Automobiles Review – Page 963 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

Dartz Jo-Mojo

Great news for “go-greeners” today! They come from DARTZ which are very pleased to present the Jo-MOJO – an electric modification of their bulletproof Roadster. Moreover it is also redesigned in their second collaboration with Eduard Gray of Gray Design.

As usual this vehicle is again following the armored tradition set by DARTZ. Although it has an open top, it is based on a pseudo-KAPSULA technology platform akin to its bigger brothers. In addition it has been equipped with patented bullet wheels, custom seating and made with chameleon paint, which will undeniably ensure that it will be as individual as its owner.

The designers of The Jo-Mojo revealed that the super-car has been designed to run through the streets of the Cote d’Azur. Additionally it comes armed with a styling that will light up any party. The advantages of this brilliant vehicle are numerous, but worth of mention are the compact format, low center of gravity and wide front wheel placement. Thank to them the car has fantastic handling characteristics to ensure a smooth ride around curved roads of the Blue Coast.

Dartz Jo Mojo (2012) — Dartz Jo-Mojo (2012)

However the greater advantage of this car lies in its solar batteries. The innovation around the Jo-Mojo is the retractable cover that incorporates a flexible solar cells created by former Soviet space manufacturers, Sidrabe. Moreover you will be amazed when you hear that the cover locks the car and charges it up while it stands under the sun! In addition there is an option of adding extra batteries when you plan to make a longer travel. And don’t worry about the speed because this car has all that it takes for an exciting drive. First, it accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h just in 9.5 seconds and the top speed is the almost unbelievable for an electric car 125 mph (201 km/h). This is due to the powerful electric engine which delivers the whole 68 kW (80HP) and 120NM (90 lb-ft).

Source: Gray Design

December 8, 2011

2012 Rinspeed “Dock+Go” mobility concept

The motto of the concept is simple: “Take 3!” and it is all about taking three axels instead of two. However this modification is based on the thinking “but only if you need them”! This third axle with two wheels is the main feature of the brand new modular mobility system from Swiss automotive visionary Frank M. Rinderknecht. Under the name “Dock+Go” the Swiss will present the vehicle from 8^th till 18^th of March at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. What is so special about this concept lies in the aim of docking “backpacks on wheels.” Moreover these single-axle “packs” can be used in different ways depending on what the driver has to do during the day. In addition they also have an insightful resolution for the so commonly met operating range problem of electric vehicles. The highlight is that neither unneeded space nor superfluous weight is carried along if it is not necessary.

As a basis “Dock+Go.” could be used any electric car: for example you can have the two-seated smart. Furthermore there is a great range of “packs” thank to which you can turn the electric-powered mini car into a dream car of any pizza delivery driver (additionally completed with an integrated heated box). As it goes for the craftsmen – there is a very special thing prepared: a toolbox pack with well-organized spaces for every tool! Eventually after the day has gone and all the work is done everything could e docked to the rear of the mini-mobile.

And here is the great news for all “high-speed” admirers. When you want to accelerate the kilometers per hour more than just 120, there have been provided an “energy pack” with a combustion engine or range extender, packed with batteries or powered by a fuel cell. Thank to it, there is an added range for reaching more distant destinations. Additionally manufacturers have shared a simple but clever trick: the docked third axle drives the rotating second axle and thus recharges the on-board battery of the city car; hence thus the first Vario-Hybrid is born! If you wonder how you can charge the batteries you can do it at home using the energy pack. The last one is recharged with solar power from the roof, thus making living and driving without any CO2 emissions a reality. A perfect car for any environmentalist isn’t it

Source: Rinspeed

December 8, 2011

Mercedess G-Class is now worthy of Cinderella

How do you think a modern carriage would look like nowadays? Of course it have to be worthy of modern prices and princesses. Studio VILNER has the answer and it lies not in the fairy-tale of Charles Perault, but in the magnificent Mercedes G-Class. When you open its door you’ll then plunge into the magical world of the VILNERs atelier.

What you’ll see here is that he interior is entirely made-over and it is definitely perfectly suitable for royalties. First of all the coupe is made with high-quality leather. The bright interior caresses the senses with its relief parts, which can be seen as well in the doors and the roof of the car. The roof itself is separated by a broad black band made from alcantara. As already mentioned the whole interior of the automobile “wears” leather, even the rearview mirror and the plastic elements of the seatbelts! VILNER has done a stunningly great work and has considered in the design all the details! Even more: the small elements of the interior stand out majestically because of the used sleek chrome! The light from the ceilings of vanity mirrors goes out of the round holes of the black alcantara.

No one cares how long the ride from Kingdom A to Kingdom B will take, we are sure that the passengers in this luxury Mercedes G-Class will feel undeniably comfortably. In addition they will have the opportunity to pamper their senses with music, coming out from the “Ground Zero” audio system. All this will happen in the additionally insulated coupe for much greater comfort!

At last but not least, the way will be well lighted thank to the new LED lights, which are especially designed by VILNER for more beautiful and magical fairy tale! Well done tuners!

Source: Vilner

December 7, 2011

2012 Smart For-Us Concept: The Rule-Breaker

Smart is as usual making grate challenges with the ideas that it have presented recently. And more precisely what I consider as a challenging idea is the vision of Smart for an urban pickup. This would probably be the best car not only for the young and people with active lives, but also for those who attach importance to low emissions and taking up minimum road space.

As usual the exterior dimensions of the car are designed the minimal possible: length/width/height: 3547/1506/1701mm. It is so small that it could almost go unseen on the loading area of a pickup. On the other hand this Smart includes state-of-the-art electric drive with a 55 kW magneto-electric motor. The world-premier of the car will be at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit between 14^th and 22d January 2012).

The aim of this Smart pick-up manufacturer is obviously to make them small on the outside and at the same time large on the inside Of course, not forgetting the safety and high comfortability.

The smart for-us is a mobility concept that will be perfect for bringing more flexibility in the city traffic. You might be amazed that it has plenty of room for two people and space for two smart ebikes behind them! Moreover you can always charge you batteries thanks to the docking station on the cargo area of the smart for-us. What makes the Smart a special car it is the accessibility of destinations that are out of bounds for other cars. For instance this might be traffic-calmed zones in the city or isolated park trails.

The smart for-us not only makes a powerful statement but also its appearance is achieving the one of the conventional mega-pickups. The body is shaped sensuously and with curved lines. Of course the large brand emblem can be proudly seen on the grille. Furthermore the front has a great three-dimensional design (which will immediately catch the attention) with an underride guard finishing off the lower part of the front end.

Smart manufacturer has used the longer wheelbase (2480 mm/plus 613 mm). Therefore the track has been widened by 50 mm on each side. This also makes an emphasis of the robust look of the vehicle. Meanwhile the extremely short overhangs at the front and rear make it extremely compact. Furthermore the tailboard at the rear of the smart for-us is electrically driven. When it opens first of all the cargo floor including tailboard retracts by 280 mm, then the tailgate slides down in a parallel position. All of this makes the cargo on the 900 mm cargo area very easily accessable.

However the interior is characterized by contrasts. For example it has the sleek and taut surfaces coloured in white and at the same time has the precisely designed technical functional elements in brushed aluminium. Moreover the whole cockpit enhances the aerodynamic styling for interior ventilation. On the place of the rear-view mirror it has been placed an innovation: a smartphone accommodated in a holder on top of the instrument panel support. In this way the driver can see the road behind them thank to the integrated video camera.

Smart for-us is definitely full of style and highly functional without being too complicated. Moreover what is really appealing is the fact that it is easy to individualise it. It includes two seats in the concept car which are typical for smart. At the same time the seat shells are open in the middle and are covered with a soft yellow fabric throw which will give the passengers a comfortable seating feel.

What has to be highlighted here is that the electric drive of the smart for-us! It is being based on the brand new drive concept of the smart fortwo electric drive, which will be presented firstly in the spring of 2012. The 55 kW magneto-electric motor makes the Smart for-us is agile and lively to drive in the city! And not forgetting the 130 Newton metres of torque, which makes the Smart for-us a powerful, lag-free acceleration vehicle, which can overtake other automobiles at ease! To be more precise thee maximum speed exceeds 120 km/h. And if you wonder about the power of the lithium-ion battery – it has the capacity of 17.6 kWh.

Source: Daimler

December 7, 2011

2013 Ford Mustang Cobra Jet

Since 1968 Ford’s Cobra Jet Mustang has achieved to make a legacy of power, performance and triumph. In 2008 this legacy was made anew with the limited run of the 40th Anniversary Cobra Jet Mustang (of course it quickly sold out). Consequently the models of 2010 and 2012 are as popular as the previous ones, and moreover they are a proof for the continues Evolution of Ford Racing’s Turnkey Race Car Program

On Friday Dec. 2, Ford Racing unveiled their 2013 Cobra Jet Mustang at the Performance Racing Industry show in Orlando, Fla. The 2013 Cobra Jet went through three year period of testing, racing and customer feedback in order to continue the legacy. It was designed for NHRA Stock and Super Stock competition. And we must say that the model is better than ever and features the latest drag racing technology for greater acceleration and consistency.

To be more precise the 2013 Cobra Jet offers two 5.0-liter Ti-VCT engine options. Therefore every individual taste will be met. Namely, clients have the opportunity to choose a naturally aspirated engine with Cobra Jet induction system, CNC ported heads, high-lift cams and low-drag accessory drive, or a 2.9-liter Whipple supercharged version with CNC port-matched manifold and heads, and a proprietary 10-rib supercharger drive system for high-rpm use without belt slip.

Furthermore, there has been made improvements in the chassis of the 2013 Cobra Jet. What I mean are the modifications in the lightweight body, which give better weight distribution. On the other hand the electric power steering provides better drivability without parasitic horsepower loss. Additionally a new roll cage design has been optimized for safety and chassis rigidity. Not forgetting the brake pedal – its ratio has been revised as well in order to have more modulation and stopping power. The rear suspension geometry delivers faster and more consistent 60-foot times.

And if you wonder about the numbers of the price, the 2013 Cobra Jet is at best value, with an approximate MSRP of $86,000 (for the naturally aspirated engine option) and $93,000 (for the supercharged engine)

As usual, the 2013 Cobra Jet Mustang will be made by the United Auto Workers at the AutoAlliance International plant in Flat Rock, Mich. Production of Cobra Jets will commence in June 2012, with delivery in the middle of the summer of 2012. The components of the vehicle will be available through Ford Performance Parts. This of course will allow racers to upgrade their Mustangs to Cobra Jet specifications.

Unfortunately 2013 Cobra Jet production is limited to only 50 units.

Source: Ford

December 7, 2011

2012 Renault Laguna Coupe

The new 2012 Renault Laguna Coupe was revealed at the Bologna Motor Show in Italy. The stylish coupe comes with a brand new lighting signature with LED daytime running lights now fitted as standard equipment. There are also new 17” diamond-effect alloy wheels.

The Pearlescent White exterior finish can now be specified for the GT 4Control and Initiale equipment levels. A two-tone livery featuring a Pearlescent Black roof combined with all the catalogue’s metallic finishes has been extended to the include the GT 4Control version. More than ever, these new styling appointments highlight the elegance and sportiness of Renault’s high-end coupé.

The interior boasts standard visible dashboard stitching. Mixed TEP/fabric upholsteries are also available for all versions.

The engine range includes a new 2.0 Energy dCi 150 engine with start/stop technology and Energy Smart Management. It delivers 150PS (110 kW) and returns CO2 emissions of 118 g/km. There are also turbocharged petrol version with either 170PS or 205PS or a powerful V6 delivering 240PS.

The 2012 Laguna Coupe is priced at €31 500.

Check out the equipment, below!

The former limited-edition Monaco GP version has now become an equipment level in its own right. Laguna Coupé Collection 2012 comes with LED daytime running lights, Carminat TomTom® Live navigation, Plug&Music analogue/digital connectivity (jack + USB) and Bluetooth® connectivity (hands-free telephone, audio streaming) as standard equipment.

Black Edition equipment level:

Six airbags, including thorax/pelvis front airbags
Rear parking sensors
Plug & Music analogue/digital connectivity (jack + USB)
Carminat TomTom Live navigation, connected Live services, French mapping
Renault hands-free entry
Chrome side window surrounds
Dual-zone automatic climate control (three modes: Soft / Auto / Fast)
Twin chrome exhaust tail pipes
ESC, ABS (with emergency brake assist)
Automatic windscreen-wiper and headlight activation
LED daytime running lights
LED rear lights
Electronic parking brake
Isofix anchorage for outer rear seats
17-inch Sari diamond-effect alloy wheels
Metallic paint
Dashboard with visible stitching
Bi-xenon headlights with headlight washers
4x45W “3D Sound by Arkamys” radio-CD with MP3 playback, Bluetooth connectivity and eight loudspeakers
Cruise control with speed limiter
Electrochrome rear view mirror
Electric, heated door mirrors
Mixed black fabric/TEP upholstery with grey stitching
Height- and fore/aft- adjustable sport front seats
Leather-trimmed three-spoke steering wheel and gear lever knob

Monaco GP equipment level = Black Edition equipment level, plus:

Monaco GP exterior badging
Pearlescent Black door mirror housings
Pearlescent White interior details (dashboard and centre console)
Black 18-inch alloy wheels
Aluminium pedal covers
Aluminium gear lever knob (manual gearbox)
Monaco GP-badged, mixed black fabric upholstery
Pearlescent White version with black roof, or completely Pearlescent Black
Leather-trimmed flat-bottomed GT steering wheel with visible stitching

GT 4Control equipment level = Black Edition equipment level, plus:

4Control exterior badging
Renault hands-free entry and engine starting
4Control chassis (four-wheel steering)
Pearlescent Black door mirror housings
Guilloché-patterned aluminium dashboard trim
Black 18-inch alloy wheels
Aluminium pedal covers
Metallic paint, with Pearlescent Black roof
Aluminium gear lever knob
Electrically-folding door mirrors with memory setting
Heated electrically-adjustable front seats, with memory settings for driver’s seat
Black leather upholstery

Tyre pressure monitoring system

Initiale equipment level = Black Edition equipment level, plus:

Front parking sensors
INITIALE exterior badging
Bose® Sound System with 10 loudspeakers and six-CD multi-changer
Carminat DVD Bluetooth® navigation with seven-inch display and European mapping
Renault hands-free entry and engine starting
Black Lacquer interior trim details
18-inch Celsium alloy wheels
MBL directional bi-xenon headlights
Electrically-folding door mirrors with memory setting
Heated electrically-adjustable front seats, with memory settings for driver’s seat
Beige or black leather upholstery
Front and rear carpet mats
Tyre pressure monitoring system

Principal options available for Laguna Coupé (tax-paid prices in France)

Front parking sensors: €300
Bose® Sound System, single-CD player, mp3 playback and 10 loudspeakers: €800
Carminat DVD Bluetooth, seven-inch display, European mapping, Bose Sound System and six-CD multi-changer: €1,500
European mapping: €120
18-inch alloy wheels: €500
Comfort Pack (Renault hands-free entry and engine starting + electrically folding door mirrors): €500
Heat-reflecting windscreen: €200
Special Pearlescent White metallic paint: €200
Directional bi-xenon headlights: €350
16-inch spare wheel: €110
Monaco GP black leather upholstery: €1,500
4Control system: €2,000
Tyre pressure monitoring system: €200

4Control chassis: an innovation exclusive to Renault Laguna

Source: Renault

December 7, 2011

Ferrari Tailor-Made: New Personalisation Programme from Maranello

Ferrari has announced the exclusive new personalisation programme from Maranello – Tailor-Made. It is developed for clients wishing to create a truly bespoke car that will be a clear expression of their own unique personalities and tastes.

The client’s personal wishes and aspirations lie at the very heart of the Tailor-Made Programme. Owners are assisted and guided through the selection process by their own Personal Designer who is charged with guaranteeing that the resulting cars are both unique and consistent with the Ferrari brand and its tradition. Once the car’s details have been defined, the client can then track all of the various processes involved in its creation, right up until they take delivery. Naturally, they are very welcome to come to Maranello to pick up their car in person if they so wish.

Creativity, research, original materials, superb craftsmanship and attention to detail are the cornerstones of the Tailor-Made programme which offers three collections inspired directly by Ferrari’s DNA: Scuderia, Classica and Inedita.

The Tailor-Made Collections

Maximum performance, tradition, innovation. These are the Ferrari brand core values that underpin all three collections created by the Styling Centre to inspire clients interested in the Tailor-Made programme. Scuderia, Classica and Inedita are the three different “worlds” to choose from to create bespoke Ferraris through unique combinations of the many options available.

Guided and advised by their Personal Designer, new owners can make their selections from the collections to reflect their own personal tastes. They are also welcome to suggest innovative, new solutions and materials which the Styling Centre will then assess for compatibility.

Scuderia

Racing has always been the lifeblood of Ferrari which has enjoyed unparalleled success on the world’s circuits since its earliest days. The Scuderia collection is therefore very much homage to the track, a fact reflected in the materials and finishes it includes. The list of options in the Scuderia collection ranges all the way from carbon-fibre trim to technical fabrics, chamois and rubberised leather, Alcantara, microfibres, Kevlar, satin-finish and matte metals. Clients can work with the Scuderia collection to ensure their Ferraris epitomise the very pinnacle of sportiness.

The 250 Testa Rossa, which sold at auction at Pebble Beach in August 2011 for a record $16.4 million, provided the inspiration for the 458 Spider sporting blue and white NART stripes over an historic Rosso Racing body colour. The latter’s seats are upholstered in the same leather used in the Formula 1 cars of the past – a trim that’s light, breathable and feels very much like chamois leather to the touch. The original 250 Testa Rossa had an aluminium dashboard which has now been given a innovative twist in the form of Alutex, an extremely tough, light fibreglass and aluminium material. The cabin is also trimmed with a diamond-quilted fabric inspired by the original Testa Rossa motif.

Classica

In the Classica collection, the styling cues and features of Maranello’s iconic GTs are given a more modern yet still classic look, through the use of the latest materials and production techniques. Elegant pastel colours of the past; the use of vintage leather, or wool, cashmere or velvet; special treatments for the hard areas of the cabin to match the exterior; chromed elements, stitching details and more natural leathers – these are just some of the options available from this collection.

Another icon that’s been given a modern reworking in the Classic collection is the FF inspired by the 250 Europa: it has three-layer Ingrid silver paintwork with dark grey sills and rims. The cabin is a hymn to classicism with a few unusual flourishes mixed in: pinstripe cloth and dark brown semi-aniline leather seats, cashmere roof lining, grey carpet mats, interior trim inserts in the same colour as the exterior, teak-trimmed boot. The overall result is a sublimely classic atmosphere harking back to the original 250 Europa without detracting in any way from its uniqueness and elegance.

Inedita

Inedita does exactly what its name suggests: it introduces novel, innovative styling cues which nonetheless respect the marque’s core values. This is the most experimental of the three collections and we feel it may well give rise to some of the classic trims and finishes of the future. Denim, bold leather upholstery, suit fabrics and technical fabrics are just a few of the innovative and intriguing options available to owners who choose to personalise their cars from the Inedita collection.

The denim-trimmed Ferrari California is a good example of what the collection offers: pale blue leather alternates with denim trim in certain areas of the cabin and seats as well as on the door panels and lower part of the dash. The areas of the cabin normally trimmed in aluminium are now dark blue carbon-fibre. The car sports a Blu Scozia livery, a historic Ferrari colour here given an all-new matte finish. The wheel rims are unusual too as their external surface is dark blue while the inside is pale blue in a nod to the contrast seen in the cockpit. A proposal that, from a point of view of styling, really does push the boundaries and sets a new benchmark in the automotive sector today.

Source: Ferrari

December 7, 2011

2012 LUXGEN Sedan: The Family Car of the Future

LUXGEN has already announced several vehicles featuring unique technologies. The LUXGEN7 MPV and LUXGEN7 SUV were only the start and the manufacturer is now setting its sights on the battleground of the medium-large sedan market.

The LUXGEN5 Sedan, equipped with the latest innovative hTC technology, can be considered a milestone in the history of international auto design. The styling and design of the next-generation sports sedan will embody everything that has been developed for future cars. A first look of LUXGEN5 Sedan will be available at the LUXGEN exhibit during the 2012 Taipei Auto Show.

The Luxgen5 Sedan has a superb 0.28 drag-coefficient, while successfully capturing the essence of a 2-door coupe. The perfect 2:1 ratio between the side panels and windows exemplifies the pursuit of “Surfacing Performance” in the styling.

The engine range includes a 1.8 litre turbocharged petrol and a 2.0 liter turbocharged petrol engine.

The new 1.8L VVT turbo is mated to an intelligent 5-speed automatic gearbox. A sophisticated hydraulic control system improves fuel consumption and power, which is 150PS (110 kW).

The all-new 2.0L VVT turbo engine has 170PS (125 kW). It is coupled to an intelligent 6-speed automatic transmission. 0 to 100 km/h in 8.5 seconds and a top speed of 210 km/h (131 mph). The 6-speed gearbox also comes with Slip Control, minimizing wear and tear on the transmission and reducing fuel consumption.

The LUXGEN THINK⁺ Touch system’s five key functions include Multimedia, Phone, Safety, Information and hTC mode. Apart from using the touch screen itself, shortcut buttons are provided below the screen for convenience. The most innovative feature is to access the NAVI GPS navigation function using the hTC mode. The user can therefore check the map and set routes in the car or on the road. The hands-free Bluetooth system means users can also make calls using the car’s convenient hands-free interface.

The luxurious saloon has Intelligent Aerospace Cockpit with High-tech LCD/LED Dashboard and Jet Fighter HUD, Intelligent EPB Braking, LUXGEN’s Advanced Technology including Active Eagle View⁺ 360 surround imaging system, Europeanised Chassis Targets Safety and Comfort and the Best Crash Protection and Pedestrian Safety.

Source: Luxgen

December 7, 2011

Kylie Minogue and the Lexus CT 200h

The personal car of Kylie Minogue – Lexus CT 200h was sold for £29,000 for the NSPCC as the star item in a fund-raising auction for the charity’s helpline.

“I would just like to say a huge thank you to the generous bidder who bought my personalised Lexus CT 200h, which I have been driving around for the past year.”, said Kylie.

“We were delighted to team up with Kylie Minogue to donate a Lexus CT 200h to the auction. Kylie, who is the face of the Lexus CT 200h, has been driving the car throughout 2011 so it really is a unique prize, and I’m delighted it has raised so much money for the NSPCC.”, added Richard Balshaw, Lexus Director.

The special vehicle was used by the singer as her day-to-day transport and this special association was marked by the addition of personalised headrests with Kylie’s signature picked out in the upholstery stitching.

The CT 200h is powered by a 1.8 litre VVT-I four-cylinder petrol engine with 99PS (73kW) and 142Nm (105 lb-ft) of torque. The powertrain also features an electric motor and the combined power bumps to 136PS (100 kW) and 207Nm (153 lb-ft). The performance is decent – 0 to 100 km/h in 10.3 seconds, but the fuel consumption is amazing – 3.7 litres /100 km on city cycle.

The standard equipment of CT 200h includes – 16” or 17” rims, dual-zone climate control, a USB port and Aux socket for connecting portable music players, Bluetooth for mobile phone connection and audio streaming, front fog lights, automatic wipers and dark-tinted rear privacy glass.

Source: Lexus

December 7, 2011

Vorsteiner BMW X5 M

Vorsteiner has announced their tuning program for BMW X5 M. The sports SUV is already a class act but with the addition of Vorsteiner’s aero components, it gives a fashionable appearance while keeping an aggressive look.

The aerodynamics package from Vorsteiner consists of add-on front spoiler, vented race hood and a new rear diffuser. All parts are made from Carbon Fiber Autoclave Pre-Preg to add strength and durability while maintaining a high class look.

There are no words about performance package for the mighty 4.4 liter twin-turbocharged V8 delivering 555PS (408 kW) at 6000RPM and 680Nm (500 lb-ft) from just 1500RPM. The engine is mated to a 6-speed M Sports Automatic gearbox with aluminum paddleshifters on steering wheel. 0 to 100 km/h in 5 seconds and top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited.

The X5 M comes with 10 mm lower Adaptive Drive suspension, 4-piston calipers at the front with huge 396mm brake discs.

Vorsteiner X5 M stands on enormous alloy wheels in aggressive design.

The X5M aerodynamic components is available now through an authorized Vorsteiner dealer center near you.

Source: Vorsteiner

December 6, 2011

BRABUS Mercedes CL 500

Brabus has announced the special tuning program for Mercedes-Benz CL 500 BlueEFFICIENCY. The big luxury coupe gets both styling and performance modifications.

The 4.7 liter twin-turbocharged V8 can get two performance packages – BRABUS B50 – 490 and BRABUS B50 – 520.

The first one boosts the engine to 490PS (360 kW) and 780Nm (575 lb-ft) of torque. The results are thanks to optimized engine electronics – recalibrating mapping for ignition, injection and the electronic boost pressure control.

The more powerful variant features an additional intercooler and the result is astonishing – 520PS (382 kW) at 5250RPM and 820Nm (604 lb-ft). This is an increase of 85PS (63 kW).

The all-wheel-drive coupe accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds. The BRABUS Vmax unit eliminates the standard 250-km/h (155-mph) speed limit. The two-door car equipped with Vmax unit and BRABUS B50 – 520 PowerXtra performance kit reaches a top speed of 300 km/h (186 mph). The new top speed requires the installation of a BRABUS speedometer with 360-km/h (220-mph) dial.

The BRABUS stainless-steel sport exhaust system with butterfly valve and four distinctive BRABUS-design tailpipes provide the V8 engine with a sportier exhaust note that never becomes intrusive.

The aerodynamics package features BRABUS front spoiler, a pair of side skirts with integrated LED entrance lights. There are also BRABUS rear fascia with features a central reflector and a custom-tailored cutout on each side for the two dual tailpipes of the BRABUS sport exhaust system.

The CL 500 can be equipped with BRABUS Monoblock wheels in various designs and with diameters between 18 and 22 inches. The Monoblock F cross-spoke design is available in size 9J x 21” mounted with tires in size 265/30 ZR 21 from BRABUS technology partners Continental, Pirelli and YOKOHAMA.

The BRABUS lowering module for the standard ABC suspension is specifically calibrated to these ultra-low-profile tires. The module lowers the ride height of the two-door car by some 25 mm.

A BRABUS high-performance brake system that comes in various versions. Version IV, the largest one, consists of vented and cross-drilled discs measuring 405 x 35 mm and 6-piston aluminum fixed calipers on the front axle. The rear axle stops on steel discs measuring 380 x 34 mm and 4-piston aluminum fixed calipers.

The interior of the all-wheel-drive Mercedes coupe also offers numerous possibilities for exclusive BRABUS refinement. The list of accessories ranges from scuff plates with backlit BRABUS logo and an ergonomically shaped sport steering wheel to aluminum pedals, footrest and shifter.

The BRABUS upholstery shop offers countless exclusive options for trimming the interior of the CL-Class to suit the owner’s personal taste. A giant selection of especially soft yet durable BRABUS Mastik leather and finest Alcantara in any desired color is available for that purpose.

Source: BRABUS

December 6, 2011

2012 Fiat Doblo Cargo Price – £11 695

For the second time Fiat Doblò Cargo wins the Light Van of the Year award! The awards are due to its blend of economy, drivability and styling. For sure Fiat Doblo Cargo deserves the label “number one light van of the year” because of its efficiency in fuel-economy, appeal, durability and driving dynamics

The popular load-carrier won the last years both International Van of the Year and Fleet Van of the Year. The vehicle is available with a choice of four low emissions, Euro 4 and 5-specification engines. Moreover the manufacturers offer the new Doblò in eight different forms – Cargo, Cargo Maxi, Cargo SX, Cargo Maxi SX, Combi, Combi Maxi, Platform Cab and Work Up . Undeniably this diversity will satisfy any individual taste.

To go further into details the engine line-up comprises a 1.4-litre 16v 95bhp/70kW petrol unit and three MultiJet 16v diesels – 1.3 (90bhp/66kW), 1.6 (105bhp/77kW), and 2.0 (135bhp/99kW). And if you already wonder about the prices, the basic one is £11,695 for the Doblò Cargo 1.4 16v Petrol Euro 4), and or £12,515 for the Euro 5 version. A highlight that has to be also mentioned is the “Start&Stop” function which stops the engine automatically whenever traffic conditions bring the van to a complete halt. Of course it restarts it again when the driver wants to move off again. However this extra goes only with the Euro 5 versions thus improving them with 15 per cent fuel savings and a low CO2 figure from just 126g/km.

Source: Fiat

December 6, 2011

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