2011 Bentley Continental GTC

Bentley Continental GT has been the darling of the nouveau riche, coupes and convertibles with great British to find a home in the entries of NBA players and rap stars throughout the country. While the Continental GT is a beautiful two-door with a lot of performance and luxury, so it is easy to see why the car is so desirable between the old money types, and the new chance.



For 2011, the Continental GT model has received a facelift, but you have to look twice to notice. Note that only the Continental GT, the update. 2011 Bentley Continental GTC and Super Sport models remains unchanged for now.

While the style remains the same - why should that change a masterpiece - the power train has been revised drastically.

The 6.0-liter W-12 engine has been tuned for more power, the power of 567 and 516 lb-ft of torque, to be exact, and a gearbox that allows a lower gear double Quickshift installed. All wheels are standard, with a pair of bias increased to 40 percent and 60 percent of the back, sportier than the original Conti 50/50.



If you hold out, there are plans to add a new 4.0-liter V-8 option. This means that it is likely to see a car sticker could drop below the $ 200k mark.

However, the 6.0-liter W-12 engine is a marvel, and it is also fully flex-fuel (E85) capable. Thank you to the addition of two turbochargers, the mill will be powerful rocket the pounds 5,000-plus Bentley 0 to 60 km / h in just 4.4 seconds and to see a top speed of 198 mph.

The interior of the coupe was renewed, with more favorable seats, a redesigned console and a new touch interface all-inclusive. Craftsmanship and exclusivity are the key words in Bentley and the other in the Continental GT definitely fits that description.

For the 2011 Bentley Continental GTC convertible, meanwhile, sticks to the original design introduced in 2003. This does not mean it is outdated as the older design still feels fresh and, of course, breathes luxury.

For performance enthusiasts, the 2011 Bentley Continental Supersport definitely the winner. This is the production model of Bentley's fastest and most powerful ever, and it is capable of reaching 60 mph at rest in just 3.9 seconds and peaking at 202 mph. Its engine is rated 612 and 590 lb-ft, the latter from only 2,000 rpm.



If the Super Sports is too extreme, is also the speed performance of the models GT and GTC Speed ​​Tamer pack 600 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque version of W-12

2011 Bentley Continental Supersports

2011 Bentley Continental Supersports appears between two different worlds. Bentley traditional fashion, has all the luxury features, but differs from the pampered luxury, it also tries to fit on a car exotic high performance sports. Ultimately, it seems that too many compromises have been made at both ends of the spectrum.



The "standard" Continental GT is already a powerful player in its own right, reaching 60 mph in 4.7 seconds and a top speed of 199 km / h. The Supersports it surpasses in sharper handling, 00 to 60 km / h acceleration 3.8 seconds and a top speed of 204 mph. An impressive, yes, but one must wonder about the performance gains in the face of a $ 77,000 prize. Supersports and cost is not just money.

In order to save weight, removed Bentley from the back seat (their usefulness is debatable), and confirmed the development of the suspension to the point that it can be jarring for some people - even more performance-minded drivers. Manual seats can also be a disappointment to some, as it would be out of date infotainment interface. In addition, it is very likely that the next Continental Supersports accept many of the improvements the 2012 Continental GT.

The possibility of buying "last year," Bentley may be enough buyers to push in the direction of a true exotic sports car. Aston Martin DBS is similarly priced, and offers a balanced blend of luxury and performance. Ferrari 458 Italy is a bit 'cheaper and offers more flexibility, as well as the McLaren MP4-12C, and the Mercedes-Benz AMG SLS. And there are always advocate the line Porsche 911, with a wide range of services to suit different tastes.

Body styles, trim levels and options
2011 Bentley Continental Super Sport is a two-seater high-performance version of the Continental GT coupe, which offers one of the well-equipped trim level.

Standard features include 20-inch wheels, carbon-ceramic brakes, rear spoiler, bi-xenon headlights, fog lights, unique exterior design, automatic wipers, keyless entry power /, dual-zone automatic climate control, rear parcel shelf, four streets lightweight manual front seats (installed on the owner's preferred riding position), a faux suede upholstery and trim, sport steering wheel steering, carbon fiber trim, Bluetooth, navigation system and 10 speakers stereo with iPod connection and lifetime subscriptions satellite radio.



There are fewer options available lightweight, performance-oriented GT Supersports than normal. Again, the options are power trunk, rear view camera, a number of two-tone interior color options, 15 speaker premium audio system Naim and the ability to install the standard Continental GT seats.

Engines and performance
The 2011 Bentley Continental Supersport is powered by a 6.0-liter V12 that produces 621 horsepower and a massive 590 lb-ft of torque. At four wheels and a six-speed automatic transmission as standard. In performance tests Edmunds, the Supersports hit 60 mph in 3.8 seconds stop by on your way to a top speed of 204 mph, he said. No wonder that fuel economy is low, at an EPA-estimated 12 mpg highway and 14 mpg city/19 mpg combined.

Safety
Standard safety equipment includes Super Continental Sport anti-lock brakes with carbon-ceramic disc, stability control and traction and side curtain airbags. In Edmunds brake test came to a stop Supersports of 60 km / h in a very short 109 feet.

Interior Design and Special Features
While traditional Bentley feature rich leather stripes and veneer spotless, Supersports Continental opts for a sleek high-end treatment. Carbon fiber faux suede are used instead, comfortable front seats were taken for light racing buckets. Unfortunately, these seats do not have power settings that are not height adjustable. Bentley custom fit seat for the driver, but it could cause comfort problems for other drivers.

Questions seat at the side, inside the 'Supersport is also very well done as any Bentley. Each element of the interior looks as if it has cleverly created by a master craftsman, if the computer knurled chrome or a set of carbon fiber experts. The trunk is generous compared with the exotic GT lack of standards and tight rear seat will accommodate any overflow of the load. On the negative side, however, the interface is sadly outdated information and entertainment.

Driving Impressions
Tip the scales at about 5000 pounds, 2011 Bentley Continental Supersports is lightweight. Yet, our Supersports test is able to drive through a slalom 67.8 mph - the speed is comparable to the much lighter than the BMW M3 Convertible. This is an impressive achievement, no doubt, but the car HeFT has not gone unnoticed. Bentley used to a plush ride quality and can be a little surprise, like the Super "firmly Sports is much less luxurious - no matter what suspension setting you choose.

MATWATCHES Divers Collection

By TLex With 20 years experience in the manufacture of mechanical watches, French watchmaker, MATWATCHES are specialized in the development of technical watches for use in the military, where their timepieces are constantly tested under the most extreme conditions.



Their timepieces are worn by elite groups of the military and police. With a list more than ten strong of specialized platoons and units, a veritable who's who of the French Special Forces, MATWATCHES have produce special edition timepieces for likes of . . .



Le 'COS' Commandement des Opérations Spéciales, ECTLO 'Commando Jaubert' Escouade de Contre Terrorisme et de Libération d'otages, 'ERS' Equipe Régionale d'Intervention et de Sécurité, 'SPHP' Le service de protection des hautes personnalités, 'RAID' Recherche Assistance Intervention Dissuasion and even le Groupe de sécurité de la présidence de la République, the security team that look after the safety of the French President.



MATWATCHES manufacture their watches in accordance to Swiss watch making traditions; providing performance and reliability, their watches are equipped with the high quality components and are built to serve Frances most elite forces. These watches are now accessible to the general public and as part of this new chapter in MAT’s history they are now launching with a new range of divers models.



MAT, which is an abbreviation of MER AIR TERRE (sea air land) have line of watches that includes three collections: Aviation, Commandos and their latest collection, Plongée (Diver), which is currently still in production. If I had to liken the new diver collection to anything, it would be a kind of cross between Bell & Ross and Breitling with a splash of SINN, although they really are their own thing.



The new collection divers, which are characterized by their matt black cases and orange bezel pips are based on the same 44mm x 15.5mm (16.5mm chrono) PVD coated 316L stainless steel case design with a total 8 versions, of which 4 are three handed automatics with ETA 2824-2 cals and 4 are chronographs with Valjoux 7750 cals.



The basic designs of the watches are the same; however MATWATCHES have a total of 5 different dial layouts with various dial markers and bezel markings. They even have options for left handers. The watch cases have a water-resistance of 300m (200m chrono) and are fitted with 2.8mm thick anti-reflective coated sapphire crystals.



MODELS (from top to bottom): AG5-1 auto with SL bezel markings, AG6-1 auto without SL bezel markings, AG6-2 auto (no date) with Arabic numerals and SL bezel markings, AG5-CH chrono with sub-seconds and SL bezel markings, AG6-CH chrono with sub seconds and without SL bezel markings, AG6-CHB chrono without SL bezel markings, AG5-CHL left handed chrono with SL bezel markings, AG5-CHL prototype left handed chrono with SL bezel markings, AG6-3 auto with mix of professional markers and Arabic numerals and without SL bezel markers.



PRICES range from 950€ (auto) to 1'800€ (chrono). I already have photos of the actual watches, which look superb and will be revealing them here shortly along with some words from MATWATCHES. For further details of the new diver collection and other MATWATCHES military timepieces please follow the link below . . .

UPDATE Pricing for 3 hands automatics such as; AG5-1, AG5-2, AG6-1 and AG6-3 is 950€ (inc. 19.6% French taxes).This price is includes 3 straps; 1X Italian made natural rubber strap, 1X tactical nylon strap, 1X MAT calfskin leather strap and a tool for strap changes. The watches ship from Paris, France by secure Speedpost - extra shipping fare 70€

The Blogs | Believe it or not

Believe it or not, we're already almost through with the first month of 2010. We've been planning out some cool themes for the year, and next month in particular should be a fun one. The theme for February? Readers. This of course means that we need your help. Have a cool car? A cool car crew or group of friends? Want to share your local car culture with the world? This is your chance. Throughout the month we'll be posting reader-submitted guest blogs from around the globe. Want to submit something? Here's what to do -...

2012 Hyundai Genesis Coupe V8 GDi

New Hyundai Coupe was designed in 2012 the name of Hyundai Genesis Coupe. New Genesis sedan has received awards for going step by step with the best luxury sedans from Japan and Germany. 2012 is a new Tau 5.0-liter engine, bored by the direct injection version of the 4.6-liter V-8 is found in Genesis sedan. Up to 96 mm diameter, increased by 4, while the race was steady at 87 mm. The result is the estimated production of 429 hp at 6500 rpm and 376 lb-ft at 5000 rpm with a compression ratio of 11.5:1 for. The new engine will be mated to the eight-speed automatic are designed and manufactured by Hyundai.



A member who is more powerful than the Hyundai family Tau V-8 was an earlier finding in a while. But here in the engine compartment of the new Hyundai Genesis 5.0-R Spec. R-Spec badge inserted into the core, light Genesis Coupe optioned, but the sedan version of Genesis refers to the addition of luxury extraction yield.

It does not replace the 4.6-liter V-8 available with the new 5.0, while maintaining a good line of Hyundai Genesis, young big V-8 in an exclusive R Spec. We get the original specification from 5.0 liters in the process of Korea in June, and now have confirmed information. The machine produces 429 hp 6400 rpm for meat and 376 pounds-feet of torque at 5000 rpm. (If you want to learn more about how to increase hot letter V-8 Hyundai, check out rotten.) Powers will be allocated through a new shipment of Hyundai, the in-house developed automatic eight reports.



Genesis 5.0 R-Spec also get what Hyundai calls "more aggressive chassis adjustment," but based on our experience with the hard route in the long term, which are 4.6 sedan Genesis, the first strikes us a bit like Old Country Buffet is the promise of being the largest meal in the future. Fortunately, it appears that a strong leagues are not part of the menu, in fact, a lowered suspension received recalibrated model to correct the problem increases. Instead, Genesis 5.0 R-Spec promising results for the sporty and 4.6 s' on the front and rear stabilizer bars large packaging brake discs front and 13.6 inches, larger than the year past in all models. Also unique 19-inch wheels.

Finally, the exterior and interior tweaks for the complete transformation of the R-Spec. R-Spec Hyundai Genesis 5.0 will be available only in black Noir, platinum and metallic Titanium Grey Cat talks black, bright silver and dark silver plated and blades feature of the house lights dark and R-Spec badging on the rear deck. It 's all black interior and steering wheel is fully wrapped in black leather, unlike wood and leather in Genesis 4.6.

H2O Kalmar DLC DAMASCUS Steel

By TLex If (as the H2O mantra goes) ‘Customization is EVERYTHING’, then diversity certainly comes a close second; diversity through the use of exotic metals and finishes. Damascus Steel now joins; Grade 5 Titanium, Anamorphic bead-blasted DLC, Mokume Gane and TiO2 as H2O’s latest venture into the world of metallurgy, and this is just the tip of the iceberg. The best is most likely yet to come!



DAMASCUS Steel, which refers to the Medieval period between 300 BC and 1700 AD, describes a particular type of steel used in sword making of that era. Swords made of this steel were characterized by a distinctive mottling pattern. These swords were known not only to be extremely resilient and shatter resistant, but were capable of being honed to a sharp and tough edge.



Nowadays, Damascus Steel is used predominantly in knife making, and the fabrication of rare and exotic timepieces, where it is priced for its distinctive appearance. I have yet to come across its use in dive watch construction.



The Damascus Steel used by H2O Watches has been forged in much the same manner that was done by early sword makers. It should not be confused with modern Damasteel, also used in the knife industry and which is a far less labor intensive method of making steel that appears similar to Damascus Steel.



Initially H2O Watches have had some dials and bezel made from Damasucs Steel, but they will be offering a full Damascus Steel version of their 3000m Kalmar in the future. For further details on H2O Kalmar DLC Damascus Steel please contact H2O Watches directly or follow the link at the bottom of the post.

2012 Hyundai Genesis

As Hyundai's first bid to enter the world of construction luxury sedan, the Genesis is one of the most important cars of the brand. He fights with the best of Japan has to offer, including the Lexus GS and Infiniti M, and trying to nose in Germany, Genesis is well executed, well built, and was well received. MotorAuthority a rate of 8 solid 10.



Although Genesis seems a bit slippery on the outside, even negligent, but a Hyundai badge on the front, he manages to be attractive in a discreet way. Its proportions are very good for a big sedan, while details like the grille, headlights and rear bumper design all offer some interest and even continuity in relation to its smaller luxury-oriented models. Inside, the Genesis is quality leather and soft-touch plastic, developed with very tight tolerances, and the same style are reserved on the outside of the center console play leading roles as an host of infotainment system and a big button controller.

In terms of performance, something that all true luxury sedan Genesis should provide many check boxes on the right: the sedan comes standard with a power 333 V-6 engine with a 4.6-liter V-8 good for 385 horses as an update. The R-Spec, new for 2012, beating the 5.0-liter engine and 429 horses. All three are in the task of obtaining a large saloon with ease, even if the V-8, and in particular the engine of the R-Spec, are the choice for those with a taste a little more speed.



The R-Spec is also committed to the suspension significantly - is downright sweet in Genesis models - with a direction, too. Unfortunately, these changes are not enough to improve the performance of Genesis "true sports sedan levels, and body lean is still important despite the trip a bit harsh, management did not feel, and the seats too soft, no real increase. The R-Spec is better used as a powerful cruiser States.

Whichever model you choose Genesis, but you will not run out of space inside: back seat is almost 7-series high, with plenty of legroom with a range of six footers . The front seats offer about as much space, and even large drivers will not find a lack of headroom at any position. The trunk is big enough. Build quality is generally very good with all the strength of the material closing the doors and durability you expect from a luxury sedan.

Hyundai did not skimp on technology for the Genesis, or, with a range of security features including the warning system output, indicators of the parking space, rear view reverse camera, and eight standard airbags. All this technology is good for a security check IIHS Top Pick.

Other technologies can be found in all Genesis sedan includes: Bluetooth, USB connectivity, satellite radio and automatic climate control. Additional options include premium packages and technologies that add many features available on the V-8, including a Lexicon audio system. A navigation system with touch screen and the media console and a controller based on large are also available.