Category: Car Makes

Car Makes

  • Mcchip-DKR Mini John Cooper Works With A 2.0 TFSI And DSG Gearbox

    Mcchip-DKR-Mini-John-Cooper-Works-TFSI-DSG-shadowMcchip-DKR-Mini-John-Cooper-Works-TFSI-DSG-mediumHow often do you get to see some tuner house behind the scenes action? Most of the time it’s just figures and dyno graphs. Ever wondered what it takes to actually do a proper overhaul?

    If you have, it’s your lucky day. The guys at Mcchip-DKR have the uncanny idea to lift and transplant a Volkswagen TFSI engine. The recipient? A Mini John Cooper Works. Apparently, the JCW Mini’s 208 hp and 261 Nm of torque just don’t make the cut. Mcchip are anticipating a much more volatile end product with 340 to 350 hp.

    The Mini’s new heart, a VAG 2.0 TFSI engine, is supposed to get new pistons and rods before the transfer. A Stage 3 kit (VLN Package) should yeald the desired power output. The rest of the JCW drive train has also been scrapped in favour of a DQ250 DSG transmission and a Drexler differential lock.

    Judging by the provided picture material, we’d reckon Mcchip are going through quite a lot of hassle. If, however, everything goes as planned, this should be one demonic piece of work.

    Mcchip-DKR-Mini-John-Cooper-Works-TFSI-DSG 02Mcchip-DKR-Mini-John-Cooper-Works-TFSI-DSG 03Mcchip-DKR-Mini-John-Cooper-Works-TFSI-DSG 04Mcchip-DKR-Mini-John-Cooper-Works-TFSI-DSG 05Mcchip-DKR-Mini-John-Cooper-Works-TFSI-DSG 06Mcchip-DKR-Mini-John-Cooper-Works-TFSI-DSG 07Mcchip-DKR-Mini-John-Cooper-Works-TFSI-DSG 08Mcchip-DKR-Mini-John-Cooper-Works-TFSI-DSG 09

    Source: Mcchip-DKR

  • Duke Dynamics MD4 based on BMW M4

    Duke Dynamics has published several pictures of their tuning package for the recently announced 2014 BMW M4. The tuning company offers a number of styling upgrades for the sports coupe.The exterior boasts a new front bumper with a three-piece carbon fiber front lip spoiler. There is also a new vented front hood, a pair of carbon fiber side skirts and extended wheel arches. At the rear we can see a carbon fiber diffuser and a carbon fiber or fiberglass rear spoiler.Nothing is mentioned about performance upgrades, but the M4 can be easily tuned to 500HP and 650Nm with only an ECU re-map.The body kit will be unveiled at Bimmerfest 2014 and sales will begin in July.Stay tuned!

  • Kia GT4 Stinger Convertible Concept [render]

    X-Tomi Design has published a render picture of Kia GT4 Stinger Convertible Concept. The Korean manufacturer managed to impress the audience at 2014 NAIAS in Detroit with GT4 Stinger Concept.

    The Coupe is powered by a T-GDI 2.0 liter engine – 315HP. All of that power is sent to the rear wheels via a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission. The stopping power is courtesy to the Brembo Gran Turismo 15” crossdrilled rotors and four-piston calipers.

    The GT4 Coupe boasts 52:48 weight distribution, the quick-ratio steering rack and its relatively low unsprung mass which stands at 1,303kg (2,874 lbs). Probably the Convertible will be slightly more heavy, but it will still manage to keep the perfect weight distribution.

    Source: X-Tomi Design

  • 2014 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 R Race Car

    Chevrolet has unveiled the Camaro Z 28 R Race Car. It will make its official debut in a 2.5-hour endurance race ahead of the 52nd Rolex 24 At Daytona. It will be one of the most production-based competitors on the track, sharing aero, engine and even axle components with the new 2014 Camaro Z 28.

    The Daytona race begins at 1:45 p.m. EST, on Friday, Jan. 24, kicking off the 12-race 2014 season.

    “The original Camaro Z/28 was designed for racing and became an iconic performance car through its hard-fought victories”, commented Mark Kent, director of racing for Chevrolet.

    “A new chapter in racing begins this week, as the new Camaro Z/28 makes its competition debut in one of the most hotly contested series in motorsports.”, he added.

    The Camaro Z28 R comes with an aero package including front splitter, rear spoiler with wickerbill, hood extractor vent, wheel-house extensions and front tire deflectors as well as a belly pan.

    The Z28 R is powered by the same 7.0 liter LS7 V8 with 500HP (373 kW) and 637Nm (470 lb-ft) of torque. It is connected to a 6-speed Tremec gearbox powering the rear wheels, where an LSD takes care about the traction.

    Other highlights include Brembo carbon ceramic brake system and a track-tuned suspension with stiffer springs and adjustable spool-valve dampers.

    Source: Chevrolet

  • A Trendy Seat Mii Mango Special Edition

    Seat-Mii-Mango-Special-Edition-shadowSeat-Mii-Mango-Special-Edition-mediumWhat do you get when you take a Spanish fashion house and a Spanish car make (that’s actually supervised by a German company) and put mash them together. Why, the Glam Beige Seat Mii by Mango special edition of course. It’s the one car that will make its début on a fashion show rather than on a car show. That is to say, the 080 Barcelona Fashion event (27-31 January).

    On the outside, the Mii special edition distinguishes itself with a special set of dark grey 15 inch alloy wheels, grey electric door mirrors and “Mii by Mango” badges at the back and on the B-pillar.

    The interior is where most of the designer side of it really shines. Leathered steering wheel and gear stick, Alcantara upholstery on all seats with a beige trim and, again, “Mii by Mango” embossing. The door sills too read the same. The mirror on the driver sun visor and the glove box handbag hanger clearly hint that Seat are targeting a very specific group of people (women) with the Mii by Mango. Is that sexist?

    The Mango Mii will be available in either 3 or 5-door versions and will be equipped similiarly to the Style trim line. That means ESC, ABS, front and lateral airbags for the front seats, head-thorax airbags, air conditioning, CD/MP3 audio system, hill hold control, central locking, power windows and more as standard.

    Source: Seat

  • An Adventure: Fiat Panda 4×4 Antartica From Turin To Sochi

    Fiat-Panda-4x4-Antartica-To-Sochi-shadowFiat-Panda-4x4-Antartica-To-Sochi-mediumThe “Panda to Sochi” project is happening right now as we speak. Fiat, in collaboration with Vice Media and a couple more sponsors, is sending a team of four to Casa Italia, Sochi (Russia) in a Panda. That is, Fiat Freestyle Team riders Stefano Munari – star of Italian snowboarding – and Stefan Lantschner, a BMX talent from the Alto Adige area, together with Markus Keller, the famous Nitro team rider who will take turns with Dmitri Sartor during the trip. Gersin Livia Paya, editor of Vice completes the quartet.

    Before their final destination, the team will stop by in 16 different European locations. They will shed some light on the diverse cultures along the way. A team of photographers and videomakers will also join in, immortalising the crew’s tricks and manoeuvres at characteristic landmark sites such as Dracula’s castle in Transylvania, the Potëmkin Stairs in the Ukraine, or Mont Blanc and Lake Geneva.

    The Fiat used is no ordinary Panda as well. It’s a 4×4 Antartica special edition. It carries a TwinAir Turbo 0.9 petrol engine which yields 85 hp. Antartica specific features include a white and black roof, 15-inch alloy wheels in grey diamond finish, orange hub caps, fog lights, tinted rear and back windows and a badge on the cnetral pillar that serves as an identifier. 175/65 R15 84T M+S Winter Snow Flake tires go on all four wheels as standard – good not only for snow and ice but also dirt roads and general low-grip surfaces. A lot of software also ensure save travels: a torque on demand drive system, an Electronic Stability Control, and an Electronic Locking Differential

    Inside, the Antartica showcases an overwhelming theme of orange and grey fabric (most of it eco-leather). A 3-seater rear seat with 60/40 folding backrest and height-adjustable driver’s seat offers adequate comfort and versatility.

    The team team should also arrive in Sochi with their spines intact since the Antartica sits on a revised MacPharson independent suspension at the front and a interconnected wheel with torsion beam at the rear.

    Source: Fiat

  • Brabus Mercedes-Benz AMG G63 Gets Military Green Exterior And ADV1s

    Brabus-Mercedes-Benz-AMG-G63-ADV1-MV2-THUMBOne of the most emblematic vehicles in Mercedes-Benz range is undoubtedly the G-Wagon. The model was introduced back in 1979 and since than it made an uncompromised mark in the automotive industry.

    Many tuners have taken the challenge to make this machine even more stunning. The tuners at SR Auto Group have also made a contribution to the world of modified G-Wagons with their take on the AMG G63.

    At first, they have equipped it with a complete Brabus Widestar Kit, which includes Fender Flares and Door Add-Ons. Brabus Front Lip with Integrated DRL LED System was later added, as well as Brabus Side Skirts, Rear Bumper, Roof Spoiler, and Carbon Fiber Hood Vent.

    The specialists have then proceeded to treat the exterior with a matte military green vinyl wrap. As a result the exterior of this G63 is now more rugged and aggressive. The final touch in the tuning is the addition of new wheels. Precisely, SR Auto installed a set of 22″ ADV1 7.0 MV2 Wheels in Man Bronze finish, giving this truck an entire transformation from top to bottom.

    Source: SR Auto Group

  • Callaway Introduces Chevrolet Corvette Stingray SC610

    2014-Callaway-Chevrolet-Corvette-Stingray-THUMBCallaway Chevrolet Corvette Stingray SC610 is a high performance version of the latest Corvette Stingray. In 2013 Callaway Competition won the ADAC GT Masters championship. The major benefit and consequence was that Chevrolet authorized Callaway to construct and homologate Corvette C7R GT3 race cars for FIA competition.

    The specialist has refined this Corvette model in terms of performance and exterior appearance, by offering two special enhancement packages for the car as well as engine modification. Just to name some new features, Callaway included direct fuel injection, continuously variable valve timing and advanced engine management control architecture.

    First of all, the LT1 powertrain of the Stingray has been modified and now generates 610 hp (450 kW) at 6400 rpm, while the torque is of 753 Nm (556 lb-ft) at 4500 rpm. This makes it possible for the SC610 to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in only 3.4 seconds, and at the same time to maintain unchanged fuel consumption.

    To go further into details, the supercharger system which has been added features Eaton’s TVS four-lobe, high helix rotor pack, OEM-certified quality and service-proven reliability. In fact, Callaway’s new supercharger housing and manifold have been entirely redesigned for improved airflow, while the new intercooler configuration minimizes charge air temperature.

    It is also important to mention that the supercharger is being front-driven. It has a new design which extends through the hood, which has been framed by a Callaway Carbon hood surround panel and integrated underhood air extractor.

    2014 Callaway Corvette Standard Equipment:

    • Eaton TVS (Twin Vortices Series) Supercharger System
    • Callaway Honker High Flow Intake System
    • Callaway Double-D Stainless Steel Exhaust System
    • Callaway Carbon Hood Surround/Extractor, with “Supercharged” Emblems
    • Callaway Exterior Badging
    • Callaway Door Sill Panels
    • Callaway Floor Mats
    • Callaway Underhood Plaque with Vehicle Identification Number
    • Callaway Dash Plaque
    • Callaway Key Fob
    • Callaway Corvette Authenticity Documentation
    • Callaway 3 year/36,000 mile Limited Warranty

    2014 Callaway Corvette Optional Equipment:

    • Callaway AeroWagon Package (Spring 2014)
    • Callaway Nine Spoke Wheel/Michelin Tire package (Spring 2014)
    • Callaway Coil-Over Suspension with Double Adjustable Dampers (Spring 2014)
    • Callaway ShortThrow Shifter (Spring 2014)
    • Callaway Le Mans GT Brake Package (Spring 2014)
    • Callaway Sport interior Group (Spring 2014)
    • Callaway Carbon Body Package (Spring 2014)
    • Callaway Carbon Splitter (Spring 2014)
    • Callaway Carbon Rear Spoiler (Spring 2014)
    • Callaway Carbon Rocker Panels (Spring 2014)
    • Callaway Corvette Car Cover
    • National Corvette Museum Delivery
    • Callaway Factory Delivery
    • Callaway Extended 5 year/100,000 mile Limited Powertrain Service Contract

    Source: Callaway

  • Mitsubishi Unveils Mirage G4 Sedan

    Mitsubishi-Mirage-G4-Sedan-THUMBAt 2013 Auto Shanghai we have seen the birth of n exceptional concept vehicle – the Mitsubishi G4 Compact Sedan Concept. Now the automaker is releasing an official production version of the concept – Mirage G4 Sedan, which has just officially appeared at the Salon International de l’auto de Montreal in Canada.

    The vehicle is equipped with Mitsubishi’s 1.2-litre, in-line DOHC 12-valve MIVEC three-cylinder engine with a continually variable transmission. It is offered in tow trim levels – ES and SE, each of which is equipped with either a standard five-speed manual transmission (5MT) or available Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

    The sedan version of the Mirage G4 has overall proportions of 4,245 mm length, 1,670 mm width, height of 1,515 mm height and 2,550 mm wheelbase. In fact, the car has been offered in a hatchback form as well, which has been rated at 4.4 L/100 km (64 mpg) in highway driving and is one of the most fuel efficient subcompact vehicles.

    To go further into details, the G4 sedan is equipped with wide range of technologies, which include Anti-Lock Braking System, Electronic Brake Force Distribution, Keyless Operating System, power-side mirrors with integrated LED-type lamps and standard15-inch alloy wheels fitted with 185/55 R15 tires.

    Furthermore, the ES trim of the models adds as a standard seven standard airbags Active Stability Control, Traction Control, Brake Override System, Brake Assist System and Electric Brake Force Distribution plus Mitsubishi’s Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE) Body System.

    ES runs on P165/65 R14 all-season tires and is also equipped with front disc/rear drum brakes, 140-watt, four-speaker audio system with CD/MP3, halogen headlamps, folding and power side mirrors, intermittent wipers, power front windows, tilt steering, multi-function information display and 60/40 split folding rear seat.

    Source: Mitsubishi

  • Skoda Octavia Hatch GreenLine: 88.3 mpg

    Skoda-Octavia-GreenLine-hatch-shadowSkoda-Octavia-GreenLine-hatch-medium

    There is a new addition to the Skoda Octavia range. It’s the GreenLine hatch – an 88.3 mpg and 85 g/km (CO2) car that still manages to pull off 110 PS.

    The main culprit behind these impressive figures is the 1.6 TDI CR diesel engine. It’s managed by a Start-Stop system which comes as standard on all third-generation Octavia cars anyway. The GreenLine however, comes also with a set of uniquely styled low-resistance wheels. 16-inch in diameter, these alloys go by the name of “Velorum”. The intended tire pressure for the GreenLine is a bit higher than usual in in order to reduce the friction surface area on the road.

    Other technological highlights include regenerative braking and front fog lights as standard. Visual treats: GreenLine badges on the front grille and rear hatchback. The gearstick inside also reads GreenLine.

    The Octavia GreenLine is now officially on sale in the UK and is priced at £20,150 or about $33,118

    Source: Skoda

  • An Exclusive Maybach 57S By Knight Luxury

    Knight-Luxury-Sir-Maybach-57S-shadowKnight-Luxury-Sir-Maybach-57S-medium

    Meet Mr. Toby Knight, the founder of Miami-based Knight Luxury Inc. He firmly believes that the “failure” of the Maybachs around the world is partly due to their unsophisticated design. Would love to know how he feels about caviar hors d’oeuvres. Too rustic maybe? Main point: This is the $1,000 000+ Sir Maybach 57S project by Knight Luxury. Let’s see how things have gotten from unsophisticated to unparalleled.

    The front apron and the back-end bumper seem to be the only non-carbon pieces left on the car, yet they are new as well. The latter hosts a carbon fiber diffuser, while the former sports a set of LED daytime running lights. As for the rest (hood, trunk lid, all four wings, all pillars and all doors), it’s carbon fiber all the way. It’s all very light but we don’t get to see the Sir on a scale, which is a pity. Apparently, if you open the hood carbon air filter boxes and a carbon engine cover will glare at you.

    Four 24-inch inch wheels measuring 9.5 inches at the front and 10 inches at the back The wheel rim stars are carbon-finished and painted, while the wheel beds are black powder coated. A 285/30 R24 tire fits all wheels.

    A 4-pipe sports exhaust system with valve control provides the appropriate soundtrack, while a LED underbody lighting gives that extra pinch of drama. Yeah, lights under the car spell sophistication, apparently.

    Moving on to the inside, you are greeted by a black and white dashboard, an ergonomic sports steering wheel with red Kederrand. The door covers, the foot wells and the door sills are all clad in diamond stitching. The trunk too is lined with diamond patterned leather. In total 28 parts inside were replaced with white carbon counterparts and 39 parts, again inside, were replaced with back carbon. Interior ambiance is achieved through an indirect UV black light inside.

    In terms of connectivity, the Sir Maybach comes complete with an Apple TV module, two iPads and an Apple keyboard accessible to the rear passengers. Among the arsenal of gadgets are also an LTE wireless module and a GPS tracking module.

    Source: Knight Luxury

  • ABT Volkswagen Transporter T5

    ABT has presented their latest project based on Volkswagen Transporter T5. The passenger van comes with both – styling and performance ugprades.

    The 2.0 liter TDI is boosted to 200HP (147 kW) and 440Nm (326 lb-ft) of torque. The 2.0 liter TSI can produce 240HP (176 kW), which is an increase of 36HP over the factory power. ABT Sportsline also offers chip tuning for the less powerful variants – the TDI with 84HP, 102HP and 140HP.

    The tuning company can install special suspension springs lowering the ride height or an entire sport-type suspension.

    The exterior boasts a complete aerodynamics package including front and rear skirt, rear spoiler, side skirts, front grille and daytime running lights available for both the long and short wheelbase. All parts are made from PUR-RIM material guaranteeing perfect quality.

    Last, but not least is the stainless steel quad-pipe sports exhaust system.

    Source: ABT