Opel Agila by Irmscher

Arriving onto forecourts in the coming months is Opel's new Agila, marketed as 'Flex in the City' for its versatile city car nature. But not until a re-working by tuning firm Irmscher will the new city car and its tagline have the brawn. In its second-generation with over 40,000 total units sold, the production model Agila is a successful model. And so it is with 40 years of experience that the German tuner is to offer Opel's youngest a range of Irmscher sporting accessories.

Its intention being to stand out from the crowd, the Irmscher Agila turns the heads of city dwellers with an air of 'sporting elegance' and subtle accessories - all tailored to demonstrate a higher standard in vehicle design.

Although unveiled with only rendered photos, the modified new Agila features new skirts front and rear as well as SUV-style under-body protector panels in a contrasting gray. The addition of Irmscher's larger honeycomb grille gives a more exclusive look to the model, with dynamics enhanced at the rear by a tailgate spoiler and a more prominent chromed exhaust pipe.

The Irmscher Agila is undoubtedly finished off by a range of exclusive light-weight wheels, such as Stila-Design designated 16" alloys. Better road-holding and city handling are too equipped in this new model, offering buyers a more enjoyable drive. As yet there are a no details on interior modifications, but expect the usual: splashes of chrome and a sportier trim, chiefly of note new bucket seats.

RENNtech CL 65 Gets Upgrade to 695hp

Nobody has suggested that the 612 horsepower Mercedes CL65 AMG is lacking for power, but that didn't stop RENNtech from seeking the next level nonetheless. The high-end modifier today announced its "stage 3" tuning package for Mercedes' big AMG coupes and roadsters, which uses new ECU software and revised airflow to produce 695 horsepower and 890 ft-lb torque from the twin-turbo V12.

The $18,990 MSRP for what RENNtech calls "PKG3" doesn't include installation, but does add a larger intercooler pump, carbon fiber airboxes and stainless steel sport mufflers that give it a much different sound from the stock AMG cars.

RENNtech says the additional power and torque provide a "real, noticeable" improvement in the CL65 AMG's already stellar performance, which shouldn't come as a surprise.

Press Release

The last few years have seen a flood of 500 horsepower sedans almost pouring out of Germany from BMW, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz. Earlier this month, however, representatives from Mercedes and AMG announced that the "horsepower wars" were over, saying that outright power would no longer be the "main focus" for future sports sedans.

Apparently, no-one sent that "war over" memo to RENNTECH.

This morning, RENNTECH announced a new "stage 3" tune for the 2008 65 series AMG models, which makes use of what RENNTECH calls "next-generation ECU software" to get 695 hp and 890 lb-ft of torque from the AMG's twin-turbo V12.

"Power will always be important to many customers, especially torque." explains Hartmut Feyhl, RENNTECH's president and ex technical director of AMG North America. "Our cars have always been able to make considerable torque, and have been praised in magazines for their drivability. Still, we are constantly trying to improve our product."

Commitment to constant improvement is one reason RENNTECH has become known as one of the world's premier tuning firms, and America's foremost authority on Mercedes-Benz. RENNTECH believes their new software will further cement that knowledge in the public mind. "We now have two in-house engineers that are doing software full-time, and others that work with the software on a part-time or contract basis. We are always looking for improvements. The latest software takes advantage of the increased power of the new engine computers, and offers a number of small improvements that add up to a big 'overall' improvement," Feyhl explains. "It really is that 'next-generation' sort of product that is much more advanced than what we were capable of offering before. Compared to earlier versions, our new software gives customers more power and better drivability in a way that is more reliable, smoother power curve, and even improves emissions and gas mileage."

In addition to the software upgrades, RENNTECH adds a larger intercooler pump and secondary heat exchanger, as well as a pair of carbon fiber airboxes to improve the flow of cool air into the big AMG's V12. The intercooler system upgrades reduce air intake temperatures by more than 20 degrees, delivering more consistent power compared to stock and allowing RENNTECH to more safely increase boost throughout the rpm range.

RENNTECH's stainless steel sport mufflers (also part of the new package) produce a deep, distinctive growl that is suitably aggressive for a high-end luxury car. Feyhl suggests that his mufflers "let the car sound the way it is supposed to sound."

With almost 900 lb-ft of torque available from the engine, RENNTECH's upgrades deliver a real, noticeable improvement in terms power and acceleration compared to the already impressive performance of the stock 65 series AMG cars. MSRP for RENNTECH's new performance "PKG3" for 65 series AMG is $18,990 (plus installation). PKG365 is available for S65, CL65, and SL65 AMG.

Hamann Porsche Cayenne Cyclone

The Porsche Cayenne has been a raving succes at the cost of indivualism to their owners. Several German tuning houses have already constructed body kits for the Cayenne, and today Hamann released their latest, and arguably, most extravagant package for the SUV.

Hamann gives the Cayenne a wide body aerodynamic component kit consisting of a new front spoiler with two integrated LED-daytime running lights and fog lamps, extended wheel arches for a more imposing look, roof spoiler and rear-facing panel with diffuser.

The Cayenne has been lowered by 35mm through a lowering system with pneumatic shock absorption. Hamann has either 22 inch (Anniversary II) or 23 inch (Edition Race) light alloy wheels on offer. With their Hamann sport exhaust system with 4-pipe sports competition silencer, the Laupheim modifiers even tune the sound of the SUV, with some extra horsepower as a nice bonus.

To stress that the interior can be upgraded to whatever the customer wants is proven in this demo car. The show car is furnished with Twotone Snake full leather upholstery, aluminium foot rest, pearl velours floor mats and 36-piece carbon coated interior-set.

Press Release

The HAMANN Porsche Cayenne “Cyclone”

• Extensive wide body aerodynamic component kit “Cyclone” designed by HAMANN
• HAMANN-Daytime running lights for better safety
• 22“ and 23“ alloy wheels ANNIVERSARY II and EDITION RACE available

The Porsche Cayenne enjoys great popularity with the customers. No wonder, since the noble SUV combines power and design. HAMANN MOTORSPORT in Laupheim offers various modifications for Porsche Cayenne to refine it and to make it more individual. The most obvious alteration ist the shapely and mighty envelopment. Fitted with the HAMANN wide body-kit the Cayenne becomes the “Cyclone”!

A true HAMANN without aerodynamical conversion is inconceivable. Even more so, when the vehicle in question is a Power SUV like the Cayenne. Brandnew is the HAMANN wide body-kit, which make the Cayenne appear even more imposing. Fitted with this kit, the Cayenne may call itself „Cyclone“.

The front view presents itself in an unmistakable optical characteristic. The specialists in Laupheim designed a front spoiler with two integrated LED-daytime running lights and fog lamps each. By offering the LED daytime running lights HAMANN makes a valuable safety contribution. Three high performance-LEDs and 250 reflectors lead to a better signal aspect. Their lucent white signal light is highly visible even at daytime and warns oncoming traffic fast and efficiently, which in case of emergency leads to better reaction time. Further advantage: LEDs beat normal H7-bulbs in terms of durability because they can be used 30 times longer. Additionally, they lead to less fuel consumption which is a result of their better energy-efficiency.

But even with switched off LED´s the „Cyclone“ is a flashily-dressed giant. The front and rear extended wheel arches give the Cayenne an absolutely powerful. The back also demonstrates individual power: roof spoiler and rear-facing panel with integrated diffuser and cut-out for the HAMANN 4-pipe sports competition silencer. The tail lights with four individual light fixtures are real eye-catchers.

Corresponding to the performance and in order to provide suitable optical characteristics, HAMANN offers a lowering system for all vehicles with pneumatic shock absorption. The vehicle is thus lowered in front and rear by approx. 35 millimetres. Of course, the vehicle thus reacts distinctly more accurately to the steering system and offers pure driving pleasure.

The specifically developed HAMANN brake system for the front axle with slotted and ventilated brake discs sized 380 x 34 millimetres, aluminium disc chamber, sports brake linings and steelflex brake pipes. The eight-piston fixed calliper disc brakes in silver complete the system and apply a powerful grip. At the rear axle an four-piston brake system with slotted and ventilated brake discs sized 380x28mm plus the same hardware as above support the system working at the front.

Optimal contact with the road is guaranteed by the HAMANN light-alloy wheels ANNIVERSARY II for 22 inch tyres. The multi-part aluminium wheel in multi-spoke design is available in the dimensions 10.5 J x 22 inches for front and rear axle. If you prefer it a size larger, you can also have the size 11.5 J x 22 inches for the rear axle, but then only in combination with the flared wheel arches. The silver ANNIVERSARY II with high gloss polished rim flange is fitted with tyres in 295/30 ZR 22 (front) and 315/30 ZR 22 (rear).

The appearance of the three-piece, ultra light forged wheels EDITION RACE in crossing spoke design and black wheel spider is identified through its nine main spokes double-attached, branching and continually double-crossing towards the outside rim. Its stirring design becomes particularly noticeable through Titan studs. The high-polished flange is icing on the cake to complete this luxurious look. The wheel EDITION RACE comes in an impressive 11x23” with tyres 315/25 R23.

HAMANN equips the “Cyclone” with high performance tires from technology partners HANKOOK.

Sound tuning – with some additional horse power produced at the same time – is accomplished by HAMANN with its sports exhaust systems. Sports headers and sports metal catalytic converters including connecting pipes for the HAMANN 4-pipe-sports rear silencer made from stainless steel, evoke thoughts of a raging cyclone closing in!

As in all HAMANN models, there are no limits to the customer’s requirements in respect of the passenger compartment. Can’t be done? – that’s not true! An absolute must is the pedal set including aluminium foot rest. Of course, the exclusive pearl velours floor mats with the silver, embroidered HAMANN logo are also indispensable. A three spoke airbag-equipped sports steering wheel connects the driver even better to his vehicle. Additional motorsports atmosphere provides the 36-piece carbon coated interior-set. Passengers preferably never want to get out of the „Cyclone“, when HAMANN fits out the passenger compartment with its „Twotone Snake“ full leather equipment. There really isn´t much room left for more precious interior! As always, HAMANN applies the rule „nothing is impossible“. Every Cayenne is customized according to each customer’s specific requests, for example with extensive multimedia conversions.

Audi R8 by edo Competition

edo Competition has just upped the ante for the Audi R8. The 420 hp from the V8 FSI engine has been increased to 442 hp thanks to a stainless steel high-flow exhaust system, which as a side effect gives a more powerful sound.

edo also spend some time on improving aerodynamics on the R8, the result is a light-weight carbon fibre front lip spoiler, 8 rear bumper inserts and rear diffuser. To finish off the look edo offers its latest 19 or 20 inch alloy wheels. The wheels feature a high-strength forged center with polished steel outer rims and high-strength aluminium inner rims, and can be custom painted.

Press Release

• High-end aerodynamics kit with diffuser
• Performance muffler for more powerful exhaust note
• Multi-piece light alloy wheels in 19 and 20 in.

The fastest Audi ever already accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.7 seconds in factory trim. The edo R8 needs just 4.5 seconds and achieves a top speed of over 310 km/h (192 mph).

edo competition is proving that small changes can have great effects

The new high-flow exhaust system is in the spotlight. edo competition offers this new full stainless steel high-flow exhaust system in two different sounds levels. The result is a power increase of 16 kW (22 hp) and a 20 Nm (15 ft-lb) increase in torque.

The trimetal-coated high-flow catalytic converters, which were designed specifically for the R8, ensure full OBD2 compliance and feature impressive performance.

At edo competition form and function are strongly connected. The R8’s perfect balance and improved downforce, thanks to the body upgrades, become especially apparent when the car is accelerating. The edo R8 owes its aerodynamic advantages to a newly developed front lip spoiler and 8 rear bumper inserts. The new rear diffuser, also providing additional downforce, has an even greater effect. As usual at edo competition, the aerodynamic components are available in super light-weight carbon fiber.

The sporting concept is rounded off by edo competition’s latest wheel design. No matter whether in 19 or 20 in., these performance wheels perfect the R8’s impressive appearance and feature high-strength forged centers with polished stainless steel outer rims and high-strength aluminium inner rims. All sport wheels can be custom painted.

Honda Civic Type-R Modulo Concept at Tokyo Auto Salon

Switzerland. Alpine birthplace to yodeling. Home to world-renowned Swiss cheese. And then there's this: the Rinspeed X-treme. Based on Porsche's newly-facelifted 957 Cayenne, the X-treme is a 'Swiss Extravaganza' with distinction fitted as standard. An aggressive aerodynamics package, available on all new Cayenne models, complements substantial upgrades to the car's powertrain and a more diversified cabin specification.

Rinspeed of Switzerland have designed the X-treme to markedly differentiate itself from Porsche's Cayenne, putting dynamism and a distinctive character at the forefront of its brief. Larger front air intakes, with fins and front splitter, air fatter brakes and a higher-output 600 hp engine. The gaping front, much like beefier wheel arches, gives the impression of a wider, more dynamic vehicle, while a 35mm lowered ride height brings with it a more poised stance.

The side skirt elegantly and unobtrusively integrates into the body and its larger arches, while understated but equally dynamic skirts at the front and rear contribute to the car's aerodynamics. An aggressive note sounds from the X-treme's sporty exhaust system, stylised by quad chrome exhaust tips. Excellent road-holding is ensured by use of large 23-inch wheels and 315/25-23 tires capable of speeds of up to 300 kph.

Customising the cabin are a range of exclusive leather trim options, with bucket seating and an in-car entertainment system among the items specifiable.

Kleemann ML63K Bi-turbo

The Danish tuning house has turbo charged the 6.3 liter V8, which has already been pushed close to its limits by AMG. AMG extracts 510 hp while Kleemann manages an astounding 800 hp with 1,000 Nm of torque. The ML 63 AMG gearbox (7G Speedshift) and 4-Matic drivetrain are up to the task and were left untouched.

Just to throw some numbers at you, the ML63K Bi-turbo can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 4 seconds and will not stop until the 300 km/h mark. The ML63K rides on 20 inch Kleemann TS-7 wheels (315/35 R20), is painted in Nordic White matte colour, exclusive to the Scandinavian tuner and comes with a hand-made 400 km/h speedometer. A limited edition run has not yet been finalised.

Press Release

Setting new style and performance standards for SUV's

KLEEMANN, best known for their extensive experience in Kompressor technology for Mercedes-Benz cars, now includes the other side of engine supercharging into their programme: turbo's. As a result of the joint experience and efforts of KLEEMANN Denmark and KLEEMANN Dubai/GAE German Automotive Engineering, one of the worlds most beautiful and powerful SUV's will be revealed on the Dubai Motor Show from November 13th 2007: The KLEEMANN ML63K Bi-turbo prototype.

New challenges, new partnerships

Faced with the challenge of bringing out the full potential from the highly sophisticated V8 engine in the ML 63 AMG, the KLEEMANN R&D department chose a turbo solution over one of their efficient Kompressor systems. This is also the main reason KLEEMANN teamed up with their partner in Dubai, GAE German Automotive Engineering, from who they gained valuable and up-to-date turbo knowledge and experience.

Sophisticated technology

"The advanced triple throttle system on the AMG engine ensures remarkable power and torque on the normally aspirated engine, but its function is too sensitive for the constant boost pressure of the Kompressor. This is why we wanted to try turbocharging the engine instead, so the whole throttle system only recieved boost pressure under max load. This prooved successful and resulted on both enormous power and driveability, made possible through the new technology of stand alone engine management, which we are also currently using for our Kompressor systems" says Claus Ankjaer, technical director at KLEEMANN.

"We reduced the compression ratio from 11,3:1 to 9,7:1 to leave space for more turbo boost pressure and this was achieved by installing thicker and much stronger headgaskets. The 2 ballbearing Garrett turbochargers are placed behind the engine where they are mounted on modified KLEEMANN tubular headers and the exhaust gasses continue through special KLEEMANN turbo downpipes and a stainless steel high flow KLEEMANN exhaust system. For cool and efficient engine conditions, the pressurised intake air flows through 2 flat high capacity air-to-water intercoolers placed on top of the engine" Horst Busch, director at GAE German Automotive Engineering explains.

Speed and safety go hand in hand

This complete engine modification result in the awesome power output of 800 HP and torque electronically limited to 1000 Nm. The standard ML 63 AMG 7G Speedshift gearbox needed no modifications to handle the power increase and it easily transfers every horsepower through the 4-Matic drivetrain and out to each of the 20" KLEEMANN TS-7 wheels. Running on Pirelli P-Zero Rosso tires in the size 315/35 R20 and fitted with a KLEEMANN EBL suspension modification, the big SUV handles like a much smaller and lighter car.

The raw performance data for the ML63K Bi-turbo places it at the very front of the competition. The 0-100 km/h acceleration is achieved in only 4 seconds and the SUV continues the brutal acceleration right up to the electronically limited top speed of 300 km/h.

For improved safety, a high performance KLEEMANN brake system featuring 380 mm. drilled and vented discs with 8 piston fixed aluminium callipers on the front axle and 345 mm. drilled and vented discs with 4 piston fixed aluminium callipers on the rear axle is fitted. These brakes bring the ultrafast 2,5 ton SUV to a fast and controlled standstill from any speed again and again without fading or loss of stopping power, and it's a significant improvement from the standard twin piston sliding callipers on the standard ML 63 AMG.

"The overall goal for the ML63K Bi-turbo is – as it is for all KLEEMANN cars – to give the driver maximum performance and control on the road. Being a safe, reliable and everyday usable SUV reflects the Comfort Power slogan of KLEEMANN, and sets the ML63K Bi-turbo apart from many other tuned SUV's" says Lars Meller Jensen, Head of Communications at KLEEMANN.

A beautiful beast

For stunning elegance, the SUV is fitted with a complete KLEEMANN bodykit blending seamlessly into the dynamic lines of the ML and for the unique and very important final touch, KLEEMANN has coloured the SUV in the brand new and unique matte colour called Nordic White. This colour is a KLEEMANN exclusive and reflects the serene coolness of the Nordic climate.

Inside the car, driver and passengers experience a luxurious custum made alcantara headliner and Nappa leather covered dashboard in the special Rub'al-Khali Beige colour expressing the calm of the Arabian desert. A handmade 400 km/h KLEEMANN speedometer matches the huge performance potential of the car.

A limited production run of the ML63K is currently not finalised, but several elements of the car is already available from KLEEMANN.

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