Spy Shots: MINI Cooper S Diesel & Clubman S Diesel

The petrol Cooper S range uses a 1.6-litre twin scroll turbo for maximum power output of 128kW (172hp) and 240Nm of torque (260Nm with overboost). The MINI One D on the other hand kicks out only 66kW (90hp) and 215Nm while its Cooper D brother works with 80kW (110hp) and 240Nm.


Spy shooters posted outside Mini's testing facility in Germany snagged a duo of prototypes heading out for testing, but something seemed amiss. Both models -- a standard Cooper and a mildly camo'd Clubman -- sported the tell-tale exterior elements found on the S versions, specifically a central-mounted dual exhaust on the Cooper and the twin-tips and hood scoop on the Clubman. However, the exhaust note was decidedly diesel, causing us to wonder: Is Mini working on hotted-up S versions of its oil-burners?


What gave the game away was the distinctive engine sound that diesel-powered cars are known for. The front bumper is of a slightly different design as well. Some prototypes that have been spotted carried the cosmetic-only bonnet scoop, while others did not. Therefore we can't really say if it will be kept or not.


If they are -- and we're not convinced either way -- then a Cooper S and Clubman S diesel would need to benefit from more than a few design tweaks and an uprated suspension. Considering that the standard Mini D puts out around 90 horsepower and the Cooper D boasts another 20 bhp, then these S-ified models could be packing upwards of 140 to 150 hp and, more importantly, over 200 lb.-ft. of torque from their 1.6-liter turbodiesels. If they do make it to dealers, we'd expect them to debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March, with sales beginning in Europe late next year.
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MEC Design Take the SLS to Extremes With Their New Studies

The Mercedes Benz SLS AMG has already become a classic model even before its release next year with fans all over the world eager to get their hands on one. None more so than European tuning company MEC Design who have just released a couple of studies showing just how the SLS might look once they've got their hands on one. MEC Design are known for their extreme tuning and these studies show that they have certainly not lost their touch when it comes to taking things further than most tuners.

The first study shows the SLS AMG from the front. The Mercedes Benz star has moved from the front to make space and now sits above the grill and is very reminiscent of the SLR McLaren which it is replacing. It features a new front bumper which has an extremely deep mesh grill as well as curved side air inlets. The side skirts have been deepened and now feature the MEC Design lighting system which is linked to the interior lighting and lights up when the ignition is turned on or the doors are opened. The SLS look is finished off with the three piece bi-colour 22 inch mecxtremeIII wheels.


The second study shows the rear of the SLS AMG and the extreme look rear diffusor for which MEC Design are already well known. Its part of their 2Face system which allows you to choose between having a more extreme look as shown here or having a more refined elegant finish. A carefully placed rear spoiler finishes off the optics whilst the oval chrome tips of the MEC Design exhaust system enhance the whole experience with its amazing sounds.

The third image shows the front view again but this time in a golden yellow finish along with the three piece 22 inch mecxtremeI wheels.

The interior is left almost original except for the addition of the MEC Design sports steering wheel which has a Carbon Fibre and Alcantara finish to match the rest of the high quality interior.


"We're very excited about the SLS, it's already becoming a classic just like the 300 SL Gullwing. These first studies have received a lot of good feedback and now we just can't wait to get our hands on one", says CEO Cem Altun.

It has not been decided whether these studies from MEC Design will be the final design or whether there will be a small-batch production.

About MEC Design:
MEC Design are an exclusive tuning company based in Berlin, Germany. They specialize in Mercedes-Benz and have an extensive range of extraordinary tuning and styling products as well as a range of high quality one piece and three piece alloy wheels. They have been making a big noise all over Germany and Europe for over 10 years and are now expanding into North America and the rest of the World.
Source: MEC Design

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EAS: BMW 7 Series M Sport

In September at the Frankfurt Motor Show, BMW unveiled their latest 7 Series model with the aggressive M Sport package. The BMW 740d with M Sport package comprises an Aerodynamics Package as well as additional chrome trim on the specially designed front and rear aprons, illuminated M entry trim and BMW Individual High-Gloss Shadow Line. The dynamic look of the car is rounded off by 19-inch M light-alloy wheels in double-spoke design featuring different-sized tyres front and rear. As an option there are also 20-inch M light-alloy wheels in double-spoke design, again with different tire sizes front and rear.


Aside from ditching the chrome in favour of matt black side and kidney grilles, matt black OEM rear diffuser, Style 312 OEM 21-inch matt black alloys and a new, converted front bumper replacing chrome with, yes, matt black, EAS also add body-coloured door handles and trunk trim.


Compare to the original M Sport Package, European Auto Source takes a different approach and phases out the multiple chrome exterior design elements that are equally loved or disliked by many BMW fans.


All in all, a great improvement. But assumedly at a cost which - although unannounced - is likely to total a few thousand dollars.
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