Wednesday, May 27, 2009

Thursday, May 21, 2009

2009 Porsche Cayenne Maff Muron

(from Maff Press Release) MAFF Muron

- „Muron” wide body kit for the entire Porsche Cayenne range
- custom styled cockpit with Alcantara leather and carbon fiber inserts
- multimedia system and sound system configured after a MAFF concept
- power kit for the engine and sport exhaust tips designed by MAFF
- retuned electronic suspensions and especially designed MAFF alloy wheels

2009 Porsche Cayenne Maff Muron-12009 Porsche Cayenne Maff Muron-2Popularity turned the Porsche Cayenne into quite a common presence on the roads. This explains why the German model features in the portfolio of so many car tuners. Unfortunately, the big sales volume made the aftermarket industry follow in the foot steps of the stock car manufacturers. And this is because they started producing the so called exclusive, unique body kits in large series. For all these reasons, MAFF Tuning developed the Muron project such as to offer the alternative of a truly custom interpretation of the super SUV. Thus, the Muron package represents a complex stylistic approach, which makes it more than sufficient for seriously amplifying the already powerful personality of the Cayenne.

The Muron body kit is built of carbon fiber. The package comprises of the following: front and rear spoilers, front grille with integrated LED daytime running lights, side skirts, roof spoiler, bonnet with dramatic scoops, masks for the head lights and tail lights, a discreet adornment for the boot lid, inserts of carbon fiber for the door handles, rear view mirror carcases with integrated LED signal lights and exhaust tailpipes covers. Each of these elements are a MAFF design and this is why the cars are adorned with the MAFF and Muron logos. Even the light alloy wheels are a special MAFF design. And their dimensions vary according to the request of each and every client.

For the interior of the car one can configure a virtualy unlimited number of layouts. This is possible due to the liberty MAFF gives to its clients regarding the choice of color, combination of materials, stitching design, embroiderments and inserts (carbon fiber among others). Only the finest leather types, like Alcantara, are used to tailor the cockpit. Even exotic alternatives like leather with a surface that imitates the carbon fiber texture have been selected by our customers. And the design, as well as the entire tailoring process are the work of the specialized department of the MAFF workshop.

The MAFF portfolio includes some unique models able to develop over 700 HP. This is why MAFF engineers also adjust the suspension of the car, aiming to improve its dynamic behavior. The ride height is consequently reduced by up to 8 cm. This is done by tuning the electronic management of the stock suspensions.

© Source: seriouswheels
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Audi Q5 Custom Concept images

Audi has released new official pics of the Q5 Custom Concept prior to the prototype’s presentation at the Worthersee Tour 2009 next weekend. The prototype is not so interesting for its look, but for the engine that they’ve put under the bonnet.

Audi Q5 Custom Concept-1Audi Q5 Custom Concept-2Currently absent from the Q5 range, the V6 3.0 litre TFSI is that of the Audi S4, brought from 333 to 408 hp for the occasion. This power will be managed by the S-Tronic seven-speed transmission, and the whole proposal has fans a-flutter.

The model proves that the possibility of an “S” version in the Audi SUV range is not so fantastical. This could also be a preview to the next RS4, currently oscillating between a V6 and V8. And given the closer relationships among the VAG cars, we could even see this engine on Volkswagen or Porsche models.

© Source: eurocarblog
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Lamborghini Murcielago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce pics

It’s difficult to get the same emotion out of a Lamborghini Murciealgo LP 670-4 SuperVeloce photo gallery, but in the following pics at least we get a sense of its high speed appeal. That is, until we get our hands on some new videos of the V12 Lamborghini Murcielago symphony. Enjoy the pics.
Lamborghini Murcielago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce-1Lamborghini Murcielago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce-2Lamborghini Murcielago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce-3
© Source: eurocarblog
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Mercedes-Benz S-Class Body Kit Unveiled By MEC Design

Going through our inbox this beautiful Wednesday morning, the fine gentlemen at MEC Design sent us details of a new body kit they've created for the Mercedes S-Class. Up front, you'll notice a new front apron is in place which features your choice of either fog lights and driving lights or a mesh insert, while in the back, a new rear diffuser and one piece rear spoiler are both present.

Mercedes-Benz S-Class Body Kit-1Mercedes-Benz S-Class Body Kit-2Also featured on the kit is new side skirts and an MEC Design Electronic Lowering Module which lowers the S-Class between 40 and 70 millimeters, as is an MEC Design exhaust system with chrome tips.

Completing the package, bi-colored MECXTREMEIII 22-inch wheels are fitted to the MEC S-Class, which feature a stainless steel outer rim with a forged center piece.

© Source: emercedesbenz
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Next Gen VW Touran MPV Mule – spied pics

The next Volkswagen Touran has been spied testing on the streets with a trailer in tow. Though the mule uses the current Touran facelift for its body, underneath there lies the next-generation model. The Touran will take on the brand's new face which can already be seen on the Scirocco, the Golf VI and the new Polo. VW's versatile vehicle has been in the market since 2003 and it received a facelift in 2007.

Next Gen VW Touran MPV Mule-1Next Gen VW Touran MPV Mule-2Speculation is that because the current car, which is based on the expensive to build Golf V platform, VW is moving the next one's release date up in order to take advantage of the cheaper Golf VI platform.

Engines expected include the 1.4-litre TSI and the 1.6-litre. Turbo diesels are also popular in this segment so the 1.9 TDI as well as the 2.0 TDI will form the lineup. Mated to these engines are two gearboxes, the familiar 6-speed manual and the new 7-speed DSG.

Gadgets on the menu would be things like the self-park function, touch screen satellite navigation and lane assist.

It would not be a surprise to see the Touran at the Frankfurt Motor Show this September.

© Source: worldcarfans
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2010 Audi A3 TDI, diesel with a healthy dash of sport

Audi started its big push for clean diesel here in the U.S. market this spring when its big Q7 TDI finally went on sale. While the Q7 TDI is one of the most fuel efficient seven-passenger SUVs available anywhere, it's only the beginning for Audi. Assuming that Americans start taking a shine to hot oil, Audi is likely to introduce a whole series of Rudi D's disciples here. So far, however, only one has been announced in addition to the Q7, the compact A3 hatchback.

2010 Audi A3 TD-12010 Audi A3 TD-22010 Audi A3 is the entry-level model for the four-ringed brand here in the U.S. Until now, it has only been sold with a choice of a 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder or 3.2-liter V6 engines running on gasoline. At the Detroit Auto Show, Audi announced that the A3 TDI would go on sale late this year. While the A3 TDI isn't yet available, one was made available to us for five days during a recent trip to Southern California.

© Source: autoblog
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Wednesday, May 20, 2009

BMW M3 Darth Maul Project

Canadian tuner MWDesign have begun a tuning programme for the BMW M3 Coupe (E92) which they have codenamed Darth Maul, presumably from the Star Wars Episode One baddie. Currently the programme is in stage 1. For now only a few pieces of kit have been installed in Jerez Black, the colour of the exterior. For starters there is an Amuse Ericsson front bumper with custom orange highlights.

BMW M3 Darth Maul Project -1BMW M3 Darth Maul Project -2Carbon fiber side vents continue with the custom orange colour, as do the carbon fiber side mirrors. A rear diffuser made from carbon fiber rounds off the major exterior changes. The black 20-inch rims with orange-accented centre caps are wrapped in 245/30/20 front tyres and 285/25/20 rubber at the rear. Interior details are rare but we are told that Darth Maul comes with a Fox Red interior trim.

The BMW M3, of any generation, is undoubtedly one of the most tuned sports cars of our time. The current car was launched in 2007 with a 4.0-litre V8 engine replacing the old 3.2-litre straight six. Despite the 800cc gain the new engine is 15kg lighter. Maximum power was increased from 343hp (252kW) to 420hp (309kW). Stay tuned for stage 2 of Darth Maul.

© Source: worldcarfans
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Mercedes GL 350 BlueTEC – video

These video shows some close-ups of the Mercedes GL 350 BlueTEC version. The diesel SUV is the ecological effort for this segment from Mercedes, presented at the New York show in a slight restyling. The BlueTEC version is based on the 320 CDI with the same V6 three-litre engine with 211 hp. The car is equipped with a special filter system, with DeNox system that reduces NOx values by 80 percent, reducing consumption to 9 l/100km.



© Source: eurocarblog
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Ventross tweaks the Nissan GT-R

When the GT-R first found its way into customer hands, Nissan actually included an image in the instruction manual recommending owners not modify their car with oversize spoilers and ridiculous body kits – more for the sake of taste rather than functionality. Naturally this suggestion has been ignored by the aftermarket scene, although for the most part visual tweaks have been rather impressive with the latest kit from Ventross being no exception.

Nissan GT-R-1Nissan GT-R-2Usually specializing in German cars, America tuning firm Vorsteiner has established the Ventross brand specifically for Japanese offerings, following up last year’s Lexus IS-F with the infamous Nissan GT-R. The package comprises a dry carbon front chin spoiler, new front intakes which funnel air onto the brakes as well as adding downforce, a lighter carbon fibre boot lid with spoiler and rear diffuser in the same material.

The new boot lid alone is almost 50 percent lighter than the standard part which it replaces, meaning the Ventross will outperform a factory GT-R with no engine modifications at all.
Also available are three-piece forged aluminium six-spoke wheels in both 19- and 20-inch packages.

© Source: caradvice
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Friday, May 15, 2009

2009 RoushSuperformance Special Edition MkIII-R

(from Roush Press Release) Roush Superformance Special Edition MKIII-R

The Question:
What happens when you take the most sought after 1965 licensed reproduction Cobra replica and shoehorn in an engine built by a company that has more Ford wins than any other manufacture?
The Answer:
You get the Roush/Superformance Special Edition MKIII-R!

2009 RoushSuperformance Special Edition MkIII-R-12009 RoushSuperformance Special Edition MkIII-R-2The Project:
The Roush/Superformance Special Edition MKIII-R was built specifically to tour the country and represent the bread and butter of what Roush Performance Engines and Superformance LLC have to offer. The plan was to build a one off display vehicle, but the project’s high interest quickly changed everyone’s mind and suddenly the car was slated for production. The Special Edition car was introduced to the public at the 2007 SEMA show in Las Vegas Nevada. The MKIII-R showed the public what it has always wanted to see - two industry leaders working together to produce the best of both worlds, a stunning double diamond with the roar of a lion under the hood. A car that is truly pleasing to all of your senses!

Now Available for Purchase:
The Roush components will be available as an upgrade package that will be sold separately from the standard Superformance MKIII roadster. The interior features a set of Roush embroidered leather seats, unique gauges, billet short-throw shifter, Roush embroidered floor mats, dual gauge pod, and a serialized plaque. Customers can choose from a variety of Roush crate motors including the 427 IR V8 that is dyno tested at 576 horsepower and comes with a 2-year/24,000 mile warranty.

© Source: seriouswheels
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Hyundai ix-ionic Concept

Korea’s leading carmaker has shown great concept vehicles over the years, but the Hyundai ix-ionic concept (pronounced ““ik-sonic” and yes, written in lower case letters only) appears to be anything but far-fetched. In fact, it looks everything like the production-ready evolution of the i-mode concept (small letters again) that was unveiled in Geneva only last year.

Hyundai ix-ionic Concept-1Hyundai ix-ionic Concept-2The hexagonal front grille is quite similar but the profile and rear are definitely more realistic. Designed by Hyundai’s studio in Rüsselsheim, Germany, this stylish compact crossover is 4,400 mm long, 1,850 mm wide and stands 1,650 mm off the ground. All measures within a few whiskers of a BMW X3, a likely target and benchmark. The ix-ionic concept also splits the difference between Hyundai’s current Tucson and Sante Fe models in length and width. It is fashionably lower than the former by 8 cm, which is fine for a vehicle described by its makers as an “Urban Nomad”.

The ix-ionic seats five: save for the snazzy blue rear-lighting in the gauges, navi screen and radio display, as well as some bright magnesium accents, the interior is production grade too. Worthy of notice are speakers mounted much higher than usual in the doors for better sound quality. There’s also a ‘blind spot’ warning light in the rear-view mirror. And under the hood is a 1.6-litre, 168-horsepower, direct-injected four-cylinder gasoline engine with ‘stop-start’ mode, coupled to a dual automated clutch, six-speed gearbox and four-wheel-drive. Look for additional muscle if this one makes the trip over.

© Source: autoshow
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2010 Mazda 3 MPS

Featuring an eye-catching, Impreza WRX inspired bonnet scoop, the new generation Mazda 3 MPS will be powered by the same MZR 2.3-DISI Turbo engine as its predecessor. Mazda has chosen to withhold the technical specifications until March but should the final power output remain at 190 kW 380 Nm, rest assured that all this power will be better harnessed than the current generation Mazda 3 MPS.

2010 Mazda 3 MPS-12010 Mazda 3 MPS-2The Mazda3 MPS sport compact pushes Mazda design further and its exciting driving performance perfectly represents Mazda’s Zoom-Zoom spirit. Carrying forward the MZR 2.3 DISI Turbo engine, Mazda3 MPS builds on the popularity and recognition of the previous model. It evolves the driving experience to an entirely new level of quality and pleasure with its emotional design and exhilarating performance.

The all-new Mazda3 Program Manager, Yoshiyuki Maeda, says, “These two models add extra value to an all-new Mazda3 lineup that has already shown strong appeal. The new Mazda3 series takes a significant step ahead in both the realms of driving performance and environmental technology to lead the way toward a new generation of motoring.”

© Source: zcars
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Wednesday, May 13, 2009

2009 Fiat 500 by Diesel

The Fiat 500 by clothing designer Diesel features the following options:

Exterior
Specific alloy wheels with Diesel logo
Yellow painted brake calipers on 1.4 version
Diesel side mouldings
Specific wing mirrors
Mini mouldings and bonnet
Diesel log on the back

2009 Fiat 500 by DieselInterior
Denim seats with specific Diesel design
Diesel logo on gear lever knob.
Diesel logo on yellow special instrumentation
Typical Jeans 5th pocket on the front seats side

Available in Green Diesel, Bronze, and Black.

© Source: seriouswheels
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MotoCzysz range of electric motorcycles

Assuming testing goes off without too much drama, MotoCzysz plans to enter an electric motorcycle in the upcoming TTXGP zero-emissions time trial at the Isle of Man. Motorcycle Daily got the chance to talk to Michal Czysz about the new development, and a few interesting tidbits were gleaned.

MotoCzysz electric motorcycle,According to Czysz, the E1PC came about after an employee asked for permission to borrow the frame from a Yamaha YZF-R1 to create an electric motorcycle to enter in the TTXGP. Apparently, Czysz thought it would be better to design a new bike from the ground up using an advanced carbon fiber frame that's been designed to accept a modular powertrain. This design will reportedly allow for a range of electric motorcycles all based on the same basic underpinnings.

The entry-level electric MotoCzysz machine would cost under $20,000 and use a relatively small motor and battery pack, allowing for around-town riding with short bursts on the highway. A higher-spec model could go for $50,000 or more and would use a much larger battery pack (Czysz suggests it could be as large as the Chevy Volt's 16 kWh unit) enabling it to hit speeds of 150 miles per hour and have additional range.

© Source: autobloggreen
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2009 Hartge BMW Z4

Hartge has released the details of their 2009 BMW Z4 accessories range which includes both exterior and interior parts. The 2009 Hartge BMW Z4 accessories range features the tuner's CLASSIC 2 wheel set and a new set of stainless steel tail pipes.

2009 Hartge BMW Z4-12009 Hartge BMW Z4-2For the interior, the 2009 Hartge BMW Z4 range includes aluminum pedals, foot rest and steering wheel emblem as well as new speedometers with a 300 km/h or 200 MPH maximum speed. We expect the 2009 Hartge BMW Z4 program will include more items in the near future.

© Source: zercustoms
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Audi R8 in Maranello - Video

The residents of Maranello used to the sight of rakish red two-door sheetmetal roaring under the impulse of several hundred horsepower – and they still do. Except when that metal hides a ten-cylinder engine and wears four rings on its hood. In this Audi R8 commercial depicting an R8 V10 on a slow cruise through Ferrari country, the locals are shown to have a decidedly different reaction upon realizing that the German barbarians are no longer content to hang out at the town gates.



© Source: autoblog
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VW Scirocco R20T in Racing Guise at Nurburgring

Spy photographers of the Motortrend just caught Volkswagen's latest hot iteration of the Scirocco roaming the streets surrounding the Nurburgring. We take the sponsor decals to mean that VW is prepping the hot hatch for its reported launch at the ADAC Zurich 24 Hour Race next week.

VW Scirocco R20T-1VW Scirocco R20T-2Note that this VW Scirocco R20T lacks a roll cage, likely relegating its track duties to the parade type. Otherwise, the R20T visual treatment features a more aggressive front end with larger intakes, a new rear spoiler, and an exhaust tip protruding from each end of the rear bumper. The Audi S3-derived, turbo 2.0L under hood should generate somewhere between 270 hp and 300 hp.

Along with this Scirocco, we also expect VW to unveil the Golf R20 at the 24 hour race. Stay tuned, the festivities begin May 21.

© Source: wot.motortrend
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Hyundai iLoad advertisment – Video

The Caradvise has tested Hyundai’s iLoad, along with iMax and couldn’t speak any more highly of the brand’s new venture. That is until we saw the advertisment for the iLoad. I think the advertisment speaks for itself!



© Source: caradvice
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Bentley Supersports Biofuel

Well, whatever they eventually name it, it seems not even ultra-luxury automakers like Bentley are immune to the required eco-sensitivity of our times. And why not? We should all do our part. If Willie Nelson can start a bio-diesel fuel company then, yes, Bentley should have this. At the Geneva auto salon earlier this year Bentley premiered a Continental GT that runs on ethanol and called it the Continental Supersports, for lack of a more appropriate name, apparently.

Bentley Supersports Biofuel -1Bentley Supersports Biofuel -2And the upside is that the E85 version is a better performer, upping the power quotient on the 6.0 liter W12 engine to 630 hp, 20 hp more than the GT Speed and 78 more than the standard Continental GT. 0 to 100 km/h comes in at under 4 seconds (3.9 s). Another marked improvement over the GT and GT Speed, which come in at 4.8 and 4.5 seconds, respectively. There's also a modest jump in top speed - 329 km/h compared to 322 (GT Speed) and 318 km/h (Continental GT).

But the improved performance does not necessarily reflect the power of the E85 (ethanol) fuel. Bentley has put the Continental on a diet to the tune of 110 less kilograms through the use of carbon fiber components. There's also a new Quickshift gearbox that makes changes twice as fast as the previous iteration of the transmission. It also has a wider track at the rear by 50 millimeters.

The spy shots seen here are of the Continental Supersports arriving at the track at Nurburgring for a little exercise. Cosmetic differences to the standard Continental GT are minimal, with a different rear bumper and tailpipes and larger air intakes at the front, which improve cooling to also help increase those performance numbers.

Whoever will be driving this, though, you can bet they won't be whistling On the Road Again. Willie, you interested?

© Source: worldcarfans
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GTA Spano - Full Throttle Teaser

We are blessed to be the first media organisation in the world to drive the new Spanish supercar, the GTA Spano. Any footage of the car in motion is under embargo until September, however, here is a preview.



© Source: caradvice
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2009 Kicherer Mercedes-Benz SL 63 RS

(from Kicherer Press Release) Even after its facelift Mercedes Tuner Kicherer saw sufficient hidden, sports potential in the Mercedes SL 63 AMG which it then brought to the fore in the Kicherer SL 63 RS. Kicherer transforms the Mercedes SL 63 AMG into the SL 63 RS.

2009 Kicherer Mercedes-Benz SL 63 RS-12009 Kicherer Mercedes-Benz SL 63 RS-2Whilst the 6.2 litre large V8 engine in the standard modell produces 525 Ps and 630 Nm with fine tuning Kicherer have teased 560 PS and 670 Nm out of the high performance machine.

So the customer can experience this extra performance Kicherer are simultaneously offering a Vmax-upgrade, which disables the electronic brakes at speeds of 250 km/h. To counter this the ABC-suspension has been electronically adapted to meet the increased demands and equipped with more sporty lines. Kicherer has also improved the brakes.

The Kicherer SL 63 RS is of course allowed to display it potential. And for this the tuner has applied an extensive exterior package of laminated carbon fibre. To visually improve the two-seater a new front spoiler, LED daylight driving lights, headlight blenders, a new front grill, a bumper on the front wings along with special mirror covers and a completely new shaped rear diffuser have been added. This latter also frames a sports exhaust system with four exhaust outlets.

Downforce system is the name given by Kicherer to the boot lid with integrated spoiler that is also made of laminated carbon fibre and which should clearly increase the downwards pressure on the rear axle.The transformation of the Mercedes SL 63 AMG is rounded off with 20 inch large light metal wheels, which at the front have 255/30 tyres and at the rear are fitted with 305/25 tyres.Carbon fibre is also the material from which Kicherer has made the new decorative parts in the interior. The tuner has also added a new sports steering wheel to the package.

© Source: seriouswheels
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