German Car Scene

Month: April 2012

  • Manhart Racing MH5 S-Biturbo


    Geilenkirchen-based BMW tuner Manhart Racing GmbH has revealed its MH5 S-Biturbo program for the F10M M5.

    Already producing 418 kW (560 hp) and 680 Nm of torque from its 4.4-litre biturbo V8 in standard form, Manhart’s Stage One option sees those figures rise to 472 kW (633 hp) and 780 Nm. If that’s not enough for you, two further stages, which will release 500 kW (670 hp) and 548 kW (735 hp) respectively, are on the way and will require modified turbochargers and downpipes.

    Other new components on offer include a flap-controlled exhaust system with 200-cell sports catalytic converters and quadruple 90 mm tailpipes, a Club Sport adjustable coilover suspension kit and the MHR Classical Wheel set, which is sized 9 and 10.5 21-inches and wrapped in 255/30R21 and 295/25R21 tyres.

    (more…)

  • ABT AS6 Avant


    Kempten-based tuninghouse ABT Sportsline GmbH has revealed its new program for Audi’s latest A6 Avant model, with the ABT AS6.

    Visually, there’s an aero package consisting of a front spoiler, side skirts, a roof-level tailgate spoiler and skirt for the rear bumper with apertures for the new twin-double tailpipes. Ride height is taken care of thanks to either a set of sports springs or the company’s Level Control electronic lowering module, while the wheels pictured are ABT DR items, available in sizes from 19- to 21-inches.

    Performance upgrades are available for both petrol and diesel-engined cars, with output from the 3.0 TFSI rising from 221 kW (300 hp) and 440 Nm of torque to 309 kW (420 hp) and 540 Nm. The 3.0-litre bi-turbo diesel unit also enjoys a healthy increase, jumping from 230 kW (313 hp) and 650 Nm to 265 kW (360 hp) and 700 Nm.

    (more…)

  • Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse promo


    Bugatti has just released this stunning promotional video featuring its epic Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse model. Using the same upgraded turbochargers and intercoolers as the Super Sport, output rises from 746 kW (1,001 hp) and 1,250 Nm (922 lb/ft) to 895 kW (1,200 hp) and 1,500 Nm (1,106 lb/ft) of torquey goodness. Enjoy.

    (more…)

  • Audi R18 e-tron quattro at Monza


    Supercar fanatic and virtual resident of Monza 19Bozzy92 spotted this Audi R18 e-tron quattro during testing at the Italian circuit today. Sadly, the terrible weather conditions meant that the car couldn’t exactly go flat-out, but it’s still an impressive sight. A 375 kW (510 hp) V6 TDI engine drives the rear wheels, while kinetic energy provides the power for the front axle. Set to compete in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the R18 e-tron quattro will make its racing début at Spa-Francorchamps on May 5.

    (more…)

  • 2013 Mercedes-Benz G-Class revealed


    Mercedes-Benz has revealed the latest incarnation of its tough off-roader, the G-Class.

    Steadily evolving over the last 33 years, this freshened-up SUV receives LED daytime running lights and restyled mirrors, while the AMG versions can be identified by their AMG radiator grille with double louvres, new bumpers with large air intakes. Red brake calipers and 20-inch alloy wheels can also be specified.

    Moving inside, there’s a completely redesigned centre console and instrument panel with a TFT colour display nestled between the speedometer and rev counter. Another standard feature is the centrally-mounted large colour screen for the DVD and COMAND Online systems, which also incorporates the satellite navigation – all voice-operated via the LINGUATRONIC feature. Optional equipment includes DISTRONIC PLUS, Blind Spot Assist and PARKTRONIC with reversing camera. The ESP system has been updated to include Trailer Stability Assist and a HOLD function, while the interior can be treated to materials and trim from the exclusive designo range.

    Engine choices begin with the diesel-powered G 350 BlueTEC, which uses a 3.0-litre V6 that develops 155 kW (211 hp) and 540 Nm of torque. Next is the G 500, which is also available in short-wheelbase Cabriolet form and uses a 5.5-litre petrol V8 that produces 285 kW (388 hp) and 530 Nm. Both the G 350 and the G 500 use a seven-speed automatic transmission.

    Moving up the food chain is the G 63 AMG. Making use of a 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine that develops 400 kW (544 hp) and 760 Nm of torque, the inclusion of an ECO start/stop system as standard is always welcome. Finally, we arrive at the Herculean G 65 AMG. Propelled by a 6-litre V12 biturbo engine, it develops a colossal 450 kW (612 hp) and 1000 Nm of torque, making it the world’s most powerful series-produced cross-country vehicle.

    Due to go on sale this June, prices in Germany start at € 85,311 for the G 350 BlueTEC, with the G 65 AMG weighing in at a much scarier € 264,180.

    (more…)

  • 2012 BMW M3 DTM videos


    On the eve of the 2012 DTM season, BMW has released a set of videos featuring its M3 racecar in action on track.

    After a way-too-long hiatus; BMW Team Schnitzer, BMW Team RBM and BMW Team RMG – along with their six drivers – will be present for the opener on the Hockenheimring grid on 29th April: BMW’s first DTM race since 11th October 1992.

    Following on from last week’s final test program at Hockenheim, BMW Team RBM driver Andy Priaulx said: “With the first race in mind, we have made good progress with our car. However, we have to remain realistic. We have come a long way in a relatively short time – and we still have a long way to go. We have great respect for our experienced opposition.”

    (more…)