German Car Scene

Month: November 2011

  • 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG revealed


    Mercedes-Benz has revealed the 2012 ML 63 AMG ahead of its official début at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

    Powered by the AMG 5.5 L V8 biturbo engine, the ML 63 AMG enjoys 381 kW (518 hp) and 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque – an increase of 11 kW (15 hp) and 60 Nm (44 lb-ft) over its predecessor – while still achieving a 33-percent improvement in fuel efficiency. If the AMG Performance package is added, output rises by 24 kW (32 hp) and 60 Nm (44 lb-ft), while the top speed goes up from (the previously limited) 250 km/h (155 mph) to 280 km/h (174 mph).

    Delivering power to all four wheels, AMG’s SpeedShift Plus 7-speed automatic transmission features three different programs depending on your driving style. Manual is self explanatory, while the Sport mode ensures shorter gear shift intervals. Finally, the Controlled Efficiency setting provides earlier and more comfortable upshifts to achieve better fuel economy. The stop/start function is only active in this mode.

    [Source: Mercedes-Benz]

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  • Special models and more diesel power for the Audi A1 range


    Audi UK has just announced two special models to be added to its A1 range, along with a new diesel engine option.

    The Contrast Edition is available for an extra £1,350 (€ 1,575) on top of the original Sport model’s price and, apart from the 136 kW (185 hp) 1.4 TFSI, can be chosen with any engine. The body’s roof lines, sill extensions, roof spoiler and lower front corner spoilers are all picked out in a contrasting colour. A double-blade roof spoiler can be added at extra cost. 17-inch five-spoke bi-colour alloy wheels replace the usual 16-inch items.

    Based on the flagship S line specification range, the Black Edition costs £ 1,100 (€ 1,282) more than a regular S line, and can be specified with either a 136 kW (185 hp) 1.4 TFSI or the newly-introduced newly introduced 105 kW (143 hp) 2.0-litre TDI diesel unit. Visually there’s a black grille frame and number plate holder, tinted rear glass, 17-inch alloys in a titanium finish, and the Xenon Plus headlights with LED daytime-running lights – usually an option on the S line. (more…)

  • TC Concepts Audi R8 ‘Toxique’ body kit


    Berlin-based styling specialist, TC Concepts, has released a few photos of its new Audi R8 ‘Toxique’ body kit.

    TC Concepts has yet to provide any details of the conversion, so we’ll just comment on what we see. The front bumper features massive intakes reminiscent of the TT RS’s, while down the flanks the sideblades have been blended into the car’s bodyshell, resulting in a much smoother, continuous appearance, similar to the R8 Spyder.

    At the rear, there’s a raised GT-style wing and colossal carbon fibre diffuser. The GT rear light clusters sit above single-blade vents. There’s also an additional filler cap on the driver’s side.

    [Source: TC Concepts]

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  • F1: Hamilton rules in Abu Dhabi


    Britain’s Lewis Hamilton finally had something to smile about after coming good at today’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, and gaining his first victory since July.

    The McLaren Mercedes driver put his personal problems behind him, capitalizing on Sebastian Vettel’s misfortune on the first lap. After securing a record-equalling 14th pole of the season, the Red Bull driver saw his chances of a 12th victory of the year disappear- along with the air in his rear tyre, which saw him spin off as he headed into Turn Two. The resulting damaged suspension spelt the end of the race for the 2011 champion, with Hamilton and Button moving into first and second place – but only until lap two, when Ferrari’s Fernando Alonso became the meat in a McLaren sandwich. Button may have faired better but for recurring problems with his KERS (Kinetic Energy Recovery System).

    Webber and Massa followed, with Nico Rosberg and Michael Schumacher rounding off the top six after a dramatic battle between the Mercedes GP team-mates was won by the youthful German.

    “It’s one of my best races. I said that to myself as I slowed down. Being able to hold one of best drivers in the world [Fernando Alonso] is something that is tough to do,” said a delighted Hamilton.

    [Source: BBC F1]
    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-qk5ytb2F1Y

  • 900 hp street sleeper Golf


    Just thought we’d share this with you. As massive fans of the Mk2 Volkswagen Golf, and wolves in sheep’s clothing, this 1989 machine is ticking all the right boxes for us. Built by Boba Motoring, the engine is based around a 1.8 L 1Z diesel block, with a billet steel crankshaft, Pauter steel connecting rods, forged pistons and a KR 16V cylinder head. The unit is fed by a Garrett GTX4202R turbocharger, which results in 900 hp on E85 fuel. (more…)

  • New Opel Combo Cargo revealed


    Following on from the recently revealed Combo passenger vehicle, Opel has unveiled its 2012 Combo Cargo model.

    Making its début at at “transportCH” in Berne, the Combo Cargo will be available in various configurations, with customers able to specify asymmetrical rear doors or a tailgate, and adding one or two sliding doors on the sides, to suit their needs. Depending on the style chosen, Opel can also add a roof-mounted flap, allowing the transportation of ladders etc.

    Available in long- and short-wheel base form, the Combo Cargo can accommodate up to 3.8 or 4.6 cubic metres (with the front passenger seat folded down) respectively, and carry a ton load.

    Powertrain options include four diesels, a petrol and an eco-friendly CNG (compressed natural gas) version, ranging from 66kW (90 hp) to 99kW (135 hp). Depending on the model, the Cargo can be ordered with five or six gear manual transmission, while the 66kW (90 hp) 1.6 CDTI is equipped with the electronically controlled Easytronic five-speed manual. Start/Stop fucntion can be specified on all models apart from the CNG.

    Prices start at € 13,750 (plus VAT) 70kW/95 hp 1.4 L petrol-engined version.

    [Source: Opel]

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