Automobiles Review – Page 802 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

Vliner Triumph Speed Tripple Bulldog Custom Bike [VIDEO]

We are mainly used to see great car transformations from the talented tuning specialist of Vilner. However, a few months ago we have seen how they have modified extremely well a two-wheel drive – the Vilner Ducati Monster 1100 Evo.

Now we are ready to see more from them in terms of enhancing two wheel bikes and making them look astonishing. Their new creation is named Vliner Triumph Speed Tripple Bulldog and it is based on the model Speed Triple of Triump, which has appeared in 1994.

In its development it got more aggressive appearance via the increased size of the headlights. In fact this is the most popular model of Triumph. Next came the newer models which got a flashy motor with aggressive appearance, but in general the changes made on the model follow the British trends.

The end result is Bulldog, but in the beginning it began just with few detailed sketches and 3D model. After the addition of new details, the model became even more aggressive and got more powerful stance.

For instance, two headlamps were replaced by one, for which there was created a special box and stand. Next, the mirrors have been replaced over the handlebars, the stand number is processed and the exhaust pipes are in black.

Furthermore, the Bulldog got new racing OZ wheels and additional details mounted in the blinkers. The added rear details were connected at the bottom with another piece. In fact this is where the vehicle got its name – the Bulldog – the optical innovation and the specific forms of broadcast additions are certainly reminiscent of dogs breed.

httpv://youtu.be/_3E0rE4pzws

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Vilner

November 8, 2012

Lexus Launches 2013 LS Line

Lexus LS model line has just been launched in two luxury models the new all-wheel drive short wheelbase LS 600h F Sport model and the 444 hp (327kW) LS 460 Sports Luxury. Fifty per cent of the vehicle’s components were entirely redesigned, re-engineered or even replaced as part of the major upgrade.

And to go even further into details, the changes made here are approximately up to 3000 mechanical and component modifications. The entire LS Line benefits from significant engineering input. This enhances the vehicle’s driving dynamics, refinement and specification while reducing overall noise, vibration and harshness.

Furthermore, another result of the engineering efforts is that the torsional rigidity has been increased by sixty per cent and the steering support rigidity by twenty per cent. Noise, vibration and harshness reductions make the Lexus with a class-leading quietness and with great rear seat conversation clarity.

Additional improvement is made in term of exterior design. Here the brand has applied the new signature “spindle grille”, which significantly improves LS’ visual stance while increasing aerodynamic performance.

Moreover, the interior has been modified as well. Here on can see a new dash and interior design, which enhances utilization and visual appeal. In few words – evolution is what we see in this model line, which combines sharper driving dynamics and highest levels of refinement and luxury.

2013 Lexus LS 460 Sports Luxury and LS 600h F Sport are going to be available for order from February next year.

Specifications for the LS Line:

MODEL		LS 460	LS 600h
		1UR-FSE	2UR-FSE
Capacity (cc)		4608	4969
Engine type
		90-degree V8 with four vales per cylinder, chain-driven double-overhead cam (per bank), Dual VVT-i with VVT-iE for intake	90-degree V8 with four vales per cylinder, chain-driven double-overhead cam (per bank), Dual VVT-i with VVT-iE for intake
Fuel type		95 RON (ULP)	95 RON (ULP)
Bore x stroke (mm)		94.0 x 83.0	94.0 x 89.5
Compression ratio		11.8:1	11.8:1
Max. power
• Petrol engine		285kW@6400rpm	290kW@6400rpm
• Combined (hybrid)			327kW
• Max. torque		493Nm@4100rpm	520Nm@4000rpm
Hybrid system
Type			Series/parallel, full hybrid
System output			327kW (Combined)
Electric motor			AC synchronous, permanent magnet
Max. power (kW)			165
Max. torque (Nm)			300
Voltage (V)			650
Electric generator			AC synchronous, permanent magnet
Voltage (V)			650
High-voltage battery			Nickel Metal Hydride (Ni-MH)
Voltage (V)			288
Transmission

Type		Longitudinal, rear-wheel drive	Electronically-controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (E-CVT) with eight-step shiftmatic system and two-stage motor-speed reduction device
Gear ratios
First		4.596	Eight-step CVT
Second		2.724
Third		1.863
Fourth		1.464
Fifth		1.231
Sixth		1.000
Seventh		0.824
Eighth		0.685
Reverse		2.176
Final drive ratio		2.937	3.916:1
Suspension
Type	Front	Multi-link with upper and lower double ball joint independent
	Rear	Multi-link independent
Shock absorber/spring		Adaptive Variable Suspension; Air Suspension, with Automatic Height Control
Driveline
Type		Rear-wheel drive	Permanent all-wheel drive with front and rear differentials
Brakes
Front		357mm x 34mm spiral-fin ventilated discs with four-piston callipers (Sports Luxury); 380mm x 36mm spiral-fin ventilated discs with six-piston callipers (F Sport, 600h)
Rear		335mm x 22mm spiral-fin ventilated discs with two piston callipers
Additional features		Electronically Controlled Braking (ECB)
		Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM)
		Hill-start Assist Control (HAC)
		Brake Hold
		Electric Parking Brake
		Regenerative Braking (LS 600h only)
Steering
Type		Rack and pinion, Electric Power Steering (EPS)
Turns lock-to-lock		2.40-3.59 (Sports Luxury); 2.28-3.51 (F Sport); 2.32-3.66 (LS 600h)
Minimum turning diameter – tyre		11.0m	11.6m
Wheels and tyres
Standard		245/45R19 8.0J
Body/exterior dimensions
Overall length (mm)		5090
Overall width (mm)		1875
Overall height (mm)		1465	1470
Wheelbase (mm)		2970
Track front (mm)		1610
Track rear (mm)		1615	1610
Overhang (front)		925
Overhang (rear)		1195
Coefficient of drag (Cd)		0.26	0.27
Interior dimensions
Room length (mm)		2175 (Sports Luxury); 2200 (F Sport)	2200
Room width (mm)		1600
Room height (mm)		1165
Weights/loads
Kerb weight (kg)		1940-2080 (Sports Luxury); 2200 (F Sport)	2270-2340
Capacities
Fuel tank (L)		84
Performance
Max. speed (km/h)		250 (speed limited)
0-100 km/h (sec)		5.9	5.7
0-400m (sec)		13.8
Fuel consumption (L/100 km)*
Combined		10.7	8.6
CO₂ emissions (g/km)*
Combined		249	199
Exterior Colours: Sonic Silver, Volcanic Bronze, White Nova, White Pearl, Starlight Black, Mecury Grey, Lapis Lazuli, Vermillion, Metallic Silk, Elysium Blue, Onyx.

Source: Lexus

November 8, 2012

Senner Tuning 2012 Audi S5 Coupe

Senner Tuning has presented their latest project based on the facelift version of Audi S5 Coupe. The tuning company aimed the vision of the flagship RS5 model.

The S5 Coupe is finished in ibis-white paint and has a new front spoiler in RS5 design with original RS5 air intakes as well as fitting an original black RS5 radiator grille. At the rear, Senner added a window spoiler and a restrained boot lid spoiler element. There are also side skirts finished in carbon-fibre. The characteristic Audi rings on the front and rear of the vehicle have been retained in black, and Senner Tuning have placed ‘Supercharged’ badges on the front fenders to give a little something extra. The vehicle’s number plates are illuminated by bright white LEDs.

The rido rolls high-quality Work VS-XX light-alloy wheels with black-coloured anodised star-shaped rims and mirror-finish anodised outer rims. The dimensions are 9J x 20”at the front and 10.5J x 20”at the rear fitted with tein Ultra Sessanta tyres of size 245/30 R20 and 295/25 R20, respectively.

The suspension received a full coilover kit from KW ensuring firm control while cornering at the same time as a smooth ride and great driving comfort.

The 3.0 liter V6 TFSI engine can be boosted from 329HP (242kW) to 429HP (315 kW) and from 440Nm (326 lb-ft) to 501Nm (371 lb-ft). Thanks to the removal of the electronic Vmax (maximum speed) blocker, Senner Tuning’s Audi S5 can fully convert its enhanced performance into forward drive and top line speed.

A four-pipe RS5 exhaust system extending from the catalytic converter, including a downpipe and exhaust flaps, ensures the Audi S5 makes a truly awesome sound.

The interior boasts bicolour fine Nappa leather trim in black and magma-red with contrasting colour stitching either. There is also an interior set from coarse-mesh 600 carbon-fibre, an Audi R8 sports steering wheel, RS5 door handles, including illumination units. A DVD system can be activated to enable DVDs to be shown while driving.

Senner Tuning is offering a special price of €69,990 for this particular car.

Source: Senner Tuning

November 8, 2012

GAD Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG V8 Bi-Turbo

German based tuning company – GAD has released some pictures and information about their latest project based on Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG.

The CLS 63 AMG is powered by a 5.5 liter direct-injected V8 with 518HP (381 kW) and 700Nm (516 lb-ft). It is connected to a 7-speed MCT (multi-clutch technology) sport gearbox. If fitted with the AMG Performance Package, the performance is improved to 550HP (405 kW) and 800Nm (590 lb-ft).

Obviously this is not enough, that’s why GAD boosted the mighty Bi-turbo V8 to whopping 803HP (590 kW) and 1149Nm (847 lb-ft) of torque.

The results are thanks to a pair of new bigger turbochargers, a new custom exhaust manifold with downpipe and sport catalyst, bigger intercoolers, updated fuel and ignition systems and finally attentive settings.

Source: GAD

November 7, 2012

ABT Audi AS7 Sportback – 306 km/h [video]

Christian Gebhardt from Sport Auto managed to hit 306 km/h (190 mph) with an ABT Audi AS7 Sportback proving that the tuned luxurious car is really fast. Other interesting achievement is 3.9 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h.

ABT Audi AS7 Sportback is powered by a 4.0 liter twin-turbocharged TFSI engine with 520HP (382 kW) and 650Nm (479 lb-ft) of torque. This is an increase of exactly 100HP and 100Nm. The new power comes from sports exhaust system, cold air intake and an ECU re-map.

The exterior is improved by a set of new enormous 21” alloy wheels fitted with ultra-low profile tires. The stance is improved thanks to a set of sports springs and if the car is equipped with air suspension, ABT offer a special setting called Abt Level Control.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A7HsnR3h7qE

Source: Sportauto via Youtube

November 7, 2012

2013 Lexus CT 200h Advance – The better choice!

Lexus has introduced the new 2013 CT 200h Advance, a model that comes with a prestige equipment specification at a high value price.

Practically, this model is just above the regular SE trim level. The CT 200h Advance has enhanced equipment list that includes a new integrated satellite navigation system, cruise control, rain-sensing wipers, a folding function for the electrically adjustable door mirrors, reversing camera, auto-dimming rear-view mirror with integrated parking monitor and metallic paint.

All these extras come at the superb price of just £500 above the regular SE – £24,495.

The model also features Tahara, which is a supple and durable new upholstery that is an attractive alternative to leather. It weighs half as much leather and is less harmful to the environment to make, generating 65% less CO₂ and no potentially damaging volatile organic compounds.

The Celestial Black paint is exclusive to the Advance. According to the colour chosen, the Tahara trim can be specified in black or tan.

In other respects the Advance mirrors the CT 200h SE specification, with premium features such as dual-zone climate control, push button start, Bluetooth, fog lights, rear privacy glass, 17” alloy wheels and a six-speaker audio system with USB port.

The CT 200h Advance can be specified with smaller, 16” alloy wheels at no extra cost. As an option, the car can be specified with front and rear PDC (park-distance control) and a DAB digital tuner.

Source: Lexus

November 7, 2012

Petrolicious: Mercedes-Benz 220SE and Family History [VIDEO]

A strange family tradition was inherited in Mark Markoff’s family, since his father – Don, had a very unusual and yet one of the best hobbies – to collect valuable cars. One such example is the 1960 Mercedes-Benz 220SE, which Don bought for the mother of Mark in 1963.

Back then the Mercedes was pricing was $3100 – an amount of money, which today we can barely imagine giving for a new car. Nevertheless, back in the days this was a lot of money and only a few could drive beauties like this convertible.

And this particular model is probably one of the most special ones in the collection of Don, because it is attached to so much family history and so many precious and unforgettable moments.

But behind the passion around expensive cars was something more profound – Don’s interest in how the Mercedes was created – handmade and with great deal of craftsmanship. In fact, in his opinion, the quality made it a life-time car carrying a life-time style.

But to go further into details the production f 220SE began in 1960, however first with the coupe model, which had its first appearance in February 1961. The convertible showed up few months later and was almost the same as the coupe version, however equipped with soft-top roof.

Under the hood of this cabrio was 2496 cm3 M129 engine, which was able to generate 150 horsepower (110 kW) at 5500 rpm. This made it very easy for the car to have an acceleration time of 12 seconds from standstill to 100 km/h, on its way to a top speed of 193 km/h (120 mph).

httpv://vimeo.com/52428288

Video Source: Vimeo

November 7, 2012

BMW is The Most Reliable Brand in the UK for 2012

BMW is the most reliable car company in the UK… and not only there. Still, this is according to a survey of the 50 largest contract hire and leasing companies in the country.

BMW has repeated its double victory in the 2011 FN50 survey coming top as most reliable car manufacturer as well as having three cars in the top 10 with first place taken by the 3-Series. Other premium models have also moved up – the VW Golf is one place higher and the third-place Audi A4 is five positions higher than in 2011.

The BMW 1-Series and Ford Focus scored equal points to achieve joint 8^th place, while the final place in the top 10 is taken by the BMW 5-Series, proving the latest version of the car is as reliable as its predecessor.

Tim Abbott, managing director at BMW UK commented:

“To have three of our biggest selling cars in the top ten is a fantastic achievement and our customers will take great heart from realising they not only drive a class-leading car in terms of efficiency and driving pleasure but also one that is the most reliable too”.

2012 Top 10 most reliable cars: (2011 position in brackets)
1 BMW 3 series (1)
2 Volkswagen Golf (3)
3 Audi A4 (8)
4 Honda Civic (-)
5 Honda Accord (2)
6 Mercedes-Benz C-Class (-)
7 Audi A3 (4)
8= BMW 1 Series (-)
8= Ford Focus (-)
10 BMW 5 Series (10)

2012 Top 10 most reliable car manufacturers: (2011 position in brackets)
1 BMW (1)
2 Audi (2)
3 Honda (3)
4 Volkswagen (4)
5 Toyota (5)
6 Ford (8)
7 Skoda (10)
8 Mercedes-Benz (7)
9 Nissan (6)
10 Volvo (-)

Source: BMW

November 7, 2012

Teaser: DMC Lamborghini Aventador Limited Edition

I am always happy to see a new coming project especially from luxury tuners such as DMC. They have just released a teaser image of their new undertake on the Lamborghini Aventador.

Unfortunately no other details have been unveiled yet. They will be disclosed few days before the official launch. In fact, I am sure that we are going to see something profound! Because this is the company which has become famous for their Lamborghini modifications sent.

Furthermore, this Limited Edition project will be probably based on the LP700 or LP900. The teaser doesn’t show a clear picture but focuses on the front bumper, which shows elements of Lamborghini‘s “J” Roadster that was shown in Geneva earlier this year.

The latest modification of DMC was DMC Lamborghini Aventador LP-900 Molto Veloce which is equipped with combination of aerodynamic Carbon Fiber parts including diffusers, lips, and spoilers, exhaust system of Titanium and have received a staggering 900 hp (662 kW) Engine Performance upgrade.

Source: DMC

November 7, 2012

Arden Range Rover AR7 Special Edition

Arden Range Rover AR7 Special Edition is the latest transformation by the Krefeld-based German specialist from Arden. They have put efforts on the premium Range Rover and made it look more individual and sportier than before. For this purpose they have equipped the famous SUV with their AR& Highlander premium kit.

As a matter of fact this is an aerodynamic package, which comprises of entirely redesigned front and rear aprons, side skirts as well as handcrafted stainless steel-grilles with the exclusive Arden mesh design.

Adding to this, the set is completed by the 22” sportline wheels with 295/35R22 tires or alternatively the 22”Dakar II wheel as well as sport mufflers. They ensure optimal handling and are matched with a high-performance brake system and an electronic suspension module.

Source: Arden

November 7, 2012

2012 Vauxhall Insignia VXR SuperSport Realizes Performance Potential

2012 Vauxhall Insignia VXR SuperSport is the high-performance replacement for the 325 hp (240 kW) Insignia VXR model. The new car generates more power and achieves great top speed. It does not include a speed-limiter which means that it car realize its true performance potential.

Some details however, are differentiating the SuperSport model from the VXR. The visual identifiers like blue ‘Brembo’ lettering on its front brake callipers and additional increments on its speedometer offer subtle hints about the car’s giant-slaying intent.

The new performance potential of the Insignia, combined with adaptive’s all-wheel-drive chassis deliver perfect driving enjoyment and haven’t been put to better utilization. In addition, this Vauxhall is fitted with HiPerStrut front suspension, which maintains negative camber, thus enhancing grip levels in wet and dry conditions.

This of course makes the SuperSport’s handling safe and rewarding for all enthusiast drivers. Next, Vauxhall’s adaptive damping system, named FlexRide comes here as a standard, and comes with a VXR setting for enhanced controllability at higher speeds.

More importantly is to mention where this car draws its power from. Well, the engine under the hood is the 2.8-litre V6 Turbo ECOTEC one, with a micro-alloy forged steel crank, classic 60-degree cylinder angle and die-cast alloy sump. In fact, these are the main features, one can find on many race engines.

This powerful unit produces up to 325 hp (240 kW) and uses a single, twin-scroll turbocharger and variable valve control for quick throttle response. Acceleration time from 0 to 100 km/h is achieved in just 5.6 seconds.

Source: Vauxhall

November 7, 2012

2013 Maserati Quattroporte: The best of Italian design

Maserati has announced the new 2013 Quattroporte. The high-performance sports luxury saloon that reinterprets the design features of classic Maseratis in a contemporary design language.

It boasts generous size and has a design that is at once graceful and sinuous, fashioned to bring out the sporty nature of the car.

The interior is spectacular, but still stresses on the simplicity of lines and the full functionality of the on-board instrumentation. Functional elements are blended with soft quality surfaces made of prestigious woods and refined leathers.

The 2013 Quattroporte boasts nice refined technical solutions, an explicit attention to the most challenging targets in terms of performance, comfort, efficiency and safety. All these features are the key elements of the all-new Maserati Quattroporte.

The car will come with reworked chassis, weight reduction and ergonomic enhancement.

The result is the all-new Maserati Quattroporte, a luxury sports saloon that reaches new heights in terms of performance and handling, driving enjoyment as well as respect of the world we live in: the best performance ever in the long history of Maserati’s four-door flagship saloon is matched by the unprecedented success in the quest for a more fuel efficient automobile.

Source: Maserati

November 6, 2012

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