Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS, 2012

 

 

 

 

 

•  Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS, 2012

Porsche AG is widening the top end of its Carrera model line and pairing up each of the two 911 Carrera GTS with an all-wheel drive twin. That means that the Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS Coupé and Cabriolet combine the 408 hp (300 kW) top of the range engine of the Carrera GTS family with the intelligent, all-wheel drive Porsche Traction Management (PTM). Driving dynamics are not the only source of attraction. Economics are as well. Thanks to Porsche Intelligent Performance the new all-wheel 911s consume no more than the equivalent Carrera 4S version, the Coupé remains at 11.0 l/100 km (25.7 mpg imp.) and the Cabriolet at 11.2 l/100 km (25.2 mpg imp.) respectively based on the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC). Moreover both of them boast an even more comprehensive standard equipment package compared with the Carrera 4S models.

The Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS power unit has its origins in the 3.8-litre, six-cylinder Carrera S engine. A wholesale revamping of the intake duct added 23 hp (17 kW), taking the power output to 408 hp (300 kW) at 7,300 rpm. The special aspiration system not only improves peak power output but flexibility and power development as well thanks to a more generous torque curve in the lower and middle engine speed range. 320 Newton metres kick in from as low as 1,500 rpm; the six-cylinder engine delivers its rated torque of 420 Nm in the broad engine speed range from 4,200 rpm and 5,600 rpm. The sports exhaust system fitted as standard ensures a distinctly sporty sound. It invests the new Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS with an unmistakable acoustic signature and the rear view of its tail pipe with its unique black surface design lends it a unique character.
At full power the Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS Coupé sprints to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.6 seconds, the Cabriolet in 4.8 seconds. The Carrera 4 GTS is fitted as standard with a six-speed manual transmission but the Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) seven-speed is available as an option if desired. The PDK shaves an additional 0.2 seconds respectively off the acceleration times from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph).

In the Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS as well, PTM all-wheel drive stands for Porsche's typical driving pleasure with even more driving stability, traction and agile handling. The PTM achieves this by directing the optimal proportion of the engine torque to the front wheels via a multiple-plate clutch. What's more, just how single-mindedly the Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS is designed for driving dynamics is evident from the use of a standard limited-slip differential. This mechanical rear differential lock contributes to the driving dynamics of the electronically controlled all-wheel drive system.

Visually, the new Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS models with all-wheel drive differ in points of detail from earlier variants with rear-wheel drive: In addition to the type name on the doors and rear lid, the distinguishing characteristic of all models with all-wheel drive is the additional reflective stripe between the taillights. What the Carrera GTS models have in common is the 911's wide body, otherwise reserved for the all-wheel version of the 911s, and the rear axle track width that goes with it. In numerous other details as well the GTS models differ both visually and technically from the other Carrera models. For example, they run on 19 inch RS Spyder wheels in black with central locking and gloss-lathed rim flanges fitted with 305/30 ZR 19 tyres on the rear axle.

Additional visual features include the Sport-Design front apron with black painted spoiler lip and special side skirts, also in black. Driver and passenger are accommodated on sports seats. Typical of the GTS, the emphatically sporty black Alcantara covering on centre panels, steering wheel rim, gearshift and handbrake lever, door handles and door storage box lid and extension are offered as standard in addition to a range of leather upholstery options.

The Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS Coupé, including country-specific equipment and VAT at 19 per cent, is offered in Germany at a price of 111,956 euro, the Cabriolet costs 122,071 euro. Both models will be on sale in Germany from July 2011.

Mini Baker Street, 2012

 

 

 

 

 

•  Mini Baker Street, 2012

New exterior and interior design details developed exclusively for the MINI Baker Street mark out this special-edition model. The Rooftop Grey metallic exterior paint shade combines with special bonnet stripes whose basic colour black is given extra character by a subtle V-shape design. 16-inch 6-Star twin-spoke light-alloy wheels painted in high-gloss black along with matching black exterior mirror caps present an attractive contrast to the bold, contemporary appearance of the new exterior paintwork.

The MINI Baker Street can also be ordered as an option in the body shades Pepper White and Midnight Black. In MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper D trim the roof is painted black, while "Baker Street" lettering on the side scuttles framing the side indicators points to the exclusive character of this special-edition model.

In the interior a fresh interpretation of the cloth/leather seats available for the standard MINI teams up with exclusive interior surfaces to create an unmistakable ambience. In traditional British style, the surfaces of the new seat variant in Cross Check Rooftop Grey light feature a diamond pattern. Cross Check Rooftop Grey light is also used for the surfaces of the cockpit and door trim and is combined with a Rooftop Grey light Colour Line. Light grey contrast stitching for the floor mats, gearshift/selector lever as well as the handbrake gaiters and seat tags which, like the door sills, bear "Baker Street" lettering, round off the array of bespoke interior features. The Chrome Line Interior package adds further lustre.

The equipment list for the MINI Baker Street also includes the Pepper Pack, which brings with it air conditioning, an on-board computer, a leather steering wheel, the Chrome Line Exterior package, front foglamps, a lighting package and height adjustment for the front passenger seat. The range of optional equipment, meanwhile, offers a host of other items with which customers can tailor their car to their personal requirements. The range of available engine variants for the MINI Baker Street spans the MINI One (72 kW/98 hp), MINI Cooper (90 kW/122 hp), MINI One D (66 kW/90 hp) and MINI Cooper D (82 kW/112 hp). All the engines channel their power through a six-speed manual gearbox as standard or an optional six-speed automatic.

For visitors to London and locals alike, the MINI Baker Street's name will be synonymous with the address of a certain fictional hero. It is 125 years since Sherlock Holmes author Arthur Conan Doyle released his first story with the master detective in the title role. Today, the Sherlock Holmes Museum and Madame Tussauds waxworks museum can both be found just a stone's throw from Baker Street underground station.

Acura ILX Concept, 2012

 

 

•  Acura ILX Concept, 2012

The Acura ILX Concept is the precursor to an all-new Acura luxury compact sedan scheduled for launch in Spring 2012. To be positioned as the gateway to the Acura brand, the ILX will feature three different powertrains, including Acura's first-ever gas-electric hybrid.

Sleek, sporty and aerodynamically efficient, the exterior of the all-new ILX combines luxury, performance and efficiency. A beautifully styled luxury sedan, the Acura ILX Concept has a compact, yet formal proportion, targeting a very professional image. The ILX delivers both, with a greenhouse that provides excellent visibility, an aerodynamic low and wide stance, the ILX is immediately recognizable as an Acura

The lineup of ILX models include an entry-level model powered by a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder engine; a high-performance model with a 2.4-liter inline 4-cylinder engine paired with a six-speed manual transmission; and a 1.5-liter gasoline-electric hybrid powertrain, Acura's first-ever hybrid offering.

The Acura ILX will feature a high-quality, well-appointed interior that is smart, spacious and sporty. It will offer a number of new, high-value features, including a smart entry keyless access system and pushbutton start, along with Pandora internet radio interface and SMS text message function for smart connectivity with the world.

As with all Acura models, the ILX  have a long list of standard features, different trim levels (that include a Technology Package), multiple transmission choices, and excellent standard safety features — including Acura's acclaimed Advanced Compatibility Engineering body structure, front, side and side-curtain airbags, 4-channel anti-lock brakes and Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA). Acura anticipates that the ILX will achieve top ratings in both NHTSA and IIHS crash safety testing.

The new Acura ILX manufactured exclusively by Honda Manufacturing of Indiana, LLC, in its Greensburg, Ind. plant — one of only three plants in the world to receive J.D. Power and Associates' 2011 Platinum Award for outstanding quality.

Brabus Mercedes-Benz CLS, 2012

 

 

 

 

 

•  Brabus Mercedes-Benz CLS, 2012

The second Mercedes-Benz CLS generation has arrived and in a world debut Brabus presents an exclusive tuning program for the new four-door coupe at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show.

Sporty-elegant design paired with aerodynamic efficiency is the trademark of Brabus. For the new CLS body components were developed in the wind tunnel. They are manufactured in OEM quality from flexible high-quality Pur-R-Rim.

The Brabus front spoiler is mounted to the production bumper and noticeably reduces lift on the front axle at high speeds. The front can be further upgraded with the Brabus front apron caps. They feature strikingly styled air inlets and LED daytime running lights, available with either dark or chrome surrounds.

The CLS gets a distinctly dynamic appearance with the Brabus sport fenders. In addition to gills each side also features a horizontal brace with illuminated Brabus lettering.
The Brabus sill skirts give the four-door an even lower, sleeker stance. A useful and appealing added feature is the set of integrated entrance lights that are activated via keyless fob or door handles.

LED lights for safely accessing the trunk in the dark are integrated into the Brabus rear apron. Custom-tailored cutouts in the new rear apron provide the perfect backdrop for the four tailpipes of the Brabus sport exhaust system. The rear appearance is rounded out with a centrally mounted reflector.
The Brabus rear spoiler creates a perfect aerodynamic balance and emphasizes the sporty character of the Brabus designer suit.

Another important contribution to the exclusive Brabus look for the new CLS comes from the Brabus Monoblock wheels in sizes ranging from 8.5Jx17 to 10.5Jx20. The OEM-quality alloys are available as one-piece and three piece wheels in six different designs.

The most exclusive version features Brabus Monoblock VI, E or S wheels in size 9Jx20 in front and size 10.5Jx20 in back. The latest addition to the Brabus wheel family is the Brabus Monoblock F wheel. Presented initially as a forged wheel it is now also available as a 20-inch cast wheel, which also celebrates its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show 2011. On the new CLS this wheel can be mounted in sizes 8.5Jx20 and 9.5Jx20, painted a grey "Liquid Titanium" shade. The largest tires supplied by Brabus technology partners Pirelli and YOKOHAMA for these wheels come in size 255/30 ZR 20 in front and in size 305/25 ZR 20 for the rear axle.

Specially calibrated to the use of sporty low-profile tires are the Brabus suspension solutions, developed in cooperation with technology partner BILSTEIN. The lineup ranges from Brabus sport springs for a ride-height lowering by some 30 millimeters (1.2 in.). Sportier ambitions can be met with the Brabus complete suspension, which combines the ride-height lowering with firmer but yet comfortable damper settings. CLS models equipped ex-factory with the semi-active AIRMATIC air suspension system can be lowered by some 35 millimeters (1.4 in.) with the Brabus suspension module.

Brabus offers the world's most extensive performance tuning program for Mercedes-Benz automobiles. The CLS 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY model equipped with Brabus ECO PowerXtra D4 performance kit delivers an additional 31 hp (31 bhp) / 22.8 kW and produces a peak torque of 560 Nm (413 lb-ft).

For the CLS 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Brabus offers the ECO PowerXtra D6S tuning kit. The plug-and-play auxiliary control unit can be installed by any authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer or any Brabus competence partner in less than 45 minutes. This high-tech performance tuning also gives the driver the opportunity to influence power yield via the selected shift program of the 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission.

In "Eco" mode only peak torque is increased from 620 Nm to 690 Nm (457 to 509 lb-ft) between 1,600 and 2,400 rpm. The maximum power output remains unchanged. If the "Sport" mode is selected manually or activated automatically both peak torque and power output are increased. Maximum rated power output then jumps from 265 hp (261 bhp) / 195 kW to 313 hp (309 bhp) / 230 kW at a low 3,600 rpm. Using this setting, the tuned turbodiesel model sprints from 0 - 100 km/h in just 5.9 seconds. Top speed is limited electronically to 250 km/h (155 mph).

All Brabus engines are operated exclusively with ARAL high-performance lubricants.
Fully stainless-steel Brabus quad sport exhaust systems are available for all CLS engine variants. The precision-calibrated exhaust systems optimize power yield and produce a throaty exhaust note.

Exclusive interior design that meets every customer request is a particular Brabus specialty. The options for the new Mercedes CLS range from appealing accessories to custom-tailored interiors crafted from especially soft and breathable yet highly durable Brabus Mastik leather and Alcantara.

The ergonomically shaped Brabus sport steering wheel is available in a variety of leather/wood designs. It provides perfect road feedback and ensures a relaxed posture for long-distance driving.

Scuff plates with illuminated Brabus logo or the speedometer with 340-km/h dial (213 mph) add individual highlights as do the distinctly sporty Brabus interior accessories: They include aluminum components such as pedal pads, door-lock pins and shifter, and high-quality clear-coated carbon-fiber inlays for dashboard and center console. Brabus also offers wood trim in any desired color and grain.

The four-door Brabus Mercedes-Benz CLS coupe can also be equipped with a custom-tailored Brabus multimedia package.

Buick Regal GS, 2012

 

 

• Buick Regal GS, 2012

Buick revealed the production version of the 2012 Buick Regal GS, an even sportier expression of the Regal sport sedan that went on sale in 2010 and has attracted new buyers to the Buick family. Powered by a high-output, exclusive Ecotec 2.0L turbocharged engine mated to a six-speed manual transmission, the GS delivers an estimated 255 horsepower (190 kW) and 295 lb.-ft. of torque for a 0-60 mph performance of less than seven seconds (estimated). Buick's Interactive Drive Control System is standard on the GS, allowing drivers to customize the driving experience by changing the suspension settings and steering sensitivity between three modes: standard, sport and GS.

Product highlights:

•     Exclusive Ecotec 2.0L turbocharged and intercooled engine rated at an estimated 255 horsepower (190 kW) and 295 lb-ft of torque (400 Nm)
•     Six-speed manual transmission, with six-speed automatic with Driver Shift Control to be offered later
•     Interactive Drive Control System with GS mode
•     Four-wheel independent system with HiPerStrut front suspension
•     High-performance four-wheel disc brake system with Brembo front calipers
•     Standard 19-inch, 5-Twin Spoke alloy wheels and all-season tire and optional 20-inch, 5-Twin Spoke polished alloy wheels with performance tires.

The exterior design features unique front and rear fascias, with the front fascia incorporating prominent, vertical air intake slots and specific grille treatment - with the vertical elements accented in a satin-metallic finish. The rear fascia has a pair of integrated, satin-metallic trapezoidal exhaust outlets. Rocker panel extensions and an integrated rear spoiler are also woven into the design. The GS cuts a sportier stance, too, with a slightly lower ride height than other models and aggressive 19-inch, 5-Twin Spoke alloy wheels and all-season tires (20-inch, 5-Twin Spoke polished alloy wheels with performance tires are optional).

Inside is a racing-inspired, flat-bottom sport steering wheel and metal sport pedals, along with leather-appointed 12-way power-adjustable sport driver and front passenger heated seats, which include four-way power lumbar. The GS-specific black interior is accented with satin-finish elements on the instrument panel, steering wheel and console, while the instrument panel glows white when the driver engages the GS mode of the Interactive Drive Control System (IDCS).

Standard amenities for the Buick Regal GS:

•     Passive keyless entry with push-button start
•     Standard XM Satellite Radio with three-month trial service
•     Harmon/Kardon premium 320-watt sound system with nine speakers
•     Bluetooth phone connectivity
•     Leather-wrapped flat-bottom steering wheel with audio controls
•     Leather-appointed sport seating
•     Heated driver and front passenger seats, with 12-way adjustable driver and front passenger seats - including four-way lumbar adjustment
•     120-volt accessory power outlet
•     Power windows with express up/down feature in the front and express down in the rear
•     Front and rear ultrasonic parking assist
•     Bi-xenon HID headlamps

Turbocharging and HiPerStrut
Power for the Regal GS comes from a high-output version of the Ecotec 2.0L turbocharged DOHC VVT engine with direct injection technology. It is based on the engine that will be available on Regal CXL later this year, but the engine and turbocharger are tuned to deliver greater boost pressure in the GS. The output is rated at 255 horsepower (190 kW) and 295 lb.-ft. of torque (400 Nm). A three-inch-diameter exhaust system provides reduced back pressure, resulting in higher engine power

Direct injection technology helps the engine deliver more power through increased efficiency, while maintaining fuel economy and lowering emissions. That means less fuel is consumed and lower emissions generated - including a 25-percent drop in cold-start hydrocarbon emissions. Variable valve timing optimizes power, efficiency and emissions across the entire rpm band.

"We've been combining direct injection and variable valve timing with boosted engines since 2006, and there's no question the Buick Regal GS turbo has the responsiveness and acceleration of a 3.5L V6, while delivering the fuel economy of a 2.0L four," said Mike Anderson, Ecotec global chief engineer and program manager.

The engine is mated to a standard six-speed manual transmission. A six-speed automatic transmission will be available later.

The Buick Regal GS rides on a relatively long wheelbase of 107.8 inches (2738 mm), which delivers refined, well-balanced vehicle dynamics. It also features a four-wheel-independent suspension, with a unique High Performance Strut (HiPerStrut) front suspension design. The HiPerStrut system helps reduce torque steer and maintain negative camber during cornering; the driver experiences reduced torque steer, improved grip and increased cornering power, along with crisper handling, steering precision and feedback.

The four-link independent rear suspension is designed to minimize unwanted toe and camber effects during spirited driving maneuvers, enhancing vehicle stability. Both front and rear dampers incorporate active Computer Damping Control (CDC), continuously changing damper characteristics to maintain optimal vehicle ride control over varying road surfaces and profiles. More aggressive, performance-oriented damping characteristics can also be selected by the driver through the Interactive Driver Control System.

Braking power comes from a large diameter four-wheel disc brake system featuring Brembo front calipers. A standard, four-channel anti-lock brake system is tuned to reduce stopping distances over varied road surfaces and conditions. An electronic parking brake is actuated via a center console-mounted control. The Buick Regal GS also features standard StabiliTrak stability control system with integrated, full-function traction control.

Interactive Drive Control System
The Buick Regal GS is also equipped with Interactive Drive Control System (IDCS) chassis technology (also offered on other Regal models with the 2.0L turbo engine). It delivers enhanced vehicle stability and greater driving safety. The driver selects among three operating modes - standard, sport and GS - that change the suspension settings, and steering sensitivity through the variable-effort steering system.

A sophisticated driving mode control module continually monitors driving style utilizing yaw rate, lateral and longitudinal acceleration, steering wheel, throttle and vehicle speed. It defines the dynamic vehicle state, including acceleration, braking and cornering, to optimize chassis reactions. It also executes all of the IDCS driver selections. All four dampers are electronically controlled and continuously adapt within milliseconds to the prevailing road conditions, vehicle movements and individual driving style.

Selecting GS mode optimizes the car for dynamic driving, tightening the suspension and steering response. "Standard," or the default mode, is the setting for all-around use. The sport mode provides a level of performance between standard and the GS modes.

Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse, 2012

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse, 2012

The success of the Veyron 16.4 Super Sport, Bugatti did not have to wait long before it received the first inquiries about an open-top version of the Grand Sport that could also deliver 882 kW (1,200 hp). "We were instantly electrified by the idea of transferring the power of the Super Sport to the Grand Sport, which previously delivered a maximum of 1,001 hp, and thus taking the roadster to a new level," says Wolfgang Dürheimer. The President of Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S. continues: "Our team has managed to transfer the world's most powerful car engine to the open-top sports car while taking all vehicle dynamics and aerodynamic parameters into consideration. We are proud to present the fastest roadster ever at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show with the world premiere of the 1.200 hp Grand Sport Vitesse."

Dynamics in figures
The new Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse boasts a remarkable maximum torque of 1,500 Nm (at 3,000-5,000 rpm) from the 7.9-litre capacity of its W16 engine. The maximum output (1.200 hp) is reached at 6.400 rpm. These figures allow the car to reach 100 km/h (62 mph) from standing in unbelievable 2.6 seconds. The top speed of 410 km/h (255 mph) makes the four-wheel drive (like all Veyrons) Grand Sport Vitesse the fastest production roadster ever. The maximum speed is reached on closed tracks with special safety precautions. In "normal" handling mode, the Grand Sport Vitesse is electronically limited to 375 km/h (233 mph).

Optimized drive system
The 199 hp increase over the Grand Sport has been mainly achieved by using four larger turbochargers with new intercoolers. Furthermore, Bugatti has extensively reinforced all drivetrain components in order to safely transfer the immense forces at all times. The gearing of the seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox (DSG) in particular has been adapted to the new requirements. In this context, as on the Super Sport, Bugatti has also modified the air ducting in the area of the drivetrain. As a consequence of the larger turbochargers and the overall reduced back pressure, it was even possible to reduce the fuel consumption slightly despite the increased output. The fuel system, with a four-pump tank, has been taken from the Super Sport.

Chassis
In order to put the unrivalled power onto the road absolutely safely and masterfully, the engineers have reconfigured the chassis of the Vitesse. Thanks to the quick-responding dampers that have been adapted from motor racing, the control of the vehicle has been further improved and perfectly balanced. Body roll and pitching during hard acceleration and braking are now virtually imperceptible. Optimised wheel-load fluctuations have further reduced understeer and allow a maximum level of active safety. In addition to the incomparable lateral acceleration of up to 1.4 g, the precise interaction of the tires (on all-new, lighter 20-inch "Vitesse"-type alloy wheels), together with the intelligent all-wheeldrive system, ensures extremely good handling. The chassis, all-wheel-drive system and the revised ESP form a dynamic alliance: since the reconfigured ESP kicks in slightly later, for example when you accelerate out of corners, the Grand Sport Vitesse also provides a more dynamic performance in these situations. It goes without saying that Bugatti has adapted the brake-cooling system to account for the even higher engine output. The brakes, which are unparalleled in terms of stability and performance, now have additional and larger air intakes.

In general, it can be said that the Grand Sport Vitesse is even sportier than the 1,001 hp Grand Sport, but at the same time it has not been turned into a full-blown racing car. It therefore remains easy to master for the driver. In this context, it is simply astounding that Bugatti managed to increase comfort in the chassis area by reducing the dynamic natural frequency.

Body
Bugatti has developed a new roof spoiler for the Grand Sport Vitesse that significantly reduces wind noise and buffeting in the interior. Furthermore, there will be a new windbreak for the roadster that can be stored away compactly in the luggage compartment when not in use. Both details will also be available for the Grand Sport. Together, they allow extremely relaxed, open-top driving even at speeds of around 200 km/h (124 mph).

Numerous aerodynamic measures at the front and rear that appeared on the Super Sport have been adapted for the Grand Sport Vitesse. The front end is therefore characterized by larger air intakes; the two central air intakes to the left and right of the Bugatti radiator grille are divided horizontally by a bar. The bottom air vent stretches sideways into the wheel housing and gives this exceptional sports car an extremely masterful appearance. Immediately below this air intake, you will see a new, visually refined front spoiler that has been designed in a similar way to the splitters used in motor racing. The improved xenon headlights from the Super Sport, which are now framed in black, are also new. The rear end, which is also derived from the Super Sport, is characterised by a double diffusor and a centrally positioned twin tailpipe. A new Park Distance Control system (PDC) watches over the front and the rear.

The two air scoops on the left and right of the engine cover (redesigned for the Vitesse) are a characteristic of the Grand Sport and thus also of the Grand Sport Vitesse. These air scoops fulfil two tasks on the roadster. On the one hand, they pull in air for the engine, and on the other, they are an elegantly integrated part of the anti-roll protection system. As on the Super Sport, a full-carbon-fibre monocoque, which allows an extremely high torsional rigidity combined with maximum passive safety, is also used on the Grand Sport Vitesse. The outer skin is also made completely from carbon fibre and, consequently, the new Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse is available in clear-coated visible carbon.

Interior
Carbon fibre is (along with stainless metals such as Aluminium and Magnesium) also the dominant material in the interior of the Grand Sport Vitesse. Numerous interior parts are now made from carbon fibre in the 1,200 hp roadster. This includes the centre console extension, a cover with EB logo in the rear-bulkhead leather trim (between the seat backrests) and the belt outlet covers on the seats. The décor on the centre console, the door inserts and the adjoining trim on the instrument panel are also made from carbon fibre. The bicolor black trim parts are also new in the Grand Sport version, and so is a special seat design for the Grand Sport Vitesse. The two-tone leather seat covers are enhanced by contrasting stitching between the seat base and the side sections. Contrasting stitching is also featured on the leather armrest between the seats, which comes without the typical quilting. Also new: knee pads in the centre tunnel area, an additional 12 V socket (in the glove compartment), the restraint systems, the illuminated start and parking lock button (same as Super Sport), an instrument cluster with shift-up information and - as a matter of honour - the power gauge that now goes up to 1,200 hp!

Configuration of the show vehicles
There is no end to the individualisation options for the Bugatti. Each one of the 350 Veyrons built is therefore unique. This also applies to the two Grand Sport Vitesse models that Bugatti is exhibiting at the 2012 Geneva International Motor Show. The blue version of the new roadster is finished in visible carbon fibre. The upper area of the body is finished in "Blue Carbon" while the roof area and air scoops are "Lake Blue". The lower body panels (side skirting, front spoiler, radiator grill frame and rear apron with diffusor), the inner surfaces of the wheel rims and the underside of the automatically extending rear spoiler are in "Light Blue Sport", which has a hint of turquoise. The exterior colours are picked up again in the interior. While the large surfaces feature dark blue tones, "New Light Blue" is used for the contrasting stitching and the Vitesse labelling on the seats. This Vitesse version costs 1.91 million euros.

The second Grand Sport Vitesse is painted in dark "Jet Grey". Instead of two colours, this model uses an interaction between shiny areas (lids, roof and air scoop) and matte surfaces and elements (side parts, exterior mirrors and door handles). The radiator grill and wheel rims have been painted black. The orange underside of the rear wing matches the "Tangerine" colouring that Bugatti has used, for example, for the seats, the carpets, the underside of dashboard, the door edging, the contrasting stitching and the Vitesse labelling in the interior. All other surfaces, including the carbon parts, are black. In both cases, the aggressive, dynamic look of the vehicles fits in with the positioning of the new Grand Sport Vitesse. Its price is 1.75 million euros.

The classic Grand Sport, a sports car with an elegant, artistic orientation, will, of course, remain in the range. Following the success of the L'Or Blanc (created in cooperation with Berlin-based porcelain makers Königlichen Porzellan-Manufaktur), Bugatti is currently working on further unusual ways to individualize the Grand Sport. In Geneva, the world's most exclusive car manufacturer is presenting a version of the roadster in visible carbon fibre in a brownish finish for the first time. One challenge for the production is to give the visible carbon a transparent gleam while allowing the colour to radiate vibrantly in a certain light. On the Grand Sport presented in Geneva, the carbon parts made in the new colour "Brown" (lids, rear end, front spoiler and side skirting) shimmer in an almost bronze shade depending on how the light falls. To create a contrast, the side parts on this Grand Sport, right up to the rear air intakes, are made from polished aluminium. The interior of the sports car, with "Gaucho" coloured leather and dark stitching (colour "Coffee"), complements the exterior. It costs 1.79 million euros.