Damned Brits
The English have bragging rights over us again as Nissan in Europe will sell a limited number of the ultimate iteration of its GT-R supercar, the Spec V to overindulgent Brits. The limited run of 40 cars is in celebration of the 40th anniversary of the launch of the first Nissan to wear the GT-R badge. Also reflecting its exclusivity, and in recognition of the car's indelible link with the Nordschleife circuit in Germany, the Spec V is only being displayed in Europe at the new Nissan Sports showroom in the new Nürburgring complex. Although maximum horsepower output remains unchanged, engine performance is enhanced with a new high gear boost control device, which briefly increases boost of the twin turbochargers for greater torque in the intermediate-to-high speed ranges to provide greater in-gear acceleration. Braking and cornering performance is improved by the fitting of a carbon ceramic brake system jointly developed by Nissan and Brembo, revised springs and fixed-rate dampers. Other performance modifications include a titanium exhaust system. The Spec V also has added visual appeal with lightweight, racing-style forged aluminum wheels by Nismo as well as a grip of carbon-fiber body parts, which all totalled, shave 130 pounds off the car. The English Spec Vs will be only available through one Nissan High Performance Centre in the UK - Middlehurst Motorsport GT-R, St Helens, Merseyside.
Mugen Magic For Fit
Put the stamp of legitimacy on your Honda Fit with original goods from Mugen. Add a healthy dose of retina-popping aggressiveness with a Mugen sports grille, front under spoiler, side spoilers, rear under spoiler and sports silencer. Mugen also offers 16-inch JDM-approved wheels for the Fit, and inside, more Mugen ambiance awaits. A quick shift kit, shift knob, sports pedals and trick floor mats take your Honda to new heights.
SOURCE: http://automobiles.honda.com/fit/mugen-accessories.aspx
Toyko Auto Salon Teaser
Japanese body tuning gurus Tommy Kaira will have this tasty GT-R at the 2010 TAS. The company's slick R35 has the prerequisite body tuning enhancements as well as suspension and interior upgrades for the awe-inspiring Nissan sports car. Tommy Kaira eye candy includes a full bumper transformation with integrated lip spoiler, side skirts, rear fender enhancements, a rear diffuser and a moderately styled rear wing. Be sure to catch our coverage of the 2010 Tokyo Auto Salon in the next issue.
Body Tuned, Turbo'd Fiesta
Will the 2011 Ford Fiesta be a real player in the sport compact scene? The car has the right look and 3dCarbon and FSWerks teamed up to enhance the look and puts some bite behind its bark. An FSWerks Stage 2 intercooled turbo kit with free-breathing 2.25-inch exhaust provides the rush while a full-tilt 3dCarbon body kit hits the high notes visually. The kit consists of an aggressive front air dam, aerodynamic side skirts and rear lower accent trim.
Can Honda's Hot Hybrid Be Built For Speed?
Honda's CR-Z, a retro CR-X with an added electric motor, dropped at the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show and made quite a splash. More details are emerging about the car and we are wondering if the aftermarket will produce parts for the angular two-door coupe. The leading powerplant contender is a 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine rated at 112 horsepower and 107 lb-ft of torque. With electric motor also engaged drivers can expect a 12-horse, 56-lb-ft increase in output. We hear an optional six-speed manual transmission will supplement the hybrid-preferred CVT. Prices look to be in the $20,000 range. Will tuners embrace the CR-Z as a viable platform for a build up? If so will the proceedings evolve past big wheels, and body parts and address under-hood performance?