Ford UK has announced the Focus Zetec S.

Based on the Focus Zetec, the S comes with a full sports styling kit including unique front and rear spoilers with lower sill extensions and 17in alloy wheels together with sports suspension featuring stiffened springs and dampers, aluminium-style sports pedals, rear LED tail lamps and Ford Power starter button.

2012 Ford Focus Zetec S is powered by a 1.6 liter EcoBoost with 180PS (132 kW), which grants superb performance � 0 to 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds and a top speed of 222 km/h (138 mph). Furthermore, the emissions are just 139 g/km.

The Zetec S Interior Pack, which adds Inferno Red partial leather, heated front seats, power rear windows and global closing for a not unreasonable �800.oo.Developed specifically for UK customers, Focus Zetec S will start at �18,745.

Press Release

FORD ADDS SPORTIEST MODEL YET TO ALL-NEW FOCUS LINE-UP

• New Ford Focus Zetec S developed for the UK market
• Sportiest series ahead of 2012 Focus ST with 250PS
• Standard features include full body styling kit, 17in alloy wheels, sports suspension, rear LED tail lamps and sports pedals
• Priced from �18,745 on the road, equivalent to a Focus Titanium
• Choice of four engines including the 1.6-litre 180PS EcoBoost petrol which debuts in the UK and features fuel-saving ECOnetic technologies
• On sale now

Brentwood, Essex, 29 November 2011- Ford introduces the sporty Zetec S to its acclaimed all-new Focus line up. Developed specifically for UK customers, Zetec S combines sporty styling with the debut of the 1.6-litre 180PS EcoBoost petrol engine.

Based on the existing Zetec model, it adds a full sports styling kit including unique front and rear spoilers with lower sill extensions and 17in alloy wheels together with sports suspension featuring stiffened springs and dampers, aluminium-style sports pedals, rear LED tail lamps and Ford Power starter button.

Anthony Ireson, Ford Britain marketing director, said: "Zetec S models have always been popular with UK customers and so we are delighted to welcome our new Focus Zetec S to the range. With sporty exterior body styling and impressive performance and economy, this latest addition is set to be another showroom hit."

The Ford Focus Zetec S is available now in five-door bodystyle with estate to follow in February 2012, and is offered with a choice of four engines including the 1.6-litre 180PS EcoBoost turbo-charged petrol engine which has a top speed of 138mph, reaches 0-62mph in just 7.9sec and emits only 139g/km CO2. Any Focus Zetec S chosen with this engine or the 1.6-litre 115PS TDCi will carry the ECOnetic Technology badge, as they benefit from auto start-stop, Ford ECO mode, gear shift indicator, active grille shutter and smart regenerative charging.

The 1.6-litre 125PS Ti-VCT petrol and the 2.0-litre 163PS TDCi are also available and can be specified with either manual or PowerShift automatic transmission.

At �18,745 on the road the Focus Zetec S is priced just �1,250 above the equivalent Zetec derivative, which represents outstanding value, as if purchased separately, the additional features would add over �1,700. The Zetec S and Titanium are identically priced so customers can choose either sport or luxury at the same price point.

Options include the technology-laden Driver Assistance Pack which has received several awards, cruise control with Active Speed Limiter and a Zetec S interior pack featuring Inferno Red partial leather, heated front seats, power driver seat, power rear windows and global closing for �800.00.

Official: 2012 Honda CR-Z iCF Mugen

Honda UK has announced the 2012 CR-Z iCF Mugen.

The Honda CR-Z iCF will boast a little over 172 horsepower thanks to some wrenching by Mugen Euro. The base 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine packs a centrifugal supercharger along with an intercooler and a remapped ECU.

The end result is a greatly improved power to weight ratio, as evidenced by a new 0-60 mph time of just 6.1 seconds--a full 3.0 seconds faster than the regular model.

The Honda CR-Z iCF Mugen price will start at 24,000 GBP, and the first exemplars will be available for test drives through the eight Honda UK MUGEN dealers starting from Spring 2012.




Press Release

HONDA (UK) LINKS WITH MUGEN EURO TO LAUNCH HOT "CR-Z iCF"

Following a successful programme launch at Goodwood Festival of Speed 2011, Honda (UK) has joined forces with "MUGEN Euro", to launch a 130+mph sports hybrid CR-Z, boasting Civic Type R performance.

With almost 50 per cent more power than the standard car, this 175 PS 'pocket rocket' hybrid marks the strengthening of the engineering partnership between Honda (UK) and MUGEN Euro following the limited edition Civic Type R MUGEN in 2010.

MUGEN Euro engineers 'breathed over' the 1.5-litre power unit, retaining the 3-button IMA modes, adding a centrifugal forced air induction system, charge-air cooler and induction system and importantly, a MUGEN Euro-mapped ECU. The result is outstanding power to weight, and increased torque helping to deliver 0-62mph in 6.1 seconds - over 3 seconds quicker than the standard car.

Martin Moll, Head of Honda (UK) marketing said, "MUGEN Euro magic has created a super responsive yet eco-conscious model building on our sporting credentials and giving us the ability to compete in the "hot hatch" marketplace as we move into 2012."

Production development continues at MUGEN Euro, with cars available for test drive through the eight Honda UK MUGEN dealers in spring 2012. Prices have yet to be confirmed, but are expected to be approximately �24,000.

Los Angeles debut : 2012 Volvo C70 Inscription

Volvo has releases the C70 Inscription,which will debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The C70 Inscription is to be limited to just 2,000 cars worldwide, and you can grab one of those coming to the UK from �33,855 for the D3 SE Inscription.

The Volvo C70 Inscription will be available in three colors, Black Stone, Black Sapphire and Ice White, along with new 18 inch alloy wheels, high-gloss paint on the grille and LED Daytime Running Lights.

Power comes from a turbocharged 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine which has been outfitted with a Polestar ECU. Thanks to this change, the engine develops 250 hp (186 kW / 253 PS) and 273 lb-ft (370 Nm) of torque - an increase of 23 hp (17 kW / 23 PS) and 37 lb-ft (50 Nm).

Bespoke interior features like Sovereign Hide leather, aluminum pieces and a dash also wrapped in leather are included.Only 2,000 units of the 2012 Volvo C70 Inscription will be produced each year until the roadster ends production in 2013.

Press Release

Volvo C70 Inscription debuts at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show

C70 Inscription is the ultimate expression of Volvo's hardtop convertible
Increased horsepower and torque
Unique interior and exterior details
Limited production
On sale early next year


Los Angeles, Calif. (Nov. 8, 2011) - In Los Angeles it's all about being seen in the right car. Cruising Sunset Boulevard or Rodeo Drive in anything less than a gorgeous convertible is considered by locals as very un-cool.

With this in mind, Volvo Car Corporation is using the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show as the backdrop for introducing the 2012 C70 Inscription. Perhaps the ultimate expression of Volvo's iconic hardtop convertible, the Inscription package will be offered in limited quantities and is set to arrive in Volvo retailers early next year. Pricing for the Inscription package has not yet been announced The base MSRP for the 2012 C70 hardtop convertible is $39,950*.

"The C70 has always been a stunningly designed Volvo," said John Maloney, Vice President of Marketing, Volvo Cars of North America. "The C70 Inscription takes that beautiful design to the next level." Setting the C70 Inscription apart from the standard C70 is increased horsepower and torque and a number of unique exterior and interior features.

Unique to the U.S. market, the C70 Inscription gets its mettle through performance tuning to the Engine Control Module (ECM). Provided by Polestar, a Swedish racing and performance products company partnered with Volvo Cars, the tuning optimizes engine output in a variety of ways. More air and fuel are funneled into the combustion chambers and spark timing is advanced, creating notable performance gains. The turbocharged inline 5-cylinder engine generates 250 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 273 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,000 rpm. Seamless power is routed to the front wheels through a 5-speed Geartronic automatic transmission.

Outside, the C70 Inscription includes a number of head-turning design features. A unique gloss-black grille slots beautifully between active dual Xenon headlights and LED Daytime Running Lights. Chrome surrounds the headlights and grille, giving the car a truly distinctive face. Stunning 18-inch black "Midir" wheels incorporate polished rims and spokes. A rear spoiler completes the exterior enhancements. The C70 Inscription is available in just two colors: Ice White and Black Sapphire Metallic.

Beautiful Scandinavian design has been a hallmark of the C70's interior since it was launched in 2006. The C70 Inscription follows this tradition while adding a host of luxurious appointments. Driver and passengers will immediately notice the gorgeous Sovereign Hide upholstery. Volvo's legendary seats are now more comfortable than ever. The dashboard is covered in leather and features contrasting stitching. Unique Inscription floor mats, handbrake lever and front headrests further distinguish the C70 Inscription from the C70.

Befitting a car of this stature, the C70 Inscription is a limited-production vehicle. Production volume globally is just 2,000 units annually. The U.S. will see just 500 examples of this exemplary automobile. The C70 Inscription package goes on sale in the U.S. during the first quarter of 2012.

2011 BMW 3-Series Carbon Sport Edition

BMW has announced the 3-Series Carbon Sport Edition. The 2011 BMW 3-Series Carbon Edition is available in V6 with only two color choices namely the Sapphire and Azurite Black Metallic.

At the exterior, the new BMW 3 Series Carbon Sport Edition gets a new set of 19-inch alloy wheels but also the M Sport package which brings in the spotlight some revised components such as the front and rear bumpers, side skirts and more.

Power is provided�exclusively�by six-cylinder engines which are connected to an automatic transmission.

The interior of the 2011 3-Series Carbon Edition saloon equips with audio system courtesy of Harman Kardon and a special leather finish.

Pricing begins at 49,995 Euros and tops off at 61,995 Euros and only 150 units will be built.




Press Release

BMW 3 Series Sport Edition Carbon. Dignified farewell to the current BMW 3 Series.

11/04/2011
Rijswijk. BMW, the BMW 3 Series Sport Edition Carbon. A dignified farewell to the current generation of successful BMW 3 Series Sedan. The Carbon Sport Edition is a complete and extremely sporty BMW, only available with six-cylinder engine. This engine concept has put his stamp on the brand history and will continue to do so in the future. To further emphasize this "Limited Edition" not only available as 325i and 330i with BMW 335i as well as TwinPower Turbo's latest technology.

As befits a tribute, the BMW 3 Series Sport Edition Carbon with many distinctive issues that the model (sedan and Touring) make a real car enthusiasts. All variants are in addition to a powerful six-cylinder engine is also equipped with automatic transmission, 19-inch alloy wheels - from the range of BMW's specialized accessory department, BMW Performance - and M sports package.

The limited edition also features include xenon lights, automatic climate control, Professional navigation system, leather seats, M sports steering wheel with shift paddles and a hi-fi system from Harman Kardon. Available colors are Sapphire and Azuritschwarz, both metallic paints.

Affordable
The BMW 3 Series Sport Edition Carbon despite its rich sporting equipment and whatever the engine variant, attractively priced. The 325i Sport Carbon Edition costs 49,995 euros and Sedan, the BMW 330i Sport Carbon Edition costs 54,495 euros. Carbon is the top-BMW 335i Sport Edition with a prize of 61,995 euros. Touring costs 2000 Euros each. The fact that only 150 units built, makes the car a unique appearance will continue.

2012 Ferrari FF Neiman Marcus special edition?Video?

Neiman Marcus has releases the ultimate gift in its annual Christmas Book, the 2012 Ferrari FF. The Neiman Marcus exclusive edition of the FF jumps from 0 to 60 in less than 3.7 seconds and reaches top speeds of over 200mph.

The Ferrari FF packs a 651-hp V12 engine, all-wheel drive and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

Out back, the FF�s 16-cubic-foot cargo hold will arrive filled with a custom-made luggage set that is designed to match the hue and finish of the leather interior.

The special edition Ferrari, priced at 395'000 USD, can be pre-ordered from Neiman Marcus starting October 27th, 2011, and will be delivered Spring 2012.

Press Release

THE 2012 FERRARI FF, BESPOKE FOR NEIMAN MARCUS

The NM exclusive edition of the 2012 Ferrari FF jumps from 0 to 60 in less than 3.7 seconds and reaches top speeds of over 200 MPH. The top-of-the-line model features 651-horsepower and a V12 engine, a proprietary, lightweight 4WD system (4RMTM), as well as a 7-speed, dual-clutch transmission for seamless automatic shifting. Each car is identified by a numbered interior plaque and unique exterior color, "Grigio Caldo." The interior features soft-touch, semi-aniline leather with a matching custom luggage set. It comfortably seats 4 adults and features a class-leading 16 cubic feet of trunk space. The vehicle comes with Ferrari's 7-year maintenance plan, and enrollment in the 2012 Ferrari Winter Driving Experience in Aspen, Colorado. 10 available. Reserve your Ferrari FF by calling 800.558.0022 beginning promptly at 12:00 PM EDT on Thursday, October 27, 2011. Delivery to occur in Spring 2012.

($395,000.00; page 170)

VW has announced the new 2012 Passat Exclusive to the German market, which will be available only on the local auto market, with its large wheels, lowered body and leather with wood trims interior, coming at a pretty high price.

The exterior of Passat Exclusive is boosted by new 18� light alloy Vicenza wheels and lowered suspension with 15mm.

Inside is a Nappa leather finish in Chocolate Brown with a Pepper Beige contrasting stitching complemented by wood trims and a black leather steering wheel with Piano black lacquer.

Priced at 32,450 Euros for the sedan and 33,625 for the wagon, the Passat Exclusive is one dapper looking car.




Press Release

Der neue Passat Exclusive

Der Passat Exclusive wird als Limousine (ab 32.450 Euro) sowie Variant (ab 33.625 Euro) angeboten und basiert auf der bereits sehr edlen Ausstattungslinie �Highline". Im Exterieurbereich ist der Passat Exclusive an den neuen 18-Zoll-Leichtmetallr�dern des Typs �Vicenza" zu erkennen; um 15 Millimeter abgesenkt wurde das Fahrwerk.

Typisch f�r die von der Volkswagen R GmbH konzipierten Exclusive-Ausstattungen ist ein aufwendig veredeltes Interieur. Genau das kennzeichnet auch den individualisierten Passat. Er besitzt eine Nappa-Ledersitzanlage im Farbton �Chocolate-Braun" mit farbigen Ziern�hten und Kedern in der Kontrastfarbe �Pepper Beige". Das Leder selbst ist als sogenanntes �Cool Leather" ausgef�hrt, das sich dank einer optimierten Sonnenreflexion weniger stark aufheizt. Optisch korrespondierend: die T�rinserts in �Chocolate-Braun" und die Fu�matten in �Pepper Beige".

Ebenfalls auf die Lederfarbe abgestimmt sind die Edelholz-Applikationen im Dessin �Tamo Creme seidenmatt". Das schwarze Leder-Multifunktionslenkrad ist dar�ber hinaus, wie die Sitze, mit �Cool Leather" bezogen; die Dekore des Lenkrades sind in �Klavierlack schwarz" ausgef�hrt. Zur Serienausstattung geh�rt auf der funktionsorientierten Seite zudem eine geschwindigkeitsabh�ngig geregelte Servotronic-Lenkung. Optional kann der Passat Exclusive unter anderem mit einem titanschwarzen Dachhimmel und aktiv klimatisierten Sitzen (vorn) bestellt werden.

Mazda Black Tuned Roadster

Mazda has released the Special Edition Black Tuned Roadster for the Japanese market.

Based on the Roadster RHT (retractable hard top), the BLACK TUNED edition comes in either RS trim (6MT) or VS trim (6AT) and comes with a black roof, black wheels, black grille, black rear roll bar garnish, black leather seats, black door trim, fog lights and Bose stereo.

Three external body colors are available, including two exclusive colors � Spirited Green Metallic and Velocity Red Mica � and the popular Crystal White Pearl Mica.

The cars comes with a 2.0 liter DOHC engine and a six-speed manual as standard. A six-speed automatic is optional.

The special edition of the MX-5 in Japan also comes with the Brilliant Black of the folding hard-top roof and side mirrors, unique interior contrasting black leather with sand-colored stitching and it�s sitting on Gun Metallic 17 inch alloy wheels.





Press Release

Mazda Releases Special Edition 'BLACK TUNED Roadster' in Japan

- Stylish model with Power Retractable Hard Top, alloy wheels and other parts in exclusive colors -

HIROSHIMA, Japan-Mazda Motor Corporation has released the Mazda Roadster BLACK TUNED, a special edition version of its iconic lightweight, two-seat, open-top sports car for the Japanese market. The special edition Roadster (known overseas as the Mazda MX-5) goes on sale today at all Mazda and Mazda Anfini dealerships nationwide.

The Mazda Roadster originally launched in 1989 and is currently sold in approximately 60 countries around the world. Total production stands at over 900,000 units and the Roadster is officially certified by Guinness World Records as the world's "Best selling two-seater sports car".

The special edition BLACK TUNED Roadster is based on the premium 'RS RHT' and 'VS RHT' model grades that feature Mazda's groundbreaking power retractable hard top (RHT). The BLACK TUNED theme is reflected in stylish special features including a Brilliant Black roof and door mirrors, and Gun Metallic 17-inch alloy wheels. Interior quality is also enhanced, with the seats and steering wheel covered in black leather with sand-colored stitching.

Three external body colors are available, including two exclusive colors - Spirited Green Metallic and Velocity Red Mica - and the popular Crystal White Pearl Mica.

Main features of the special edition Mazda Roadster BLACK TUNED

Base models
Mazda Roadster RS RHT with 2.0-liter DOHC engine and six-speed manual transmission, and Mazda Roadster VS RHT with 2.0-liter DOHC engine and six-speed electronically-controlled automatic transmission.
Special equipment

* Power Retractable Hard Top (Brilliant Black)
* 17-inch alloy wheels (Gun Metallic)
* Front grille garnish (Brilliant Black)
* Door mirrors (Brilliant Black)
* Rear roll bar garnish (Brilliant Black)
* Black leather seats (with sand-colored stitching)
* Black door trim (with sand-colored stitching)
* Decoration panel (piano black)
* Leather-wrapped steering wheel (with sand-colored stitching and piano black switch bezels)
* Leather-wrapped parking brake lever (with sand-colored stitching)
* Front fog lights (clear) and fog light bezels (black)
* Outer door handles (body-colored)
* Bose� sound system (AUDIOPILOT^TM2) and seven speakers (no head unit)
* Leather-wrapped shift knob (with chrome ring) *1
* Soft pads on the side door trim arm rests (synthetic leather) *2
* Soft pad on the center console lid (synthetic leather) *2
* Seat heaters (with five temperature settings) *2
* Front suspension tower bar (built into the cowl) *3

Factory-installed option
Six-disc CD changer with AM/FM radio/MP3/WMA*4 player and AUX jack
Exterior body colors
There is a choice of three exterior body colors: Spirited Green Metallic (exclusive), Velocity Red Mica (exclusive) and Crystal Pearl White Mica (special body color).

2012 MINI Cooper London Edition?Video?

England long jump champion and London 2012 hopeful J.J. Jegede today succeeded in his attempt to jump over the roofs of three cars at the launch of the MINI London 2012 Edition Models.

Built to celebrate the 2012 Olympic Games, the London Edition is available in three colors (Chilli Red, White Silver and Lightning Blue) and features a Union Jack hood stripe, a white roof (with the 2012 Olympic logo) and exclusive 17-inch alloy wheels.

Inside, the car gets even London-ier with a full London skyline etched on the dashboard. The black 'lounge leather' seats feature white piping and red and blue stitching. The patriotic seats are completed with London 2012 logo and Union Jack-piped headrests. The hand brake, gear stick gaiter and floor mats also get colored stitching.

Prices start at �17,800 for the MINI Cooper and rise to �20,860 for the MINI Cooper SD. The order book is now open with deliveries planned for March 2012.






Press Release

MINI LONDON 2012 EDITION HITS THE STARTING BLOCKS

MINI, official partner of Team GB and ParalympicsGB, has unveiled its new London 2012 special, limited edition models to celebrate the monumental London 2012 Olympic Games.

There will be just 2,012 of these special edition models built, which are available in Cooper, Cooper D, Cooper S and Cooper SD trims and come in the Union Jack themed colours; Chilli Red, White Silver or Lightning Blue. All models boast white mirror caps and a white roof featuring the iconic London 2012 Olympic graphic.

The exterior also features a distinctive Union Jack single sport stripe which runs over the bonnet, roof and rear tailgate of the car. The side scuttles also bear the London 2012 Olympic graphic. To finish off the dynamic look, the MINI London 2012 edition features unique grey 17-inch conical spoke alloy wheels - unavailable on any other MINI model.

Inside, the most striking feature is the London skyline, beautifully etched across the width of the piano-black dashboard. Silhouetting some of London's most iconic landmarks, including Tower Bridge, Battersea Power Station and the London Eye, the dashboard also displays the words "London 1 of 2012".

The London 2012 inspiration continues with red and blue stitching twined with white piping on both the front and rear Black �Lounge Leather' upholstery. The headrests complement the theme with Union Jack piping and a London 2012 logo is stitched on the inner edge of both front seats. Coloured stitching also features on the hand brake, gear stick gaiter and floor mats which also have piping.

All London 2012 special edition models come packed with a bundle of extra options like Lounge Leather sports seats, DAB radio, air conditioning, cruise control and chrome interior touches. MINIMALISM technology* also comes as standard; helping to make the 99g/km CO2 emitting Cooper D models exempt from London Congestion Charging.

As well as fuel sipping mpg figures and low CO2 emissions - MINI is one of the top five low CO2 car manufacturers** - drivers can enjoy the brand's trademark go-kart handling and charismatic personality in a truly patriotic driving experience.

To bag one of these must-have street accessories of 2012, the new MINI London 2012 Edition pre-sale list opens at today, with the new models hitting UK roads from March 2012. On the Road Prices for the MINI London 2012 Editions models are:

MINI Cooper Hatch �17,800
MINI Cooper D Hatch �19,080
MINI Cooper S Hatch �20,125
MINI Cooper SD Hatch �20,860

2012 Ducati Diavel AMG

THIS Ducati Diavel is the first motorcycle born from the collaboration with Mercedes AMG and the Italian manufacturer. And the latest is set to debut at the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show.

This special edition is based on the Diavel Carbon and features AMG�s signature 5-spoke wheel styling, carbon fibre lateral radiator grills with aluminium trim, AMG-style sport exhaust system with engraved end-caps and AMG-style horizontally ribbed seat upholstered in Alcantara.

The exclusive Diavel adds AMG�s trademark white colour to the frame. The special edition wheels, and air intake ducts. Matching AMG/Ducati branded helmets and leather jackets will be made available along with the white framed, black bodied-bike, whose price tag has yet to be specified.





Press Release

DUCATI DIAVEL AMG SPECIAL EDITION TO BE SHOWN AT FRANKFURT MOTOR SHOW

Ducati and Mercedes AMG have proudly announced that the first public showing of the Ducati Diavel AMG Special Edition will be at the 64th International Motor Show in Frankfurt, Germany from 15-25 September. The 2012 flagship model of the Diavel family is a tribute to the AMG luxury-sport brand and is intended for passionate connoisseurs of technology, engineering detail and exclusive style.

Ducati's unique cooperation with Mercedes AMG was first announced at the 2010 Los Angeles Motor Show with a sponsorship agreement for the Ducati MotoGP Team which perfectly demonstrated the shared brand values of high performance, motorsport and excitement. The association soon developed into a rich strategy of co-marketing activities and the Diavel AMG Special Edition now represents the first "co-inspired" model, elegantly combining distinctive styling features from both famous marques.

Based upon the Diavel Carbon, the Diavel AMG Special Edition features AMG's signature 5-spoke wheel styling, carbon fibre lateral radiator grills with aluminium trim, AMG-style sport exhaust system with engraved end-caps and AMG-style horizontally ribbed seat upholstered in Alcantara�. The model's incredible attention to performance detail also ensures that every engine has its Desmodromic cam-timing set by hand and authenticated with the name of the engine technician engraved on the left-side engine casing. Further underlining the model's exclusivity, each motorcycle will have a numbered plaque on the fuel tank.

The award-winning Ducati Diavel has had massive first-year success for the Italian motorcycle manufacturer, its bold design merging the worlds of power and style with absolute precision to set a new industry standard for the segment. Ducati's awesome Testastretta 11� engine combined with their famous chassis technology and a specially engineered 240 section rear tyre delivers mind-blowing performance balanced with user-friendly comfort and safety-enhancing electronics.

Hand-built - as with all Ducati motorcycles - the exclusive new Diavel AMG Special Edition is dressed in matte black carbon fibre bodywork with AMG's very own "Diamond White Bright" stripe and frame colour contrasted with black wheels. The special edition wheels, seat and exhaust end-caps are all AMG branded while "AMG" is also laser-engraved into the air-duct panels either side of the fuel tank. The Ducati Diavel AMG Special Edition and exclusively designed leather jacket and helmet apparel will be available in early 2012, with orders opening to coincide with the first public showing at the Motor Show in Frankfurt, Germany.

2012 Acura TSX Special Edition

Acura has announced plans to introduce the 2012 TSX Special Edition at the Orange County International Auto Show on September 22nd.



The 2012 Acura TSX Special Edition Package adds a new�front spoiler, a new rear bumper fascia, side sills and an �Special Edition� badge on the trunklid. It also adds 17�7.5-inch, 5-spoke aluminum wheels with dark gray background.



The 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine remains, producing 201 hp and 172 lb-ft of torque. Both manual and automatic transmissions are offered.

Inside, Acura has pumped up the interior with black suede inserts on the seats that's contrasted by red stitching. More of the red color makes its way to the steering wheel and shift knob, as well as the lighting of the gauges, footwell and cabin. That footwell area also see the addition of aluminum pedal covers.











Press Release



Acura Announces Special Edition Model for TSX Sports Sedan



Exterior and Interior Upgrades Make for an Even Sportier TSX



08/29/2011 - TORRANCE, Calif.

Continuing the celebration of its 25th anniversary, Acura today announced the availability of a new version of the popular TSX sports sedan for the 2012 model year. Designed to evoke the fun-to-drive 4-cylinder Acuras of the past, the TSX Special Edition will add even more sportiness to the TSX lineup thanks to numerous exterior and interior upgrades for Acura's entry-level sedan.



"The Acura TSX has long been known for its high-revving 4-cylinder engines and sporty driving nature," said Jeff Conrad, vice president of Acura sales. "With the new Special Edition, the TSX becomes even more youthful and sporty in character, furthering its appeal to performance-minded buyers."



The 2012 TSX Special Edition package consists of numerous upgrades to the exterior including a more aggressive front spoiler, a new rear bumper fascia, unique side sills and an exclusive "Special Edition" badge on the trunklid. Finally, the TSX's 17x7.5-inch, 5-spoke aluminum wheels will feature a polished finish with dark grey background, unique to the Special Edition model.



Inside, the TSX Special Edition makes use of sport-minded appointments including exclusive seating surfaces with perforated black Lux Suede� inserts with red backing. Unique red stitching, used for the seats, steering wheel and the shift knob, combines with red lighting for the instrument cluster gauges, overhead lighting and footwell lighting. Adding more appeal to the driver's footwell are aluminum pedal covers with a race-inspired look. Rounding out the Special Edition's interior upgrades is the use of bright silver plating for the steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters along with black headliner material (standard TSX have grey headliner material).



The TSX Special Edition package makes use of Acura's acclaimed K24 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine and will be available with either the close-ratio 6-speed manual or Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic transmissions. The TSX Special Edition will go on sale in late September and will make its public debut at the Orange County International Auto Show on September 22nd.

Renault Wind Gordini by Gibson

Unveiled at the Rock En Seine music festival, Renault and Gibson collaborate to create a one-off special based on the Renault Wind Gordini. Some otakus are familiar because this is the brand of the guitar Yui Hirasawa used on K-ON (take note, the Gibson Les Paul).



Wind �Gordini by Gibson� features a blue livery with two white stripes, yet the colours and materials it employs also explore one or two other ideas.



The Wind Gordini by Gibson�s interior is a little more original. Six real guitar strings are hand-stitched into each leather seat back and the radio knobs are replaced with Gibson guitar knobs. The Gibson logo is proudly featured on the leather-upholstered dashboard and on the seat backs, just above the Gordini logo. There are other minor changes like chrome air vents, chrome door handles and white seat belts.











Press Release



Renault Gordini and Gibson in tune with a special show car and guitar at the Rock En Seine Festival



To mark its second year at the Rock En Seine music festival, near Paris, France, Gordini has teamed up with Gibson to produce a one-off show car and an equally unique 'Gordini by Gibson' electric guitar. Gates open at 2:30pm on August 26, 2011.



- The leather seats of the Renault Wind-based 'Gordini by Gibson' show car incorporate real guitar strings, in addition to a host of other rocking details.



- Gibson's iconic SG model from 1961 has been treated to a stunning makeover featuring the familiar Gordini blue with white stripes.



Gordini and Gibson: a shared passion for innovation



There will be plenty to please the ears and eyes of Parisian festival goers this weekend thanks to a display comprising the one-off Wind 'Gordini by Gibson' show car plus five striking Gibson SG '61 guitars in Gordini colours. The early 1960s saw Gordini and Gibson both revolutionise their respective worlds with the introduction of a sporting version of the Renault 8 for the former and the release of the SG electric guitar in the case of Gibson. The two brands have long been reputed for the accent they place on innovation and their open-minded approach to the future is founded on the same sense of freedom. The fact that Gibson and Gordini have joined forces for this project could but inspire Renault's designers...



"We had tremendous fun designing the Wind-based 'Gordini by Gibson' show car and carrying Gordini's visual identity over to the Gibson SG '61 guitar," says Julia Macfarlane, colours and materials designer at Renault. "I hope that we succeed in conveying the passion that fired us throughout the project and that visitors to the Rock en Seine festival will like the result."





Guitar strings for the Wind 'Gordini by Gibson' show car's leather seats



Wind 'Gordini by Gibson' is a two-part harmony based on the two brands' respective styling cues. Unsurprisingly, Wind 'Gordini by Gibson' features a blue livery with two white stripes, yet the colours and materials it employs also explore one or two other ideas. In addition to the two hallmark white stripes which extend over the bonnet and blue roof, hints of gloss black feature across the bodywork, while Gibson logos are visible on the doors. An original attraction of the show car's blue and white leather upholstery is the incorporation of genuine guitar strings which have been hand-sewn into the leather seats. Meanwhile, embroidered Gibson logos feature on the seat backs and blue leather-trimmed dashboard, while the seat belt straps are white and chrome has been used for the air vents and door handles. Last but not least, the guitar potentiometer knob used for the audio system's volume control adds a 'fun' touch to the intrinsically switched-on and off-beat Wind 'Gordini by Gibson' show car.





Gordini treatment for the SG '61 electric guitar



The guitar selected by Gibson to fly Gordini's colours is a reissue of the original 1961 SG, a radical electric guitar in its day which went on to make its own contribution to the Gibson legend. The striking graphics formed by the Gordini blue and two white stripes lend themselves perfectly to a variety of schemes, as illustrated by the special Gordini SG '61's blue solid body and two white stripes, plus a Gordini logo on the headstock which tops its ebony neck. As they play this magnificent object, those festival goers who take part in the Gordini guitar solo competition will get a chance to sample the model's timeless looks, playability and technical strengths. Contestants also stand a chance to win one these fine guitars as a function of the number of votes they receive on the web for their playing.