2011 Volkswagen Passat headed to the Paris Motor Show

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For those of you who have been waiting for the facelifted 2011 Volkswagen Passat to be unveiled, you’ll be happy to know that the Paris Motor Show organizers have confirmed the car’s attendance at this year’s event.

Even better, Volkswagen is bringing a sedan and an estate version of the Passat, which should bode even better for those who have been pining to see the re-tooled version of the car for a quite some time now.

While we haven’t seen the new Passat in all its glory, we’re expecting to see a wholesale of changes on the model, including some modifications to the front and rear end, a new hood grille, and redesigned front and tail lights that should give the facelifted Passat a refreshed aesthetic appeal. In addition to the exterior upgrades, the new Passat model will also undergo an interior metamorphosis that includes a newly installed navigation system.

We expect more information from Volkswagen and the new Passat on the days leading up to the Paris Motor Show so until then, sit tight, kids, we’ll send along new developments as soon as they come out.

. Source:You Tube

Dodge Challenger

We have to hand it to those successfully clumsy or disloyal auto execs. Every time we need some juicy information on a car that hasn’t exactly been fully unveiled, one of those guys always comes through to provide us with information that we would have to have waited to see. A leaked document from Dodge revealed a few more details on the 2011 Challenger. Apparently, the muscle car will be offered in four trim levels: Challenger, Rallye, R/T, and SRT version.

The standard version will be powered by a 3.6 liter V6 engine that develops 305 HP. It will get touring suspension, dual exhaust, leather on the interior, and a 6 speaker audio system. The Rallye version will add heated front seats, Satellite Radio, and more.

The R/T version is powered by a 5.7 HEMI engine with 379 HP and 410 lb-ft (555 Nm) of torque. This version will hit a top speed of 160 mph. Of course, the most powerful version will be the SRT. It is powered by a 6.4 liter HEMI engine with 475 HP and 460 lb-ft (623 Nm) of torque.

Dodge will be also offering a 392 Inaugural Edition that will be limited to only 1000 units. It will get unique exterior colors, SRT wheels, a four-tailpipe exhaust system, leather seats, brushed metal trim, and a serialized dash plaque.

Sales will begin at the end of 2010.

. Source:Ontario Street Car

Porsche Design P6930 Chronograph

Porsche Design has unveiled the P’6930 Chronograph, a watch that was inspired by the Porsche Carrera GT and the legendary P’6910 Indicator. The chronograph is made from titanium, and will be available in two versions; one painted in a blend of self-colored and black PVD-coated titanium and one in an all-black finish.

Now, back to the Carrera GT inspiration. The two push-pieces of the P’6930 are modeled after the pedals from the Carrera and it features a natural caoutchouc strap that folllows a tire-tread design. The folding clasp for the wristwatch is made from PVD-coated titanium and the automatic Valjoux 7750 movement features an energy-optimized rotor system that was designed to look like the wheel rim of the Carrera GT. Adding design to sporty appeal, the P’6930 also features a sapphire crystal caseback.

The P’6930 comes with a 48-hour power reserve and 25 jewels, as well as an hours, minutes, and seconds indicator and a day and date indication.

The P’6930 Chronograph will go on sale at specialty shops in the autumn of 2010.

Press release after the jump.

Press release

Porsche Design presents the P’6930 Chronograph. The styling of the new timepiece deliberately takes its cue form the design of the legendary P’6910 Indicator. The Porsche Design Chronograph offers a compellingly technical look and innovative material combinations. Fashioned from self-coloured or black PVD-coated titanium, the P’6930 Chronograph is powered by a highly accurate COSC-certified automatic movement. It is scheduled for launch in autumn 2010.

Purity of form with technical stylingThe P’6930 Chronograph’s impressive-looking case measures 47 millimetres in diameter and is fashioned from titanium. Particularly light and corrosion resistant, the material is characteristic of Porsche Design. The bezel and sapphire crystal caseback envelop the titanium case in a rugged grip. Four screws ensure the integrity of the case and underscore the watch’s masculine appeal. One version of the chronograph features a blend of self-coloured and black PVD-coated titanium. Another version comes in an all-black finish. The resilient black PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition) coating is the outcome of a vacuum-based process that creates a condensate which leaves a protective matt-black deposit of metal nitrides on the watch.

Like the P’6910 Indicator, the styling of the P’6930 Chronograph takes its inspiration from design elements of the Porsche Carrera GT. Built between 2005 and 2006, this high-powered sports car is a demonstration of advanced engineering and represents the distilled essence of 60 years of motor racing history. The Porsche Design P’6920 Rattrapante from the Indicator collection is a recipient of the Red Dot Award.

Uncompromisingly functionalThe two push-pieces of the P’6930 Chronograph are modelled on the pedals of the Carrera GT and offer superb grip. The same goes for the Clous-de-Paris screwdown crown finished in black PVD-coated titanium. The interior profile of the natural caoutchouc strap sports a tyre-tread design, allowing air to reach the skin; it comes with a folding clasp fashioned from PVD-coated titanium. The automatic Valjoux 7750 movement features an energy-optimised rotor system designed to evoke a Carrera GT wheel rim; it can be glimpsed through the sapphire crystal caseback. Characteristic of all Porsche Design watches is the purist design, typography and colour of the dial, which facilitate crystal-clear legibility in all conditions. The main hands are partially skeletonised to prevent any obstruction of the indications. The coating of green and white luminous material on the main hands, numerals and indices ensures optimum legibility at all times.

The Porsche Design P’6930 Chronograph is powered by an ETA Valjoux 7750 automatic movement and is furnished with a certificate of accuracy issued by the independent Swiss Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC).

Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class Preview

Mercedes-Benz has finally shown us some skin on the new SLK-Class for 2012. It seems the biggest changes took place on the front of the a-pillar, where the SLK’s SLS-inspired hood and nose details are very noticeable. We can also see that the headlights and front grille will be more upright, like most of the new Mercedes vehicles. The car will also be losing that Formula One nose.

The SLK will feature a metal-folding roof that might feature much more glass. We’re not sure if the glass heavy roof will be an option or not. The side mirrors have been moved down and the rear antenna has been moved to the trunk lid.

The base SLK should have around 230 horsepower from a six-cylinder motor, while the higher end versions could get a 3.5-liter. There were rumors about a turbocharged four-cylinder, but that doesn’t seem likely.

The AMG version will probably have the new 5.5-liter turbocharged V8. We can’t wait to get our hands on one.

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BMW 5-Series Sedan by AC Schnitzer

The German tuner, AC Schnitzer, has unveiled a new tuning package for the latest BMW 5-Series. For starters, the tuner worked on updating the 530d, but the rest of the models on the 5-Series lineup will be getting their modifications soon!

All models will receive an aerodynamic kit that includes a new front spoiler, chromed grille, rear skirt insert with integrated sports exhaust, rear roof spoiler, and rear spoiler and side skirts with chromed design elements.

The interior gets an AC Schnitzer "Evo" sports airbag steering wheel with optional AC Schnitzer carbon steering wheel insert, a carbon interior trim, and a carbon sill trim set, all in black "Exclusiv". The models will also receive an aluminum cover for the i-Drive System Controller, aluminum foot rests and pedal set, as well as gear knobs in leather and aluminum (black anodized), with leather and illumination or digital gear display.

The package also includes an 8-piston high performance brake system, an AC Schnitzer spring kit, and 19 or 20-inch Type IV wheels in BiColor or silver.

This tuning kit for the BMW 5-Series by AC Schnitzer actually reminds us a lot of the kit provided for the sedan by Hamann. Hit the jump to compare some photos!

Press release after the jump.

Press release

"Dynamics in its most beautiful form" - the new BMW 5-series saloon has been in the showrooms of BMW dealers since May 2010.

Aachen-based tuning specialist AC Schnitzer gives the new dynamic BMW extra wings with its extensive range of special accessories. Thanks to the AC Schnitzer performance upgrade on the 530d, the driver behind the wheel can enjoy 286 HP instead of the standard 245 HP. Optimizations for the BMW 520d, 525d and 535d are also in development. Whatever the model, all 5-series can be improved with the AC Schnitzer engine styling with capacity logo.

Hennessey VelociRaptor APV

Ford has just unveiled the 2011 F-150 SVT Raptor, but Hennessey has one-upped Ford by adding a few components to juice it up. The juiced up version of the truck will be called the VelociRaptor APV (Armored Performance Vehicles) and will be part of a long list of tuned up trucks by Hennessey. This first vehicle will be based on the new Ford Raptor Super Crew.

The VelociRaptor APV is powered by a 6.2 liter supercharged V8 engine, with output between 450 and 800 HP (up from 411 HP), and offers the ultimate combination of armor protection, vehicle performance, passenger comfort, safety, acceleration, braking and handling performance.

The new SUV will offer seating options for six, seven, or eight passengers and will be available with a full line of electronic upgrades including: Satellite TV, high-speed internet, entertainment systems and mobile office systems.

Hennessey will offer the same APV package for a series of other SUVs, all of them offering output of up to 1000 HP (see list below).

Press release after the jump.

Press release

Having a vehicle that can safely and quickly get you out of harm’s way is just as important as having armored protection. Introducing Hennessey Armored Performance Vehicles (APV) ™. Hennessey APV ™will apply the company’s go-fast know-how to help improve the acceleration, braking and handling performance on late-model armored vehicles.

The company’s 2012 , based on the new Ford Raptor Super Crew, will offer the ultimate combination of armor protection, vehicle performance, passenger comfort and safety. Powered by a supercharged 6.2L V8, the VelociRaptor APV will have the performance capability to drive away from, through or over obstacles both on the road as well as off-road.

Hennessey Performance will also be offering a non-armored version of the VelociRaptor APV which will offer off-road enthusiasts the same level of utility and off-road capability that the Ford Raptor has become known for. Hennessey will offer the VelociRaptor SUV with the same supercharged 6.2L V8 producing 575 bhp. There will be seating options for six, seven or eight seats. A full line of electronic upgrades will also be available, including: Satellite TV, high-speed internet, entertainment systems and mobile office systems.

Hennessey APV™ offers a complete line of high-performance upgrade systems for the following the following armored vehicles, both for new vehicles as well as ones that are already in service:

Cadillac Escalade – 500 to 1000 hp Chevrolet Suburban – 500 to 1000 hp Chevrolet Truck – 500 to 1000 hp Ford Raptor Truck – 450 to 800 hp GMC Denali – 500 to 1000 hp Jeep – Up to 800 hp Land Rover – Up to 550 hp Lexus LX570 – Up to 500 hp Nissan Patrol – Up to 1000 hp Range Rover – Up to 550 hp Toyota Sequoia – Up to 650 hp Toyota Land Cruiser – Up to 650 hp

BMW M3 Agitator by RENM

First we had the R8 Enigma, then the LP640 Axiom, and now we have the M3 Agitator. All of these amazing vehicles were created by the same tuner: RENM. The Agitator package includes both appearance and performance improvements.

The exterior of the BMW gets new customized T6 forged 3 piece wheels, adjustable coilover suspension, hallmark-designed 76mm diameter tail pipes, aero carbon fiber front spoiler, boot lid, and rear diffuser.

As for the engine, RENM modified the ECU, added an inconel high-performance exhaust, carbon fiber air-intake, sports air filters, and adjustable ride height/dampening suspension. The result is an impressive 450HP (up from 420 HP) and 440NM of torque. The inconel Formula 1 exhaust technology brings stability and heat resistance to the BMW while the rear silencer carries 12 kilograms less in the weight category. This makes the tuned vehicle weigh 40% less than the standard model.

We are excited to see what other beautiful vehicles RENM has up their sleeves. If all of their other creations come out as beautiful as these last three models, then we are sure to be pleased.

Press release after the jump.

Press release

RENM performance has released a visually striking performance upgrade for the BMW E92 M3 called the ‘Agitator’. According to most definitions, an agitator stirs up others in order to upset the status quo, or put more simply, is an apparatus that shakes or stirs. Based on both the appearance and performance improvements of the RENM Agitator, the transformation achieves the desired effect.

Mercedes-Benz ML-Class Preview

We have seen photos of the 2012 ML-Class before, but we now have some photos with most of the camouflage removed, giving us a clear view of what the new Mercedes-Benz ML will look like.

The wheelbase seems about the same as the current version, but we do know that the car went on a diet. The chassis will be shared with the new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee and the 2011 Dodge Durango.

The doors have new looks with two bold character lines. We can also see new side mirrors and a large angular grille with chrome bars running horizontal. The headlights appear to be nearly the same as we see on the CL-Class.

Under the hood will be a few motor options. Base models should get a 3.5-liter V6, while a 5.5-liter V8 and a 6.2-liter V8 will likely be on offer. A 3.0-liter diesel should also be available, as well as a hybrid model.

Expect the new ML-Class to be around $45,000 when it hits the showrooms in 2011.

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Arash AF10 supercar at MPH

620,000 and will come with modular carbon-fiber chassis and a 550bhp 7-liter V8 engine under the hood.

"We wanted to bring something different to the supercar table, and felt that the industry needed a new and invigorating face and hopefully this is something we have achieved. Combining perfect design, without compromising on power, plus having one of the best emissions levels in the world, the AF10 is set to be a fantastic new car for the market."

The AF10 supercar will be joined by models from Aston Martin, Bentley, Caparo, Ferrari, Koenigsegg, Lamborghini, Maserati, McLaren, Pagani, Porsche, and Spyker. So, if you happen to be around London during November 11-14th, the MPH Show is the perfect place to be!

Press release after the jump.

Press release

This year’s MPH The Prestige & Performance Motor Show featuring Top Gear Live will see the world premiere of the AF10 supercar from British sportscar maker, Arash Motor Company.

The long-awaited, AF10, valued at £620,000, with its modular carbon-fibre chassis boasts 550bhp from its 7-litre V8 block and delivers 475lbs-ft of torque as it seeks to challenge many of the established high performance cars.

Company founder, Arash Faroud commented: “The AF10 has been four years in the making and we feel it is now time to introduce it to the world.”

“We wanted to bring something different to the supercar table, and felt that the industry needed a new and invigorating face and hopefully this is something we have achieved. Combining perfect design, without compromising on power, plus having one of the best emissions levels in the world, the AF10 is set to be a fantastic new car for the market.” 

The Show continues to attract the world’s most exciting and expensive cars and the 2010 instalment is set to be no different.

Just some of the iconic names joining Arash at this year’s MPH Show include Aston Martin, Bentley, Caparo, Ferrari, Koenigsegg, Lamborghini, Maserati, McLaren, Pagani, Porsche and Spyker.

MPH The Prestige and Performance Motor Show featuring Top Gear Live will take place at Earls Court, London from November 4-7th and the NEC in Birmingham between November 11-14th.

Porsche 997 Turbo RM580 by RENM

Not long after the announcement of the Enigma tuning kit for the award winning Audi R8 V10, Australian tuner RENM has also released details on a new RM580 tuning kit based on the Porsche 997 Turbo. The package comes with two stages of power upgrades that lead the sports car to a total output of 580 HP (up from the standard 500 HP) and 800 NM of torque. This power increase translates into a 0-60mph sprint in 3.1 seconds and a top speed of 201 mph (an increase of 7 mph compared to the standard 997 Turbo that can hit a top speed of 194 mph).

The RM580 package includes a new exhaust system made from T309 stainless steel, with sports catalytic converters, various suspension kits that lower ride and improve handling, and a set of three piece forged wheels with titanium fasteners. On the interior, the tuner opted for carbon fiber inserts and a revised steering wheel.

Although this may be a more complete package for the Porsche 997 Turbo, it would be quite interesting to compare numbers with the new aerodynamic package provided by Vorsteiner that includes an art dry carbon fiber vacuum technology. This technology allows for a stronger and stiffer bodykit that is also 40% lighter than the components used in the standard model. Unfortunately, Vorsteiner has not released the Porsche’s new performance numbers yet, so this will be a comparison that we will have to wait to see.

Press release after the jump.

Press release

The latest update of the Porsche 997 turbo is an impressive performance-based vehicle, producing 500PS (368KW) and 650NM in standard form. RENM performance, known for their distinctive and unique designs, recently released their version of the Porsche 997 Turbo - the RM580

Next Jaguar X-Type to be built on XK platform

Jaguar has already confirmed three new models for the next four years, and a new generation X-Type is one of them. The X-type will be offered in both sedan and station wagon versions, and will attempt to take on models like the BMW 3-Series and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class.

Okay, so that’s all old news, but we do have some new details to report. The latest reports surrounding the sedan suggest that the next X-Type will be built on the next-generation XK platform. The decision for the use of this platform comes down to money - as these things usually do. Jaguar’s goal is to keep the price of the X-type in the $40K area.

The exterior design will follow the same language as the new XJ sedan, but the interior will most likely offer lower quality materials and less technology. Under the hood, the future RWD sedan will offer small-displacement turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline and diesel engines to continue Jaguar’s focus on improving fuel economy, especially in the European market.

Expect the new X-Type to go on sale in 2014.

. Source:Left Lane News

Saab Boreas Sports Coupe Concept

sports cars

Get the Flash Player to see the videos. Things sure have a way of coming full circle, don’t they?

It wasn’t that long ago when Saab was teetering perilously close to getting sent to the chopping block until a last minute intervention by Spyker not only gave Saab a new lease on life, but an opportunity to make things right again.

Now that Saab is finally on the right track, it doesn’t surprise us that design proposals bearing the Saab badge have been coming out left and right, with the latest one done by Spanish designer, Jorge Martí Vidal.

Vidal’s work is all kinds of sexy, if we do say so ourselves. Calling it

Ford works on 4x4 Fiesta

The Ford Fiesta has been a "pretty big deal" lately, and everything about it - small size, low fuel consumption, and the funky face - has people jumping on the hatchback wagon. Everyone, except for maybe the 4X4 loving people in the USA. This group of people like a car that can drive through whatever the road may through at them, be it sand, mud, or snow. And a standard Fiesta just can’t do that, but Ford’s future 4x4 Fiesta will. The future 4X4 will set out to compete with the recently launched Nissan Juke and will fit nicely under the Ford Kuga.

Ford is already testing the first prototypes in secret locations in Europe. The prototypes feature a trapezoidal grille that has been restructured and moved upwards, larger steel wheels, raised ground clearance, and a larger gap between the tops of the tires and bodywork. There is also a wider track and four-wheel drive system. The exterior design will be inspired by its larger brother, Kuga. The future crossover will be offered with two- and four-wheel drive variants and EcoBoost engines.

. Source:Autoexpress

McLaren To Release A New Product Every Five Years

Car lovers around the globe are anticipating the new McLaren performance machine, called the MP4-12C. A weird name for a car it might be, but given the company’s history, it’s sure to be something special. McLaren isn’t sitting by and waiting for the cash to roll in though, they’re planning on much more.

We know that McLaren is hoping to release three core models, with the MP4-12C leading the charge, followed by a hyper-car or a mid-level sports car like the Audi R8. What we didn’t know was that the company is also planning on a few more models.

McLaren is planning on releasing one new model each year for the next five years. Some of the new cars might be different variations of the MP4-12C, but who’s complaining about that? Remember the 430 Scuderia? Imagine that sort of thing, but on the MP4. Just thinking about it makes us all fluttery inside.

. Source:AutoGuide

Maserati Biturbo making a comeback in 2014

The Maserati Biturbo was a two-door, four-seater sports car introduced by Maserati in 1981. However, it was listed in the 50 worst cars of all times. Now, Maserati has decided to give the flop another chance. The car is already known as the "baby Quattroporte" or "Maseratina", but the production version will use a different name.

The "baby Quattroporte" will be positioned under the next generation Quattroporte which will be increasing its size prior to its debut in 2012. Not only will the mini sports car have its own place in the lineup, but it will also be designed as a replacement for the Alfa Romeo 166 in the Italian car representation.

The new Biturbo will be developed on the new Chrysler 300C platform and will be powered by a Pentastar 3.6 liter V6 twin turbo engine producing a total of 400 hp.

Expect the official debut to be at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show with about 10,000 units set for production every year thereafter.

. Source:Autoblog.it

Video: Ferrari Virtual Academy - Official Trailer

car games

Want to drive like some of the hottest Scuderia Ferrari drivers? Here’s your chance! Ferrari has unveiled the official trailer for their Virtual Academy - an online simulation racing game. With the Ferrari Virtual Academy, Ferrari fans from all over the world can hop into their computer chair and take the same laps as Felipe Massa, Fernando Alonso, and Giancarlo Fisichella, while also being privy to their racing line and driving technique secrets! Drive the fastest amongst all of the fellow Ferrari fans in the worldwide online tournament and you could be one of the weekly winners that will be awarded official Ferrari products. Better yet, if at the end of the Trofeo, you are within the top five fastest drivers, then you will be headed to the heart of Ferrari! That’s right, Ferrari will be sending you to Maranello to walk through the gates in Fiorano and participate in the exclusive Ferrari Driver Academy course with exceptional tutors from the Scuderia.

Drive around in some of the most famous tracks like the Fiorano, Mugello, and Nurburgring that have been digitally recreated with Laser Scan and Motion Capture. Master the laps and increase your speed because you may be one of the lucky five that will get the chance of a lifetime!

The game will be available for download starting September 9th.

. Source:Ferrari

Unique supercar sculpture under construction for MPH

An interesting sculpture by RoboSteel will be getting unveiled at the 2010 MPH The Prestige & Performance Motor Show. This sculpture will be crafted from recycled steel and will be shaped to look like a unique supercar. The sculpture will be unveiled at Earls Court, London, between November 4th-7th, 2010 and at the NEC, Birmingham between November 11th-14th, 2010. At the end of the show the supercar sculpture will be auctioned off in order to raise money for charity.

The

Volkswagen Touareg by Je Design

It seems Je Design has a little of a crush on Volkswagen as they are constantly tuning models from the German marque. And since we have a new generation Touareg, it would only make sense that the German tuner would follow right behind with a new tuning package for it.

Making the Touareg even sportier than the SUV already is, Je Design has added a new sports radiator grill, front spoiler, front and back wheel arch kit, rear apron insert, roof spoiler, and rear hatch blend, all made in Polyurethane.

And like the excellent tuners they are, Je Design didn’t stop at the exterior modifications. After fiddling around with the engine using optimized engine management, the tuner was able to boost the performance of the 4.2-liter TDI-engine to 410 HP and 930 NM of torque. This increase provides the Volkswagen Touareg with a 0-60mph sprint time of 5.4 seconds and a top speed of 167mph.

Along with the engine modifications, Je Design has also provided the SUV with a pneumatic electronic suspension lowering module that can lower the SUV’s ride by 35 millimeters, dual exhaust pipes, and, of course, a new set of wheels.

Press release after the jump.

Press release

The new Touareg grew four centimetres in length in comparison to its predecessor. But only JE DESIGN enhances the width of this large VW as well. The new JE DESIGN Widebody-Kit in combination with the aluminium wheels and lower suspension setting bestows the SUV from Wolfsburg with significantly higher road dominance and an increased overtake prestige. The increased performance honours the wide construction’s promise in an impressive manner.