2011 Mercedes CLS

There’s no shortage of tuning firms that work on wide-body aerodynamic kits for Mercedes vehicles. Whether it’s a renowned firm like Brabus or just a local custom company in your town, you’re going to inevitably find someone that can offer you these packages.

Over in Osaka, Japan, a shop called Pole Position Tuning recently released their aerodynamic kits for two Mercedes models, the CLS-Class and the SL Class. Judging by the photos of these two kitted out Mercs, the folks over at PPT have definitely shown some promise with their packages.

The Mercedes CLS-Class was given a wide-body kit, a lower stance, and a set of custom wheels. The wheels look massive, and the tires practically look non-existent when tucked in the wheel arch, making it seem as if driving the Mercedes will give way to some metal to metal action. On top of that, there’s also a pretty intimidating rear wing that, if you ask us, doesn’t really suit the luxury styling of the CLS. The wide-body kit, the lowered stance, and the custom wheels all look good on the car, but that rear wing, especially those aluminum wing mounts, does very little to give the car’s overall luxury appearance some justice.

what Pole Position Tuning did with the SL 65 AMG.

Meanwhile, PPT also gives the same aerodynamic kit to the SL-Class as the one found on the CLS. There’s a wide-body conversion, a lowered stance, its own set of custom wheels - though not so tight-hugging -, and another imposing rear wing. Unlike the CLS conversion, the rear wing on the SL looks more appropriate on the car, although it probably wouldn’t hurt as much if they made it a little more subtle. It would probably also be a good idea to go back to the aluminum mount as opposed to the clear plexiglass wing mount found here. Hope no one gets too close to that thing without bubble wrap.

Overall, PPT did a good job outfitting these two Mercedes cars with their own wide-body aerodynamic kit. We would have preferred a little more subtlety on the rear wings, especially the one on the CLS, but all told, they are still mighty impressive pieces of work and ones that are sure to grab some attention wherever they go.

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2010 Bentley Continental Flying Star

Touring Superleggera was on hand at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show to unveil their new Touring Bentley Continental Flying Star - a shooting brake version of the 2-door coupe. The car is being offered at a base price of €590,000 when based on a Continental GTC.

The Flying Star is powered by a 6.0-liter W12 engine that develops a total of 560 hp and 650 Nm of torque (when based on the Continental GTC). When based on the GTC Speed, it develops 610 hp and 750 Nm of torque. The sprint from 0 to 60 mph is made in 4.8 seconds with a top speed of 200 mph.

Customers may choose from a variety of customization options, ranging from bespoke cabinetry and trim to a wide range of dedicated options. The accessory collection includes the Touring designed luggage set coordinated with the boot trim, and distinctive Borrani X-Ray spoke wheels. Blending advanced technology with craftsmanship, Borrani 20" 9.5j X-Ray spoke wheels provide distinctive design, precision, and comfort.

UPDATE 02/18/2011: A year after the Flying Star debuted at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show, the car has finally been put on the market, but anyone with a desire to purchase this extremely limited model better hurry. There are only two units available worldwide with a price tag of $1,000,000.

Press release after the jump.

Press release

It takes an avid and passionate collector, with a taste for special coach building, to be at the basis of a project like the Bentley Continental Flying Star by Touring. Exactly such a person contacted Touring Superleggera in early 2008.

An interesting initial creative process emerged involving parameters for design, proportions, vehicle concepts and - last but not least- feasibility and technical factors. Many steps from design to execution were shared with the customer, who contributed with his own ideas and taste to personalise the project and create a unique automobile. A basic idea was formed by the desire to diversify Bentley’s very successful Continental model range, and to explore new concepts.

The transformation of a 2-door coupé, by expanding the roof line and enlarging the interior dimensions, has led to a design concept baptised as shooting brake: a sports car featuring enough space to join a hunting party or a golf tournament with elegance and efficiency. Touring Superleggera explored the same field back in 1966, resulting in the amazing Lamborghini Flying Star II prototype. It was a dramatic interpretation of a sports car based on a new 2-volume design, safeguarding the dynamic performance. The Flying Star reference is a Touring parameter of sportive elegance, applied to many famous cars since the companies’ start in 1926.

Flying Star in 2010 - the Bentley challenge

The Bentley Continental GT range set innovative and high standards for a new generation of very sophisticated Grand Tourers. As such, this model triggered the imagination of automotive designers and coach builders elsewhere. The GTC convertible, featuring a very rigid platform, proved to be a fully congruent basis to Touring Superleggera’s plans for the new Flying Star. The new project required the modification of a number of external dimensions starting from the car’s A-pillar backwards: extended roof line, a wider section including the doors, new aluminium door skins and a new all-aluminium, electrically operated tailgate. It also includes a completely new rear compartment with two foldable rear seats and a variable loading space.

This long list of modifications and transformations had to be paired with, and to remain fully compatible to the basic car’s technical layout and components. Given the sophistication of the basic car, a new challenge was laid out for Touring’s craftsmen and engineers. The final result proves that special coach building can live on well into the 21st. century working with respect to the original manufacturers.

Touring Superleggera is particularly proud of the fact that the complete productive cycle of the special coach building process was realized in their workshop near Milano. Modern body engineering went hand in hand with traditional handicraft skills, maintaining the highest quality directives for the final product.

Project Engineering

The body engineering processes at Carrozzeria Touring are aimed at safeguarding key parameters for quality, safety and feasibility, within the perspectives of low-volume automotive production. The project went through 1:4 and 1:1 modelling, based on the CAD and CATIA data from the basic vehicle. This digital basis resulted in a milled 1:1 master model and a number of 1:1 moulds for the manufacturing of the new external skin, and for important new body components. The rear bodywork was reinforced with an integrated structure between the rear suspension domes, functioning both as roll bar, and as support for the new, extended roofline.

All structural additions and modifications were thoroughly studied, using advanced simulation methods and FEM-analysis. As a parallel process, these data served for the homologation of the structural changes, including the new foldable rear seats. An important number of hard points from the basic car could be saved and carried-over. The engineering team at Carrozzeria Touring was particularly pleased with the quality assurance support from Bentley engineers.

Design

‘Variations on a theme’ not rarely implicate a larger design challenge, than starting-off with a white sheet of paper. The basic mission was to create a body incorporating the essence of Touring elegance and harmony, while clearly recognizable as a Bentley. This task was challenging because a fully new volume had to be added to the GTC basis. The proportions were totally new, but the overall design had to be kept consistent. That is why only the section in front of the car’s A-pillar, including the windshield has been maintained.

Viewed from the rear, the new tailgate dives between the wide rear wings. The oval rear light chrome bezels are a reference to Bentley fastback cars of the ‘50. The side view features a low roof, prominent quarter panel shoulders and wide wheel arches, suggesting perfectly mastered energy. The Touring Superleggera designers were challenged by the target to give the new interior equal elegance, whether the back of the rear seats are folded or not. The solution was to design an “S” shaped trim of the rear quarter panels linking the passenger area to the rear luggage area. The beige and dark green leather contrast also adds to this visual unity.

First time ever in this class and size, the twin individual rear seats fold completely to create a flat loading surface more than 2m long with 1200lt capacity. This is instrumental to fulfill the functional mission profile, which requires loading in full comfort a wide array of leisure equipment, including 4 full golfing bags with the rear seats up. An example of bespoke finish is the woven leather boot carpet offering superior endurance and coordinated with the special luggage set.

The overall result is perfectly in line with the Touring and Flying Star heritage: a timeless shape, a design statement combining elegance and sportiveness, with a strong and unmistakable own personality and individuality.

Manufacturing

When digital technologies are blended with traditional manufacturing skills, a fascinating process emerges that is typical for Touring Superleggera. A discriminating factor for traditional coach building was and is the vast amount of handwork that is involved in the creation of a new body. In this process, multiple practical solutions are also found for a wide variety of minor technical issues. This includes quick, practical solutions based on years-long experience, common sense and an expert eye.

The result is a final product entirely produced within the high quality parameters of today’s automotive industry.

From the A-pillar backwards, new exterior body panels were hand shaped in steel - including the roof, new wider rear wings, and the internal reinforcements of the complete rear section of the car. Aluminium was used for the door skins, and for the complete rear bonnet including its structure. New, handmade brightwork was added according to the new exterior design. The all new rear compartment required shaping of the foldable rear seats and a full set of interior panels, leather trimmed with meticulous care. Wide leather hides were selected with great attention to provide uniform finish to the vast continuous surfaces. After inspection, the body in white was prepared and painted in the Touring state-of-the-art paint facilities. The final result underwent again a special final quality audit.

Performance

The Bentley Continental Flying Star by Touring inherits the chassis of the Continental GTC. The 6-liter, W12 engine is available either in the 560HP version which delivers 650NM of torque at 1600rpm or the GTC Speed variant which delivers a massive 750Nm from 610HP. The car exhibited in Geneva Motor Show features the GCT Speed specifications.
Performance braking, cornering and traction functions mesh together to provide precise and immediate driving control under extreme or difficult conditions. Self-adjusting air springs and electronic dampers operate independently for each wheel. Allwheel drive promotes advanced traction.

Homologation

The model is CEE homologated according to the new low-volume production directive. For the first time since its introduction, the type approval was awarded without destructive test, using simulation and FEM-analysis.

Future Programme

Touring Superleggera undertakes a limited production run of up to 20 units of the Continental Flying Star. This series will be exclusively built to special order and customer specifications. The car is offered at a basic price of € 590.000 when based on a Continental GTC - 560 PS. Other versions on request. The car will be serviced at the Bentley dealers. Bentley Motors and Touring Superleggera have developed a special mutual warranty program, which safeguards warranty clauses for both the basic car, and the transformation by Touring.

Personalisation

The customers are actively involved in the early stage to choose the specifications of their own unique automobile, ranging from bespoke cabinetry and trim to a wide choice of dedicated options. The accessory collection includes the Touring designed luggage set coordinated with the boot trim, and the distinctive Borrani X-Ray spoke wheels.

Blending advanced technology with craftsmanship, Borrani 20” 9.5j X-Ray spoke wheels provide distinctive design, precision and comfort. Featuring monolithic spun aluminium rim and hand assembled steel spokes, they can be tailored to the car’s painting and finish.

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2011 Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Super Sport

Well, it seems that Bugatti has decided to bring out the new Veyron 16.4 Super Sport long before its official debut at the Pebble Beach Concours weekend in mid-August. And not only did they unveil official details on it, but the supercar has already entered the Guinness Book of Records with an average top speed of 431 km/h (267 mph). The new model will go into production this fall, and the first five units will be sold as limited "World Record Editions." They will feature a special black exposed carbon and orange finish, and yes, they are already sold out!

The new Veyron 16.4 Super Sport comes with four enlarged turbochargers and bigger intercoolers that have been used to boost the power of the 16-cylinder engine to a total of 1200 HP, the chassis has been extensively redesigned to maintain safety at extreme speeds – thanks to a slightly raised main-spring travel, stronger stabilizers, and new shock absorbers with a complex architecture originally developed for racing cars. This gives noticeably more precise control of the wheels and the car as a whole. With lateral acceleration of up to 1.4 G and improved interaction between the tires and the intelligent all-wheel drive system, the Super Sport offers perfect handling and even more powerful acceleration of 1,500 NM on corner exits.

On the exterior the car gets expanded and reshaped front air intakes, a revised back with double diffuser, and a centrally arranged exhaust system.

Update 08/16/2010: After making its North American debut at the Pebble Beach Concours, Bugatti unveiled new official details on the Veyron Super Sport supercar. Check the gallery to see them all!

Updated 11/30/2010: We have just added 100 new high res images in the picture gallery. Block out some time and peruse them all! Enjoy!

Press release after the jump.

Press release

On a beautiful sunny day at 25 degrees the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Super Sport achieved a new landspeed world record for production cars, on the proving grounds of the Volkswagen Group at Ehra-Lessien (nearby its headquarters at Wolfsburg). In the presence of the German Technical Inspection Agency (TÜV) and a representative of Guinness Book of Records the Super Sport achieved an average top speed of 431 km/h.

Saturday, 2 pm – Bugatti’s Pilote Officiel Pierre Henri Raphanel puts his helmet and gloves on, pulls the safety belts tight whilst the engineers check the car a very last time: tyre pressure, temperature, all systems go. Then the orange black Super Sport crosses the light barrier, from now on the time will be taken, within one hour the car has to drive from South to North and then in the opposite direction. No one but the driver is allowed to touch the car during this time. The tension rises. A few minutes later we can hear from the left side the sound of a starting jumbo jet coming closer towards us. First we perceive the headlights of the Veyron, then we can recognize the shape of the car, a loud wooosh…. and Raphanel dashes in top speed past us. The GPS-tachometer stops at 427, 933 km/h. Now the same procedure from the opposite direction. This time the car reaches 434, 211 km/h. As average top speed the representatives of the “TÜV”and Guinness generate a value of 431, 072 km/h (268 mph). This even hit Bugatti’s engineering team by surprise.

“We took it that we would reach an average value of 425 km/h,” explains Bugatti’s chief engineer Dr. Wolfgang Schreiber, “but the conditions today were perfect and allowed even more.”

The climax of the Veyron series: the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Super Sport

Had a model been especially popular or highly successful in races, Ettore Bugatti’s customers often pushed the master to tease out of the engine a few horsepower more for their future car. Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S. had been in a similar situation when their existing customers asked the company to not only design their second model optically differently but to also create a version with a sportier and more extreme driving experience. The result is a car with a uniquely high performance of 1,200-hp (882 kW) offering experienced drivers a whole new dimension of excitement, with a maximum torque of 1,500 Newton metres and a limited top speed of 415 km/h (to protect the tyres) but, the technique of the Super Sport is identical to the record car. The first five Super Sports to come off the production line will constitute a special series of their own, with the same configuration as the landspeed record car.

The Super Sport is a consequent of the further development of the classic exclusive 1,001-hp Bugatti Veyron 16.4, launched in 2005. This model offers a stunning set of specifications, such as the twin clutch gearbox with seven speeds, the extraordinarily precise driving performance in bends and excellent stability when braking and accelerating.

Continuous work in extreme performance ranges lead to constantly new conclusions, which enabled the engineers at Bugatti to develop the Veyron into a direction in which the driver can reach new dimensions. Every modification is designed to produce an even more powerful car for an agile ride. Four enlarged turbochargers and bigger intercoolers have been used to boost the power of the 16-cylinder engine, and the chassis has been extensively redesigned to maintain safety at extreme speed – thanks to slightly raised main-spring travel, stronger stabilisers, and new shock absorbers with a complex architecture originally developed for racing cars. This gives noticeably more precise control of the wheels and the car as a whole. With lateral acceleration of up to 1.4 G and improved interaction between the tyres and the intelligent all-wheel drive system, the Super Sport offers perfect handling and even more powerful acceleration of 1,500 Newton metres on corner exits.

The body has been fine-tuned to improve aerodynamic efficiency and maintain perfect balance in every situation, while the new fibre structure of the all-carbon monocoque ensures maximum torsion rigidity and passive safety – at reduced weight. The skin is made entirely of carbon-fibre composites, and the new Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Super Sport is available in 100 per-cent clearlacquered exposed carbon on request.

Dynamic exterior

Every detail of this car, and not just its use of advanced motorsport technology, harks back to the pioneering spirit of company founder Ettore Bugatti. This brilliant designer came from a family of artists, and his philosophy was always to combine mechanical perfection and exterior beauty. This ethos remains alive and well at the company, and the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Super Sport is wholly unmistakeable, with every external modification serving to coax greater performance from the car. The Super Sport’s flat, elongated silhouette is immediately recognisable. The 16-cylinder engine gets its air from two NACA ducts integrated into the roof, rather than from scoops above the engine. The front air intakes have been expanded and reshaped, with the lower one extending elegantly around the sides to the wheel arch. The revised back looks sportier due to the double diffuser and a centrally arranged exhaust system.

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2011 Land Rover LR2/Freelander 2

Land Rover is taking a bold step with this new LR2/Freelander 2. The new machine breaks away from the norm, as Land Rover will offer a front-wheel drive setup. That’s kind of like Porsche offering an SUV; it’s just plain wrong. The front-wheel drive setup will be the only option on this diesel model. Of course, we probably won’t even see it considering diesel models never make it to our shores.

We should see these new vehicles in the UK by the end of September packing a 2.2-liter turbocharged diesel with 150 horsepower. If you’re upset at the fact that the new Freelander will get front-wheel drive, take this fact in for a moment. With the diesel motor and a manual transmission, the Land Rover will be able to get 38 miles per gallon.

If you live in the United States and you want some of this front-wheel drive Land Rover action, then you’re going to have to wait for the Evoque.

The Land Rover will be offered with all-wheel drive as well, but at the penalty of around 5 mpg. There will also be a 190 horsepower petrol motor, but it will only be offered with an automatic.

On the outside, the LR2/Freelander 2 gets an overhaul in the looks department. There is a new bumper cap with redone fog lamps, a revised grille, and updated headlights and taillights. If you are having trouble noticing the changes, it’s not a big deal, we did too.

Inside, the Land Rover gets reworked gauges, seats, carpets, and storage. We were hoping for a bigger update than this, but it’s not bad.

Press Release

The 2011 Freelander 2 model range, on sale in the UK from the end of September 2010, benefits from a new 2.2-litre diesel engine available with either 150PS or 190PS outputs, a new look exterior plus interior alterations including new instrument dials and a new Premium Pack option.

Land Rover’s new turbo diesel engine is available in the 4WD TD4 150PS model featuring a manual transmission and intelligent Stop/Start technology as standard (an automatic gearbox without Stop/Start is available as a cost option), or the new SD4 model delivering 190PS (available in automatic transmission only).

This new engine is quieter, more efficient and both derivatives have 20Nm more torque than the outgoing engine. This means the 2011 Freelander 2 offers improved engine response and more mid-range strength for towing. CO2 emissions have been significantly reduced to 165g/km and 185g/km respectively with corresponding fuel economy benefits.

However, despite reductions in consumption and emissions, there has been no compromise in performance. The flagship 190PS Freelander SD4 accelerates from rest to 60mph in 8.7 seconds with an increased top speed of 118mph. The Freelander 150PS TD4 manual and automatic versions match the performance of their predecessors.

As well as being upgraded from EU4 to EU5, both versions have a new variable geometry turbocharger and have been extensively re-calibrated to deliver new levels of power, meet emissions regulations and reduce CO2 emissions. They are fitted with a catalysed diesel particulate filter as standard and are now compatible with 10 per cent biodiesel rather than 5 per cent.

As an addition to the Freelander 2 range, Land Rover will also offer customers a 2WD derivative, available in the UK from January 2011. This will be called the Freelander 2 eD4 and it will be the most efficient Land Rover ever produced, with fuel consumption of 47.2mpg combined, and CO2 emissions of just 158g/km.

"The new Freelander 2 eD4 moves Land Rover into the hugely popular and fiercely contested two wheel-drive SUV market," said Land Rover managing director Phil Popham. "The European market for two-wheel drive SUVs represents 23 percent of the segment and we intend to compete strongly here. "A 2WD option is just one way in which we are developing our vehicles’ efficiency whilst adding to the Land Rover range and expanding our appeal to a broader group of customers. We will continue to make the ’world’s finest all-terrain vehicles’ for those customers who require 4WD but will also now offer an alternative."

This groundbreaking Freelander 2 eD4 is powered by the new 2.2-litre turbo diesel engine, delivering 150PS. It is only available with a six-speed manual transmission featuring Stop/Start technology as standard.

The exterior of the latest Freelander 2 gets a new look for 2011. Marked out by a new front bumper assembly incorporating new front fog lap bezels, a new front grille finish, improved headlights and tail lamps, new full width tailgate appliqué and new 18- or 19-inch alloy wheel styles. There are three new colour schemes for 2011 Kosrae Green, Baltic Blue and Fuji White.

Inside the cabin, Land Rover’s design team have revised the instrument dials, and there are four new seat styles with the option of a Premium Pack that includes Windsor Leather upholstery, an 8/6 way electric seat, plus premium carpet mats and covered centre stowage.

The 4WD TD4 and SD4 models are on sale in the UK from the end of September.

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2011 Seat Ibiza Ecomotive

Like with any other model in Seat’s line-up, the new generation Ibiza has also received an Ecomotive version. It will be available for 5-door, SC, and ST models and will go on sale in September.

The new Seat Ibiza Ecomotive is equipped with the 75 hp 1.2 TDI CR engine with DPF particulate filter and efficient systems such as the Auto Start/Stop and the energy recovery functions, making it one of the cleanest cars on the market.

The list of standard equipment is long and includes ABS, ESP, TCS plus EBA, Hill Hold Assist, and low tire pressure warning. The Ibiza will come with a few airbags to keep the driver and passengers safe. It will have a driver airbag plus passenger airbag and a head-thorax airbag. Audio equipment will include an MP3, Aux-in, and 4 speakers. Other features that will come as standard are air conditioning, electro-hydraulic power steering, 15 inch steel wheels, 185/60 tyres, anti-theft radio antenna, steering column controls, remote-controlled central locking, front fasten seatbelt warning, rear seat Isofix anchoring points plus Top Tether preparation, height adjustable driver and passenger seats, and three height adjustable rear headrests.

Press release after the jump.

Press release

The third generation of the Ibiza ECOMOTIVE reaches the market with excellent credentials as its reduced fuel consumption figures and emissions levels make it the most ecological model of its segment. The new Ibiza ECOMOTIVE is even more environmentally friendly than the previous version thanks to its record-setting emissions of only 89 g/km of CO2 and a frugal fuel consumption figure of only 3.4 litres for every 100 kilometres of driving.

SEAT’s new model is equipped with the 75 hp 1.2 TDI CR engine with DPF particulate filter and efficient systems such as the Auto Start/Stop and the energy recovery functions, making it one of the cleanest cars on the market. Besides, it’s the only model that provides this level of power output which features standard air conditioning, a five-door and station wagon styling and emissions levels of only 89 g/km of CO2.

Although the commercial launch of the SEAT Ibiza ECOMOTIVE is scheduled for September, future customers of the company’s most ecological model can already place their orders in the official sales network.

Fully equipped

The new SEAT Ibiza ECOMOTIVE is available in the model’s three body styles – 5-door, SC and ST, and is fitted with a generous equipment line-up. It includes ABS, ESP, TCS + EBA, Hill Hold Assist, low tyre pressure warning driver airbag + passenger airbag, head-thorax airbag, audio equipment with MP3 + Aux-in + 4 speakers, air conditioning, electro-hydraulic power steering, 15 inch steel wheels, 185/60 tyres, anti-theft radio antenna, steering column controls, remote-controlled central locking, front fasten seatbelt warning, rear seat Isofix anchoring points + Top Tether preparation, height adjustable driver and passenger seats and three height adjustable rear headrests, among others.

All this makes the car an excellent purchase, as customers not only are exempt from paying registration tax, but can rely on a vehicle that is more economical and even more environmentally friendly.

The new Ibiza ECOMOTIVE features the following list of optional elements:

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2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8

Chrysler introduced two new SRT8 models at the 2011 New York Auto Show, but the one that jumped out at us the most was the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8. Our apologies to the Chrysler 300 SRT8, but we just like the bigger and more rugged look a tad better. The new Jeep comes with performance-oriented styling, world-class ride and handling, benchmark braking, and race-inspired interior.

This monstrous machine is powered by a 6.4-liter HEMI V-8 that delivers an estimated 465 HP and 465 lb.-ft. of torque. Coincidentally, it’s the same engine used in the Chrysler 300 SRT8, but we can fit the kiddies and the dogs in the back.

"The all-new 2012 Grand Cherokee SRT8 is the ultimate performance SUV, delivering a combination of Jeep capability and utility, world-class performance, luxury and refinement, and advanced innovative technology," said Mike Manley, President and CEO — Jeep Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. "Jeep vehicles have long been known for their off-road capability. In addition to Jeep four-wheel-drive traction and utility, the Grand Cherokee SRT8 takes capability to a new level by giving driving enthusiasts extreme performance for the street and track."

Hit the jump to read more about the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8.

Exterior

The Jeep Grand Cherokee has a special place in our hearts for its beautiful, yet rugged design. Factor in the updated engine and the SRT8 starts popping up higher on our list. The differentiation between the two, other than the power, is the upgraded front fascia, new LED multi-function daytime running lamps, a body-colored front grille with a unique black screen background, and chrome bezel inserts. The final touch has been given by a newly sculpted hood with functional dual black heat extractors for added engine cooling. Oh, and the SUV has been lowered by one inch as well.

In the back, the Grand Cherokee Srt8 gets a new liftgate spoiler that reduces drag and improves downforce and a separate air diffuser along with an available trailer receiver and access cover. The change in power can be heard coming out of the vehicle’s dual-sport exhaust system featuring 4-inch exhaust tips. The car sits on a new set of 20" forged aluminum wheels ride on P295/45ZR20 Pirelli PZero run-flat tires

Interior

The interior for the new SRT8 struts its stuff with some race-inspired technology. As soon as you enter the vehicle, you can see these elements illustrated in an all-new leather-wrapped, heated steering wheel, a race-inspired cockpit with the SRT logo, and paddle-shift controls on both sides of the new contoured palm rests.

The SUV’s seats are covered in SRT-styled Nappa leather and suede, with sculpted bolsters and adjustable headrests with embroidered SRT logos and contrast stitching accents on the two front seats. Heated (front and rear) and ventilated (front) seats are standard. Carbon fiber accents are integrated into the instrument panel and door trim panels and new bright, racing style brake and pedal pads add to the high-performance look inside the cabin.

Engine

Under the hood of the SRT8, Jeep has snuggled in a 6.4 liter HEMI V8 engine with Fuel Saver Technology that delivers an estimated 465 HP and 465 lb.-ft. of torque. With this amount of power, the Grand Cherokee SRT8 will sprint from 0-60 mph in 4.8 seconds, 0-100-0 mph in the mid-16 second range, and can cover the quarter mile in the mid-13 second range. It has a top speed of 155 mph and can get from 60-0mph in 116 feet.

The new V8 engine will be combined with an SRT-tuned, adaptive damping suspension managed by the new Jeep Selec-Track system. This setup works with the vehicle’s stability control, adaptive damping, transmission shift strategy, transfer case torque proportioning, Electronic Limited Slip Differential performance, throttle control, and cylinder de-activation to automatically tune the dynamics of the vehicle.

Prices

The new Jeep Grand Cherokee will go on sale in the third quarter of 2011. Prices will be announced at a later date.

Competition

The Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 is the type of vehicle that seems to stand on a platform all its own. It’s cool, powerful, and can get everyone in the family to their desired location comfortably and stylishly. Coming off of our Grand Cherokee high, we do realize that there are plenty of other powerful SUVs in the market to choose from: the BMW X5M and the Porsche Cayenne Turbo are just two examples.

The X5M is a more powerful SUV than the SRT8 with its twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 engine delivering 555 Hp, but both models can hit a top speed of 155 mph. Despite this, we still like the SRT8 better. It just looks more aggressive with a better overall look. The Cayenne Turbo is a great model, but it is designed for a whole other group of customers looking for a more luxurious SUV. It is powered by a 4.8-liter V8 engine that delivers 500hp at 6,000rpm and 516 lb-ft of torque.

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2012 Hyundai Accent

The New York Auto Show is fast becoming a busy event with automakers left and right introducing their new 2012 model line up of vehicles.

In the middle of all the chaos, Korean automaker Hyundai presented the all-new 2012 Accent, a car that promises to take the popularity of its predecessors to a whole new level. Thanks in large part to the car’s new and upscale "Fluidic Sculpture" design, the new Accent sure looks like it doesn’t belong in the subcompact market anymore.

At the very least, it’s changing the game in the market. “The 2012 Hyundai Accent reinvigorates the subcompact segment, similar to what the game-changing Sonata and Elantra have done in their categories,” said Mike O’Brien, vice president, Product and Corporate Planning, Hyundai Motor America.

On top of the Accent’s new design, Hyundai made no bones about the car’s performance and capabilities, promoting the car as a class-leader across the board.

“The Accent’s class-leading standard fuel economy is another showcase of Hyundai’s dedication to improving fuel efficiency with advancements to traditional gasoline powered vehicles and is the fourth nameplate in Hyundai’s lineup delivering 40 mpg on the highway,” O’Brien said.

While it’s easy to promote the car given the drastic changes done to it, we’ll reserve all our judgments until we get to experience the new Accent first-hand. But for now, we do have to give props to Hyundai for a design well-done. Who knew that their "Fluidic Sculpture" language would translate well to the Accent too?

Details on the Hyundai Accent after the jump.

Exterior and Interior

It came a little later than we anticipated, but the 2012 Accent has finally arrived to join Hyundai’s new sporting line. Featuring the same "Fluidic Sculpture" design that has made this generation’s line of Hyundai vehicles popular, the 2012 Accent’s overall is all loads of dynamic. The new Accent makes use of Hyundai’s signature hexagonal front grille and detailed swept-back headlights, giving it a compact athletic face to go along with the impressive powertrain. To provide some variety, the five-door SE variant of the Accent was given a sporty roof-mounted spoiler and vertical taillights.

The Accent is available in a number of exterior colors, including Century White, Ironman Silver, Cyclone Gray, Ultra Black, Boston Red, Mocha Bronze, Marathon Blue, Clearwater Blue, and Electrolyte Green. These colors complement the gray or beige two-tone interior that the Accent comes in.

For the 2012 model, Hyundai decided to drop the three-door model, opting instead to have three different trim levels for which customers can choose from: the four-door GLS model, the five-door GS model, and the top-of-the-line SE model.

The four-door Accent GLS model has plenty of standard features added to it. They include: Motor Driven Power Steering (MDPS), front, side and head curtain airbags, Vehicle Stability Management, ABS, EBD, and brake assist with four-wheel disc brakes, front seatbelt pretensioner, active front head restraints, adjustable head restraints for all seating positions, a tachometer, cabin air filter, power door locks, four speakers, tilt steering wheel, driver seat armrest, front door map pockets, front passenger seatback pocket, 60/40 split folding rear seatback, dual vanity mirrors, map, dome and cargo lights, a six-way adjustable driver seat including height adjustment, front two-speed intermittent wiper, tinted glass, a rear defroster with timer, air conditioning, an AM/FM/Satellite Radio/CD/MP3 audio system with tweeters, iPod/USB auxiliary input jacks, and a roof-mounted antenna.

The GLS A/T version can also be given a premium package, one that includes remote keyless entry with panic, a steering wheel mounted audio controls, cruise control, Bluetooth hands-free phone system, premium cloth seats, chrome inside door handle, piano black accents, sunglasses holder, sliding armrest storage box, front fog lights, body-color handles, and a set of 16" alloy wheels with 195/50R16 tires.

Meanwhile, the five-door GS model is decked to the brim with its own set of features, including ABS, EBD, and brake assist with four-wheel disc brakes, Vehicle Stability Management, front, side and head curtain airbags, front seatbelt pretensioner, active front head restraints, adjustable head restraints for all seating positions, a tachometer, air conditioning, driver seat armrest, power windows, mirrors & door locks with remote keyless entry with panic system, cloth door insert, tilt steering wheel, front door map pockets, front passenger seatback pocket, 60/40 split rear seatback, dual vanity mirrors, map, dome and cargo lights, six-way adjustable driver seat with height adjustment, front two-speed intermittent wiper, tinted glass, bodycolor mirrors and door handles, rear defroster with timer, roof-mounted antenna, rear wiper, an • AM/FM/Satellite Radio/CD/MP3 audio system with 6 speakers, iPod/USB auxiliary input jacks, and roof antenna, and a set of 14" steel wheels wrapped in 175/70R14 low rolling resistance tires.

The five-door SE model comes with the same standard equipment from the GS model with some notable additions, including cruise control, steering wheel mounted audio controls, Bluetooth hands-free phone system, a leather wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, premium cloth seats, chrome inside door handles, Piano black accents, a sliding armrest storage box, front fog lights, a rear spoiler, and a set of 16" alloy wheels with 195/50R16 tires.

Performance

The 2012 Accent comes with an all-aluminum 1.6-liter Gamma four-cylinder engine that delivers 138 horsepower and 123 lb/ft of torque, the best of its class in both departments. The Accent makes use of GDI, which allows for better fuel economy, increased power, and reduced emissions all by controlling the injection of fuel into the engine.

The Accent comes with the application of Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (D-CVVT) on both the intake and exhaust camshafts while also featuring an Alternator Management System, an offset crankshaft design, variable induction system, and electronic throttle control.

Pricing

Pricing for the 2012 Accent begins with the GLS four-door fetching a sticker of $12,445 whereas the GS five-door comes in at $14,595.

Competition

To give you a better understanding of just how far ahead of its class the Hyundai Accent is over its rivals, check out the table below and you’ll immediately notice that this new Korean sub-compact has the leg up in just about every important category.

	2012 Accent	2011 Honda Fit	2011 Ford Fiesta	2011 Toyota Yaris	2011 Nissan Versa	2011 Chevrolet Aveo	2011 Mazda2
Engine	1.6-liter I4	1.5-liter I4	1.6-liter I4	1.5-liter I4	1.6-liter I4	1.6-liter I4	1.5-liter I4
HP @ RPM	138 @ 6,300	117 @ 6,600	120 @ 6,350	106 @ 6,000	107 @ 6,000	108 @ 6,400	100 @ 6,000
Specific output (HP/Liter)	86	78	75	71	67	68	67
Torque @ RPM	123 @ 4,850	106 @ 4,800	112 @ 5,000	103 @ 4,200	111 @ 4,600	105 @ 4,000	98 @ 4,000
Transmission	6MT or 6AT	5MT or 5AT	5MT or 6AT	5MT or 4AT	5MT or 4AT	5MT or 4AT	5MT or 4AT
MPG (M/T) (C/H)	30/40	27/33	28/37	29/36	26/34	27/35	29/35
MPG (A/T) (C/H)	30/40	28/35	29/38	29/35	25/33	25/34	27/33

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2011 Volvo C30 Black Design

Swedish automaker Volvo has never been one to promote performance over style. Actually, they have never been one for flashiness either. What the company takes seriously, though, is automotive safety. On this end, few can question their standing as one of the world’s safest cars.

But every so often, Volvo goes a different route - ’naughty’, as they once called it. This time, though, they’ve decided to give one of their models - the C30 - a more up-scale treatment.

Called the "Black Design" edition, this limited run C30 only has 600 units and is only available in Italy. It’s got enough exterior upgrades to drive up the car’s overall design, which if we’re honest, is actually one of the nicer ones in its class.

But before people start drooling over what appears to be plenty of carbon fiber used on the Black Design, you guys need to know that the material isn’t exactly carbon fiber.

What is it? Well, head over after the jump and find out.

Exterior and Interior

Built in cooperation with Eidon and Berman, two companies that specialize in building special edition vehicles, the Volvo C30 Black Design is a definition of an otherwise mundane three-door Swedish hatch that has been given a an aggressive style make-over. The car features a number of new key elements, the most notable of which is the DI-NOC film (3M) that’s made of a surface adhesive carbon fiber finish. It’s not carbon fiber, but it certainly looks like it. This material was put on the C30’s roof, side frames, grille frames, and side door mirrors. While the DI-NOC film pretty much stands as the most eye-catching element of the C30 Black Design, Volvo still diversified the new options on the car, including new side sills, LED daytime running lights, and a set of 17” Fondmetal matte black alloy rims. Meanwhile, the interior was left largely untouched except for the interior trim, which was upgraded from the standard stock to T-tech fabric.

Performance

The Volvo C30 Black Design comes with a number of engine options, including a base model that’s powered by a 1.6-liter D2 diesel engine that comes with 115 horsepower. Other engine options include a 2.0-liter D3 diesel engine with 150 horsepower and a 2.0-liter gas engine with 145 horsepower.

Pricing

As with all the engine options, the price tag for this special edition varies. The base D2 model costs €19,600 ($27,900), followed by the D3’s €23,300 ($33,200) price tag. Meanwhile, the 2.0-liter gas model retails for € 21,450 ($30,600).

Competition

A number of other European brands have models that compete directly with the Volvo C30, including the Volkswagen Golf and the Audi A3. Aesthetically speaking, we like the C30’s design better than its German counterparts, both of which looks completely tamed and mundane compared to the sleekly-styled Volvo hatch.

But when it comes to the engine, the C30 falls remarkable short against the A3 and the Golf. The A3’s base 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine produces 200 horsepower compared to the C30’s relatively paltry 145 ponies. When it comes to the Golf, though, the numbers aren’t all that apart from each other with the C30. The Golf comes with a base 2.5-liter five cylinder engine model that produces 157 horsepower.

The question is now, would you prefer the aesthetically-pleasing-made-even-more-stunning-looking Volvo C30 Black Design or more powerful options like the VW Golf or the Audi A3?

Seeing as this is a question only our Italian friends can answer, we’ll leave it up to them. If we had our choice though, we’d take a real good look at the special edition C30 Black Design. For that price, it’s pretty affordable too.

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2010 Audi A1 by HS Motorsport

The Audi A1 is a non-performance car, there’s no doubt about that. With an output ranging from 86 HP to 122 HP, it’s more like an every-day use car than a sports car. But with the right updates, the A1 can be easily improved. HS Motorsport is preparing an engine update that raises the output with 25 HP.

For that, the tuner has installed an additional module that generates and extra 25 HP and 50 NM of torques, but also an Alpine sound system with navigation unit and a snappy Brembo braking system.

For the exterior there is a modified bumper, which appropriately houses the R32-look tailpipes, a full-throated sporty rumble and 18" ASA GT2 alloy wheels with seven double spokes. The package also includes a coilover suspension system that lowers the car’s ride by 55 mm at the front and 60 mm at the back. The interior gets two Recaro Sportster CS lightweight bucket seats in carbon.

Press release after the jump.

Press release

In cooperation with Autohaus Kempen (Meckenheim) and other partners, HS Motorsport has built a spectacular project car based on the highly popular Audi A1.

What attracts the eye, first and foremost, is the effect-rich silver finish of the classy small car. The masterfully executed work of the CFC Styling Station in Neuss has ensured an avant garde optical effect. HS Motorsport has given the rear of the vehicle a modified bumper, which appropriately houses the R32-look tailpipes developed and manufactured especially for this project by Fox Sport Exhaust Systems. The classy tailpipes are complemented by a full-throated sporty rumble - almost cocky for a vehicle of this class.

Go-Kart with glamourous wheels

The running gear, from the house of H&R, is also a new development. The team from Lennestädt have made a coilover suspension system for the small Ingolstadt manufacturer’s project vehicle, lowered to 55 mm at the front and 60 mm at the back. This upgrade gives the already snappy A1 a genuine go-kart feeling!

In terms of wheels, HS Motorsport offers plenty of choice - in fact, purchasers are spoilt for choice. Because: Both the classic ASA GT1 rims in black silk matte with a silver accent ring and the edgier ASA GT2 alloy wheels with their seven double spokes (available in either black silk matte or anthracite shine front-polished) appear to be made for the polished Audi. The 8.5 x 18 inch rim sizes remain the same. The 215/35R18 tyre configuration comes from Vredestein (Ultrac Sessanta) or Hankook (Ventus V12 evo).

Sit more comfortably

HS Motorsport has placed two Recaro Sportster CS lightweight bucket seats inside the A1, in carbon and original A1 upholstery, from Recaro Sportline Center Germany. The seat consoles have been manufactured especially for the A1 project by Weinkarth.

HS Motorsport have left the engine capacity of the concept car untouched at 122 hp. The Bavarians do offer increased performance for the Audi A1 1.4 TSI, however. The installation of an additional module generates 25 additional hp, and 50 additional Nm, making a total of 147 hp and 250 Nm available. Also available as an option is an Alpine sound system with navigation unit. In addition, a snappy Brembo braking system is also being developed for the front end of the Audi A1.

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