Category: Car Makes

Car Makes

  • B&B Automobiltechnik Improves the Audi TT 8S 2.0 TFSI

    Despite the fact that the third generation of the iconic Audi TT has not been around the sales rooms for too long, the performance professionals of B&B Automobiltechnik from Siegen are delivering a tuning portfolio for the progressive Audi TT vehicle.

    Following several progression-steps, the B&B provides the Audi TT 2.0 TFSI with a power-boost from 230 PS to 360 PS. The initial 370 Nm of torque jumps to the very impressive 500 Nm of peak torque. The acceleration time is ready to score some mind-blowing rates too for the car can speed up from 0 to 100 in the screaming 4.8 seconds. What is more, the 0-200-km/h-value is improved from 24.3 to 17.4 seconds. With a maximum speed increased from 250 km/h to 276 km/h, the tuned Audi TT is able to rock your world!

    The B&B motor programme for the Audi TT 8S is firstly marked by the stage 1K (Comfort, 1,198 Euro). It increases the power output of the 2.0 liters four-piston turbo motor to 300 PS and 420 Nm. Next, the TT gains even better dynamic highlights with the B&B-stage 1S (Sport, 1,698 Euro) which mobilizes the power to 310 PS and 435 Nm.

    326 PS and 450 Nm are possible in B&B-stage 2 (3,950 Euro) by installation of an enlarged and cross-section optimized B&B-special exhaust tube, comprised of sport catalyser and increased charge pressure by approx. 0.25 bar with adjustment of the electronic injection parameters.

    Finally, stage 3 includes the currently developed performance pack of the B&B programme for the new Audi TT 8S 2.0 TFSI (9,950 Euro) at 360 PS and 500 Nm. This power package includes B&B special turbo charger with in-house charging air cooler, brand-new air intake system and a B&B sport exhaust system with exclusive exhaust pre-tube and racing sports catalyser.

    The tuner B&B offers a sports spring set (from 298 Euro upwards) to lower the car body by approx. 30 mm at the FA and by approx. 25 mm at the RA, or, as another option, a B&B-threaded chassis for the new Audi TT. The driving dynamics are perfected and finalized with weight-optimised rims in the 10×20 inch format with tyres sized 265/30R20.

    Source: XMedia-Group

  • Sporty BRABUS Refinments for the C-Class with AMG Line

    The continuous and tireless work by BRABUS has resulted in some very impressive improvements for Mercedes-Benz C-Class with AMG Line. This time around, the tuning company offers even better sporty and dynamic bodywork upgrades which propel the C-Class models further in their segment.

    It is a well-known fact that the most significant and exclusive engine tuning program for Mercedes-Benz automobiles is offered by BRABUS. Thus, BRABUS PowerXtra B18.2 performance kit is available for the C 180 model which powers it with an additional15 kW / 21 horsepower (20 bhp). The plug-and-play module is adjusted to the engine electronics, and boosts power output from 156 HP (115 kW) to 177 HP (130 kW). The maximum torque is increased from the initial 250 to the impressive 300 Nm (184 to 221 lb-ft). The car accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 8.4 seconds while top speed is boosted to 230 km/h (143 mph).

    The C 200 model is powered by BRABUS PowerXtra B20.2 performance kit. As a result, the four-cylinder turbo engine pumps out a maximum power output of 225 HP (165 kW) and a peak torque of 330 Nm (243 lb-ft). With BRABUS engine tuning the C 200 speeds up from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph) in only 7.0 seconds, accomplishing a top speed of 242 km/h (150 mph).

    Another improvement on the C-Class arrives with the BRABUS Monoblock wheels which complement the sensational BRABUS look of Mercedes-Benz. The wheels can be mounted on the C-Class in various designs and with diameters of 18, 19 or 20 inches. The largest safety-certified tire/wheel combination is comprised of BRABUS Monoblock F or R alloys of sizes 8.5Jx20 at the front and 9.5Jx20 on the rear axle. The high-performance tires of sizes 225/35 ZR 20 and 255/30 ZR 20 are available by BRABUS technology partners Continental, Pirelli and YOKOHAMA.

    The complete BRABUS appearance of the C-Class is also achieved thanks to the specifically styled BRABUS front spoiler attaches to the lower part of the AMG Line bumper which highlight the sporty look of the sedans. In addition, all vehicles in this range can be equipped with the BRABUS rear spoiler. The diffuser-look rear bumper insert is another enhancement which provides the perfect backdrop for the four chrome-plated tailpipes of the BRABUS sports exhaust system.

    Finally, the tuner provides a number of refinements for the interior of the new Mercedes C-Class. Buyers can enjoy a variety of custom accessories such as aluminum pedals and excellent velour floor mats with BRABUS logo, as well as other exceptional BRABUS breathable leather and Alcantara interior components.

    Source: BRABUS

  • 2015 Toyota Corolla RZ and its “Dark Side”

    The Toyota Corolla RZ special edition has launched in Australia, demonstrating certain darkness, edginess and value-added specifications.

    The Corolla RZ is powered by 1.8-litre four-cylinder petrol engine that is known from the rest of the line-up. It generates 138 hp (103 kW) and 173 Nm (127 lb-ft.) of maximum torque. The engine is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox or a MultiDrive S-CVT automatic transmission which offers a sequential seven-speed Sport mode.

    Perhaps the most striking part about the exterior of the new Toyota is the set of the racy 16-inch black gloss alloy wheels which perfectly suit the black caps that bear the Toyota emblem. Other enhancements include lower grille edge, lower rear bumper, and the panel beneath the tailgate glass all of which complete the sporty look of the car.

    The “dark side” of 2015 Toyota Corolla RZ  is revealed through an intensive choice of the black color which is the color chosen for the front bumper mouldings and the leading edge at the bottom of the trapezoidal lower grille. Still, there are six exterior colors available – Wildfire, Inferno, Tidal Blue, Crystal Pearl, Silver Pearl and Positano Bronze.

    The interior is equipped with “RZ” branded mats for the driver and front passenger. But this is not all of course. The cabin benefits from Corolla hatch regulars including six-speaker audio, cruise control, Bluetooth®^connectivity, air-conditioning and seatbelt warning alarm for all five seats. There is also a satellite navigation which is accessible via 6.1-inch touch-screen display.

    The special edition small car joins the Camry RZ, thus becoming the second RZ in Toyota Australia’s line-up.

    Corolla RZ prices
    (including optional paint)
    Manual – $22,290
    CVT auto – $24,540

    Source: Toyota

  • DMC Strikes Again with the New Huracan AFFARI

    DMC tuning company has been actively involved in tuning the beasts produced by Lamborghini for many years now. Its strong passion for renewing and improving a certain model results in outlining enhanced super-cars which really can blow your mind. DMC final products can be seen as a piece of art all of which stand out with their individuality and assertiveness and just point at themselves saying: “Look at us and beat us if you can!”

    When it comes to Lamborghini vehicles, DMC really knows how to break in and subordinate this wild animal. Now the tuning company turns out to be the first to show a complete body kit, wheels and performance package for the brand new Huracan Affari.

    The new styling kit created by DMC offers a phenomenal front fascia which is comprised of 2 spoiler lips and unique wide body extensions with aero-swords. The integrated side skirt diffusers have the role to deliver better overall aerodynamics which are supported by the brand-new rear diffusor. The biggest and most notable enhancement of the package is the new rear wing spoiler that is placed on a re-engineered deck lid. The wing can be set to three different angles. By doing this, it provides the driver with a number of custom settings which vary from hard to soft. All of the components are made of carbon fiber.

    The Green Goblin, uh, I mean the new DMC Lamborghini Huracan Affari has a boosted power of 630 PS due to the optimized engine electronics, an electronic load pressure control system and a brand new Exhaust system.

    The tuner gives this Lamborghini new forged alloy wheels which stabilize and secure the car on the road. Precisely, the DMC rims come in a 20″/21″ setup. The front receives a technical set up of 20×8,5J while the rear showcases specs of 21x12J. Finally, DMC is going to use a 245/30r20 / 325/25r21 tire combination with a softer P-Zero application available too.

    The finishing touch is the refined interior which is polished with Italian fine leather and carbon fiber materials.

    Source: DMC

  • Vorsteiner GTRS4 Wide Body for the BMW M4

    Vorsteiner always comes with one key goal – to create a design which will really become the quintessential design icon, representing the next-generation ultimate driving machine. The tuning company makes this possible by crafting a cutting-edge design that is so revolutionary and so innovative that succeeds in establishing new benchmarks. BMW has always had a central position in the heart of the tuner. With the new BMW M4 GTRS4 Vorsteiner once again has successfully tried to demonstrate an absolute idol among BMW automobiles which is regarded as representative symbol of audacity, craftsmanship and supremacy.

    With the GTRS4 Vorsteiner marks and celebrates its 10 year anniversary. This BMW is a full lightweight carbon composite wide body conversion that is originally based on the 2015 BMW M4 coupe.

    The team of specialists has worked to ensure that the improved wider fenders and wheels are functional and serve the best purpose possible. Vorsteiner also crafted air ducts for optimal cooling towards the front brakes, while focusing on aerodynamic ventilation for the inbound air to exit. The front fenders have a total span of 4 inches while the rear quarter panels is 7 inches wider than its previous form. The BMW M4 GTRS4 benefits from 3-Piece Forged wheels in 20×10.5J and 20×13.5J which are designed to match the 275 and 345 width tires.

    The Special Edition GTRS4 Package Includes:

    • Carbon Fiber Front Bumper with an Integrated Front Splitter Element
    • Carbon Fiber Wide Front Fenders with Ventilation (2 inches wider each side)
    • Carbon Fiber Aero Side Blade Elements
    • Carbon Fiber Wide Rear Fenders (3.5 inches wider each side)
    • Carbon Fiber Rear Bumper with an Integrated Rear Diffuser Element
    • Vorsteiner 90mm Quad Exhaust Tip Finishers (Options: Brushed | Diamond Black)
    • Vorsteiner Embroidered Colored Floor & Trunk Mat Set • Vorsteiner Chrome Trunk Badging 
    • GTRS4 Forged 3-Piece Wheels, 20×10.5J | 20×13.5J in Gloss Brushed Shadow

    Technology Partners:

    • Pirelli Tires
    • KW Suspension
    • Brembo | Race Technologies
    • ESS Tuning
    • KI Studios
    • Gold & Co. London

    Source: Vorsteiner

  • Who Has Inspired Kia for the Sorento X-Men Car?

    Kia-Sorento-X-Men-THUMBAs Kia’s ambassador Rafael Nadal is to take an unusual role: he will unveil the Kia Sorento X-Men inspired car at next year’s Australian Open. The striking project was created in collaboration with Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment and should undoubtedly exite all “X-Man” movie series enthusiasts, since they have to guess the character behind Kia’s latest model on the official Kia Facebook page.

    The visitors of the page can guess from four iconic characters: Storm, Wolverine, Mystique and Magneto. Those who have answered correctly will be entered into a prize draw to win a DVD copy of “X-Men: Days of Future Past”. What is your guess?

    In the middle of December, Kia will release a video showing how Rafael Nadal teams up with the X-Men and taking on the Sentinels. If you have no clue and haven’t watched the movie, the latter are robotic antagonists.

    They will be threatening the Australian Open and in order to save the first Grand Slam tournament of the year, the X-Men and Nadal will use the ‘Kia X-Car’, which will be leading the attack against the Sentinels.

    This special vehicle will be on show at Melbourne Park throughout the tournament. The next Australian Open takes place from 19 January to 1 February 2015. The car will then be showcased in various international motor shows for the fans.

    2016 Kia Sorento was earlier this year. The car combines exquisite style, practicality and technology. The MY2016 model is quieter and more refined and features higher quality interior, smoother ride and handling, as well as a range of new technologies.

    The car is already on sale in Korea, and will go on sale in North American market in early 2015.

    Source: Kia

  • 2015 Nissan Juke Gets More Personal with Juke Color Studio

    JUKE-Color-Studio-THUMBNext to the debut of 2015 Nissan Juke at the L.A. Auto Show, the Japanese company is also introducing the Juke Color Studio. This is a unique program that allows thousands of ways to customize the visual appearance of the car. In short: form this month, Nissan is bringing a bold new way for Juke owners to create a truly personalized look and feel through this customization program. How this creative studio works?

    It is very simple. There are 12 Genuine Nissan accessory items offered in a range of eight colors: Red, Yellow, Orange, Electric Blue, Black Purple, White, Matte Black and Carbon-fiber Look. The Piano Black is available for interior inserts. To go further into details, the parts include front and rear bumper accents, headlight trim rings, side mirror caps, door handle covers, side door sills, rear roof spoiler, hatch handle finishers, lower hatch accent, interior inserts, floor mats, 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels and center caps.

    This abundant range of options will allow customers to mix and match different color combinations. To make the Color Studio even easier, Nissan has created a dedicated website. It offers a full 360-degree view of the new 2015 Juke with all the available colors and combinations of parts.

    2015 Nissan Juke is now stronger with revised front and rear fascias, new projector headlights with LED Signature Accents and three new exterior colors. The interior improvements feature Nissan Intelligent Key with Push Button Start, RearView Monitor and NissanConnectSM with Mobile Apps.

    Not to mention the 5.0-inch color display, USB connection port for iPod interface and other compatible devices, Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System, Streaming audio via Bluetooth and Hands-free Text Messaging Assistant. There are five trim versions of the car: S, SV, SL and two special Nismo editions: Juke Nismo and Juke Nismo RS. Each of them is available in front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. 

    Source: Nissan 

  • Mitsubishi Concept XR-PHEV Crossover Debuts in L.A.

    Mitsubishi-Concept-XR-PHEV-Crossover-THUMBMitsubishi Concept XR-PHEV Crossover was shoed at the L.A. Auto Show. This is a plug-in-hybrid electric vehicle, which has excellent performance and efficiency, and is also the real sibling version of the Mitsubishi Concept XR-PHEV Evolution Vision which we have seen in the newest Gran Turismo 6 PlayStation game. The SUV features the same prominent and bold styling as the virtual concept and has many of its styling characteristics.

    The futuristic vehicle hints at the future design direction for company’s production cars in North America. It blends the functionality of an SUV, the dramatic, eye-catching appeal and performance of a sports coupe and the drivetrain of a PHEV vehicle.

    The muscular of the model is improved by the highly sculpted fenders that go around the oversized high-performance tires. For this also contributes the low and wide stance. Solar cell arrays are embedded within the roof. They help for a better charge of the auxiliary equipment battery. They also serve as an active aerodynamic device in the form of a variable angle spoiler on the trailing edge of the roof.

    Inside, we see driver-centric interior. The proof of this is driver’s seat which has been inverted in terms of color combinations in comparison to the other seats. They have been upholstered in black with red accents.

    The modern information display pod allows the driver to easily and instantly notice the most important driving parameters. The speedometer, tachometer and other key performance information displays/readouts are placed along the top of the dashboard, at the base of the windshield, to ensure the driver keeps his or her eyes on the road ahead.

    The driving force of this concept car is the front engine and front-wheel drive gasoline-powered 1.1-liter inline-3-cylinder turbocharged engine. It is rated at 134 horsepower (100 kW) and is paired with a lightweight, compact and high-efficiency electric motor which can contribute with 161 horsepower (121 kW) with a high-boost converter. A main drive lithium-ion battery pack with storage capacity of 14 kWh is located beneath the floor of the cabin.

    Concept XR-PHEV has been equipped with “connected car” technology that makes use of information systems, thus providing additional information and driving-related logistics in a convenient way. In terms of safety, the vehicle has has been equipped with the following advanced safety systems: Pedestrian Collision Mitigating Auto-braking, Rearward Blind Spot Vehicle Warning, Unintentional Vehicle Move Off Control, Driver Monitor, Driving Safety Support System, Forward Collision Mitigation, Lane Departure Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control and Auto Hi-beam Headlights.

    Mitsubishi Concept XR-PHEV Specifications:

    Length x Width x Height 4,370 mm × 1,870 mm × 1,570 mm
    172 in x 73.6 in x 61.8 in
    Occupants 4
    Hybrid Fuel
    Efficiency
    >65 mpg
    (>28 km/liter)
    Plug-in Cruising
    Range
    >53 miles
    (>85 km)
    Engine Configuration 1.1-liter 3 cylinder direct injected turbocharged MIVEC, gasoline
    Max Output 134 bhp (100 kW)
    Electric Motor 120 kW (161 bhp)
    Battery Capacity 14 kWh
    Transmission Transaxle
    Drivetrain FWD

    Source: Mitsubishi Motors

  • Mopar Releases Accessories for 2016 Fiat 500X

    Mopar-Fiat-500X-Accessories-THUMBBesides the 2016 Fiat 500X premiere in Los Angeles, the company has also introduced the new Mopar accessories for the model. In fact, there are more than 100 accessories available for the interior and exterior. There have been already available in five trim models and 12 exterior colors, the additional option of more than 100 Mopar accessories from which to choose provides unlimited potential for individualization of 500X.

    Of course, there is an exemplar unit on display at the Los Angeles Auto Show. It is accented with red hood and roof graphics, with red and grey body side graphics. The five-seater with superior ride and handling, rolls on new Pirelli tires, which are coupled with satin black 18-inch Mopar wheels. Other custom elements for the exterior include Satin Black “wings” on the chrome rear and front badges as well as a gloss black painted exhaust tip.

    Stepping inside the Fiat, we first see the seats of the Moparized 500X. They are wrapped in Tuscany Katzkin Leather. Then what grabs the eyes are the steering wheel and shifter boot trimmed with red accent stitching. Bright pedal kit and rear cargo organizer emblazoned with the automaker’s logo are also available.

    Some of the accessories include Graphics Packages with more than 20 different exterior graphics packages, 18-inch wheels in three different color options, Racks & Carriers for bikes, skis, snowboards and luggage. Premium leather Katzkin Seats can also transform the interior, while the cargo management is ensured by the cargo trays.

    EVTS stands for Mopar Electronic Vehicle Tracking System which is GPS-enabled stolen vehicle recovery system, which serves to add more protection to the vehicle. Splash guards are signed to fit the contours of the Fiat 500X in order to provide protection from road debris and stone chips.

    Source: Mopar 

  • 2016 Fiat 500X Trekking Plus Combines Iconic Italian Style with Functionality, Performance and All-wheel-drive Confidence

    Fiat adds another product which is defined by genuine Italian design and excellent driving dynamics. The all-new 2016 Fiat 500X comes with an advanced all-wheel-drive system, unmatched functionality, complete safety, technological features and absolute comfort.

    In the United States, the Fiat 500X arrives with the fuel-efficient 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo engine combined with a six-speed manual transmission. The engine has an output of 160 hp and 184 lb.-ft. of peak torque. The 2.4-liter Tigershark MultiAir2 engine generates 180 hp and 175 lb.-ft. of torque. This time around, it is paired to a nine-speed automatic transmission on all-wheel-drive and front-wheel-drive models.

    There is a disconnecting rear axle which is used to reduce the parasitic loss when all-wheel-drive capability is not really needed. This results in much better fuel efficiency. The Dynamic Selector system offers the driver three different modes (Auto, Sport and Traction +) to choose from.

    Furthermore, the 2016 Fiat 500X is equipped with up to 70 safety and security components. They are comprised of: Forward Collision Warning-Plus, LaneSense Departure Warning-Plus, Blind-spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Path detection. Electronic stability control (ESC) with Hill-start Assist and electronic roll mitigation and seven air bags are included on all models.

    The Fiat 500X is also available with features such as Uconnect 6.5 radio with a 6.5-inch high-resolution touchscreen and navigation, Bluetooth streaming audio, Uconnect Access Via Mobile, a 3.5-inch color thin-film transistor (TFT) cluster display, Keyless Enter-N-Go, and heated front seats and steering wheel.

    The new Fiat’s baby features five trim levels: Pop, Easy, Lounge, and for a more edgy look, Trekking and Trekking Plus. The Trekking and Trekking Plus versions is available in one-of-a-kind front and rear fascia designs, and satin silver elements which adorn the appearance of the car.

    The all-new Fiat 500X will arrive in FIAT studios in North America in the first half of 2015. It will go on sale in more than 100 countries around the world.

    Source: Fiat

  • 2016 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Maybach Debuts Officially

    2016 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Maybach may just become the synonym for class, individual character, luxury and exclusive superiority. It has been officially revealed in its two key markets in the USA and China, Los Angeles and Guangzhou, almost at the same time. The saloon car represents another huge step towards the already successfully innovative march of Mercedes-Benz manufacturer.

    The S-Class Maybach undoubtedly carries a sort of prestige which has never been seen before. It is tremendously stylish and arrives with a certain amount of confidence which springs out of every possible part of the car.

    The top-of-the-range model is the Mercedes-Maybach S 600. It is powered by a V12 biturbo engine which has the robust output of 530 hp. With a displacement of 5980 cc, the peak torque of 830 Nm is available from 1900 rpm. The V8 biturbo engine placed in the Mercedes-Maybach S 500 is able to produce 455 hp from a displacement of 4663 cc. Its maximum torque is estimated at 700 Nm. NEDC combined fuel consumption for the saloon is 31.7 mpg (premium petrol) with CO2 emissions of 207 g/km. The vehicle benefits from exclusive 20-inch (50.8 cm) forged, light-alloy wheels. Their design includes large surfaces to underline the flagship model’s high-quality look. The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is considered to be the world’s quietest production saloon car.

    The sleek exterior of the Maybach is an amalgamation of immense style, supremacy and trend-setting exceptionality. The car is a definition of modern luxury conveyed in an exclusive manner. Moreover, alongside the extended wheelbase, the explicit lines hint at dynamism and power. Nevertheless, the most cardinal feature which differentiates the Mercedes S-Class Maybach is the new side line. If you compare it with the long-wheelbase version of the S-Class, you can see that the outstanding rear door has been shortened by 66 mm. As a result it looks more than just natural as it gently fades away into the overall composition. The elegant Maybach Manufaktur logo – a double M inside an arched triangle – is mounted on both sides of the C-pillars.

    Inside the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class, the lounge style brings a definite feel of comfortable spaciousness and sensuous elegance. For an exclusive look, the front center is wrapped around with nappa leather or exclusive nappa leather upholstery embossed Maybach crests. Another special feature in the dashboard is the analogue clock with an IWC design.

    2016 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Maybach features a great variety of technological upgrades and other functions such as the Burmester® high-end 3D surround sound system which offers a unique optical and acoustic experience and the Voice amplification that enables easier communication with the rear passengers from the front.

    The market launch of the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is scheduled for February 2015.

    Source: Mercedes-Benz

  • Chevrolet Chaparral 2X VGT Concept Transmits the Spirit of Innovation

    There is something marvelous, something wondrous, something breathtaking and mind-blowing about 2014 Chevrolet Chaparral 2X Vision Gran Turismo (VGT) concept. It looks like a car from a world far beyond ready to attack and conquer our own. This fighty little devil represents an exclusive development for all the gamers and fans of the PlayStation® 3 racing game, Gran Turismo® 6.

    Chevrolet wanted this car to feel special. And it succeeded. But if u strip that away, there is a mid-mounted 671-kW laser beamed-energy propulsion system that releases beams of light that focus in a shroud. They produce shock waves that generate enormous thrust in the lightweight race car.

    Thanks to the integrated laser and the pack of lithium-ion batteries and an air-powered generator which boosts 900 hp, the concept car will be capable of a 240-mph top speed in the video game, with 0-60 acceleration capability of just 1.5 seconds.

    Yet, unlike other GT projects, this Chevy is actually real and it looks even more monstrous than in any pictures. It can be seen and touched at the 2014 LA Auto Show. The car is boundary-pushing, with innovative design and flare for power. Chevrolet Chaparral 2X VGT is seen as a quintessential design icon that can become the next-generation driving machine. It offers an explosion of character, ambitious vision and futuristic glare.

    “The Chaparral 2X VGT is a vision of how advanced technology may shape the look and driving experience of racing,” explains Chevrolet. “Chaparral’s race cars and methods were seen as outlandish four decades ago. The 2X VGT concept might just be a harbinger of motorsports in the next four decades.”

    Have a look through the pics. What do you think? Could this be the best Vision GT concept so far?

    Source: Chevrolet