Automobiles Review – Page 756 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

BRABUS B63S 730 Based on Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG

Brabus has presented the super powerful B63S – 730 package for Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG Coupe and Shooting Brake.

The performance package boost the 5.5 liter bi-turbo V8 to 730HP (537 kW) at 5,300RPM and 1,065Nm (785 lb-ft) of torque at 1,750RPM. 0-100 km/h in 3.8 seconds, 0-200 km/h in 10.8 seconds and a top speed of 350 km/h (217 mph). The engine is mated to an AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC transmission sending the power to BRABUS multi-disc limited-slip rear differential with a locking rate of 40%.

To further optimize directional stability well into the regions beyond 300 km/h (187 mph), the BRABUS designers went into the wind tunnel to develop a front spoiler for both body styles of the CLS 63 AMG. The aerodynamic-enhancement component attaches to the underside of the front fascia and reduces lift on the front axle.

All components are manufactured from especially light yet high-strength genuine carbon fibers for a full-blooded racing look, and are available with a matt or high-gloss surface finish.

The exclusive BRABUS appearance for the new CLS 63 AMG is also in part courtesy of the BRABUS Monoblock wheels with diameters of 19” and 20”. The latest innovation in the BRABUS wheel family is the BRABUS Monoblock R “Platinum Edition” forged wheel that combines lightweight construction and maximum strength.

The largest tires supplied by BRABUS technology partners Continental, Pirelli and YOKOHAMA for the 20” alloys come in size 255/30 ZR 20 for the 9J x 20” wheels on the front axle and in size 295/25 ZR 20 for the 10.5J x 20” wheels in the rear.

Exclusive interior design that fulfills any customer request is a BRABUS specialty that comes to life in the company upholstery shop. The lineup for the CLS 63 AMG ranges from attractive accessories to custom-tailored interiors crafted from especially soft, breathable and yet highly durable BRABUS Mastik leather and Alcantara.

Scuff plates with backlit BRABUS logo, a speedometer with 400-km/h dial (250 mph) and rear-seat tables attached to the backs of the front seats add custom highlights as do the markedly sporty aluminum components such as pedal pads, door lock pins and shift paddles for the steering wheel.

Also available for the top-of-the-line CLS model is a custom-tailored BRABUS multimedia concept – including optional Apple iPad integration.

Source: Brabus

March 1, 2013

ABT with 1,860 HP at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show

ABT Sportsline will take four new models at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. The tuning specialists will exhibit: ABT Golf VII, ABT R8 GTR, ABT RS5 and ABT RS6. The combined power of all these vehicles is more than 1860HP.

The 7^th generation Golf boasts a set of 19” alloy wheels fitted with 225/35 R19 tires, a quad exhaust setup, along with a custom sports suspension and several styling changes such as a rear diffuser, side skirts and splitter.

There are performance packages for the 1.4 TSI and 2.0 TDI boosted to 160HP (118 kW) and 170HP (125 kW), respectively.

ABT Audi R8 GTR has 620HP (456 kW), which is 20% more than the factory’s power of 525HP (386 kW). 0-100 km/h in 3.6 seconds and Vmax – 320 km/h.

The 5.2 liter V10 received a number of upgrades, which the tuning company keep in secret. However, the car is fully compatible for everyday use and is real fun for cruising on country roads. There is also a sport exhaust system to “calm” down your ears.

The sports car rolls enormous 20” ABT BR alloys or 19” CR Superlight rims.

The ABT RS5-R as also been developed with a focus upon weight optimisation and distribution. The car shows that it is indeed possible to combine roadworthiness with the characteristics of a real racer. The same applies for the ABT RS6, which is boosted to 600HP (441 kW).

“I’m confident that the readers of the AUTO ZEITUNG will honour this innovative power of ours this year as well.”, finished Hans-Jürgen Abt.

Source: ABT

March 1, 2013

Toyota FT-86 Open Concept – Drift and Wind in the Hair

Toyota has officially revealed the new FT-86 Open Concept. The convertible sports car brings unique pleasure combining two of most desired experiences for a petrol head – drift and wind in the hair.

The FT-86 Open Concept will be exhibited at the Geneva Motor Show, next week. The car features an electrically operated soft top. A Milan-based designer color-coordinated the interior and exterior, with the resulting design evoking quality and sportiness. The interior and exterior feature high-contrast white and navy blue that emphasize the vehicle’s proportions as well as the integrated nature of the design.

In addition, yellow-gold stitching in the floor mats and seats acts as an accent conveying a sporty feel. Furthermore, the styling conveys a dramatically different impression when the roof is opened.

No words about performance, but probably the convertible will share the same engine as the coupe – a 2.0 liter naturally aspirated boxer with 200HP (147 kW) and 205Nm (151 lb-ft) of torque.

Source: Toyota

March 1, 2013

SR Auto Fisker Karma CEC C881 With More Aggressive On Road Presence

SR Auto Fisker Karma CEC C881 is ready for the showroom exuding its perfect stance and electrifying charm. Being a true four-door Fisker model, this one brings to reality the astonishing acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.9 seconds.

Despite this great performance the model is able to achieve an impressive consumption of more than 100 miles per gallon and 83 g/km CO2 emissions. Now the bold electric saloon is being further enhanced and has a complete new set of modern “shoes”.

The specialists at SR Auto have equipped this white Fisker Karma with a brand new set of wheels courtesy of CEC Wheels. They are named C881 and they fit perfectly the factory diameter of twenty-two inches and feature a Machined Silver finish.

In addition, their split five spoke design gives the model a sportier appeal and even more aggressive on road presence. In details, the car is fitted with CEC C881 in size 22×9 at the front and 22×10.5 at the rear.

Source: SR Auto

February 28, 2013

2013 Land Rover Electric Defender With Premiere In Geneva

2013 Land Rover Electric Defender is going to be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show next week. The research vehicle delivers zero emissions but at the same time keeps it’s tough and go-anywhere capability.

The standard diesel engine and gearbox in the 110 Defenders have been replaced in this electric version with a 70kW (94 hp), 330 Nm electric motor twinned with a 300-volt, lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 27 kWh. The latter gives a range of more than 50 miles.

As a matter of fact, when the car is driven in low speed and off-road the battery can last for up to eight hours before recharging. In addition, it can be fully charged by a 7kW fast charger in four hours or a portable 3 kW charger in 10 hours.

Furthermore, the Electric Defender keeps the legendary four-wheel drive system and the differential lock. The electric motor delivers maximum torque from the moment it starts, therefore there’s no need for gear shifting and the transmission comprises a single speed, 2.7:1 reduction gearbox combined with the existing Defender four-wheel drive system.

In addition, another technology included is the modified version of brand’s Terrain Response System. Moreover, the vehicles were developed by Land Rover’s Advanced Engineering Team. As a basis for their construction served the successful Defender-based EV – Leopard 1.

Of course, the vehicle has been tested in extreme and environmentally sensitive conditions. Trials included pulling a 12-tonne ‘road train’ up a 13 percent gradient and wading to a depth of 800 mm.

Other details disclosed around this model ahead of its debut are that the battery weighs 410 kg and is mounted in the front of the Defender in place of the diesel engine. The kerb weight is 100 kg more than a basic Defender 110 and ranges from 2055 kg to 2162 kg.

The most prominent elements in the electric powertrain – such as the battery, inverter and motor – are air-cooled which saves weight and complexity and adds robustness. In addition to this, this Electric Defender includes an optimized regenerative braking which utilizes Hill Descent Control.

Unfortunately, there are no plans for the all-terrain electric Defender to enter production so far. More details around this EV will be disclosed next week at Geneva Motor Show.

Source: Land Rover

February 28, 2013

Alfa Romeo Zagato Stradale TZ3 Set To Debut At The Amelia Island Concours d’ELEGANCE

Alfa-Romeo Zagato Stradale TZ3 will make a debut at the 18th annual Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance on 10th of March. It will be the last of only nine custom built models, known as the Italian sports car with “the heart of a Viper and the soul of an ALFA”.

These nine cars were constructed in order to celebrate the centenary of Carrozzeria Zagato in 2010. And this Azzurro California hued example is the final car in the exclusive series. As a matter of fact, the model was built by Carrozzeria Zagato as a design study.

The Stradale TZ3 wears the traditional Alfa-Romeo badge of the serpent and the 1925 world grand prix champion’s wreath. Under its carbon fiber bodywork, the model hides a 8.3 liter 600 hp (441 kW) V-10 engine, known from the SRT Viper. At last, it is good to mention that this supercar accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in only 3.5 seconds.

Another interesting fact is that Zagato calls the Stradale TZ3 “the first American ALFA in automotive history” that combines “unbridled American power and Italian grace”. The astonishing model was inspired by the motto “bellazza necessaria”, which means “beautiful necessity”. This is proven by the Kamm tail, “double bubble roof” and round taillights.

Source: Alfa Romeo

February 28, 2013

2013 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Special Edition for Japan

Mercedes-Benz has announced a new C63 AMG Limited Edition for Japan. The 2013 C 63 AMG is limited to just 35 units – 15 as a coupe and 20 as a sedan.

The exterior boasts a nice white body finish with red mirror caps, red brake calipers and a red boot lid spoiler. The interior features red and black designo leather.

The 6.2 liter naturally aspirated V8 is boosted to 487HP (358 kW) at 6,800RPM and 600Nm (443 lb-ft) at 5,000RPM. 0-100 km/h in 4.4 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited).

This is the second C63 AMG Limited Edition for Japan, after Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Performance Studio, which was introduced last year. Obviously, the power and the luxury offered by C63 are hugely appreciated in Japan.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

February 28, 2013

Iconic Mazda CX-5 Gets Enhanced!

Mazda is making its outstanding CX-5 a little bit more attractive with a series of drivability, design and functionality improvements. For instance, the model will include range of SKYACTIV-Drive automatic transmissions.

The latter will utilize kickdown detent, which will help drivers prevent unwanted downshifts or initiate faster ones when more torque is desired. Furthermore, the CX-5’s engines are being improved and include even more free-revving than ever due to an enhanced power train control module. The tachometers have been updated accordingly with higher redlines.

What is more, the interior has also undergone some transformations with a focus on letting the driver concentrate on driving the vehicle. First of all the Bluetooth functionality has been enhanced and now is available for the audio system. It includes a voice command feature for music management as well as display and readout capability for email and SMS received via a Bluetooth-connected smartphone.

More style is added via the new silver accent for the audio panel button. This modification also contributes for a better utilization. Robust vinyl door armrests have been added on models with fabric upholstery to improve durability.

Soul Red adds more emotion to the exterior of the CX-5. It was especially developed using a unique process by combining two different base coats. The result is an intensive red that seems to radiate from within when lit up, in contrast to its blackish appearance when shaded. Soul Red adds to the range of three new body colours for the Mazda CX-5: Stormy Blue, Meteor Grey and Jet Black.

Source: Mazda

February 28, 2013

AC Schnitzer BMW 3-Series Touring F31

AC Schnitzer will also present tuned BMW 3-Series Touring F31 in Geneva. It also features a nice Copper paint finish as well as some other interesting upgrades making the family touring car even more exclusive.

The exterior boasts 2-piece front flippers for cars with M-Technik, rear roof spoiler and the chromed front grille. There is also a front spoiler and a rear skirt insert by AC Schnitzer. The AC Schnitzer F31 rolls Type VIII BiColor rims in black or silver in 18”, 19” and 20” or AC Schnitzer Type IV BiColor black or silver also in 18”, 19” and 20”, as well as TypeVI BiColor rims in 18”.

The interior features AC Schnitzer “Black Line” aluminium cover for the “i-Drive” system controller, the “Black Line” handbrake handle, a gear knob with digital display, a leather gear knob or an aluminium gear knob. There are also aluminium pedals, AC Schnitzer foot rests and velours floor mats.

AC Schnitzer offers tuning packages for all models starting from 316i, 328i, 335i and diesel range – 318d, 320d and 330d. The power outputs vary from 171HP (126 kW) to 360HP (265 kW).

The AC Schnitzer sport s rear silencer convinces the most demanding drivers with one or two chrome “Racing” exhaust pipes (left/right combination). For pure optical purposes the chromed “Racing” tailpipe is also separately available.

The AC Schnitzer suspension spring kit combined with a lower suspension setting of 25 mm brings the Touring closer to the ground.

Source: AC Schnitzer

February 28, 2013

AC Schnitzer BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe

AC Schnitzer has announced their tuning version of BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe. The car will be presented at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show in March. The stylish four-door coupe comes with both – styling and performance modifications.

The exterior boasts complete aerodynamics upgrades by AC Schnitzer including a new carbon front spoiler and a carbon rear diffuser for M-technik models and the normal versions will get a front spoiler with optional chrome line set and a rear skirt extension. The are also chromed front grilles and bonnet vents.

AC Schnitzer 6-Series Gran Coupe rolls enormous wheels in various types – Type IV BiColor, Type IV silver,

Type VIII BiColor, black and silver in dimensions – 19” or 20”. Lightweight forged alloys and

forged racing rims Type VIII BiColor are available in sizes 9.0J x 21″ and 10.0J x 21″ with 255/30 R21 tyres on the front and 295/25 R 21 tyres on the rear.

The interior features “Black Line“ aluminium cover for the i-Drive system controller, aluminium footrests and pedals, and velours floor mats.

The 640d model is boosted from 313HP to 360HP and the 640i from 320HP to 360HP. The AC Schnitzer twin sports rear silencer with chromed “Sports Trim“ tailpipes (right/left), also available in export version, provides the matching sound track.

Source: AC Schnitzer

February 28, 2013

2013 BMW Alpina B3 Bi-Turbo – Top Speed 306 km/h

Alpina has introduced the new 2013 B3 Bi-Turbo, which is based on BMW F30 335i. The car will make its official debut at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show, next week.

The engine is the well-known 3.0 liter twin-turbocharged petrol, but boosted to 410HP (310 kW) at 5,500RPM and 598Nm (442 lb-fT) of torque. It is connected to an 8-speed automatic ZF gearbox sending power to the rear wheels.

0-100 km/h in just 4.2 seconds and a top speed of whopping 306 km/h (190 mph). Still, the engine needs just 7.6 liters / 100 km (37.2 mpg UK) with CO2 emissions of 177 g/km.

Other highlights include complete aerodynamics package including new front spoiler, modified rear diffuser, a set of big Alpina alloy wheels fitted with low-profile tires and Alpina badging.

Source: Alpina

February 28, 2013

2013 Dodge Viper SRT Track Pack – 28 kg lighter

Dodge has announced a special SRT Track Pack, which is now available for the normal 2013 Viper and Vipers GTS. At the heart of this sophisticated suite of subtle upgrades is a state-of-the-art braking package that improves upon the Viper’s already impressive brake cooling properties.

The Track Pack includes an updated brake cooling ductwork and Brembo braking kit with new rotors, which are 3.6 kg (per piece) lighter. This is a total of 14.5 kg less weight only from this system. Additionally new wheels and Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires save 13.6 kg. So, the Viper/Viper GTS Track Pack version weighs 28.1 kg less than normal variants.

The traction control has also been improved. It has four modes delivering perfect traction at all conditions.

“A customer’s perception of the brake system depends very much on the way the driver uses the car. The faster you go, the greater the advantage.”, commented Graham Henckel, Chief Engineer of the SRT Viper.

No words about pricing.

Source: Dodge

February 27, 2013

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