Month: December 2011

  • Polish Volkswagen Polo prototype


    Volkswagen Motorsport’s Polo R WRC isn’t the only take on Wolfsburg’s popular hatchback, as this video proves.

    Looking similar to the official Volkswagen car, this machine has been built by Paul Dytko to take part in mountain races around Poland and the rest of Europe in 2012.

    Currently producing 298 kW (400 hp), the turbocharged, AWD Polo is capable of hitting 100 km/h in around four seconds. However, Paul is looking for sponsorship money for development purposes, with plans for a full tube-framed structure in the pipeline, and dreams of a Pikes Peak appearance. (more…)

  • Kicherer Mercedes-Benz C 63 White Edition


    Stockach-based tuning specialist Kicherer has released details of its C 63 White Edition program for the Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG.

    The tuning package sees the 6.2 L V8 powerplant receive an ECU tweak and stainless steel sports exhaust – with variable flap, which results in 382 kW (513 hp) and 620 Nm (457 lb-ft) of torque – up from up from 336 kW (457 hp) and 601 Nm (443 lb-ft).

    A limited slip differential provides increased traction, while an adjustable coilover suspension kit helps to keep this C-Class planted to the road – or track. Another sensible addition is a Brembo brake upgrade along with stainless steel braided hoses, all which hide behind Kicherer’s own three-piece RS-1 forged wheels in a 20-inch diameter.

    Externally, the car receives a front apron with integrated corner lips, a badgeless carbon fibre grille, LED daytime running lights, sill extensions and rear diffuser.

    Moving inside, the fully reupholstered cabin has been treated to a mixture of black and white nappa leather and covering everything from the seats and door panels to the centre console, dashboard and steering wheel.

    Production is limited to just ten units.

    [Source: Kicherer] (more…)

  • BMW teases with second X6 M50d video


    BMW has just released a second video featuring what is widely believed to be a diesel-engined X6 M model. (more…)

  • BMW’s Joey Hand switches to DTM


    Joey Hand, already a BMW works driver, has secured the fifth of six M3 DTM seats available for the 2012 season, joining Andy Priaux, Augusto Farfus, Bruno Spengler and 2011 Champion Martin Tomczyk.

    Hand will be joining BMW’s DTM assault with a wealth of experience under his belt having contested various North American championships with BMW since 2004, and is the current ALMS (American Le Mans Series) GT Champion.

    The 32-year-old Californian recently took part in a DTM testing program at Spain’s Monteblanco Circuit, and displayed a great deal of enthusiasm for the car.

    “I immediately enjoyed the BMW M3 DTM. Its downforce and carbon brakes are extremely impressive. I know some of the team members from the past, and was able to acquaint myself with the others in Monteblanco. Now I am looking forward to our close teamwork in future,” said a delighted Hand.

    [Source: BMW Motorsport] (more…)

  • Winding Road drives the Porsche 911 GTS


    Seyth Miersma reviews the Porsche 911 GTS for digital car magazine, Winding Road. Powered by the same 3.8 L flat-six engine as the Carrera S, but fitted with the usually optional Power Kit as standard, the wide-bodied GTS develops 300 kW (408 hp) and of 420 Nm (310 lb-ft) torque. That’s enough to provide a 0-100 km/h (62 mph) time of 4.2 seconds and a 306 km/h (190 mph) top speed. (more…)

  • DRIVE Promo


    The world has been crying out for a credible car show and, judging by this promo, it’s going to happen – from January 2012. A bunch of genuine car nuts from around the globe have been assembled in order to fuel every aspect of your motoring needs. (more…)