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  • Ferrari 458 Speciale To Make Official Debut In Frankfurt

    Ferrari-458-Speciale-THUMBFerrari 458 Speciale is the latest project of the famous Italian brand, which of course will deliver excellent innovations in terms of technology, power and aerodynamics. The sports car concept includes many applied sophisticated solutions including its advanced active aerodynamics.

    In addition, Ferrari has now built its most powerful naturally aspirated V8 engine ever. It has an specific power output of 135 cv/l. The Speciale is capable of generating 596 horsepower (438 kW) and 540 Nm (398 lb-ft) of torque. Due to the exceptional weight/power ratio of just 2.13 kg/cv, this model can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in a mere 3.0 seconds, while the acceleration time for the 0-200 km/h sprint is 9.1 seconds.

    Furthermore, this model is more performance-oriented than one can expect. The reasons for this are the front and rear movable aerodynamics. They serve in terms to balance downforce and cut drag. The result is that the Ferrari 458 Speciale is the most aerodynamically efficient range production car in brand’s history.

    The vehicle is also equipped with technology which delivers more control at high speeds. Adding to this, the natural power oversteer management and precise response to commands, further benefit the car.

    What is more, one of the most innovative features is the Side Slip angle Control system (SSC). The latter makes it easier to achieve car control and enhances the driving emotions. In fact, SSC performs instant-to-instant analysis of the car’s side slip. First it compares it with the target value and then maximizes both torque management and torque distribution between the two wheels.

    Another highlight is that the model is fitted with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup2 tyres which acted perfectly in the numerous track test and simulator sessions. They not only improve performance, but also allow the car to avail of maximum available grip in the wet.

    Ferrari 458 Speciale will make its first world appearance at Frankfurt Motor Show in September

    Source: Ferrari

  • 2014 Volkswagen Golf VII R – 300HP and 380Nm

    Volkswagen has announced the 2014 Golf VII R, which will make its official debut at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. The hot hatchback comes with a lot of additional equipment and powerful engine.

    The range-topping Golf VII is powered by a 2.0 liter turbocharged petrol engine with 300HP (221 kW) at 5,500RPM and 380Nm (280 lb-ft) at 1,800RPM, which is an increase of 30HP and 30Nm compared to its predecessor.

    The result is thanks to a new engine head, exhaust valves, valve seats and springs, bigger turbocharger, high-pressure injection valves and pistons. The power is put on the road through a 6-speed manual gearbox and AWD 4Motion system with fifth-gen Haldex coupling.

    0-100 km/h in 5.1 seconds (4.9 seconds with optional 6-speed DSG) and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). The fuel consumption is 7.1 liters / 100 km (33.1 mpg US) with CO2 emissions of 165 g/km for manual and 6.9 liters / 100 km (34 mpg US) with CO2 emissions of 159 g/km.

    2014 Volkswagen Golf VII R comes with lowered suspension, 18” alloy wheels (19” available as an option), MacPherson front suspension and an improved multi-link rear arrangement to provide better handling and stability.

    The exterior boasts an aggressive body kit including new front and rear bumpers, modified side skirts, a new rear diffuser, smoked LED taillights and a chromed quad exhaust system. There are also standard bi-xenon headlights and new DRLs.

    The interior comes with and Alcantara with carbon-like leather, a new speedometer (320 km/h) and an infotainment system with 5”, 5.8” or 8” display.

    2014 Volkswagen Golf VII R is priced from €38,325.

    • Automatic gearbox:
    – 6-speed DSG
    • Cargo capacity:
    – 343 litres to 1,233 litres
    • Character:
    – Flagship with racing DNA
    • Colours:
    – “Tornado Red”, “Pure White”, “Lapis Blue Metallic”,
    “Reflex Silver Metallic”, “Limestone Grey Metallic”,
    “Night Blue Metallic”, “Deep Black Pearl Effect” and
    “Oryx White Mother of Pearl Effect”
    • Drive system:
    – All-wheel drive
    • Driver assistance and performance systems:
    – Electronic Stability Control (ESC) including ABS,
    brake assist, traction control, XDS+ electronic
    differential lock, four-wheel EDS, engine –
    drag torque control, countersteering assist (standard)
    – ESC Sport (ESC mode, e.g. for race courses)
    – Driver Alert System (standard)
    – Automatic post-collision braking system (standard)
    – Progressive steering (standard)
    – ParkPilot (standard)
    – Tyre pressure monitoring indicator (standard)
    – DCC dynamic chassis control
    – ACC plus adaptive cruise control
    Front Assist surroundings monitoring system with
    City Emergency Braking
    – Dynamic Light Assist dynamic main beam control
    – Driving profile selector including Race mode
    – Light Assist main beam control
    – Cruise control system
    – PreCrash occupant protective system
    – Rear Assist
    – Lane Assist lane-keeping assistant
    – Road sign recognition
    • Engines – petrol:
    2.0 TSI with output of 221 kW / 300 PS
    • Equipment line:
    – R
    – Standard radio: “Composition Touch” (5-inch screen)
    – “Composition Colour” radio (5-inch screen)
    – “Composition Media” radio (5.8-inch screen)
    – “Composition Media” radio with navigation function
    “Discover Media” (5.8-inch screen)
    – “Discover Pro” radio-navigation system (8-inch screen)
    – Dynaudio sound system
    – Car Net (Online services)
    • Market launch, Europe:
    – Fourth quarter of 2013
    • Prices (Germany):
    – Golf R – from 38,325 euros
    • Production location:
    Wolfsburg plant
    • Running gear:
    – Front: MacPherson strut suspension
    – Rear: modular performance suspension
    – Progressive steering
    • Standard gearbox:
    6-speed manual gearbox
    • Wheels:
    – Standard wheels: 18-inch “Cadiz” alloy wheels
    – Optional wheels: 19-inch “Cadiz” alloy wheels and
    “Pretoria”

    Source: Volkswagen

  • German Special Customs 2013 Mercedes-Benz ML Widebody Kit

    German Special Customs has announced their latest project based on the 2013 Mercedes-Benz ML-Class. The big SUV comes with a complete widebody kit and some other interesting styling upgrades.

    The exterior boasts a massive front spoiler lip with narrow ventilation openings for supplying the front brake system with fresh air. Specially manufactured mud guard extensions for the front and rear axles ensure a clearly massive and intimidating appearance. GSC developed a completely new bumper bar including diffuser for the rear side as well as integrated end-pipe covers made of the company’s own stainless steel sports exhaust system. The optical modification of ML’s body shell is rounded up by a set of carbon covers for the external mirrors.

    The stance is improved thanks to an air suspension lowering module and a set of 10J x 22” light alloy wheels fitted with 295/30 R22 tires.

    The interior received offers a complete set of ornamental parts made of carbon fibre as well as tailor-made leather/Alcantara solutions for the seats and an upgrade of the speed indicator scaling to 350 km/h.

    Source: GSC

  • Senner Tuning Nissan Juke Nismo

    Senner Tuning has introduced their version of Nissan Juke Nismo. The crossover comes with styling and performance upgrades. The name of the project is Juke Sport Box.

    The exterior boasts a set of Barracuda Tzunamee rims – 9J x 20” fiited with 255/30 R20 Vredestein Ultrac Sessanta tyres. There are also 35 mm lowering springs, candy red carbon fiber mirror caps and Philips Silver Vision Chromium lights and a PDC (park distance control system).

    The 1.6 liter turbocharged petrol is boosted to 225HP (165 kW) and 275Nm (202 lb-ft) –an increase of 25HP and 25Nm. The result is thanks to a high-flow air filter, an optimized ECU and a stainless steel sports exhaust system.

    The price of the new vehicle including extra equipment and tuning is €37,650.

    Source: Senner

  • B&B Audi SQ5 TDI – 400HP and 800Nm

    B&B Automobiltechnik has introduced their latest project based on the powerful Audi SQ5 TDI. The tuning company described the vehicle as a “steam hammer”.

    The exterior boasts an aerodynamic body kit including new front bumper, extended wheel arches to fit the enormous wheels and a revised rear fascia. Other highlights include a sports exhaust system, sport springs reducing the ride height by 30mm and a set of B10 22” wheels fitted with 265/30 R22 Michelin tyres.

    There are three performance packages for the twin-turbocharged 3.0 liter V6 TDI.

    The 1K Comfort package boosts the engine to 340HP (250 kW) and 720Nm (531 lb-ft) of torque – an increase of 27HP and 70Nm. The result is thanks to an ECU re-map.

    The 1K Sport package Level 1 boasts 365HP (268 kW) and 750Nm (553 lb-ft). The engine characteristic

    maps were optimized in this case, the charging air pressure slightly boosted and the electronics adapted.

    The The 1K Sport package Level 2 has 400HP (294 kW) and 800Nm (590 lb-ft) of torque, which is an increase of 87HP and 150Nm. 0-100 km/h in 4.5 seconds and a top speed of 275 km/h (170 mph). Not bad for a crossover

    Source: B&B

  • Lexus Teases New Concept Vehicle Ahead Of Frankfurt Premiere

    lexus-concept-THUMBLexus has just announced that it is going to stage the world premiere of a new concept vehicle at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. Next to this announcement, the brand also published the first teaser image of the forthcoming car.

    The picture focuses on part of the front of the concept, revealing how its headlights will look like. The details around the vehicle are scarce so far and we will probably have to wait until September, when more will be unveiled.

    Furthermore, next to the new concept there will be displayed full hybrid GS 300h saloon, which will be presented for the first time in Europe. This car will be introduced in the markets by the end of the year.

    In fact, Lexus GS 300h offers low emissions and high fuel efficiency with refined and comfortable performance. It has a rear-wheel drive and is equipped with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder Atkinson cycle petrol engine. The unit develops 223 hp (164kW).

    Source: Lexus

  • Mazda3 Sedan With Public Premiere In Frankfurt

    Mazda3-Sedan-THUMBMazda3 Sedan will be the main highlight on Mazda’s stand at Frankfurt Motor Show. The new model is equipped with generous standard features and it also includes brand’s new connectivity technologies, which aim to bring about an array of free mobile online content into the vehicle.

    In addition, the new Mazda3 will be equipped with SKYACTIV technology and of course will be built according to brand’s award-winning KODO design language. The effect of the latter is a bold and powerful exterior as well as aerodynamic design.

    The interior of this Mazda model offers safety and ergonomic comfort. In addition, it also includes optimized Human-Machine Interface (HMI) which features Active Driving Display, Mazda’s new head-up display and a new design of rotary commander.

    The vehicle also has enlarged wheelbase estimated at 2,700mm which is the longest in the C-segment. The model line-up will include two bodystyles – hatchback and fastback. What is more, both bodystyles are 40mm wider and 15mm lower than the current model.

    Furthermore, the new model is lighter with kerb weights starting from 1,190 kg. This of course contributes towards impressive fuel economy and emissions figures. The model will be offered with a choice of three naturally-aspirated petrol engines and one turbocharged diesel. They all will be equipped with i-stop, Mazda’s idle-stop system, as standard.

    To be more precise, the 100 hp (74 kW) SKYACTIV-G 1.5-litre petrol engine delivers up to 55.4 mpg (combined cycle) and emits only 119 g/km of CO2. The SKYACTIV-G 2.0-litre will be available in standard (120 hp/88 kW) and high power (165 hp/121 kW) versions. The fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions are 55.4 mpg and 119g/km respectively.

    At last, the 150 hp (110 kW) SKYACTIV-D 2.2-litre clean diesel unit will provide excellent fuel economy and responsive dynamics, while at the same time significantly reducing nitrogen oxide (NOX) and soot emissions. In addition, it is also capable of generating 380 Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque at 1,800rpm, and has a fuel economy and CO2 emissions up to 72.4 mpg and 104 g/km.

    Source: Mazda

  • Dodge Unveils Ram 1500 Rumble Bee Concept

    Dodge-Ram-1500-Rumble-Bee-Concept-THUMBRam Truck Brand introduced for the first time the Rumble Bee ten years ago. The model was inspired by the Super Bee muscle car which was famous back in 1960. Now, Dodge is unveiling the new HEMI-powered Ram 1500 Rumble Bee Concept with the aim to celebrate the 10-year anniversary and the heritage of Ram’s unique truck designs.

    Rumble Bee concept is based on the 2013 Ram 1500 R/T. It is lightweight, two-door machiene with 2WD configuration. Its exterior color is “Drone Yellow” and this time is in unique matte finish.

    This color flows over the entire truck including the bumpers, flares and the Mopar ground effects kit. Gloss black stripe can be seen on both sides of the truck and it fades into honeycomb. The stripe glides front to rear, around the top of the bed and over the Mopar tonneau cover.

    The vehicle runs on 24-inch, Vellano VRH custom wheels, while the 2-inch drop which is delivered by King Suspension improves the handing performance and appearance with the help of a reservoir shock at each wheel. The grille, hood vents, badging, fuel door and the dual exhaust tailpipes are coated in gloss black.

    The same design theme continues throughout the interior. It includes black and Drone Yellow leather sport mesh seats with two-tone yellow/light-grey stitching. There is also visible “Rumble Bee” lettering and Ram logos on the chairs, floor mats and door bolsters.

    The highlight in the interior is the center-piece which is an actual amber-encased bee mounted into the 8-speed rotary shifter knob. When it lights up it exposes a honeycomb pattern background. Two buttons below the knob manage the Mopar cat-back dual-exhaust system.

    Under the hood of this concept is the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine. It is capable of generating 395 horsepower (290 kW) and 551 Nm (407 lb.-ft.) of torque. The unit is coupled with a TorqueFlite 8-speed automatic transmission. In addition, the HEMI enigne is fitted with a custom gloss yellow and black engine cover with honeycomb graphic pattern.

    Source: Dodge

  • Toyota Yaris Hybrid-R Concept Finally Revealed

    The first image of the new Toyota Yaris Hybrid-R Concept has been revealed. The vehicle will make its debut at this year’s Frankfurt Motor Show, where the Japanese brand will display the possible future hybrid development ideas it has in mind. They aim to deliver greater performance and driver rewards.

    With this model, Toyota has the goal of bringing together its past achievements and future plans for hybrid technology. The concept is based on the three-door Yaris and is equipped with 1.6-litre GRE (Global Race Engine), combined with two electric motors, which in addition give the car intelligent all-wheel drive capability.

    Furthermore, as earlier announced, the Hybrid-R will utilize the technology featured in Toyota’s TS030 Hybrid race car. Thanks to it, the energy which is recovered under braking is stored in a super capacitor. The effect is optimum driving pleasure.

    The brand will also showcase at the event its Fuel Cell Hybrid Vehicle (FCHV) technology ahead of its launch in 2015. The goal is to achieve maximum energy and minimum emissions due to the use of hydrogen as an ultra-clean energy source.

    In addition, at the show, Toyota will celebrate 16 years of hybrid technology. Back in 1997 the brand introduced to the automotive market the first Prius. Since then, there has been more than 5.5 million hybrids sold. What is more, by the end of 2015 Toyota will also introduce 16 new or revised hybrid models.

    Source: Toyota

  • Laraki Motors Epitome Concept – Price $2,000,000

    Laraki Motors has unveiled their sensational Epitome Concept Hyper Car at 2013 Pebble Beach. The spectacular vehicle is actually going to enter in limited production of just 9 units.It is built around the chassis of a Chevrolet Corvette C6. The Epitome features a carbon fiber body panels, so the curb weight is just 1,270 kg (2,800 lbs). The engine is a Chevrolet V8 7.0 liter boosted to whopping 1,200HP (894 kW) with two turbochargers. The power is achieved on regular pump gas, while there is another tank, which can accommodate 110-octane fuel and by pressing a button the car will automatically remap the ECU and will be able to run on both types of fuel. In this case, the output rises to 1,750HP (1,305 kW)The pricing for that monster is $2,000,000.

  • 2014 Mercedes-Benz S 63 AMG – Price £119,565

    Mercedes-Benz UK has announced the pricing of the all-new super powerful S 63 AMG. The performance saloon is coming in the UK in November priced from £119,565 OTR. Considering the amount of power, the luxury and all extras, the price is not very high. The most powerful high-performance saloon in the luxury segment aims to set new standards in driving dynamics, performance, refinement and technology.

    The engine is a hand built 5.5 liter V8 bi-turbo with 585HP (430) at 5,500 RPM and 900Nm (667) at 2,2500 RPM. 0-100 km/h in 4.4 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). The 4Matic Long Wheelbase accelerates to 100 km/h in 4.0 seconds, which means that the almost two-ton luxurious saloon is as fast as Porsche 997 GT3 RS. The S 63 AMG returns 27 mpg on the combined cycle and emissions of 237 g/km.

    The standard equipment includes a set of 19” AMG 10-spoke alloy wheels, high-performance Composite Brakes fitted as standard along with unique AMG sports suspension based on the all new Magic Body Control. Backing up the performance is the AMG sports exhaust system, providing a suitably thunderous soundtrack. AMG body styling including all-new front and rear bumpers, aiding cooling and adding greater visual drama are joined by AMG specific side sill panels with silver chrome inserts.

    The impressive line-up of standard equipment which includes the Driving Assistance Package, Front Seat Comfort Package, Panoramic sunroof, Keyless Go Package, the mighty Burmester Surround Sound System with Six-Disc changer, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System and Ambient Lighting is all over and above the standard equipment offered on the outgoing model representing more than £8,400 of added value for the customer.

    The S 63 AMG is available in the long wheelbase version of the S-Class offering passengers the ultimate in luxury and legroom.  An AMG sports steering wheel and superbly supportive AMG sports seats, which are electronically adjustable and heated, are fitted as standard.  The front centre armrest has the AMG emblem embossed on it while an AMG-specific IWC-design analogue clock features on the dash.  The rear features AMG heated sports seats as well as an AMG start-up screen/instrument cluster.

    The Drivers Package (£2,760) derestricts the top speed to 300 km/h (186 mph) and secures the customer a place on an AMG ‘Power and Passion’ event so they can learn how to handle their car on the racetrack.  Carbon Fibre can also further enhance the look of the car with the addition of the AMG Exterior Carbon Package (£5,000) while the AMG high-performance ceramic composite brake system can be added for £7,090.

    Source: Mercedes-Benz

  • Fiat Partners With Conde Nast For Fiat 500c GQ Edition

    Fiat-500c-GQ-Edition-THUMBIn February this year Fiat revealed its new limited edition model called Fiat 500c GQ Edition. Now, several months later, the Italian brand is introducing the convertible version of the model. On fact, the vehicle came to reality due to the partnership between Fiat and Condé Nast.

    Both brands delivered via this model innovative and strategic custom solutions designed to engage the customers. The 500c GQ Edition is athletic yet stylish enough. The car embodies world-class performance and Italian design.

    The exterior of the car has a more pronounced front fascia with larger air intakes. They serve in terms of optimizing the airflow to the 1.4-liter MultiAir® Turbo engine. In addition, performance-styled side sills deliver Cinquecento’s iconic silhouette and sporty appearance.

    This Fiat runs on 16-inch split five-spoke aluminum wheels with a featured sculptural design. They are finished in Hyper Nero (black) with a Rosso (red) center cap and accenting inner backbone.

    Moreover, the downforce needed for the dynamic handling is delivered by a cloth-top mounted spoiler which extends the roofline. Below, the rear-fascia diffuser integrates the dual exhaust system. What is more, there are also to be mentioned the Gloss Nero headlamp, taillamp and parking lamp bezels as well as the distinctive “GQ 500” badge located on the B-pillar.

    The interior of the Fiat 500c GQ Edition features performance appointments, premium materials and unique color treatments. What is immediately visible is the thick-rim three-spoke steering wheel which is wrapped in Nero leather and includes a contrasting Steam inner leather ring.

    Furthermore, a large concentric instrument cluster with 160-mph speedometer, tachometer and trip computer is visible behind the steering wheel. It includes also a Nero leather-wrapped cluster brow finished with Tungsten accent stitching.

    At the center one can find Nero shift knob sewn together with Tungsten accent thread. GQ Edition-specific satin chrome interior accents deliver more sophistication. Next, the seats are sporty and include special design. Nero leather is wrapped to the contoured seat bolsters, while Alcantara inserts and a Steam leatherette center stripe on the seat cushion deliver added texture and contrast.

    More importantly, the new Fiat 500c GQ Edition is powered by the 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo engine. It develops 160 horsepower (118 kW) and up to 230 Nm (170 lb.-ft.). The acceleration time of the model for the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h is estimated below 7 seconds. The unit is coupled to a performance five-speed manual transmission.

    Fiat 500c GQ Edition will be offered in Nero Puro (straight black), Argento (silver), Granito Lucente (granite crystal) and Bianco (white) exterior colors. The model will be available in dealerships in the beginning of 2014.

    Source: Fiat