Lamborghini Aventador Roadster and Gallardo Spyder Review

The Lamborghini Aventador Roadster and the Gallardo Spyder are both known as Italian super-cars that are designed by the same manufacture. On the other hand, these two cars also feature many differences.

The Aventador is much newer than the Gallardo Spyder, and is equipped with more technologically advanced equipment as well as a better power train. The Aventador packs a whopping 6.5L V12 that produces 690 HP along with 509ft of torque through a 7 speed dual clutch transmission. This car can go from 0 to 60 in 3 seconds flat and can reach speeds up to 217mph. Many of the Aventadors components are carbon fiber and designed with more conscious design for styling and aerodynamics.

The Gallardo Spyder may be much older, but it still has a commendable Lambo V10. In the Spyder, the 5.5L V10 produces 560 HP and 398 lb-ft of torque through a 6 speed manual with power going through all four wheels. As if that wasn�t good enough, the Spyder can go from 0 to 60 in 4 seconds flat and is recorded with a top speed of 201mph.

To top it off, the Aventador starts at $445,300; meanwhile, the Gallardo is priced at $225,400.

In the end, both of these topless racers exhibit many shared characteristics, but manage to maintain distinct identities.

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2013 DB9 Review

Aston Martin has made the new DB9 many times better than the previous model. It's advanced dynamics, luxurious interior, and powerful engine all come together for create an magnificent grand-tourer. The engine is a hand-built 6.0L V12 producing 510 HP and 457 lb-ft of torque which is connected to a 6 speed automatic transmission. All that power is going to the rear wheels through Pirelli P Zero tires. Fitted to the tires are 20" inch aluminum wheels. You can stop on a dime with carbon-ceramic brakes and in comfort with a three mode adjustable suspension. 0-60 in just 4.6 seconds with a top speed of just 186 MPH. And when you step inside you are surrounded by a plethora of high quality leather and super comfortable seats. The exterior is stunning with an aggressive and signature Aston Martin front end with stylish sides and taillights. Starting price is $183,300 and for that price you aren't just paying for the name, your paying for luxurious power.

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Mercedes E-Class Convertible

While the Mercedes-Benz E-Class sedan and E63 AMG sedan have been spotted with varying degrees of camouflage today we can share new spy shots of the 2014 Mercedes-Benz E-Class convertible as well as a Mercedes teaser video of what appears to be the headlights of the new E-Class. 

Like the 2014 E-Class sedan, the 2014 Mercedes-Benz E-Class convertible is expected to get revised front and rear bumpers as well as one-piece headlights. Once the convertible rolls into dealerships, it may have a more upright grille and a more chiseled hood, like the car shown here. Refreshed LED taillights are also in the four-seat drop-tops future. 

In contrast to the upcoming E-Class sedan, on the two-door 2014 E-Class models the bulging rear fenders will carry on until at least until the next-generation arrives. Check out this new teaser video from Mercedes showing its new headlight direction with new LEDs that look remarkably similar to those on the new E-Class mules we've seen. 

Thanks to: Motor Trend

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Jaguar XFR-S

Jaguar has released this first teaser picture of the Jaguar XFR-S, set to be the most powerful and focused version of the firm's BMW 5 Series rival.

Full details and images will be released at the Los Angeles Motor Show, but it's more than likely that the XFR-S will be powered by the same supercharged 5.0-litre engine found in the XKR-S. That would mean 542bhp and a 0-62mph time of around 4.5 seconds.

Expect to see a firmer suspension set-up for improved handling and an upgraded interior, featuring bespoke sports seats, too.

This early picture clearly shows its aggressive carbon-fibre bumper, complete with gaping air intakes but recent spy shots reveal the XFR-S gets a large fixed rear spoiler, too, just like the XKR-S.

Expect the super-saloon to hit UK showrooms in early 2013, priced at around 75,000.

Thanks to: Auto Express

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2013 Dodge Charger SRT-8 Review

In the dodge challenger SRT, you are getting pure American muscle in a modern twist to a classic sedan. It packs a 4.4L HEMI� V8 producing 470HP and 470 lb-ft of torque. This is sent to a 5 speed automatic and power to the rear wheels. 0-60 comes in at 4.5 seconds and a top speed of 175 MPH. AMG is to Mercedes as SRT is to dodge. You get Brembo brakes, a tuned suspension and chassis. For a car that weighs almost 4,000lbs it�s not that bad in the corners, but don�t get me wrong, it�s not a car you take into the mountains for fun. While you get a stiff suspension, which is great for around town, and every day driving, but when you become a weekend warrior, the car rolls severely in the turns, the leather racing seats do keep you from flying out of the cabin, but that�s about it. When you add a stiff suspension that�s not doing its job to well, and a car that weighs more than two tons, it�s not a nice combination. Although once you step inside the interior it only gets better for the 2012 Dodge Charger, with soft touch leather, and leather racing seats that do their job surprisingly well. When you get to the dashboard, the center piece is real aluminum, not plastic. If you opt for the Rally plus package, you get an upgraded Audio system, with a big color touch screen display, you also get some more upgrades in the package like, heated and cooled cup holders, which work surprisingly well. New advanced safety features include driver knee air bag, you can also order your 2011 Dodge Charger with Adaptive Cruise Control, with forward collision warning system, and blind spot waning alert system.

So if I could wrap the 2013 Dodge Charger STR-8, it is a AMG with a Dodge Charger body.

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Ford Taurus SHO Hennessey Review

Now this is a car that has gone from being innovative to being even more innovative. The base SHO carries a 3.5L ecoboost V6 which means it is turbocharged and upgraded by ford. That produced 365 HP and 350 lb-ft of torque. The Hennessey upgrade package gives the SHO 445 HP and 405 lb-ft of torque. Standard without the package you get AWD and a 6 speed auto transmission. The package includes � Hennessey Dual Cold Air Induction System
� Hennessey Polished Hard Piping to Turbo Chargers
� HPE Engine Management Calibration
� CORSA Stainless Steel Cat-Back Exhaust System
� Exterior MaxBoost 445 Badges
� Exterior Hennessey Bade
� Hennessey Embroidered Headrests
All of these upgrades give the Taurus SHO 0-60 time of 4.3 seconds. The package costs $4,495 and the actual car in the SHO model costs $39,200.

If you already have a SHO Taurus, this might not be a bad idea, it should add some fun to your everyday routine. 

-All Cars News

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BMW i3 Coupe Concept

BMW is testing the market for a sportier-looking, three-door coup' version of its battery-powered i3 electric hatch with this i3 Concept Coup', which has broken cover ahead of the Los Angeles motor show.

The BMW i3 Concept Coup' is lower and wider than the five-door i3 hatch due on sale in the UK next year and is distinguished by a more steeply sloped roofline, deeper rear side windows and slightly more angled tailgate.

Otherwise it shares the basic styling treatment, 2750mm wheelbase and carbon fibre reinforced plastic body construction ' the so-called Life Module structure ' with the i3 five-door.

Although the three-door has yet to be signed off for production, senior BMW officials say that cost and production feasibility studies have been carried out. And it has emerged that a soft-top version of the three-door i3 is also awaiting sign-off, suggesting the i-car line-up could eventually support up to five models ' three i3 hatch-derived models and two i8 sportscars.

At 3964mm long, 1768mm wide and 1555mm high, the car is 119mm longer, 243mm narrower and 18mm lower than the five door. To put these dimensions into perspective, the existing Mini hatchback measures 3725mm long, 1685mm wide and 1405mm high.

Inside, the concept previews the i3's production interior. Less flamboyant than the cabin revealed at Frankfurt last year, it sports a simple dashboard housing an integrated digital instrument binnacle, a minimum of switchgear and a free-standing, central sat-nav monitor.

The majority of the controls are accessed via an iDrive rotary controller mounted between the front seats. The steering wheel is a basic two-spoke affair with multi-function controls and the pedals elegant forged aluminium.

Power comes from a 170bhp, 184lb ft electric motor mounted within the rear axle and driving the rear wheels through a fixed ratio gearbox. Lithium ion batteries are packed inside the floor structure. This complete powerpack is shared with the five-door.

Thanks to: Autocar

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2013 Porsche 911 Review

Now, many love the new Porsche 911, but some have been asking �where�s the new turbo?" We'll their questions have been answered. The new 911 turbo has arrived and looking better than ever. It will have an AWD system different from all of Porsches other models. It packs. 3.8L twin turbo flat six producing and astonishing 520HP, although the Turbo S model will produce around 560 HP. With that much power you will need a strong transmission. So Porsche fitted it with their seven speed dual clutch PDK (which, by the way is the only transmission available). 0-60 is in 3.1 seconds and 2.9 seconds for the Turbo S model. For both, a top speed at 198 MPH is estimated. Both versions incorporate new aerodynamics, new LED lights, wider bodywork, and a stop/start system to improve fuel costs. The Turbo S gets an adaptive suspension, active engine mounts, and carbon ceramic brakes. It will be priced at $148,300 for the Turbo and $181,100 for the Turbo S (plus $950 destination). Expect a convertible version to follow, as well as a new GT2 model that will ditch the all-wheel drive and tighten up the package even further.

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GTR Track Edition Review

This car rewrote the rules for the supercar league; the GTR does 0-60 in less than 2.8 seconds! Now the Nissan GTR, as insane as it is has another more aggressive side, the Black edition. But now the black edition has a crazier side. The track edition. It carries the same engine as the base GTR, which is a 3.8L twin turbo V6 producing 545 HP and 463 lb-ft of torque. That is connected to a 6 speed dual clutch transmission. Power to all four wheels, 0-60 in 2.8 seconds and a top speed of 196 MPH and higher, how they managed to get that much power out of a V6, we might never know. The track edition carries the same features as the black edition without the rear back seats, improved suspension, improved brake cooling, a new front spoiler and sexy black aluminum wheels. All of these improvements mean a lot more the GTR, after all itbeats the Ferrari 458 around most tracks easily. When the CEO Ferrari asked why the GTR was so fast around the track, he was given a simple answer, and the GTR is an easy car to drive, it inspires confidence in the driver, plain and simple as that. Only 115 will be sold in the USA for $115,710. The base GTR costs $99,590 and the black edition at $109,330. Each model has the same engine but with small tweaks.

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Mercedes SLS AMG Black Series

2014 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series. Debuting at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show,

2014 Mercedes Benz SLS AMG Black Series Rear Three Quarters The car's naturally aspirated 6.2-liter V-8 now makes 622 hp and 468 lb-ft of torque, up from the 583-hp SLS AMG GT, good for zero to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 196 mph, which actually produces 11 lb-ft of torque more than the Black Series model.

Looking decidedly aggressive, the model has an SLS GT3-inspired body kit with new bumpers, revised side skirts, flared fenders and a rear diffuser. There's also tinted headlights, a carbon fiber rear wing and 19- / 20-inch wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires.

Other weight savings came from carbon-fiber reinforced plastic parts like the hood, the diagonal braces on the underbody, and the torque tube between the engine and transmission. To shave another 17.6 pounds, Mercedes replaced a conventional starter battery with a lithium-ion unit.




Press Release

SLS AMG Black Series - Extreme Performance for the Road

Mercedes-AMG presents the most extreme version of the celebrated SLS, the 2014MY SLS AMG Black Series. Inspired by the SLS AMG GT3 race car, the fifth Black Series model from Mercedes-AMG boasts a fascinating mix of breathtaking design, outstanding driving dynamics and uncompromising lightweight construction in line with the "AMG Lightweight Performance" strategy. With a curb weight of 3,417 pounds, the 2014MY SLS AMG Black Series achieves a power/weight ratio of 5.49 lb/hp. The AMG 6.3-liter V8 engine generates a power output of 622 hp at 7,400 rpm and accelerates the most dynamic SLS of all time to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds. The SLS AMG Black Series achieves a whole new level of performance with the coil-over AMG Adaptive Performance Suspension, AMG high-performance ceramic two-piece brake system and weightoptimized, forged AMG light-alloy wheels with new sport tires. Additional highlights include electronically-controlled AMG rear-axle differential lock and the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission featuring spectacular shift and response times. The available AMG Aerodynamics package delivers a further boost to the vehicle's handling and dynamics. 2014MY SLS AMG Black Series goes on-sale in the U.S. in summer 2013.

Black Series is a name that resonates with automobile experts and enthusiasts worldwide. Following the SLK55 AMG Black Series from 2006 (European model), the 2008 CLK63 AMG Black Series, the 2009 SL65 AMG Black Series and the 2013 C63 AMG Black Series, the fifth in the lineup sees the Black Series enter a whole new dimension with the iconic SLS AMG.

"The new SLS AMG Black Series is a perfect study in the one hundred percent transfer of technology and engineering from motorsport to road. We have drawn inspiration from the worldwide success of the SLS AMG GT3 customer sport racing car on both a conceptual and a technological level. Boasting numerous lightweight components and fascinating dynamics, our fifth Black Series model guarantees pure, unadulterated 'Driving Performance.' The SLS AMG Black Series is the ultimate choice for fast laps and a highly emotional experience," says Ola Kllenius, Chairman of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

"Fans of high-performance super sports cars will be fascinated by its high-tech package. The basis for passionate performance and supreme driving dynamics is provided by numerous new developments in the engine, transmission, suspension and aerodynamics - also giving top priority to our "AMG Lightweight Performance" strategy. Outstanding efforts in the field of lightweight design have resulted in a curb weight of 3,417 pounds," notes Tobias Moers, Head of Total Vehicle Development and Member of the Board of Mercedes-AMG GmbH. AMG 6.3-liter V8 engine - synonymous with thrilling driving dynamics The uprated AMG 6.3-liter V8 engine generating a power output of 622 hp and 468 lb-ft of torque is a synonym for thrilling driving dynamics, making the 2014MY SLS AMG Black Series the most powerful AMG high-performance automobile with a combustion engine. Only the SLS AMG Electric Drive with a maximum output of 740 hp has more power. The 2014MY SLS AMG Black Series accelerates to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds, and onward to a top speed of 196 mph. The additional 39 hp of power compared to the 583 hp delivered by the SLS AMG GT is courtesy of the following enhancements:

• Increase in maximum engine speed from 7,200 to 8,000 rpm
• Fully revised high-speed valve train with modified camshafts, adapted cam geometry and optimized bucket tappets featuring a special coating that is typically used on race vehicles
• Modification of the intake air ducting: de-throttling and adaptation to match the new maximum engine speed
• Adaptation of the engine mapping and increase in peak pressure

The engineers at Mercedes-AMG have further optimized the crank assembly in the interests of optimum stability under tough race track conditions. The measures include modified oil bores in the crankshaft, new crankshaft bearings, a new oil pump and high-strength screw fasteners for the connecting rods. The entire water and oil cooling system for the engine and transmission has been optimized further. The AMG V8 engine in the SLS AMG Black Series also has an additional specialized mounting system. A gas-filled strut braces the eight-cylinder engine against the body, effectively eliminating undesired load shifts during highly-dynamic race-track driving. The AMG 6.3-liter V8 engine is hand-built in the AMG factory in Affalterbach, in line with the philosophy "one man, one engine." This hand-made quality is confirmed by the black AMG engine badge bearing the signature of the engine builder, which is a hallmark of the Black Series models.

The key data at a glance:

• SLS AMG Black Series
• Displacement 6,208 cc
• Bore x stroke 4.02 x 3.72 inches
• Compression ratio 11.3 : 1
• Output 622 hp at 7,400 rpm
• Max. torque 468 lb-ft at 5,500 rpm
• Maximum engine speed 8,000 rpm
• Engine weight (dry) 452 lbs
• Acceleration 0-60 mph 3.5 s
• Top speed 196 mph

The eight-cylinder naturally aspirated engine installed with a front mid-engine layout behind the front axle, and boasts racing car responses and an exceptional level of high-revving performance. The racetrack credentials of the powerful AMG V8 engine are also apparent from its sound: the newly designed AMG sport exhaust system, produced for the first time in titanium, features distinctive center and rear mufflers, delivering a more powerful and even more striking engine sound. The switch from steel to titanium has spawned substantial weight savings: at just under 37.5 pounds, the new AMG sports exhaust system is around 28.7 pounds lighter than its predecessor. The new system features performance-enhancing, fan-type exhaust manifolds.

Systematic application of the AMG Lightweight Performance strategy
With a curb weight of 3,417 pounds, the 2014MY SLS AMG Black Series is not only 154 pounds lighter than the SLS AMG, but also attains the best power/weight ratio by far of all AMG Black Series vehicles to date. Even among super sports cars, the figure of 5.49 lb/hp is extremely competitive and made possible by consistent application of the "AMG Lightweight Performance" strategy. Numerous body elements, such as the hood, the rear panel behind the AMG sports bucket seats, the diagonal braces on the underbody and the torque tube between engine and transmission are made entirely from CFRP (carbonfiber reinforced plastic). In contrast to its 58.6-pound counterpart with a sandcast aluminum housing, the carbon-fiber torque tube weighs just 29.3 pounds. As before, a CFRP drive shaft weighing just 10.4 pounds handles power transmission between the engine and dual-clutch transmission (transaxle principle), which is flange-mounted on the rear axle. CFRP components also replace a number of parts of the aluminum spaceframe, while a lithium-ion battery takes on the role of the conventional starter battery, saving a further 17.6 pounds.

Dual-clutch transmission for even smoother performance
The AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission is installed 0.4 inches lower in order to give the vehicle a lower center of gravity and is braced against the body by gas-filled struts to avoid stress cycling. The dual-clutch transmission features four drive modes (C, S, S+ and M). "Sport plus" and "Manual" deliver even more aggressive performance than in the SLS AMG and SLS AMG GT models. In addition to an increase in shift speed, the transmission also has reduced response time to shift commands from the driver.

An even more thrilling feature is the automatic rev-matching function during downshifting: the throttle blips when shifting gears are more pronounced and more striking than ever due to the AMG titanium sports exhaust system. There is also a new temporary M mode. In C, S or S+ mode, this enables the driver to activate manual mode without taking a hand from the steering wheel, by pressing the "up" or "down" shift paddle once. In temporary M mode the driver experiences the dynamism and performance of gear-shifting in manual mode in all of the automatic driving programs, with automatic up and down-shifting as well. This allows the driver to devote his full attention to the vehicle's impressive performance.


New electronic AMG rear-axle differential lock
A new electronically controlled AMG rear-axle differential lock with a shorter rear axle ratio replaces the mechanical variant. Integrated into the compact transmission housing, this system operates with a variable locking effect under acceleration and deceleration. In addition, the electronics are now more responsive, enabling excellent traction for the rear wheels under all road conditions. The electronic AMG rear-axle differential lock also benefits safety. By reducing the vehicle's yaw around its vertical axis, the system provides a stabilizing effect in slaloms or when changing lane at high speeds. The standard 3-stage ESP system featuring the functions "ESP ON", "ESP SPORT Handling Mode" and "ESP OFF" is precision-tuned to the electronic AMG rearaxle differential lock. The same applies to the RACE START function, which works with the electronic differential lock to provide perfect traction when accelerating from a standing start.


AMG Adaptive Performance Suspension and sports tires
The chassis and suspension of the 2014 SLS AMG Black Series are also new. The basic layout with aluminum double wishbones at all four corners remains unchanged, but virtually every single component has been refined for significantly enhanced track performance.

The new developments in detail:

• AMG Adaptive Performance Suspension with tauter base setup and electronically controlled two-stage damping (Sport, Sport +) for individual adjustment to suit personal driving style
• Coil-over spring suspension allows for adjusting wheel loads to individual race track setups
• Elastokinematics 50 / 42% more rigid (front/rear axle) for greater stability in turns
• Track width increased by 0.8 / 0.9 inches (front/rear axle) for added grip
• New wheel mounts on front axle and new front stabilizer tuning for added grip, reduced body roll in fast cornering
• AMG 10-spoke forged alloy wheels, in very lightweight forged design for optimum strength, painted matte black with high-gloss finish, dimensions: 10x19 front; 12x20 rear. Weight saving: 8.8 pounds
• Newly developed Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 sports tires. Dimensions 275/35 R 19 front and 325/30 R 20 rear, for added grip and cornering at the limit
• AMG speed-sensitive steering with revised power steering characteristics for optimum steering precision and outstanding control

Standard AMG high-performance ceramic two-piece brake system
The brake system on the SLS AMG Black Series boasts excellent deceleration performance and outstanding stability. The standard AMG high-performance ceramic two-piece brake system measures 15.8 x 1.5 inches at the front and 14.2 x 1.3 inches at the rear, and feature increased hardness for enhanced thermal stability, combined with a weight reduction of around 40 percent over their steel/aluminum counterparts. As a result of the reduced unsprung weight, they optimize both comfort and grip, while the reduced rotating masses on the front axle deliver a more direct steering response. The weight savings is approximately 35.3 pounds compared to a conventional steel/aluminum brake system.

Design inspired by the SLS AMG GT3 race car
The design of the SLS AMG Black Series takes its cues from the SLS AMG GT3 race car. The SLS race car developed in accordance with FIA GT3 rules has quickly become established as a serious contender among the super sports car elite. In the 2012 motorsport season the SLS AMG GT3 is competing in more than 15 series on four continents. The triple victory in the 24-hour Dubai race in January 2012, three driver and team titles in the FIA GT3 European Championship, the ADAC GT Masters and the FIA GT3 World Championship, along with numerous podium places at various short-distance, 4 and 6-hour races provide impressive documentation of the SLS AMG GT3's sporty performance. To date, the car has notched up 37 victories in the 2012 season (as of October 28, 2012).

Flared fenders with an added width of 0.5 inches (front) and 1.0 inch (rear) on each side create the necessary space for the 10.8-inch and 12.8-inch sports tires. Tinted headlamps and black surrounds for the rear lights give the SLS AMG Black Series a muscular and aggressive look. The vehicle's aerodynamic balance is optimized by front, rear and side skirts and a rear diffuser, all in a signature Black Series design. The package features extensive use of CFRP on the front splitter, side sills and rear skirt. The enlarged air intakes with carbonfiber flics also ensure optimum airflow into the cooling modules at the front. As on the SLS AMG GT3, the carbon-fiber hood features a central air outlet. Aside from effectively dissipating engine heat, this outlet also increases downforce at the front axle and improves the cd value. The wing-like cross-fin and the star recessed into the radiator grille are finished in high-gloss black to match the exterior mirrors and the fins on the hood. The carbon-fiber insert on the sides with air outlet and a black fin is also reminiscent of the GT3; this feature helps reduce the temperature in the engine compartment. The result is maximum stability, even in tough race track use.


Matte black AMG forged wheels in signature Black Series design
A striking feature along the sides is the attractive integration of the side skirts, which combine with the character line for a striking look. The carbon elements fitted along the bottom edges carry the line of the carbon-fiber front splitter through to the rear of the vehicle. AMG forged wheels in a signature Black

Series 10-spoke design, painted in matte black with a high-gloss finish provide glimpses of the AMG ceramic high-performance two-piece brake system. Also available are AMG forged wheels in matte black with a polished flange.


The muscular look of the SLS AMG Black Series carries through to the rear. The wide fenders and the striking rear diffuser are the dominant features here. The diffuser extends beyond the profile of the rear skirt to produce additional downforce at the rear axle. This results in greater driving stability at high speeds. Visible air openings behind black grilles control the discharge of hot air around the AMG titanium sports exhaust system. The two sets of twin chrome tailpipes with a square cross-section are a visual indication of the super sports car's power - an impression reinforced by the exhaust note. The exclusive AMG logo with contrasting Black Series lettering in black adds a discreet yet striking touch at the top right of the trunk lid.


AMG Aerodynamics package with carbon-fiber components
The SLS AMG Black Series can be upgraded with the optional AMG Aerodynamics package. This package features an adjustable carbon-fiber rear wing in place of the standard wind deflector. The rear wing is braced by aluminum elements on a special insert on the trunk lid that provide even greater downforce on the rear axle - especially with the Gurney flap, named for its inventor Dan Gurney, a former racing driver, designer and team owner. This 0.3-inch spoiler lip fitted to the rear wing at an angle of 90 degrees delivers a further increase in downforce without significantly increasing drag. The rear wing is complemented by additional carbon-fiber flics on the front skirt, which further increase downforce at the front axle, as opposed to the more inwardlying standard carbon-fiber flics, which optimize airflow into the cooling modules.


The eye-catching AMG Solar Beam exterior paint is available exclusively on the SLS AMG Black Series. Six further exterior paint finishes from the SLS AMG are available, including the matte finish designo magno alanite grey.


Functional, performance interior that exudes quality
The interior of the SLS AMG Black Series features high-quality materials with precision workmanship and exquisitely designed details. There is a choice of two color variants: black designo leather with black Alcantara or black designo leather with black/red Alcantara. With the two-tone variant, the door center panels and the applications on the center console and above the glove box are finished in red. The AMG Performance steering wheel with flattened rim at the bottom is wrapped entirely in Alcantara for excellent grip. The top section of the steering wheel features a red 12 o'clock marking. The metal bezel has a high-gloss black paint finish to match the high-gloss black surrounds of the air vents. An exclusive Black Series detail is the "3D seam" that runs horizontally along the dashboard - a fine Alcantara strip in anthracite running across the entire width of the leather covering. Red contrasting stitching provides a striking finish to the 3D seam, underscoring the hand-crafted character.


The combination of designo leather and Alcantara features throughout the interior - on the bottom section of the dashboard, on the door center panels and on the AMG sports seats with center sections upholstered in Alcantara. Embossed AMG logos on the head restraints are further exclusive eye-catchers.


For additional weight savings, the customer may delete the COMAND multimedia system. This reduces the vehicle's weight by an additional 13 pounds and further enhances the uncompromising character of the SLS AMG Black Series. In place of the screen between the air vents, a carbon-fiber trim element enhances the authentic racing atmosphere. Vehicle occupants will als find carbon fiber covering the entire center console, which is home to the AMG DRIVE UNIT. Bold highlights come from the red seat belts and red contrasting stitching on the AMG sports bucket seats, the center console, the upper and lower section of the dashboard and the door paneling. The floor mats also feature red piping.


Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround sound system
A highlight among the optional equipment is the Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround sound system, developed by Mercedes-Benz and Mercedes-AMG together with renowned Danish audio specialist Bang & Olufsen. The Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround sound system with Dolby Digital 5.1 delivers an exclusive music experience of the very highest order. This is made possible by a 1000-watt amplifier and 11 speakers in conjunction with precise distribution of the music signals by the sound processor according to the selected seat positions - driver, co-driver or central. The DSP digital sound processor also enables the user to switch between high-end studio sound ("Reference") and a surround sound option. All functions are controlled via COMAND in a special Bang & Olufsen menu. The illuminated 50-watt lens tweeters on the dashboard are a particular highlight, while the 250-watt subwoofer is integrated into the rear shelf. High-quality speaker covers sporting the Bang & Olufsen logo indicate the high-end system's exclusive character.

Further stand-alone options are also available:

• AMG carbon fiber exterior mirror
• AMG carbon fiber engine cover
• AMG Interior Carbon Fiber Package
• The U.S. market launch of the 2014MY SLS AMG Black Series is scheduled for summer 2013.
• Performance/Availability:
• On-Sale: Summer 2013
• 2014 SLS AMG Black Series: 622hp, 468 lb-ft (SLS AMG GT: 583hp, 479 lb-ft)
• Top Speed: 196 mph
• 0-60 mph: 3.5 seconds
• New Standard Feature Highlights:
• Modified engine components for more power, increased rev limit of 8,000 rpm
• Track increased 0.8" (front) / 0.9" (rear)
• AMG 10-spoke forged alloy wheels in matte black, 10 x 19 (front)/12 x 20 (rear)
• CFRP hood, torque tube, diagonal underbody braces
• Revised AMG speed-sensitive power steering
• AMG Adaptive Performance Suspension
• AMG high-performance two-piece ceramic brakes
• Matte black forged wheels
• Electronically-controlled AMG rear axle differential lock
• Modified AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission
• New engine brace with gas-filled strut
• Titanium exhaust system
• New Optional Equipment Highlights:
• AMG carbon-fiber exterior mirror
• AMG carbon-fiber engine cover
• AMG Interior Carbon Fiber Package
• AMG Aerodynamics Package
• AMG forged matte black wheels with polished rims
• Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround sound system
• COMAND multimedia system delete

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Chevrolet Spark EV

The Chevrolet Spark EV, a plug-in version of the company's Spark city car, has been officially unveiled at the Los Angeles motor show.

The Spark is sold in North America, South Korea, India and Australia. GM will build the electric drivetrain in the US and retrofit it to the Korean-built Spark.

That drivetrain consists of 128bhp motor that develops 400lb ft, and a 20KwH battery mounted under the rear seats, which Chevrolet claims will give it the best acceleration - with the manufacturer claiming 0-60mph in under eight seconds - and among the best range in its class. The car will be available with a fast-charge option, which enables the battery to be 80 per cent charged in 20 minutes.

On a 240v system the Spark fully charges in seven hours, although in the US this will require a dedicated charging point. And although Chevrolet is not confirming the Spark's range, it's likely to be around 60 miles.

The car's aerodynamics have been tweaked with a new grille, redesigned sill covers and an active shutter system that closes and opens the lower air intakes to control air flow through the car. The modifications are said to add 2.5 miles to the car's range.

The Spark EV goes on sale in the US next summer, and will be priced at $25,000 ('15,550), after tax reductions and incentives from individual states. However, it's not going on sale throughout North America ' currently only California, Oregon and Canada will get the car, along with South Korea.

Also being launched is an advanced version of Chevrolet's MyLink infotainment system, with improved smartphone integration. It will first make an appearance on the US-only 2014 Impala saloon.

Joining the Spark EV on the Chevrolet stand is the Impala, and a Hot Wheels Camaro featuring a customised interior and paint finish.

Thanks to: Autocar

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