logistics centre in Luton and administration office in Fleet.

    UK model line up:

    • Korando – This all new crossover model which was designed in Europe by Giugiaro, will be available in three trim levels – S, ES and EX, the choice of two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive, and manual and automatic transmission.  Prices will be confirmed at the launch, but expected to range from below £17 000 to around £23 000.
    • Rexton 2 – The seven seat Rexton 2 will be available as the 270 S with manual or automatic transmission, and 270 EX with automatic transmission as standard.  On the road prices start from £19 995. A commercial variant, the Rexton CS, will also be available with two seats, a good sized load area and either manual of automatic transmission.  Prices start from £19 944.
    • Rodius – Rodius will be available as the 270 S manual, the 270 ES with a choice of either manual or automatic transmission, and the top specification 270 EX with all-wheel drive and automatic transmission.  All models have seven seats as standard, and on the road prices start from £14 995.
    SsangYong SUT 1 concept
    SsangYong SUT 1 concept

    Source: SsangYong

  • BRABUS goodies for Mercedes E-Class AMG and S-Class AMG

    Brabus has introduced some very interesting upgrades for the Mercedes E-Class with AMG Body Styling and S-Class with AMG Body Styling.

    The upgrades for the E 63 AMG include – a front spoiler lip, a diffuser and rear spoiler. There are also a centrally located reflector, and stylishly blends with the rear bumper. It has cutouts on either side for the tailpipes of the production exhaust or of the BRABUS quad sport exhaust system.

    The upgrades for the S 63 AMG include – a new front spoiler, modified rear spoiler and diffuser.

    The tuning company also offers BRABUS Aerodynamic-Enhancement Kit and Flap Control Exhaust for both – the E 63 AMG and the S 63 AMG.

    In addition, Brabus also offers custom-tailored BRABUS Monoblock wheels with diameters of up to 20”.

    BRABUS front sport fenders, available for all E- and S-Class models, are yet another visual delicacy.
    There are, of course, a number of engine tuning components for the mighty 6.2 liter V8 and the twin-turbo 5.5 liter V8.

    The interior also offers a wide open playing field for refinement. The BRABUS upholstery shop uses supple leather and Alcantara to adapt the interior to the customer’s personal preferences down to the last detail. Other instruments of cockpit refinement are carbon-fiber and exotic wood trim elements available in any desired color and in a number of different designs.
    BRABUS Upgrades - Mercedes E 63 AMG

    Source: Brabus

  • 2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8 Price – $47 995

    2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8 is priced at just $47 995. It comes with proven 6.4-liter (392-cubic inch) HEMI V8 engine delivering 470HP (351 kW) and 637Nm (470 lb-ft) of torque across a wide RPM range. Furthermore it returns up to 23 miles per gallon.

    The performance is awesome – 0 to 60 mph in the high 4-second range; 1/4 mile in mid-12-second range with the automatic transmission; 0-100-0 mph in the low 15s; a top speed of 282 km/h (175 mph) and stops from 60-0 mph in just 117 feet.

    2012 Dodge Challenger SRT8 also comes with a number of extras like new two-mode adaptive damping suspension system, which offers selectable suspension tuning and automatically adapts to road and driver inputs for optimal vehicle control.

    The exclusive SRT heated steering wheel features mounted paddle shifters for hands on the wheel shifting both on road and at the race track. Power lumbar-equipped front seats are standard. Interior color combinations include Dark Slate Gray, and new for 2012 Radar Red/Dark Slate Gray, which adds color to the seats, door bolsters and rear seat armrest.

    The 18-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, with innovative GreenEdge® technology boasts 900WATTS of pure power.

    The system’s 18 GreenEdge high-efficiency speakers include:

    Seven 3.5” Unity coaxial mid-range speakers with seven integrated tweeters located in the front dash, rear doors and rear deck
    Two 6” x 9” subwoofers located in the front doors
    Two 10” subwoofers in a trunk mounted enclosure

    2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8
    2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8

    Source: Chrysler

  • 2012 BMW 1-Series Urban Line

    2012 BMW 1-Series Urban line is available with a choice between five engines.

    The petrol range includes turbocharged 1.6 liter with 170PS (125 kW) and 250Nm in 118i and turbocharged 1.6 liter with 136PS (100 kW) and 220Nm in 116i.

    The diesel line features 2.0 liter with 184PS (135 kW) and 380Nm in 120d, 2.0 liter with 143PS (103 kW) and 320Nm in 118d and 2.0 liter with 116PS (85 kW) and 260Nm in 116d.

    BMW ConnectedDrive will be offered as an option for the new 1 Series. Among the extras you will find High-beam assistance, Adaptive Headlights, parking assistance, reversing camera, Lane Departure Warning including Collision Warning, cruise control with brake function, speed-limit and no-passing information, Internet connectivity, increased smartphone and music player integration, real-time traffic information, and web radio, Facebook and Twitter apps.

    2012 BMW 1-Series Urban Line
    2012 BMW 1-Series Urban Line

    Source: BMW

  • 2012 Opel Combo

    Opel has introduced the new generation Combo, which offers clever solutions in the compact van segment. It comes in a wide range of variants, is technically advanced, exceptionally economical and provides maximum utility.

    The panel van version now offers a choice of two wheelbases – 2 755 mm or 3 105 mm – giving an overall vehicle length of 4.39 and 4.74 meters respectively, as well as two roof heights, 1.85 m or 2.10 m. The new Opel Combo is also available as a versatile car-van, with five or seven seats and a paneled or glazed body.

    The short wheelbase model can hold 3 800 liters of luggage, while the extended variant can accommodate 4 600 liters.

    The engine range includes four diesels with 90 PS (66 kW) to 135 PS (99 kW / 133 hp), a 1.4-liter petrol with 95 PS (70 kW) and a CNG with 120 PS (88 kW). There is also a choice between three gearboxes – a 5-speed manual, a 5-speed automated manual or a 6-speed manual.

    2012 Opel Combo
    2012 Opel Combo

    Source: Opel

  • MEC Design Mercedes-Benz CLS W219

    MEC Design has introduced a new aerodynamics package for the Mercedes CLS W219.

    The kit includes front bumper with LED fog and day lights, rear bumper with carbon fibre “Extreme” diffusor, side skirts with LED, 3 piece trunk lid spoiler, rear window spoiler. The car is finished in matte black.

    MEC Design Mercedes CLS W219 stands on MecxtremeIII one-piece alloy wheels in Full Matt Black finish with dimensions 10.5J x 20” fitted with 285/25 ZR 20 ultra-low profile tires.

    The tuning company also fitted four-pipe stainless steel exhaust system, which gives deeper sound and may some other horsepower.

    The interior boasts MEC Design floor mats, carbon and leather steering wheel.

    MEC Design Mercedes-Bebz CLS W219
    MEC Design Mercedes-Bebz CLS W219

    MEC Design Mercedes-Benz CLS W219

    • MEC Design Bodykit 2Face (front bumper with LED fog + day lights, rear bumper with carbon fibre “Extreme” diffusor, side skirts with LED, 3 piece trunklid spoiler, rear window spoiler)
    • MEC Design wheels mecxtremeIII 1pc in Full Matt Black finish 10,5×20 (4,5 inch lip) tires 285/25 ZR 20 all around
    • MEC Design Electronic Lowering System module, adjustable
    • MEC Design 4 pipe stainless steel exhaust system, sound version Apocalypse
    • MEC Design carbon/ leather steering wheel
    • MEC Design floor mats
    • MEC Design 2010 Grill
    • MEC Design 2010 Style LED mirror covers
    • Lighting unit background finishing
    • Full Matt Black Folie Wrap

    Source:MEC Design

  • 2012 Volvo C30 with series-connected Range Extender

    Volvo has announced the new C30 with series-connected Range Extender. The car is based on a C30 Electric with a three-cylinder combustion engine producing 60HP (45 kW) installed under the rear load compartment floor. The car also has a 40 litre fuel tank.

    The combustion engine is connected to a 40 kW generator and the power it generates is used to drive the car’s 111HP (82 kW) electric motor. However, the driver can also choose to let the generator charge the battery, thus increasing the car’s operating range on electricity.

    The Range Extender increases the electric car’s range by up to 1 000 km – on top of the 110 km range provided by the car’s battery pack.

    The series-hybrid Range Extender in the C30 is part of an EU project in which the Volvo Car Corporation is the only car manufacturer among eight partners. The company’s two parallel-hybrid Range Extender solutions are being developed with a grant of SEK 10.8 million (EUR 1.2 million) from the Swedish Energy Agency.

    “These three projects allow us to evaluate the Range Extender’s various possibilities. As with the C30 Electric and V60 Plug-in Hybrid, the goal is to make the cars exceptionally CO2-lean without compromising on customer requirements such as comfort, driving pleasure and practicality,” commented Derek Crabb.

    2012 Volvo C30 Range Extender
    2012 Volvo C30 Range Extender

    Source: Volvo

  • LUMMA BMW X6

    Lumma Design has already released the special tuning package for the mighty X6 M and now it is turn to the ordinary SAC.

    The tuning program includes both styling and performance packages. Lumma aerodynamics kit includes front spoiler bumper with rather enlarged air inlets, double lamps in LED technology and LED day running lights. There are also headlight “eye brows”, mirror hatches, rear spoiler lip and sportive look engine bonnet, made in carbon.

    Besides, the beefy car body extension all around and the side skirts with brake cooler optics have extremely modified rear apron with diffuser demanding attention. Down tuned tail lamps is another attraction. The sportive look is accomplished by the matt black front kidney grille frame and the stripe design.

    LUMMA BMW X6
    LUMMA BMW X6

    The tuned X6 stands on LUMMA Racing CLR 22 in 10J x 22” and 12J x 22” fitted with tires in 295/30 R22 in front and 335/25 R22 rear. The whole ride is lowered with 40 millimeters (1.5”) for better stance and handling. In yellow painted brake calipers are available also in reinforced execution.

    The interior boasts LUMMA front and rear sport seats (rear seats as single ones) with backrest shells in structured carbon leather, matching to the interior colors instruments and seat belts, leather upholstered interior borders, the aluminum pedals set with slip-resistant rubber dots and lit door sill panels with LUMMA logo and, finally, the foot mat and boot floor mat with real leather bordering complete the package.

    LUMMA BMW X6 Interior
    LUMMA BMW X6 Interior

    The 3.0 liter twin-turbocharged petrol received 34PS and 70Nm – totally 340PS and 670Nm of torque. A power module for the gas pedal provides for the better and faster gas reaction and, thus, for the optimal acceleration.

    Source: Lumma Design

  • MAGNAT SNOWMOBILE Porsche GT3

    Porsche GT3 has received another tuning package, but this time from Magnat … and Wimmer.

    The mighty 3.8 liter flat-six received updated software and modified exhaust system including sport catalysts and suction tubes optimization. All coming from Wimmer racing sport techniques in Solingen, Germany, and is called RS step 3. The result is 462HP (340 kW) and 451Nm (334 lb-ft). The top speed is 317 km/h (197 mph).

    Snowmobile Porsche GT3 stands on Ultraleggera HLT CT by OZ in 8.5J x 19” and 12J x 19” fitted with 235/35 ZR19 and 305/30 ZR19 Yokohama Advan Sport tires.

    The interior gets even more attention. Magnat has re-engineered the whole internal space of the car in finest craftsmanship and highest quality. Leather, Alcantara and high gloss paintwork let the GT3 shine in its unique design, the dynamic diamond patterns setting sportive and, in the same time, exclusive accents.

    The audio system boasts 2100 WATTS – high performance voice coils and the 1” textile tweeters, down-fire subwoofer casing with 10” woofer and  Magnat Black Core 5 channel amplifier.

    MAGNAT SNOWMOBILE Porsche GT3
    MAGNAT SNOWMOBILE Porsche GT3

    Source: Magnat

  • 2011 Renault Wind Roadster Gordini

    Renault has announced the new 2011 Wind Roadster Gordini, which is now available to buy for just £12 995.

    The car comes with Malta Blue metallic paint with twin white Gordini stripes, plus the usual Gordini badges on the side pillars. The exterior also features white door mirrors, grille trim and cowls, 17” alloy wheels with a polished face and gloss black inserts.

    The interior boasts Gordini blue and dark grey leather seats with embossed Gordini logo, numbered Gordini plaque (1-200), satin chrome effect gearknob with blue Gordini badge and blue gearstick surround.

    There are also Bluetooth connectivity, climate control, multi-functional TunePoint for USB connections and Thatcham category 1 alarm.

    The engine range includes a 1.2 liter TCE with 100PS and a 1.6 liter VVT with 133PS.

    Among the options list, you can find a Renaultsport exhaust for £450 (1.6 only), 17” Gordini alloy wheels with polished face and blue inserts, plus a wind deflector for £200.

    Check out the price list, below!

    2011 Renault Wind Roadster Gordini
    2011 Renault Wind Roadster Gordini

    2011 Renault Wind Roadster Gordini price list:

    Trim level Engine OTR Price
    Dynamique 1.2 TCe 100 £12,995
    1.6 VVT 133 £13,895
    GT Line 1.2 TCe 100 £13,895
    1.6 VVT 133 £14,795
    Gordini 1.2 TCe 100 £15,195
    1.6 VVT 133 £16,095

    Source: Renault