2007年9月14日星期五

SSC Ultimate Aero official the fastest car in the world!

After several attempts the Shelby engineers did it: SSC Ultimate Aero is official the fastest car in the world!

The first pass was recorded at 257.11 MPH / 413.82 KMH, and the second pass was recorded at 254.55 MPH / 409.71 KMH. The official record was previously held by the Koenigsegg CCX . The unofficial record held by the Bugatti Veyron is 253.4 MPH.

Press release:

Speed testing has been conducted in the company’s home state of Washington and has been validated by Guinness World Records. The Shelby Supercars Ultimate Aero (with 1,183hp) finalized speed testing with a World Record Breaking speed of 255.83 MPH / 411.76 KMH.
The first pass was recorded at 257.11 MPH / 413.82 KMH, and the second pass was recorded at 254.55 MPH / 409.71 KMH. The official record was previously held by the Koenigsegg CCX (242 MPH). The unofficial record held by the Bugatti Veyron is 253.4 MPH.

There is a standard procedure outlined by Guinness World Records to validate a land speed record. The vehicle must drive the predetermined course, turn around, and drive back the opposite way within one hour. This is to negate any discrepancy there may be in the course or conditions. Top speeds from each run are then averaged to obtain the official speed. This method has been used for decades as the benchmark for land speed record attempts.

Dewetron, a company known for performance testing of missile, train, aerospace, and automotive capabilities will accurately monitor and measure the speed of the Ultimate Aero for the record run. Dewetron’s equipment is so precise that Guinness World Records approved their systems as a replacement for the standard 1,000m laser traps. Dewetron utilizes 4-12 satellites and numerous onboard sensors to track a vehicle’s speed.

Lexus launches 6 million pound hybrid campaign

Lexus announced a multimedia campaign in which it will promote its range of hybrid models for the 4th quarter of 2007.“One day high performance will come with lower emissions….not one day but today” represents the tag line for this campaign.

A 40-second version will be screened on television, with an extended 60-second version for Virgin Atlantic services airing through to Christmas.

Press release:

Luxury car maker Lexus has announced a substantial multimedia ad campaign promoting its industry-leading range of hybrid models for the fourth quarter of 2007. The spend of more than 6 million pounds includes national TV, landmark billboard, on-line, and magazine activities.

Designed and co-ordinated by full service agency CHI & Partners with communications planning from ZenithOptimedia, the campaign will emphasise the engineering innovations that have enabled Lexus to build a range of high performance cars with substantially better emissions levels and fuel efficiency than rival premium market brands. It coincides with the October launch of the LS 600h hybrid power limousine, the new Lexus flagship model.

The television ads will air across six weeks from 17 September, the camerawork moving through prairie and desert panoramas to gradually reveal an LS 600h driving in an urban landscape. The tag line declares: “One day high performance will come with lower emissions….not one day but today.”

A 40-second version will be screened on television, with an extended 60-second version for Virgin Atlantic services airing through to Christmas.

Frankfurt Motor Show: Audi A4 e Concept

With the new Audi A4 e Concept, the German automaker plans to show how its new Modular Efficiency program is. The new concept uses just 4.9 litres per 100 km. Also the Co2 emissons is just 129 g/km, that means less than the limit that will be introduced in 2012!

The 2.0 TDI in the new Audi A4 presents itself in an essentially enhanced form. A common rail injection system supersedes the unit injection pumps used to date, its piezo injectors supplying fuel with a pressure of up to 1,800 bar, allowing extremely fine atomisation in the combustion chambers. This improves fuel combustion and smooth running.
Press release:
With the new 2.0 TDI e Concept, Audi is showing just how effective its new Modular Efficiency program is. The sporty middle class saloon undercuts the consumption limit of five litres per 100 km. The A4 2.0 TDI e Concept needs just 4.9 litres for 100 km on the EU cycle. This means CO2 emissions of just 129 g/km – less than the limit that the European Union aims to introduce for vehicle fleets from 2012. With an output of 105 kW / 143 bhp and a peak torque of 320 Nm, the A4 2.0 TDI e Concept is a powerful saloon – for Audi, a dynamic character always goes hand in hand with low consumption.

In this vehicle, Audi has realised a whole package of innovative engineering solutions. Some of these are already in series production on the new Audi A4. Others, such as the start/stop system or the energy recuperation system, will be introduced in the near future.

TDI marries efficiency with dynamism

The 2.0 TDI in the new Audi A4 presents itself in an essentially enhanced form. A common rail injection system supersedes the unit injection pumps used to date, its piezo injectors supplying fuel with a pressure of up to 1,800 bar, allowing extremely fine atomisation in the combustion chambers. This improves fuel combustion and smooth running.


The refined engine develops a powerful 105 kW / 143 bhp of output. Even in the speed range between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm it puts a bullish 320 Nm of torque onto the crankshaft – this mighty pulling power at low revs is a one of the great strengths of the TDI principle. Modified piston geometry improves the thermodynamics in the combustion chambers. Other measures to reduce internal friction and for temperature management further increase fuel efficiency.
On the A4 e Concept, the 2.0 TDI engine is supplemented by the ultra low emission system. That means that this engine not only works highly efficiently, but it is also exceptionally clear and absolutely future-proof: Even today, it undercuts the strictest European emissions levels, which are not expected to come into force until 2014. The ultra low emission system, which makes the TDI the world’s cleanest diesel, will go into series production in 2008 as an option on the new Audi A4 3.0 TDI.

Low-friction gearbox
The TDI’s power is transmitted onto a newly developed six-speed manual gearbox that is characterised by greatly reduced internal friction. It has been specially tailored for the high-torque of the TDI engine – its transmission ratios are slightly longer in third to sixth gears. Like all Audi gearboxes, its gear changes are playfully light and extremely precise. The gear change indicator in the driver information system encourages an economical driving style. It indicates which gear is selected and if another gear is judged to be better while driving steadily, it will show this as a recommendation.
An especially fast and smooth start


Another important contribution is made by the start/stop system. It avoids the engine running inefficiently when the vehicle is stationary. This is important because much of our day-to-day driving is made up of trips that are shorter than ten kilometres, and these are interrupted by numerous stops at traffic lights.
As soon as the A4 2.0 TDI e Concept comes to a standstill, the gear lever is moved to neutral and the driver takes his foot off the clutch, the TDI is automatically switched off. The engine is restarted when the driver depresses the clutch. The TDI runs up while he is engaging the gear. It has reached idling speed by the time he releases the pedal. A specially developed starter motor turns the engine in little more than two tenths of a second – 60 percent faster than a conventional part, and yet especially comfortable acoustically.


Microhybrid gathers energy when coasting and braking


The recuperation system on board the A4 2.0 TDI e Concept converts kinetic energy into useful electrical energy as the vehicle decelerates. An innovative gel battery is used as the power source for the vehicle electrical system. This is extremely robust even at high loads and when it is heavily discharged, allowing it to achieve a particularly long service life.


When the A4 2.0 TDI e Concept is coasting or braking, the secondary voltage from the D/C converter is run up. The alternator is now able to convert the kinetic energy into electrical energy that is temporarily stored in the gel battery. When the saloon subsequently accelerates again, the battery feeds the energy back, relieving the load on the alternator.


The power steering has also been thoroughly modified – its effectiveness has been improved by around 50 percent because it is now fed hydraulic energy by a demand-controlled vane-cell pump. In contrast to conventional power steering pumps, which constantly recirculate large volumes, it only pumps as much oil as actually needed at that very moment.

On the automatic air conditioning system, Audi uses an innovative, thermostatically controlled refrigerant circuit with an internal heat exchanger. Along with intensive precision work on other components, has greatly improved the efficiency of the system – the new automatic air conditioning system requires 20 percent less fuel that its predecessor model did.


Sporty performance yet highly efficient


The A4 2.0 TDI e Concept glides smoothly and effortlessly through the wind. Its body is fundamentally extremely aerodynamic. Its boot lid has been given a slight additional separation edge. Specially designed alloy wheels improve the airflow across the wheels and wheel arches, while a sporty tuning has lowered the body by 20 millimetres. This modification reduces the frontal area, improving air resistance.

For Audi, efficiency means exactly the same as dynamics. For example, the tyres are configured for light running, but still have a sporty performance – they have the wide, visually attractive 225/50 R17 format. Yet the most impressive evidence of the potential of the A4 2.0 TDI e Concept is found in its performance figures. The middle class saloon sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in just 9.3 seconds. Its top speed is 215 km/h. A spurt from 80 to 120 km/h in 5th gear needs just 8.7 seconds.

2007年9月11日星期二

Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG

Following in the Saloon’s footsteps, the C 63 AMG Estate is now also due to be launched. Under the bonnet with its distinctive power domes, the AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine delivers effortless acceleration.

The high-revving naturally aspirated engine sets the benchmark in this segment with its maximum output of 336 kW/457 hp at 6800 rpm and maximum torque of 600 Nm at 5000 rpm. The unique high-performance estate accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds; top speed is 250 km/h (electronically limited).


Power is transferred by the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC. Equipped with AMG steering wheel gearshift paddles and the three driving modes “C”, “S” and “M”, the seven-speed automatic transmission delivers a decidedly sporty or comfort-focused ride depending on the driver’s tastes. The automatic throttle-blipping function when downshifting is another innovation. In conjunction with the all-new front axle, the AMG speed-sensitive sports steering and the new 3-stage ESP®, the AMG sports suspension provides maximum driving pleasure and superb driving dynamics.
The AMG high-performance braking system with large internally ventilated and perforated disc brakes all round provides optimum stopping power even during particularly dynamic driving. The standard specification includes 18-inch five-spoke AMG light-alloy wheels with 235/ 40 R 18 (front) and 255/35 R 18 (rear) wide-base tyres. 19-inch AMG multi-spoke light-alloy wheels shod with 235/35 R 19 (front) and 255/30 R 19 (rear) tyres are available as an option.Design and appointments: more distinctive than ever
The design and appointments on the new C 63 AMG Estate are comfortably on a par with the sophisticated technology. The top-of-the-line AMG eight-cylinder model has been differentiated more clearly than ever from the series-production C-Class: typical hallmarks of the brand come in the shape of AMG bodystyling, the bonnet with power domes, the distinctive AMG radiator grille, the flared front wings, the AMG rear apron with its black diffusor insert and the AMG sports exhaust system with two sets of chromed twin tailpipes.


The interior feel is dominated by the distinctive AMG sports seats with integral head restraints, the three-spoke AMG performance steering wheel with its flat underside and small 365-millimetre rim, and the tube-style AMG instrument cluster with its AMG-specific main menu. As an alternative to the standard-fit aluminium trim elements, AMG carbon trim can also be ordered as an option for the C 63 AMG Estate.
Largest load compartment in its class with up to 1500 litres


The load capacity of the C 63 AMG Estate ranges from 485 to 1500 litres (VDA measuring method) depending on the position of the 1/3:2/3-split rear seat backrests which can be folded forwards. No other car in the premium estate segment of this vehicle class can match this capacity. Standard equipment includes bag hooks and four anchoring lugs to secure the load, side stowage compartments with covers, a collapsible shopping crate as well as a combined luggage cover and retaining net.


The new EASY-PACK tailgate opens and closes at the push of a button. The market launch of the C 63 AMG Estate is scheduled for the start of 2008; sales price incl. 19% VAT is EUR 69,853.





2008 Bmw M3 CSL

According to M3Post this car caught on the Nurburgring race track represents the future Bmw M3 CSL. For the moent this remains a mystery…but future articles will be available.




2007年9月1日星期六

G-Power packs M3 CSL with an M5 V10

German tuner G-Power has created a monster M3 CSL with a tweaked version of the M5 V10 under the hood. Ditching the venerable inline six in favor of the potent 5.0L V10, engineers then proceeded to modify the engine to an even higher state of tune.
The V10 now produces a supercar-like 550hp (410kW) and 580Nm (428lb-ft) of torque, propelling the modded M3 to a top speed of 335km/h - a huge improvement over the CSL’s standard top speed of 285km/h. The 0-100km/h time is also slashed down to 4.2 seconds with the 200km/h mark coming up in only 11.6 seconds.
This isn’t just a fancy one-off special either. For a price, G-Power will convert any current 3-series coupe, Z4, X5 or new M3 to the V10 specification. They are also working on a supercharger kit to take the power all the way from 550hp to a very tasty 750hp (559kW).
The engine isn’t the only part of the car to receive an upgarde. Engineers have also added a special KW automotive race-suspension kit that was specially honed on the Nurburgring.


[source: subaruauto]

Toyota launches new SUV

The Vanguard is a new luxury-class mid-size SUV with a high degree of mobility and power to spare. Not only does it offer a superb driving performance based on exceptional handling and cruising stability, it features styling that reflects refined urban settings and provides a truly pleasant experience to drivers and passengers alike.

A 3.5-liter V6 engine and Active Torque Control 4WD combine with S-VSC (Steering-assisted Vehicle Stability Control) to provide power, handling and stability along with one of the best environmental and safety performances in its class. The Vanguard benefits from interior and exterior design cues that achieve a sense of strength and quality, as well as three rows of seats that can accommodate seven passengers within a roomy and highly practical interior space.


[source: subaruauto]

Spy Shots: Lamborghini LMX SUV

Lamborghini could have a successor to the original LM002 if the prototype in these latest spy shots turns out to be the latest test-mule from the Italian supercar manufacturer. Although the prototype is dressed in the sheetmetal of a Porsche Cayenne, the widened fenders and lowered front-end suggests that this is no ordinary SUV.
Earlier reports suggested that Porsche’s next-gen Cayenne would be smaller and sportier than the current model but this test-mule is clearly larger. Rumors that it could be a new SUV model for Bentley are also unlikely to be true given the speeds the prototype has been seen reaching around Germany’s Nurburgring.

Based on a modified version of the Cayenne platform, the new Lambo SUV will likely feature the Gallardo’s V10. This could be followed by a smaller 4.5L V8 model and possibly a diesel variant running Audi’s 5.9L V12 TDI.

Lamborghini’s immediate plans will see it launch a new Murcielago-based-supercar at next month’s Frankfurt Motor Show and possibly a new V8-powered entry-level Gallardo.

[source: subaruauto]

Spy Shots: BMW M X5 spotted

BMW has consistently argued that a vehicle like the X5 is not fitting with the whole 'M' philosophy of increased performance through reduced weight but despite this spy-photographers have recently come across a new X5 prototype rolling around the streets of Munich with some very distinct M styling cues. The test-mule was seen sporting a new front bumper with much larger intakes than usual, while the back of the car was adorned with a quad-tailpipe arrangement sitting lower than the usual V8 models. A further clue to this mule being a high-performance version was the sound of the engine. The photographer claimed it sounded very different to any of the X5's current powerplants, suggesting that it could be a new V10 version or possibly a twin-turbo V8 set-up. The final giveaway is the prototype's performance tires, signalling that we may have a new M car on the way.We can picture the purists around the world shedding a tear at the thought of BMW adding an M badge to an SUV but if Porsche can get away with selling a sports off-roader, and AMG can pump up the Mercedes M-Class than we suppose BMW could too.

[Source: World Car Fans]

2007年8月29日星期三

New A4! Audi's new sedan in S-Line trim

The leakage of information coming forth from Audi AG on its new A4 (some say 2008, others say 2009) continues, and along with eight new high-resolution, desktop-wallpaper size pics in our gallery, we also have four new shots of the A4 S-Line, which, while not as potent as the actual high-performance S4, at least looks the part. The S-Line treatment is seen here dressing up an A4 with the 3.2L FSI engine that produces 265 hp and 243 ft-lbs. of torque. The S-Line trim adds the obviously larger wheels with a strong seven split-spoke design, though other than that, exterior changes seem to be minimal. The paint color may be exclusive to the S-line, and it appears the chrome trim around the greenhouse has been blacked out, as well as the lower rear bumper.
[Source: http://iautos.blogspot.com]

2007年8月28日星期二

Ford Focus ST Black Edition revealed

The Black Edition ST gets a black paint job, orange insertions(graphics and trims) and 19″ OZ Superturismo WP alloy wheels. At the interior the limited edition Focus receives Recaro sport seats of course with the orange insetions as the exterior has and a new model of steering wheel.

The engine remains the same. The 2.5 liter turbo engine from the “standard” ST delivering 223 bhp will fit into this ST too. The ST Black edition will be built in a limited series of 50 units.

Press release:

Racée, sporting and with the malicious glance, Ford Focus ST Black Edition does not miss assets for its special edition of black color strictly limited to 50 specimens: rare will be thus the drivers which will be able to be offered this sports car to the complete equipment invoiced 47 990 franks and which can practically do everything. Quasi like the imperceptible car of the popular television serial “Knight To wrinkle”, in the Eighties.

After successful launching, in spring, X-ray ST WRC-Edition, here now a new version of popular Ford which wants to be resolutely sporting, and in spite of very elegant, in its delivered black color. With the first glance, one could almost confuse X-ray ST Black Edition with his large s?ur, celebrates it car of the American television serial “Knight Rider”: with its black body Black Panther, its impertinent monogram Black Edition, its masks of foglamps black chechmate and the so black grids of higher and lower grill they, the car is not without recalling celebrates it knight of the road, the K.I.T.T. Except that Ford Focus ST Black Edition carried out in a strictly limited special version can neither speak nor to lead all alone.
The fifty models Black Edition are characterized by exclusive black light alloy rims OZ Supertourismo WP from 19 inches which were manufactured in particular for Ford in black chechmate with an orange graphics. Goes up pneumatic is with the height with tires Dunlop “SP Sportmaxx” (225/35Z R19) broad and with the extremely flat profile. The large back aileron painted in the color of the body gets an optimal support to him. The headlights bixénon guarantee that the dipped headlights and the main-beam headlamps have an identical color of light and that the road is illuminated liberally and with a great clearness so that the driver identifies any possible danger very early. The treated cockpit enamels of it piano with its head offices Sport Recaro, the head-rests embroidered with a great love of the detail, the wheel leather which fall well in hands and the pommel speed with its fine leather sleeve also adopt the same black color. Among the details of installation of the three-doors which deserve to be announced appear in particular an audio system Sony in changer with six CD of great standing and a practice automatic air-conditioning at two zones as well as de-icing the QuickClear® windshield which also reflects the rays of the sun.

Ford Focus ST Black Edition is propelled by famous the 2,5 turbo liters with five cylinders which develops 225 CH (166 kw) with 6100 tours/minute. But its couple is more impressive still since it is 320 newton-meter available between 1600 and 4000 turns. In combination with the manual box at six speeds of a high degree of accuracy, front traction charms its driver by filling with enthusiasm performances: it cuts down the 0 to 100 km/h in 6,8 seconds and its dash speed culminates with 241 km/h.

[source: http://iautos.blogspot.com]

Jaguar XF official revealed !

Challenging convention and setting its own rules, the new Jaguar XF fuses the style and performance of a sports car with the refinement, space and sophistication of a luxury saloon. This is the beginning of a new era for Jaguar.

The new XF: a dramatic expression of a bold new Jaguar design language, with a driving experience that exceeds expectations created by the striking appearance: relaxed and confident, with outstanding ability and control.
Resolutely true to the Jaguar philosophy of creating Beautiful, Fast cars, the XF goes further, adding a new dimension to the marque. The four-door XF has the visual excitement of a coupe, but room inside for five adults to enjoy an interior wholly contemporary in style yet uniquely Jaguar.
As well as space, the new XF’s interior ambience is enriched by crafted, luxurious materials, sophisticated instruments and calm interior mood lighting. Engineering excellence and attention to detail mean the XF’s interior matches the best-in-class for refinement, while Jaguar’s intelligent use of technology and driver-friendly Touch-screen controls add new layers of comfort and ease of use.
Every XF model has shift-by-wire transmission control, with Jaguar’s class-leading sequential shift system – its popularity already confirmed by feedback from XK sports car customers – used for the first time in a saloon. Shift-by-wire replaces manual shift linkages with electronic commands and gives every XF rapid and very smooth gearshifts – faster, even, than the acclaimed XK’s transmission.
The Jaguar Sequential ShiftTM System gives the driver the option of one-touch manual gearchange control via steering-wheel mounted paddles. There are also multiple JaguarDrive ControlTM transmission modes, including Dynamic and Winter settings, which interact with throttle progression, Dynamic Stability Control thresholds and shift strategy to match mood and conditions.
But the most exciting feature of the XF’s transmission control is the all-new JaguarDrive SelectorTM – an industry-first rotary shift interface that combines precise, intuitive control with space-saving packaging, to allow maximisation of interior storage options.
Other innovative functional features add more ’surprise and delight’. Air-conditioning vents present a flush dashboard surface until the ignition is switched on, at which point they elegantly rotate to the open position. Another new technology - JaguarSenseTM - introduces touch or proximity-sensing control for overhead console lights and the glovebox release.

more information on: http://iautos.blogspot.com

New Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S to be revealed at Frankfurt

The new Quattroporte Sport GT S will be unveiled at the Frankfurt Motorshow for its worldwide preview. The Quattroporte Sport GT S is the ultimate expression of Maserati’s saloon sportiness.

Exclusively for those looking for an even stronger sporting edge in a luxury saloon, the Quattroporte Sport GT S, equipped with an automatic 6-speed gearbox, stands out for its exceptional dynamic behaviour and uncompromised handling.


This result was obtained with the introduction of new suspension layout, featuring single rate dampers and a “racing” set up. The Quattroporte Sport GT S sits 10mm lower at the front and 25mm at the rear compared to other versions of the Quattroporte, and also features new, stiffer springs and dampers.


The Quattroporte Sport GT S boasts a unique braking system developed in collaboration with Brembo. This innovative technology uses dual-cast brake discs, and this is the first time such a set up has been employed on a road car.


Unlike traditional cast iron discs, dual-cast discs are made of two materials, cast iron and aluminium, to ensure optimised braking, improving performance in the most extreme conditions and providing greater resistance to fade even at the highest temperatures. The Quattroporte Sport GT S’s new braking system also benefits from new mono-block, six-piston callipers at the front and tyres developed especially for this car (front 245/35-R20 and rear 295/30-R20).

The increased size of the rear tyres allows optimum use of the Maserati’s V8 power, whilst the new tyre compound helps the brakes and set-up to guarantee a superior level of handling and driving emotion.
The Quattroporte Sport GT S’s exterior is distinguished by a more aggressive look. Along with the black-chrome mesh front grille, a characteristic element of sporty Maseratis, the side window trims and the two double exhaust pipes are also in black, whilst door handles are in the same colour as the body of the car.


The Quattroporte Sport GT S is fitted with eye-catching dark-chrome 20″, seven spoke alloy wheels.


Even the choice of material for the interior of the Quattroporte Sport GT S reflects the car’s sporty character. Traditional Poltrona Frau leather has been combined with Alcantara, which covers the central zone of the seats, the interior door panels and the steering wheel. Maserati has previously used Alcantara for the interior of the Trofeo cars and the MC12.


The dashboard is finished in new carbon fibre with aluminium treads, whilst front seats are characterised by a new, more cosseting sporty shape.


[source : http://iautos.blogspot.com]

2007年8月26日星期日

Spy photos: Porsche 911 Targa facelift

Porsche prepares a facelift for its 911 series. You can easily see that the 911 is adopting the same design of the stop lights as the new Porsche Cayenne.The new stop lights will also incorporate the LED technology making them more visible.
But Porsche doesn’t stop here. The new 911 will get also an update at the engine. The 3.6 liter engine will get a power boost from 325 bhp to 360 bhp and the 3.8 liter engine from 355 bhp to arround 400 bhp. Also the fuel consumption will drop approximately 15% due to the sever laws regarding CO2 emissions.

Volvo V70 by Heico Sportiv

Right on time for the market introduction of the new VOLVO V70 and XC70 the Volvo tuner HEICO SPORTIV is already offers a complete program.

A power upgrade is available for the models V70 2.4D/D5 and XC70 D5 with 154 kW / 210 hp and 460 Nm torque. With this program the V70 D5 accelerates to 100 km/h in 7.6 seconds to a maximum speed of 230 km/h. HEICO SPORTIV power upgrades are carefully matched to each engine type and are offered with a 36 month warranty (from initial vehicle registration) as well as with compulsory TV-Certifications.


A technical supplement to the power upgrade is the HEICO stainless-steel exhaust system. For the first time, HEICO SPORTIV offers two different versions. For the engine types 2.4D, D5, 2.5T, 3.2 and 3.2 AWD a twin-outlet exhaust with oval tips in 120×74mm diameter is available. Specially engineered for the T6 model a four-pipe exhaust system is available. The T6 sport exhaust has got a modified silencer featuring four chrome endpipes in a 76mm diameter style.


From the chassis development side there are sport springs for all versions (FWD / AWD, Four-C suspension and XC70) available. The lowering in all cases is approximately 30 mm. A complete suspension kit with springs and shocks is currently under development at will be available in around 8 weeks.
Well suited to the new chassis is the attractive HEICO alloy wheel program. The VOLUTION V. (5 spokes) design is available in dimensions 8×18″, 8×19″ and 8,5×20″ sizes. HEICO SPORTIV supplies the VOLUTION X. (10 spokes) wheel in 8×18” - with a perfect offset for the proper positioning relative to the fender lips. A distinctive feature is that HEICO SPORTIV offers an exchange-warranty for road hazard damage at 50% of the List price (German market only) and all sizes are compatible without the need of body/fender work. The most exclusive fitment is the Titan finish versions of both wheel styles.

The complete program is rounded out with several interior options, as well as by an exterior design program with front grill and front/rear skirts (currently in development).

BMW 7-Series High Edition released

Due to the next year’s launch of the new 7-series, Bmw is presenting an extra attractive BMW 7-Series High Edition. This model comes with a bunch of extra options with a relative affordable price. The most successful 7-Series in Bmw’s history comes now with options like: metallic paint, leather interior aith wood insertions, AdaptiveDrive, Soft Close Automatic system for the doors, comfort seat with heating, Park Distance Control, adaptive xenon curve lighting, smart air conditioning, Navigation System and a LOGIC 7 Surround HiFi system.

All of this will be offered at a price of € 13.050 for the standard models and € 13.100 for the models with long wheel ( 7XX L - series). The price for the options is good because usually these kind of option cost almost € 30.000 and with the High Edition Bmw makes a discount of almost 60% .


2007年8月19日星期日

Citroen C-Airscape Concept revealed

Citroen plans to present a cabriolet concept at the Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA) in September. Thanks to the website Planete-Citroen we have a set of official pictures with the C-Airscape Concept.

The car will be a 4-seater midsize cabrio equipped with a retractable soft-top. There is nothing more to say about this concept but stay tooned because the press release from the French automaker will soon appear. Until then enjoy the photos below!




2007年8月17日星期五

Skoda Fabia II Estate will surface in Frankfurt

Czech automaker Škoda will take advantage of the upcoming IAA motor show in Frankfurt to present the station wagon version of its popular Skoda Fabia supermini. Set to compete against the new Renault Clio Estate / Sport Tourer, the Skoda Fabia Estate will offer superior payload capacity and roomier interior space.


The car, Škoda is reporting in its press release, will be 7mm longer and 46mm higher than the previous generation Fabia, being 4,239mm long, 1,642mm wide and 1,498mm tall. It will feature up to 480 liters of cargo space, which is 41 liter more than the Renault Clio Estate can provide.

With the rear seats folded flat the stowage space totals at 1,460 liters, which is the best in its class and even dwarves some more expensive cars from the class above.


The Skoda Fabia II Estate will be shipped with a choice of six engines (three working on gas and three oil-burners). The gasoline engines are the 1.2 12V HTP (70bhp). The 1.4 16V (85bhp) and 1.6 16V (105bhp, mated with an optional six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission). The diesel engines are offered as the 1.4 TDI PD (70bhp), 1.4 TDI PD (80bhp) and 1.9 TDI PD (105bhp).

All engines are mated to a five-speed gearbox.

Porsche Boxster Limited Edition comes in orange

The new Porsche Boxster Limited Edition will be officially launched on September 28, 2007 and will go on sale at a starting price of $49,900. Its more energetic sibling Porsche Boxster S Limited Edition will be start at a more breathtaking $59,900.

For the money, you'll get an orange-clad little sneaky beast equipped with a sports exhaust system, safety bars and Porsche's own SportDesign appearance package, which includes new front spoiler lips, an automatically extending rear spoiler, and modified rear trim with integrated diffuser.All this gear will roll on standard 18- and 19-inch wheels coming with the Porsche Boxster and Boxster S respectively.
Inside, you'll find black-colored Alcantara trim, three-spoke steering wheel from the Porsche 911 GT3 and 911 GT3 RS, and handbrake lever on vehicles with manual transmission. Of course there will also be a special "Limited Edition" plaque in the glove compartment.