Car Fans: November 2012

Friday, November 30, 2012

Essen 2012: MTM Audi R8 V10 Coupe

Essen 2012 MTM Audi R8 V10 Coupe

MTM has officially released their tuned Audi R8 V10 Coupe here at the Essen Motor Show 2012. After a soft launch last week we can now give you an overview of the package fitted to the red R8.

An ECU upgrade to the 5.2 liter V10 engine changes the boost power from 525 to 606hp at a 8,000rpm, while torque goes up from 530Nm to 560Nm at 6,500rpm. The time 0-100km sprint drops from 3.9 to 3.5 sec for the Coupe, and from 4.1 to 3.7 sec for the heavier Spyder. Top speed of both versions is 322km/h, up from 313km/h.

MTM Bimoto forged alloy wheels were fitted sizing 9.0J and 11.0J x 20 inch, shod in 245/30ZR20 and 315/25ZR20 Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tyres. The Germans also installed a high performance brake upgrade that uses 380x34mm vented discs in front, clamped by eight-pot alloy calipers. The factory rear brakes remain standard.

Other details include a MTM titanium exhaust without tailpipes, but with throttle valves fitting with original tailpipes and EG-Homologation. The suspension gets the MTM coilover kit featuring a KW Variant 3 with lift-up system 4. While this suspension can lower the car by as much as 60mm from factory ride height, MTM optimise the R8 for street use with a 20mm drop. The lift system provides additional road clearance for lowered vehicles.

The MTM aero body kit features a new front spoiler lip, side skirts and rear spoiler. They do not replace any of the aluminium bodywork. On the inside, the tuner fitted a set of Recaro carbon fiber racing seats. These lightweight seats save 40kg.

Essen 2012: Manhart Racing MH5 S Biturbo

Essen 2012 Manhart Racing MH5 S Biturbo

The Manhart Racing MH5 S Biturbo has made its public debut here at the Essen Motor Show 2012. The package is based upon the 2012 BMW F10M M5 and features carbon fiber aerodynamic components, ADV.1 wheels, an engine upgrade and a new suspension from KW.

The aero kit features a front spoiler, rear diffuser and rear spoiler. The engine hood was manufactured with integrated GTR air intake systems made of carbon. The entire bodywork was finally covered in a full grey-matt metallic wrapping with decorative MHR stripes.

The twinturbo V8 engine received an upgrade to 646hp and a maximum torque of 773Nm. Following the removal of the Vmax, the MH5 S Biturbo runs in this performance stage at up to 316km/h. The technical engine upgrades includes a MHR carbon air intake system, MHR sporty end-silencer made of high-grade steel with two 90 millimeter twin tail pipes and a valve control system. Additionally, MHR downpipes can also be supplied optionally without catalytic converter.

Manhart Racing installed the fully adjustable MHR by KW Clubsport chassis frame with the company’s own alignment. The chassis frame can be adjusted separately in compression and rebound stages as well as with racing springs. Manhart also constructed performance-optimized racing drive-shaft support systems.

The BMW rolls on MHR08 Deep Concave wheels by ADV.1 wheels. The three-part rims size 9.5×21 inches (front) and 10.5×21 inches (rear) and are shod in 265/30ZR21 and 305/25ZR21 tires.

2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid price announced in L.A.

2013 U.S.-spec Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid

45 mpg US combined

Volkswagen has introduced the production version of the 2013 Jetta Hybrid at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

Starting from 24,995 USD, the "high-tech saloon is powered by a 1.4-liter TSI engine backed by an electric motor and mated to a 7-speed DSG, returning a combined output of 170 hp (127 kW) and 184 lb-ft (249 Nm) of torque. It can perform the 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) sprint in less than 9 seconds and return 45 mpg US (54 mpg UK or 5.2 liters / 100 km) in the combined cycle.

By pressing a button, the Jetta Hybrid can run in electric mode for about 1.3 miles (2.1 km) at speeds of up to 44 mph (71 km/h). While braking, a battery regeneration mode is automatically activated and grabs the kinetic energy and sends it to the battery as electrical energy.

As standard, the 2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid SE comes with 15-inch alloys wrapped in all-season, low-rolling resistance tires. The mid-range SEL1 gets 16-inch wheels, tilt/slide glass sunroof, electric driver's seat adjustment, navigation system, front heated seats and keyless access. The high-end SEL2 rides on 17-inch alloys and adds bi-xenon headlights, fog lights, 400w Fender sound system and reversing camera.

More details are shared in the following press release.

2014 Chevrolet Corvette teaser shows digital instrument cluster [video]

Debuts on January 13th

Chevrolet has released another teaser video of the 2014 Corvette, ahead of its debut on January 13th.

The latest clip doesn't reveal much, but it gives us our first glimpse at the car's interior. While it's only on-screen for a couple of seconds, we can see the model will have a digital instrument cluster which displays all the usual information as well as an image of the car itself.

As we have previously reported, the next-generation Corvette will be powered by a 6.2-liter LT1 V8 engine that produces approximately 450 bhp (336 kW) and 450 lb-ft (609 Nm) of torque. It should enable the model to accelerate from 0-60 mph in less than four seconds and return 26+ mpg highway (US).

Thursday, November 29, 2012

Fiat 500e

The continuous evolution of the Fiat 500 and all the subsequent iterations it has had this year are about to welcome another member to the family: the 500e.

With the standard 500, the 500C and the 500L already making their debuts in their respective niches, the 500e is set to fill the vacant electric-power niche in the 500 lineup. It will make that will make its own debut at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show.

Details surrounding the 500e are still under wraps, but for those waiting to see the 500e, they’ll get a chance before the LA Auto Show, as the car will be on hand at the American Music Awards this weekend. Yep, the electric 500e will be front and center at show’s "green carpet."

As far as details go, the 500e looks a lot different than the rest of its 500 brethren, in large part because of what looks like a redesigned lower front fascia, which is a contrasting white finish compared to the orange paint the rest of the body has. The side sills look to have been lowered too with matching set of new wheels.

Inside, the 500e’s orange-and-white motif continues on the dash with the predominantly white color matched with accents of orange on the doors, the seats, and the steering wheel. A redesigned gauge cluster and the push-buttons have also been added.

What makes the 500e a lot more interesting than just any electric car is Fiat’s announcement that the car will be available in California in 2013.

Mazda6 Grand-Am GX Class

The 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show was the location for two Mazda6 reveals. First was the North American debut of the new-generation Mazda6, which we all knew was coming. The second was a little less expected, as Mazda also made the official announcement that a racing version of the new Mazda6 will make its motorsports debut at the Rolex 24 endurance race on January 26 and 27, 2013 in Daytona Beach, Fla.

The racing version of the Mazda6 will feature a Mazda SKYACTIV-D clean diesel engine that will deliver more than 400 horsepower. This will mark the first time a diesel-powered vehicle raced at the Rolex 24.

John Doonan, Motorsports Director at Mazda North American Operations, noted that: "We have been eager to announce this car for months, but had to wait until the production car was revealed. The SpeedSource engineering team, working with the Mazda engineers, have been flat out for months on engine development. We're happy to report that the engine is meeting the performance targets for both power and endurance. That means 400+ hp for over 50 hours, with an engine that includes a very long list of production Mazda parts. This is not a pure race engine; it is a production block SKYACTIV-D. We're excited about having our newest engine powering our newest car."

We're sure this will bring much-needed attention to not just the Mazd6, but the entire Mazda brand. We hope the Mazda6 racecar performs well.

Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Smart ForJeremy

We have seen all kinds of crazy things in the past, but by far this one is the one of the looniest. Smart, in collaboration with fashion designer Jeremy Scott, have unveiled a very strange-looking smart fortwo electric drive at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show.

Called smart forjeremy this interesting concept has been described as "an avant-garde and futuristic smart with loving details based on the overriding wing theme." The concept is painted in bright white and on each side you will notice a wing made of transparent fiberglass. These wings are decorated with rocket-shaped elements and serve as rear and brake lights. The car's white paint has been combined with a chrome-plated tridion cell, chromed eyebrows, mirror caps and the frame around the radiator grille.

The car is equipped with wider rear tires and wider rear wheel arches that reveal a very interesting set of wheels shaped like airplane propellers.

The same white theme continues into the cabinr where the designer opted for fine white Nappa leather for the instrument panel, seats and door trim. The leather is contrasted by chrome surfaces on the main door trim, the closing handles, the instrument panel side boomerangs and the characteristic rings around the instruments. The driver will enjoy an open-top white steering wheel with two chrome spokes.

The smart forjeremy is based on the current production version of the smart fortwo electric drive powered by a 73-horsepower electric motor. It can sprint from 0 to 60 km/h (37.3 mph) in 4.8 seconds and can hit a top speed of 125 km/h (77.7 mph).

Click past the jump to read smart's press release.

Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 10th Anniversary Edition

About a decade ago, Jeep came out with a pretty smart idea. With the Wrangler serving the purpose as the brand's resident off-road warrior, the automaker decided to introduce a new variant of the Wrangler. Jeep called it the "Rubicon" model, an ode to the one of the most grueling off-road trails in the world.

A decade later and the Wrangler Rubicon is as popular as it was — maybe even more — than when it first came out. To pay tribute to the popular off-road vehicle, Jeep has decided to bestow it with the honor of having a 10th Anniversary model.

As such, the Wrangler Rubicon 10th Anniversary Edition is born.

Mike Manley, president and CEO of Jeep, knows the significance of the model to the brand's most passionate enthusiasts. "This [special edition] Wrangler Rubicon is for them," Manley said.

"It is a unique vehicle that we expect will long be sought after; a Wrangler that offers an unprecedented level of capability once only attainable by long hours of custom aftermarket preparation crafted in the garages of the most avid Jeep enthusiasts in the world."

Find out more about the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 10th Anniversary Edition after the jump

BMW i3 Coupe Concept revealed ahead of L.A. debut

BMW i3 Coupe Concept 27.11.2012

Could preview a production model

BMW has released the first details about the i3 coupe concept, ahead of its debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

Essentially a three door version of the i3 concept, the coupe features a revised exterior with a modified front fascia, restyled doors and new side skirts. There's also an updated rear end with a new tailgate and a revised bumper.

Despite the changes, the model is instantly recognizable as an i variant thanks to its distinctive "stream flow" design. This particular concept has a two-tone exterior with 20-inch alloy wheels wrapped in low rolling-resistance tires. Overall, the car measures 3,964mm long, 1,768mm wide and 1,555mm tall with a wheelbase that spans 2,570mm.

The i3's cabin has also been revamped as it incorporates leather / wool seats, light eucalyptus wood trim and brushed aluminum accents. There's also a digital instrument cluster, an iDrive infotainment system and two individual rear seats.

Motivation is provided by an electric motor that develops 170 HP (125 kW) and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque. It is powered by a lithium-ion battery which enables the model to travel up to 160 km (100 miles) on a single charge.

BMW hasn't decided if the concept will go into production, but hinted it "demonstrates the potential for conceivably extending the [i3] model range."

TMG Sports 650 concept revealed - based on the pre-facelift Lexus LS

TMG Sports 650 concept 27.11.2012

Debuts at the Essen Motor Show

Toyota Motorsport GmbH (TMG) has released new details about their Sports 650 concept.

Based on a pre-facelift Lexus LS, the Sports 650 is described as a "high-end limousine-sized car which is equally comfortable and exciting on the road as on track days." It features an aggressive body kit with a new front bumper, a revised grille and a ventilated hood. There's also carbon fiber side skirts and a new rear bumper with an integrated diffuser and a four-tailpipe exhaust system.

Power is provided by a twin-turbo 5.0-liter V8 engine that develops 650 HP (478 kW) and 710 Nm (524 lb-ft) of torque. It is connected to an upgraded eight-speed automatic transmission which enables the 2070 kg (4,563 lb) sedan to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 4.2 seconds and hit a top speed of 320 km/h (199 mph).

In a statement TMG President Yoshiaki Kinoshita said, "This is a truly remarkable car with incredible performance; we are looking forward to hearing the reaction of visitors to this showcase of TMG’s engineering capabilities.”

Yamaha Raptor 700R SE

The Yamaha Raptor 700R SE received a redesigned style and a set of technical upgrades for 2013.

One of the most important features offered for 2013 are the new piggyback shock which play a major role in keeping the ride comfortable.

The bike also features a modern steel and aluminum chassis with a detachable subframe which gives a better torsional rigidity.

The Yamaha Raptor 700R SE is propelled by a lightweight 686cc four stroke SOHC engine which is combined with a five speed transmission. The bike also features Yamaha 's Fuel Injection system which keeps the engine performance high in a wide range of conditions, elevations and temperatures.

The stopping power is assured by new twin piston rear brake calipers and the twin aluminum-piston front disc brakes.

As far styling goes, the 2013 Yamaha Raptor 700R SE comes with black and red graphics package, along with dealer-installed GYTR front grab bar and heel guards.

Hit the jump for more information on the 2013 Yamaha Raptor 700R SE.

Yamaha Raptor 700R SE originally appeared on topspeed.com on Tuesday, 27 November 2012 14:38 EST.

Hennessey Venom GT2

There's a serpent lying in the bushes. It remains out of plain sight, yet it's unmistakably lethal and poised to strike at any time.

Translate that into the automotive parlance and you immediately understand that the car in question is the Hennessey Venom GT.

It's been a little over a year since we last heard anything of relevance surrounding the Venom GT. Sure, it participated in the Goodwood Festival of Speed back in July, but other than that little cameo, the Venom GT has been uncharacteristically out of the spotlight for the better part of the year.

That is until now. Better yet, it's arriving to the party as a Version 2.0.

The Hennessey Venom GT2 is coming! In an email exchange with Hennessey chief, John Hennessey, we were told that the Venom GT2 is poised to strike the auto world with a significant power increase over the Venom GT along with some design modifications.

According to Hennessey, the carbon- fiber body will still be used, but improvements are in the works for the 2014 GT2. These changes include dihedral hinges on the doors, exposed carbon fiber front air-dam, new hood with the center arch removed, new side-view mirrors, and a double bubble roof that will offer additional headroom.

The most significant aesthetic alterations for 2013 are the headlights. No longer will the Venom GT2 carry the Lotus Elise headlights. Instead, Hennessey has designed a completely original headlight setup that, quite frankly, makes the Venom GT2 that much more striking.

The other big news surrounding the Venom GT2 is the significant uptick in power it's poised to receive. This increase is thanks to a new 7.0-liter twin-turbo V-8 powerplant that Hennessey is estimating to produce a staggering 1,500 horsepower. The engine will mate to either a 6-speed Ricardo manual or a new 7-speed paddle shift transmission. Top speed has been projected at an astounding 287 mph, which means that you could very well be reading about the future fastest car in the world.

According to Hennessey, the Venom GT2 should debut in late 2013.

Tuesday, November 27, 2012

Y3K Race

Posted on 11.26.2012 16:35 by
Simona

Filed under:
| Racing Games | Car Games | Car Games

Y3K Race originally appeared on topspeed.com on Monday, 26 November 2012 16:35 EST.

Top 5 Most Beautiful Cars Launched in 2012

One of the key selling points to any car's success is its design. Even if the brand of a car is unknown, with the help of a good design, it can grab positive attention from the most discerning of critics. This focus on beauty is the main reason so many brands invest millions of dollars in design studios.

One of the most important steps toward the success of any project is to get the design right. It should not be pretentious but also should not be too bland. Nowadays, automobile designing is one of the toughest jobs in the industry. People who can draw and have passion for automobiles simply cannot call themselves a designer. It takes a certain skillset and experience to make a mark. The toughest part in designing a vehicle is balancing key elements such as aerodynamics with modern design that pays homage to the brand's original design language. Take for instance the Jaguar F-Type. It's a car that, Chief designer Ian Callum says, ushers in a whole new design language for the Leaping Jag while still keeping certain elements of the legendary E-Type alive. Customers of today's world not only want a head-turning design but also a design that is recognizable.

This year, we have witnessed quite a few cars that have amazed the public through soulful beauty without compromising on aerodynamics and brand image. Here is a list of five cars that we think are the most beautiful cars, launched this year.

Top 5 Most Beautiful Cars Launched in 2012 originally appeared on topspeed.com on Monday, 26 November 2012 17:00 EST.

Vossen Wheels Mercedes Benz C350 2013 Pictures

ASMA Design Eagle II Mercedes Benz S-Class W221 2007 Pictures

Sunday, November 25, 2012

BYD G6 TID 2012 Pictures

Modified Smart Fortwo Cabrio 18inch 2012 Pictures

Renault Megane Grandtour GT220 2012 Pictures

Overfinch Land Rover Defender 90 2012 Pictures

K3 Projekt BMW M3 2009 Pictures

Modified Audi R8 2012 Pictures

Saturday, November 24, 2012

SR Auto Project Speed Walker Audi R8 Spyder 2012 Pictures

Pooling The Goods: SR Auto Teams Up With Top Names . First off there`s substantial performance gains (525hp and 530Nm) which allow the R8 to accelerate to 62mph from standstill in 4.1 seconds and reach a top speed of 194mph. Carbonio`s carbon fiber intake system, Miltek`s exhaust system and APR`s ECM upgrade all contribute to these gains. PUR Wheels gives the Spyder 20" 4OUR Monoblock varieties in Modern Gloss black and Hofele provids the front carbon spoiler. For the interior PPI adds its carbon fiber steering wheel and MA its carbon fiber rear center console and gear shift circle..

Peugeot RCZ Sports Coupe Pictures

Friday, November 23, 2012

Modified Volvo 142 1969 Pictures

BYD S6 2010 Pictures

Koenigsegg Agera S

Supercar builders like Bugatti and Pagani have made a living building special, one-off supercars for their exclusive clientele. Recently, their Swedish counterpart, Koenigsegg, has been getting some buzz for doing the same.

In the past few months alone, multiple reports about an Agera X, an Agera R BLT and even a Koenigsegg One:1 have surfaced, giving further credence to the growing notion that Koenigsegg is knee deep in its client-customization program.

Guess what? A new variant of the Agera has been spotted lurking the streets of Hong Kong. These photos of what’s being called the Agera S were taken by Ron Alder W Photography and he was kind enough to share them with us.

There’s not much in terms of details surrounding the Agera S, although we’ve been told that the supercar was built by Koenigsegg for countries where biofuel is not readily available. What this means is that owners of this supercar can still enjoy the all of its 1,030 horsepower capabilities by using premium fuel instead of the Agera R’s Flex biofuel capabilities.

As far as color choice is concerned, the Agera S looks to be sporting a sexy jade green color, which if you think about it, is appropriate for a country that holds jade — the jewel, not the color — in high regard.

We’ll continue rolling out more information as it becomes available.

Images used with permission from Ron Alder W Photography

Audi Considering R10 Diesel Supercar

When Audi unveiled the R8 V12 TDI concept at the 2008 Detroit Auto Show, everyone was impressed by its imposing design and hoped that the diesel supercar would find its way into Audi's lineup. Unfortunately, that didn't happen and the only V12 TDI model that remains is the Q7 SUV, which is only in the European market.

It looks like the idea isn't completely off the table yet, as rumors are afloat that Audi is indeed working on a Le Mans-inspired hybrid-diesel supercar that will sit atop its lineup. Audi insiders have suggested that this new model could be called R10 and that it may be offered as a road-going version of the R18 e-Tron quattro.

While no details have been offered on the R10's diesel engine, one thing is for sure; it won't be the V-12, as it was deemed too heavy and its 700-plus pound-feet of torque was a little much for Audi's existing line of transmissions.

Stay tuned for more details on this possible R10 supercar!

Entirely redesigned Bentley SUV to be called Falcon - report

Bentley EXP 9 F SUV concept

EXP 9 F moniker dropped

Recent report indicates that Bentley's upcoming SUV could be called Falcon and is expected to look entirely different than the concept.

The Bentley EXP 9 F concept is anything but a beautiful car. However, this might change according to AutomobileMag who is reporting that the SUV will be redesigned from the ground up by Luc Donckerwolke, Bentley's new design chief. The vehicle has been given the green light by the product strategy team and could reach showrooms by 2015.

Other pending premium car projects on VW Group's list for at least 12 months include the Lamborghini Urus, Bugatti Galibier and the Bentley Azure convertible.

GM-SAIC Sail Springo EV officially revealed

GM Sail SPRINGO EV 22.11.2012

Costs 258,000 yuan (41,400 USD)

GM-SAIC has officially unveiled the Sail Springo EV at the Guangzhou Auto Show today, following last week's teaser. The Sail Springo EV is the the first joint venture in China to develop a production electric vehicle.

It comes with an electric motor producing 116 hp (88 kW) and 220 Nm (162 lb-ft) of torque, enough to reach 62 mph (100 km/h) in 10.4 seconds and a top speed of 81 mph (130 km/h). Additionally, it has a sport button that "provides a 20 percent boost in acceleration".

The Springo EV features a 22 kWh battery, and charging from a 220V outlet takes seven hours. With the batteries completely charged, the vehicle has a maximum range of 150 km (93 mph).

Developed by PATAC Shanghai Pan Asia Automotive Technical Center, a design center part of the GM-SAIC joint venture, the interior cabin of the Springo EV has white panels, a touchscreen display while the conventional dials have been replaced by another display.

The Springo EV has a starting price of 258,000 yuan (41,400 USD).

Thursday, November 22, 2012

BMW 6-Series M package by Hamann

Hamann is already offering upgrade packages for the 6-Series, both coupe and convertible model, but today the German tuner turned its attention to the models equipped with the M aerodynamic package. And while this new package offers no upgrades for the engine, it surely makes the 6-Series looking better than ever.

The package starts with a new competition front spoiler which
increases the down-force, while at the rear a new bumper offers space for
four exhaust tail pipes. The package also includes a new front bumper, rear spoiler, tailgate cover and side skirts.

And if you add to this updates the one already offered by the M package: black chrome exhaust tips, black-painted brake calipers, LED foglamps and a sports exhaust system then you will obtain a very sporty-looking 6-Series.

Hamann announced no updates under the hood, so customers will get the standard engines offered by BMW: a 400 HP V8 engine and a 320 HP six-cylinder inline.

Porsche GT3 RS Satin Blue by Royal Muffler

Los Angeles based tuner Royal Muffler has unveiled a pretty cool tuning package based on the current generation Porsche GT3 RS. This will keep you busy until Porsche will bring on the market the 991 GT3 RS in 2013.

Royal Muffler’s package is called Satin Blue - a reference to the cool color used for the GT3 RS’ exterior. The tuner opted for a main satin blue and combined it with satin grey and satin white for the racing stripes.

Also, the car’s standard rear wing has been replaced with a new carbon fiber one from GT3R Hybrid. The car sits on a new set of BBS wheels with a black powder coated paint and wrapped in Toyo R888 tires. The new wheels have been combined with a new set of Brembo Type III 2-Piece Floating Disc specially designed for track used. On the interior everything remains unchanged except the roll cage that has been painted.

BMW UKL platform to underpin up to 12 models - report

BMW Concept Active Tourer 13.9.2012

Company is betting big on front-wheel drive

BMW's UKL platform has critics dreading an onslaught of front-wheel drive models, but the company insists it won't be all that bad.

BMW's product manager for front-wheel drive vehicles told Automotive News, "In the '90s we broke with tradition when we began selling SUVs along with our sedans. Customers realized they could get the driving dynamics BMW is renowned for from an SUV. We will see the same transition happening with front-wheel drive."

Frank Niederlaender's sentiments were echoed by BMW sales and marketing chief Ian Robertson who revealed he sees great potential in front-wheel drive vehicles. According to Robertson "One of the big advantages of UKL is that we are able to launch a lot of products almost simultaneously because we are doing the engineering at once."

In the next eight to ten years, BMW expects to offer up to 12 different models that are based on the UKL platform. We already know about a couple of them - including the BMW 1-Series GT and MINI Cooper / Cooper five-door - but Klaus Draeger, BMW's head of purchasing, hinted the company could launch a front-wheel hatchback, a larger hatchback and a small SUV.

Onyx Concept introduces the Porsche Cayenne OTS Edition

Onyx Concept Porsche Cayenne OTS Edition 21.11.2012

Aggressive looks for a sporty crossover

Onyx Concept has introduced their Porsche Cayenne OTS Edition.

Available in two stages, the entry-level model has a new front bumper, revised side skirts and extended wheel arches. There's also a tailgate-mounted spoiler and a new rear bumper with an integrated diffuser. Other highlights include daytime running lights, carbon fiber trim and a center-mounted dual exhaust system.

For an even sportier appearance, Onyx offers a stage two package which adds a ventilated hood, a roof spoiler and carbon fiber mirror caps. Customers can also order a custom paint job and 22-inch forged alloy wheels.

To spruce up the cabin, owners can buy quilted leather seats, a sport steering wheel, carbon fiber trim and lamb's wool floor mats.

Wednesday, November 21, 2012

TopSpeed Rendering: 2014 BMW 5-Series facelift

At the end of October, we brought you the first spy shots of the facelifted version of the BMW 5-Series sedan. That prototype was wearing camouflage over the good parts — the parts being updated —so it was kind of difficult to see what changes the 2014 5-Series will bear. Thanks to our crack rendering team, we have a our rendering of the 2014 5-Series. We hope it gives you a clearer look at what we all expect to see when Bimmer unveils it.

The most significant changes will be made up front, as it will feature new air intakes on the front bumper, a new headlight design and a grille that sits more upright. As you can see, we have also included headlights that go all the way to the grille — a feature first seen on the 3-Series and that we expected to make its way over to the 5-Series lineup.

Most of the changes will be limited to the exterior, but there will be one under-hood change. This change will be the elimination of the N55 engine in the 535i and the addition of a new turbocharged in-line six-cylinder.

SRT Viper

When the last model for the previous generation Dodge Viper rolled off the assembly line, many of us took comfort in knowing that the next generation had already been confirmed for production. The new generation SRT Viper was rumored and teased for a good amount of time, building up the suspense for the new design and powerful engine. Now, it’s finally here, bringing its new look and ditching the Dodge title in the process.

The new SRT Viper has received an all-new, timeless exterior design with a new carbon-fiber hood, roof, decklid, and aluminum door panels. As a first, the Viper will be offered with LED taillamps that integrate stop-and-turn illumination in one element.

Under the hood, the new Viper features a new 8.4-liter all-aluminum, V-10 overhead-valve engine that will deliver a total of 640 HP and 600 lb-ft of torque. The new engine will be mated to an improved Tremec TR6060 six-speed manual transmission.

For the new generation, the Viper will be offered in two different versions: standard and GTS. The GTS will offer more technologically advanced solutions, like two-mode active suspension for those clients who want to enjoy it on the race track.

UPDATE 04/24/2012: SRT has unveiled another video for their new Viper. This time, the company goes into detail about the history of their gorgeous sports car. Check it out!

UPDATE 09/11/12: Are you wondering how much the SRT Viper is going to cost? Wonder no more because SRT has released the official price of the iconic American sports car. Find out how much it’ll burn a hole in your wallets after the jump.

UPDATE 09/12/12: Chrysler has unveiled a new video of the new SRT Viper during its automotive test drive at Gingerman Speedway, South Haven, Michigan.

UPDATE 11/21/12: We have just added a series of 110 new high res images to our SRT Viper picture gallery. SRT also announced today the official performance numbers for the SRT Viper. It features a top speed of 206 mph and a 0-to-60 mph time in low-3-second range. The Viper launches through the 1/4-mile in the mid-11-second range. It is capable of running a 0-to-100-to-0 mph relay less than 12 seconds and boasts braking distance from 60 to 0 mph of 106 feet. Lastly, the SRT Viper’s coefficient of drag (Cd) is a slippery 0.369.

Hit the jump for more information on the 2013 SRT Viper.

SRT Viper originally appeared on topspeed.com on Wednesday, 21 November 2012 13:00 EST.

Official: Onyx Concept Launches Porsche Cayenne OTS Edition

Onyx Concept Launches Porsche Cayenne OTS Edition

Irelands bespoke automotive company Onyx Concept has released the Porsche Cayenne Onyx GST edition. The program features parts made of carbon fiber, an exhaust system and ECU upgrade. The interior has also been upgraded with a new interior trim featuring leather.

The exterior has been converted to a wide stance, which works perfectly with the arch, sill and skirt vented components. At the front a new bumper and new hood were installed. The side profile has been changed using wider arches and new side skirts. At the back a roof spoiler, rear door spoiler and new rear bumper are combined with a carbon fiber diffuser offering space for the central dual exhaust pipes.

Onyx Concept Launches Porsche Cayenne OTS Edition

The Onyx Concept conversion also featured technical changes, such as an exhaust system with valve control which can be altered in the cabin at a flick of a switch and performance upgrade to 350bhp for the diesel variant and up to 620bhp turbo engine.

Video: 2013 Fiat 500 Abarth Cabrio Teased by Fernando Alonso and Felipe Massa

Video 2013 Fiat 500 Abarth Cabrio Teased by Fernando Alonso and Felipe Massa

As a preview for the upcoming 2012 Los Angeles Motor Show and because the Ferrari F1 team was in the USA this weekend, both Fernando Alonso and Felipe Massa got the chance to drive the 2013 Abarth 500 Cabrio in Austin, Texas.

The Abarth 500 Cabrio received a small facelift and will come with a few extras in the cockpit. Under the hood, you will find a 1.4 liter engine producing about 160hp. Later on next year, Abarth will most probably introduce the Esseesse version of the small racer with up to 180hp from the same block.

Monday, November 19, 2012

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series Design Process

Mercedes-Benz AMG recently offered fans a pictural insight into the design process for the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series. It is not often that we get to see some of the content they had to offer. That’s why we’ve taken it from their Facebook page to share with you on our frontpage!

The gallery below demonstrates the initial steps in the process. The design moves from the sketch stage, in which designers are free to do what they like. Then the designs are rendered which adds a bit more life to the process.

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The rendered designs are submitted by a variety of different designers and a final design is eventually chosen. The next phase is the construction of a clay model which then gets covered in foil and displayed to the people who make the decisions.

The next stage is to optimise the design. This involves many different departments perfecting different aspects of the car; both aesthetic and technical. The design is then digitised using a 3D scanner and further checks are carried out.