AC Schnitzer: New performance upgrades for facelifted 3-series

For 33 years, the 3-series has been the sporting choice in the mid-range. Sufficient reason not just for BMW to refine the reliable performer with some effective modifications. So AC Schnitzer has upgraded the facelifted saloon and Touring models with new front spoiler elements for vehicles with and without M-Technik pack.

By reducing lines, the Aachen company has placed the emphasis on dynamics: instead of bulky curves, straight and slender forms are used. In reminiscence of motorsport, the front spoiler elements finish at the bottom in a pointed "bow“. Together with the kidneys "lowered" by BMW, and the new contours of the bonnet, the overall impression is a far "faster" front end. And thanks to AC Schnitzer, naturally the rest of the car has also been brought visually up to speed.

The side lines of the new model, thanks to the extra swage line added by BMW in the door spoiler, not only appear more extended but with the AC Schnitzer side skirts, also more lively. A set of attractive alloy wheels, such as the popular Type IV BiColor available in 18 or 19", completes the picture. The tuning house also offers a range of stylish sports mirrors to show the other road traffic quickly looking smaller. This is achieved partly with the well-known AC Schnitzer suspension components in the form of a suspension spring kit, sports suspension and racing suspension.

For those who want it, the extra sports antiroll bar and strut brace kit front and rear will coax a touch more performance from the 3-series. The power-hungry also have a wide selection of hot tuning recipes. In particular in conjunction with the new sixcylinder 3.0d, which delivers 180 kW / 245 HP and 520 Nm even in standard form: thanks to the AC Schnitzer Control Unit Program, this version simmers with power under the bonnet, ready to release its 209 kW / 284 HP and 570 Nm. In any case, it's clear that many drivers will only see the new, facelifted rear L-shaped LED lights.

Naturally AC Schnitzer Designer Michele Viandante has also paid attention to the rear. Both Touring and saloon versions have a spoiler insert with diffuser look, and a rear roof spoiler. The striking AC Schnitzer Twin Sports Rear Silencer with its interlinked chrome rings provides the soundtrack. In case you prefer this music!

Basic car: BMW E90/91 LCI

Engine: AC Schnitzer performance upgrades

for BMW 318d
· from 90 kW / 122 HP to 107 kW / 146 HP and
· from 105 kW / 143 HP to 126 kW / 171 HP
for 320d
· from 120 kW / 163 HP to 147 kW / 200 HP and
· from 130 kW / 177 HP to 154 kW / 210 HP
for 325d
· from 145 kW / 197 HP to 174 kW / 236 HP
for 330d/xd
· from 180 kW / 245 HP to 209 kW / 284 HP
for 335d
· from 210 kW / 286 HP to 228 kW / 310 HP
for 335i
· from 225 kW / 306 HP to 265 kW / 360 HP

incl. Control Unit program, Vmax increase, instrument display, twin sports rear silencer

Exhaust: AC Schnitzer sports rear silencer
· AC Schnitzer twin sports rear silencer incl. chromed „Racing“ tail trims
· AC Schnitzer tail trim

Brakes: AC Schnitzer 8-pistons hight performance brake system for front axle (export version)

Suspension: AC Schnitzer sports suspension
· racing suspension, height adjustable
· spring kit
· special sway bar set for rear axle
· aluminium strut brace, front axle
· aluminium strut brace, rear axle

Aerodynamics: AC Schnitzer front spoiler elements for cars without M-Technik
· front spoiler elements for cars with M-Technik
· side skirts for cars without M-Technik
· chrome line set for side skirts
· rear skirt
· rear skirt insert for cars with M-Technik
· rear roof spoiler
· rear spoiler for sedan
· sports mirrors




[Source: AC Schnitzer press release] ...(more)

Report: More details on green BMW supercar

More details on the planned "green" supercar by BMW have emerged.

The new Audi R8/Mercedes SLC rival was described by company insiders as a "puristic two-seater that draws on all the very latest BMW technology and lightweight build processes."

The design development team, the new car would use the styling layout of the M1 hommage concept, presented by BMW a while ago.

AutoWeek now revealed more details on the projected supercar:

“Drawing on BMW's recent experience in lightweight construction, the supercar would be based on an aluminum spaceframe like that found on the old Z8 and, in a sturdier form, also employed on various Rolls-Royce models. It is also said to use carbon-fiber body-panel technology first applied to the BMW M3 CSL and subsequently the M6 to achieve a target weight of no more than 3,080 pounds.

The layout of the new BMW, which would compete on price directly against the Audi R8 and the upcoming Mercedes-Benz SLC, remains a well-kept secret. AutoWeek's source says that BMW bosses favor a mid-engine configuration like that employed on the original M1 to help set it apart from the rest of the BMW line and to provide it with a connection to its multi-million-dollar Formula One program. Despite this, packaging models have been constructed at BMW's research and development center in Munich using a more traditional front-engine layout.

Among the engines proposed to power the new car is a reworked version of BMW's twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six-cylinder gasoline unit. The reason for using a six-cylinder, according to our source, stems from the mechanical makeup of the original M1, which ran a 3.5-liter inline six-cylinder. [..]

Among the changes BMW engineers are seeking to make to the standard engine is the adoption of new variable-vane turbochargers and a more advanced fuel-injection system. This could lift power from today's 306 hp to somewhere near 400 hp. It would be enhanced with a further-developed version of BMW's brake regeneration system, possibly using a small lithium-ion battery to store energy and provide a short but potent boost in reserves under acceleration.

Alternatively, BMW may also look at employing an electric motor and lithium-ion battery pack similar to that proposed for its new 7-series hybrid to lift the new supercar's overall output even more. Other technology under consideration is a kinetic-energy recovery system similar to the setup BMW is developing for use in F1 next year.”



(Source: AutoWeek) ...(more)

Lumma Design unveils CLR 550 R based on facelifted Cayenne

The label says Porsche and there is Porsche inside, but even after the facelift, it's still an off-road vehicle: a little draggy and close-hauled. Individuals, who are not satisfied with the standard outfit, now can count on the help of the Winterlinger based tuner LUMMA Design. With the newly designed LUMMA CLR 550 R you can see from a distance, that there comes a sporty SUV, cut above the rest.

Wide bodykit LUMMA CLR 550 R

The spectacular body kit is broadening the Sports SUV by 5 cm per side with fender extensions. The front bumper with its new, specially designed turn signal unit is adding a sportive look to the CLR 550 R. The individual rear bumper, the sport look front hood with air ducts and the sportive side skirts are rounding up the whole package. The result: a real Sports SUV. The legendary LUMMA evil eye headlight eyelids replenish the sportive look of the LUMMA CLR 550 R.

Wheels in 23" and lowering sport suspension

The matching, newly developed and designed wheels in dimension 11x23", LUMMA Racing 3, with Michelin 315/25-23 front and rear, are making a state-of-the-art rarity out of the CLR 550 R.

In combination with the LUMMA lowering sport suspension, lowering the car approx. 40mm, for cars with and without air ride system, the wheels look even bigger than they are. Positive secondary effect: lower point of gravity and a better handling of the car.

Power increase and engine optic package

The Porsche GTS V8 is for sure a powerful engine, "but can even more power be a sin?" By reprogramming the electronics in the ECU, LUMMA Design is increasing the power. Another brand new option is the LUMMA GPM (gas pedal power module) for a much better response of the gas pedal and more dynamic acceleration, a must have for every ambitious sports driver. Easy to install, plug and play, ready to go on the course. If you decide to tune the engine or not, the LUMMA engine optic package will upgrade the engine compartment to perfection. The eye catcher contains a red coated engine cover with Carbon inlets.

When it comes to sound, LUMMA Design made no compromises, a sport exhaust system, with flap technology made out of high quality stainless steel is mounted, which produces a deep and sonorous racing sound. Tail tips, custom made, are upgrading the visual appearance of the CLR 550 R.

Interior, individual upgrade for the passenger compartment

A real highlight is the individually designed passenger compartment. In cooperation with the Interior Designer LMT Benrath, LUMMA Design created pure luxury for the passengers.

For the passenger compartment of the CLR 550 R, LUMMA offers a huge lineup of accessories. All components and assemblies like dashboard, door panels as well as the individually designed single seats in the rear passenger compartment, are refined, covered with the finest Carbon leather/Alcantara combination. Highlights are set by an ornamental seam in different colour, a superlative masterpiece of quality, design and style, state of the art. Tone in tone, handcrafted in the same material and quality: the steering wheel, ergonomic moulded. The odometers with LUMMA logo are coated in elegant silver. For motorsport feeling, aluminium pedals and a footrest were mounted as well as entry panels. Made out of high quality aluminium, anodized, with the LUMMA logo engraved. Floor mats in best quality with LUMMA emblem embroidered, matching the colour of the interior, trapped with leather, as well as a boot mat, are rounding up this package.

Last but not least, a hightech multimedia system with 7,5" monitors installed in the custom made headrests, are completing this high class, luxury master piece of German craftsmanship.

LUMMA CLR 550 R Basis Cayenne Facelift Mod.2008

Bodykit CLR 550 R contains:

Front spoiler bumper with double daylight/foglight
Side skirts, fender extensions
Rear bumper
Sportlook front hood in Carbon/Kevlar
Tailgate apron
Evil eye eyelids

LUMMA exclusive wheelset "Racing 3"

Wheel size 11x23 to use for stock vehicle as well
Mono block in multi piece optics, outer bed stainless steel
Center coated black mat
Tyre size 315/25 R 23 Michelin LATITUDE Sport

Engine tuning and engine optic package

Increase aprox. 20% due to elec. optimizing, sport exhaust, with flap technology and GPM (gaspedal power module)
Engine cover, with carbon layers

LUMMA Interior design

Bicolour leather covered interior, highlighted by coloured ornamental seams
Leather combination Carbonleather / Alcantara
Sport steering wheel ergonomic moulded, leather covered
Single seats and center console incl. Storage bin in the rear compartment
Multimedia system with integrated 7,5"monitors in head rests
Floor mats in best quality with LUMMA emblem embroidered, trapped with
leather, matching interior.




[Source: Lumma Design press release] ...(more)

Video: Infiniti G37 Convertible

Promotional video of the new Infiniti G37 Convertible.

...(more)

Video: 2009 Nissan 370Z

Promotional video of the new Nissan 370Z Coupe.

...(more)

Lumma Design reveals tuning package for BMW X6

Only a few weeks did pass by since the introduction of the BMW X6 to the public, but LUMMA Design already upgraded the latest BMW model. As one of the first, the Winterlinger based Tuner offers a complete package for the BMW X6.

Wide body kit LUMMA CLR X 650

The massive bodykit is broadening the Sports SUV by 5cm per side with fender extensions. The front bumper with its day light running lights is adding a sportive look to the CLR X 650. The individual rear bumper with Carbon diffuser, a Carbon sport look front hood with air ducts and the sportive side skirts are rounding up the whole package. Design mirrors, aerodynamically optimized, in Carbon, headlight eyelids and tanned tail lights, replenish the sportive look of the LUMMA CLR X 650.

Wheels in 23" and lowering sport suspension

The matching, newly developed and designed wheels in dimension 11x23", LUMMA Racing 3, with Michelin 315/25-23 front and rear, are making a state-of-the-art rarity out of the CLR X 650.

In combination with the LUMMA lowering sport suspension, lowering the car approx. 35mm, for cars with and without air ride system, the wheels look even bigger than they are. Positive secondary effect: lower point of gravity and a better handling of the car.

Power increase and engine optic package

The BMW 4,4 twin turbo V8 is for sure a powerful engine, "but can even more power be a sin?" For sure not. By reprogramming the electronics in the ECU, LUMMA Design is increasing the power. Another brand new option is the LUMMA GPM (gaspedal power module) for a much better response of the gas pedal and more dynamic acceleration, a must have for every ambitious sports driver. Easy to install, plug and play, ready to go on the course.

If you decide to tune the engine or not, the LUMMA engine optic package will upgrade the engine compartment to perfection. The eye catcher contains a red coated engine cover and Carbon air intake inlet tubes.

When it comes to sound, LUMMA Design made no compromises: a sport exhaust system, with flap technology made out of high quality stainless steel is mounted, which produces a deep and sonorous racing sound. Tail tips, custom made, are upgrading the visual appearance of the CLR X 650.

Interior, individual upgrade for the passenger compartment

For the passenger compartment of the CLR X 650, LUMMA offers a huge lineup of accessories. Individually refined with the finest leather, LUMMA provides a luxury passenger compartment, a masterpiece of quality, design and style. Tone in tone, handcrafted in the same material and quality, the steering wheel, ergonomic moulded.

The odometers with LUMMA logo are coated in elegant red, and the scales are extended to 300 km/h. For motorsport feeling, aluminium pedals and a footrest were mounted as well as entry panels. Made out of high quality aluminium, anodized, with the LUMMA logo engraved. Floor mats in best quality with LUMMA emblem embroidered, matching the colour of the interior, trapped with leather, as well as a boot mat, are rounding up this package.

Last but not least a hightech multimedia system with 7,5 " monitors installed in the custom made headrests, are completing this high class, luxury master piece of German craftsmanship.



[Source: Lumma Design press release] ...(more)

Porsche announces Diesel-powered Cayenne

The Executive Board at Porsche AG has given the go-ahead: from February 2009, the sports car manufacturer will offer a Cayenne with a diesel engine and thus extend its range of drives for the sporty all-terrain vehicle further, once again. This decision was taken in response to changed legal regulations especially in European markets, resulting in tax incentives for vehicles with diesel engines. Furthermore, Porsche's stake in the Volkswagen Group, the world's largest manufacturer of modern diesel engines for passenger cars, has opened up new opportunities to utilise diesel technology.

Porsche will equip the Cayenne with a three-litre V6 turbo diesel engine with 240 hp (176 kW) supplied by Audi AG, a subsidiary of the VW Group. The average consumption of the Cayenne Diesel is 9.3 litres per 100 kilometres, with CO2 at 244 grams per kilometre. The spontaneous throttle response and the high torque characteristics of this diesel engine deliver the required performance levels for a sporty all-terrain vehicle such as the Cayenne. The substantial torque of a maximum of 550 Newton metres complements the sporty chassis dynamics and provides a high degree of control to offer driving enjoyment that is typical of Porsche.

In response to customer demand, the new Cayenne model will initially be offered in Europe. Preparations for market introduction in other countries are underway.

The Porsche Executive Board is confident that it will maintain the long term market success of the Cayenne series in the long term with the low-consumption V6 turbo diesel. In the last financial year 2007/08, 45,478 units of this series (which currently incorporates five different models) were sold - more than ever before in a financial year.

With the introduction of the Cayenne Diesel, Porsche is consistently continuing its commitment to reduce fuel consumption. As early as Spring 2007, the sports car manufacturer had equipped the new generation of the Cayenne series with engines with petrol direct injection that consume up to 15 percent less fuel in real-world driving conditions. Since the summer of 2008, Porsche has also offered the most recent generation of the 911 series with direct-injection petrol engines. The sports car manufacturer is also working on another Cayenne variant with hybrid drive that will consume less than nine litres of fuel per 100 kilometres and will be launched onto the market at the end of the decade.

The new Cayenne with diesel drive will be available from dealers from February 2009 onwards. Equipped with the proven Tiptronic-S automatic gearbox as standard, the Euro base price will be EUR 47,250. In Germany, the Cayenne with diesel engine including 19 percent VAT and country-specific equipment costs EUR 56,436.




[Source: Porsche press release] ...(more)

Report: 2010 GT-R won't feature Launch Control

Nissan reacts to serious problems with the Launch Control of its iconic supercar GT-R that have been reported on numerous news sites, forums and blogs.

According to Edmunds InsideLine, Nissan insiders have confirmed the 2010 Series II model of the GT-R will no longer be equipped with the Launch Control feature that is said to have caused a series of transmission breakdowns, much to the distress of the owners about how those cases were handled by Nissan.

Nissan stated that the repeated use of the launch control in combination with a turned-off VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control) would void the warranty, and thus those broken transmissions - no less than a $20k repair per vehicle - weren't covered.

When asked about rumors that the Launch Control feature would be canceled, a high-ranking Nissan exec was quoted saying: "It's gone, we just don't want to deal with the warranty nightmare anymore. It'll make the 2009 GT-R really special. It'll be the only R35 with launch control."

[Source: Edmunds] ...(more)

AMG to open 175 new Performance Centers worldwide

AMG, the performance brand within Mercedes-Benz Cars, is establishing 175 new AMG Performance Centers worldwide by the end of next year thus offering a more personalized service to customers. A commitment to first-class service quality at every stage in the customer relationship is one of the key elements of the AMG brand promise of “Performance”. This focus on developing an even closer relationship with customers extends to a total of 15 countries. A very special brand experience is also delivered by the AMG Performance Roadshow.

The redesigned sales showrooms of the AMG Performance Centers are characterized by a consistently applied and unique AMG brand identity. Highquality materials, exclusive furnishings and a palette of colours that is representative of AMG create an exclusive atmosphere for sales discussions. An oversized AMG engine badge serves to remind visitors of the company’s philosophy of “One Man – One Engine”: The assembly of each powerful AMG engine by just one engineer. The individualization options available through the designo programme are also reflected at the AMG Performance Centers in the form of paintwork and leather samples.

The targeted training of AMG Sales and Service experts all over the world through a uniform coaching partner ensures first-class service delivery at every touch-point throughout the customer relationship. A ‘hotline’ to the home of AMG in Affalterbach also guarantees that the high standards of service expected by AMG customers can be met: Every AMG Performance Center can make direct contact with an AMG expert, should they have any questions about the product or specific configuration possibilities.

AMG Performance Roadshows with exclusive appeal

A special brand experience will be provided by a series of AMG Performance Roadshows. These exclusive events will allow some 200 customers at each of the 175 AMG Performance Centers to experience the world of AMG in more detail. Expert presenters will talk to customers and prospective customers about the history and the fascination of the AMG brand. High-performance vehicles from the current AMG range will be available for intensive test drives; while a display of exclusive vehicles from the AMG Performance Studio, such as the SL 63 AMG “Edition IWC” will serve to underline AMG’s expertise in the development and design of extraordinary sports cars.

Training for AMG Performance Centers in two waves

Training for the 175 Mercedes-Benz Sales Partners to become AMG Performance Centers will be undertaken in two waves: While these comprehensive measures are already well underway in the key AMG markets of Germany, the US, Japan and China, AMG is currently preparing the roll-out in further regions.



[Source: Mercedes AMG press release] ...(more)

Video and images: Street-legal Edo Ferrari FXX

Back in September, streetdrift.net reported about tuner Edo Competition modifying a Ferrari FXX for street legality.

The German tuner has now released several images and a video of the street-legal FXX. Watch the video and more images after the jump...






Promotional video



[Source: Edo Competition] ...(more)