The Abt Allroad quattro. Stylish power-SUV
The Audi allroad quattro combines several vehicles at the same time - especially if it was tuned by Abt Sportsline.
Thanks to the Bavarians´ great experience in motor sports the elegant all-wheel drive estate car becomes a true sports car and confirms the "S" in SUV as the Abt engineers have been able to develop various power upgrades for the Diesel engines bringing about considerably more power. Instead of the original 180 HP (132 kW) the 2.7-litre Turbo Diesel now performs 230 HP (169 kW) and the 3.0-litre TDI 272 HP (200 kW) instead of 233 HP (171 kW). The increase in power is especially noticeable when taking a look at the explosive torque of the "small" Diesel totalling 450 Nm and mighty 550 Nm for the 3.0 TDI. In comparison to the original models these values mean an increase of 70 respectively 100 Nm.
The extra portion of sportiness for the allroad harmonizes perfectly with Abt Sportsline´s wheel range. The Abt wheels SP1 and AR19 are available in the size 8.5x19 inch offset 50 with suitable tyres size 255/40 R19. 15 mm-spacer discs on each side complete the sporty looks. In addition, Abt Sportsline also offers the 20-inch wheels AR20 (9x20 inch offset 40) which are a true eye catcher, in particular mounted on the SUV with tyres size 265/30 ZR20. In order to round off the dynamical styling package for the all-wheel drive sports car Abt Sportsline has developed a very dynamical rear spoiler. The wheels, spoiler and motor tuning guarantee even more driving pleasure with the many-sided car.
More pictures of ABT Audi Allroad Quattro
The Abt Polo. More, from every perspective.
"There is no need for compromises" is Volkswagen's slogan for the new Polo. Abt Sportsline, the leading tuner for all VW models, has re-interpreted this message and developed a both sporty as well as safe tuning programme for the new Polo.
Abt Sportsline has created an extensive aero dynamic package for the new VW Polo which accentuates its sporty design. The newly designed front grill and front spoiler lip give the Polo a dynamic and stylish look. The rear wing does not only make the Polo look sportier but also grants increased down force on the rear axis.
Thanks to Abt Sportsline's sport suspension springs, the new Polo is made even safer and sportier in particular. The progressive-operating springs lower its body by 35 millimetres. Thus, making the Polo look more vibrant and granting perfect road holding. However, the optimization of the driving dynamics is especially remarkable. The car responds far more sensitive to steering activities and is more agile in handling. At the same time the Abt springs reduce the vehicle's side tilt, hence granting additional safety and sporting driving behaviour especially in fast corners or sudden shifts in direction.
In addition the VW Polo is optically upgraded by the elegant and sportive Abt light alloy wheels type Z. 17 inch is the largest available size of the one-piece aluminium wheel in the classical five-spoke design. The convex spokes give the wheel a powerful and dynamical look.
Abt Sportsline's accessories for the new VW Polo do not only make the car safer but sportier in particular. Before long Abt Sportsline will be offering further products such as power upgrades and sporty accessories for the Polo.
The new Passat by Abt Sportsline
The new VW Passat was designed to become the most comfortable Passat ever. With this new luxury class limousine Volkswagen is bound to set new standards. The Bavarian company Abt Sportsline which enjoys a long tradition is also following this philosophy. The leading tuner for all makes of the VW-group already has concrete ideas what the new Abt-style VW Passat will look like.
Before long Abt Sportsline will be offering a discreet but nevertheless sporty-looking front spoiler lip as well as a rear spoiler for the VW Passat. When constructing the aerodynamic parts, great importance was attached to creating harmonious optical characteristics. The result is a sporty but not obtrusive appearance.
Additionally Abt Sportsline will be offering the five-spoke light alloy wheel SP for the new Passat. The one-piece cast aluminium wheel highlights the sporty and elegant appearance of the Abt model.
Moreover, a complete Abt Sportsline suspension kit is currently being developed. Besides lowering the vehicle, the goal is to increase driving dynamics, as well. When it comes to matching work, the Abt engineers keep their focus on the balance between sportiness and close-to-production everyday comfort.
The Abt GTI. For tough guys
According to the advertisements, the new Golf GTI is made for guys who have been tough men all along. Abt Sportsline has taken the VW slogan to heart and has converted the cult object from Wolfsburg into a car for real guys: The talk is about the Abt Sportsline Golf GTI with 230 hp.
The GTI from Kempten is a true sports car, following the original's tradition. The outward appearance of the Abt GTI gives away the secret that the model from Kempten is not an every day GTI. The optics was adapted to the power with extensive aerodynamic components. The body kit of the German tuner comprises a front spoiler lip and carbon lip, a bonnet made of carbon fibre, side skirts as well as a rear skirt and rear muffler with four chrome end pipes. No need to say that the GTI from Kempten is a toy for tough guys only.
It becomes even more obvious when taking a look at the power dates. Under the muscular body of the Abt GTI, the impressive power of 230 HP (147 to 169 kW) and 310 Newton metres is waiting to hit the road. The engineers of Abt Sportsline were able to achieve this power upgrade of the 2.0 TFSI power unit by modifying the motor management. The result is a plus of 30 HP and 30 Newton metres regarding the standard model. So it's not surprising that the top speed climbs to 241 km/h and the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h is managed in only 6.7 seconds.
Beside the optics and powerful performance, the specifically tuned sport suspension kit by Abt Sportsline guarantees sporty driving pleasure - on any kind of road. For, the height adjustable suspension kit can also be adjusted in pressure and rebound according to individual requirements and operational area. Beside the body modifications, lowering the vehicle of up to 55 millimetres also contributes to the sporty appearance of the Abt GTI, but however in particular the driving dynamics is increased noticeably. The sports car reacts more sensitive to steering activities and runs like on rails in tight corners.
The light alloy wheel SP1 by Abt Sportsline, which has been awarded numerous times by car magazines, also guarantees optimal grip on the roads. The one-piece wheel in classical five-spoke design in the dimension 8.5x19 inch underlines the sporty optic of Abt GTI and is equipped with 225/35 R19 tyres of technology partner Dunlop.
In the interior of the Abt Sportsline Golf GTI the special feeling for details becomes apparent: the steering wheel as well as the red Recaro sport seats and GTI floor mats are marked with the characteristic Abt logo.
Abt Sportsline based in Kempten has changed the cult object Golf GTI into a popular sports car with impressive power and unmistakeable optics for real tough guys.
More pictures of ABT VW Golf GTI (2005)
Abt Golf: Full programme for the success mode.
The fourth generation of the VW Golf is on the market around the world. This super seller from Wolfsburg was so successful that those in the automobile world now refer to the "Golf class". Hence, it is natural that the experts at Abt Sportsline gave special attention to this million seller.
Ten different light alloy wheels are available for the Golf, ranging in dimension from the 7 x 15" single-piece cast version, to the luxury three-piece wheel in the impressive 8 x 17" format. For those seeking something more prominent, the A24 model proves irresistible, with an 8.5 x 18" dimension. All wheels carry the characteristic Abt design with five spokes.
Complementing the vast array of Abt wheels are six different Abt engine tuning kits. For the 1.8-litre Turbo unit alone Abt offers three possibilities to add considerably more power to the standard 150 hp. Abt offers customers a selection of power output levels: 193, 215, or even 235 hp. The tuning experts can also improve the output of the 1.9-litre TDI and the 1.6-litre units.
Whether for the front, the rear, or the side, VW Golf owners will find the Abt body accessories functional and attractive. A front grill sporting the Abt logo, a front spoiler edge, side skirts, a rear wing and a rear apron provide a wide variety of stunning packages.
Aluminium gear lever knobs, polished or anodized, Abt door pins, pedals or a footrest contribute to the customizing of the interior, as well as floormats endorced with the Abt logo.
Pure sporty handling characteristics is the main objective when the technicians set-up the Abt suspension. They work in close cooperation with Christian Abt, who not only heads Abt Sportsline's technical department, but secured the German Super Touring Championship in 1999. The champion considers extensive testing and setting-up a true sports suspension as one of the special bonuses of his profession. Abt Sportsline offers a set of sports springs and a complete sports suspension. Both solutions lower the body by 35 to 40 millimetres.
Different exhaust systems, and a twin tail pipe, with 76 millimetre tubes, complete the extensive Abt programme for the top seller from Wolfsburg.
More pictures of ABT VW Golf (2005)
Lexus unveiled F-Sport, its first-ever performance accessory line available for the IS 250, and the IS 350. The line was premiered at the 2007 Special Equipment Marketing Association (SEMA) Show in Las Vegas, where the appearance marked the division's first official participation at the show, attended by more than 100,000 industry leaders from over 100 countries showcasing the latest in automotive products, electronics, and aftermarket accessories.
"The Lexus IS 250 and IS 350 sport sedans are specifically geared for the performance-minded customer," said Brian Bolain, Lexus national interactive and automotive events manager. "The F-Sport performance accessory line helps to further realize each owner's desire to personalize their car's performance to best match their needs."
The F-Sport Accessory Line includes a wide cross-section of performance enhancing products engineered by TRD and covered by the Lexus new vehicle warranty, including:
F-Sport 19" Forged Alloy Wheels
This lightweight forged alloy wheel, exclusively designed in a dark graphite finish, includes a staggered fitment with 19" X 8" front wheels and 19" X 9" rear wheels. Recommended tire sizes are 225/35R19 in the front and 255/35R19 in the rear.
F-Sport Front Brake Upgrade
The Front Brake Upgrade provides a firmer pedal feel and improved fade resistance in repeated severe duty use. The Brake features six piston fixed calipers, and drilled cast iron 355mm diameter rotors with a patented internal fin design mounted on anodized aluminum hubs. Braided stainless steel brake lines and low-dust performance brake pads are included and the upgrade can be used with stock or F-Sport upgraded rear brakes.
F-Sport Rear Brake Upgrade
Similar in construction to the F-Sport Front Brake Upgrade, the rear brake upgrade uses four piston fixed calipers and drilled cast iron 345mm diameter rotors. Braided stainless steel brake lines and low-dust performance brake pads are also included. The Rear Brake Upgrade may only be used in conjunction with F-Sport Front Brake Upgrade.
F-Sport Continuous Carbon CeramicTM Brake Upgrade
A new generation of carbon fiber-reinforced ceramic material technology maximizes high-temperature durability and system cooling in this ultimate upgrade for the IS F. Ceramic rotors measure 380mm diameter front and 355mm diameter rear on anodized aluminum hats. They incorporate the same internal cooling vane concepts as the F-Sport cast iron rotors, while significantly reducing unsprung and rotating mass compared to the IS F stock brake system. Distinctively finished six-piston front and four-piston rear fixed calipers signify leading-edge technology and performance. Specially qualified performance brake pads and stainless steel brake lines are included.
F-Sport Exhaust System
This system features all stainless steel construction with fully polished mufflers and double-wall exhaust tips. In addition to an outstanding appearance, it delivers a powerful, sport-tuned exhaust sound.
F-Sport Lowering Spring Set
This feature lowers the vehicle approximately 1" in the front and rear for a more aggressive appearance and a lower center of gravity. The spring set is engineered to deliver lowered ride height without bottoming out or creating a harsh ride. The feature can be used with either the stock or F-Sport shock absorber set.
F-Sport Sway Bar Set
This includes a set of larger diameter, replacement front and rear sway bars that offer reduced body roll and flatter cornering. Urethane mounting brushings are also included to replace the original rubber brushings.
F-Sport Bilstein Shock Absorber Set
Developed in cooperation with Bilstein and available exclusively through the F-Sport Performance Accessory program, this shock absorber set offers sport-tuned suspension dampening without sacrificing ride quality.
F-Sport Clutch
The F-Sport Clutch increases clamping force approximately 15% to handle higher torque capacity and provide improved feel.
F-Sport Quick Shifter
Engineered and machined from billet aluminum, the F-Sport Quick Shifter decreases shift throw by approximately 30% for positive shifting.
F-Sport Rear Chassis Member Brace
To improve chassis stiffness under aggressive driving conditions and provide a more responsive feel during cornering, the F-Sport Rear Chassis Member Brace joins key rear chassis and suspension mounting points through this tubular steel brace.
F-Sport Carbon Fiber Engine Cover
Constructed from real carbon fibers, this very light and durable engine cover provides a high-tech appearance under the hood. This is a direct replacement for the original cover and is only available for the IS 350.
F-Sport Air Intake
This low restriction intake and filter assembly is fully compatible with stock engine controls and is emission legal in all 50 states.
Lexus Genuine Accessory Ground Effects Kit
For a lower, more aggressive appearance, this color-keyed four-piece body kit includes front and rear valences and side skirts.
Lexus Genuine Accessory Rear Spoiler
This rear deck mounted, color-keyed lip-style spoiler provides the finishing touch for the sport-tuned enthusiast.
The F-Sport performance accessory line will be available in early March 2008, and will be sold through Lexus dealerships. Details will be available in 2008 through the Lexus.com website within the IS 250 and IS 350 sections. For additional information regarding the F-Sport performance accessory line, please contact Lexus Division Communications.
Designed by Funkmaster Flex
Hip Hop guru of car customization Funkmaster Flex brings his vision of urban luxury to Ford’s newest crossover with the Flex2. His signature two-tone paint scheme is integrated cleverly into the Flex2 through a House of Kolor Kandy custom paint job that features a Brandywine body color and a unique faux-brushed aluminum roof. Flex2’s exterior design is further enhanced by custom 3dCarbon accents including fender vents, upper and lower grilles and a rear upper spoiler.
The all-black leather interior features Katzkin custom seat covers with alligator print inserts and stainless steel color stitching on the seats and interior trim. To keep the party going inside the vehicle, Funkmaster Flex added two Invision headrest-mounted DVD systems in the first and second rows, along with a JL Audio 12-inch subwoofer and amplifier to enhance the tunes.
Flex2 rolls on custom 22-inch NC Forged wheels and Cooper Zeon XST tires. With a 1-inch lowered suspension and Borla dual rolled exhaust tips, Flex2 is an urban legend in the making.
“I know what this vehicle is going to be in the urban market: It’s going to be killer!” says Funkmaster Flex. “Whether you’re flossin’ with your friends, going to the club or riding around with your girl, the Ford Flex is the next urban street vehicle, and Flex2 is my interpretation of the ultimate in street luxury.”
Contemporary suburban luxury
Star of Overhaulin’ and the hottest custom car designer on the scene, Foose gave the Flex a look of contemporary suburban luxury that accentuates its already stand-out good looks.
Riding on Foose Design 22-inch wheels and Eibach springs customized for a lower appearance, the Foose Flex exterior features a custom-mixed, tow-tone blue and cream pearl paint job.
Inside, this color scheme continues with three-tone blue, gray and tan premium leather surfaces by Katzkin Leather.
Custom front and rear fascias and rocker panels are complemented by a custom wrap-around chrome beltline. Additional exterior details include painted appliqué door handles and a relocated license plate. With custom upper and lower grilles and bold FORD lettering across the front and rear, the Foose Flex reflects the right amount of expressive luxury appeal.
“When Ford called, I was quite excited to be one of the first to get my hands on the Flex,” says Foose. “I didn’t want the individual pieces I added to be the most eye-catching parts. I wanted it to look as if it came from Ford’s design studio.”
Ford Flex
The 2009 Ford Flex is set to redefine the modern American journey when it goes on sale in summer 2008. This vehicle sets a higher standard for style, features, functionality and comfort in the industry’s fastest-growing crossover segment.
The 2009 Flex will come straight from the factory with several key features and technologies, including:
- Two-tone roof – An all-black greenhouse – a Ford first – that visually integrates the body with the available two-tone roof. Customers can pair a White Suede or Silver roof option with one of Flex’s 10 available exterior colors or choose a body-color roof.
- High-tech lighting – Available HID headlamps and LED taillamps, plus 7-color programmable ambient lighting in the console, footwells and cupholders.
- Available refrigerator – Unlike competitors’ systems that merely keep cold beverages cool, the Flex’s compressor-driven refrigerator can cool up to seven 12-ounce cans, four half-liter bottles or two 20-ounce bottles from room temperature to 41 degrees in approximately two-and-a-half hours. That’s 40 percent faster than a standard home refrigerator.
- Multi-Panel Vista Roof™ – It not only brightens the interior, it gives Flex occupants seated in each row their own skylight.
- EasyFuel™ System – Flex’s capless fuel filler saves time by doing away with unscrewing and replacing a fuel-filler cap and provides a better seal, cutting down the emissions of smog-forming vapors.
- Ford SYNC™, Ford’s industry-exclusive, voice-activated hands-free in-car communications and entertainment system. This available system fully integrates mobile phones and digital media players into the vehicle.
- The SYNC in-car communications system was developed in collaboration with Microsoft and will be offered exclusively on Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles this year.
- Big wheels – Standard 18-inch or available 19-inch bright aluminum wheels that plant the crossover firmly on the road.
- Ford’s exclusive second-generation door-entry keypad – Housed within the vehicle’s black B pillars, the flat-panel, backlit keypad eliminates the need for door-mounted buttons and gives customers the ability to unlock doors, disarm the alarm system and disable the auto-lock function by entering a five-digit code.
Honda Factory Performance (HFP) Accord Coupe As a dealer-installed accessory, Honda’s in-house HFP products carry the same 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty as the rest of the vehicle, when installed at the time of new vehicle purchase, and are engineered to be fully compatible with the vehicle. The Accord HFP package includes a wide range of performance- and style-enhancing products. The Sports Suspension package (available Spring 2008) reduces ride height by about 25 mm, lowering the vehicle’s center of gravity, and enhancing the Accord Coupe’s sporty road-handling characteristics. Larger wheels and tires include 19-inch, 10-spoke alloy wheels designed for high-performance 245/40R-19 tires (sold separately). A full aerodynamic body kit (front, sides and rear) further elevates the style quotient of the entire vehicle. Interior and exterior HFP emblems complement the package. All of the Accord Coupe HFP components except suspension can currently be purchased individually, and the full HFP package including suspension will go on sale in the spring of 2008. American Honda launched its performance accessory program in 2002 with the introduction of a Honda Factory Performance package for the Civic EX Coupe, and currently offers HFP products for the Civic, Accord and Fit.
Here are the first official sketches of the Hyundai Concept Genesis Coupe which will be making its world debut at the upcoming Los Angeles Motor Show in a couple of weeks. No further information has been releases at this time, although we do know this concept hints at the future design direction for rear-wheel drive sports coupe.
Hyundai Motor India Ltd., India's fastest growing auto manufacturer and largest passenger car exporter, today launched the i10 at a glittering launch function in New Delhi. The i10 is the first Hyundai to makes its world debut in India which will serve as the sole production and export hub for the car.
Seoul-based Hyundai Motor Co. established HMI in 1996 as a fully-owned subsidiary and launched its first car - the Santro which became a runaway success in 1998. The company today makes a full range of cars starting with Santro Xing to the Tucson SUV and Sonata Embera top-end premium luxury car. From the very outset Hyundai has distinguished itself in the Indian market by bringing the latest in technology and design wrapped in a value-for- money package.
“Hyundai Motor India is poised to play a very important role not only in India but also in HMC’s global plans with HMI becomes Hyundai’s global hub for small car manufacturing,” said HMC President Choi Jae-Kook. “We are very proud of the i10 as it brings the best of Hyundai’s design and technology and I am confident that it will be a very big success around the world,” he added.
The launch of the i10 symbolises the second phase of operations for HMI in the country where it enjoys a market share of well over 18 percent and which is poised to grow to 20 percent in the next calendar year. The i10 marks the entry of stylish, performance driven compacts from Hyundai which offer the latest to its customers.
Speaking at the launch function, HMI Managing Director Lheem Heung-Soo commented, “Hyundai Motor India is starting its second phase of operations with the launch of this brand new compact i10 today. The i10 symbolises everything Hyundai Motor India stands for today: Great design, latest technology and performance with an affordable price tag. We at Hyundai Motor India and all Indians can take pride in the fact that we make world class cars which are driven across the world.”
The new i10 is powered by a 1.1 litre, iRDE petrol engine which will offer great performance along with unmatched fuel economy. The unit develops 66.7PS@5500 rpm of maximum power and a peak torque of 10.1Kgm@2800 rpm. The engine is mated to a 5-speed manual transmission with a console mounted ergonomic, short throw, i-shift gear box which frees up the space between the driver and the passenger seat and also gives an unique look - a first for this segment. To make in-city driving effortless it comes with an electric power steering.
The i10’s sleek, flowing contours, attractive front grille with large clear eyed headlamps give it a distinctive look. Inside, it offers abundant cabin space for five. All i10 models have AC/heating, folding rear seats, dual tone beige interiors, rear seat belts and an electronic trip and odometer as standard equipment. The top-end trim comes with features like a panoramic sun-roof (a first for this class of cars), rear spoiler , leather wrapped steering wheel and gear knob, keyless entry and a 2-DIN audio system. The light-weight steel body is reinforced by body coloured bumpers and detachable inserts while the front bumper features an integrated air dam.
The suspension set-up with Macpherson struts in the front and coil springs coupled with torsion bar in the rear ensures that the ride is supple and the passengers travel in comfort. Features like full front and rear arm rest, plenty of leg and shoulder room for the rear seat increases the comfort factor making it easy for five adults to sit comfortably. A tilt steering wheel makes it easy for the driver to find the spot-on driving position. A wheelbase of 2380 mm which is the longest in this segment gives it the additional stability and added cabin space.
Tubeless tires are standard on all trim levels. The i10 also offers top-end safety features like Anti-lock Braking system (ABS), seat belts with pretensioner, dual airbags for the driver and the front passenger, auto-unlocking doors which automatically unlock on sensing an impact and a high-mounted rear stop lamp.
A range of 10 exciting exterior colors and a skilfully-crafted dual tone interior fascia provide a grand touch to a car which has it all. Looks, performance, features, safety and economy which customers are sure to find very attractive. The i10 comes with a 2 year, unlimited warranty package. The i10 will be sold in four trim options – the D–Lite, Era, Magna and the Auto. The Magna will also be available in a high-end option pack. The i10 is certain to re-define the segment and set a new benchmark for cars in its class.
Honda just revealed a "world debut" concept car here at SEMA, and it basically represents what you can do with a new 2008 Honda Accord if you really put your mind to it. Also, you've got to use up every option possible in the Honda Factory Performance catalog -- from ten years from now. It's called the Honda Accord Coupe HF-S concept, and it's got every piece of Honda kit you'd never want and you couldn't even get -- even a "Cadmium Orange Pearl" color coat, which we think may be what happens when you combine an orange and cadmium at a really hot temperature. It's got LED driving lights, a wrap-around front bumper which creates a "vortex effect" to enhance high-speed aero and engine cooling. Full press release after the jump.
Honda Introduces a World-Debut Concept Vehicle Based on the Accord and a Wide Range of Customized Vehicles and Racecars at 2007 SEMA Show
10/30/2007 - LAS VEGAS -
More than 17 Honda project and concept vehicles are on display at the 2007 Specialty Equipment Market Association's (SEMA) show in Las Vegas, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced today.
Making its world debut, the Honda Accord Coupe HF-S Concept represents a radical vision for customizing the all-new Accord's design and performance through stylish and functional modifications. A dual-port exhaust system can provide additional performance when needed while retaining low noise output during relaxed driving. Purely a concept, the Accord HF-S Concept is a creation of Honda Access America, Inc., the U.S. accessory development division.
The 2008 Accord Coupe equipped with dealer-installed Honda Factory Performance™ (HFP™) components melds a distinctive, custom appearance with an enhanced level of handling performance. All of the HFP components except the suspension kit (available Spring 2008) are currently available as dealer-installed accessories. All HFP products carry the same 3-year/36,000 mile bumper-to-bumper warranty as the rest of the vehicle, when installed at the time of new vehicle purchase, and are engineered to be fully compatible with the vehicle.
"The Accord HF-S Concept provides a glimpse into the future of vehicle customization," said John Mendel, executive vice president of American Honda. "The Honda Factory Performance-equipped 2008 Accord Coupe demonstrates the best of what the company offers today."
In addition to the Accords on display, fifteen more unique vehicles filled out the Honda booth, including the all-new S2000 CR and the recently-introduced Civic Mugen Si Sedan. A specially-prepared S2000 CR has been modified by Team Honda Research to compete in the 2007 National Auto Sport Association's (NASA) "25 Hours of Thunderhill" endurance race in December. Another racecar, the "One Lap Odyssey" modified by Honda Manufacturing of Alabama, LLC made its SEMA debut after winning its class in Car and Driver magazine's 2007 Cannonball One Lap of America.
Honda Accord Coupe HF-S Concept
Honda Access America, Inc., Honda's U.S. accessory development team designed and built the HF-S Concept to demonstrate how the customized use of technology could allow vehicle owners to fine-tune performance while adding their own senses of style. Key exterior and conceptual powertrain modifications represent functional performance and driving-experience enhancements.
Unique LED driving lights, placed on the fore-most corners, wrap around the front of the bumper providing increased visibility both forward and side for the driver while also creating a unique appearance. The shape of the front bumper is designed to create a vortex effect to enhance high-speed aerodynamics and engine cooling. On the sides of the vehicle, the shape of the carbon fiber panels decreases negative speed force around the wheel arches. The rear bumper diffuser is designed to reduce drag. The trunk spoiler is a prototype design engineered for high-speed down-force. The metallic color of the exterior is accented by Cadmium Orange Pearl - a color derived from super-heated metal. The use of this color for the brake calipers, badges, grille accent, and interior details underscores the vehicle's high-performance appearance.
Key to the concept is the use of technology to electronically customize throttle response, suspension settings, steering boost, and traction involvement to the driver's taste. Additionally, the exhaust is a two-stage design. It is engineered to be exceptionally quiet during relaxed cruising, and provide elevated levels of performance in high performance driving situations.
Honda Factory Performance (HFP) Accord Coupe
As a dealer-installed accessory, Honda's in-house HFP products carry the same 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty as the rest of the vehicle, when installed at the time of new vehicle purchase, and are engineered to be fully compatible with the vehicle. The Accord HFP package includes a wide range of performance- and style-enhancing products. The Sports Suspension package (available Spring 2008) reduces ride height by about 25 mm, lowering the vehicle's center of gravity, and enhancing the Accord Coupe's sporty road-handling characteristics. Larger wheels and tires include 19-inch, 10-spoke alloy wheels designed for high-performance 245/40R-19 tires (sold separately). A full aerodynamic body kit (front, sides and rear) further elevates the style quotient of the entire vehicle. Interior and exterior HFP emblems complement the package. All of the Accord Coupe HFP components except suspension can currently be purchased individually, and the full HFP package including suspension will go on sale in the spring of 2008. American Honda launched its performance accessory program in 2002 with the introduction of a Honda Factory Performance package for the Civic EX Coupe, and currently offers HFP products for the Civic, Accord and Fit.
S2000 CR
Enhancing the S2000's performance potential, the S2000 CR introduces more track-oriented suspension settings, aerodynamic-enhancing bodywork, a removable hardtop, higher rigidity and reduced weight. The added features are designed to appeal to enthusiasts who enjoy open track-day events and also provide a more ideal starting point for racers who modify the S2000 for competition in club-racing events. Taking this concept even further, Team Honda Research, a group formed from Honda R&D Americas, Inc., engineers, added modifications necessary to compete in the 2007 NASA "25 Hours of Thunderhill" endurance race. All of the modifications are consistent with the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) Touring 3 and the National Auto Sport Association (NASA) Performance Touring regulations.
Honda Manufacturing Alabama, LLC (HMA) One Lap Odyssey
The Car and Driver magazine 2007 Cannonball One Lap of America race included an Alabama-built Odyssey minivan, produced by a team of dedicated associates from Honda Manufacturing of Alabama (HMA) in Lincoln. The One Lap vehicle created by the HMA team was a fully-customized Odyssey minivan-turned-racer that sported a modified engine with a custom-built turbo charger, a six-speed manual transmission, a track-tuned suspension, competition roll cage and close to 400 horsepower at the wheels.
From May 5-12, the team raced from track to track over a 4,000-mile loop around the Midwest and western United States. The HMA Odyssey raced to an impressive first- place finish in the SUV category and 33rd overall in a field of 88 competitors. Along the way, the HMA team picked up a first-place finish - among all competitors - at the race segment held at the Mid-America Motorsports Park. This win came against the entire field, which included Corvettes, Vipers, Porsches and a Ford GT.
Tuner Project Vehicles Displayed at the Honda Booth
BRS autodesign Fit
BRS autodesign S2000
Zero 1000 Top Fuel S2000
DVS/Drag Cartel Fit
DVS/Drag Cartel Civic Si
Forever Orange Fit by Ryan Shutt
Ryan Shutt Polk Audio Civic Si
Kraftworks Fit
Kraftworks S2000
DSO Eyewear Element
RS-R S2000 Drift Car
The new Roush P-51A is inspired by the WWII P-51 Mustang, the aviation kind that is. These planes escorted allied bombers over Europe and Hermann Goering supposedly said: "The day I saw P-51 Mustangs flying over Berlin, I knew the jig was up."
Roush blows the rest of the Mustang tuners out of the waters with this 510 hp with 510 lb-ft torque (approximately 690 Nm) Mustang. Jack Roush: "This is the type of product that ROUSH has wanted to produce for at least 10 years but the right platform, the right technology, and the right timing never intersected until now."
Roush has redone the 4.6 liter engine entirely with new forged steel eight-bolt crankshaft, forged aluminum pistons with increased dish to lower the compression from 9:8 to 8:6, and forged steel H-Beam connecting rods. These parts are vital for the engine (300 hp factory spec) to be able to cope with the newest Roushcharger. Additionally new aluminium upper and lower intake manifold, custom fuel rail and high-flow fuel injectors, a high-flow capacity fuel system and a dual electronic throttle body were installed.
The exterior has been fitted with a new aerodynamic package with a new front fascia, chin spoiler, hood scoop, rear spoiler and black high-flow grille. 18 inch forged five spoke wheels are mounted under the car and a Stage 3 suspension kit is fitted. The interior received leather seats, white gauges and the customary emblems.
Production is set to start in the first quarter of 2008 and will be limited to 100 units.
Detailed content
510 HORSEPOWER ROUSH P-51A MUSTANG SET TO SAVE THE STREETS FROM THE FOREIGN INVASION
During World War II, the P-51 Mustang was hailed as a savior of aviation and certainly played a major part in ending the conflict. This long range fighter escorted Allied bombers over Europe and Hermann Goering, the head of Germany's Luftwaffe, summarized the plane's role by stating, "The day I saw P-51 Mustangs flying over Berlin, I knew the jig was up."
Today, at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, the jig is up for the rest of the Ford Mustang tuners as ROUSH Performance unveiled the P-51A Mustang automobile which, at 510 horsepower and 510 lb.-ft. of torque, is sure to be held in as high a regard as the airplane has been in the history books and will help to save the streets from the invasion of the foreign brands.
"I've often said that there was never a Mustang built that I didn't like and that includes both the car and the airplane," said Jack Roush, an aviation enthusiast who currently owns two P-51 Mustang warbirds. "This is the type of product that ROUSH has wanted to produce for at least 10 years but the right platform, the right technology, and the right timing never intersected until now."
The ROUSH P-51A is easily the highest horsepower Mustang that the company has ever produced, and represents the first time that internal engine components have been upgraded by ROUSH technicians in their Livonia, Mich., facility. It was determined that the only way to give the P-51A moniker its due was to completely break into the 4.6L, 3V and rebuild several of the functional internal components, which include a forged steel eight-bolt crankshaft, forged aluminum pistons with increased dish to lower the compression from 9:8 to 8:6, and forged steel H-Beam connecting rods. These upgraded parts were necessary for the stock Ford engine (which comes with 300 horsepower from the factory) to be able to withstand the additional power generated from the newest iteration of the legendary ROUSHcharger* supercharger system.
Additional alterations include a custom aluminum upper and lower intake manifold for the high capacity air-to-water intercooler and ROUSHcharger. ROUSH installs a custom fuel rail and high-flow fuel injectors, a high-flow capacity fuel system, as well as a dual electronic throttle body.
The new ROUSH P-51A engine has a preliminary rating of at least 510 horsepower and 510 lb.-ft. torque. It is anticipated that final figures may even be slightly higher than this when final testing and calibration is approved by the ROUSH engineering staff.
The changes to the ROUSH P-51A don't end under the hood. A ROUSH aerobody kit will be installed, which includes a front fascia, chin spoiler, hood scoop and rear spoiler. The ROUSH black high-flow grill is added along with cooling side shields to give the car the aggressive look it needs while stalking the streets.
Internally the car will come with ROUSH sport leather seating and custom floor mats, both with an embroidered P-51A emblem. The white face gauges and billet aluminum pedals will get a lot of use as the driver bangs through the gears with the ROUSH short throw shift lever and retro black ball.
For those who look behind the 18-inch ROUSH forged five-spoke wheels will see the vaunted Stage 3 suspension underneath this vehicle. Designed to handle even the tightest twists and turns, this suspension includes specially-engineered and tuned front struts, rear shocks, front and rear springs, front and rear sway bars and jounce bumpers. The front brakes are also upgraded with 14-inch front two-piece rotors and four-piston calipers. Each component was specifically engineered so that ride comfort was not compromised at the expense of the tremendous gains in performance.
As an interesting side note, the yellow and red accent colors on the vehicle come from those used by the 357th Fighters Group, Eighth Air Force ETO (European Theater Operations) who were unofficially known as "The Yoxford Boys" after a village near their base. Its victory totals in air-to-air combat are the most of any P-51 group in the Eighth Air Force and third among all groups fighting in Europe. The 357th flew 313 combat missions between February 11, 1944 and April 25, 1945 and is officially credited by the US Air Force with having destroyed 595.5 German airplanes in the air and 106.5 on the ground. Pilots in this group included Captain Clarence E. "Bud" Anderson who flew a P-51 named "Old Crow." One of Roush's personal P-51 fighters is painted as a replica of this airplane.
Pricing for the ROUSH P-51A Mustang has not been set, but will be announced shortly. The vehicle is slated to begin production in the first quarter of 2008 and will be limited to 100 vehicles. As with all ROUSH vehicles, the P-51A will carry an industry-leading 3 year/36,000 mile warranty.
The F1-nose remains
Scheduled for a presentation at the Geneva Show early next year is the minor facelift for the Mercedes SLK, likely to feature triangle bars underneath the Formula-One nose to mimic the front end design of Mercedes’ quite successful silver arrows F1 racers. Contrary to outside reports, it also appears that the prominent SLR McLaren style nose of the car will remain and just receive a mild restyling as it’s not dipping anymore down into the frame of the grille. Other new features will be slightly modified taillights and newly shaped front air-intakes. As the driver of the prototype snapped here undergoing tests in Stuttgart was very keen on covering the dashboard, we suppose that this is going to get some minor changes, too. On the other hand, we do not expect new engines and mechanics despite reports of the new 6.3 liter AMG engine replacing the current 5.5 liter AMG engine. Buyers will still have the choice between 163, 231, 272 and 360 bhp engines.
Here are the latest spy photos of the next generation BMW 7 Series as it performs brake system testing in the south of France. With its debut back in 2001 and mid-cycle facelift in 2005, the new top-of-the-range sedan is expected to be revealed sometime in 2008 as a 2009 model. The new 7-Series is expected to grow in size and become more elegant with less controversial exterior design. Technical highlights include an 8-speed automatic transmission with all-wheel-drive X-Drive system. The transmission’s shift lever moves from the steering column back down to the center console and the car’s central user interface known as iDrive will become more user friendly. Engines will range from the 3.0 liter 272hp straight-6, new S65 414hp V8 first introduced in the E92 M3 and the existing 6.0-liter N73 V12 engine.
|
