The Audi S5 is a unique competitor among high-performance coupés, thanks to its combination of V8 FSI technology and quattro permanent four-wheel drive. The eight-cylinder engine with its superb power delivery has worthy counterparts in the specially tuned sports suspension and high-performance brakes. Subtle, but clear design elements inside and out serve to distinguish this coupé as a high performance athlete in a league of its own. The Audi S5 goes on sale with the launch of the Audi A5 series. (more…)
Category: Car Makes
Car Makes
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Audi S5
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Smart fortwo Brabus
At the Geneva Motor Show smart will be presenting the two BRABUS variants of the new smart fortwo to the public for the first time.Rated at 72 kW / 98 bhp, the smart fortwo BRABUS and smart fortwo BRABUS Xclusive have more than 30 percent more engine power than the BRABUS variant of the predecessor model. At the same time the low consumption and low CO2 emissions demonstrate that this does not have to come at a cost to the environment and customers’ wallets.
In addition, the two BRABUS variants boast an extremely low weight to power ratio: at just 7.8 kg/bhp this is 24 percent lower than that of the previous BRABUS variant.
smart fortwo BRABUS: Greater power and sports suspension
The smart fortwo BRABUS places the primary focus on sportiness. Its three-cylinder petrol engine with capacity of one litre delivers 72 kW (98 bhp) and together with maximum torque of 140 Newton metres this lends the 770 kilo two-seater remarkably lively agility. The sprint from zero to 100 km/h takes less than ten seconds and the maximum speed (electronically limited) is 155 km/h.
The exterior of the smart fortwo BRABUS is first and foremost characterised by “Monoblock VI” alloy wheels, wider rear wheel arches, a sports exhaust system and fog lights. Furthermore, it has a firmer suspension setup and is lowered by 15 millimetres.
The interior of the smart fortwo BRABUS is distinguished from that of standard smart fortwo models by a number of BRABUS styling elements, for example for the gear knob, hand-brake handle and pedals. The speedometer, rev counter and clock also bear the BRABUS signature.
The same range of exterior colours is available for the smart fortwo BRABUS as for other smart fortwo models.
Smart fortwo Brabus smart fortwo BRABUS Xclusive: Luxurious equipment
Sportiness combined with a level of luxury that is unusual in this vehicle class – that’s the smart fortwo BRABUS Xclusive. It does not differ from the BRABUS model in terms of drive and performance but it comes with additional equipment that leaves almost nothing to be desired.
Although it also sports wide “Monoblock VI” alloy wheels, wider rear wheel arches, a sports exhaust system and rear apron, it is nevertheless immediately recognisable as a BRABUS Xclusive. This is first and foremost due to the BRABUS front spoiler, BRABUS side skirts and the tinted clear glass headlights.
The interior of the smart fortwo BRABUS Xclusive additionally features heated leather seats embossed with the BRABUS logo. A modified three-spoke leather sports steering wheel with steering wheel gearshift and BRABUS velour floor mats are also included in the standard spec. The instrument panel and door trim have a leather effect. Head/thorax side airbags, otherwise available as an option, are a standard feature in this model. These special side airbags protect the head and chest areas.
The paintwork of the smart fortwo BRABUS Xclusive further underlines the exclusiveness of this model. It is exclusively available in the combinations (tridion safety cell/bodypanels) silver/silver or black/black.
The two BRABUS variants will be launched on the market in the autumn of 2007. The prices will be announced around the middle of the year.
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Lotus 2-Eleven
Lotus Sport, the race car performance arm of Lotus Cars Ltd, today unveiled the new Lotus 2-Eleven. Launched at the 77th annual Geneva International Motor Show, the Lotus 2-Eleven is aimed at the true track day enthusiast, taking Colin Chapman’s philosophy of ‘Performance Through Lightweight’ to its most extreme level yet.Weighing in at just 670 kg (1,477 lbs) with 255 PS (252 bhp / 188 kw) on tap courtesy of its supercharged and intercooled 1796 cc engine, the Lotus 2-Eleven boasts a power to weight ratio similar to that of a 1960’s Formula One car. Designed with the most serious of track day enthusiasts in mind, the Lotus 2-Eleven offers race car levels of performance coupled with legendary Lotus Ride and Handling to deliver a truly outstanding track day car.
Said Mike Kimberley, Chief Executive Officer for Group Lotus plc:
“The Lotus 2-Eleven takes our core brand values to the extreme. It is the ultimate track day vehicle – not only phenomenally quick, but also very user-friendly. In short, the 2-Eleven delivers everything that the modern track day warrior and clubman racer demands, and more.” Production of the Lotus 2-Eleven is scheduled to commence in April 2007 at the awardwinning and world-class Lotus manufacturing facility at Lotus Headquarters in Hethel, Norfolk, UK. The 2-Eleven build will be completed in dedicated Lotus Sport workshops and each vehicle will be given a Lotus Sport build plate.
Lotus 2-Eleven 
The Lotus 2-Eleven is initially available in Launch Edition specification only, which boasts a dynamic and unique three-way Lotus Sport colour scheme complete with decal pack. The Launch Edition is available in two versions – Road Going Version (UK Single Vehicle Approval) fitted with front and rear lights, exhaust catalyst, single plane rear wing and other items to achieve compliance with UK road legal requirements and Track Only Version with an enhanced aerodynamics package including high downforce single plane carbon fibre rear wing, high downforce front splitter, brake lights and rear indicators and FIA approved driver’s race seat.
The recommended selling price (incl UK VAT) of the Lotus 2-Eleven Launch Edition will be £39,995. In the UK, the SVA version (Single Vehicle Type Approval) which includes delivery, Pre Delivery Inspection, first service, number plates, first registration fee, valet, 12 months’ Road Fund Licence, a full tank of fuel and SVA test costs an additional £1,100. The Lotus 2- Eleven is only available as a track-only option outside of the UK at 49,575 excluding local tax in mainland Europe. Pricing in Japan, South Africa and Lotus other international markets will be announced shortly.
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TechArt GT Street – based on Porsche 911 Turbo
TechArt revealed the first renderings of its new GTstreet model based on the 911 Turbo of the latest 997 series. A direct inheritor of the 2001 TechArt GTstreet based on the Porsche 911 Turbo of the 996 model series, the new beast boasts 630 hp / 463 kW at 6,800 rpm, up from standard 480 hp / 353 kW, the peak torque is increased to 820 Nm at 4,500 rpm. -
Oettinger TT
As opposed to many others, at OETTINGER’s in Friedrichsdorf they have not succumbed to the temptation of over-loading the new development of the Audi design star by adding the usual pretentious add-ons with air intakes widely ajar and huge spoiler-works supposed to enhance the impression of sportive power. (more…) -
ROUSH Stage 3 BlackJack
If Batman owned a Mustang, the new 2007 ROUSH Stage 3 BlackJack would most certainly be the ride of choice for the Caped Crusader. This menacing 430 horsepower tone-on-tone limited edition pony car comes straight from the mind of Jack Roush himself and is set to stalk the streets of Gotham City, and the rest of the country.Jack Roush had the vision, and the ROUSH Stage 3 BlackJack Mustang is the result. He personally developed the content of this black-on-black car, and a prototype build was his vehicle of choice while at many of the NASCAR Nextel Cup events during the 2006 season. That particular Mustang recently ended up on the Barrett-Jackson auction block as an extremely collectible one-of-a-kind car. Now, ROUSH Performance is set to offer a limited edition run of 100 ROUSH Stage 3 BlackJack Mustangs, all of which have been pre-sold through their ROUSH-authorized Ford dealer base.
“I am involved with all the vehicles that ROUSH Performance builds, but the Stage 3 BlackJack is really the first one which was entirely my design and I am quite proud of how well it turned out,” said Jack Roush. “When I drove the prototype around the NASCAR tracks last season it got a lot of attention, mainly due to the intimidating theme of the car. Of course, the distinctive rumble of a ROUSHchargedTM V-8 engine turns a lot of heads, too. ”
ROUSH Stage 3 BlackJack Jack Roush’s heritage as the winningest name in racing reverberates throughout the vehicle, starting with the powertrain which is what ROUSH Performance is so well known for. The polished ROUSHchargerTM system with a smaller pulley boosts the horsepower to 430 (with 400 lb.-ft. torque) which is the most in the history of the company. This system includes a Roots-style M90 supercharger, 38 lb.-hr. fuel injectors, ROUSH-designed intake manifold, intercooler assembly with radiator and a custom ROUSH ECM calibration to maximize optimal fuel and spark.
Aesthetics were also a big part of Roush’s vision for the Stage 3 BlackJack, starting with the matte black 21-inch stripe across the center of the black paint and the addition of the seven-piece ROUSH aerobody kit. Polished billet aluminum accessories, such as radiator, oil and strut tower caps, can be found throughout the engine compartment which contributes to the exciting package for street or track driving. Enthusiast drivers will immediately notice the handling of the vehicle has been improved by the addition of the Stage 3 suspension package which swaps out the stock front struts, rear shocks, front and rear springs, front and rear sway bar and jounce bumpers for ROUSH-engineered high performance versions.
Roush was also adamant about including the new ROUSH wheel hop reduction kit to help the rear wheel performance in low traction conditions. This is the only wheel hop kit on the market with a minimal NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) hit and no reduction in bushing life. Other manufacturers trade off anti-hop for a lot of noise, harshness and poor durability of the joints. The stopping rate is greatly improved with the addition of the ROUSH brake kit, a 14-inch, two-piece slotted rotor with four-piston calipers on the front and slotted rear rotors.
Interior upgrades include charcoal leather seating with an embroidered Stage 3 BlackJack logo, white electroluminescent gauges, billet aluminum pedal kit and short throw shifter with black shifter ball. The car comes standard with the ROUSH carbon fiber design dash trim kit and embroidered floor mats. Even the door sills have been upgraded in this model.
A ROUSH Stage 3 BlackJack serialized badge is riveted to the engine compartment, along with a Stage 3 signature badge which is personally engraved with the signature of the ROUSH Performance technician which hand-assembled the vehicle in the company’s Livonia, Mich., facility. To further validate the 100 cars, each will come with a Certificate of Authenticity signed by Jack Roush.
Once you get behind the wheel you will immediately see why we claim that ” Between a race car and a road car… Is a ROUSH car.”
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Chevrolet N2A 789 by Kanter Concepts
Chevrolet N2A 789 by Kanter Concepts is a car to speak of. You can take a look at the pictures but if you need more reasons I’ll give you some. First of all, the 789 combines the classic design elements from different models Chevy has released through the fifties. It actually mixes the designs of Chevys from the ’57. ’58 and ’59. Then the look of this particular model is so iconic that it can’t be mistaken with any other else.Let’s talk about it in details now. The car has been built on a 2005-2007 Corvette C6 chassis. If this does not speak anything to you, then you should know that this is regarded one of the best performance chassis ever produced by Chevrolet. In addition, the 789 has the “hooded eyes” and chrome grille bar of a ’57 Bel Air model. It has been mixed with a mid-section and tri-toned interior that is reminiscent of the Impala from the 1958. The “bird in flight” rear tailfins are taken from the distant 1959.
The benefit of the 789 is that it isn’t a car form the fifties but it can hit the 190 mph within an instant and still use around 25 miles per gallon on the highway.
Another advantage here is that each and singe car produced will be unique. How will this happen? There won’t be any two identical paint scheme or colors, and the interior combinations are more than 10,000! This is how you will make sure that all eyes are on your vehicle.
The design process began with sketches first and then hand made clay models. The experts at Kanter Concepts find it really important to make everything the old-fashioned way so that they can keep the spirit of the fifties alive.
If you ask how much it would cost you to own this car, the answer is $135,000USD. For this amount of money you will get a machine capable of 400 horsepower produced by its aluminum block V8 engine, the abundant equipment of the Corvette, custom Borla exhaust system (each car gets a different one), PST high performance anti-sway bars and great wheel/tire combination. Optionally, anyone can opt for turbocharging or ceramic brakes, 1000 watt stereo or ostrich leather interior, at an additional pricing, of course.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QqcpwibhaKw
Source: Kanter Concepts
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Renault Scenic Conquest
Scenic Conquest has been designed to help owners make the most of their leisure time. Its rugged front and rear styling resembles that of an off-roader.With its raised ride height and strengthened suspension, the chassis has been adapted to suit all kinds of terrain. Renault Scenic Conquest is available with a choice of 2.0 16V 135hp petrol or 1.9 dCi 130hp diesel power (plus, in some markets, the 1.6 16V 110hp petrol and 1.5 dCi 105hp diesel).
Its extensive range of standard equipment includes rear parking proximity sensors, alloy wheels, longitudinal roof bars and, on 2.0 16V and 1.9 dCi versions, an electronic stability program (ESP).
Renault Scenic Conquest 
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Maserati Gran Turismo
The new Maserati GranTurismo, styled by Pininfarina, makes its worldwide debut at the Geneva Motorshow. The Maserati GranTurismo is a muscular and sporty car, that can be enjoyed every day and a the same time is engaging for the driver. Its excellent handling and sportiveness makes it a point of reference in its category. The Maserati GranTurismo is built with particular attention to comfort, choice of materials and details and with enough room for four people, as only Maserati can do.The new Maserati GranTurismo is a high-performance sports car, exciting to drive with a 4.2 liter V8 engine, delivering 405 HP, and a weight distribution of 49% at the front and 51% at the rear. It is fitted with an automatic gearbox and equipped with an adaptive control system which adjusts the gear-shifting mode to the driving style and the driving conditions.
Maserati’s tradition of the Gran Turismo concept dates back to 1947 when the Trident Company, following its clients’ demand, unveiled at the Geneva Auto Show its first Gran Turismo. It was designed by the great Pininfarina, and based on the racing chassis of the A6. It was the first Maserati road car and was produced in 58 units. The car was acclaimed by the automotive press for its advanced technical content and for its avant-garde style solutions.
Maserati Gran Turismo 
The new model name – Maserati GranTurismo – is not incidental. Once again, the partnership between Maserati and Pininfarina gives birth to a car that is able to generate emotions and sets itself apart from competitors, due to the technique with which it is built and its unique style.
The new Maserati GranTurismo represents a further step towards the completion of the Trident product range, following the worldwide launch of the Quattroporte Automatic at the 2007 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
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Nissan 350Z
Nissan will be unveiling for the first time anywhere in the world a new model which will reinforce the company’s profit and growth aspirations in Europe. Carlos Tavares, Nissan’s Executive Vice President for Corporate Strategy and Product Planning, will present the new model at Nissan’s press conference at 1115 on Tuesday 6th March (1st press day). No further details will be released until the press conference.As well as the world premiere, Nissan will also be showing the new, updated 350Z which will reinforce its credentials as a pure sports car with thrilling, involving performance.
With the fitment of the next generation 3.5 V6 engine – engine code VQ35HR – power has risen to 313PS (230kW) at 6800rpm and torque is now rated at 358Nm at 4800rpm, while the maximum engine speed has increased by 500rpm to 7500rpm. Nearly 80% of major engine parts are new, providing improved acceleration and responsiveness.
To achieve the additional performance, a dual intake system has been fitted and the variable valve timing system has a wider range of operation, plus the addition of a common length exhaust manifold reduces back pressure. Those changes combine to boost low and mid-range torque.
Nissan 350Z 
In order to achieve the higher rev limit, the crank journal and crank pin have increased in size. At the bottom of the engine, a ladder frame has been added to stiffen the crank and reduce vibration.
The introduction of a second knock sensor, an asymmetric piston pattern, improved cylinder cooling and iridium spark plugs will combine to improve the efficiency of the ignition cycle, while an increase in compression ratio from 10.3 to 10.6 has liberated more top end power. Despite all these changes, weight and fuel consumption remain unchanged, but the engine’s centre of gravity has been lowered by 15mm.
To accommodate the new engine the front bonnet has been discreetly redesigned and is now reminiscent of the original 240Z, thanks to a slightly raised profile, while three new exterior colours will also be offered. Temper Orange is a striking shade but also contains a subtle green “flip” which can be seen in soft light and gives the car a surprising tone, while a new grey – Precision Grey – and Night Blue complete the colour line-up.
Inside, a new trim has also been introduced, which is called Frost Grey. It is a pale tone and adds a touch of sophistication to the car’s interior. As well as a new interior trim colour, another important change to the interior is the fitment of Active Headrests, to minimize the chances of neck injury in the event of a rear impact.
And to improve on-road refinement, the 350Z is now equipped with Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tyres, however grip levels remain unaffected.
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Land Rover Discovery 3 Pursuit
A new well-equipped limited edition Discovery 3, called the Pursuit, will be on sale in March 2007, for under £30,000 OTR. Only 300 Discovery 3 ‘Pursuits’ will be available from Land Rover dealerships across the country. Based on the TDV6 GS model, the Pursuit also features Java Black paint work with Ebony interior, 19” alloy wheels, body coloured wheel arch surrounds, manual leather seats and chrome finish mirror caps.Land Rover’s multi-award winning Discovery 3 is a technology-packed, premium 4×4 designed to deliver outstanding performance both on the road and off-road. The bold, versatile design is distinctively Land Rover and offers exceptional space, comfort and flexibility, for up to seven adults.
All Pursuit limited editions are powered by the Discovery’s acclaimed TDV6 diesel engine and feature standard technologies including Hill Descent Control, air suspension and Terrain ResponseTM, all industry-firsts for Land Rover.
“Since launch, the Discovery 3 has brought new levels of ability, comfort and refinement to the large 4×4 market. Winning 95 awards worldwide is a testament to its class-leading diesel engine, its versatility and its all-round package,” commented John Edwards, Land Rover UK managing director.
Land Rover Discovery 3 Pursuit “The limited-edition Discovery 3 Pursuit gives customers the opportunity to buy an exclusive specification for the exceptional price of £29,995 OTR for the TDV6 manual and £30,995 OTR with automatic transmission. We think this represents incredible value for money”.
All Land Rover vehicles include a CO2 offset for the first 45,000 miles within the on-the-road price. Administered by Climate Care, an independent CO2 offset provider, the programme ensures that the average amount of CO2 produced by a Land Rover is offset by investments in a mixed portfolio of projects, including renewable energy, technology change and energy efficiency initiatives.
The Discovery 3 has sold nearly 30,000 units in the UK and 115,000 units globally since launch in 2004, and continues to collect critical accolades the world over.
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Mercedes-Benz G-Class
Mercedes-Benz has refined its G-Class yet again. The interior has been injected with fresh appeal courtesy of a new, high-grade instrument cluster, an attractively styled steering wheel which is also new, as well as a modified centre console with redesigned switches plus a new-look control unit for the air conditioning. Outside, the latest generation of the G-Class can be identified by the design of its tail light units with their sophisticated LED look. These facelift measures see Mercedes-Benz hold true to its philosophy of making sure that this classic vehicle – which has been in production for over quarter of a century now – is equipped with a comfortable, up-to-date interior on a par with the best saloons, along with state-of-the-art technology. By so doing, it preserves the exclusive status of the G-Class as a full-blooded cross-country vehicle blended with the very finest lifestyle qualities.The first Mercedes-Benz G-Class unveiled in 1979 was designed predominantly with tough off-road terrain in mind. Over the many years of its production, Mercedes engineers have adapted the G-Class to changing customer requirements. It boasted outstanding off-road capabilities right from the outset, but its all-terrain prowess has been continuously improved on by the addition of the latest electronics. Its exceptional performance off the beaten track, excellent towing abilities and balanced handling characteristics combined with its saloon-like ambience have resulted in the G-Class enjoying an extraordinarily long production career, which now extends to 28 years.
Mercedes-Benz G-Class 
With its most recent facelift, Mercedes-Benz has added further touches of class to its cross-country classic. This is particularly true inside the G-Class where a new instrument cluster gives the interior a sophisticated look. Four circular analogue dials with chrome-ring surrounds form the nerve centre for driver information. Also sporting a new design is the elegant four-spoke multifunction steering wheel, whose illuminated buttons drivers can simply press with their thumbs to call up various data or control certain functions without being distracted from the road. The G 320 CDI comes with a leather-trimmed steering wheel as standard, whilst the luxurious wood/leather version awaits G 500 and G 55 AMG drivers.
Common to all three G-Class models is the modified centre console with its new controls and switches for the air conditioning and convenience functions. Not only does the new centre console give the cockpit added visual appeal, it is designed to make operating the controls more foolproof. The standard specification for the G 500 and G 55 AMG models includes the COMAND APS control and display unit featuring DVD navigation system, built-in radio, CD player and telephone keypad. A compass function has also been integrated to allow drivers to easily get their bearings even when they have left the signposted routes far behind them. The compass can be set to show the current heading in either the new instrument cluster’s display or on the COMAND screen.
The COMAND APS system can also be specified as an option for the G 320 CDI. This model is fitted as standard with the Audio 20 radio featuring CD player and telephone keypad instead of the previous Audio 10 unit. The entry-level model now also comes with heated front seats at no extra cost. The new 12V power socket in the front-passenger footwell of all models in the G-Class range allows for straightforward connection of auxiliary electrical appliances.
From outside, the newest generation of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class can be recognised from its tail lights, which have been remodelled by the designers to give them a fresh, new, LED-style look.
New attractive optional extras available
To coincide with the facelift, Mercedes-Benz has added some new enticing items to its list of optional extras for the G-Class. These include the following highlights: the “ARTICO” interior package with robust man-made leather appointments, plus the new “Cognac” leather upholstery which extends the previous choice of leather appointments in either black or grey by adding a third, brown tone (no-cost option for G 500 model)
In light of these facelift measures, the claim that the Mercedes-Benz G-Class is now more comfortable and innovative than ever has never rung so true. For not only does the G-Class excel by virtue of a luxurious interior ambience, its technology is absolutely state of the art too. The permanent all-wheel drive is complemented by the electronically controlled traction system 4ETS which boosts vehicle grip when pulling away and accelerating on slippery surfaces. What’s more, the G Class comes equipped with three engageable differential locks as well as a low-range ratio for tackling tough terrain.
The current G-Class model line-up comprises three engines and three different body variants. The engine power spectrum ranges from the 165 kW/224 hp of the G 320 CDI to the 368 kW/500 hp developed by the G 55 AMG.
The new-look G-Class is available to order now, with deliveries starting in mid April.
