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Race-Prepped Honda Mugen CR-Z RR Concept Ready for Track Action

2011-07-07T04:38:00.000-07:00

The almost production ready Honda Mugen CR-Z Concept wasn’t the only product from the Japanese automaker’s in-house tuning company to debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.
Along with the street-legal CR-Z Concept Mugen also brought along a competition version bearing the ‘RR’ moniker. The conceptual Mugen CR-Z RR sports a more dynamic aero package comprising of bespoke parts such as the wider front and rear bumpers with air-vents, side skirts, a rear diffuser and larger rear wing.
The prototype rides on lightweight 18-inch alloy rims shot in specially developed tires.
The Japanese company remains mum about the Mugen CR-Z RR Concept’s mechanical and electrical hardware, bit for the record, the road-legal Mugen CR-Z is fitted with a modified version of the standard model’s powertrain, which comprises of a 1.5-liter gasoline engine and an IMA electric motor, developing 200 ponies.

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Ford Asks: What Should the Focus EV Sound Like

2011-07-07T04:33:00.000-07:00

So the all-electric Ford Focus EV is landing stateside in late 2011 to snub its nose at the likes of the Nissan LEAF and Mitsubishi i MiEV with its utterly conventional name that’s not even an acronym.
Now Ford is asking its most important shareholders (the general public) what the Focus EV should sound like, as there are members of the world community that think silent cars are a danger to the blind and the deaf.
Of course, those same persons probably think video games lead to criminal activity, alcohol to spousal abuse and atheism to the downfall of western civilisation, but that’s neither here nor there.
There are four choices which Ford has unimaginatively labeled A, B, C and D. I will label them Laser Eye Surgery, Vacuuming, Meet George Jetson and Thunderbirds Are Go.
You can listen to all four sounds on YouTube and then comment on your favourite on Facebook (alas, you must “like” Ford Electric Vehicles first). Alternatively, you could just listen to them here and rag on them anonymously in our comments section! It’s the Social Media Way™.

VIDEOS

Only for Europe: New Ford Fiesta Sport Special Edition

2011-07-07T04:31:00.000-07:00

Building on the success of the European market Fiesta Sport + (called the 1600S in the UK and Sport S in Germany) that was launched this past February, Ford has unleashed a new Sport Special Edition that includes further enhancements inside and out.
The latest sporty Fiesta is available with two engine options, the most potent of which is the 1.6-liter Duratec Ti-VCT petrol unit delivering 134-horses and 160Nm torque at 4,250rpm.
Combined with a close-ratio gearing and a redeveloped exhaust system, the Fiesta Sport Special Edition with the petrol engine completes the 0-100km/h (0-62mph) acceleration in 8.7 seconds and has a top speed of 195km/h (122mph).
The other option is a less powerful but more frugal 1.6-liter turbo diesel producing 95-horses that returns 107g of CO2 and a combined fuel economy of 4.1lt/100km (57.4mpg US or 68.9 mpg UK).
The Sport Special edition is available exclusively as a three door model with buyers having a choice of seven exterior colors including a flat black finish.
A styling kit complete with lowered side skirts and spoilers for the front bumper and rear hatch as well as silver-colored front grille surround, aerofoil, fog lamp bezels and polished twin exhausts come as standard.
The exterior upgrades also include Panther Black 17-inch alloy wheels on the petrol model and 16-inch on the diesel, while silver alloy wheels are also available as an option.
Inside, the sporty Fiesta features Ebony Black heated leather sports seats with silver stitching and an identically upholstered steering wheel with gloss black spokes.
Standard features include air conditioning with automatic temperature control as well as a leather handbrake and gear knob, alloy metal pedals, gloss black instrument bezels, bespoke floor mats and silver scuff plates.
The Fiesta Sport Special Edition is available in most markets across the continent, including the UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Belgium, Netherlands and Switzerland.

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BMW 357Ci: E46 Coupe gets Pontiac GTO 5.7-liter LS1 V8

2011-07-07T04:25:00.000-07:00

Two observations: one, there’s nothing cooler than a LS1-engined BMW that is externally indistinguishable from its bread-and-butter cousins and two, the Apple iPhone is probably the worst thing for filming a movie ever. A little less of number two and a little more number one, if you please.
This BMW E46 3-Series coupe, or as its UK owner has appropriately named it, the 357Ci, started its life as a 2001 325Ci with an M Sport Package.
In the hands of its current owner, it received the same 5.7-liter LS1 V8 engine as the rather forlorn looking Porsche 911 we wrote about last week, making this the second American-powered German automobile we’ve featured in as many days.
The engine was sourced from a fourth generation Pontiac GTO (aka the Holden Monaro) complete with a six-speed manual gearbox. The tune also included the installation of the rear suspension and LSD from an M3 as well as upgraded brakes on all four corners.
Funnily enough, this doesn’t appear to be the first E46-to-LS1 conversion that’s been attempted either, as a quick search on Google will prove. There are at least three completed cars and two that are still in the shop having the conversion done. Who knew?
You can check out the pictures and videos of this particular project car having its engine revved, all captured in awkward iPhoney goodness. At least the sound quality is better than the picture. Oh, and don’t forget to leave a comment below.

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Fiat Rumored to Bring Bravo Successor to the U.S. Market

2011-07-05T06:26:00.000-07:00

The launch of the Fiat 500 in the U.S. market has whetted the Italian company’s appetite, as according to reports, Fiat is now considering the addition of a second model to its North-American range, the successor to the Bravo. As we wrote last month, the next-generation Bravo will take the shape of a small crossover with Fiat looking to emulate the success of Nissan's Qashqai. The 500's early sales figures have exceeded the firm’s expectations despite initial concerns about relaunching the Fiat brand in the U.S. with such a small car. The partially open-top 500C was added to the range recently, with more powerful Abarth versions to follow in the very near future.
According to Laura Soave, head of Fiat brand North America, the company is now planning a larger model but it will make sure not to compete with Chrysler models.
“Fiat will be the small car brand. It will never have anything larger than a C-segment,” Soave told UK’s Autocar magazine. In other words, Fiat won't sell cars bigger than the Bravo, so it's safe to say that the larger car will be the replacement for Fiat's current C-segment model. One thing is for sure: the future model “will not be a traditional offering,” as pointed out by Fiat Group boss Sergio Marchionne who also promised a radical approach for the car.
Soave added that the Alfa Romeo brand will return to the U.S. (again…) with the 4C sports car, as the Giulia's launch has been delayed because Marchionne rejected the car's styling.

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VW Fields a Trio of 450-hp Golfs for the Nurburgring 24h Race

2011-07-05T06:23:00.000-07:00

Volkswagen will participate with three 450-hp Golf24 cars in one of the most grueling endurance races in the world, the famed 24 hours of Nurburgring that will take place this weekend at the renowned German circuit.
The event, in which more than 200 contenders will participate, coincides with the 35fth anniversary of the Golf GTI (of which VW has created a special edition), and Volkswagen Motosport has developed a pure racing version.
The Golf24 is powered by a turbocharged 5-cylinder 2.5-litre engine sourced from the Audi TTRS and RS3 models and features four-wheel drive and a sequential 6-speed gearbox. However, the three uber-Golfs won’t be the only VW entries in the race, as the company will also field two Scirocco 24 CNGs.
Interestingly, one of the two 330-hp bio-gas powered Sciroccos will be driven by the winners of the Dakar race for the past three years, namely Nasser Al-Attiya, Carlos Sainz and Giniel de Villiers.

The Volkswagen driver line-up for the 2011 Nürburgring 24-hour race:
#35 – Golf24 – white / red
Peter Terting (D) / Nicki Thiim (DK) / Franck Mailleux (F) / René Rast (D)
#135 – Golf24 – white / blue
Thomas Mutsch (D) / Fredrik Ekblom (S) / Patrick Simon (D) / Edoardo Mortara (I)
#235 – Golf24 – white / yellow
Johnny Herbert (GB) / Patrick Bernhardt(D) / Mark Blundell (GB) / René Rast (D)
#116 – Scirocco GT24-CNG – blue / silver
Dr Ulrich Hackenberg (D) / Vanina Ickx (B) / Peter Wyss (CH) / Bernd Ostmann (D)
#117 – Scirocco GT24-CNG – blue / orange
Nasser Al-Attiyah (Q) / Carlos Sainz (E) / Giniel de Villiers (ZA) / Klaus Niedzwiedz (D)

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Porsche 911 GT3 ‘Snowmobile’ Dressed up by Magnat

2011-07-05T06:19:00.000-07:00

Tuners are leaving no stones unturned to impress buyers willing to dig deep into their pockets. Even the almighty Porsche 911 GT3 can’t escape from their meddling hands. This here creation is named ‘Snowmobile’ for the choice of colors for the exterior and interior, and is the creative work of German audio-specialist Magnat.
The 911 GT3’s white finish is contrasted by the matte black trim and patterned stripes running on the right hand-side over the top as well as the car’s profile. A set of Ultraleggera HLT CT by OZ 19-inch alloy wheels in a matching black color shod in Yokohama Advan Sport tries size 235/35-19 at the front and 305/30-19 at the rear completes the look.
Moving on to the interior, Magnat re-upholstered the 911 GT3’s cabin using a mix of black Alcantara and leather materials with white colored stitching and trim accents. The highlight is of course Magnat’s own audio system that provides 2,100 watts of sound power.
Speaking about power, the tuned 911 GT3 also features an ECU upgrade along with a racing exhaust system from Wimmer that help push output to 462HP and 451Nm of peak torque for a top speed of 317km/h (197mph).

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Exclusive: BMW X1 will come to the U.S. with a 240-hp 4-banger turbo

2011-07-05T06:05:00.000-07:00

BMW is slowly starting to offer its new 2.0 liter TwinPower turbocharged inline 4-cylinder unit around the world. In the United State, the first model to get the 240-hp 4-banger will be the 2012 BMW Z4 sDrive28i – as we saw at the 2011 New York Auto Show earlier this year.
Earlier this year, BMW unveiled the 2011 BMW X1 xDrive28i, which was the first model to get the new 2.0L 4-cylinder TwinPower Turbo. Well, BMW has just confirmed with egmCarTech that when the BMW X1 heads over to the stateside late next year, the base model will be the xDrive28i.

Performance wise, the X1 xDrive28i isn’t that bad, When mated to a 6-speed manual, the 4-cylinder turbo X1 will run from 0 to 62 mph in 6.1 seconds (6.5 with a 6-speed automatic).

91 foot high Jaguar E-Type sculpture unveiled at Goodwood Festival of Speed

2011-07-05T06:02:00.000-07:00

At the 2011 Goodwood Festival of Speed, Jaguar is celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Jaguar E-Type with a 91 foot, 150 ton, E-Type statue made out of steel tubes. 150 tons huh? Yes, that means it weighs the same as 122 Series 1 E-types.
The sculpture took 10 days to install by a firm specialising in bridge building.
“Echoing the curved fuselage of the car itself, the sculpture has been created using half a kilometer of painted steel tubes 1,200mm in diameter,” Jaguar said in a statement. “Originally intended for use in gas pipelines, these are constructed from 12mm thick steel and machined to very high tolerances. Much of the metal was donated by Tata Steel, a subsidiary of Jaguar’s parent company.”
“Jaguar has always been proud of its heritage and we feel particularly honoured to have been asked to provide the Goodwood sculpture for a second time,” Geoff Cousins, Managing Director, Jaguar UK said. “The E-type captures the essential beauty, drama and passion of every Jaguar – engineering and design DNA that is equally apparent in the current range.”

2011 Toyota Prius PLUS Performance Package adds some ‘sportiness’ to the hybrid

2011-07-05T06:00:00.000-07:00

Stop laughing at the Toyota Prius for not being sporty. The best-selling hybrid in the United States will now be offered with a new sporty accessory package for the 2011 model year known as the Prius PLUS Performance Package, which features components of the new PLUS hybrid performance line from Toyota Racing Development (TRD).
The Toyota Prius PLUS Performance Package “enhances the driving experience for Toyota hybrid enthusiasts by offering cool and fun accessories that add sporty looks with performance handling,” Toyota says. “It features several Toyota accessories that complement the Prius’ core values of Eco and Advanced Technology. PLUS is an evolution of hybrid design, where fuel-efficiency co-exists with aggressive styling and performance handling.”

The package is only available in limited quantities and comes in four colors including Blizzard Pearl, Classic Silver Metallic, Black and Winter Gray Metallic. Toyota said that it adds some fun to driving the hybrid while maintaining its industry-leading fuel efficiency. There are track-tuned lowering springs that lower the Prius 1.1 inches in the front and 1.3 inches in the rear. A tuned rear sway bar is also added.
Visually, the Toyota Prius PLUS Performance Package gets a 7-piece aerodynamic ground effects kit including front and rear bumper spoilers, side skirts and a new rear diffuser. It also gets race-inspired 17-inch forged alloy wheels wrapped in low profile 215/45R17 tires .
Prices for the Toyota Prius PLUS Performance Package start at $3,699 for the Prius Two, Three, and Four models and $2,999 for the Prius Five.

2011 Toyota PLUS Performance Package:

Passenger cars hit highest share of Chevrolet sales since 1991

2011-07-05T05:55:00.000-07:00

General Motors announced today that Chevrolet’s total sales are expected to increase by 15 percent during the first half of 2012 fueled by… no not big SUVs and pickups – but by passenger cars, which are approaching their highest percentage of Chevrolet sales in two decades
Chevrolet car sales are expected to increase 23 percent for the first 6 months of 2011, when June sales are reported. Trucks, utilities, and crossovers are expected to be up 9 percent over the first half of 2010.
“Chevrolet has always been known for building great trucks,” said Alan Batey, U.S. vice president, Chevrolet Sales and Service. “Today, we are in the middle of transforming the brand with a strong lineup of cars that match the appeal of our trucks and crossovers.

“That transformation is clearly bringing new customers to the brand – as passenger cars and four-cylinder engines are driving Chevrolet’s growth this year,” Batey said. “We expect that momentum to accelerate as Chevrolet introduces three new cars over the next two years – the Sonic, Spark, and next-generation Malibu.”
Chevrolet said that most of its growth for 2011 can be credited to the the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze and the current Malibu sedan. Both cars were among the top 10 best-selling vehicles in the industry in May, when the Cruze was also the best-selling compact car in the United States.

Report: Shelby to bring back rent-a-racer Mustangs with Hertz

2011-07-05T05:53:00.000-07:00

You may soon be able to get off an airplane and rent a Shelby at a Hertz location at an airport. Shelby American is considering bringing back its ‘rent-a-racer’ program that offers high-performance Ford Mustang GTs for the enthusiast consumers.
The move is likely to be made near Shelby’s 50th anniversary and could launch as early as next spring The Shelby cars would be offered in two traditional configurations: black and gold and white and gold.
Shelby hasn’t really finalized the program and is currently gauging interest (we’re pretty sure there is an interest).

Hertz has been Shelby’s historic partner for the rent-a-racer program. In 1966, Shelby teamed up with Hertz to offer 1,000 units of the high-performance Mustangs. 40 years later, the program came back with the GT-H.

Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn made $11.46 million in 2010

2011-07-05T05:51:00.000-07:00

Being a CEO of an automaker is quite a lucrative position. FoMoCo’s CEO Alan Mulally definitely understands that first-hand as his total compensation for 2010 came in at an eye-wattering $26.5 million.
Nissan’s CEO Carlos Ghosn, 57, received 982 million yen or $11.46 million in total compensation last fiscal year, including salary and stock options.
Ghosn got a 10 percent increase in the year ending March, is the highest-paid leader among Japanese companies that have disclosed executive compensation, according to Bloomberg. Ghosn was followed by Sony Corp. Chairman Howard Stringer, who made about 863 million yen in salary, bonus and stock options.

Keep in mind that Ghosn’s pay at Nissan doesn’t include the compensation he gets as Renault’s CEO. Ghosn separately collected $1.7 million at Renault in 2010.

Mazda receives 6,000 orders for Demio in Japan before it even goes on sale

2011-07-05T05:46:00.000-07:00

Mazda has started selling the new Mazda2 in Japan, where it is know as the Demio. The Mazda Demio is the first model to get the company’s new fuel-saving SKYACTIV engine and transmission technologies.
Mazda said that since June 9 the company has received around 6,500 orders for the car before the start of sales, equivalent to 108 percent of the monthly sales target of 6,000 vehicles.
The Mazda Demio starts at 1.15 million yen in Japan or $14,240 in USD.

The Japanese automaker plans to improve fuel-economy of its cars by 30 percent by 2015 compared to 2008 levels. It has pans to introduce hybrids, plug-in hybrids and all-electric cars.

1994 Ferrari 348 Spyder with just 2,300 Miles and a…$100,000 Paint Job

2011-07-05T05:16:00.000-07:00

An imaginary pod of dolphins pictured swimming in a sky of stars may look cool on a pinball machine but on an Italian exotic like the 1994 Ferrari 348 Spyder it’s more like decorating a classical sculpture with graffiti… And if that ain’t enough to make you flip your lid, learn that the Austin, Texas dealer selling this cars claims that the paintjob, which is the work of the “world famous Hawaiian artist Christian Lassen” cost –get ready for this- $100,000!
Fortunately, the seller doesn’t take into consideration the cost of the painting with the 348 Spyder priced just under $60,000. According to Loneoakmotors, the Italian sports car has traveled only 2,300 miles (3,700 kilometers) in the past 17 years having spent most of its time at the artist’s showroom in Caesars Palace in Las Vegas.

Dealer: Loneoakmotors , Additional Photos: Real Deal , Via: GT Spirit

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Anderson Germany Turns Ferrari F430 Spider into Scuderia Spider 16M

2011-07-05T05:13:00.000-07:00

A new alternative tuning proposal for owners of the Ferrari F430 Spyder has been released by Anderson Germany. The design house has created a package that brings the brings the regular version closer to the flagship edition of the series, the F430 Spider Scuderia 16M.
The transformation begins on the outside with a new aero kit comprising of a front air dam, side skirts and a rear apron. Anderson Germany then finishes the car in a new color called Hyper Black and adds pin stripes in the form of carbon fiber accents with a yellow border.
The smoked headlamps and tail lights along with the new tail pipes and a set of three-piece, 20-inch glossy black alloy wheels with carbon and yellow border shod in 235 tires at the front and 325 at the rear axle complete the look.
The two-tone color theme continues inside with a mix of carbon black leather and Alcantara, contrasted by yellow piping. Anderson Germany also adds a carbon-fiber trim package with decorative pieces for the steering wheel, door handles, doorsill plates, handbrake lever and shift paddles.
The tune continues with the performance upgrades that include an ECU optimization and a custom sports exhaust system that help boost output from 490-horses to 569HP. The company also fiddled around with the suspension adding a three-level remote adjustable racing damper control.

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Chevrolet Announces UK Prices for the Camaro, Starts from £34,995 (US$56,040)

2011-07-05T05:06:00.000-07:00

The Camaro is the centerpiece of Chevrolet’s display at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, which begun today. And the company thought it was the perfect opportunity to announce the pricing of its UK-bound muscle car that will be available in early 2012. The Camaro with the V8 engine starts from £34,995 (US$56,040) in coupe trim and from £39,995 (US$64,060) for the convertible, both with a manual transmission. If you want an automatic gearbox, you’ll have to add another £1,500 (US$2,400). In the U.S., the V8 model starts from US$31,070, which is equal to £19,400.
Available only in left-hand drive, the Camaro is powered by a 6.2-litre V8 which is rated in Europe at 432-horses, while Chevrolet claims that the suspension has been specifically tuned for European roads.
The UK-specification Camaro boasts a comprehensive standard equipment list that includes Brembo brakes, 20-inch alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, full leather upholstery, a Boston Acoustics 9-speaker audio system and Bluetooth connectivity.
And then there’s, of course, the options list with things like a choice of premium bodywork colors, bonnet stripes, interior trim, a sunroof and polished alloy wheels.

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New Transformers Movie Spawns 2012 Chevy Camaro Special Edition

2011-07-05T05:04:00.000-07:00

General Motors is trying to squeeze every ounce of publicity out its association with the makers of the third Transformers movie, called Dark of the Moon, which opens exclusively in 3D Tuesday and worldwide Wednesday. Aside from having an army of cars featured in the film, the Detroit automaker is also launching yet another limited edition Camaro model based on the Autobot “Bumblebee” character.
The 2012 Camaro Transformers Special Edition will be offered as a $3,000 package on 2LT and 2SS Camaro Coupes with Rally Yellow paint. Along with the content provided in the RS package, the Transformers edition adds bespoke black rally stripes that cover the hood, roof, decklid and the unique rear spoiler.
A set of 20-inch alloy wheels finished in black and wrapped in high-performance summer tires along with some cheesy Autobot Shield logos on the center caps and front quarter panels, complete the exterior changes.
As an option, GM will offer 21-inch, black-painted wheels and a black ground-effects package.
Inside, the Transformers edition Camaro’s interior is trimmed in black leather with yellow stitching on the instrument panel, center console, armrests and seats, while Autobot Shield logos are embroidered on the front headrests, as well as the center console lid.
GM believes the linkage with Transformers has helped boost sales and build the Camaro brand, especially with young buyers.
“The Transformers franchise has helped introduce Camaro – and Chevrolet – to a whole new generation of fans,” said Rick Scheidt, vice president of Chevrolet marketing. “Its role in the films helped make the Camaro the best-selling sports car in America, and one of the best-known cars of any kind around the world.”
GM will open the order books on the 2012 Transformers Special Edition Camaro in July, with vehicles arriving at U.S. and Canadian showrooms in September.

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2012 Chevrolet Sonic Priced from $14,495 as a Sedan, $15,395 as a Hatchback

2011-07-05T05:02:00.000-07:00

GM has just released pricing information on its North American replacement for the Chevrolet Aveo, the new Sonic. When the subcompact model goes on sale in the U.S. this fall, it will be available in four-door sedan and five-door hatchback body styles with prices including destination to start from US$14,495 and US$15,395 (€10,290 - €10,930) respectively.
There are three trim levels, LS, LT and LTZ. The base models are offered with a naturally aspirated 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 135HP, coupled to a standard five-speed manual or an optional six-speed automatic transmission priced at $1,070.
For an additional $700, buyers of the Sonic LT and LTZ can opt for the 1.4-liter turbocharged Ecotec engine with 138HP that’s expected to return 40 mpg on the highway.
Standard features across the range include 10 air bags, electronic stability control with rollover sensing, traction control, anti-lock brakes, alloy wheels, OnStar with navigation, air conditioning, power door locks with remote keyless entry and tilt/telescoping steering wheel.
For more details on the LS and LT (GM did not release any information on the top-end LTZ), check out the list below.
Production of the new Chevy Sonic will begin this fall at GM’s Orion Assembly Center in Michigan.

Sonic LS starting at $14,495 sedan, $15,395 hatchback, including:
Standard 1.8L Ecotec engine and five-speed manual transmission
Class-exclusive standard 15-inch alloy wheels
The most standard safety features in the segment, with 10 air bags, StabiliTrak electronic stability control with rollover sensing, traction control, anti-lock brakes, collapsible pedal system and power rear-door child safety locks
Standard OnStar, with a six-month subscription including Turn-by-Turn navigation
Standard convenience features, including air conditioning, power door locks with remote keyless entry and tilt/telescoping steering wheel
Sonic LT starting at $15,695 sedan, $16,495 hatchback, including:
Six-speaker premium sound system with CD player, XM Radio with three-month trial subscription
Power windows with driver's express up/down
Power, heated side mirrors
Connectivity package with a USB port, Bluetooth for select phones and music, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls
Heated front seats
Cruise control
Fog lamps
Standard 17-inch alloy wheels
Major available upgrades on Sonic include:
Six-speed automatic transmission (with 1.8L engine) - $1,070
1.4L Turbo with six-speed manual transmission (available on LT and LTZ) - $700

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New Chevrolet Colorado Roughens Up with Double-Cab Rally Concept

2011-07-05T05:00:00.000-07:00

The Buenos Aires Motorshow is proving to be an important event for GM as after the debut of the Chevrolet Cobalt Concept, the Detroit automaker released the first details on its second design study, the Colorado Rally Concept.
We first saw the Colorado as single-cab concept truck at the Bangkok International Auto Show earlier this year.
The Argentine study is a double-cab racing version of that concept fitted with a bevy of off-road accessories and components such as the front and rear bumper hooks and tow winches, an adjustable suspension that allows the driver to increase the ride height by 5 inches and special acrylic windows.
The Colorado Rally Concept is powered by a 2.8-liter turbo diesel engine coupled to an all-wheel drive system and rides on massive 18-inch machined aluminum wheels shod in 305/60 R18 tires.
The production version of the all-new Colorado in both single- and double-cab formats is slated to debut later this year.

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GM Unveils New Chevrolet Cobalt Sedan Concept at Buenos Aires

2011-07-05T04:58:00.000-07:00

Here in the good ‘ol US of A, General Motors replaced the Chevrolet Cobalt compact car with the new Cruze sedan. In South America, however, it’s another story as the Detroit brand has given birth to a new Chevy Cobalt that is being revealed in pre-production form at this week’s Buenos Aires Motor Show (June 17 to 26) in Argentina. Developed by General Motors Technical Center in South America, the four-door sedan Cobalt Concept is slated to enter production within the next year. GM’s press blurb doesn’t mention anything about the Cobalt’s underpinnings, but judging from the size of the car, it appears to be based on the Chevy Sonic (Aveo in Europe) saloon.
GM said that the Cobalt will be sold globally offering buyers a choice of four cylinder engines ranging in displacement from 1.3 to 1.8 liters, with automatic and manual transmissions, running on ethanol (flex fuel), gasoline or diesel.
The specific concept model is equipped with an aero kit comprising of front and rear aprons, side skirts and a discreet boot lid spoiler, plus 17-inch alloy wheels in 255/45 R17 rubber and twin exhaust outlets.
The interior has also been upgraded with plush two-tone leather seats, chrome trim, twin sunroof and even an infotainment system with LCD screens integrated into the front headrests.

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Chevrolet Improves 2012 Cruze’s Fuel Economy by 2MPG and Adds New Standard Features

2011-07-05T04:56:00.000-07:00

General Motors is releasing a model year update for its Cruze compact sedan. There are no styling changes as the company focused its attention on improving the car’s fuel economy and equipment features. Thanks to a lower axle ratio for the 2012 models equipped with a six speed automatic transmission, the standard Cruze with the 138HP 1.4-liter turbocharged engine returns 38 mpg compared with 36 mpg for the current model, while the Cruze Eco with the same powetrain setup delivers 39 mpg instead of 37 mpg.
The Cruze Eco with the standard six-speed manual gearbox remains unchanged for 2012 returning 42 mpg on the highway.
Other than that, GM has enhanced the standard features across the range with the addition of Bluetooth phone connectivity, USB port, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, cruise control, leather-wrapped steering wheel and a leather-wrapped shift knob. These features were part of the $525 Connectivity Plus Cruise option package on 2011 models. According to the Detroit automaker, the option was ordered by 90 percent of American customers.
“Chevrolet is committed to responding to what customers want and making it easier for them,” said Rick Scheidt, vice president of Chevrolet marketing. “Adding these previously optional features streamlines the ordering process and answers the call of what our customers told us should be standard.”

Additional standard equipment on the 2012 Cruze includes:
Remote keyless entry
Air conditioning
Audio system with AM/FM/CD and MP3 playback
SiriusXM Satellite Radio with three-month trial service
Driver information center with average and instant fuel economy feedback, tire pressure readout, oil life remaining and more
Rear defogger
Power windows
Fuel-saving rack mounted electric power steering.
New equipment on the 2012 Cruze includes:
Keyless entry and keyless start available on 2LT and standard on LTZ
Touch screen navigation system with 7” color display available on Eco, 2LT and LTZ
16-inch five-spoke machined-face alloy wheels are standard on 1LT
17-inch five-spoke alloy wheels with four-wheel disc brakes are standard on 2LT
Compact spare tire and wheel standard on all models except Eco with manual transmission and 1FL (fleet)
Fog lamps are standard on LTZ
Exterior colors: Blue Granite Metallic, Blue Topaz Metallic and Victory Red (with RS appearance package only)
Cruze’s standard safety features include:
Ten standard air bags – the most in the segment – including frontal, head curtain side air bags, front and outboard rear-seat side-impact air bags and knee air bags
StabiliTrak electronic stability control with rollover sensing, traction control and anti-lock brakes
Collapsible pedal system, which allows the pedals to detach during a crash to reduce the risk of leg or ankle injuries
OnStar with Automatic Crash Response.

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Chevrolet Prices New Cruze 5d Hatchback from £13,995 in the UK

2011-07-05T04:55:00.000-07:00

The new Cruze hatchback will arrive in Chevrolet’s UK dealerships next month with on-the-road prices starting from £13,995 (US$23,000), the automaker announced today. Customers can choose from three engines including two petrol units, a 124HP 1.6-liter and a 141HP 1.8-liter, and a 2.0-liter turbo diesel delivering 163-horsepower. All engines can be coupled to either a manual gearbox or an automatic transmission. There are three available trim levels – LS, LT and LTZ. The base LS model comes fitted with air conditioning, remote locking, electric-front windows, follow-me-home headlights, electrically-adjustable heated door mirrors and a quality radio/CD player with auxiliary input as standard.
Moving up to the LT trim gets you cruise control, electric windows all round, a multi-function trip computer, parking distance sensors, 16-inch alloy wheels, front fog lamps, steering wheel audio controls and a leather steering wheel and gearknob.
Sitting at the top of the range is the LTZ model that gains including Bluetooth, a USB port, rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlights, an electro-chromatic rear view mirror, 17-inch alloys and aluminium-effect trim on the instrument panel.
Buyers of the LTZ spec Cruze HB5 Diesel can also opt for the Executive Pack, which gets leather trim as standard, along with satellite navigation and heated front seats.

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Bugatti’s One-of-a-Kind “L’Or Blanc” Veyron Grand Sport Special with...Porcelain Fittings

2011-07-05T04:51:00.000-07:00

Say hello to the world’s first car to wear fine porcelain on its body as well as in its cabin, the one-off Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport 'L'Or Blanc'. Admittedly, applying porcelain fittings on one of the fastest and most powerful production sports cars ever made doesn’t seem like a sound move, but when it comes to Bugatti, anything goes. Created in partnership with Konigliche Porzellan-Manufaktur (KPM), the 'L'Or Blanc' was unveiled on Thursday at the porcelain manufacturer’s workshop in Berlin, German.
“At first, it seems to be an unusual idea to use porcelain in a car, especially in the world’s fastest convertible,” comments Dr. Stefan Brungs, Director of Sales and Marketing at Bugatti Automobiles. “But this is what Bugatti stands for: the realization of exceptional ideas whilst striving for the utmost in quality and aesthetics. This allows us to continue Ettore Bugatti’s heritage, who himself loved to experiment with new materials,” Brungs added.
Porcelain is used for the inlays of the centre wheel badges, the fuel filler, cap and the oil filler cap as well as the signature “EB” badge at the rear. Along with the delicate decorations, the 'L'Or Blanc' also gained an impressive paint job that mixes a dark blue hue with a white color in a way that it represents the reflections of light on the convertible Veyron’s body.
The white and blue color theme is continued inside with porcelain making its appearance on either side of the centre console, the rear panel between the seats, and somewhat unfittingly for a Veyron, there’s also a removable porcelain dish with edges finished in diamond polishing that belongs to a picnic set that was designed by KPM exclusively for Bugatti.
And the price for all this, we hear some of you ask? A mere…€1.65 million which is roughly equal to US$2.4 million.

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Two for the Price of One: Amadou Ndiaye’s Bugatti Atless Concept

2011-07-05T04:49:00.000-07:00

Two cars that helped establish Bugatti’s reputation as a world-class automaker during the difficult interwar period were the Type 35 and Type 57 Atlantic. Stunningly beautiful, intricately built and incredibly powerful, these two cars summed up all that Bugatti was and wanted to be.
Now, Canadian industrial designer Amadou Ndiaye has taken these two classic automobiles and melded them into one with his Bugatti Atless design study.
Essentially two cars in one, the Atless comes in two flavours: grand touring and race. In grand touring mode, one set of lightweight body panels are fitted over the chassis, engine, transmission and interior making a comfortable, enclosed two-seat GT car.
In race mode however the sublime bonnet, roof, glasshouse and rear quarter panels are ditched for a stripped down shell turning the Atless into a lightweight, open-air speedster.
It’s an innovative concept, and you can check out our full gallery of pictures as well as leave a comment below.

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Last Bugatti Veyron Sold – But There’s Still the Cabrio…

2011-07-05T04:47:00.001-07:00

Millionaires (or, rather, billionaires) around the world have just seen their list of “cars to buy” shrink by one model, as Bugatti announced the sale of the final Veyron 16.4, thus ending the astonishing hypercar’s production. The lucky buyer who scooped up the last Veyron is an unnamed “European customer” who, nevertheless, will have to wait until next fall for his $1.7 million supercar to be delivered.
The Veyron was built, over its seven-year production run, in just 300 examples, among them various limited editions (Hermes or Pur Sang, anyone?). Regardless of taste, the Veyron redefined the term “performance” even amongst the most capable of supercars.
It accelerated from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in just 2.3 seconds and its top speed exceeded 400 km/h (250 mph) - courtesy of the 8.0-litre W16 engine with no less than four turbochargers which directed 1.001-horses to all four wheels through a 7-speed dual clutch gearbox. And then there was of course the Super Sport, with its 1,200 hp and 415 km/h (258 mph)…
If it’s any consolation, the open-top Veyron Grand Sport is still on sale, costing just $285,000 more than the coupe –no big deal if you can afford to pay $20,000 for its annual service or $35,000 for a set of Michelin tires every 10,000 miles (16,000 km).
So, if you can write a cheque just short of $2 million ($1.99 million to be exact), your friendly Bugatti dealer will be more than happy to oblige.

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Bugatti Shows Off Two Bespoke Veyrons at Auto Shanghai 2011

2011-07-05T04:46:00.000-07:00

Being one of the world’s most exclusive and expensive supercars, it’s not surprising that Bugatti offers Veyron buyers the chance to customize the 1,001HP-strong model to their exact specifications. To demonstrate the endless customization possibilities to its Asian clientele, Bugatti displayed a pair of special Veyrons at this week’s Auto Shanghai 2011. First up is a bespoke version of the Veyron 16.4 Super Sport, which made its Asian debut at the show. The 1,200HP Super Sport presented in Shanghai wears black carbon-fiber bodywork with details such as the logos, alloy wheels, fuel filler cap and rear lid, finished in polished and anodized aluminum. Inside, the supercar is draped in two-tone “Snow Beige” and “Beluga Black” leathers and heaps of carbon-fiber trim. Bugatti said the specific Super Sport has already been sold to a customer in China.
The second model at Bugatti’s stand is a special edition of the Grand Sport made specifically for the Auto Shanghai 2011. The car’s bodywork is finished in a matte white with the same tone found on the roof’s prominent air intakes. In contrast, the vehicle‘s lower carbon fiber parts and alloy wheels are painted in a blue hue. The same color is found inside set off by white stitching on seats, steering wheel and gear lever and an aluminum console.
“This Grand Sport is an example of the versatile possibilities customers have when designing their unique Grand Sport in co-operation with the Bugatti team”, explained the President of Bugatti Wolfgang Dürheimer at the Auto Shanghai. “We will continue to expand the design possibilities for the Bugatti brand,” he added.

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Halo Intersceptor Design Study is a Bugatti-like Flying / Swimming Car for Billionaires

2011-07-05T04:42:00.000-07:00

I wasn't aware of this, but apparently billionaires absolutely despise leaving their cars to board other modes of transportation. You can just imagine Donald Trump sighing heavily in the back of his Maybach, "Do I really have to open the door and climb up those five little steps to board my Gulfstream V?"
No doubt feeling deeply for these disheartened millionaires, U.K. concept designer Philip Pauley has come up with the Halo Intersceptor [sic], a futuristic study for a car that can be transformed into a plane, a helicopter and even a boat.
It's pure flight of fancy, of course, with a 0 to 62 mph (0 to 100 km/h) time of just 2.3 seconds and a top speed of 311 mph (500 km/h). It features a Bugatti Veyron rear end and a front that looks like it was stolen from Aptera's three-wheel electric car. Oh, and that concept car essential: gullwing doors.
The party piece though is the so-called Halo attachments which, when strapped on to the Intersceptor's body, allow it to be a private jet, four-seat helicopter or a 36 ft (11 m) power boat with a top speed of 63 knots (73 mph / 117 km/h).
It's very impressive, of course, but is it original? Not really.
In 1949, an engineer named Moulton Taylor designed and built a "roadable aircraft" called the Aerocar. Imagine this: you land your single-engine airplane at the airport, reverse the rear section / tailplane onto a trailer, detach it, fold the wings back and in less than 5 minutes you're ready for the road.
He built six of them and there are still a couple road/airworthy examples around today. It wasn't fast and it wasn't pretty, but it worked. Sort of.

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Bugatti's Veyron 16.4 Super Sport gets the Blues

2011-07-05T04:38:00.000-07:00

Bugatti's Veyron is the Mustang of the hypercar pack. With a special/limited edition seemingly coming out every few months, it certainly isn't lacking in color choices. The only problem has been that under all the fancy paint options, the only real "option" has been to Gran Sport or not to Gran Sport.Bugatti says its customers wanted a "more extreme driving experience", so it created the 1,200 horsepower Veyron 16.4 Super Sport. Right, because 1,001 horsepower and 253mph is just a little too relaxing for the daily commute. For the full specs, check out our previous post here.
Now the big, bad Bug has gone live, and does it look amazing or what? I just want to swim in that deep blue sea of carbon fiber. Check out the new shots of the Super Sport below if you weren't lucky enough to make it out to Monterey this weekend.

Bling it Again: Mansory Bugatti Veyron LINEA Vincero d'Oro

2011-07-05T04:34:00.000-07:00

If there was ever a supercar suitable for the likes of Sacha Baron Cohen's fictional alter-ego, Borat the 'Kazakh', this is it: the Mansory Bugatti Veyron 16.4 LINEA Vincero d'Oro (Italian for "gold"). It's a follow up on last year's LINEA Vincero drenched inside and out in gold and dark-colored carbon fiber.
Exterior modifications over the standard Veyron include a new front fascia with a unique grille in a gold finish and a different apron, a shorter bonnet, LED daytime running lights, side skirts, modified fenders and a new rear diffuser. Mansory also added larger air outlets at the rear and at the sides of the car along with new wheels made from a special gold-colored alloy.
The entire body is decked out in carbon fiber while gold trim is found on the door handles, the rear view mirror caps, the fuel tank cap, the headlight washer nozzle covers, the borders around the daytime running LEDs and the decorative features on the roof...
And if that's not enough, wait until you check out the interior; the tuner 'blinged' out the Veyron's cabin as if it were a float at the Rio Carnival. Along with the gold-colored leather and trim, and gold details in the carbon fiber parts, Mansory also fitted the car with tens - if not hundreds- of LEDs placed in the car's seats, the door trims and the dashboard. Not "very niceee"....

HMC Hidalgo: A Bugatti Lookalike Based on the Mercedes Benz SLK AMG

2011-07-05T04:32:00.000-07:00

What you're looking at here is the Hidalgo, a re-skinned Mercedes-Benz SLK AMG with obvious styling influences from the 1930-era Bugatti Type 57 models including the iconic Atlantic. It's the work of a Swiss firm called Helvetic Motor Company (H.M.C.), which to be honest, we have never heard of before.

Think of the Hidalgo as something like the European equivalent of Japan's Mitsuoka Himiko Classic which is based off the MX-5. The Swiss replica is powered by the SLK AMG's 5.5-liter V8 engine producing 355HP and 376 lb-ft of peak torque, good enough to get the Hidalgo from zero to 100km/h (62mph) in a claimed 3.4 seconds and an electronically limited top speed of 250km/h (155mph).
Production of the Hidalgo is said to be limited to only six unit a year, each carrying a price of -hold on to your hats -€428,000, which is equal to US$565,000 at today's exchange rates.

Rumors: Audi Quattro Coupe May be Given the Green Light by September

2011-07-05T04:23:00.000-07:00

The Audi Quattro Concept wowed the crowds at the 2010 Paris motor show. The favorable reaction of both the public and the press to the one-off concept that was created to celebrate the original Quattro’s 30th anniversary has sparked many rumors that Audi is seriously considering making a production version.
According to a report from Inside Line, the future of the 21st-century Quattro will be decided soon –more specifically in September, on the eve of the Frankfurt motor show premiere.
Quattro GmbH boss Stephan Reil, speaking during the launch of the Audi Q3 SUV, confirmed that the final decision has been delayed. However, he is "optimistic" about its chances, and added that the production version, if given the green light, would be a small-volume (500-1,000 units per year) supercar with lightweight materials prominent in its construction.
The Quattro’s engine could very well come from the RS5 which, with 450 hp and a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) time of 4.6 seconds, is no slouch. But, as Reil said, “we need more power than the RS5, and it would have to be mounted longitudinally”.
The head of Quattro GmbH commented that the exotic car’s development would take at least 2-3 years, and be similar to that of Audi’s current supercar, the R8.

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Audi UK Celebrates 24h of Le Mans Win with R8 V8 Limited Edition

2011-07-05T04:21:00.000-07:00

Earlier this month, Audi snagged its tenth victory at the grueling 24 Hours of Le Mans marathon race with the R18 TDI and to mark the event, the firm’s UK division has churned out a special edition version of the R8 V8 sports car with a unique paint and enhanced standard equipment.
The R8 V8 Limited Edition is reserved exclusively for UK customers, with only 100 examples currently scheduled for production. It is available to order from July in coupe form only and with either manual or R tronic automated manual transmission priced from £93,935 OTR.
Exterior highlights include bespoke titanium-effect paintwork, which is available alongside all normally optional metallic and pearl effect paint options, matching color 19-inch alloy wheels inspired by the R8 GT Coupe and red brake calipers.
There’s also an optional Carbon Package, which adds carbon sigma sideblades, door mirrors, monoposto, inlays and door sill trims plus an engine cover.
The Limited Edition’s interior is marked out by the crimson red accents to the black leather seats, headrests, knee pads and passenger door handles along with red stitching on the flat bottomed, leather-covered multi-function steering wheel and instrument cowl.
The stainless steel pedals, illuminated door sills with bright aluminium inserts carrying the R8 logo and the new floor mats with a red surround complete the styling changes.
In addition to the standard features found on the R8 V8 Coupe, the Limited Edition model includes satellite navigation, the Audi Music Interface (AMI), an interior light package and a premium Bang and Olufsen sound system, as well as mobile phone preparation via a Bluetooth interface with integrated seat-belt microphones.
The only mechanical upgrade concerns the addition of the Audi magnetic ride adaptive suspension system.
As with the standard R8, the Limited Edition is motivated by a directly injected 4.2-litre engine with 430-horses that allows the sports car to go from 0 to 62mph (100km/h) in 4.6 seconds in both manual and R tronic automated manual versions and reach a top speed of 187mph (301 km/h).

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Shiny Happy People: Chromed Out Audi R8 Spyder Auctioned at Elton John’s White Tie and Tiara Ball

2011-07-05T04:19:00.000-07:00

Every year, British musician Elton John throws the famous White Tie and Tiara Ball at his house to raise money and awareness for the Elton John Aids Foundation (EJAF). At this year’s event, which took place on Thursday, June 23, Audi UK decided to donate a unique R8 Spyder V10 coated in a unique mirror-like chromed finish with all proceeds from the auction going towards the charity.
“Sir Elton John’s fundraising ball really is a golden ticket event that is as glamorous as it is hugely effective in fundraising terms,” commented Jeremy Hicks, Director of Audi UK.
“We are delighted, and enormously proud, to support it for a ninth year with the donation of what is arguably our most fittingly glamorous model,” he added.
Audi did not say how much the 525-horsepower R8 Spyder V10 was auctioned for, but we assume that the buyer paid more than its £117,710 OTR (equal to US$188,050) sticker price.

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Edo Competition’s Menacing BMW M5 Touring Dark Edition

2011-07-05T04:16:00.000-07:00

Germany-based Edo Competition is more widely known for its exotic supercar transformations but this time, the tuning house set its eyes on one of the most practical high-performance vehicles in the market, the BMW M5 Touring.
Called the M5 Dark Edition, the modified BMW wagon sports a tuned version of the 5.0-liter V10 that has been upgraded with a recalibrated ECU, high-flow air filters and catalytic converters as well as a newly developed high-performance exhaust system.
As a result, output has been lifted from 500HP and 521 Nm (384 lb-ft) to 555-horsepower and 560 Nm (413 lb-ft), with the M5 Dark Edition completing the 0-100km/h (62mph) sprint in 4.2 seconds (0.5 seconds faster than the stock model) and the 100km/h -200km/h acceleration in under 10 seconds. By removing the electronic speed nanny, the M5 Touring reaches a top speed of 305km/h (190mph).
The tune continues with a new aero kit comprising of a front apron with additional lights, a rear apron that makes way for bespoke exhaust tips and a roof wing. The high-performance station wagon now rides on new 20-inch alloy wheels painted in black with a sliver rim and shod in Dunlop tires size 255/35 R20 at the front and 285/30 R20 at the rear.
As for the interior upgrades, Edo Competition offers a variety of solutions ranging from leather upholsteries and carbon trim parts to a new speedometer with white dials with a backlit logo.

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New Exclusive and M Sport Editions Join BMW 3-Series Coupe and Convertible Range

2011-07-05T04:13:00.000-07:00

You didn’t think BMW would leave its bread-and-butter 3-Series untouched for the new model year just because it’s actively working on a replacement, did you? Of course not. The changes to the 3-Series range are of far less importance than on the 6-Series and 5-Series lineups, and are mostly limited to the presentation of new special edition models and packages. These include a Special Edition package for the 320d EfficientDynamics Edition Touring, M Sport and Exclusive Editions for the 3 Series Coupé and 3 Series Convertible plus an BMW Individual hardtop option for the cabrio.
The Exclusive iterations of the coupe and convertible are offered with bespoke exterior colors including a Mineral Grey shade combined with exterior mirror caps in Oxide Silver and 18-inch V-spoke light-alloy wheels painted in Space Grey. The interior is distinguished by the Dakota leather upholstery in Pearl Grey with darker grey contrast stitching, or in Black with white contrast stitching, plus Bamboo Grain Anthracite trim strips.
Moving on to the M Sport Editions, aside from the aerodynamic package with new front and rear bumpers, there’s a Silverstone paint finish familiar from the M3 and 18-inch Ferric Grey light-alloy wheels in double-spoke design, black-painted exterior mirrors and in the case of the Coupe, an optionally available boot lid spoiler.
On the inside, there are sports seats with M detailing and blue contrast strips, an M Sport steering wheel, stainless steel pedals and an M aluminium driver’s footrest plus Model-specific interior strips in Aluminium Glacier Silver dark and floor mats with blue piping.
For the 3-Series Convertible, the company offers a new BMW Individual hardtop in contrasting in contrasting Black or Titanium Silver metallic that can be combined with a total of 15 different body colors.

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BMW 5-Series Gains New 2.0-Liter Four-Cylinder Turbo Engines, 5-Series GT gets the M Sport Treatment

2011-07-05T04:11:00.000-07:00

There’s a lot going on in Munich today as BMW has unleashed details on its new model year portfolio. Following the news on the 6-Series, more of which you can read in our previous post here, we bring you the updates to the 5-Series range that includes the four-door sedan, the Touring (station wagon) and the Gran Turismo liftback.
We’ll begin with the changes to the engine lineup of the 5-Series saloon and Touring models. Starting from this fall, European buyers will be able to order the 5-Series with BMW’s brand-new 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine, which is offered in two forms producing 184HP and 270Nm (199 lb-ft) in the 520i and 245HP and 350Nm (258 lb-ft) in the 528i.
The 184HP 520i Sedan accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 7.9 seconds (automatic: 8.0 sec), while the Touring in 8.3 sec (automatic: 8.4 sec). Top speeds are 227km/h (141mph) (automatic: 226km/h / 140mph) for the Sedan and 220km/h (137mph) (manual and automatic) for the Touring model.
The average fuel consumption for the sedan is 6.8 – 7.0 l/100 km (40.3 – 41.5 UK mpg) (automatic: 6.5 – 6.7 lt / 42.2 – 43.5 mpg UK) with CO2 emissions of 157 – 163 g/km (149 – 155 g/km).
The 245HP 528i sedan completes the 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) sprint in 6.2 seconds (automatic: 6.3 seconds), and the Touring in 6.4 seconds (automatic: 6.6 seconds). Top speeds are 250 km/h (155 mph) for the Sedan and 244 km/h (152mph) for the Touring model (in both cases the figures are the same for both manual and automatic versions).
In terms of fuel consumption, the 528i Sedan returns 6.8 – 7.1 lt/100 km (39.8 – 41.5 mpg UK) (automatic: 6.5 – 6.8 lt / 41.5 – 43.5 mpg UK), with CO2 emissions of 159 – 165 g/km.
Also new is the 520d EfficientDynamics Edition featuring a 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel with 184HP and 380Nm (280 lb-ft) that returns a combined fuel economy of 4.5 lt/100 km (62.8 mpg UK or 52.3mpg US) and CO2 emissions of 119g/km.
For the new model year, the 525d offers a 13HP increase over the previous model with its four-cylinder diesel engine now developing 218HP at 4 ,400 rpm and a peak torque of 450Nm (332 lb-ft). The same goes for the six-cylinder 530d that also gains a 13HP boost for a total output of 258HP at 4,000 rpm and peak torque of 540Nm (398 lb-ft) or 560Nm / 413 lb-ft with the automatic transmission. The 535d’s straight-six diesel was also tweaked and now produced 313HP and 630NM (465 lb-ft) at between 1,500 and 2,500 rpm.
Other changes to the 5-Series range include the expansion of the firm’s all-wheel drive system to more models, namely the 528i xDrive, 535i xDrive, 550i xDrive, 525d xDrive, 530d xDrive and 535d xDrive, plus the introduction of the 407HP V8-powered 550i Touring.
BMW is also offering as standard its start and stop system, as well as a Driving Experience Control switch that allows the driver to customize accelerator and, engine response, the power steering characteristics, the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) thresholds and, on automatic models, the shift characteristics of the transmission through four modes - “COMFORT”, “SPORT”, “SPORT+” and ECO PRO.
Finally, autumn 2011 will see the launch of an M Sport package for the 5 Series Gran Turismo, which includes an aero kit with new bumpers, dark chrome tailpipes, 19-inch or optionally, 20-inch M alloy wheels with mixed tires, sport seats, steering wheel and trim, plus a lowered M suspension.

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BMW Updates New 6-Series with M Sport, Diesel and xDrive Variants

2011-07-05T04:10:00.000-07:00

BMW is wasting no time in enhancing the range of its recently launched 6-Series Coupé and Convertible models. To sum up the changes, from this autumn (and depending on the market, of course) both body styles will be available with an M Sport package, a new diesel engine and for the first time in the 6-Series model’s history, the Bavarian firm’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system.
Starting with the M Sport option, the package includes an M aerodynamics kit with bespoke front and rear bumpers, LED foglamps, 19-inch M light-alloy wheels in double-spoke design, sports seats with Alcantara/leather upholstery and an M leather steering wheel.
In addition, buyers can further customize their cars through the BMW Individual range, which comprises, bespoke paint finishes, light-alloy wheels and numerous other options.
This fall will see BMW adding the 640d Coupe and Convertible models to the lineup. Both are powered by a 3.0-liter straight-six delivering 313-horses at just 4,400 rpm and a monstrous peak torque of 630Nm (464 lb-ft) between 1,500 and 2,500.
BMW says the diesel engine enables acceleration of 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.5 seconds for the Coupé and 5.6 seconds for the Convertible. The fuel consumption and CO2 values of the two diesel models are: 5.4 – 5.5 l/100 km (51.4 – 52.3mpg UK or 42.8 -43.6mpg US) for the Coupe, and 5.6 – 5.7 l/100 km (49.6 – 50.4 mpg UK) with 147 – 149 g/km for the Convertible.
The 650i Coupe and Convertible models powered by the 407HP turbocharged V8 will be optionally available with BMW’s xDrive all-wheel drive system. According to the Bavarian automaker, the 650i xDrive Coupé powers from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.8 seconds, while the 650i xDrive Convertible requires 0.1 seconds longer to complete the same acceleration.

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Hamann Details Tuning Program for New BMW 6-Series Convertible, More to Come in Frankfurt

2011-07-05T04:07:00.000-07:00

Earlier this year, BMW tuning specialist Hamann Motorsport teased its tuning program for the freshly launched 6-Series Convertible with the release of the first photos of the car.
Today, the German company gave out information on its initial offerings for the soft-top 6-Series and announced that it will unveil a more aggressive tune at the upcoming 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show this September.
In its first effort to enhance the looks and performance of the 6-Series Convertible, Hamann Motorsport offers owners a comprehensive choice of alloy wheel designs in black, silver or a combination of both finishes and in sizes 20- or 21-inches.
For a more athletic stance, Hamann proposes a sports suspension that lowers the car’s ride height by around 30 mm at the front and 25 mm at the rear using new springs.
Owners of the 650i Convertible can also opt for a sports exhaust system that includes four round 90 mm tailpipes.
Interior upgrades come in the way of aluminium pedals and a footrest, plus bespoke foot mats with a silver ‘HAMANN’ logo.

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AC Schnitzer Unwraps New BMW X3 Tuning Package

2011-07-05T04:06:00.000-07:00

Available since autumn 2010, the second iteration of the BMW X3 continues to draw the attention of European tuners. Seen here in AC Schnitzer guise, the F25 X3 has been upgraded with a styling package and go-fast modifications.
For starters, AC Schnitzer has upped the performance on the 2.0-liter diesel-powered xDrive20d from 184-horses to 218HP, while the company is also working on a kit for the xDrive30d as well as the 6-cylinder 2.8i and 3.5i petrol models, which will be released later this year.
All X3’s can benefit from the German tuning firm’s body kit, which bundles a front skirt and lip spoiler, chrome trim for the side skirts, a rear apron and a roof spoiler plus new exhaust tailpipe trims.
AC Schnitzer offers a variety of alloy wheel designs in sizes 18-, 19-,20- or 22-inches wrapped around performance tires. Additional hardware modifications include a lowered sports suspension.
As for the interior and aside from a new sports steering wheel currently in development, the tuner’s offerings include aluminium accents, a sports pedal set, and velour floor mats.

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Rumors: BMW to Bring Six-Cylinder 6-Series to the States and Possibly Introduce an AWD Version

2011-07-05T04:03:00.000-07:00

The crew over at Autoblog.com is reporting that BMW plants to sell a six-cylinder version of its new 6-Series Coupe in America after all. When the Bavarian automaker introduced the latest 6-Series Coupe and Convertible models, it had stated that the U.S. would only get the 650i with its 4.4-liter turbocharged V8 that delivers 400-horses in NA-trim and 407HP in the EU.
The six-cylinder version, which will be sold as the 640i, is powered by BMW’s latest 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six with direct injection. In European guise, it pumps out 320HP at 5,800 rpm and 450Nm (332 lb-ft) of peak torque between 1,300 and 4,500 rpm, for a 0-62mph (100km/h) in 5.4 second and an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph).
In Europe, the 640i returns a combined fuel economy of 7.7lt / 100km (equal to 30.6 mpg US) with 179 g/km of CO2, compared to the 650i’s 10.4 lt/100km (equal to 23.1 mpg US) and 243g/km.
We suspect that the American version of the 640i will deliver the same output figures as the U.S.-spec 740i at 315HP and 330 lb-ft.
The 640i Coupe will reportedly arrive in U.S. showrooms about a month after the 650i at the end of October.
In addition to the news on the North American 640i, Autoblog also reported that BMW is preparing an all-wheel drive version of the 650i fitted with the firm’s xDrive system.

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2012 BMW M5 Touring Artistically Imagined

2011-07-05T04:01:00.000-07:00

Now that we’ve seen what the new 2012 BMW M5 sports sedan looks like, it’s time for some talented hands to shape the Touring version that may or may not follow in the future as the Bavarian company has not yet revealed any plans for a high-performance station wagon model.
The renderings you see pictured below are the work of photoshop artist Wild Speed who combined the bodies of the F10 5-Series Touring and the new M5 sedan.
If it were to produced, the estate variant would be powered by the same 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine with 560-horses found under the hood of the saloon model.

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BMW Turbocharges X1 SUV with New 2.0 liter Gasoline and Diesel Engines

2011-07-05T03:59:00.000-07:00

BMW is extending its smallest SUV’s range by adding two new engines to the X1's line-up. The first unit, which will be available this autumn, is a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine producing 184HP and 270 Nm (27,5 kgm) from 1,250-4,500 rpm. The compact crossover will be available in both rear and four-wheel drive versions bearing the sDrive20i and xDrive20i designations respectively, and which accelerate from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 7.4 (sDrive) and 7.8 (xDrive) seconds.
The newly developed engine has direct injection and the Valvetronic variable valve control system. BMW says it sets new efficiency standards in its performance class, with average consumption ranging from 7.1 liters/100 km (sDrive20i) to 7.7 liters/100 km (xDrive 20i), and CO2 emissions of 165 and 179 gr/km respectively.
The second newcomer in the X1’s range is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel which powers the (rear-wheel drive) BMW X1 sDrive20d. It comes with TwinPower Turbo technology that incorporates variable turbine geometry and common rail injection.
Output is rated at 163HP and peak torque at 330 Nm (243.4 lb-ft) between 1,750-2500 rpm. An average consumption of just 4.5 litres/100 km and CO2 emissions of 119 gr/km make the sDrive20d the most efficient model in the X1 range.
Both models feature BMW’s EfficientDynamics technology, which consists of a gear change indicator, brake energy regeneration, electromechanical power steering, disengegable air-conditioning compressor, auto start-stop system and low-rolling resistance tires.

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2011 24-hour Nürburgring Race: And the Winner is….

2011-07-05T03:57:00.000-07:00

Porsche triumphed in the 2011 24 hours of Nürburgring, with the 911 GT3 RSR of Marc Lieb, Timo Bernhard, Romain Dumas and Lucas Luhr crossing the line after 156 laps and 3,958.968 km (2,462.044 miles), a new record for the legendary endurance race in the demanding Nordschleife. The Porsche 911 GT3 RSR first led the race at Saturday evening, at 23:25, and then its drivers held on to it for the following 16 hours and 35 minutes, or 108 laps.
BMW didn’t seem too affected by Dirk Muller’s first practice’s shunt at the Karussell, with the German and his three team mates bringing the M3 GT home in second place and being the only ones in the same lap as the winners.
The M3 GT was followed by three Audi R8s and two Mercedes-Benz SLSs, while a Ferrari and two Porsches completed the top 10.
The 911 GT3 R Hybrid showed promise, climbing into the lead four hours after the start. However problems in the differential, which struck twice, and a minor shunt in the Flugplatz resulted in it losing a lot of time in the pits and, despite posting lap times similar, or even faster, to the leaders, finished in 28th place.

Nürburgring 24 hour race results
1. Lieb/Bernhard/Dumas/Luhr (D/D/F/CH), Porsche 911 GT3 RSR, 156 laps
2. Müller/Farfus/Alzen/Lamy (D/BRA/D/P), BMW M3 GT, +4:23.7 seconds
3. Basseng/Fässler/Piccini/Stippler (D/CH/I/D), Audi R8 LMS, - 1 lap
4. Stippler/Hennerici/Haase/Winkelhock (D/D/D/D), Audi R8 LMS, - 1 lap
5. Ekström/Scheider/Werner/Abt (S/D/D/D), Audi R8 LMS, - 2 laps
6. Heyer/Jäger/Bleekemolen/Seyffarth (D/D/NL/D), Mercedes-Benz SLS, - 3 laps
7. Arnold/Margaritis/Brück/Frankenhout (D/D/D/NL), Mercedes-Benz SLS, - 3 laps
8. Farnbacher/Simonsen/Seefried/Melo (D/MC/D/I), Ferrari F 458, - 4 laps
9. Abbelen/Schmitz/Kentenich/T. Bergmeister (D/D/D/D), Porsche 911 GT3 R, - 4 laps
10. Weiss/Kainz/Jacobs/Krumbach (D/D/D/D), Porsche 911 GT3 R, - 5 laps

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BMW’s Decision to Replace 65 Union Employees with Cheaper Workforce in California Angers Senator Boxer

2011-07-05T03:55:00.000-07:00

Senator Barbara Boxer, a California Democrat who is also the Ethics Committee chairwoman, has joined forces with Teamsters President James P. Hoffa, in an attempt to persuade BMW North America to reconsider its stance on a local labor dispute over 65 jobs.
The German automaker has said it will not renew its contract with Teamsters Union Local 495 that expires on Aug. 31 and will instead hire an outside company to run its parts distribution center, located in Ontario, California.
In a letter sent to BMW North America CEO Jim O'Donnell, the California Senator said that the Bavarian company should rethink its decision and take into consideration the fact that it received $3.6 billion in low-interest loans during the 2008-2009 taxpayer bailout.
“During the financial crisis in 2008 and 2009, BMW received $3.6 billion in taxpayer assistance from the United States Federal Reserve when private capital was frozen,” Boxer wrote in the letter.
"As the economic recovery continues, it is deeply disappointing that these loyal employees would be penalized at a time when your company recently reported 2011 first quarter earnings of $1.78 billion -- triple that of first quarter earnings in 2010 -- and first quarter sales 21 percent greater than last year," she added.
Joe Baca, the U.S. Representative for California's 43rd congressional district, also jumped into the dispute and sent a letter to BMW North America’s boss saying more or less the same as Boxer.
"[This] will needlessly layoff workers in a region experiencing the highest rates of unemployment in the country,” said Baca. “Replacing those positions with a low wage workforce is an injustice and a blow to our local economy."
Teamsters Local 495 Secretary-Treasurer Bob Lennox, believes that BMW is abusing the American system.
"BMW would never be allowed to get away with this in Germany -- they wouldn't dare try it," said Lennox. "They think they can take an American taxpayer bailout and then treat their American workers in a way they would never treat their German employees."

2011-07-05T03:53:00.000-07:00

The first qualifying session for the 24 hours of Nürburgring did not go exactly as planned for Team BMW Motorsport, as the number 7 M3 GT driven by Dirk Muller crashed in the Karussell two hours into the session. Prior to that, the car was 8th overall, with Dirk Werner lapping the Nordschleife at 8:32.302. Muller lost control of the car and hit the barriers, damaging the right side of the car, though the team says it will probably be ready for the second qualifying session. During the accident, a Japanese cameraman was sitting behind the barrier and he was taken to the Adenau hospital for a medical check. Even though he was unhurt, he will spend the night in the hospital as a precaution.
The No 1 car, driven by last year’s winners Augusto Farfus, Jorg Muller, Uwe Alzen and Pedro Lamy faced technical problems, with the drivers complaining of vibrations, and subsequently lost a lot of time in the pits while the engineers tried to figure out the problem. Eventually Farfus lapped the ‘Ring at 8:35.669, taking the 15th place in the provisional grid.
Here’s what BMW's drivers said after the first qualifying session:
Dirk Müller (car number 7): “I lost the rear of my BMW M3 GT as I braked, shot over the Karussell and hit the crash barriers. The most important thing is that, according to the organisers, the Japanese cameraman is okay. I am sorry he was hurt in the crash. The damage to our car does not seem to be so serious. However, it is obviously not helpful to miss more than half of the qualifying session.”

Augusto Farfus (car number 1): “My lap was ok, but we are obviously hoping to improve tomorrow. This is a 24-hour race, so the grid position is not crucial. Despite this, we still want to be further up the grid. I tried to lose as little time as possible in traffic. That was not at all easy. We will have to find out exactly what was causing the vibrations. So, we certainly have plenty to do before the second qualifying session.”

Dirk Werner (car number 7): “Most of the fastest times were actually set during the early stages. I was out on used tyres again and managed a relatively clear lap. That is a rarity with more than 200 cars in the field. Our BMW M3 GT is working quite well, and we still have a bit of time to work our way up the field.”

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BMW Launches Lighter and More Powerful New M3 CRT Special, Limited to 67 Units

2011-07-05T03:49:00.000-07:00

This is BMW’s new hardcore M3 sedan, the CRT, which stands for Carbon Racing Technology. To be produced in a limited run, the M3 CRT was unveiled during a pre-race BMW M event ahead of this weekend’s Nürburgring 24-hour race. The special edition model combines the body style of the M3 sedan with technology from the M3 GTS coupe, topped off with the use of carbon-fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) to further reduce the car’s weight.
BMW said the M3 CRT represents the worldwide debut of a new production process for carbon-fibre reinforced plastic components in the automotive industry, adding that we will see the same materials on the upcoming i3 EV hatchback and i8 hybrid sports coupe, due to enter volume production in 2013.
In the M3 CRT, CFRP is used to make both the rear spoiler and front airdam, as well as the bonnet, the bucket seats for the driver and front passenger. Along with the use of a sports titanium exhaust system and other lightweight materials, BMW M engineers have managed to shave 45 kg or 99.2 pounds from the regular M3 saloon bringing the total weight down to 1,580kg or 3,483 lbs.
Interestingly, BMW said that if you take into account the equipment on board the weight saving is more like 70 kg or 154.3 pounds.
Under the carbon-fiber bonnet of the CRT lies the M3 GTS’s upgraded 4.4-liter V8 that pumps out 450-horses at 8,300 rpm and peak torque of 440 Nm (324.5 lb-ft) on tap at 3,750 rpm.
Transferring the V8 lump’s power to the rear wheels is a 7-speed M doubleclutch transmission with Drivelogic. BMW says the CRT can go from zero to 100km/h (62mph) in just 4.4 seconds with the electronic capping its top speed at 290 km/h (180mph).
Other features include a modified rear suspension, the addition of six-piston, fixed-calliper high-performance brakes, a specially tuned DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system and new 19-inch lightweight alloy wheels wrapped in performance tires size 245/35 R 19 up front and 265/35 R 19 at the rear.
The M3 CRT is offered in an exclusive Frozen Polar Silver metallic exterior paint shade in combination with Melbourne Red metallic applications and a special treatment for the kidney grille.
Inside, apart from the two-tone sports seats, the M3 special features bespoke door sill strips, door panels and trim strips in aluminium grain structure, while the steering wheel is covered in Alcantara.
BMW will build only 67 examples of the M3 CRT worldwide.

BMW M3 CRT SPECIFICATIONS:

Construction / Cosmetics
M3 "CRT" = Carbon Racing Technologies
Limited production - 67 units
Priced in Germany at EUR 130,000 - incl. VAT
Debuts new production process for CFRP (carbon fiber reinforced plastic) components
Hood and bucket seats made from cellular carbon honeycomb
Hood has strength of conventional steel hood, but at 1/4 of its weight. 50% weight saving over M3 aluminum hood.
Frozen Polar Silver metallic exterior paint
Melbourne Red metallic applications and special treatment for the BMW kidney grille
Exclusive door sill strips, door panels and trim strips in aluminium grain structure
Special Sakhir Orange and Black dual colored covers for the front and individual rear seats
Alcantara-covered M steering wheel
Powertrain / Performance
450hp @ 8,300 RPM
324lb-ft torque @ 3,750 RPM
180mph / 290kmh top speed
4,360 cc displacement
0-100km/h (0-62mph) - 4.4 seconds
Sports exhaust system with extremely lightweight titanium muffler
Bedplate crankcase construction in special aluminum-silicon alloy
Individual throttle butterflies
Knock control system with ion current technology
Dynamically-optimized wet sump oil supply
Body
3,483 pounds / 1,580 kilograms = [100lb (45kg)] lighter than standard sedan / [154lb (70kg)] lighter when equipment on board taken into account
Proportion of car's weight over rear axle raised to 48.4%
7.74 lb-per-hp weight-to-power ratio
3.5 kg-per-hp weight-to-power ratio
Wheels/Suspension
19-inch M light-alloy wheels in Y-spoke design
245/35 R 19 front tires and 265/35 R 19 rear tires
Front and rear axle enhanced by rigid rear axle subframe
Coilover suspension with individually adjustable dampers
6-piston fixed calipers with low-weight compound construction
378x32 mm front brake rotors / 380x28 mm rear rear rotors
Stahflex brake lines
Tech
Sound-proofing configured specially for low-weight construction
Two individual rear seats
M DCT w/ Drivelogic
Navigation System Professional
BMW Individual High End audio system
Alarm system with PDC sensors

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Bentley Defies Crisis with a 20% Increase in Global Sales

2011-07-05T03:44:00.000-07:00

Crisis? What crisis? For you and me, perhaps, but not for Bentley buyers. The VW-owned British luxury carmaker announced today a 20% increase in global sales for the first half of 2011 with 2,978 cars delivered to customers, the best start for the company since 2008. The luxury marque attributes this surge in sales to the high demand for the new Continental GT as well as the increasing popularity in (least we forget, communist…) China, where Bentley sales have risen by 57% compared to the same period last year, to 680 cars. Thus, it has become the manufacturer’s second best market, behind only the US (George Orwell's "Animal Farm", anyone?).
Not to be outdone by China, the capitalist West has contributed its fair, albeit smaller, share to Bentley’s rise. In Europe, sales have increased by 25% (494 cars) and in the USA by 23% (907 cars). Only in Japan, due to the recent catastrophic natural disasters, and the Middle East, where political unrest rules, have sales declined.
So, well done Bentley - and well done to all the fat cats out there, be they…capitalists or…communists, who are rapidly increasing in numbers each day.

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Bentley Launches Mulliner Styling Pack for Continental GT

2011-07-05T03:39:00.000-07:00

Bentley’s new Continental GT is, without question, a coupe with imposing road presence. But the British firm wishes to offer its customers the opportunity to make their cars even more unique by launching a range of styling options named Mulliner Styling Specification Classic Pack.
This styling package consists of a front splitter, strakes integrated in the front intake grilles, side extension blades and a rear diffuser, all made from glossy black carbon-fibre.
If you think these are not enough, Bentley also offers more options such as a carbon-fibre rear spoiler and mirror covers, as well as dark mesh front wing vents and black 21-inch 7-spoke alloy wheels.
According to Bentley’s head of exterior design, Raul Pires, the Mulliner Styling Specification Classic Pack “with its sharper lines and darker, lower appearance underlines the iconic form of Bentley’s new GT, underscores its extrovert, flamboyant nature and delivers a more personalized, sportive interpretation of a luxurious and refined GT”.
The Classic Pack is already available to order, while the optional features will be available from the following autumn.

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Investigators Uncover Multi-Million Pound Tax Scam in India; European Exotics, Foreign Diplomats and Bollywood Actors Involved

2011-07-05T03:35:00.000-07:00

In what sounds more like the plot of a The Fast and the Furious movie than real life, investigators at India’s Directorate of Revenue Intelligence office (a.k.a. India’s IRS) have uncovered a massive exotic car smuggling operation in the nation’s capital of New Dehli. It all has to do with India’s notorious 100% import tax on new luxury vehicles.
It began with one New Dehli luxury car dealer, Sumit Walia, importing brand new luxury cars on forged invoices. These invoices listed the cars as second-hand, which saved Walia – and his customers – some 40% on import tax. Some of the cars – which included Porsches, Bentleys and Aston Martins – were found to have been stolen from the streets of Britain, France, Singapore and Japan.
A month later, another scam – involving a London-based British-Indian car dealer and diplomats from New Delhi’s North Korean and Vietnamese embassies was uncovered. The diplomats would act as middle-men for rich buyers; buying the exotics under their names and therefore getting them tax-free. An official Directorate of Revenue Intelligence office had this to say about the investigation:
“Our investigators suspect around 300 to 400 luxury cars have been imported on fake papers and sold in all major cities across India using the same modus-operandi. The cars have been sold to politicians, celebrities, cricketers, Bollywood actors and many businessmen in the last four to five years.”
Some 40 cars have been impounded, including several Porsche Panameras and Aston Martin Rapides valued at £250,000 and £290,000 per unit. A £350,000 Bentley Continental Supersport was also among those vehicles recovered. Other vehicles have simply been abandoned by their owners on the streets of New Dehli. Investigators found that most of these vehicles were either illegally registered or displayed temporary plates.