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Vauxhall Astra GTC Hitting 200 PS With Ecotec 1.6

Vauxhall-Astra-GTC-shadow Vauxhall-Astra-GTC-medium The Vauxhall Astra GTC line will now be available with a 1.6 Ecotec power plant. This engine might just be the biggest cause of headaches at Volkswagen.

That’s right, the GTC now pulls off 200 PS and 300 Nm. Yikes! That’s 30 percent more power than the previous equivalent. If we translate that to 0-to-60-time, it means 7.3 seconds or the fastest non-VXR Astra. At the same time, the GTC returns 51 mpg and 154 g/km of CO2 emissions (13 percent less).

Just because its a new model anyway, they’ve decided to throw in an optional extra as well – an Intellilink infotainment system that’s supposed to be user-friendly and intuitive. It comprises of a satelite navigation, voice control, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, a picture viewer some reason and Gracenote album art for some reason. All gets mediated to you through a 7-inch screen.

The new GTC hasn’t hit the streets yet, but it is available for ordering. Arrival should be around Spring this year. Your move, other companies that make really good hatchbacks and rival each other. Vauxhall-Astra-GTC-medium-2

Source: Vauxhall

January 7, 2014

Loewenstein Impress With LM63-700 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG

Loewenstein-LM63-700-Mercedes-Benz-C63-AMG-shadow It’s not easy making a break in the aftermarket niche. It takes time and determination to build a good image. Only then will the majority of people will feel secure in handing in the keys to their prised stock-mobiles.

All that being said, we would like to wish good luck to the young, up-and-coming tuner house from Germany, Loewenstein Manufaktur. Here’s their latest creation which started off a as Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG.

“457 hp”, they must have said, “not nearly good enough.”

Thus, we open the hood and find a Magnuson-Roots displacement compressor and a big intercooler. Both installed and deinstalled as easy as one, two, three. Plug a few cables in and you have yourself a 702 hp 6.2-liter V8 plant with 883 NM of torque itching to destroy the rear tires. It won’t though. “The engine capacity does not descend “uncontrolled” on the rear wheels, but unleashes rather more elegantly and comfortably thanks to a continuous and flat torque curve”. They say. If you, nevertheless, feel that the power is way too overwhelming, there’s an optional on/off button available that goes right on the center console.

Loewenstein have also provided their own prototype coilover kit and the fine tuning has been made with the help of ZF Sachs. For that extra something, there’s also an automatic limited slip differential available. An in-house high-performance braking system, on the other hand, gives you all the stopping power you need: 8-piston calipers and 380-mm disks at the front; and 4-piston calipers and 356-mm disks at the back.

Visual treats:

Matt carbon external mirros, front spoiler back diffuser compile, what Loewenstein call, the “carbon-fiber exterior program”. At the back you also see the company’s own exhaust pipes peaking out – part of a system that employes an exhaust manifold with substitute primary catalytic converter pipes as well as a Loewenstein performance module.

Wheel choice varies between the 1-piece “Klassik” rims in sizes 8.5×19 and 9.5×19 with Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires in dimensions 235/35ZR19 and 265/30ZR19; and the 20-inch multi-piece “Rennsport” rims in sizes 8.5- and 10.5-inch. They wear even lower and wider Michelin Pilot Super Sports (front: 235/30ZR20, rear: 285/25/ZR20).

Inside, one finds a bi-color theme on the predominantly leather/Alcantara interior. There’s also aluminum for the pedals and carbon/aramid for the decorative strips here and there.

All in all, a very decent start for the guys Lowewenstein – a project that has surely gotten people talking.

Source: Loewenstein

January 7, 2014

Welcome To The 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA 45 AMG

2015-Mercedes-Benz-GLA-45-AMG-shadow Here it is in the flesh: the world’s most powerful “series-produced four-cylinder engine”. It’s the Mercedes-Benz GLA 45 AMG and it’s fast. Like, 4.8-seconds-to-sixty-miles-an-hour kind of fast.

So, despite the tiny engine (2.0-liters), the GLA – AKA, the latest of the “Compact-SUVs” – offers 360 hp and 450 Nm of torque. How have they done that? Well, a twin-scroll turbocharger with a maximum charge pressure of 1.8 bar, and an air-to-water intercooler might be partly to blame. AMG engineers have fiddled with a host of other performance elements. Consider the forged pistons with friction-optimised rings, the spray-guided direct petrol injection with piezo injectors, the weight-optimised crank mechanism or its all-aluminum case. Throw in a start/stop system and you get great gas mileage as well. 37.6 and CO2 emissions that will have you worry-free until 2017 at the least.

The overall power coming out gets crunched by a 7-speed AMG Speedshift DCT sports transmission. It has three operational modes, double-declutching and a Race Start function. The modes are “M” and “S” (manual and sport respectively) for lightning-fast shifting, and “C” for controlled-efficiency – a leisure type of mode that by proxy activates the start/stop system, so that’s the one to go with between the traffic lights during busy Mondays. 2015-Mercedes-Benz-GLA-45-AMG-medium-2

Then there’s the sports exhaust system with an automatically controlled exhaust flap which responds accordingly to the engine speed and load condition. There’s a performance version of the same exhaust system available as an option. Either way, the sound is top-notch, so they tell us.

Albeit compact, this is an SUV, so you can’t just not provide a proper AWD drive. Hence, the AMG 4MATIC. Under normal circumstances, all the power goes to the front axle, but if the situation requires it, the drive ratio can be up to 50:50 between the front and back. All that transfer magic happens thanks to an electro-hydraulically controlled multiple-disc (talk about tongue twisters). At the same time stiff steering knuckles and new elastokinematics on the MacPharson front axle keep traction in check. The AMG sports suspension with specially tuned spring/damper units and bigger anti-roll bars provides for high lateral acceleration and reduced body roll in fast double bends. The AMG speed-sensitive sports steering with specific, speed-dependent power assist ensures high steering precision and agility.

Finally, for stopping power you get these beautifully red painted, AMG-inscribed (optional) callipers. Paired with vented, cross-drilled discs, you get quite the combination.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

January 7, 2014

2014 Dodge Dart Blacktop Package

Dodge has presented the 2014 Dart Blacktop Package, which will make its official debut at the 2014 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The manufacturer has already presented Avenger, Challenger and Charger with Blacktop packages and now it is turn to Dart model.

The exterior boasts unique Gloss Black wheels, select exterior paint colors, Gloss Black painted split-crosshair grille with Gloss Black matching grille surround, darkened headlamp bezels.

The interior comes with Black/Ruby Red cloth upholstery with dual Ruby Red accent stripes and Ruby Red accent stitching on the center console, instrument panel and seat bolsters.

The engine is a 2.4 liter MultiAir2 Tigershark petrol – 184HP (137 kW) and 235Nm (174 lb-ft) of torque offered standard on the SXT and Limited models.

The 2014 Dodge Dart SXT Blacktop package is available at a U.S. MSRP of just $295 on the Dart SXT with Rallye Appearance Group.

Source: Dodge

January 7, 2014

2014 Renault Clio Graphite Special Edition – Price €17,100

Renault is now offering a 2014 Clio Graphite Special Edition. It is priced from €17,100 and is available as a hatchback and estate models.

The Graphite Special Edition is based on the Zen trim level. It boasts grey accents, tinted windows and 17” alloy wheels with a grey diamond-effect finish. There is also a gloss black paint on the side moldings, door mirrors and rear skirt.

The interior boasts two-tone fabric seats and grey accents on the steering wheel, gear lever surround and window switches. It also comes with the R-Link infotainment system and a three-month subscription to live services – standard HD Traffic and Coyote applications.

The engine range includes TCe 90, Energy TCe 90, TCe 120 EDC, dCi 75, dCi 90, Energy dCi 90 90g and Energy dCi 90 EDC. The Stop&Start system tops its class in terms of low fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

Five body colours are available: Glacier White, Platine Grey, Cassiopée Grey, Flamme Red and Pearlescent Black.

Source: Renault

January 7, 2014

D2Autosport Releases 2014 D2Edition Jeep Grand Cherokee

After we have seen the 2014 D2Edition Mercedes-Benz CLA250 masterfully tuned by D2Autosport now is time for another project from the specialists. This time they have collaborated with Central Avenue Jeep in order to create the breath-taking 2014 D2Edition Jeep Grand Cherokee.

The basic idea in this project was to transform the vehicle in such way that it is not over done or looses any functionality. The tuners did not change many things throughout the interior – only slight modifications were done. For instance, most of the copper color interior panels were converted to piano black.

Regarding the exterior, at the front D2Autosport converted the chrome found on the grille to piano black. The same happened with the bumper, fog light surrounds and badges. In addition, the specialists have also darkened the headlight amber and chrome parts as well as customized their own mesh grill also done in piano black.

At the rear they have kept the same manner of work by converting the chrome taillights, badges, and bumper trim to piano black. Then, they have darkened the red on the taillights and bumper lights, and created a custom red base Jeep logo.

Looks like D2Autosport does not like the chrome at all, because it was converted to piano black on the sides of the Jeep as well. This includes the chrome on the window trim, badges, and mirrors. At a later time there was also added an exclusive custom D2Edition stripes in matte black and red.

At last, 2014 D2Edition Jeep Grand Cherokee was equipped with a set of 20″ piano black rollers fitted with a 295/45/20 allterain tires.

Source: D2Autosport

January 7, 2014

2015 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Gets Performance Data Recorder [VIDEO]

At the Consumer Electronics Show Chevrolet announced the release of an industry-first Performance Data Recorder for the 2015 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray. The system basically enables users to record and share high-definition video, with professional-level motorsports telemetry overlays, of their driving experiences on and off the track.

Furthermore, the software also allows users to analyze their laps as well as gives them advices on how to improve their driving and lap times. The Performance Data Recorder (PDR) system is brought to life thanks to the professionals at Cosworth.

To go into details, the PDR system includes three major components. The first one is a 720p high-definition camera. The latter is positioned on within the windshield header trim and records the driver’s point-of-view through the windshield, while the sound is recorded via a dedicated microphone in the cabin.

The second component is a self-contained telemetry recorder which uses GPS receiver that operates at 5 hertz and allows more precise positioning and corner traces. The recorder delivers vehicle information such as engine speed and transmission-gear selection, braking force and steering-wheel angle.

At last, the third component is the SD-card slot in the glove box for recording and transferring video and vehicle data. For instance, an 8-gigabyte card can record approximately 200 minutes, while a 32-GB card – up to about 800 minutes.

What is more, the PDR system can record video with several data overlay options: Track Mode, Sport Mode, Touring Mode and Performance Mode. Then the video can be viewed on the Corvette Stingray’s eight-inch color touchscreen.

Finally, “Cosworth Toolbox” software has been specifically developed for those who want a more in-depth understanding of their performance. This software delivers professional-level motorsport data analysis.

In fact, the Cosworth Toolbox application works by overlaying recorded laps on a Bing-enabled satellite map of the track. Then it compares selected laps in terms of corner traces, vehicle speed, and cornering force in order to help drivers improve their driving consistency and ultimately their lap times.

Performance Data Recorder will be available with the start of the production of 2015 Chevrolet Corvette in the third quarter of 2014. Pricing will be announced closer to launch.

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Video Source: YouTube

Source: Chevrolet

January 7, 2014

Kahn Teases Range Rover 600LE-Luxury Edition

Tuning companies such as A.Kahn Design rarely release in the press teaser images of upcoming projects. Instead, they prefer to show what auspicious work the have done on a vehicle. Despite this “tradition”, A.Kahn Design has just sent us a teaser image of the next project they have embarked on. And it is big!

The darkened photo has the purpose to announce that the 2014 Kahn Range Rover LE-Luxury Edition will be making an official debut at the Auto Sport 2014 show on 9th of January. What was also revealed is that this Range Rover was designed for those who desire style and performance, and has unique silhouette.

Furthermore, it is said that the 600LE model is adorned with front and rear bumper replacements which are impressive yet restrained in their styling. Also new additions are side sills, rear spoiler, Kahn exhausts and front grille.

We have also been “warned” to look out for an additional model entitled RS600 edition in the coming weeks ahead. Stay tuned!

Source: A. Kahn Design

January 7, 2014

2014 Brings A Redesigned Nissan NV200 London Taxi

2014-Nissan-EV200-London-Taxi-shadow Well then, this NV200 is Nissan‘s take on the London cab concept, and does it look scary or what? Shouldn’t act so surprised really, since this is not the first time Nissan has tried to pass a van for a London taxi. In fact, they’ve been doing it around the world. Must be a response to the global obesity crisis. It’s the looks that really have the most shock value.

Obviously, there’s a London cab (Hackney Carriage) tribute lingering in there, but it just sends shivers down our spines and not in a good way. It’s creepy – round headlights and a smiley new grill. As close as something inanimate comes human likeness, the more anxiety it causes in people. Not our words, look it up. It’s called the “uncanny valley” hypothesis. Science!

What’s more fascinating is that it’s also a bland, soulless NV200. The plan is to put it on the streets at the end of this year with a 1.6-liter petrol engine in it, which is supposed to be “far cleaner, with lower levels of NOx and particulates” when compared to the current diesel London Hackneys. Official, though not final, estimations point to 10mg/km of NOx emissions and 1.0mg/km of particles. Again, not surprising for a petrol. It’s won’t be particularly punchy as well, with 115 hp under the bonnet and a tiny bit more than that in lb-ft torque. Alternatively there will be an all-electric version called the e-NV200. It will arrive in the UK at some point in 2015 – silent and creepy.

Source: Nissan

January 6, 2014

2014 Citroen DS3 Pink Special Editions

Citroen has announced a new range of DS3 Special Editions for the start of 2014. DS3 Pink is a fun, fresh and fuchsia take on Citroen’s award-winning supermini. Exclusive to the UK, the eye-catching models are on sale from January 2014, with prices starting from just £15,675.

The exterior boasts a fuchsia pink roof, door mirrors and wheel centre caps. The striking pink theme continues inside the cabin, with a fuchsia dashboard and a colour coded gear lever knob adding a splash of colour to the interior.

DS3 Pink versions are available with Polar White or Perla Nera Black body colours and feature additional specification above and beyond the existing DStyle and DSport equipment levels. There are four engines to choose from across the two trim levels.

The DS3 DStyle Pink packs 16” Ashera Black or White alloy wheels – to match the chosen body colour – as well as a HiFi System upgrade with additional speakers on top of the usual DStyle specification. Meanwhile, the range-topping DSport Pink boasts 17” Bellone Black or White alloys, plus the addition of a ‘City Signature’ pack, which includes automatic headlights and wipers, rear parking sensors, heated and electric folding door mirrors and a front central armrest.

The engine range includes a VTi 120 petrol or an e-HDi 90 Airdream diesel that produces just 95g/km of CO₂. DS3 DSport Pink is powered either by a THP 155 petrol or an impressively efficient e-HDi 115 Airdream diesel engine – both coupled with a 6-speed manual gearbox.

DS3 PINK VERSION	ECONOMY (COMBINED)	CO₂ EMISSIONS	MRR OTR PRICE
VTi 120 manual DStyle Pink	49.6mpg	132g/km	£15,675
e-HDi 90 Airdream manual DStyle Pink	78.5mpg	95g/km	£15,870

THP 155 6-speed manual DSport Pink	48.7mpg	135g/km	£17,800
e-HDi 115 Airdream 6-speed manual DSport Pink	74.4mpg	99g/km	£18,075

The only cost option available for DS3 Pink models is Perla Nera Black paint at £495.

Source: Citroen

January 6, 2014

Vorsteiner Lamborghini Aventador-V LP-740 With Exclusive New Photoshoot

Today’s project from Vorsteiner is something the tuners have shown us in Novwember last year, so it is not unfamiliar. We are speaking here about the Vorsteiner Lamborghini Aventador-V LP-740. However, what is new around it is that was the main star in a new photoshoot.

This Lamborghini, being in the hands of the successful tuners, has undergone some modifications and has received company’s Nero treatment. It has been equipped with the following: Active Aero Wing, Front Splitters, Rear Diffuser, Side Sill Extension Blades and Livery Kit.

To go further into details, the active aero rear wing works harmoniously with the factory active aero dynamics. It comprises of two-piece ultra rigid carbon fiber elements. Wing’s uprights are formed with a right angle kink and retract fully under the deck lid body panel. As an option Vorsteiner offers clear lacquer coating of the carbon fiber as well as a primered finish carbon fiber base deck lid.

Next, the left and front splitters are designed to work together and channel downforce under the bumper. They extend to intricate vertical floating fins along the side of the front bumper. An optional lower race lip spoiler attaches to splitters for additional support. In addition it also contributes for car’s more aggressive appearance, because it protrudes 5mm further forward. As another option, the tuning company also offers Carbon Fiber Aero Front Center Splitter, Carbon Fiber Grill Frames Front and Rear (4 PCS), Carbon Fiber Side Air Vent Trim (2 PCS) and Carbon Fiber Front Hood Trim (2 PCS).

Vorsteiner’s rear diffuser is made of carbon fiber and flawlessly fits with no loss of aerodynamic downforce or airflow. On the other hand, the side sill extension blades include vertical floating fin. This extension sits on the front wheels and controls airflow.

Aventador-V graphic livery kit comprises of center stripe for the hood, which include Vorsteiner’s emblematic “V” logo across the center. It is interesting here that it integrates the Lamborghini badge on edge. The graphic kit also includes adhesive stripes for the hood, engine bonnet and the roof. At last, the supersports car sits on Vorsteiner’s Forged monoblock wheels in sizes 20×9 at the front and 21×13 at the rear.

Source: Vorsteiner

January 6, 2014

Rolls-Royce Ghost V-Spec – Price €330,820

Rolls-Royce has unveiled Ghost V-Spec which boasts a number of upgrades, including additional power.

2014 Rolls-Royce Ghost V-Spec comes with a set of 21” alloy wheels taken from the Wraith model. There is also a Sapphire Black exterior paint scheme, along with V-Specification rear armrest with black embroidery, black stitching, a different clock, treadplates and unique piping.

The power is coming from a 6.6 liter twin-turbocharged V12 – 601HP (442 kW), which is a power increase of 31HP.

The special model will be exhibited at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show in March.

Source:home.mobile.de

January 6, 2014

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