Saturday 29 September 2007

Audi TT Clubsport Quattro


Every Audi TT is noted for its clear lines, unmistakable dynamism and the driving characteristics of a sports car. Audi now presents the TT in its most purist form: the clubsport quattro study.

The Audi TT clubsport quattro study reduces the TT Roadster to a pure driving machine. A powerful engine, state-of-the-art technology and numerous traits borrowed from the world of motorsport are the dominant features of the TT clubsport quattro.

The goal that the development engineers set themselves for this vehicle study was to achieve purism at a premium level. No hood, no A-post – instead, a wraparound windscreen kept extremely low which deliberately evokes images of a speedster. The flat, slightly tinted window strip surrounds the cockpit. The panoramic windscreen and the two humps located behind the interior in place of the hood compartment are reminiscent of a racing car. The rollover bars familiar from the TT Roadster are kept flatter and are the same height as the sports bucket seats.

The front end is dominated by the single-frame grille which has aluminium inserts to give its design a horizontal emphasis. This makes the TT clubsport quattro appear even flatter than it already is. The four rings of the logo are not located in the grille as on most Audi models, but on the bonnet. The large air inlets in the front end supply additional air to the more potent TFSI engine. LED daytime running lights provide an eye-catching highlight at all times of day. The visible stainless steel rear silencer is the striking feature in the rear bumper, while the blade under the rear silencer visibly underscores the vehicle’s sports character. The dual-branch exhaust system with its oval tailpipes calls to mind the sporty Audi production models such as the RS 4.

There is a deliberate lack of visual interruptions in the side line and you will look in vain for door handles. The TT clubsport quattro is opened by remote control: the doors spring open at the press of a button. The size of the two exterior mirrors has also been minimised. 20-inch wheels with tyres of size 265/30 R20 emphasise the car’s muscular appearance, as does its track width which has been increased by a total of 80 millimetres compared with a production TT. Not only that, but the wheel arches have also been enlarged additionally.

The car is painted Daytona Grey, a colour that Audi used for the first time on the RS 4 and the S8. The exterior design features dark shades of grey. This forms a contrast with the metallic elements, with the grille and side grille in Gun Metal, a steely colour which imbues the TT clubsport quattro with a look which is both sporty and pure. The brake callipers, the orange colour of which links the exterior design to the interior, provide a visual contrast. These bright colour highlights also provide attractive visual touches in the interior, on elements such as the instrument cowl, the armrest and on the back of the bucket seats. The black leather seat itself also boasts a special feature in the shape of a laser pattern worked into the seat. This was specially designed for the TT clubsport quattro and plays on the TT logo.

The sports character demonstrated by the exterior design is continued inside the car, where purism was also the driving element. Racing bucket seats are provided for both occupants. Together with four-point belts that are three inches wide, these offer both driver and passenger excellent support, even in extreme driving situations – on the racetrack, for example. The generous use of aluminium is characteristic of Audi. This starts with the steering wheel which is adorned with a twin spoke crafted from this lightweight metal. The pedals are also made of aluminium and exhibit a grooved structure. They consequently not only afford a better grip, but also help to save weight. Foot rests are provided for both driver and passenger in the TT clubsport quattro.

The gear lever gate adopted from the new mid-engined sports car, the Audi R8, and the aluminium gear knob are a joy to behold. This lightweight metal is also used for the door pull and the door opener, both of which are cut-out, a feature which further underlines the interior’s purist character.

The sill area has also been restyled compared with the production model. Rather than being interrupted by a sill strip, it now emphasises the width of the car. A new door sill trim located further inside the car, along with floor mats sporting the TT logo as an aluminium inlay provide further visual highlights. The surrounding strip on the top shoulder is also made of this lightweight metal.

The Audi designers came up with a special idea in the field of entertainment. Instead of the middle of the three round air vents in the upper part of the dashboard, they integrated an interface here, designed among other things for the B&O MP3 player BeoSound 2. The round player built by Audi’s premium partner fits exactly into the circular opening and is a sheer delight for the senses, both visually and acoustically.

The instrument cluster is very different from the one in a production model. The vertical needles and colour graphics are the eye-catching features. The clock and odometer have been omitted in keeping with the car’s underlying purist philosophy.

The racing character of the Audi TT clubsport quattro is underscored by its technology. The Audi engineers have packed the 2.0 TFSI engine with even more power than the 260 bhp familiar from the Audi S3. The turbocharged four-cylinder unit with petrol direct injection breaks the magic 300 bhp barrier. Thanks to a modified intake manifold, it has been possible to get even more power out of this highly efficient engine (which was “Engine of the Year” in its class in 2005 and 2006). Power is transferred to all four wheels, making the TT clubsport quattro the first new-generation TT with four-cylinder engine and quattro permanent four-wheel drive.

The transmission is also new in this performance category. Thanks to its dual clutch, the S tronic direct-shift gearbox changes gear virtually without interrupting the flow of power, a process that goes unnoticed by the driver. The six gears can, however, also be changed manually, with gearshifts taking just fractions of a second.

Anyone opening the bonnet will be met by a fascinating sight. Thanks to a lack of cables and auxiliaries, the engine compartment looks extremely clean. The engine has deliberately not been hidden under a cover. The cross brace running above the engine is a technical stroke of genius. It not only makes the car more rigid, but also contains the coolant expansion tank. The ABS system has been moved from the engine compartment to the interior. The air conditioning and activated charcoal filter are not to be found in the engine compartment either. A racing air filter ensures that the engine takes in a sufficient amount of air. The exhaust system has been adapted to suit the car’s sporty performance: the specially tuned exhaust emits the genuine sound of motor racing.

Ceramic brakes are fitted in the TT for the first time. These are absolutely non-fading and enable countless sharp braking manoeuvres without any loss of stopping power. Once again, Audi has taken advantage of its superior wealth of experience: ceramic brakes are already offered for the RS 4, the A8 and S8, for example, and are enjoying increasing popularity with customers.

The Audi TT clubsport quattro is a purist driving machine that combines the performance of a sports car with a unique design language. It consequently remains a TT on the one hand, while at the same time demonstrating just what is possible with such a fascinating production vehicle. The possible small-series production of this model is being considered.

Text and photos courtesy of Audi AG

Arden Range Rover Sport Pegasus


Elegance, subtle sportiness and understatement have always been the distinguishing features of English cars. For over 30 years now, tuning specialists Arden from Krefeld, Germany, can't resist the appeal of these vehicles. This is the place where many customers have run to for years now with preferences on either standard features or for individualized customisation on their Jaguar or Range Rover. The most spectacular modification for the Range Rover Sport is immediately available: wing doors!

Sophisticated wing door construction

Gone are the days when only those italian sports cars bearing steer logos were designed with wing doors. Arden proves such features enhance SUVs as well establishing themselves as trail blazers. Arden achieves this one-of-a-kind look through use of a specialized door hinge unit that opens the original door first to the outside, then steadily glides it upwards and gently opens it completely. A gas spring supports the opening phase and reduces unnecessary strain to a minimum. The complete mechanism is individually customized made of high quality stainless steel.

The sophisticated construction which is necessary due to the adverse conditions in terms of available space, features comprehensive engineering know-how. The highest degree of precision assembly is mastered by the German specialists with flying colours. As Arden takes security to heart, all mechanisms are thoroughly tested in accordance with manufacturing vehicle UN-ECE regulations. Wing doors catapults every Range Rover Sport to becoming the ultimative show car! Price for modification to the original standard doors includes installation.

From appearance package to increased performance

Whether it's an appearance enhancement package or to increase performance, Arden offers extensive choices for individualisation of the Range Rover Sport. The German specialists provide a variety of power enhancement parts and accessories for higher performance of diesel and gas engines. Arden enables the V8 diesel TDV8 an increased performance to 315 HP and 700 Nm torque. The top version of the gas engine receives an increase in size for its compressor motor to 4,5 litres. Peak performance: 480 HP. Torque: 680 Nm. Vmax: 270 km/h.

Through the aide of a complete Arden bodywork kit for the AR5 or by widening the measurements for an AR6, the Range Rover Sport observer is left with an even more memorable impression. Likewise, Ardens wheels display a visual treat. Whether "Sportline" in 23-inch or Monoblock Rims "Dakar" in 22-inch: the Range Rover Sport is adequately provided proper footing.

Arden high performance exhaust systems not only renders an acoustic tuning, but has an impact on power as well. Driving enhancements from Arden results in distinctive better handling and increased driving safety. In this same manner, a further plus in theme safety is promised with Ardens developed brake system which provide for sustainable deceleration

Luxurious interior

Whether luxurious, sporty or dignified, the occupants of a Range Rover Sport will be spoiled in having all senses appealed to. All interior work is carried out in Arden's own saddlery of highest precision and with much love to detail made to order following customer requests. Highest quality of material provides the occupants of each Arden Range complete satisfaction and following longer drives, a relaxed atmosphere exiting out of the vehicle

Text and photos courtesy of Arden Automobilbau GmbH

Friday 28 September 2007

2008 Roush Mustang 428R


Still riding high on their most successful model ever, the 427R, Roush has decided the time is right to follow up with a car for the true enthusiast. And that's exactly where the 2008 Roush Mustang 428R comes into play.

Roush is no stranger to building a mean Mustang. Having been in the business for 12 years and still riding high on their most successful model ever, the 427R, Roush has decided the time is right to follow up with a limited-production model; a car for the true enthusiast. And that's exactly where the 428R comes into play.

Each 428R will be pumping out a heady 435 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque - that's 8 more horses and 9 more lb-ft than the 427R. Under the hood, a chrome powerdercoated Roushcharger can be found, and billet radiator, oil, intercooler, and strut tower caps are all thrown in for good measure. A performance exhaust system not only frees up the last few horses, but also ensures the 428R has the bark to back up its bite. A five-speed manual or automatic transmission sends the power to the rear wheels.

When the road gets twisty, Roush has the 428R covered there as well. Nearly the entire suspension has been revamped with the addition of firmer shocks, springs, and sway bars both front and rear. Jounce bumpers and anti-wheel hop kits have also been fitted, while 18-inch Roush wheels with high-performance tires are included as standard.

Cosmetically, there's no mistaking the 428R for anything that comes straight out of the Ford factory. A redesigned front fascia and chin spoiler, gaping hood scoop, and rear lip spoiler all suggest this is no ordinary 'Stang. Of course, the special Roush decals, hood pins, and black high-flow grille are present to lay the last bit of doubt to rest. Inside the 428R, a Roush leather sports steering wheel, short throw shifter with retro ball knob, and white electroluminescent gauge panel finish off the car's aggressive image.

All Roush 428Rs will be 2008 models and will hit showrooms beginning this October. Of course, only 200 will be built. Word to the wise: If you want one, get it quick.

Thursday 27 September 2007

Tesla Tops 250


Blowing away all previous mileage marks by production electric vehicles, the Tesla announced that its upcoming roadster recorded 255 miles on a single charge in a recent EPA City test cycle. It hit 235 on the Highway portion of the test. That gives it an EPA combined rating of 245 miles.

All that and Tesla still claims 0-60 in under four seconds. We have yet to drive one.

The Tesla two-seater is powered by 6800 tiny lithium-ion batteries. While the first lead-acid GM EV1s generally got 40 to 60 miles on a charge, subsequent nickel-metal hydride (NiMH)-powered units could usually go over 100 miles between plug-ins. The NiMH-powered EV1 went 140 miles in its EPA certification run in 1999.

The first 50 Tesla Roadsters will be produced in the first quarter of 2008, with another 600 planned by the end of that year. The roadster was originally planned for a summer ’07 debut, then fall of ’07.

Next up from Tesla is an electric-powered sedan called the WhiteStar, which was expected in 2009 though no update on its arrival date was given.

The roadster is to be built by Lotus in England, while the WhiteStar will come out of a new plant in New Mexico. A smaller sedan is next on the plate, with the goal being a full line of electric vehicles at some point in the future

Audi Q5




There’s no doubt about it… Auto Express’s spies have scored a five-star scoop! This is the new Audi Q5, which will go on sale here late next year.

The mid-sized SUV will get the latest twin-clutch S tronic automated manual box. And a new system called Drive Select tailors settings of the engine, transmission, steering and adaptive suspension depending on the mode selected via the Multi Media Interface (MMI).

The Q5 will also benefit from Audi’s latest Bluetec engine technology. The firm’s 2.0-litre TDI uses common-rail fuel injection to give 204bhp, while a special neutralising system in the exhaust cuts harmful gas emissions.

Conventional FSI petrol and TDI diesel versions of the car are expected, too. And while all models get four-wheel drive, high-spec variants will feature a newly developed quattro system designed to offer saloon car handling.

Inside, the Q5 will be a strict five-seater, although durable stowage features similar to those on the Land Rover Freelander boost practicality.

Insiders have hinted the Q5 could eventually form the basis of a hybrid model, and is likely to be followed by a smaller SUV called the Q3

Wednesday 26 September 2007

2009 Subaru WRX STI






Subaru's all-new WRX STi has been caught testing on the Nurburging again, this time with almost no camouflage.
The regular WRX's much maligned egg crate grille - reportedly the subject of a hurried redesign already - makes way for a simpler mesh-style design. New front fenders are heavily flared to cover the STi's wider track, and an aggressive new front fascia feature features a deeper front spoiler.

The rear fenders and doors are also new, again to cover the car's wider track. A new, more aggressive rear fascia has been redesigned to accommodate the quad-outlet dual exhaust. The rear spoiler is as functional as one can be on a hatchback, but will not please fans of the current STi's massive spoiler.

The STi's dumpy styling lacks the visual flair of arch-rival Mitsubishi's next-generation Evolution X. But for Subaru fans, performance is probably more important that looks. Power is reputed to be in the 300 horsepower ballpark, close to that of Evo X.

Subaru will offer the STi only as a hatchback, with the vehicle arriving sometime in the middle of 2008 after making its debut at one of the many auto shows held in the early months of the year.

Tuesday 25 September 2007

Citroen to unveil C5 sedan next month


Citroen is set to debut its C5 sedan at a press event scheduled for October 18, a new report finds. The C5 is expected to take design cues from the C5 airscape concept that was shown at this year's Frankfurt Motor Show. While Citroen will unveil the C5 sedan next month, the car won't hit the market until its world debut at January's Brussels Motor Show.

When the C5 does go on sale next year, it will be available in sedan and wagon body styles. It still remains unclear if a convertible version will be available, but inside sources say Citroen is conducting market research for the viability of an up-scale drop top. If given the green light, the convertible could make it to market 12 months after the sedan and wagon.

It is also believed that Citroen will debut some new technologies in the C5, such as a new traction control system, an engine start/stop feature and brake-energy regeneration.

Volkswagen Golf GTI W12 Concept








Very few one-offs are designed to be driven, but that’s not the way Volkswagen played things with the Golf GTI W12 concept. It looks like pure show candy: a 642-hp, mid-mounted W12 engine under cartoonish stretched bodywork. Yet not only is it a driver, complete with a 202-mph top speed, but the company let us put it through its paces at Gros Dölln in Germany, a former Soviet airbase.

The GTI W12 was commissioned to wow the crowds at this year’s Worthersee GTI festival in Austria, but designer Marc Lichte was told that it also must be a full runner. Therefore, it was built to standards far closer to a prototype, and Lichte had the chance to rummage through the more exotic reaches of the corporate parts bin.

It’s got Audi RS4 front brakes, a Lamborghini Gallardo back axle, a VW Phaeton six-speed automatic gearbox and a twin-turbocharged, 6.0-liter W12 engine from the Bentley Continental sitting where you’d expect to find the groceries in a standard GTI. Vast sill extensions add six inches of width, while mammoth air intakes (including scoops integrated into the roof and rear side windows) feed air to the mid-mounted motor.

And it drives almost as nicely as it looks. With drive to the rear wheels only, VW decided to limit the engine’s torque output to 222 lb-ft in first gear and 331 lb-ft in second. But from third gear upward, the full 553 lb-ft is available. The official 3.7-second 0-to-62-mph time makes it quicker than a Gallardo.

It even corners pretty well, certainly considering its short wheelbase and lack of any kind of stability control. Without the weight of an engine in the front, turn-in is a fair bit blunter than with a standard GTI, but the big 295 profile tires find plenty of grip, and the cornering line can be tightened up nicely on the throttle.

Relevance? None whatsoever. You won’t be surprised to hear that VW has no plans to put a 642-hp, mid-engined, rear-drive Golf into production. And it won’t be a U.S.-market Rabbit, either. That’s not going to stop us from thinking the world would be a more entertaining place with cars like this in it.

Monday 24 September 2007

MTM Continental GTC “Birkin Edition”




The Bentley Continental GTC is One of the most beautiful ways to drive "topless". Nevertheless, Motorentechnik Mayer has a number of tuning measures up its sleeve which accentuate its strenghts without distorting its character. For example, besides a compact attachment at the rear, no measures are implemented that might detract from the elegant appearance of the Continental GTC. MTM was not looking to alter the characteristic and unmistakable shape. To add the finishing touch, the Bavarian tuning specialist equips this British car with a set of chunky 21 inch bimoto alloy wheels. However, a great deal more is going on beneath the bodywork of a Bentley Continental GTC from MTM. For this reason the Continental GTC is not only one of the most beautiful ways but also one of the fastest ways to drive „topless".

BF Performance GT 540




Once again, BF Performance is proud to present the next generation conversion based on the Lamborghini Gallardo, the GT 540. The car has been fitted with an optional aerodynamic kit which makes the car look like a baby 640. It has a newly designed front spoiler which makes it look like its bigger brother. The car also has side skirts under the sills and a magnificent rear diffuser.

BF Performance also offers a choice of two rear spoilers SL or GT style. Of course the tradi¬tional wing door conversion is still available. The carbon fibre wing mirrors are beautiful and a must.

For the first time BF Performance is showing a car with a new front compartment lid in visble carbon fibre. There is a whole range of interior enhancements, specially designed steering wheels and multi coloured carbon kits. A special high end entertainment kit with 10 new components make listening to music a real pleasure. The race seats are colour coded to match the car with leather and alcantara.

A high performance exhaust system designed by the same company that builds the exhaust systems for five Formula One Teams is fitted with a remote controlled sound system. Engine performance is tweeked and the torque also has been increased.

All parts are available in fine or coarse meshed carbon fibre with a matt or gloss finish. The car shown at the IAA in Frankfurt has a Carbon ceramic brake system fitted.

Text and photos courtesy of BF Performance

Friday 21 September 2007

Abarth Grande Punto "esseesse"



The absolute star of the stand is the Grande Punto Abarth “essesse” (Super Sport) prototype. A jewel of assertiveness and elegance, the car is offered with a booster kit that almost doubles its power output with relation to the basic model (up to almost 180 bhp).

The ‘“essesse”’ kit also envisages a number of specific elements that accentuate both the sporty look of the Abarth model (for example adhesives with the ‘essesse’ logo or a chequered flag) and its dynamic behaviour, with a particular low stance or a more powerful braking system. This is a feature that maintains a brand tradition: for example, the Fiat 500 of 1958 delivered 13 bhp at 4000 rpm and a top speed of 85 km/h, while the Fiat 500 Abarth of the same year, produced 26 bhp at 5000 rpm and a top speed of 118 km/h. The Grande Punto Abarth and the Grande Punto Abarth with the ‘essesse’ kit aim to revive the thrill of those cars, offering an opportunity, addressed to the young in particular, of entering the racing world in total safety and at an accessible price.

Heico Sportiv S80




German tuning and motor sport experts HEICO SPORTIV has developed a spectacular high-performance version of the Volvo S80. With a high-tech aluminium-look exterior and a 350 hp bioethanol engine, the S80 High Performance Concept is destined to be a true attention-grabber at the SEMA show in Las Vegas.

"We wanted to explore how far we could take a special high-performance version of the S80. HEICO SPORTIV's impressive track record in motor sports and Volvo tuning made them the perfect partner for the job," says Lex Kerssemakers, Senior Vice President Brand, Business and Product Strategy at Volvo Cars. He adds: "Personally, I think the result is absolutely stunning. Both when it comes to the exterior and interior design as well as the impressive muscle under the bonnet." The turbocharged T6 engine has been modified to run on E85 (85 percent bioethanol,15 percent petrol) - a biofuel that is becoming increasingly widely available throughout Europe.

The T6 engine in the HEICO S80 High Performance Concept boasts around 350 horsepower at 5500 rpm and a massive 550 Nm of torque between 1500 and 4000 rpm. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h will take around 5.8 seconds. "The engine development is not yet finalized, so we hope to reach an even higher horsepower figure when the car is ready for SEMA," says HEICO SPORTIV's president Holger Hedtke.

All Wheel Drive and sports suspension
The HEICO S80 High Performance Concept features Volvo's electronically controlled All Wheel Drive system with Instant Traction. The car also has specially developed sport suspension. New shocks and springs lower the chassis by 40 millimetres.The 6-pot sport brake system has blue callipers featuring the Heico Sportiv logo, sports brake pads and 355x32 mm discs.

The specially developed 20-inch VOLUTION®X. forged alloy wheels are shod with 255/30R20 tyres from Continental. "When it comes to the driving experience, we aimed at tuning all the components so we get a dynamic yet harmonious result. In other words, a true sports car experience without losing the luxurious and comfortable touch that is the hallmark of the S80," says Holger Hedtke.

Spectacular aluminium-colour effect
The exclusive aluminium metal-effect colour of the HEICO S80 High Performance Concept radiates a distinctive technical look.
"To bring out the shiny, "real metal" effect was a major challenge. This type of paint is normally not used to cover a whole car. All told, the bodywork features seven coats of paint. The coat that gives the aluminium effect doesn't allow any touch-ups afterwards, so you have to get it right from the beginning. The whole process takes two weeks," says Holger Hedtke. All other parts, such as the tailpipe trim, window mouldings, front grill and rub strips are coated with matte finish black chrome. All body parts are handcrafted. The car's body kit has redesigned wide skirts all round.

The front features integrated spoiler flaps, three larger air ducts, integrated LED daytime running lights and an integrated sport grille with the Volvo iron mark. The exhaust system is made of stainless steel throughout and the exhaust tailpipes are integrated into the wide rear spoiler. There is also a rear deck spoiler.

Mystic Blue interior
The bespoke interior has full high-quality leather in Mystic Blue with matching blue stitching and HEICO SPORTIV logo, both on the sport-contoured front seats and the two individual "bucket" seats in the rear. The safety belts and floor-mats are also blue. There is a sports steering wheel trimmed in leather and a leather-trim gear lever with a silver carbon accent.

The extended floating centre stack is covered with silver carbon fibre. The centre stack also features integrated controls for the rear seat entertainment system and a storage space with a handmade blind. All decorative trim elements are made of silver carbon fibre. The illuminated entrance trim in stainless steal and glass features the HEICO SPORTIV logo.

Thursday 20 September 2007

2008 Brabus Widestar





We expected that maybe German tuner Brabus had dressed up some famously porky celebrity—like Louie Anderson, or Kirstie Alley, or maybe someone still actually relevant like Oprah Winfrey—with fender flares and rocker panels and a roof spoiler and called him or her the Widestar, but that just ain’t the case.

What’s actually happened is all those things have been tacked onto Mercedes-Benz’s largest passenger vehicle, the Gl class SUV, and the resultant Widestar looks like nothing so much as an oversize last-gen Saturn Vue Red Line crossed with a German redneck’s impression of “mad tyte” Japanese riceyness.

The rocker panels have embedded “LED entrance lights,” but they just look like hokey wiper-nozzle neons that got lost on their way to the hood. The 23-inch wheels are wrapped in rubber thin enough to make a dominatrix outfit, and there’s a special Brabus-tuned setting for the GL’s Airmatic suspension that allows the big truck to get lower to the tune of 1.2 inches.

Of course, such highly modified vehicles aren’t complete without engine tuning, but Brabus makes you pay extra for that. The company offers performance upgrades for all GLs, including diesel and V-8 versions.

Suzuki SX4 WRC




Suzuki hopes to steal the rally crowd’s attention at the Frankfurt auto show with its newest entrant in the World Rally Championship, the SX4 WRC.
he automaker gave notice earlier this year at the Geneva auto show that it plans to participate in the WRC. Pilot models of the car will be unveiled in Frankfurt before making their racing debut. On October 12, the SX4 based rally car is slated to compete in the Rallye de France in Corsica in an effort to test the car under real-life racing conditions. Assuming this goes well, another appearance is expected at the grueling Rally of Great Britain at the end of 2007 for one final test before committing to the full WRC season in 2008.

If successful, Suzuki’s bid for WRC stardom could provide the exposure needed to boost sales globally. It wouldn’t be the first time the company has had success in the racing world—and we’re not talking about MotoGP. Suzuki has enjoyed success in the past in the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb and the Junior World Rally Championship, although this will be the first racing action for the SX4.

Subaru WRC Concept



Look past the distinctive Subaru rally team paint job and what you see is very close to what the much anticipated Subaru WRX STI will look like. From the deep front bumper to possibly even the oversized rear spoiler attached to the hatch, the STI should share much of its attitude with the rally version. As the STI was still not officially introduced, there is no word on how much power Subaru will be offering in the latest version. We’re expecting the turbocharged 2.5-liter to make in excess of 320 horsepower in order to stay ahead of Mitsubishi’s 295-hpEvolution X

Wednesday 19 September 2007

World’s First Ferrari Stretch Limousine





Now here’s something you don't see every day. This Ferrari 360 Modena carbon fibre stretch limousine will spin heads when it’s unveiled at the European Limousine and Chauffeur Show in the UK this month.

The fastest limo in the world according to owner Dan Cawley, the 7 m long, 400bhp vehicle achieves 0-100 kmh in less than six seconds and has a top speed of 272 kmh.

Toyota debuts 8th generation Land Cruiser




We've already seen Toyota's 8th generation Land Cruiser thanks to a slip by the automaker's Honduran division, but that won't take away the company's pleasure of officially debuting the vehicle today ahead of its public reveal at the Australian International Motor Show in early October. The new Land Cruiser is completely redesigned with a look that evokes the Tundra's bold front end, but it's also 60mm longer and 30mm wider than the vehicle it replaces. The larger dimensions allow the new Cruiser to seat eight comfortably, though we'll wait until we sit in the third row ourselves to test that claim.

In Australia, Toyota will be offering the Land Cruiser with either a turbodiesel V8 or gas V8 engine. While the Australian press release didn't contain details on either powerplant, we found a European press release that states the diesel will be a 4.5L producing 286 HP and 480 ft-lbs. of torque, and it will be mated to a 6-speed automatic. The gas engine will be a 4.7L VVT-i V8 producing 288 HP and 328 ft-lbs. of torque, though its power will be divided by a 5-speed automatic. Since its sister SUV, the Lexus LX570, will go on sale in the U.S. with the Tundra's 5.7L V8, we expect the Land Cruiser to be offered in the States with that engine, as well.

[Source: Toyota]

The new Cruiser features a few high-tech gizmos onboard as well, including a Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System, which adjusts the front and rear stabilizer bars depending on the type of terrain that's being pounded, even disconnecting them when off-road. The suspension itself switches from a torsion--bar set-up to a double-wishbone with coils up front, as well. A new CRAWL system is also included that uses the engine and brakes to control the big 'ute when traversing loose terrain like gravel or descending a hill.

Monday 17 September 2007

Ford Kuga





It's here at last – Ford’s new 4x4 has broken cover. These are the first official pictures of the Focus-based off-roader, the Kuga, which is set to go on sale early next year.

Following on from the exciting Verve – the stunning replacement for the Fiesta, which we revealed in last week's issue – and the sleek new Mondeo, the sporty SUV shows that style really is at the top of agenda at Ford.

Initially unveiled at the Paris Motor Show in September last year as the Iosis X, and later with some official sketches, the showroom-ready Kuga is every inch as attractive as the original concept. With its bold, twin-split trapezoidal grilles, huge headlights and lower protective metal tray, the Kuga has plenty of visual presence. That’s complemented by chunky wheelarches, large alloys and a raised ride height.

The rising waistline forms distinctive angular C-pillars, while at the rear, there’s a sporty roof spoiler, classy tail-lights – which sit on the leading edge of the pronounced shoulders – and another undertray.

What’s more, plenty of design cues taken from the Iosis X have made it to production. The same ‘Ice White’ body colour is available on the finished model, and so are the show car’s 19-inch alloys. There’s also the option of a panoramic glass sunroof. In fact, the only major difference over the concept is the profile of the roofline. Gone is the rakish coupĂ© look, replaced by a more upright roof to give decent headroom in the rear.

Practicality promises to be excellent with a split tailgate, and with the model based on underpinnings from the Focus and C-MAX, the five-seat layout should be spacious.

Inside, there are close links to the Iosis X with a radical cabin that features an array of colour and trim options, allowing buyers to personalise their car in the same way that they can a MINI. For example, customers can choose orange piping for the seats and body-coloured panels for the doors and centre console. The dashboard takes its inspiration from the Mondeo and S-MAX MPV but adds an optional Blaupunkt satellite navigation system, which features a seven-inch colour screen, capable of showing images from a rear camera to assist reverse parking.

Under the skin, the Kuga uses a four-wheel-drive system taken from sister firm Volvo and currently seen in the S40 and V50. Operating in front-wheel-drive mode under most conditions, it can divert torque to the rear wheels when on slippery surfaces.

Although details have yet to be confirmed, the Kuga is expected to have a ‘switchable’ system, which allows the driver to select front-wheel drive only, four-wheel drive or ‘auto’, which allows the system to decide what’s required on its own.

Ford is also expected to launch a front-wheel-drive version. As well as some off-road ability, all models will deliver the same driver-pleasing on-road handling that the blue oval has become renowned for.

Engines will be taken from the Focus line-up, with the oil-burning range headed by a 136bhp 2.0-litre TDCi turbodiesel. The petrol offerings are set to be topped by a 217bhp 2.5-litre turbocharged five-cylinder unit. Final equipment levels and prices will be revealed closer to the launch in spring next year.

Fiat 500 Castagna


One of Italy’s most famous coachbuilders has got its hands on the new 500… And it says the Fiat is so perfect, it has barely changed a thing!

Castagna is renowned for building the wild-looking Estate and four-wheel-drive Moke versions of the MINI. But it has taken a more hands-off approach with the 500, adding a special two-tone paintjob, new 17-inch alloys and an upgraded interior, comprising extra leather and chrome. There are also twin exhausts and colour-coded wheelarch spats.

Prices have yet to be announced, but Castagna is encouraging 500 owners who want the ultimate in exclusivity to contact its HQ in Milan.

The Abt AS6 3.0 TDI with 300 hp revealed


Abt released its latest masterpiece: The Abt AS6. The new car receives an extra power of 77 bhp over the standard 233 bhp of the 3.0-litre TDI engine, and now, with 300 bhp is capable to do the sprint from 0-100 km/h in hust 6.9 seconds while the top speed is of 249 km/h.

2007 Toyota IQ Concept


The Toyota concept, the company says, represents a "paradigm shift in small car design." Possibly, the IQ isn't that ingenious - after all, its four-seat body and ultra-petite dimensions are more follower than trailblazer. But Toyota 's done a nifty thing with the IQ - it's made the proportions work better than those on smart's two-seater fortwo. Designed in the south of France , the IQ has a modish shape that sports very short overhangs and a cab-forward stance, even though it wears 17-inch tires.

The IQ sits just 117.3 inches long, while the two-passenger smart is just under 100 inches long. Those extra inches give the IQ enough to seat three passengers plus an occasional fourth. It's as wide as a Yaris, which means elbow room shouldn't be at too high a premium.

There's also room inside for a far more stylish interior than the fortwo can manage; a swooping slash delineates the center console area. Toyota compares it to a manta ray, and to geometry puzzles, what with the circles that dot the console and the slashing lines that define the front and rear lamps. A three-dimensional display projects the gauges and readouts for speed, engine speed, and fuel, while the audio and navigation controls are on the steering wheel.

Production ready? Probably not, but this concept does show that Toyota 's thinking about an even smaller car than the Yaris, or the European Aygo.