2007 Lumma Design CLR 500 RS BMW M5

The Lumma Design CLR 500 RS is based on the BMW M5, and features:
carbon fiber hood, roof, and trunk;
a widebody kit with notable fender flares;
new front and rear aprons; side skirts, and more.

The engine features a power output of 552 hp.

© Source: article on seriouswheels.com

2007 Audi R8

(from Audi Press Release) Audi R8

Audi has incorporated the name and the genes of the five-time Le Mans winner, the Audi R8, into a spectacular sports car. Three years after the unveiling of the Audi Le Mans quattro concept car, the production version will be making its debut at the Paris Motor Show in the guise of the new Audi R8 mid-engined sports model.
It is a fascinating driving machine and the sporty pinnacle of the Audi brand. The mid-mounted 420 bhp V8 FSI engine, quattro permanent four-wheel drive and Audi Space Frame aluminium body form the basis for truly outstanding driving dynamics. The Audi R8 will be available to order from 28 September 2006; first deliveries will be made in the first half of 2007.

The exterior

Even at first glance, the calibre of the car is plain to see. The Audi R8 sits broad and squat on the road, the strongly accentuated rear end appearing to flex its muscles like a sprinter ready for the off.

The characteristic proportions of the vehicle are dictated by the location of the engine behind the cockpit. This layout is a typical feature of race cars. One of the most striking examples of this design – and as such one of the legitimate antecedents of the Audi R8 – was, and still is, the Auto Union Type C Grand Prix car. The central position of the engine is above all a boon to driving dynamics, as it allows for a weight distribution, as on the R8, of 44 percent to the front and 56 percent to the rear.

The car's body is highly compact in appearance. The front end and the gently curved roof arc are drawn in a sweeping line; a line which immediately marks the two-seater out as an Audi.
The interior

The sporty interior is dominated by a totally driver-oriented cockpit architecture, integrating the driver between the dashboard and the high centre console. The instrument panel above the console is angled slightly towards the driver. The flat-bottomed steering wheel is a typical feature of the sportiest Audi models, and also enables comfortable sports car entry and exit.

Form follows function: this design principle is implemented throughout the Audi R8. Alongside the driver-oriented architecture, also reflected in the styling of the side window sills, the choice of materials also makes for a highly functional look and feel. Looking around when in the driving seat makes one thing clear: just like in the R8 race car, the styling and placement of all the elements in the cockpit of this driving machine is focussed on the essentials. The centrepoint of everything is the driver.

The drive train

Turbine-like power up to the highest rev ranges, a high maximum torque, all combined with a fascinating sound, are the characteristics of a perfect sports car engine. An engine that is fascinating both in terms of its enormous power potential and its suitability for everyday use.

In the high-revving 420 bhp eight-cylinder engine, the evolution of FSI petrol direct injection technology has reached a new high. This technology has also enjoyed many triumphs in the Audi R8 race car.

The figures illustrate the outstanding potential of the eight-cylinder unit. At 7,800 rpm the 4.2-litre engine delivers 309 kW (420 bhp) of power output. Peak torque is 430 Newton-metres from 4.500 to 6,000 rpm. And no less than 90 per cent of this maximum torque is maintained consistently throughout a wide engine speed range from 3,500 all the way to 7,600 rpm. As a result of these qualities, the eight-cylinder power unit provides maximum thrust in virtually any driving situation.

The performance figures are equally impressive: the R8 accelerates from a standstill to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds and reaches a top speed of 301 km/h.

The engine is a high-revving unit. The maximum engine speed is 8,250 rpm. The advantages of this principle are superior power output at high engine speeds and a smooth, eager responsiveness all across the revs range. Added to this are its agility, liveliness and engine sound, which is similar to that of a race car.

The chassis

The chassis features forged aluminium double wishbones at the front and rear. At the front they are triangulated, while at the rear the top one is triangulated and the bottom one is a triangulated wishbone with a track rod. This provides for optimum wheel control, and is a geometry which has proved itself to be the ideal solution in delivering agility, maximum steering precision and precisely defined self-steering characteristics.

Direct, hydraulic rack-and-pinion steering provides optimum feedback to assist the driver.

The spring and damper set-up is stiff in order to deliver maximum driving dynamics, while still providing a quite astonishing level of ride comfort. This is particularly true when the 'Audi magnetic ride' adaptive damper system is chosen as an alternative to the standard gas-filled shock absorbers.

The reason for this is that these shock absorbers employ an innovative technology. Instead of the conventional damper fluid, a magnetorheological fluid is used – in other words, a fluid whose viscosity can be influenced by an electromagnetic field. This effect enables the damping characteristic to be influenced electronically at will and instantaneously, by applying a voltage to the electromagnets.

Equipment and trim

Even the standard equipment of the Audi R8 meets the high demands of customers in this segment. Xenon plus lights, LED rear lights and daytime running lights, 18-inch aluminium wheels, an audio system with 7-inch monitor, an anti-theft alarm and Leather/Alcantara interior trim are just some of the items on the extensive list of standard features.

The range of optional extras leaves virtually nothing to be desired. A Bang & Olufsen sound system, featuring an output of 465 watts and 12 specially designed speakers, delivers surround sound of the highest standard. A microphone-based vehicle noise compensation system adjusts audio levels to changing road conditions and speeds.

The acoustic parking system and a rear-view camera help the driver to manoeuvre into even the tightest of spaces. The radio/navigation system plus, featuring a large-format colour monitor and MMI keypad, combines extensive functionality with extreme user-friendliness.

A range of coordinated and ideally combinable design and leather trim packages from Audi and from quattro GmbH can turn any R8 into the customer’s personal dream car.

The wheels range offers design alternatives in sizes of 18 and 19 inches, fitted with 235/35 size tyres at the front and up to 295/30 at the rear. A total of eight exterior colours are available, from Ibis White to Phantom Black, pearl effect.

The craftsmanship

The Audi R8 is being built on a small-lot production line in a specially constructed new block at the Audi plant in Neckarsulm. The entire production process – from the bodyshell construction to final assembly – is organised in the same way as a craft workshop. Small teams of specialists accompany every step of production, subjecting every part and component to intense scrutiny. This ensures that every one of the maximum of 15 cars per day built will more than match the customary high quality standards of the Audi product range.

The equipment specifications, data and prices stated here refer to the model range offered for sale in Germany. Subject to amendment; errors and omissions excepted.

© Source: article on seriouswheels.com

Audi Announces Pricing on 2008 TT

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. — Audi of America has announced that the 2008 TT coupe 2.0T will have a base price of $35,520, including a $720 destination charge, when it reaches showrooms in April. The new base TT is $810 more expensive than the outgoing model

Audi said TT roadsters will go on sale in May. The TT roadster 2.0T will start at $37,520, including shipping, and 3.2 Quattro roadsters will start at $45,220.

A top-of-the-line 2008 TT will start at $46,620, including destination charge.

All 2.0T models will have a 200-horsepower 2.0 TFSI engine mated to a six-speed S tronic gearbox. The 3.2 Quattro models will have a 250-hp V6 engine and Quattro all-wheel drive. A six-speed manual transmission is standard on the 3.2 Quattro, with a six-speed S tronic gearbox optional.

Standard equipment on the 2008 TT includes automatic climate control, electromechanical power steering, Audi Concert audio system with an in-dash CD changer and MP3 capability, 17-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry with alarm, cruise control and a leather-wrapped flat-bottom steering wheel.

© Source: article on insideline

$2 million price paid: Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe

The well-heeled buyer from Naples, Florida does get the first Drophead Coupe in the US, and $1.6 million (£818,800) of the total $2 million paid at the auction goes to a local children's charity.

The $2 million price paid for the Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe is thought to make it the most expensive new car ever sold in the US.

© Source: article on topgear

355 HP: Abt Sportsline Unleashes Audi TT-R

KEMPTEN, Germany — Aggression is the theme of Abt Sportsline's TT-R.

The German Audi tuner tweaks the TT model range, topping the lineup with a 355-horsepower TT-R equipped with a VR6 3.2-liter engine that accelerates from zero to 62 mph in 5.1 seconds, versus 5.9 seconds for the standard model. Even the TT with the base 2.0 TFSI engine gets a boost to 270 hp, with maximum torque of 258 pound-feet. The standard model produces 200 hp and 207 lb-ft.

Abt Sportsline also modifies the new 2.0-liter TT with its intelligent Sport technology, which allows the car to be fueled with standard, super or "super plus" gas. The TT-R gets such exterior touches as a four-pipe rear muffler, rear skirt inset and rear wing.

© Source: article on insideline

2007 Ferrari 612 Scaglietti 60th Anniversary Edition: more photos

(from Ferrari Press Release) 60 unique Ferraris

As part of its 60th anniversary celebrations, Ferrari will build a series of 60 truly unique cars. These will be based on the 612 Scaglietti, the Prancing Horse's range-topping Granturismo which combines blistering performance and superb handling with superior comfort, sumptuous handcrafted trim, state-of-the-art accessories and meticulous attention to detail.

The cars will be offered with a two-tone livery in a combination of classic Ferrari colours as used on some of the Prancing Horse's most memorable models. The interior appointments will feature sophisticated colour combinations and a stunning new-generation electrochromic glass roof, itself a major innovation. The degree of opacity of the roof, in fact, can be adjusted to suit the occupants' requirements.

To underline the exclusivity of this series of one-offs, each example will also boast an enamelled symbol set on the central tunnel representing one of the 60 historic events chosen to celebrate the Marque's anniversary.

The result is a true collector's car aimed at Ferrari's most dedicated clients.

© Source: article on seriouswheels.com

Longbridge lives!

Rover may be dead and buried, may it rest in peace, but there's still some life left in MG.
The first of the Chinese-owned MGs will roll off the Longbridge production line this spring.

Longbridge will produce right-hand-drive TF sports cars, but production for left-hand-drive models will be in Pukou, China, where MG owner Nanjing has its factory.

Nanjing is keeping quiet about prices and specifications of the revitalised MG TF, but expect it to be much the same as the last of the MG-Rover models.

© Source: article on topgear

TLC Works on Electric Version of Replica FJ40

VAN NUYS, Calif. — The electric-vehicle bandwagon is getting increasingly crowded. Now, TLC, maker of the Toyota FJ40-inspired Icon, says its next alternative-drivetrain project is a "full-electric Icon with an optional biodiesel generator."

The California company says the electric prototype is currently under development with partners at 3rd Millennium Energy and Dynatrac. Pricing is not yet available on the future electric Icon.

The company is known for its handcrafted remake of the original FJ40, which starts at $88,000 and is powered by a 350-horsepower 5.7-liter V8.

At the same time, General Motors keeps up the drumbeat on its electric Chevrolet Volt, with a YouTube video posted on its Fastlane blog about the Volt's reveal in Detroit earlier this month.

© Source: article on insideline

2007 Gemballa Porsche Carrera Mirage GT

(from Gemballa Press Release) High-end-Tuning for the Carrera GT: Racing-look GEMBALLA Mirage GT with more power.

Around 1500 of Porsche's prestige product, the Carrera GT, have been built, all of which have now been sold. Owners worried about the individuality of their vehicle, in spite of its rareness, would be well-advised to make an appointment with GEMBALLA. Thanks to its expertise, as the only Porsche tuner GEMBALLA has comprehensively modified the high-tech car from Weissach, while at the same time adding an individual touch. In addition, performance addicts can obtain even more of what they want. The spectacular end product answers to the name of GEMBALLA Mirage GT and outshines its production-line counterpart in every respect.

The Carrera GT engine is a dream. A meaty 5.7-litre V10 boasting 612 horsepower. What more could one want? More power of course! GEMBALLA operates on the same principle as racing drivers: "You can never have too much power". By modifying the engine management electronics, GEMBALLA has been able to squeeze out a further 60 bhp of power and 20 Nm more torque for the V10, slicing off 0.1 seconds off the time it takes to go from 0 to 100 km/h. The added performance has also been aided by a new, fully stainless steel exhaust system that now resounds through four tail pipes instead of the standard two. GEMBALLA has positioned the two extra tail pipes where the reverse and fog warning lamps used to be. The tuning specialist has relocated the two lamps to beneath the rear diffuser.

Complete racing look

With the GEMBALLA BODY-CONCEPT, the Mirage GT looks like it is planning to enter the Le Mans 24-hour race. The most conspicuous change to the front are the additional air intakes on the new front spoiler. In addition, GEMBALLA embellished the component with a spoiler lip. The bonnet has also been replaced. In the area between the wheel housing and door GEMBALLA has replaced the standard side panels with its own mudguards, with reshaped openings which blend harmoniously with the original design. Down below, new side skirts lend the vehicle a muscular line. They also come with a cooling vent for the breaks at the rear. One thing is certain! The racing look is enhanced by the new rear skirt, with its aerodynamically optimised mid section for more downforce on the rear axle.

The lion's share of the extra downforce over the production-line vehicle is due to the mighty GEMBALLA rear wing that adorns the rear of the car. For better slowing, it comes with an brake-flap in the middle - like the kind seen on the Bugatti Veyron - which snaps up when the brakes are applied. The roof line of the GEMBALLA Mirage GT also starkly differs from the standard Carrera GT. The front section of an airbox has been integrated into the new GEMBALLA hardtop. This ends in an air duct that runs along the back of the tailgate installed by GEMBALLA and supplies the power-enhanced V10-engine with more air to breathe.

With the GEMBALLA body kit, the Mirage GT fits perfectly into the starting line-up of any FIA-GT race. Not least also because of the materials used by GEMBALLA - all parts of the body of the Mirage GT are made of carbon fibre; a material common in the world of racing.

The GEMBALLA Mirage GT also sports a high-tech pair of "shoes". GEMBALLA fits the three-part rims, with their fully-milled spoke wheel centre front (9.5 x 19Ѕ) and back (12.5 x 20"). Excellent road holding is guaranteed on the front axle by 265-35 R 19 tyres and on the rear axle by 335-30 R 20 tyres.

The motor sports look created on the outside thanks to the carbon components is resumed in the interior. GEMBALLA has restyled the central console, which likewise consists of this high-grade material. This is joined by countless other carbon components, such as, for example, the door cladding. GEMBALLA has also integrated a multimedia touch-screen information system into the central console. In addition, the passengers' senses of sight, smell and touch are also spoilt by the finest leather and luxury carpets. The modified steering wheel allows the driver to keep a strong grip on the reins of the GEMBALLA Mirage GT.

The Mirage GT is an impressive example of GEMBALLA's capability, and represents high-end tuning at its best. The cost of the comprehensive conversion, which can only be carried out by GEMBALLA, starts from EUR 229,800.

© Source: article on seriouswheels.com

650 hp: Mercedes-Benz Rolls Out SLR McLaren 722 Edition

DUBAI — Noting that "many wealthy sheikhs have become avid automobile aficionados," Mercedes-Benz used the setting of the Arabian desert to roll out its stunning new 650-hp SLR McLaren 722 Edition. The special model gets a boost in horsepower, improved aerodynamics and such racing touches as red seatbelts for more "visual impact."

The limited-edition model — only 150 are being made — outstrips the peak performance of the current SLR model. The SLR 722 Edition is powered by a 5.5-liter supercharged V8 that is assembled by hand at the Mercedes-AMG engine workshops in Affalterbach, Germany. The engine is mated to a five-speed automatic transmission which the company says was developed in-house.

The special model sprints from zero to 62 mph in 3.6 seconds versus 3.8 seconds in the SLR. It also beats the conventional SLR in top speed. The SLR 722 Edition has a top speed of 209 mph versus a top speed of 207 mph in the current SLR.

There is a story behind the car's intriguing name. Mercedes says the SLR 722 Edition is inspired by a 1955 victory by British motor-racing legend Stirling Moss and his co-driver Denis Jenkinson at the Mille Miglia, the classic Italian endurance race. Moss piloted a Mercedes-Benz 300SLR with start number 722, which denoted the car's start time of 7:22 a.m. As the company notes, the new model is designed to "outperform its historic forefather."

Details of note include chassis construction with an antiroll bar positioned above the front axle where it is controlled via rocker arms, or identical to the setup found on a Formula 1 car. The chassis also has been lowered for increased directional stability and better handling. Body roll in corners has been cut by more than 20 percent. The SLR McLaren 722 also gets new 19-inch forged aluminum wheels, larger Brembo brakes with red-painted brake calipers, and a body shell made from carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic, another technology borrowed from Formula 1.

An air splitter at the front end increases downforce while reducing the drag coefficient. Small wheel spoilers reduce air swirl at the rear axle.

The German automaker says the SLR McLaren 722 is aimed at "gentleman drivers and affluent sports car collectors."

No word yet on pricing.

© Source: article on insideline

Ferrari 612 Scaglietti special edition

Diamonds are the usual gift to celebrate a 60th anniversary, but Ferrari has had a much better idea.
Instead of mere rocks, the Italian firm has announced it will build 60 612 Scaglietti special editions.

Each of the 60 cars will be linked to a specific event in Ferrari's history and feature an enamel plaque on the cabin's central tunnel to distinguish them.

Every car will be finished in a two-tone paint scheme, while a new electrochromatic sunroof allows the occupants to adjust how much sun it lets in by adjusting its transparency.

The 60 special edition Scagliettis are not the only celebration for Ferrari reaching bus pass age.

The company has also kicked off a tour starting in Abu Dhabi that will head all the way around the world, passing a baton between 10,000 Ferrari owners.

After traversing the Middle East, the baton makes its way across China, Japan, Australia, South Africa, the US and the whole of Europe, finishing in Maranello - of course - on June 23.

© Source: article on topgear

STRUT Cadillac Escalade Vail Collection

(from STRUT Press Release) The 2007 Cadillac Escalade Vail Collection has been designed for Escalade devotees who desire to customize their vehicle with a distinctive look that showcases the owner's flair for style.

Included in this collection is one crimped mesh front grille with STRUT shield attached, two side vents with STRUT shield, and one STRUT lift gate shield.

© Source: article on seriouswheels.com

STRUT Mercedes-Benz S550 Munich Collection

(from STRUT Press Release) The 2007 Mercedes S550 - Munich Collection offers owners of this high style and performance vehicle the ultimate in personalization.

Included in the Munich Collection is one woven crimped mesh front grille with STRUT shield attached, one lower air intake vent with STRUT shield attached, two crimped mesh hood vents and one STRUT trunk shield.

© Source: article on seriouswheels.com

STRUT GMC Yukon Denali Mammoth Collection

(from STRUT Press Release) The 2007 GM Yukon Denali Mammoth Collection is designed to seamlessly complement the distinctive redesign of this full-sized SUV.

The collection features one crimped mesh front grille with STRUT shield attached. One crimped mesh Lower Air Intake vent and STRUT lift gate shield.

© Source: article on seriouswheels.com

Aston: yours for £500 million

If you fancy owning Aston Martin, you'd better get your hand down the back of the sofa pronto to find £500 million.

That's the asking price Ford wants - or more accurately desperately needs - for its flagship sporting brand.

The sell-off of Aston will help bolster ailing Ford, which lost more than £6.4 billion in 2006.

If you're tempted, you'd better hurry - investment bank UBS has decided today is the deadline for offers.

UBS is managing the sell-off, and in pole position to win the sale at the moment is James Packer, who just happens to Australia's richest man.

The lucky winner of the Aston auction will be announced later in the week.

© Source: article on topgear

Volkswagen Kicks Off Search for Vintage Diesel Vehicles

WASHINGTON, D.C. — In its ongoing push to promote diesel vehicles to the American public, Volkswagen on Tuesday kicked off a U.S. search for the oldest running VW diesel vehicle and the VW diesel with the most mileage.

Winners of the contest will get the use of a 2007 VW Touareg V10 TDI for six months. The company says it anticipates that the oldest running VW diesel will likely be a Rabbit, circa 1977, since 12,393 such vehicles were sold that year.

The contest will get started on March 1, when owners will be able to submit information, including digital pictures, online at www.vw.com. Finalists will be required to have their vehicle and its documentation validated at a VW dealership. Both vehicles must be equipped with their original engines.

The highest-mileage diesel VW is open to "registered and running vehicles." The mileage must be documented and verifiable with an odometer reading and service records.

"We anticipate an enormous response from our owners," said Keith Price, Volkswagen of America spokesman.

© Source: article on insideline

Jaguar XK: Exterior Styling Pack

Jaguars gorgeous XK is the latest to get a bolted-on dose of bling, with an official Exterior Styling Pack available on all non-supercharged XKs from March.

Designed to give the car a more bold and distinct appearance - or so they say - the pack comprises front and rear valances, a couple of new grills and fresh tailpipe finishers.

Call it what you want, Jaguar, but we still know it's a bodykit.

A completely and utterly pointless bodykit at that, but we're ashamed to say we rather like it.

Does this mean we're chavs at heart? Probably. Pass the furry dice and his 'n' hers sunstrip...

© Source: article on topgear

BMW Z9 spy-shots

Leftlane News has a batch of spy-shots of the BMW Z9, the upcoming heir to the Z8. Seems to be a really nice roadster: long, sleek, with a fake soft-top covering a folding metal roof.

The long hood seems ready to host all the best engines from BMW, up to the V10 of the M5 and above (or so Leftlane says). We are curious about what it'll be like to drive a light and low-slung roadster with that kind of engine.

© Source: article on eurocarblog.com

Report: No Go on Audi Shooting Brake

AMSTERDAM, Netherlands — The Audi Shooting Brake concept, an expensive hatchback built on the same platform as the popular TT coupe, will not be put into production, according to a news report that quotes Audi Product Chief Ulrich Hackenburg.

Hackenburg told the Netherlands auto magazine Autovisie that the Shooting Brake would only eat market share for the TT coupe. The two cars use the same platform, although the Shooting Brake's wheelbase is 2 inches longer than the TT coupe's.

The Shooting Brake made its debut at the 2005 Tokyo Auto Show. It used a 250-horsepower 3.2-liter V6, Quattro permanent four-wheel drive and a six-speed manual transmission. It deviates stylistically from the TT, with a squared-off hatchback-style rear end. Although generally well received, there was some doubt, especially in North America, that consumers who are skittish about buying hatchbacks would plunk their money down for such an expensive one.

© Source: article on insideline

Project NSU TTS

I can still remember the days back in my home town in Germany when a 90-degree curve at the ice cream shop was the local hang out for teens and young adults. Everybody who thought they had a cool car had to cruise that curve more than once an evening to show off.
It was the early ‘80s and I can still picture the Simca Rallys and NSU TTs going around that bend as if they were on rails. That memory is what spurred me to find myself an NSU as my next project car. It was the only real choice after having several air-cooled VW Beetle projects. Like the vintage VWs, the NSU also has a rear engine which is air cooled……but this time it is an inline four.

History of the TTS

Those with modern knowledge of the Audi brand may think of the drop-top Nimbus-grey concept car of the 1990s first shown to hint at the then-upcoming Audi TT Roadster, as well as an S version that we never really got. However, only the more widely read Audiphiles will know that the name originally came from the hottest of all NSU Prinz models.

At the time, NSU customers wanted a sportier version of the Prinz 1000 following its market introduction. Even the TT version, which was produced 2 years later, had it limits due to its manifold and single carburator. It is said that NSU got the idea for the TTS from Siegfried Spiess, an NSU tuner that raced the TT. He took the TT and used the 1000 engine that had been modified with dual carbs and other performance enhancements to enter the car for the 1000cc motorsport series where he was very successful.

In February 1967, NSU started the production of the TTS for mainly motorsports purposes. The factory did everything they could to make the TTS a successful car in racing. The street version had a70hp 1000cc engine with forged pistons for the 10.5-1 compression ratio, bigger valves, dual 40 Solex carburetors, special cam, an optimized manifold and an oil cooler mounted under the bumper at the front to keep the engine cool. The race version had 85hp by using stacks instead of air filters, rejetting the two Solex carbs and using an open exhaust. Motorsport transmissions were offered and CV joint axles were introduced at the differential side.

You could order the TTS in any color you wanted so long as it was Alpha Red, though Targa Orange was introduced later to offer more selection. Through special order, you could also eventually add Silver Metallic, Aero Blue Metallic, Gemini Blue Metallic. Pastel White was also mentioned in later parts documents for the TTS from the period.

Only 2402 TTS models were build from 1967-1971.

Back to the Project

My biggest concern with taking on a project based on such a rare car was the availability of spare parts. Though a cottage industry exists for these cars in Germany, the following in North America is not surprisingly smaller. NSU TTs are still being raced in several motorsport series such as the NSU TT Trophy, Autocross and hill climbs in Germany and other European countries. After researching it a bit more I actually found quite a few resources that offer spare and motorsport parts for NSUs. However most of those shops are across the Atlantic, making their sourcing a bit of a trick.

© Source: article on fourtitude.com

Renault Clio F1 Team R27

It's called the Renault Clio F1 Team R27, but we can dispense with the mealy mouthed title and simply regard this hot Clio as the Cup version.

Built to commemorate the launch of Renault's latest F1 car, this Clio comes with the same 197bhp 2.0-litre engine as the normal Renaultsport Clio, but stiffer, lower suspension is borrowed from the Cup race car and there are 17in alloy wheels finished a fetching anthracite colour scheme.

The R27 Clio will be built in limited numbers with only 500 cars being made, each with a plaque to prove it.

The car will be no quicker in a straight line, but Renault promises us it will be an even bigger hoot to drive than the standard 197.

Apparently an even hotter Clio with a turbocharged engine is on the cards. Watch this space.

© Source: article on topgear

Audi A3 3.2 S-line Titanium Package

What you see here is, thus far, one of a kind. An Audi Canada product planner ordered this particular Audi A3 3.2 S-line in Ibis White as an evaluation vehicle to help visualize a proposed ‘Titanium Package’ for the A3 S-line. First introduced last year on the A4 S-line, installation rates of the ‘Titanium Package’ have been so favorable that Audi of America is considering a broadening of the line. A3 S-line models offer the perfect opportunity for expansion.

What is different from the standard A3 3.2 S-line?
The most obvious detail is the set of 18-inch titanium-finish wheels – quite similar in design to those on the RS 4. The other main exterior change to this car is a black grille surround, another special piece of kit from Audi’s in-house tailor quattro GmbH.

Inside, the darkened theme continues. Piano black interior trim takes the place of aluminum inserts on each of the door panels and on the center console. Above, a black headliner is the first such fitment in a North American A3, though already standard fare on Titanium Package A4 models.

Audi’s Titanium Package always looks the part on a white car, one reason this particular evaluation vehicle was ordered in Audi’s Ibis White. The A3’s contrasting white stitching on the black leather seats is an interesting accent that those of the A4 range don’t boast.

Sources inside Audi confirm that, if there is a Titanium Package for the Model Year 2008 A3, this is likely quite close to what you will see. Though each of the special pieces of trim found on this car had to be special-ordered, Audi employees have been pleased with the overall look and would likely not change it much if and when the Titanium Package is added to the order book. That said, Audi contacts are quick to point out that, while chances are awfully good, the final decision to build the A3 S-line with a Titanium Package has not been finalized.

So what will come of this very unique A3 that remains, for now, a one-off? Our American staff shooting the car were disappointed to learn that it is a Canadian-spec car and not easily for sale to our much-interested eyes. The instruments are in klicks, not miles and Audi sources tell us the car will go off to auction in Canada shortly since this A3 has served its purpose. Likely a Canadian dealership will buy the car and re-sell it as an Audi Certified Pre-Owned vehicle. Audi sources involved promise they’ll keep us informed, communicating what dealership ends up with the car. This information will then be shared via Fourtitude’s Audi News Blog and the A3 discussion forum just as soon as we learn it. It is our hope that a Fourtitude reader is lucky enough to pick up this very unique car.

© Source: article on fourtitude.com

BMW M3 Cabrio E93 - spy shots

News.auto.cz has a nice gallery of spy-shots of the next BMW M3, in its coupe version, in its saloon version and, a novelty, in its cabrio version (E93), with the folding metal roof.

As with the coupe and saloon siblings, the main differences with the normal 3-Series Cabrio are in the front (spoiler, grille, air intakes), the hood, with the hump for the big 4.0-liter V8 (more than 400 ps), the side, with the muscular wheel arches and the 4 exhaust tubes in the back.

© Source: article on eurocarblog.com