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  • BMW xDrive Technology Featured in the New BMW 2 Series Active Tourer

    BMW continues to progress and develop in the field of drive technology. With its intelligent four-wheel drive system BMW xDrive, first used in the BMW X3 and the X5 in 2004, the manufacturer adds a high degree of functionality, improved cornering dynamics and tries to achieve minimum fuel consumption and low emission levels.

    Now, the most recent example of model-specific alignment of the four-wheel drive system is served by the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer models. The most cardinal difference when it comes to previous variants and the last ones is that, for the first time, BMW xDrive is used on a front-wheel drive concept with transversely installed engines.

    With the BMW 225i xDrive Active Tourer (combined fuel consumption of 6,5–6,4 l/100 km and CO2 emissions of 152-148 g/km) and the BMW 220d xDrive Active Tourer (combined fuel consumption of 4,8-4,6 l/100km with CO2 emissions of 127-122 g/km), the intelligent four-wheel drive system is now available for top-notch power units. Both BMW vehicles are equipped with BMW xDrive as standard in combination with the 8-speed Steptronic transmission.

    What the xDrive system does is utilizing an energy-efficient operating strategy which enables the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer to be driven only via the front wheels. And since, in this case, BMW is really about compactness, convenience and practicality, in order to make use of additional saving potentials, the manufacturer has given the multiple-disk clutch a spring-loaded Efficient valve. It decreases the oil level in the clutch and reduces friction losses (oil splash losses).

    Furthermore, thanks to the Dynamic Stability Control feature (DSC), which analysis, collects and provides an information about the running condition, any possible wheel slip, for instance, is detected at an early stage. Additionally, the xDrive manages and directs excess force to the front wheels in case the rear of the vehicle turns outwards. This ensures an ultimate four-wheel performance which is possible even before the occurance of any swerves. In consequence, xDrive featured in the BMW 220d Active Tourer and BMW 225i Active Tourer provides with better traction, more safety in different road conditions and enhances the vehicle stability, cornering dynamics and ride comfort.


    Source: BMW

  • BMW 3-Series Plug-in Hybrid Prototype Unveiled

    During the Group Innovation Days 2014, BMW has revealed its extremely good-looking 3-Series plug-in hybrid saloon. At this stage it is only a prototype which, I believe, will not stay just as a prototype but will undergo an official production in the future.

    The plug-in 3-Series is equipped with an advanced plug-in hybrid technology already seen in the BMW’s i8 sports car, starting with an X5 eDrive in concept form. There is a four-cylinder 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine which works in combination with an electric motor. According to BMW, it will be able to provide the prototype with the same level of performances as a six-cylinder 3-Series.

    The combined output of the system is 245 HP (180 kW) and a peak torque of 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) transmitted to the wheels via an upgraded eight-speed Steptronic transmission. In terms of the fuel consumption, it is estimated at only 2 liters / 100 km (140 mpg UK or 117 mpg US) with CO2 emissions of 50 g/km. The electric-only driving mode with a fully charged battery is considered to be about 22 miles (35 km), hitting a top speed of 74.5 mph (120 km/h).

    The BMW 3-Series plug-in hybrid prototype is fitted with a lithium-ion battery pack. It is installed underneath the load compartment which is able to be charged from a normal household socket. Pretty convenient, isn’t it? What is more, the car features a Driving Experience Control switch placed on the center console. It offers the driver an option of COMFORT, SPORT or ECO PRO mode. Consequently, each mode changes the settings of the suspension, gearbox and the hybrid operating strategy.

    What do you think though? Will we see the BMW plug-in 3-Series in the market any time soon?

    Source: BMW

  • First All-New Ford Mondeo Hybrid Models in Europe

    Ford is doing two things: it celebrates its 21st birthday and distributes the fifth generation all-new Ford Mondeo in Europe, which becomes the first hybrid electric car built and sold by Ford there. The Mondeo Hybrid combines advanced Ford technology, better efficiency, reduced emissions, genuine style, elegant design and excellent driving performance which guarantees remarkable experience on the road.

    The hybrid arrives with a large range of powertrains. The variety of engines includes: the 1.5-litre EcoBoost and 2.0-litre EcoBoost along with the award-winning l 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine.

    Another option is the high-powered 2.0-litre TDCi diesel engine which generates 210 PS and 450 Nm of peak torque. An ECOnetic Technology model will be available too and will be powered by a 1.6-litre diesel engine with class-leading diesel CO2 emissions of 94 g/km and 2.0-litre TDCi diesel models with 150 PS or 180 PS.

    Finally, the new Mondeo Hybrid combines a specially-developed 2.0-litre petrol engine with an electric motor and 1.4 kWh lithium-ion battery in order to provide better fuel economy and CO2 emissions of 99 g/km.

    Furthermore, the car comes with significantly more safety and luxury features. In Europe, the car will be offered in five-door, wagon and four-door versions with the option of all-wheel-drive. The car premiers with integral link rear suspension as well as Ford’s innovative inflatable rear seatbelts, massage function-equipped multi-contour seats with Active Motion and Ford’s first adaptive LED headlights in Europe which help raise the overall quality statistics.

    The all-new Ford Mondeo Hybrid is available in the UK from December a four-door saloon from only £24,995 – the same as its 2.0-litre diesel Mondeo Titanium Powershift five-door equivalent.

    Source: Ford

  • JE Design Presents Their Widebody Kit for the Seat Leon Cupra

    JE Design has introduced their upgraded tuning program for Seat Leon Cupra 5F Five-door.

    The tuned hatchback conveys more dynamism, sportiness and sophisticated elegance.  JE DESIGN loads the agile sports car with an additional dose of racing virtues by boosting its power to a new level.

    Precisely, on the performance front, we see the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with an output increased by 70 PS (51 kW) and 60 Nm (44 lb-ft). As a result, JE Design Seat Leon Cupra jumps to 350 PS (258 kW) and a peak torque of 440 Nm (324 lb-ft). The tuning program allows the hatchback to speed up from 0-100 km/h in 5.4 seconds before rocketing to a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). The cost of the tuning pack is estimated at €2,299.

    Additionally, JE Design takes care of the bodylook of the Spanish compact car. With the new widebody kit, available for 6,188 Euro, the compact car turns into an eye-catcher that is able to turn heads across the country. The widebody kit includes a three-part bumper attachment, massive wheel arch flares front and rear, side skirts in carbon look and a rear apron with two molded diffusers. There are also twin tailpipes integrated in the rear apron with the dimensions of 105 x 85 millimeters. All of those enhancements make the family-friendly vehicle seem more brutal, aggressive, sporty and powerful.  The overall exterior improvement costs €6,188.

    The sporty look of the hatchback is further underlined by the JE DESIGN Y-Spoke wheel set which is available in size 9.5 x 19 inches. Available tires, for example, are the Dunlop Sport Maxx GT in 255/30 R19. The price for the complete wheel set is €2,052.

    Source: JE Design

  • John Hennessey Test Drives Stock 2015 Mustang GT up to 150 mph [VIDEO]

    2015-Hennessey-Ford-Mustang-GT-THUMBRemember the Hennessey Performance Ford Mustang GT HPE700? Well, if you do than you will be satisfied to see the video below. In it John Hennessey test drives the stock 2015 Mustang GT up to 150 mph. Stock baseline dyno testing was also performed. Hennessey’s 717 horsepower supercharged 2015 Ford Mustang has firepower to battle the Corvette Z06 or the SRT Hellcat! And this makes it the most powerful Mustang currently on the market. And also the fastest!

    The car with superpowers runs from 0 to 100 km/h in mere 3.6 seconds. Key to that are not only the 717 hp (527 kW), but also the torque, which is 856 Nm (632 lb-ft) at 4400 rpm. Helping the Coyote V8 breathe more deeply is a high-flow throttle body and stainless-steel exhaust system.

    Upgraded injectors and fuel pumpfeed the V8, but this happens under the command of the proprietary engine management calibration. More personalization and performance can be achieved with the optional CarbonAero carbon-fiber bodywork. The pack includes front splitter, side sills, rear diffuser and rear lip spoiler.

    Available are also the 20-inch Hennessey H10 wheels shod with Michelin Pilot Super Sport 2 tires, behind the spokes of which we see Brembo brake package with 15.1-in. front rotors. With this package Mustang gets better downforce, corneing and braking.

    Great news is also that Hennessey announced a 2.3-liter EcoBoost-powered Mustang, which is under development. Note that only 500 units of the HPE700 will be produced. The pricing starts at $59,500 USD.

    httpv://youtu.be/NIgejAV07TA

    Hennessey Performance Ford Mustang GT HPE700 Details:

    Power
    • 717 bhp @ 6,600 rpm
    • 632 lb-ft torque @ 4,400 rpm

    Performance
    • 0-60 mph: 3.6 sec.
    • ¼ mile: 11.2 @ 131 mph

    HPE700 Supercharged 5.0L V8 Engine Upgrade
    • 2.9 Liter Supercharger System
    • HPE Air Induction System
    • Upgraded Fuel Injectors
    • Upgraded Fuel Pump
    • All Necessary Gaskets & Fluids
    • Professional Installation
    • HPE Engine Management Calibration
    • Dyno Tuning & Road Testing
    • Hennessey Exterior Badging
    • HPE700 Exterior Badging
    • Supercharged Exterior Badging
    • Hennessey Premium Floormats
    • Serial-Numbered Dash & Engine Plaques
    • 3 Year / 36,000 Mile Limited Warranty

    CarbonAero
    • CarbonAero Front Splitter
    • CarbonAero Side Sills
    • CarbonAero Rear Lip Spoiler

    Additional Upgrades
    • Hennessey H10 Lightweight 20-inch wheels (Mounted on factory tires)
    • Stainless Steel Exhaust System

    Video Source: YouTube

    Source: Hennessey Performance

  • 2015 Volkswagen Polo GTI Facelift is Almost as Good as the Polo R WRC

    2015-Volkswagen-Polo-GTI-THUMB2015 Volkswagen Polo GTI has just been announced and it is intended to be launched only for the European customers. The car is the fourth generation compact GTI and comes with an output of 192 hp (141 kW), which is 12 hp more than its predecessor. In addition, the vehicle is also going to be available with manual gearbox again. The top speed of the new Polo GTI is estimated at 236 km/h. Interestingly enough this makes it 7 km/h shorter of the 220 hp (162 kW) Polo R WRC.

    The option of automatic dual clutch gearbox is also available. Both transmission variants accelerate the Polo GTI from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.7 seconds. This is just 0.3 seconds more than the figure for the Polo R WRC.

    In terms of fuel consumption the car shows 5.6 l/100 km and 129 g/km of CO2 emissions with the seven-speed DSG, and 6.0 litres and 139 g/km of CO2 with the six-speed manual variant. And here the Polo R WRC, which has a fuel consumption of 7.5 l/100 km is finally overtaken by the new Polo GTI.

    The exterior of the facelifted Volkswagen car includes new bumpers, distinctively flared door sills, the GTI logo on the front wing and classic GTI insignia. LED headlights are available for the first time in the model.

    The sporty appeal of the model is additionally improved by the set of new alloys that come in the size of 7.5×17 inches. Through them we see gleaming red brake callipers and standard sports suspension. At the back of the car we can’t pass the GTI roof spoiler, tail light clusters in ‘Dark Red’, the black grained diffuser and the chrome dual exhaust tailpipes.

    GTI red accentuates the sporty design of the interior. For instance, the leather sports steering wheel has contrasting red stitching, as do the gear lever and handbrake lever, while the floor mats feature borders with red beading. The driver and occupants will enjoy height-adjustable heated sports seats with centre panels upholstered in exclusive ‘Clark’ cloth.

    The infotainment systems offered here include Bluetooth audio streaming, a proximity sensor and two-finger map zooming in navigation mode. For the first time, Volkswagen is offering electronically adjustable dampers in the Polo GTI which are the core technology basis of the optional ‘Sport Select’ suspension.

    Source: Volkswagen 

  • Vilner’s Audi RS6 is Capable of 700 Horsepower!

    It was the end of 2012 when we showed you a one-off project on Audi RS6 that made history and everyone was talking about for a long, long time. The tuner of course was Vilner and with company’s current take on RS6, it is aiming to change history once again. This Audi has just received attentive therapy not only in terms of interior modifications, but also in terms of what is standing under the hood.

    Inside, the car is defined by predominantly white, blue and black colors. In details, the ceiling is wrapped in black nubbuck and the same goes for the rearview mirror. Black is also to be found on all of the plastic details, which have also been covered with rubber-like material.

    The white seats are also contrasted perfectly with the seat belts in racing blue color that corresponds to the exterior paint scheme. Enough for the interior!

    More importantly, it is almost unbelievable what “sleeps” under the hood of this RS6. The V10 unit, which originally produces 560 horsepower (412 kW) and 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque, got some “attention” from RaceChip Germany.

    In particular, the company has delivered a powerbox that increases the overall power output of the car from the aforementioned 560 hp to 700 hp (515 kW) and from the standard torque to 889 Nm (654 lb-ft).

    Source: Vilner 

  • 2015 Nissan GT-R Gets Track Edition and Goes on Sale in Japan

    2015-Nissan-GT-R-Premium-THUMB2015 Nissan GT-R goes on sale in Japan and gets some updates for the new model year. The car now has been refined in terms of chassis; it is quieter and more luxurious than before. There is new trim level offered, called Track Edition and it was engineered by NISMO. Yesterday we revealed the exclusive GT-R 45th Anniversary Limited Edition which will be produced in only 45 units and will be exclusively distributed in Japan only. 45th Anniversary features a special paint color called “Silica Brass” and is offered with the Premium Edition trim level (picture above).

    Among the modifications are the improvements to the car’s driving comfort. The engineers have dramatically improved car’s ride quality, keeping its handling at its best. Also, noise and vibration have been reduced to additionally make better the environment inside the GT-R.

    In terms of suspension, damper rates of the shock absorbers and the ECU setting have been updated to improve cornering stability. Same modifications reduce the amount of steering and add further sense of security.

    The material and the inner structure of the tires have been improved. This also influences in a positive way the ride quality and driver confidence. Next, the shim structure between braking feel from initial activation was improved as well as better overall braking control. The brake noise was also reduced.

    Steering Dynamic Damper has been optimized, the engine and transmission management systems have been retuned, and the material for the trunk carpet has been changed to improve sound insulation.

    For those who desire even more performance, Nissan has added the Track Edition (picture below). The car was engineered by NISMO and is a new grade based on the standard model enhanced with NISMO technology.

    The general modifications include custom adhesive bonding for increased body shell rigidity, custom flared front fenders with outlet air duct, custom suspension and stabilizer, RAYS forged aluminum-alloy wheels shod with Dunlop SP Sport Maxx GT 600 DSST tires.

    Source: Nissan

  • 2015.5 Dodge Viper GTS and TA 2.0 Special Edition Get More Standard Content

    2015-5-Dodge-Viper-SRT-GTS-BIG-THUMBThe newly equipped 2015.5 Dodge Viper GTS and the track ready TA 2.0 Special Edition were just exclusively revealed. They are joining the SRT and GT models in the Viper lineup. This is the flagship car of Dodge’s brand which will have a limited production run and will continue to get great updates in the future. Viper was first launched in 1992 it was priced at $50,700 USD, which now equates to $86,130 USD.

    Next to the lower starting price, the hand-built American exotic offers is powered by the refined 8.4-liter V-10 engine coupled with a Tremec six-speed manual transmission. Thanks to the unit it delivers an increased 645 horsepower (474) and 867 Nm (640 lb.-ft.) of torque, and gets up to 20 miles per gallon.

    News is also that the 2015.5 Viper TA 2.0 Special Edition and GTS models will feature more standard content compared with the 2014 models they replace. The track-ready Viper TA 2.0 Special Edition builds on success of TA model and adds high-performance Aero Package, competition rear spoiler and front lower dive planes for better downforce and handling.

    TA also adds two-piece Brembo Rotors, 18/19-inch Matte Black Sidewinder Wheels, Pirelli P Zero Corsa Tires, dual-mode suspension, five-mode ESC, black Brembo brakes with orange lettering, performance brake pads. Here are also included carbon fiber structural X-Brace, rear carbon fiber applique, TA front splitter, TA aero wing assembly kit, TA front decal, TA sill decal, interior accent stitching and car cover.

    In addition, the GTS will now come as a standard with Laguna leather seats, Alcantara headliner and Harman Kardon 18-speaker sound system. The car also features Nappa leather IP, console and doors, 18/19-inch polished aluminum Venom wheels, power six-way driver and passenger seats, unique GTS badging.

    Dodge is also introducing here the GTS Ceramic Blue Special Edition with Ceramic Blue exterior color, Black stripes, orange brake calipers, rear carbon fiber applique, and GTS gloss black badging.

    New for 2015 Viper GT are the Nappa leather seats with Alcantara inserts, Alcantara accents on the doors and IP, ‘Viper’ badged aluminum sill plates, two-mode sport suspension, five-mode ESC, ‘GTS’ hood, two-piece StopTech slotted rotors, red Brembo brake calipers and power six-way driver seat. At last – two new exterior colors will be introduced for the range in 2015. They are dubbed Y’Orange and Stryker Orange.

    2015 Dodge Viper has a starting price of $84,995 USD; Viper TA 2.0 Special Edition’s price tag starts at $101,995 USD; GT models are priced at $94,995 USD, while the GTS – at $107,995 USD. 2015 model-year Vipers will start arriving in dealerships in the first quarter of 2015.

    Source:  Dodge

  • Toyota Introduces Next-Gen Integrated Safety Technology [VIDEO]

    Toyota-Integrated-Safety-Technology-THUMBToyota’s next-generation Integrated Safety Technology was revealed today. It comprises of a lot of smart new technologies and systems which aim to deliver safety driving and are planned to be applied in company’s future vehicles. These include vehicle-to-infrastructure and communications for safer manoeuvres, hazard alerts and smarter as well as more efficient cruise control driving; and new adaptive LED headlight arrays for better night-time illumination. These technologies together with advanced active safety packages are scheduled to be officially rolled out from 2015 for new models.

    All of these new features were just announced at a safety seminar in Toyota City. The company is also creating Safety Sense active safety packages, which are tailored to suit different size vehicles prepared to be introduced by the end of 2017.

    Vehicle-infrastructure and vehicle-vehicle communications use wireless frequency reserved for Integrated Traffic System (ITS) services. The instance here is simple: when one arrives at junction with no clear view, sensors above the road detect on-coming traffic or pedestrians and send the information to the car (vehicle-to-infrastructure system).

    In addition, those vehicles approaching the intersection will signal that they are there with the vehicle-to-vehicle link, thus activating visual and audio warnings. Communicating Radar Cruise Control is the next technology developed by Toyota that utilizes vehicle-to-vehicle communication.

    This one makes it easier for preceding and following vehicles to keep a safe distance apart. How it works? It has forward-facing millimetre-wave radar which monitors the distance between the vehicle and this ahead, their approximate speed and the acceleration/deceleration of the car in front.

    LED Array Adaptive High Beam comes offering better night-time illumination. The system utilizes multiple, independently controlled LEDs arranged in a single row. The effect: a wider illumination without dazzling drivers of on-coming or preceding vehicles. In addition, it can light up the gaps between cars ahead and those approaching. This next-gen technology will be featured in Toyota’s Safety Sense active safety package.

    Starting from next year, the Japanese company will launch a new set of active safety technologies. They were designed to help prevent or mitigate collisions, and will be offered in two Toyota Safety Sense packages: C and P for mid-size and larger vehicles respectively.

    More importantly, they will bring together several active safety technologies, including the Pre-Crash Safety system, Lane Keep Assist and automatic high beam. Precisely, the C package utilizes laser radar, while the P package a millimetre-wave radar, each of which is combined with a camera.

    At last, there is a separate active safety package called Lexus Safety System+. It will include the new Road Sign Assist function, which recognizes speed limits and road signs when traveling overseas, presenting the information on the driver’s instrument display.

    httpv://vimeo.com/112915300

    Video Source: Vimeo

    Source: Toyota

  • Meet the new 2015 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG 4MATIC Coupe

    2015-MB-front_thumb2015-MB-front_651

    The German luxury automobile maker Mercedes-Benz has proudly presented its latest and greatest model – the ultra luxurious and very powerful 2015 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG 4MATIC Coupe model. The car packs awesome looks, a great interior and a new 5.5-liter V8 bi-turbo gasoline engine that is more powerful and fuel-efficient than ever.

    Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG GmbH explains: “The new S63 AMG Coupe is another exciting AMG dream car in the luxury segment. Now the S-Class Coupe also comes with performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive – as we rigorously pursue our all-wheel-drive initiative. Mercedes-AMG is putting the pedal to the metal again in the new year. Our model initiative is set to continue at blistering pace in 2014.”

    The new car is full of new features and functions – it is up to 128 pounds (58 kg) lighter than its predecessor even though it comes with more standard equipment than before. The weight savings was achieved largely via the use of a lightweight lithium-ion battery, optional AMG forged light-alloy wheels and a weight-optimized AMG high-performance composite braking system. Furthermore, the entire outer skin and the front end of the body are made of aluminium. As you can imagine the lower weight improves driving dynamics and cuts on fuel consumption, moreover the low power-to-weight ratio results in impressive performance: the S63 AMG Coupe accelerates from 0 to 60 mph (0-97 km/h) in an estimated 3.9 seconds and goes on to reach an electronically-limited top speed of 186 mph (299 km/h).

    These results are possible thanks to the powerful AMG 5.5-liter V8 bi-turbo engine that remains one of the most efficient series-produced V8 engines of all. The unit delivers 577 HP (424 kW) and 664 lb-ft (900 Nm) of torque. Compared to the previous CL63 AMG model, the new engine brings 41 HP and 74 lb-ft (100 Nm) of power, yet it needs less fuel.

    The new 2015 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG 4MATIC Coupe also comes with an AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sport transmission. It brings maximum agility and exciting dynamics and drivers can configure their own personal set-up, depending on their driving style. There are three modes to choose from: “C” (Controlled Efficiency), “S” (Sport) and “M” (Manual). The ECO start/stop function is fitted as standard.

    The car also features an AMG sport exhaust system with automatic logic-controlled exhaust flaps in both rear exhaust pipes. When the transmission is in “C” (Controlled Efficiency) mode, the flaps remain closed in most situations, in which case the eight-cylinder bi-turbo engine’s sound is more understated. In “S” (Sport) and “M” (Manual) modes, the exhaust flaps open earlier and more spontaneously, especially if the driver prefers a dynamic driving style. The result is an even fuller, hallmark AMG emotive engine sound. Moreover, the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG 4MATIC Coupe has permanent AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive. When driving 33 per cent of the engine torque gets sent to the front axle and 67 per cent to the rear axle. The rear-biased power distribution provides the signature AMG high driving dynamics and superlative driving enjoyment as well as boosting acceleration from a standing start. The all-wheel drive also enhances driving safety on wet or wintry road surfaces when equipped with winter tires. Optimum traction is guaranteed by a multi-disc clutch with a locking effect of 37 lb-ft (50 Nm), which maximizes the frictional connection potential of all four wheels.

    The list of features goes on – the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG 4MATIC Coupe comes with a full air-suspension AIRMATIC system with an adaptive ADS PLUS damping system. Specific front axle kinematics – including higher camber, a larger anti-roll bar and a stiffer subframe carrier on the rear axle – have been developed exclusively for the S63 AMG 4MATIC Coupe. These measures enhance the vehicle’s agility for performance driving.

    As this is not enough the guys at Mercedes will also allow you to get some features as options. This is valid for the AMG forged light-alloy wheels. This design reduces weight while at the same time increasing strength. The lower unsprung masses result in advantages in terms of handling and spring/damper element response.Optional wheels include 10-spoke forged wheels painted in titanium grey with a polished finish – 8.5 x 20 at the front and 9.5 x 20 at the rear, with 255/40 R 20 and 285/35 R 20 tires respectively. The forged wheels feature a high-quality, screwable and fully integrated wheel bolt cover made of forged aluminium. Its shape is reminiscent of a center lock as seen in motorsport. The AMG logo is integrated into one of the ten spokes. These forged wheels are also available painted in matte black with a high-sheen rim flange. A high-performance composite brake system is also an option for the first time. The car comes equipped with a weight-optimized, fade-resistant AMG high- performance composite brake system. An AMG ceramic high-performance composite brake system is available as an option. This design, which is more than 20 percent lighter, ensures lower unsprung masses and enhanced braking performance.

    There’s no need to say that the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG 4MATIC Coupe is full of luxury and features great looks. The front end of the car is dominated by the three-dimensional AMG “twin-blade” radiator grille in silver shadow (a matte silver finish). Whether in motion or stationary, distinctive AMG lettering between the twin-blade lamellas leaves no doubt: this is a high-performance model from Affalterbach. The A-wing is located below the radiator grille. This three-dimensional air-ducting element is painted in the body color, spans the entire width of the front apron and displays the stylized “A” that is a hallmark of AMG vehicles. Large, black flics surround the outer cooling air intakes. Down below, the front splitter in silver shadow optimizes the flow of air to the cooling modules. This design feature, which is a familiar sight in motorsport, also reduces front-axle lift and enhances the vehicle’s aerodynamic balance.Further eye-catching features include the large AMG designed wheels. “V8 BITURBO” lettering in a new, contemporary typography on the front wings is another hallmark AMG design touch. On the inside the car surprises in a good way too – the instrument panel almost seamlessly transitions into the doors in a wrap- around design. High-quality materials and fine workmanship are combined with a sporty and exclusive design idiom. The newly developed AMG sport seats with power adjustment, memory function and seat heating/ventilation offer the driver and front passenger optimum lateral support. Fine AMG design Nappa leather with piping together with AMG badges on all four seat backrests and an embossed AMG emblem on the armrest of the front center console create an exquisite atmosphere.

    The new three-spoke AMG sport steering wheel with its distinctively contoured rim and perforated leather in the grip area allows perfect vehicle control. There is an AMG logo in the lower metal insert, and new aluminum shift paddles shorten the reaction time when changing gears to enhance performance. Another feature displaying the hallmark AMG look is the high-resolution TFT color AMG instrument cluster with two animated round dials. In addition to the specific lettering and the needles in red/silver, further distinctive design features include the AMG start-up display, the AMG logo in the speedometer 200 mph scale (left) and the “V8 BITURBO” lettering in the rev counter (right).

    The new, innovative touchpad, included as standard equipment, makes it significantly easier to operate the radio, telephone and navigation system. The safety and assistance systems are the same as those for the S550 4MATIC Coupe.

    Interested in the car? The 2015 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG 4MATIC Coupe had its world premiere at the 2014 New York International Auto Show in April of this year and US customers will be able to get the car sometime this fall. No word on pricing as of now.

    Source: Mercedes-Benz

  • Skoda Fabia R 5 Concept Makes World Premiere at Essen Motor Show

    Skoda Fabia R 5 Concept is company’s new rally car that is to be exhibited at this year’s Essen Motor Show in Germany, Europe. The event is the largest trade fair for tuning, motorsport and sporty production vehicles in the country. It takes place from 29th of November to 7th of December. Other Skoda cars that are to be on display there are the Fabia Estate, Octavia RS, Rapid Spaceback Monte Carlo special editions, Yeti and Citigo, as well as the Yeti Xtreme, CitiJet and Rapid Spaceback Red & Grey Collection.

    Fabia R 5 Concept gives a first insight of the future rally plans of the brand. At least in terms of design. It is based on the new Fabia, which was already revealed in its hatchback and estate versions. A number of top drivers were involved in the development of the concept.

    In addition, the company revealed that the car is scheduled to be homologated by mid-2015. What has to be mentioned about it is that it includes a lot of high-grade technology. According to FIA regulations, it is driven by a 1.6-litre turbo unit mated to a five-speed sequential gearbox and including MacPherson struts. The weight is around 1230 kilograms.

    Next, the new Fabia Estate that was launched two months ago in Paris is making its first appearance in Germany. It features expressive design with angular appearance, innovative technology and high functionality. At the same time, the car is loaded with a lot of safety, comfort and infotainment systems. It is spacious and includes the largest boot in the compact car class.

    The other Skoda models on display in Essen is the ŠKODA Octavia RS, which is the fastest production Octavia with top speed of 248 km/h, the; the Monte Carlo special editions of the Citigo, Yeti and Rapid Spaceback.

    SEE ALSO: Infiniti “Synaptiq”: A Futuristic Interaction Between Human and Machine Charactersitics

    Furthermore, the Yeti Xtreme show car includes the following design highlights: matt-grey paint, 17-inch alloys, dark discs, big bumper, LED headlights, striking mudguards, powerful rocker panels and rear bumper, and broad tailpipes on the dual exhaust.

    The CitiJet show car which is a convertible based on the Citigo, features special metallic paintwork in blue/white and racy, blue 16-inch alloy wheels, hand-made rear spoiler and two tailpipes, 300-watt sound system and blue LED interior lighting that reacts to the music.

    At last, the visitors of the event will see the Rapid Spaceback Red & Grey. This is a sporty edition of Skoda’s first compact hatchback model.

    Source: Skoda