Thursday, November 22, 2012

SsangYong Korando Sports, 2013



 
SsangYong Korando Sports, 2013

The vehicle was first presented as the SUT-1 (sport utility) concept at international motor shows in 2011, and in production ready form at the 2012 Geneva Motor show.

SsangYong Korando Sports brings a new level of refinement to the market place, blending the suspension, engine and cabin finesse of a passenger car, the silhouette, space and seating for five that's typical of a double cab, and the rugged workmanlike ability of a commercial pick-up.

The new Korando Sports will appeal to those who need a working vehicle, the practicality of 4 wheel drive, the towing capability to haul up to 2.3 tonnes yet also the appointments of a family car. Whether towing a work trailer or horsebox, ferrying the crew to site or the children to school, SsangYong Korando Sports will meet a range of different demands.

"SsangYong has a growing reputation for building extremely competent off-road vehicles, and the new SsangYong Korando Sports draws on this pedigree. It's an honest, reliable and highly capable vehicle yet extremely well equipped, and pound for pound will outclass many more expensive rivals."

Added Steve Gray, marketing and communications director: "To be able to launch an all-new model into the UK so soon after the Korando crossover is great news for us as the importer and our rapidly expanding dealer network, but more importantly for the growing number of motorists who increasingly appreciate the value of the SsangYong brand.

Power
Delivering both performance and economy, the SsangYong Korando Sports is powered by the latest e-XDi active diesel engine. This new 2 litre engine provides maximum power of 155PS and peak torque of 360Nm delivered between 1,500rpm and 2,800rpm providing ample performance both on and off road, whatever the task.

Style
The fresh exterior design has been styled to reflect SsangYong's modern and efficient new look. From the front, it communicates a dynamic yet sophisticated appearance, featuring a mesh grille, trapezoidal bumper and stylish black headlight bezels to provide a premium touch. In profile, the sharp belt line runs to the rear bumper emphasising a sleek, sporty stance, while from the rear the wide glass area affords excellent rearward visibility.

Creature comforts
Inside the spacious cabin there's a light and airy environment thanks to the large front, side and rear windows, while the careful blending of black and metallic finishes along with an LED illuminated instrument cluster has created a smart and refined interior.

With spacious accommodation for five adults - the rear passenger seats can even be reclined by up to 29 degrees - air conditioning and Bluetooth connectivity ensure comfort and convenience.

There are two models in the range, and while the SX is already comprehensively equipped, the EX comes with the luxury touch of leather upholstery with seat warmers, powered driver's seat, distinctive 18" alloy wheels, heated, electrically adjustable and power folding door mirrors, and rear parking sensors. A 6 speed automatic transmission with cruise control is also available as an option.

Practicality
As with every SsangYong, practicality is at the core of the new pick-up's appeal. A large, flat rear deck provides a 2.04m2 load area complete with load deck liner and anchor points. An optional rigid hard top is available to provide weather protection and security to the load area, and comes with a hinged rear window that closes behind the tailgate so that the car's central locking secures and protects the contents. Styled and colour matched to complement the rest of the car, the result is a neat design that ensures form and function, and not the 'tacked on' afterthought of many retro-fit hard tops. There will also be a range of other accessories available from launch including two further load covers.

Safe, secure, sure footed
Constructed on a separate frame chassis, the mark of a serious off-roader, the new SsangYong Korando Sports offers a very rigid structure to help protect occupants in the event of a collision. Accident avoidance and a sure footed performance off road are also enhanced by the electronic stability programme (ESP) - a rare feature on most pick-ups but standard on SsangYong Korando Sports - active roll-over protection (ARP) and hill start assist (HSA).

5 year limitless mileage warranty
As with all models in the SsangYong range, the new SsangYong Korando Sports is covered by a best-in-class 5 year limitless mileage warranty.

Designed to be totally transparent and give customers complete peace of mind, 'limitless' means just that: not a maximum mileage condition that some brands impose in their small print.

All the major mechanical components are covered including wheel bearings, suspension joints and bushes, steering joints, shock absorbers and even the audio system. Wearable components such as clutch discs and brake friction materials which could have their life reduced by poor driving are covered for one year or 12,000 miles, and the battery and paintwork for three years.
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Spada Codatronca Monza, 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Spada Codatronca Monza, 2011

The one off Spada Codatronca Monza designed by Paolo, Ercole Spada and Domiziano Boschi of Spadaconcept, and built by Spadavetturesport was requested by Aznom, a well known company of Monza specialized in the world of luxury and corporate partner of Spadavetturesport.

Aznom (that realized the interior design of the car) wanted a special car dedicated to the Monza circuit for show it in all the luxury events and to strengthen the connection between the world of car design and luxury.

The one off Spada Codatronca Monza is based on the line of the 2008 Codatronca coupe but has much more extreme characteristics: its design and racing interiors bring back to memory the spyders of the '60. A extreme car as extreme and technical are the Carbon business collection products of Aznom for sportcar lovers.

Aznom chose Monza for its strong attachment with the city that houses its historic venue and the famous track Autodromo Nazionale Monza, recently main stage of the Cars 2 presentation. In that occasion Codatronca was chosen as VipCar for its uniqueness.

Spada Codatronca Monza will be only a one off, but Spadaconcept will produce a spyder (barchetta) version of the Codatronca on demand.

Spada Codatronca Monza has a tubular chassis made of aluminium that was coated with a light carbon fiber and composite materials body. The engine was developed by Italtecnica starting from a V8 7 liter engine hardly modified. Now we can find 2 rotrex centrifugal superchargers that deliver the incredible power of 720 CV with over 90 kgm of torque. The car is able to reach the 100 km/h speed in only 3 seconds (in first gear) thanks to the 6 speed transmission with a very short gear ratio, and to reach the impressive top speed of 335 km/h.

The weight of the car is only of 1.180 kg, thanks to the racing interiors requested by Aznom with Sabelt seat and belts, and the Aim steering wheel that integrates the instrumentations with data acquisition (can, GPS). The on board camera Aim Smartycam records HD videos with the overlay of the telemetry and data captured by the steering wheel.

The technical package is completed with the performance Pirelli PZero Corsa mounted on lightweight Oz Ultra-leggera wheels, and Brembo brakes, used for the cars of the FIA GT3 racing with abs and a fully adjustable suspension system always derived from FIA GT3.

The Spada Codatronca Monza will inspire a new stock model for street use for all the spyder lovers.

Technical Specifications
    Type : front central engine, RWD 2-doors barchetta
    Chassis : aluminium tubular chassis

    ENGINE
        Aluminium basement V8 with titanium valves
        Type: 7.0 V-8 with 2 Rotrex C38 Italtecnica and two intercoolers
        Displacement: 7.011 cc
        Compression ratio: 11.5:1
        Max Power: 720 hp @ 6200 rpm
        Max Torque: 950 Nm @ 4200 rpm
        Injection: SFI (sequential fuel injection)
        Valves: OHV, 2 per cylinder

    TRASMISSIONS
        6-speed manual (short ratio)

    DIMENSIONS
        Weight: 1.180 kg
        Wheelbase: 2.686 mm
        Axle track
            Front: 1.607 mm
            Rear: 1.580 mm
        Lenght: 4.759 mm
        Width: 1.942 mm
        Height: 1.130 mm

    STEERING
        Speed dependent servo-assisted steering

BRAKES
High Performance Brembo brakes with ABS, 380mm front and 355mm rear, Brembo 8-pistons caliper (front) and 4 pistons caliper (rear)

    WHEELS
        Front: 285/35 19"
        Rear: 345/35 19"

    PERFORMANCES
        Top Speed: 335 km/h
        0-100 km/h: 3.0 s
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Wednesday, November 21, 2012

Gumpert Tornante by Touring, 2011

 

  •  Gumpert Tornante by Touring, 2011

Touring Superleggera and Gumpert have chosen the 2011 Geneva Motor Show stage for the world premiere of the Gumpert Tornante. Touring Superleggera provided the design and body engineering while Gumpert will take care of manufacturing and sales of the next model, complementing the Gumpert range as of 2012. The Tornante is showcased at the stage of 1:1 static style model in the best Italian tradition.

Fast Tourer
Gumpert have gained a reputation for their impressive street legal racing cars. They addressed Touring Superleggera with a call for elegance, more passengers and luggage space, improved comfort, access and ventilation, and noise reduction. However, the fundamentals of performance and dynamic properties had to be respected without compromise.

At Touring, designers and body engineers started then a process of creative elimination to define the true essentials of all the parameters involved, limiting unnecessary weight and volume. The result is still a thoroughbred, just a few grades more civilized, with some extra skills for an enjoyable voyage. It is called a Fast Tourer. However, let there be no misunderstanding about its intentions.

Project development
When selecting the partner for the new model's body design, Gumpert recognised that elegance is part of the genetic code of Touring Superleggera's creations. Even more remarkably, the paradigm of elegance was applied by Touring to the race cars too. This distinctive approach was at the basis of many masterpieces, like the 1940 Mille Miglia winner BMW 328 Berlinetta, the Ferrari 166 and 340 and the inspiring Alfa Romeo 8C2900. They all were redoubtable race machines with singular grace.

In turn, Touring was intrigued by the challenge from the young, vital and ambitious sports car manufacturer, known for uncompromised orientation to efficiency, high quality engineering and the constant quest for better performance. In the development work, the teams from the two companies discovered soon that they share the same respect for efficiency and essentiality. This facilitated the subsequent stages of engineering and feasibility study, and the merger of body and chassis required only minor adjustments from both sides.

Architecture
The space frame chassis is a derivative of the apollo and features the same central engine layout. However, the requirements of accessibility and inner space have dictated a number of important changes to the rolling chassis:
  • the lateral member of the chassis is lowered by 80 mm in the door area
  • the A pillar and the windshield are rotated vertically by 2.5°
  • the B pillar is moved backwards with 100 mm allowing for 1120 mm wide gull-wing doors
  • the H point is displaced by 210 mm in height and 46 mm in length
  • the overall height is now 1215 mm
Thanks to the thorough frame engineering, the outstanding combination of lightness and torsional stiffness of the original chassis is preserved. The engineers target 100 kg and slightly lower than 40.000 Nm/degree, but the passenger compartment volume is now increased by 25% and the luggage compartment capacity is brought to 200 l.

Other modifications aim at enhanced ride comfort and drive ability:
  • the floor height is increased by 20 mm
  • the shell seats are fully adjustable, heated, with 4-point belts
  • the paddle shifters are standard feature
  • sound and heat insulation material is fitted on the floor and between the cabin and the engine compartment
  • glasses are double layer for better heat and noise insulation
  • the ventilation system capacity is improved
A crash box in the front section, adapted from Formula-1 technology, absorbs the impact energy in case of a crash, improving the passive safety. Featuring composite body panels over the light chrome-molybdenum steel space frame with carbon fibre monocoque, the construction principle mirrors the original method patented by Touring in 1936, and authorizes the symmetrical Superleggera badges on the bonnet.

Design
Unlike other Touring creations, the Gumpert Tornante is not rooted into a specific model of the Italian designer's heritage. Aesthetically, the project started from a white sheet of paper, allowing the designer's full and free focus on the challenging package of the rolling chassis and its hard points. The new model should not only offer ample performance and superb dynamic properties and aerodynamics, but also adequate levels of comfort, interior space and ergonomics. The spirit of a true dream car, but with sufficient practical features to become a safe and useable sports car in today's traffic.

The Touring accent of the Gumpert Tornante originates from specific proportions and the balance of muscular elegance and introvert power, rather than formal language. The bodywork preserves its movement even when the car stands still, and when on the move, it expresses unique, elegant fluidness.

The prominent grille within the balanced front wings characterizes the Tornante's front area. The air intakes are pronounced, reflecting the care given to the air intake surface and the overall airflow.

The well-defined waistline reflects the functional separation between the greenhouse and the lower body. The top is a light area offering extended space for driver and passenger, overall visibility and sportive but comfortable 'life on board'. The muscular, though elegant shoulders announce the stunning performance of the power unit. Both the Gumpert Tornante's doors and the boot lid open with gull-wing movement, providing easy access to the interior, the mechanics and the luggage compartment.

From the rear, the low quarter panels outline the powerful curve of the roof. Below the waistline, the very visible air diffuser evokes the research of the maximal downforce.

The overall design breaths superior potential and performance in an elegant and slightly understated way, faithful to the Touring tradition.

Power Unit
The Gumpert Tornante has the genes of the Gumpert apollo and inherits its impressive V8 biturbo engine. Weighing only 196 kg, the engine plays a major role in ensuring the ideal weight and the fascinating driving dynamics of the Tornante. An angle of 90° between the two cylinder banks is a sign of a classic 8-cylinder engine.

Starting from the pure block from Audi, the engine is a complete in-house development. Thus, the manufacturing process contains among others all the moving parts, air and fuel management, turbo chargers, charge air-duct and dry sump lubrication. In the basic version this engine delivers 700 HP. In comparison to the apollo, the configuration will be optimized for the Fast Touring mission. This means more comfort and more suitability for daily use.

Alongside the V8 power unit, an alternative powered Gumpert Tornante is also planned for 2012.

Driveline
The fully synchronised, automatic six-speed transmission guarantees efficient utilization of the remarkable energy at the back wheels. The arrangement of the gears in a longitudinal direction in the path of travel ensures a very low centre of gravity and optimum weight distribution.

Extremely short gearshifts up to 40 milliseconds (torque-to-torque) are provided by the precise TT40e transmission of the apollo, where "e" stands for electronic gear system. Gear changes are faster thanks to rocker switches on the steering wheel. The Formula 1-type technology promises the ultimate in comfort along with best driving performance.

Suspension
The apollo derived built-in suspension ideally complements the body's sophisticated aerodynamics. The Tornante owes the finely tuned sensitivity of the suspension system and the optimised exertion of power to its double transverse control arm pushrod configuration at front and rear.

The double wishbones ensure that the tires maintain optimum contact to the road surface, independently of the bound rate of suspension system. As the suspension elements are linked to the main frame, the system ensures a responsive reaction and precise handling.

Chassis
Made of top-quality and highly stable chrome-molybdenum-steel with an integrated safety cell, the round tube frame is the base and symbolic backbone of the Gumpert Tornante. Providing additional space and comfort for its passengers compared to the apollo, the Tornante will be as safe as its racetrack-dedicated brother is. The Gumpert Tornante succeeds in combining low weight and rigidity with finest driving dynamics and comfortable Fast Touring.

TECHNICAL DATA
2-seater sports car with a mid-engine arrangement, chrome-molybdenum steel chassis with an integrated safety cell, doors and the boot lid open with gull-wings, carbon body, 100 l stainless steel tank behind the passenger cell with integrated catch tank, long and pushrod-operated double transverse control arm suspension with fully adjustable dampers (front and rear) and anti roll bar in front, ground clearance adjustable between 60 and 140 mm, two circuit ABS brake system with six piston callipers, inside ventilated discs (378 x 32 mm) at front and rear

Dimensions
    Length: 4,475 mm
    Width: 1,971 mm
    Height: 1,215 mm
    Wheel base: 2,700 mm

Track
    front: 1,648 mm
    back: 1,600 mm

Boot volume: ca. 200 l

Weight
    Kerb weight (depending on equipment components): 1,300-1,400 kg

Engine
V8 cylinder biturbo engine with 90° cylinder angle, closed-deck light metal crankcase, light metal cylinder heads with five valves per cylinder, four overhead camshafts, variable time of ignition (Vario Cam direct) on the intake, hydraulic valve clearance compensation, dry sump lubrication, double-flow exhaust system with 3-way catalytic converter, four Lambda probes for gas mixture and diagnostics, on-board diagnostic system, two Intercoolers, electronic ignition with a rested ignition distribution (eight ignition coils), sequential multipoint fuel injection, electronic accelerator system (drive-by-wire)

    Cylinder: 8
    Type: 90°-V
    Valves per cylinder: 5
    Cubic capacity: 4,163 cc
    Stroke: 93 mm
    Bore: 84,5 mm
    Nominal output: 515 kW / 700 HP @ 6,500 rpm
    Max. torque: 900 Nm / 663.7 lb ft @ 4,000 rpm
    Maximum: 7,400 rpm
    Litre performance: 123.7 kw per liter / 168.1 HP per liter
    Compression: 9.3
    Recommended fuel type: 98 ROZ / 88 MOZ
    Emission standard: Euro 5

Gearbox
automatic six-speed gear box TT40e with synchronization and oil cooling, operated with paddle shift controls, twin plate clutch configuration (diameter 240 mm), Torsen differential lock

Wheels
    Tires: Michelin Pilot Super Sport
        front: 265/35 ZR19
        back: 345/30 ZR20
    Wheel dimension
        front: 10 J
        back: 13 J

Wheel rim type: aluminium cast or forged wheels with centre lock

PERFORMANCE FIGURES
Top speed: >300 km/h (estimated)


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MG TF, 2010

 
 
 
  • MG TF, 2010

In the summer of 2009, two new MGs were being launched to join the highly successful MG TF LE500; the affordable MG TF 135 and a unique new MG that is being produced to mark the 85th Anniversary of the brand, the MG TF 85th Anniversary.

The launch of two new cars and our recent scrappage announcement regarding a £2000 reduction on the price of a new MG, 

New Entry Level MG TF 135
The greatly anticipated MG TF 135 launched and is sure to appeal to motorists who want sports car fun at a highly competitive price. Good levels of trim and equipment including a Clarion ICE system, combine with a price tag that  broaden its appeal and bring it within the budget of many more people. The TF 135 hit showrooms shortly, offering all the fun and appeal of a convertible sports car at a highly affordable £13,511 OTR.

Unique Anniversary Car
A unique MG TF is being launched to mark the 85th Anniversary of the MG brand. The MGTF 85th Anniversary will be a great looking car with fantastic handling.

Available in three special colours overlaid with striking graphics and a new design of alloy wheel, from the outside the car looks sensational. The cabin is stunning too as the specialist graphics continue with monogrammed sill finishers and gear knob which complement new stylish Aubergine leather trim and a high quality ICE system.

Apart from the stunning look, the new TF 85th Anniversary model also benefits from a ride and handling package that's tuned to make this car unique to drive. Bilstein suspension, Eibach anti roll system, lower ride height, an all new anti torsion pack and a modified wheel set up on Rimstock 'Twisted Pepper' style wheels give the 85th Anniversary edition a grown up feel and very precise handling at high speeds.


The car  launched at £15,664 on the road which, again, after the Government's scrappage scheme deduction will make the TF 85th a competitive £13,664.

The New MG Family
With the fully loaded and highly specified MG TF LE500, the extremely affordable MG TF 135 and the tightly handling MG 85th Anniversary, MG offers a family of cars that give existing owners looking for something new, as well as prospective customers who just want to enjoy British mid engined, top down sports car driving, some real choices.
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Tuesday, November 20, 2012

Mansory Cyrus, 2009

 
  •  Mansory Cyrus, 2009

Already for more than 20 years, the Bavarian company Mansory has been developing and producing fascinating car modifications for demanding customers all over the world. The latest creation of the top-class manufacturer is called Mansory Cyrus and is based on the Aston Martin DBS or DB9. Perfect processing and an elaborate technology are the hallmarks of this masculine aerodynamic power pack. A coilover suspension provides the best road holding and emphasises the striking rims in XXL. The refinement is perfected by an exclusive interior programme.

Haute Couture on wheels
Tailor-made processing and perfect surfaces confirm the superb quality of the Mansory designer outfit. The Mansory Cyrus aerodynamics components are made of extremely light „prepreg autoclav carbon" and do not only include wing extensions for the front and back, but also side skirt attachments and linings. At the front axle, a newly designed front skirt with enlarged air inlets provides the optimal ventilation for the twelve-cylinder aggregate. The Mansory Cyrus front is visually enhanced with the newly designed carbon bonnet. With its two slotted "power domes" additional fresh air is directed to the front motor. Also at the tail, the refining engineers have invented something extraordinary in order to perfect the visual appearance of the Aston Martin. The newly designed rear skirt with the integrated diffuser emphasises the superior look and provides space for four stainless steel end pipes of the sonorous sport exhaust system.

Design wheels in XXL
The optimal road grip is provided by the 9x20 and 10,5x21 inch rims in combination with Dunlop Sport Maxx tyres measuring 255/30ZR20 at the front and 295/25ZR21 at the back. The design of the ultra-light forged wheel thereby unites sportiness and elegance and perfectly fills out the wheel houses. In addition, an optimally adjusted coilover suspension lowers the centre of gravity of this noble sports car and renders perfect road holding characteristics.

Luxurious atmosphere in the Mansory super sports car
The Mansory Cyrus driver will take his seat in a elaborately refined interior which is nothing short of the exterior. The entire modification includes pedals and foot rests made of aluminium as well as exquisite door sills and head rests with embroidered Cyrus logos. Mansory enhances the interior with a set of tailor-made carbon parts for the dash board and centre console. Generally, the noble interior is only lined with best quality materials. Decoration stitches by expert hand on the dash board and the seats render visual high-lights and perfect the significantly beautiful overall impression of the complete leather equipment. The ergonomically re-designed steering wheel with airbag lies especially well in the hand.
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Monday, November 19, 2012

Scion FR-S Race car, 2012

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  • Scion FR-S Race car, 2012

Scion unveiled its Scion Racing/GReddy FR-S race car during a press conference at the 2012 North American International Auto Show. The FR-S  competing in the 2012 Formula DRIFT series with veteran driver Ken Gushi behind the wheel.

The 600-horsepower Scion FR-S race car is the result of a collaboration between Scion Racing and GReddy, a performance-products company that has been involved with Toyota and racing for over twenty years.

The race car is inspired by the 2013 Scion FR-S, a compact rear-wheel-drive sports car that  on sale in the spring of 2012. The high-performance coupe is the fifth model to join the Scion family.


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Renault Twingo RS, 2012

 
 
  •  Renault Twingo RS, 2012

The new Renault Twingo RS, which on sale from mid-March 2012, features the sporting interpretation of Renault's new styling identity, including a dynamic grille design with four lights and a front bumper incorporating an F1-style blade. The detail, which now runs across the Renault Sport range, recalls Renault's success in Formula 1. The hallmark Sirius Yellow finish available as an option from the end of May. The rear end of the car features a tailgate-mounted lip spoiler, a special bumper incorporating a diffuser and aerodynamic extensions on the rear wheel arches. Also available is a Design Pack which includes Grey/Dark Gunmetal Grey door mirror housings, F1 blade and RS lip spoiler, plus chrome details for the fog light surrounds. It  possible to specify new 16-inch 'Emotion' alloy wheels complete with 'R.S.'-badged centre caps which proudly proclaim the car's pedigree.

Trademark Renault Sport yellow stitching feature inside Renault Twingo RS (on the steering wheel, seats and dashboard cowl), while the dashboard, radio console, rev-counter housing and lateral air vents all come with Gloss Black inserts. The top of the steering wheel, seat backs and cushions, rev-counter surround and manual climate control controls are picked out in white.

Renault Sport expertise
New Renault Twingo RS brings the driving enjoyment and sporty performance associated with Renault Sport Technologies' experience of motorsport to an even wider audience:
  • a feisty, normally-aspirated 1.6 16V R.S. engine (133hp/98kW at 6,750rpm, and 160Nm of torque at 4,400rpm),
  • outstanding road holding with the standard Sport chassis. The optional Cup chassis (ride height lowered by 4mm) is an exceptional feature in new Renault Twingo RS's class,
  • big brakes: 280mm-diameter front discs and 240mm-diameter rear discs,
  • unique for a small hot hatch: the optional RS Monitor, a functional and fun on-board telemetry system.
Despite its exceptional performance credentials for its class, Renault Twingo RS boasts low CO2 emissions (150g/km, a saving of 3.2 percent compared to the former version) and fuel consumption (6.5 litres/100km, a saving of 3.0 percent).

A promise of quality supported by a network of specialists
Since its launch in September 2008, Renault Twingo RS has emerged as a top-three seller in its class (A segment / Very High Performance), with sales totalling more than 10,000 vehicles.

Like its bigger sisters, Clio RS and Mégane RS, new Twingo RS is supported by a network of 350 Renault Sport specialist dealers across the world, for expert servicing dedicated to performance cars.

Twingo Gordini RS: the 'French Touch', plus premium features as standard
Thanks to its instantly recognisable style, 17-inch diamond-effect black wheels, leather trim and automatic climate control, new Twingo Gordini RS defines sporty chic in imitable fashion with its twin stripes. In addition to the blue interior option, a new grey interior can now be specified, irrespective of body colour (Malte Blue, Glacier White, Pearlescent Black or Vif Red). New Twingo Gordini RS adds a touch of refinement to the attraction of the Renault Sport range.
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