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2013 Volkswagen Polo R WRC Street – 220HP and 348Nm

This is the fastest Polo ever made and it has remained almost the same as the concept. The car is based on the fifth-generation of the model and comes with a Golf GTI’s 4-cylinder, 2.0-liter turbo gasoline engine that produces 220HP (162 kW) and 348 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque.

Power is sent to front wheels via a short-shift 6-speed manual transmission that enables the hottest Polo to perform the 0-100 km/h sprint in 6.4 seconds and reach a top speed of 243 km/h (151 mph). Volkswagen says that it can return 31.6 mpg US – 7.4 liters / 100 km with CO2 emissions of 174 g/km.

The curb weight is 1,324 kg (2,919 lbs) with the driver (68 kg), luggage (7 kg) and 90 percent full fuel tank included. The car rolls on 18″ alloy wheels with 215/35 R18 tires and has 16-inch disc brakes. Inside it gets WRC-badged seat covers, Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel, racing-style pedals and a black roof liner.

The exterior boasts rally-inspired lower front spoiler with big air inlets, a rear diffuser and a spoiler on the rear edge of the roof. It borrows the same blue/grey livery as its WRC sibling and comes with several “R” and “WRC” badges.

The price is €33,900 and only 2,500 units will be produced.

December 10, 2012

Volvo Reveals C30 Polestar Limited Edition

Volvo C30 Polestar Limited Edition is one of the sportiest-looking Volvo’s ever produced. In addition, under the hood is where the true excitement begins, because there is placed the C30’s standard 2.5-liter turbocharged 5-cylinder engine.

As a matter of fact it had received a healthy performance upgrade done by Polestar – Volvo’s official performance partner. The result is a boosted output by 23 horsepower and 37 lb.-ft. of torque to 250 hp (184 lb-ft) and 370 Nm (273 lb.-ft.).

To go even further into details, what Polestar has done is to re-calibrated important parameters that control the engine. Some of them are the following: increase of turbocharger boost pressure, re-optimization of ignition- and fuel-mapping, re-calibration of throttle-response.

As a result, the driver can now enjoy faster throttle response, greatly improved mid-range torque and extra power. Safer passing performance and an enhanced sportier driving experience is what is also added via those changes.

In terms of exterior the C30 Polestar Limited Edition is improved thanks to the new 17-inch Styx Alloy Wheels with Matte Black Finish and Polestar badges on the rear and sides of the vehicle. On the other and, the interior has a sporty cabin, which is dressed with Premium Leather Seating Surfaces in a choice of Off-Black or two-tone Off-Black and Calcite.

Furthermore, some of the standard features here include the following: Power Glass Moonroof, Power Driver’s Seat with 3-Position Memory, Power Front Passenger Seat, Loadcover, Soft, Auto Dimming Rearview Mirror with Compass, LED Daytime Running Lights, Keyless Drive, Active Dual Xenon Headlights.

Volvo C30 Polestar Limited Edition will be produced in only 250 units.

Source: Volvo

December 10, 2012

2012 Toyota GT 86 is Top Gear’s Car of the Year

2012 Toyota GT 86 Sports Coupe has gained another prize being named the Car of the Year 2012 by Britain’s Top Gear magazine. However, this worldwide acclaim wasn’t enough for it and it was also named Coupe of the Year and Top Gear TV personality Jeremy Clarkson’s personal Car of the Year.

In fact, Toyota’s model is one of the most exciting and new cars for the 2012. First of all it at affordable price and secondly guiding principle in its creation was that it should be a car devoted to the pure passion of driving.

In GT 86 was also recently named 2012 Car of the Year by Drive Magazine as well as its Performance Car of the Year. It also won the People’s Choice award.

In details, the maximum power of the vehicle is 147kW, which is equivalent to 100 hp per litre. The peak torque is of 205Nm (151 lb-ft). The engine is mated to a newly developed six-speed manual gearbox, which offers quick, precise shifting through closely stacked ratios.

The other option in terms of gear box is the Lexus IS-F-inspired six-speed automatic transmission, with shift paddles mounted on the steering wheel, combines direct response with an extremely fast shifting speed of only 0.2 seconds.

Source: Toyota

December 7, 2012

2013 NASCAR Chevrolet SS Unveiled

2013 NASCAR Chevrolet SS has been finally unveiled and with this Chevrolet opened a new chapter in its racing history. The racing car is powered by the famous small block V-8 engine and it is a rear-wheel drive performance sedan.

As a matte of fact, the all-new rear wheel drive V-8 Chevrolet SS performance sedan will debut early next year. Furthermore, the Chevrolet SS is going to be the next in a long line of famed nameplates that Chevrolet has campaigned in NASCAR and it is going to replace Impala, which scored 151 wins from 1959-64 and 2007-12.

On the other hand, the limited production version of the Chevrolet SS is envisioned to be a 2014 model and we are going to see it in the showrooms in the end of next year. The brand has long used the SS (Super Sport) designation on high-performance models of some of its most enduring nameplates.

The SS designation was firstly introduced with the appearance of a Corvette prototype race car in 1957. Moreover, the first production vehicle with a SS optional package was the 1961 Impala. The car included enhanced chassis and suspension, power brakes, a steering column mounted tachometer and unique wheels and tires. Two years ago the SS designation returned to the Chevrolet lineup with the debut of the fifth-generation Camaro.

Another interesting fact is that Chevrolet has 702 victories in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series so far. No other manufacturer has achieved such number. Going back in time Fonty Flock earned the first win on March 26, 1955, at Columbia, S.C. This month at Texas Motor Speedway, the five-time series champion Jimmie Johnson achieved Chevrolet’s 700th victory.

Source: Chevrolet

December 7, 2012

D2Forged Aston Martin Vantage FMS-01

D2Forged Aston Martin Vantage FMS-01 is definitely a vehicle which a character such as James Bond would love to drive in one of his action scenes. And although he has never driven a Vantage, I’m sure that when he sees the looks of this one, he would regret he didn’t.

The car carries a unique spirit is due to its 4.7 liter eight-cylinder petrol engine. The V8 unit generates 426 hp (313 kW) and 490 Nm (361 lb-ft) and is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox sending all that power to the rear wheels. And these numbers fit perfectly to the concept of what the 007 agent calls fast.

D2Forged enhanced the model in terms of aerodynamics and lowered suspension. In particular, the 20×9.5″ for the front and 20×11″ for the rear D2FORGED FMS-01 wheels provide the perfect finishing touch. Finished in an aggressive yet sporty matte black finish with chrome lip and matching black fasteners, the overall effect is simply perfect.

Source: D2Forged Wheels

December 7, 2012

Avoiding winter car accidents: How safe is your car?

Volvo C30 Electric Adverse weather conditions can make driving in winter a risky business.

Ice on the roads causes skids and slippage, snowstorms impair vision and sub-zero temperatures can make your car become temperamental. You should always leave plenty of time to make any journeys and drive more slowly than usual in winter.

Leave plenty of space between you and other cars around you in case either you or they hit a patch of ice and skid. Be sure to check your car over frequently as you don’t want to be the cause of an accident.

All cars must be fitted with seatbelts in the front by law, and most will have them in the back too. If you have children or frequent passengers, be sure your car has a proper shoulder belt in the middle of the back seat rather than just a lap belt.

Airbags will cushion the impact of a collision but can be dangerous to children under 12 so always seat them in the back where possible.

If you are planning on buying a new car this winter look for one with additional safety features such as ABS, all-wheel drive and electronic stability control. Generally heavier cars are safer for the occupants than lighter ones so it can be worth upgrading if you have a family.

If you do still find yourself skidding remember to ease off on the pedals and steer gently into the skid to slow it down.

In poor weather it is vital to pay attention not only to your own driving but also to anticipate what other cars may do. Don’t ever get too close to another car if the roads are icy as you or they could easily skid and cause a collision.

Be especially wary of anyone driving at speed and remember that just because you drive safely doesn’t mean you are safe from other drivers.

Don’t let festive high spirits tempt you into having just one more drink for the road. Drink driving is dangerous at any time of year, but you especially need all your wits about you when the roads are iced over.

If you do find yourself a victim of someone else’s careless driving this winter and suffer whiplash or any other medical injury, my recommendation is to contact a leading medical solicitor .

December 7, 2012

Car buying trends 2012

2014 Ford Fiesta With less than a month remaining of 2012, the motoring industry is starting to reflect on what cars have proved to be the most popular with consumers looking for something new or used. Whether customers want something new or a used Audi from VCARS.co.uk, in these austere times, they want value for money, and the fact that many new cars that have sold well are smaller, more efficient models shows how much people want to drive on the cheap.

Some of the most popular new cars sold in 2012 are small city cars and superminis. The Ford Fiesta and Vauxhall Corsa are two good examples. Given their size, they cost less to buy, but they tend to offer drivers much more in terms of savings than a lower price tag. Smaller cars use less petrol, which at a time when fuel is becoming more expensive by the day is very useful. Meanwhile, small cars also tend to cost less in terms of tax.

As well as smaller new cars, used cars are also growing in popularity. As companies like VCARS sell used cars at great prices, the temptation for motorists who don’t mind buying second-hand is great to say the least. You could get a car that has everything you could ask for – great fuel economy, plenty of space, comfort and equipment plus a smooth ride for a fraction of the price of a new model.

If the economy improves over the course of 2013, there’s a chance that more people will be buying new. However, any new models that are bought are likely to be more fuel-efficient. Hybrids and electric cars are likely to grow in popularity, especially if the price of petrol and diesel continues to increase at its current rate. However, with many drivers with their eyes on the pennies, they’re likely to continue to buy thriftily.

December 7, 2012

Audi R8 China Edition – Malibu Blue or Suzuka Grey

Audi has presented the 2012 R8 China Edition. The car will be sold exclusively in China and it will feature some nice upgrades.

The exterior will be finished only in Malibu Blue or Suzuka Grey. The R8 China Edition will also have contrasting side blades, a carbon fiber rear wing and gloss black 19” alloy wheels fitted with performance tires.

The interior boasts leather and Alcantara sport seats, an Alcantara steering wheel and body color accents. There are also a lot of carbon fiber elements like side mouldings. Each R8 China Edition will have an individually-serial numbered aluminum gear knob.

2012 Audi R8 China Edition is powered by the same 5.2 liter V10 from Gallardo – 525HP (386 kW) and 530Nm (391 lb-ft) of torque. It is mated to a R-tronic automatic transmission and the power is put on the road through quattro all-wheel drive system. 0-100 km/h in 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited.

Only 80 units will be produced.

Source: Audi

December 6, 2012

2013 Volkswagen eco Up! – Price €12,950

Volkswagen has announced the new 2013 eco Up!, which will join the range of small cars by the manufacturer. It is available as 3- or 5-door hatchback and the prices start from €12,950 in Germany and it will be eligible for rebates in excess of €1,000.

The new eco Up! is powered by a 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine that has been specially modified to run on natural gas. The engine has 68HP (50 kW) and 90Nm (66 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 16.3 seconds and a top speed of 164 km/h (102 mph). However, this car is not about performance, it is about savings and going cheap. Furthermore, the new eco Up! has an engine start/stop system, regenerative brakes and low-rolling resistance tires. This means an average 2.9 kg of natural gas/100 km and have CO2 emissions of 79 g/km.

Volkswagen estimates the cost of traveling 100 km (62 miles) in Germany would only be about €3 using natural gas. This is a perfect value for money and still you have air conditioning, navigation system and power windows. In other words, there is enough comfort in this small car and awesome fuel consumption.

The car has three fuel tanks: two for natural gas and one for petrol. The overall range is 600 km (373 miles) – 380km on CNG and around 220km on petrol.

Volkswagen also offers five natural gas powered vehicles in various classes: the Caddy 2.0 EcoFuel, the extended Caddy Maxi 2.0 EcoFuel (109 HP), the Touran 1.4 TSI EcoFuel, the Passat and Passat Estate 1.4 TSI EcoFuel (150 HP).

In the upcoming year, the new Golf will also debut in an EcoFuel version. In this vehicle, Volkswagen is offering one of the world’s most versatile natural gas vehicle programmes.

Source: Volkswagen

December 6, 2012

BMW E92 M3 DTM Champion Edition – Price €99,000

BMW M GmbH is celebrating returning to the DTM with E92 M3 DTM Champion Edition. This happens after almost 20 years away, and the results in its comeback year exceeded all expectations. Canadian driver Bruno Spengler won the drivers’ title, BMW Team Schnitzer finished in top spot in the team standings, and BMW claimed the manufacturers’ honours.

This special-edition model is available exclusively in Frozen Black metallic, while the carbon flaps and gurney, various dark chrome elements, matt black wheels and sections of the race car’s livery also betray its close links with the triumphant BMW M3 DTM. The theme is continued by the BMW M stripe design over the CFRP roof and boot lid, BMW M logo to the rear of the front wheel arches and decals in the rear side windows.

The interior boasts door sill strips replicate Spengler’s helmet design and the carbon-fibre interior trim strip bears the newly crowned champion’s signature and the car’s serial number. The special-edition model also contains various exclusive interior additions, such as the Alcantara steering wheel, handbrake lever embroidered with “M Power” lettering, and extended black Novillo leather trim with features in contrasting Palladium Silver.

The sports car is powered by the famous 4.0 liter hi-revving V8 – 420HP (309 kW) and 400Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque. It is connected to an M DCT (M Double Clutch Transmission). 0-100 km/h in 4.5 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited.

The special edition M3 will hit the market in February, 2013. Only 54 units will be built and the pricing starts at €99,000.

Source: BMW

December 6, 2012

SR Auto Ferrari 458 Italia Reaches China

Undeniably one of the most desirable cars in the world is the famous Italian one called Ferrari. Enthusiasts from all around the world appreciate the iconic brand regardless of their timezone, culture or ethnicity.

What we have today is a breath-taking tuning on the Ferrari 458 Italia. The car’s naturally-aspirated, direct-injection 4.5 litre V8 engine produces 578 horsepower (425 kW) at 540 Nm (398 lb-ft) of torque. This makes it effortless for it to reach a maximum speed of 320 km/h (198 mph).

Another important number here is the acceleration time which this Ferrari has for the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h and it is under 3.4 seconds. In fact, the engine it utilizes was nominated as the 2011 International Engine of the Year for its engineering excellence in terms of driveability, performance, economy and refinement.

The power of the 458 Spider is transferred to the road by Ferrari’s class-leading dual-clutch F1 paddle-shift transmission through the sophisticated E-Diff, itself integrated with the F1-Trac traction control and high-performance ABS for maximum handling dynamics.

A very special client of the tuning company SR Auto coming all the way from China expressed his wish to modify his Ferrari 458. And it was immediately equipped with PUR 4OUR Monoblock Wheels in sizes 21×9 +38 for the front and 21×12.5 +56 for the rear. All are “dressed” in Modern Black color.

Source: SR Auto

December 6, 2012

Facelifted: Rieger BMW 1er Coupe

Rieger BMW 1er Coupe has new looks and the responsibility for this is only attributed to the German tuning company Rieger. The team developed an aerodynamic bodykit with a powerful upgrade for the already sporty bavarian.

Originally, the BMW model generates 326PS (240 kW) from its 3.0 liter twin-turbo six-cylinder engine. The power unit is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission.

But going straight to the point, the Rieger bodykit consist on a front bumper with splitter, side skirts and a rear skirt, which are available in ABS/Carbon-Look. All RIEGER prarts are delivered with mounting equipment and MOT certificates.

In addition, in terms of suspension optimization, Rieger chose the familiar KW coilover suspension kit. An optimum grip is provided by the 19 inch BBS CH-R wheels with Hankook S1-Evo tyres.

Source: Rieger

December 6, 2012

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