Mercedes SLK gets a new Black Bison package from Wald International

Mercedes SLK by Wald International

Features new bumpers and revised side skirts

Following a preview in November, Wald International has unveiled their new Black Bison package for the Mercedes SLK (R172).

Designed to have an "overwhelming presence," the convertible has been equipped with a new front bumper that has LED daytime running lights and larger air intakes. Moving further back, we can see aerodynamic side skirts and a new rear bumper with an integrated diffuser.

The styling package costs ¥464,400 ($4,567 / €3,355 / £2,688) and customers can also order a carbon fiber rear spoiler for an additional ¥73,440 ($722 / €530 / £424). This particular car has also been equipped with special alloy wheels and a four-tailpipe sports exhaust system but there's no word on pricing for these two components.

Jeep CEO downplays possibility for Cherokee Diesel in the U.S.

2014 Jeep Cherokee [27th Mar, 2013]

Says Grand Cherokee Diesel sales would have to double first

The Jeep Cherokee is offered with a 2.0-liter turbodiesel engine in Europe but it looks like Americans will be stuck with petrol power for the time being.

Speaking to Automotive News, Jeep CEO Mike Manley said sales of the Grand Cherokee Diesel would have to nearly double before the company would offer a Cherokee Diesel in the United States. As Manley explained, only eight percent of US-spec Grand Cherokee are equipped with a 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel engine and he wants that number to increase into the "mid-double digit" range before approving a Cherokee Diesel.

Despite sounding pessimistic, Manley expects diesel sales to grow in the coming years and he noted "I never rule anything out with diesel for the Jeep brand."

Lamborghini Aventador LP988 Edizione GT fully revealed by DMC

Lamborghini Aventador LP988 Edizione GT by DMC / Albert Song & Jordan Chong

Packs 988 PS

After a teaser and a preview, DMC has fully revealed its outrageous Lamborghini Aventador LP998 Edizione GT.

DMC seems to have a soft spot for the Lamborghini Aventador as over the years they have launched numerous customized versions, culminating with this LP998 Edizione GT which is even more extravagant than its predecessors. They say its extremely aggressive and wide body kit was developed to meet FIA regulations without compromising the car's street-legal status.

Priced at 288,888 USD (without car), the upgrade kit includes among others a gigantic rear diffuser and an equally large wing featuring three manually-adjustable angles, with both pieces being manufactured from carbon fiber. There's also a centrally-positioned quad exhaust arrangement and a big front spoiler lip made from the same lightweight material. Other ingredients on the menu include the large multi-spoke black alloy wheels and a red & black two-tone leather upholstery inside the cabin where there are carbon fiber side sills.

Aside from the menacing exterior makeover, DMC also worked on the V12 6.5-liter engine by installing individual throttle plates for each cylinder, new modulators, fuel lines, fuel pumps and injection nozzles, along with a twin-turbo modification and a remapped ECU. The tuner doesn't specify the engine's output but given the "LP988" in the designation, it's safe to say power was increased from the series 700 PS (515 kW) to 988 PS (727 kW).

John Hennessey tests the 700 bhp Chevrolet Corvette C7 [video]

Equipped with the tuner's HPE700 supercharger kit

John Hennessey decided to go behind the wheel of the 2014 Chevrolet Corvette C7 equipped with the HPE700 package.

About a month ago we saw the engineers from Hennessey testing the new Corvette Stingray with 650 bhp and now the company's owner took a 700 bhp version for a quick test drive. The car featured in this video belongs to a client who wanted a carbon fiber splitter and side skirts together with the tuner's H10 alloy wheels which combined are around 17 lbs (7.7 kg) lighter than the stock rims.

The main highlight of the customization program is under the hood where the V8 6.2-liter LT1 engine has received a high-flow supercharger system that has bumped output to 700 bhp (522 kW) at 6,300 rpm. The engine also was equipped with high-flow cylinder heads and a custom camshaft while the air induction system has also been tweaked.

Hennessey is offering other upgrades such as Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires, carbon fiber interior components, bespoke leather upholstery, as well as a Penske adjustable suspension and Brembo carbon ceramic brakes.

The American tuner says only 100 units will be built for the 2014MY.

Ford Fiesta Zetec S 2015

Ford unveiled the two new Fiestas - the 2015 Ford Fiesta Zetec S - in Red & Black Editions.

The new Fiesta Zetec S is powered by a 140 HP 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine which delivers 12 per cent more power and an even sportier driving experience with 0-62mph acceleration in 9sec and a top speed of 125 mph, while still delivering 62.8 mpg fuel efficiency and 104g CO2/km emissions.

The 2015 Ford Fiesta Zetec S will arrive at the Ford dealerships from September 2014 with pricing around 16,000.

Transformers 4 The Age Of Extinction 2014

Check out the high res gallery of the cars used in the Transformers 4 - The Age of Extinction after the jump.

Mitsubishi Outlander Sport SE - Driven

The Outlander Sport joined Mitsubishi's lineup in 2011, and save for a mild tweak to the continuously variable transmission, it hasn't changed much since. When it debuted, the Outlander Sport was essentially a smaller version of the larger Outlander model. That all ended in 2014, when Mitsubishi completely revised the front end of the bigger Outlander model and left the Sport model to carry the sportier, Lancer-inspired grille. Heading into 2014, the Outlander Sport gains a few extra goodies, including new steering wheel-mounted controls and HD radio on the range-topping SE model.

I once loved Mitsubishi models. You had the Eclipse, Lancer Evo and the 3000GT to do the sporty stuff in, a few SUVs to do the heavy hauling with, and a slew of sedans and hatchbacks to do your A-to-B driving. Well, now Mitsubishi is due to lose the Evo, the 3000GT is long gone, and the Eclipse is gone, leaving the lineup rather bare.

Last year I had the chance to drive the 2014 Outlander, and I came away a little disappointed in what it offered. Now I am getting the chance to drive the range-topping 2014 Outlander Sport SE. Can this compact SUV fare any better than its big brother did?

Click past the jump to read my review on the 2014 Outlander Sport SE to find out.

Mitsubishi Outlander Sport SE - Driven originally appeared on topspeed.com on Thursday, 26 June 2014 18:00 EST.

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Ferrari Will Use Turbocharged and Hybrid Systems to Reduce CO2 Emissions

As soon as the California T started revving its turbocharged, V-8 engine, we began to wonder how long will it take before Ferrari starts adding turbos across its entire lineup. Well, it appears all V-8s are set to receive forced induction over the next six years, as the Italians want to reduce their fleet CO2 emission by 20 percent by 2021.

That's the word coming from Ferrari Powetrain Director Vittorio Dini, who said Maranello needs to reduce emissions by three percent each year and by 20 percent by 2021, Automotive News reports. To achieve this daring goal, the company will turbocharge its V-8 engines and develop hybrid technology for each V-12-powered supercar. Additionally, V-8 engine displacement is to decreased, meaning no unit larger than the current 3.9-liter V-8 will be available once Fezza retires the 4.5-liter unit.

Ferrari's average CO2 emissions are currently about 270 grams of CO2 per kilometer. Ferrari is one of many manufacturer that obtained derogations from the European Environment Agency in recent years, alongside Aston Martin, Spyker, Koenigsegg, and Lotus. For the record, companies such as Fiat, Renault, and Peugeot average less than 120 grams of CO2 per kilometer.

Click past the jump to read more about Ferrari's new hybrid system.

Ferrari Will Use Turbocharged and Hybrid Systems to Reduce CO2 Emissions originally appeared on topspeed.com on Thursday, 26 June 2014 20:00 EST.

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Ford F-150 VelociRaptor Photo 1005

http://www.motorauthority.com/image/100428082_2013-hennessey-velociraptor-suv-based-on-the-ford-f-150-svt-raptor. Ford F-150 VelociRaptor Specification Launched Price Deals Cheap

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Ford F-150 VelociRaptor Photo 1006

http://otoloso.blogspot.com/2010/09/2012-hennessey-velociraptor-apv-review.html. Ford F-150 VelociRaptor Specification Launched Price Deals Cheap

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2013 Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG Photo 1002

http://www.gtspirit.com/2013/08/07/official-2013-mercedes-benz-ml63-amg-inferno-black-by-topcar/. 2013 Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG Specification Launched Price Deals Cheap

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2013 Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG Photo 1003

http://www.egmcartech.com/2012/02/02/2012-mercedes-benz-ml63-amg-first-drive-photos/2012mercedesml63amgfirstdrive-12/. 2013 Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG Specification Launched Price Deals Cheap

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2014 Ford Flex Photo 1006

http://www.thecarconnection.com/photos/ford_flex_2014. 2014 Ford Flex Specification Launched Price Deals Cheap

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2014 Ford Flex Photo 1007

http://www.automotive.com/features/hot-lists/october-2013-top-incentives/photo_01.html. 2014 Ford Flex Specification Launched Price Deals Cheap

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Local Motors reveals its contest-winning 3D-printed car design

US-based car tuning company Local Motors has revealed the winner of its 3D design contest. The competition challenged entrants to come up with the best design for the company's electric vehicle using 3D printing. The winning design was created by Italy's Michele Ano , who wins $5,000 and a tour to Chicago for the car's live...

Video: Careless rozzer knocks down poor boy at pedestrian crossing

The incident happened in Russia and shows that even rozzers can switch off when they are behind the wheel. The pedestrian luckily stays safe in the incident.

2015 Land Rover Discovery Sport to be built at Halewood

Land Rover Discovery Sport at Halewood factory

Company will invest 200 million GBP into the plant

Land Rover has announced the 2015 Discovery Sport will be built at their Halewood factory.

Set to go into production next year, the model is being billed as the "most versatile and capable vehicle in the compact SUV segment." In order to ramp for production, Jaguar Land Rover will invest £200 ($340 / €250) million into the plant and create 250 new jobs.

According to Jaguar Land Rover CEO Dr. Ralf Speth, "The Land Rover Discovery Sport is the next in a line of exciting new products to come from Jaguar Land Rover. I am delighted that Halewood – and Liverpool – has been selected for this new investment. It is totally deserved, and strengthens the ‘special relationship’ that bonds Jaguar Land Rover to this great city.”

HIs sentiments were echoed by Jaguar Land Rover Halewood Operations Director Richard Else who said “I am delighted to be welcoming the new Land Rover Discovery Sport to Halewood. Its arrival has been a further boost to the region and to our committed and loyal workforce who are all passionate ambassadors for this great company."

Dodge Viper returns as company unveils the Dodge Viper SRT GTS-R

2014 Dodge Viper SRT GTS-R

Was previously called the SRT Viper GTS-R

Following the announcement that the SRT brand will become part of Dodge, the company has renamed the SRT Viper GTS-R the Dodge Viper SRT GTS-R.

Besides the new name, the cars have been equipped with a red and white livery that features Dodge badging on the windshield and front quarter panels.

According to SRT Motorsports CEO Ralph Gilles, “We are honoring the racing history of the Dodge Viper by returning to its classic colors as we are in the midst of celebrating the Dodge brand’s 100th anniversary and 100 years of American performance." He went on to say "The new livery not only brings back this classic look but also enables us to continue to connect our Viper racing program to its spirited racing heritage.”

The Dodge Viper will celebrate its return to the track on June 27th when two Viper SRT GTS-Rs will compete at the Sahlen’s Six Hours of the Glen.

2016 Bentley SUV spied in southern Europe

2016 Bentley SUV spy photo / Automedia

Plug-in hybrid version confirmed for 2017

The first ever SUV to wear Bentley’s badge has been spied once again, this time undergoing testing in southern Europe.

Bentley previewed the model a couple of years ago through the much debated EXP 9 F concept that was heavily criticized for its rather unappealing design. The British marque has promised to fix the styling for the production version seen here hiding in an extensive full body camouflage. Speaking of camo, Bentley is the first car manufacturer in the world to release a teaser image for a camouflage, a marketing move which many weren't expecting.

The SUV will likely borrow design ideas from the Continental GT and Flying Spur which will probably be mixed with concept's styling but hopefully not too much. A while back we shared a few spy pics of the interior cabin revealing a digital instrument cluster together with circular air vents and lots of wood and metallic accents.

Planned for a 2016 market release, the Bentley SUV will utilize the MLB Evo platform and will presumably be powered by a twin-turbo V8 4.0-liter along with the firm's familiar 6.0-liter W12. A plug-in hybrid version has already been confirmed and will be introduced in 2017.

As expected, the model will be built in Crewe, United Kingdom following a massive 800M GBP investment and the addition of 1,000 jobs.

Peugeot considering two new models to replace 508

2015 Peugeot 508

One version could have Exalt concept influences

Peugeot chief Maxime Picat has disclosed some preliminary details about the 508 successor.

Roughly two days ago we saw Peugeot unveil the 508 facelift and already there are talks about the next-gen model. Apparently, Peugeot is analyzing the prospects of replacing the model with two different cars, "one more dynamic, one more spacious and comfortable."

A decision will be taken depending on "how the market goes" but a source close to Peugeot says one of the cars will be directly influenced by the very attractive Exalt concept shown in April at the Beijing Motor Show. However, the company still has to come out with a regular sedan tailored to the Chinese market and it seems a wagon variant is also considered for Europeans.

Since the 508 facelift has just been introduced, don't expect a successor before 2016/2017.

Land Rover Range Rover Sport Stealth Pack 2014

Land Rover will be unveiling the Stealth Pack for the Range Rover Sport HSE Dynamic and Autobiography Dynamic derivatives at the Goodwood Festival of Speed next week.

The Range Rover Sport Stealth Pack features a set of exterior design enhancements, including satin black front grille and grille surround, fog lamp bezels, bonnet and fender vents, upper mirror caps and tailgate finisher. Stealth finish on non-reflective headlamp and tail lamp surfaces along with a choice of 21" 9-spoke, or 22" 5-spoke wheels, in satin black finish with wheel nuts in gloss black, further distinguishes the vehicle.

The Range Rover Sport Stealth Pack will retail at 1,700 with 21" wheels or 2,500 with 22" wheels and can be seen on the Land Rover stand throughout the Goodwood Festival of Speed, from Thursday 26 to Sunday 29 June.

Nissan ZEOD RC 2014

Japanese car manufacturer Nissan has unveiled the groundbreaking, innovative ZEOD RC (Zero Emission On Demand Racing Car), the world's fastest electric racing car.

The Nissan ZEOD RC is a natural progression that follows on from the development of the Nissan Leaf road car and the Leaf RC race car prototype. The technologies developed through the ZEOD RC program will form part of future innovations for Nissan road cars.

The ZEOD RC will make its race debut at next year's Le Mans 24 Hour and will reach speeds of more than 300km/h with electric technology.

There are no specific details revealed about the ZEOD RC, but according to Nissan it utilizes the same lithium battery technology found in its Leaf electric hatch. The technologies developed through the ZEOD RC program will form part of future innovations for Nissan road cars.

Nissan will trial variants of new electric drive train technologies as part of its intended future return to LM P1 competition to challenge for overall victory at the world's most prestigious endurance race.

The Nissan ZEOD RC will make its testing debut later this summer.

Audi teases a new model for Frankfurt [video]

Could be the 2014 A8 facelift

Audi has released a new teaser video which previews an upcoming model that will be introduced at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

The company didn't have much to say about the car but the clip shows that it will feature a massive grille and carbon ceramic brakes. That's not much to go on, but the size of the vehicle suggests it will be the 2014 A8 facelift.

Our spies have already caught on the model on numerous occasions and it has modified bumpers, a revised grille and new exhaust finishers. The 2014 A8 will also come equipped with Matrix LED headlights which use 25 individual diodes to deliver the optimal amount of light regardless of the situation.

The Frankfurt Motor Show kicks off in September, so expect to learn more in the coming weeks.

Volkswagen Beetle Cabriolet By ABT Sportsline

By most accounts, the A5 Volkswagen Beetle is a very good car. It retains the iconic Beetle look of previous generations, but visually, it's been updated, tweaked, nipped, and tucked to give it a more modern, even somewhat masculine, appearance. Under the skin, it's built on a very capable platform that's shared with the Jetta and the Golf. It might not be your cup of tea, and especially in its convertible form, it may be hard to get past the cultural stigma that the Beetle is a car for teenage girls, but if anyone can break the Volkswagen Beetle Cabriolet of its feminine image, it's ABT.

ABT Sportsline, the mostly-Audi and Volkswagen tuner out of Germany, now offers its complete package for the Beetle Cabriolet. If you want a more aggressive look, the company can give you that. If you want an upgraded suspension, it can give you that. Best of all though, if you want more power from they engine, the tuner can give you that too. Put it all together, and you might even have a drop-top GTI-killer.

Click past the jump to read more about the Volkswagen Beetle Cabriolet by ABT Sportsline.

Volkswagen Beetle Cabriolet By ABT Sportsline originally appeared on topspeed.com on Tuesday, 17 June 2014 16:00 EST.

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Toyota committed to body-on-frame SUVs - report

2013 Toyota FJ Cruiser 13.9.2012

FJ Cruiser could be dropped

The world has gone crossover crazy, but that hasn't spelt the end for conventional body-on-frame SUVs.

While their numbers are dwindling, Toyota says body-on-frame SUVs are still relevant as they appeal to a demanding set of customers. As Toyota's chief engineer for global trucks and SUVs explained, "Some want to drive off-road, some want to tow with their families and some want to commute." Motoharu Araya went on to say, "Towing and durability are very difficult with a monocoque vehicle."

Despite being upbeat about body-on-frame SUVs, sales have declined significantly as Toyota only sold 78,457 units of their FJ Cruiser, 4Runner, Sequoia and Land Cruiser in the United States in 2012. This decline has lead to speculation that the FJ Cruiser could be dropped in the near future. Toyota general manager Bill Fay confirmed that possibility with Automotive News but suggested the company would keep the model around as long as there was enough demand.

Volvo C30 Polestar concept tackles the Nurburgring Nordschleife [video]

Features 405 hp (302 kW)

The Volvo C30 ceased production earlier this year, but that hasn't stopped Polestar from releasing a video that shows the C30 Performance concept tackling the Nürburgring in 2010.

Driven by Scandinavian Touring Car Champion Robert Dahlgren, the clip shows the model battling the green hell in less than pristine conditions. While the company declined to say how long the lap took, the car reportedly accelerates from 0-100 km/h 4.2 seconds.

As we have previously reported, the C30 Performance concept has a 2.5-liter T5 engine which has been equipped with a larger intercooler and a KKK 26 turbocharger. This enables the mill to produce 405 hp (302 kW) and 510 Nm (376 lb-ft) of torque.

The concept also features an aerodynamic body kit, Brembo brakes and Öhlins adjustable shock absorbers. Other highlights include a Haldex all-wheel drive system, Quaife limited slip differentials and 19-inch BBS wheels with Pirelli P Zero tires.

2015 Acura NSX prototype hits the track [video]

2015 Acura NSX prototype - low res - 25.7.2013

Will be shown on August 4th

The Acura NSX is inching closer to production as the company has released a Vine of the model undergoing testing.

The latest clip doesn't reveal much but it suggests Acura is gearing up for a massive social media campaign ahead of the prototype's debut at the Mid-Ohio Indy 200 on August 4th.

We should learn more this weekend but the prototype clearly resembles the updated NSX concept which debuted at the North American International Motor Show earlier this year. Despite the similarities, we can see the prototype features new headlights, larger mirrors, restyled air intakes and prominent "#AcuraNSX" badging.

Acura has been coy on powertrain details but previously confirmed the model will have a mid-mounted V6 engine and a Sport Hybrid Super Handling All Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system with two electric motors that power the front wheels and another motor that is integrated into a dual-clutch transmission.

 

 

Opel releases Insignia & Insignia Country Tourer footage, highlights new IntelliLink system [videos]

Models debut in Frankfurt

Opel has released new details about the 2014 Insignia and Insignia Country Tourer.

Set to debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show, the models will come equipped with a new IntelliLink infotainment system that was designed to offer clear, simple and intuitive operation.

The system features an 8-inch touchscreen display which provides easy access to common function such as the radio, telephone and navigation system. It can also store up to sixty different favorites for telephone contacts, radio stations and navigation destinations.

More importantly, the IntelliLink system has a touchpad input, on the center console, which recognizes handwriting and reacts immediately to finger movements. This allows for a host of new functions including fast swiping (ie: a two-finger swiping motion changes the audio source, while a three-finger swipe brings up the favorites list), pinch-to-zoom (for the navigation display) and easy entry of navigation destinations.

Lamborghini Veneno Roadster in the works - report

Lamborghini Veneno Roadster render 29.07.2013 / LamboCars.com

Company could build up to nine units

The Lamborghini Veneno was one of the stars of the Geneva Motor Show and a new report is indicating the company is considering a roadster variant.

According to Cars UK, several "very high end Lamborghini customers" have been approached by a dealer who inquired if they might be interested in a Veneno roadster. This could imply Lamborghini has already signed off on the model or is seriously considering doing so.

While only three Veneno coupes were built, sources suggest that up to nine different roadsters could be made. There's no word on pricing but the coupe cost €3 ($3.9 / £2.5) million, so expect a roadster to retail for even more.

As a refresher, the Veneno featured an Aventador-sourced 6.5-liter V12 engine that developed 750 HP (552 kW). It enabled the model to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 2.8 seconds and hit a top speed of 355 km/h (220 mph).

Audi, Bentley, Lamborghini & Porsche models susceptible to theft as Megamos Crypto is broken

2014 Bentley Continental Flying Spur

Volkswagen secured an injunction to prevent report from being published

If you own an Audi, Bentley, Lamborghini or Porsche, you might want to keep an eye on your prized possession as scientists have discovered a way to start the cars without a key.

Details are limited, but a team of researchers found the algorithm (a Megamos Crypto) that the aforementioned models use to recognize an owner's key. Flavio Garcia, along with two Dutch colleagues, planned to publish the results of their finding at the Usenix Security Symposium next month, but Volkswagen successfully secured an injunction against them because the discovery could "allow someone, especially a sophisticated criminal gang with the right tools, to break the security and steal a car."

Volkswagen was willing to let the researchers publish a redacted version of their report, but the group declined citing the public has the right to know about security problem as criminals already know the system is weak.

The Volkswagen Group has been coy about the findings but the recent bout of publicity has shined an uncomfortable spotlight in their direction.

1,208 Porsche 911s invade Silverstone

1,208 Porsche 911s invade Silverstone 29.7.2013

Sets a new world record for the largest 911 parade

The 50th anniversary of the Porsche 911 continues as the company has managed to set a new world record for hosting the largest parade of 911s.

The unique event took place yesterday at Silverstone when 1,208 911s participated in a parade organized by Porsche Club Great Britain in partnership with Porsche Cars Great Britain and Silverstone Classic.

The event was kicked off by Mark Porsche - who is the son of 911 designer Ferdinand Alexander ‘Butzi’ Porsche and the great-grandson of founder Ferdinand Porsche - who said “It’s been a family member over all the generations of the 911 series and I'm very proud to be here today to represent the Porsche family at this great event. I think that to have these 1,200 cars on track is the attention that the 911 deserves for its 50th birthday. I can’t thank the Porsche Club GB enough for making this event possible.”

Besides providing a lot of eye candy, the event raised funds for the Hope for Tomorrow charity which brings mobile chemotherapy units to cancer patients so they can avoid stressful long distance travel and long waiting times.

Mercedes working on a GL Coupe - report

2014 Mercedes GL 63 AMG

Could be launched in 2016

Mercedes is reportedly developing a new GLC (GL Coupe) to battle the Audi Q8 and BMW X7.

Set to go into production in 2016, the model is expected to be a five-door crossover with a rakish roofline that could echo the CLS Shooting Brake. The GLC could also be equipped with new bumpers, revised headlights, a distinctive grille and an upgraded interior.

Engine options remain unconfirmed but speculation suggests there will be a variety of petrol and diesel powertrains which will be paired to a nine-speed automatic transmission.

Little else is known about the model but it is expected to be built at the company's Tuscaloosa plant in the United States. This means the GLC would be built alongside the MLC which is slated for a 2015 launch.

Renaultsport Twingo gets 163 bhp from K-Tec Racing

Renaultsport Twingo by K-Tec Racing 30.07.2013

Costs 2,625 GBP

UK-based tuner K-Tec Racing has released a power boost kit for the Renaultsport Twingo.

Launched in 2008, the Renaultsport Twingo is a pocket rocket featuring a naturally-aspirated 1.6-liter engine producing 131 bhp (98 kW) and 160 Nm (118 lb-ft) of torque. K-Tec thought the car deserved more power and lifted output to 163 bhp (121 kW) and 192 Nm (142 lb-ft). These figures were possible by installing a high-performance tubular exhaust manifold and system, remapped ECU and Cat Cams Stage 1 cams.

They haven't tested the car's performances but it should do the 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) faster than the 8.7s necessary for the standard model, while top speed should be above the stock 125 mph (201 km/h).

The full kit costs 2,625 GBP and comes with a 12-month warranty. It is compatible for any Renaultsport Twingo 133 model from 2008 onwards. Individual components are available on request.

Further details are available in the attached press release.

2014 Seat Leon ST debuts on video

Goes on sale later this year

Seat has released video footage with the recently introduced 2014 Leon ST which will go on sale before the end of the year.

After Skoda introduced the Octavia Combi and Volkswagen the Golf VII Variant, Seat responded with the Leon ST which seems to have the most appealing design. The 587-liter cargo capacity of the first-ever Leon ST is the smallest of the trio, but should be enough for most European families especially since it can be expanded to 1,470 liters once the rear seats are folded.

The longer rear has added 45 kg (99 lbs) to the car's weight compared to the five-door hatchback, but even so Seat says the Leon ST is the "lightest estate in its class" with a curb weight starting from 1,233 kg (2,718 lbs).

Priced in UK about 1,000 GBP higher than the hatchback, the Leon ST will be available with the familiar VW Group TSI and TDI engines, ranging from a 1.2 TSI with 86 HP (63 kW) and 105 HP (77 kW) to a 1.8 TSI churning 180 HP (132 kW) for the FR model. Diesel lineup starts with a 1.6 TDI delivering 90 HP (66 kW) and ends with a FR-exclusive 2.0 TDI producing 184 HP (135 kW).

Seat UK has confirmed the Leon ST will be offered in a right-hand, four-wheel drive variant with the 4Motion system borrowed from the Golf VII Variant 4Motion.

Next on Seat's agenda are Cupra versions of the hatchback and three-door (SC), while a Cupra ST has not been signed off yet. These two hotter models will come out before the end of the year, along with a frugal Ecomotive version of the Leon which will have just about the same fuel economy as the Golf VII Bluemotion.

2014 Porsche Macan spied virtually undisguised

2014 Porsche Macan spy photo 30.07.2013 / S. Baldauf/SB-Medien

Enters production in December

These are the best spy shots yet with the upcoming 2014 Porsche Macan which will enter production in December.

The prototypes were photographed virtually undisguised as they were hiding only the headlights and taillights with some Cayenne-like stickers. Despite the camo on the rear lights, we get to see the light graphic as in some of the photos the Macan is seen braking.

If you will look closely, one of the prototypes is the regular version and the other is the Turbo model. The standard model will feature one row of LED daytime running lights sitting below the headlights, while the Macan Turbo has more vents and two rows of DRLs.

Riding on the Audi Q5 platform, the 2014 Porsche Macan will go on sale in early 2014 and will be offered with a variety of gasoline and diesel engines. Expect to see a 4-cylinder, 2.0-liter turbo with 220 bhp (164 kW), a naturally-aspirated V6 3.6-liter rated at 295 bhp (220 kW) and a twin-turbo V6 3.0-liter producing 370 bhp (276 kW) in the Macan Turbo. On the diesel side, Porsche will most likely sell the baby Cayenne with a 190 bhp (142 kW) 2.0-liter TDI and a V6 3.0-liter TDI generating 250 bhp (186 kW).

Chances are the German marque is also planning a Macan Hybrid powered by a turbocharged 4-cylinder, 2.0-liter mill coupled with a 54 bhp (40 kW) electric motor.

2014 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG to have 630 HP - report

2014 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG 17.07.2013

And 1,000 Nm of torque

It was only two weeks ago when Mercedes-Benz introduced the 2014 S63 AMG and now rumors about a more powerful S65 AMG version have surfaced.

Mercedes-Benz Passion blog is reporting the S65 AMG will be available on order as early as January 2014. It won't come with the S63 AMG's V8 5.5-liter twin-turbo engine as Mercedes-Benz plans to stick the mighty V12 (probably a 6.0-liter) inside its most powerful S-Class ever. How powerful? The same source reports a 630 HP (463 kW) output with no less than 1,000 Nm (737 lb-ft) of torque.

The engine will allegedly be linked to an AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT seven-speed gearbox and enable the high-performance luxury sedan to reach 62 mph (100 km/h) in four seconds. Not like it matters a lot in such a car, but fuel consumption is estimated at 11.6 liters / 100 km (20 mpg US or 24.3 mpg UK).

The 2014 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG is rumored to get the Magic Body Control once deliveries commence in March. As a reminder, the system has a stereo camera mounted within the windscreen which scans the road ahead and automatically modifies suspension damping to multiple or individual wheels within a fraction of a seconds.

Note: 2014 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG pictured.

Vauxhall Astra VXR receives two-stage power hike from Superchips

Vauxhall Astra VXR by Superchips 30.07.2013

An extra 32 HP

Superchips is offering a two-stage ECU remap for the Vauxhall Astra VXR.

The Opel/Vauxhall Astra OPC/VXR was launched towards the end of 2011 with a powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged engine developing 280 HP (206 kW) and 295 lb-ft (400 Nm) of torque. Now, ECU specialists from Superchips are offering a two-stage kit for those who want additional power via software optimization.

Stage 1 ECU remap adds 23 HP (17 kW) and 45 lb-ft (61 Nm) of torque and should make the car go faster than the stock's 5.8 seconds in the 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) run. The additional output can be had for only 455 GBP (including VAT) and is available for all cars built from March 2012 onwards.

They are also selling a Stage 2 ECU remap calibrated to suit the models equipped with a free-flowing aftermarket exhaust system and sports catalyst from Superchips' partner Thorney Motorsport. In this case, output is lifted by 32 HP (23 kW) and 55 lb-ft (75 Nm), for a total of 312 HP (229 kW) and 350 lb-ft (474 Nm). Pricing remains the same at 455 GBP (including VAT).

Ford to compete at 2014 Dakar with two Rangers

Ford Ranger for 2014 Dakar Rally 30.07.2013

Prepared by Neil Woolridge Motorsport

Ford has confirmed plans to participate at 2014 Dakar Rally with two South African-built Rangers prepared by Neil Woolridge Motorsport.

The extremely difficult Dakar Rally will take place in South America from January 5-18 where Ford will use two T6 Ranger 4x4 Double Cab vehicles powered by a V8 5.0-liter engine developing 349 bhp (260 kW) at 4,500 rpm and 560 Nm (413 lb-ft) at 4,100 rpm.

The thirsty vehicle drinks 90 liters / 100 km in sandy racing conditions and 28 liters / 100 km during normal driving. It has a full composite body and a Sadev six-speed sequential gearbox linked to a permanent four-wheel drive setup. These custom Rangers benefit from an independent front/rear suspension, front/rear antiroll bar and ride on 16-inch Evocorse wheels shod in 245/85 Michelin tires.

Stopping power is provided by Brembo with their front air-cooled and rear water-cooled brakes. The 2014 Ford Ranger for Dakar weighs 1,975 kg (4,354 lbs) and should be able to reach a top speed of 106 mph (170 km/h).

The first driver crew will include Lucio Alvarez and Ronnie Graue, while in the second car will be Chris Visser and Japie Badenhorst. The 35^th edition of the rally will start in Rosario, Argentina and end in Valparaiso, Chile after more than 5,282 miles (8,500 km) across 13 stages.

More details are provided in the attached press release.

2013 Chevrolet Traverse Photo 1004

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2013 Chevrolet Traverse Photo 1005

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Dubai police shows off impressive fleet including Bugatti Veyron [video]

Aston Martin One-77 also included

Police authorities in Dubai agreed to show off their hugely impressive fleet which is used primarily as a marketing stunt.

Over the last few months we have seen many important and expensive additions to Dubai's police fleet and now the authorities allowed the media to take a more in-depth look at the amazing garage which includes the mighty Bugatti Veyron. Other prized possessions worth mentioning are the McLaren MP4-12C, Aston Martin One-77, Lamborghini Aventador, Audi R8, Ferrari FF, Mercedes-Benz SLS, Bentley Continental, Nissan GT-R along with the more humble Ford Mustang by Roush.

That's not all as the list continues with a BMW M6 Gran Coupe, a Brabus B63S - 700 Widestar, Chevrolet Camaro, Mercedes-Benz SL 63 AMG and a more docile Renault Twizy. As you would imagine, the cars are not used to catch the bad guys as the police uses them mostly for marketing purposes in the most important and luxurious areas of the city.

BMW M5 30 Jahre M5 listed on eBay for 200,000 USD

BMW M5 30 Jahre M5 special edition [7th May, 2014]

138,275 USD original price tag

A U.S.-spec BMW M5 “30 Jahre M5” limited edition has been listed on eBay for a staggering “buy it now” price of 200,000 USD.

With production capped at only 300 units, it’s no wonder the BMW M5 “30 Jahre M5” is a highly desirable model and although 30 cars are heading to United States only 29 will go to customers as BMW North America will keep the last example. All U.S.-spec cars were sold on May 21 and now one of the owners wants to make a quick profit by asking 200,000 USD for a model which was priced at 138,275 USD.

Obviously, the car hasn't been delivered yet so anyone who is willing to purchase the vehicle will have to wait for 4-6 months. The eBay user says those who are interested will have to make a 50 percent deposit in an attorney escrow account while the rest of the sum will be paid upon delivery. The M5 30 Jahre M5 in question is actually the first US-spec car and at the moment of writing one person made an offer. Chances are the final price tag will be well below the 200,000 USD mark.

As a reminder, this special edition celebrates the 30^th anniversary of the M5 and comes with an uprated 4.4-liter V8 twin-turbo engine developing 600 PS (441 kW) and 516 lb-ft (700 Nm) of torque. It's enough for a 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) run in 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h) or 190 mph (305 km/h) with the optional M Driver's Package which frankly should have been standard equipment since this was conceived to be an M5 with all the possible bells and whistles.

Audi welcomes Porsche back to Le Mans [video]

Race kicks off next weekend

Audi and Porsche might have some sibling rivalry but that hasn't stopped the four-ringed brand from welcoming their counterparts in Stuttgart back to Le Mans.

In a new video released by Audi Deutschland, the company pays their colleagues a visit in an R18 e-tron quattro. The car then does a burn out that spells "Welcome Back."

As a refresher, Porsche is returning to Le Mans later this month following a 16-year absence. The company will compete in their new 919 Hybrid which features a turbocharged 2.0-liter V4 engine, an electric motor and a lithium-ion battery pack.

 

2015 Mazda MX-5 could spawn another rear-wheel drive model - report

Next-gen Mazda MX-5 chassis [16th Apr, 2014]

Likely several years off

According to a recent report, the 2015 Mazda MX-5 could spawn another sports car besides the Fiat / Abarth variant.

Details are limited but Car Advice is reporting the model's SKYACTIV-CHASSIS will likely be used to underpin another rear-wheel drive model in the future. This approach would help the company to spread development costs which is critical for smaller automakers like Mazda.

While northing is official, Car Advice asked Mazda's Representative Director Seita Kanai about the possibility he laughingly said “Too much good question. I can’t answer.”

As we have previously reported, the MX5's SKYACTIV-CHASSIS with feature a variety of lightweight components which will enable the model to weigh 220+ lbs (100+ kg) less than its predecessor. The company has also said the platform will help the MX-5 become a truly "remarkable production car."

Suzuki iV-4 concept announced for Frankfurt debut

2013 Suzuki iV-4 concept 30.07.2013

Compact SUV previewing future designs

Suzuki has released two teaser photos with the iV-4 concept which will be presented in September at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

iV-4 represents a compact SUV concept which will preview Suzuki's design language as far as SUVs are concerned. Judging these two teaser pics, the concept has a front grille divided into five and a clamshell hood, along with extremely thin side mirrors, big daytime running lights, spotlights installed on the roof and additional lighting around the front grille.

A month ago a rumor emerged about a Nissan Juke rival scheduled for a 2015 release so we assume it will be a production version of this concept. Based on a shortened S-Cross platform, the car will allegedly be sold in Europe and built in Hungary. It will borrow S-Cross' engine lineup, together with manual and automatic transmissions, as well as front- and rear-wheel drive setups. Suzuki will try to entice buyers by offering a wide array of customization options.

The 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show will open its doors on September 10.

Lamborghini Murcielago Roadster spontaneously combusts in Cape Town [videos]

Wasn't involved in a crash

A Lamborghini Murcielago Roadster caught fire and was almost completely destroyed on Kloof Road in Clifton, Cape Town, South Africa.

Although Ferrari is still in the lead as far as spontaneous combustions are concerned, Lamborghini is "trying" to catch up as recently several fiery incidents involving the Murcielago occurred. The latest example comes from Kloof Road in Cape Town where a Murcielago Roadster transformed into a huge fireball.

The orange supercar wasn't involved in an accident prior to catching fire so most likely this was caused by an electrical problem. The good news is nobody was hurt, but the car is probably beyond repair even though firefighters tried hard to stop the conflagration as fast as humanly possible.

Infiniti Q50 Eau Rouge Could Cost $100,000

As the development of the Infiniti Q50 Eau Rouge is inching closer to production, the company is finally revealing more details about its upcoming super sedan. And there's plenty of information for us to chew on coming straight from Infiniti boss Johan de Nysschen.

Speaking to Motor Trend, de Nysschen confirmed the Q50 Eau Rouge will be aimed at high-performance sedans such as the BMW M3 and the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG, but stressed that the special-edition Q50 will be more exclusive than its German counterparts. Specifically, Infiniti plans to build between 250 and 500 units a year, making it one of the rarest high-performance cars in the segment.

But like in most cases, exclusivity comes with a hefty price tag, and the Eau Rouge, according to de Nysschen, could cost as much as $100,000. That's nearly $40,000 more than the base BMW M3 and definitely more than what most people are willing to spend on an Infiniti, even if it's a performance vehicle carrying a Nissan GT-R engine under the hood.

While paying in excess of $100,000 for an Infiniti doesn't make much sense, it appears that the expensive sticker is also related to a short, two-year life cycle and a complicated assembly process that involves plenty of meticulous handwork.

"We are probably also looking at 250-500 units a year. So that's low volume. And we probably have, in terms of my current expectation, only a two-year life cycle. So you have to amortize the development across that volume, and with a hand-built car, you have very high unit costs. Candidly, I assume, the current state of the business plan indicates that we will probably subsidize each car in order to keep it within reach," de Nyssche told Motor Trend.

When asked if the 560-horsepower engine borrowed from the Nissan GT-R will find its way into future Infiniti products, the representative said the VR38DETT mill could motivate "a high-end coupe, a real high-performance luxury 4-seater," and the upcoming Q60. Needless to say, it all depends on the technical feasibility and the success of the Q50 Eau Rouge.

Click past the jump to read more about the Infiniti Q50 Eau Rouge.

Infiniti Q50 Eau Rouge Could Cost $100,000 originally appeared on topspeed.com on Friday, 6 June 2014 10:00 EST.

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Chevrolet Corvette Z06

The Corvette hit showrooms in 1953 with a 150-cubic-inch six-pot under its hood and a 10-plus-second 0-to-60-mph time. It was no speed demon, but it was the foundation that the greatness that is the Corvette was build upon. The C1 Corvette was also the last time we saw a production model without pop-up headlights before the C6 generation debuted in 2005. In 2014, the C7 and its wild, European styling hit the market, giving Ferrari and other premium brands a reason to check out what's going on in America. Following that up was the Z06 in 2015 that made all the Euro supercars stand up and take notice.

With the new 2014 Corvette Stingray already in showrooms, we all knew that we were going to soon see a more powerful version. And now that has become a reality, as Chevrolet revealed the potent 2015 Corvette Z06 at the 2014 Detroit Auto Show.

The Corvette Z06 will keep enthusiasts happy until the the new ZR1 model hits the market, if it ever finds its way onto the market.

Just like the previous Z06, the 2015 model, will be offered with a more aggressive exterior look, a more powerful engine, sport suspension and a new, high-performance brake system. General Motors is also offering an optional Z07 kit that will transform the new Corvette Z06 will deliver unprecedented levels of aerodynamic downforce - in fact the best in any GM model ever.

Updated 06/06/2014: Chevrolet officially confirmed today that the 2015 Corvette Z06 is rated at 650 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque - which represents a 29 percent increase on the output level and 40 percent more torque. Also, the company confirmed that the Z06 goes on sale in the fourth quarter of 2014. Full details on the engine after the jump.

Click past the jump to read more about the 2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06.

Chevrolet Corvette Z06 originally appeared on topspeed.com on Friday, 6 June 2014 11:00 EST.

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Amazing DeLorean collection includes monster truck, limousine, hovercraft and convertible

Rich Weissensel's DeLorean collection 30.07.2013 / gma.yahoo.com

Owned by Rich Weissensel

You might be tempted to say these are nothing but photoshopped images but these custom DeLoreans actually exist.

About 9,000 cars were ever made and back in 2007 only 6,500 were believed to still be on the roads. Since then, most likely the number has decreased so anyone who has a DMC-12 should feel pretty proud. Rich Weissensel is not an ordinary DeLorean owner as he has several cars in his collection which have been thoroughly modified.

Aside from the standard model with its gullwing doors, fiberglass underbody and stainless steel panels, Weissensel also has a custom DMC-12 which he transformed into a monster truck. In addition, his collection also includes a six-door limousine, a convertible and a hovercraft.

A sequel to the Back to the Future franchise featuring any of these cars would be pretty interesting to see. However, movie director Robert Zemeckis denied rumors of a fourth movie by saying "I don't think there should ever be a fourth sequel to anything. Three is a dramatic number. It's a three-act structure... Four is boring."

Lucra teases their new sports car

Lucra sports car teaser image 30.7.2013

Could be powered by a variety of V8 engines

California-based Lucra has released the first pictures of their upcoming sports car which is reportedly codenamed the 2.2.

The company didn't have much to say about the model but it features a distinctive front fascia with LED-infused headlights and a carbon fiber front splitter. Moving further back, we can see bulging fenders, a side-exiting exhaust and a rakish windscreen. The model also has a stylish rear end with twin rollover hoops that flow into the rear bumper.

There's no word on what will power the model, but the company's LC470 is available with a 6.2-liter LS3 V8, a 7.0-liter LS7 V8 and an AMG-sourced 6.3-liter V8 that can be equipped with an optional Weistec supercharger.

Oettinger previews their tuning program for the Volkswagen Golf GTI

Should produce up to 350 HP (257 kW)

Oettinger has released the first details about their upcoming tuning program for the Volkswagen Golf GTI.

On the styling front, the model can be equipped with an aerodynamic body kit that includes a front splitter and a front spoiler.  The package also features revised side skirts, a rear diffuser and a tailgate-mounted spoiler. The styling package will be available in August and cost €1990.

For added performance, Oettinger will offer a new air intake, a larger intercooler, a sports exhaust system and an optimized ECU. These changes should enable the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine to produce up to 350 HP (257 kW).

The company will also offer an adjustable sports suspension, a limited slip differential, an upgraded clutch and high-performance brakes.

Daimler Super V8 LWB owned by Queen Elizabeth II headed to auction

Daimler Super V8 LWB owned by Queen Elizabeth II 30.7.2013

Should sell for 25,000 - 30,000

Queen Elizabeth II's 2001 Daimler Super V8 LWB limousine is going up for auction on August 31st.

The specially-built model was used by the Queen who drove it around Windsor Castle and Buckingham Palace. Over the course of three years, the Queen managed to put 15,242 miles (24,529 km) on the odometer.

Since the model was built for the monarch, it features a number of special touches including a center armrest with a slide out section that holds a handbag. The car also has blue flashing strobes lights, non-functional communications equipment and a supercharged 4.0-liter V8 engine that develops 375 bhp (280 kW).

The car is being sold by Historics at Brooklands and is expected to fetch £25,000 - £30,000 ($38,275 - $45,935 / €28,815 - €34,580).

2013 Corolla Hatch Photo 1002

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