Upgrades
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Earlier this week, we brought you news of a pending, no-charge-for-existing-owners software upgrade for the McLaren MP4-12C. In addition to providing a few convenience items (like remote passenger door opening and a programmable engine note), the new software will boost output by nearly 25 horsepower. The horsepower gain comes via new engine fuel mapping, and it boosts the MP4-12C’s output to 616 horsepower. Despite the gain, fuel economy remains unchanged, allowing the MP4-12C to escape the gass-guzzler tax in the United States. The seven-speed SSG transmission gets a performance boost...
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2012 Ford Focus Gets Sport, Titanium Handling Package UpgradesFord's new Fiesta may be getting most of the media blast, but the 2012 Focus isn't being forgotten about by the home office. Ford announced today two new packages for the Focus to sharpen its look and make the car more responsive and agile-feeling on the road. The upgrades come in the form of the...
Nelson Ireson -
Live shots of Ferrari’s ‘Laboratorio Technologico’ 599XX
Back at March’s Geneva Motor Show Ferrari gave the world a preview of its latest ‘Laboratorio Technologico’ 599XX experimental car, but apart from a single live image few visual details of the car were revealed. Today, we have a gallery of live images, showcasing every minor...
Kenneth Hall -
Ferrari's 599 GTB Handling Pack now available as dealer option
Though the California convertible has grabbed almost all the attention paid to Ferrari in the media recently, the 599 GTB is still just as formidable and attractive as it was the day it hit the streets. For some extremists, however, even a car as superb as the 599 isn’t completely up to...
Alex Kaufmann -
Nismo to begin renting upgraded GT-R electronics to customers in Japan
Earlier today we told you how Nissan is now offering to upgrade original-spec GT-Rs with a host of better parts including suspension upgrades and engine mounts. Now Nissan's racing and tuning arm, Nismo, has decided to release upgraded engine and transmission management software, but in a novel...
Nelson Ireson -
GM planning quick upgrades for Volt thanks to high-tech platform
One of the harder things about designing a new car is making it sufficiently futuristic that it's actually current when it finally makes it to market. Then the struggle becomes keeping it fresh and relevant - in terms of not just design, but capability and features. Chevrolet thinks it has a winner...
Nelson Ireson -
Factory-upgraded versions of typically sedate sedans and hatchbacks have become de rigeur for most major carmakers. Mitsubishi's have been largely hit-or-miss, but the company's next trio of factory specials promise to be on target. The much-lauded Lancer Evolution X gets FQ400 treatment, pushing output to 400hp (298kW) and taking its demeanor further into the hardcore. Unfortunately, like other FQ variants, the model isn't slated for U.S. sale. Pricing is expected to nose up against the £50,000 mark when it hits UK streets around April. The Lancer Sportback is also due for a Ralliart...
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Nissan upgrades European GT-R along 'Series II' lines
Recent reports about the demise of launch control in Nissan's GT-R aside, the cars sold in the UK and Europe next year will be getting a range of upgrades as well. Those upgrades have now been confirmed for Europe, including a 5hp (3kW) bump in power to 478hp (356kW) and stickier Dunlop tires, like...
Kenneth Hall -
Chrysler adds features, efficiency to Sebring, 300 and Dodge Avenger
Stronger fuel efficiency, better value and more features are the focus of the 2009 model year updates for Chrysler's Sebring, 300 and Dodge Avenger. Other touches include updated exterior design and upgraded interior materials. Fuel consumption is improved by offering smaller engines, such as the...
Ralph Hanson
