Kevlar Muffler Cover
Thermo Tec MSRP: Website
Info: www.thermotec.com
Excessive heat is the unfortunate byproduct of power. To ward off the high-exhaust temps on your ride, Thermo Tec has introduced its new Kevlar muffler covers. These blankets can handle a continuous stream of 1100°F. If high temps still aren't under control, Thermo Tec also offers a matching heat shield that's good for a smoldering 3000°F.
iPod And IPhone Factory Interface
Alpine MSRP: Website
Info: www.alpine-usa.com
No matter how outdated your car's head unit might be, Alpine has introduced this new interface that allows you to play media from your iPod or iPhone through any factory radio. The DPR-RDS1 is a small box that installs to the car's antenna and then connects directly to your iPod via a supplied cable. From there, music can be played at the same sound quality as a strong FM radio station. The system supports both 12- and 5-volt charging and is compatible with virtually all iPod products. Time to ditch those cassette tapes!
1.9 TDI H-Beam Rods
Integrated Engineering MSRP: $549
Info: www.intengineering.com
If you're looking to build a high-torque 1.9 liter TDI motor, these beefy 4340 chrome moly steel forged connecting rods from Integrated Engineering are just the ticket. The H-beam design fits the 1.9 TDI up to '04, have a massive 26mm wristpin, are 144mm long, use ARP2000 rod bolts and weigh approx 589g. What's more, each set comes balanced to +/- 1g and are both fully machined and shot peened. Each rod is individually Magnaflux-inspected and tolerances are claimed to be as tight as .0003" ground on Sunnen equipment. So if you're going big on your TDI, check out these Integrated rods.
Mini Rear Sway Bar
Cusco MSRP: Website
Info: www.napsusa.com
Ditch the flimsy 17mm stock rear sway bar on your new Mini in favor of a beefy 19mm part from Cusco. This adjustable bar is said to be nearly 150% stiffer and comes with all the necessary hardware to make your Mini corner flat as a pancake.
Make Your Life A Success
Neuspeed MSRP: Website
Info: www.neuspeed.com
It's no secret that Bill Neumann, founder and CEO of Neuspeed and NM Engineering has been influential in the sport compact/Euro scene for many years. Fortunately, Neumann is willing to share his secrets in this new book, You Can Do It. An interesting read for anybody looking to make their mark, it's a behind-the-scenes look at an industry pioneer.
Stainless Pedals
Shutt Auto MSRP: $82.99
Info: www.shuttauto.com
Happy feet equates to big smiles behind the wheel, thanks to the new stainless steel pedal covers from Shutt Auto. These cool covers feature a modern design and are laser-engraved for the utmost quality.
VW-Inspired Skateboards
Futrell Autowerks MSRP: $49.95
Info: wwwfutrellautowerks.com
Skating goes with Dubs like peanut butter 'n jelly. And in case you wanna keep your board as dope as your Dub, Futrell Autowerks announced the release of two limited-edition skateboard decks. One design features Mike Tolliver's '77 Rabbit and the other has a rolling shot of its Mk5 GTI. The boards are manufactured in the US using Canadian seven-ply maple measuring 32x8".
Audi Body Kits
LÜsch MSRP: Website
Info: www.lusch.us
Lüsch specializes in quality, unique body kits for the latest range of Audis. These packages include bodywork, grilles, foglight fixtures and deck lids in factory colors. More than just matching pieces, Lüsch implements the finest grades of carbon fiber, aluminum, composites and urethanes into their products. In addition, state-of-the-art software, five-axis CNC machines and a Romer articulated arm are used for assembly to ensure the manufacturing is OEM spec.