Saturday, August 8, 2009

2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Wagon official details revealed

Mercedes has officially unveiled their new 2010 E-Class ‘Estate’ Wagon with full details and images, which will make its world debut at September’s Frankfurt Motor Show

Just have a look at the pics, the new E-Class Wagon features dynamic styling with taut surfaces and striking character lines. With a load capacity of up to 1,950 liters, which is even more than some luxury SUVs, the E-Class Estate (length/width/ height: 4,895/1,854/1,471 mm) sets the standard in its class. Furthermore, the new wagon boasts an automatic "easy-pack" tailgate, a "quickfold" rear seat (which can be lowered from the cargo compartment), and seating for up to seven people.

The new E-Class Wagon also highlights safety equipments. Lane-departure warnings, an eye-movement monitor, traffic-sign identification, road-condition sensors and stability control that accounts for crosswinds, camber changes and tire wear are expected to contribute to .driver assistance. Besides, Pre-Safe braking (automatic braking in emergencies), nine airbags, four belt tensioners, available rear seat airbags, and optional self-adaptive belt force limiters for the rear seats will also available.

Customers will get a range of engine options, including three diesel and two petrol engines. The top model in the diesel range is the six-cylinder E350 CDI Blue-EFFICIENCY with an output of 170 kW/231 hp, which uses 0.5L per 100km less fuel than the previous E320 CDI. The other two diesel models are the 125 kW (168 hp) E 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, the 150 kW (201 hp) E 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY. Petrol models include the 215 kW (288 hp) E 350 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY and the 285 kW (382 hp) E 500.

Further more, in early 2010, the 100 kW (134 hp) E 200 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, 170 kW (228 hp) E 350 CDI 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY, 135 kW (181 hp) E 200 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY, 150 kW (201 hp) E 250 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY, and the 200 kW (268 hp) E 350 4MATIC will also join the lineup.

The 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate wagon is set to go on sale in Europe by the end of the year with a variety of E-Class estate models. However, the E-Class wagon will be available in just one model in North American in June of 2010 - The E350 4Matic, an all-wheel-drive model powered by Mercedes’ 3.5-liter V6 engine.

Friday, August 7, 2009

Porsche Panamera Exclusive and Tequipment customization options

Customers who want a personalization with his Porsche Panamera have more options now, thanks to Porsche’s newly release of two sets of customization options - Porsche Exclusive and Porsche Tequipment. The first one is available now, while the Porsche Tequipment will be available nearly September.

Both the Exclusive and Tequipment are mainly intended for the interior of the Panamera, offering a collection of special materials - leather, wood, carbon fibre and aluminium trim parts. Just have a look at the pics. The factory fitted Exclusive range of parts extends to items such as contrasting Yachting Mahogany and Maple wood inlays for the dash, center console and door trims, with Mahogany inlays extending to the grab handles on the roof as well as in the 3-spoke steering wheel.

The interior is also furnished by louvers on the air vents, sun visors and elsewhere, along with trim covers on the steering column and seat console all in top-quality leather. The instrument panel and the Sport Chrono stopwatch come in a choice of various subtle and flourishing colors. The classic Porsche logo is also available on the headrests. Additionally, the Rear Seat Entertainment System offers individual seatback-mounted CD/DVD players, infrared cordless headsets, AV inputs and game console and iPod interfaces.

As for the Porsche Tequipment, there is another series of options, such as roof racks, tow equipment and bike carriers, a 10.5 liter cooler between the two rear seats, as well as specially-designed air intake grids at the front and air outlets on the wings behind the front wheels. Child seats, tailored luggage, alloy wheels from 18 to 20-inch and additional interior parts are also available.

Mazda MX-5 Superlight Concept teased ahead of Frankfurt Motor Show

Few days ago, we just reported that Mazda has announced a special edition 20th Anniversary Mazda MX-5 for the Japanese market. However, that’s not enough for celebrating 20 years of the successful MX-5/ Miata brand. Thus Mazda decides to reveal the Superlight concept at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show as part of the celebration.

The MX-5 Superlight was designed by Mazda's in-house team in Germany. Right now we haven’t got many details on the concept. Just as the name suggests, the Superlight Concept will feature the using of a number of weight-saving measures, then get an improvement of driving performance, handling, fuel economy and CO2 emissions.

Additionally, interior sketches reveal a racing seat, further hinting at the performance potential of the car. Other unique cosmetic and structural changes include the lack of A-pillars, as well as the smooth front and rear decks presumably used to help control airflow around the car.

Under the hood, the concept will likely be used the standard MX-5's range-topping 2.0L gasoline engine. But it’s not confirmed yet.

However, claimed as a "pure show car", whether the MX-5 Superlight Concept will come to production is still unknown.

Thursday, August 6, 2009

Gemballa Mirage GT Gold Edition based on the Porsche Carrera GT

Gemballa, one of the most famous Porsche tuner, has unveiled their new Mirage GT Gold Edition based on the Porsche Carrera GT.

Power comes from a massive V10 engine that produces 670hp (500kW) and 630 Nm of toque. That’s about 50hp (40kW) more than the stock Carrera GT. With that power, it’s easily to run from 0-100 km/h in 3.7 seconds, 0-200 km/h (0-124 mph) in 9.7 seconds, and top speed reaches at least 208mph (335km/h).

In terms of styling, the Mirage GT Gold Edition highlights a seductive gold ornament. There are various gilded accents on the wheels, mirrors, air intakes, side skirts, and wing. Inside, the gold accents continues on the instrument cluster, center console, door handles, shifter, and steering wheel. Besides, there’s a mix of Alcantara and leather trim as well as carbon-fiber and aluminum accents. A hydraulic height-adjustable coilover kit is also supplied to improve handling, as well as tackle speed bumps and parking garages..

The pricing detail is not released yet, but expected to cost more than €300,000 ($431,700 USD).

Mr. Norm unveils 2009 426 Hemi Challenger and 426 Hemi Cuda Convertible

The famed Dodge dealer and tuner Mr. Norm has unveiled two new vehicles based on the 2009 Dodge Challenger SRT-8, dubbed as 2009 426 Hemi Challenger and 426 Hemi Cuda Convertible.

Both vehicles get their engines equipped with a new reciprocating assembly and a Kenne Bell 2.8L twin-screw supercharger that produces 725 horsepower. A new low restriction cat back dual-exhaust is also on offer to give the car a unique sounding growl, and both vehicles also get a new rear suspension system from Mr. Norm to handle all that extra power. Incidentally, the suspension system uses the same differential from the mighty Dodge Viper SRT-10 model.

Other modifications include 20-inches Mr. Norm 'Thrust' custom wheels with high-performance Pirelli, a 1971 Hemi Cuda-inspired grille, other throwbacks to the original Mr. Norm cars seen throughout such as a custom tail panel with genuine 1971 Cuda-style writing, and actual 1971 Hemi Cuda tail light assemblies. Inside, the cars get custom leather and suede seating, a pistol grip shifter, and custom mats.

Wednesday, August 5, 2009

2010 Suzuki Kizashi sedan Officially revealed with images and details

Suzuki has officially unveiled the full details and high-res photos of the 2010 Kizashi sedan, which will be on sale in the U.S. this winter. The Kizashi, means "something great is coming" in Japanese, Suzuki says that the 2010 Kizashi sedan features “a dynamic and exhilarating driving experience.”

Positioned as Suzuki’s flagship vehicle, the 2010 Kizashi offers both FWD and AWD variants. Power comes from standard 2.4L DOHC inline 4-cylinder engine, mated to a 6-speed manual or an optional Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The AWD model comes only with the CVT transmission. The output is not known yet, however, it’s claimed to be "more potent ... than many competitive best-sellers." Suzuki also says it will have a V6 and hybrid version of the Kizashi within a year.

The car is designed to be lightweight, with its aluminum head, block and pistons reducing the front-heavy weight distribution inherent in the front-engine/FWD layout. Thanks to a 107-inch wheelbase and an exceptionally rigid steel unibody - with reinforced front suspension and multi-link rear suspension constructed with embedded aluminum, the Kizashi offers "crisp, nimble handling with excellent stability."

The car also comes with a set of standard safety equipment, such as eight airbags, electronic stability control, four-wheel disc brakes with ABS and electronic brake-force distribution, projector beam headlights, and a tire pressure monitoring system.

Described as the seamless melding of European style and Japanese craftsmanship, the styling of the Kizashi highlights a bold grille, shapely headlights, a dynamic rear end, 18-inch alloy wheels, an attractive dual exhaust system, and a short front overhang.

Inside, the car comes nicely equipped with standard sport seats, keyless push-button start, iPod connectivity and Bluetooth audio streaming. Options include leather upholstery, three-stage heated memory seats make for a more comfortable commute, and a 425 watt Rockford Fosgate audio system.

Pricing for the 2010 Kizashi sedan is not released, but expected to announce as launch date closed.

Tuesday, August 4, 2009

Build your own Jaguar XJ with new configurator

Want to own a 2010 Jaguar XJ Sedan? Now with the detailed configuration released from Jaguar, one can build up his personal XJ exactly as he wants it. Click here to go to the website.

There are eight different variants offering, starting with the basic 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel short-wheelbase model and topping out with the long-wheelbase Supersport model powered by a 510hp supercharged 5.0-liter V8. In addition, a set of different options are also on offer. After the buyer submits the options which they like the configurator will then price the amount of the car.

However, the site is designed for customers in the UK. A similar version may be launched for customers in the U.S. closer to the official sales launch in December. However, the new XJ can be ordered right now in the U.S. “The launch of the all new Jaguar XJ marks a major milestone for Jaguar in North America, which is expected to be the world’s largest Jaguar XJ market,” says Gary Temple, President of Jaguar Land Rover North America. “The debut of our ultimate four-door flagship follows recent recognition for exceptional dependability and clearly demonstrates our commitment to producing the finest cars in the world - fast, beautiful cars that offer luxury, performance and first-rate quality.”


Pricing starts from an MSRP of $72,500 for the base 5.0-liter V8, $87,500 for the XJ Supercharged and from $112,000 for the XJ Supersport.

Monday, August 3, 2009

Mazda celebrates 20 years of Mazda MX-5 with a special edition in Japan

The Mazda MX-5, or Roadster in Japan and Miata in North America, was a great success. Since its first launch in 1989, there are over 860,000 units have been made and sold in about 60 countries. The car has become the most produced two-seat, open-top sports car by Guinness World Records and the most popular roadster in existence. Now, to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the car in production, Mazda has introduced a special edition in Japan.

The Mazda Roadster 20th Anniversary Special Edition will only be available for sale in the Japanese market. Price starts at 2,860,000 yen ($29,880) for the soft-top with six-speed manual version, and 3,110,000 yen ($32,490) for the power-retractable hardtop with the automatic.

The special edition is based on the Roadster RS soft-top model with a six-speed manual transmission, and the VS Power Retractable Hard Top (RHT) hard-top model with a six-speed automatic transmission.

Thanks to a special set of equipment, the Roadster 20th Anniversary features red and black RECAR bucket sports seats, 20th Anniversary badging and clear front fog lights, making it easily stand out from the regular lineup. Additionally, 17in aluminum alloy wheels with 205/45R17 84W tires, a front strut tower bar, five-setting heated seats and synthetic leather door armrests and console elements, Fabric soft top with glass rear window (soft-top model only) are also included in the package.

The Roadster 20th Anniversary comes in Crystal White Pearl Mica, used for the first time on the Mazda Roadster.

Mercedes Benz C63 AMG by Edo Competition

Edo Competition, the famous tuning company has take on the Mercedes Benz C63 AMG.

The most important change is the power. Obviously, engineers at Edo Competition are not satisfied with the output of the standard C63 AMG which produces 457hp and 600Nm. Underneath, Edo has installed a number of modifications.

Edo hasn’t touched the 6.3-litre naturally aspirated V8. However, the tuner made some ECU upgrades by recalibrating the unit. Other mods include a new high-performance exhaust system, exhaust headers, high-flow catalytic converters and new air filters. As a result, the power reaches 408kW (555hp) and 680Nm of torque. This will be enough to accelerate the C63 AMG from 0-60mph in 4.3 seconds and see it easily reach top speed of 320km/h.

To manage the extra grip required from all that extra horsepower, a set of black lightweight 19-inch wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup high-performance tyres that measure 235/35 19 at the front and 265/30 19 at the rear is also on offer.

The exterior remains almost the same. However, the interior can be upgraded to the customer's wishes by inserting such items as special leather upholstery and other unique trims.

Sunday, August 2, 2009

2010 Mazda RX-8 facelift for Europe

The facelifted 2010 Mazda RX-8 is already available in Japan. Now, Mazda officially announced the 2010 Mazda RX-8 facelift for the European market.

Power comes from the 13B twin rotor RENESIS rotary engine matched to a six-speed manual. Output will be rated at 231 hp and 211 Nm of torque. This will be enough to accelerate the RX-8 from 0-60mph in just 6.4 seconds and allows the four door sports car to reach a top speed of 145 mph. Also included is a two-knock sensor system which detects and prevents knock better.

The facelifted RX-8 features a number of exterior upgrades, including a new front bumper, new headlights, and LEDs incorporated into the rear lights. The front now brings the car more in line with the Mazda 3 and Mazda 6. Although exhaust tips are now round, the triangular shape is still seen in the red reflector at the base of the rear bumper. Mazda is also using new side skirts, as well as new dark gray 19-inch alloy wheels and the addition of a Sport Pack (standard) which is made up by an integrated front spoiler, side spoilers and a floating-type rear spoiler.

Inside, the car gets new trim materials making a sportier cockpit with a new center console design, new instrument cluster colour, new black leather steering wheel, a handbrake lever with red stitching ,sound system, as well as Bluetooth functionality. Driver and passenger will be held into place thanks to the Recaro sport seats that combine black cloth and leather.

Colour options include, Aurora Blue Mica, Metropolitan Grey Mica, Aluminium Metallic, Sparkling Black Mica and Crystal White Pearl Mica. Velocity Red and Brilliant Black are carried over.

Pricing has not been officially announced, but expect to reach as high as €38,000 in Germany, including tax.