2008 VW Golf GTI Pirelli Back In UK

The 2008 Volkswagen Golf GTI Pirelli is back in the UK 25 years after the original had its debut. The Pirelli-themed Volkswagen hatchback features an enhanced version of the 2.0-liter T-FSI powerplant boosted to 230 PS (about 227 hp) and is coupled with the twin-clutch DSG gearbox. The added 30 horses over the stock VW GTI drops the acceleration time for 0-62 mph down to just 6.8 seconds and raises the hatchback's maximum top speed to 152 mph. The 2008 Volkswagen Golf GTI Pirelli price is 24,385 pounds.

The Pirelli version differentiates itself from the standard GTI, with a front splitter, side skirts, smoked rear lenses and tinted windows. It also gets 18-inch 5-spoke aluminum wheels and Pirelli P-Zero tires. The Pirelli theme is carried to the interior with custom yellow-stitched sport seats and tire-tread imprints in all four seating positions.

PRESS RELEASE:
THE GOLF GTI PIRELLI RETURNS 25 YEARS AFTER THE ORIGINAL
The iconic Pirelli name is set to make a return to the Golf GTI range exactly 25 years after the original made its debut as the new Volkswagen Golf GTI Pirelli is launched in the UK.

Originally introduced in May 1983 the GTI Pirelli was based on the MkI Golf and featured the distinctive Pirelli 'P' alloy wheels. The vehicle proved to be an instant hit with its planned production run of just 10,500 vehicles selling out within six-months.

For 2008 the GTI Pirelli returns to the UK. Based on the MkV GTI bodyshell the new vehicle features uprated dynamics and aesthetics to distinguish it from the standard car.

At its heart is an enhanced version of the 2.0-litre T-FSI engine with its output raised from the standard 200 PS to 230 PS. Drive is channelled through a choice of six-speed manual or the twin-clutch DSG gearbox. The new GTI Pirelli reduces the standard car's 0-62 mph time of 7.2 seconds to 6.8 seconds while the top speed rises from 146 mph to 152 mph.

As with the original GTI Pirelli the new car features a set of unique alloy wheels. The modest 13-inch wheels fitted to the 1983 car have evolved into a set of five-spoke 18-inch versions fitted, appropriately, with a set of 225/40 R18 Pirelli P-Zero tyres. Body-coloured elements including the front splitter, side skirts and rear bumper are complimented by a set of smoked rear light lenses and tinted rear windows. A unique Pirelli badge mounted on the bootlid further distinguishes the new car which will be available in a choice of three colours – reflex silver, diamond black and blue graphite.

The Pirelli theme continues to the vehicle's interior which features unique half-leather sports seats with tyre-tread imprints set into the seat base and back. Yellow stitching contrasts against the black leather of the seats, sports steering wheel and handbrake.

Despite the focused nature of the vehicle the standard specification remains high. A total of six airbags, 2Zone electronic climate control, a CD stereo system and Electronic Stabilisation Programme (ESP) are all fitted as standard.

The new Golf GTI Pirelli is available to order now with the first vehicles set to arrive in the country in June. Prices will start at £22,555 on-the-road for the three-door model equipped with a six-speed manual gearbox, rising to £24,385 for the five door model fitted with a six-speed DSG gearbox.

2008 Volkswagen Golf GTI Pirelli in UK Photo Gallery.


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Hamann Tuned BMW M3 E92 Coupe

The famous German tuner Hamann released this month the details on the HAMANN BMW M3 E92 coupe. The HAMANN BMW M3 E92 coupe gets 20 hp and 25 Nm more from the V8 making it a total of 440 hp and 425 Nm of torque. With the speed limiter removed the HAMANN BMW M3 E92 coupe has a top speed of 300 km/h.
More details and lots of Hamann Tuned BMW M3 E92 Coupe photos & pictures can be found below.

Full assortment by the specialist - The HAMANN tuning program for the BMW M3 Coupe E 92.
If we don’t have it, it doesn’t exist – this is the HAMANN motto for its extensive part program for the current M3 Coupe. Since 1986, the Laupheim-based company has developed and manufactured products for the individualisation of BMW automobiles, using their experience gained in the heated battle of motorsport. The result: powerful performance enhancements, lift-reducing aerodynamics components and a stable sport braking system. Striking 19- and 20- inch light alloy rims and precious interior modifications made of aluminum and carbon complement these upgrades.

Enhanced performance for a better elasticity and more joy in driving
The first tuning level increases the standard figures of the V8 (309 kw/420 hp) by 15 kw/20 hp and delivers an additional 25 Nm (series: 400 Nm) on the crank shaft. This is achieved by an optimised engine map. The V/max limitation is annulled and the top speed increases to 300 km/h.

Another performance kit is called Sportkit HM/M +35. And the name says it all: after the modification, the engine has up to 35 hp/26 kw more power. The torque rises by 48 Nm and the speedometer doesn’t stop until it reaches 320 km/h. Another component of this enduring performance kit is a sportive exhaust system. It is made of stainless steel and is therefore non-corroding and includes a metal catalyser as well as a middle section- and rear section muffler. The comprehensively optimised motor management matches this feature. An earthy sound and a significantly perceptible performance improvement will delight the BMW-pilot from now on.

In the design stage, HAMANN perfectly harmonises the individual components of the aerodynamic package. The result is a breath-taking styling with an optimised airflow. The sportive-dynamic front spoiler, which goes hand in hand with the rear skirt and the rear spoiler, reduces the lifting forces and forms a whole new look. The optical link between front and rear is accomplished with the HAMANN side skirts and the shapely roof spoiler. The precisely fitted Body-Kit is attached on the standard attachment points. Prices start at 2,400 Euros.

Sportive or elegant

The HAMANN rim program takes the individual wishes of the M3-clientele into account. No matter if the customer is looking for a sportive distinctive or elegant and noble appearance - HAMANN offers varying tire designs and sizes. Named ANNIVERSARY I and ANNIVERSARY I BLACK LINE, a one-piece tire in a severalpart look with 19 inches is offered. Both rims have a high-gloss INOX stainless steel lip, but differ as they either have a silver- or black-lacquered rim-star.

HAMANN BMW M3 E92 Photo/Picture Gallery:


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197HP Toyota Hilux 3.0 D-4D Only For Limited Edition

The Commercial Vehicle Show in Birmingham, UK on April 15 will mark the debut of most powerful version of production pick-up model of the Toyota Hilux on the UK market. With numbers limited to just 500 units, it also promises to be one of the most sought-after, too. The Toyota Hilux made history when Top Gear took it to the North Pole and made it the only car to accomplish such a task. Powered by the 3.0-litre D-4D in the Invincible version, the Toyota Hilux 194 hp is made possible by a Toyota Motorsport diesel engine performance kit. Checkout full details in Toyota press release below.

Toyota Press Release
TOYOTA UNLEASHES HIGH POWER HILUX AT CV SHOW
Britain’s most powerful production pick-up.
There are few challenges left for Toyota’s mighty Hilux, a car that has toughed it out in the
world’s most extreme environments for decades and which only last year made history by conquering the Arctic to become the first car to drive to the Magnetic North Pole. If those achievements alone didn’t leave the competition reeling, they are about to suffer another high-powered blow.

The Commercial Vehicle Show marks the debut of a new Hilux version that is set to become the most powerful production pick-up model on the UK market. With numbers limited to just 500 units, it also promises to be one of the most sought-after, too.

It is equipped with the 3.0-litre D-4D engine that already features in the Hilux Invincible, but thanks to a Toyota Motorsport diesel engine performance kit, maximum output is increased to a massive 194bhp (197 DIN hp). This slashes the nought to 62mph acceleration time from 13.0 to 10.5 seconds (11.4 seconds for automatic versions).

There is an even greater hike in torque performance, with a maximum 430Nm (up from 343Nm) sustained all the way from 1,600 to 3,200rpm.

Hilux is styled to reflect its pre-eminent position in the pick-up market, with dedicated 15-inch alloy wheels and stainless steel mesh grille. The cabin is finished in a special two-tone grey leather, with heated front seats.

Following its debut at the CV Show at the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham on 15 April, the new range-topping Hilux will go on sale in the UK in the summer. Prices and full specification details will be announced nearer the on sale date.

Source: Toyota
Read More On: Cars From Toyota

Photos: New Limited Edition 2009 Model Toyota Hilux 3.0 D-4D High-Res Pictures.

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2010 Ford Fiesta

Ford teased us with several concept cars named Verve, all of which point to the new production version, which is globally named Fiesta. It goes on sale this fall in Europe and other markets in three- and five-door hatch variants. The sedan version, with a conventional trunk, is currently being designed for the U.S. and Asia and isn't pictured here.

But it's not hard to figure what it'll look like. "Take the five-door Fiesta," says Ford global design chief J Mays, "and graft on the trunk of the Verve sedan concept, and you'll be 99 percent there." The overall package is more substantial looking than the Fit and better proportioned than the Versa. The jury is still out on whether or not the hatchback model Fiestas will be sold here.
source motortrend

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Piloti Prototipo Driving Shoes Gets Your Feet On Track

You use everything for your car and on your car that makes you and your auto happy. But you miss one small thing everytime. Your Driving Shoe. Like tires are designed to give you good road grip, similarly driving shoes are specially designed to cushions the back of your foot while in the car, plus a reinforced lateral side of the right shoe for better control during heel-and-toe downshifting. One of the beter known driving shoe maker is Piloti.

When you buy one of Piloti's shoe like Prototipo, you get Piloti’s patented Roll Control heel. On top, the Prototipos feature a combination of premium suede and mesh in a low-cut style that looks great whether you’re driving a Ferrari, a Civic Si, or just bragging about your skills at the car club.

So if you’re serious about your driving -- especially if you own a car with a manual transmission -- you need superior equipment on your busy feet. That means a proper pair of driving shoes. You can get them for anything between $80 to $100.
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Abt Sportsline Tunes VW Golf R32

German tuner Abt Sportsline have managed to bump the base model of Volkswagen's fastest Golf model R32 up 120 horses to a supercharged 370 HP. The 120 hp hike is achieved via a modified motor management system and the introduction of an Abt compressor kit with supercharger and air cooling system.

Abt's latest engine kit for the European spec, Golf V R32 includes an upgraded supercharger and a liquid-cooled intercooler setup. Controlling the increased boost to the 3.2-liter V-6 is a new ECU control unit. The car rides on a fully tuned suspension featuring bigger brakes, rims and tires. According to Abt, its tuners have managed to achieve a top speed of over 270 kph (or 168 mph), while acceleration to 100 kph or 62 mph decreases from 6.2 seconds in production form to just 5.0 seconds.

Exterior changes to tuned up Golf R32 include a new side skirt, blackened chrome dual pipes along with 19-inch BR wheels and Abt decals.

German tuner Abt Sportsline Abt established in 1991 has gained lots of experience in boosting the performance of VWs and Audis through its German Touring Car (DTM) racing efforts. There was no indication on the availability of the Abt upgrade for the U.S., but there would definately be a way to get the kit through Abt's distributor in the States.

For more read the Abt press release below.

PRESS RELEASE:
The R32 is already designed as a super sports car. People who buy this Golf want an extremely fast compact car. A racing car in golf's clothing, suitable for every day use. ABT has put such an extraordinary car on dynamic 19-inch BR-wheels: instead of serial 250hp (184kW) the ABT R32 now delivers enormous 370hp (272kW). This immense plus in power of 120hp is possible thanks to a modified motor management and the use of the ABT compressor kit combined with a water-cooled intercooler. All components are tuned perfectly to the potent V6 by the Kempten engineers, and therefore offer permanently impressing driving values: for example, the ABT R32 sprints from 0 to 100km/h in just 5.0 seconds, compared to 6.2 seconds for the serial R32. The top speed is more than 270km/h. Particularly impressing is how the tuned engine is getting it on: the six-cylinder engine accelerates just as smoothly as powerfully in every rpm-range. „The R32 is as much fun on the motor way as on winding country roads", explains Hans-Jürgen Abt. Small wonder, as the Kempten Golfer is equipped with the ABT adjustable sports suspension harmonizing perfectly with the 370 horses of the V6.
source Abt Sportline (German site)
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2009 Caterham Superlight R500 Runs 0-60 Run in 2.88 Seconds

The British niche sports car maker Caterham officially released details about its new lightweight R500 along with its few hi-res photos. These images shows off the final design of the upcoming roadster which will be powered by a 2.0-litre Ford Duratec four-cylinder engine that develops 194 kW (263 hp) and 177 lb.-ft. of torque to the rear wheels through either a six-speed manual or a six-speed sequential gearbox equipped with launch control. And the redline is in excess of 8,500rpm. Man what more can you ask from such superlight machine which weighs just 506 kg, or 1,116 pounds and jumps from 0-60 in exactly 2.88 seconds. For more checkout below the detailed specs and features for 2009 Caterham R500 along with its official press release and photos.



Caterham Superlight R500 Specification(specs)
* Engine 2.0-litre Caterham Powertrain (CPT) Ford Duratec
* Max Power 263bhp @ 8500rpm
* Max Torque 177 lbsft @ 7200rpm
* 0-60mph (claimed) 2.88 seconds
* Top Speed 150mph
* Wheelbase 2225mm
* Overall length 3100mm
* Overall width 1575mm
* Height 800mm
* Ground clearance 80mm
* Kerb Weight 506kg (516kg sequential gearbox)

Standard Equipment & Features
* 2.0-litre Caterham Motorsport Ford Duratec
* 6 Speed Caterham Gearbox
* Limited Slip Differential
* Superlight Suspension (wide track front and de Dion rear with Watts linkages)
* Carbon dash, nose cone, rear and front cycle wings
* ACES change-up lights
* Ventilated front brake discs with 4 pot calipers
* 13" Anthracite eight-spoke alloy wheels with Avon CR500 tyres
* Carbon interchangeable wind deflector
* 4 point Road Harnesses
* Quick-release Momo Steering Wheel with integrated indicator switches
* Carbon Kevlar seats

Optional Performance Upgrades
* Sequential Gearbox - £2950
* Launch Control - £350
* Carbon Induction Airbox - £450
* Suspension package consisting Eibach Springs and dampers derived from the C400 race series - £1250


PRESS RELEASE

THE NEW CATERHAM R500 – HARDER, BETTER, FASTER, STRONGER

520bhp-per-tonne
0-60mph in 2.88 seconds
2.0 litre Ford Duratec engine tuned to produce 263bhp
All-new electronic dashboard including keyless ignition
Optional upgrade sequential gearbox & launch control

For those really serious about their driving, the famous supercar-slaying R500 moniker is back with the arrival of the all-new Caterham Seven Superlight R500.

The latest model from the British sportscar manufacturer takes the minimalist, lightweight Seven philosophy to a new level with more power, sharper handling and for those venturing on track the option of launch control and the Caterham Motorsport engineered sequential gearbox.

Weighing just 506kg and producing 263bhp, R500 is the most potent race-tuned production Seven yet.

The Series 3 chassis flagship model blasts out 520bhp-per-tonne and is capable of propelling itself from 0-60mph in 2.88 seconds, delivering a pure adrenalin fix for those committed enough to strap themselves into the Kevlar race seats.

The original R500 was legendary, with the old Rover K-series powered machine rewriting performance records for 0-60mph and 0-100-0mph times. This new variant has been equipped to supersede its predecessor by embracing the very latest in lightweight engineering techniques and technology.

Lurking under the lightened bonnet is the all-alloy 2.0 litre Ford Duratec engine. Fed by its roller barrel throttle bodies, the normally aspirated, four-cylinder mill is tuned by Caterham Powertrain (CPT) to unleash a monster; 263bhp with a heaving 177 lb-ft of torque transmitted to the rear wheels. The relentless acceleration is transmitted through each ratio by either the standard 6-speed gearbox or the optional Caterham Motorsport engineered sequential transmission.

To help reign in such extreme performance are race-developed Avon CR500 tyres and a suspension set-up that includes weight saving aero wishbones and fully adjustable dampers. Bringing things ferociously to a halt are four-piston calipers clamping on vented discs at the front and lightweight twin piston rear calipers.

Performance upgrades for the R500 aimed squarely at the track day market include a sequential transmission, launch control, a gulping Carbon Induction Airbox and Eibach Springs and dampers derived from the Caterham C400 race series.

The R500 isn't just about big performance statistics though; refinements and Seven firsts feature throughout and help distinguish it from its stablemates.

In true Colin Chapman spirit, engineers sought to add lightness to the chassis in order to improve the overall performance.

To shed a massive 9kg from the already featherlight chassis utilised by the R400, Caterham left no bolt unscrewed - more carbon and Kevlar feature than previously, thinner body panels have been utilised right through to aluminium rear light housings.

Discreet exterior styling tweaks carried over from the flagship CSR models offer both form and function - the carbon winglets increasing downforce and the cat's tongue grill aiding cooling and aerodynamics. A carbon leather boot cover and clear rear lights are also new.

Housed within the revised chassis is keyless ignition, a quick-release Momo steering wheel with integrated indicator switches and an innovative dashboard featuring flush fitted switchgear, ACES sequential gear change lights and a new Stack display with scrolling text. The carbon dash is also finished with a detailed engraved plaque to show each car's number.

On sale immediately, the factory built Superlight R500 starts at £36,995,


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2010 Buick LaCrosse/Invicta Spy Photos & Video

The next generation 2010 Buick LaCrosse/Invicta concept is about to be revealed in a few days time. But as usual the high-res spy photos of upcoming GM Buick have flooded the web before is oficial unveiling. And nobody is complaining.

FIRST GLIMPSE: 2010 Buick LaCrosse Interior
General Motors had released this rendering in September 2007 of a future vehicle labeled 'GMX-353', which is the internal designation for the next-generation Buick LaCrosse. Based on the forthcoming Epsilon II mid/large FWD platform, the next LaCrosse is intended on taking the current midsize Buick to the next level in terms of luxury and refinement. If these conceptualizations are even partially telling of the production sedan, then that goal will be readily achieved.
source cheersandgears

2010 Buick LaCrosse Flashes Interior
The new Buick will be the first car in America to ride on GM's Epsilon II platform, so we're actually kinda excited for it to debut.
source jalopnik

Spy Shots: 2010 Buick LaCrosse shows off its insides
Close inspection of the pics shows some similar dash characteristics between the two models, though the Malibu is all about the curves while the Buick is more strait-laced. The two models also appear to share gauge clusters and housing. Seats in the preproduction LaCrosse are two-toned much like that of the up-level Malibu, but the two appear to have a different basic shape.
source autoblog

2010 Buick LaCrosse interior [Spied & Illustrated]
The spy shots reveal a rather handsome interior that looks more Cadillac than Buick. The prototype's gauge cluster looks like it will have a pod setup and it looks like the LaCrosse will sport a steering wheel very similar to the one found in the Pontiac G8. It's not known if the production car will be named LaCrosse or Invicta, which is Latin for "invincible" — a name used by Buick decades ago.....According to our sources, the new Buick will be assembled at GM's Fairfax facility starting in February of 2009. The LaCrosse should hit dealer showrooms in mid-2009 as a 2010 model.
source leftlane

Spy Photos Of 2010 Buick LaCrosse/Invicta




Video: 2010 Buick LaCrosse
source leftlane



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