2008 Audi R8

The innovative R8 supercar from Audi is now available for the first time with full LED headlamps. In addition to the standard Audi-signature 24-LED running lamps it's always had, this extremely expensive option (£3,590 converts to $7,100 USD) adds LED high and low beam headlamps and LED turn signals to the front fascia of the mid-engine sports car.

The latest craze in automotive lighting, LED bulbs don't utilize a filament like halogen lamps or gas plasma like HID lamps. Instead, they create light from the movement of current across a semi-conductor chip. They are smaller, more vibration resistant, and much more efficient than traditional bulbs. According to Audi, the light from the LEDs has been designed to closely resemble daylight and provides a greater contrast to be easier on the human eye. LED illumination is also designed to last the lifetime of the vehicle. Audi is no stranger to LED lighting - it first introduced a strip-shaped fog lamp at the Detroit Auto Show back in 2003.

© Source: autoblog
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2008 Dodge Journey gets dual clutch

Chrysler Group Australia will join Volkswagen and Audi in offering a dual-clutch transmission later this year when it launches the all-new Dodge Journey in Australia. The Journey is a vehicle CGA says takes the practicality of a people-mover, the capability of a sport-utility vehicle (SUV) and the overall efficiency of a passenger car and blends all the best attributes of each into an all-new “right-sized” crossover for the Dodge brand.

CGA says the dual-clutch transmission, developed in conjunction with gearbox maker Getrag, will provide consumers a fuel economy improvement and CO2 emissions reduction of six percent.

Chrysler says that dual-clutch transmission technology improves fuel economy and CO2 emissions by reducing parasitic losses—first, by eliminating the torque converter, and second, through the use of synchronizers instead of shift clutches.
In its first Chrysler LLC vehicle applications, the new dual-clutch transmission will debut in international markets on the all-new 2008 Dodge Journey when mated to the turbo diesel variant.

Originally developed by Volkswagen, which calls its DSG, the dual-clutch transmission is an automatic transmission which utilises dual launch and shift clutches with a manual transmission style lay-shaft gear arrangement, instead of a conventional torque converter and planetary gears. During shifts, the next gear is anticipated and pre-selected. Then one clutch is opened while the other is closed, allowing shifting without torque interruption. The result is quicker acceleration and refined shift quality. Further, with the lay-shaft arrangement of gears, there is increased flexibility to optimise gear ratio selection for performance and fuel economy.

The Chrysler/Getrag version of the dual-clutch transmission does not require a torque converter to transfer engine torque to the transmission. Instead, it uses two wet multi-plate clutches. With the wet multi-plate clutch system, the clutch components are bathed in lubricating/cooling fluid in order to provide adequate thermal capacity.

© Source: caradvice
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2008 SsangYong ute for tradies

Korean manufacturer SsangYong has unveiled a new entry level variant of its popular Sports Dual Cab aimed at tradesman looking for a tough no-nonsense workhorse ute at a really low price. The SsangYong Sports Dual Cab Tradie boasts a value-for-money price tag of just $24,990 for the 4×2 five-speed manual powered by the eco-friendly common rail, 2.0-litre, turbo diesel engine.

Ssangyong says this makes it the best priced dual cab diesel on the market.
To borrow, and bend, a famous phrase the SsangYong Tradie ‘will be available in any colour so long as it is white’ and will be equipped with steel wheels and a front disc/rear drum brake set-up. SsangYong spokesperson Kylie Claude says that while the Tradie is a low price workhorse it still comes with a swag of standard features including air-conditioning, power windows, remote locking and dual SRS airbags at no extra cost.

It utilises a diesel, 2.0-litre, four-cylinder, common rail, turbo engine generating maximum power of 104kW at 4000rpm and maximum torque of 310Nm at 1800rpm, making it ideal as a tough workhorse or a smooth and quiet everyday drive.
As well as its low overall purchase price the Tradie also boasts a low fuel consumption of 8.1L/100km on the combined ADR cycle ensuring the fuel pump price shock is kept to a minimum. The Sports Dual Cab Tradie also features cloth trim and a no nonsense character while a strong 750kg payload and a standard tray liner making it the ideal business partner for tradesman as well as in mining, construction, forestry or on the farm.
The Tradie will also be available as a 4×4 manual priced at just $27,990, well below the price of many other diesel 4×4 dual cabs on the market.

According to SsangYong Motors Australasia managing director, Russell Burling, the Sports Dual Cab Tradie answers a strong demand from tradesmen, fleet operators and farmers seeking an economical diesel twin cab that doesn’t compromise on safety or performance.
“Clearly there is a demand for a vehicle like this that has less of the creature comforts and a lower price for those seeking a more basic and less luxurious vehicle,” said Mr Burling.
“The Tradie proves that you don’t have to compromise comfort or safety in a basic dual cab ute for under $25,000,” he added.

© Source: caradvice
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Chevrolet Volt price below $30,000

After some news on General Motors’ plans for the Paris show, the revolution is that it wants to continue with the Chevrolet Volt: a compact hybrid that will guarantee at least 60km of autonomy, with only lithium ion batteries, in addition to the classic hybrid function of petrol, diesel or ethanol depending on the target market.

The original concept car, seen in the following images, was presented at the 2007 Detroit show, and the hope is to see a modern and minimalist style, couragious but close to current taste in cars.

60,000 units of prodution are foreseen and Chevrolet is expecting to return big thanks to this model. The price, less than $30,000, will contribute to this hope for success, especially as petrol prices continue to frighten the world’s markets. Commercialisation is expected for 2010 and in the meantime we’ll see whether we’re in a petrol crisis, like 1970, or simply if the environmental spirit of the Volt will win.

© Source: eurocarblog
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2008 Audi TT Roadster Car Review (Trailer)

From the moment we saw it as a concept car in 1995, the Audi TT cast a rather unique shadow. Audi really blew us away as they brought a car to market that was both organic in nature, symmetrical to the eye and bore the name of one of the most exciting road races in history!

The Audi TT Roadster is about as unique a convertible as you can get, and once inside you feel like a real open top sports car driver. She handles superbly and rewards you at every turn. So - while there may be harder edged sports cars out there - if you are after a stylish, energetic and definitely individual driving experience then pop out and get behind the wheel of the Audi TT Roadster.



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2008 USD GT-S Passionata Concept Study

(from Ugur Sahin Design Press Release) Ugur Sahin’s USD GT-S Passionata concept
Working at the final production preparations for our USD Corvette Z03 project, Ugur Sahin Design hereby releases the first official images of our new USD GT-S Passionata concept.

The name Passionata refers to the dedicated passion that was used by Ugur Sahin to take his Ferrari Dino concept of last year to a feasible concept study in order to create the ultimate design balance for a timeless piece of Automotive Haute Couture.

Based on the Ferrari 599 Fiorano aluminium space frame chassis and mechanicals, the USD GT-S Passionata is a grand sports tourer with a design language that hearkens back to the days of Ferrari’s iconic GT and race cars from the sixties.

The USD GT-s Passionata concept has been developed for the discerning customer who desires a perfect blend of neo-classical body design language and modern technologies and road performance. We present the USD GT-S Passionata as a feasible design concept, which indicates that when there will be a demand for customer conversions, production will be arranged.

© Source: seriouswheels
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Ford eyeing Mexico for Fiesta production

Ford has been teasing us with a US-bound Fiesta for years, and the Blue Oval has only said that the well-executed B-car would be built in North America. With time to start producing Fiestas running short, Ford appears ready to publicly announce where the vehicle will be built, and it looks like the Fiesta will be made south of the border. The extremely low cost of labor in Mexico makes building inexpensive economy cars there a no-brainer, and Ford's Cuatitlan plant already builds the current Euro Fiesta and a Fiesta-based vehicle for the Mexico/Brazil markets.

The Fiesta is scheduled to appear Stateside by 2010, but with the radical shift towards smaller, more efficient vehicles, we wouldn't be surprised if Ford bumped up that timeline.

© Source: autoblog
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2008 Hyundai Elantra

Get an all new Hyundai Elantra from www.HyundaiofNanuet.com. Friendly fast service. Visit the fastes growing Dealer in Rockland County New York



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2008 Edo Competition Maserati MC12

(from Edo Competition Press Release) Specifications:

- Engine V12

- Power est. 700 hp (514 kW) at 8200 rpm

- Max. torque est. 715 Nm (527 ft-lb) at 5800 rpm

- Performance

- Top speed > 370 km/h (230 mph)

- 0 – 100 km/h (0 – 62 mph) est. 3.5s

- 0 – 200 km/h (0 – 124 mph) est. 9.5s

- 0 – 300 km/h (0 – 186 mph) est. 22.0s

Features

- Power increase of 70 horsepower thanks to new exhaust headers like on the Ferrari FXX, highflow catalytic converter, performance muffler, modified intake system, new carbon fiber airbox like on the Maserati MC12 Corsa, high-flow air filters and ECU recalibration

- Stainless steel muffler with adjustable remote-controlled butterfly-valve, new exhaust tips

- Exhaust sound level adjustable at the push of a button

- High-performance ceramic composite brake system with 396 mm (15.6 in.) front rotors and 360 mm (14.2in.) rear rotors, special brake pads front and rear

- Wheels can be custom-painted on request

- Sport suspension for the road with adjustable compression and rebound damping like on the FIA GT MC12. Nose lift functionality is retained.

- Weight reduction of 100 kg (220 lb)!!

- Special lightweight wheels with Michelin tires

front: 10 x 19 with 265/35 ZR 19 and

rear: 13 x 20 with 335/30 ZR 20

- New transmission control unit. Same shift times as on the Maserati MC12 Corsa

© Source: seriouswheels
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Classic Cars on Offer at First Greenwich Concours Sale

On Sunday June 8 London auction house Bonhams will stage its first ever auction in conjunction with the annual Greenwich Concours d'Elegance in Connecticut. The top-priced lots are rare racing cars prized by automotive historians, such as a 1931 Maserati Tipo 8C-2800 competition two-seater, est. $600,000 - $850,000, and a 1965 McLaren-Elva M1A Sports Racer, est. $250,000- $300,000. However, there are plenty of beautiful and highly collectible cars that one can actually drive on offer as well.

Among our favorites is this perfectly-restored British made 1956 AC Ace, est. $140,000 - 180,000, in British racing green, natch. Other highlights include: a 1963 Porsche 356B 1600 Super 90 Cabriolet, est. $110,000 - 130,000; a 1972 Ferrari 365 GTC/4 Coupe, est. $110,000 - $135,000; a 1974 Jaguar Series III V-12 XK-E Roadster, est. $50,000 - $70,000; a 1971 Mercedes-Benz 280 SE 3.5 Cabriolet, est. $100,000 - $150,000; and the steal of the sale, a 1979 Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith II Saloon, est. only $25,000 - $35,000.

© Source: luxist
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Honda - Difficult is worth doing - Part 4 - Filming the stunt

“You could literally rip your head pff or break your neck!”

Clem likes to pack his own chute. It allows him to be confident that it will open the right way. At speeds up to 130 mph and with a camera strapped to his head, a “hard opening” could break his neck.



© Source: Difficult is worth doing - Part 4 - Filming the stunt
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Steve McQueen’s Driven Porsche Up for Auction

You hunt for something sporty may end here if you have enough dough to spill over or rather invest. The opportunity is to ink a neat deal with the Porsche driven by Steve McQueen in the Hollywood flick Le Mans. It would be up for auction at Bonhams & Butterfield in the US as a part of its Exceptional Motorcars and Automobili sale. The anticipated price that this coupe may fetch is $2 million.

For that amount, you would own the 1969-70 Porsche 908/2 Spyder that is a 350bhp, 3.0-litre flat-eight air-cooled speedster with a fiberglass body, tubular aluminum space frame and a car capable of hitting 200mph+. Besides driving it in Le Mans, McQueen also took a ride over it in the 1970 Sebring 12 Hours race. If you are making up your mind to possess it then auction is still 2.5 months away, so you can start saving now. Auction date: 15 August.

© Source: elitechoice
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2008 Mazda CX-9 Review

Making a great thing even better is a wonderful thing indeed -- like adding Al Pacino to the Ocean's 11 cast or plugging Alex Rodriguez into the Yankees lineup. After only one year in production, the 2008 Mazda CX-9 can now be included on that "great things made better" list along with Al, A-Rod and Diet Coke with lemon.

Last year's CX-9 featured a 263-hp, 3.5-liter V6 that we described as having "strong pull through the midrange, as well as impressive smoothness and a sporty sound when the whip is cracked." It also brought the CX-9 from zero to 60 mph in a tidy 7.7 seconds, which was very quick for its class. In other words, this was an engine that didn't need to be replaced. Mazda did it anyway. The 2008 CX-9 features a bored-out version of the "old" engine shared with the Ford Edge and other Ford family products, resulting in a 3.7-liter displacement, 273 hp and 270 lb-ft of torque. The new engine, and its transmission, is also now built in Japan rather than in the United States.

Aside from its engine, the CX-9 remains the same. It still boasts a very spacious interior, including a third-row seat that is legitimately habitable for adults, with relatively easy ingress and egress made possible by a fold-and-slide second row. That interior is also elegantly tailored in any of the three trim levels, with an attractive dash design, high feature content and excellent materials. Best of all, the CX-9 sets itself apart with superb handling that makes this 4,500-pound sport-utility feel like a much smaller vehicle. Just because this is the largest vehicle Mazda has ever produced doesn't mean it lacks that zoom-zoom attitude.

The seven-passenger midsize crossover segment is expanding faster than Donald Trump's ego. An all-new Toyota Highlander and forthcoming all-new Honda Pilot should make things harder for the 2008 Mazda CX-9, which already has been greeted with three formidable opponents from GM's Buick, GMC and Saturn divisions. Yet this Mazda's ability to meld real utility, sharp good looks, excellent quality and a fun-to-drive personality make it a very tough package to beat.

© Source: edmunds
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Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG spied

Spy photographers have captured exclusive photos of the all-new Mercedes E63 AMG - the high performance version of the as yet unrevealed Mercedes E-Class. Both cars are still at least two years away from showrooms, with the E-Class not due to make its first public appearance until the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show. Codenamed the W212, Mercedes will be abandoning its Sensotronic Brake Control (SBC) system for the new E-Class in favour of conventional brakes.

Although it will boast other features such as wet-weather disc wiping and wheel-selective cornering brake control on all variants instead.

Optional ceramic-composite discs could be introduced from top-down, starting with the AMG model pictured here for the first time, on its way to the legendary German Nürburgring race circuit.

Driver assistance will be a major theme for the new E-Class which is likely to feature lane-departure warnings, an eye-movement monitor, traffic-sign identification, road-condition sensors, and stability control that accounts for crosswinds, camber changes, and tire wear.

The engine line-up will likely mimic that of the new C-Class with the usual V6 and V8 engine plus the 370kW-plus 6.3-litre V8 for the AMG model.

© Source: caradvice
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2008 Buick Enclave Review

Buick wants to be known as a premium automaker, but none of the vehicles the brand has rolled out over the last five years have fully lived up to their luxury billing. The 2008 Buick Enclave could be the one that breaks Buick's mediocrity streak.

At first glance, the Enclave is just another new crossover SUV with a standard V6, a choice of front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, and seven- and eight-passenger seating configurations. But step inside and it's a different story from other Buicks. The cabin doesn't look like it was built to a price; rather, it comes across as a product of thoughtful design, with artistic curves to the dash, shapely front seats and Tiffany Blue-inspired illumination. On the whole, the '08 Enclave is a step up for Buick and a viable entry in the premium crossover SUV class.

The Enclave still shares its underpinnings with GM's latest batch of crossover SUVs, including the Saturn Outlook and GMC Acadia. All use fully independent suspension, and all have an all-aluminum 3.6-liter V6 good for 275 hp, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Interior dimensions are massive by midsize SUV standards. Not only can the Enclave accommodate adults in all three rows, it has a maximum cargo capacity of 116 cubic feet -- more room than most full-size sport-utilities. A 60/40-split, fold-flat third-row seat is standard in every Enclave, and in keeping with the Buick's upscale mission, twin captain's chairs are fitted in the second row. For families who need even more seating capacity, a bench seat is available for no extra charge, and conveniently, this seat also folds flat. Cloth upholstery and rich-looking wood-grain trim are standard in all Buick Enclaves, and leather is included on the upscale CXL model. All the expected safety equipment, including stability control and three-row side curtain airbags, is standard across the board.

We have no doubt that the 2008 Buick Enclave crossover SUV will be a practical family vehicle for buyers who have $35,000 to $45,000 to spend and don't want a minivan. However, its success as a luxury SUV is not as certain. Although more opulent in its design and furnishings than other Buicks, there are still a few questionable interior vinyls and plastics. That could be a liability against the upscale interior treatments of competitors like the Acura MDX, BMW X5, Lexus RX 350 and Mercedes-Benz M-Class. However, the Enclave costs less than all of these rivals, potentially offsetting this weakness.

© Source: edmunds
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Honda - Difficult is worth doing - Part 3 - The wind tunnel

“It makes doing things like this possible”

We were going to spend the next 5 days coordinating 6 jumps a day with some of the most complicated serial formations they’d ever attempted. In the sky you have one minute to practice your maneuver, whereas in the wind tunnel, time is unlimited.



© Source: boreme
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Ugur Sahin Design unveils USD GT-S Passionata concept

The Turkish designer has dreamed up the Corvette Z03 Concept, and before that brought the world his interpretation of what a modern Ferrari Dino might look like (he was a little off). It turns out that Sahin has been continually evolving his Dino design, however, and today we get our first look at the result of his extra doodling: the USD GT-S Passionata concept. Based on the Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano, the Passionata retains the grand sports tourer personality of its host chassis, but adds a body that's much more organic with swoops, bulges and soft curves everywhere the eye falls.

The mega hood scoop makes the car look a little insect-like, and we also see some cues inspired by the Corvette, Lotus and even McLaren F1 in the front end, but overall it's a knock out design and the connection to Ferrari's own design language is unmistakable. Truthfully, we just wish that we could draw cars this well. Sahin, however, is hoping to do more than just draw the Passionata, as he claims in his press release after the jump that "production will be arranged" if there's a demand for it.

Unfortunately, a brand new Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano will have to be sacrificed to build the Passionata, which we think probably violates Ferrari's warranty.

© Source: autoblog
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2008 Edo Competition Ferrari Enzo

(from Edo Competition Press Release) Specifications

Engine V12
Power est. 700 hp (514 kW) at 8200 rpm
Max. torque est. 715 Nm (527 ft-lb) at 5800 rpm

Performance
Top speed > 370 km/h (230 mph)
0 – 100 km/h (0 – 62 mph) est. 3.5s
0 – 200 km/h (0 – 124 mph) est. 9.5s
0 – 300 km/h (0 – 186 mph) est. 22.0s

Features
- Power increased to about 700 hp thanks to new exhaust headers like on the Ferrari FXX,
high-flow catalytic converter, performance muffler, modified intake with ram-air system,
high-flow air filters and ECU recalibration

- Stainless steel muffler with adjustable remote-controlled butterfly-valve, new exhaust tips

- Exhaust sound level adjustable at the push of a button

- Wheels can be custom-painted on request

- Tire pressure monitoring system displaying air pressure and tire temperature for each wheel
Sport suspension for the road with adjustable compression and rebound damping like on the FIA GT MC12. Nose lift functionality is retained.

- Special lightweight wheels with Michelin tires
Front: 10 x 19 with 265/35 ZR 19
Rear: 13 x 20 with 335/30 ZR 20

- New high-performance clutch. Extremely lightweight. Two different friction compounds selectable (strada/pista)

- New transmission control unit. Same shift times as on the Ferrari FXX.

© Source: seriouswheels
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Honda - Difficult is worth doing - Part 2 - Rehearsals on the ground

Practise on the ground, precision in the air.

NJ Worth has worked on pretty much every James Bond film since Thunderball so when he explains to his 45 strong team of world class free fall skydivers that this is one of the most challenging aerial stunt sequences he has ever had to produce.



© Source: Difficult is worth doing - Part 2 - Rehearsals on the ground
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BMW X6 35D

It’s the car that’s created a new niche in the market: an opinion-splitting mix of coupé and SUV the likes of which we’ve never seen before. Or so BMW would like you to think. If BMW’s marketing men are to be believed, the X6 is in a class of its own – and when it comes to the styling, that’s certainly true. It resembles a pumped-up X5 complete with a dramatically sloping roofline, and so is hardly lacking in road presence.

At the front, the X6 has a similar face to the X5. And the familiar feel continues inside, with the same dashboard layout. It’s logically arranged and flawlessly put together, and features superb materials. The driving position is perfect and space up front is generous, although the same cannot be said of the rear. Despite its size, the X6 is a strict four-seater – and passengers over six feet tall will struggle for headroom, due to that sloping roofline.

Boot capacity is a healthy 570 litres with the seats in place and 1,450 litres folded flat. And although the area is a little shallow, the hatchback tail makes loading much easier.

Under the skin, the X6 shares a lot mechanically with the X5, but adds BMW’s clever Dynamic Performance Control (DPC) package. This enhances the traction and stability served up by the xDrive 4x4 system by splitting torque not only between the front and rear axles, but also the left and right-hand wheels.

Adding to the fun is the 286bhp 3.0-litre twin-turbodiesel powerplant, which features under the bonnet of the X6 35d driven here. The engine is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission as standard, and provides outstanding performance, thanks to its torque figure of 580Nm.

The benchmark 0-60mph sprint is dispatched in only 6.9 seconds, yet the big X6 is also economical, returning 34mpg on the combined cycle. The oil-burner is refined as well, offering a hushed note at all times.

Other power choices in the range include a 3.0-litre diesel with a single turbo in the 30d. This delivers 235bhp and arrives later this summer. There are two twin-turbo petrol models: a 306bhp 3.0-litre and a 407bhp 4.4-litre V8 for the flagship 44i.

© Source: autoexpress
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2008 Toyota Rav4 CV6 review

The surge of urgency delivered by the engine hits all at once and is extremely sharp. To the regular driver, this can come as a total shock in certain situations. It’s way too much power to be sending through such a vehicle and in my opinion, it should have been down-tuned to reduce the spasmodic delivery of power, perhaps with more concentration on producing torque.

Interior room is impressive, as are the ergonomics of the seats. They fold down quite easily and provide easy entry/exit for children and adults. The sound system is quite average and the head-unit looks poorly integrated, unfortunately this is a trait shared with the Corolla and Kluger.

The quality of plastics is good, but some feel a bit cheap (like the dash surrounds and door handle surrounds). Interior room is great for a small family and the styling is good enough to keep the masses pleased. Fuel economy on test was reminiscent of a V6 – around 11-litres/100km.

Priced from $39,990 for the base model CV6 (as tested), prices move onto $43,990 for the SX6 and max out at $49,990 for the ZR6. The Mitsubishi Outlander and Honda CR-V offer a better package. If you are desperate for a V6 though, Mitsubishi’s offering is far more linear and smooth and is capable on mild off-road tracks. The Outlander’s engine is well behaved and can be controlled by steering wheel paddle shifters – a quaint touch.

As for the Rav4. If driven sedately it’s a car you could live with. But if the off chance arises where full power is required, you would need to be paying full attention.

Specifications :

Engine: 3.5-litre
Power: 201kW
Torque: 333Nm
Top speed: N/A
Safety: Electronic stability control- front air bags - side airbags - curtain airbags - front seatbelt pre-tensioners and load limiters.
0-100km/h: N/A
EuroNCAP rating: N/A
Turning circle: 10.6m
Fuel tank: N/A
Fuel consumption : 10.5 litres/100km (claimed)
Fuel type: 91RON unleaded

© Source: caradvice
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2008 Mercury Grand Marquis Review

Mercury's largest sedan continues to provide traditional American-car values, with rear-wheel drive, a standard V-8 engine and a spacious six-passenger interior with a roomy 20.6 cubic foot trunk. The standard 224-horsepower, 4.6-liter V-8 engine may also be ordered with E85/flex-fuel capability in some markets. A four-speed automatic is standard.

The power of the standard engine can be goosed a bit if you order the optional Handling Package (LS models only) which adds dual exhausts and boost the engine's output to 239 horsepower.

The Marquis is quiet and comfortable, with a smooth ride and relaxed handling. Four-wheel disc anti-lock brakes are standard, with traction control, front-side airbags, and a rear air suspension optional.

Changes for '08 include a simplified trim lineup, base GS and up-level LS. A Palm Beach package — your dead giveway on the target audience — includes side airbags and other upgrades. Tire pressure monitors are now standard.

Three new packages are offered for the 2008 model year as well — a GS Comfort Appearance Package adds leather, a power driver seat and painted wheels, while the GS Confidence Package includes power mirrors and traction control. The LS Travel Package gets a CD player.

© Source: thecarconnection
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1967 Mustang Fastback Gone in 60 Seconds Eleanor

© Source: seriouswheels
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MINI Cooper Cabriolet spied

A cabriolet edition of the outrageously popular MINI Cooper has been spied testing just outside the firm’s Munich headquarters.

Available later this year in Europe, the MINI Cooper Cabrio will feature the same model line-up as its hard-top sibling.

Judging by the size of the rear C-pillar, visibility doesn’t seem to have improved over the hard-top model either.

Although perhaps of most concern is the apparent lack of storage for the soft-top roof, however we will have to wait until more photos surface with the roof down before we can pass judgment.

© Source: caradvice
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2008 Toyota Yaris Rush

With 22 rivals in the light-car segment and the new Mazda2 taking some of the limelight away from Toyota’s Yaris, the Japanese giant has announced a special-edition Yaris RUSH model to give buyers a reason to come back to the Big T.

Not that Toyota needs to be worried, so far this year the Yaris has been the best selling light-car in Australia. Toyota has held this title with the Yaris and Echo for the last five years, but it never hurts to be more competitive.

Available for a limited time, Yaris RUSH is essentially a YR 5-door hatch with more than $1000 worth of added specification for $500.

The 14-inch steel wheels are replaced with 15-inch alloys from the more expensive YRX model and the standard single CD player has given way to a six-stack system with Bluetooth connectivity and added foglamps. Buyers also receive “Yaris”-branded mats and a special-edition badge.

Standard features of the YR model include twin front airbags, air-conditioning, anti-skid brakes, power windows and mirrors, seatbelt pretensioners and force limiters for the front seats and power steering.

Unfortunately buyers still need to pay an extra $750 for side and curtain airbags. Metallic paint is also an additional $300. The 1.3-litre four-cylinder Yaris is priced from $16,890 for the five-speed manual and $18,390 for the four-speed automatic.

© Source: caradvice
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Honda FCX Clarity - a small hyrbid next year

Honda has confirmed recent reports regarding its plans to expand its hybrid range. The juciest news is certainly the announcement of a new five seater that will be launched at the beginning of next year.

The brand new model will be very light and economic to manufacture, two characteristics making “the most convenient hybrid on the market”, according to the company. Honda has also underlined its versatility: the Japanese technicians have managed to place the battery much lower, creating significant volume for the boot.

The name and the models details will be revealed by the end of the year, but the company has already anticipated that we will see some style aspects from the FCX Clarity presented at Los Angeles in 2007. Honda is counting on manufacturing 200,000 units, half of which will be destined for the North American market.

© Source: eurocarblog
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Renault unveils Laguna Coupe in Cannes

With the Monaco Grand Prix and the Cannes Film Festival both taking place this weekend on the shores of the Mediterranean, Renault chose the latter as the backdrop for its latest model unveiling. The new Laguna Coupe is getting a preview amongst the stars of Cannes with a stylish new look that gets away from some of the downright bizarre hindquarters of some recent Renaults. Along with the midsized coupe, the French automaker is revealing a pair of new V6 engines fueled by gasoline and diesel.

The gas engine comes in at 3.5 liters and 240hp, and while we are unlikely to see the Laguna on US shores anytime soon (or ever, for that matter), the diesel engine will be appearing under the hood of cars from Japanese partner Nissan in 2010. The 3.0L diesel V6 was shown last fall at the Frankfurt Motor Show, generates 235hp and 331 lb.-ft. of torque, and is expected to join the Nissan Maxima lineup in a couple of years. The front-wheel-drive Laguna coupe should have some interesting chassis dynamics thanks to its four wheel steering system. Renault will provide full details on the new coupe at the Paris Motor Show in October.

© Source: autoblog
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Honda - Difficult is worth doing

Honda is taking the bold step of running a series of unbranded TV ads about skydiving to build interest ahead of the launch of a car model. The campaign, developed by ad agency Wieden & Kennedy London, consists of four short teaser clips that are devoid of any Honda branding.

“Difficult is worth doing” - is a series of short unbranded teaser advertisements around skydiving, to build interest ahead of the final ad which is being aired in June. This is one of the most expensive TV ads ever made and it’s for the launch of a car model.

Each of the clips, the first of which breaks during The Duke: A Portrait of Prince Philip, talks about different aspects of the skill needed to create large skydiving formations.

"We are hoping to give people insight, to let people in, to a certain degree, with what is happening," said the Honda account director at W&K London, Jonathan Tapper.

Difficult is worth doing - Part 1 – Introduction

This would not be a strange question should we be at the introductory lesson of pottery class but we’re at Perris Drop Zone, California, one of the leading skydive centers in the world; at the briefing for the filming for the new Honda TV ad. BJ Worth, the stunt coordinator for this commercial is briefing his team of skydivers on what they will be doing for the next 5 days.



© Source: Difficult is worth doing - Part 1 - Introduction
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Mazda2 5-door spotted in California

Although we've seen the Mazda2 before in 3- and 5-door configurations overseas, the presence of it at a local car meet in Southern California had us once again speculating about its sales potential in the States. The fact that the meet was held at Mazda's SoCal HQ means that the car could simply be undergoing evaluation, but judging by the reaction of the crowd, we think this has better sales potential than the 2009 Focus that was parked at the other end of the lot. While the exterior looked pretty spiffy, the interior looked cavernous.

Smart design, and a worthy competitor for the Yaris, Versa and Fit. While we've heard that Ford's version of this car, the Fiesta, will make it to our shores eventually, we still don't know for sure about this lovely little Mazda. Mazda keeps waffling. We'll keep our fingers crossed, especially knowing there's that Mazdaspeed2 in the mix, at least overseas. But that's where all of the magic seems to start nowadays so there is hope.

© Source: autoblog
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1971 Chevelle Convertible

Seller: Carson
Address: PO Box 127
City: Chisholm
State: Minnesota
Country: USA
Price: $46,000.00
Date Added: May 23, 2008
Expiration: September 20, 2008
Link: http://www.carsonrestoratio...
Views: 525

Description:
Beautiful Black finish so deep you swear your going to fall in. Everything on this car is new. It has a new power top with glass window. The interior is new including refurbished seats (New Covers and Foam) front and back, new cxarpeting, new door panels as well as the rear side panels. The shifter has been restored and fitted with a new cable. Outside, the quarters are new full factory quarters and new fenders up front. The inner fenders are steel and are also new. The SS grille in the front is new as well as the headlight bezels. The bumpers are new and so are the tailight and parking lights. The fenders are fitted with new lip chrome as well. This car has been completely dismantled and undergone a full rotisserie restoration. This is a sharp car, none of these pictures do it justice.

© Source: seriouswheels
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2009 Aston Martin DB9 power boost

The 2009 Aston Martin DB9 has joined its baby brother, the V8 Vantage, for a performance overhaul. The DB9’s 6.0-litre V12 engine has been boosted from 335kW to 350kW with torque now nudging the 600Nm mark.

This has shaved a tenth off the supercar’s 0-100km/h time - dropping to just 4.6 seconds with the top speed jumping to 305km/h.

Handling has also been improved thanks so revisions made to the chassis and suspension setup.

Not unlike the V8 Vantage, the 2009 DB9 will also feature a new centre console and switch gear - a highly criticised aspect of the existing model.

It will also receive a new ECU (Emotional Control Unit) as seen in the striking Aston Martin DBS.

Exterior changes include new side mirrors, a revised grill and updated 19-inch wheels.

© Source: caradvice
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Transsyberia rally 2008 Porshe teams prepare

Stuttgart. Between Moscow and Ulaanbaatar they will compete against each other, but prior to the start of the 2008 Transsyberia Rally, they all pull together: In a joint intensive training from 20 to 22 May, the 19 teams - who place their trust in the Porsche Cayenne S Transsyberia – undergo preparations for the famed long distance rally in July. Aside from extensive offroad driving practice, participants also learn how to handle the navigation system down pat. They also receive valuable tips from last year’s winner Rod Millen as well as from the double Dakar winner Andi Schulz.

The instruction course begins with general information on the rally.
Experienced competitors share their knowledge with Transsyberia rookies. In a technology seminar, Porsche engineers instruct the drivers and co-drivers. The pilots themselves are responsible for basic maintenance work. Only when major technical problems crop up or in the case of an accident does the technical team, which accompanies the participants along the entire route, step in to help. During the course, participants also practice using the sand ladder and winch as well as vehicle recovery.

During various driving sections, competitors learn how to cope with very difficult terrain conditions as well as how to control the vehicle on fast gravel passages. The training for co-drivers far exceeds the use of special navigation equipment. Professional co-driver Andi Schulz, navigator to Armin Schwarz who contests the rally for Porsche AG, gives competitors advice on the correct preparation for complex navigation tasks. Another crucial chapter includes learning to read the terrain. Only those who can interpret the countryside from a distance can show their drivers the best route and give ample warning of deep trenches, for example.

For many of the participants, the training in and around Leipzig is the first opportunity they have had to familiarise themselves with the modified Cayenne S Trannsyberia. Compared to its predecessor, the 2008-spec features an improved suspension set-up, an optimised sump guard protection and a more robust all-terrain tyre with considerably higher side walls. The 385 hp V8-petrol direct injection power unit taken from the standard Cayenne S remains unchanged. The torquey 4.8-litre engine proved to be totally reliable during the 2007 Transsyberia, even using fuel of inferior quality, like 91 Octane.

The Transsyberia Rally takes off on 11th July in Moscow and finishes after more than 7,000 kilometres on 25th July in Ulaanbaatar in Mongolia.

© Source: germancarscene
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Top Gear Maserati MC12

©Source: uk.youtube
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Aston Martin rules at auction

In an auction by Newport Pagnell, the Aston Martin broke all boundaries by generating £4.7 million (approx. $9.3 million) bids from fans. Fans from all over the world put up as much money as they could to lay their hands on the keys of their beloved ride. Distances as far as Japan and Australia didn’t make much of a difference to the bidders. The Aston Martin’s patronage speaks for itself with all the goliath efforts from its patrons.

The 961 Aston Martin DB4 GT Coupe stole the show with the highest bid of £1,079,500 (that its approximately equivalent to $2,139,650). This is the highest price paid for this model that had only 75 units.

© Source: luxurylaunches
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BMW X5 VS Porsche Cayenne

© Source: uk.youtube
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2008 Gemballa Avalanche 600 Porsche GT2 EVO

(from Gemballa Press Release) Demonstration of expertise: GEMBALLA Avalanche 600 GT2 EVO

• 600 bhp and 840 Nm torque thanks to GEMBALLA power kit
• 320 km/h, 0-100 km/h in 3.5 seconds
• Elegant and sporty body conversion with special paint finish
• Sports exhaust system and 20-inch “Racing” wheels
• Coilover suspension; more powerful braking system
• Sporty and luxurious interior trim

Being one of the premier addresses for stylish and refined Porsche tuning, GEMBALLA has earned itself a worldwide reputation over the course of time. Thanks to its outstanding expertise, proven in numerous conversions, each customer acquires a vehicle that represents the absolute pinnacle of what is achievable in terms of design and performance. One further such demonstration of its abilities is GEMBALLA’s “Avalanche 600 GT2 EVO”.

Ready for take-off?
The basis of the Avalanche 600 GT EVO is the Porsche 997 turbo or the GT2. GEMBALLA even knows how to boost the already impressive set of performance figures of the production model. 600 bhp (442 kW) put the competition from Maranello and Sant'Agata-Bolognese in a tight spot. The six-cylinder boxer with a torque of 840 Nm – power-boosted by the GEMBALLA power kit - stands out even more. Jet-like acceleration in every gear and at every speed being the outcome. A sports intercooler ensures that this performance can be reliably accessed even in hot ambient temperatures. As an option, this task can also be performed by a racing sports intercooler.

The power boost is acoustically announced by the sports exhaust system fitted by GEMBALLA, whose awesome sound thrills the vehicle occupants and listeners alike. Upon request, this can also be achieved by means of a four-pipe system instead the two tailpipe versions. GEMBALLA’s power boost allows the modified 997 to race at a top speed of 320 km/h, accomplishing the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.5 seconds. The latter can – depending on the driver’s skill – be even further enhanced by fitting the sport shifter for vehicles with a manual gearshift, reduced gear lever travel, which is available in the “Sport” and “Race” versions.

© Source: seriouswheels
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