Tires

Top Tips For Boosting Your Truck’s Reliability And Power

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Owning a truck isn’t just about having a handy vehicle that can get you from A to B – owning a truck is about having a vehicle that you can rely on to handle anything that comes its way (sometimes literally) and that can get you where you want to go safely, comfortable, and ideally also cost-effectively. That could be going off-road, it might be hauling heavy loads, or maybe you just like taking long road trips in it, but whatever you use your truck for (including everyday driving if you prefer), you’ll need it to do what you want …

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Time’s Touch: Repair and Maintenance Considerations for Aging Cars

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Even if your car’s so old it would have driven the dinosaurs to extinction, there’s still hope for its survival. You’ve got to understand, your aging vehicle has unique needs when it comes to repair and maintenance. Regular oil changes, fluid check-ups, tire care, and rust navigation are just the tip of the iceberg. But how do you ensure you’re doing everything you can to prolong its life? Stay with us as we steer you through this intricate maze and help you get the most miles out of your seasoned ride. Understanding Aging Car Mechanics To keep your older car …

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Houston Auto Show Tuners - RSV Forged Wheels, Hoosier Drag Mustang GT and ADV1 911 GT3 19

Insider: Top Mistakes to Avoid When Modifying Your Vehicle

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Customizing a vehicle is something that many people have been doing for years, from the good old days of men tinkering away in their garages to update new tires and exhausts to the modern modifications carried out by specialist repair shops passionate about the model and wanting to see it living its best life.   Your wheels, after all, are a hefty investment, and you want to enjoy every second spent driving around. If making aftermarket modifications is necessary to make your car purr like a kitten and give you a smoother, more enjoyable ride, then why not?   But …

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Auto Industry Insider: 10 Questions to Answer Before Customising Your Ride

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Customizing a car may seem like the ultimate way to turn your vehicle into something completely unique, but it can also be a complete headache. So many questions need to be answered before you start customizing your ride. This blog post will answer ten essential questions that all car owners should consider before starting their project.   1) What Exactly Do I Want to Change on My Car? Customizing a vehicle can be an extremely long process, so you need to know what you are getting yourself into. Think about the paint job first and choose your own colors carefully …

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Auto Industry Insider: Turning Your Old Banger Into A Custom Classic

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There are few things worse than driving a car you don’t like. This part of life is almost as important as the place you call home, with many people spending hundreds of hours of their life sat behind the wheel. Of course, though, when you can’t afford the latest cars to roll out of the factory, it can be hard to be satisfied with the options that are available to you. To help you out, this post will explore some of the work that can go into making an old banger into a custom classic that you can feel proud …

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2020 Jeep “JLUR” Wrangler Rubicon EcoDiesel – Off-Road Test Review – By Matt Barnes

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After four years off, FCA brought back the 3.0-liter V6 EcoDiesel. This time they’ve decided to add it to the Jeep Wrangler. Enthusiasts call the newest Wrangler the JL.  If it’s the four-door version they, add a “U,” and for the Rubicon trim they add an R. Our test model was a 2020 JLUR EcoDiesel. Video Intro   Overview Arguably America’s most rugged vehicle, the newest Jeep Wrangler has been modernized without compromise to off-road ability. The Jeep brand is FCA’s top seller in the U.S., and the Wrangler is a big portion of that. In order to please a wider …

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2021 PRIOR DESIGN Porsche Taycan Widebody

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Just some drool-worth images and official press release on this beauty!  Since driving Taycan Turbo down at Amelia Island Concours 2020 I am a huge fan and this design upgrade is sure to increase the car’s already-amazing curb appeal even more. These are just the renders and they already make me weak in the knees!  Cannot wait to see the real thing. 2021 PRIOR-DESIGN Porsche Taycan Widebody PRIOR-DESIGN PRESS RELEASE: Wide body kit for the Porsche Taycan www.prior-design.de Porsche’s four-door all-electric sports car gets a ferocious appearance Tune an electric car? You can’t do that – or at least nobody would …

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Auto Industry Insider: What Makes An Off-Road Vehicle Great?

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Are you a gearhead who’s sick and tired of pounding the beaten path? Do you want to go out into the wilderness and explore? Good – all you need is an off-roader that can keep up with the demands of going off-piste. A quality off-road vehicle should easily skim over water barriers and bounce up and down steep inclines. With the right one by your side, there aren’t many mountains you can’t climb. Unfortunately, the market is full of faux off-roaders. These are trucks that look and sound like they have everything you need, but they are unsuitable after a …

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Range Rover VELAR SV600 By Manhart Performance

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Germany has such a powerful set of OEM automakers that it is easy to forget the country also has a thriving and world-leading car customization industry.  Manhart Performance is part of this crew taking the hottest vehicles from Europe and the world and making them even faster, louder and sexier than stock. In typical German fashion, these customs are typically executed with a finesse and holistic approach that is much more thorough than simple part-by-part upgrades.  In US tuner terms, they go right to stage two or stage three right off the bat. This new Velar SV600 is a perfect …

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Auto Industry Insider: 5 Cool Car Modification Tips for Beginners

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Whether done as a hobby or a profession, the practice of modifying cars has been around for as long as cars themselves\. The market for modifying cars is huge, which gives us plenty of choice and room for creativity when upgrading our cars, but it can also be a confusing task for beginners. For those people, the best places to start are the simple modifications that will have the biggest impact. If you are considering making changes to your car either for performance and aesthetic reasons, here are 5 car modification tips for beginners to get you started. Swapping tires …

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Auto Industry Insider: 7 Car Upgrades to Consider in 2020

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Looking to improve your car in 2020? The start of a new year is always the best time for making changes and improvements in all areas of your life, including your vehicle. Whether you want to improve the look, comfort or performance of the car (or all three) there are lots of good options for ways in which you can make improvements which will help to make this the best year with your car yet. You do not always have to spend a fortune to make big improvements to your car either – read on for a few suggestions for …

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Auto Industry Insider: Business Opportunities for People That Love Cars

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They say that getting a job in something you love is a bad idea because you slowly begin to hate it, but we just can’t see that as something that will come true. For instance, if you absolutely loved cars and had a job in buying and selling them for big profits, wouldn’t that be the dream? Car lovers around the world possess a lot of knowledge about vehicles. Whether it’s how to detail a car, vintage models or experience in repairing cars, there are countless opportunities that can lead to a full-time job or even your own business. So …

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2020 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison Duramax Diesel Review

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The ZR2 Bison is unstoppable!! Never thought I’d find a factory off-road pickup that can hang with the Raptor, but the Colorado’s slimmer width is a big plus on narrow trails. The diesel engine is packing a wallop at 365 pound-feet of torque and so you can tow an extra 700 pounds (up to 7700). However, the 0-60-mph time drops 3 seconds from 6.5 to 9.5. It feels pretty glacial on the road until you adjust to its power delivery style. But then you start to love how it just surges forward without a gear change, or pops off the …

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AC Schnitzer Launches Upgrades for Toyota GR Supra

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AC Schnitzer just brought their BMW tuning wizardry to an extended family member…: the new Supra! These stage one mods consist of a reprogrammed ECU taking power up 60 ponies to an even 400 and torque up by a similar amount.  Carbon aero details, a variety of wheels and special suspension tunes are also in the offering. Clearly more mods down the road.  Going with such an expert in this engine’s internals is a trusty way to more power — and the ACS Supra’s even have an extra three-year warranty!  The parts are available worldwide from the AC Schnitzer site.  …

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Auto Insider: 7 Maintenance Checks You Can Do While Cleaning Your Car

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These seven quick and easy maintenance checks can be carried out while you’re giving your car or truck a regular clean. Also included are some bonus cleaning tips for good measure. Windshield The windshield is one of the more important components on your car, so you should check it regularly for chips, cracks and other signs of damage. If you do notice any damage you should determine how severe it is and, in some cases, repair the windshield yourself using a resin repair kit. If it’s a full crack you will need to get a professional to replace it for …

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Insider: 5 Amazing Truck Mods

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Trucks are the workhorses of the vehicle world. They may not have the speed and responsiveness of sports cars, but they are dependable, multi-functional, and flexible in the terrain that they can master. They are undemanding and, more often than not, the pride and joy of their owners. It’s debatable whether you can boost your truck’s performance with freer-flowing exhausts or cold-air intakes, but one thing is for certain, you can boost its aesthetic appeal. The good news is that there are inexpensive ways that you can modify your truck’s look without having to break the bank. Lift kits So, …

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2019 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison AEV 2.8L Diesel – First Drive Review

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Aptly named save for one trait Upon reflection of my encounter with Chevy’s new ZR2 Bison AEV trim package for their mid-sized truck offering, the Colorado, the Bison moniker was appropriate. I found myself with a bit of a shiver on a particularly cold morning, with what felt like freezing fog. For being in the heart of a land that had lived in harmony with the name Chevy decided on for this variant, Bison, I hadn’t heeded the lessons learned from the past centuries of the local peoples. As my breath puffed visibly as I grew closer to this truck, …

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Updated – 1979 Porsche 935 – Gooding Amelia Island 2019

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Update: This car is still available after not meeting its reserve. A few new photos of the machine from Amelia. It passed the two million mark but not close enough to three, apparently. The car seems to be in a ‘between’ period between campy and classic. 1979 Porsche 935 – Gooding Amelia 2019 Check out this beauty!  The wild paintwork and the massive racing aero dwarf the tiny 911 basis for this racecar.  The result is a machine nearly as wide as it is long, and as fire-spitting as any on the world’s racetracks.  Power is estimated at 650HP, which …

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350HP, 6.1s 2019 Hennessey VelociRaptor Ford Ranger Revealed

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It’s about to rain supercars this week with Geneva auto show and Amelia Island Concours both happening. Before all that, how about a big black truck – tuned by Hennessey! Big? The Ranger is of course the new Ford midsize pickup truck, joining the USA lineup from its international origins.  Over there, this is a big truck even from stock. But once lifted, widened and made more badass? Oh yes, this is the baby Raptor of your dreams. Power for the VelociRanger is still the top gasoline motor available, but tuned up with derestricted intake and exhaust, plus a big …

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1979 Porsche 935 – Gooding Amelia Island 2019 Preview

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Check out this beauty!  The wild paintwork and the massive racing aero dwarf the tiny 911 basis for this racecar.  The result is a machine nearly as wide as it is long, and as fire-spitting as any on the world’s racetracks.  Power is estimated at 650HP, which is more than sufficient to scare the bejesus out of any driver! Favorite details include the oversized rear wheels with the magnesium heat shields in a deep dome shape.  And of course the whale tail and slant-nose front aero.  The silhouette is a thing of a million study-hall daydreams — but brought to …

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Mercedes-Benz G-Class INFERNO by TopCar Design

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We were famously unimpressed by the new G-wagen’s lack of visual impact when it was first released.  The new panels all around barely made a dent in updating the machine! Time was warmed our impression of the redesign — which was more focused on interior and performance upgrades, while deliberately keeping the exterior style almost frozen in 1979. TopCar Design to the rescue! The new aftermarket options for the latest G-Class generation are quite comprehensive, functional and visually exciting on such a big beast of a truck.  There are dozens of aero tweaks and detail modifications in carbon-fiber throughout the …

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ECD Auto Design Shows New Defender 110 Azure Custom w/ Lux Upgrades + 430HP V8

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This latest custom Defender 110 from ECD Automotive Design pushes alot of my buttons.  First off, it is already completely finished, is in the USA, and has a huge list of mods and design tweaks. Most exciting is the engine swap to a GM crate LS3 making more than 400 ponies and sent to the wheels via a six-speed automatic. No word on pricing for this one-off but links below for more info!   ECD Auto Design Defender 110 Azure ECD Automotive Design – Project Azure Specifications Model – Custom Defender 110 Engine – 6.2L LS3 V8 with 430 hp Transmission – 6-speed automatic Exhaust – Borla Performance …

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Product Review – SLIME Cordless Tire Inflator

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Very quick take on this product? A huge thumbs up and big yes. What is it? A solution to maintain perfect tire pressure easily, at home and on the road. Who needs one? Anyone with a nagging Tire Pressure Monitoring System alert, for one.  And another would be folks living in coastal or mountain climates where natural changes in the barometrics are said to slowly deflate tires.  And finally, those folks who know they have a wonky tire situation of some kind — and are dead sick of dumping quarters into the gas-station Vac/Air station. On the other side of …

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2019 McLaren SENNA GTR – Best of Goodwood Festival of Speed 2018

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The McLaren Senna is already such an insanely aggressive and unique new hypercar.  Its looks instantly make the entire Lambo and Ferrari lineups seem hopelessly dated. The raw energy from these sliced and diced panels hardly needed a racing upfit.  But here we are. This Senna GTR is absolutely shocking in its design brutality. The functional nature of the aero additions are makes them even more interesting and beautiful to the eye. Check out this nose — not just the usual surfboard chin splitter here, oh no. What they’ve done is remove any air-blocking flat surfaces from the nose.  What …

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Insider: 4 Tips on How to Select the Right Tires for Your Vehicle

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When it comes to buying new tires for your vehicle, finding places to purchase them is fairly easy. What’s more challenging, however, is deciding which type is best for your car. While tire shop employees should be adept at steering you — pun fully intended — in the right direction, it’s still a good idea to be fully educated on the correct tires for your car. With that in mind, the following tips can help you select the right tires for your particular vehicle: 1. Determine What Size Tire You Need Much like you shop for the proper shoe size …

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Insider: How to Get the Most Out of Your Vehicle

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If you have put a significant amount of money into your vehicle, it is important that you see a return on your investment. As a car owner, you need to show respect for your ride, rather than taking it for granted. Luckily, there are plenty of straightforward ways for you to get the most out of your vehicle. Below are seven suggestions that will help to get you started. Find the right make and models If you are still in the process of looking for your car, it is important that you find the right make and model to invest …

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SPOFEC OVERDOSE for the Rolls-Royce Dawn – 700HP Widebody Ragtop

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How do you turn an ultimate luxury cabriolet into a bad-ass gangster musclecar? Enlist the experts at SPOFEC by Novitec. Extra boost for the V12TT joins a widebody makeover with ground-effect aero and a grip package of your dreams.  Electronically dropping the suspension and electronic flaps for the big new exhaust complete the makeover nicely. Only the hood, doors and trunklid escape a full redesign.  One of the nicest details of the SPOFEC Overdose is how seamless the aero package is.  No tacky shutlines and panel gaps here! All naughty for this new Dawn Overdose, though, make no mistake!   …

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SEMA 2017 – Showfloor Gallery in 120 Photos!

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Autodom’s own madness convention is in full swing out in Las Vegas this week.  Nearly every manufacturer is bringing their coolest performance vehicles, concepts and parts catalogs.  A big new addition in the last few years is TRUCKS!  No longer just a show for low-riders and supertuned Civics, that is for sure. Domestic brands are all over 2017 with a giant Ford area and nearly as many GM and Mopar specials around.  These big-budget heroes share space with every aftermarket part under the sun. Here is a virtual walkthrough outside and in of SEMA 2017’s wildest showcars. SEMA 2017 – …

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860HP RXR One is AMG GT-S by IMSA GmbH

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How furious would you be this year if you bought an AMG GT last year??  Same goes for the 675LT McLaren they are still trying to sell next to the new-face 720S. The new AMG GT-R is a hard upgrade of the original. RXR One is IMSA of Germany’s take on upgrading the softer GT and GT-S cars to track-attack road spec. The result is unique, aggressive and clearly brings huge amounts of racing knowledge to bear on the GT’s design.  Loving its widebody bumper intakes and outlets.   Centerlock alloys and red-striped Pirellis complete a solid racecar look.   RXR …

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Brabus STARTECH Land Rover DISCOVERY is Hottest Disco Since 54

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In the flesh, the 2018 Land Rover Discovery has an unforgettably futuristic look.  The design is incredibly stunning but is a challenge to capture in photos.  Trust me. So when StarTech launches their bodykit and tuning mods, it takes a sexy truck even further into the future. Deep and chiseled new nose details and lower splitter, dark contrast hood and mirror caps and side sills make up the big changes up front.  All is gloss black with not a touch of chrome to interrupt the look. Around back is where things go particularly bonkers: huge square pipes at each corner …

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2017 MANSORY BENTAYGA Introduces Forged-Carbon Widebody

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Mansory has a huge variety of customization options for the first-evert Bentley SUV.  They split it into the main kit and the ‘soft kit,’ with the softie just upgrading the lower splitters and bodywork details. The full fat Mansory makeover brings a totally new set of bumpers front/back, a reverse-scooped hood and some seriously wide fender extensions.  Hard to say whether the new Lambo-like forged exposed carbon, standard exposed-weave carbon or painted carbon panels are the sexiest.  They all dramatically up the visual drama of a three-ton Flying B. The x-piped sport exhaust and sport lowering suspension are highly recommended …

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2017 Mansory GRONOS 6×6 G-Wagen

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The Mansory Gronos G-Class goes right into the “Because.. Of Course” folder. The design upgrades are fairly deep with an all-new face and fresh rear bumper as well.  Much more modern than the factory G-CLass.  But nothing compares with the raw curb appeal. A truck whose fenders are at eye level needs little upgrade.  And of course, this 6×6 version is an even more capable forebearer to the trendy 4×4-squared.  WIth an extra locking diff there is a big traction advantage in the 6×6.  Its external pickup bed is also a favorite feature among its Falcon-loving owners. Here are three …

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In 150 Pictures: Exotics at Cannery Row 2017 – Monterey Car Week

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Welcome to an all-you-can-eat supercar extravaganza! In this gallery by Anthony D’Acquisto from Exotics on Cannery Row yesterday in Monterey, you will find not only 100+ cool, high-res pics how the event’s hottest cars. Not only a video with more than 20 of those machines in motion. Just 150 photos of the rarest of the rare supercars in real life. Newness captured includes the Aston Martin Vanquish Zagato in dark red, the VW e-Bus concept and the brand-new 2018 Bentley SuperSports.  Nice to meet the USSV Rhino XT in wild too!  (The Bentleys and the Fux Rolls Royces are actually …

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3.0s, 646HP 2017 McLaren 570GT By Novitec

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A light mod and tune this week from Novitec on the McLaren 570GT.  This glassback version of the 570 is the most practical Macca ever.  Its side-hinged rear window is barely on the radar with this stance and sound on offer, however! Power jumps to nearly 650 while an Iconel titanium exhaust brings the reverb and shout to this turbo V8.  A racy set of 21-inch alloys and carbon addenda make this daily McLaren as sexy as its track siblings. Favorite detail?  Has to be the wild carbon intake scoop on the doors!  This goes from a sliver of NACA-style …

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DAHLER Tunes Up New BMW 5-Series Touring – ECU, Remote Exhaust, Wheels and Bodykit

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The new BMW 5 series is a huge game-change of a car for the roundel brand.  It is so, so new in how it drives, feels and… looks? The new 530, 540 and 550 in the USA definitely look new.  It is just that they look, at first glance, to be exactly the same in traffic as the 7 series. This is probably a good thing, as it harks back to the long-successful BMW strategy: one bratwurst, three lengths. But what about those who want hot street style to go with that fab new interior and steering feel? Switzerland’s Dahler …

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3.3s, 193MPH 2016 Mercedes-AMG E63S Estate By Fostla.de

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This E63S wagon has wrapped up my heart!  Politely tuned, lowered and loved by Fostla.de, this is a 3.3-second hero.  With a shotgun blast exhaust bellow from stock.  Now amplified with new downpipe and catback exhaust. Plus a racing cold air intake for good measure. A cool detail you might note in photos below? The badges are recreated as flat, lightweight graphics instead of metal hardware.   FOSTLA Mercedes-AMG E63S Estate SPECTACULAR FAMILY-FRIENDLY AMG by FOSTLA.DE Photos: fostla.de concepts The “bread & butter” of fostla.de in Hannover is to apply dazzling “skins” to vehicles, a process which is usually associated …

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Novitec Debuts Tesla Model X Stage One Bodykit, Vossen 22s and CCBs

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Welcome to Hell! Electric cars heading to the supertuning boutique? Yes, the day has come, folks. Just kidding. The Tesla X is already over $100k easily and rips to 100-mph like a stabbed rat.  So why not upgrade its style and stance to match? If you’re like us, you loathe the Tesla roofline and bloated surfaces.  But realize: the looks outside, and the glasshouse in particular, are basically just there to create ridiculously airy cabins.  The same reason there is a double-height windshield — to make the X feel like a legit spaceship.  Once you accept that — and know …

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2017 TOPCAR Porsche Panamera 971 Stingray GTR Edition

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  Never shy about modding a hot Porsche! Larte Design has a menacing makeover in store for the new-gen Panamera 971 series. This dramatic exterior makeover from the crew who make the incredible 911 STINGER is called something similar: the STINGRAY. This widebody spectacular shares nearly no panels with the stock Panamera.  The smoothly slowing fender extensions and reverse breather vents make the Stingray GTR into a super touring car!  With four doors and 24K gold interior detailing, of course. The bodywork is all available as bare or painted carbon and the kit comes in just below $30k in total. …

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Porsche 911 RS 3.5 Red Evolution by DP-Motorsport

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What has this blog devolved into?  Just a fantasy wetdream of the cars we’d love to own? YES! That is mostly what it has been all along. This 911 Red Evolution by DP-Motorsport.de out of Deutschland is something exceptionally unique and special.  One to be cherished, raced, and cherished further. And perhaps snuck onto the streets to catch the world’s rapt attention? Perhaps! A racer for the road, with an aircooled and barely muffled race engine to boot. Details of this very special 911 are included below the gallery.  Favorite details have to be the seamless widebody, insane grip and …

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2017 NOVITEC N-Largo Ferrari 488 Widebody

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If you ever email us here at CRD and really want your message read… here is a shortcut and sure-fire way to make it happen. Include the phrase N-LARGO somewhere in the subject header!  I would spit out my coffee and run to a desktop to see the latest Novitec widebody in highres detail. This latest example based on the Ferrari 488 and 488 Spider is certainly no exception.  This new 488 N Largo is a full 5.5 inches wider than the stock 488 at the back fenders. Slightly less extreme up front — but still shockingly different in appearance …

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Novitec ESTESO is Designer Widebody Maserati LEVANTE

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What to do when the latest Cayenne tunes no longer give you a tingle in your loins? When the widest widebody Macan no longer makes your pulse race? How about trying on this stunning new Novitec custom based on the Maserati Levante S.  Novitec is calling this the Esteso and it includes the full gamut of their tuning expertise.  Engine, suspension, exhaust, cabin and exterior all get a heavy makeover. The results are so badass they are sure to make your pants tent once again. Check out the stunning machine in its full detail below — and order the finished …

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BMW M4 By Cam-Shaft.de Goes Custom in Battleship Grey/Orange

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Out on the ocean they say never to mess with any grey ships — and that will be a good rule at the stoplights now too. One of the worst things about this generation M3 and M4 is the color selection.  Each of the standard colors are dull while BMW Individual shades add $5k and endless order complexity.  SO of course there is a thriving aftermarket in personalizing the machines. CamShaft out of Germany did this light stage one mod with a powerchip, KW coilover suspension and vinyl body wrap.  It is a primer grey/blue with a smooth sheen unlike …

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540HP BMW M2 ClubSport by Dähler Brings S55 M4 Engine Swap

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The main gripe that purists have with the M2 is that its engine is not, technically, a BMW Motorsport spec engine.  It still makes monster power but is less able to cope with sustained high G forces than the M4’s S55-series motor. Daehler (or Dahler) of Switzerland now has a three-pack of custom M2s as showcases of their tuning skills.  The standard coupe, an M2 Convertible (!) and now this M2 Clubsport.  With the S55, it is the “CS competitionline.” Parts can be shipped worldwide for local installation, or they will happily sell you a complete vehicle as well.  That might …

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TOPCAR 911 Turbo STINGER Gen2 Carbon Edition Shows Joy of Customs

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Yes, bare carbon on supercars and hypercars is astounding.  How would it be so light, so strong and so beautiful!?   How does the weave intoxicate the eye with its perfect form? Bare carbon on a car that started with metal bodywork is somehow extra special.  It just confirms that the unibody in question is now 10X as strong and only a third the weight. Imagine the performance to be gained! TopCar’s carbon fiber skills are ridiculously advanced in 2017.  This is a firm that has made CF accessory production possible in any shape imaginable.  Mostly spoilers and accent pieces, of …

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New TECHART Panamera GRAND GT Looks Like 911 Widebody!

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It is actually fairly easy to forget about the Panamera as a tunercar platform.  Mostly because Porsche themselves make so many stonking-fast variants themselves! But if the new Turbo is too demure on the outside for your tastes?  If the limo-lux shell doesn’t broadcast its low-3’s sprint to 60 and 220-mph potential loud enough? TECHART solves for that with the Grand GT. This obscene Panamera is the king of the TechArt range and is as shockingly new inside as outside. The new Panamera is keen on the mods, too. It might look familiar up front but big action lives around …

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Chronology: TECHART 30th Anniversary in 30 Perfect Porsches

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  It is spring anniversary season in the German tuning universe!   AC Shnitzer and TechArt both trace themselves to 1987.  A time when fast cars were going global — and Germany made the fastest of all.  But what about that last bit extra? Sometimes it makes all the difference in the world. Here is the TechArt timeline of major milestones, along with a huge photo pack.   30th anniversary of TECHART – a look back.   Since 1987, TECHART is known for a unrivaled range of individualization options at highest quality standards. For increased emotionality and pure passion. For any …

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Gallery: AC Schnitzer 30th Anniversary in 200 Photos

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Anniversaries are a nice vote of confidence in any company.  But when the total years is less than 30 or so, the business is usually still pretty new.  Recordkeeping was usually poor and the products sometimes laughable in hindsight. You better believe this last bit applies to the tuned car business.  AC Schnitzer is one of the best – broadening from their first M3 and 635CSi offerings into MINI, Range Rover and every fast BMW since.  But the company did keep records, and it does celebrate its weirder achievements.  3 series X-Road wagon in 2001?  Or the 2003 Topster Z3 …

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Gallery: 2017 Audi R8 V10 Plus on VOSSEN Gold Forged Wheels

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This car’s matte green factory paintwork looks HOT over these Vossen HC-1 alloys!  The rich yellowy color and dewy, wet finish are the perfect counter-visual. Only the R8 V10 Plus comes in this Camo Green Matte exterior color from Audi.  Now it pops extra hard! Running 20s in front and 21×12-inch drums out back. This exact car may be for sale, with the sticker reading a crisp $203k in the Vossen galleries linked below.   2017 Audi R8 V10 Plus on VOSSEN Gold Forged Wheels   AUDI R8 VOSSEN FORGED HC SERIES: HC-1 Wheel Size: Front: 20×9 Rear: 21×12 2017 Audi …

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NOVITEC Tridente Launches Maserati Levante Upgrades

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This is a seriously sexy custom SUV!  Carbon aero pieces might blend in with this dark bronze paintwork, but are incredibly cool up close.  The nose splitter, side sills and rear spoilers are naked carbon for this stage one mod, but can be painted to suit. A performance ECU reflash takes the twin turbo Levante to 494HP without getting any hands dirty.  Same goes for the air suspension module that allows the truck to lower itself much farther than stock.  Yet another high-tech module brings Levante by Novitec an active exhaust baffle. Capping off this stunner are 22-inch wheels that …

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2017 Maserati LEVANTE By Brabus-StarTech

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Levante is pretty intense in the flesh.  A macho chin and shark nose up front, but ultra low roof tapering to nothing in the back. But how to take some of Maserati’s trim and style choices up a few big notches? StarTech to the rescue.  This Brabus brand has a full line of Levante parts available for shipping worldwide.  Pick a few or go for the works…! Granted, finding tires for the 23s on this Geneva showtruck might be tricky.  Such is life… in the fastlane.   Scratch that: this truck runs centerlock 21s.  More info below the gallery. 2017 …

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TECHART Reveals 718 Boxster and Cayman w/ 50HP PnP Powerkit

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  How sexy are these?   We love all Porsches in Miami blue but this TechArt Cayman and Boxster are extra special.  Their gorgeous new LEDs and intake details are so sexy when paired with the bodykits and wheel/tire changes by the TechArt crew. TechArt has a plug-and-play Powerkit available for the 718 lineup now, too.  15 minutes adds 50HP! Sprint pace drops a third of a second into the high 3’s.  Impressive.   TECHART Reveals 718 Boxster and Cayman   Leonberg, February 22nd, 2017   TECHART intensifies the sporty character of the Porsche 718 Cayman and 718 Boxster models. …

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2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC By VAETH – Not Quite GLC500 But Style Is Hot

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Slammed stance, great grip and pipes… annnnd it’s a diesel.  Wham.  Slight disappointment but an interesting look regardless. For example, why not remove the 220d from the trunk?  And why with this deeply lowered suspension… are there running boards?  The hood is definitely open in these pics, by the way. Oh well.  The power bump is modest but also well-priced for an ECU reflash. 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC By VAETH VÄTH LAUNCHED A GLC Photos: Jordi Miranda VÄTH in Hösbach near Aschaffenburg gained worldwide recognition with their two business segments, automobile technology and engine technology. Vehicles from Mercedes-Benz and AMG are …

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2017 Ford Ranger By MR Car Design Is Global Raptor Junior

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Wow, it is hard to get used to saying Ford Ranger again!  But we’ll need in a few years here in the USA. Global truck guys, of course, have never lost their Ranger.  This upfit by MR Car Design is Germany is a fun Raptor Junior of a baja upgrade. 2017 Ford Ranger By MR Car Design A dazzling FORD RANGER by MR CAR DESIGN Photos: MR Car Design e. K. The experts of MR Car Design in Erftstadt, near the Rhine, are very well-respected for their exclusive tuning, as well as for the refinement of sports cars and luxurious …

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2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class by BRABUS – First Look

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Well that didn’t take long!  Brabus has revealed their first steps at refining the W213 E-Class today, with upgrades to the aero, styling, power and sound.  Mostly plug-and-play modules for the ride height and the engine power mods — which is great for overseas clients to do themselves.  Also some design upgrades and added aggression via a new performance exhaust.   2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class by BRABUS Red-hot:  Exclusive BRABUS refinement for the new E-Class Mercedes-Benz continues the long success story of the E-Class with the W 213 model series, and BRABUS (Brabus-Allee, D-46240 Bottrop, phone + 49 / (0) 2041 …

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2017 BMW M2 Convertible!?! Dahler GmbH Makes Dream Real

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  In the BMW order books, the M2 is always described as the “M2 Coupe.”  This is a strong indication that a cabrio may be in route.  Otherwise, why specify? Dahler Teknik of Deutschland has beaten BMW to the punch with the first-ever M2 Convertible. How did they achieve this?  By upgrading the bodywork and mechanicals of an M235i (now M240i) or chopping the top off an existing, and genuine, M2 Coupe? We do not know the exact answer to this. But what a specimen to behold regardless. If BMW wasn’t sure about the potential for an M2 Convertible… this …

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Four Things to Consider When Choosing a Lift Kit for a Truck

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A lifted truck never fails to get a second glance from other drivers on the highway. Many car drivers look at a driver of a lifted truck and envy them their view of the road. Lifted trucks are both sturdy and powerful as well as a heck of a lot of fun to drive! If you’re thinking about getting a lift for your truck, there are some things to think about before making the plunge. Checkout five things to consider when selecting a lift kit that will transform your truck into an awesome driving machine. The Type of Truck You …

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2016 BMW M5 GTS by Carbonfiber Dynamics

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A multi-stage upgrade here from Carbonfiber Dynamics.  OEM-like quality execution for this M5 is the result of fresh Vossen alloys, GTS Fire Orange paintwork and a 3DDesign carbon bodykit all around.  Power is way up, naturally, but the machine itself appears quite aged.  If even an estimated $50k in mods fail to revive the tired design…. then it is probably time to get pumped for the next-gen M5? Among fanboys, sure.  But for owners, the F10 M5 has much left to give!  We’ve dubbed the overall package the M5 GTS — a name that has a great ring to it!   2016 BMW …

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NOVITEC TORADO Tunes the Aventador LP 750-4 SuperVeloce

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Carbon aerodynamics components, centerlock forged wheels and engine tuning to 786 HP! Making the thrilling sports cars from Lamborghini even more powerful, faster and more custom is the specialty of NOVITEC TORADO. The company now also offers a sophisticated racing-look refinement program for the Aventador LP 750-4 Superveloce lightweight model. The product lineup ranges from carbon aerodynamic-enhancement components developed in the wind tunnel and hi-tech center-lock forged wheels co-developed with American manufacturer Vossen to a performance upgrade to an output of 578 kW / 786 hp and 738 Nm of torque. In addition, NOVITEC TORADO offers various sport exhaust systems …

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2016 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 by BBM Motorsport – Hear the 700HP Blackbooty’s CAPRISTO Exhaust

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If any sports car is really universal, it must be the Porsche 911…  AND the C7 Corvette! The new Corvette is so, so amazing to drive that its appeal transcends borders and cultures like wind, water or sunlight. The seven-speed stickshift, the standard targa roof panel, the 4-second launches, the big trunk, and the big V8 howl.  All these things make the Eurotrip in full working order, and have perhaps an even larger impact on those more familiar with grimey diesels than a clean cut of American sirloin. It is interesting to know what BBM Motorsport would do to their C7 …

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2016 Renault CLIO by WALDOW Performance – Smurfberry Blue Track Special

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Any time the words “Smurf” and “Blue” make it into an official press release, it is usually good for a belly laugh.  We were seriously loving the color and black alloys, contrast-red rollbars and the slammed KW stance of this Clio already.  But then they go and mention the Smurfs. And we’re back to feeling silly! That laughing, delightful character is a big part of any Clio’s appeal.  This one just happens to be a battle-Smurf!  Deadly serious, regardless of its skin tone! 2016 Renault Clio by WALDOW Performance   WALDOW Performance reveals the Renault Clio 4 – The Real …

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VOSSEN VFS-2 Alloys Sex Up TESLA Model S

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  Tesla’s Model S is rumored to have a facelift debuting very soon.  And it is about time!  We are shocked to know they are still making many of these EV benchmarks with those same bright alloys and boring maroon paintwork.  Just like they have for years!  This is not great for the $100k super-sedan shopper, who has plenty to choose from these days. Staying stylish is just a phonecall away with these gorgeous Vossen wheels. These VFS-2 forged alloys in matte bronze/copper finish are enough to make even a very-familiar silver Model S feel fresh.  The lowered ride height helps, …

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HD Road Test Review – 2016 GMC Yukon DENALI 4WD

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GMC unknowingly timed their full Yukon redesign perfectly:  as the new full-size trucks arrived in 2015, gas prices dropped to historic lows.  Rave reviews on the new trucks’ style, tech and performance propelled massive sales gains: nearly double the sales of the overall vehicle, and almost tripling the previous year’s Yukon XL sales. These are still down from their heady highs in the 70k-units-plus annual tallies that evaporated after 2008’s gas-price spike.   There is much more to the success of the Yukon Denali than external factors like gas prices., however.  This lux truck is a perfect sweet-spot between yummy …

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2016 Volkswagen GTI Clubsport Edition 40 – Locking Diff, Slicks and Aerokit for R-powered Front-Driver

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‘Dead On Arrival’ is a better cliche than VW’s botched choice words to introduce this car: VW Says:  “””  ‘ Iconic’ is, perhaps, a word bandied around all too freely but, when applied to the mould-breaking Golf GTI, it can be used with genuine justification. “””   Forgive the slight lack of enthusiasm here.  But the GTI Clubsport Edition 40 is really not doing it for me.  A bump in power to 265 ponies, and 290 on a brief turbo overboost, is great from the Golf R-derived turbo 2.0-liter four.  The car delivers a seriously underwhelming 6.3-second sprint to 62-mph …

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2017 Acura NSX GT3 – V6TT, RWD Racecar is FIA-Ready (+Video)

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Acura just ripped the covers off its fully race-ready NSX GT3 racecar in New York. And the most intriguing elements of the machine?  Perhaps the total drivetrain revamp versus the AWD, triple-motor SH-AWD production model. FIA GT3 rules do not have a hybrid slot yet, so this NSX GT3 swaps its clever electric motors for pure turbocharged thrust. The main engine is the same as the production NSX, but the rear-drive conversion brings in a sequential six-speed paddle-shifter and likely some very clever racing differential tech. Acura plans to race this car in FIA GT3 classes starting in fall 2016, …

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TechArt Magnum SPORT for Porsche Cayenne is New Carbon Flagship

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Great showing at Geneva for TechArt! They have a wild Cayenne for every level of madness…. right up to the new exposed-carbon Magnum Sport. But below the Magnums are many flavors of hot exhaust, rims, bodykit elements and more — all chosen and sold individually to the Cayenne lover in your life.     2016 TechArt Magnum SPORT Leonberg, March 9th, 2016   For over a decade, four TECHART Magnum Generations are synonymous with unsurpassed Premium Refinement based on the Porsche Cayenne models. Renowned for their unmistakable design, breathtaking performance and superior quality.   From March 3rd – 13th, the …

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7 New JEEP Concepts Hiding Among Easter Jeep Safari Madhouse! +30 Live Photos

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There is alot of love and alot of great tradition on display for this year’s seven-pack of all-new concept vehicles for the MOAB Safari. One in bright green will be churning up much of the excitement… and that is the Trailcat! An ultra-intense race truck aimed at the glacier-climbers of Iceland… this off-roader really does pack the engine of the Hellcat.  707-horsepower through a stickshift will make quite the entrance wherever it goes! In terms of production feasibility… this dusty desert party of Jeeps also has some clear winners beyong the Trailcat.  The Crew CHief 715 is the clearest production …

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~3.8s 2017 BMW M3/M4 Competition Pack – Gloss Black Trims, +20HP and Standard Sport Exhaust

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Competition Pack from BMW M certainly implies track battles and knife-edged races against the stopwatch.  Every advantage that can be fed down from the top 500HP M4 GTS will be precious seconds closer to the top of any laptime board. But Competition Pack has a second meaning to us: the M3 and M4 are feeling major heat from all sides, in a segment they once owned wholeheartedly. The Lexus RC, C63 and even Cadillac ATS-V are all very valid, and oftentimes preferred, rivals to the BMW twins.  Therefore, the Competition Pack helps address some of the odd standard M3/M4 style …

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Best of Geneva – 2016 BMW X6 FALCON by AC Schnitzer

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  ACS has gone to town on their new X6 Falcon flagship! The engine kit is available for both the 35i and 50i models, bumping horsepower a cool 75 for the top-flight 650HP output of the showcar. It is the tasteful and hi-viz exterior makeover that really catches the eye, though.  Quite an X6 Evo…. and definitely with more visual intrigue than the X6M.     2016 BMW X6 FALCON by AC Schnitzer Powerful, fast and impressive The X6 FALCON by AC Schnitzer  It flexes its wings, applies the gas and shoots towards its prey like a torpedo. The latest exceptional …

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MAUS Panzer! ACL2 by AC Schnitzer is 570HP, 3.8s BMW M235i Evo

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Updated 2.25.16 with official details from AC Schnitzer — who is emphatic about the lightness of the vehicle!  Our silly Maus Panzer headline speaks more to this ‘mouse’ of a 2-series that packs a punch like GTR battle tank… Will ACL2 become as fearsome a badge as GT-R?  Panzer Maus?  M2? PERHAPS! AC Schnitzer has been working its magic brilliantly on the smallest BMWs for years now. 1 series became 2 series, and the team was on it instantly!  What they have created is nothing short of the Panzer VIII ‘Maus’ supertank….  at least in its fearsome spirit, if not scale. …

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2016 Citroen C4 CACTUS Rip Curl Edition – Dark Detailing, GripControl + Glass Roof for Surfer Special

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Here is a pretty cool special-edition that Citroen is bringing to Geneva 2016: the C4 Cactus Rip Curl Edition. This light cosmetic makeover darkens the looks of this funky lifestyle-mobile, adds some funky graphics to the bodysides, and includes the best standard-equipment like a panoramic glass roof and other goodies. But how, one might ask, will a front-drive crossover be the right vehicle for a surf trip? Well, even without AWD or 4×4, the C4 Cactus Rip Curl hopes to park comfortably right on the beach.  Standard mud/snow tires join forces with a new GripControl ESP system that enables more slip …

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700HP BMW M4R by Carbonfiber Dynamics

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Certainly a “lot of look” going on here!  As a showpiece for Carbonfiber Dynamics, however, perhaps that is the goal.  Combining and refining the best of the world’s tuner upgrades — under one roof and customized for your ride. Favorite elements?  Definitely the bright tirewall letters, the under-spoiler branding, and the very powerful stance from the M4’s waist down. BMW M4R by Carbonfiber Dynamics   CARBONFIBER DYNAMICS M4R project – BMW M4 up to 700 hp As well known, the renowned Carbonfiber Dynamics Company located far outside of Dortmund, is specialized on sales and distribution of different top carbon fiber …

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2016 Nissan WINTER WARRIORS! Murano, Pathfinder and Rogue Get DOMINATOR Tracks

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Nissan just revealed three deeply cool concepts for the Chicago Auto Show! These three comfy family crossovers might be slightly unlikely candidates for tank tracks, and that is what makes them so cool. The Winter Warriors are crossovers upgraded with black wraps, Nissan accessories and Dominator brand truck tracks.  Sleek red foil wraps look shimmery over dechromed V-motion grilles.  On a white backdrop with dark tints all around makes these quite captivating to see.   Our favorite part of the new look — besides the tracks! — might be the extended V shape in black up the hoods of the machines.  It is …

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2016 Mercedes-Benz ZETROS – Next-Gen Heavy Hauler Combines 6×6 Grip, 110-Ton Max GVWR

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We love the Special Trucks section of the Mercedes Commercial Vehicle website. Just the name is a bit exciting!  It speaks to their obscene engineering and armageddon-proof construction strength, as well as their purposes for buyers. Few two are exactly alike thanks to MB’s Custom Tailored Truck group — that is able to upfit the three truck bases into virtually anything. Luxury motorhome, fire-fighter, crane/loader, locomotive…. pick your purpose! Unimog, Zetros and Econic are the Special Trucks crew, and each is exceptionally special indeed. We all love the new Unimog — or any ‘mog, actually — with its sleek new …

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2016 Chevrolet SILVERADO Black Out Edition is $35k and Dripping Wet Gloss!

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First time catching the new 2016 Silverado Black Out Edition in the wild! The truck looks so amazing in the flesh.  Every last detail is gloss black — right down to the blackwall tires and black bow-tie badges front and rear.  The big impacts come via the dark grille, headlights and 20-inch five-spoke wheels. The finish?  Gloss black, of course! These photos are with all the lights/LEDs off.  That white glow of the LED DRL is just its white glow shell.  Needless to say: the impact of the sinister 2016 Chevy look is even more striking with them on. Why is that …

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Best of NAIAS – 2016 Nissan TITAN Warrior Concept – Nightclub Cool + Baja-Tough Mods for Raptor-Killer

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Update: We’re slightly confused now about the Titan Warrior Concept.  All the below still applies… but the Warrior is so different from the production truck. Much more-so than the Raptor is than the standard F-150.  So perhaps the Warrior is more of a dream-truck than a realistic Raptor hunter/killer.  It is still cool as fahk regardless., though. =] The Ford F-150 Raptor is so hot that no other brand can resist trying to beat its baja chicness on showroom floors. A solid basis for a real Raptor-killer from Nissan?  The 2016 TITAN XD — a full-size pickup so strong that it makes …

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TrendWatch – Stenciled Tires Escape Racetrack, Sex Up Ferrari and Porsche Road Cars

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Here is a trend that looks set to expand bigtime in the next few years:  race-branded tire sidewalls! This trend is really in the early stages of the curve — like dark wheels were in 2007 or 2008. The only production car we can think of featuring loud tire letters and colors so far is the Lamborghini Aventador Pirelli Edition, but more are surely on the way from OEM supercar brands and tire companies alike. Until then, the real tastemakers are taking matters into their own hands. These two stunning white exotics are extensively customized by GT Auto Concepts of …

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Top Cosmetic Car Mods Under $50 — Part 3 — Plasti-Dip Your Wheels Into Metallic Anthracite Grey — How-To Instructions and Photo Results

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  Part Three of a new ‘DIY Car Mods’ series. Definitely some really trashy stuff included in this series of articles. But what is the best/worst part of modifying your own car? No matter the price of the upgraded parts — you have zero guarantee they will perform as promised, or even fit. So please take all these with a hefty dose of salt. Ideally, these are just ideas based on what has “stuck” on my car’s cosmetic refresh list over the years. Many, many even trashier upgrades have been installed and later removed from deep shaming by car-guy pals. …

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