Monday 25 December 2017

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DMC Tries To Make The Maserati GranTurismo Look More Aggressive

Posted: 25 Dec 2017 04:41 AM PST


The problem, if you can call it that, with successful designs such as the Maserati GranTurismo, is that it's hard for tuners to work on them without ruining their looks.

Still, that hasn't stopped DMC from creating a body kit that's meant to make the GranTurismo look more aggressive.

It's called the Sovrano package and features the front bumper from an MC Trofeo with a carbon fiber lip, the bonnet from a GranTurismo GT3, custom side skirts, a carbon fiber rear diffuser and a trunk lid spoiler.

This example was caught on camera in Herzliya, Israel, by Autogespot user Superfast and it's one of the very few ever seen in traffic. Given that the Sovrano kit has been around since 2013, it's safe to assume that it hasn't been a hit with GranTurismo owners.

This Maser also does without the tuner's custom 20" and 21" all-black alloys, which would have filled the wheel arches better than the stock items and contrasted the white exterior nicely. So, has this kit improved the GranTurismo looks or not? You can have your say in the Comments section right below.

PHOTO GALLERY

Mercedes-AMG GT R With Aftermarket Exhaust Will Give You Goosebumps

Posted: 25 Dec 2017 02:28 AM PST


Few people would complain about the Mercedes-AMG GT R not sounding menacing enough. Nevertheless, the exhaust specialists at iPE have worked their magic on the supercar, creating an exhaust that turns the volume up to 11.

As the video below shows, the exhaust growls under heavy acceleration and offers some satisfying sounds when shifting up through the gears. Downshifts are even more spectacular as the exhaust cracks, bangs, and pops, reminding us of the Jaguar F-Type SVR.

Powering the Mercedes-AMG GT R is a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 with 577 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque, resultινγ in a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) time of 3.6 seconds and a 198 mph (316 km/h) top speed.

Engineers at AMG also equipped the range-topping model with revised suspension and steering systems while also employing an advanced, adjustable traction control system. If that's not enough to get you excited, the brash new bodywork acts as the cherry on top of a fire-breathing cake.

VIDEO

Koenigsegg Agera RS's Speed Record Caught On Video

Posted: 24 Dec 2017 07:09 PM PST


Setting a production car top speed record was a momentous achievement by Koenigsegg, so one can't blame them for milking it for as long as possible.

In a bid to ensure the Agera RS's top speed record was immortalized in the best way possible, Koenigsegg teamed up with Swedish camera maker Hasselblad to capture some truly stunning images of the hypercar with the 100-megapixel HB H6D medium format digital camera.

Photographer Toshi Oku was the man behind the lens during the record-breaking run and has dropped five black-and-white images of the Koenigsegg. All of them are beautifully composed and show the Agera RS in its element before and after sprinting down a highway in Nevada at a two-way average of 277.9 mph.

Moreover, if you scroll below the image gallery, you can watch a behind-the-scenes video showing how the photographer managed to get the best out of the Swedish hypercar's record attempt.

PHOTO GALLERY



VIDEO

Enjoy The Sight And Sound Of A Rally-Spec Porsche 911 Carrera

Posted: 24 Dec 2017 04:28 PM PST


Although this rally-spec Porsche 911 Carrera isn't an official 'Safari' variant produced by the German car brand, watching it being built and driven is hugely satisfying.

The off-road story of this Carrera started when it arrived at Emotion Engineering in Newport Beach, California. From there, the sports coupe has been transformed into a punchy rally car with a competition-spec suspension system, reinforced chassis, and roll cage, plus a beefed-up 3.2-liter flat-six engine.

Rounding off the rally specifications meant fitting this 911 with a set of large off-road tires, skid plates, front push bar, roof rack, and off-road lamps. So, not only does it look the part, but it is actually right at home on precarious gravel paths.

Only those with a lot of money could ever think about transforming an air-cooled 911 into an off-road toy, but we're glad this owner did just that.

VIDEO

The Valet's Bringing Your BMW M3 Around Now, Mr The Frog

Posted: 24 Dec 2017 03:01 PM PST


We've seen Kermit the Frog driving all sorts of cars: a beat up old Studebaker, a psychedelic school buses, even a Chevy Volt (in the latest TV series).

But at this point in his long and distinguished career, the world's favorite amphibian could probably afford something a little higher-end. Something like this BMW M3, for example.

On display now at Abu Dhabi Motors – the world's largest BMW showroom – this M3 sedan has been special-ordered from the Individual catalog in a bright shade of Verde Mantis that only a frog could love. And the interior accents have been done to match.

It's a color you might sooner expect to find on, say, a Lamborghini Gallardo or a Mercedes-AMG GT R. But here it is on a Bimmer, lest it somehow otherwise go unnoticed, what with the upsized alloys and the aggressive-looking aero package.

Not your cup of tea? The M3 (in the United States at least) typically comes in either of two shades of white, silver, grey, black, blue, orange, or yellow. BMW Individual offers another four shades as part of its usual palette, but will do one up for you in just about any color you want... and some you might not.

Photo Gallery

Watch The New Lotus Lotus Exige Cup 430 Tear Up The Track

Posted: 24 Dec 2017 02:05 PM PST


430 horsepower may not sound like all that much these days. Not when hypercars are routinely kicking out a thousand or more. But Lotus has made a business out of doing a whole lot with very little.

Just watch its latest creation do what it was designed to do in this video. The little monster in question is the new Exige Cup 430, which takes Lotus' biggest engine and drops it into its smallest chassis.

That engine, incidentally, is the built around the same block you'd find in your average garden-variety Toyota Avalon or Lexus RX350 – a 3.5-liter V6 that Lotus has supercharged to that headline figure of 430 horsepower, with 325 lb-ft of torque to back it up.

With just 2,328 pounds to motivate, that engine will propel the Exige Cup 430 to 60 in 3.2 seconds and on to a top speed of 180 miles per hour. More tellingly, though, is that it will lap the automaker's legendary test track at Hethel in 1:24.8, making it the fastest production car ever to hustle its way around the circuit.

That's pretty impressive considering the performance machinery that Lotus has made in the past, but that's what the "more power, less weight" formula will do for you.

Hyundai Ioniq Plug-In Hybrid Joins The Family From $24,950

Posted: 24 Dec 2017 12:55 PM PST


Hyundai is gunning for the Toyota Prius with its new Ioniq, and it's doing so with a more varied range of powertrain options.

Already offered in standard hybrid and all-electric variants, the Korean automaker is now rolling out its dedicated electrified vehicle as a plug-in hybrid as well.

The PHEV packs the same 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine as the plug-less version, Rated at 104 horsepower, it comes mated to a six-speed dual-clutch transmission and paired with an electric motor good for another 60 hp or so – a significant increase over the existing hybrid's 43-hp electric motor.

Exact specifications are apparently still to be confirmed, but Hyundai has already released pricing and energy ratings for the US market. The Ioniq Plug-In Hybrid starts at $24,950 and peaks at $28,300 for the Limited version. (For reference, the standard Ioniq Hybrid started the 2017 model year at $22,200, and the Ioniq Electric at $29,500.)

Regardless of trim level, buyers can expect 29 miles of all-electric range, 650 miles of combined range, and EPA-estimated ratings of 52 miles per gallon (using both motors) and 119 MPGe on electric power alone.

Photo Gallery

Leaky Fuel Lines Prompt The Recall Of 50,000 Audi A6s And A7s

Posted: 24 Dec 2017 12:04 PM PST


Do you drive an Audi A6 or A7? Be careful, because it could spring a fuel leak.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has announced the recall of nearly 50,000 of them from the 2012-14 model years for just that reason.

The problem comes down to a compression point in the fuel line, which could weaken, potentially resulting in a leak. And since leaking fuel could start a fire, the issue is apparently being taken seriously.

The issue is restricted to models equipped with the 3.0 TFSI engine, so owners of models otherwise motivated needn't worry. The manufacturer estimates 48,693 vehicles will be affected in the United States alone.

They'll each need to have their fuel lines replaced in a recall campaign expected to get underway on February 5. So if you have one in your driveway, you can expect to hear from Audi between now and then so you can arrange to bring your car in for service.

Photo Gallery

This Barnfind Porsche 912 Was The Perfect Christmas Present In 1965

Posted: 24 Dec 2017 10:53 AM PST


Imagine waking up on Christmas morning to find a new Porsche sitting under the tree (or in the driveway). That's how the original owner of this 912 took delivery in the Netherlands back in 1965.

He drove it for over two decades before selling it to another gentleman, who enjoyed it for two short years before putting it into storage. Now almost 30 years later, it's been uncovered and is heading for the auction block.

Porschephiles will recognize the 912 designation as belonging to versions of the 911 with a four-cylinder engine, which gave the manufacturer an early volume model before the 914 roadster and 924 came along. It was a popular choice in its day, out-selling the six-cylinder 911 for several years.

This example, captured in its natural state by Dirk de Jager for RM Sotheby's, clocked just over 30,000 miles before it was put in storage. After three decades sitting untouched, it needs some tender loving care – which could range from simply bringing up to running condition to a full restoration. But you're not likely to find an original with such low mileage so many years later.

The auctioneer expects it to sell for between €40,000 and €70,000 (or about $47-83k) when the gavel drops in Paris during the Retromobile show early this coming February.

Photo Gallery

CR Owners Survey Lists Top 5 Most Satisfying New Cars

Posted: 24 Dec 2017 07:08 PM PST


Whether you're a petrolhead or not, there aren't many things as enjoyable as buying a new car, but choosing among the plethora of models that are out there could prove to be quite difficult.

Enter Consumer Reports and their new study, which might make this task a bit easier.

Based on data collected from owners, who rated their rides in six categories that include driving experience, comfort, value, styling, audio, and climate systems, and to answer the ultimate question, which is whether they would buy or lease it again, CR has put together the five most satisfying new cars on sale in the U.S. market right now.

#1 Tesla Model S



Elon Musk's all-electric executive saloon is the car that put most smiles on the faces of consumers, with 92.5 percent of them saying that they would gladly buy it again. The Model S impressed buyers with its styling, comfort, and driving, managing to become more desirable than some highly established sports cars.

#2 Porsche 911



This brings us to number 2, the Porsche 911, with its impressive driving credentials, interior comfort, and great styling that has evolved over the years, yet it's instantly recognizable. The sports car from Stuttgart is great as a daily driver, too, and in the publication's survey came right under the Tesla Model S, with 92.1 percent of buyers admitting that they would happily choose one again.

#3 Chevrolet Corvette



The bronze medal goes to an all-time American classic that's getting ready to be replaced by an entirely new generation that ditches the front-engine for a mid-engine layout when it comes out next year. However, until the C8 arrives, the Corvette C7 wowed 91.2 percent of its owners, who love the way it drives and consider it great value for money.

#4 Lincoln Continental



Missing the podium by an inch is the Lincoln Continental, which scored 91 percent in owner satisfaction. Unveiled at the beginning of the year, it shares its nuts and bolts with the Ford Fusion (or Mondeo in other markets), has a very imposing design, is tech-friendly and made its owners appreciate its comfort, driving characteristics, equipment and spacious cabin.

#5 Ford F-350



You might have noticed that, so far, that no crossovers, SUVs or pickups have made it on the list, which given their popularity, is remarkable. In fact, just one made it to CR's number five, namely the Ford F-350. No less than 90 percent of the Blue Oval's trusty heavy-duty truck owners say that they would absolutely buy it again, as they were impressed with the driving experience and rugged styling.

VIDEO

This Is What You Get When You Mix Sports Cars With Crossovers

Posted: 24 Dec 2017 02:20 PM PST


With automakers now busy producing more SUVs than ever before to satisfy increasing demand, we thought what a sports car-inspired crossover might look like.

Lamborghini has already done it, as the Urus isn't just a large SUV with some Aventador-ish design elements, but rather something that genuinely looks like a supercar with higher ground clearance and four doors.

These renderings come courtesy of Jennings Motor Group and show us what some sports cars and supercars would look like if somebody suddenly decided to turn them into something more utilitarian.

2017 Ford Mustang



This one is actually not that far fetched. The proportions seem rather normal for a compact crossover, and since the Mustang's front fascia isn't too exotic, this design could actually work in the real world if the Blue Oval were to style the next Edge, for example, with a Mustang-inspired front end.

Alfa Romeo 4C



This design only works if you're a fan of the Nissan Juke, as it's almost as quirky as the latter. Of course, Alfa Romeo has already its first-ever SUV, the Stelvio, but if you're going to build a smaller crossover, the 4C's wacky front end could be a solution of sorts. But let's not kid ourselves, it's a bit weird, isn't it?

McLaren 720S



The day will probably come when every single exotic car manufacturer will have their own SUV. Lamborghini opened the floodgates, and Porsche's already been there for years. If the trend persists, it's only a matter of time before the likes of McLaren or Ferrari partake in this trend, though the British supercar maker insists that it won't get involved in that segment. We just hope that when that day comes, they'll come up with something a bit sleeker than this.

BMW i8



If BMW were to actually build an SUV under its "green" sub-brand, it probably wouldn't come as that big of a surprise, since their i Program will undoubtedly grow to accommodate more and more body styles in the future. But would it work if it was designed to look like the i8? Probably not, although the front end doesn't look that bad and, compared to other renderings, it looks more cohesive.

Aston Martin V12 Vantage



Here's another automaker that is preparing to enter the SUV segment in the near future, with the production version of the DBX concept. We already know they're not afraid to experiment, hence the Rapide, and they've already shown us multiple off-road concepts, but this one, inspired by the V12 Vantage, just doesn't work as it looks like a big-mouthed Vantage.

Chevrolet Camaro ZL1



Unlike the Mustang, the Camaro ZL1 is perhaps too aggressive to turn into a crossover but, surprisingly, this rendering, where you've got the front fascia of the ZL1 connected to the body of an SUV, looks quite interesting and sporty.

Ferrari 488



Ferrari CEO Sergio Marchionne already confirmed that an SUV is probably happening, and while purists might yell "heresy", we're really looking forward to seeing what their idea of a utility vehicle is. We obviously hope it looks nothing like this 488-turned-Juke-rival, which really is an insult to the Prancing Horse.

Honda NSX



Honda and sister company Acura actually make plenty of crossovers, so they probably doesn't need another one. Moreover, the styling of the NSX doesn't really seem to work on anything other than a sleek supercar, but is this rendering that much weirder to look at than, say, the Toyota C-HR?

PHOTO GALLERY

Daihatsu Shows There's More Than One Way To Skin A Kitten

Posted: 24 Dec 2017 07:56 AM PST


Personalization is becoming big business in the automotive industry – especially in Japan, where it seems almost everyone customizes their ride in one direction or another. And Daihatsu is showcasing the range of possibilities at the upcoming Tokyo Auto Salon.

The Japanese automaker is bringing nine show cars to the tuner expo this year, aligned into three groups of three: sporty, premium, and active.

The sporty lineup includes the Boon Sporto Package and the Sporza versions of the Thor wagon and Mira hatchback, each with two-tone red and black livery with gold wheels and all manner of aerodynamic upgrades.

Daihatsu's also done up the Thor, Move Canbus, and Tanto wagons in Premium versions, with pearl white bodywork, black accents, and extra chrome for a more elegant look.

The blue cars pictured make up the Active category, aimed at those who like to venture off the beaten path with an appetite for adventure and applied to the Boon and two versions of the little Hijet truck.

They all go to show that small and cheap – Daihatsu's forte – don't need to mean boring, whatever your sense of style.

Photo Gallery

2000 HP Lamborghini Huracan Spins At 200 MPH During Drag Race

Posted: 24 Dec 2017 06:57 AM PST


A recent Texas Invitational event attracted lots of tuned, high-powered supercars that raced each other on the quarter mile, and apparently there was almost everything you can think of, from Audi R8s and Nissan GT-Rs to Corvettes and Porsches. However, two Lamborghinis hit trouble, spinning out of control, one of them at a really high speed.

As a matter of fact, the video shows quite a number of drag races - and, as is happens in these events, in some cases things went wrong, with some cars experiencing engine issues and others failing to brake in time.

And then, of course, there are the two Lamborghinis we've already mentioned. First in line is the black Gallardo, which spins out shortly after setting off on its run. Thankfully, there was a lot of run-off area and it eventually came at a stop to the gravel, without anyone getting hurt.

As for the white Huracan, which allegedly was tuned to 2,000hp, it spun while racing against a Nissan GT-R. You can see the incident from afar, as well as from the GT-R perspective via its roof-mounted camera.

Unlike the Gallardo, the Huracan spun out right after it crossed the finish line, and according to the video description, it did so at a whooping 200 mph (320 km/h)! Naturally, since it was travelling at that speed, it took a while until it came to a halt, but, once again, thanks to the big runoff area, we trust the driver has walked away unharmed.

VIDEO

CR-V Custom Concept Leads Honda's Lineup For The 2018 Tokyo Salon

Posted: 24 Dec 2017 07:24 AM PST


In just a couple of weeks the 2018 Tokyo Auto Salon will open its doors, and Honda has just revealed the vehicles that it will bring on the event.

Perhaps the most important of them will be the CR-V Custom Concept pictured above. Though Honda has only released the name and a sole image, our best guess is that we could be looking at a sportier version of the company's compact crossover.

The CR-V won't be the only concept on display, though – not by a long shot. It'll be joined by the RS Custom Concept of the Jade minivan, while the Modulo X line will also be well represented by concept versions of the STEP WGN and S660 kei cars, and the Mugen division will show the Civic Type R-based RC 20 GT.

The new Jade RS production model will be showcased as well, alongside a Mugen-tuned Civic hatchback. Also on display will be the new NSX, Civic Type R, N-One RS, and Freed Modulo X, together with an array of racing models like the Dallara DW12 IndyCar, NSX GT3, Civic TCR, Super Formula single-seater, and Super GT-spec NSX GT – plus, of course, a number of Honda's racing motorcycles.

Photo Gallery

Few Things Are More Satisfying Than Rally Car Launches

Posted: 24 Dec 2017 04:53 AM PST


There's something remarkable about rally cars and those who drive them.

Equipped with short-ratio gearboxes, top-level rally cars are among the most accelerative vehicles on the planet. One could also say they're among the most versatile race cars too, capable of rocketing through gravel stages lined by trees, thick snow, mud, and tarmac faster than almost anything else on four wheels.

With Christmas just around the corner, we thought it'd be a nice idea to treat you, our readers, with some of the finest rally sounds around, as filmed by YouTuber Marchettino at the 15° Rally Legend 2017 in San Marino.

The clip features some exceptionally potent rally machines at the start of the stage, including the likes of various Peugeots, Lancias, and even an Audi ur-Quattro.

VIDEO

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