Volkswagen introduces new R-Line sport package for the Touareg

Volkswagen Touareg shoppers now have one more box to tick on the options list as the German automaker has released the third and final R-Line package for the luxury SUV model, aptly called 'Exterior'. As its name suggests, the new package gives the Touareg a more aggressive appearance on the outside. It includes a bodykit with a front apron, chunky side skirts, a bespoke roof spoiler and a rear apron that incorporates a diffuser in a matte black finish with openings for the chrome tail pipes.

The exterior styling kit can be combined with the two other available packages, and in particular the standard R-Line, which includes 20-inch alloy wheels, a sports suspension, stainless steel door sill plates, a sports steering wheel with decorative inserts in piano black, stainless steel pedals and aluminum trim on the dashboard, and the R-Line Plus that adds sports seats in a two-tone leather finish.

The R-Line Exterior package is available on all models except the Hybrid, and in true VW-fashion, pricing depends on the engine option with the kit costing (in Germany) €1,840 when ordered on the V8 TDI and €2,200 on the V6 model.

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Volkswagen introduces new R-Line sport package for the Touareg

Volkswagen Touareg shoppers now have one more box to tick on the options list as the German automaker has released the third and final R-Line package for the luxury SUV model, aptly called 'Exterior'. As its name suggests, the new package gives the Touareg a more aggressive appearance on the outside. It includes a bodykit with a front apron, chunky side skirts, a bespoke roof spoiler and a rear apron that incorporates a diffuser in a matte black finish with openings for the chrome tail pipes.

The exterior styling kit can be combined with the two other available packages, and in particular the standard R-Line, which includes 20-inch alloy wheels, a sports suspension, stainless steel door sill plates, a sports steering wheel with decorative inserts in piano black, stainless steel pedals and aluminum trim on the dashboard, and the R-Line Plus that adds sports seats in a two-tone leather finish.

The R-Line Exterior package is available on all models except the Hybrid, and in true VW-fashion, pricing depends on the engine option with the kit costing (in Germany) €1,840 when ordered on the V8 TDI and €2,200 on the V6 model.

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Volkswagen introduces new R-Line sport package for the Touareg

Volkswagen Touareg shoppers now have one more box to tick on the options list as the German automaker has released the third and final R-Line package for the luxury SUV model, aptly called 'Exterior'. As its name suggests, the new package gives the Touareg a more aggressive appearance on the outside. It includes a bodykit with a front apron, chunky side skirts, a bespoke roof spoiler and a rear apron that incorporates a diffuser in a matte black finish with openings for the chrome tail pipes.

The exterior styling kit can be combined with the two other available packages, and in particular the standard R-Line, which includes 20-inch alloy wheels, a sports suspension, stainless steel door sill plates, a sports steering wheel with decorative inserts in piano black, stainless steel pedals and aluminum trim on the dashboard, and the R-Line Plus that adds sports seats in a two-tone leather finish.

The R-Line Exterior package is available on all models except the Hybrid, and in true VW-fashion, pricing depends on the engine option with the kit costing (in Germany) €1,840 when ordered on the V8 TDI and €2,200 on the V6 model.

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Video: Daytona and 911 - A Special Story

Video: Daytona and 911 - A Special Story

Video: Daytona and 911 - A Special Story

Successful test for the Audi R18

Four and a half months before the Le Mans 24 Hours, preparations for the endurance classic are in full swing at Audi. Two new Audi R18 cars and one Audi R15 TDI were used in tests at Sebring (U.S. state of Florida).

The program planned for the tradition-steeped American circuit specified endurance runs for one of the completely re-developed LMP1 sports cars while the second Audi R18 was primarily used for development work. The Audi R15 “plus plus” that will be fielded at the 12-hour race at Sebring – the season opener of the Intercontinental Le Mans Cup (ILMC) – completed a long run as well. In addition, the basic setup for the race in March was worked out on the vehicle.

During the tests, which ended on Saturday, the nine Audi “factory” drivers took turns at the wheel so that all of them had the opportunity to drive each of the three sports cars.

“We’re very pleased with the performance of the Audi R18 at our first outing at Sebring,” said Head of Audi Motorsport Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich. “We opted for this race track because it makes high demands on the mechanical systems of our vehicles. The temperatures are better than in Europe right now, plus the dry weather provides us with assurance that we’re able to conduct the endurance runs as planned. On a wet track the loads would be lower and the test results therefore less conclusive.”

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Successful test for the Audi R18

Four and a half months before the Le Mans 24 Hours, preparations for the endurance classic are in full swing at Audi. Two new Audi R18 cars and one Audi R15 TDI were used in tests at Sebring (U.S. state of Florida).

The program planned for the tradition-steeped American circuit specified endurance runs for one of the completely re-developed LMP1 sports cars while the second Audi R18 was primarily used for development work. The Audi R15 “plus plus” that will be fielded at the 12-hour race at Sebring – the season opener of the Intercontinental Le Mans Cup (ILMC) – completed a long run as well. In addition, the basic setup for the race in March was worked out on the vehicle.

During the tests, which ended on Saturday, the nine Audi “factory” drivers took turns at the wheel so that all of them had the opportunity to drive each of the three sports cars.

“We’re very pleased with the performance of the Audi R18 at our first outing at Sebring,” said Head of Audi Motorsport Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich. “We opted for this race track because it makes high demands on the mechanical systems of our vehicles. The temperatures are better than in Europe right now, plus the dry weather provides us with assurance that we’re able to conduct the endurance runs as planned. On a wet track the loads would be lower and the test results therefore less conclusive.”

Click for Full Size


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Successful test for the Audi R18

Four and a half months before the Le Mans 24 Hours, preparations for the endurance classic are in full swing at Audi. Two new Audi R18 cars and one Audi R15 TDI were used in tests at Sebring (U.S. state of Florida).

The program planned for the tradition-steeped American circuit specified endurance runs for one of the completely re-developed LMP1 sports cars while the second Audi R18 was primarily used for development work. The Audi R15 “plus plus” that will be fielded at the 12-hour race at Sebring – the season opener of the Intercontinental Le Mans Cup (ILMC) – completed a long run as well. In addition, the basic setup for the race in March was worked out on the vehicle.

During the tests, which ended on Saturday, the nine Audi “factory” drivers took turns at the wheel so that all of them had the opportunity to drive each of the three sports cars.

“We’re very pleased with the performance of the Audi R18 at our first outing at Sebring,” said Head of Audi Motorsport Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich. “We opted for this race track because it makes high demands on the mechanical systems of our vehicles. The temperatures are better than in Europe right now, plus the dry weather provides us with assurance that we’re able to conduct the endurance runs as planned. On a wet track the loads would be lower and the test results therefore less conclusive.”

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Video: Volkswagen XL1 on the streets of Qatar

Video: Volkswagen XL1 on the streets of Qatar

Video: Volkswagen XL1 on the streets of Qatar

Porsche Cajun latest rendering

Here is the latest rendering of the 2-door SUV from Porsche.

With the official green-light given to the the entry-level crossover in November, the Cajun is designed to attract new and younger customers. The Cajun will be an "efficient and sporty model" with "typical Porsche features such as light weight, ease of handling and agility." Furthermore, the crossover will be based on the Audi Q5 and feature styling influenced by VW design boss Walter de' Silva.

The Cajun is expected to be launched in 2014 and will compete with the Mercedes GLK, BMW X3, and Land Rover Evoque.



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Porsche Cajun latest rendering

Here is the latest rendering of the 2-door SUV from Porsche.

With the official green-light given to the the entry-level crossover in November, the Cajun is designed to attract new and younger customers. The Cajun will be an "efficient and sporty model" with "typical Porsche features such as light weight, ease of handling and agility." Furthermore, the crossover will be based on the Audi Q5 and feature styling influenced by VW design boss Walter de' Silva.

The Cajun is expected to be launched in 2014 and will compete with the Mercedes GLK, BMW X3, and Land Rover Evoque.



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Porsche Cajun latest rendering

Here is the latest rendering of the 2-door SUV from Porsche.

With the official green-light given to the the entry-level crossover in November, the Cajun is designed to attract new and younger customers. The Cajun will be an "efficient and sporty model" with "typical Porsche features such as light weight, ease of handling and agility." Furthermore, the crossover will be based on the Audi Q5 and feature styling influenced by VW design boss Walter de' Silva.

The Cajun is expected to be launched in 2014 and will compete with the Mercedes GLK, BMW X3, and Land Rover Evoque.



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Video: Audi RS3 and Quattro Concept Remix

Video: Audi RS3 and Quattro Concept Remix

Video: Audi RS3 and Quattro Concept Remix

Video: Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge from Saudi Arabia Recap

Video: Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge from Saudi Arabia Recap

Video: Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge from Saudi Arabia Recap

Video: AWE Tuning Panamera S and 4S Exhaust System

AWE Tuning has released their exhaust system for the Panamera S and 4S. They tuned the system to deliver an exotic sound at full throttle, yet be quiet and civil during part throttle around town driving. Through countless research and development efforts they have produced one of the finest Panamera exhaust on the market with max gains of +12hp at the crank.

Each exhaust is hand made, and in true AWE fashion they command respect without calling unwanted attention to themselves. Sophisticated, refined, and powerful, all at once. Further, each system is personalized with the original owner's name on the serial badge.

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Video: AWE Tuning Panamera S and 4S Exhaust System

AWE Tuning has released their exhaust system for the Panamera S and 4S. They tuned the system to deliver an exotic sound at full throttle, yet be quiet and civil during part throttle around town driving. Through countless research and development efforts they have produced one of the finest Panamera exhaust on the market with max gains of +12hp at the crank.

Each exhaust is hand made, and in true AWE fashion they command respect without calling unwanted attention to themselves. Sophisticated, refined, and powerful, all at once. Further, each system is personalized with the original owner's name on the serial badge.

Click title for the source

Video: AWE Tuning Panamera S and 4S Exhaust System

AWE Tuning has released their exhaust system for the Panamera S and 4S. They tuned the system to deliver an exotic sound at full throttle, yet be quiet and civil during part throttle around town driving. Through countless research and development efforts they have produced one of the finest Panamera exhaust on the market with max gains of +12hp at the crank.

Each exhaust is hand made, and in true AWE fashion they command respect without calling unwanted attention to themselves. Sophisticated, refined, and powerful, all at once. Further, each system is personalized with the original owner's name on the serial badge.

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AC Schnitzer Turns All-Electric MINI E into a Police Car

In support of the German Automobile Tuner Association’s “Tune it! Safe!” campaign, AC Schnitzer built the MINI E Police Look Concept, which is being showcased at the 2010 Essen Motor Show. The idea behind the campaign is to create a car that can satisfy tuning aficionados and also meet safety standards.



The BMW Group's MINI E is powered by an electric motor with 204 hp on tap and plenty of low-down torque (maximum is 220 Nm or 162 lb-ft). It completes the standard sprint from standstill to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 8.5 seconds and has a limited top speed of 152 km/h (95 mph).



AC Schnitzer’s comprehensive tuning package made it even better while the police livery is an interesting take on the “safety” theme.



Finished in the classic Polizei colors, the concept has the latest signaling system from Hella mounted on the roof and special wraps from Foliatec. Modified front and rear bumpers, plus lowered side skirts, improve the car's looks, while bonnet vents and a large roof spoiler complete the bodykit.



The tuner opted for new alloys, too. The 18-inch MI 2 wheels feature an 8-spoke design and are wrapped in high-performance Hankook Ventus S1 Evo tires. Stopping power is provided by an upgraded brake system, boasting 328mm 4-pot caliper (in front) ventilated disks. There is also a complete suspension kit.



Inside, the boys in blue are greeted by aluminum pedals, footrest and handbrake handle.



AC Schnitzer says that most of the tuning accessories shown on the concept model are either already available or will soon be offered for the production MINIs.

Suzuki Alto Priced from £6,795 in the UK

On the 1st of March, Suzuki's all-new Alto mini will go on sale in the UK with an on the road price starting at £6,795. The five-door Alto hatchback is powered by a three-cylinder 67HP 1.0-litre engine and has a combined fuel consumption of 64.2 mpg UK with CO2 emissions of just 103 g/km. Not that buyers will care, but the Alto is the first European-specification model to be exported in three years from the firm's Maruti Suzuki plant in Delhi, India, which is celebrating its 25 year anniversary this year.

Suzuki MR Wagon

Suzuki has announced the arrival of its new home market MR Wagon kei car, which has been fully redesigned for the first time in five years featuring a fresh styling and a brand new 660cc three-cylinder petrol engine matched to a continuously variable transmission.



The Japanese firm's kei car is built on a newly development platform and measures just 3,395 mm long, 1,475 wide and 1,625 tall. With a wheelbase 65mm longer than its predecessor at 2.425mm, the new MR Wagon promises to offers increased passenger space as well as a little more ride comfort and improved stability on the road.



In Japan, Suzuki offers the 0.7-liter three-cylinder engine in naturally aspirated and turbocharged flavors, which produce 54HP and 64HP respectively, while buyers can also opt between front- and all-wheel drive configurations.



Other highlights include a touch screen audio system on the upper part of the center console and the availability of an ESP system with Hill Hold Control.



The boxy shaped kei car is available for order in Japan with prices starting from US$13,700.

Chevrolet Camaro SS

FELGE German aftermarket specialists reveal their upgrade program on the Chevrolet Camaro SS.



The standard 6.2-liter V8 unit develops 432 horsepower and 569 Nm of maximum torque, but after receiving a compressor kit (EUR8,999) by Speed Box, the Camaro produces some impressive 625 horsepower.



In the 22-inch realm, a staggered approach is used, with 265/30ZR22 tires on 10-inch wide rims and 295/25ZR22 meats over11-inch rims out back. This kind of image is backed up with appropriate chassis mods, including a coil-over conversion from H&R along with their sway bars.



It's a performance-oriented package but Speed Box also offers that 'Black Cat' matte body paintwork for the Camaro SS priced at €3,500.

VW Golf R Named Top Gear Hot Hatch of the Year

This year Top Gear magazine picked Volkswagen Golf R as their Hot Hatch of the Year. Last time Top Gear awarded a Golf was the GTI in 2009.

The Golf R really deserves this title since it’s one of the most complete hot hatches you can buy today. And that is exactly the point of hot hatches, they must be able to do everything you throw at them. Top Gar describes the Golf R as ‘extraordinarily good at so many things’.

An with a a 2.0-liter TSI engine developing 270 PS and 350 Nm (258 lbs ft) of torque, a sophisticated 4MOTION system and a six-speed DSG gearbox as well as the practicality of a normal Golf, the R is ready for every occasion. To match the extra power, the Golf R features a series of upgrades to its springs, dampers, gearbox software, braking system and styling to ensure that it both looks and feels sharper than the standard car.

Of course it’s not the cheapest hot hatch out there, but it certainly delivers great value for money.

On hand to collect the Award was Dr. Hendrik Muth, Head of Marketing and Communications at Volkswagen R – the special projects wing of Volkswagen tasked with designing and developing R products.

Dr. Muth commented: "This is the third generation of Golf R and the fastest and most focussed yet; we designed it to appeal to keen drivers exactly like the judges at TopGear. On behalf of Volkswagen and Volkswagen R it’s a real honour for the Golf to be recognised with such an award."

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VW Golf R Named Top Gear Hot Hatch of the Year

This year Top Gear magazine picked Volkswagen Golf R as their Hot Hatch of the Year. Last time Top Gear awarded a Golf was the GTI in 2009.

The Golf R really deserves this title since it’s one of the most complete hot hatches you can buy today. And that is exactly the point of hot hatches, they must be able to do everything you throw at them. Top Gar describes the Golf R as ‘extraordinarily good at so many things’.

An with a a 2.0-liter TSI engine developing 270 PS and 350 Nm (258 lbs ft) of torque, a sophisticated 4MOTION system and a six-speed DSG gearbox as well as the practicality of a normal Golf, the R is ready for every occasion. To match the extra power, the Golf R features a series of upgrades to its springs, dampers, gearbox software, braking system and styling to ensure that it both looks and feels sharper than the standard car.

Of course it’s not the cheapest hot hatch out there, but it certainly delivers great value for money.

On hand to collect the Award was Dr. Hendrik Muth, Head of Marketing and Communications at Volkswagen R – the special projects wing of Volkswagen tasked with designing and developing R products.

Dr. Muth commented: "This is the third generation of Golf R and the fastest and most focussed yet; we designed it to appeal to keen drivers exactly like the judges at TopGear. On behalf of Volkswagen and Volkswagen R it’s a real honour for the Golf to be recognised with such an award."

Click title for the source

VW Golf R Named Top Gear Hot Hatch of the Year

This year Top Gear magazine picked Volkswagen Golf R as their Hot Hatch of the Year. Last time Top Gear awarded a Golf was the GTI in 2009.

The Golf R really deserves this title since it’s one of the most complete hot hatches you can buy today. And that is exactly the point of hot hatches, they must be able to do everything you throw at them. Top Gar describes the Golf R as ‘extraordinarily good at so many things’.

An with a a 2.0-liter TSI engine developing 270 PS and 350 Nm (258 lbs ft) of torque, a sophisticated 4MOTION system and a six-speed DSG gearbox as well as the practicality of a normal Golf, the R is ready for every occasion. To match the extra power, the Golf R features a series of upgrades to its springs, dampers, gearbox software, braking system and styling to ensure that it both looks and feels sharper than the standard car.

Of course it’s not the cheapest hot hatch out there, but it certainly delivers great value for money.

On hand to collect the Award was Dr. Hendrik Muth, Head of Marketing and Communications at Volkswagen R – the special projects wing of Volkswagen tasked with designing and developing R products.

Dr. Muth commented: "This is the third generation of Golf R and the fastest and most focussed yet; we designed it to appeal to keen drivers exactly like the judges at TopGear. On behalf of Volkswagen and Volkswagen R it’s a real honour for the Golf to be recognised with such an award."

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First Audi R18 pictures on the track

Rumors have been floating around that Audi Sport was headed to Florida for some early testing ahead of the ILMC season opener at Sebring. They were on hand today at Sebring doing their first (semi) public shakedowns of both last year's R15, plus two R18's marked #1 and #2.

Audi had already confirmed that it would race a modified version of last year's R15 at the 12 Hours of Sebring and then finish the season with its new R18 so it is perhaps not that surprising that both cars were in Sebring. That said, the R15 will need to be modified in order to run at Sebring and, at least when it comes to bodywork changes like the so-called "tailfin", the #7 R15 plus running today appeared to be running 2010-spec bodywork.

Examining high-resolution photos from today's tests, we can at least confirm a few drivers' presence. We can tell by the helmets that both Marcel Fassler and Benoit Treluyer were testing the open-top R15 plus though in the case of the two R18s this is harder to discern. One shot appears to be Dindo Capello at the wheel of the #1, but beyond that we cannot confirm further drivers.

Though details are limited, the real story for the fans is that these mark the first photos of the new R18 out in the wild and on a track.

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First Audi R18 pictures on the track

Rumors have been floating around that Audi Sport was headed to Florida for some early testing ahead of the ILMC season opener at Sebring. They were on hand today at Sebring doing their first (semi) public shakedowns of both last year's R15, plus two R18's marked #1 and #2.

Audi had already confirmed that it would race a modified version of last year's R15 at the 12 Hours of Sebring and then finish the season with its new R18 so it is perhaps not that surprising that both cars were in Sebring. That said, the R15 will need to be modified in order to run at Sebring and, at least when it comes to bodywork changes like the so-called "tailfin", the #7 R15 plus running today appeared to be running 2010-spec bodywork.

Examining high-resolution photos from today's tests, we can at least confirm a few drivers' presence. We can tell by the helmets that both Marcel Fassler and Benoit Treluyer were testing the open-top R15 plus though in the case of the two R18s this is harder to discern. One shot appears to be Dindo Capello at the wheel of the #1, but beyond that we cannot confirm further drivers.

Though details are limited, the real story for the fans is that these mark the first photos of the new R18 out in the wild and on a track.

Click for Full Size


Click title for the source

First Audi R18 pictures on the track

Rumors have been floating around that Audi Sport was headed to Florida for some early testing ahead of the ILMC season opener at Sebring. They were on hand today at Sebring doing their first (semi) public shakedowns of both last year's R15, plus two R18's marked #1 and #2.

Audi had already confirmed that it would race a modified version of last year's R15 at the 12 Hours of Sebring and then finish the season with its new R18 so it is perhaps not that surprising that both cars were in Sebring. That said, the R15 will need to be modified in order to run at Sebring and, at least when it comes to bodywork changes like the so-called "tailfin", the #7 R15 plus running today appeared to be running 2010-spec bodywork.

Examining high-resolution photos from today's tests, we can at least confirm a few drivers' presence. We can tell by the helmets that both Marcel Fassler and Benoit Treluyer were testing the open-top R15 plus though in the case of the two R18s this is harder to discern. One shot appears to be Dindo Capello at the wheel of the #1, but beyond that we cannot confirm further drivers.

Though details are limited, the real story for the fans is that these mark the first photos of the new R18 out in the wild and on a track.

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Video: 2012 Audi A6 driving scenes

Video: 2012 Audi A6 driving scenes

Video: 2012 Audi A6 driving scenes

Volkswagen XL1 to enter limited production

According to Automobilwoche, Volkswagen will build 100 XL1s as a small batch of regular production machines... meaning they'll actually be offered for sale to the general public. No word on what will power the production models, but the concept features a two-cylinder TDI engine, electric motor, lithium-ion battery pack and a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. All that fuel-sipping goodness is enough to achieve an astonishing 0.9L/100 km – just over 261 mpg.
Germany will reportedly get first crack at the XL1, followed by the United States and China. It is shocking that VW actually plans to produce a nearly 300-mpg machine, going to the trouble of putting it through safety and emissions tests and all that goes along with making it legal, for such a small batch of vehicles. Surprised, but pleased, while also a bit skeptical it will ultimately happen. Projects like these are usually the first to get cut when the global economy forces belts to be tightened.



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