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  • The Top 5 Automotive Upgrades for a New Vehicle

    Elevate the style and performance of your new ride from off-the-lot stock to aftermarket hot by spicing it up with performance accessories. Whether you’re looking to add some sizzle to your daily driver or give your free-time ride an extra jolt of juice, custom accessories take your car, truck or SUV to unheard of levels of style and protection. And, as any automotive junkie knows, the best place to start your journey is to add some flashy protection to your front end. And, for stylish defense from the elements, a car bra is the way to go. Car bras are custom-crafted to fit every line of your exact vehicle for the stylish accent your new ride deserves. These beauties defend your bumper from pummeling pebbles, torpedoing wasps and anything else the open road can dish out. And, they’re available in a wide variety of styles and materials to compliment your unique look.

    With your front end taken care of it’s time to focus on keeping your interior fresh and looking fly. And, for that you need to hook up your ride with a set of seat covers. From taking abuse from unruly teenagers to blocking Fido’s fur flinging ways, seat covers offer the best defense out there. Like putting your seats in a time capsule, seat covers put your seats on lockdown to block anything from getting at ‘em. That snug seal is all you need to stop the upholstery aging process in its tracks. Plus, they come in an astounding variety of fabrics and styles so your interior style is helped while your fabric stays factory fresh.

    Now that your seats are squared away, your next step is to take care of your floorboards. Floor mats offer an unbeatable layer of defense from everything your active lifestyle can dish out. So, from mud-covered cleats to spilled soda, your floors stay stylish and clean. They’re available in a wide variety of styles and protection levels to compliment your interior. That means from matching to leather to adding some Hawaiian flare to your floorboards, you’re covered.

    With your car properly protected it’s time to get to the really fun part: performance. And, nothing sets your horsepower and torque soaring like a cold air intake. These beasts suck in massive quantities of power-producing icy air and feed it to your hungry engine. That brawny breath boosts the performance of your ride better than any other upgrade. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your 4×4 for an all-out off-road attack or want to add an extra jolt of juice to your weekend ride, a performance CAI is the way to go.

    Meanwhile, you can’t add that much furious power without boosting your braking system to keep pace. Upgrading your brake rotors to a brawny aftermarket setup is an essential step in the journey of any performance geek. From cross-drilled rotors to dimpled or slotted and every combination in between, performance rotors come in a variety of different styles to suit any situation from the dirt track to the raceway. Either way you go, performance rotors massively increase the stopping power of your ride. All this great gear raises your ride to a personalized statement of excellence for all on the road to envy.

  • 2012 Geneva Motor Show: ABT Volkswagen up!

    Another tuned vehicle by Abt sportsline has been exhibited at the Geneva Motor Show. It is the ABT up!, which gained a lot of interesting goodies.

    The exterior received carbon-look stripes with aggressive red ones across the entire surface. The mix of retro and modern age is really successful. Window frames and side skirts are the “common thread” leading straight to the strong back of the ABT up!, where rear masks, an exhaust pipe tunnel and the sporty double exhaust pipe form a unit. There are also mirror caps or red hub covers with ABT logo.

    VW ABT Up! benefits from a new suspension springs bringing the ride lower to the ground.

    The tuning package brings better styling for the smallest Volkswagen and makes it a lot better looking.

    However, price list or performance packages are not present up to date. Stay tuned!

    ABT Volkswagen up Geneva 2012
    ABT Volkswagen up Geneva 2012

    Source: ABT

  • 2012 Geneva Motor Show: ABT Volkswagen Beetle

    Abt sportsline has unveiled the tuned 2012 Beetle at the 82nd Geneva Motor Show.

    The exterior package includes a new front bumper, a rear diffuser with oval exhaust pipes and a pair of side skirts. There are also headlight brows and some nice graphics. The car is lowered by a set of sport springs. It stands on Abt DR wheels fitted with low profile tires.

    The tuning specialists have developed five performance packages for the “bug” – 1.2 TSI with 140PS (103 kW), 1.4TSI with 210PS (154 kW) and the mighty 2.0TFSI is delivering 240PS (176 kW). The diesel range features 1.6 TDI receiving additional 20PS (15 kW) and the bigger 2.0TDI will have 170PS (125 kW).

    Actuall, the ABT Beetle looks much better than, it was originally planned. The headlight brows give more aggressive look and the stripes complete the stunning exterior.

    ABT Beetle Geneva 2012
    ABT Beetle Geneva 2012

    Source: ABT

  • 2012 Geneva Motor Show: Maserati GranTurismo Sport

    Maserati GranTurismo Sport will be the successor of the GranTurismo S. It is currently exhibited at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show.

    The sports car is powered by a 4.7-liter V8 engine with 460 PS (338 kW) and 520 Nm (383 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 4.7 seconds and a top speed of 300 km/h (186 mph). The engine is mated to a 6-speed automatic gearbox or 6-speed electro actuated gearbox, with dry twin-plate clutch.

    The new GranTurismo Sport is fitted with the Sport Skyhook system, an evolution of the continuous damping control system that makes the car even more reactive and fun to drive, whilst at the same time increasing passenger comfort. In SPORT mode the car is pin sharp in responding to the driver’s input, while in normal mode it constantly adapts the damping to absorb the roughness of the surface for a smoother ride. All this equates to a superb handling capability that combines sports performance and comfort in all driving conditions.

    The exterior comes with minor changes – revised front bumper, new badge and new headlights with integrated LED daytime running lights.

    The interior features new seats and a new steering wheel, and aluminum pedals. The seats are upholstered in Poltrona Frau leather. There are also some EcoChrome grey accents.

    With these characteristics, the new GranTurismo Sport follows in the footsteps of one of the most successful cars in the entire history of Maserati.

    Maserati Granturismo Sport Geneva 2012
    Maserati Granturismo Sport Geneva 2012

    Source: Maserati

  • 2012 Geneva Motor Show: Lotus Exige S Roadster

    Lotus has unveiled the Exige S Roadster at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. The vehicle is based on the well-known Elise, but comes with enormous V6 in the middle.

    The supercharged 3.5 liter V6 develops 350PS (257 kW) and 400Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque. It is mated to a 6-speed manual or an optional SPS (Serial Precision Shift) gearbox. 0-100 km/h in 4.0 seconds, to 160 km/h in 8.5 seconds and a top speed of 233 km/h (145 mph). The fuel consumption is good – 10.1 l /100km (28.0 mpg UK) with CO2 emissions of 236 g/km.

    The car comes with two different suspension settings. There’s the standard setting for an active driving experience suited to public roads; and an optional setting as part of the Race Pack for maximum performance, developed for track use. The launch control system can be activated when the car is in Race mode.

    Outside, it’s a fine balance of beauty and the beast. The drop-top adds extrovert style to the Exige’s already muscular contours, at the same time it is an elegant machine that keeps its clenched fist under wraps

    Inside, the car is a lesson in stylish minimalism and functionality. The customer can specify a comfort enhanced plush interior or go for a more stripped down, sporty option.

    2012 Lotus Exige S Roadster will hit the European and the Asian markets, but there are no plans to be introduced in the USA.

    Lotus Exige S Roadster Geneva 2012
    Lotus Exige S Roadster Geneva 2012

    Source: Lotus

  • 2012 Geneva Motor Show: Pagani Huayra Carbon Edition

    Pagani has exhibited the special Huayra Carbon Edition at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. The bespoke model boats naked carbon fiber body. Furthermore, the interior is also from naked carbon fiber.

    It is powered by a 6.0 liter bi-turbo V12 with 710PS (522 kW) and 1000Nm (737 lb-ft) of torque. The engine is mated to an XTRAC 7-speed sequential transmission. The overall weight of the original Huayra is 1 350 kg (2 975 lb), so probably few kilograms will be cut thanks to using carbon fiber in the interior. 0-100 km/h in 3.3 seconds and a top speed of 370 km/h (230 mph).

    Pagani Huayra is designed for maximum aerodynamic efficiency. It features four adjustable flaps, which can operate independently to improve downforce as needed. The sleek carbon fiber body incorporates gullwing doors and plenty of openings to for cooling the engine.

    The price for regular Huayra starts at €1 000 000, so we couldn’t imagine how much will cost this special edition.

    Pagani Huayra Carbon Edition Geneva 2012
    Pagani Huayra Carbon Edition Geneva 2012

    Source: Pagani

  • 2012 Geneva Motor Show: BMW 6-series Gran Coupe

    BMW has presented the new 6-series Gran Coupe at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. The four-door coupe will compete against Audi A7 and Mercedes CLS.

    The engine range includes three power units as the exhibited version is the 640i, which is powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0 liter inline-six with 320PS (235 kW) and 450Nm (332 lb-ft). 0-100 km/h in 5.4 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) electronically limited.

    The price for this toy starts at €79 500.

    The more powerful 650i has the famous twin-turbo 4.4 liter V8 with 450PS (330 kW) and 650Nm (479 lb-ft). 0-100 km/h in 4.6 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – limited.

    The price list starts at €92 600.

    Last is the super-efficient diesel – 640d with a 3.0 liter twin-turbocharged engine delivering 313PS (230 kW) and 630Nm (465 lb-ft). 0-100 km/h is the same as the petrol – 5.4 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph).

    The price is slightly more – €83 000.

    BMW 640i Gran Coupe Geneva 2012
    BMW 640i Gran Coupe Geneva 2012

    Source: BMW

  • 2012 Geneva Motor Show: Prindiville Range Rover Evoque Convertible concept

    Prindiville-Range-Rover-Evoque-THUMBPrindiville Range Rover Evoque Convertible concept was presented at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. This bold concept builds on the global success of the Evoque and continues Land Rover’s tradition of creating significant vehicles, which deliver luxury and style. In details, the soft-top convertible concept is based on the Range Rover Evoque Coupe. It includes entirely retractable premium roof system with a Roll Over Protection System [ROPS]. Furthermore, the concept combines capability and versatility with a drop down tailgate and a comfortable four seat package. The vehicleretaimns key characteristics from the Land Rover design philosophy, including a command driving position and all-terrain capability. Evoque’s rising waist line and specific shape has been retained. Hence, the new convertible body style has been achieved with minimal changes to weight and torsional rigidity. The hood is housed in a neat tapered finisher with the roof mechanism stowed discretely below the belt-line. Although Range Rover Evoque Convertible Concept was already revealed in Geneva 2012 it is only a design and engineering study. Unfortunately, there is no production plans confirmed.

    Prindiville Range Rover Evoque Convertible Concept
    Prindiville Range Rover Evoque Convertible Concept

    Source: Prindiville Design

  • 2012 Geneva Motor Show: Carlsson Mercedes-Benz CK63 RS

    2012-Mercedes-Benz-Carlsson-CK63-RS-THUMB2012 Carlsson Mercedes-Benz CK63 RS is based on the Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG and carries the powerful V8-Biturbo with added performance package by Carlsson Autotechnik. First, the AMG eight-cylinder engine with a cylinder capacity of 5.461 cm already produces 557 hp (410 kW) at 5,500 rpm and a maximum torque of 800 Nm (588 lb-ft) at 2,000 rpm. However, Carlsson engineers additionally improved the engine and increasedits power to the significant 652 hp (480 kW) with a maximum trque of 1000 Nm of 2,000 – 4,500 rpm, the maximum torque lies at 1,000 Nm (735 lb-ft). This power increase allows the Carlsson CK63 RS to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in only 4.1 seconds. In addtion, a tailor-made, multi-flow, complete stainless steel exhaust system with downpipes, metal catalysts and front and rear silencers supports the power enhancement and is also fitted with an exhaust damper system.

    2012 Mercedes-Benz Carlsson CK63 RS
    2012 Mercedes-Benz Carlsson CK63 RS

    Furthermore, Carlsson has modified the vehicle at the front axle thus making it more agile. The AMG Ride Control sports suspension springs at the front axle have been replaced with Carlsson springs with more progressive spring characteristics. They lower the CLS by 30 millimeters. In addition 1/10-type Carlsson wheels in a stylish star design with single and double spokes embellish the wheel housing of the Carlsson sports sedan. They are with 9 x 20” rims at the front and 10.5 x 20” at the drive axle. More aerodynamic components were featured in the tuning: front spoiler and the RS front spoiler lip, black stainless steel grille inserts, rear spoiler, together with the rear apron insert, integrated Carlsson RS rear diffuser made from real carbon.

    The interior of this Carlsson vehicle was made by master-saddlers applying thier traditional hand-craftsmanship. Of course, they have used the finest materials: leather, the finest Alcantara, carbon fiber, natural woods and other exclusive natural materials. A combination of brown Alcantara and mocha-brown Carlsson NAPPA EXCLUSIVE leather wrappes the interior. Moreover, thee interior modification for the Carlsson CK63 RS is eventually finished with details, such as Carlsson foot mats, door sill panels with blue, illuminated Carlsson lettering and door-locking pins made from polished aluminum.

    2012 Carlsson Mercedes-Benz CK63 RS has jus been presented in 2012 Geneva Motor Show.

    Source: Carlsson

  • 2012 Honda Civic Natural Gas

    2012_Civic_Natural_Gas_THUMBHonda Civic Natural Gas is the latest production project of the brand, which has been designed especially to raise the ecological awareness around the globe. Honda made a further step in this direction, by presenting the keys of a 2012 Honda Civic Natural Gas to Anaheim Ducks NHL star George Parros. By his positive influence and personal example, the manufacture is confident that Parros will create awareness of the vehicle amongst his Ducks team-mates and fans.

    Furthermore, the car has already been awarded a green car of the 2012 year. The 2012 Honda Civic Natural Gas is the only OEM-built, CNG-powered passenger car for sale in the United States. Examples of it are available at 197 dealers around the country. In details, the vehicle is powered by the cleanest internal-combustion engine, which is in addition certified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (Tier-II, Bin-2 and ILEV certification). It also qualifies for a state-issued decal allowing single-occupant access to High-Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) “carpool” lanes. Moreover, the all-new 2012 model includes enhanced exterior and interior styling, improved fuel economy and a refueling price typically 30 percent less than gasoline! Significant features aren’t they!

    2012 Honda Civic Natural Gas
    2012 Honda Civic Natural Gas
    2012 Honda Civic Natural Gas
    2012 Honda Civic Natural Gas

    Source: Honda

  • 2012 Dodge Journey SXT Four-Cylinder Model

    2012-Dodge-Journey-THUMBThe award-winning Dodge Journey SXT crossover will feature 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine as a standard. The four-cylinder Journey models deliver 173 hp (127 kW) and achieve 26 mpg on the highway. Furthermore all 2012 Dodge Journey SXT models are equipped with 17-inch aluminum wheels, 4.3-inch Uconnect touch screen, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, push-button start, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter, performance fascias with front fog lamps, LED taillamps, premium interior with soft-touch surfaces, four-wheel disc brakes with ABS, seven airbags and much more. SXT is also available with the segment-exclusive 8.4-inch Uconnect Touch Screen, in-seat storage and integrated booster seats. The customers of the car can also chose as an option the available award-winning Pentastar V-6 engine, which delivers a not only power but also fuel economy – 283 hp (208 kW) and 25 mpg on the highway. Additionally, the V-6 models are also available with all-wheel-drive system.

    2012 Dodge Journey SXT Four-Cylinder Model
    2012 Dodge Journey SXT Four-Cylinder Model

    Another highlight is that Dodge is offering the Flexible Seating Group on all 2012 Dodge Journey models. The package offers easy entry second-row 60/40 Tilt ‘n Slide seat, three-zone heating and air conditioning and third-row 50/50 folding and reclining seat. The Journey also includes premium soft-touch materials on the inside, the exclusive second-row in-floor storage bins and hidden storage within the front passenger seat. With more than 40 safety and security features, the 2012 Dodge Journey SXT has been Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick for four consecutive years. At last to be mentioned is that the Journey also features high-tech connectivity and customization with the Uconnect® Touch 8.4 radio with an 8.4-inch touchscreen.
    The 2012 Dodge Journey SXT with the four-cylinder engine will be available at a starting U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $22 995.

    Source: Dodge

  • 2012 Geneva Motor Show: EDAG Light Car – Sharing concept car

    2012-EDAG-Light-Car---Sharing-concept-car-THUMB2012 EDAG Light Car – Sharing concept car is thefirst vehicle to have been specifically designed to meet the needs of the growing car sharing sector. It is designed to include the maximum possible space inside, and also the exterior has resilient surfaces. It is electrically driven and in resonance with Light Car philosophy. In particular, the light is used as a means of communication to indicate the leasing status of the vehicle.

     

    For leasing purposes a car should be practical, robust and self-explanatory. Hence the exterior is of height of 1.90 meters, which makes it easy for the passengers to get in and out. In addition there is very convenient parking system, which is sensitive to spots around the bumper. As the name shows, the light plays crucial role and serves as a communication instrument. When the car is being charged or reserved, or available for hire, the LEDs integrated in the gel pads and “PLEXIGLAS ® LEDs” manufactured by Evonik Industries AG use three different colors to give a highly visible indication of the status. In addition, there is a laser, which when parking the car or opening the doors, projects a safety zone onto the asphalt, ensuring that passengers can get in and out in safety.

    2012 EDAG Light Car - Sharing concept
    2012 EDAG Light Car – Sharing concept

    Besides the two side doors with simple sliding windows, the “concept vehicle also has twin rear doors. The coupe features six folding seats arranged in two rows of three. A special emphasis has been put on an intuitive operating concept: aside from the accelerator, brake and steering wheel, the only other control is a lever to work the indicators. This means that there is just one display element, which only gives the important data (speed, charge, range, navigation).
    Furthermore EDAG Group is also exhibiting a networked mobility concept for booking the future share car fleet. In particular, the operators of future car will use GPS to locate their vehicles and communicate their locations to potential customers. Hence, it will be possible to inform the customer which cars are available, and then guide him to the nearest one by means of the navigation system in his smartphone. Of course, the booking will be made via Internet, and the customer can then access the vehicle through electronic “Bluetooth key”.

    In addition, the concept car features the so called “intelligent charger”: besides performing the actual charge process, the “intelligent charger” also sends vehicle information via the power supply system and decides itself when is the perfect time for charging. It does this by taking into account the availability of renewable energies and mobility behavior. More importantly, the operator receives all important information on the status of the vehicle online. The communication between car and user is even further enhanced with new services such as automated legitimation and the selection of individual tariffs or prices per minute. This interconnection brings about considerable added value for the entire mobility system. What it does in details, is that it gives the energy provider the chance to make use of energy storage and in this way reduce load fluctuations in the grid due to electric cars being connected. On the other hand it ensures that there is sufficient resource-saving energy to charge the share vehicles whenever necessary.

     

    Source: Edag