Hamann gives the BMW X6 M with more power, matte paint and… salmon skin?

Filed under: Aftermarket, Performance, SUV, Geneva Motor Show, Europe, BMW, Specialty

BMW Hamann X6 M

2011 Hamann Tycoon EVO M – Click above for high-res image gallery

Hamann has released the decidedly abrasive Tycoon EVO M, its take on the 2011 BMW X6 M. In typical Hamann fashion, everything about the car is completely beyond comprehension. First, Hamann added an entire herd of horsepower to the stock figure, kicking the total from an already absurd 550 to a stupefying 670. According to Hamannn, all that power translates into a 186-mile-per-hour top end.

Outside, the big Bimmer has been widened by 60 millimeters, taking it from huge to gargantuan. Its new-found size is set off by a carbon-accented matte-black paint scheme sitting atop 23-inch wheels at all four corners, also in matte black. The taillights, roof rack, hood, rear spoiler, antenna and exhaust surround all get the carbon fiber treatment.

Where things get truly insane is the interior, though, where Hamann has eschewed carbon fiber or aluminum trim in favor of Nanai Salmon Leather. Hamann says its as durable and luxurious as traditional interior leather, and carries the look and structure of salmon skin. In reality, it looks very similar to snake skin. Setting off the interesting trim choice is the usual litany of Alacantara-trimmed seats and quilted leather upholstery. Read the full details for yourself in the press blast after the jump.

Gallery: 2011 Hamann Tycoon EVO M

2011 Hamann Tycoon EVO M front2011 Hamann Tycoon EVO M rear2011 Hamann Tycoon EVO M rear detail2011 Hamann Tycoon EVO M driver side2011 Hamann Tycoon EVO M dash

[Source: Hamann]

Continue reading Hamann gives the BMW X6 M with more power, matte paint and… salmon skin?

Hamann gives the BMW X6 M with more power, matte paint and… salmon skin? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Mar 2011 18:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2012 Acura TL softens skin, sharpens claws in Chicago

Filed under: Chicago Auto Show, Sedan, Acura

2012 Acura TL

2012 Acura TL – Click above for high-res image

Let’s be honest – the Acura TL isn’t exactly a pretty car. And while the vast majority of the automotive media and enthusiast forums immediately lashed out at the TL’s angular design, we were nothing short of pleased with its luxurious, high-tech interior and solid driving dynamics – especially the six-speed manual-equipped SH-AWD. For the 2012 model year, Acura has softened some of the car’s harsh lines, and while the automaker tells us that both the front and rear fascias are “all-new,” there’s no mistaking this sedan for anything but a TL.

Because this is merely a modest mid-cycle refresh, the TL’s powertrain hasn’t been completely overhauled. Both the 3.5- and 3.7-liter V6s are still on hand, though a new six-speed automatic transmission helps improve performance and fuel economy. A new set of 19-inch all-season tires are available on SH-AWD models in an effort to improve performance on snow and ice, fitted to an updated set of alloy wheels.

Inside, Acura has made substantial improvements to reduce wind and road noise, and the HDD navigation system has been upgraded to 60 gigabytes for improved music storage. What’s more, a new Advance Package nets customers things like a blind spot information system and cooled front seats. Look for the 2012 TL to hit dealerships later this year. Follow the jump for the official press release.

Gallery: 2012 Acura TL

2012 Acura TL2012 Acura TL2012 Acura TL2012 Acura TL

[Source: Acura]

Continue reading 2012 Acura TL softens skin, sharpens claws in Chicago

2012 Acura TL softens skin, sharpens claws in Chicago originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Feb 2011 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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