Category: Car Makes

Car Makes

  • DMC Fakhuna: Aston Martin DB-S boasting more style and performance

    German Luxury Tuner DMC has launched a number of successfull Refinement Packages, including the recent Lamborghini Gallardo “Toro” and the Aventador “Molto Veloce”. While only some models make it through a number of harsch project phases before being invested and approved internally, some design never make it to the production stage. Introducing the DMC “Fakhuna”, a concept design for the Aston Martin DB-S.

    Most significant change is an aggressive new front bumper fascia, which is equipped with larger air-intakes and a spoiler lip. Between the front and rear side, striking side skirt attachments render an integrated design and give the Aston a lowered and more stretched look. In order to reduce the lifting forces at the back axle, DMC engineers envisioned a shapely spoiler which can be fitted on the rear lid and enhanced with a matching three-part rear diffuser. The latter optically extends the side skirts downwards and skilfully enhances the two end pipes of the DMC sport exhaust system. Basically, carbon fiber and real actual gold are the dominant colours in this styling package.

    One of the technical highlights in the tuning programme will be the new three-part DMC forged alloy wheel. The rim combines both sportiness as well as elegance. The concave rims and the titanium bolting emphasise the dynamism of the wheel, the highly-polished rim flange on the other hand renders a noble appearance. DMC offers the wheel/tyre combination measuring 9,0Jx21 inches with 245/30ZR21 tyres at the front and 10,5Jx21 rims with tyres measuring 295/25ZR21. The new aluminium wheels are accentuated with special chassis springs which lower the centre of gravity of the Aston by 30 mm at the front axle and by 20 mm at the rear axle. At the same time, this enhances the handling of this sports car.

    As part of the performance upgrade, the Duesseldorf based engineers developed sport catalysers and sport end mufflers. The components made of titanium steel render an impressive sound setting and emphasise the sportive value of the DMC-makeover.

    While the Fakhuna has not made it into the regular production lines, DMC gives the design, which was developed by Dutch artist Wildspeed, a chance to be realized as custom order.

    DMC Fakhuna Aston Martin DBS
    DMC Fakhuna Aston Martin DBS
    DMC Fakhuna Aston Martin DBS
    DMC Fakhuna Aston Martin DBS
    DMC Fakhuna Aston Martin DBS
    DMC Fakhuna Aston Martin DBS

    Source: DMC

  • 2013 Hennessey Performance Mercedes-Benz AMG E63 V8 Biturbo with HPE700 Upgrade

    2013-Hennessey-Performance-Mercedes-Benz-AMG-E63-V8-Biturbo-ThumbMercedes-Benz E63 AMG is originally powered by the astounding 5.5 liter bi-turbo V8, which is one of the greatest naturally aspirated V8 in the world. This engine generates 557PS (410 kW) at a torque of 800Nm (590 lb-ft).

    The engine of the E63 AMG is mated to the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports gearbox, which has three driving modes for the driver to enjoy: S, S+ and M. The AMG Performance package of the Mercedes-Benz also includes AMG Performance steering wheel with black Alcantara, red-painted brake calipers, electric rear window blind and genuine carbon fibre AMG spoiler lip on the boot lid for the Saloon.

    2013 Hennessey Performance Mercedes-Benz AMG E63 V8 Biturbo
    2013 Hennessey Performance Mercedes-Benz AMG E63 V8 Biturbo

    What have the tuners from Hennessey Performance added to this already perfect car in their effort to make it even greater? The answer is – the HPE700 Upgrade Package. This one includes HPE Air Induction System Modification, HPE Engine Management Calibration, Dyno Tuning, Hennessey Exterior Badging, Serial-Numbered Dash and Engine Plaques.

    Some optional upgrades added to this exciting Mercedes-Benz are the Premium Wheel & Tire Packages, Suspension Upgrades, Carbon Fiber Trim Accessories. And if you have always wondered how one can improve an already perfect car, you would probably have to take the example given by Hennessey.

    Source: Hennessey Performance

  • Vauxhall Corsa Turns to the Dark Side

    Vauxhall-Corsa-Black-Edition-thumbIt’s a Corsa Black. Don’t worry, AMG are still doing what they should be doing (Mercs). This one here is just a special ‘Black Edition‘ from Vauxhall. It’s not just stitches on the steering wheel and fresh new cup holders on it however. No, the Vauxhall Corsa Black Edition introduces a whole new engine to the range.

    It’s a 1.4 liter turbo engine that develops 120 PS and 175 Nm which start at 1,750 rpm. To our ears, which are used to hearing blistering performance figures, a Vmax of 121 mph and an acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in 9.7 seconds sounds like ages. But let’s be real about it and say that this is pretty swift. It should be fun to drive as well despite the lack of suspension tweaking. It might be fun at the gas station also. Because it has a Start/Stop system and is turbocharged, the Corsa Black retains a stunning fuel economy of 51.4 mpg.

    On the outside some of the Black Edition features include color oriented bumpers, side skirts and a black rear spoiler. For some extra aggression, the front and back lights are also dark styled and the rear side windows are tinted in black. You get fog lights as well. Finally there’s a “Black” logo somewhere along the lines and 17-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels.

    Inside you do get a leather steering wheel but also some leather sports seats, sports pedals, silver stitching and matt chrome air vent surrounds. You can opt for some clever tech if you wish. Think in terms of Vauxhall‘s Touch and Connect infotainment system, climate control and adaptive forward lightning. There will be only 500 examples of it (3-door and 5-door versions) so in a way, it will be pretty exclusive. Did we mention that the body color is black?

    Vauxhall Corsa Black Edition
    Vauxhall Corsa Black Edition

    Source: Vauxhall

  • Lumma Design BMW M6

    Lumma-Design-BMW-M6-thumbThe BMW M6 is not yet fully out but Lumma Design cannot wait any longer. Here’s a brief glimpse of what they intend on doing to it. Don’t worry, no Mses have been hurt during the process. Their idea is, quite unsurprisingly, is to make the new BMW M6 “even more” sporty and appealing.

    How are they going to that? With carbon fiber of course. What we can see here is a complete aerodynamic kit comprising of bumpers, side skirts and vents and everything. The wheel arches are now flaring with their full force, and the carbon fiber hood leaves a lasting impression and hopefully, it saves weight. From the diffuser at the back, sticks out a Lumma central double-pipe exhaust system. Multi-piece wheels provided from the company measure up to 12.5×21. That’s a serious caliber.

    On the inside, Lumma have made an effort as well. Once you step in, a mash up of leather, Alcantra and carbon fiber overwhelms you. Elegance plus Sportiness – it is a well known formula.

    The BMW M6 with it’s bi-tubro V8 engine and it’s 412 kW of power go out on sale near the Fall. Lumma Design plan to bring out their own BMW M6 by the end of this year.

    Lumma Design BMW M6
    Lumma Design BMW M6

    Source: Lumma Design

  • MINI Countryman in steampunk style by Carlex Design

    Carlex-Design-Mini-Countryman-THUMBThis MINI Countryman is an exceptional, extraordinary and one-of-a-kind design concept project created by the talented designers from Carlex Design.

    Undoubtedly what has been presented with the pictures below, show that this project will include unique interior in bronze and copper, and will probably include some interesting and eye-catching technologies.

    Carlex Design MINI Countryman in steampunk style
    Carlex Design MINI Countryman in steampunk style

    Furthermore, the same color scheme can be seen on the exterior of the Countryman. Its designers categorize it as a MINI in a steampunk style. In addition they aim to do something that has never been done before.

    Most of parts for the tuning are ready and the project is in an ongoing work, where upholsters, and various craftsmen are working hard to complete perfectly even the smallest, minute details. We are excitingly looking forward to seeing this project eventually completed, aren’t we?

    Carlex Design MINI Countryman Interior
    Carlex Design MINI Countryman Interior

    Source: Carlex Design

  • Bowler EXR rally car and EXR S road car powered by Land Rover

    Bowler-EXR-Rally-Car-THUMBBowler EXR rally car and EXR S road car are a result of the work of collaboration between Bowler and Land Rover. Both vehicles will proudly sport ‘Powered by Land Rover’ branding.

    Furthermore, they demonstrate great engineering and rally design. The partnership will put attention on the Bowler EXR rally car, but engineering, development and parts supply will be shared with the new Bowler EXR S. The latter is the first ‘all terrain supercar’ designed to satisfy customer’s demand for the ultimate road-going rally car.

    In particular, both the EXR and EXR S models use a modified version of the Range Rover Sport chassis. What they also share is the modified versions of the 5.0-litre V8 engine also utilized in Range Rover models.

    Bowler EXR rally car
    Bowler EXR rally car

    The difference here is that the EXR uses a FIA-restricted naturally-aspirated 5.0-litre V8 engine. This one is restricted to 300 hp (221 kW) maximum power and 582 Nm (428 lb-ft) maximum torque. The EXR is fitted with a six-speed manual gearbox and Ricardo front, centre and rear differentials.

    On the other hand the EXR S uses a 550 hp (405 kW) modification of the supercharged 5.0-litre V8. With such power and torque of 702 Nm (518 lb-ft) the car accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.2 seconds and has a limited top speed of 155 mph. The EXR S engine is mated to the six-speed ZF automatic transmission and E-diff from the Range Rover Sport 5.0-litre V8 Supercharged.

    Bowler will have a large presence at the Goodwood Festival of Speed happening very soon: from 28th of June till 1st of July. There it will showcase and run five rally cars on the Activity Field, and where the preview of EXR S will happen.

    Source: Land Rover

  • Vauxhall Zafira Tourer Tech Line in showrooms in September

    Vauxhall-Zafira-Tourer-Tech-Line-THUMBVauxhall Zafira Tourer will now have a new trim line called Tech Line. We have seen the same Tech Line up already in the Vauxhall’s models Astra, Insignia and Mokka SUV.

    Now the Zafira Tourer will also take advantage from the excellent specifications of the new trim line. The wide range of standard equipment were includes Navi 600 satellite navigation system, Bluetooth and 17-inch alloy wheels.

    Furthermore, some premium features were added such as chrome lower window mouldings, silver roof rails and high gloss black B-pillar and black mirror accents, and dark tinted rear glass.

    The engine choice here consists of two petrol and three diesel options: a 1.4 Turbo and 1.8-litre petrol or one of two 2.0-litre diesel units with 130 hp (96 kW) or 165 hp (121 kW). The third diesel engine is the most special one – the 2.0 CDTi (130hp/96 kW) ecoFLEX start/stop engine combining 119g/km of CO2 with 62.8 combined mpg.

    The Zafira Tourer Tech Line will arrive at dealerships in September this year.

    Vauxhall Zafira Tourer Tech Line
    Vauxhall Zafira Tourer Tech Line

    Vauxhall Zafira Tourer Tech Line specifications and pricing:

    Model

    Zafira Tourer

    Engine Body

    style

    Trans On-the-road RRP (£) CO2  (g/km)
    Tech Line 1.8 (140PS) 5 Door MPV 5 speed manual 19,785.00 169
    Tech Line 1.4 Turbo (140PS) 5 Door MPV 6 speed manual 20,095.00 154
    Tech Line 1.4 Turbo (140PS) Start / Stop 5 Door MPV 6 speed manual 20,435.00 144
    Tech Line 1.4 Turbo (140PS) Auto 5 Door MPV 6 speed Auto 21,500.00 164
    Tech Line 2.0 (130PS) 5 Door MPV 6 speed manual 21,495.00 137
    Tech Line 2.0 (130PS) ecoFLEX
    Start / Stop
    5 Door MPV 6 speed manual 21,725.00 119
    Tech Line 2.0 (165PS) 5 Door MPV 6 speed manual 22,110.00 139
    Tech Line 2.0 (165PS) Auto 5 Door MPV 6 speed
    Auto
    23,395.00 159

    Vauxhall Zafira Tourer Tech Line ecoFLEX 2.0 CDTi 16v (130PS) Start/Stop

    Equipment Zafira Tourer Tech Line 2.0CDTi 16v (130PS) ecoFLEX S/S Ford Grand C-Max Zetec 1.6 TDCi (115PS) Ford S-Max Zetec 1.6 TDCi (115PS) S/S
    Sat Nav Yes No No
    DAB Radio Yes Yes No
    USB Connectivity Yes Yes No
    Alloy Wheels 17” 16” 16”
    Front Parking Sensors Yes No No
    Rear Parking Sensors Yes Yes No
    Bluetooth Yes Yes Yes
    Air Conditioning Yes Yes Yes

    Source: Vauxhall

  • Racing One Audi R8 V10 5.2 Quattro

    Racing One has announced their tuning package for Audi R8 V10 5.2 Quattro. The company is motor sports service provider and event organizer from Rhineland.

    The tuned Audi R8 received full styling and performance packages. The mighty 5.2 liter V10 from Gallardo is pumped to 610HP (449 kW) thanks to a new ECU re-map and a complete Akrapovic sport titanium exhaust system.

    The suspension has been also revised with 2-way MDS dampers from Bilstein Motorsport, brake pads by Performance Friction Brakes and in-house brake cooling. The interior received 6-point belts, braces and fire extinguisher. For perfection traction, Racing One has installed a complete set of semi-slicks.

    The exterior is styled by Cam Shaft Kempen. The complete rebuild of Audi R8 V10 5.2 is € 26 000.

    Check out the full list of events for 2012 below.

    Racing One Audi R8 V10 5.2 Quattro
    Racing One Audi R8 V10 5.2 Quattro

    Events 2012:

    Below you will find an overview of the planned event days.

    Fascination V10 & R8 Co-PilotRide

    Event location: Hockenheimring

    • Sunday, May 20, 2012
    • Monday, May 21, 2012
    • Thursday, May 24, 2012
    • Thursday, June 21, 2012
    • Monday, June 25, 2012
    • Sunday, October, 14 2012

    Event location: Bilster Berg Drive Resort

    • Sunday, September 09, 2012
    • Saturday, September 15, 2012
    • Sunday, September 16, 2012

    Event location: EuroSpeedway Lausitz

    • Sunday, May 27, 2012 (Pentecost)
    • Friday, June15, 2012
    • Friday, October 05, 2012

    Event location: Nürburgring

    • Friday, November 02, 2012

    Exclusive: V10 Performance-Training

    Event location: Bosch test track Boxberg

    • Saturday, June 09, 2012
    • Sunday. June,10, 2012
    • Saturday, September 22, 2012
    • Sunday, September 23, 2012

    Source: Racing One

  • BMW Z4 White Wolf RR by Rowen

    Here’s a rare find. A BMW Z4 E89 radically transformed by the Japan-based Rowen house. In a few words: extensive use of carbon fiber materials, big wheels and … LEDs.

    A new front apron with splitter sits at the front (there are also the LEDs), the side skirts have been redesigned and the tips of the exhaust pipes are all titanium. If that carbon wing at the back was a tad bigger, the Z4 would be pretty reminiscent of a full-blown GT car.

    We cannot omit stating the obvious that the wheels are new and the suspension has been lowered. When it comes to a price, the Rowen Z4 White Wolf RR is staged so you’ll end up somewhere in between the 493,500 Yen to 756,000 Yen range. That is $6,200-$9,500.

    Do we need to remind you that, at it’s best the E89 has a twin-turbocharged, 3.0-liter straight six. That’s 340 PS and 450 Nm of torque, crunched by a 7-speed dual clutch automatic gearbox and good for a 4.8 second run to the 62nd mile an hour landmark.

    httpv://youtu.be/TvNoHlg3Rvk

    BMW Z4 White Wolf RR by Rowen - Front Angle

    Rowen BMW Z4 White Wolf RR Rear Angle

    Rowen BMW Z4 White Wolf RR - Side

    Source: carbuzz.com

    Video Source:  TOMMYKAIRA000 via YouTube

  • Citroen C-Elysee and Citroen C4 L extend the C range

    2013-Citroen-C-Elysee-THUMBCitroen C-Elysee and Citroen C4 L are the new models which are part of the Citroen‘s goal to extend the C range. They come with highly specific personalities, which are designed with a lot of style, technology, innovation and quality.

    First, the 2013 Citroen C-Elysee has been developed with the aim to meet the expectations of the most demanding drivers and passengers. As you can see the car is very harmonious, prestigious and robust in styling.

    Furthermore it has an innovative interior design which offers a spaciousness and comfort. The rear compartment is befitting of a saloon in the category above and the large boot offers 506-litres VDA – thanks to a 2.65m wheelbase.

    On board, one can find comfort-enhancing equipment, which includes air conditioning with digital readout, to an MP3 audio system with Bluetooth®.

    c will be equipped with the latest generation VTi 72 petrol engine. It combines great performance with excellent fuel consumption and durability. Furthermore, the model also benefits from new chassis and suspension development.

    2013 Citroen C-Elysee will be at dealerships at the end of 2012.

    2013 Citroen C-Elysee
    2013 Citroen C-Elysee

    2013 Citroen C4 L is in fact positioned at the top of the C segment. It offers positive energy, style and elegance, range-topping finish, relaxing ride and standard-setting onboard comfort.

    The elegant and dynamic lines at the front and rear are complemented by quiet and refined interior. The lounge-like rear compartment is the effect of model’s long wheelbase. It includes wraparound seats, backrests inclined to 29° and headrests designed for added comfort.

    Some of the innovative technologies included in this Citroen are hands-free access and start, touch-screen GPS, reversing camera, fully heated windscreen and air ioniser.

    The vehicle is fitted with the latest generation petrol engines: the THP 150 and 170, and the VTi 135. All three can be mated to a new automatic and sequential 6-speed gearbox.

    2013 Citroen C4 L will be at dealerships in the first half of 2013.

    2013 Citroen C4 L
    2013 Citroen C4 L

    Source: Citroen

  • 2013 Aston Martin Vanquish revealed

    2013 Aston Martin Vanquish has just been unveiled and this new version of the car is promising every driver the highest level of excitement and thrill.

    This breath-taking new super grand tourer comes equipped with the next generation of the renowned VH architecture as well as a significantly upgraded 6.0-litre V12 engine. The latter is promised to be even more powerful than before.

    The exterior design of the car represents the latest take on Aston Martin’s iconic visual language. As you can see it includes new styling cues such as the elegant new waist, elongated side strakes and LED rear light blades.

    One is sure – once you see it you will unquestioningly know that this is an Aston Martin. Furthermore, details such as the stunning new Aero Duct on the rear boot lid can also be seen on the new model. This feature counteracts lift at the car’s rear when traveling at speed.

    2013 Aston Martin Vanquish

    In fact Vanquish is a true expression of Aston Martin’s design philosophy, engineering innovation and technical ability. It not only offers luxurious, continent-crossing capability, but also is capable to offer unforgettable driving excitement.

    As mentioned, the car is powered by a significantly revised naturally aspirated 6.0-litre V12 petrol engine. It is mated to the Touchtronic 2 six-speed automatic gearbox. Therefore it is no surprise that the car generates 573 horsepower (421 kW) at 6,750 rpm, 620 Nm of torque at 5,500 rpm.

    The acceleration time for the sprint from 0 to 62 mph (0-100 km/h) is just in 4.1 seconds and the top speed of the Vanquish is estimated to be 183 mph. Despide the great power figures, this supercar is promised to economically and emissions-wise improved.

    2013 Aston Martin Vanquish Interior

    Each body panel on the car is constructed from carbon fibre because of its high strength-to-weight ratio and flexibility of form. At the same time the torsional rigidity is enhanced by more than 25 percent.

    Further practical improvements have been also featured: newly designed and spacious cabin and a boot of 368 litres are just couple of the examples.

    2013 Aston Martin Vanquish starting price is £189,995 and is expected to be delivered at the dealerships in Europe at the end of this year.

    Source: Aston Martin

  • 2013 Mercedes-Benz ML 500 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY – pricing announced

    2013-ML-500-4MATIC-BlueEFFICIENCY-THUMB2013 Mercedes-Benz ML 500 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY is the third generation of the ML-Class, equipped with a V8 petrol version. Furthermore, it includes new safety features such as COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST (CPA)*. The new ML 500 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY will be arriving at dealerships in autumn this year.

    First, the new turbocharged BlueDIRECT V8 of this Mercedes-Benz SUV model is a direct injection petrol engine. More importantly however, it offers excellent performance along with top-class efficiency. The powerful V8 engine generates 300 kW (408 hp) at 600 Nm of torque and is available at a much lower engine speed of 1600 rpm.

    Despite reduced displacement, the high output is achieved thanks to the two exhaust gas turbochargers – one for each bank of cylinders. V8 also includes third-generation direct fuel injection system with spray-guided combustion and piezo injectors combined with multi-spark ignition.

    All this results in outstanding fuel economy, which is additionally improved by the comprehensive package of BlueEFFICIENCY measures. For example it includes the ECO start/stop function which comes as standard, the seven-speed 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission, low-friction axle drives, electric steering, optimised belt drive, on-demand control of the ancillary components.

    2013 Mercedes-Benz ML 500 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY
    2013 Mercedes-Benz ML 500 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY

    Summary of key data for all ML-Class models:

    ML 250 BlueTEC

    4MATIC

    ML 350 BlueTEC

    4MATIC

    ML 350

    4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY

    ML 500

    4MATIC

    BlueEFFICIENCY

    ML 63

    AMG

    No. of cylinders/
    arrangement
    4 in-line V6 V6 V8 V8
    Displacement

    cc

    2143 2987 3498 4663 5461
    Rated output

    kW (hp)

    150 (204) 190 (258) 225 (306) 300 (408) 386 (525)
    Max. torque

    Nm

    500 620 370 600 700
    NEDC combined consumption

    l/100 km

    g CO2/km

    6.0 – 6.5

    158 – 170

    6.8 – 7.4

    179 – 194

    8.5 – 8.8

    199 – 206

    11.0 – 11.5

    258 – 269

    11.8

    276

    0-100 km/h     s 9.0 7.4 7.6 5.6 4.8
    Top speed  km/h 210 224 235 250* 250*
    Emissions standard EU6 EU6 EU 5 EU 5 EU 5

    Furthermore the new ML 500 features a comprehensive package of safety features. Active safety is further enhanced thanks to the COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST (CPA)* with adaptive Brake Assist as standard.

    The Mercedes-Benz runs on the elegant 5-twin-spoke 48.3 cm (19″) alloy wheels, included in the ML 500 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY delivery package, or on the all-new 5-spoke 53.3 cm (21″) alloy wheels from Mercedes-Benz Accessories.

    The interior of the vehicle features multicontour seats for driver and front passenger, which of course offer more comfort due to the new massage functions included. In the cockpit can be found the TFT display positioned between the two instrument dials.

    The emblematic exterior of the ML can be further enhanced by the AMG Exterior Sports package, which is optional, and includes special body-colored front apron, rear apron and side skirts, in addition to 48.3 cm (19″) 5-spoke high-sheen AMG alloy wheels.

    The same package improves the outlook of the exterior thanks to the luxurious designo Exclusive package in black, maroon or porcelain. This feature includes seats, instrument display, door centre panels, door arm rests, beltlines and centre console upholstered in nappa leather, in addition to the designo roof lining in black DINAMICA microfibre.

    The new ML 500 features ON&OFFROAD package. It has six driving modes, which optimize the driving dynamics and handling safety of the vehicle and deliver optimum drive system control. In particular, the driver can select from one automatic mode, two special off-road modes and three on-road modes using a rotary control in the centre console.

    2013 ML-Class models prices:

    ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC €46,550.00 €55,394.50
    ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC €49,700.00 €59,143.00
    ML 350 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY €48,050.00 €57,179.50
    ML 500 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY €63,050.00 €75,029.50
    ML 63 AMG €91,500.00 €108,885.00

    Source: Mercedes-Benz