Category: Car Makes

Car Makes

  • G-POWER Work on a BMW 1M Coupe

    G-Power-BMW-1M-Coupe-thumbG-Power-BMW-1M-Coupe-mediumA substantial upgrade for the BMW 1M Coupe is now available at G-Power central. There’s an increase in power, there’s a suspension tweak and there’s some eye candy.

    The main point here is that now a 1M Coupe is more powerful than it’s bigger brother – the M3. That’s 435 horsepower and 590 Newton meters of torque (15 hp and 195 Nm more than the M3). That immediately takes us to the question of speed. The G-Power 1M eats up 100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds. The top speed has been upped to 300 km/h.

    To achieve this, the guys at G-Power have had to optimize the flow with some downpipes to reduce the exhaust gas temperature. Further back, there’s a completely new exhaust system that’s 20 kg lighter than a stock one would be mainly because the titanium material used for it. The tail pipes also come in carbon. At the front there’s a larger intercooler and a special G-Power software (Bi-Tronic V3) that takes into account the newfound oily bits.

    Suspension-wise, G-Power have worked hard to match the performance. A GM1-RS height-adjustable coil-over kit ensure overall stability. Then there are the 20-inch G-Power Silverstone wheels wrapped in Michelin tires with 255/30 ZR 20 and 295/25 ZR 20 dimensions front and rear respectively. From behind the double spokes of the front alloys, 396 mm brake discs peak out which get clamped by six-cylinder piston calipers whenever one stomps on the brake pedal.

    Source: G-Power

  • 2013 Fiat 500 Turbo – Pricing Announced

    2013-Fiat-500-Turbo-THUMB2013 Fiat 500 Turbo has just been introduced touting a 135 horsepower (100 kW) and 203 Nm (150 lb.-ft.) of torque from its 1.4-liter MultiAir® Turbo engine, sport-tuned suspension, track-proven brakes, dynamic exterior design and sport-styled interior.

    In other words, the Fiat 500 Turbo balances and blends the best Italian flavors. Developed for high-output applications, the Fiat 500 Turbo’s engine is mated to the C510 five-speed manual transmission with a 3.35 final-drive gear ratio for quick acceleration and faster top speed. The fuel economy of the Fiat is also impressive. It reaches up to 34 mpg highway.

    But not only are the internal attributes of the car aggressive. The new Fiat 500 now has more aggressive appearance as well, thanks to its new front fascia, which is pushed 2.7 inches forward of the Cinquecento’s signature “whiskers and logo” face.

    On the other hand the larger openings below deliver greater engine cooling, while twin “nostrils” are precisely positioned on both sides of the front fascia to maximize airflow in and out of the two intercoolers. The front is rounded up by the Gloss Black headlamps and parking lamp bezels.

    In addition, in order to create more vertical bodyside profile, the new Fiat includes bolder side skirts. Behind the unique 16-inch aluminum wheels with Nero painted pockets, is a high-performance brake system with semi-metallic brake linings at all four corners, larger 11.1-inch ventilated front rotors for greater stopping power (up from 10.1-inch) and brake calipers lacquered in Rosso (red) paint.

    At the rear, one can see taillamps with Gloss Black bezels. The two-piece rear fascia below emphasizes the road-holding stance of the 500 Turbo with a black-accented rear diffuser and a new sport-tuned exhaust.

    Exterior colors for the 2013 Fiat 500 Turbo include: Argento (silver), Bianco (white), Grigio (gray), Nero (black), Rame (copper), Rosso (red) and Verde Azzurro (green & blue.)

    The interior of the new model includes sport-styled seating, sport-designed leather-wrapped shift knob and steering wheel accented with Argento (silver) stitching, and a Grigio/Nero (gray/black) seating and interior environment. As an option, one can choose between heated leather seating in Nero/Nero (black/black) or vivid Rosso/Nero (red/black).

    2013 Fiat 500 Turbo will be available at dealerships this autumn with a starting price of $19 500.

    Source: Fiat

  • 2013 Toyota Auris Hybrid to debut in Paris

    2013-Toyota-Auris-Hybrid-THUMB2013 Toyota Auris Hybrid will be officially unveiled at Paris Motor Show in the end of September. The new Toyota at will offer enhanced dynamics, more distinctive styling and higher equipment levels.

    With its new and more confident exterior design combined with a higher quality interior, the new Auris also benefits from improvements on the driving dynamics and efficiency enhancements to its powertrain line-up. In particular this means that it includes a full hybrid system that powers the flagship Auris Hybrid model.

    The overall height of the vehicle is with 55mm less than the current model. This and the lower front end design contribute to the perfect aerodynamic performance with a Cd0.28 drag coefficient. Furthermore, this also effects in better handling stability and lower fuel consumption.

    The new design philosophy of the Japanese brand is applied here. 2013 Auris adopts the new “face” of Toyota in the design of its grille and the sharp-edged appearance of its headlights and LED daytime running lights. This gives the car a more powerful road presence.

    Another styling change can be seen on the profile. Thanks to the extension of the side glazing into three panels. The effect will be rendered even more eye-catching in some versions with a piano black finish for the B-pillars and a dynamic treatment of the C-pillars above a stronger and more pronounced chrome-trimmed rising belt line.

    Observed from the rear, one can see a wider opening tailgate, with interplay of convex and concave surfaces, a wrap-around combination lamp design and new bumper profile, strengthening the car’s broad stance.

    What about the interior? Of course, it was completely redesigned. The new interior is now more spacious and comfortable. What is the main highlight here us the introduction of the Skyview. This is one of the largest panoramic roofs in the segment.

    Furthermore, the air vent and meter surrounds, centre console and transmission tunnel trim have high quality satin silver finish. The interior surfaces such as the steering wheel and the instrument panel’s upper surface are covered with baseball-stitched nappa leather.

    Loadspace length is now further enhanced. All hatchback versions have now 360 litres luggage space. Repositioning of the battery pack beneath the rear seat has ensured Auris Hybrid has the same load capacity as other models in the range.

    Next, efficiency and dynamic improvements have been performed on the Hybrid Synergy Drive system. The new model will also include 1.4-litre diesel and 1.33 and 1.6-litre petrol engines.

    2013 Toyota Auris Dimensions

    NEW AURIS CHANGE vs CURRENT AURIS
    Length (mm) 4,275 +30
    Width (mm) 1,760 –
    Height (mm) 1,460 -55
    Wheelbase (mm) 2,600 –
    Loadspace (l) 360 +6  (+127 for Auris Hybrid)
    Cd 0.28 -0.01

    Source: Toyota

  • Bentley Mulsanne Convertible Concept Sketches Revealed

    Bentley-Mulsanne-Convertible-Concept-Sketches-THUMBBentley Mulsanne debuted back in 2009. Since then it is a pure example of coach-built elegance and hand-crafted luxury with immense power and sportiness. Now the luxury British brand is coming out with a concept in mind and it is namely the Bentley Mulsanne Convertible Concept.

    Unfortunately, Bentley hasn’t released any actual images of the concept except for some sketches, which by the way give enough to the imagination of how incredible this car would look like.

    The aim is for the Mulsanne Convertible Concept to be the world’s most elegant and sophisticated convertible, providing a supremely powerful and refined luxury grand touring experience for four persons.

    The form of the new Concept combines sportiness and elegance, and its sculpted lines and muscular haunches convey a sense of power and movement. The interior includes a spacious but yet intimate cabin, which was inspired by luxurious, high-performance power boats.

    Mulsanne Convertible Concept will further sustain Bentley’s position as the most undisputed benchmark in handcrafted automotive luxury, thanks to its contemporary design, sumptuous materials, painstaking attention to detail and supreme refinement.

    Source: Bentley

  • Exclusive Nissan Juke with Ministry of Sound Limited Edition Project [VIDEO]

    Nissan-Juke-with-Ministry-of-Sound-Limited-Edition-THUMBNissan Juke and Ministry of Sound have combined forces and knowledge to create one-of-a-kind Limited Edition model. The bold new Nissan can be specified with any engine and transmission in the current Juke range.

    Furthermore, it is being offered with a range of special design and technology features that make it a unique and innovative addition to the line-up. This Nissan Juke and Ministry of sound Limited Edition model will be offered in Metallic Black or Solid White.

    All models will have as a standard 17-inch white alloy wheels, white door handles and white mirror caps. Moreover, the B-pillar is finished in high-gloss black, while a unique Ministry of Sound badge rounds off the external design package.

    The interior of this Limited Edition Juke includes a striking white centre console, white door trims and white stitching on the leather seats, steering wheel and gear gaiter. The cabin also features an iPod cradle that gives occupants the perfect set-up for choosing their music on the move.

    The newcomer will be available with the full range of Juke engines: the flagship 190 hp (140 kW) 1.6-litre turbocharged DIG-T petrol and a 110 hp (81 kW) 1.5-litre dCi diesel. New feature however is the Stop/Start system for the 117 hp (86 kW) 1.6-litre petrol engine.

    Juke with Ministry of Sound Limited Edition model will make its official world debut at the 2012 Moscow International Motor Show. It is now available to order with a starting price of £17 895.

    httpv://youtu.be/e06wJ0eDrIk

    Source: Nissan

  • Debut for McLaren X-1 Concept

    McLaren-X-1-Concept-THUMBMcLaren X-1 Concept is a breathtaking one-off supercar. It has one-of-a-kind body, never seen before, and has been created for an anonymous car enthusiast. The client wished he had a machine which was capable as the 12C but wrapped in a unique body.

    In the development process of this current McLaren Concept were used as an inspirational cars 1961 Facel Vega, 1953 Chrysler D’Elegance Ghia, 1959 Buick Electra, 1939 Mercedes-Benz 540K and 1971 Citroën SM.

    One of the biggest design challenges however, was that most of the mentioned cars have front engines and rear-wheel drive proportions. This is the exact opposite of a mid-engined supercar. Therefore a new visual language was needed to be considered in order to bring the concept eventually to perfect visual balance.

    All in all, the styling of the X-1 was done in 18 months. And as you can see the result is undoubtedly worth the wait: a timeless elegant design.

    To go further into details, the X-1 has a whole new body made of advanced materials. Everything is bespoke, even down to the lights and wheels. A lot of work was concentrated on the demands that it has to be a usable car, road legal and capable of traveling at supercar speeds. The whole car was meticulously built by hand.

    Carbon fibre was utilized for the creation of all body panels of the X-1. They are finished in a rich piano black, as wished by the owner. Body sides are lacquered visual carbon fibre.

    The brightwork is made from solid aluminium and the nickel plated. The same process is used for the McLaren logo in the nose. The wheels are also unique to the X-1 and are diamond turned with a tinted lacquer to complement the exterior nickel-plated brightwork.

    Another “detail” specifically developed for this project was the doors. They keep the dihedral action and twin hinges, however the roof is new. Only the glasshouse is carried over from the 12C. The X-1 unique body is 4658mm long, 2097mm wide and 1199mm high. Kerb weight is about 1400kg.

    The interior also includes a great deal of personalization: Harissa Red McLaren Nappa leather used for the seats, door and roof trim, and switchgear with machined nickel-coated, aluminium bezels. The carbon interior trim has a titanium weave, to give a magical 3D-like effect. Special Andesite tufted carpet covers the floor.

    As mentioned, the car has been engineered to be usable and road legal. The X-1 shares the same the major mechanical components as the 12C, which include the twin-turbo 625 hp (460 kW) engine, giving stunning acceleration and top speed.

    Source: McLaren

  • 2013 Ford Shelby GT500 Cobra

    2013-Ford-Shelby-GT500-Cobra-THUMB2013 Ford Shelby GT500 Cobra is a unique built – a tribute to the American legend Carroll Shelby. The last 60 years Shelby worked with Ford and Cobra has been the consistent performance label.

    Furthermore, he not only worked in the creation of Ford performance vehicles such as Cobras, but also in those of the GT40s and Mustangs.

    This year is the 50th anniversary of the original Shelby Cobra. The stunning car they’ve made stands for Shelby’s idea of turning the 2013 Shelby GT500 into a true Cobra. As a foundation was used the 662 horsepower (487 kW) of the 2013 Ford Shelby GT500.

    The unique wide-body of the car was further enhanced and now delivers more than 850 horsepower (625 kW). This is possible due to the implementation of Ford Racing 4.0-litre Whipple supercharger.

    In addition, the 13-inch-wide rear wheels were wrapped in huge 345-section high-performance tyres for extra grip. Shelby American provided a specially designed bonnet, new rear wide-body kit, Shelby Wilwood brakes and new 20×13-inch rear and 20×10-inch front wheels.

    In the end, everything came to place when the bodywork was finished in the same Guardsman Blue with Wimbledon White stripes that graced so many of the Cobra roadsters built in the 1960s.

    Source: Ford

  • Porsche 911 Turbo Proto 1000 vs Nissan GT-R vs Porsche 9ff vs Porsche 911 PP-Performance [HD video]

    Here is a nice video of an epic battle between several highly tuned vehicles – Porsche 911 Turbo Proto 1000 with 1100HP, Nissan GT-R Mk.1 Stage 2 with 560HP, Porsche 911 PP-Performance Stage 1 with 650HP and Porsche 911 Turbo 9ff with 900HP.

    In the first start, the mighty Protomotive VRT1000 Porsche meets a lot underpowered Nissan GT-R Mk.1. The Porsche crosses the finish line at 1 mile with 256.04 km/h and 27.567 seconds time, while the GT-R finished in 31.757 seconds (without reaction times).

    The second start is between 911 PP-Performance and 911 Turbo 9ff. Again, one of the cars has a lot more horsepower, but there is an intrigue between the two of them. The 9ff finishes in 27.735 seconds with 305.86 km/h, but this is not enough to win. The 911 PP-Performance stops the clock at 27.544 seconds with 292.20 km/h.

    The third start is between the two winners – the Protomotive VRT1000 vs 911 PP-Performance. Although the 911 PP-Performance has stopped the clock at 27.804 seconds with 290.55 km/h, it wasn’t enough to beat the staggering Protomotive VRT1000, which finished in just 26.452 seconds.

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mcQ0nuYJsbM&feature=player_profilepage

  • 2013 Jaguar XF and XJ Models Now With All-Wheel Drive

    2013-Jaguar-XF-AWD-THUMBJaguar announces that the 2013 XF an XJ models will now feature an All-Wheel-Drive (AWD). The new versions of the luxury models will be available in selected markets from 2013 Model Year.

    The new AWD will undoubtedly increase the capability and versatility of the XF and XJ in conditions where grip is compromised. For instance such regions are North America, Russia, China and continental Europe.

    The vehicles will be powered by Jaguar’s new 3.0-litre V6 supercharged 340 hp (250 kW) petrol engine. This means that it will be mated to the first-ever all-wheel drive system in a Jaguar XJ and XF models.

    An active torque-management system, Jaguar Instinctive All-Wheel Drive offers a performance-oriented rear-drive bias and can shift power to the front wheels to either pre-empt or counter wheel slip.

    For instance, when the Jaguar is driven in dry-road conditions, the all-wheel drive system normally sends most torque to the rear wheels to preserve the agile driving feel and response of a rear-wheel drive.

    In addition, the system monitors grip levels, the steering and throttle inputs at all times.Using special control algorithms, the system can proactively predict rear-tire slip and send torque to the front wheels to help increase traction.

    And as a matter of fact, Jaguar engineers spent 18 months testing the new Instinctive All-Wheel Drive system in a different of conditions. Some of them featured frozen lakes and split friction coefficient surfaces.

    Source: Jaguar

  • Rolls-Royce Phantom Coupe Aviator Collection Makes World Debut

    Rolls-Royce-Phantom-Coupe-Aviator-Collection-THUMBRolls-Royce has just announced the launch of limited edition series of only 35 Rolls-Royce Phantom Coupé Aviator Collection examples. The models were inspired by Charles Stewart Rolls and the legend of the Schneider Trophy-winning Supermarine S6B, which is powered by a Rolls-Royce R Type engine.

    The collection was created in order to celebrate the spirit of human endeavor that drove a very British hero and subsequently led Rolls-Royce to simultaneous world speed records on land, air and in the water.

    As a matter of fact, the first appearance of this model will be made today, just few hours ahead, at the Pebble Beach Quail gathering in the United States. The new luxury vehicle will showcase there the new Aviator Grey paint finish as well as a contrasting matt bonnet, window and grille surround.

    The interior is as glorious as the exterior. It features an interplay of wood and metal, a Thommen, aviation-grade clock with blood orange needle tips embedded in the metal foil upper fascia, matt black dials for power reserve, speedometer and fuel gauges.

    The lower fascia here is veneered in mahogany and features Sapele contrast. Polished stainless steel wraps the ‘onlays’ with bullet-shaped ends, which in terms of design match the floor mat fixings.

    Another interesting highlight here is the leather-lined glove compartment which features an embossed Charles Rolls quote following his first flight with the Wright Brothers in 1908. It says the following: “The power of flight is as a fresh gift from the Creator, the greatest treasure yet given to man.” In addition, the centre console chrome plaque includes his sweeping signature.

    Aviator Collection cars are also equipped with leather floor mats, which have also been designed to incorporate the Rolls-Royce of cup holders. Beautifully engineered in highly polished aluminium, they offer optimal functionality combined with a great sense of luxury.

    Source: Rolls-Royce

  • Toyota GT86 Real Deal Campaign [VIDEO]

    toyotagt86-THUMBHave you seen the film The Thirteenth Floor, which came out in 1999? Well if you have, then the new Real Deal advertising campaign by Toyota will “sound” very familiar to you.

    This is a multi-million pound advertising strategy for the new Toyota GT86 Sports Coupe. It was created by Saatchi & Saatchi London and celebrates the brand’s return to its sports car heritage and reflects the rave reviews the GT86 has received for its authentic driving experience.

    In summary, the Real Deal ad tells the story of a CGi man who has become tired of living in an artificial world. Some of the world’s best animators were involved in the making of the video. The computer game-style city is the living area of the animated hero and in addition is one of “pixels, pretence and driver assist”.

    The hero goes to the underworld in order to find a way to feel alive. There he finds the new Toyota GT86. With its help he breaks free of his unsatisfying, inauthentic existence and escape into the real world. Take a look to the video below and see how he does it!

    httpv://youtu.be/HLThzvsPCkI

    Video Source: You Tube

    Source: Toyota

  • The Temptation of Vilner Mercedes-Benz CLS

    Vilner-Mercedes-Benz-CLS-THUMBThe latest astonishing transformation that the Bulgarian tuners from Vilner have made is on the emblematic Mercedes-Benz model CLS. Having in mind what we have seen so far from them, and particularly the great work and craftsmanship they implement on any model, we are to see here another one-of-a-kind vehicle.

    The transformation concerns not only the interior, but the exterior as well. Starting with the exterior grille, going through the taillights the great work passes on the interior, where the true power of these talented tuners lies.

    In fact, there is no single visible plastic left in the interior. They haven’t spared even the rearview mirror. Sun visors and steering wheel airbag are clad in Alcantara, and seatbelts are replaced with new red ones. Great work isn’t it!

    Source: Vilner