<![CDATA[Jalopnik: startech]]> http://tags.jalopnik.com/assets/base/img/thumbs140x140/jalopnik.com.png <![CDATA[Jalopnik: startech]]> http://jalopnik.com/tag/startech http://jalopnik.com/tag/startech <![CDATA[Frankfurt Auto Show: Startech Starster]]> From the Questions Nobody Asks Department comes the Startech Starster. First of all, we simply love the name. And the interior. And we really like how they straight pilfered the fender bulges from the RS4. We're even big fans of what they've done to the engine: slapping a gutsy turbo to the regularly anemic 2.4-liter VVT makes the Starster kick out 335 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, hit 60 mph in a respectable 5.6 seconds before topping out at an impressive 165 mph. What we don't like is the underlying car. Dodge Avenger = Chrysler Sebring. 80 mph is horrifying enough in a Sebring. Double that is a new form of suicide. Startech did see fit massive 15" 6-piston calipers to the front wheels, but after you. Seriously. Full release post jump.

World Debut at the Frankfurt International Auto Show IAA 2007

STARTECH STARSTER
Innovative Concept Car Based on Dodge Avenger

STARTECH STARSTER is the name of a new concept car that celebrates its world debut at the Frankfurt International Auto Show IAA 2007, a concept car that manages to bridge the gap between classic old-school and modern designs. STARTECH (Brabus-Allee, D-46240 Bottrop, phone + 49 / (0) 20 41 / 777 547, fax + 49 / (0) 20 41 / 777 111, Internet www.startech.de ) has developed this concept car based on the new Dodge Avenger.

The sedan is painted a pearlescent ivory color with matte-orange contrasts. Details such as the STARTECH STARSTER decals on the rear and the hood are references to the American muscle cars of the Seventies. They're accompanied by spectacular body modifications that make the Avenger one of the most striking representatives of its class.

Clear, dynamic lines characterize the design of the sporty STARSTER front apron. Large air dams ensure an optimal supply of cooling air to radiators and front brakes. Stylized bumper horns emphasize the retro design further.

Just as prominent is the new STARTECH headlamp design that combines state-of-the-art LED technology with the distinctive Dodge crosshairs. A muscle car hood scoop provides cooling air to the engine.

Front and rear fender flares on the STARSTER give the four-door a more muscular appearance and create the space necessary for mounting an extreme tire/wheel combination. The concept car features polished STARTECH Monostar IV five-spoke wheels in size 9Jx22 with size 245/30 R 22 tires on the front axle, and size 10.5Jx22 wheels with size 295/25 R 22 tires in the rear.

The rear of the STARSTER was also redesigned. The modifications include an acrylic trunk lid molding that incorporates an innovative taillight unit with LED lights. The rear apron features the seamlessly integrated tailpipes of the stainless-steel sport exhaust system.

The STARSTER captivates not only with its unusual visual details but also and foremost with its technology geared towards maximum driving fun. Top-of-the-line model is a 2.4-liter (146 cu. in.) four-cylinder turbocharged engine with variable valve timing and a maximum power output of 340 PS (335 hp) / 250 kW at 6,400 rpm and a peak torque of 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) at 3,600 rpm.

Power is transferred to the front wheels via a modified five-speed manual gearbox and a locking differential. Performance of the STARTECH STARSTER is comparable to that of classic American muscle cars: 5.6 seconds from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph) and a top speed of 265 km/h (165 mph).

To keep the performance potential under safe control the STARTECH engineers spared no cost or effort to develop suspension components and brakes that better even this ample power: The height-adjustable coil-over sport suspension features selectable damper settings and an individual ride height lowering by up to approx. 45 millimeters (1.8 inches).

The STARTECH high-performance brake system features six-piston aluminum fixed calipers and vented 380 x 35 millimeter (15.0 x 1.4 inches) discs on the front axle. The rear axle is equipped with 360 x 24 millimeter (14.2 x 0.9 inches) discs and four-piston calipers. Together they easily dominate even the most enthusiastic of driving styles.

The interior of the STARSTER also presents a perfect blend of classic old-school elements and modern materials. A fully leather interior, color-coordinated with the exterior, sports an upholstery design derived from classic muscle cars. The leather flooring alone with its waffle-pattern stitching uses more than 1.2 kilometers (0.75 miles) of high-quality thread.

A number of components found in the STARSTER concept car will be included in the exclusive STARTECH customization program for the Dodge Avenger.

STARTECH 2007.
Copyright free! Please send us a copy of the published article. Thank you!

STARTECH on the internet: www.STARTECH.de

]]>
http://jalopnik.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=299259&view=rss&microfeed=true
<![CDATA[Startech Tunes the Jeep Wrangler]]>

The Startech side of the Brabus tuning empire is fielding a new kit package for the Jeep Wrangler. That's the diesel version that could become the official Idaho Militia staff car, if only it were clean enough. Someday it will be. But for now it's only the European community that gets the oil burner, and Startech's handiwork. That is, a new ECU module, exhaust kit and style accessories like side guards and rocker panels. No word on the an upgrade to kevlar-reinforced doors for enthusiasts who take their Wranglers along on tax-dodge standoffs with the FBI.

Press Release:

STARTECH Refines the New Jeep. Wrangler

Legends are immortal and in the automotive world that is especially true for the Jeep. Wrangler, the 'mother' of all off-road vehicles. To customize the latest version of the American 4x4 and to make it even more exclusive STARTECH is developing an innovative and exclusive accessories program - for the short wheelbase and the new long wheelbase version.

In a first step STARTECH offers custom-tailored light-alloy wheels, some initial exterior modifications and exclusive interior options.

The polished STARTECH Monostar IV 9Jx20 light-alloy wheels attract attention at first sight. The striking five-spoke wheels lend the new Jeep. Wrangler a more exclusive appearance. But that's not all: Mounted with sporty on- and off-road tires in size 285/50 R 20 front and back they give the SUV even more agile handling characteristics while at the same time improving driving safety.

While the STARTECH design program for the new Wrangler is still under development, the first stainless-steel components will be available shortly. Sturdy tubular side guards for short and long wheelbase models protect the rocker panels of the Jeep and partially hide the Jeep's frame from view. The spare wheel cover with high-gloss stainless-steel ring adds the finishing touch.

The new Wrangler generation for the first time includes a model with diesel engine. The STARTECH motor engineers are currently developing the STARTECH SD 4T tuning module for the 2.8-liter (171 cu. in.) common-rail turbodiesel engine.

STARTECH sport exhausts will soon be available for all engine and body variants of the Jeep. The fully stainless-steel exhausts feature one characteristic oval chrome tailpipe each on the right and left, and produce a more sonorous engine sound, while at the same time optimizing power yield.

The interior of the Jeep can also be upgraded stylishly with STARTECH accessories: Highly polished scuff plates welcome driver and passengers, and the ergonomically shaped STARTECH sport steering wheel adds to the ambiance.

Additional customization requests can be fulfilled by the company-own STARTECH upholstery shop. Partial and fully leather interiors made from especially soft yet durable Mastik leather satisfy even the most discriminating tastes.

Related:
Startech Tunes Dodge Caliber, Still Not A Pig And Bear Edition [internal]

]]>
http://jalopnik.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=268746&view=rss&microfeed=true
<![CDATA[Startech Tunes Dodge Caliber, Still Not A Pig And Bear Edition]]> The German tuners of all things from the 'merican side of DaimlerDouche market have taken it upon themselves to tune the killer of Pig and Bear for the Euro market. Specifically, they've made the Caliber CRD a bit more precise with an "aerodynamic-enhancement program" and some engine tunage. The aero-precision starts with some visual upgrades to the front fascia and a reduction in lift on the front axle and extends along the sides with body cladding that gives the Caliber a lower to the ground look. The body program ends in the rear with a more "bullish contour" over the entirety of the butt-end. On the performance side, they've added in the Startech-exclusive sport exhaust system along with power tuning that ups the output by 40 hp to 180 hp via a plug-and-play control module. All in all, it's still a Dodge Caliber — but hey, a much more precisely tuned one. Full press release after the jump.

STARTECH Refines the Dodge Caliber

Sporty Design and Engine Tuning for the CRD Diesel


Tuning 'Made in Germany' for the Dodge Caliber: STARTECH offers a strikingly styled aerodynamic-enhancement program, and engine tuning for the diesel model.


To add more sporty emphasis to the characteristic appearance of the Dodge Caliber the STARTECH designers have developed an aerodynamic-enhancement kit that adds to the compact car's striking design.


The STARTECH front fascia not only visually upgrades the front; it also reduces lift on the front axle.


The sides are given a more homogenous appearance with the STARTECH side body cladding that gives the Caliber a lower and sleeker appearance.


The rear of the Dodge can also undergo sporty modifications: The custom-tailored STARTECH lift-gate attachment continues the bullish contour of the rear fascia over the entire width of the rear. The rear fascia with stylized tailpipes left and right gives the Caliber a more powerful look. The fascia can be complemented with the STARTECH sport exhaust system. The rear spoiler is attached to the liftgate and stylishly rounds out the STARTECH designer suit.


For the Dodge Caliber 2.0 CRD with common-rail turbodiesel engine STARTECH offers powerful and reliable power tuning that ups power output by 40 hp / 29.4 kW. The STARTECH SD3 performance kit consists of a plug-and-play control module that can be installed by any authorized Chrysler/Jeep/Dodge dealer in half an hour, thanks to an included custom wire harness. Like the production models the STARTECH-tuned Dodge Caliber 2.0 CRD meets EURO IV emission limits.


With STARTECH SD3 tuning peak power output of the 2.0-liter common-rail four cylinder engine with Diesel particulate filter jumps from standard 140 hp / 103 kW to 180 hp / 132 kW at just 4,000 rpm. Even more important for everyday driving is the increase in peak torque from 310 Nm to 360 Nm between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm. Thus equipped sprint time from 0 - 100 km/h is shortened from 9.3 to 8.6 seconds. Top speed of the tuned Caliber diesel model increases to 201 km/h.


STARTECH offers a stainless-steel rear muffler with one oval tailpipe on either side for all engine variants of the Caliber. There are two versions, one to be combined with the STARTECH rear fascia and one for installation in combination with the stock bumper. The exhaust system lends the Caliber not only a more thrilling rear appearance but also a more powerful exhaust note.


STARTECH offers more driving fun in the form of custom-tailored modifications to the suspension of the Dodge. Progressive-rate springs precision-calibrated to the standard shocks lower the ride height of the vehicle by some 30 millimeters.


Wheels make a car and STARTECH offers various custom-tailored STARTECH Monostar tire/wheel combinations with 19- and 20-inch diameters for the Caliber. The palette of suitable Monostar IV five-spoke wheels ranges from size 8.5Jx19 all around with tires up to 245/40 R 19 in size to an especially exclusive version with size 9Jx20 wheels and 245/35 R 20 tires.


The STARTECH program also offers numerous customization options for the interiors of all Caliber models: The STARTECH Lifestyle interior package will go on sale in the near future.


Extravagant highlights can be added with striking STARTECH accessories: Polished aluminum serves as the material of choice for door-lock pins, shifter and foot pedals. Also available are high-quality floor mats with STARTECH signet.
Related:
Startech to Bring Chrysler 300 CRD Tuner to Essen; Nothing On This World Left To Tune: Startech Takes On The Dodge Nitro [internal]

]]>
http://jalopnik.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=251584&view=rss&microfeed=true
<![CDATA[Startech Tunes the Dodge Caliber]]>

Schneller gehen! Brabus's Chrysler-focused tuning brand, Startech, has added new performance products for every Mopar product that's made the leap to the old world. This time, it's the Dodge Caliber's skirt that's been hiked. Startech's new line of performance and cosmetic accessories would likely give Dr. Z that brain-bubbly feeling of German-American cooperation (also known as the Mercedes bends). On the performance end, they've fashioned a control module that boosts output of the 2.0-liter CRD diesel by 40 hp (to 180 hp) and torque from 229 to 266 lbs-ft. Like the company's other model-specific lines, stainless-steel exhaust, 19" and 20" Monostar wheels and an aero kit are also available.

startech_caliber_1.jpg

Related:
More on Startech [internal]

]]>
http://jalopnik.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=197848&view=rss&microfeed=true
<![CDATA[Startech Tunes the Jeep Commander]]>

If there's a European Chrysler to mess with, you know Brabus's Startech geeks will show up with slide-rule in hand. This time, they've set upon the Jeep Commander CRD, creating an add-on performance processor, the SD6, which — along with a stainless-steel sport exhaust — boosts horsepower to 262 (from 218) and torque to 427 ft.-lbs (from 376). The chip opens a world of speed — ok, maybe a suburban hamlet of speed — cutting zero-to-60 time from 9.0 seconds to 8.5, but increasing top speed to 124 mph. Not great for speed freaks, but pretty impressive for a diesel-powered brick.

Related:
Startech to Bring Chrysler 300 CRD Tuner to Essen [internal]

]]>
http://jalopnik.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=186707&view=rss&microfeed=true
<![CDATA[Startech to Bring Chrysler 300 CRD Tuner to Essen]]>

If you've never seen the European Chrysler 300C Touring, you may be shocked to see the leonine nose cone of the 300C sedan attached to the business end of a Dodge Magnum. It's a distinctly European model, one we'll never see on these shores. Still, it's a Chrysler, meaning it's fair game for German tuning house, Startech, which specializes in mechanical tweaks for DaimlerChrysler products. This model, the Chrysler 300C 3.0 CRD StarTech — set to be unveiled at Germany's Essen motor show (that country's version of SEMA) — shows off what the company thinks about diesel-powered station wagons. A mild performance package boosts horsepower of the 3.0-liter V6 common-rail turbodiesel engine from the standard 218 to 262 and torque from 326 to 428 ft.-lbs. Despite its largesse, the finished product, made even more finished with body kit that improves its aerodynamic profile, can hit 144mph. (C'mon, it's still a diesel.)

Related:
Startech Tunes the Jeep Grand Cherokee [internal]

]]>
http://jalopnik.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=135990&view=rss&microfeed=true
<![CDATA[Startech Tunes the Jeep Grand Cherokee]]> With the Jeep Grand Cherokee storming European shores, German tuning shop, Startech, has annointed the SUV with its own brand of Germanocity. Startech already offers tuning packages for other products on the Chrysler side of the DaimlerChrysler equation, such as Chrysler 300C and PT Cruiser (as well as Brabus packages for models on the Daimler side). The Jeep package serves to make the most American of sport-utilities a little less prepared for soccer practice, though way more prepared for the pressures of left-lane autobahn cruising. Click through for more pics.

The Startech Grand Cherokee package involves an extensive suspension kit, ending at a set of 20-inch five-spoke wheels, as well as cosmetic upgrades including a mild body kit that errs on the side of Bahaus elegance. A stainless-steel exhaust kit completes the SUV's Teutonicification.

startech_cherokee_1.jpg

startech_cherokee_2.jpg

Related:
New Jeep Rocky Mountain Packages to Debut in New York [internal]

]]>
http://jalopnik.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=121180&view=rss&microfeed=true