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AMS Alpha Omega Nissan GT-R – 1/4 mile in 7.98 seconds with 299 km/h

AMS Performance did it again! The tuning company proved that they are the best in tuning probably the most successful drag race car in the world – Nissan GT-R.

Their Alpha Omega Nissan GT-R managed to run ¼ mile in 7.984 seconds with a terminal speed of 299 km/h (186 mph). So the tuning company is home of the first 9, 8 and 7 second R35 GT-R.

The record came two days after Omega reclaimed the ET and trap speed records (8.25 seconds with 185 mph) and was accomplished on the first and only pass Omega made that day. The team came back at the track, because they were sure that the mighty Omega GT-R can beat that time and it did.

There are a lot drag racing cars in 7 seconds, but the spectacular here is that the OMEGA is a full street legal car with power of around 1700 and 1800WHP.

The speedometer is not able to keep up with the rate of acceleration, that’s why the digital one gets only to 178 mph.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3sADIPd5vPc

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3W9-7VlRASg

Source: AMSTuned

July 19, 2013
2014 BMW 4-Series – ///M Performance Upgrades

BMW has announced awesome ///M performance upgrades for 4-Series Coupe. The car on the pictures is very similar to the upcoming M4 Coupe.The exterior boasts an aggressive body kit including new front bumper with a carbon fiber splitter and larger air ducts, a pair of extended side skirts and a new rear bumper with integrated diffuser. Other highlights include xenon/LED headlamps, 20” alloy wheels and several blackened chrome trims for the window surrounds, tail pipes and grille.There are also carbon fiber exterior mirror housings, a boot deck spoiler made from the same lightweight material and some goodies for the interior. It boasts a redesigned three-spoke steering wheel and sport seats, stainless steel pedals and footrest, M Performance floor mats and carbon fiber trim for the hand brake and gearshift levers.The 4-Series Coupe equipped with ///M Performance package will come with additional 16HP and 39Nm for the 420d model. The 428i will have 269HP (200 kW) and 389Nm (287 lb-ft) – an increase of 27HP and 39Nm. The mighty 435i will be boosted by 34HP and 50Nm of torque – totally 336HP (250 kW) and 450Nm (332 lb-ft). All these power upgrades are done thanks to a new exhaust systems and software re-map.Finally, BMW will offer a limited-slip differential which will be a clutch-type unit featuring a 30 % lock-up.

July 19, 2013
2014 Honda Fit Hybrid – 2.7 liters / 100

Honda has announced that the 2014 Fit/Jazz Hybrid is going to achieve a fuel economy of 2.7 liters / 100 km (102.8 mpg UK or 85.6 mpg US). The all-new Fit Hybrid is scheduled to be introduced and go on sale in Japan this September.

The all-new Fit Hybrid will be the first model to be equipped with the SPORT HYBRID*3 Intelligent Dual Clutch Drive (i-DCD), Honda’s lightweight and compact one-motor hybrid system suited for small-sized vehicles. Although this is a one motor hybrid system, this system realized the EV drive by disengaging the engine and motor. The SPORT HYBRID i-DCD is one of the Earth Dreams Technology, Honda’s new-generation powertrain technologies which realize both the fun of driving and excellent fuel economy at a high level.

It offers three driving modes: EV, Hybrid and Engine, meaning it can run as a zero-emission electric car, as a hybrid or as a conventionally-powered vehicle.

Featuring the highest fuel economy among all hybrid models in Japan, acceleration g-force more powerful than conventional models and rhythmic and linear acceleration feel, the SPORT HYBRID i-DCD realizes fun driving.

Source: Honda

July 19, 2013
Audi SQ5 TDI at Silverstone Race Track [video]

Audi has published a video with a test drive of the SQ5 TDI at Silverstone race track. Behind the steering wheel is Allan McNish (three-time winner of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, most recently in 2013, and three-time American Le Mans Series champion).

“We’ve been racing diesels now, and high-performance diesels, for such a long time, we’ve got fantastic power, torque and also economy.”, commented Mr. McNish.

The SQ5 TDI is powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0 liter V6 diesel with 313HP (230 kW) and 650Nm (479 lb-ft) of torque. The engine is connected to an 8-speed tiptronic transmission and a quattro all-wheel drive system. 0-100 km/h in 5.1 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph).

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rw8y0IQIxG8

Source: Audi

July 19, 2013
Exclusive: Honda Teases Brand New MPV

Exclusively Honda has just released a sketch which teases the brand-new Honda MPV. The official global premiere of the vehicle is to happen at the upcoming 21st Indonesia International Motor Show. The event will take place between 19th and 29th of September in Jakarta, Indonesia.

The new Honda MPV was created specifically for the Asian market. In addition this model will be the first brand’s product in Indonesia which is to be featured in the entry level MPV segment.

What has been revealed so far is that the new MPV is going to be based on brand’s model Brio and is to offer seven seats in a 3-row configuration. Of course, as it is visible from the sketch, the model will also feature an innovative design. Being a MPV it is to offer a spacious cabin, and Honda’s popular advanced safety.

More importantly, the Honda MPV will be powered by a 1.5L gasoline engine, which will provide not only great levels of fuel efficiency but also sporty performance.

This model will also be locally produced in Indonesia as the first product of the new Second Plant in Karawang which will start working in the beginning of 2014. Honda India probably will also show the MPV at the 2014 Auto Expo in February.

Source: Honda

July 19, 2013
Range Rover Sport RS300 Cosworth By Kahn Design

Kahn Range Rover Sport RS300 Cosworth comes to show exceptional quality and exquisite high-tech engineering next to a great level of glamour and luxury. This unique Range Rover is painted in the stunning Imperial blue color thus contributing to even more powerful stance of the vehicle.

The outstanding design language of A. Kahn Design is fully expressed in this project. The Range Rover Sport 3.0 SDV6 RS300 Cosworth imposes elegant curves and firm body elements as well as dynamic proportions.

In order to implement the lightweight design philosophy, the tuners have equipped the vehicle with a six piece wide arch body styling package. The latter comprises of a RS front grille with 3D mesh, extended front lower lip spoiler, lower bumper bar section in body colour, pair of bullet side vent inserts, front wheel arch LED light strips, lower front bumper lip extension.

In addition, the package also includes the Kahn branding visible on the bonnet and tailgate. This Range Rover Sport runs on RS black and blue stripe alloy wheels which are in sizes 9.5 x 22 and 10 x 22 at the front and rear respectively. Furthermore, what makes the car even more exclusive in terms of appearance are the Kahn enamel wing shields, painted floating roof and the privacy tinted glass.

Thanks to Cosworth, the engine of this emblematic model is enhanced via an engine upgrade. It consists of an arrangement of alterations to the ECU programming, ensuring a boost in power from 245 hp (180 kW) to 290 hp (213 kW). Of course, this results in a more intense driving experience and far greater performance of the car.

Inside the car has been also transformed in order to keep up with the astonishing new exterior look. Various comprehensive improvements to the interior have been made. For instance the front and rear seats with armrests were wrapped in quilted and perforated black leather. There are also present vented foot pedals in machined aluminum, leather binnacle (instrument surround) quilted, diamond quilted centre glove box and a colored rev counter and time clock.

Source: A. Kahn Design

July 19, 2013
Ford F-150 Crimefighter Bat Truck Customized By Galpin Auto Sports

Since Comic-Con has just started we have already seen some unique vehicles made for this event. An example from yesterday is the Kia Sorento Justice League Car. Now it is time for more aggressive vehicle to take our attention – the Ford F-150 Crime Fighter Bat Truck.

This magnificently tuned Ford pays tribute to the original Batmobile. The reason for its existence is the work of the specialists at Galpin Auto Sports, who have built it after the design of Jared Barris.

As a matter of fact, Jared is a grandson of George Barris, who designed and built the iconic first Batmobile back in 1965. George used parts found at a hardware store and the body of a Ford Futura Concept Car.

The result was stunning and made Barris a legend among custom car designers. The original Batmobile was auctioned in January this year for the amount of $4.2 million.

Now Jared Barris is debuting his own version of the Batmobile which is built on the emblematic Ford F-150 and pays tribute to his grandfather’s Batmobile. He envisioned the new version of the superhero’s vehicle as a Bat Truck and has given it the name “The Crimefighter”.

The Ford was customized by Galpin Auto Sports with a tuxedo black paint job and Ferrari red accents, thanks to which the resemblance with the original Batmobile is stunning. In addition, the bed of the Crimefighter has even been adorned with fins. The vehicle is powered by a Ford 5.0-liter V8 engine.

Source: Galpin Auto Sports

July 19, 2013
Soy Body Sealer Featured In The 2014 Jeep Cherokee

It has been announced that the 2014 Jeep Cherokee will include a revolutionary body sealer. The latter will deliver a tranquil driving experience and at the same will contribute towards enhanced weight-reduction, cost-savings and sustainability.

To be more specific, special applicators inject unique acoustic foam into strategic locations of the Jeep’s body structure. The injected foam blocks additional and unwanted noise which gets inside the cabin.

Additionally, because of the density of the foam it is much lighter than the traditionally utilized acoustic material. The result is weight savings of up to 1.5 lbs. per vehicle, which also effects in an enhanced fuel economy and better handling.

Another good benefit of the newly use material is that it also minimizes the impact on the environment. It was developed with and supplied by Dow Automotive Systems, BETAFOAM™ Renue. In fact, the foam comprises of a soy-based product instead of the usually used petroleum.

Again, because of the lower density of the material, the vehicle requires less of it, and this eventually results in achievement of the desired performance and to reduced cost. Furthermore, the new foam bolsters 10 locations of the Cherokee’s body structure.

They feature the A- and B-pillars and rear wheelwells. Due to its lower viscosity, it also is easier for the engineers to operate with and affords greater logistical flexibility for the plant.

Source: Jeep

July 19, 2013
2013 Nissan GT-R vs 2013 Audi RS6 Avant [video]

Here is another interesting test that proves Nissan GT-R R35 is the best car on the market. It is going against the powerful Audi RS6 Avant.

The GT-R is powered by a VR38DETT engine – – a 3.8 liter twin-turbocharged V6 with 550HP (400 kW) at 6400 RPM and 632Nm (466 lb-ft) of torque at 3200RPM. 0-100 km/h in 2.7 seconds and a top speed of 315 km/h (196 mph). The curb weight is 1740kg. It has power-to-weight ratio of 311HP per ton.

The RS6 has a 4.0 liter twin-turbocharged V8 with 560HP (412 kW) and 630Nm (465 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 304 km/h (189 mph). The curb weight is 2010kg. It has power-to-weight ratio of 275HP per ton.

Both cars cost roughly the same, but as you may suggest the GT-R is way more faster, while the RS 6 is way more comfortable.

Which is better? Check out in the video!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kuTZSekmu3w

Source: Autocar

July 18, 2013
2014 Mazda3 Coupe [render]

Immediately after the revealing of the all-new 2014 Mazda3 Sedan, Theophiluschin started to work on a coupe version implementing the firm’s KODO design language. Obviously, he did very good and the render pictures look just amazing.

Still, there are no rumors for planning such a model from Mazda, but it will be a good rival to Honda Civic Coupe, Hyundai Elantra Coupe and Kia Forte Koup. All manufacturers expand their model range to be highly competitive on the market, so this is a very good idea, which Mazda should have in mind.

Both, the Sedan and the Hatchback look very good, but the Coupe outmatches them easily with its aggressive design and sleek appearance.

July 18, 2013

2013 Ford Transit Connect – 4.0 liters / 100 km

Ford has announced the all-new 2013 Transit Connect offering best-in-class fuel efficiency – 70.6 mpg (4 liters / 100 km).

The engine is a 1.6 liter Duratorq TDCi with 95HP. IT enables dramatic reductions in operating costs by reducing fuel costs by as much as £1,600 compared with key class rivals over a typical four-year ownership period. The engine range also includes the highly fuel-efficient 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine – twice winner of the International Engine of the Year – delivering class-leading petrol fuel economy of 50.4mpg and CO₂ emissions of 129g/km.

Transit Connect’s reduced fuel bills are supported by further improvements in routine servicing and maintenance costs with extended service intervals of up to 20,000 miles or 12 months.

The stylish all-new Transit Connect has been engineered to set new standards for load-carrying ability, cost of ownership and dependability within its class.

Available in short-wheelbase and long-wheelbase versions, Transit Connect offers a spacious and practical load area with total volumes of 2.9m³ and 3.6m³ (SAE – with full bulkhead fitted) and a maximum payload of up to 1,000kg. Ford will offer Van, Double-Cab-in-Van and Kombi derivatives. Deliveries of the all-new Transit Connect van are scheduled to start towards the end of 2013.

Fuel cost saving over an 80,000-mile, 4-year lifecycle (fuel cost £1.40/litre):

Model	Combined fuel consumption (mpg)	Total fuel cost (£)	Cost difference (£)
Ford Transit Connect ECOnetic 1.6 TDCi 95PS	70.6	7200
VW Caddy 1.6TDi 75kW BlueMotion Technology	57.6	8833	+ 1633
Peugeot Partner 1.6 e-HDi 90 Stop & Start	57.6	8833	+ 1633
Citroen Berlingo 1.6 e-HDi 90 Airdream	58.8	8653	+ 1453
Renault Kangoo Energy dCi 90	65.7	7744	+ 544

Previous model 220 BASE 1.8 TDCi 75PS 5-speed manual compared with new model 220 BASE 1.6 TDCi 75PS 5-speed manual. Set by independent RV provider, CAP

Source: Ford

July 18, 2013

Aston Martin V8 Vantage GTE and DBR 1-2 Race Car – Price £500,000

Aston Martin is going to sell a V8 Vantage GTE and DBR 1-2 Race Cars for £250,000 (around €290,000) each.

The Vantage GTE took place at Le Mans in 2012 with Allan Simonsen, Cristoffer Nygaard and Kristian Poulsen behind the steering wheel. The DBR 1-2 competed in the LMP1 class between 2009 and 2011. Both cars feature Gulf livery and are designed to be used for display purposes. Unfortunately, that means the engine and gearbox have been removed to make transportation easier.

These cars never fail to generate high levels of interest, even amongst non-motorsport followers.

Source: Aston Martin

July 18, 2013