TechArt will bring the next iteration of its 911 Turbo-based GTstreet to the 2007 Geneva Motor Show. TechArt’s last GTstreet debut in 2001, and was based on the 996 series 911 Turbo. With the new 997 series 911 Turbo tearing up the street, TechArt thought it was time for the new GTstreet.

The TechArt GTstreet starts with the 3.6L twin-turbo flat six engine, which is then extensively modified to deliver 630-hp. Zero to 62 mph takes just 3.2 seconds; 124 mph arrives in just under 11 seconds; on it way to a 214 mph top speed.

No tuner car would complete without a modified aero body kit, and the body kit for the TechArt GTstreet improves aerodynamic downforce, while minimizing drag.

Press release and larger image after the jump.

## Source: TechArt ##

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Nissan will unveil a U.S. version of the motorsports-tuned NISMO 350Z at the New York Auto Show in April. According to Edmunds, the NISMO 350Z, which is already on sale in Japan, will arrive with significant body and chassis upgrades derived from NISMO’s extensive racing expertise.

There are no details as to what the upgrades will be, but the aerokit is expected to be unchanged. The NISMO’s body stiffening welds, additional reinforcement bars and panels, and other measures, should find their way here. As should the high-grip Bridgestone Potenza RE-01R tires and a set of light-weight wheels.

More images after the jump.

## Source: Straightline ##

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BMW will finally debut its high performance 7-Series, the BMW Alpina B7, in the U.S. at the Chicago Auto Show. Originally, announced last February, and expected to go on sale last summer, the BMW Alpina B7 will feature a higher-performance supercharged version of BMW’s 4.4L, 90-degree V8 engine. The uprated motor produces 500-hp and 516 lbs.-ft. of torque. The engine will mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission featuring steering wheel mounted shift controls, and propels the B7 from 0-60 mph in just 4.8 seconds.

The BMW Alpina B7 will roll on 21-inch Alpina wheels wearing Z-rated performance tires. The sport-tuned suspension includes Active Roll Stabilization. The Alpina’s B7 aerokit includes a rear spoiler to improve high speed stability, handling, and performance at high speeds.

With this new model, BMW will raise the benchmark for the segment in terms of performance, refinement, technology, and luxury. Approximately 200 US-version cars are planned for the 2007 model year. The BMW Alpina B7 has a manufacturers suggested retail price of $115,695.

BMW is expected to bring 200 Alpina B7 sedans to the States.

## Source: BMW ##

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Earlier this year, EDO Competition tweaked Porsche’s Cayenne to give it even more power and did some major work on the ute’s handling. With 610 horsepower, the EDO Porsche Cayenne Turbo can reach 60 mph in under 4.6 seconds on its way a top speed of 180 mph, making it one of the fastest SUVs on the road. The EDO tuned suspension features adjustable dampers, a lowered ride height, 22-inch wheels, and matching high-performance tires

EDO brought the Cayenne to the Tuners Grand Prix at Hockenheim.

Check out the video after the jump.

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Despite Volkswagen’s “unpimp mein auto” marketing for the new GTI, the automaker revealed two “pimped” concepts at least week’s SEMA show in Vegas, including the Thunder Bunny and the R GTI. Following last year’s response to its Passat R GT Concept, Volkswagen came back to SEMA to gauge market’s reaction to offering factory-backed performance accessories, as well as look at production of specialized versions of their most popular models.

Based on what it is saying, Volkswagen’s plans for a range of higher-performance cars would be similar to Mazda’s MAZDASPEED lineup — offer class-leading performance combined with tasteful styling. A Volkswagen executive said that 19- or 20-inch wheels would not be considered since they compromise handling and drivability.

We don’t know what V-Dub has planned, but we like what they are saying. If the Thunder Bunny and the R GTI are any indication of what is coming, we can’t wait.

## Source: Automotive News ##

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Last week at the SEMA show in Las Vegas, Shelby Automobiles unveiled a convertible version of its popular GT-H Mustang. While Shelby says the Shelby GT-H Convertible Concept highlights components for late model Mustangs including special parts and packages for the Shelby GT-H and upcoming Shelby GT models, it’s not clear if Shelby will produce a convertible version of the GT-H Hertz Mustang. At least the concept car hints that it may be something that is being considered.

The GT-H Convertible includes a host of upgrades that will be available for all 2005 and later Mustangs, Shelby GT and those who will be purchasing the Shelby GT-H’s their rental days are over. Upgrades include 14-inch brake package; custom 20-inch Razor wheels; front and rear brake duct kit; driving light package and lower billet grille insert designed to fit all California Special Mustangs, Shelby GT-H’s and Shelby GT’s; three-gauge center dash-pod with custom Shelby gauges; custom floor mats, sequential tail lamps, authentic racing hood pin kit; billet engine fluid caps and oil dip stick, and various interior appointments.

The component upgrades for 2005 and later Mustangs will be available in the first quarter of 2007, and will be the sold through Shelby Automobiles Las Vegas headquarters and a national dealer network.

More images and full press release after the jump.

## Source: Shelby Automobiles ##

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One more part of the General Motors fleet of SEMA concepts, the automaker unveiled the Silverado 427, harking back to the heyday of the muscle car. The Silverado 427 is powered by GM Powertrain’s 7.0L LS7, the same engine as in the Corvette Z06, which is also available as a ‘crate engine’ package from GM Performance Parts. But the Silverado 427 is more than a pickup with a more powerful engine, featuring a lowered suspension for better handling and, of course, an exterior styling package, including new front and rear fascias, hood, cowl, tailgate, tonneau and body-side cladding.

More images and concept information after the jump.

## Source: General Motors ##

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General Motors and Gravana Tuning unveiled its highly customized Saturn Sky concept at this week’s SEMA show. The Gravana Tuning Turbo Saturn Sky delivers more of what roadster buyers are looking for, including all-around performance and ’stop-dead-in-your-tracks’ design.

On the engine front, Gravana added a Hahn Racecraft 16G intercooled stage 3 turbocharger to the Saturn Sky’s 2.4L Ecotec engine, which results in 348-hp and 341 lb.-ft. of torque. Handling is enhanced by an adjustable coil-over-shock suspension system, which can lower the vehicle by as much as 3 inches. Massive stabilizer bars eliminate body roll, and 14-inch drilled and slotted front brake rotors, with four-piston calipers, pull it all to a stop.

But a concept wouldn’t be concept without exterior modifications. So the Gravana Tuning Turbo Saturn Sky sports unique front and rear fascias, bodyside panels and rear center exit exhaust.

More images after the jump.

## Source: General Motors ##

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Ford has joined up with car customizer Chip Foose to design a series of special edition models for the 2007 model year, according to Automotive News. Foose is known for his million-dollar one-off creations that have won “America’s Most Beautiful Roadster” award six times.

Robert Parker, Ford brand car marketing manager, said the first vehicle Foose will modify will be an F-150 truck. Foose said he would “love to refine and play with a Fusion,” which has to be a model high on Ford’s list as well.

The Foose special editions will be true to the “Foose DNA,” but remain affordable, said Parker. The vehicles will be assembled at regular Ford facilities as well as at third-party manufacturers — similar to the arrangement with Carroll Shelby for his special edition Mustangs.

Ford did not provide estimated for how many Foose special edition vehicles will be sold, but they will be sold through Ford’s regular dealerships.

## Source: Automotive News ##

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Mazda unveiled a custom concept of its hot-selling CX-7 crossover at the 2006 SEMA show. Called the Adrenaline, the concept was designed and built by the automaker’s U.S. design team in Irvine, California. The Adrenaline is a fully running prototype that was designed to showcase Mazda’s performance nature.

“Adrenaline is athletically inspired for people who demand a car that is as lean and fit as they are and represents their passions, yet doesn’t sacrifice in hauling those passions around,” said Franz von Holzhausen, design director, MNAO, and the designer behind the Kabura concept from the 2006 Detroit Auto Show. “Adrenaline is tuned like an avid cyclist, and delivers on the promise.”

Mazda engineers dropped the CX-7’s stock six-speed automatic transmission and replaced it with a six-speed manual lifted straight out of the MAZDASPEED6 sedan. The Adrenaline was enhanced with the help of rallyist and drifter Rhys Millen to develop over 300-hp, thanks to the re-tuned engine, modified intake, free-flow exhaust, and more boost.

The CX-7 Adrenalin is visually enhanced for a more aggressive and sporty stance. Featuring new front and rear fascias, deep chin spoiler, clam-shell front clip, wrap around rear spoiler and a unique rear glass design. With its new fenders and doors, Adrenaline has a three-inch wider overall stance, and the 22-inch EXE wheels fill out the widened fenders.

More images and full press release after the jump.

## Source: Mazda ##

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Honda unveiled several concept vehicles at the 2006 SEMA show, including the prototype of its 2007 Civic MUGEN Si Sedan — the first factory-prepared MUGEN Civic to be sold in the U.S. — and the Element-D drift car. As part of its display, Honda also unveiled a sport concept of its all-new CR-V compact crossover SUV.

Following the theme of “urban sport,” the Sport Concept CR-V is designed to increase the athletic feel of the already sophisticated CR-V. Highlights include aerodynamically styled front and rear bumpers along with a sports suspension package that lowers the Sport Concept CR-V for a customized presence. Custom 19-inch wheels are shod with Bridgestone Potenza tires (245/45R19). Interior modifications focus on the creation of a high-tech, performance-oriented driving environment with the addition of Civic Si synthetic suede fabric on the seating surfaces. Carbon fiber trim panels further accent the interior. Outside, the Sport Concept CR-V is painted in Agile Blue.

More images after the jump.

## Source: Honda ##

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Earlier this week, Honda unveiled several concept vehicles at the 2006 SEMA show. We already reported on the prototype Civic MUGEN Si Sedan and the Element-D drift car. As part of its display, Honda also unveiled a performance concept of its Fit subcompact.

Envisioned as an entry-level performance car, the Scorched Orange Metallic and matte black Fit Sport Extreme Concept features an aerodynamically styled front bumper fascia with carbon fiber components along with HID fog lights and LED daytime running lights. Large fender flares and low, aggressive side skirts accent its ultra-low profile. A rear carbon fiber diffuser with a center exhaust outlet along with an extended rear aero wing helps enhance style and high-speed downforce. The factory Japan Domestic Market (JDM) rear LED taillights and side mirrors with integrated turn signals further accent the high-tech feel of the vehicle. An advanced, track-tuned suspension package lowers the Fit Sport Extreme Concept ride height and enhances the vehicle’s handling dynamics. Brembo(R) brake components on all four wheels provide amazing levels of stopping force.

Graphite black wheels (17 inch) incorporate Bridgestone Potenza RE-01R tires (215/45R-17). Interior modifications focus on the creation of a high-tech, performance-oriented driving environment with carbon fiber accents that match the exterior styling. The interior features custom Recaro sport seats with Civic Si-style synthetic suede. A dashboard-mounted prototype portable navigation system accessory is also shown.

More images after the jump.

## Source: Honda ##

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Thirty years ago Volkswagen’s GTI revolutionized the concept of affordable and accessible high-performance motoring. This year Volkswagen unveiled the R GTI at the 2006 SEMA Show in Las Vegas. Last year, Volkswagen debuted several R Concepts at SEMA, but since the GTI was not available in the U.S. we had to wait until this year.

Developed by Volkswagen Chief Designer Derek Jenkins and his talented crew at the Volkswagen Design Center California, located in Santa Monica, the R GTI features carbon-fiber body panels, four-passenger sports car interior, powerful turbocharged engine and competition-bred suspension.

While the horsepower numbers are less than last years concepts, Jenkins went with a “speed through lightness” concept to achieve equal performance. Starting with Volkswagen’s 2.0L FSI turbocharged four-cylinder powerplant, APR replaced the turbocharger with a larger unit with twice the flow capacity and pumped up the boost to 21 pounds. The result is a whopping 375-hp and and 340 lbs.-ft. of torque, on 93 octane pump gas. If 100-octane race fuel is used, output rises to 400 horsepower.

The significant increase in power and lighter weight results in a 0-60 mph time of only 4.8 seconds in the R GTI.

More images and full press release after the jump.

## Source: Volkswagen ##

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Ahead of the C30’s U.S. debut next year, Volvo unveiled three customized C30 hatchbacks — the Evolve C30, Heico Sportiv/Burton Snowboard C30, and the ipd C30 — at this year’s SEMA show.

Volvo joined with three aftermarket tuning companies to unleash the highly modified iterations of the production Volvo C30 as a sign of what can come from a growing number of C30 enthusiasts in the U.S. and around the world.

Video after the jump.

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Back in 1981, Bill Neumann, founder of Neuspeed, was frustrated that Volkswagen’s hot GTI still hadn’t come to the U.S., so he built the original Thunder Bunny. The original Thunder Bunny was extremely well received for its punch and practicality, leading Motor Trend to say: “The little white wonder packs its own kind of lightning-quick rabbit punch - one that’s guaranteed to kayo unsuspecting boulevard bullies.”

The next year Volkswagen finally began selling the hot GTI in the States. Now 25 years later, VW commemorates Neuspeed’s original Thunder Bunny with a concept of the same name that was shown at the SEMA show yesterday. Designed in collaboration with Derek Jenkins, Chief Designer at the Volkswagen Design Center California located in Santa Monica, the new Thunder Bunny is an updated, thoroughly modern version of the original.

The Thunder Bunny concept adds a turbocharger, designed by Neuspeed, to the Rabbit’s 2.5L five-cylinder engine, increasing power from 150 to 225 horsepower. A stainless exhaust, and a baffled aluminum oil pan were added for optimum flow and cooling. A performance clutch and differential were also added to the powertrain for durability.

The Thunder Bunny concept sports a new front fascia, with a larger central grille, has been grafted on the front, and a more muscular rear valance framing a twin R32-style exhaust. Painted in a gleaming candy white overlaid with graphics Jenkins calls “topographical” that “blink” on and off depending on viewing angle.

The 19-inch wheels are painted gold, like the original Thunder Bunny. Front brakes are two-piece floating cross-drilled discs from Brembo, gripped by bunny-bedecked Brembo four-piston brake calipers.

More images and full press release after the jump.

## Source: Volkswagen ##

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