Car tuning essentials: new performance car parts and modifications
Our regular round-up of the latest products from the car tuning world for those looking to give their car an upgrade
The world of car tuning and modifications moves with the same pace and dynamism as that of the mainstream car manufacturers. New products are emerging all the time pushing the boundaries of technology and creating more options for owners to upgrade the performance and handling of their cars.
Below, we round-up some of the latest performance car tuning parts to arrive on the market from tyres, suspension components and braking systems to engine, drivetrain and exhaust upgrades.
> BMW M Performance parts: pricing, availability and range
ST Suspensions XT coilovers for E85/Z85 BMW Z4
£939
The styling was a lot to take in when new, but BMW’s first-generation Z4 looks increasingly appealing, and they’re great value too. This ST Suspensions (KW’s budget brand) XT coilover kit can be adjusted for ride height 20-50mm up front and 15-40mm at the back.
Michelin programmable digital tyre inflator
£69.99
Ditching spare wheels means most cars come with a basic tyre inflator these days, but Michelin’s digital inflator is much more effective. It’ll inflate a 19-inch tyre from 25 to 35 psi in 90 seconds, and there’s a bleed valve for releasing pressure. We’ll be testing it on a trackday soon.
Forge Hyundai i30 N short-shift kit
£99.98
A slightly obstructive gearshift is one of very few areas in which the Hyundai i30 N could be improved. Forge Motorsport’s short-shift kit reduces the shift throw up to 50 per cent, adjustable while being fitted, and can be installed in as little as 90 minutes.
Burton EnduroKa parts
Under £2000
Like the Citroën C1 series, the EnduroKa series aims to bring down the cost of competition, with Ford’s iconic supermini at its heart. Burton Power can supply all the series’ control parts – dampers, springs, bushes, brake pads – for under £2000, helping contribute to full car builds of less than £7000.
Öhlins TTX 30 Clubsport dampers for Audi R8
£POA
The Audi R8 is a sharp tool out of the box, but Öhlins’ two-way adjustable dampers should let you hone it further. The units can be lowered up to 10mm, with control over compression and rebound, and come with a two-year limited warranty. Springs are supplied separately.
