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Citroen DS3 Graphic Art and DS3 JUST MAT Special Series

Citroen DS3 Graphic Art is the new bold limited edition special series of the DS3 model by the French Company. It includes stylish roof decal and will bring more style to anyone who wants to be different.

In addition to that Citroen is launching the new DS3 JUST MAT model, which will offer its customers refinement and uniqueness.

Citroen DS3 Graphic Art is the perfect car for the urban environment, equipped with all high-technologies one could think of. This limited series collection by Citroen includes all-new roof decal called “WOW STRIPE”.

The graphic and modern decal has subtle and pearlescent-effect stripes. Citroen is going to offer this state-of-the-art roof in two color variants: Opale White and Onyx Black.

Furthermore, the new limited edition model also gets 17-inch BELLONE wheel rims and chrome finished wing mirror housings and side strips. There is also a good choice of trim exterior colors, which are: Banquise White, Perla Nera Black, Aluminium Grey and Shark Grey.

The interior of the new limited edition model has got also the graphic touch. It was personalized with WOW STRIPE mats similar to the roof decal and a white or black dashboard insert (coordinated with the roof colour), which further enhances the personality of the DS3 GRAPHIC ART.

In terms of technologies included, this special edition comes equipped with the Connecting Box (jack socket, USB port and Bluetooth hands-free kit) and the Select Confort Pack, which features automatic air conditioning, automatic headlamps, automatic front wiper and rear parking assist as standard.

Citroen DS Graphic Art has a starting price of €19 750 and is available with the VTi 120 engine mated to a manual or auto gearbox, or with the e-HDi 90 Airdream powerplant with a manual gearbox or the 6-speed electronic gearbox system.

Citroen DS3 JUST MAT is the next limited edition which now enriches the DS3 model line-up. This model is now available with Hickory Mat body paint, which is complemented by the chrome-finished wing-mirror housings, side strips and rear lamp surrounds.

Undoubtedly it delivers more elegance, which is even further enhanced by an Onyx Black roof and 17-inch BELLONE diamond-effect black wheels.

The interior of the model is also refined and includes gloss dashboard insert, Mistral leather seat upholstery and a leather gearstick handle and handbrake. Moreover, as a standard equipment this DS3 has automatic air conditioning, the MyWay navigation system with the HiFi system, and CITROËN eTouch.

Citroen DS 3 JUST MATT is going to be produced in just 500 units, and is powered by the THP 155 and e-HDi 110 Airdream engines mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox. Its initial prices start at €25 150.

Source: Citroen

June 7, 2012

High Gear SEMA Ford Mustang Concept to be build by women

High Gear SEMA Ford Mustang Concept is a product of the work of collaboration between Ford Motor Company and Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA). More importantly, standing under the name of “High Gear”, the car is the first ever SEMA Mustang which is going to be powered by women.

What does that mean? Basically, this satin-black luxury Ford Mustang concept is going to be build by group of women volunteers. In fact, in the design phase of the project were created three cars, among which the presented one stood out and was more appealing to the fans of the company.

“High Gear” is a design by Jennifer Seely of Ford, who was inspired by international products in categories such as jewelry, couture clothing and architecture. She developed the idea of the concept around the goal to stimulate the senses by fusing luxury and power.

Hence, some of the special features in this Mustang include rose-gold chrome accents throughout the exterior and interior; satin-black body; plush, quilted suede seats and a leather-wrapped interior. Further modifications will also be made to the engine, undercarriage, drivetrain and sound system.

The selected concept is now going to be built in eight weeks and this is going to be done entirely by group of women. This means that the actual work on the project is expected to be done from July to August this year. In the end, when the vehicle is ready it will make its debut at the 2012 SEMA show in Las Vegas.

Source: Ford

June 7, 2012

LEXUS IS F CCS-R to race in Pikes Peak International Hill Climb

LEXUS IS F CCS-R is a modified IS F sedan which will compete in the legendary Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. The racing will take place next month and will mark its 90th running.

This Lexus racing car has already debuted at the Tokyo Auto Salon back in 2010 as a concept vehicle; and now is ready to make its first achievements. It includes several modifications from the standard IS F sedan and of course these are in terms of improved performance and racing safety regulations.

In details, some of the transformations included are lightweight carbon fibre bodywork and interior details, and polycarbonate windows. The latter help reduce the standard vehicle’s weight by 314kg. In addition, it comes equipped with reinforced monocoque with roll cage, racing brake package, modified race suspension and racing exhaust system.

Lexus IS F CCS-R is propelled by the 2UR-GSE 5.0-litre V8 which is initially on the IS F. The engine develops 311kW (423 hp) and 505Nm (372 lb-ft) of torque and is mated to an eight-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic transmission with paddle shift.

Lexus IS F CCS-R Technical Data:

EXTERIOR DIMENSIONS: Wheelbase 2730mm; Overall length 4759mm; Overall width 1815mm; Overall height 1384mm

WEIGHT: Curb weight 1400kg (314kg less than standard road car)

ENGINE: Designation 2UR-GSE; Displacement 5.0-litre; Power 311kW @ 6,600rpm; Torque 505Nm @ 5,200rpm; Fuel system SFI D-4 direct-to-cylinder injection with secondary port injectors

DRIVETRAIN: Layout Front engine, rear-wheel drive system; Transmission 8-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic with paddle shift and manual mode

EXTERIOR: Orange mica exterior paint; Reinforced monocoque (with roll cage); Carbon fibre hood, door handles, front fender, front spoiler, front canard, rear spoiler, ventilator; Polycarbonate windows; Lightweight door

WHEELS/TYRES: SSR (18×8.5J, off-set 30 front; 18×9.5J, off-set 40 rear); Yokohama /ADVAN NEOVA A050 tyres (245/40 R18 front; 255/40 R18 rear)

BRAKES: Brake cooling system; Racing brake kit; Stainless steel mesh brake hose

SUSPENSION: Adjustable camber front upper arm; Modified race suspension; Reinforced bushings and mounts

EXHAUST: Racing exhaust system

OTHER MECHANICAL: Engine oil cooler; Transmission oil cooler; Differential oil cooler; Mechanical LSD

RACING EQUIPMENT: 120-litre fuel cell; Air jack system; Fire extinguishing system; Data logger; Kill switch; Tow strap

INTERIOR: Carbon fibre dashboard, centre console, door and interior trim; HANS compatible full bucket driver’s seat; Lightened interior (removed power windows, door locks, rear seats, roof lining, etc); Six-point seat belt; Small-diameter steering wheel with paddle shifters

Source: Lexus

June 7, 2012

Steven Tyler and the First 1244 HP Hennessey Venom GT Spyder

If you happen to know a thing or two about rock music then Aerosmith vocalist Steven Tyler is no stranger to you. If you are also familiar with the car industry, Hennessey Performance should ring a bell as well. Where do these two notions come together? In a Venom GT Spyder of course. The rocker is actually responsible for the creation of this monstrous roadster and he recently had the pleasure to be the first man on the planet to get one.

Back in 2011, Tyler walked in the Hennessey HQ in Texas and asked if he could have one of those Venom GT‘s but with an open top. The tuners considered it, did some structural changes to the rollcage (yes, it needs one) and there you have it – a Spyder. The weight however, went up by around 30 lbs and while that doesn’t sound much, it messed with the power to weight ratio which was originally 1hp for every 1kg. To even things out again, the guys at Hennessey did the most logical thing – more power.

The Venom GT Spyder now develops a healthy batch 1244 bhp. It’s the 7.0-liter twin turbo V8 engine that is actually responsible for it. Those figures supposedly make the Venom Spyder one of the fastest roadsters in the world. The 0 to 200 mph run takes less than 16 seconds, we are told, which puts the Bugatti Veyron Vitesse with the silver medalists.

There will be only five 2013 Venom GTs produced and three of them have already been sold. In other words, besides Steven Tyler, two other people had $1.1 million dollars to spare. That’s a lot of money for a car that’s based on the Lotus Exige. We say that, but actually, most of the original car was left out. Fingers crossed, they kept the suspension for this one.

Steven Tyler next to his Hennessey Venom GT-Steven — Steven Tyler next to his Hennessey Venom GT

Source: Hennessey Performance

June 7, 2012

Alpha-N Performance 1M RS BMW

Alpha-N is a relatively new, German based tuner house that has risen from the ashes of the now completely reorientated Veritas-VBT company. Today, they tickle our curiosity with this slim and healthy BMW 1M. As you can tell, It has been on a carbon-fiber diet which has shed weight but it has also been working out as it now flexes it’s muscle with 70 hp more. It’s the Alpha-N Performance 1M RS.

As we start off with the carbon-fiber winglets at the sides of the front bumper, we go through the carbon-fiber hood, then the roof, the trunk, the lip spoiler and the rear diffuser. Alpha-N are not too specific on exactly how much weight has been lost but we’ll have to believe them and say “a lot”.

Under this vented, hood, new airways provide better aspiration, an ECU map of the modified 3.0-liter engine brings the power to 410 hp and the new and sonorous exhaust system provides back-pressure relief. For stopping power, a set of MAC disc brakes sizing 380 mm have been used at the front. The pads within the six-piston calippers have flexible steel lines for better friction. Friction is also provided by the Michelin Cup 245 front and 265 back tires which are wrapped around extremely light O.Z. Superforgiata rims measuring 8.5×19 and 10.0×19 respectively.

The photo shoot has a deliberately close-up nature so that we can witness the interwoven carbon-fibery goodness that is most of the BMW’s exterior. See for yourselves:

Source: Alpha-N

June 7, 2012

2012 Toyota Prius V, Camry and Sienna selected as Best Family Cars

Three Toyota models have been chosen as Best Family Cars of 2012. The choice was done by Parents magazine and Edmunds.com, bounding together to make their fifth annual list.

Namely the Toyota vehicles which were picked are: 2012 Toyota Prius V – in the high-mileage category; 2012 Toyota Camry Sedan in the sedan category; and at last but not least, the Toyota Sienna minivan in the large vehicle category.

The vehicles were evaluated based on several criteria, some of which for instance, are safety, fuel economy, and kid-friendly features, ride comfort, styling and handling. In other words, features which are mostly appreciated by large families.

In fact, this is the fifth consecutive year I which the Japanese brand has been included in the list of best family cars. Hence, the Toyota stands as a synonym for safety, quality and durability and of course convenience, when it comes to making the life of the family better.

2012 Toyota Prius V was in the high-mileage car category, and was appreciated for its stable ride and ample cargo space and was praised for its versatility and standard technology features including the Entune® mulitmedia system and a hands-free smart key, which unlocks the driver’s side door as one approaches the door handle.

The 2012 Toyota Camry was even picked as the best sedan in its category. This vehicle model was entirely redesigned for 2012, which played crucial role to be chosen as the best vehicle. In addition, the seventh generation Camry was picked its convenient technology including Entune, excellent fuel economy, quiet ride and ample trunk space.

The last Toyota included in the list is in the large vehicle category and is the Toyota Sienna minivan. It was included in the list, because it has flexible configurations, which can fit every type of trip, family and cargo combination. The Sienna model was entirely redesigned back in 2010 and now has more responsive driving characteristics, contemporary styling and onboard entertainment technology.

Source: Toyota

June 6, 2012

2012 SR Ferrari 458 Italia: Project Refined Beauty

2012 SR Ferrari 458 Italia: Project Refined Beauty is in fact the second transformation done on Ferrari 458 Italia by SR Auto Group. The previous one carried the project name “Era” and has already captured many hearts. Of course, the fascination for this amazing vehicle is one hundred percent understandable.

The Ferrari is equipped with four and a half liter V8, which delivers 570 horsepower (420 kW) at 9000 revs and 540 N/m (400 lb-ft) at 6000 rpm. In addition, the fact that the 458 Italia, compared to other super sports cars, is a featherweight – 1380 kg, and it has a power-to-weight ratio of 2.42 kg/hp results in acceleration from 0 to100 km/h in less than 3.4 seconds. Its top speed is of top 325 km/h.

Like everything else the interior is exceptional as well. The ergonomics are perfect and the main controls are all clustered on the steering wheel. This car is the proof that Ferrari can make extraordinary cars from every single point of view.

SR Auto Group has refined the beauty of this ravishing pieces of work with the help of CEC Wheels. And now it could be said that function and form are paired perfectly together. The wheels have c884 design, which includes a modern twist on the classic five spoke design. The open five spoke wheel allows the signature red calipers to shine bright and complement the exterior color of the Ferrari.

Source: SR Auto Group

June 6, 2012

2013 Honda Fit EV Has The Highest Fuel-Efficiency Rating

2013 Honda Fit EV has just received the highest fuel-efficiency rating ever given by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). In particular, the number it has shown is exactly of 118 MPGe.

Furthermore this Honda electric vehicle has an unprecedented low consumption rating of just 29 kilowatt hours (kWh) per 100 miles. This makes its EPA rated yearly fuel cost of only $500.

The reason for this efficient drive is that the Fit is equipped with a 20-kWh lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery, which provides the capacity to earn an EPA combined city/highway estimated driving range rating of 82-miles. Compared to the other electric vehicles, the Fit EV has the best fuel economy. For example, the EPA efficiency and range ratings of the Ford Focus Electric are 105 MPGe, 76-mile range; of Nissan Leaf – 99 MPGe, 73-mile range; and Mitsubishi i-MiEV – 112 MPGe, 62-mile range.

What contributes additionally for the fuel economy is the Fit EV’s efficient design. This includes the powertrain design, the weight-conscious engineering and the effective aerodynamics. In addition, the battery of the EV is the smallest one in its class and can be recharged in less than 3 hours from a low charge indicator illumination point (utilizing 240-volt circuit).

Important to mention is that the Fit EV’s 92 kilowatt (123 horsepower) coaxial electric motor produces 189 ft-lb (256 Nm) of torque. In addition, it works in team with a chassis with a fully-independent suspension and a driver-selectable 3-mode electric drive system. The latter one was adapted from the CR-Z Sport Hybrid.

In fact, this takes the Fit one step further, to the accomplishment of Honda’s goal to bring more environmental awareness to thee world. Furthermore, the brand aims to continue developing battery- electric, hydrogen, natural gas, and gasoline-electric powered vehicles, which are to show improved fuel-efficiency and reduced CO2 emissions.

Moreover, Honda Fit has topped the list of America’s greenest vehicles, from the America Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE), for eleven consecutive years. Today, the company is striving for even greater reductions in CO2 emissions.

Honda Fit EV Efficiency Comparison
Model	EPA Combined MPGe Rating	EPA Combined kWh/100ml1	Battery Capacity	EPA Label Range
Honda Fit EV	118	29	20 kWh	82 miles
Mitsubishi i-MiEV	112	30	16 kWh	62 miles
Ford Focus Electric	105	32	23 kWh	76 miles
Nissan Leaf	99	34	24 kWh	73 miles

Source: Honda

June 6, 2012

Audi A3 Eset tuned by Vilner

Vilner has prepared a special promo car for ESET Bulgaria. The project is based on Audi A3, which was put on entire rebuild during two months in Vilner’s studio.

ESETs wish was that the corporate colors are kept on the car. It started with a design project of the exterior and interior. In the course of the work, all the modified bumpers were removed – the aim was to keep the vision of the A3 at the maximum, so that the emphasis remains largely on the colors and some elements of the exterior.

The main color of the car body is pearl white with gray-blue nuances. Red and turquoise were used primarily for the accents. The rims are new – MAK 17 “, and were also precisely lacquered in white and turquoise. The ESET logo appears on the front doors. The decorative grid in blue catches the attention to the new Hella headlights, the original stop lights were replaced by new InPros.

The interior features high-quality Nappa leather and Alcantara as the main color inside is black. Decorative white edges emphasize the seats and inlaid mats. The dashboard was also covered with Nappa and Alcantara and enriched by a precise turquoise seam. The steering wheel was given a new and ergonomic design, both handmade. The seams on the seats, the car door and inside the trunk do reflect the elements of a robot – the symbol of ESET. The same is printed on the bright Alcantara headliner.

The speedometers are new, and are on company’s colors. Samsung Android Galaxy was installed in the middle console, playing the role of a mobile office – it also shows the mapping of the front and rear camera. The metal was painted with matt turquoise, but purposely – it corresponds with the door elements, the gear change, and the dash air vents.

The car body is isolated and soundproofed, which ensures the full enjoyment of quality music Ground Zero and AudioSon processor.

Source: Vilner

June 6, 2012

Lorinser Mercedes-Benz S70 with Power Kit

Lorinser has announced their latest creation – the S70 6.0 V12 Bi-Turbo based on the Mercedes-Benz S600 L V12 Bi-Turbo, M275. The car comes with styling and performance modifications… lots of them.

The exterior boasts full aerodynamics body kit including new front and rear bumpers, a pair of modified side skirts and ventilated fenders. There is also a rear roof-mounted spoiler, a rear diffuser and a set of huge 20” light alloy wheels fitted with Yokohama Advan Sport tires. The front wheels are 9J x 20” and the rear 10J x 20” in multi piece Lorinser RSK6 design.

The interior is also fully restyled. It comes with special Nappa leather and wood in piano black lacquer. There are also Lorinser crests found on the head rests, seats, steering wheel. The instrument clusted is now revised to show speed up to 360 km/h.

The well-known 6.0 liter V12 bi-turbo engine received complete rebuild including – new camshafts, bigger turbochargers, an updated ECU and a full sports exhaust system, which you can hear in the video below. The rear axle is reinforced, so it won’t get away from the car, when you step on the gas pedal.

The result is sensational – 805HP (592 kW) and 1270Nm (936 lb-ft) of torque t 1900RPM. The top speed is limited to 300 km/h (186 mph) or 330 km/h (205 mph) upon request.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XwaYFFl7qGQ

Source: Lorinser

June 6, 2012

2013 Ford F-150 Revealed

One of America’s favorite trucks is now entering the year 2013. It’s the latest Ford F-150 range now with an EcoBoost engine as well. Aside from that, the design has been moderately revised and a few pickup-friendly features have been added. For the high rollers, there are also F-150 special editions that peak in luxury and equipment.

The engine variety within the Ford F-150 is now bigger than ever. Right next to the baseline 3.7-liter V6, the 5.0-liter V8 and top of the line 411 hp, 6.2liter V8 Ti-VCT engines, now sits a 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine which has approximately the economy of the of the baseline model (16 mpg city and 22 mpg highway) but the power (and more) of the 5.0-liter one and the towing capacity of the 6.2-liter one. In other words – 365 hp, 420 lb-ft. of torque as soon as 2,500 rpm and 11,300 pounds of maximum trailer tow. You also get electroincally locking diff on it and Hill Descent Control. Whichever you choose though, you’ll always end up with the same efficient six-speed automatic transmission.

The base model is called the XLT. On its outside, the grill is new and so are the headlights which now use HID technology – superior and better looking we’ve been told. Depending on your trim choice, you may get newly designed 18- or 20-inch wheels. Three new body colors are now also available. That is Blue Jeans Metallic, Kodiak Brown Metallic and Ruby Red Clearcoat Metallic.

Something particularly neat is the electronic telescoping function on the side-mirrors which can come in handy when towing a big caravan for example and from the inside you also get the SYNC voice-activated communications and entertainment system with 911 Assist and Vehicle Health Report as standard on the XLT. As options you can also add-on to this other software such as Traffic Information, Turn-by-Turn Directions, Business Search, Send to SYNC from Google Maps and MapQuest, News, Sports, Weather and Horoscopes. That’s a lot of information for the 4.2-inch LCD display to take but hey, if you go for one of the special versions, the Ford F-150 Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum or Limited, that screen becomes a MyFord Touch 8-inch display with a few USB and SD slots added for personal multimedia.

2013 Ford F-150 XLT (left) and Lariat (right)

Source: Ford

June 5, 2012

2012 SR BMW Z4 – Spicing Everything Up

2012 SR BMW Z4 is the latest conversion by the tuners from SR Auto Group done on a unique BMW model. Although it is not changed in terms of performance, it was “spiced up” with unique design elements.

In short, SR Auto Group has enriched the already outstanding BMW Z4 model. The latter stands for style, speed and performance, and more importantly is able to capture any heart with its 245 horsepower (180 kW).Its torque produces 350Nm (260 lb-ft).

And the result is that the Z4 absolutely effortlessly accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in only 5.7 seconds.

The so called spicing that came from the tuners was as you might have already guessed from the wheels. And this time they are more than unique. Painted in red, they fit perfectly this BMW Z4, thus making the car the star of the show.

In addition, the wheels are fitted with a set of 20″ CEC C882, which have been revamped with a two tone finish sporting a vibrant red shade. Sometimes a bit of color is just what one needs to spice up ones day!

Source: SR Auto Group

June 5, 2012

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