BMW 1-series Coupe (UK)

BMW 1-series Coupe
BMW is extending the 1 Series line-up in the UK with a new model consisting of a brace of high performance twin-turbocharged engines and a diesel capable of a frugal 58.9mpg. The new BMW 1 Series Coupé goes on sale in the UK in November and will be available in 120d, 123d and135i guises. The 135i marks the first time a twin-turbo petrol engine has powered a 1 Series, while the launch of the 123d heralds the introduction of the world's most powerful production four-cylinder diesel engine.
The flagship of the range is the BMW 135i with its 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged petrol powerplant. Offering 306hp from its light alloy and magnesium straight-six engine, the 135i is capable of accelerating from zero to 62mph in 5.3 seconds before going on to an electronically-limited top speed of 155mph. Peak torque of 400Nm from just 1,300rpm through to 5,000rpm ensures smooth yet rapid progress and in-gear flexibility.
Courtesy of High Precision Direct Injection for the most efficient burn of fuel mix and Bi-VANOS variable valve technology combined with lightweight engineering principles, the BMW 135i is capable of frugal motoring while maintaining its top end performance. The 2,979cc engine posts a 30.7mpg figure on the combined cycle and a CO2 emissions figure of 220g/km. BMW's EfficientDynamics programme seeks to boost engine performance while at the same time cut fuel consumption and emissions. Second generation High Precision Direct Injection and Brake Energy Regeneration are both elements of EfficientDynamics deployed on the 135i Coupé.
Frugal yet sporting
The BMW 135i is joined in the range by another twin-turbocharged model to offer a unique blend of performance and economical motoring. The 204hp four-cylinder engine in the BMW 123d Coupé sets a benchmark for small diesels. Its 1,995cc powerplant is the world's first all aluminium diesel to have an output per litre figure in excess of 100hp - something only BMW M cars usually attain. It is also the first four-cylinder production diesel to come with twin-turbo technology. Peak torque is 400Nm from 2,000rpm, while the engine revs to in excess of 4,400rpm where peak power is attained. This performance equates to a zero to 62mph time of 7.0 seconds and a top speed of 148mph - previously unheard of figures in such small capacity production diesels. By comparison the output of the four-cylinder BMW 123d betters that of established six-cylinder diesel engines from both Audi and Mercedes.
The BMW 123d Coupé also makes financial sense. Its 138g/km emissions figure sees it fall into the Band C Vehicle Excise Duty tier while the fuel consumption figure on the combined cycle is 54.3mpg. It is aided in this by the use of elements from BMW's renowned EfficientDynamics programme. The 123d comes with Auto Start-Stop technology, Brake Energy Regeneration, third-generation common-rail fuel injection, a diesel particulate filter, active aerodynamics, Electric Power Steering and low rolling resistance tyres.For customers seeking an entry point into the new 1 Series Coupé range, the 120d offers another option of style, driving dynamics and parsimonious motoring. Its 1,995cc four-cylinder engine mixes a 177hp output and a zero to 62mph time of 7.6 seconds with 58.8mpg economy and emissions of just 128g/km. The same EfficientDynamics technologies used on the 123d are also deployed on the 120d.
Dynamic capabilityLike every BMW before it, except xDrive models, the new BMW 1 Series Coupé has 50:50 weight distribution and a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive configuration for the best in driving dynamics. To offer the most compliant yet sporting ride and the best in directional stability, the 1 Series Coupé has a double-joint spring strut front axle arrangement with a five-link rear suspension. Such an arrangement allows engineers greater scope in fine tuning the ride characteristics of the car.
Dynamic Stability Control is standard on the 120d Coupé to act as an electronic safety blanket for the driver. Dynamic Traction Control is a further function of DSC that permits a greater degree of wheelslip for more spirited driving. The BMW 123d and the 135i come as standard with Dynamic Stability Control+ with its five additional safety features of Soft Stop, Hill start assistant, Brake Drying, Brake pre-tensioning and Brake fade compensation. In addition to this the 135i Coupé has a high performance braking system featuring six-piston callipers for greater retardation.
Design
The BMW 1 Series Coupé uses the same architecture as the three- and five-door models, but is shrouded in an elongated coupé body to emphasise the sporting nature of the car. The 1 Series Coupé is 4,360mm long (133mm more than other 1 Series) and 1,934mm wide (1mm more). The slight increase in body size means the boot space swells from 350-litres to 370-litres. A standard 60:40 rear seat split permits greater load flexibility allowing for items to be stored in place of one or both rear seat occupants.
The BMW 120d Coupé will be available in ES, SE and M Sport guises, while the 123d Coupé will be offered in SE and M Sport and the 135i Coupé just as an M Sport. M Sport raises the specification bar by including 17-inch light alloy wheels on the 120d and 123d Coupé but unique 18-inch light alloy wheels on the 135i Coupé, M Aerodynamic package, M Sports suspension, Sports seats, High-gloss Shadowline exterior trim, M leather steering wheel, M designation door sills and Anthracite headlining.
Prices for all three models will be announced closer to the on sale date.
Model//Power-Hp/Torque-Nm/Zero-62 mph-Seconds/Top SpeedMph/Combined-Mpg/
BMW 120d Coupé 177 350 7.6 141 58.9
BMW 123d Coupé 204 400 7.0 148 54.3
BMW 135i Coupé 306 400 5.3 155* 30.7
* Electronically-limited
source: BMW

Techart Magnum Porsche Cayenne

World Debut at the International Frankfurt Auto Show IAA 2007
The new TECHART Magnum Based on the Latest Porsche Cayenne
With more than 500 produced units the Magnum is the most successful model in the 20-year history of TECHART Automobildesign. At the Frankfurt International Auto Show IAA 2007 the new TECHART Magnum based on the latest Porsche Cayenne celebrates its world debut.
Like its predecessor the new TECHART Magnum sets itself apart with a spectacular aerodynamic-enhancement package that fits all versions of the Porsche SUV. All body components are manufactured from PUR-RIM plastic in OEM quality.
The curved TECHART fender flares add eight centimeters to the width of the Cayenne. The Magnum rocker panels provide a fluent transition between the wider wheel arches.
The new aprons for front and rear that replace their production counterparts were designed to correspond visually to the more pronounced contours of the wheel arches. The TECHART Magnum front apron lends the latest Cayenne generation an even more striking appearance. Its large air inlets feature elegantly styled slats and provide ample cooling air for radiators and front brakes. A total of four auxiliary headlights and daytime running lights improve active safety.
The TECHART Magnum rear apron with integrated diffuser reduces lift on the rear axle and provides the perfect backdrop for the TECHART stainless-steel sport exhaust system with two chrome tailpipes on either side.
The body conversion can be rounded out with moldings for front and rear lights, as well as with a new hood that features two air outlets that optimize heat balance in the engine bay.
The Magnum also features custom-tailored wheels and tires. The largest possible version features TECHART Formula II light-alloy wheels in size 10.5Jx22 in front and in size 11,5Jx22 in the rear. For optimal tires TECHART chose ContiCrossContact UHP tires in sizes 295/30 ZR 22 and 335/25 ZR 22, which are approved on the Cayenne for a top speed of 300 km/h.
These tires also make the Magnum a prime candidate for the engine tuning of the Cayenne Turbo that is currently under development and in its most powerful incarnation will produce up to 620 hp / 456 kW.
The air suspension of the Cayenne Turbo is modified with the TECHART sport module that lowers the ride height for enthusiastic on-road driving by 30 millimeters. The entire range of adjustment from the lowest ride height (loading level) to the highest (special off-road level) measures some 110 millimeters.

source: Techart

New Peugeot 308 RC Z Concept

The Peugeot 308 RC Z Concept, will see its premiere at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show in September.

Cadillac BLS Coming To 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show

Cadillac reveals more details of new BLS Wagon
* Bio-ethanol fuel option available for 2008 in BLS Sedan and Wagon
* New two-stage turbo diesel engine with 180 hp / 132 kW
* Expressive design combines elegance and versatility
DETROIT - The Cadillac BLS Wagon will make its world premiere at the IAA International Motor Show, 13 to 23 September in Frankfurt, Germany. In addition to its first offering of a station wagon, Cadillac is announcing it will offer an alternative, bio-ethanol-fuel engine for the BLS Sedan and Wagon. Both moves demonstrate Cadillac's commitment to continued growth in the European market. Sales of the BLS Wagon throughout Europe will commence in November 2007. The bio-ethanol-powered BLS will be available at start of sale.
Bio-Ethanol power option for BLS
The BLS Wagon and Sedan models will be the first Cadillac models to be offered in Europe with the option of low-emission, bio-ethanol engines. Bio-ethanol is in use today in the USA and Brazil as an alternative to traditional gasoline fuels. The BLS with Bio-Ethanol power will go on sale in November 2007.
New diesel engine
The front-wheel-drive BLS Wagon is offered with the same range of power units as the BLS sedan, giving the choice of a turbo-diesel and three turbocharged gasoline engines. In addition, a powerful 1.9L four-cylinder two stage turbo-diesel engine with common-rail direct-injection delivers 132 kW (180 hp) and 400 Nm of maximum torque.
Depending on engine specification, the BLS Wagon offers the choice of a six-speed manual transmission or a five- or six-speed automatic transmission. For BLS models equipped with an automatic transmission, a standard Sport Mode button allows the driver to select a sportier transmission shift pattern.
The range of gasoline engines includes two 2.0L four-cylinder turbocharged units developing 129 kW (175 hp) and 154 kW (210 hp). A high-tech, 2.8L V-6 developing 188 kW (255 hp) features a twin-scroll turbocharger and variable phasing of the intake camshafts.
Expressive Design and Versatility
As the first station wagon in Cadillac's 104-year history, the BLS Wagon marks a new milestone for the brand. Clear, crisp and sharply defined contours, characteristic Cadillac design features, a striking wedge shape that is emphasized by the tapered lines of the side windows all make the Cadillac BLS Wagon an appealing new entry in the midsize station wagon segment.
"The BLS Wagon is an appealing addition to the Cadillac portfolio for customers seeking dramatically designed luxury vehicles that offer versatility and performance along with outstanding ride and handling characteristics," said Cadillac General Manager Jim Taylor. "We think it will do well in many European markets where consumers desire a high degree of versatility and functionality in their vehicles."
From the front bumper and Cadillac hallmark V-shaped chrome-plated grille, to the trademark vertical tail lamps with the latest LED technology and rear bumper, the Cadillac BLS Wagon measures 4716 mm, compared with 4680 mm for the BLS sedan. At 2038 mm wide (including exterior rear view mirrors) and 1543 mm in height (including roof rails and roof antenna), the BLS Wagon combines a compact, sporty shape with a high degree of versatility and functionality.
Luxurious Interior
The BLS Wagon interior is highlighted by a three-spoke leather steering wheel and an analog clock in the center stack. The circular instruments have white numerals and red needles on a black background. State-of-the-art infotainment systems include high-quality audio units from American sound specialist Bose, a DVD navigation system with touch-screen operation, a Bluetooth-enabled mobile phone system with a hands-free kit and remote controls on the steering wheel.
The Cadillac BLS Wagon offers plenty of interior space to support a wide variety of luxury and leisure interests. With the rear seats in use, the boot measures 419 liters loading space, with an additional 12 liters below the floor. With the rear seats folded down, the total amount adds up to 1285 liters of flexible and versatile cargo space.
Comfort and driving dynamics
The chassis of the BLS Wagon has been developed to provide both the agility and comfort customers expect from a Cadillac. Fine tuning of the McPherson struts in front and a four-link rear axle ensures dynamic handling performance without compromising ride or load capacity.
BLS Wagon available in Europe in November 2007
The Cadillac BLS Wagon will be in European Cadillac showrooms in November 2007, shortly after world début at the IAA International Motor Show in Frankfurt, (13 - 23 September 2007). It has four levels: Business, Elegance, Sport and Sport Luxury.
The standard "Business" trim level offers 16-inch alloy wheels, Cadillac's StabiliTrak electronic stability program engine immobilizer, front, side and head curtain airbags, driver trip computer, three-spoke leather steering wheel with control buttons, cruise control, air conditioning, a seven-speaker audio system with CD player and "Piano Black" interior decor trim.
The intermediate trim level "Elegance" features additional standard equipment, including, wipers with rain sensors, eight-way power seats, dual-zone climate control and 17-inch alloy wheels. Red walnut wood veneer trim enhances the interior decor.
The Cadillac BLS "Sport" adds 18-inch wheels and lowered sports suspension for the front MacPherson struts and four-link rear axle. The chassis tuning ensures dynamic handling performance without compromising comfort. The BLS Sport interior is highlighted by the use of stylish aluminum trim instead of wood and the circular instruments have white numerals and red needles on a black background.
The "Sport Luxury" level is available in combination with the 2.8 V6 engine and the 1.9 Turbodiesel engine. In addition to the "Sport" content, it includes Bi-Xenon headlamps, heated and electrically adjustable leather seats with memory function and wood trim, instead of aluminum trim.

Mitsubishi Concept-cX

Mitsubishi Concept-cX- Dual peace of mind -
Building upon 70 years of four-wheel drive expertise, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) is in a privileged position to appreciate the customer benefits of this technology, in terms of on-road active safety and off-road ability, from Lancer Evolution to Pajero.
At the occasion of the 62nd Frankfurt Motor Show, MMC will combine this dynamic fluency with the first tangible demonstration in Europe of its regionalised environmental strategy, previewing the CO2-friendly next generation Euro 5 Clean Diesel family of engines co-developed with its parent company, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd.
As a showcase for this dual "peace of mind", Mitsubishi Motors will unveil Mitsubishi Concept-cX* in Frankfurt: an accessible, affordable, sustainable and realistic solution to today's pressing issues. Sporty and flexible, Mitsubishi Concept-cX will follow the popular compact SUV route to carry this message right at the heart of the market.
Featuring the "Jet Fighter" grille already seen with Lancer Sports Sedan and using a soft-road application of the Outlander-derived Electric control four-wheel drive drivetrain, the 4.10m long Mitsubishi Concept-cX will also intend to create a link between Mitsubishi's passenger cars and SUVs.
Sharp in design and in dynamics, Mitsubishi Concept-cX will boast an excellent environmental performance to be seen in the low fuel consumption and emission levels achieved by its next generation 1.8-litre Clean Diesel engine, mated to an automated manual transmission. A preview of a family of powertrains to be launched in the course of 2009, it features a variable geometry diffuser (VG) turbocharger – to generate optimum boost pressure for all engine loads – and DPF technologies.
Mitsubishi Concept-cX's further green credentials include eco-friendly "Green Plastics", MMC's proprietary plant-based resin technology, effectively used for interior trim materials.
As a reminder, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation has adopted an all-embracing approach in addressing global environmental issues. Under its "EIP 2010" ("Environment Initiative Program 2010") umbrella project, the Company is actively engaged in the development of a wide range of such technologies, covering:
o Powertrains suiting regional needs, driving patterns & infrastructures:+ Clean Diesel Euro 5 family of engines for Europe+ MiEV next-generation electric vehicle for Japan+ Flexible fuel vehicle for Brazilo Materials (plant-based "Green Plastic",...)o Processes ("Design for Environment" guiding principles,...).o Manufacturing (pollution-prevention and recycling measures).o Conservation ("Pajero Forest & Local Mountain Restoration Initiative" aiming to conserve and cultivate Japan's forests and woodlands).
Note: "Pajero" is "Montero" in Spain and "Shogun" in the UK.
* 'Compact crossover' concept vehicle

Mugen Civic Type-R

Source: MUGEN

New Lamborghini Murcielago LP640 by Edo Competition

Technical data - Lamborghini Murcièlago LP640
Engine
6.5 ltr. V12 cylinder

Output
663HP / (487.5 kW) at 7.800 U/min

Max. Torque
675 Nm at 5.600 U/min

Performance
Top speed est. 348 km/h (216 mph)0 - 100 km/h (0 - 62 mph) est. 3.8 s

Features
Engine:
• ECU recalibration
• Special high-flow air filters
• Newly designed high-performance catalytic converters
• New exhaust butterfly valve control (remote-controlled on request)
• New high-flow muffler
• New stainless steel exhaust tips

Body:
• Specially designed rear wing with adjustable lip

Wheels:
• Custom paint on request

Interior:
• Rear view camera
• Tire pressure monitoring system
• Carbon fiber interior trim

Source: Edo Competition

Porsche Cayenne Hybrid Revealed

Porsche, a company renown for its high-performance sports cars and sport utility vehicles (SUV), this week in Stuttgart demonstrated to the media a Cayenne SUV hybrid prototype, providing a glimpse of what the company will offer to consumers by the end of the decade.
Porsche is targeting average fuel consumption figures of 9.8 liters/100 kilometers in the New European Driving Cycle and about 24 miles per gallon in the US FTP cycle for the Cayenne Hybrid, and future developments may allow Porsche engineers to push towards an average fuel consumption figure of 8.9 liters/kilometer (approximately 26 miles per gallon).
The Cayenne Hybrid will feature a full-hybrid design where the hybrid module (clutch and electric motor) is positioned between the combustion engine and the transmission rather than having the hybrid drivetrain branching output along various lines and in various directions via a planetary gearset. Porsche selected this design because the in-line configuration of the hybrid components are more compatible with the existing Cayenne platform, this system in testing is more fuel efficient, and because this configuration is a better fit for Porsche as it will provide improved acceleration and engine flexibility compared to a conventional Cayenne.
Coordinating the car's three main components - the combustion engine, the electric motor and the battery - is the Hybrid Manager, the heart of the Cayenne Hybrid. The Hybrid Manager, which oversees some 20,000 data parameters as compared to only 6,000 data parameters for a conventional engine, is one of the most powerful technologies found in any hybrid vehicle.
Other unique features of the Cayenne Hybrid designed to decrease fuel consumption include the power steering and vacuum pump for the brakes, as well as the air conditioning, which operate on electric power. Technical components, such as the oil pump in the Cayenne's automatic transmission, have been replaced by electrically powered units. The Cayenne Hybrid's electro-hydraulic steering - a first for a vehicle of its kind, will ensure the Cayenne Hybrid drives like a Porsche with predictable and safe handling characteristics and the agility that is expected of a Porsche SUV.
Porsche plans to introduce similar hybrid technology in a version of its Panamera four-door Gran Turismo. The Panamera will debut in 2009, with a hybrid to follow.

source: Porsche

Audi TT by Nothelle

Nothelle Audi TT: 520 Horsepower
* Aerodynamic kit
* Increase in performance for the 2.0 TFSI up to 330 HP
* World premiere: Rebuilt Turbo 3.2 V6 up to 520 HP and 635 Nm. Vmax approx. 308 km/h!
* Wheel design "NOVEDRA IX" in 9.0 x 20 inch in four available Finishes!
* Optionally Wheel design "NOVEDRA VII Sport" in 8.5 x 19 inch and multi-piece look
During this year, nothelle looks back on a forty-year history of vehicle individualization programs. Since 1967, the name nothelle has been affiliated with supreme engineering aesthetics. Nothelle offers an unmatched array of extensive experience far beyond any other company within this field. Hardly any other company has gathered such a wealth of experience. The refinement program for top-range Audi models meets the highest standards and combines experiences acquired from motor sports with the traditional nothelle values of quality and exclusivity. The enthusiasm for motor sports and innovative concepts is the foundation of the individualization programs for vehicles from Audi.
For it's anniversary year 2007, featured highlights offered from the nothelle program include extensive modifications for Audi TT, inculding both versions Coupé and Roadster.
Aerodynamic, Design, Sport Exhaust System
With the aim of giving the TT an individualized and emotionally expressive look, Nothelle offers a shaply aerodynamic kit for a perfect match to the Audi original design really spicing it up.
A three-piece front spoiler as well as other front apron air intakes (Double Frames) bestow the TT an expressive face. The nothelle side sill elements give the Audi TT a much sturdier profile building up a sort of lateral muscle mass look. In back, a rear apron in special nothelle design comes with complete, perfectly integrated end pipes extending from the silencer - which is offered by nothelle in combination with the rear apron - guaranteeing a super spine-tingling sound with very distinctive rear view. Perfect to the completion of the rear, nothelle provides a 3-part rear spoiler providing extra downforce and particularly at higher speeds, a better stabilization effect. Additionally, nothelle offers a roof spoiler, excluding however the Roadster version.
Sport Suspension System
Because reduction to the center of gravity results in better agility, nothelle offers a set of sport springs. This brings TT to about a 25 mm lowering. The high-end solution in nothelle program is a coilover suspension with integrated adjustable compression and rebound settings. The driver can choose from three different shock absorbing levels. The suspension strut housing is made of high value stainless steel, with anodized suspension plates and gaskets of Teflon. The material provides for long-lasting life and offers something for the eye as well. Not a bad investment, in terms of the pleasure endowed while taking those curves quick as a flash.
Motor Performance Increase
Matching the racier look, nothelle makes available more zest for the TT motor as well. The Ratingen (Germany) -based Audi specialists help the 2.0 TFSI Motor (series-produced 200 HP) to charge forwards with four different increase performance programs. From Chip tuning (+ 40 HP, + 75 Nm) through to complete rebuild (+ 130 HP, + 120 Nm) everything is possible. Then, nothelle drops the big one: A world premiere is celebrated for the 3.2 V6 being modified through twin turbo technology. This increases performance up to 520 HP and 635 Nm and a Vmax of approx. 308 km/h turning the TT from the underdog to a Porsche-killer per se! The conversion is available for manually shifted versions as well as for TT´s with DSG-transmission (direct shift gearbox). The conversion of course includes a reinforced clutch and a specially adapted gear transmission ratio. Because on one hand the sheer power should be transmitted without causing damage, and on the other hand it should enable a full gallop of the 520 ponies.
Light Alloy wheels
The superior, distinctive and modern design of the "NOVEDRA IX" is immediately noticable, due to its' complete self-containment. The nine spokes (hence "IX") consists of a broad basic design in which a slender ridge runs into the rim flange. The sporty dynamics of this perfectly-shaped masterpiece makes every vehicle look fast even while when just standing still. These are offered in 20-inch for the Audi TT by Nothelle.
Nothelle makes available no less than four different surface finishes. For variations "silver", "white", and "black" the spokes and rim flange are polished. Trendy again particularly for white vehicles is the white finish really standing out with an individualized look.
The variation "NOVEDRA IX brillant" features an elaborate, high-polished finish available by Nothelle through special ball-polishing techniques and high-polished clearcoat. Through these processes, the wheel not only receives its own individual non-imitable look, but possesses increased durability as well. The sealing of the surface occurs through a transparent baked-on lacquer finishing process. The attractive wheels are made available from Nothelle as a set with tires in sizes 255/30-20, contributed by its' technology partners Hankook and Continental.
The Nothelle wheels, manufactured from high-grade aluminum alloy, stand out because of their minimal weight. This means reduced unsprung mass, decreased wheel tramp resulting in increased driving comfort. Over and above this, large spacing between spokes guarantees prefect cooling of the brake system. For security aspects, a point not to be underestimated.
Also optionally is the Nothelle "NOVEDRA VII SPORT" wheel in multiple-parts look available in 8.5 x 19".

source: Nothelle

Porsche SP580 by Sportec