The refined HAMANN sporty makeover is even available in several versions for the 5 Series Touring. The selection starts at the front with a front spoiler lip for the normal Touring, an additional one for vehicles with the M-technology package and a front skirt specially developed by HAMANN with four integrated LED daytime running lights and larger air inlets. Sportily-designed side skirts continue the modified appearance right through to the rear. A diffuser-rear skirt with inserts for the fourtailpipe exhaust system, a rear spoiler and a roof spoiler ensure additional downthrust.

So that the 5 Series Touring can make an impressive appearance on the tarmac, HAMANN offers a choice of light-alloy wheels. Very appropriate for the job is the 21-inch “ANODIZED” EDITION RACE DESIGN. With Its matt black central boss and high-gloss rim, the “ANODIZED” EDITION RACE DESIGN is delivered as a complete wheel set with 255/30 ZR21 wheels at the front and 295/25 ZR21 tyres at the back at a price of €8 390.00. In addition there is the “Anniversary Evo“ design in 20 or 21-inch rim sizes with a choice of silver or matt black.

With progressively-wound suspension springs HAMANN lowers the BMW 5 Series Touring’s centre of gravity by around 35 mm, which sets off the light-alloy wheels even better.
At the rear, the four tailpipes belonging to the sports rear silencer stand out; they are supplied by HAMANN for all engine models. In addition, and exclusively for the 550i
Touring, a sports metal catalyser is available with middle silencer.

[Source: www.hamann-motorsport.com]

Sportservice Lorinser introduces its comprehensive range of modification options for the Mercedes CLS C218. The company, based in the south of Germany, has
been developing and manufacturing products for personalising Mercedes vehicles from as far back as 1981. In doing so, the innovative Sportservice Lorinser team draws advantage from its experience with just about every Mercedes series. The skills gained form an optimal base for the launch of the exclusive range of modification options for the Mercedes CLS sport limousine. The result is impressive,
both in terms of looks and sound: lift-reducing aerodynamic components, significantly enhanced performance, stainless steel exhaust systems with a sporty sound, striking 19 and 20-inch alloy rims and superior interior modifications make for individualised series vehicles.

Lorinser combines dynamic design with efficient aerodynamics. The result is sensational stylishness with optimised air flow across the vehicle outline. The shapes of the sporty and striking front spoiler bumper blend impeccably with the wider wings. Together with the rear skirt, rear lip and roof spoiler, the Lorinser body components ensure reduced lift while providing a new, attractive overall appearance. The Lorinser side skirts form an optical link between the front and rear. The tailor-made body kit is mounted on the serial attachment points.

[Source: www.lorinser.com]

HAMANN Motorsport is known for giving new top-of-the-range cars extensive refinements shortly after they’ve been introduced to the market. And, true to form, the tuning specialist from the town of Laupheim in Baden-Württemberg can now present its comprehensive individualisation range for the BMW 6 Cabrio (F12).

For the wheel arches, customers can choose from 21-inch alloy wheels in DESIGN EDITION RACE “ANODIZED” with high-gloss chrome-plated rim flange, black spokes and titanium screws or DESIGN “ANNIVERSARY EVO” wheels in silver or matte black, available in 20 or 21-inch format. HAMANN Motorsport also offers the DESIGN EDITION RACE matte black wheels in a 20-inch version. All wheel designs can be ordered individually or as a complete set and are fully compatible with the tyre pressure sensors fitted at the factory.

In order to set the stage even better for the alloy wheels, HAMANN Motorsport has lowered the centre of gravity of the BMW 6 Cabrio (F12) by around 30 mm at the front and around 25 mm at the rear using progressive suspension springs. HAMANN has also given the engine of the 650i Cabrio a sporty soundscape. To this end, its tuning professionals have installed a stainless steel exhaust system consisting of a four-pipe exhaust system with round 90 mm tailpipes and a middle silencer.

The car’s interior is upgraded by way of aluminium pedals and a footrest, available either in silver or anodized black. Black foot mats with a silver HAMANN logo are available as an optional extra to add a finishing touch of class to the car’s sporty cockpit.

[Source: www.hamann-motorsport.com]

The three-part forged wheel with its seven spokes and the stainless steel bolts renders a splendid look and exceptional quality. The light-alloy wheel Lorinser RSK8 for the Mercedes Gullwing is offered in the dimensions 9.5 x 20 at the front axle and 11 x 21 at the back. After elaborate test runs with the SLS, Lorinser recommends wheels in the dimension
275/30 ZR 20 and 295/25 ZR 21.

[Source: www.lorinser.com]

The FF – an acronym for Ferrari Four (four seats and four-wheel drive) – ushers in an entirely new GT sports car concept. A decisive break with the past, the new car represents not so much an evolution as a true revolution.

This new V12 melds to an unprecedented level an extremely sporty, high-performance character with incredible versatility, superb comfort and sophisticated elegance, guaranteeing both driver and passengers an absolutely unique driving experience.

Every single area of the FF brims with innovation, not least its engine, the first GDI V12 to be coupled with the seven-speed F1 dual-clutch gearbox. The V12 unleashes a massive 660 CV at 8,000 rpm, and maximum torque of 683 Nm at 6,000 rpm with 500 Nm already available at just 1,000 rpm. This ensures the performance figures of an extreme sports car, with the 0-100 km/h sprint covered in 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 335 km/h. Efficiency has been significantly boosted too, with fuel consumption now standing at just 15.4 litres per 100 km, and CO2 emissions at 360 g/km, a 25 per cent reduction compared to the previous V12s, thanks in part to the HELE (High Emotions- Low Emissions) System which incorporates Stop&Start technology.

Uniquely, the FF also guarantees this exceptional performance on terrain with very low grip coefficients, thanks to Ferrari’s own patented 4RM four-wheel drive system. Torque is still delivered by the rear wheels, but the PTU (Power Transfer Unit) ensures that as much as is required is also transferred to the front wheels when necessary on low grip surfaces. The FF intelligently distributes torque to each of the four wheels individually, thanks to the fact that all of the dynamic vehicle controls (E-Diff, F1-Trac and PTU) have been integrated into a single CPU.

Styled by Pininfarina, the FF’s lines effortlessly reflect its signature uncompromising balance of sportiness and versatility. It can comfortably accommodate four in its bodyhugging seats and spacious cabin. Its 450 litre boot can also be extended to 800 litres as the rear seats fold down independently. This means that the FF offers more luggage space not only than any other car in its category, but also many four-door saloons, too.

[Source: Ferrari.com]

MINI is adding a fourth model to the family, opening up a new dimension of that unmistakable MINI feeling. As a genuine Crossover, the MINI Countryman bridges the gap between the classic concept of the MINI and a modern Sports Activity Vehicle. Boasting enhanced opportunities in urban mobility and beyond, the MINI Countryman offers that unique driving pleasure so typical of MINI to new target groups requiring extra space and flexibility. As the first model in the MINI range with four doors and a wide-opening rear lid, the MINI Countryman provides even greater freedom of space for truly versatile use, a slightly elevated seating position, and optimized driving comfort. Full integration of the passengers within the vehicle creates that driving experience so typical of MINI. And at the same time the MINI Countryman maintains that go-kart feeling likewise so characteristic of MINI, optional MINI ALL4 all-wheel drive offering an additional highlight for the genuine connoisseur. In a nutshell, therefore, the MINI Countryman offers all the characteristic features of the brand in terms of design, premium quality, handling, efficiency and customisation in new, fascinating style.

The MINI Countryman carries on the design of the brand in superior style and quality, combining larger body dimensions, greater ground clearance and four doors at the side with those unmistakable design features so characteristic of MINI. Short overhangs, a high window line, powerful stance on the wheels, and window graphics extending round the entire car create those unique proportions so typical of MINI. At the same time the MINI Countryman re-interprets the characteristic icons of a MINI such as the roofline, the hexagon radiator grille, the large headlights integrated in the engine lid, the surrounds on the side direction indicators, the voluminous wheel arches and the upright rear light clusters in new style and class.

[Source: Mini]

Proceeding from that design language so typical of MINI, the MINI Countryman authentically visualises the particular features of this very special car. Positioned almost upright, the front end bears out strong presence and serves to optimise pedestrian safety. The extra space within the car, in turn, is emphasised by extra-large windows, the introduction of four doors, and the individual shape of the roof. The particularly wide frame around the lower part of the body and the powerfully flared wheel arches highlight the robust character of the car and its all-wheel drive. With that typical MINI style now being conveyed to a new segment in absolute clarity and precision, the MINI Countryman stands out from the start as a brand-new, highly innovative model but is nevertheless clearly identifiable from the very beginning as a genuine MINI.

Within the interior again typical of the brand, the MINI Countryman boasts innovative design and function elements throughout. The slightly elevated seating position guarantees comfortable and pleasant access to the car, optimises the driver’s all-round view, and underlines the powerful character of this new model. The Central Display and air vents are surrounded by coloured rings. The MINI Center Rail quite unique the world over, extending from front to rear instead of a conventional centre console, opens up new, individual options for integrating all kinds of storage boxes, cupholders, external audio devices, mobile telephones and other comfort features. Flexibly positioned clip-in elements enable the driver and passengers to subdivide the storage boxes individually as required, keeping travel utensils within easy reach, wherever they are required. At the same time the Center Rail forms an unconventional, visual and functional connection between the front seats and the rear passenger compartment.

The MINI Countryman comes as standard with four seats, while a three-seat bench is available as a no-cost option. The interior offers superior comfort also on long distances, with generous legroom, headroom and shoulder freedom. The rear seats move fore-and-aft either individually or in a 60 : 40 (three-seat bench) split, the backrests may be tilted for angle either individually or in a 40 : 20 : 40 (three-seat bench) arrangement, increasing capacity in the luggage compartment from 350 to 1,170 litres (12.2–41.0 cu ft).

The MINI Countryman is entering the market with a choice of three petrol and two diesel engines, all coming in the new generation of power units developed with the full know-how of the BMW Group and naturally complying with the EU5 and, respectively, ULEV II emission standards. The power range extends from 66 kW/90 hp in the MINI One D Countryman all the way to 135 kW/184 hp in the MINI Cooper S Countryman. The 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine in the top model comes for the first time not only with a twin-scroll turbocharger and direct fuel injection, but also with fully variable valve management offering by far the best balance of engine power and fuel consumption in its class. As a particular highlight of the MINIMALISM fuel efficiency concept, the MINI Countryman comes as standard and in appropriate combinations on each model with a wide range of features serving to reduce fuel consumption and emissions, among them Brake Energy Regeneration, Auto Start Stop, a gearshift point indicator, and on-demand management of the engine’s ancillary units. And as an alternative to the six-speed manual gearbox featured as standard, the petrol engine models are also available with six-speed automatic complete with Steptronic.

As an option the MINI Cooper S Countryman and MINI Cooper D Countryman are available with permanent MINI ALL4 all-wheel drive, an electrohydraulic differential positioned directly on the final drive varying the distribution from front to rear in an infinite process. Under normal driving conditions up to 50 per cent of the engine’s power goes to the rear wheels, under extreme conditions up to 100 per cent, offering a new, high-traction rendition of that agile handling so typical of MINI. This superior traction and drivetrain technology is based on the top-end suspension of the MINI including features such as the front axle with McPherson spring struts and forged track control arms, the multi-arm rear axle and EPS Electric Power Steering complete with Servotronic. The MINI Countryman furthermore comes as standard with DSC Dynamic Stability Control, DTC Dynamic Traction Control coming either as an option or as a standard feature on the MINI Cooper S Countryman and the MINI Cooper D Countryman with ALL4, as well as an electronic limited-slip function for the front axle differential.

Designed for optimum safety in the event of a collision, the body structure with its precisely defined load paths and deformation zones ensures passive safety of the highest calibre. Frontal and side airbags as well as curtain airbags at the side both front and rear, three-point inertia-reel seat belts on all seats, belt latch tensioners and belt force limiters at the front, as well as ISOFIX child seat fastenings at the rear all come as standard. Yet another standard feature is the Tyre Defect Indicator, with runflat tyres coming as an option and standard on the MINI Cooper S Countryman with ALL4.

The wide range of customisation options on both the exterior and interior again so typical of MINI are supplemented by new, model-specific features exclusive to the MINI Countryman. New combinations in the range of interior colours, trim strips and upholstery enable even the most discerning customer to create his – or her – very special car with truly unique character. The wide range of standard features boasted by the MINI Countryman includes highlights such as air conditioning, the MINI Center Rail, and an audio system complete with a CD player. The equally wide range of options and special equipment tailored to each model comes with features such as high-end audio and navigation systems as well as mobile telephone interfaces including the option to completely integrate an Apple iPhone and other Smartphones in the car. Further options are the extra-large Panorama roof, Adaptive Headlights in combination with xenon headlight units, a heated windscreen, a towbar, light-alloy wheels ranging in size from 16 to 19 inches, sports suspension lowering the entire car by 10 millimetres or almost 0.4″, as well as the wide range of John Cooper Works Performance Components.

It never fails. With the first cold snap of the season, comes plenty of vehicle breakdowns and crashes. BCAA Road Assist has experienced double the normal call volumes since the cold weather streak hit the province, and is asking drivers to prepare for the challenges of driving in cold, icy and snowy conditions.
To avoid falling victim to “old man winter”, BCAA urges you to fully prepare your vehicle and learn the essentials of good winter driving — that is, to stay alert, slow down and stay in control.
BCAA’s top ten winter driving and vehicle prep tips include:

1.  Give your vehicle a winter check-up. Check fluids, tire tread and
inflation, lights, wipers, brakes and check your battery to ensure
the power is there when you need it.

2.  Install four matching winter tires. Don’t mix tires with different
tread patterns, internal construction and size, as it diminishes
vehicle handling.

3.  If you’re heading out on a long trip, pack an emergency kit including
a shovel, extra windshield washer fluid, sand or kitty litter, fuel-
line antifreeze, a thermal blanket, extra clothing and footwear, and
a first-aid kit.

4.  Learn and practice winter driving techniques before you need them. If
you have tire chains, make sure you have practiced installing them
before you’re standing knee-deep in snow.

5.  Plan ahead, check road and weather conditions. If driving is risky,
stay home if you can. If not, proceed with caution and keep your
radio tuned to a local station for ongoing weather advisories.

6.  Remove all snow from your vehicle before each trip, including the
hood, roof, bumpers and lights. Also, ensure your windshield and
windows are free of frost and ice, and are de-fogged before starting
out.

7.  Give yourself extra travel time in bad weather, and whenever
possible, don’t travel alone.

8.  Avoid using overdrive and cruise control on slippery roads. If you’re
driving a four-wheel drive vehicle, don’t drive with a false sense of
security. The four-wheel drive feature reduces your likelihood of
getting stuck, but it won’t help you stop any faster.

9.  Travel with a fully charged cell phone, but don’t talk and drive. Let
someone with you make the call, or pull over to a safe spot to place
a call.

10. Drive for the conditions, not the speed limit. Take it slow and
signal your turns and lane changes well in advance. Increase the
distance between you and the car in front of you. Transport Canada
recommends leaving a distance of 10 car-lengths when driving at
100 km/h in winter.

More winter driving tips and resources can be found on BCAA’s website at www.bcaa.com/winterdriving.

Subaru of America, Inc. is introducing the 2010 Impreza WRX STI Special Edition at the Los Angeles Auto Show, which runs December 4-13 at the Los Angeles Convention Center. Available in an initial limited run of 125 units, the WRX STI Special Edition features upgraded performance suspension (derived from the Japanese domestic market spec C), unique Aspen White paint and custom spec C wheels. Pricing will be announced at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

Also at the Los Angeles Auto Show, Subaru is introducing the 2010 Impreza WRX Limited model, which adds a leather interior, standard moonroof and SIRIUS® Satellite Radio over the feature content of the Impreza WRX Premium model. Turbocharged excitement remains courtesy of the 265 HP, 2.5-liter turbocharged boxer engine powering Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel-Drive system through a five-speed manual gearbox.

 [Source: Subaru]

The 2010 WRX STI Special Edition is aimed at the driving enthusiast who is willing to trade a few amenities to gain an extra measure of handling performance over the already extraordinary WRX STI. Suspension for the new version of this high-performance machine is adopted from the Japanese domestic market WRX STI spec C model, which adds a 1-millimeter thicker rear stabilizer bar, stiffer rear sub-frame bushings plus upgraded and retuned springs. The front springs are 16-percent stiffer, while the rear shocks have been stiffened by 29-percent.

Available in early Spring, the first 125 units of the 2010 WRX STI Special Edition will be painted in exclusive Aspen White, set off by the charcoal-colored 18 x 8.5 in. 14-spoke alloy wheels from the JDM WRX STI spec C. The WRX STI Special Edition will then become a regular production model later in 2010, available in standard colors.

The WRX STI Special Edition was developed by Subaru Tecnica International, the high-performance and motorsports subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. Compared with the standard 2010 WRX STI, the WRX STI Special Edition features halogen rather than HID headlights; a single-disc CD player / 4-speaker audio system instead of the 6-CD /10-speaker system; manual air conditioning in place of automatic climate control, and body color side mirrors.

All other aspects of the WRX STI Special Edition remain as on the standard model, including the 305-horsepower / 290 lb.-ft. turbocharged/intercooled Boxer engine, 6-speed manual transmission and a high level of driver-selectable powertrain- and dynamic handling-control systems. The car’s bulged fenders and rear quarter panels, rear gate-mounted spoiler and aerodynamic ground effects give the WRX STI a direct link to Subaru competition cars. The hood scoop, brake-cooling air intakes and engine heat outlets are all functional.

The Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD) version of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, which remains exclusive to the Impreza WRX STI, offers three selectable automatic performance modes in addition to six manual center differential locking settings. The WRX STI is in addition equipped with limited-slip front and rear differentials. The Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) stability and traction control system features three driver-selectable positions. On all WRX STI models, the 18-in. wheels are fitted with Dunlop SP600 245/40R18 tires.

The Brembo Performance Brake System employs ventilated 4-wheel Super Sport anti-lock (ABS) disc brakes with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD). Side-curtain airbags and front seat side airbags are standard. The Incline Start Assist feature can momentarily prevent the vehicle from rolling backward when being driven away from a stop on an incline.

Subaru announced pricing for the all-new 2010 Subaru Outback. The fourth-generation of the World’s First Sport Utility Wagon is a roomier and more capable interpretation of the vehicle that launched the crossover trend 15 years ago. Distinguished by bolder and crisper styling, the all-new 2010 Subaru Outback delivers enhanced performance, comfort and economy with the introduction of an all-new chassis and the new Subaru Lineartronic™ CVT (continuously variable transmission).

Capability is enhanced with a segment-first roof rail and integrated crossbar design, 18.5 gallon fuel tank and an improved 8.7 inches of ground clearance. Interior volume increases 7 percent compared to the previous generation yet the overall length is almost one-inch shorter than the ’09 model. Rear legroom increases almost 4 inches and total cargo capacity is now an impressive 71.3 cubic feet — an increase of 6 cubic feet. Despite the larger size, fuel economy is estimated to increase by 1 MPG in both City and Highway modes with CVT.

As with all Subaru vehicles, Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is standard, which helps driving performance by enhancing traction regardless of weather conditions.

Model Pricing Highlights:

The 2.5i is powered by a revised 170-hp 2.5-liter 4-cylinder Boxer engine and is available with either a new standard 6-speed manual transmission for $22,995 (the same price as the outgoing model) or the Lineartronic™ CVT for $23,995.

This base model comes complete with 4-wheel disc brakes, power steering, tilt and telescope steering column, 8 cup holders, 60/40 split-folding and reclining rear seats, floor mats, cargo tray, electronic parking brake with Hill Holder® system, auto on/off exterior lights (autolights), AM/FM Stereo with single-disc CD player, auxiliary input jack and 4 speakers, dual lit visor mirrors, variable intermittent wipers, updated gauge cluster with ‘eco’ gauge, multi-function display with outside temperature, overhead console with sunglass holder and remote keyless entry system.

There are a number of options available for the 2010 Outback. (Availability varies by trim level):

• Power moonroof at $995
• All-Weather Package at $500 which includes: heated front seats, windshield wiper de-icer and heated exterior mirrors
• harman/kardon® audio system for $995 which includes: AM/FM 6 CD, 440 Watt harman/kardon amplifier, 9 harman/kardon speakers, hands-free Bluetooth® phone capability
• Navigation system for $2,000 which includes: AM/FM/CD/DVD, GPS navigation system 8″ LCD touch-screen, 440 watt harman/kardon amplifier, 9 harman/kardon speakers, hands-free Bluetooth phone and audio, USB port with iPod™ control and backup camera

The 2.5i Premium comes with either a 6-speed manual transmission or the option of the all-new Lineartronic CVT and will have a starting price of $24,295 (2.5i Premium with Lineartronic CVT starts at $25,295.) Standard equipment includes all 2.5i model features (where applicable) plus halogen fog lights, cargo cover, privacy glass, 10-way power driver’s seat, driver’s side window with automatic up/down, leather-wrapped steering wheel, instrument storage bin w/door, overhead console with sunglass holder and ambient light, body-colored mirrors and 16″ Alloy Wheels. Options include: All-Weather Package, harman/kardon audio system and power moonroof.

The 2.5i Limited comes equipped with the new Lineartronic CVT and will have a starting price of only $27,995. It includes all 2.5i Premium model features (where applicable) plus dual zone climate controls, paddle shifters and a 6-speed manual shift mode, P215/50 R17 all-season tires, 17″ Alloy Wheels, perforated ivory / off black leather-trimmed upholstery, 4-way power front passenger seat, All-Weather Package and harman/kardon audio system. Options include: power moonroof and navigation system.

The new range-topping Outback 3.6R, which replaces the 3.0R model is powered by a 256-hp 3.6-liter 6-cylinder Boxer engine matched to a 5-speed electronic automatic transmission. Compared to the 3.0-liter 6-cylinder engine it replaces, the more powerful 3.6R has similar external size and uses regular-grade fuel, rather than premium as the 3.0L 6-cylinder recommended to achieve its rated power.

The Outback 3.6R will have a starting price of $27,995 — a $4,000 decrease from the 2009 6-cylinder Outback and includes all 2.5i model features (where applicable) plus P225/50 R17 all-season tires, 17″ Alloy Wheels, paddle shifters, driver’s side window w/automatic up and down, instrument storage bin w/door, overhead console with sunglass holder and ambient light, privacy glass and fog lights.

The 3.6R Premium will have a starting price of $28,995 and includes all 3.6R base model features (where applicable) plus a 10-way power driver’s seat, leather-wrapped steering wheel and All-Weather Package. Options include: harman/kardon audio system and power moonroof.

The 3.6R Limited will have a starting price of $30,995 and includes all 3.6R Premium model features plus perforated ivory / off black leather-trimmed upholstery, 4-way power front passenger seat, and harman/kardon audio system. Options include: power moonroof and navigation system (navigation system requires power moonroof option).

All Outback models for 2010 are equipped as standard with Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), which combines stability and traction control capability. The all-new electronic Hill Holder System — standard on all models — when activated, holds the vehicle in place until the driver applies the throttle to pull away from a stop.

After 15 years of top automobile motorsport, five years ago GTA Motor decided to go one step forward and make director Domingo Ochoa´s dream come true; build a super sports car that combines all the automobile technology with perfect, sportsmanship, elegance and exclusivity. So, Ochoa, with more that 30 year´s experience in the automobile sector, Ochoa set the basis to accomplish his project, a leading Spanish super sport car in an attempt to combine the select and reduced club of handicraft constructors. The technological experience and the development of applied innovations, became the basic factor of this project, and contributed revolutionary technical solutions in the automobile sector.

The use of new technologies in several components led to a more ecological product than other, similar products presently in the market. GTA intends to convert this technological transfer into a launching point for a new pioneeering automobile industry in Spain. Designed by GTA Motor´s engineering director, Valencian-born Sento Pallardó, the GTA Spano boasts the most advanced technology, innovative aesthetics, studied aerodynamics and a good number of solutions for the future, all of wich are capable of competing with international prestigious brands in terms of image and performance. As a sign of its exclusivity, only 99 models of this extraordinay super sport car will be built to order and several world patents have been obtained. Indeed it is a car that is the beginning of an industry wich leads to job creation and also to the transfer of the resulting technology to other sectors of society.