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Aston Martin to present 2015 V12 Vantage S Roadster at Pebble Beach

The famous luxury car maker Aston Martin has announced that its new 2015 V12 Vantage S Roadster will make its global debut at the Pebble Beach Automotive Week, which starts on August 14.

The upcoming Aston Martin vehicle will deliver sporting agility and an enviable sports soundtrack thanks to its naturally aspirated Aston Martin AM28 6.0-liter V12 engine that delivers 565 horsepower (415 kW). Thanks to this engine and state-of-the-art Bosch engine management the new car can reach 201 mph (323 km/h), accelerating from rest to 60 mph (100 km/h) in just 3.9 seconds. When released, the new Aston Martin 2015 V12 Vantage S Roadster will be the car company’s most potent, fastest and fastest-accelerating series production roadster to date.

The Aston Martin 2015 V12 Vantage S Roadster will be accompanied by the new Design Prototype 100 (DP-100), which makes a North American debut. Developed in six months time, the DP-100 is a new virtual-only GT racer. The upcoming car looks beautiful and will be available to owners of Gran Turismo 6 to download; later this month it will be shown as a full-sized hand-crafted model at Monterey.

The DP-100 will come with a powerful twin-turbo V12 engine that delivers 800 HP (588 kW). In addition to that the prototype provides an exceptional level of detail with a fully functional suspension system and state-of-the-art electronics. The DP-100 will be exclusively available for viewings to customers and invited guests at the Aston Martin Estate (14-16 August) where it will be joined by the V12 Vantage S Roadster which will also lead the marque’s presence at Quail: A Motorsports Gathering (15 August).

Source: Aston Martin

August 5, 2014
VW offers Modular Transverse Matrix on the Golf and Golf GTI

Volkswagen fans that live in the United States will be treated with the so-called Modular Transverse Matrix (MQB in short in German) technology given they choose to purchase one of the all-new VW Golf or Golf GTI now. According to Dr. Hubertus Lemke, Head of Technical Project Management in Volkswagen’s Research & Development Division, the MQB strategy represents a milestone in the design and production of future automobiles with transverse-mounted engines.

Modular Transverse Matrix may sound complicated but this technology standardizes many vehicle component parameters across various vehicle classes, starting with sub-compact cars and going through mid-size SUV segments. Later the technology will be used in the Jetta, Passat and upcoming VW mid-sized SUVs, which means that at least in theory, these models, including the Golf and Golf GTI may be produced on the same assembly line.

One of the prominent characteristics of the Modular Transverse Matrix is the uniform mounting position of all engines, including the new modular diesel engine system (MDB), also known as EA288. The standardized engine position, combined with implementation of the EA288 TDI Clean Diesel engine and the new EA211 gasoline engine, will reduce the Group’s engine and gearbox variants by approximately 90 percent. MQB also enables fitment of all current alternative drive concepts without compromise — from compressed natural gas and hybrid versions to a pure electric powertrain. The e-Golf that goes on sale in the last quarter of 2014 in the U.S. uses the MQB architecture as well and is built on the same line in Wolfsburg as other Golf versions.

In the long run MQB will present Volkswagen Group with new opportunities, including the possibility to produce high-volume and niche models of the highest quality at competitive prices as the technology gets introduced globally. In addition MQB will allow VW to tailor vehicles for different and diverse markets that include Europe, China, India, USA and others. One of the positive effects of MQB is that the new Golf and Golf GTI now come with the new Automatic Post-Collision Braking System – after an initial collision, it helps to reduce the intensity of secondary collisions by automatically applying the brakes. It is now standard equipment on the new Golf and Golf GTI.

Source: Volkswagen

August 5, 2014
Mercedes-Benz debuts the all new S 600 Guard armored vehicle

Mercedes-Benz has added a new model to its line of special protection models, this time coming to us as the S 600 Guard. The new car provides all-round protection that covers the VR9 resistance class but at the same time keeps the level of comfort to the traditionally high Mercedes-Benz level. There’s also a powerful V12 gasoline engine, intelligent driver assistance systems and an outstanding AIRMATIC suspension that will provide you with everything you need when it comes to travelling while having excellent protection.

The new S 600 Guard comes with integrated protection that follows the many years of experience that Mercedes-Benz has been through and obtained. The vehicle comes with extra strength and stability thanks to specific reinforcement of the base structure and there is intelligent overlapping and sophisticated integration of all protective elements for continued high level of comfort. The glass areas are coated with polycarbonate on the inside for splinter protection and thanks to their laminated structure, they have outstanding visual characteristics. Thus the new S 600 Guard provides the passengers inside with ballistic protection and protection against explosive devices and not only meets the strict VR9 requirements but also conforms to all requirements imposed by the ERV2010 protection standard.

Visually on the outside the S 600 Guard does not differ from the regular S 600 version. On the inside it keeps the luxury expected from an S 600 Mercedes-Benz car and adds space. For the first time and as the only car in this segment the new S 600 Guard can be purchased as a 4-seater and as a fully-fledged 5-seater. The vehicle is powered by a mighty V12 gasoline engine that offers 530 horsepower (390 kW) and 830 Nm (612 lb.-ft.) of torque and the so-called 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission. Thanks to the technologies implemented inside the engine and the gearbox the new Mercedes-Benz vehicle offers low fuel consumption and impressive acceleration. The top speed is limited to 130 mph (209 km/h), though, due to weight reasons.

The new S 600 Guard offers a number of innovations that increase the traditional comfort found in these cars. The AIRMATIC air suspension ensures excellent ride comfort and great drive dynamics. Reinforced, re-dimensioned suspension components and adapted control functions such as ESP or ASR cope with the increased vehicle weight. The air springs at the front are reinforced, for example, and additional steel springs are used at the rear axle. As in the unarmored S-Class, all-round level control also maintains a constant vehicle level irrespective of the payload in the S‑Guard. In the S 600 Guard it also compensates the reduced ground clearance caused by the underbody armor. Standard equipment on the S 600 Guard includes Michelin PAX run-flat tires with an additional tire pressure monitoring system which allows an escape from the danger zone up to a distance of 19 miles (30 km) even with damaged tires. In addition the S 600 Guard comes equipped with intelligent drive systems that include Driver Assistance package PLUS – this includes the assistance systems DISTRONIC PLUS with Stop&Go Pilot, BAS PLUS Brake, Active Blind Spot Assist and Active Lane Keeping Assist, PRE-SAFE® Brake with pedestrian recognition and ESP®, an electric parking brake, Night View Assist Plus, LED Intelligent Light System and a 360-degree camera.

Mercedes-Benz did not share the price of the new S 600 Guard, though, but as you know, it will cost a ton of cash for sure.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

August 5, 2014
Bonhams to show ultra-rare Ferrari 250 GTO

The UK auction house Bonhams will preview an example of perhaps the most famous and sought-after classic race car ever – the 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO. The event will take place at the Monterey Pre-Reunion on August 9 and August 10. The classic race car, of which only 39 were constructed, will be shown in the Bonhams hospitality area at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca where the historic car racing is taking place.

The Ferrari in question carries the chassis number 3851GT and comes from the Maranello Rosso Collection and has been owned by one family for 49 years. Bonhams will sell the car and nine other Ferraris from the collection at its Bonhams Quail Lodge Auction on August 14.

“Collectors around the world are eagerly awaiting auction day to see what the market will command for such a historically significant and rarely available automobile,” said Mark Osborne, head of motoring for Bonhams in the U.S. “There is no reserve on this car, meaning that it will be sold to the highest bidder regardless of what that bid is. And what better way to showcase it than in front of racers and collectors who are at the Monterey Pre-Reunion.”

The Ferrari in question is the 19^th Ferrari GTO to be completed but given that two of the preceding examples are 330 GTOs with 4-litre engines instead of the GT-homologated 3-litre “250” units this Ferrari may be regarded as the 17^th Ferrari 250 GTO. It was collected by its first owner, the experienced and rugged 34-year-old French privateer Jo Schlesser, who immediately entered it in the 1962 Tour de France Automobile, with co-driver French skiing champion Henri Oreiller. The duo covered 3418 miles and finished second overall.

The Monterey Pre-Reunion is the first event of the Monterey Classic Car Week that also includes the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion (August 14-17), Quail Motorsports Gathering (August 15) and the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance (August 17). Admission to the Monterey Pre-Reunion on August 9 and August 10 costs USD 20 at the paddock entrance of Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca.

Source: Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca

August 4, 2014
Hyundai Motor describes new i20 model

The Korean automaker Hyundai Motor has unveiled the first design pictures of the upcoming new i20 model. According to the company the new version of Hyundai’s popular B-segment model comes with the brand’s “Fluidic Sculpture 2.0” design philosophy and sports a sophisticated and distinctive design.

The long hood and generous shape create a powerful stance for New Generation i20. The body sides are sculpted yet the overall architecture is clear and simple, with the cabin sitting cleanly on the body. In profile, the dark treatment of the C-pillar visually accentuates the car’s length.

The front presents a bold new interpretation of the well-established Hyundai hexagonal grille and there’s a new thin horizontal strip that connects the headlamps. At the back, the wrap-around rear window and unique treatment for the lamp clusters combine with the car’s hatchback proportions to create a distinctive design.

The new i20 has been designed at the Hyundai design center, located in Rüsselsheim, Germany. The car will debut at the 2014 Mondial de l’Automobile, which will be held in October 2014 in Paris, France.

Source: Hyundai

August 4, 2014
2014 Mitsubishi Lancer named “Top Safety Pick”

Owners of the 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer compact sports sedan have a new reason to be happy with their cars – the US Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has named the car “Top Safety Pick”. The Ralliart and Evolution models are not covered by this award, though.

To name the 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer compact sports sedan “Top Safety Pick”, the IIHS used a total of twelve “small cars” for the so-called small overlap front crash test that has 25 per cent of the vehicle’s frontal area on the driver’s side impact a barrier at 40 mph (64 km/h). Introduced in 2012, the small overlap front crash test “replicates what happens when the front corner of a vehicle collides with another vehicle or an object such as a tree or utility pole,” according to the IIHS. Half of the vehicles evaluated achieved non-passing grades of “marginal” or “poor”; the IIHS requires that a vehicle earn a grade of “good” or “acceptable” to pass the test.

“It is great to see our very popular Mitsubishi Lancer once again named as a “Top Safety Pick” by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety,” said Don Swearingen, Executive Vice President of MMNA. “Lancer is a versatile compact sports sedan that has an exceptional degree of safety, excellent fuel economy, sporty performance and plentiful standard features all at price to fit almost any budget.”

What’s even better for the Mitsubishi brand and people who consider buying a Mitsubishi Lancer compact sports sedan is that the “Top Safety Pick” designation is applicable to the 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer compact sports sedan. The new car improves on previous models by including heated side view mirrors with turn indicators (standard on all models); an advanced next-generation continuously-variable transmission (CVT) that mimics the operation of a precision 7-speed transmission (standard on SE AWC model and available on other versions); and expanded new standard features including redesigned 16-inch two-tone alloy wheels, FUSE Hands-Free Link System with USB port, high contrast meters with color multi-information display, chrome interior door handles, soft-touch upper door trim, 6-speaker audio system, fog lights, and Sport front fascia with color-keyed center bumper (SE AWC model). New available content packages for the 2015 Lancer include a feature-rich Value Package (ES model) and Sun and Sound Package (GT model).

You can have the 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer in four different models – the Lancer ES comes with loads of features and sells for USD 17 195 (fuel economy of up to 34 mpg/6.92 liters per 100 km); the Lancer SE AWC comes with a standard all-wheel control all-wheel drive system (USD 20 995); the luxurious Lancer GT sells for USD 20 595, while the turbocharged Lancer Ralliart with a sure-footed Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system and an available rapid-fire 6-speed Twin-Clutch Sportronic Shift Transmission sells for USD 29 495.

Source: Mitsubishi Motors North America

August 4, 2014

2015 Honda Odyssey – US Price $28,975

2015 Honda Odyssey is now available on the market with a starting Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $28,975. The MPV was the top selling minivan with individual (retail) car buyers in the U.S. in 2013 and in the first five months of 2014. The study based on new-vehicle registration statistics from IHS Automotive.

2015 Odyssey comes with a number of upgrades including the acclaimed in-vehicle vacuum cleaner, the HondaVAC^™, featured on the Odyssey Touring Elite. Other upgrades designed to meet the needs of active families included the addition of a standard 6-speed automatic transmission resulting in class-leading EPA fuel-economy ratings, enhanced safety equipment and connectivity features.

The engine range includes a 3.5 liter V6 – 248HP (182 kW) at 5,700RPM and 338Nm (250 lb-ft) at 4,800RPM. The EPA fuel-economy ratings are 19 mpg US in city and 28 mpg US in highway.

There are five trim levels – LX, EX, EX-L, Touring and Touring Elite. A keyless entry system with push button start on EX, EX-L, Touring and Touring Elite allows the driver to approach the vehicle, open the door and start the engine – all without touching a key.

The interior features high-grade meter illumination and interior lighting, chrome-trimmed instrument dials and door handles, an available 7” touch-screen, and an ideally positioned DVD player for the available Rear Entertainment System.

TRIM	MSRP¹	EPA MPG³ (city/highway/combined)
Odyssey LX	$28,975	19/28/22
Odyssey EX	$32,275	19/28/22
Odyssey EX-L	$35,775	19/28/22
Odyssey EX-L with RES	$37,375	19/28/22
Odyssey EX-L with Navi	$37,775	19/28/22
Odyssey Touring	$42,030	19/28/22
Odyssey Touring Elite	$44,600	19/28/22

Source: Honda

August 4, 2014

Acura TLX GT Race Car

Acura Motorsports has unveiled the new 2015 Acura TLX GT Race Car in Pirelli World Challenge competition. It held at American Honda’s “home” circuit, the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, in the hands of RealTime Racing owner/driver Peter Cunningham.

Cunningham has driven the Acura in a pair of Pirelli World Challenge events during a doubleheader race weekend. The Pirelli World Challenge series supports with the Honda Indy 200 Verizon IndyCar Series weekend at Mid-Ohio.

“We’re excited to debut the Acura TLX GT race car in front of our ‘hometown’ audience of associates from the many Honda facilities in central Ohio,” commented Art St. Cyr, President of Honda Performance Development and Vice President, Auto Operations, American Honda.

“The competition in the Pirelli World Challenge is fierce, including many of the luxury makes the TLX will compete with on the sales floor. Acura has never shied away from a challenge. Instead, we seek it out, both on-track and in the marketplace.”, he added.

Developed from the production Acura TLX by HPD and RealTime Racing, the Acura TLX GT comes with HPD chassis and aerodynamic performance parts approved for Pirelli World Challenge competition. The race car is powered by a direct-injected, twin-turbocharged V6 engine, developed by HPD from the production TLX. The TLX GT Race Car also has all-wheel drive, as found in Acura’s SH-AWD system.

Source: Acura

August 4, 2014
Skoda Extends Monte Carlo Line-up

Skoda has unveiled an extended line-up of Monte Carlo Special Editions. Due to high customer demands, the automaker will include Citigo Monte Carlo, Yeti Monte Carlo, Rapid Spaceback Monte Carlo, which are expected to hit the market in autumn 2014.

The small Citigo special edition model comes with new body graphics, some black exterior accents and a set of 15” alloy wheels fitted with corresponding tires. There are also tinted windows and a sport-tuned suspension reducing the ride height by 15 mm.

The interior boasts a leather sports steering wheel and a black roof liner. A set of new Monte Carlo seat covers and special trim elements are also available. Last, but not least are the two-tone floor mats.

The Yeti Monte Carlo boasts bi-xenon headlights, modified front and rear bumpers and 17” alloy wheels. There are also sport seats, stainless steel pedals and Monte Carlo trim elements. The special edition Yeti is based on the Ambition trim level and is available with three petrol and three diesel engines.

The Rapid Monte Carlo is coming with similar upgrades to the Citigo.

Source: Skoda

August 4, 2014
2015 Audi Q3 – US Price $32,500

Audi US has announced the pricing of the small-crossover Q3. The entry-level model Premium Plus with FWD is priced from $32,500 and the top-of-range Prestige Quattro is $38,500. The stylish Q3 comes with a rich standard equipment offering good value for money. It also offers an excellent balance of agility and functionality.

The engine range includes a 2.0 liter four-cylinder TFSI with 6-speed Tip-Tronic transmission – 211HP (155 kW) at 5,000RPM and 300Nm (222 lb-ft) of torque at just 1,800RPM. 0-100 km/h in 6.9 seconds and a top speed of 230 km/h (144 mph). It is able to cover 100 km with just 6.4 liters (on highway) – 36.8 mpg US or 10.2 liters (city cycle) – 23.0 mpg US. The curb weight is 1,640 kg (3,620 lbs).

The exterior of the 2015 Q3 boasts a low roof line and wraparound tailgate, along with Audi xenon plus and LED daytime running headlamps as well as LED taillights standard. The optional Sport package which includes sport seats, shift paddles and Audi drive select adds to the dynamic character of the Q3.

The interior features 60/40 split folding rear seats that make 48.2 cu-ft of cargo volume when folded down. Standard dual-zone automatic climate control, available power tailgate and interior LED lighting round out the interior. The Audi advanced key provides keyless access as well as keyless start/stop function.

As an options is available MMI Navigation plus with voice control and a 7.0“ display. The MMI Navigation Plus features the award-winning Audi connect infotainment system (included in Prestige model), which includes in-vehicle Wi-Fi connectivity for up to eight wireless devices for passengers. A 14-speaker, 465 WATT Bose Surround Sound System is also part of the Prestige model offering to satisfy audiophile needs.

Audi Q3 MSRP* excluding transportation, taxes, title:

Audi Q3 Premium Plus, FWD: $32,500
Audi Q3 Premium Plus, quattro: $34,600
Audi Q3 Prestige, FWD: $36,400
Audi Q3 Prestige, quattro $38,500

*transportation charge is $925

Source: Audi

August 1, 2014
Vorsteiner Shows-Off With Obsidian Black Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG

This Obsidian Black Vorsteiner Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG looks fantastic, and this is clearly visible in the latest photoshoot which the Californian tuners have done. This new project includes a lot of carbon fiber aerodynamic components which are from company’s program for the CLS63. In addition, Vorsteiner gave this vehicle a set of 21” 3-piece forged wheels, which were fitted specifically for the W218 platform.

Although the specialists did not do anything on the powertrain of the Mercedes, it is still impressive and shows amazing figures. To be more precise, this Obsidian Black CLS63 AMG is driven by a 5.5 liter bi-turbo V8 engine, which produces 557 horsepower (410 kW) at 5,500RPM and 720 Nm (533 lb-ft) of torque at 1,750RPM. It can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.7 seconds, but we suppose that after the addition of aero components, this number has decreased.

The power is transmitted onto the road via AMG Speedshift MCT seven-speed sports transmission, which offers four modes of driving: “C”, which stands for controlled efficiency, “S” – for sport, “S+” – for sport plus and “M” – for manual). Also included here are the automatic double-declutching function for downshifting and the Race Start function.

But to go back to the project, as you can see, this stunningly beautiful Mercedes has some new exterior elements it can show-off with. These are the included aero components made of Vorsteiner’s Pre-Preg carbon fiber. In details, they are the front spoiler, rear diffuser, and decklid spoiler. The result is that they deliver the signature for the tuning company graceful aggression.

The Obsidian Black Vorsteiner CLS63 AMG of course runs on custom wheels, which are a one-off three-piece variation of our Sport Challenge VSC-103 series. They have gloss brushed shadow centers as well as matte black reverse lip. The dimensions of the wheels are as following: at the front they are in the size of 21×9 inches, while at the rear – 21×11 inches.

At last, to complete the project, Vorsteiner had to add tyres in the appropriate dimension. The chosen rubbers are Pirelli P Zero and they measure at the front 255/30/21 and at the rear – 295/25/21.

Source: Vorsteiner

August 1, 2014
Citroen DS3 Cabrio DStyle by Benefit Special Edition – Price £18,745

Citroen and Benefit Cosmetics has released another special edition model. This time based on the DS3 Cabrio Dstyle VTi 120 coming with a number of nice upgrades. The limited edition model is already available on the market with pricing starting from £18,745.

The exterior boasts a Polar White paint finish, with a black fabric roof and Fuchsia Pink touches for the door mirrors and wheel centre caps. There is also a “Gabbi’s Head” logo on the “Shark Fin” B-Pillars and a Benefit badge on the rear, also in Fuchsia Pink.

Other highlights include a set of 17” Bellone black alloy wheels, automatic digital air conditioning, automatic illumination of headlamps, automatic rain sensitive wipers, electrically heated and folding door mirrors, electrochrome rear view mirror, interior mood lighting and a front central armrest.

The interior features “Stay Flawless” theme coming with bespoke black velour floor mats with Fuchsia edging and an embroidered Fuchsia Benefit logo. The dashboard, air vent surrounds and gear stick cap are finished in gloss white trim, with Benefit’s trademark ‘Stay Flawless’ black and white polka dot design on the upper part of the dashboard. The key fob also features the ‘Gabbi’s head’ logo, with a Fuchsia Pink insert.

Source: Citroen

August 1, 2014