Redirect – Page 15 – Automobiles Review

2012 SENNER Nissan 350Z Gold

Nissan 350Z is one of the most famous roadsters all around the globe thank to its sporting qualities and characteristics. 2012 SENNER Nissan 350Z Gold is a modification of the model vehicle, done by the German based auto-tuning company SENNER.

First, what grabs the eye is the incomparable Lemans Sunset Metallic. In addition the 350Z rides on new matt black polished 9 or 10×20 inch Barracuda Tzunamee wheel set, which is combined with supporting discs at front and back axes. The tires are Vredestein Ultrac Sessanta in the following sizes: 245/30 R20 90Y and 275/30 R20 97Y.

The running gear has an adjustable drag out and compression stages as well as the landing gear legs. In addition, for excellent command of the toe-in and camber angles there have been installed adjustable independent arm. The applied wheel-tyre combination can be mounted without any modifications of the car body-shell.

More importantly, 2012 SENNER Nissan 350Z Gold is originally equipped with the 3,5 liters V6 engine, which delivers 280 hp (206 kW) as a standard at 363 Nm (268 lb-ft) maximal torque at cranked shaft. What has basically the SENNER tuning team done here is to improve the performance of the compressor. Hence, the vehicle now can deliver up 411 hp (302 kW) at 465 Nm (343 lb-ft) of torque.

Moreover, the 350Z is equipped wit the catalyst Invidia Q300 stainless steel exhaust system, where the emissions can be carried out through the double flow system which includes a Y-type pipe and has an EG certificate.

At last, there is a LED Z-symbol on the back lights and the reflectors on the front bumper are grey. Nonetheless, the front WY21W type blinkers are in chrome and the rear blinkers on the bumper are lower to the left and they have no fog lights.

Source: SENNER Tuning

March 30, 2012

Scion FR-S

Scion has announced the 2013 FR-S, which looks a lot like Toyota GT86 and Subaru BRZ. Moreover, the new model will be powered by the same 2.0 liter Subaru Boxer engine with 200PS (147 kW) and 205Nm (151 lb-ft) of torque.

2013 Scion FR-S can be opted with either 6-speed manual gearbox or a 6-speed automatic transmission. The car is designed entirely to bring supreme driving pleasure and this is for sure, especially with a 53 to 47 front-to-rear weight ratio.

Still, the FR-S is not exactly the same as the GT 86. The headlights don’t have integrated LEDs, fog lights in the front bumper and the color of the indicators is different. Lastly, the FR-S comes with different alloy wheels.

The interior of 2013 FR-S has features different air conditioning dials on the center console and a CD, instead of SAT NAV system. The steering wheel is different, too.

Practically, this is the same car, but with different badges and lower price.

Source: Scion

December 9, 2011

Steinmetz Opel Astra GTC

Steinmetz has announced the new tuning program for the latest Opel Astra GTC. “Make good things even better,” the result of the claim can be seen in a range of sporting accessories that are guaranteed to the GTC stylish individualists.

The package includes both exterior and interior modifications. The aerodynamics body kit consists of a new front spoiler mounted on the front bumper, a black front grille and a sport exhaust system.

The stance is optimized by a set of lowering springs, which reduce the ride height by 30mm and huge 19” alloy wheels fitted with low-profile tires – 8.5J x 19” ET39 with 245/40-R19.

To complete the aggressive exterior look, Steinmetz offer door handle covers and mirror caps set in polished stainless steel shiny accents and body stripes.

The interior boasts an electronic speed indicator, Steinmetz foot mats with embroidered logo and stainless steel sill plates.

All parts have the necessary expertise or ABE and parts are manufactured in OEM quality

Source: Steinmetz

December 5, 2011

Senner Tuning 2012 BMW X6 – VISION à la Senne

The E71, which is commonly known as BMW X6 is a crossover familiar in the USA as SUV, called SAC and coupe by BMW. Since 2008, the BMW’s factory in Spartanburg began its serial production (this is in U.S. state of South Carolina). In addition, such production for the Asian region began in Avtotor in Russia’s Kaliningrad.

The Senner Tuning AG in Ingelheim company is has achieved great results in the Rhine-Hessen symbiosis of earth and the permanent presentation of different series heroes all over the world. This significant company has accepted the challenge to make their own vision for 2010 BMW X6 4.0D X-Drive Bi-Turbo. Hence, he alpine white athlete from the “Senner Tuning AG” house was born! The tuned car is equipped with 225 kW/306 hp and 600 Nm/442.8 lb-ft. Moreover, the car includes the abolition of the Vmax-lock with sport air filter and map adaptation to 247 kW/336 hp and 665 Nm/490,7 lb-ft.

Further modifications were made with the body, which has а BMW performance front bumper with large air intakes in the honeycomb design under the black kidney on the front side. In addition there is a rear diffuser with “special” fins. Not forgetting that there is also a tailgate and a rear spoiler. The tailpipes of the modified exhaust system are given apertures along the way.

To go further into details, the summer tires were manufactured by the boss Benno SENNER team, and precisely they are: front tires – Hamann Anniversary EVO Black Line of 10.5 x 22 inch with 295/30R22; rear tires – 12 x 22 inch with 335/30R22 tires Continental Sport Contact 5P. It has to be also mentioned that the automobile has Bilstein B8 shocks and springs with 25/20 mm lowering feature. Additionally, the lighting of the parking lights was transformed into white light. In the end, we must appreciate that even the tinted rear window and rear bumper corners were partially painted in body color.

At last, the interior gives the driver a pedal set which footrest X6M besides the Power Converter (tuning for the “electric acceleration pedal”). And you won’t get bored in this car, because the DVD movies may be freely watched by inmates during the traveling. The reconstruction cost is circa € 20000.00, depending on the choice of tires. Definitely, SENNER X6 has the minimalist tuning at the highest level (congrats to the designers), and on the other hand it provides an excellent service!

Source: Senner Tuning

December 5, 2011

2012 Renault Scenic UK

Finally Renault has announced the initial details for the freshly improved and remade Scénic and Grand Scénic models for 2012. Their UK launch will be next February. The brand new refreshed model will include sharper designs, numerous equipment enhancements and more importantly a debut of two impressive downsized engines.

Scenic 2012 obviously aims at contemporary lines with a sharper look. After the summer of 2009, when the two-models of the new Scénic line-up with fluid lines and generous interior were offered on the market, the sales of the both models went higher in numbers.

These models are Europe’s best-selling compact MPVs, and now they have a series of exterior upgrades. First of all the front end is revised and now looks both modern as well as status enhancing. Secondly, its new rear lights add a particularly dynamic touch.

The changes go further with the fitment of LED daytime running lights, gloss black features and chrome details (at the front, plus tailgate strip and side moulding strip). In addition there is a new range of wheel trims and alloy wheels. Moreover the customers will have the opportunity to choose between two new body colours: Azzurro Blue and Damask Red.

What is the highlight in the 2012 Renault Scenic is the new downsized engine for greater performance and fuel efficiency. Renault’s work on lowering emissions, combined with ever-improving fuel economy and performance through smaller cubic capacity engine innovation has borne more fruit. In the beginning they produced the petrol 1.4 TCe 130 and 1.5 dCi 110, and most recently there was the arrival of the 1.6 dCi 130 – the world’s most powerful and frugal diesel engine of its size. Now, Scenic welcomes two new engines! The first one – 1.5 dCi 110 Stop & Start, is an enhanced version of the Renaults marque’s core diesel engine. It includes several advantages, taken from Formula 1’s clever technologies, such as Stop & Start and brake energy regeneration. Additionally, it combines record low CO₂ emissions of 105 grams per kilometre (reduced by 23g/km), and a 12 percent saving in fuel consumption (up 11.3 mpg to 68.9), yet higher torque (260Nm/192 lb-ft at 1,750rpm; a gain of 20Nm/14,8 lb-ft) compared with the existing 1.5 dCi 110.

Starting from the spring of 2012, the five- and seven-seater versions of Scénic will also be the first Renaults, who will receive the brand new 1.2 TCe 115 petrol engine. This one offers low CO₂ emissions (135g/km), 190Nm (140 lb-ft) of torque (up 39Nm/29 lb-ft) and fuel consumption improved by a fifth, up 11.4 mpg to 49.6.

A greater performance and even lower emissions will be made possible thank to the 1.6 dCi 130 Stop & Start, which itself boasts 20% better fuel consumption.

And we must affirm, that these innovations will definitely be a great step for Renault’s goal – to become Europe’s number one manufacturer with regard to the CO₂ emissions of its range, without detracting from performance.

Moreover Renault has worked hardly to deliver improved comfort and a more reassuring ride, thank to the brand new feature – the Visio System. It will be included in both Scénic and Grand and it will assist the driver’s vigilance and night-time vision thanks to two key functions. The first one is a lane departure warning system: this is a camera that detects if the drivers strays out of lane and triggers an audible signal. The second feature is an automatic headlight function. In it the same camera will detect the lights of nearby vehicles and/or the presence of street lighting to automatically switch from dipped to main beam, (and vice versa).

Furthermore the driving and traveling comfort are improved thank to the addition of new features. And what here’s the great news: they all come as standard equipment. For example it will include a Hill Start Assist, which will have the function to prevent the vehicle’s rolling backward. On the other hand the motorway-mode indicators (by flashing three times following a simple flick of the indicator stalk) will warn the driver about other motorists, and this will happen when the driver is about to change lanes.

The 2012 versions of Scénic and Grand Scénic include further beneficial technologies that have helped forge the model’s success: from the tailor-engineered sound of the Bose® audio system to Carminat TomTom® navigation and associated LIVE services (HD Traffic, etc.).

Undeniably Renault Scénic and Grand Scénic are Europe’s number one compact MPV. Manufactured in Douai, in northern France, they fulfill the most exacting production standards to guarantee the highest level of quality. And for the curious ones, the number of their sales only in Europe exceeds 400,000 (since the launch of the generation at the end of 2009). And the overall picture is that altogether since 1996 there have been sold over 3.9 million Scénics.

Further details on Scenic 2012 range pricing and specification will be released closer to launch. UK order books are set to open on 1st February 2012, ahead of first deliveries in March.

Source: Renault

December 2, 2011

Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG and Ducati Streetfighter 848

The Ducati Streetfighter 848 was the inspiration for the “streetfighter yellow” colour of the SLK 55 AMG. And here the designers definitely got it! This vision ensures an exciting appearance from all angles: the exceptional paint finish is guaranteed to provide a high level of appeal. The AMG Performance Studio made it possible to bring this design for the customers as an individual optional extra. Not only is the outside look of the car stunningly appealing, but also is the interior of the SLK 55 AMG. Here the contrasting yellow stitching makes a striking effect against the black nappa leather appointments, and is to be found on the door centre panels, beltlines, armrests, leather-covered roll-over bars, dashboard, the shift lever gaiter and also the AMG Performance steering wheel. You already love it, don’t you! Furthermore the yellow AMG door sill panels feature LED technology, and everything together rounds off the striking effect of the interior.

As it is already well known, AMG Performance Studio is very popular with its special paintwork and leather appointments, but also with its technical solutions and extensive body improvements and transformations. Everything goes around the individual customer requirement, whether it is a stylish upgrade high level of hand-crafted. In the same time everything is made according the highest safety and quality standards, which are very typical for Mercedes-Benz.

The Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG and the Ducati Streetfighter 848 compared to each other are not only similar visually but also technically. In details, both models are the perfect combination of excellent driving dynamics, astonishing design and intense driving pleasure.

Some even may say that the SLK 55 AMG is the most powerful SLK of all time. First of all, because of it’s newly developed AMG 5.5-litre naturally aspirated V8 engine with cylinder shut-off system. Hence, this allows an ultimate performance with the lowest possible consumption levels. With a maximum output of 422 hp (310 kW) and maximum toque of 540 Nm (399 lb-ft), the SLK 55 AMG outperforms all of its direct competitors. In addition its fuel returns 33.6 mpg (14.3 km/l) on the combind cycle and CO₂ emissions of 195 grams per kilometer. The acceleration time from 0 to 100 km/h of the SLK 55 AMG is jus 4.6 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited up to 155 mph (249 km/h). High levels of driving dynamics are ensured thanks to the AMG sports suspension with Direct-Steer system, Torque Vectoring Brakes and 3-stage ESP^®, as well as the AMG high-performance braking system.

Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG and Ducati Streetfighter 848

The brand new top-of-the range AMG model already demonstrates its uniqueness even at first sight: distinctive AMG light-alloy wheels, specific AMG body styling with AMG spoiler lip and two chrome-plated twin tailpipes at the rear complement the classic roadster proportions.

On the other hand we have the inspiration for the Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG – the new Ducati Streetfighter 848. This amazingly beautiful motorcycle provides unbridled biking pleasure. The reason for this is not only the innovative technology, but also the outstanding appearance that it has. To be more precise, here we speak about a Testastretta 11° engine with 132 hp (97 kW) and an exciting 93.5 Nm (69 lb-ft) of torque as well as a modified frame geometry. All of this is to guarantee a safe, agile handling. In addition all this is supported by the smooth, easy-to-manage power delivery of the engine, improved ergonomics and a tuned traction control (DTC) system. And the extremely talented Ducati designers had taken care of the appearance of the Streetfighter.

To match every taste, there are several visual variants of the bike. The first one is in traditional red with red frame, and the second new Streetfighter 848 is also available in yellow with frame in Racing Black. In addition the Dark Stealth colour variant with frame in Racing Black underscores the amazing outlook of the Streetfighter. Definitely we have no choice but to admit that in the new Streetfighter 848, Ducati has succeeded in combining state-of-the-art technology and astonishing styling in a contemporary design.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

December 1, 2011

Mazda TAKERI Saloon Concept

Mazda TAKERI is the new-generation mid-sized saloon concept. The vehicle was firstly presented to the market at this year’s Tokyo Motor Show. This concept car is the crystallization of the new ‘KODO — Soul of Motion’ design theme and breakthrough SKYACTIV Technology. The aim is to show future of Mazda’s new-generation mid-sized saloon.

From the vision of Mazda SHINARI, TAKERI has taken the four-door sports coupe. The car is equipped with unique features such as SKYACTIV-D diesel engine, Mazda’s i-stop idling stop system, and a specific regenerative braking system, called ‘i-ELOOP’, which was developed in the pursuit of ultimate energy efficiency. Together, these technologies achieve astonishing improvements in fuel efficiency and driving performance.

Because of the design, the driving characteristics and environmental credentials, Mazda TAKERI is at the core of Mazda vehicle line-up.

What has to be taken into account about the design is that Mazda TAKERI styling reflects the full nature of a Mazda mid-sized saloon – fully balanced and powerful. And if you wonder what the name means, TAKERI is derived from the Japanese word ‘male’. As it is obvious, in the development of TAKERI, Mazda has sought a breakthrough saloon design. The goal was have a balance between the striking emotional appeal and its’ unmistakable saloon styling. This all happens at a level never achieved before. Hence, the result embodies the quality and appeal demanded in the mid-sized saloon segment.

Furthermore, Mazda TAKERI is fully equipped with the breakthrough SKYACTIV Technology which has been previously introduced on the Mazda CX-5. Its engine is the highly efficient SKYACTIV-D diesel, which, in combination with the six-speed SKYACTIV-Drive automatic transmission and i-stop idling stop system, delivers refined performance and more importantly, offers fuel efficiency.

Mazda’s new regenerative braking system i-ELOOP has been used here too. In addition through the combination of regenerative braking, the highly efficient SKYACTIV powertrain and architecture, and i-stop, Mazda TAKERI offers extremely high levels driving pleasure and outstanding environmental performance. And all of this happens without the use of hybrid technologies.

The exterior design of Mazda TAKERI is built on the styling of the previous model – SHINARI. However, here Mazda has put a focus on making the car’s exterior view design even more arresting by visually capturing a sense of coiled animal power. In addition it fits perfectly around the layout and packaging of a mid-sized saloon car. The front fascia has a powerful overhanging front bumper line, sculpted over the wheels. In addition, the designers had put strengths building a powerful axis that runs the full length of the vehicle. Don’t you think that this vision evokes an image of the car’s spine, and moreover portrays a confident, masculine power as well as a sense of speed?

With SKYACTIV Technology Mazda TAKERI has the superior aerodynamic performance. It was achieved by optimally tuning the airflow over the upper body and efficiently managing the airflow beneath the car with the under floor design.

In comparison to Mazda SHINARI, TAKERI’s interior is a high-level balance of the sense of speed and the functionality of the driver-car interface. But don’t worry, because all necessary materials have been used in order to be achieved the overall comfort and ambience of the cabin.

What is really fascinating about the interior is that the instrument panel fascia has a metal base with a clear coating. Thus, when struck by light, the base naturally has a metallic sheen, displaying a sense of depth and quality.

However, the highlights here have to go for Mazda TAKERI’s new SKYACTIV-D clean diesel engine. The reason for this is that it achieves compression-induced spontaneous ignition at the world’s lowest compression ratio. Hence, the effect is an ideal combustion cycle with highly efficient energy conversion. Moreover, it also results in lower mechanical stress, reducing friction and allowing drastic reductions in the weight of each engine component. Because of these advantages, SKYACTIV-D offers exhilarating acceleration in combination with exceptional fuel economy.

Furthermore TAKERI is also equipped with the specific Mazda’s i-stop system. This system has been developed especially for use with a diesel engine that achieves the world’s first re-ignition with a single compression. The consequences of this are the elimination of the load on the battery and starter motor during restarts and reduction of fuel use to achieve superior environmental performance. This sets i-stop apart from conventional diesel engine idling stop systems, giving smooth, fast restarts and relaxed, stress-free driving.

Check out the specs, below!

Technical Specifications

Body type	Four-door saloon
Seating capacity	4
Overall length x width x height	4,850mm x 1,870mm x 1,430mm
Wheelbase	2,830mm
Engine	SKYACTIV-D 2.2
Transmission	SKYACTIV-Drive (six-speed automatic)
Drive	Front-wheel drive
Major systems	i-stop idling stop system i-ELOOP regenerative braking system
Suspension	Front: MacPherson struts Rear: multi-links
Brakes	Front: ventilated discs Rear: ventilated discs
Steering system	Electric power assisted steering
Tyres	Bridgestone 245/40 R20
Wheels	9.5J x 20-inch

Engine		SKYACTIV-D 2.2 diesel
Displacement	cc	2 188
Type		Water-cooled, inline 4-cylinder DOHC, 16-valve, direct injection
Compression ratio		14.0:1
Max. power	PS (kW)/RPM	175 (129)/4 500
Max. torque	Nm (lb-ft)/RPM	420 (42.8)/2 000
Fuel tank capacity (FWD/AWD)	L	56/58
Transmission	6-speed SKYACTIV-Drive	automatic transmission
Fuel type	Diesel

Source: Mazda

November 30, 2011

ANDERSON Germany FERRARI 599

Can you imagine that the Ferrari 599 that is already equipped with the nearly spectacular 620 horsepowers (455 kW) can be further enhanced? Well if you do so – you are right. These improvements were made by the Dusseldorf-based ANDERSON Germany Company. It brought its power to the total of 491 kW or 658 HP, with the 6.0 liter capacity and the corresponding torque, by means of optimizing the software. What is interesting as well is that the exhaust system now can be adjusted by a remote control in two sound stages. ANDERSON Germany Company brought to life a nearly-racing edition of the street-legal race car that accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h just in 3 seconds and furthermore it has the maximum speed far beyond 300 km/h.

Basically what they have done is to save weight, and that inevitably speaks of high-tech carbon material. Of this lightweight and at the same time high-strength material, are made the outer mirrors and the front bumper hang-on parts, side skirts and the rear bumper, as well as the rear diffuser. In addition the car features the complete varnishing in “ANDERSON Germany Black Diamant Metallic” with glossy black racing stripes and red rims alongside the windows and tail lights toning which definitely makes a statement. And if you wonder how the connection between this luxury car and the unworthy tarmac is made, the answer lies in the size of 9J x 21″ of the three-spike shiny black rims with red trimmings coupled with 245/30-21 tires. And if you are willing you can also choose size 12J x 21″ rims with 345/25-21 tires. Furthermore a bit style is added by the red-varnished brake caliper which is well visible through the wheels.

Further transformations are made in the interior of the car. First of all thee ANDERSON Germany did a complete finishing with the black carbon leather combined with the red perforated leather. You can also see a diamond-shaped stitching and the red rand on the seat upholstery. Because of the weight saving, gearshift, door handles, window lifters, door sills and center console have been manufactured entirely from the carbon fiber.

Source: Anderson Germany

November 29, 2011

ZAKSPEED Dodge Viper

In order to go into details about this ZAKSPEED Dodge Viper, we have to review some history about it. Firstly in 2010 the current owner acquired the Viper presented here. Obviously this Zakspeed racing car is stunningly racing-tuned. This tuning was made possible because the Heurich Classics plant (founded in 2006 in the Bavarian Zeitlofs-Rupboden specializing in custom work) was commissioned to convert this Viper. The aim here was to bring this Viper back to the streets and let it shine on an occasion. This time however, the car should be painted not in white, but in its old colors again.

In order to achieve the first goal and to get the racer back to the streets, a strategy will be developed jointly with the Engineering Supervision, which eventually was implemented in the Heurich Classics workshop. What they decided to do is to cut the spoiler, remove the rear diffuser, rebuild the side channels, put new tires and wheels, change the brake system and install a hand brake system with CNC-machined caliper carriers. Further modifications have been made in the steering angle which was increased. Next the cooling system was changed, additional fans were installed, engine peripherals were modified, exhaust system was adapted, electrics and complete light control were changed, seats as well as harness were renewed, passenger seat were installed, and finally the glazing was also renewed.

Their goal was to recreate the Viper in its original Hasseröder design of 1999.Hence the original colors of its time have to be made by means of platinum wrapping foils. These improvements were made by the company Cam Shaft in Kempen.

And for the curious ones, the Viper GTS-R was the car that won firstly the Zakspeed and then Michael Martin Racing Systems. It is not a surprise if you know that it features a 6.2-liter V8 with 600 horsepower (441 kW). Moreover the car is equipped with a Tremec six-speed manual gearbox, KW dampers and a Motec M8 system. And if you take all that into account, you’ll be amazed that it weights only 1350 kg.

Source: ZAKSPEED

November 29, 2011

Subaru BRZ

The new Subaru BRZ is developed as a joint-project between Subaru and Toyota Motor Corporation. Their goal was to bring to the world a sports car with superior steering response and driving pleasure that everyone can experience. Subaru BRZ is a rear-wheel drive sports car featuring the Horizontally-Opposed Boxer engine. This engine was positioned even lower than other Subaru models. The reason for this is that the low center of gravity produces astonishing handling character and combined with a light-weight chassis.

“Pure Handling Delight” is what the new Subaru BRZ is all about. As mentioned already the Horizontally-Opposed Boxer engine has special qualities, because of its low center of gravity, lightweight, and compactness. The Subaru BRZ is a fascinating sports car that we assure you you’ll enjoy to drive!

The specific position of the engine is mounted on a specially designed sub-frame that forms an “ultra-low center of gravity package”. The benefits of this are that the BRZ now achieves a low driving position typical for sports car. Furthermore the overall height of Subaru BRZ is 1,300 mm and it has a wide and low body of a stylish coupe at 1775mm. However, it still allows for 2+2 seating and a trunk with sufficient space. Therefore you can use this stunning BRZ as a sport car, as well as a safe companion for long tours.

The new Subaru’s Exterior aims for a sports car, but of course the design was detailed to be instantly recognizable as a Subaru. For example the front fascia has a low hood design. On the other hand the Subaru’s identity is represented by the Subaru six-star ornament, headlights and hexagon lower grille which are common elements across other new models. The aesthetic beauty of the car is combined with functional one. What I mean is that improvements are made in the aerodynamics through C-pillar shape, rear glass inclination, trunk lid layout. Moreover the front and rear overhangs are shortened to express the Subaru BRZ’s liveliness. In addition the design of the rear fascia is so perfectly that puts more on the beauty of the BRZ’s rear view.

What about the interior? The aim here is under the motto “driver and vehicle as one”. This is made possible through the carefully designed details of the new Subaru BRZ. For instance, the steering wheel is made smaller to achieve sports car maneuverability. Next, a tachometer with digitally displayed speedometer is placed in the center of the gauges. In this way the driver can instantly see information without diverting attention from the road.

What is more important and more interesting here are the innovations made in the newly developed engine. It is not only highly efficient with superior output, but also environmentally friendly. It realizes an exhilarating high revving nature of a naturally aspirated sports engine. The engine of new generation has a square bore and stroke of 86 x 86 mm. Toyota’s direct injection and port injection technology “D-4S” was incorporated in the Subaru BRZ’s power unit (don’t forget that it is a joint-project). The highlight here is put on the achievement of an “ultra-low center of gravity package”. This is made possible because of the compactness of the engine.

The joy of sports car driving is achieved through a transmission that focuses on shift feel and response. The 6-speed MT employs a short stroke shift lever, which is optimized in rigidity, shift quality and weight application in its pursuit of a superb shift feel. And to be more precise the he 6-speed AT has “S mode” for better shifting response and “M mode” for optional shifting. Moreover, with the paddle shift and downshifting blipping control, this model can respond faithfully to the driver’s inputs.

The lightweight yet highly-rigid body is of course developed to maximize the advantages of the “ultra-low center of gravity package”. This has been achieved through a durable frame structure which also works in balance with the vehicle’s light-weight. And for the collision safety the new Subaru BRZ is optimized for high drivability and appropriate durability. The light weight of the body is achieved thank to the tensile steel. This material is also used in the upper structure of the Subaru BRZ, and again this contributes to its low center of gravity.

At last, but not least is to be highlighted the chassis of the car. Excellent maneuverability and stability is what is of importance here. This offers a direct and sharp response to the steering and enhances driver’s connection to the car. At one hand the front suspension employs struts for light-weight and high rigidity. On the other hand the double wishbone layout is adopted at the rear for better shock absorption.

The tires used in the brand new Subaru BRZ are 215/45R17. They are combined with lightweight and highly rigid aluminum wheels.

All models of Subaru BRZ are equipped with electronic stability control in order to provide both driving pleasure and safety.

Source: Subaru

November 29, 2011

Toyota Fun-Vii Concept

Toyota Fun-Vii Concept
The innovations from Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) can be seen at the 42nd Tokyo Motor Show 2011. The Corporation will present the futuristic “Toyota Fun-Vii”1, which is a vehicle concept, that heralds the close future, they assure us. In these times, people, cars and society will be all linked. If you are willing to witness those innovative ideas yourself, the show will take place from November 30 till December 11 at Tokyo Big Sight in Koto Ward. Everything will stand under the theme: “Mobility can change the world.”

Now let’s review what’s so impressive about this new concept from TMC.

VEHICLE FEATURES

If you have ever dreamed that you can easily alter the content displayed on the interior and exterior, then this car of the future offers you this ultimate in personalization function. What is the so fascinating, for example is that the whole vehicle body can be used as a display space, with the body color and display content changeable at will. The benefit of this is not only the exercise of your free will, but also this allows the entire vehicle to function as a mechanism for displaying messages or other information.

What is more interesting is that the entire interior of the vehicle can also function as a display space. Moreover – the interior is freely adjustable to match the mood of the moment. Further developments are made in the way the information is shown. For instance, the content such as navigation information is blended seamlessly into the interior through the use of augmented reality. Futuristic, isn’t it? In addition, only through a vocal interface, the vehicle’s “navigation concierge” can provide the passengers with driving information and guidance.

Furthermore here is presented the idea ensuring that the driver will have the latest network software versions for the vehicle’s drive, control and multimedia system. This will be made through a network update function.

Everything about The Fun-Vii is concentrated around connection. What I mean is that the ultra-futuristic vehicle will be able to link with surrounding vehicles and infrastructure, allowing it to detect other potentially hazardous vehicles-such as vehicles in blind spots-in advance. Even more – it will be able to connect with friends who are driving nearby.

Of course, vehicle’s functions will be easily accessible remotely via a smartphone or other mobile communication device.

Obviously TMC is offering a fresh proposal and is providing the dream and joy of motor vehicles to as many people as possible. And in addition to the Toyota Fun-Vii is absolutely and fully responding to TMC”s slogan: “Fun to Drive, Again.”

Toyota Fun-Vii Specs:

Length 4,020 mm

Width 1,745 mm

Height 1,415 mm

Wheelbase 2,750 mm

Seating 3

Source: Toyota

November 28, 2011

TC-Concepts Audi R8 TOXIQUE

Without a doubt, the impressive Audi R8 with its 4.2 litre V8 has big potential for becoming the new tuner favourite over the next few years. The reasons for this are several. First of all the high-end refiners at TC-Concepts in Berlin captured the trend of the times. They have presented an R8 version that can hardly be surpassed in exclusiveness after months of development or improvement work. The main reason for this is the in-house car body kit is very appealing and harmonious. For a characteristically fierce look the R8 front is equipped with an entirely new bumper with huge ventilation openings. Furthermore the “Toxique” is much wider than the serial model, because of a set of side sills and new side parts, which includes air guides and wheel running widening (they ensure an extremely wide base).

In addition the TC-Concepts technicians copied the original tank lid and put it on the left vehicle flank as well for a harmonious overall image. What is more is that the tail area with its new bumper with diffusor and fixed full-carbon tail wing is reminiscent of a GT racing car. Absolutely adorable! The R8 is equipped with stainless steel exhaust system end pipe with a diameter of 165 mm. Moreover a flap control is cleanly integrated in the diffusor on the right and left. And you’ll love this: it does not produce the regular V8 sound, but true “Earthquake” thunder! The car’s tail has black-grey R8 GT backlights with adjusted LED control, as well as pretty outer mirrors with exposed carbon cover.

Further optimizations are made with the serial power which was increased from 420 to approx. 440. A sports air filter kit by the BMC specialists ensures better V8 motor ventilation. If you wonder about the rims, well the answer is 8.5J x 20 inch with 235/30 ZR20 in front and 10.5J x 21 inch with 295/25 ZR21 in the rear. And for the wheels to end perfectly aligned with the mudguard edges, the front axle received 30 mm and the rear axle 70 mm H&R spacer discs. The lowering is performed by a racing-sports-tested H&R threaded chassis. The wonder here is that it can be adjusted in its hardness even when installed. Optimisations have been made on the original brake system as well, although very slightly reworked. Not to forget that the brake callipers were powder-coated in racing yellow.

The interior is in highly sophisticated style: here grand changes have been made. What is to be highlighted is that the TC-Concepts designers completely converted the R8 cockpit. Of course, the popular carbon fibre material is not only very light-weight but also looks adorable. Hence, all strips, the dashboard, centre console, seat consoles, transmission tunnel, door handles and speedometer visor are coated entirely in true carbon-fibre tissue. Although these changes alone would have been enough, the Berlin company went even further: the canopy and A- & B-columns were equipped with soft Alcantara covers; the seat unit received an entirely new leather coating in fine Bentley Beluga-Nero leather combined with special seams reminiscent of a Versace suit. And at last, the fine velour carpets with their TC-Concepts-Logo and silver-grey stitching perfectly complete the remake.

Source: TC-Concepts

November 25, 2011

Category: Redirect