For those looking for golden cars (yes, those cars clad in gold), Dubai is a great place to start looking. One of the best ways to prove your wealth in those rich oil countries of the Orient is to get the cars covered in gold, silver or platinum. What got our eyes however, is this chrome-finished Mercedes C63 AMG that was recently posted on a web forum. With a large normally aspirated 6.2-litre V8 engine that outputs 451hp (336kW), torque of 443 lb-ft (600Nm) and reaching 100km/h in 4.5 seconds, that must be a sheik’s dream. Don’t you think? [mbworld.org]

Let’s make it clear. The new Nissan GT-R doesn’t need any add-ons to make it even more spectacular than it is, but hell, who are we to argue with guys that think it doesn’t pay homage to sportscars. For that reason, Wald International decided to brew their own body package (nothing on the engine side …) that will make you fall in love with it, if you haven’t yet. It includes more carbon-fibre parts to make it lighter, a custom built a front-lip spoiler and nose cover, a rear wing and is all wrapped in a glossy finish typically used for street cars (wet carbon fibre) or a dull matte grey color (dry carbon fibre). Expect to pay some $11,500 for the first one or $26,410 for the dry version. Worth it? We’ll let you decide …

Do you remember when Dacia Logan and Sandero got the Renaultsport badge? We were pretty disappointed that it’s not the Megane or the Laguna to get the same treatment. Apparently the French chewed on it and decided that it’s time to get the artillery out. Prepared for this year’s Geneva auto show in March, the enhanced version of the Megane gets its inspiration from Megane trophy race car and will be using a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine (the same from R26 model) mated to a six speed manual transmission. Expected to output nothing less than 250 hp, the Renaultsport Megane should go naught to 100km/h in just 6 seconds. My bet is that it will really take on the VW Scirocco, what do you think? [via Autocar.co.uk]

Now why in the world would you want to take something as finely balanced as the Nissan GT-R and modify using it a tuning kit that is named ‘Godzilla Package’? The Texas-based tuner Hennessey, released a 600 hp upgrade for the GT-R along with air induction system, electronic boost control, an improved wastegate actuator, and front-mount intercooler system. That seems to put the GT-R more out of balance than enhance its aerodynamics and while we also get turbo down pipes, mid-pipe exhaust, and rear section exhaust in stainless steel, we could still use some slimming down of the whole package. Available with installation for a cool $14,500 cash and on shipping for $11,500, this is where the ‘beast meets the beauty’.

The Skoda Octavia RS+ on display at Essen has received a complete makeover on the exterior from the car makers, while the engine under the hood still remains the 200hp 2.0-litre turbo engine and the 2.0 TDI of 170hp. The new and sporty RS+ at the German show, came with a host of changes to the exterior like the black alloy wheels, black interior housing, front spoiler and the rear black diffuser. The interiors have been revamped using shades of black and a tinge of red with bucket-seats, door panels and triple-coated leather steering wheel, all shining with a new glow. The RS+ in its new incarnation truly looks a lot more cool and trendy than the more brazen earlier version.

The famous German tuners Rieger are at it once again with the Scirocco, bringing back memories of the past attached with Rieger Scirocco GTO widebody. The new Rieger Scirocco is all set to be officially unwrapped at Essen 2008 and the initial look at the cars shows some really hot new changes to the Scirocco. Rieger has created a couple different front and rear bumper designs for the Scirocco, each one aimed at customers with varied tastes and choices. There are also varied options available for side skirts, roof spoiler, quad pipe muffler, lowering springs and 3 styles of 19- and 20-inch wheels. Expect the Rieger Scirocco to steal the show once it sets its wheels on ramp. Looks aggressive. – via autoblog.nl

Opel Insignia is a pretty popular choice among those who fancy their hand at creating custom tuning kits for cars and Steinmetz has unveiled its own version with a provisional tuning package. The tuning kit offered by Steinmetz comes with a ride lowering suspension system, black and white 20-inch alloy wheels and changes to the front grille and front spoiler. Even the rear silencer tailpipe and floor mats have been altered, despite which the Insignia still largely retains its original look. Dubbed as the new European Car of the Year, Insignia would surely attract many more automakers who will offer custom add-ons and this one from Steinmetz looks subtle and simple.

Carlsson just announced their RS-design kit for the Mercedes S-Class that will feature on the front part, four new fog lights, an integrated front apron and some front spoiler lips, a Carlsson grille that makes it look very sporty and specially made side skirt with stainless steel insertions onto the grille. In the back there’s a RS apron with a diffuser and a carbon fiber rear spoiler. The RS-design kit also features some beautiful light 21-inch alloys and four heat-insulated stainless steel double-walled tailpipes. Good for the entire S class range, we’re expecting a price to see how much we have to pay for these looks.