Dodge Challenger 100th Anniversary Edition, 2014

 

 

 Dodge Challenger 100th Anniversary Edition, 2014

There is no vehicle more iconic than the head-turning Challenger, which serves as the perfect foundation to celebrate 100 years of Dodge style and performance. Based on the 2014 Dodge Challenger SXT Plus and R/T Plus models, the new 100th Anniversary Edition pays tribute to the brand's history in contemporary Dodge style.

Similar to the Charger, the Dodge Challenger 100th Anniversary Edition includes all-new 20 x 8-inch polished five-spoke aluminum wheels with Granite Crystal pockets and matching Granite Crystal grille surround with script "Challenger" badge. To provide contrast, Pitch Black, Bright White, Billet Silver, Granite Crystal, Ivory Tri-Coat, Phantom Black Tri-Coat, Header Orange and an exclusive High Octane Red pearl coat paint are available. For added detail, commemorative bar style "Dodge Est. 1914" front-fender badges and Dodge '100' wheel center caps mark this special edition.

The interior has all-new and exclusive Molten Red or Foundry Black heated Nappa leather sport seats featuring a custom 'cloud overprint.' Brass colored accent stitching and die-cast "Dodge Est. 1914" circular badges provide the 2014 Dodge Challenger 100th Anniversary Editions with an exclusive, high-end appearance that also draws inspiration from the machinist heritage of John and Horace Dodge. Adding contrast to armrests trimmed in matching Molten Red or Foundry Black premium leather are Liquid Graphite center console bezels, steering wheel accents and door handle pulls.

The interior appointments designed to commemorate the brand's centenary include die-cast "Dodge Est. 1914" circular badges on front seatbacks and an embroidered anniversary logo on premium floor mats. For a touch of style, new bright white gauge faces feature a surprising detail element as the "100" mph indication is marked appropriately in red. Adding even more detail is the Uconnect system's startup image, evoking the industrious nature of Detroit. Finishing out the interior is a seven speaker Boston Acoustics audio system with 368-watt amplifier, along with Mopar "Challenger" sill plates and bright pedals.

Performance and Challenger are synonymous. The Dodge Challenger 100th Anniversary Edition based on the 2014 Dodge Challenger SXT Plus model features a 305 horsepower 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine, delivering up to 27 mpg on the highway. Available with a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic, the Dodge Challenger 100th Anniversary Edition based on the 2014 Dodge Challenger R/T Plus offers up to 375 horsepower, 25 mpg highway and 0-60 mph under 6 seconds. Both V-6 and V-8 models include sport mode calibration, performance-tuned suspension and three-spoke flat-bottom performance steering-wheel.

Completing the special model are two unique key fobs, which include a 100th Anniversary Edition jeweled logo on the back side, a customized owner's kit and a special commemorative book celebrating the 100 years of Dodge heritage.

Read More

Citroen C4 Picasso, 2014

 

 

 

 Citroen C4 Picasso, 2014

The new Citroen C4 Picasso is first and foremost a car of astonishing design. It takes advantage of the possibilities offered by the EMP2 platform to explore new forms of stylistic expression: reduced overhang (-70 mm at the front), a lower engine block and floor (between -40 mm and -50 mm for the engine, and -20 mm for the floor), and wider tracks (+82 mm at the front and +31 mm at the rear). The dynamic effect created is both forceful and intense.

The first action of designer Fréderic Soubirou was to create the side signature, a C shape in chrome that gives the side view of the new Citroen C4 Picasso its personality, while underlining the space available to passengers at front and rear. The side view with its sculpted panels conveys an impression of smooth power.

The front end marks a renewal in Citroen styling, with a more assertive engine compartment and a new look for the chevrons, reaching out to touch the spectacular high-tech lights. Slim LED daytime-running lights extend the line of the radiator grille, sitting just on top of the slender headlamps. Fog lamps add the finishing touch to this original light signature.

The rear LED lights, inspired by the Tubik, Survolt and Revolte concept cars, feature a profound, futuristic 3D effect. A new enveloping tailgate suggesting roominess and strength adds a dynamic touch to the rear view. When opened, the tailgate provides easy and generous boot access.

A loft-style interior
The new Citroen C4 Picasso features an uncluttered loft-style interior ambience. An impression reinforced by the panoramic windscreen, a standard feature, and the large glass roof that bathe the car in natural light. As in the previous-generation vehicle, the cabin features an exceptionally large glazed area (5.30 m2).

Travelling becomes a relaxing experience, with the exclusive Lounge Pack, comprising front massage seats, a "Relax" seat enabling the front passenger to stretch out his or her legs, and a Relax headrest on all seats for optimum neck support. The Citroen C4 Picasso applies business-class travel standards for all the passengers!

The loft-style design of the new Citroen C4 Picasso is also visible in the quality of the materials and the attention to detail. This vehicle is on a par with the best for perceived quality.

The dashboard, of asymmetric design, combines several colours and materials. The driver's side is primarily black, a colour with high-tech connotations, echoing the paler shade on the passenger side (Ardoise or Champagne depending on the colours selected) with a sparkle-effect finish. Satin-finish chrome and glossy black inserts enhance the overall effect. At the same time, particular attention was given to the door panels: the crossbar features an original pattern obtained by laser engraving. Sophistication and careful thought clearly went into every detail.

The seat design features a graphic effect that gives the two front seats the appearance of a one-piece bench. The new Citroen C4 Picasso is available with light-coloured Nappa leather inspired by the world of interior design, with the emphasis on elegance and comfort.

A full digital, full touch driving interface
The new Citroen C4 Picasso ships with a full digital driving interface that is both intuitive and attractive. The uncluttered dashboard is structured around two screens located in the central section: a 7" touchpad and a 12" panoramic HD screen.

Easy, relaxed driving
Looking beyond useful everyday functions such as hands-free access and start-up, a motorised tailgate and reversing camera, the new Citroen C4 Picasso ships with a range of innovations for easy, relaxed driving as:

• 360 Vision, an exclusive feature on this segment. Using the four cameras placed around the car, the driver can select a bird's eye view, a rear view alone, or a panoramic front view, useful for getting out of a garage! The system provides a complete view of the car's immediate environment, an extended field of vision that makes for easier manoeuvres.
• Park Assis: this function helps drivers looking for a parking space. It provides automatic assistance when manoeuvring into a space, whether parking in reverse or at an angle. All the driver has to do is to manage acceleration and braking. A valuable aid in the urban jungle!

Technologies serving safety
The new Citroen C4 Picasso is packed with technologies to anticipate events and to provide assistance as part of a safe and relaxed driving experience:

• An active cruise control function: a radar sensor in the front bumper maintains a constant distance with the vehicle in front by detecting any slowdown in speed and warning the driver. The system acts on the accelerator and engine brake to reduce or increase speed within a limit of 25 kph. When the road is clear, the car automatically returns to the set speed.
• The active driver and passenger front seatbelts are equipped with motors that pull the belt tight automatically in the event of danger for maximum protection. At the same time, in relation with the video LDWS, the belt vibrates to warn the driver if the car crosses a line.
• An image processing function for the miniature camera built into the interior door mirror, to manage automatic high beam operation, i.e. automatically activating and deactivating high beam lights depending on lighting and traffic conditions. This function is also used by the new-generation more predictive lane departure warning system (video LDWS).
• The ultrasonic blind spot monitoring system: an orange light in the angle of the door mirror warns drivers if a vehicle is present in their blind spot. Relying on four sensors in the front and rear bumpers, this system is active between 12 and 140 kph. It controls the area up to the exterior door mirror at the front, extending to around 5m behind the rear bumper and 3.5m on either side.
• Citroen eTouch, a service comprising, among other functions, a localised emergency call and assistance system (depending on the country), two free 24/7 services relying on a built-in SIM card, which ensure that the vehicle can be located promptly and assistance sent out in the event of an incident or accident.

These intelligent technologies make the road safer for drivers, passengers and others, to ensure that driving remains an enjoyable, relaxing experience. And for an even more relaxed attitude, the new Citroen C4 Picasso is set to cover 2.5 million km between now and the launch date as part of fine-tuning road tests encompassing several countries and a full range of situations, even the most extreme.

Architecture optimised for compact exterior dimensions and interior space
The new Citroen C4 Picasso creates a new architectural benchmark. The modular EMP2 platform allows a longer wheelbase for increased cabin space. Compared with the previous-generation vehicle, the new Citroen C4 Picasso is more compact on the outside while offering more space on the inside:
    40 mm shorter for more compact dimensions,
    a wheelbase that is 55 mm longer (2,785 mm on the new C4 Picasso) for class-beating interior space,
    an additional 40 litres in the boot, for class-best capacity of 537 litres VDA, and up to 630 litres with the seats in row 2 pushed forward.

With these optimised dimensions (L: 4.43m / W: 1.83m / H: 1.61m), along with electric power steering and a turning circle of 10.8m, the new Citroen C4 Picasso is an agile vehicle able to adapt to all driving situations.

The new Citroen C4 Picasso continues to set the standard in terms of modular design:

• In row 1, folding the passenger seat forwards increases loading space by more than 2.5 m as well as extending the field of vision of rear passengers.
• In row 2, the three individual seats are the same width. All three fold flat and can be tilted for increased comfort. They also feature fore-and-aft adjustment for increased flexibility. Knee space (159 mm) is on a par with the best-in-class.

The new Citroen C4 Picasso features a wide range of clever and convenient stowage compartments around the cabin. Such as the lit stowage compartment in the centre of the dashboard, with a jack, USB port and 220V socket, ideal for plugging in a Smartphone or tablet out of sight of prying eyes. Or the removable console on versions equipped with the clutchless gearbox, between the driver and passenger seats, to keep personal belongings within easy reach. And of course the stowage under the front seats and in the doors, the storage nets, the trays on the seat backs in row 1,with LED lighting, and the under-floor storage in row 2, practical for everyday use.

Read More

Chrysler 300 Glacier, 2013

 

 Chrysler 300 Glacier, 2013

Through lifestyle driven models, the new 2013 Chrysler 300 continues to show the numerous personalities that are capable from its elegant and iconic design. Beginning with the ultimate in muscle - Chrysler 300 SRT8, the ultimate in luxury - new Chrysler 300C John Varvatos Luxury Edition, the ultimate audiophile - Chrysler 300S with Beats by Dr. Dre, and now arriving in time to tackle winter, the ultimate all-weather athlete - the new Chrysler 300 Glacier.

From cruising through the city, to escaping away to a snow-covered ski resort, the new 2013 Chrysler 300 Glacier has a commanding design presence and the power and all-weather capability to carve through some of the most snow-covered landscapes.

With its state-of-the-art eight-speed automatic transmission, steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters, and a more powerful 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine with new sport-tuned exhaust and cold-air induction system delivering 300 horsepower — the new 2013 Chrysler 300 Glacier delivers best-in-class fuel economy (18 mpg city / 27 mpg highway, while providing maximum all-weather traction, efficiency and driving performance through the segment's most advanced AWD system. For even more power, the new Chrysler 300 Glacier offers the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine with four-cylinder mode Fuel Saver Technology to deliver 363 horsepower and up to 23 mpg highway.

The Chrysler 300 Glacier's AWD system features a segment-exclusive active transfer case and front-axle-disconnect system to improve real-world fuel economy. No other major automotive manufacturer offers the combination of these two independent technologies. Chrysler 300's innovative AWD system seamlessly transitions between rear-wheel drive and AWD with no driver intervention. When AWD is not required, the system automatically disconnects the front axle to maximize fuel economy while still providing the outstanding fun-to-drive performance and handling inherent in rear-wheel-drive vehicles.

Building on the avant-garde appearance of the Chrysler 300S model, the new 300 Glacier features contemporary exterior and interior styling elements for a flagship sedan that delivers refinement within its landmark design. Hinting that this Chrysler 300 sedan was born with an ice-cool demeanor - unique body-color fascia accents, along with Gloss Black mirrors, headlamp bezels and Black Chrome sculpted horizontal grille blades give the Glacier a low-key street presence. Emphasizing the Chrysler 300 Glacier's iconic silhouette and head-turning proportions even more is an all-new Gloss Black painted roof option. Filling this AWD sedan's wheel wells and aiding in its world-class handling are unique 19-inch eight spoke aluminum wheels finished in Satin Carbon with P235/55R19 all-season performance tires. Exterior paint colors for this Chrysler 300 include Bright White, Billet Silver Metallic and exclusively to this model, Glacier Blue Pearl Coat.

The interior of the Chrysler 300 Glacier exudes an athletic-luxury theme with 12-way power driver and passenger sport seats featuring black "Falls" cloth in the seat centers and leather-wrapped bolsters in black and finished with black French-seamed stitching. Exclusive use of Piano Black on interior center stack, instrument panel, steering wheel, gauge cluster and door panel elements provide a uniquely lacquered and highly detailed appearance. For even more spirited driving die-cast steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters with "sport mode" are ergonomically designed behind the 300 Glacier's black leather-wrapped thick-rimmed steering wheel. Completing the enthusiast-designed interior are matte carbon hydrographic accents and black floor mats with black velour binding and "Glacier" logo embroidered.

Read More

Chevrolet Camaro 1LE, 2014

 

 

 

Chevrolet Camaro 1LE, 2014

The 2014 Camaro models feature a revised exterior design that integrates high-performance aerodynamics for more efficient cooling and stability at high speeds. The new Chevy Camaro Z/28 also features a full aerodynamics package that creates downforce at speed, which helps make it the most track-capable offering in Camaro's history.

The first Camaro Z/28 was introduced in 1967, created to compete in the Sports Car Club of America's Trans-Am 2 class. It featured a smaller, lighter, 302-cubic-inch V-8 for improved weight balance, as well as quick-ratio steering and a heavy-duty suspension for track use. In keeping with its road-racing focus, the 1967 Camaro Z/28 was not available with an automatic transmission or air conditioning.

While the new Camaro Z/28 is not intended to compete in a specific race series, it is solely focused on track capability. In initial testing, the Camaro Z/28 is three seconds faster per lap than the Camaro ZL1. That extra speed comes from three areas:

• Increased grip: The Z/28 is capable of 1.05 g in cornering acceleration, due to comprehensive chassis revisions
• Increased stopping power: the Z/28 features Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes capable of 1.5 g in deceleration, and consistent brake feel, lap after lap
• Reduced curb weight: The naturally aspirated Z/28 weighs 300 pounds less than the supercharged Camaro ZL1, with changes ranging from lightweight wheels to thinner rear-window glass

Like the original, the 2014 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28 is offered only with a manual transmission. In a nod to modern convenience, air-conditioning is available, but only as an option.

The new 2014 Camaro line will arrive at Chevrolet dealers later in 2013. The Camaro Z/28 is expected to be appearing at track events across the United States in spring 2014.

High-performance aerodynamics highlight changes for 2014 Camaro
The 2014 Camaro represents the most significant redesign since the introduction of the fifth-generation Camaro as a concept car in 2006.

Compared to the previous model, the design represents a strong visual change front and rear, resulting in a wider, lower, more contemporary appearance. The front fascia features a wider lower opening, and a narrower upper opening that also updates the appearance of the iconic "halo ring" HID headlamps on the Camaro RS package. The functional hood vent on the Camaro SS helps reduce heat and aerodynamic lift. Moving to the rear, the sculptural decklid, horizontal lamps and diffuser complete the powerful statement.

The Camaro Z/28 also features a full aerodynamic package designed to produce down force at track speeds. At the front, the Z/28 features a large splitter, connected to an under body panel that further reduces lift. In profile, the Z/28 features fender flares over the front and rear wheels, as well as extended rocker panels that contribute to aerodynamic stability. An aggressive rear spoiler and functional diffuser complete the aerodynamic package.

On the interior, the Camaro Z/28 features trim in a distinctive, matte-metallic finish named Octane, the ZL1 flat-bottomed steering wheel, and standard Recaro seats with microfiber suede inserts. The new seats (also available on the coupe versions of the SS and ZL1 models), feature aggressive bolsters for high-performance driving, as well as seat cutouts inspired by the five-point harnesses found on racing seats. To save weight, both front seats incorporate manual adjustment.

The rear seats of the Z/28 have also been modified for weight reduction. A total of nine pounds (four kilograms) was saved by eliminating the seat-back pass through, as well as using high-density foam in place of the rigid structure of the seat back and steel mesh of the seat bottom.

Read More

Caterham R600 Superlight, 2013

 

 Caterham R600 Superlight, 2013

The iconic British road and race car manufacturer, Caterham Cars, has developed its most extreme race-ready Seven to date - the Superlight R600.

With stunning performance potential and all the character of existing Caterham circuit cars, the new supercharged incarnation of the Seven will represent the top echelon of the Caterham racing spectrum in the Superlight R600 Championship from 2013.

Powered by a supercharged, 2-litre Ford Duratec engine, producing 275bhp, the R600's dedicated championship will further extend the Caterham Motorsport 'ladder', currently topped by the hugely successful R300 series.

The R600 race car, which costs £44,995, will be the first Seven ever to feature forced induction technology, making it the fastest ever production Seven and a natural progression from the advances made with Caterham's sports prototype, the SP/300.R, which uses a similar power plant.

The Caterham is expecting at least a 16-car grid for the debut championship season in 2013, with 30 cars anticipated to compete the following year.

A clear development from the Academy, Roadsport, Tracksport, Supersport and R300 race cars, the R600 will transfer driving characteristics inherent to all Sevens but will be more aggressive - with 200lb-ft of torque, it represents a 13% increase on the current top-of-the-range road-going Seven, the legendary Superlight R500.

Meanwhile, 275bhp is directed to the rear wheels through a six-speed, sequential gearbox.

The headline specification also comprises a Titan limited-slip differential and Avon radial slicks or wets, for increased traction and quicker lap times.

The latest variant of the Seven can be bought as a new car or existing R300 owners can upgrade their vehicles to R600 spec.

Read More

Cadillac ATS Coupe, 2015

 

 Cadillac ATS Coupe, 2015

The Cadillac introduced the all-new 2015 ATS Coupe, a quicker and more personal addition to the award-winning ATS product line. Designed to be lighter, more agile and more engaging than its competitors, it extends Cadillac's product-driven growth and the brand's tradition of dynamic luxury Coupes.

Like the sedan, the ATS Coupe's driving dynamics are rooted in mass efficiency, which helps make it one of Cadillac's lightest and most agile models ever - and the lightest car in the compact luxury Coupe segment. The 2.0L Turbo engine is upgraded from the current ATS sport sedan to deliver nearly 14 percent more torque, taking it to 295 lb-ft (400 Nm). This gives the standard ATS Coupe an advantage in power and weight over similarly equipped Coupes such as the BMW 428i.

Greater torque means greater pulling power, for a greater feeling of responsiveness at low speeds, and helps the Cadillac ATS Coupe achieve an estimated 0-60 time of 5.6 seconds.

The elements that contribute to the Cadillac ATS Coupe's balanced performance and responsive characteristics :

• Nearly perfect 50/50 weight balance and low center of gravity
• Five-link independent rear suspension featuring lightweight, high-strength steel and efficient straight link designs
• A multi-link double-pivot MacPherson-strut front suspension with direct-acting stabilizer bar
• Underbody aerodynamic shields
• Premium, belt-driven electric variable-effort steering gear from ZF Steering Systems
• Brembo front brakes
• Eighteen-inch aluminum wheels
• Available all-wheel drive.

A driver-adjustable FE3 sport suspension is available and includes Magnetic Ride Control, a mechanical limited-slip differential, high-capacity engine cooling system and 18-inch summer-performance tires. Magnetic Ride Control is a real-time damping system that delivers more precise body motion control. It "reads" the road and can change damping every millisecond.

Design details
The 2015 ATS Coupe rides on the same 109.3-inch (2,775 mm) wheelbase as the sedan, but features its own bodywork. The roof, doors, rear fenders and trunk lid are unique to the Coupe, along with a specific front fascia and front fenders that accommodate a wider track than the sedan. It is also the first production model to wear Cadillac's revised crest.

The Coupe also has an aggressive stance, with wider front/rear tracks than the sedan, enhanced by short overhangs and sheet metal that wrap tautly around the tires. Standard 18-inch wheels are exclusive to the Coupe.

Bold lighting elements are a Cadillac signature feature and the Cadillac ATS Coupe advances that tradition with available light-emitting diode, or LED, headlamps with Adaptive Forward Lighting. Base models feature projector-beam headlamps, while high-intensity-discharge headlamps and front vertical LED light signatures are included on all but the standard model. Illuminating outside door handles on Performance and Premium collections lend technologically advanced style and function to the distinctive Coupe. All models feature LED taillamps and rear-center stop lamp.

The ATS Coupe also includes capless fueling.
Inside, the sedan's driver-focused cabin carries over to the Coupe, featuring handcrafted cut-and-sewn upholstered interior combinations, decorative stitching and authentic materials, including leather, aluminum, carbon fiber and wood, intended to enhance the emotional connection to the driving experience.
 

Interior features:

• On Star 4G LTE connectivity with built-in Wi-Fi hotspot
• Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity with natural voice recognition
• Text-to-voice that converts incoming text messages to speech and reads them over the audio system speakers
• USB, auxiliary and SD memory card ports
• Sirius XM Satellite Radio with three-month trial subscription
• Reconfigurable 5.7-inch, three-window instrument panel cluster display
• Full-color reconfigurable head-up display.

Read More

Bugatti Veyron Rembrandt Bugatti, 2014

 

 

 Bugatti Veyron Rembrandt Bugatti, 2014

Bugatti is continuing its six-part edition series, "Les Légendes de Bugatti", at the 2014 Geneva International Motor Show to honour some of the more important people in the company's history. In 2013 the long-established French brand successfully presented the first three Legends models. All nine vehicles of these model series have been sold. Now Bugatti is celebrating another high point with its fourth legend - named in honour of Rembrandt Bugatti, brother of company founder Ettore and one of the most important sculptors of the early 20th century. One of his most significant works is the sculpture of a dancing elephant. It decorates the radiator of the Bugatti Type 41 Royale and became the brand's symbol. The Legends model is based on the Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse1. As with the other Legends models, only three will be manufactured. The "Rembrandt Bugatti" Vitesse costs €2.18 million Euro net. "Rembrandt Bugatti was an exceptional sculptor. He represents the strong artistic roots of the Bugatti family, as did his father, Carlo," said Dr Wolfgang Schreiber, President of Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S., at the presentation of the Legends edition. "As vehicle developer and founder of the Bugatti brand, Ettore was also inspired by this artistic heritage. Art is of course one of our three brand values, namely 'Art, Forme, Technique'. This makes Bugatti unique in automotive history, and was the reason we dedicated this striking Legends model to Rembrandt Bugatti."

The art world views Rembrandt Bugatti as one of the most notable and artistically independent sculptors of the early 20th century. He became famous through his animal sculptures, and cast a large part of his work in bronze. The pieces are now on display in several collections and museums across the world. In the same way that Ettore saw automobile creation as an artistic process, Rembrandt Bugatti's fame was based on his extraordinary artistic talent and his formidable manual abilities in manipulating surfaces.

The Exterior
The body of the "Rembrandt Bugatti" Legend Vitesse was designed in the "horizontal split", and is largely composed of bronze-coloured clear-coated carbon as a gesture to the artist's favoured material. The vehicle's lower half is painted in an elegant light brown, "Noix". The famous Bugatti horseshoe gleams in platinum from the front grille, with platinum also ringing the EB logo at the vehicle's rear. The wheels are painted in dark "Firefinch" and light "Noix" browns, and these colours combine to complete the elegant appearance and set the super sports car off against the asphalt. In reference to the artist and Legends car's namesake, Rembrandt Bugatti's signature has been lasered onto the petrol and oil cap.

The Interior
The elegant and harmonious appearance continues in the vehicle's interior. The Vitesse is completely upholstered with leather in light brown "Cognac". The rear centre box between the seats has a striking design. It proudly sports Rembrandt Bugatti's famous elephant sculpture, the hood ornament of the Type 41 Royale and today is the symbol for both the brand and the Legends edition. The elephant was cast in bronze with great technical skill and worked as an insert into the cover. The cover is made of bronze-coloured clear-coated carbon. The door trim is impressive evidence of Bugatti's reputation for working high-quality materials in a unique style, with braided leather in the softly contrasting colours of "Cognac" and "Coffee". This elegant design was developed exclusively for this Legends car.

Platinum is also in evidence in the vehicle's interior, on the EB logo on the steering wheel. Other interior details specific to this Legends Vitesse are the insert of bronze-coloured clear-coated carbon on the extended centre console with the lettering "Les Légendes de Bugatti" and Rembrandt Bugatti's elephant, and the door sill plates displaying the sculptor's portrait

Read More

Brabus B63S-700 6x6, 2013

 

 

 

 Brabus B63S-700 6x6, 2013

Two wheels more than normal, plus power in abundance as is the norm for Brabus: in the Brabus B63S-700 6x6 a particularly exclusive power off-roader based on the Mercedes G63 AMG 6x6 celebrates its world premiere at the 2013 IAA in Frankfurt/Main.

Brabus lends the most exclusive G-Class of all times even more punch: powered by a 5.5-liter V8 Biturbo with Brabus B63S-700 engine tuning producing 515 kW / 700 hp (690 bhp), the six-wheel drive powerhouse weighing in at around four tons sprints from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 7.4 seconds. The top speed is limited electronically to 160 km/h (100 mph) due to the 37-inch off-road tires.

As a contrast to the striking black, chrome and carbon-fiber Brabus exterior, the Brabus interior designers picked a fiery red Mastik leather/Alcantara interior.

The Mercedes G63 AMG 6x6 built in small-series production comes normally with a 5.5-liter eight-cylinder four-valve Biturbo engine producing 400 kW / 544 hp (536 bhp). Brabus can draw upon the world's most extensive engine tuning program for Mercedes-Benz automobiles in the case of this special model as well.

The Brabus B63S-700 performance kit, which is also available for all other current Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG SUVs, unleashes the inherent power slumbering in the turbocharged V8 engine. To realize the enormous power increase by 115 kW / 156 hp (154 bhp) the peripherals of the V8 are modified extensively.

The production turbochargers are replaced by two special Brabus turbochargers with larger compressor unit, which produce a higher boost pressure. Brabus Gold Heat Reflection sheathing for the intake and charge-air pipes further lower the charge-air temperature. This measure contributes equally to the power yield and to the flawless durability, which also manifests itself in the Brabus Tuning Warranty of three years, up to 100,000 kilometers/62,000 miles (see Brabus Warranty Terms and Conditions, updated July 2013) that is unparalleled in the industry.

In addition, special high-performance metal catalysts with 75-mm (2.9 in.) downpipes are installed to lower the back pressure. The stainless-steel sport exhaust system with controlled butterfly valve was custom-developed for the G63 6x6 AMG and offers both optimized power yield and active control of the exhaust note. Drivers can select at the push of a button between the subtle "Coming Home" mode and a markedly potent exhaust note in the "Sport" position. The Brabus exhaust system also puts its visual stamp on both sides of the vehicles with two striking dual sidepipes.

Specially calibrated Brabus mapping for the engine management system coordinates the perfect interaction of all high-performance components while also ensuring compliance with the stringent Euro V emission standards.

With these major modifications the B63S-700 engine, which is also available for the G63 AMG 4x4 model, produces 515 kW / 700 hp (690 bhp) at a low 5,300 rpm. The Brabus engine also delivers a much heftier torque: between 2,000 rpm and 4,500 rpm the engine sends a massive 960 Nm (708 lb-ft) of torque instead of the standard 760 Nm (561 lb-ft) to the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission. This is complemented by special Brabus aluminum shift paddles that facilitate manual gearshifts from the multifunction steering wheel of the G-Class. The high-tech lubricants for the entire powertrain are supplied by technology partner Motul.

Thus equipped the six-wheeled heavyweight turns in an acceleration performance that can measure up to full-blooded sports cars. 7.4 seconds for 0 - 100 km/h (62 mph) are absolute tops for a vehicle weighing in at just less than four tons. The heavy-duty off-road tires the 6x6 is equipped with necessitate limiting the top speed to 160 km/h (100 mph).

Brabus also gives the 6x6 a strategic visual upgrade. The imposing nature of the front is further strengthened by purposeful modifications. The Brabus front spoiler edges attach to the production fascia and are combined with an additional molding below the special radiator grille with integrated Brabus logo. The Brabus carbon-fiber hood scoop adds another striking highlight. The mirror-polished Brabus underride guard provides an interesting contrast to the all-black paintwork.

The innovative Brabus lighting concept sets further visual signals. It includes dark-tinted LED lights integrated into the front spoiler edges. Even more dominant are the black Brabus xenon headlights and daytime running lights with integrated turn-signal function for all current models of the venerable off-roader. The now obsolete production turn signals on top of the fenders are replaced with clear-coated matt carbon-fiber covers. In conjunction with the matt carbon-fiber structure on the hood and the carbon-fiber shells for the exterior mirrors they round out the belligerent 6x6 look to full effect.

Read More