Car Makes – Page 795 – Automobiles Review

Audi Q3 Red Track

News from Audi as a Q3 concept has appeared which suspiciously looks munch like the Vali Concept we saw earlier this year. At the very least, this new one is also red… If not even redder. So red in fact that Audi have called it the Red Track. It’s a themed contribution to the Wörthersee Tour that starts in May 16th – a populiar Volkswagen and Audi show.

As we said, red, or Energy Red, is the predominant theme in this one. We suspect that Audi dipped the whole Q3 Red Track in pant since even the cylinder head cover has traces of red on it. Inside, it’s pretty much the same story with added ultra-leather-nappa-aluminum-luxury. The uphostery boasts red piping with double seams and red stitching. Patches from it are made of red Velvet leather. Same segments can be found on the doors as well, despite them being generally in steel gray Nappa leather. The headlining is also gray, but made from Alcantra. The instrument panel is barraged with aluminum which sticks out nicely from the overall tone of the again Nappa material that covers it.

Enough about fabrics though as we feel an allergy coming. How about the more healthy aspects of the Red Track such as the engine – a good dose of 340 hp coming from a 2.5-liter, five-cylinder TFSI petrol unit – tremendous but then again, it should be as all of that goes to all the four wheels (permanently) trough a seven-speed S tronic transmission. In other words: zero to sixty mph in 5.4 seconds, top speed – 163 mph and naturally an upper edge on the uncharted territories. (why else would it flare it’s arches so flamboyantly?).

Obviously, when designing the Q3, the Audi engineers and masterminds had the Alps as an image in their heads. Overcoming the natural obstacles that mother nature has in store…. with flash lights and hot coffee. No, seriously. At the luggage compartment, on one of its side, there’s a station designated for storing and charging flashlights while a thermos canister can be found within the cup holder that’s in between the front two seats. Then there are the roof rails which look like completely ordinary (aluminum maybe) but Audi say they are specifically designed to carry a set of skis.

Source: Audi

May 14, 2012

BMW E92 M3 ESS vs Mercedes SL 65 AMG, Porsche 911 Turbo and Nissan GT-R [HD video]

Here is another great drag race battle between several ultra-fast sports cars – BMW M3 E92 ESS VT2-650 with 700HP, Porsche 911 Turbo 997 with 530HP, Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG PP-Performance Stage 2 with 750HP and mighty Nissan GT-R Mk.1 Sportec Stage 2 with 600HP.

The BMW meets all its opponents at incredibly slippery surface, so it had huge problems with the traction.

In the first start the M3 E92 met the 911 Turbo. The BMW crossed the 1 mile mark with 282 km/h and time of 30.942 seconds, but that wasn’t enough fast to beat the underpowered Porsche, which won with 30.024 seconds and terminal speed of just 271 km/h.

In the second start, the BMW went against the 6.0 liter bi-turbo Mercedes, which also had problems with the traction, but managed to beat the M3 with a small lead. The SL65 AMG crossed the finish line at 30.372 seconds time with 290 km/h.

In the final start, another M3 with the same tuning package, but a saloon version (E90) didn’t stand a chance against a brutal Nissan GT-R with 600HP. The GT-R made incredible time of 28.542 seconds, which is more than 2 seconds faster than the BMW.

Check out all starts in the video below.

httpvh://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k65TWA6wzPM

Source: Dragtimesinfo

May 14, 2012

2012 Volkswagen CrossPolo Urban White – €18 975

Volkswagen has announced the new 2012 CrossPolo Urban White special edition.

It features a nice white exterior with some gloss black accents like mirrors and 17” alloy wheels. The exterior also boasts tinted windows and black roof rails.

The interior boats cloth and Alcantara sports seats, a black headliner and silver contrast stitching. There is also a silver-painted center stack, chrome trim and an air conditioning system.

Numerous “Silver One” painted in panels on the radio, climate control panel and air vents and a chrome trim on the steering wheel. Silver-gray stitching on the 3-spoke leather steering wheel, handbrake lever and the textile foot mats complete the elegant look of the new model.

The CrossPolo Urban White will hit the market later this year priced at €18 975. It will be available with three common-rail TDI engines producing between 70HP (51 kW) and 105HP (77 kW). The transmission choices are 5- or 6-speed manual or 7-speed DSG automatic.

Source: Volkswagen

May 14, 2012

Lotus Evora GTC – 456 HP and 460Nm

Lotus has announced the racing version of Evora – the GTC model.

It comes with a lot of carbon fiber elements to save weight – doors, roof and engine cover. There is also Plexiglass windows for additional weight savings. Thanks to all these mods, the car dropped its weight with 30kg to 1130 kg (2491 lbs.).

Traction control and BOSCH racing Anti-Lock Brakes system have been added to optimize power delivery and braking control.

The wheels and tyres are wider which not only gives the car more grip through the curves, the front and rear wheels rise to 18x10Js and 12Js respectively, mated to 27/65-18 tyres at the front and 30/65-18 at the rear.

In order to accommodate the wider wheels, flared arches have been fitted, which give the car a more aggressive silhouette.

Evora GTC is powered by a 4.0-liter V6 engine with 456HP (335 kW) and 460Nm (339 lb-ft). It is mated to an XTRAC 6-speed sequential paddle-shift transmission.

“The Evora’s development and a front-row racing car is achieving its performance targets and the GTC is an evolution of a car that has already taken wins on the track – the GT4 Enduro. Last month Team Bullrun took victory at Silverstone in the Britcar endurance championship with a GT4 Enduro that benefitted from GTC development parts, and the team’s upgrade will be completed in June when there’s an appropriate lull in their racing schedule. The car’s weight-saving and improved grip and braking abilities should help increase the gap between them and the teams chasing them in the championship. We’re very pleased to welcome McMahon Raceworks to Lotus ownership and will provide them with a car adapted to US racing rules, and look forward to seeing the GTC make its marque in Grand-Am.”, commented Claudio Berro, director of Lotus Racing.

Source: Lotus

May 14, 2012

MINI John Cooper Works GP

A GP designation on a MINI means that it has spawned from the depths of hell. Well, not really. It’s more like a job from John Cooper Works. The last time we saw a similar speed demon was in 2006 when a MINI Cooper S with a GP Kit by John Cooper Works (the performance subsidiary of MINI’s) with 136 hp-per-liter power ratio, lapped the Nurburgring in less than 8 min. 44 seconds. Today, we have a new one and the word is that it’s the fastest MINI ever built.

Because it still is in its trial period, things are quite hush-hush about it. All we know is that it has already went round the Nurburgring setting a time of 8min. 23 seconds. In other words – an almost 19 second improvement over the old one. The main suspects for that blisteringly quick lap are the aerodynamics, the chassis and the powertrain. Without a doubt, more air has been squeezed from the MINI’s twin-scroll turbo charger. Indeed, the character of the latest GP is quite revealing – literally. Look at that roof spoiler and that unapologetic diffuser. How about the front apron with the red air intakes which look like blood quenched fangs? Mean and functional.

We can only guess the size of the disc brakes and how many roll bars have been added, but at MINI, they assure us – the handling has been perfected to the tiniest detail. The tires have been made to outgrip even the harshest lateral forces and most probably the suspension is stiff as hell. (still a road legal car though).

Sales will commence later this year with a limited run of only 2,000 units. Our guess is, they will sell quickly. A MINI Cooper GP by John Cooper Works is the definition of small-car, hardcore fun.

Source: MINI

May 14, 2012

2012 Overfinch Land Rover Defender – an inspiring customization

2012 Overfinch Land Rover Defender is the latest project of the luxury delivering company Overfinch. In fact, the latter specializes particularly in enhancing Range Rovers through modifications made in appearance and technical terms and has gained a wide popularity among celebrities.

The exterior of this new modified Land Rover includes personalised options such as LED daytime running lights, colour coded bodywork and selected surfaces, grille and lamp pod detailing, bonnet lettering and Overfinch decals. What is visible is that the vehicle retains its unique body shape and purposeful stance, while at the same time incorporating some innovations.

On the other hand, the interior of the Overfinch features exquisite leather works, which have modified the surface and made it more sensuous and tactile. This all contributes to a unique cabin ambiance that combines practicality and style.

The customers can choose a lot of combinations in terms of leather colours, contrast stitching and seat piping, emblem stitching and more. In addition, there is always the option of partial or complete leather conversions throughout the whole interior. For instance, such personalization may include standard or sports seats, door panels, dash, headlining, rear body sides, transmission tunnel and upgraded cubby box.

Furthermore, Overfinch has included in the interior high-grade floor mats, Overfinch leather steering wheel, Overfinch dials and stainless surround & SVX gear knob and range selector. All this will make the driving experience even more enjoyable.

2012 Overfinch Land Rover Defender Wheels Range

We can’t go further without mentioning the unique set of wheels included in this project. The choice here is really broad, and we must state that the quality and performance of the Overfinch alloy wheels are unsurpassed. In details, they are TUV certified with direct fitment (no hub adaptors or spacers), 8.5” wide with a 20mm offset, available in the following finishes: Diamond Turned Anthracite, Titanium, Gloss Black, Matt Black.

At last, the wheels include BF Goodrich All Terrain tyres – T/A KO 265/65 R18 R, with the optional white Goodrich branding on the tyre wall. They will undoubtedly balance between the off- and on-road capabilities and the visual appearance of the Defender. In addition to that, they’ll minimize the road noise.

Source: Overfinch

May 14, 2012

2012 EDO Competition Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG T-Model with new power kit

2012 EDO Competition Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG T-Model was designed specifically for the exceptional engine in the Mercedes C 63 AMG. The tuning that EDO Competition is offering to it is a power kit that will leave breathless almost anyone.

In particular, the kit comprises of new exhaust system, exhaust headers, high-flow catalytic converters, new air filters, revised engine electronics and a removal of the top speed governor.

As a result, the tuners have made the power of the Mercedes enormous – it was increased from the stock output of 457 horsepower (336 kW) to 600 horsepower (441 kW). Even more, the torque output has also grown from 600 Nm (442 lb-ft) to 680 Nm (501 lb-ft).

The increase of power comes with an impressive and awe-inspiring sound. It is produced from the new exhaust with butterfly valves. In details, the high-performance exhaust system includes a programmable electronic controller. The latter monitors the level of back pressure and opens the integrated 70 mm butterfly valves when a certain threshold is exceeded.

Moreover, this new exhaust is made entirely from stainless steel and the chromed exhaust tips. They look a lot like the original ones, and keep the same class and impressive styling.

With greater power comes greater speed. 2012 EDO Competition Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG T-Model has a top speed exceeding 340 km/h (211 mph).

And in order to keep up with that amazing number, there was a need of new tires. Now the Mercedes comes with new 19-inch Michelin high-performance tires. In fact, the 235/35 ZR 19 front tires were mounted on 8.5Jx19 multi-piece wheels, while at the same time the 265/30 ZR 19 rear tires on 9.5Jx19 multi-piece wheels.

And to make the car even more impressive, the EDO Competition tuners have taken care for the interior as well. Throughout the cabin, one can see carbon fiber applications which contribute for the esthetic qualities of the vehicle.

Technical Data:

• Engine: V8 engine

• Capacity est.: 600 hp / (441 kW) at 7.800 rpm

• Max. torque est.: 680 Nm at 5.300 rpm

Specifications:

• Top speed ca. 343 km/h / 214 mph

• 0 – 100 km/h (0 – 62 mph) est. 4,1 sec.

Tuning:

• new high performance exhaust system

• new sport manifolds

• new sport catalytic converter

• ECU recalibration

• Vmax abolishment

• sport exhaust system stainless steel, single (catalytic converter, muffler, end pipes)

• the sound level of the high performance exhaust can be adjusted via remote control

• 19“ Sport wheels on Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 tires (235/ 35 R 19 in the front, 265/ 30 R 19 in the rear)

• wheels can be custom-painted on request

• interior carbon fiber

• custom exterior styling using special foil wrapping technology, available in any color

Source: Edo Competition

May 14, 2012

2012 Fostla Audi Q7 SUV now offering 600 horsepower

2012 Fostla Audi Q7 SUV is a unique and newly tuned vehicle which will amaze you with its 600 horsepower (441 kW) and exceptional appearance added to the inherent Audi class and style.

The tuning company is no other but German based and in details it specializes in premium wrapping foils. In details the machine which stays behind this makeover, is the Audi Q7 V12 TDI. It has served as a basis for the foiling.

In fact, this was the first ever V12 TDI in a passenger vehicle. This engine has the capacity to produce an output of 368 kW (500 hp) and 1,000 Nm of torque (737.56 lb-ft) from its six liters. This means that solely the base model catapults from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in only 5.5 seconds and has an electronically capped top speed of 250 km/h (155.34 mph).

But let’s go back to the work of Fostla. What is important to highlight here is that the skilled handwork turns out to be a one of the most important things. The primary color of the Audi was green. However, the refinement now is made with PWF foil in diamond black matt.

In addition, the discs were also toned between fifty-five and eighty-five percent. The front and back lights have five percent of tinting.

Additional changes are also offered – this time not only in terms of exterior foiling style, but also in terms of set of 11×23 inch matt powder coated side Mansory C5 rims with 315/25R23 tyres in combination with 15 mm front and 30 mm back track plates.

More importantly in my opinion here is the work that has been done on the engine. To be more précised it was optimized and now is able to deliver the astonishing 600 hp (441 kW) and 1,150 Nm (848 lb.-ft.) torque.

To sum up: a great tuning to be considered by many!

Source: Miranda Media

May 14, 2012

BMW comes out with the new three-door 2013 BMW 1 Series

2013 BMW 1 Series is now being offered in three-door variant by the popular German brand. The model not only delivers a sporty and elegant design, but also comes offering a wider range of engine choices.

In fact this is the second body variant, which BMW added to the 1 Series, distinguished by its three doors and sporting characteristics. As you can see clearly, it has a sporty stance and elegant design, thanks to its attractive features.

What is more here is that this vehicle is characterised by the unique rear-wheel drive system and superior handling as well. And to tell you the secret of the inner circles of the brand – the highlight in the model range is the new BMW M135i.

Of course, there is no significant change in terms of exterior design, given that it is ruled by the powerful and typical for BMW style and proportions. However it has unique appearance. What makes is so distinctive is the dynamically stretched side line, wide doors with frameless windows.

In addition, the fluidic sculpture of the exterior is further emphasized by the side window graphics which are flowing seamlessly into the B pillar and strongly retracted side window graphics.

Moreover, it we can’t go on without mentioning the powerfully contoured side panels. They have an accentuation of the rear wheel arches, which make them distinctive and unique. Furthermore, the side sill lines are extended to the front. With their help, the dynamically stretched appearance of the vehicle’s silhouette is underlined additionally.

Let’s put some attention to the interior features included in the new 1 Series range. Of course, they all emphasize the sporty nature of the car. First the handling profit is now increased in terms of body length: there were added additional 85 millimetres. In addition, the wheelbase is extended as well: here were added 30 millimetres.

Further millimeters were added to the track width: to the front – exactly 51 mellimeters, whereas to the rear – 72 millimetres. At last, the width was extended with 17 millimetres compared to the predecessor model. What remains the same here is thee vehicle’s height.

Good to mention is that there is now a choice of two or three seats respectively at the rear. Thank to the aforementioned extensions of the car’s body, now there is even more leg room at the rear – exactly 21 millimetres.

Additional space is provided for the luggage compartment, which was increased by 30 litres to 360 litres. And when the rear seats are folded, this means that the storage capacity can now contain up to 1 200 litres. The optional split folding is with 40:20:40 ratio.

What is more around the interior is that it was man with high-quality materials and precision in terms of craftsmanship. Its entire philosophy resolves in one central point – the driver-oriented cockpit.

Control display of the optional operating system iDrive fitted as a firmly integrated onboard monitor sporting an exclusive BMW flat screen design. There is also included a wide range of driver assistant systems and mobility services from BMW ConnectedDrive that are unique in the compact segment. These are: High-Beam Assistant, Adaptive Headlights, Rear View Camera, Lane Departure Warning including. Rear Collision Warning, Parking Assistant, Cruise Control with braking function, Speed Limit Info with No Passing Indicator, Internet access, improved integration of smartphones and music players, Real-Time Traffic Information and Apps for personalised web radio reception.

More importantly, the brand now offers an extended coice of petrol and diesel engines for its customers. In it are included the BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, and BMW 114i as new entry-level version with 75 kW/102 hp.

The available engines are:

• BMW 116i (100 kW/136 hp)

• BMW 125i (160 kW/218 hp)

BMW 116d (85 kW/116 hp)

• BMW 118d (105 kW/143 hp)

• BMW 125d (160 kW/218 hp)

• BMW 116d EfficientDynamics Edition (85 kW/116 hp)

Adding to these are the new:

• BMW M135i (235 kW/320 hp)

• BMW 118i (125 kW/170 hp)

• BMW 120d (135 kW/184 hp)

In fact, this is the first ever BMW M Performance vehicle, which is going to include the petrol engine: BMW M135i. It has a capacity of 3-litres and is a straight six-cylinder engine which produces 235 kW/320 hp. Adding further to its greatness are the M-characteristic suspension components and aerodynamically enhanced body features.

Furthermore, this engine will deliver uncompromised level of performance combined with exceptional fuel efficiency. Thanks to its typical M-style coherence between drive, suspension technology and aerodynamic balance this machine is able to deliver to every customer an exciting driving pleasure in a compact model.

Later in the year the BMW 118i (125 kW/170 hp) and BMW 120d (135 kW/184 hp) will also be available. They will come with and intelligent four-wheel drive.

A further highlight here is that for the first time in the 1 Series will be included the BMW xDrive. It will be available on the models BMW M135i xDrive and BMW 120d xDrive. Of course, the popular BMW xDrive will also be offered to the five door versions of the model range.

Additional important information is that every engine will be matched with a six-speed manual transmission. This will be the optional variant of course. And for those who prefer to drive a car with automatic transmission, the brand has prepared for them the unique optional eight-speed automatic transmission and eight-speed automatic sports transmission.

Contributing to the sportier feeling is the BMW EfficientDynamics technology, which feature the Auto Start Stop function. It works in collaboration with the manual and automatic transmissions as well as ECO PRO mode.

In short, everything in this BMW goes around the driving pleasure: the longitudinally mounted engines, the rear-wheel drive, the harmonious weight distribution and the sophisticated suspension technology. To be more precise, this is the best ever agility and driving comfort in the segment.

Part in this take the double-joint spring-strut front axle, five-link rear axle, the precise electromechanical power steering free from drive train influences, the variable sports steering (optional), the Dynamic Stability Control which in turn features DTC and Active Differential Brake (ADB-Sport) on the rear axle, the torsion-resistant body structure and at last but not least the comprehensive safety features.

Source: BMW

May 14, 2012

Kelleners Sport BMW 5 Series Touring

Tuning house Kelleners Sport from Germany have provided some neat accessories and tune ups for the latest BMW 5 Touring (F11). Think in terms of aerodynamic panels, engine tweaks, wheels and springs and some plumbing.

What’s funny about this project that the focus is on a Toruring (estate). Whenever you buy an estate, you label yourself as a sensible person. Whenever you buy panel kits for your car, you are a teenager that want’s to peel the tarmac off the road. For the sake of even more confusion, Kelleners offer a performance upgrade even for the 535d – the magnificent top-of-the-range diesel from BMW – 313 hp. and 630 Nm. of torque. With the upgrade those figures go up to 376 hp. and 756 Nm . It’s pure lunacy, we tell you.

The petrol 4.4-liter V8 Twin Turbo version (550i) gets its power up from 407 hp. to 490 hp. At the same time, the torque ends up at 720 Nm – 120 more than usual.

Visual treats include the lower lip spoiler and apron that boasts a deliciously meshed grille design. Some side skirts have also been thrown in and a rear diffuser as well. Those pipes that jut out from it measure at 90 millimeters in diameter, ensuring a noble, yer stomach churning acoustics.

The finished product sits on four Kelleners Sport Light alloy wheels that can come in two sets – 8.5 x19 and 9.5 x19-inch, and 9×20 and 10×20-inch. It’s worth also mentioning that this particular BMW is 30 mm lower than standard thanks to some sports springs which come in handy while in a corner but there is a slight chance that the family won’t enjoy the rest of the ride.

Source: Kelleners Sport

May 12, 2012

Ferrari 458 Italia Emozione refined by Evolution 2 Motorsport

Evolution 2 Motorsport has announced their new project – Ferrari 458 Italia Emozione.

The tuning package includes Front splitter, engine cover aero lip, mirror shrouds, double rear lower diffuser, chrome look air duct mesh and styling details, Custom billet alloy pedals and driver/passenger footrest incorporating Ferrari badge, carbon fiber engine bay sides and front, carbon fiber large volume air-box, titanium exhaust with special colour tips and custom made 21” alloy wheels front and rear.

There is also a performance upgrade boosting the 4.5 liter naturally aspirated V8 to 602HP (449 kW), which is an increase of 39HP (29 kW).

All parts are available in black carbon fiber, silver carbon fiber or GRP for body colour coding. They will fit perfectly, and produced to the standard only the most discerning of Ferrari owners would expect.

Evolution 2 Motorsport Ferrari 458 Italia Emozione

Source: E2M

May 11, 2012

Aston Martin – Nurburgring 24 hour

Aston Martin will compete in the ADAC Zurich Nurburgring 24 Hours on 19^th and 20^th May. Eight cars will take place in the epic battle at the world’s most famous and tough race track. The brand will field its most ambitious entry to date with four official Aston Martins – including a pair of V12-powered Vantage GT3s – supported by a further four customer cars.

More than 170 cars will start at the 24 hour race on the daunting 25km circuit that combines the legendary Nordschleife with the modern Grand Prix track.

Having focused its efforts in previous years on near production-specification cars since its 2006 Nürburgring24 Hour debut, Aston Martin will, for the first time, be represented in the senior SP9 category for FIA-homologated GT3 cars. The pair of V12 Vantage GT3s will be run in association with long-standing official partner team, Young Driver AMR.

The lead Vantage GT3, carrying the iconic #007 designation, will be driven by Johannes and Ferdinand Stuck (A) – sons of triple Nürburgring 24 Hour winner Hans-Joachim Stuck – alongside Dennis Rostek (D) and Aston Martin Racing factory driver Darren Turner (GB). Turner’s regular works team-mate, Stefan Mücke, will drive the #006 car with Tomas Enge (CZ), Fredy Barth (CH) and Oliver Mathai (D).

Aston Martin - Nurburgring 24 hour — Aston Martin – Nurburgring 24 hour

In addition, Aston Martin’s engineering department will return with the spectacular V12 Zagato concept car that made its Nürburgring24 Hour debut in 2011. Targeting another successful race finish will be Aston Martin Chief Executive Dr Ulrich Bez (D), Chief Engineer Chris Porritt (GB), Aston Martin Nürburgring Test Centre Director Wolfgang Schuhbauer (D) and renowned motoring journalist and racer Richard Meaden (GB).

“Our 100 per cent finishing record in thirteen starts in one of the world’s toughest endurance races is remarkable; truly a testament to the reliability of our cars and the efforts of our people. In the past six years we have deliberately focused on racing close-to-production cars, achieving seven class podiums and three class wins. For 2012, I am delighted to be returning again to drive our V12 Zagato with my engineering team, but also to have such an exciting step up with the V12 Vantage GT3s.”, commented Ahead of the race, Dr Bez.

The fourth official entry will be a V8-powered Vantage run by Aston Martin’s Nürburgring Test Centre team and driven by Jurgen Stumpf (D), Australians Mal Rose and Rob Thomson, and Peter Cate (GB). Aston Martin will be represented by four further customer outfits, including Team Mathol Racing, winners of the SP10 class for GT4 cars in 2010.

The 40^th ADAC Zurich Nürburgring 24 Hours starts at 16:00 CET on Saturday, 19 May.

Source: Aston Martin

May 11, 2012

Category: Car Makes