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Showing results for tags 'performance kit'.
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Autocar UK pits the Renault Clio RS 200 against the Toyota GT 86
SYF77 posted a blog entry in MyAutoBlog
In the recent episode of Autocar UK, reviewer Steve Sutcliffe pits the brand new Renault Clio RS 200 EDC against the Toyota GT 86. The Toyota GT 86 is described by Top Gear as one of the best driving sports cars of the last decade. How will it fare against the French turbocharged hot hatch tuned by Renault Sport? Revealed at the 2012 Paris Motor Show, the fourth generation Clio RS is powered by a 1.6-litre DIG TURBO engine lifted from the Nissan Juke and develops 200bhp with 240Nm of torque. It ditches the manual transmission in favor of the EDC (Efficient Double Clutch) dual-clutch transmission developed by Renault Sport engineers. The Century sprint is completed in 6.7 seconds. On the other corner, we have the rear-wheel drive Toyota GT 86 fitted with the world's first direct-injected, 2.0-litre Boxer engine. The 200bhp, 205Nm coupe sprints from 0 to 100km/h in 7.6 seconds when mated with a manual transmission. Read on to find out which model will come out on top! -
Tokyo Auto Salon will be exhibited for the first time in Singapore
PetrolHead posted a blog entry in MyAutoBlog
[extract]For the first time in the events history, the famed Tokyo Auto Salon will make its presence in Singapore at the Sands Expo -
Porsche unveils the 991 GT3 at the ongoing Geneva Motor Show
PetrolHead posted a blog entry in MyAutoBlog
The Porsche 911 will be celebrating its 50th anniversary this year and Porsche kicks-off the celebrations with the introduction of the new 911 GT3. Back in 1999, the 911 GT3 became the fastest ever production car to lap the legendary Nurburgring-Nordschleife circuit and hence after set the benchmark for road legal sports cars. Over the last four generations a total of 14,145 GT3 cars have since been built and now there is another based on the 991 series - Porsche 911. The fifth generation 911 GT3 debuts at the ongoing Geneva Motor Show and aims to set the benchmark among thoroughbred Porsche sports cars with naturally aspirated engines. The engine, transmission, body and chassis are entirely new but the proven characteristics of the track inspired sports car are preserved. The powertrain of the new 911 GT3 comprises a 3.8-litre flat engine developing 475bhp mated to a Porsche PDK double-clutch gearbox, and rear-wheel drive. Though the six-cylinder engine is akin to the 911 Carrera S they only share a few common parts and weigh around 25 kg less than the previous unit. The new 911 GT3 comes with a sports exhaust system, which is revised from the previous model. The 991 based 911 GT3 is 44 mm wider than a Carrera S across the rear axle and houses the distinctive large, fixed rear wing. The 911 GT3 hit 100km/h in just 3.5 seconds while the top speed is attainable with 313km/h via the seventh gear. The 911 GT3 lapped the green hell in less than 7:30. -
With 295bhp and 380Nm of torque under its taps, the all-new five-door Audi S3 Sportback features a longer wheelbase than both its predecessor and the three-door S3 variant on top of a decent fuel economy of 17km/L. Powered by a new 2.0-litre engine linked to the S tronic twin-clutch transmission, the Audi S3 Sportback will make its formal debut in Geneva next month When petrol is applied, the S3 Sportback delivers a 5.0-second century sprint before hitting a limited top speed of 249km/h. The exhaust system also includes a sound flap that opens at certain engine speed ranges for a intimidating soundtrack. The versatile modular transverse platform (MQB) underpins the new S3 Sportback. and is almost 70kg lighter thanks to weight savings in areas like the powertrain and use of ultra-high-strength steel passenger cell and light aluminium wings and bonnet. Like other
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Subaru recently announced that they will be releasing a track-ready BRZ straight from the assembly line. It is known as the BRZ RA Racing and this version is made exclusively for the Japanese market. Just like any other track or racing versions of the BRZ (or Toyota 86), the BRZ RA Racing is fitted with essential items a person needs when he/she hits the racing tracks. Luxurious comforts such as air-conditioning and stereo players have been left out and replaced with a six-point roll cage (with sidebar), a four point FIA certified racing harness and new floor mats. The BRZ RA Racing was designed with braking performance in mind. The front end receives brake ducts and both front and rear brakes get ventilated discs. The car also receives a Torsen limited slip differential. Removable front and rear tow hooks are placed for easy transportation tasks. In the engine bay, the only additional item is an air-cooled engine cooler and it is clearly seen at the left side of the front snout. Main reasons why the 2.0-litre Boxer engine is left untouched is because that most track enthusiasts would prefer to use their own racing components or parts. As mentioned above, the Subaru BRZ RA Racing is made only for the Japanese market and it is priced at around US$31,500.
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Alfa Romeo launches the MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde SBK with driving stunt
SYF77 posted a blog entry in MyAutoBlog
To launch the limited edition Alfa MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde SBK, an overtaking stunt was performed at the Silverstone Circuit in Britain involving precision driver Paul Swift. Paul Swift, who is behind the helm of the MiTo, balanced the car on two wheels. Chris "The Stalker" Walker overtook the MiTo on his Kawasaki Ninja by going underneath the precarious-looking MiTo. The limited edition MiTo has special body decal and comes with a red roof and a pair of red side mirrors. It wears a set of 18" alloy wheels complete with red Brembo calipers behind. The SBK will get the same 170bhp 1.4-litre MultiAir turbo like the standard car. The MiTo SBK is built to celebrate Alfa's association with the World Superbike Championship whereby the company is the title sponsor of the series and supplies safety cars as well. -
[extract] Kia has released the official photos of the 2013 Kia Pro_cee
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When it comes to exotic performance cars, many would not expect a country like Mexico to manufacture such models. But in fact, there is a small company there, that builds sports cars - known as Mastretta Cars. Currently, the company has only one sports car model which is the MXT (above) and recently, they have unveiled a more hardcore version of the MXT; the MXT-R. Aesthetically, there are not many differences between the MXT-R and its standard sibling. The MXT-R is fitted with a front splitter, a huge spoiler at the back and aerodynamic side skirts. The added exterior modifications are hugely inspired by a track-only model, known as the MXR, that the company is scheduled to release at the end of this year, The MXT-R is powered by a 2.0-litre Ford Ecoboost engine that delivers around 300bhp and the engine is mated to a five speed manual transmission. Although other performance figures were not revealed, the car is said to be able to complete the century sprint in less than 5.5 seconds. The car
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The Lotus Exige S is a fast performance machine. It comes with either a 1.8-litre straight four or a 3.5-litre V6 supercharged engine and it is not surprising that many track enthusiasts see the car as a good model to hit the racing tracks. But if someone wants something more hardcore, then read on; as Lotus has unveiled two race ready Exige models which are known as the Lotus Exige V6 Cup and V6 Cup R. Both cars are based on the V6 equipped Lotus Exige S and are built to tackle both the streets and the tracks; in other words, both cars are road legal. Both cars were recently showcased at the Autosport International Show in Birmingham, United Kingdom. The V6 Cup variant makes 345bhp from the supercharged V6 engine and is able to complete the century sprint in less than 3.8 seconds. The car weighs in at 1079kg and is fitted with many racing equipment such as an FIA approved roll cage and a six point safety harness. Two way adjustable suspensions and AP Racing four piston callipers are found on all four corners of the car. The car is also equipped with Lotus
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http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M14raMbpGg8 Mercedes has recently released the details of the 2013 E 63 AMG which include a series of high resolution photos. However, stationary photos do not do justice to the storming machine. Rejoice as Mercedes has now uploaded promotional videos of the top-of-the range E-Class in saloon and estate body styles. The videos mainly show the cars tearing down a race track and drifting along the way. Styling details of the exterior and interior are highlighted as well. The 2013 E 63 AMG is powered by a 5.5-litre V8 twin-turbocharged engine with output boosted to 550bhp and 720Nm of torque. A more powerful S-model with the same capacity is rated at 557bhp and 800Nm and it goes from 0 to 100km/h in 3.5 seconds. Both versions are fitted with the AMG Speedshift seven-speed automatic transmission. To keep the E 63 AMG rooted to the ground, it comes with 4MATIC all-wheel drive system as standard. Sit tight and enjoy the videos!
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First official photo of face-lifted Mercedes E 63 AMG emerges
SYF77 posted a blog entry in MyAutoBlog
After much anticipation and speculation, the 2014 Mercedes E 63 AMG has finally show its face in an official photo alongside with its lesser brethrens that include the sedan, wagon, coupe and convertible variants. The hottest version of the E-Class range is expected to be powered by the existing 5.5-litre V8 twin-turbo which is good for 518bhp and 699Nm of torque. A performance package is available which pumps up the engine to 550bhp and 799Nm of torque. The E 63 AMG will be presented at the upcoming Detroit Motor Show. A statement from Mercedes reads, "Not only will we introduce the E-Class Saloon, Estate, Coupe and Cabriolet, but also the E 63 AMG model, now available in a 4MATIC version and, of course, the new four-door coupe, the CLA." 4Matic is the name of an AWD four-wheel drive system developed and used by Mercedes-Benz. Like the regular E-Class saloon, the E 63 AMG has a re-designed single headlamp unit. However, it sports a more aggressive front bumper that houses huge air intakes on both sides. -
Bentley takes on Mercedes in a unique head to head competition
PetrolHead posted a blog entry in MyAutoBlog
You live in the US and have over $200,000 to spend. You are shopping for a luxury limosouine sedan and have narrowed down to two choices - A Bentley and a Mercedes AMG. But which is better? If you, like me are wondering why isn't a Rolls-Royce featured in this head to head video, well apparently Rolls didn't want to compete, or they were worried apparently. Another worthy contestant will be Maybach but they have folded - so to speak. So it was really interesting to see an uber luxury saloon and a well really expensive saloon competiting. Spoiler alert - the results are not surprising at all. Whats your take guys? If you had all the money in the world which luxury saloon would you guys buy? -
Transmission specialist develops hybrid gearbox for premium luxury cars
FaezClutchless posted a blog entry in MyAutoBlog
A British engineering company, Xtrac, specialists of high performance and race car grade transmissions, have designed a hybridised automated manual transmission (H-AMT; designated code 1010). This particular transmission design allows future luxury and performance cars to meet the 95g/km CO2 emission requirements that will be introduced by European legislators in 2020. The crucial technical part of the transmission system is the integrated electric motor. The electric motor enables the vehicle to travel at speeds of up to 152km/h on electric power alone after which; engine power kicks in. The transmission is said to be able to handle torque figures from 800Nm to 1000Nm, depending on vehicle gross weight and application. The above mentioned speed range allows torque infill up to the fourth gear during heavy acceleration and in all gears, up to the threshold speed, during low speed driving; when it is considered desirable to keep the engine revs low which will improve vehicle efficiency. The term 'torque infill' - refers to the application of additional torque from the transmission to the road wheels during the period of a gear change. In a conventional transmission system, torque is interrupted to allow the shift to complete. The ability to provide torque to the road wheels, independent of the engine, reduces the energy absorbed by the main drive clutch during the vehicle launch pull-away condition which can lead to clutch downsizing and also reduction in drive plate and flywheel inertia. This is seen as an additional benefit in hybridising an automated manual transmission. The Xtrac 1010 H-AMT is designed as an alternative to heavier and more complex dual clutch transmissions. It has lesser parts and lighter in overall weight and also offer increased functionality over single electric motor hybrid systems. Although dual clutch gearboxes do not suffer from power interruptions either, the company stresses that its products are less complex, lighter and are more efficient than DCTs. The seven speed transmission offers multiple modes of internal combustion engine and electric motor operation and with an overall ratio spread of 6:1, which is higher than most other transmissions in the market today. Image credit: Xtrac.com -
9ff is an esteemed Porsche tuning unit from Germany founded by Jan Fatthauer of Zuffenhausen who set out to build the fastest car in the world. Of course.. we all do don't we? After requiring an Automotive Engineering degree he worked for several tuners before starting out on his own. Back in January 2004, Jan reached 372km/h in his 9ff T6 at the Nardo track and returned back to the track in December that same year driving up to 388km/h in his 9ff V400. Fast forward to 2012, the team at 9ff has created a potent auto vehicle - the GT9 Vmax - a 1,381bhp German monster with a top speed of 437km/h. the GT9 Vmax is based on 997-model Porsche 911 and weighs just 1339kg. The carbon fibre clad GT9 Vmax is powered by a twin-turbo'd 4.2-litre flat-six, with a earlier reported high figure of 1,381bhp and 1,157Nm of torque mated to a six-speed gearbox. To save weight the windows are made from polycarbonate and aerodynamic efficiency in increased through faired rear wheels. Light weight and intense amount of power propels the GT9 Vmax to 100km/h in 3.1 seconds and it takes just 6.8 seconds to hit roughly 200km/h and 300km/h in just 13 seconds.
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Toyota Motorsports GmbH unleashes the TMG Sports 650
FaezClutchless posted a blog entry in MyAutoBlog
In the month of November 2012, Toyota Motorsports GmbH (TMG) announced that they will be showcasing one of their project works at the 2012 Essen Motor Show. Nothing much was said about the car except that it will be based on a Lexus LS and will deliver over 600bhp. Several teaser images consisting of several carbon fibre parts and a BBS wheel fitted on the car soon followed afterwards. And now, Toyota Motorsports GmbH has finally revealed the completed car and it is officially known as the TMG Sports 650. The TMG Sports 650 is fitted with many carbon fibre parts which include a rear spoiler lip, side skirts and a roof panel. The wheel arc has been flared to allow 20 inch BBS wheels to fit on all four corners. These BBS wheels are wrapped in a low profile Michelin tyre. At the rear, four chromed exhaust tips are positioned in a peculiar but tasteful manner. One thing that is definitely missing from the car is the trademark spindle grille that is found on all new Lexus models. Probably, this is TMG -
[extract] Seat has revealed the 2013 Ibiza Cupra facelift in its fully glory. The model was previewed by the Ibiza Cupra Concept at this year
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Just recently, Subaru revealed the Subaru BRZ STI at the Australian International Motor Show in Sydney. The car is said to be available for sale soon. And soon after that, the company announced that there are plans to release a turbocharged version of the car. While Toyota has released a TRD version of the 86 before this, the car only received aftermarket cosmetic parts such as a bodykit, suspension system and some TRD badges. Many were expecting a turbocharger or supercharger to be included as well. Just days after images of a Subaru BRZ wearing a huge GT wing and a STI bodykit was spotted at the Nurburgring, Toyota's in-house tuning division, TRD, has announced that they are looking into upgrades for the Scion FR-S (Toyota 86 in other markets). During the recent SEMA auto show, Scion showcased three modified examples of the Scion FR-S and a couple of them were supercharged. And it was at the same show where TRD representatives stated that they are considering a supercharger kit for the Scion FR-S. Toyota has previously offered supercharger kits for their sports or performance cars and even some of their trucks. And it comes as no surprise that a supercharger kit will be available for the Scion FR-S. The idea of a supercharger kit for the car is still very much in the planning stage and obviously no power figures were given. One of the advantages of having a TRD supercharger kit is that it offers a full factory warranty by the company and other aftermarket offerings do not often offer that. Since the Scion FR-S (including the Toyota 86) and the Subaru BRZ are practically identical, the supercharger kit should be able to be used for all three cars. Image credit: Net Car Show
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Lexus to introduce a supercharged GS350 F Sport at 2012 SEMA
FaezClutchless posted a blog entry in MyAutoBlog
When someone is considering a performance mid-size luxury sedan, probably they will look at something like the BMW M5 or the Audi S6. If that person prefers a Japanese car, then he or she will be left with very little choices. How little are those choices? Probably close to nothing. But, fret not because Japanese luxury automaker, Lexus is bringing a supercharged GS350 F Sport to SEMA. And on top of that, the company might consider adding a more powerful version of the GS in the near future. The supercharged GS350 F Sport is a collaboration between Lexus and Californian auto tuner, VIP Auto Salon. The car receives a custom Apexi supercharger kit. Other than this, an Apexi throttle recalibration system and a dual exhaust pipe that stretches from the headers all the way to the back are added too. To cope with the extra horsepower, a Brembo High Performance GT brake kit and RSR coilovers are fitted on all four corners. 20 inch Vossen wheels replace the stock ones and the wheels are wrapped in Yokohama S Drive tyres. On the outside, the car is fitted with a custom made aero bodykit from Japanese tuner Wald International. The kit consists of a lip spoiler, side skirts and roof and trunk lid spoilers. No power figures were released at the moment but my guess it would be around the mid 400bhp mark. Just last year, Lexus unveiled the GS350 F Sport at SEMA. Although it may have a different look from the normal GS but in terms of performance; it is pretty much the same. Consumers might not be impressed with a car like that especially with a sporty sounding name. The introduction of the supercharged GS350 F Sport is probably Lexus -
[extract] Ever since the release of the Subaru BRZ, many have been hankering over an STI version. Many felt that it just does not feel right for Subaru to have a performance model that
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[extract] Toyota Racing Development (TRD) has released a body kit for the facelifted Lexus LS 460 sedan in Japan. The upgrades over the standard model include a diffuser, front splitter, side skirts, forged aluminum wheels, and sport mufflers. The top-of-the-range Lexus LS saloon is a stately and comfortable luxury sedan. The question is
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The Car Paint Solution Cars are expensive. To protect our investment, we make sure our car is in good running order by regularly taking it to the workshop for tune-ups, oil changes and repairs. We also spend a lot of money and time to ensure that our cars are in 'showroom condition'. We wash and wax it - really wanting it to shine, to sparkle and to be noticed. Unfortunately, in taking care of both the paint and the shine, we often cause damage and deteriorate the sparkle. The Elements and Car Wax The quality of the shine will, naturally, affect the overall presentation of the car. Obviously, it is the paint that is most exposed to harsh environmental elements. The damages to paint from rain that is acidic, dust particles that stick to the car surface, and UV rays which speed up oxidation are real. These elements can ruin paint and shine quickly if one doesn't protect the paint. Most car owners' solution to maintaining the shine turns out to cause even more damage. SierraGlow - Glass coating protection One brand that utilises such paint protection technology is SierraGlow. As opposed to other products in the market, the company's offering - Glassglow - contains 95% Silica (one of the highest concentration in the market), which makes it comparatively more durable than those formed by other glass type coating materials. Besides providing extensive protection capabilities, the layer's high water and dirt repelling properties imply that owners will have an easier time cleaning up the car thereafter - a mild water bath will suffice for regular maintenance. What is the difference? SierraGlow is truly unique with its formula. Although the compound, Glassglow, is primarily silica, it is inert and inorganic. Why is this important? Organic materials, by definition, contain carbon, and carbon will react and interact with weather elements. So, acid rain, UV sunrays, bird dung or car shampoo will all interact with organic silica coatings. These compounds on the car paint will slowly deteriorate and dissipate. These organic compounds will need to be reapplied, and most companies selling these compounds will tell you to bring the car back every year or even 6 months for a "refinishing". Unlike other companies, SierraGlow's Glassglow is 100% inorganic and has the highest concentration of 95% of silica in the market. Hence, it will not deteriorate as quick. Since its inorganic compound does not interact with the standard paint threats, GlassGlow stays on the car. Even after each wash, your car's shine will stay. It is, thus, vital to ask before you select: Is the compound organic or inorganic? Advantages of using SierraGlow One big advantage of using SierraGlow is not just their inorganic GlassGlow, but the compounds that they use to prepare your car for the GlassGlow application. They may spend 3 to 8 hours to complete the paint preparation, as any house owner knows, it is the foundation that is the most important and takes the longest to build. Before GlassGlow is applied, they thoroughly clean and buff the paint. It is crucial to restore the surface to clean and smooth paint before applying GlassGlow. They use clay bars and the latest sponge or lamb's wool orbital buffers from Japan in preparing the paint. More notably, they use their own polishing/buffing compounds called TC Hard, TC Round, TC Combo, TC All or TC Finish. Each of these compounds is specially formulated for variety in paint hardness, the depth of surface scratches and general paint restoration. These compounds are unique and not sold on the open market as they were specifically designed for SierraGlow and its GlassGlow application. In SierraGlow's inventory are additional great car care products which also boast extraordinary cutting edge technology, namely the SierraWash and SierraBead. For instance, SierraWash is a car washing agent with a neutral pH value to ensure that there is no 'chemical attack' on the paintwork. SierraBead on the other hand, maintains a high water paint surface runoff, hence, reducing the occurrence of water spots, and renewing the glow and water repellence of Glassglow. In addition, SierraBead works well with all colours, and is suitable for use on different materials such as glass, aluminium and galvanised steel. While setting its emphasis strongly on product development to ensure maximum efficiency, SierraGlow's products are also environmentally friendly. They do not contain any volatile organic compound (VOC) and do not disrupt any environmental hormones. Under the SierraGlow program, all cars will be warranted against disintegration of the Glassglow layer for three years. You only require one application for a shine that will last for years. Every application will come with a serial number and proof of warranty for authentication purpose. For a limited time only, the package will come with a free 3M Scotchgard internal grooming service. Furthermore, all sgCarMart users will enjoy 15% discount when booking online with SierraGlow, simply by quoting 'sgcar108'. For more information on service booking and product, please visit http://www.sierraglow.sg/.
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Ford to showcase five Focus ST concepts at 2012 SEMA
FaezClutchless posted a blog entry in MyAutoBlog
The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show is considered to be the premier automotive specialty products trade event in the world and it is usually held every November at the Las Vegas Convention Centre. Many companies dealing with automotive related products will bring their wares to the show and this year, Ford will showcase five 2013 Focus ST concepts for the above mentioned event. Cars displayed during SEMA events are known to be rather -
350bhp and an active differential for the next Focus RS
FaezClutchless posted a blog entry in MyAutoBlog
The Ford Focus RS is one mean performance machine. In standard form, the car delivers 300bhp with 440Nm of torque and it can complete the century sprint in less than six seconds. For those who crave for more power, they can opt for the Ford Focus RS500. Its power has been upgraded to 345bhp with a torque of 460Nm and with a 0-100km/h timing of 5.6 seconds. Now it seems that the next standard Ford Focus RS will be even more powerful than the previous model's top grade sub-model. It is reported that the new model will get 350bhp, a whopping 50bhp from the previous generation model. Earlier reported this year, the car was said to get around 320bhp but the automaker has managed to churn out a little more. All that power will come from Ford -
When I saw the picture above, I thought I was looking at the Mk6 Golf GTI. It is even wearing the same "Detroit" rims borrowed from the Mk6 GTI. But on further reading, I realized that I was actually looking at the design study of the 2013 MK7 Golf GTI. Although this is a concept car, it looked very production ready with all the GTI themes such as the tartan cloth upholstery and flat-bottomed steering wheel. Like all Mk7 Golfs, the GTI rides on VW's all-new MQB platform. The most important detail is what lies under the hood of the latest VW hot hatch. It will be powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged, direct-injected unit that pumps out 217bhp and 350Nm of torque, which is the same as the MK6 Golf R. With such tremendous twisting force, the latest iteration of the GTI sprints from 0 to 100km/h is 6.6 sec before reaching a top speed of 246 km/h. Buyers will be able to choose between a standard manual gearbox and the famed DSG dual-clutch transmission. For the first time ever, VW will offer a performance pack for the Golf GTI. However, power is only increased by a mere 10bhp with century sprint reduced by a negligible 0.1 second. The performance pack also comes with a differential lock that reduces understeer as well as bigger front brake discs. The 2013 Golf GTI is differentiated from the standard version by the twin red stripe at the front grille, red brake calipers, smoked LED tail lights and 80 mm chromed tailpipes. If I am an existing Mk6 Golf GTI owner, I will be quite happy that my ride will not look outdated as compared to its successor.
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The 2014 BMW M3 has been spied while undergoing some testing on the famous German track, the Nurburgring, thanks to the folks at Bimmer Post. From the footage, we can see that like all previous generations of the M3, the top-of-the range BMW 3 series has subtle styling differences from its lesser siblings. The all-new M3 is observed to have two pair of exhaust pipe. Other than the styling of the new M3, the video also give us a preview of the aural pleasure that can be derived from the car