German Car Scene

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  • New look for Skoda UK’s Fabia S2000


    As he bids to become the first driver to achieve back-to-back IRC (Intercontinental Rally Challenge) driver titles, the Fabia S2000 of Skoda UK Motorsport’s Andreas Mikkelsen will be wearing a new colour scheme for the 2012 season.

    Mikkelsen’s Fabia will maintain its association with Skoda UK Motorsport with the familiar Union Flag covering its roof and bonnet, while new side sections also feature elements of the flag. At the rear, the tailgate receives a matte black stripe along with a small Union flag.

    Helping Skoda to pursue a third consecutive IRC Manufacturers’ title, Mikkelsen and co-driver Ola Fløene will be joined by factory team drivers Jan Kopecký and Juho Hänninen who, impressively, secured the first three places in the Drivers’ category of the IRC (Mikkelsen 1st, Kopecký 2nd, Hänninen 3rd), last year.

    [Source: Skoda UK]

  • Drifting the 2012 BMW M5


    By now, most of you will be familiar with the drifting skills of Andre de Vries. His previous video, featuring a BMW 1 Series M coupé, was highly entertaining, but this time his weapon of choice is the new F10 M5 model. See what 412 kW (560 hp) and a slippery road looks like below. (more…)

  • The Porsche GT3 Cup series “conductor”


    Austrian Walter Lechner describes motor racing as his passion for the last 37 years. After spending 21 years as a driver he decided to set up his own race organisation which now runs the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East. Here he explains what goes into the running of the series, and why he likens his role to that of an orchestra conductor. (more…)

  • Volkswagen UK announces CC pricing


    Volkswagen UK has announced pricing details for its recently refreshed CC model.

    Now available to order, the facelifted CC starts at £ 24,200 (€ 29,000) for the entry-level 118 kW/158 hp 1.8 TSI, rising to £ 30,100 (€ 36,100) for the range-topping GT 2.0 TDI with DSG transmission and BlueMotion Technology, which develops 125 kW/168 hp.

    Standard equipment includes a touchscreen satnav system, DAB radio, 2Zone climate control and bi-xenon headlights, while the GT trim level sees the addition of full Nappa leather upholstery, heated front seats, parking sensors, 18-inch alloy wheels and three-mode adaptive chassis control.

    Optional extras includes the blind spot-monitoring Side Assist, adaptive cruise control, climate seats with massage function and the brilliant City Emergency Braking function. This automatic braking system is active at speeds up to 18 mph and uses laser sensors to detect potential collisions, automatically apply the brakes if need be.

    [Source: Volkswagen UK] (more…)

  • AC Schnitzer MINI Coupé


    Aachen-based tuning specialist AC Schnitzer has begun offering a range of components for the MINI Coupé model.

    Visually the Coupé receives a “Technology & Design” sticker set, while those 18-inch diameter Mi2 bi-colour alloy wheels can be fitted with 225/30, 215/35 or 205/40 tyres or, alternatively, customers can opt for the company’s classic five spoke Mi1 alloy wheel in a 17-inch diameter.

    Performance enhancements include chip tuning for all models, a limited slip differential and a stainless steel rear silencer or complete exhaust system for the Cooper S and John Cooper Works versions.

    Chassis upgrades consist of a brake kit which uses four-piston calipers, slotted discs, stainless steel brake lines and new pads. Lowering springs provide the desired stance or, for owners who may venture onto the track, a height-adjustable racing suspension kit can be specified along with a front strut brace and rear anti-roll bar.

    Moving inside, there’s a set of aluminium pedals, suede floor mats, a gear knob with digital gear indicator and “Black Line” handbrake cover.

    [Source: AC Schnitzer] (more…)

  • Porsche Cayenne by Caractere Exclusive


    Usually known for its Volkswagen and Audi design programs, Werbomont-based styling specialist Caractere has created a range of options for Porsche latest Cayenne model under its “Caractere Exclusive” label which aims to cater for more luxurious models.

    The aero body styling package includes a replacement front bumper which features more aggressive grilles, a lower spoiler and massive intakes, while the new rear bumper gets an integrated diffuser. There’s also a roof-level tailgate spoiler. Down the flanks, the Cayenne receives wide arch extensions with subtle, contrasting vents, and dual-colour side skirts. A new performance exhaust system culminates in those quad tailpipes.

    This Cayenne is fitted with the company’s familiar CW1 alloy wheels in 10×22-inches at the front and 11×22-inches at the rear. Available in a Graphite or Silver finish, the CW1 wheel can also be specified in a 20- and 21-inch diameter.

    Inside the cabin, Caractere Exclusive offers a set of carbon fibre trim elements available in various colours and finishes.

    [Source: Caractere] (more…)