R – Automobiles Review

Porsche 911 GT3 R

The new Porsche 911 GT3 R will be unveiled to the public at this year’s 24 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps. From the 2023 season, Porsche customer teams can campaign the new racing vehicle in worldwide motorsport events that adhere to the GT3 regulations. The vehicle is based on the latest 992-generation 911. Compared to its predecessor, the new 911 GT3 R features a larger engine producing up to 416 kW (565 PS), a more constant aerodynamic performance and an optimised vehicle balance.

With the latest generation of the 911 GT3 R, Porsche unveils a new customer racing car. The new challenger for GT3 series around the world is based on the current 992 generation and will be ready to race at the beginning of the 2023 season. Development began in 2019. Priority was given to further improving the driveability for professionals and so-called gentleman drivers, as well as tapping larger performance reserves for different Balance of Performance (BoP) classifications. Another focus was on streamlining the handling of the race car for the teams and reducing the running costs.

July 30, 2022

Most powerful Golf R to date opens for order alongside agile new Golf GTI Clubsport

2021 Volkswgen Golf R1

With three performance Golfs already on sale in the form of the GTI, GTD and GTE, the arrival of these two flagship models gives fans of performance Golfs more choice than ever before. Both newcomers offer greater levels of focus and driver involvement. In addition, each model features a raft of equipment and driver assistance systems, including IQ.Light matrix LED headlights, keyless entry, Lane Assist and Travel Assist, which facilitates Level 2 assisted driving up to speeds of 130 mph (where legal). Car2X is also fitted, as per the rest of the Golf range, allowing communication between Car2X-equipped cars and infrastructure, to warn road users of hazards ahead.

The new Golf GTI Clubsport

The first of these new cars is the Golf GTI Clubsport. This model builds upon the already award-winning formula offered by the 245 PS/370 Nm Golf GTI, but dials the power output of its 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine up to 300 PS and 400 Nm of torque for a 0-62 mph time of just 5.6 seconds. This makes it the fastest-accelerating production Golf GTI in history. Special features for the new car include a driving mode developed especially for the demands of the Nürburgring, a large two-part rear spoiler resulting in a reduction in lift over the rear axle, and an exclusive front bumper, offering not only augmented styling, but incorporating a new front splitter for greater downforce on the front axle. The rear of the Clubsport is also distinguishable from the GTI, with oval tailpipes, rather than the GTI’s circular pipes, which sit further apart either side of an enhanced diffuser.

In addition to exterior and performance upgrades, the Golf GTI Clubsport also benefits from the standard fitment of Clubsport-specific ArtVelours seats alongside the acclaimed Digital Cockpit Pro and Discover Media navigation system, offering greater convenience and style. The Golf GTI Clubsport starts at £37,215 RRP OTR.

The Vehicle Dynamics Manager system works in combination with all the electronically controlled running gear including the electromechanical front-axle locking differential and XDS electronic differential lock to eliminate the understeer often associated with front-wheel drive cars. This focus is complemented by a larger braking system, and can be further optimised with the addition of the optional Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) adaptive damper system.

The new Golf R

Meanwhile, the Golf R returns as the Golf’s outright flagship in terms of performance and positioning, now with 320 PS and 420 Nm on tap from its turbocharged 2.0-litre engine, equating to a top speed of 155 mph (increasing to 168 mph with the optional R-Performance Pack), where permitted. The 0 to 62 mph sprint is dispatched in just 4.7 seconds – making it the fastest-accelerating Volkswagen on sale.

The powerful and advanced EA888 evo4 engine is installed with a 7-speed DSG transmission, and, like all vehicles from Volkswagen R, 4MOTION all-wheel drive. The system has been comprehensively uprated for the latest generation of Golf R, with the introduction of R-Performance Torque Vectoring that distributes the engine output to all four wheels. The new differential on the rear axle distributes the drive power not just between the front and rear axles, but also variably between the two rear wheels. Up to 100% of torque can be directed to the wheel on the outside of a bend if necessary. This, working in conjunction with the all-new Vehicle Dynamics Manager and XDS electromechanical differential locks, allows a higher level of agility and a reduction in understeer, which in turn contributes to even greater driver involvement and dynamics.

An optional R-Performance Package is available on the Golf R for £2,000. It brings upgraded 19-inch ‘Estoril’ alloy wheels, a performance rear spoiler for added downforce, and an increased top speed of 168 mph (where permitted). The pack also adds two new driver modes; Drift and Special. Drift mode is entirely focused upon driver enjoyment away from public highways. This mode uses the full potential of the new R-Performance Torque Vectoring and enables the driver to drift the new Golf R on private tracks. The pack also introduces a Special mode that provides the car with the perfect setup to tackle the famously challenging Nürburgring. This is an extension of the standard Race driving mode, in which the engine sound is increased, while the DSG, optional DCC, progressive steering and the all-wheel drive system are adjusted to a sportier setup.

The Golf R is priced from £39,270 RRP OTR, and sits atop the new Golf range. It is identifiable by its attractive 18-inch ‘Jerez’ alloy wheels, full R body kit, roof spoiler and quad exhaust pipes – a feature that subtly hints at the model’s potency compared with other Golf models. A bespoke, heated R steering wheel features, with a new R button which allows the driver direct access to the car’s newly enhanced range of drive modes without needing to take their hands away from the wheel. Extended paddle shifters also add to the driver-focused convenience of the model’s cockpit. Sports seats with integrated head restraints feature a ‘Sardegna’ design in black-blue cloth, unique to the new R models, while the outer areas are in ArtVelours. The model’s brake callipers are finished in the hallmark shade of Volkswagen R blue, and feature the R division’s logo, while the car’s door mirrors are finished in a matt chrome effect – another identifier of the powerful and enthusiast-focused Golf R.

Several accessories are available for the Golf R including an Akrapovič titanium exhaust, panoramic sunroof, Harmon/Kardon sound system and a head up display.

Sarah Cox, Head of Marketing at Volkswagen UK, said: “Christmas has come early for fast Volkswagen fans, with not just one performance hero opening to UK customers today, but two.

“The Golf GTI Clubsport takes the iconic GTI with its winning formula and turns the dial up for even more driver involvement and focus, while the Golf R maintains its all-round appeal, with a fantastic new version of our 4MOTION system providing even more fun behind the wheel.

January 11, 2021

The new Golf R – countdown to world premiere has started

The new Volkswagen Golf R

More powerful, more dynamic, more efficient, more closely integrated, more digital. These are the characteristics of the new Golf R, the dynamic flagship of the eighth Golf generation. Another highlight of the new Golf R is the innovative all-wheel drive system featuring selective wheel torque control on the rear axle. The all-wheel drive system is controlled by a Vehicle Dynamics Manager that has been closely integrated with other running gear systems such the electronic front differential lock (XDS) and adaptive chassis control DCC. The new Golf R therefore offers optimum traction characteristics, neutral and precise handling, as well as maximum agility. The development goal was to achieve maximum driving pleasure at a previously unrivalled level. The corresponding drive output is generated by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged power plant in the most powerful version of the EA 888 engine series available for the new Golf. The high-tech, direct-injection engine is characterised by innovative solutions for individual details, such as integration of water-cooled exhaust gas routing to the turbocharger in the cylinder head or variable valve timing with dual camshaft adjustment.

A retrospective: it was an automotive sensation – the first Golf R322, introduced in 2002. With its 3.2-litre six-cylinder engine generating 177 kW (241 PS) it was the most powerful Golf that Volkswagen had built up to that point. It was also equipped with all-wheel drive and raced to 100 km/h in only 6.6 seconds. It sold three times as well as had been anticipated. From mid-2003, it was the world’s first Volkswagen available with a dual clutch gearbox (DSG). A technological benchmark in the compact class. In 2005, the second Golf R322 made its debut, and with 184 kW (250 PS)2 it was even more powerful and superior. Four years went by until the 2009 International Motor Show in Frankfurt: at this event, Volkswagen celebrated the world premiere of the successor on the basis of the sixth Golf generation, changing from a V6 naturally- aspirated engine to a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine (TSI)2 that was 21 percent more efficient. The R32 became the R and with it, the output of the third generation increased to 199 kW (270 PS)2. In September 2013, the fourth Golf R generation followed on the basis of the Golf 7, once again making its debut at the International Motor Show. With now 221 kW (300 PS)2, it broke through the magic threshold.

December 1, 2020

JMS Upgrades For The Common Volkswagen Golf VII

JMS-Volkswagen-Golf-VII-shadow JMS-Volkswagen-Golf-VII-medium Those of you that are stuck with a Golf VII that’s not a GTI or an R will be pleased to know that JMS has this small enhancement pack which might bridge the commons with the performers. Maybe.

It certainly doesn’t sound glamarous. The pack employs a frontlip spoiler “with an integrated diffuser” that is supposed to be screwed and glued on the stock bumper – quite DIY if you as us. There’s also a color-coded diffuser at the back, which again – we suspect – has to be bolted onto the stock rear.

There is, however, the presence of a menacing-looking stainless steel exhaust system with two beautifully rounded 90 mm pipes. You may have also noticed that they sit quite close to the ground. That’s because the Germans at JMS have installed a KW coilover suspension kit which lowers the Golf with 50 mm at the back and 45 mm at the front.

To round things up (no pun intended), JMS have also thrown in four Italian made 1-piece OZ-Racing wheels. The ultralaggeras (super lights) are 8×19 big and wear 225/350-19 tires.

Source: JMS

December 17, 2013

2012 Mercedes-Benz range for the US: C, CL, CLS, E, F, G, GLK, R, S, SL, SLK, SLS

Mercedes-Benz US has announced the 2012 model range. It will feature revised versions of C, CL, CLS, E, F, G, GLK, R, S, SL, SLK, SLS Class. Furthermore, the manufacturer will put on sale E63 AMG Estate in the US.

Most 2012 models will feature a more fuel-efficient 7-speed automatic gearbox and more powerful direct-injected petrol engines. Furthermore, there will be an entirely new turbocharged four-cylinder engine, naturally aspirated V6 and bi-turbo V8 power units – some with ECO Stop/Start technology.

The interior will boasts a new audio headunit with a 5.8” color display, Bluetooth audio streaming, phonebook download, album cover art and USB port. COMAND with Navigation receives a 7” screen, SIRIUS weather, display of personal photos, 3D city models, intermediate navigation destinations, area avoidance and a larger 10GB Music Register.

The new direct injected 1.8 liter turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine in C250 delivers 201HP (148 kW) and 310Nm (229 lb-ft) of torque. C350 sport will come with new direct-injected 3.5 liter V6 with 302HP (222 kW) and 370Nm (273 lb-ft).

The mighty CLS550 is powered by a 4.6 liter bi-turbo V8 with 402HP (296 kW) and 600Nm (443 lb-ft) coupled to a 7-speed automatic gearbox. CLS63 AMG has new direct-injected 5.5 liter bi-turbo V8 with 518HP (381 kW) and 700Nm (516 lb-ft) with with ECO Stop/Start technology and AMG 7-speed MCT.

Check out the new features to all models at the table, below.

2012 Mercedes SLS Roadster

C-Class Sedan (September)

Restyled four-door sedan with new direct-injection 4- and 6-cylinder engines, more fuel-efficient 7-speed automatic transmission, aluminum hood and increased standard equipment including HD radio, rain-sensing wipers, integrated garage door opener, auto-dimming mirrors, USB interface and integrated compass.
Exterior updates include new headlights, LED DRL’s and taillights, bumpers and grille.
A completely redesigned interior features a color instrument cluster display, new headunit (described above) w/fixed 5.8″ screen, avail. PARKTRONIC w/Parking Assist
New safety features includes standard ATTENTION ASSIST, ADAPTIVE BRAKE with HOLD function and available Adaptive Highbeam Assist, Lane Keeping Assist and Blind Spot Assist.
C250 Sport/Luxury: new direct-injection 1.8-liter 4-cylinder turbo (201 hp, 229 lb.-ft.)
C300 4MATIC Sport/Luxury: continues with existing 3.0-liter V6 (228 hp, 221 lb-ft) and standard all-wheel drive.
C350 Sport: new direct-injection 3.5-liter V6 (302 hp, 273 lb.-ft.)
C63 AMG: receives AMG 7-speed Multi-Clutch Transmission (MCT) and continues with naturally-aspirated 6.3-liter V8 (451 hp, 443 lb-ft) and optimized suspension. Optional AMG Development Package yields 481 hp.

C-Class Coupe (September)

New two-door coupe debuts with bold AMG styling, standard panorama sunroof, steering wheel shift paddles, split-folding rear-seats, front seats with integrated headrests and driver memory plus a fuel-efficient 7-speed automatic transmission as well as the other technology highlights of the sedan.
C250 Sport: new direct-injection 1.8-liter 4-cylinder turbo (201 hp, 229 lb.-ft.) and 17inch 5-spoke alloy wheels
C350 Sport: new direct-injection 3.5-liter V6 (302 hp, 273 lb.-ft.) and 17-inch AMG twin 5-spoke alloy wheels, rear trunk spoiler
C63 AMG: features hand-built naturally-aspirated 6.3-liter V8 (451 hp, 443 lb-ft), AMG 7-speed MCT and 18-inch twin 5-spoke alloy wheels. Optional AMG Development Package yields 481 hp.

CL-Class Coupe (July)

CL550 4MATIC continues with 4.6-liter direct-injection biturbo V8 (429 hp, 516 lb-ft.)
CL63 AMG continues with 5.5-liter direct-injection biturbo AMG V8 (536 hp, 590 lb-ft) with ECO Stop/Start and AMG 7-speed MCT.
CL600 5.5-liter biturbo V12 model (510 hp, 612 lb-ft) continues
CL65 AMG High-performance 6.0-liter biturbo V12 model (621hp, 738 lb-ft) continues
Model line continues to showcase advanced driver assistance systems such as Distronic Plus with PRE-SAFE Brake, Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist with automatic brake intervention and Nightview Assist PLUS with pedestrian detection.

CLS-Class Four-Door Coupe (June)

New-generation four-door coupe debuts with dramatic styling, two new V8 engines, electromechanical steering, aluminum doors and world-first active LED headlights.
CLS550 new direct-injection 4.6-liter biturbo V8 (402 hp, 443 lb.-ft) with more fuel-efficient 7-speed automatic transmission, AIRMATIC suspension and available with 4MATIC all-wheel-drive (Sept).
CLS63 AMG new direct-injection 5.5-liter biturbo AMG V8 (518 hp, 516 lb-ft) with ECO Stop/Start technology, AMG 7-speed MCT and AIRMATIC rear suspension. Optional Performance Package yields 550 hp/590 lb-ft.
Other new technology includes a color instrument cluster display, multicolor ambient lighting and central controller
LED taillamps and PARKTRONIC with Active Parking Assist
Safety technology includes available Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, 10 standard airbags and standard ATTENTION ASSIST

E-Class Coupe and Cabriolet

E350 Coupe and Cabriolet (July) new 3.5-liter direct-injection V6 engine (302 hp, 273 lb-ft) and new 17-inch twin 5-spoke wheels
E550 Coupe and Cabriolet (Oct.) new 4.6-liter direct-injection V8 engine (402 hp, 443 lb-ft) and electromechanical steering.
New available assistance systems include both active and passive Lane Keeping Assist and Blind Spot Assist.
Other highlights include new steering wheels with standard shift paddles, color instrument cluster display, standard LED DRLs, more fuel-efficient 7-speed transmission and media interface moved to the center console.

E-Class Sedan and Wagon (October)

Model line features more fuel-efficient 7-speed automatic transmission, new steering wheels, color instrument cluster display and standard LED DRL’s, media interface moved to center console.
E350 4MATIC Wagon continues with sport or luxury models, new direct-injection 3.5liter V6 engine (302hp, 273 lb-ft) and standard all-wheel drive, 3rd-row rear-facing seat, power tailgate, rear air suspension and electromechanical steering,
E350 BlueTEC 50-State V6 turbodiesel (210 hp, 400 lb-ft) continues.
E350 Sport/Luxury new direct-injection V6 engine (302 hp, 273 lb-ft) and available 4MATIC all-wheel-drive.
E550 4MATIC Sport new 4.6-liter twin-turbo direct-injection V8-engine (402 hp, 443 lb-ft), electromechanical steering and standard 4MATIC all-wheel-drive.
E63 AMG Sedan new 5.5-liter twin-turbo direct-injection V8 engine (518 hp, 516 lb-ft) and ECO Stop/Start technology mated to the AMG 7-speed MCT plus new 19-inch AMG 10-spoke wheels. Optional Performance Packages yields 550hp/590lb-ft.
E63 AMG Wagon debuts with drivetrain mentioned above and standard panorama roof
Model line continues to showcase advanced new driver assistance systems such as ATTENTION ASSIST, Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist with automatic brake intervention, PRE-SAFE Brake with Automatic Emergency Braking, Adaptive Highbeam Assist and Nightview Assist PLUS with pedestrian detection.

F-Cell

5-door, 4-passenger hydrogen-electric car (134 hp, 214 lb-ft) continues, available for lease in southern California.
Powered by fuel cell technology with an EPA estimated range of 190 miles (European driving cycle: 240 miles)

G-Class SUV (October)

G550 5.5-liter V8-powered model (382 hp, 391 lb-ft) continues
“Edition Select” package offered in choice of 3 paints, AMG fenders, exhaust sidepipes, silver-painted wheels and other interior highlights including designo upholstery

GL-Class SUV (August)

GL350 BlueTEC 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel (210 hp, 400 lb-ft) model continues
GL450 4.6-liter V8-powered (335 hp, 339 lb-ft) model continues
GL550 5.5-liter V8-powered (382 hp, 391 lb-ft) model continues
Minor updates to the interior, rearview camera now includes directional lines, all models now feature standard LED DRLs

GLK-Class SUV (July)

GLK350 3.5-liter V6-powered (268 hp, 258 lb-ft) model continues w/available 4MATIC all-wheel-drive.
Media interface relocated to center console.

R-Class Crossover (August)

R350 4MATIC new direct-injection V6 engine (302 hp, 273 lb-ft), more fuel-efficient 7speed automatic transmission & standard 4MATIC all-wheel drive.
R350 BlueTEC 50-state V6 turbodiesel (210 hp, 400 lb-ft) continues
Model line features standard LED DRLs, directional lines on rearview camera and minor interior updates.
New standard equipment includes COMAND system with hard-drive navigation, enhanced voice control for audio, telephone and navigation, Gracenote® media database, HD Radio®, SIRIUS® satellite radio with SIRIUS real-time traffic service, Zagat® Survey restaurant guide, 4GB hard-drive with Music Register

S-Class Sedan (July)

S400 HYBRID continues with the first lithium-ion battery designed exclusively for automotive use and 3.5-liter V6 mild hybrid powertrain (295 hp, 284 lb-ft)
S350 BlueTEC 4MATIC new model features standard all-wheel-drive and 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel engine (240 hp, 455 lb-ft)
S550 new 4.6-liter direct-injectionV8 engine (429 hp, 516 lb-ft) and more fuel-efficient 7-speed automatic transmission. Available with 4MATIC all wheel drive.
S63 AMG High-performance model continues with 5.5-liter direct-injection biturbo V8 engine (536 hp, 590 lb-ft) and ECO Stop/Start functionality as well as AMG 7-speed MCT. Optional Performance Package yields 563hp/664 lb-ft.
S600 flagship 5.5-liter biturbo V12 model (510 hp, 612 lb-ft) continues.
S65 AMG high-performance 6.0-liter biturbo V12 model (621hp, 738lb-ft) continues.
Model line continues to showcase advanced driver assistance systems such as Distronic Plus with PRE-SAFE Brake, Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist with automatic brake intervention and Nightview Assist PLUS with pedestrian detection.

SL-Class Coupe/Roadster (June)

SL550 5.5-liter V8 model (382hp, 391 lb-ft) continues
SL63 AMG high-performance 6.3-liter V8-powered model (518 hp, 465 lb-ft) with AMG 7-speed MCT continues

SLK-Class Coupe/Roadster

New-generation SLK debuts with SLS AMG styling cues, new powertrains and retractable hardtop that opens/closes within 20 seconds and offers Panorama roof and MAGIC SKY CONTROL. Standard LED daytime running lamps and electronic parking brake.
SLK350 (June): new direct-injection 3.5-liter V6 (302 hp, 273 lb.-ft.) with 7-speed automatic transmission and 18-inch 5-spoke wheels
SLK250 (Early 2012): new direct-injection 1.8-liter 4-cylinder turbo (201 hp, 229 lb.-ft.) available with 6-spd manual or 7-spd automatic and 17-inch 5-spoke wheels
New interior highlights include sun-reflecting leather, Direct Ambient Lighting, COMAND control knob and AIRGUIDE.
New safety highlights include Adaptive Brake, NECK-PRO head restraints, PARKTRONIC with Parking Assist, 8 airbags and standard ATTENTION ASSIST
New standard equipment includes rain-sensing wipers, power-folding auto-dimming mirrors, power memory seats with lumbar support, integrated garage door opener, rearview mirror with integrated compass and HD Radio.
New headunit (described above)

SLS AMG

AMG-developed super sports car with aluminum body and high-performance powertrain featuring a hand-built V8 engine (563hp, 479 lb-ft) with front-mid layout and dry sump lubrication mated to a carbon fiber driveshaft and advanced dual-clutch transaxle transmission with 4 driving modes.
New equipment includes standard Blind Spot Assist, optional 3-mode AMG Adaptive Suspension and AMG Performance Media including driving telemetry and G-Force measurement
SLS AMG Coupe (July) continues with new paint offerings
SLS AMG Roadster (late 2011) debuts with power soft top in choice of three colors that opens/closes in 11 seconds up to 30 mph, conventionally hinged doors, standard AIRSCARF and removable wind deflector.

Sprinter Van

Cargo Van, Crew Van, Passenger Van, MiniBus and Cab Chassis models continue with 50-state BlueTEC clean diesel engine
Available in 3 GVWRs, 3 lengths and 2 roof heights.

Source: Mercedes-Benz USA

May 13, 2011

Pontiac G6 GXP R

Pontiac unveiled the GXP.R racecar, which will compete in the GT class of the 2007 Grand American Rolex Sports Car Series presented by Crown Royal Special Reserve. The GXP.R hits the track running later this month at the famed Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona race in Florida.

With the bodywork inspired by the Pontiac G6 GXP Street edition coupe, the GXP.R is the next step in the evolution of a successful racing program that began with the purpose-built GTO.R. The GTO.R was retired after winning the 2006 GT championship; the new GXP.R is built on the same winning foundation as the GTO.R.

“The GXP.R begins the next chapter in a very successful racing campaign that has put Pontiac over Porsche and BMW in the highly competitive GT class,” said John Larson, Pontiac general manager. “The GXP.R promises to pick up the GTO.R’s momentum and carry it into another winning season.”

Built to the specifications of the Grand American GT class, the GXP.R features a rear-drive layout and a racing version of the LS2 V-8 engine that produces approximately 450 horsepower (335 kW). It is based on the same Gen IV V-8 engine design as found in the production Grand Prix GXP. The production G6 GXP is powered by a sophisticated, DOHC 3.6L V-6 with variable valve timing that produces approximately 252 horsepower (188 kW).

The GXP.R’s bodywork retains the silhouette of a production G6 GXP, but lightweight, carbon-fiber replica panels are used throughout to reduce overall mass. The stock window glass also is replaced with lighter, shatter-resistant polycarbonate pieces. The body panels are attached to a custom tube-frame chassis, with the front and rear fenders flared to cover the wide, 18-inch wheels and class-spec Hoosier racing tires. Also, a huge rear wing that provides stabilizing downforce is tied into the chassis. It’s not a production-model wing, but the G6 GXP street car has its own distinctive rear spoiler.

Production-based racing
The Grand American GT class is comprised of production-based coupes and sedans that are modified for racing. Many of the engine components must be the same as those found on production models. The tube-frame chassis and ground-hugging bodywork are used to ensure high-speed traction and stability, while a purposeful interior deletes amenities such as air conditioning and an MP3-capable radio for a crisscross of safety roll cage tubing, a single racing seat, racing instruments and other race-only accoutrements.

Grand American Racing’s racing series, which also includes the Daytona Prototype class, was founded in 1999 with the goal of reinvigorating American road racing. Pontiac models were campaigned in the GT class from its inception, and the GTO.R program was launched in 2005. In their first full season of competition, two GTO.R teams dominated the 2006 season. With eight wins, including a podium sweep at Phoenix , Pontiac clinched its first GT Manufacturers championship, and the No. 65 TRG/F1 Air GTO.R of Andy Lally and Marc Bunting took the GT Drivers and Team championship. The No. 64 TRG GTO.R of Paul Edward and Kelly Collins finished third in points. The remainder of the class’s top 10 finishers included five Porsche GT3 Cups, a BMW M3 and a Chevy Corvette. During the 2005 and 2006 seasons, the GTO.R amassed an impressive 19 consecutive podium finishes – a class record.

January 8, 2007

VW R GT Touareg

The Touareg R GT is nothing less than the pure essence of a high-performance luxury SUV. What was formerly a 2005 model with a V6 engine and 6-speed automatic transmission is now a 500-horsepower road-carver that doubles as a luxurious limousine. Like the other R GT models on display at SEMA, the Touareg has an HPA-built twin-turbocharged V6 under the hood, special chassis enhancements, a KW Variant 3-way coilover suspension, and a high-performance braking system supplied by Brembo.

The Touareg’s revised lines give it the look of a well-bred urban cruiser. A Volkswagen Individual body kit, gleaming silver paint, and 10 x 22-inch custom-built, forged-aluminum, mono-block Avus® wheels mounted with Michelin ultra-high-performance Diamaris tires lend it a commanding visual presence that matches the powertrain’s dominating performance.

Front sport bucket seats, an integrated single roll hoop, and the safety systems required for a weekend at the track are complemented by the luxury of black leather upholstery with gray suede centers, a Bugatti spun-aluminum trim kit by Volkswagen Individual, a black Apple iPod module, and rear PSP system.

Street and track performance has not yet been measured, but with its 500 horsepower and massive torque, the Touareg R GT will certainly be an extreme expression of “Fun to Drive”.

November 3, 2005

Tag: R