2010 Aston Martin DBS Volante

The Aston Martin DBS was touted by Aston Martin as being the "ultimate luxury sports car," combining sex-on-wheels styling with lightweight construction and monstrous V12 power. Few cars can reach this top and get the Glory. Now Aston Martin has seen fit to add a drop-top version of the DBS, called the Volante.

The DBS Volante is powered by the same 6.0L V12 engine rated at 510hp (380kW) and 420lb-ft (570Nm) of torque as the hard-top DBS. The Volante sprints from 0-62mph(100km/h) in 4.3 seconds, and hits 191mph(307km/h) – also exactly the same as the hard-top DBS.

“The DBS Volante delivers the utmost relaxed driving experience with the roof up or down. It combines engineering excellence with design perfection," said Aston Martin CEO Ulrich Bez. “The DBS Volante offers a subtle mix of power and performance. Adding to this, the fine craftsmanship – it is an unparalleled ownership and driving experience.”

The DBS Volante rides at the forefront of the company's available technology. Beyond the simply awesome sounding V12, the car gets a six-speed manual as standard, while a six-speed “Touchtronic” automatic is optional. Structural rigidity is preserved well, with the Volante exhibiting 75% of the stiffness of the coupe, thanks in part to a rigidly mounted rear sub-frame and optimized front and rear shear panels.

Other standard equipment includes Bang & Olufsen’s BeoSound DBS audio system, which has been retuned for the open-top Volante.

Carbon ceramic brakes are standard, and the most cutting edge materials are used throughout the car, including a carbon fiber hood, front wing and trunk lid. Despite the weight-shaving measures, the DBS Volante is still a big GT, with a curb weight of 3,990lb (1,810kg), – 70kg more than the hardtop DBS. An Active Damping System (ADS) keeps the big car's roll under control, however, and can be tuned for comfort or speed.

The DBS Volante will be built at Aston Martin’s global headquarters at Gaydon, Warwickshire. And deliveries may start in the autumn.

Lorinser tuned the 1975 Mercedes 450 SEL 6.9 W116 for sale

The Mercedes 450 SEL 6.9, which was launch in 1975, was based on the W116 model series and embodied fame, luxury, as well as power. The car borrowed the 6.9-litre V8 engine from the powerful State limousine 600, which was equal to a Rolls-Royce in fame and luxury. The result was a maximum torque rated at 550Nm, which was an absolute record for a car at its time and also quite massive even by today's standards, and its peak power was 286hp (210kW).

Now thanks to the package from Lorinser, the 1975 Mercedes 450 SEL 6.9 jumps to the modern era. The styling is changed quite significantly. Wide square plastic aprons up front are installed in the place of the original slim chrome bumpers. It’s the same for the rear which then featured more a copious shape with Lorinser double exhaust pipes.

The tuner says that although the car rides on a hydro-pneumatic suspension system and keeps the ride soothing, it still handles well for its age. Cornering is apparently quite safe and road grip is firm. The steering wheel is nimble as it gives the driver incentive to keep pushing.

Performance figures suggest this golden oldie can still hang out with some of the best from today. It goes from 0 - 100km/h in 7.4 seconds using its 205/55 VR 16 wheels and the 3-speed automatic gearbox. BBS furnished the multi-spoke wheels because at that point Lorinser did not produce its own. The engineers reckon wider tyres would probably help bring the sprint time down. Top speed is 225km/h.

There is no price provided but anyone who has now acquired a taste can contact Lorinser directly to purchase it.

Spy shots: First test-mules for next-gen Audi A3

The next-gen Audi A3 will hit the market in late 2010 in the basic three and five-door hatchback models. Audi is expected the new Audi A3 range to compete with BMW’s 1-series range as well as a family of sporty models based on the next-generation Mercedes A and B-Class. Here spy photographers have caught the first images of the 2011 Audi A3.

The new A3 test mule is wearing the current Mark VI VW Golf Volkswagen body to divert attention. Furthermore, the new A3’s underpinnings will once again be shared with VW’s Golf, which means Audi’s latest modular platform design has been ruled out. The spy shots show that next A3 will be bigger than the current model, growing a few inches in width.

Engine options will likely include a series of four-cylinder powerplants ranging from 1.2 to 2.0L in displacement. The base engine will be a 1.2L TFSI with 105hp and 175Nm of torque and this will be followed by a 1.4L TFSI with 125hp and 200Nm of torque as well as a 1.8L TFSI with 160hp and 250Nm of torque. Rounding out the four-cylinder family will be a 2.0L TFSI with 211hp and 350Nm of torque. For the performance S3 model, expect to see a new turbocharged four-cylinder engine. A variety of diesel engines, with a rumored 207hp (152kW) 2.0-liter TDI taking the top spot are also expected.

In an attempt to establish a greater foothold in the North America, Audi is also considering an A3 sedan which is designed to appeal to hatch-hating Americans.

Techart tuned Porsche Cayenne Diesel

German Porsche tuner Techart, has produced their first ever package for the Porsche Cayenne Diesel, adding more performance and improving its style. They are Techart's TA 055/D1 power kit and the Aerokit 1 styling kit.

The Techart's TA 055/D1 power kit, boosts the output of Cayenne's 3.0l turbodiesel engine from 240hp (176kW) to 290hp (213kW) and takes torque from 550Nm to 630Nm at a still low 2,200rpm. More importantly, up to 500Nm of torque is available from just 1,100rpm and lasts right up until 4,000rpm.

"The 0-60 time drops from 8.3 seconds to 7.7 seconds, an impressive improvement, but the real benefit is that the huge torque and very flat delivery provides impressive acceleration from any speed. It feels more like a big V8 than a highly efficient diesel V6,” Phil Hindley, Tech9 (Techart UK importer) director said about their work.

Fuel consumption stands at 30.4 mpg (7.7l/100 km) while CO2 emission top at 244 g/km.

As for the Aerokit 1 styling kit, which features some special upgrades for the Cayenne Diesel to make it stand out from the rest of the Techart range, including a redesigned front panel with a deeper front spoiler, integrated driving and fog lamps and additional cooling vents to help keep temperatures under control during consistently hard driving. Deeper sills help manage under body airflow and at the rear a new apron with integrated diffuser completes the underbody aerodynamics. Airflow behind the vehicle is managed by a low drag roof spoiler.

For models fitted with Porsche's air suspension, the Aerokit 1 package also includes a unique suspension control module that lowers the vehicle, reducing roll and further improving aerodynamics. When the vehicle is stationary, the control system lowers the vehicle a little more to improve access and to further improve the low, aerodynamic look.

Also added to the package are headlight and rearlight surround trims, quad exhaust pipes, a three-spoke Techart sports steering wheel, aluminum pedals and custom leather trim.

No tuned Cayenne would be complete without new alloy wheels. Techart Formula I and II alloys are available in sizes 22inch and 21inch and both are wrapped in Continental Tires.

Excited? However, don't expect the Techart package to come cheap. A diesel Diesel Cayenne with Aerokit 1 (including the exterior and interior upgrades) comes from £53,000, or from £55,500 with Aerokit 1 and Powerkit TA 055/D1. If you already have a Porsche and wish to bulk it up a bit, you can purchase the Aerokit 1 from £15,000 and the Powerkit TA 055/D1 from £2,500.

Volvo offers 2009 S60 SE for the U.S.

The popular Volvo S60, is one of the company's top-selling models. Since its launch, more than 580,000 cars were built and sold worldwide. Last month, the production of the Volvo S60 finally halted, marking the end of an eight year product cycle. Before the all-new model arrives next year, Volvo is set to release a very limited number of well-equipped S60 ‘SE’ models, exclusively designed for the United State.

Only 880 Volvo S60 SEs will be offered when the car goes on sale this month. And It’s priced from $30,950 for the FWD model and $32,750 for the AWD version. Both will come with a 2.5-liter turbocharged inline five-cylinder engine rated at 208hp (155kW) and 236lb-ft (320Nm) of torque. A five-speed automatic transmission is standard and features a sporty Geartronic mode that allows the driver to manually shift.

The FWD model will be EPA rated at 19mpg in the city and 28mpg on the highway, while the AWD model will return at 18mpg city and 26mpg highway.

Other standard features including leather seating, electronic climate control, moonroof, sporty 17in aluminum wheels, heated seats, rain sensing windshield wipers and headlamp washers. Aluminum mesh inlays adorn the interior and reinforce the car’s sporty theme.

Incidentally, the S60 will be replaced by a new model which will be released in early 2010. "The Volvo S60 was an important model for Volvo Cars Gent. Now we will focus on a flawless launch of the new S60," Derek Jessiman, Volvo Cars Ghent managing director said in a release.

"The sporty design gives visual promise of an enthusiastic drive and I can assure you here and now that the all-new S60 will live up to that promise. The driving properties are better than in any previous Volvo. The car's technology will help you to be a better and safer driver," said Volvo CEO Stephen Odell when the wraps came off the concept last December.

Hennessey working on ZR700 Corvette ZR1with 705hp

The Corvette ZR1 with a power of 638hp (476kW), is the world's fastest and most powerful production Corvette. But it may not be enough for track day enthusiasts as well as professional race drivers. Now it’s reported that Hennessey Performance Engineering is working on a new 705hp (526kW) Z700 package for the 2010 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1.

Designed to be the ultimate Corvette, Hennessey's Z700 performance package is equipped with an upgraded supercharger, exhaust, and air induction system. The result is 705 hp and 717 lb-ft of torque, instead of the standard car's 638 hp and 604 lb-ft of torque. This healthy performance boost is backed up by lightweight carbon fiber wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tires, a carbon fiber front splitter, canards, and a rear spoiler. All these changes helping to put the added power to the road and track, and make the car reach an impressive 0-60 mph time of 2.9 seconds and a 1/4 mile time of 10.6 seconds, and finally a top speed in excess of 212mph.

Rounding out the Z700 upgrade package is a revised interior with lightweight carbon-fiber seats, Alcantara steering wheel and shift knob.

Only 24 examples will be built for 2010, and customers who order a Z700 also get a one-day performance driving instruction course at Hennessey's Lonestar Motorsports Park. Total cost for a base Z700 will start at $207,150, which includes the cost of a donor ZR1 but is essentially double the price.

The exciting thing is that, besides Z700, there are another two extreme performance packages: the Z750 package boasts 755 bhp while the Z1000 package features 1,000 bhp thanks to the addition of twin turbochargers.

Spy shots: First Ferrari F450 prototypes

In previous report, we got the upcoming Ferrari F450 test mules using an F430 body. But now here are the very first spy shots of the Ferrari F450 prototype. The F450 will replace the current F430. According to Auto Motor und Sport, a concept version will be unveiled at September’s Frankfurt Motor Show ahead of a sales launch in early 2010.

The F450 will have a 4.5L V8 engine. Expect between 550hp (410kW) and 585hp (436kW), a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, and possibly a brake energy recovery system. Spy photographers reported that during in town driving the engine sounded very quiet but when the throttle was tickled it blurted out the familiar Ferrari roar.

Some of the first details to catch the eye include bigger air intakes at the sides of the car, a new centrally mounted exhaust system and a slightly longer wheelbase. The new shots also confirm a wider track both at the front and rear axles as well as an additional pair of intakes located behind the rear window. Revealed for the first time on this test-mule is a completely new diffuser design, which shows a more fluid look than previous versions.

While the styling of the new F450 is expected to remain similar to the current F430, the car’s mechanicals could be very different. Ferrari has confirmed that it’s looking at a range of powertrain advancements including hybrid and turbocharging technologies, as well as the introduction of lighter construction methods and active aerodynamics.

Expect more details to be released.

Volvo announces 2010 XC60 R-Design

VOLVO has introduced its sporty R-Design variant of the ever-popular XC60 crossover, --- 2010 Volvo XC60 R-Design SUV. Set to go on sale shortly after its debut at this September's Frankfurt Motor Show, the XC60 R-Design gets an enhancement of the looks further and also a better driving experience.

The R-Design chassis is stiffer and the dampers have been revalved to firm up the ride. Furthermore, the steering ratio has been tightened up to improve steering response and help drivers feel more connected to the road.

The XC60 R-Design is targeting the young and the restless. "The R-Design model boosts the XC60's already sporty aura and gives the car an even more refined character in terms of both driving experience and design." says Lennart Stegland, president of Volvo Special Vehicles. "These are properties that we know appeal to the discerning buyers of this type of cars."

From the outside, it's easy to recognize the typical R-Design attributes: door mirror housings, trim mouldings and trim in matte silk metal finish, skid-plates and twin chrome tailpipes. The five-spoke 'Cratus' aluminum wheels are also unique for the R-Design models. In standard form they measure 18in but there's also the option of a 20in set. Another new feature is that the lower section of the car is now colour-matched to the rest of the body instead of the matte black design of the standard model.

For the interior Volvo has continued to make it stylish while sporty, adding aluminum inserts in the steering wheel, door mouldings and the stylized center stack. The standard pedals have also been replaced with aluminum units, while the seats have been covered with a new dual-tone leather design. Finally, the sports steering wheel has been trimmed with perforated leather and features an engraved R-Design emblem sitting center.

The price is not revealed yet.

Pagani Cinque Roadster Revealed

The Pagani Zonda Cinque is already exclusive and typical Italian exotic for most people. But it seems that there is no end in pursuing. Now the Zonda Cinque Roadster is here.

Like the Zonda Cinque sibling, the Roadster is also produced in the Modenese Atelier in a limited production run of merely five exclusive pieces. The street-legal Zonda R is almost identical to the hardtop, though the carbon-titanium chassis has been tweaked to accommodate the removable roof. With the top removed, the Zonda Cinque Roadster sports a mostly-open cabin with only an engine air scoop protruding above. The roof is stored up front. Despite the modifications, the car tips the scales at just 1,210kg, the same as that of the hardtop.

Powered by a slightly detuned version of the 7.3L V12 engine found in other Zondas that produces 678hp (505kW) and 575lb-ft (780Nm) of torque, the Cinque makes the run from 0-62mph in just 3.4 seconds and has a top speed of over 200mph. Besides the power, there are also some other specifications mark the Zonda Cinque Roadster as the most exotic of exotics, such as ceramic-coated titanium exhaust, traction control and a six-speed sequential transmission by Cima. The nineteen- and twenty-inch aluminum/magnesium wheels are forged by APP and wrapped in Pirelli P-Zero rubber, and of course Brembo provides carbo-ceramic brakes with six-piston calipers.

Thanks to the different drive modes of the newly developed sequential robostized gearbox and a fully adjustable suspension setup, one can enjoy driveability and ultimate performance in any condition.

It's priced at €1.3 million, plus taxes. That said, with a production run of just five vehicles, it's a fair bet that the Pagani Zonda Cinque Roadster has already sold out.

Romero Britto Bentley Continental GT

Romero Britto is a Brazilian neo-pop artist that specializes in cheerful and vivid signature motifs and is now based in Miami, Florida. To his "Come to my World" exhibition in Berlin, Britto has created a uniquely styled Bentley Continental GT.

This ‘Britto-Bentley’ is probably one of the most unusual Bentleys ever seen, featuring a bizarre mix of cartoonish flowers, flying hearts, and yellow stars, squiggles and signs dance on the hood and colorful, comic-like figures adorn the doors. These unique designs are further emphasized by the GT's dark blue exterior which boasts white squiggles.

According to Britto, "It (the Bentley Continental GT) is the most beautiful and elegant car in the world. The lines of the new design are perfect to paint as a clean canvas. What a way to start a fascinating and colorful journey."

The Romero Britto exhibition, hosted by the Automobil Forum Unter den Linden, will take place from this July 10 to September 6 at the Mensing Gallery in Berlin, Germany. When the exhibition is over, the "Britto-Bentley" will be auctioned off to support the Nathalie Todenhöfer Foundation for multiple sclerosis and Best Buddies, a charity for the mentally challenged.