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First Delivery of 2012 Audi TT RS to US

2012 Audi TT RS2 First Delivery of 2012 Audi TT RS to US

Marking the return of the Audi RS line to the American performance car scene, the first 2012 Audi TT RS coupe sportscar in the U.S. has just been delivered to veteran race car driver Don Istook by the Forth Worth Audi dealership in Texas. How did this happen?

Well, it all started when more than 11,500 fans who have signed the Audi TT RS Facebook petition drive last year, and there was one fans – Dan Istook – that convinced the German automaker to bring the 360-hp coupe to the U.S.; and he is the lucky man who will get the first US delivery for 2012 Audi TT RS.

The Texan also has an interesting history of his time spent behind the wheel. He was also one of the first drivers to race an Audi Quattro in the U.S. in 1985 and he drove Audi S4 models in the Motorola Cup, which later became the Grand-Am Cup.  More recently he has raced Audi TT quattro coupes, and soon he will be driving the 2012 Audi TT RS coupe sportscar.

“Having raced at almost every major track in the U.S. and Canada, I’ve pushed the limits in many cars in my 34 years as a race car driver,” Istook said. “I like my street car to give me some of that thrill.  With my new 2012 Audi TT RS coupe sportscar, I not only get that thrill, but I also get that ’race car’ sound.”

Under the hood of the 2012 Audi TT RS coupe sportscar lies a 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder TFSI engine developing 360 hp and 343 lb-ft of torque. Pricing starts at $56,850 (excluding $875 destination charges, taxes, title, options and dealer charges).

“For the past few years, American sports car enthusiasts have pleaded with us to make the marquee available here. With the 2012 Audi TT RS coupe sportscar, we are now furthering the Audi performance story that includes models from the Audi S4 to the new Audi R8 GT,” said Johan de Nysschen, President, Audi of America.

The 2012 Audi TT RS coupe sportscar will be accompanied by Audi RS5 sometime next year to win the heart of US customers.

 

alicia July 30, 2011 Audi , ,

Official Details and Interior Images of Mercedes-Benz B-Klasse

Mercedes Benz B Klasse1 Official Details and Interior Images of Mercedes Benz B Klasse

Despite the fact that some might think this comparison is a bit harsh, the three-pointed star brand insists on revealing its new Mercedes-Benz B-Klasse hatchback model in the same manner the Chinese use drop water torture. The latest info on the subject comes in the form of new details and images regarding the vehicle’s interior, while the first official details you can read over here.

In fact, the German automaker claims the interior of the Mercedes-Benz B-Klasse hatchback reflects the latest findings in the field of perceptual psychology made by Daimler AG’s Customer Research Center (CRC).

Mercedes Benz B Klasse Interior 1 Official Details and Interior Images of Mercedes Benz B Klasse

As you can see in the photos that attached between this article, there is a large, three-dimensional decorative element spanning the entire dashboard of Mercedes-Benz B-Klasse hatchback. This is available in four variants covering a broad spectrum including modern, sporty and classic.

Furthermore, Mercedes says the dashboard may be covered with stitched ARTICO man-made leather. There are also three large circular vents in the centre of the dashboard sporting sporty grilles. Above the vents of Mercedes-Benz B-Klasse hatchback is the high quality screen, which is available in two sizes. This boasts an ornamental frame with galvanised surface contrasting with the piano black of the front panel.

Mercedes Benz B Klasse Interior1 Official Details and Interior Images of Mercedes Benz B Klasse

The new three-spoke steering wheel, used for example in the CLS, including an insert in the centre spoke that is always finished in silver chrome, an instrument cluster with four round, analogue displays and hanging needles in the 6 o’clock position and seats with contrasting stitching reinforce the sporty image for the Mercedes-Benz B-Klasse hatchback.

The new B-Klasse is scheduled to make its world public debut at the Frankfurt Auto Show this September, with the European markets first to have the Mercedes-Benz B-Klasse hatchback in two months later.

 

alicia July 30, 2011 Mercedes-Benz , , ,

Power and Design Upgrade for BMW 1M from Kelleners Sport

BMW 1M Kelleners Sport side view Power and Design Upgrade for BMW 1M from Kelleners Sport

The BMW 1M coupe already seems to be a dream come true, but as if the gut it had wasn’t enough, the popular sportscar has received an extra upgrade by Kelleners Sport. Coming with a new aggressive look, the tuning company has also pumped a little muscle into the coupe sedan. The car now boasts a high-revving 3.0-liter, six cylinder twin-turbo engine, tuned to develop 410 horsepower and 405 lb-ft of torque.

A front spoiler lip that provides optimum down force at high speeds has also been added. In addition, the new upgraded BMW 1M coupe by Kelleners Sport wrinkles the asphalt with some 20-inch light ”Berlin” wheels, leaving “trademarks” on the ground.

The rims on the BMW 1M coupe by Kelleners Sport are highlighted by 15 stylish spokes, which come polished in graphite-silver, platinum-silver and matt black. The 1M is not the only project Kelleners Sport have done, they already gave BMW Z4 sDrive31is a make-over too.

BMW 1M Kelleners Sport rear view Power and Design Upgrade for BMW 1M from Kelleners Sport

Kelleners Sport has also gifted this BMW 1M coupe by Kelleners Sport with stainless steel rear silencers with four 83 mm til pipes ensure an unhampered flow with a more exhilarating exhaust sound.

BMW 1M coupe by Kelleners Sport racing abilities have been upgraded by the introduction of an adjustable coil-over suspension system that can be adjusted in terms of rebound and compression. The height of the car can also be adjusted in order to setup the car according the drivers preferences.

BMW 1M Kelleners Sport Power and Design Upgrade for BMW 1M from Kelleners Sport

Kelleners Sport has also left its “fingerprint” at the interior aesthetics. Specifically, on the inside the BMW 1M by Kelleners Sport is adorned with a new leather trim (high perforated leather and Alcantara) that gives the ultimate road/track handling.

The overall modifications made to the nimble BMW 1M coupe by Kelleners Sport have turned it into a feared racer that will be a desirable must have for BMW enthusiasts.

 

alicia July 30, 2011 BMW , ,

Lamborghini Gallardo Caught in Flame

 

Lamborghini Gallardo Caught Fire close up Lamborghini Gallardo Caught in Flame

What would you do if your expensive Lamborghini Gallardo supercar caught in flame? Well, we found out one driver who probably will live his entire memory for toasting his £150,000 Lamborghini Gallardo supercar. The anonymous driver was enjoying a Saturday afternoon, driving his Lamborghini Gallardo supercar with so much pride through the spectacular landscape of the Scottish Highlands. But his drive came to an abrupt halt when smoke started pouring from the engine bay of his blue supercar.

The driver pulled over near a hospital in Fort William and rushed inside to get a fire extinguisher. By the time he came back his Lamborghini Gallardo supercar was like a torch. The only thing left was to “enjoy the show” which we have to mention ended in shortly, reducing the Lamborghini Gallardo supercar to a pile of burned wrecks. Must be devastating to just stood and watched his beloved and pricey Lamborghini Gallardo supercar burnt down in seconds by flame.

Lamborghini Gallardo Caught Fire1 Lamborghini Gallardo Caught in Flame

“Within two minutes, there was a lick of flames and within five minutes the Lamborghini Gallardo supercar was totally ablaze. The owner just stood by holding his head in his hands. I’ve heard of money to burn but this was ridiculous. It was £150,000(approx. $246000) worth of hand- made art and just went up in flames.” Robbie Jordan was quoted as reported by our UK contributor.

This is the second incident which involves a Lamborghini Gallardo supercar bursting into flames without any apparent cause, after a similar model caught fire while being test-driven by a Norwegian rap star. Probably this is what happens when you take the word “going to burn some rubber” literally. Without a doubt this is not something to joke about, considering that unfortunate events of Lamborghini Gallardo supercar caught on flame seem to appear more often lately.

 

alicia July 28, 2011 Lamborghini , , ,

Confirmation over the Resurrection Project of Porsche 550 Spyder

Porsche 550 Spyder Confirmation over the Resurrection Project of Porsche 550 Spyder

If bad-boy Hollywood actor James Dean survived the car accident while driving Porsche 550 Spyder coupe convertible, he would not dare refer the classic car as “Little Bastard”. The Stuttgart based manufacturer has recently confirmed the resurrection of the legendary Porsche 550 Spyder coupe convertible. The original model of Porsche 550 Spyder coupe convertible was built between 1952 and 1956 with only 90 units being manufactured.

The new version of the Porsche 550 Spyder coupe convertible will not be retro-styled, it would be a tribute to the original model by keeping only its badge. The Boss of Porsche vision of the car describes it as a modern version of the classic 550 Spyder which will serve as an entry-level model for the brand.

“I can imagine that such a modern version of the famous ’James Dean ’ Porsche 550 Spyder coupe convertible would be well-received by our customers. The new model will not be retro-styled ” Matthias Mueller Porsche Executive was quoted as saying by gtspirit.com.

The new revived model of Porsche 550 Spyder coupe convertible is expected to use a new mid-engined aluminum and steel platform which is being developed by Audi for developing the new R4. It is possible that the Porsche 550 Spyder coupe convertible will be equipped with a new four-cylinder boxer engine that will also power the Boxster, and Cayman.

“We have a four-cylinder boxer engine under development.” Wolfgang Durheimer Porsches R&D Chief Executive was quoted as reported by our UK contributor. Furthermore, he added that the unit could be applied to the Boxster and Cayman. The new Porsche 550 Spyder is expected to set you back for approximately $80,000. So, if you are the fans of late James Dean, the upcoming of Porsche 550 Spyder coupe convertible will definitely worth your money.

 

alicia July 28, 2011 Porsche , , ,

Sneak Peek on 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL

2012 Mercedes SL1 Sneak Peek on 2012 Mercedes Benz SL

Mercedes-Benz knows very well that they are running out of time because publics are can’t wait to unwrap the 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL coupe sedan. Yes… we got the spyshots on 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL coupe sedan which will be the sixth generation of the SL-Klasse variant. We spotted the all-covered three-pointed coupe sedan while took test-drive in classified location. We could tell you that the German engineers at Mercedes-Benz are putting their best skills to make the 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL coupe sedan ready for the official revealing this fall.

Okay, we know that you can’t wait for the details about 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL coupe sedan. All the automotive enthusiasts and journalists know that the official unveiling for the 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL coupe sedan will be at the 2011 Frankfurt Auto Show this September.

2012 Mercedes SL side view1 Sneak Peek on 2012 Mercedes Benz SL

Obviously, this wouldn’t be possible because as for now, the 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL coupe sedan still covered in heavy black plastic like Darth Vader from Star Wars. So, as we are facing some hot summer days, the specialists at Mercedes-Benz in charge with the project decided to lose some of the ‘clothes’.

Our online contributor managed to snap a new set of photos of the2012 Mercedes-Benz SL coupe sedan with some of the camouflage dropping away, so that we can get a better look at the next SL’s overall shape.

2012 Mercedes SL rear view Sneak Peek on 2012 Mercedes Benz SL

What’s even more interesting is that our contributor says that the 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL coupe sedan was in a group of vehicles which included an Aston Martin Vantage Roadster and a Jaguar XK, likely for benchmarking purposes.

As we patiently wait for Mercedes-Benz to give us the final version of the next-generation of 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL coupe sedan, we’ll have to settle with the little we know about it. For example, the SL will likely be lighter than its predecessor, with extensive use of carbon-fiber components and reinforced plastics. Also, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL coupe sedan will feature an array of Benz power plants including a new 3.5-litre V6 and a 4.6-litre twin-turbo V8. Well, we all know that the less we know about the sixth generation of SL-Klasse variant, the more we curious about 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL coupe sedan.

 

alicia July 28, 2011 Mercedes-Benz , , ,

2012 Audi A6 Hybrid Comes to US in 2014

2012 Audi A6 2012 Audi A6 Hybrid Comes to US in 2014

The 2012 Audi A6 Hybrid four-door sedan was expected to be released by the end of this year but it seems we have to postpone the welcoming party. As a matter of fact, the new 2012 Audi A6 Hybrid won’t arrive in Europe until somewhere in mid 2012, and more odd is that U.S market will have to wait even longer for the new “eco-A6”, as a matter of fact it will hit the American soil in 2014. The 2012 Audi A6 Hybrid four-door sedan is expected that it would probably be a best seller, especially if the fuel prices keep on rising, as reported by our British contributor.

The 2012 Audi A6 Hybrid four-door sedan will receive the technological setup from the Q5 Hybrid, that means the A6 Hybrid will receive a 2.0-liter TFSI engine that puts out 208bhp and a 33kW electric motor which will add a plus of 44bhp. The “green-tech” features give the A6 Hybrid a 0-60 acceleration of about 7.3 seconds and economy of 44.1mpg with emissions of 146g/Km of CO2.

The 2012 Audi A6 Hybrid four-door sedan is predicted to have a pretty high price for a modest A6, but if you are an “eco-minded” consumer the price of about .$65.000 is not that much to ask in order to save the planet. But Audi also offers a more convenient alternative for the 2012 Audi A6 Hybrid four-door sedan like the 3.0 TDi quattro A6, that will put out 243bhp and will do 0-60mph in 7.0 seconds with an average of 55mpg. Also worth mentioning the fact that it has higher emissions but it probable set you back with about $8.000 less than the hybrid.

But as we all know America is not such a big fan of diesel engines, so it is expected that the No.1 spot will be still occupied by the 3.0 TFSI Quattro, not the 2012 Audi A6 Hybrid four-door sedan.

 

alicia July 26, 2011 Audi , ,

Pricing Announced for 2012 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe Black Series

2012 Mercedes C63 AMG Coupe Black Series Pricing Announced for 2012 Mercedes Benz C63 AMG Coupe Black Series

We already got a glimpse at the 2012 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe Black Series sedan some two weeks ago, thanks to a leaked set of photos taken during a test event at Circuit Paul Ricard in one of the garages there. Now, the three-pointed star has taken the wraps off the 2012 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe Black Series sedan, offering full official details and images.

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe Black Series sedan is praised by the German auto manufacturer as being “broad, low, brawny and ready to pounce from a standstill.”

2012 Mercedes C63 AMG Coupe Black Series side view Pricing Announced for 2012 Mercedes Benz C63 AMG Coupe Black Series

Visually, the new high-performance of 2012 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe Black Series sedan is reminiscent of the SLS AMG GT3 customer sports car, and represents the transfer of technology from the race track to the road. The 2012 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe Black Series sedan sits on a new set of 19-inch AMG light-alloy wheels painted titanium grey. But “the jewel in the crown is the emotive, hallmark AMG eight-cylinder sound from the AMG sports exhaust system,” Mercedes claims.

2012 Mercedes C63 AMG Coupe Black Series rear view Pricing Announced for 2012 Mercedes Benz C63 AMG Coupe Black Series

Inside of the 2012 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe Black Series sedan, designers have decided to install a pair of seats in the rear, making this the first Black Series model capable of carrying more than two people. There’s also a set of C63 AMG Coupe Black Series specific anti-roll bars and speed-sensitive steering wheel. AMG has two special packages to offer for enhancing driving dynamics even further: the AMG Track Package and the AMG Aerodynamics package.

2012 Mercedes C63 AMG Coupe Black Series interior Pricing Announced for 2012 Mercedes Benz C63 AMG Coupe Black Series

Saving the best for last, under the hood of the 2012 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe Black Series sedan, there is a 6.3-litre V8 AMG engine developing 517 hp and 620 Nm (457 lb.ft.) of torque, and coupled with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission. This enables the car to sprint from naught to sixty in 4.2 seconds. An AMG coil-over sports suspension, and AMG high-performance compound braking system complete the package.

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe Black Series sedan will go on sale in January 2012 with the price tag of €115,430 (about $165,840 at the current exchange rate).

 

alicia July 26, 2011 Mercedes-Benz , , ,
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