Official:2011 Porsche 911 GT2 RS Details [Videos]

Porsche has just released official details on the 2011 Porsche 911 GT2 RS, These photos are from the VIP event in Leipzig, revealing us a carbon fiber bonnet, side intakes and also Alcantara covered interior. The 911 GT2 RS reportedly weighs about 90 kg (200 lbs) less than the standard GT2 and comes with 620 horsepower. 0-100 km/h comes in 3.5 seconds and only 500 units will be built.



It's lost 154 lbs or 70kg, gained 90 horsepower, and it doesn't like you. This fiend comes with a standard 6-Speed manual gearbox, Porsche's fancy ceramic brakes, "unique anti-roll bars", new tires measuring 245/35 ZR 19 at the front and 325/30 ZR 19 at the rear that were specifically developed for this car,and a whole lot of other fancy suspension doo-dads.



Porsche claims a 0-to-60-mph time of 3.4 seconds -- about a half-second quicker than the previous car -- and a top speed of 205 mph. Additionally, after all those development laps on the Nordschleife, the automaker says the 2011 911 GT2 RS is good for 7 minutes, 18 seconds -- handily beating the Corvette ZR1.



The car will be available in Europe from September 2010, in the USA from October 2010. The Euro base price is €199,500. Including VAT and national specifications/equipment the new 911 GT2 RS will retail in Germany at a price of €237,578. For the U.S. market pricing starts at $245,000 (€193,000).

















Press Release



The New Porsche 911 GT2 RS



620 Highly Efficient Turbo-Horsepower: Most Powerful Street-Legal Porsche of all Times



Stuttgart. The time: seven minutes, 18 seconds on the Nürburgring-Nordschleife. The power: 620 hp. The weight: 1,370 kilograms or 3,021 lb in road trim with all fluids on board. The car: the new Porsche 911 GT2 RS. The GT2 RS is making its world debut at the Moscow Auto Show on August 25th.



The future top GT model marking the absolute climax in the 911 range is the fastest and most powerful road-going sports car ever built in the history of Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart. With power up by 90 hp and weight down by 70 kilograms or 154 lb in comparison with the 911 GT2, the new 911 GT2 RS has a power-to-weight ratio of just 2.21 kilos or 4.9 lb per horsepower, by far the best power/weight ratio in its class. Obviously, these are the ideal ingredients for an ultra-high-performance sports car with supreme agility, truly blistering performance on the road, and of course exemplary Porsche Intelligent Performance. For despite this extra power and performance, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions versus the 911 GT2 are down by approximately 5 per cent to 11.9 ltr/100 km (equal to 23.7 mpg imp) and 284 g/km.



The 3.6 litre six-cylinder boxer engine boosted by two turbochargers with variable turbine geometry exclusive to Porsche in its combination with a gasoline engine drives the rear wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox. Developed especially for the 911 GT2 RS, sports tyres measuring 325/30 ZR 19 convert this massive power into equally massive performance and acceleration on the road: 0 to 100 km/h in 3.5 seconds, 0 to 200 km/h in just 9.8 seconds, and 0 to 300 km/h in 28.9 seconds. Top speed is 330 km/h.



Equally supreme stopping power on this ultra-high-performance sports car comes from PCCB composite ceramic brakes. Appropriate longitudinal and crosswise dynamics are ensured by the sporting RS set-up of the springs, PASM Porsche Adaptive Suspension Management, anti-roll bars, as well as the dynamic engine mounts and PSM Porsche Stability Management.



In its looks the new 911 GT2 RS stands out clearly from the 911 GT2 above all through the lavish use of carbon-fibre-reinforced (CFR) components in matt-black surface finish, even wider wheels and flared wheel arches at the front, new 911 GT2 light-alloy wheels with central locking, as well as "GT2 RS" model designations on the doors and rear lid. The upgraded front spoiler lip and the rear spoiler lip made of CFR and now 10 millimetres or almost 0.4 inches higher, again in surface carbon finish, ensure the right aerodynamic precision as well as extra downforce.



The interior also exudes the flair of sporting performance in virtually every detail, featuring lightweight bucket seats made of carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic in carbon surface finish and lightweight door panels with door opening straps. The basic interior colour is black, contrasting attractively with features such as the seat centre sections and the roof lining as well as segments on the steering wheel rim. The gearshift and handbrake lever are both finished in red alcantara.



Limited to just 500 units, the 911 GT2 RS will be available in Europe from September 2010, in the USA from October 2010. The Euro base price is 199,500.- Euro. Including VAT and national specifications/equipment the new 911 GT2 RS will retail in Germany at a price of 237,578 Euro.

2011 Mercedes M-Class Grand Edition Unveiled

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz M-Class Grand Edition, a version of the premium SUV, was released by Daimler. The Grand Edition is priced from 48,590 to 64,590 euros, and it is now available for purchase.

The M-Class Grand Edition is distinguishable by 19-inch light-alloy wheels in a Y-spoke design, blue-tinted thermal insulation glass all-round, dark-tinted headlamps and LED technology for the daytime driving lights and sporty, darkened tail lights, aluminium roof rails and an extensive chrome package with an AMG radiator grille and underguards at the front and rear round. This special edition comes standard with a metallic paint finish, but on request it can be offered with a paint finish in chromite black or diamond white, and 50.8 cm (20-inch) bicolor light-alloy wheels.

Engine options include the 150 kW (204 PS / 201 hp) 300 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, the 170 kW (231 PS / 228 hp) 350 CDI, the 155 kW (211 PS / 208 hp) 350 BlueTEC, and the 225 kW (306 PS / 302 hp) 450 CDI. Petrol fans can order the 200 kW (272 PS / 268 hp) ML 350 or the 285 kW (388 PS / 382 hp) ML 500.

Interior extras include a leather-wrapped AMG steering wheel with shift paddles, poplar wood trim, and stainless-steel pedals and door-sill plates. Special hand-tailored leather covers the seats, dashboard, and door inserts, and a Grand Edition badge is affixed to the center console.

Source: Mercedes-Benz


Press Release 　

M-Class Grand Edition and R-Class 2010: Sales start on 4 May

Two new models are enhancing the Mercedes-Benz model port-folio in spring
2010. The new-generation R-Class can be ordered now, with an entry-level
price of Euro 42,100*. With a total of nine basic versions, this attractive,
multi-talented series offers the widest model range in the premium touring
saloon segment. The M-Class Grand Edition is entering model year 2011 with a
price advantage of up to Euro 2670*. This exclusive variant of the company's
bestselling premium SUV, more than 1 million of which have been sold to
date, has a number of attractive, additional features which make this model
even more desirable.

* excl. VAT

The new-generation R-Class has the appearance of being cast from a single
mould. The completely redesigned front end with its restyled bonnet, wings,
radiator grille, headlamps and bumper gives the entire vehicle a harmonious,
dynamic and powerful presence. On request, the front end of the R-Class can
be further enhanced by a chrome clasp with integrated daytime driving lights
in conjunction with bi-xenon headlamps. Light-alloy wheels in a 5-spoke,
5-twin-spoke or 10-spoke design with sizes from 43.2 to 53.3 centimetres (17
to 21 inches) and the revised rear end with its new bumper cladding,
modified tail lights and integrated exhaust tailpipes likewise increase the
attractiveness of the model-year 2010 R-Class. In addition to the fresher
exterior, it is the inner values of the R?Class that impress. These include
the economy of space of modern MPVs combined with the high quality and
prestige of classic Mercedes-Benz saloon cars. At the same time the latest
generation offers the interior variability of its predecessor, while scoring
with the robustness and all-wheel drive attributes of the Mercedes-Benz
SUVs.

Drive system with a high economy and fun factor

In addition to the smooth, powerful and comfort-enhancing petrol engines
adopted from the preceding model, optimised diesel units increase the
attractiveness of the R-Class. The basic R 300 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY model
impresses with its harmonious power delivery and consumes only 7.6 l/100
km**. The R 350 CDI 4MATIC combines the performance of a V8 model with the
fuel economy of a V6 variant, and is happy with 8.5 litres** of diesel per
100 kilometres. The diesel engine developing 195 kW (265 hp) and a torque of
620 newton metres catapults the most sporty of the diesel R-Class models
from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7.6 seconds, with a top speed of 235 km/h. And
the R 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC is one of the cleanest diesel ­models worldwide.
This model with AdBlue© emissions control consumes 8.4 litres** of diesel
per 100 kilo­metres, and has emissions at the same, low level as a
comparable of a petrol model. As a result, this model already meets the EU-6
exhaust emission standard envisaged for 2014. All the other petrol and
diesel versions of the R-Class comply with the EU-5 standard.

** combined NEDC consumption

All R-Class models are equipped with the latest-generation 7G-TRONIC
automatic transmission. This fuel-efficiency transmission has bearings and
clutches designed for minimum friction. Modified oil pressures and a new
low-friction oil reduce friction and churning losses. The new torque
converter operates particularly efficiently, and therefore saves fuel,
thanks to its slip-reduced lockup clutch. In addition, the power decoupling
function at standstill in D reduces fuel consumption. This technical feature
reduces the transmission's input torque when the car is stationary, for
example at traffic lights.

Extensive model range with nine basic versions

With a total of nine basic versions, the R-Class offers the widest model
range in the premium touring saloon segment. Thanks to its attractive body
design, comprehensive standard features and numerous individualisation
options, the R-Class can be tailored to suit individual preferences. The
seating variants provide a particularly wide scope: specifically designed
for comfortable and safe touring, the saloon has five seats in both the
standard and long-wheelbase versions, but configurations with four, six or
seven seats are also possible. The R-Class offers a further advantage in the
form of a large, flexibly usable luggage compartment: luggage capacity is up
to 1950 litres in the versions with the standard wheelbase, and the
long-wheelbase version provides 2385 litres. The optional EASY PACK tailgate
with switch or key-operated remote control allows easier access to the
luggage compartment. All this makes the R-Class the most variable and
spacious model in the Mercedes-Benz passenger car range.

In the airy, high-quality interior, which gives an even more spacious
impression with the optional panoramic glass sunroof, new materials and
colour schemes improve value perception and quality even further. Standard
features include an upholstery combination of Aspen fabric and breathable,
pleasant-feeling ARTICO man-made leather. The interior colour schemes are
new, with almond beige available in combination with mocha brown, or alpaca
grey with basalt grey. Alternatively the interior can be enhanced even
further with a two-tone colour scheme, in which case almond beige and black
or alpaca grey and black form an interesting contrast.

Comprehensive standard equipment, attractive pricing

The price range for the R-Class model series starts at Euro 42,100 for
the R 300. All the models feature numerous details as standard that make for
safe and relaxed driving on both long-distance journeys and on short trips
into town. These include the anticipatory occupant proitection system
PRE-SAFE®, eight airbags, crash-responsive NECK-PRO head restraints, a tyre
pressure warning system and adaptive brake lights. Safety is also augmented
by efficient, user-friendly telematic systems such as Audio 20, Audio 50 APS
or COMAND APS. THERMATIC automatic climate control is also standard
equipment, as is an AUX-IN connection for external audio or entertainment
devices.

In addition to the extensive standard features, the R-Class has numerous
assistance ­systems which ensure ride comfort and safety at the highest
level, and underline the leading position of the model series in this market
segment. These include DISTRONIC proximity control, AIRMATIC air suspension
with the Adaptive Damping System ADS or Blind Sport Assist, which is
available for this model series for the first time and can make lane-changes
much safer. The LINGUATRONIC voice-operated control system makes for easy
and convenient operation of the telematics, while a reversing camera allows
confident parking and manoeuvring in awkward spaces. The rear seat
entertainment system enables passengers in the rear to enjoy their own
onboard entertainment programme.

The prices for the R-Class at a glance:

Model	kW / hp	Nm	Price*
R 300 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY	140 / 190	440	Euro 42,800
R 350 CDI 4MATIC	195 / 265	620	Euro 48,200
R 350 CDI 4MATIC**	195 / 265	620	Euro 49,700
R 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC	155 / 211	540	Euro 51,100
R 300	170 / 231	300	Euro 42,100
R 300**	170 / 231	300	Euro 43,600
R 350 4MATIC	200 / 272	350	Euro 47,000
R 350 4MATIC**	200 / 272	350	Euro 48,500
R 500 4MATIC**	285 / 388	530	Euro 62,400

* excl. VAT, ** long wheelbase

The M-Class Grand Edition

The exterior of the M-Class Grand Edition is distinguishable by numerous
attractive features. These include 48.3 cm (19-inch) light-alloy wheels in a
Y-spoke design with tyre size 255/50 R19, blue-tinted thermal insulation
glass all-round, dark-tinted headlamps and LED technology for the daytime
driving lights and sporty, darkened tail lights. Aluminium roof rails and an
extensive chrome package with an AMG radiator grille and underguards at the
front and rear round off the additional features. Standard equipment also
includes PARKTRONIC and a metallic paint finish. On request the Grand
Edition can be further enhanced with a paint finish in chromite black or
diamond white, and 50.8 cm (20-inch) bicolor light-alloy wheels with 265/45
R20 tyres, options which are only available for this M-Class model. A bonnet
with the powerdomes typical of sporty Mercedes-Benz models is standard
equipment for the V8 models ML 450 CDI 4MATIC and ML 500 4MATIC, and is
available as an optional extra for the other variants.

Sheer class: the interior of the Grand Edition

The feel-good atmosphere that is the hallmark of any Mercedes-Benz
impresses in the interior of the sporty yet luxurious Grand Edition
interior. The eye is treated to high-grade poplar wood trim and a black roof
lining. At night the ambient lighting creates a pleasant and exclusive Grand
Edition mood. The hard-wearing, breathable and pleasant-feeling ARTICO
man-made leather upholstery with contrasting seams and raised piping is
reserved exclusively for this model series, and ensures outstanding seating
comfort. The dashboard in a 3D-look is also lined with ARTICO, while the
centre door panels are lined with real leather. The sporty nature of this
series is accentuated by an AMG sports steering wheel in leather with shift
paddles, sports pedals of brushed stainless steel with rubber studs and
stainless steel door entry panels. A Grand Edition emblem on the centre
console provides the reference to exclusivity. A full leather interior is
available on request, likewise with contrasting seams and piping. Comfort
head restraints are included as standard.

In 1997 the M-Class was the first premium SUV

The M-Class is seen as the precursor to the modern premium SUVs, and is
one of the most popular SUV models worldwide. Since the world premiere of
the first model generation in 1997, more than one million examples have left
the production lines in Tuscaloosa, USA. Two variants of the M-Class are
available to cater to the different requirements of off-road drivers: in
addition to the basic 4MATIC version with its electronically controlled
off-road driving modes, the "Offroad-Pro Engineering package" can be ordered
to make the M-Class capable of mastering even the most difficult terrain.
Like all 4MATIC models, the M-Class has a special driving mode which
counters critical behaviour when towing a trailer right from the outset,
thereby decisively contributing to handling safety.

Grand Edition equipment package with a price advantage of 40
percent

The new Grand Edition equipment package is available for all models in
the series with the exception of the ML 63 AMG. At the package price of Euro
3990, there is a price advantage of Euro 2670 compared to ordering the
features individually for the variants with a V6 engine. The price advantage
is Euro 2015 for the V8 models ML 500 4MATIC and ML 450 CDI 4MATIC.

The basic prices for the M-Class "Grand Edition" at a glance:

Model	kW / hp	Nm	Basic price* "Grand Edition"	Price advantage*
ML 300 CDI 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY	150 / 204	500	Euro 48,590	Euro 2670
ML 350 CDI 4MATIC	170 / 231	540	Euro 50,840	Euro 2670
ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC	155 / 211	540	Euro 52,840	Euro 2670
ML 450 CDI 4MATIC	225 / 306	700	Euro 64,540	Euro 2015
ML 350 4MATIC	200 / 272	350	Euro 50,090	Euro 2670
ML 500 4MATIC	285 / 388	530	Euro 64,590	Euro 2015

* excl. VAT

Ford Fiesta S1600 Special Edition

Ford has announced a limited series sport variant of the Fiesta model - the Fiesta S1600 - for the U.K. market.

The Ford Fiesta S1600 is based on the Fiesta Zetec-S and comes with a range of extra equipment. The power of the Ford Fiesta S1600 comes from the 1.6-litre Duratec Ti-VCT petrol engine that develops 120PS which can be fitted with a Mountune engine upgrade package.

The Fiesta S1600 is based on the Zetec-S trim level and adds a range of sport equipment such as heated leather sports seats, motorsport-branded floor mats and scuff plates, and alloy pedals.

The exterior sports a body-styling kit including a new front bumper, large rear spoiler and diffuser, 17” white alloy wheels and a choice of white or blue body colour with motorsport stripes.

On the interior, the Fiesta will get heated, stitched leather sports seats with standard side-airbags, leather steering wheel, handbrake cover, and gearknob, plus Motorsport-branded floor mats and scuff plates.

The Fiesta S1600 will be limited to only 650 units and is now avaiable for order at Ford dealers in the U.K..
Prices start at £16,665 (€19,152).




Press Release

NEW FORD STAR WITH STRIPES - FASTER FIESTA CONTINUES PROUD HERITAGE

BRENTWOOD, Essex, 26 April, 2010 - The thoroughbred lineage of fast Fords has a new addition to the family, in the eye-catching new Fiesta S1600.

Based on the popular Fiesta Zetec-S - with a generous standard specification that includes alloy pedals and Quickclear windscreen - the sporty Fiesta S1600 interior adds heated, stitched leather sports seats with standard side-airbags, leather steering wheel, handbrake cover and gearknob, plus Motorsport-branded floor mats and scuff plates.

On the outside, the sporting pedigree is made clear, through a comprehensive

body-styling kit that includes a unique front bumper with flared lower valence panel, extended side skirts, large rear spoiler and rear diffuser, finished with 17-in, white alloy wheels (16-in on diesel models). The newcomer's special paint finish is available in Frozen White or Performance Blue, with contrasting motorsport stripes.

Performance comes from a choice of Fiesta's responsive 1.6-litre, 120PS Duratec

Ti-VCT petrol engine, or improved 1.6-litre Duratorq TDCi engine, now with 95PS. For performance enthusiasts, a further engine upgrade package will be offered via Ford's established performance tuning partner, Mountune.

Fiesta S1600 continues a 30-year sporting Fiesta bloodline that began with the Mk1 XR2 in 1981 and has included Supersport, XR2(i), Si, RS and ST models.

Gill Palmer, Ford of Britain's Fiesta Product Manager, said: "Since its introduction, Fiesta and sporting pedigree have never been far apart and the latest incarnation of that is S1600, bringing extra motorsport feel to the award-winning Fiesta style and driving quality."

Fast Ford fans are encouraged to act quickly, with only 650 of these special faster Fiestas being created. They are available now from Ford dealers, priced from £16,665 on-the-road.

2010 Caterham Seven Lambretta Special Edition

English car company Caterham Cars will be releasing a special edition of the Caterham Seven later this year.

The Lambretta Special Edition uses a 1.6 liter Ford Sigma powerplant, which delivers 125 hp and 120 lb-ft of torque. The unit is matted to a five speed manual gearbox and pushes the car to 60 mph in six seconds. The trendy Caterham uses a “purposeful chassis” that allows it to offer exceptional handling.

The Caterham Seven sportcar from Lambretta features a unique body paint, a combination of red, white and blue, based on the Union Jack. The same combination is used on the decals and livery, leather seats, dash, carpets and boot allowing for a proper homage to the heritage of the U.K.


Caterham Special Edition Seven exterior features a unique paints that includes with decals that matches leather seats, dashboard, carpet and boot.

The price for this special edition is £26,995.





Press Release

LAMBRETTA'S TAKE ON A CATERHAM SEVEN

Caterham Cars has teamed up with another iconic British company, Lambretta Clothing, to give its legendary Seven sportscar a visual overhaul for a unique 2010 Special Edition.

The British-owned fashion label, which is based in London's famous Carnaby Street, has drawn on its characteristic flair and rich heritage in popular culture to create a bespoke, custom-tailored Caterham, which screams ‘Britannia'.

The body paint, decals and livery leave you in no doubt of its geographic heritage with the Union Jack's unmistakable hue of red, white and blue dressing the paintwork.

Naturally, the theme continues inside with a matching colour scheme spanning the leather seats, dash, carpets and boot. Hand-stitched seat piping, embossed Lambretta motifs and a stylish Moto-Lita steering wheel finish the interior detailing.

Under the skin, the engineering is pure Caterham.

Powered by a 1.6-litre Ford Sigma engine, which pushes out 125bhp, the Lambretta Special Edition can call upon 120lbs ft of torque to propel its lightweight frame to 60mph in six seconds. The marriage of a quick-fire five-speed gearbox, with a purposeful chassis, provides the responsiveness and handling characteristics every Seven is famous for.

Available immediately, the Caterham Seven Lambretta Special Edition is priced at £26,995 OTR.

Lambretta's managing director, Rob Harmer explained: "Designing the exterior and interior of a car is an entirely different challenge to our core business of fashion and accessories, but there are clearly some shared philosophies between the two companies, which made this collaboration so exciting."

Cosworth announces Impreza STI CS400

Subaru has announced the result of its automotive collaboration with Cosworth to bring you the new Subaru Cosworth Impreza STI CS400.

The Cosworth Subaru Impreza STI CS400 develops 400PS (395bhp) at 5,750rpm. However, the torque figure has not yet been announced. The company says the Cosworth Subaru Impreza STI CS400 is able to rocket from 0 to 62 mph in 3.7 seconds which brings it extremely close to the supercar realm. The standard car needs 5.2 seconds to reach the same speed.

Engine-mods aside, Subaru reported that the Cosworth Impreza STI CS400 will feature a bespoke brake package with six-pot callipers and 355mm discs at the front developed in partnership with AP Racing, an upgraded suspension and a new sport exhaust system.





Press Release

COSWORTH IMPREZA WILL HAVE SUPERCAR-HUMBLING PACE

The result of one of the most eagerly anticipated automotive collaborations in recent times is heading fast towards Subaru dealerships. The Cosworth Impreza STI CS400 officially goes on sale in June, and is set to offer performance-car fans the thrill of a lifetime.

Subaru has confirmed the car will boast an impressive 400PS (395bhp) at 5,750rpm, sufficient to dispatch the 0-62mph sprint in just 3.7 seconds (compared to 300PS / 296bhp at 6,000rpm,and 5.2 seconds for the standard Impreza WRX STI). This ensures the Cosworth-tuned car will be one of the most accelerative all-wheel-drive hatchbacks ever.

Subaru also reports that the Cosworth Impreza STI CS400 will feature a bespoke brake package - with six-pot callipers and 355mm discs at the front - developed in partnership with AP Racing, giving the car prodigious stopping power. Coventry-based AP Racing is a leading supplier of brake and clutch components to teams in the Formula One Championship and the World Rally Championship, as well as to leading supercar brands including Bugatti.

A wide range of further upgrades have been made to the suspension, exhaust and to the donor Impreza's exterior and interior styling. An exclusive, limited edition run of 75 Cosworth Impreza STI CS400s will be produced, and full details of pricing and technical specification will be announced closer to the on-sale date.

Official: Nürburgring package for the Lexus LFA

Lexus has announced a Nürburgring package for its LFA supercar.

Lexus, the luxury vehicle division of Toyota Motor Corporation marks the participation of its LFA supercar in the challenge of the Nurburgring 24 Hours race with mega exclusive, new high-performance package engineered to appeal to customers seeking top-end track ride.

The new Nürburgring package provides additional aerodynamic features and technical revisions that improve handling and downforce without compromising the speed and acceleration .
Greater downforce, essential to peak track performance, has been gained through revisions and additions to several of the LFA’s CFRP components, including a larger front spoiler, side fin-type spoilers and a new fixed rear wing.

The Lexus LFA Nurburgring is powered by the standard 4.8-litre V10 engine that has received 10 extra bhp and now outputs 562 bhp. the gearbox of the Lexus LFA Nurburgring has also been improved over the standard car and now offers shift times of just 0.15 seconds. This means the Lexus LFA Nurburgring can get from 0 to 62 mph in just 3.7 seconds and up to a top speed of 202 mph.

Handling modifications include sports tuning of the suspension and mesh-type wheels shod with dedicated high-grip tires.

Outside, the vehicle differs from its sleek series brother with larger front spoiler, side fin-type spoilers and new fixed rear wing. Its mid-front-placed 4.8-litre V10 powerplant now boasts 10bhp more and the gear shifts in the six-speed sequential transmission have been cut to just 0.15 seconds. The handling properties are strengthened by sports tuning of the suspension unit and mesh-type wheels shod with dedicated high-grip tyres.

The company plans on handing out just 50 examples within the standard LFA production run of 500 units.





Press Release

LEXUS UNLEASHES THE ULTIMATE LFA

Now available with
new track-focused Nürburgring package

KEY POINTS

• Lexus introduces Nürburgring package for the LFA supercar, aimed at
  hardcore track driving enthusiasts
• New aerodynamic elements for greater downforce, including fixed rear
  wing
• Power increased to more than 562bhp, gearshift times cut to just
  0.15 seconds
• Nought to 62mph acceleration in 3.7 seconds and top speed of 202mph
  maintained in spite of higher downforce
• Performance package launched in celebration of LFA's entry in the
  Nürburgring 24 Hours race
• Just 50 examples to be built, within the total LFA production limit
  of 500 cars

In celebration of its LFA supercar taking on the challenge of the
Nürburgring 24 Hours race in May, Lexus has launched a new performance
package designed to appeal to customers seeking full-blooded track
performance.

The new Nürburgring package provides additional aerodynamic features and
technical revisions that improve handling and downforce without compromising
the exceptional speed and acceleration that are central to the LFA's driving
character.

Greater downforce, essential to peak track performance, has been gained
through revisions and additions to several of the LFA's CFRP components,
including a larger front spoiler, side fin-type spoilers and a new fixed
rear wing.

Maximum power from the mid-front-mounted 4.8-litre V10 engine has been
increased by 10bhp to more than 562bhp and gear shifts in the six-speed
sequential transmission have been cut to just 0.15 seconds. Thanks to these
changes, nought to 62mph acceleration in 3.7 seconds and a top speed of
202mph are maintained, in spite of the extra drag created by the new
aerodynamic elements.

Handling modifications include sports tuning of the suspension and
mesh-type wheels shod with dedicated high-grip tyres.

Just 50 LFA will be available with the Nürburgring package, within the
car's strictly limited global production run of 500 examples. If they wish,
customers will be able to take advantage of individual driving instruction
on the legendary Nordschleife circuit from the Nürburgring's chief
instructors. They will also receive a one-year driving pass to the track.

New York Auto Show: Ford Focus RS500

Ford has just released the first images and details of the Ford Focus RS500 before the new version's unveiled at the New York Auto Show.

The Ford Focus RS500 is powered by a 2.5-litre 5-cylinder engine that produces 350 PS and 460 Nm of torque, which means 15 percent additional power when compared to the standard Focus RS.
According to Auto Express, the engine will be tuned by Mountune, and will be in matte black with black 19 inch alloy wheels.

"The company has announced that it will build only 500 units of the Ford Focus RS500 which will be sold in 20 European markets. This means that unfortunately, the U.S. will not get the Ford Focus RS500.

Each car will be fitted with a metal plaque on the dashboard which will be hand-engraved with its unique identification number."

via:zercustoms





Press Release

A new and powerful limited edition Focus RS model, called the RS500, is being launched as the ultimate performance Ford and will provide the definitive driving experience for serious performance car enthusiasts.

Making its global debut at the 2010 Leipzig Motor Show in Germany on April 9, the new model has been given the Ford Focus RS500 designation to highlight its strictly-limited production run of 500 individually-numbered vehicles, all of which will be offered for customers to purchase.

The new Focus RS500 features a muscular 350 PS 2.5-litre 5-cylinder engine, which generates 15 per cent more power than the standard Focus RS and delivers truly exhilarating performance.

The Ford Focus RS500’s breathtaking power is matched by an equally dramatic appearance. The limited edition model sports a unique matt black 'foil' paint finish with matching alloy wheels to deliver a powerful visual impact which is unlike any other production Ford.

“We were determined to mark the end of production for the current and acclaimed Focus RS with something even more special,” said Joe Bakaj, Ford of Europe's vice president for Product Development. “From its stunning looks to its intoxicating performance, we have no doubt that the Ford Focus RS500 will be appreciated and quickly snapped up by performance car enthusiasts.

“This vehicle joins a long line of iconic RS Fords and is a worthy recipient of the Ford Focus RS500 name, which became synonymous with success on the road and track with the legendary Sierra RS500 Cosworth that dominated saloon car racing during the late 1980s,” Bakaj added.

Strictly Limited Production Run of 500 Individually Numbered Vehicles The Ford Focus RS500 marks the end of production for the current generation Focus RS, with the last vehicles scheduled to leave Ford’s Saarlouis Assembly Plant in Germany during September 2010.

While overwhelming customer demand has ensured that total Focus RS output is expected to exceed 11,000 units (significantly more than the 7,000 to 8,000 originally forecast), production of the Ford Focus RS500 will start at Ford's Saarlouis plant in Germany during May and will be strictly limited to 500 customer vehicles for twenty European markets.

Each Ford Focus RS500 will carry a metal plaque on the centre console, hand-engraved with a unique identification number from 001 to 500.

A small number of pre-production vehicles produced for internal Ford use – such as product development or press demonstrators – will have their own unique numbering scheme, to ensure the exclusivity of the 500 customer cars.

Demand for the Ford Focus RS500 is expected to exceed supply by a considerable margin, and the full production run of just 500 vehicles is being allocated across 20 European markets in line with the anticipated level of interest. For some countries, the very small number of vehicles allocated means the Ford Focus RS500 will, indeed, be a very exclusive purchase for its customers.

A dedicated website – will allow customers and enthusiasts to gain further information, including projected quantities of available vehicles by market, plus access to download photography and video clips. The site will also provide links to national Ford websites so customers can identify dealers and prices.

Focus RS also has its own Facebook page – www.facebook.com/fordfocusrs – with more than 13,500 fans from across the world, and Ford Focus RS500 launch activities will be shared on this site.

Upgraded 350 PS Powertrain

“The more urgent engine sound and sheer thrust of the mid-range performance tell the driver immediately that this is not a standard Focus RS,” said Gunnar Herrmann, Ford’s Global C-Car Vehicle Line Director. “With 15 per cent more power and the same gutsy, sporting character, our new powertrain gives the Ford Focus RS500 the special engine it deserves.”

To provide the Ford Focus RS500 with a fitting power unit, the 305 PS turbocharged Duratec RS 2.5-litre engine from the standard Focus RS has been upgraded to deliver significantly more top-end and mid-range power, but without compromising the base engine’s strength and responsiveness at lower revs.

Peak power is increased by 45PS to 350PS at 6,000rpm, while torque has been increased from 440 to 460Nm, delivered across a broad speed range from 2,500 to 4,500rpm. To achieve the required balance of muscular mid-range and top-end performance, the engine has benefitted from a comprehensive package of enhancements aimed at improving the engine’s breathing and combustion.

The changes include a significantly larger air-to-air intercooler to deliver a cooler, denser charge; a larger air filter box for increased airflow; larger diameter exhaust downpipe; and an uprated fuel pump, along with an updated software calibration to optimise the performance of the revised engine.

“The engine’s improved breathing has allowed us to increase power without having to raise turbo boost pressure significantly,” explained Herrmann. “This has made it possible to enhance peak performance while maintaining the excellent driveability, fuel consumption and emissions of the standard Focus RS.”

Preliminary performance figures for the Focus RS500 indicate that it achieves 0-100km/h in 5.6 seconds, with a top speed similar to the 263 km/h in the standard RS.

Engineered by Performance Car Enthusiasts

The Focus RS500 engine has been modified by a team enthusiast engineers from Ford TeamRS in partnership with Revolve Technologies, the automotive engineering firm which develops Ford approved performance upgrades through its Mountune brand.

The shared development and testing programme ensured that the 350 PS Duratec RS engine achieved the specified performance targets while also delivering the standards of durability and serviceability expected by Ford RS customers.

The comprehensive engineering details already developed for the 305 PS Focus RS engine – including a revised cylinder head gasket, ultra-durable metal sprayed cylinder bores, revised pistons and new connecting rods – have ensured that no further mechanical changes were required to cope with the increased performance of the 350 PS Ford Focus RS500 unit. Advanced Front Wheel Drive Chassis

A key factor in the success of the latest generation Focus RS has been its advanced front wheel drive chassis, which combines a wider track, the unique ‘RevoKnuckle’ front suspension design and a Quaife helical limited slip differential to deliver responsive steering, outstanding traction and a minimum of unwanted torque steer.

The same chassis design has proved equally effective in handling the increased torque levels of the Ford Focus RS500, and the specification is unchanged for this application, helping to retain the same sporting and responsive dynamic character which is central to the appeal of the acclaimed standard Focus RS.

The high-performance braking system, and the 19-inch wheels and 235/35/R19 tyres, are also carried over unchanged from the standard vehicle, although red brake calipers and a dramatic black finish for the alloy wheels are unique to the RS500.

Performance Tested to the Limit

In recognition of the extreme performance potential of the Ford Focus RS500, the limited edition model has been subjected to a series of concentrated durability tests which have focused on the car’s track capabilities.

The development programme included a dedicated endurance test at the infamous Nürburgring Nordschleife in Germany, where Ford TeamRS engineers were joined by three Ford-employed racing drivers working in shifts to complete 10,000km of non-stop driving, equivalent to competing in ten consecutive Nürburgring 24-hour races without a break.

“We wanted to be sure that serious enthusiasts could drive the Ford Focus RS500 to the limit on track, without any concerns about the car’s stamina,” said Matthias Tonn, Ford Focus RS500 Chief Programme Engineer. “This meant going beyond our standard test routines, and pushing the car to the edge of its performance envelope. After 500 non-stop laps of the Nürburgring, we are very confident of its durability and delighted at the way it performed, with an 8-minute lap time within reach”.

Unique Matt Black 'Foil' Paint Finish for Maximum Visual Impact

The standard Focus RS already creates a lasting impression with its functional yet striking design, but the unique matt black 'foil' paint finish of the Ford Focus RS500 makes this limited edition car even more special.

Stunning matt black bodywork is combined with matching metallic black alloy wheels, and the gloss black finish of the trapezoidal lower front grille and splitter, twin-blade rear spoiler and the rear venturi, which manages airflow beneath the rear of the car.

Small flashes of colour around the vehicle – including the red brake calipers, blue RS badges, and the special blue and red RS500 badge on the tailgate – only serve to emphasise the car’s unique appearance.

“We deliberately set out to ensure that the Ford Focus RS500 looks like no other production vehicle,” added Tonn. “With its dramatic black finish and imposing stance, this car really is mean, moody and magnificent!”

The matt black foil finish for the RS500 was developed in partnership with the technology company 3M, which specialises in advanced film products for the automotive industry.

All Ford Focus RS500 vehicles will be painted in a standard Panther Black metallic colour, before being shipped to a dedicated 3M facility near Frankfurt, Germany, where a special foil film will be applied to the bodywork to create the matt black effect.

The film is extremely durable, and is specifically designed to resist superficial marks and scratches in automotive applications. In the event of damage to the bodywork, Ford dealers will be fully supported by a Europe-wide network of 3M agents who can replace the film on the affected panels.

Special Ford Focus RS500 Interior Detailing

Attention to detail on the RS500 exterior is also reflected inside the car, with a series of special features which are unique to this limited edition model.

The centre console is distinguished by the car's individually-numbered metal plaque, and by a unique carbon-effect finish to the bezel which carries a distinctive RS pattern.

In contrast to the blue detailing on the standard Focus RS, the RS500 features a special red colour scheme, notably on the stitching of the leather trim on the steering wheel, door trim and gear lever gaiter, and on the floor mats.

Customers also have the option of specifying the bespoke Recaro front sports seats in full red leather, to further enhance the visual impact.

Premium Specification for All Vehicles

All Ford Focus RS500 vehicles will be equipped to a very high specification as standard, with only two features available as optional items. In addition to the comprehensive equipment levels on the standard Focus RS, the RS500 includes the following features as standard:

? Dual-zone automatic climate control
? Heated windscreen
? Rear parking distance sensors
? Tyre deflation detection system
? Automatic headlights and rain-sensing wipers
? Auto dimming rear-view mirror
? Ford key-free start
? Enhanced connectivity with Bluetooth®, voice control and USB port
? Sony 6-CD audio system
? Recaro sports front seats with partial leather trim

The two optional features are touchscreen DVD navigation and audio system, and the full leather Recaro front seats in red.

“We believe that customers lucky enough to secure one of the limited edition Ford Focus RS500 models will be getting a real collectors item,” said Joe Bakaj. “From its stunning looks, to its immense driver appeal and its complete specification, the Ford Focus RS500 provides enthusiasts with the ultimate performance Ford for the road.”