Lamborghini CEO Says No to Turbo Engines For Now

In a recent interview for AutoCar, an UK based online automotive website, Lamborghini boss Stephan Winkelmann confirmed that Lamborghini will say no to turbocharged engines for this decade. He however didn’t rule out the possibility of the same introduced in a later time period.

In all things considered, this is really some good news for automotive fans. With the most sports cars and exotic cars manufacturers turning to smaller, turbocharged engines to meet the demand and latest ecology normatives, Lamborghini is staying true to the naturally aspirated engines. For now that is.

“For the time being it will not happen. For this decade, I don’t see it happening in the super sport car business – although I would also caution against saying it could never happen,” said Winkelmann.

He also added “The future can take its own path when fuel regulations are involved. All I will say is that any development along those lines must be consistent with the DNA of Lamborghini,”.

Even this can put our minds to ease when considering we shall enjoy a few more years of Lamborghini’s naturally aspirated V10 and V12 engines, the future however holds some not so clear messages that we are receiving in the past few months. However, the newest Lamborghini Gallardo which will be launched “at least two years down the road” shall not feature a turbocharged engine when it arrives.

But according to various sources, there is talk about suggestions that the new Gallardo shall receive turbocharged engines from midway through its lifespan, meaning somewhere around 2020 or so. Until then, we are happy to enjoy the fire breathing, porn music making Lambo’s that we are accustomed to!

Source: AutoCar.co.uk
Image: Lamborghini Gallardo LP 560-4 Bicolore

Popularity: unranked

New Jaguar XKR-S Convertible with 550HP and 186MPH Top Speed

Making it’s premier at the 2011 Los Angeles Motor Show, the new Jaguar XKR-S Convertible is named by Jaguar the most powerful and fastest open-top vehicle in their range for well, the entire existence of their company up to now. Coming with a 5.0-liter supercharged V8 that was borrowed from XKR-S coupe it delivers 550HP and 680Nm (501 lb-ft) of torque!

Acceleration stands at 4.2 seconds for the 100 km/h (62 mph) run! Top speed is electronically limited, but not to 250km/h like we’ve seen on so many occasions, but to 300 km/h (186 mph). This is all attainable thanks to a six-speed automatic gearbox with Active Differential, driving the rear wheels.

With it being the fastest drop top that Jaguar has offered, this is by my personal standards one of the prettiest convertibles out there, not just from the British car maker. With extensive Computational Fluid Dynamics, wind tunnel and track work has resulted in not just a pretty car, but an aerodynamicaly efficient one.

Ian Callum, Director of Design, Jaguar Cars said about it “Taking the track-oriented ethos of the XKR-S Coupe and applying it to a convertible is very exciting. There is a real spirit and thrill to driving with the roof down and in a car capable of these speeds that is going to be exaggerated to create a very dramatic and special experience.”

With lots more information available for each department, including design, performance, exterior, interior and such you should take a look at the full press release from Jaguar right after the jump. Jaguar has also included a large media gallery for the release of the New Jaguar XKR-S Convertible.

Jaguar XKR-S Convertible Press Release

The pinnacle of the Jaguar sporting range – the XKR-S – is now joined by a convertible which offers the same enticing blend of abilities, while offering driver and passenger a heightened connection with their surroundings.

The XKR-S Convertible embodies all the characteristics that have always defined legendary Jaguar GTs – explosive performance, involving handling, relaxed comfort and discreet luxury – while taking Jaguar into a new performance echelon. The new XKR-S model line-up sits at the pinnacle of the XK range, which now consists of XK, XKR and XKR-S derivatives in coupe and convertible format.

The XKR-S Convertible takes the raft of performance, dynamics, design and interior upgrades already introduced to much acclaim on its coupe sibling to create Jaguar’s fastest ever open-topped GT.

Adrian Hallmark, Jaguar Global Brand Director, says the new XKR-S Convertible represents the pinnacle of performance and glamour in motoring:

“There is nothing as liberating as life behind the wheel of an open-topped Jaguar and the new XKR-S Convertible takes the Jaguar GT experience to new heights.”

The building block for the car’s explosive performance is an uprated version of the 5.0-litre supercharged AJ-V8 engine, which produces 550PS (405kW) and 502lb/ft (680Nm) of torque. These figures represent a power increase of 8 percent and torque increase of 9 percent over the Jaguar XKR. Driving the rear wheels through a six-speed automatic gearbox with Active Differential, this propels the XKR-S Convertible to 60mph in 4.2 seconds (0-100km/h in

4.4 seconds) and on to an electronically limited top speed of 186mph (300km/h).

Underpinning this potent performance is a comprehensive package of suspension upgrades which refine the XK’s dynamic abilities still further, creating an intimate connection between the car, the driver and the road, enhanced still further in this open-topped GT.

The lightweight aluminium structure of the XK has huge torsional rigidity, allowing the fitment of suspension components such as a redesigned aluminium front steering knuckle and revised rear geometry, stiffer springs and dampers. Allied to lightweight forged wheels and recalibrated steering settings this has allowed Jaguar’s vehicle dynamics experts to create a supremely agile, connected driving experience with no loss in refinement.

Reflecting the car’s uprated dynamic abilities are interior and exterior styling changes. Externally the XKR-S Convertible is dramatically differentiated from other XK models with carefully calibrated aerodynamic aids that allow it to perform flawlessly at very high speeds.

This sense of drama is continued inside the car with Jaguar Performance seats that feature increased support for driver and passenger during high-speed cornering. The seats are finished in carbon leather and feature 16-way adjustment and heating while carbon is also used to trim the cabin and emphasise the car’s assertive nature.

Design
Extensive Computational Fluid Dynamics, wind tunnel and track work has resulted in the aerodynamic design changes applied to the XKR-S Convertible. These perform an essential function in maintaining stability in an open-topped car capable of speeds as high as 186mph (300km/h).

These aerodynamic design changes give the front of the car a dramatic and bold appearance. Vertical feature lines run down from the edges of the oval air intake into a new bumper design which incorporates a wider, lower air intake, a carbon fibre splitter and twin side nacelles. At the edges of the bumper, vertical panels channel air down the side of the car along new sills, which serve to both smooth the horizontal airflow and emphasise the 10mm reduction in ride height.

A unique rear wing with a carbon fibre inlay works in conjunction with a rear apron featuring a carbon fibre diffuser. The result is a reduction in overall lift of 26 percent and balanced aerodynamics front and rear to keep the car perfectly pinned to the road.

The exterior changes are highlighted by the application of gloss black to the exterior brightwork, complemented by the dark technical finish of the lightweight, forged 20″ Vulcan design alloy wheels through which can be seen the Jaguar High Performance Brake calipers finished in either an eye-catching red or discreet gunmetal. The XKR-S Convertible is available in a range of six colours, including Polaris White and British Racing Green, a tribute to Jaguar’s competition heritage. The acoustically treated hood opens and stows in just 18 seconds and has been proven at the car’s maximum speed. It comes in black as standard with a further six optional colours available.

“Taking the track-oriented ethos of the XKR-S Coupe and applying it to a convertible is very exciting. There is a real spirit and thrill to driving with the roof down and in a car capable of these speeds that is going to be exaggerated to create a very dramatic and special experience.”

Ian Callum, Director of Design, Jaguar Cars.

Performance
The engineering integrity of the acclaimed AJ-V8 petrol engine, now in its third generation, meant that Jaguar’s engineers could derive the extra power and torque needed for the XKR-S. The advanced design of the quad-cam, all-aluminium AJ-V8 incorporates spray-guided direct injection and variable valve timing for great efficiency as well as prodigious power. The Roots-type twin-vortex supercharger nestling in the ‘V’ of the engine has twin intercoolers and is 20 percent more thermodynamically efficient than its predecessor.

The result is 550PS and 680Nm, allowing the XKR-S Convertible to accelerate from a standstill to 60mph in just 4.2 seconds (0-100km/h in 4.4 seconds) and on to an electronically limited top speed of 186mph (300km/h).

Liberating an extra 40PS and 55Nm over and above the XKR entailed remapping the fuelling characteristics and increasing exhaust gas flow though the use of an active exhaust system.

With the roof lowered on the XKR-S Convertible the Performance Active exhaust system delivers an authentic, race-car inspired soundtrack that has been tuned to provide the driver with a thoroughly exhilarating driving experience.

Dynamics
With the XK model designed as a convertible from the outset, Jaguar’s engineers were able to apply the changes that created the XKR-S Coupe into the open-topped GT without compromising performance, agility or refinement.

Jaguar pioneered the use of aluminium in series production cars and it is this metal’s low mass and high tensile strength that gives the XKR-S such a breadth of abilities. A kerb weight of 1795kg and torsional rigidity of 16,500

Newton metres per degree provide Jaguar’s engineers a solid foundation on which to apply the detail changes that create the company’s most involving convertible ever.

Both front and rear suspension systems have been revised. A new aluminium steering knuckle in the front double wishbone suspension increases camber stiffness by 23 percent to provide even greater levels of steering accuracy and feedback. To increase stability and control, the Active Differential has been uprated to reduce steering sensitivity at very high speeds.

Rear damper top mounts have been stiffened over and above the changes found on the XKR-S Coupe while the rear wheel steer effect has been optimised for agility. Spring rates front and rear have been increased by 28 percent while a bespoke Adaptive Damping programme for the XKR-S maximises body control, traction and grip.

Unsprung mass has been reduced by nearly five percent through the fitment of lightweight, forged alloy wheels, which also offer greater traction and grip levels thanks to wider rear tyres that were specifically developed for use on the XKR-S and serve to increase the size of the tyre contact patch. The XKR-S convertible rides on Pirelli P-Zero tyres (255/35 ZR20 at the front and 295/30 ZR20 at the rear).

In order to allow the enthusiastic driver to enjoy the benefits of these changes, the Dynamic Stability Control system has undergone bespoke changes. In Trac DSC mode, specific traction, stability and Active Differential settings reduce intervention levels and enhance mid-corner adjustability, allowing the exhilarating handling to be safely exploited to the full.

The Jaguar High Performance Braking System fitted as standard is more than a match for the car’s seductive performance. Huge brake discs – 380mm front and 376mm rear – in combination with aluminium calipers and pad area increases of 44 percent front and 31 percent rear in comparison to the XK provide confidence inspiring levels of power, stability and feel.

“Because the XK was designed as a convertible it has great structural integrity. This allowed us to apply the XKR-S coupe’s sporting suspension settings to create a convertible with no compromises. Its blend of great speed, precision and dynamism is given an extra dimension with the roof down and that thrilling exhaust soundtrack.”

Mike Cross, Chief Engineer, Vehicle Integrity

Interior
With the convertible hood stowed away, the interior of the XKR-S will be subject to as many envious glances as the exterior, with both highlighting the car’s high performance intent.

Exclusive to the XKR-S models are carbon-leather trimmed versions of Jaguar’s Performance seats which feature integrated head rests, racing harness cut-outs and increased side and squab support to hold driver and passenger securely during high speed cornering. The 16-way adjustable, heated seats feature highlights of carbon leather and contrast micropiping unique to the model.

Superb tactile interfaces are provided by the multifunction three-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel and Jaguar-embossed bright stainless steel pedals. Other premium surfaces include soft-feel paint for the switches and a gloss black centre console. An exclusive dark aluminium finish is available as standard with an optional Piano Black finish also available.

Source: Jaguar

The UK Police Force is Evaluating Jaguar XF as the Police Pursuit Car

After the Lamborghini Gallardo used by the Italian police force, their colleagues in the United Kingdom are trying the same thing, getting a really fast car to serve as the police chase vehicle. Jaguar UK has launched a high performance Police pursuit vehicle based on its award-winning XF Diesel S model. The first ever Police-spec XF is currently being evaluated by Police forces across the country. We must say that this is a really nice feature, that this kind of car will bring the police force what they need the most; speed and quality working conditions to apprehend criminals every day. We are just wondering how many of these could other countries buy for this purpose.

Geoff Cousins, UK Managing Director for Jaguar Cars, said: “Police forces are looking for vehicles that represent value for money, have good environmental credentials and deliver the power and performance required of a pursuit vehicle.”

The Jaguar XF beats other contenders in this market with a fuel economy figure of 42mpg, class-leading residual values and an excellent CO2 rating of 179g/km.

“The Police Officers driving pursuit vehicles demand a very high level of performance and handling, as well as safety and comfort.”

The Police specification Jaguar features the 275PS 3.0-litre Diesel S engine with its unique, parallel sequential turbocharger system. Delivering high torque throughout the entire rev range, improved throttle response and low CO2 emissions, the twin-turbochargers work sequentially to deliver unrivalled response and best-in-class torque that means the XF packs a huge punch at all engine speeds.

“We hope that with this amount of torque on tap – and a 0-60mph time of 5.9 seconds, we will meet and exceed the exacting standards of any Police Officer driving this car.”

The XF has picked up more than 20 international awards since launch, most recently ‘Britain’s Best Car’ in the Auto Express Driver Power survey for 2009, ‘Best Executive Car’ at the What Diesel Magazine awards 2009 and the award for ‘Best Executive Car’ at the 2009 Fleet World Honours.

In the UK, retail pricing of the XF range starts at £32,900 for the 3.0-litre petrol. The 3.0-litre diesel model is available from £33,900 while the 3.0-litre Diesel S starts at £36,900. For more information go to Jaguar Website.

The Rise of Gold: gold Rush Rally

Name the 2 automotive rallies that make news every year … Gumball 3000 & Bull Run. I have watched these rallies grow for years into a massive pieces of business and fun for many rich superstars. But, about a year ago my head was sharply turned by co-founder of Luxury4Play.com Raymond Lyle when he introduced me to goldRush Rally.

goldRush rally (which we will refer to as ‘gR’) is now entering its fourth year as they prepare for what is short named gR4: Rise Against the Sun. gR like other rallies moves across hundreds of miles of ground in a week’s time bringing in vehicles from around the world. Commonly you will find your gang of Lamborghinis, Ferraris, and other exotics but don’t be to shocked to find Bugatti Veyrons, gold wrapped Ferrari F430 Scuderias, wide body BMW E92 M3s, or matte white Maybachs joining in on the trip.

gR draws from various industries and car enthusiasts from around the world. What drew me to this rally is the real foundation on which they stand. I picked a copy of the original gR rally and this previous year’s run from the gR store (www.goldrushrally.com/store) the day it became available. Setting myself up for a movie extravaganza on Saturday, I went through all 3 years of the newly famed rally.

Sitting in front of my TV, I knew what I was in for but it wasn’t until each DVD began to play and progress that it really hit me how great this rally is. You learn very quickly that gR brings together good people and good friends with the same passions. Now like any other person, I enjoy this rally for the rides, parties, people (especially the women), and other finer things in life. With other rallies, I quickly feel that it always go back to focusing on these material things and having more money than most to throw around. You know, the 1%, but gR’s participants are genuinely passionate people. You know it, you can see it, and you can feel it.

If you’re an extreme car enthusiast like we are here at MCP then the vivacious sounds of the twin turbo Lamborghini Gallardo’s and the world’s fastest Mercedes SLR McLaren are going to suck you into these DVD’s very quickly. I have to say that this year’s DVD shows off the best editing and shots yet. goldRush turned to expoze.tv and Accapella Studio © team for some top notch editing bringing a fresh style to the gR video. With multiple HD camera’s shooting from every possible angle I could have thought of, you will enjoy breathtaking cinematography from around the country (USA).

MCP is already looking forward to covering the rally this upcoming summer 2012 and showing the world what this growing rally is all about. You can find numerous photos from the rally below from expoze.tv’s own CEO Gabriel Sévigny who was glad to share with the community.

BMW 6Series Coupé

Third generation of BMW 6Series Coupé is here! With it’s UK debut happening a few days ago, we have a large media gallery with this beautiful new 2+2 Coupé from BMW for all of you here. Matching enhanced comfort and elegant design with sporting performance on a higher level, this is one car most of us petrolheads are anxiously awaiting for.

All the aspects of a successful coupé design are here: a sweeping coupé roofline while the long bonnet, short over-hangs, set-back passenger compartment with Hofmeister kink, long wheelbase and flat waistline all embody the typical proportions of a BMW coupé more than any other model.

Powered by a selection of two exceptional BMW turbocharged petrol engines and a twin turbocharged diesel powerplant, performance department is well covered. Petrol engines are found in the 640i and 650i version, delivering 407HP and 320HP respectively, while getting the coupé from 0-62mph in 4.9 and 5.4 seconds in those version.

We are pretty impressed with the twin turbocharged diesel powerplant. Why? First of all, regarding performance it doesn’t lag behind it’s petrol powered brothers at all. The BMW 640d Coupé delivers 313HP and 630Nm of torque, propelling the diesel version from 0-62mph in 5.5 seconds. Not a bad performance figure, if you check into the equation that the combined MPG for this car, according to BMW, is 51.4! This is a nice increase over it’s petrol powered brothers, who managed 26.6 for thr 650i and 36.2 for the 640i version. All models are electronically limited to 155mph top speed!

You can also get the M Sport Package, which includes an M aerodynamics package, LED foglamps, 19 inch M light-alloy wheels in double-spoke design, sports seats with Alcantara/leather upholstery and an M leather steering wheel. An extensive media gallery is available right after the jump!

Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG and Ducati Streetfighter 848

Now this is the kind of cooperation we can really love! Mercedes-Benz AMG and Ducati have joined forces to create this unique combination of power, design and beauty in two pretty interesting pieces of performance engineering. With new Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG and Ducati Streetfighter 848 both presented in “Streetfighter Yellow” this exciting duo will get more than a few turned heads anywhere they go!

All of this is the result of a deal signed between AMG and Ducati last November and it produces quite interesting results. The first result of the intensive exchange of ideas between the designers and engineers from Affalterbach and Bologna was the joint presentation of the CLS 63 AMG and the Ducati Diavel AMG Special Edition at the 64th International Motor Show in Frankfurt am Main.

We can only applaud the selection of these two very popular models from the two manufacturers’ range. Most powerful SLK ever created and Ducati’s ultimate streetfighter that provides unbridled biking pleasure in its purest form, while combining innovative technology with an outstanding appearance.

We advise you to check out the full press release for the Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG and Ducati Streetfighter 848 with a nice media gallery posted alongside. Real interesting combination is the result, to say the least. We only received info about the pricing for the SLK, where the base price with 19% VAT is 72,590 euros. We’ll try to get the Ducati Streetfigther 848 info too! Enjoy!




Affalterbach/Bologna (Italy) – Mercedes-AMG and Ducati stage joint appearance at the Bologna Motor Show (3 – 11 December 2011): the new SLK 55 AMG and the new Ducati Streetfighter 848 – both finished in “Streetfighter yellow” – are to go on show to the public at the north Italian motor show in a move set to underscore the importance of the cooperation entered into by Mercedes-AMG and Ducati one year ago.

Inspired by the Ducati Streetfighter 848, the “streetfighter yellow” colour of the SLK 55 AMG ensures an exciting appearance from all angles: the exceptional paint finish is guaranteed to provide a high level of appeal. If there is sufficient demand, the special colour variant could also be made available as an individual optional extra from the AMG Performance Studio. The overall look is also perfectly complemented by the interior of the SLK 55 AMG: the contrasting yellow stitching creates a striking effect against the black nappa leather appointments, and is to be found on the door centre panels, beltlines, armrests, leather-covered roll-over bars, dashboard, the shift lever gaiter and also the AMG Performance steering wheel. Yellow illuminated AMG door sill panels featuring LED technology round off the striking effect of the interior.

The portfolio of the AMG Performance Studio ranges from special paintwork and leather appointments, through to technical solutions and extensive body modifications. The stylish vehicle upgrades are undertaken to a high level of hand-crafted perfection in accordance with individual customer requirements, while at the same time also meeting the highest safety and quality standards typical of Mercedes-Benz.

SLK 55 AMG: the most powerful SLK of all time
The Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG and the Ducati Streetfighter 848 complement each other not only visually but also technically. Both models are the perfect embodiment of distinctive driving dynamics, expressive design and intense driving pleasure.

The SLK 55 AMG is the most powerful SLK of all time. Its newly developed AMG 5.5-litre naturally aspirated V8 engine with cylinder shut-off system combines ultimate performance with the lowest possible consumption levels. With a maximum output of 310 kW (422 hp) and maximum toque of 540 Nm, the SLK 55 AMG outperforms all of its direct competitors. Its fuel consumption of 8.4 litres per 100 kilometres (NEDC combined) and CO2 emissions of 195 grams per kilometre are some 30 percent lower than those of its predecessor. The SLK 55 AMG accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in just 4.6 seconds, and reaches a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited). High levels of driving dynamics are ensured thanks to the AMG sports suspension with Direct-Steer system, Torque Vectoring Brakes and 3-stage ESP®, as well as the AMG high-performance braking system.

Forming part of the third-generation of the SLK, the new top-of-the range AMG model already demonstrates its individuality even at first glance: distinctive AMG light-alloy wheels, specific AMG bodystyling with AMG spoiler lip and two chrome-plated twin tailpipes at the rear complement the classic roadster proportions, while adding a markedly athletic touch. The expressive design of the SLK 55 AMG is both eye-catching and unmistakable.

Ducati Streetfighter 848: superior competitor – ultimate fighter
The new Ducati Streetfighter 848 provides unbridled biking pleasure in its purest form, while combining innovative technology with an outstanding appearance: a revised 848 Testastretta 11° engine with 97 kW (132 hp) and an exciting 93.5 Nm of torque as well as a modified frame geometry help to guarantee safe, agile handling. This is supported by the smooth, easy-to-manage power delivery of the engine, revised ergonomics and a specially tuned traction control (DTC) system. The features of the new Streetfighter are rounded off in visual terms by the unique Ducati styling. The Streetfighter 848 is guaranteed to cause a sensation, whether on the road or on the race track.

It was no surprise therefore when, true to its name, the Ducati Streetfighter scored an immediate knock-out on entering the ring for the first time at the EICMA show in 2008 in Milan. The impression which it left among the international press and public on its first appearance meant it was not only able to win the show’s “Most Beautiful Bike” award, but it also raised the bar for powerful naked bikes even higher by becoming the new benchmark on the market.

In addition to the colour variant in traditional red with red frame, the new Streetfighter 848 is also available in yellow with frame in Racing Black. The Dark Stealth colour variant, meanwhile, with frame in Racing Black underscores the fierce attitude of the Streetfighter. With the exciting new Streetfighter 848, Ducati has succeeded in combining state-of-the-art technology and skeletal styling in a contemporary design.

The cooperation agreement between AMG and Ducati was signed in November 2010
Visible signs of the cooperation agreement between Mercedes-AMG and Ducati, which was signed at the Los Angeles Motor Show in November 2010, include various marketing activities as well as joint appearances at shows and customer events. In the AMG core markets of the US, China, Canada, France, Italy, Germany, Australia, Great Britain and Switzerland, the announcement of the cooperation was very soon followed by the establishment of close links at market level.

The first result of the intensive exchange of ideas between the designers and engineers from Affalterbach and Bologna was the joint presentation of the CLS 63 AMG and the Ducati Diavel AMG Special Edition at the 64th International Motor Show in Frankfurt am Main.

AMG has been the “Official Car Partner” of the Ducati MotoGP team since the start of the 2011 MotoGP season. The AMG logo appears not only on the motorcycles and racing overalls of Ducati works drivers Nicky Hayden and Valentino Rossi, but also on the official teamwear and in the Ducati Lounge. Furthermore, as an additional outcome of the cooperation agreement, the Ducati fleet of vehicles is being gradually switched over to Mercedes-Benz vehicles.

The base price (incl. 19% VAT): SLK 55 AMG: 72,590 euros

Source: Daimler AG

Audi A7 With Deep Concave CV2 Wheels By D2FORGED

We are back! Yes, like we ever got anywhere far but it’s a new year, new beginning, new things to go around. Or maybe just more beer and fun times? Guess we’ll have to find out. But we have something pretty interesting to kick off the year. As I’ve promised on our Facebook Fan Page we shall start the year of with some photoshoots. First in line being this, a sexy Audi A7 3.0T with a setup from D2FORGED as the treat!

Shown here is their latest creation, their latest project who they’ve done with their customer which wanted something not that ordinary. We don’t usually see blacked out luxury rides like these, but the overall package on this one, the wheels, the trim, the darkened look, it all came out nicely.

D2FORGED provided a set of their gorgeous five-spoke CV2 wheels, sized 22 inches all around, with a deep concave profile, adding to the overall appearance of the popular wheel fitment we see these days. Wheels are 22×9.5″ on the front and 22×11″ at the back. They are finished in a theme that includes a gloss black center and lip, red lip stripe and the hand painted D2 logo done in the same color profile. Overall this fits the theme of the build perfectly!

We have received a a five photo large photoshoot from D2FORGED, with couple of interesting images showing different angles of the car, showing the concavity of the wheels and overall fitment on the car itself. They are large resolution images as usual, so using them as new desktop backgrounds will be pretty easy! Enjoy!

New 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth Lands In United States

Good news for Abarth fans in the United States! It seems that we Europeans won’t be the only ones enjoying the pursuits of having fun with a Fiat 500 Abarth after all. Fiat decided to drop it’s turbocharged 160-hp 1.4L MultiAir engine model in the United States. Packing the full range of goodies from Abarth; including suspension, brake system, race inspired technological thingies and design not usually seen on cars this small.

Spicy little Italian is making its debut today, at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show. With pretty interesting 160HP available from the 1.4L turbocharged engine, delivering that power at 5,500RPM with peak torque being rounded of at 170 lb-ft (230Nm) in the range between 2,500RPM and 4,000RPM. Even though we don’t have the performance figures for acceleration, we know that it has a five-speed manual gearbox with Abarth-tuned Torque Transfer Control (TTC) system which helps transfer power to the front axle.

The 500 Abarth comes, as mentioned before, with a full range of goodies. Modified front bumpers allow better airflow to the brakes and intercooler, Abarth 16 inch wheels, with multispoke design, adding to the overall sporty appearance. Even though I hate the world sporty which is being used on pretty much anything from cars to drinks, this thing really looks accordingly. A pretty great choice for anyone wanting to leave their big exotic for the weekends and do some daily errands in a souped up little Fiat!

 Yeah, there are other little bits and pieces that complete this package, but I am really not into explaining all the small stitching and carpet options. What is important are the 0.6 inches lower height than the standard, already good handling Fiat 500. Where Koni’s dual valve frequency selective damping shocks allow for plenty of control, comfort and smoothness, as well as good performance driving. Both front and rear brake system was upgraded, where the front now has a 11.1 inch rotor paired wit a single piston brake caliper. Rear has 9.4 inches of stopping power also with a single piston brake caliper configuration.

 I am really pleased to point out, that the large media gallery we have included in the article, was done by one of our friends. We are talking about Webb Bland who’s photography skills have produced one pretty sick series of photographs of this pretty damn interesting little car. Even though it’s still a small compact car, this will no doubtedly attract a lot of attention and buyers when it becomes available. No pricing was announced, sorry! We will address that when we get info about it.