Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Monday, February 28, 2011
Carlsson 2011 Mercedes CLS 63 AMG
Back in December lat year, Carlsson previewed a modification package for the 2011 Mercedes CLS, being one of the first tuners to target the vehicle. Now, the tuner is offering us the full info, with the package scheduled to be introduced at the Geneva Auto Show.
The tuning company is offering a multitude of modifications for a number of models from the CLS range, but the company is trying to make us pay attention to the CLS 63 AMG tuning package.
The vehicle’s 5.5 liter biturbo V8 unit now delivers 600 hp, with the tuner also upgrading the connection to the road by installing the C-Tronic suspension for vehicles that come with the Airmatic suspension. The car rides on a set of 20-inch rims, which bring a 40 percent weight reduction, compared to the factory wheels.
The exterior of the CLS has been gifted with a subtle aerodynamic package that consists of a new front bumper, that comes with a carbon fiber lip and stainless steel mesh grille and a fresh rear bumper, which houses a diffuser, a set of oval tailpipes and the third brake light.
Carlsson 2011 Mercedes CLS 63 AMG |
The tuning company is offering a multitude of modifications for a number of models from the CLS range, but the company is trying to make us pay attention to the CLS 63 AMG tuning package.
The vehicle’s 5.5 liter biturbo V8 unit now delivers 600 hp, with the tuner also upgrading the connection to the road by installing the C-Tronic suspension for vehicles that come with the Airmatic suspension. The car rides on a set of 20-inch rims, which bring a 40 percent weight reduction, compared to the factory wheels.
The exterior of the CLS has been gifted with a subtle aerodynamic package that consists of a new front bumper, that comes with a carbon fiber lip and stainless steel mesh grille and a fresh rear bumper, which houses a diffuser, a set of oval tailpipes and the third brake light.
Ford Ranger Wildtrak at 2011 Geneva Motor Show
We're not at the 2011 Geneva International Motor Show, but our friends from Jalopnik are, and they just sent us photos of the new 2011 Ford Ranger Wildtrak double cab making its debut there.
The Ranger Wildtrak is Ford's top-of-the-line midsize truck for markets outside North America. It's a stylish version of all-new Ranger "T6" that goes on sale later this year.
There's no official word yet on the Ranger Wildtrak's powertrain, though we expect there's a five-cylinder 3.2-liter diesel with a robust 197 horsepower and 346 pounds-feet of torque under its hood. It's rated to tow up to 7,385 pounds (3,350 kilograms).
The Wildtrak rides on unique 18-inch alloy wheels and also receives a roof rack and "sports hoop which enhances its profile," according to a Ford press release.
Inside, the Wildtrak features a special "hydrographic finish" on the centre console surrounding the audio controls that looks similar to carbon fiber. The seats are trimmed with a combination of leather and woven cloth inspired by athletic clothing with ventilated sections. Contrast stitching and a discreet strip on the seat upper and bolster, in distinctive Wildtrak Orange, accentuate the premium feel of the interior.
Ford Ranger Wildtrak
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Ford Ranger Wildtrak
Skoda VisionD Concept
Skoda, one of the small brands in the Volkswagen group trying to make a name for itself, is trying to reinvent its image at the 2011 Geneva Auto Show, where it is introducing this week both a new logo and, of more importance to us, a new Design Concept.
Staying true to the overall lines that make the brand recognizable, the design concept is intended as a vessel for the old Skoda design to travel into the future. The model has been designed with a long wheelbase and short overhangs, integrated tailgate and... that's about it.
What powers the VisionD is not important (probably a VW engine would fit in it just fine), so the Czech auto maker made no effort to describe how it sees a possible production version of the model move about. No other technical details have been provided.
Skoda VisionD Concept |
Staying true to the overall lines that make the brand recognizable, the design concept is intended as a vessel for the old Skoda design to travel into the future. The model has been designed with a long wheelbase and short overhangs, integrated tailgate and... that's about it.
What powers the VisionD is not important (probably a VW engine would fit in it just fine), so the Czech auto maker made no effort to describe how it sees a possible production version of the model move about. No other technical details have been provided.
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Skoda VisionD Concept
Ford B-Max Concept
Ford B-Max Concept |
The latest generation Fiesta spelled success for American manufacturer Ford on all the markets the model is being sold. It was only logical that after trying for years to find the right recipe and make it work, the auto maker would try to expand the offering.
The 2011 Geneva Auto Show which kicks off today will witness the unveiling of the B-MAX concept, a platform that might not only preview a bigger and meaner Fiesta-inspired model, but at the same time definitely showcases what Ford plans to do with its cars in the future.
The most striking feature of the concept is the absence of the B-pillar, a type of solution chosen to accommodate the twin rear sliding doors. The door concept, promises Ford, is already being fitted onto a model which will be launched in the future.
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Ford B-Max Concept
Maybach 57 S Unveiled at Geneva
At the 2011 Geneva Auto Show, Xenatec will present its customer-specified Xenatec-Coupe. The Coupe, which is based on the Maybach 57 S will be presented in a specially constructed pavilion in the gardens of “La Réserve” Hotel on the banks of Lake Geneva.
The new customer-specific vehicle from Xenatec was configured by Fredrik Burchhardt, the designer at Xenatec. The vehicle is designed according to a customer’s exact specs and was hand-built by the team at Xenatec, the company noted.
When it comes to the exterior of the vehicle, the paintwork is complete with a matte finish that is applied by hand in several layers to create a shimmering brass tone. The overall paint finish is completed by delicate silver along the vehicle’s flanks.
The company noted that the stylistic treatment that is applied in the exterior of the vehicle is a hallmark of all Maybach automobiles. To sum up, Xenatec said that the vehicle is designed by artists, manufactured for experts.
Inside the coupe, the company has exclusively combined natural non-dyed mid-brown buffalo hide and dark nappa leather in espresso brown that are hand-stitched by master craftsmen. To add to the beauty of the interior Xenatec has lined the footwells of the new vehicle with blackberry Alcantara.
Until now the Weinsberg, Germany based Xenatec has not mentioned anything about the pricing or when the Xenatec Coupe will arrive in the market.
The new customer-specific vehicle from Xenatec was configured by Fredrik Burchhardt, the designer at Xenatec. The vehicle is designed according to a customer’s exact specs and was hand-built by the team at Xenatec, the company noted.
When it comes to the exterior of the vehicle, the paintwork is complete with a matte finish that is applied by hand in several layers to create a shimmering brass tone. The overall paint finish is completed by delicate silver along the vehicle’s flanks.
The company noted that the stylistic treatment that is applied in the exterior of the vehicle is a hallmark of all Maybach automobiles. To sum up, Xenatec said that the vehicle is designed by artists, manufactured for experts.
Inside the coupe, the company has exclusively combined natural non-dyed mid-brown buffalo hide and dark nappa leather in espresso brown that are hand-stitched by master craftsmen. To add to the beauty of the interior Xenatec has lined the footwells of the new vehicle with blackberry Alcantara.
Until now the Weinsberg, Germany based Xenatec has not mentioned anything about the pricing or when the Xenatec Coupe will arrive in the market.
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Maybach 57 S
Volkswagen Bulli Concept
Is Volkswagen trying to “Bulli” disgruntled fans of the brand into a rapprochement? Here, on the eve of press previews, it rather looks like it.
Few concept vehicles from the last decade were more warmly received than the 2001 Volkswagen Microbus concept, a vehicle that, for various reasons, VW decided not to place into production. This upset a vocal demographic in VW’s fan base, all but rabid for the retro-themed bus. But now, VW wants to kiss and make up.
On Tuesday, the brand will introduce the Bulli, what it calls a refinement of the 2001 Microbus concept, which derives its name from what the Germans called the original 1950 Microbus. (Semimodern models are still being produced in Brazil and some other international markets.)
That midcentury vision has morphed dramatically in the ensuing 61 years. In fact, the Bulli’s profile sooner evokes a Scion xB or Kia Soul than it does its namesake. Gone are signature features like panoramic windows, seating for up to nine, sliding doors and a woefully gutless gas engine. Instead, the Bulli has four conventionally opening doors, six seats, an iPad-based infotainment system and an electric motor.
Few concept vehicles from the last decade were more warmly received than the 2001 Volkswagen Microbus concept, a vehicle that, for various reasons, VW decided not to place into production. This upset a vocal demographic in VW’s fan base, all but rabid for the retro-themed bus. But now, VW wants to kiss and make up.
On Tuesday, the brand will introduce the Bulli, what it calls a refinement of the 2001 Microbus concept, which derives its name from what the Germans called the original 1950 Microbus. (Semimodern models are still being produced in Brazil and some other international markets.)
That midcentury vision has morphed dramatically in the ensuing 61 years. In fact, the Bulli’s profile sooner evokes a Scion xB or Kia Soul than it does its namesake. Gone are signature features like panoramic windows, seating for up to nine, sliding doors and a woefully gutless gas engine. Instead, the Bulli has four conventionally opening doors, six seats, an iPad-based infotainment system and an electric motor.
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Volkswagen Bulli Concept
Koenigsegg Agera R
Koenigsegg, the Swedish "hypercar" manufacturer, is muscling its way toward Bugatti Veyron territory with its new Agera R, an even more potent version of the pre-production Agera prototype that it displayed at last year's 2010 Geneva Auto Show.
The Agera R features a larger 5.0-liter version of Koenigsegg's twin-turbocharged V8, rated at up to 1,115 horsepower when running on E85 ethanol and 885 pound-feet of torque. The Agera shown last year borrowed its 4.7-liter V8 biturbo engine from the earlier Koenigsegg CCX. That engine was rated at 897 hp and 811 lb-ft.
Koenigsegg says the Agera R has a "theoretical top speed" of around 273 mph, although it is electronically limited to 233 mph. The company adds that the speed governor "can be unlocked for shorter periods of time, if all necessary conditions are met, such as road condition, tire wear, service level of car" and so on.
Power is delivered to the rear wheels via a new seven-speed dual-clutch automated manual gearbox, jointly developed with Cima, and an electronic differential. The Agera R rides on specially developed Michelin Super Sport tires, rated at speeds up to 260 mph.
The Agera R features a larger 5.0-liter version of Koenigsegg's twin-turbocharged V8, rated at up to 1,115 horsepower when running on E85 ethanol and 885 pound-feet of torque. The Agera shown last year borrowed its 4.7-liter V8 biturbo engine from the earlier Koenigsegg CCX. That engine was rated at 897 hp and 811 lb-ft.
Koenigsegg says the Agera R has a "theoretical top speed" of around 273 mph, although it is electronically limited to 233 mph. The company adds that the speed governor "can be unlocked for shorter periods of time, if all necessary conditions are met, such as road condition, tire wear, service level of car" and so on.
Power is delivered to the rear wheels via a new seven-speed dual-clutch automated manual gearbox, jointly developed with Cima, and an electronic differential. The Agera R rides on specially developed Michelin Super Sport tires, rated at speeds up to 260 mph.
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Koenigsegg Agera R
Mazda MX 5
While it requires some nifty manoeuvring to get inside the MX 5, it is surprisingly comfortable once you're settled in place.
This close to the ground the headroom appears generous and the sporty recaro seats are supportive and luxurious to the touch.
With space at a premium, controls need to be practical and efficient and that they are. Some of the plastics are a touch hard but that's probably because the cabin is designed to withstand those surprise showers when you are caught with the top down.
Storage is limited but clever and the retractable roof has its own cavity so the boot is able to handle that overnight bag or a couple of shopping bags with the top up or down.
This close to the ground the headroom appears generous and the sporty recaro seats are supportive and luxurious to the touch.
With space at a premium, controls need to be practical and efficient and that they are. Some of the plastics are a touch hard but that's probably because the cabin is designed to withstand those surprise showers when you are caught with the top down.
Storage is limited but clever and the retractable roof has its own cavity so the boot is able to handle that overnight bag or a couple of shopping bags with the top up or down.
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Mazda MX 5
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
2010 Audi Q5 Overview
2010 Audi Q5 |
At the heart of the 2010 Audi Q5 is a 270-horsepower, 3.2-liter V-6, which is mated to a manually shiftable six-speed automatic. Audi’s all-wheel drive system delivers the power to all four wheels for safe all-weather driving. This package is good for 18 city and 23 highway mpg, and can tow a hefty 4,400 pounds – that is a much higher tow rating than the BMW X3, Volvo XC60, and Lexus RX350 offer with their competitive powertrains.
2011 Audi Q5 |
Underneath this lovely interior, Audi’s sports-oriented suspension keeps the Q5 well planted. An optional active suspension system with a ride height adjustment feature allows the driver to set the Q5 low for some fun driving, or raise it up to gain clearance for any off-road maneuvers.
2011 Audi A5 Interior |
The 2010 Audi Q5 is all Audi, and all good. Power, functionality, comfort, and safety combine in this little SUV with a big list of options and fun.
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2010 Audi Q5
Mercedes-Benz S-Class S -350L (Petrol)
Mercedes-Benz S-Class |
Mercedes-Benz S-Class |
A stablemate of Mercedez Benz models, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class is reportedly the world's best selling luxury flagship sedan. As the first model in the Mercedes-Benz lineup, the S-Class has introduced many of the company's latest innovations, including advanced safety systems, drivetrain technologies, and interior features. In fact, it was S-Class that introduced the first airbag supplemental restraint systems, seatbelt pretensioners, and electronic stability control
The body type is sedan. The fuel type is petrol and the transmission type is automatic. Mileage-city is 6.8 kmpl.
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Mercedes-Benz S-class
Monday, January 3, 2011
Mercedes-Benz to Reveal the C-Class series in Spring 2011
With the year coming to an end, various companies from the automobile industry are planning for substantial additions to their existing assortment of luxury cars. Mercedes-Benz also has a few similar schedules as it has announced to reveal its latest C-Class series for consumers in spring next year.
With a brand-new high-resolution color display screen built into the instrument cluster and a stylish new dashboard with grained surface, the latest C-Class integrates a prominent decorative trim emphasizing the premium character of the interior. It also boasts of a fuel consumption improvement of upto 31 percent and efficiency-enhancing measures such as new engines, refined 7G-Tronic Plus automatic transmission and the ECO start/stop function.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class |
With a brand-new high-resolution color display screen built into the instrument cluster and a stylish new dashboard with grained surface, the latest C-Class integrates a prominent decorative trim emphasizing the premium character of the interior. It also boasts of a fuel consumption improvement of upto 31 percent and efficiency-enhancing measures such as new engines, refined 7G-Tronic Plus automatic transmission and the ECO start/stop function.
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Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Mercedes Apprentices tuck a full-size V8 in a small B-Class B 55
If there were to be declared a range of cars least exciting out of all the product series that Mercedes offers, the B-Class would perhaps be the one to earn the modest tag. According to recent news, a team of trainees at the Rastatt plant in Germany has presented the B 55 in an altogether new dimension with a V8 engine and rear-wheel drive.
The idea of converting a B-Class into a 289kW V8-powered rear-wheel drive was conceived by plant manager Peter Wesp. The task of building the very special vehicle based on B-Class was assigned to few of his staff members and Wesp allowed complete creative freedom for the project. A foreman in the technical vocational training department Andreas Würz accepted the challenge immediately. After sizing up the car with a measure-tape, Würz came to a conclusion that “Actually it should be possible to fit a V8 into the engine compartment.”
B-Class B 55 |
The idea of converting a B-Class into a 289kW V8-powered rear-wheel drive was conceived by plant manager Peter Wesp. The task of building the very special vehicle based on B-Class was assigned to few of his staff members and Wesp allowed complete creative freedom for the project. A foreman in the technical vocational training department Andreas Würz accepted the challenge immediately. After sizing up the car with a measure-tape, Würz came to a conclusion that “Actually it should be possible to fit a V8 into the engine compartment.”
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B-Class B 55
2012 Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG leaked pictures
The 2012 Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG has apparently been leaked onto the internet by a German online magazine, and with it, a few details on what supposedly is under the bonnet.
We saw recently the 2012 C-Class revealed, hinting at the current SL-Class with its sculpted headlamps and revised front end. The new C 63 AMG seen here builds on those features, but in typical AMG fashion adds a sense of dynamism, and brute power.
The inverted mouth on the front air dam, lowered suspension and huge wheels are the big hints to its performance potential, however the sedan version may in fact be different to an upcoming coupe of the C 63 AMG.
Evocars, the website in which the images appeared, reports that the coupe will use the new 5.5-litre turbocharged V8, while the sedan will continue using the 6.2-litre naturally aspirated unit under the bonnet of the current model, albeit with more grunt.
A new seven-speed transmission for this model is said to feature a race-start mode – we’re hoping it’s the new double clutch box – while the interior is suitably tricked up to AMG specs.
AMG fans will have to wait until later this year before we get final details, but from what we can see, things are looking good.
2012 Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG |
We saw recently the 2012 C-Class revealed, hinting at the current SL-Class with its sculpted headlamps and revised front end. The new C 63 AMG seen here builds on those features, but in typical AMG fashion adds a sense of dynamism, and brute power.
The inverted mouth on the front air dam, lowered suspension and huge wheels are the big hints to its performance potential, however the sedan version may in fact be different to an upcoming coupe of the C 63 AMG.
2012 Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG |
Evocars, the website in which the images appeared, reports that the coupe will use the new 5.5-litre turbocharged V8, while the sedan will continue using the 6.2-litre naturally aspirated unit under the bonnet of the current model, albeit with more grunt.
A new seven-speed transmission for this model is said to feature a race-start mode – we’re hoping it’s the new double clutch box – while the interior is suitably tricked up to AMG specs.
AMG fans will have to wait until later this year before we get final details, but from what we can see, things are looking good.
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2012 Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG
Mercedes-Benz C-Class series in Spring 2011
With the year coming to an end, various companies from the automobile industry are planning for substantial additions to their existing assortment of luxury cars. Mercedes-Benz also has a few similar schedules as it has announced to reveal its latest C-Class series for consumers in spring next year.
With a brand-new high-resolution color display screen built into the instrument cluster and a stylish new dashboard with grained surface, the latest C-Class integrates a prominent decorative trim emphasizing the premium character of the interior. It also boasts of a fuel consumption improvement of upto 31 percent and efficiency-enhancing measures such as new engines, refined 7G-Tronic Plus automatic transmission and the ECO start/stop function.
“In terms of drive and protection systems the new-generation C-Class offers the same comfort and safety as our luxury models. High-grade interior features remind one of the new CLS, the C-Class sets completely new standards in its segment with respect to perceived value and quality,” explains Joachim Schmidt, Sales & Marketing Director at Mercedes-Benz Cars.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class |
With a brand-new high-resolution color display screen built into the instrument cluster and a stylish new dashboard with grained surface, the latest C-Class integrates a prominent decorative trim emphasizing the premium character of the interior. It also boasts of a fuel consumption improvement of upto 31 percent and efficiency-enhancing measures such as new engines, refined 7G-Tronic Plus automatic transmission and the ECO start/stop function.
“In terms of drive and protection systems the new-generation C-Class offers the same comfort and safety as our luxury models. High-grade interior features remind one of the new CLS, the C-Class sets completely new standards in its segment with respect to perceived value and quality,” explains Joachim Schmidt, Sales & Marketing Director at Mercedes-Benz Cars.
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Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Saturday, January 1, 2011
GTA to Offer Spano Spyder and Spano R Variants
GTA Motors has reportedly confirmed plans to bring out two more versions of the GTA Spano namely a Spyder and a more track-focused R variant. However, the company refrained from providing more details of the future supercars.
According to Skiddmark, “two additional versions are in the pipeline.”
Incidentally, the GTA Spano is powered by a V10 engine which is longitudinally positioned at the rear capable of churning out 780 hp and a torque of 920 Nm. The supercar can clock 0 to 62 mph in less than 3 seconds with a top speed touted at more than 219 mph.
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GTA Spano
Mercedes Benz to Begin Sale of 2013 SL-Class in 2012
Mercedes Benz will begin the sale of its 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class in the last quarter of 2012. This sports car that was introduced to the drivers since 1954 comes to the next span of life after five generations and a facelift in 2008.
The 2013 SL-Class will be powered by a new 5.5L V8 engine mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission. This combination provides this sports car a power of 387 hp. A 4.0 liter twin turbo engine is also in consideration for the new entrant along with a hybrid powertrain.At first look, the 2013 Mercedes SL-Class will look almost identical to its previous generations. What makes it different from the previous generations is its wider and lower stance. The company has also reduced the weight by using the aluminum chassis, which will help in improvement of fuel economy and driving performance.
The 2013 Mercedes Benz SL-Class, which is scheduled to begin sale in the last quarter of 2012, will come with a price tag ranging between $102K and $198K.
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SL-Class
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