Ferrari California - new production line

Production of the Ferrari California has commenced, and for the occasion a new assembly line has been inaugurated at Maranello. The program called “formula Uomo” (a play on words meaning “formula man”) started in 1997 and was designed to render the factory work more comfortable and streamlined for staff. A new futuristic restaurant has also been opened at the facilities.

In the meantime, the wait for the little one from Ferrari is becoming nervous and the photos and video are a terrible tease coming up to the Paris debut in October.

© Source: eurocarblog
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Volkswagen Race Touareg 2 in Brazil

Commanding one-two win for Volkswagen: At the Rally dos Sertões the factory duos Giniel de Villiers/Dirk von Zitzewitz as well as Mark Miller/Ralph Pitchford captured first and second place overall.

The Volkswagen Race Touareg 2 powered by a 280-hp TDI diesel engine thus managed a successful maiden race in Brazil. On the tenth and last leg from Mossoró to Natal, de Villiers/von Zitzewitz reached the finish on the Atlantic coast as the stage winners yet again, while Miller/Pitchford finished the stage in fourth place. All of the ten possible stage wins at this extremely varied and demanding rally across a total distance of 4,500 kilometres across Brazil thus went to the “Dakar” prototype from Wolfsburg. This overall victory and second-place finish increase the tally of the Race Touareg sporting the distinctive, blue Red Bull livery to nine overall wins and a total of 28 podium places at 23 races since 2004.

For Volkswagen, the Rally dos Sertões marked another step in its preparation for the 2009 Dakar Rally, which will lead through Argentina and Chile from 03 to 18 January. After the desert classic, the 10-leg rally across Brazil has been the second-longest for the Volkswagen squad, which ventured onto new territory in terms of the geographic location as well as from a sporting perspective. The cross-country rally through Brazil held new types of routes in store for both driver pairings and put drivers and co-drivers to the test with technically demanding terrain and difficult navigation. In addition to fast sections across service roads, slow, trial-like rocky passages and slippery mud, the rally’s profile featured extremely deep water passages. The highly demanding routes thus posed a new challenge for Volkswagen and the entire team.

After winning the prologue and clinching seven subsequent stage victories, Giniel de Villiers/Dirk von Zitzewitz took the overall lead from the outset, with the Volkswagen drivers competing against seasoned local rivals. With three stage wins and consistently high speed, Mark Miller/Ralph Pitchford constantly maintained contact to their team-mates. However, due to a 48-minute time penalty after a delayed start to the penultimate special stage, they were deprived of the chance to fight a direct duel with them. Nevertheless, the advantage of the factory teams at the finish was significant: In the end, after 4,500 kilometres, overall winners de Villiers/von Zitzewitz were three, and runners-up Miller/Pitchford two hours ahead of the third-placed local Mitsubishi team Reinaldo Varela/Marcos Macedo.

© Source: germancarscene
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Ferrari at Tour Italy

Red Travel Italia has upgraded their Ferrari tours we first mentioned last year. At the wheel of the Ferrari of your choice - their new models include the 430 Scuderia F1, 599 GTB Fiorano F1, F430 Spider, and 612 Scaglietti F1 - you can tour regions such as Tuscany, Umbria and Lazio, and cities such as Milan, Rome, Florence and Naples, with five-star stops along the way.

Itineraries ranging from one to eight days are custom-tailored for a "subtle blend of art, gastronomy, fashion, architecture, and spectacular scenery." And now an assistant in an Alfa-Romeo will follow at a discreet distance to attend to your every need and make sure you don't get lost en route. Visit www.red-travel.com for more.

© Source: luxist
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2009 Porsche 911 Carrera & Carrera S Coupe & Convertible

(from Porsche Press Release) New Porsche 911 with Direct Fuel Injection and Double-Clutch Gearbox

Stuttgart. Starting on 5 July, Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, is introducing the next generation of the 911 model series. The four new models – two Coupйs and two Cabriolets – with classic rear-wheel drive offer an even higher standard of dynamic performance thanks to their all-new flat-six power units displacing 3.6 and, respectively, 3.8 litres. And the introduction for the first time of direct fuel injection on a Porsche sports car, together with the optional double-clutch gearbox Porsche-Doppelkupplung (PDK), makes the new 911 even more sporting and dynamic.

At the same time these new technologies enhance the already outstanding efficiency of the 911 to an even higher level than before: Featuring PDK, the Carrera Coupe offers outstanding fuel economy of 9.8 litres/100 kilometres, equal to 28.8 mpg imp. And with all new Carreras remaining significantly below the fuel consumption benchmark of 11 litres/100 kilometres, equal to 25.7 mpg imp, CO2 emissions are down by up to 15 per cent.

Maximum output of the 911 Carrera with its 3.6-litre power unit is up by 20 bhp to 345 bhp (254 kW). Output on the 911 Carrera S with its 3.8-litre power unit is equally impressive, up by 30 bhp to 385 bhp (283 kW). With this extra power, the Carrera S Coupй now offers a top speed of slightly over 300 km/h or 186 mph.

The new generation of the 911 is available for the first time with the new Porsche-Doppelkupplung (PDK), Porsche’s double-clutch gearbox. Offering no less than seven forward gears, the new gearbox combines the driving comfort of a converter automatic transmission with the dynamic gearshift of a sequential racing gearbox. And since PDK also boasts an automatic gearshift function, it replaces the former Porsche Tiptronic S automatic transmission on both the Carrera and Carrera S. Through its optimised and adaptive gearshift programs, PDK improves the car’s acceleration and reduces fuel consumption to a level even lower than before.

Porsche developed this gearshift principle featuring two clutches to shift gears without the slightest interruption of traction and pulling power and without even the slightest break in between gears no less than 25 years ago for motorsport. Porsche works drivers benefiting from this technology were able to accelerate faster than their competitors and keep both hands on the steering wheel while shifting gears, thus avoiding even the slightest distraction while shifting.

Prices start at Euro 69,600.- for the Carrera (Euro base price). The Carrera Cabriolet and Carrera S both retail at Euro 78,000.- (Euro base price), and the Carrera S Cabriolet is entering the market at Euro 88,000.- (Euro base price).

© Source: seriouswheels
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2008 Cobra Venom V8 Concept

(from Cobra Venom Press Release) True spiritual successor to the classic AC/Shelby Cobra has finally arrived.

Based in Surrey, UK, designer Jamie Martin is proud to reveal the new Cobra Venom V8 concept; a celebration of the great Anglo-American partnership that produced one of the most iconic racing cars of the last Century. With it's combination of unmistakable looks, raw performance and muscle-car spirit, the Cobra Venom V8 brings the power and charisma of the racing classic into the 21st Century.

Providing all of the the thrills that the name has made legend, a supercharged Ford V8 block offers projected performance figures of 0-62mph in 3.4 seconds, and a top speed of 214mph. The Cobra can once again proudly sit alongside the top marques of the World.

The original Cobra's story begins in the 1960's with the production of the Ace roadster by specialist Surrey-based British sports car company AC. Wanting to find a competitor for the Chevrolet Corvette, American ex-racing driver Carroll Shelby requested AC modify the Ace to accept a small block V8 engine, and the resulting car was re-named the Cobra. It was an instant success, and soon became a legendary race winner in both Europe and America.

When upgraded with bigger and more powerful engines, the Cobra became a fearsome and truly unbeatable racing car. Along with the mechanical alterations made to enable the original Ace to be fit for racing, the necessary bodywork alterations provided the Cobra with it's now unmistakable muscular appearance. The AC/Shelby Cobra has since become a true classic of the motoring world, as both a roadster and racing car - cementing it's iconic place in history.

© Source: seriouswheels
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Mazda3 – Next generation

The Mazda3 has been a compact darling ever since its introduction in 2004, and even though its current design is nearly five years old, it still wins many comparison tests. Since its near the end of a design cycle, a new Zoom Mazda is on its way, and some interesting renderings have been published online of what the new Mazda3 could look like.

The design theme is decidedly Mazda6-based up front, with similarly angled LED headlights and the same basic shape, but this unofficial Mazda3 is far more "in your face." The large front air dam looks more like something from the MazdaSpeed collection, and its large opening doubles as the Mazda3's grille. The side view features clean, flowing lines and the same basic shape as the current Mazda3 hatch. Out back, football-shaped LED tail lamps give this rendering a touch of class, and the similarly-shaped in-set dual exhaust looks like a concept-only touch. Due to the surprising success of the current model, the next Mazda3 has to be very, very good or it will be a big disappointment. If the next 3 looks as good as these renderings, we wouldn't be disappointed at all.

© Source: autoblog
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2008 Edo Competition Lamborghini Gallardo SLE

(from Lamborghini Press Release) With the modified Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera Edo Competition Motorsport has now added a second high-profile Italian racer to its tuning program after the Murcielago LP 640. Like its bigger brother, this sports car with the bull in its logo excels through its highlighted racing genes and more aggressive appearance after being modified at edo competition.

The most remarkable feature is the sensational acceleration. Edo Competition achieves these figures thanks to the installation of a massive air box, high flow catalytic converters which are a completely new design and a recalibration of the engine electronics. All components together raise the power output to 560 hp (411 kW) at 8,250 rpm. The power increase of 30 hp / 22 kW boosts the top speed by about 6 km/h (4 mph) to 320 km/h (199 mph). Another highlight: The sound volume of the modified exhaust system can be adjusted via remote.

The sporty concept of the Edo Gallardo Superleggera is rounded off with 19“ three-piece racing wheels with an artificially-aged cast center-section, hand-polished outer rims and 39 stainless steel screws.

The front wheels are shod in stock-sized or (on request) 245/35 ZR 19 rubber while 305/30 ZR 19 Dunlop Sport Maxx tires are used on the rear axle. With this solution Edo competition enables its customers to reuse the factory tires on their new wheels.

Edo Competition treats the masculine stance of the Gallardo Superleggera to an additional testosterone injection by lowering the suspension by a good 15 mm and through the use of corner-weighting. With these upgrades, the Lambo sticks to the road so firmly and unflappably that it would take an earthquake to upset its poise.

© Source: seriouswheels
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2008 Holden Barina spied

The upcoming Holden Barina facelift has been spied on the streets of Sydney - and it looks very happy to say the least.

Recently released in Europe as the Chevrolet Aveo, the new Barina is the creation of General Motor’s Korean design team.

The exterior changes are more than obvious, sporting a completely new front end design with new headlights, grille and bumper.

The new Barina is expected to make its official Australian debut in the coming weeks.

© Source: caradvice
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2008 Smart Fortwo 13 Contortionists

(from smart Press Release) Thirteen proves lucky for smart

How many people can you fit into a diminutive smart fortwo?

The amazing answer is 13 following a car cram staged to help celebrate smarts 10th anniversary. Owners and visitors to the annual smart Destination Brooklands event held at Mercedes-Benz World, the UKs leading automotive brand experience centre at Weybridge, were invited to take up the smart-packing challenge.

With the drivers and passengers of 1,200 smarts attending the event there was no shortage of potential participants but the winners proved to be the aptly-named smart car-tortionists, a group of body-bending specialists chosen for their gymnastic feats. They included Iona Luvsandorj, semi-finalist in this years Britains Got Talent TV series.

With remarkable flexibility, a total of 13 contortionists managed to climb aboard the micro smart which measures just 2.7 metres long by 1.6 metres wide, proving that the fortwo is small on the outside and big on the inside.

Said Iona afterwards: The interior of the smart is tardis-like and I think we exceeded the crowds expectations of how many people we could fit inside it.

© Source: seriouswheels
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2009 Pontiac Vibe GT Review

The 2009 Pontiac Vibe GT doesn't win the statuette for enthusiasts' favorite in its category. That honor still belongs to the Mazda Mazda3, which has long delivered world-class driving dynamics that are unmatched in this price segment. Still, the Vibe GT's performance is incredibly engaging relative to most others in its class, and it trumps the 3 when it comes to cargo room and passenger space. The hardworking Pontiac Vibe GT deserves a starring role, but whether it's an ideal pick for you will depend on which attributes you value most in a wagon.

Paired with the optional five-speed automatic transmission, our Vibe GT test car's 2.4-liter engine powers the wagon from zero to 60 mph in an invigorating 8.9 seconds — a fairly impressive showing for its class. Around town, this willing engine makes the GT zippy and acquiescent, allowing it to easily finesse city and freeway traffic like a surfer on the crest of a righteous wave. The Vibe's transmission proves a capable match for this torquey inline-4.

At a combined 19.3 mpg, reported fuel economy is unimpressive, and dips below EPA estimates. Those estimates peg the 2009 Pontiac Vibe GT at 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. These numbers trail those achieved by competitors like the Mazda3 and Honda Fit, and mark the GT as somewhat of a laggard in this category.

The artificially low limits of its non-defeat stability control system serve to hamper the Vibe GT's performance in skid pad and slalom testing. On the skid pad, the wagon managed an unspectacular 0.75 g, with abundant body roll. On the slalom, its average speed was a lackluster 59.1 mph. However, our test-driver did note that while the Vibe feels tall through transitions, it never feels dangerous, as its limits are kept in check. When driven less aggressively around town, the GT's steering is reasonably responsive, and the wagon tackles corners with poise.

Pontiac's wagon offers ride quality that manages to be most things for most people. It's taut enough to satisfy those seeking some connection with the tarmac, but not so stiff as to put off those whose mandate is comfort.

© Source: edmunds
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2010 Saab 9-4 X spied

If you’re into the spy shot scene you may have noticed some earlier pictures of this car scattered on the web, but our European photographers have just gotten up close and were able to verify – 100% – the true identity of this masked prototype.

We first saw this bodystyle at the Detroit Auto Show, being touted at as the 9-4X BioPower Concept, but Saab is obviously serious about bringing this to the marketplace in a timely fashion.

Codenamed GMT168, the Saab 9-4X will arrive in time for the 2010 model year. Sharing the platform with the upcoming Cadillac BRX, the Theta-Epsilon based Saab will be built in at the Ramos Arizpe plant in Mexico.

Unlike the U.S. based 9-7X, this will be sold globally. Styling – as you can easily see – will be very close to that of the concept, and powerplants will include a range of gasoline, as well as a new 250-horsepower diesel.

The 9-4X will also offer Saab’s XWD all-wheel-drive system.

© Source: caradvice
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BMW X5 hot news

This is the new big-mouthed X5 from Hartge, a firm world-renowned for its subtle tuning programmes for BMWs.

Like the Z3M Coupe or 1-Series, it's built with a whacking great 5.0-litre V8 under the bonnet.

The new car, nicknamed Road Runner, is based on the diesel X5 and features a new front spoiler, rear skirt and two-piece side sills.

A modified ECU 'performs absolute miracles', according to Hartge. By which we assume it means boosting power rather than turning diesel into wine.

The 3.0d goes up from 235bhp to 275bhp, while the torque increases from 384lb ft to 443lb ft. 0-60mph comes up in just under 7.4 seconds - a second quicker than the standard car.

A 30mm suspension drop and a set of 22-inch wheels complete the Hartge's mentalism, and if you really, must, honestly have one, it'll cost you around £60,000.

© Source: topgear
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2008 Hamann Porsche 911 Turbo Stallion

(from Hamann Press Release) A thoroughbred stallion with 630 horse powers: The HAMANN STALLION based on the Porsche 911 Turbo.

Like an Arabian stallion collecting its attention for a jump. Concentrated and full of dynamic body tension. This is how the silhouette of the super sports car called STALLION presents itself. But the latest development of the premium refiner HAMANN MOTORSPORT offers far more than a fascinating new aerodynamics concept. The efficiency boost to 630 hp and the HAMANN-sport chassis turn the STALLION into one of the most powerful and fastest sports car in the whole world.

The core of the Stallion is its modified engine. The Hamman motor technicians enhance the 3.6 litres Boxer Biturbo motor from standard 480 hp / 353 kW to 630 hp / 463 kW at 6,300 rpm. The upgrade also includes two larger VNT (variable nozzle turbochargers), a sport air strainer, a stainless steel exhaust system with metal catalytic converters and a new motor management.

These are measures which certainly hit their target. The Hamman Stallion accelerates to 100 km/h in only 3.3 seconds and is therefore six tenth of a second faster than its serial counterpart. The new maximum speed tag is sensational. With its efficiency boost and the reduced air resistance by Hamman -Aerodynamics, the Stallion achieves a maximum speed of 359 km/h.

Only the most precious materials can be found in the interior. Stallion The Hamman upholsterers only use selected leather for covering the fittings and sport seats. Aluminum gear shift and aluminum pedals make the cockpit gleam in a noble look and perfectly match with the carbon parts of the interior set. Precisely applied embroideries of the Hamman logo in the floor mats and headrests set further creative accents. All of these features complement one another in a stylish symbioses of motor sports flair and lifestyle.

© Source: seriouswheels
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$2 Million Motorcycle Auction

On 29 June, Bonhams would be auctioning off its astonishing compilation of classic bikes valued around $2 million at the Royal Air Force Museum in London. The collection details the largest single-owner collection of motorbikes ever reached the auction block, all 300 machines coming from the Professor Fritz Ehn Motorcycle Museum in Austria. The two wickedly fast and attention-inviting models include British-made Vincents: the 1955 998cc Black Prince and a 1952 998cc Black Shadow anticipated to fetch $56,000-$64,000 and $44,000 - $56,000 respectively.

Other highlights of the motorbikes include a 1935 Brough Superior 1,096cc 11-50hp, aka. The “Rolls-Royce of Motorcycles” as driven by T. E. Lawrence ($50,000 - $60,000); a 1927 BMW 500cc R47 ($36,000-$44,000); a 1937 Ariel 995cc Square Four Model 4G ($20,000-$24,000) adjoined by popularly known models by Harley Davidson, Ducati, Triumph and more. So, all you there with passion for antique and wheels shall rush now to invest their spare amount of dough by inking this neat deal.

© Source: elitechoice
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2008 ENCO 550 GT Biturbo based on Porsche Cayenne

(from ENCO Press Release) ENCO 550 GT Biturbo – Noble SUV based on the Porsche Cayenne Turbo.

The latest creation of the Saxon designer is the ENCO 550 GT Biturbo and is based on the face-lifted Porsche Cayenne. Precise craftsmanship and a perfected technology are the hallmarks of the masculine aerodynamics pack as well as the powerful motor acceleration. Striking, black lacquered XXL-rims enclose the boosted sport brake system which matches the advanced requirements.

The designer outfit makes the ENCO 550 GT Biturbo an eye-catcher on the road, and off-road as well. Accurate fabrication and perfect surfaces document the quality of the ENCO aerodynamic pack. Another component of the dynamic front is a far more sportive front apron with larger cooling slots. The very light bonnet which is strengthened by carbon has two slots, the “Powerdome” for additional fresh air supply for the front motor. The ENCO 550 GT Biturbo obtains its strong masculine accent by its broadened side wings. With its additional side spoiler the side body swells up to 1,999 mm. The ENCO rear spoiler with its integrated diffuser completes the superior appearance and makes space for the four stainless steel end pipes with its sonorous sport exhaust.

© Source: seriouswheels
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2009 Dodge Zeo Concept Video

Dodge's entry in the 2008 Detroit Auto Show concept sweeps is the new ZEO, a concept that is perhaps the polar opposite of the Viper. The four-door, four-seat sport-wagon has the typical Dodge aggression but, like its partners this year, big eight- and ten-cylinder engines are out the picture. The ZEO is a battery EV with a claimed 250-mile range courtesy of a lithium ion battery pack. It will be interesting to see if this one is a runner like most Chrysler concepts or just a mock-up.


© Source: youtube
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This Weekend Astor Collection Auto Auction

Renowned entrepreneur and broadcast veteran Art Astor is selling off part of his famous car collection in Anaheim, California this weekend. The sale, conducted by RM Auctions, mainly features American cars with a few classic imports of the kind we're partial to thrown in. We're particularly fond of this 1970 Jaguar XKE Series II Roadster, for example, which with an estimate of only $40,000 - $60,000 is something of a bargain.

Also included in the sale: a 1927 Rolls-Royce Phantom I "Playboy" roadster which was used as a movie car and has been driven by Bette Davis and Robert Redford, est. $175,000 - $250,000; a 1968 Jaguar XKE Series I.5 2+2 Fixed Head Coupe, est. $30,000 - $40,000; a 1961 Jaguar XK150 3.8 Roadster, est. $80,000 - $120,000; a rare 1941 Chrysler Town & Country Nine-Passenger Estate "woody" wagon, est. $250,000 - $300,000; and a 1954 Chevrolet Corvette Roadster. est. $125,000 - $150,000. More info via: LiveAuctioneers.com.

© Source: luxist
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Burberry Maserati Quattroporte spotted in Saudi Arabia

The unison of Italian manufacturer, Maserati and the British fashion house Burberry could never be this hideous. But some stinky rich loser in Saudi Arabia with awful taste has plastered his Maserati Quattroporte in a Burberry plaid gift-wrap paper.

I thought that type of a print only went over fragrance cartons and Burberry handbags, but this dreadful magnum opus seeks to open new gates for future gruesome innovations. The Italian maker shouldn’t turn a blind eye to this horrid attempt at blemishing its scrupulously established reputation.

© Source: luxurylaunches
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Nissan FF Hybrid - rumours about sport car

With the reign of the Japanese sports car well and truly on track to make a return, new rivalries are appearing such as the new Honda NSX is to the Nissan GT-R.

The most recent and unique addition to this bitter rivalry is Nissan’s new FF Hybrid sports car - with the Honda CR-Z squarely in its sights.

An entry-level coupe to slot into the Nissan range just below the FR, the 2+2 front-wheel drive FF coupe will feature a hybrid drivetrain, aiming to be both fuel efficient and a spirited drive.

It will be based on the existing Nissan ‘B’ platform as used on the Tiida, and follow on from new styling trademarks established on both the new Maxima and upcoming 370Z.

Lightweight aluminium panels are likely to be used extensively to keep weight below 1100kg, and its possible a flat bottom panel similar to that on the GT-R could be employed to improve aerodynamics and fuel efficiency.

It’s expected the FF coupe will be powered by a revised hybrid version of the HR15DE 1.5-litre four cylinder engine mated to a 6-speed DSG gearbox.

© Source: caradvice
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2009 Toyota iQ spied

We first saw the Concept Car iQ at last year’s Frankfurt Motor Show and were somewhat confused as to what Toyota was actually thinking. Nonetheless the Toyota iQ will go into production later this year. So it’s no surprise them to find it out and about being tested.

Toyota plans to complete with the Smart fortwo and take a chunk of the compact urban transportation market share.

However unlike the fortwo, the iQ has the capability to seat up to three passengers - and it’s less than three metres in length. Plus you can still fit a child or luggage.

Toyota has spent considerable engineering hours working this on out, but the company believes it will be a success and hailed as a breakthrough in space innovation.

© Source: caradvice
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STRUT BMW X5 Cologne

(from STRUT Site) STRUT BMW X5 Cologne Options

- Primary Grille

- Front Air Dam Intake

- STRUT Insignia

© Source: seriouswheels
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STRUT Chevrolet Tahoe Cheyenne

(from STRUT Site) STRUT Chevrolet Tahoe Cheyenne Options

- Primary Grille

- Lower Grille

© Source: seriouswheels
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STRUT Infiniti FX Ginza

(from STRUT Site) STRUT Infiniti FX Ginza Options

- Primary Grille

- Front Air Dam Intake

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STRUT Land Rover Range Rover Windsor Emerald

(from STRUT Site) STRUT Land Rover Range Rover Windsor Emerald Options

- Primary Grille

- Hood Vent

- Side Vent

- STRUT Insignia

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Porsche 911 customers say no to start&stop

Like all automobile manufacturers, Porsche 911 will soon have to deal with the new, and more severe, anti-pollution norms. Many solutions have been thrown up for the moment, not all of which are very orthodox, but one of which could be the adoption of the start&stop system on the noble six cylinder 911. This could see CO2 emissions decrese by about 10 g/km.

Apparently the brand’s customers are not all that enthusiastic about taking a drive with a Carrera that turns itself off at every red light. So how do you fix the problem? By discovering new ways. The 911 is unlikely ever to be the champion of ecology (according to Thomas Wasserback it will be difficult to get it under 200 g/km), but with a series of different solutions the company should be able to shave off a few more grams without touching performance.

© Source: eurocarblog
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STRUT Bentley Continental Flying Spur Oxford

(from STRUT Site) STRUT Options

- Primary Grille

- Front Air Dam Intake

- Rear Air Dam Escape

- Side Vent (optional)

© Source: seriouswheels
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2009 Nissan Armada Review

The most famous armada of all time was sent by King Phillip II of Spain to invade England and usurp the heretic Queen Elizabeth. This armada was enormous, formidable and a force to be feared. In the end, though, it vanished into the North Atlantic, a victim of smaller British ships, some unfortunate westerly gales and the scraggly Irish coast. Nissan hopes that its enormous, formidable 2009 Armada doesn't suffer a similar fate, although there are a few westerly gales brewing in the automotive marketplace as well.

Based on the Titan pickup, the Nissan Armada full-size SUV was introduced for 2004, a year that seemed to signal the tail end of the "to heck with fuel economy, big trucks for all!" period. It featured (and still does) several avant-garde styling elements, like its curved roof line, designed to set the Armada apart from its competitors. A refresh conducted last year gave the Armada a more pleasant cabin with smarter ergonomics and much nicer materials. In the top-level LE trim, the Nissan Armada is actually none too different from its Infiniti counterpart, the QX56.

Unlike most of its competitors, the 2009 Nissan Armada is only available with one engine, a 5.6-liter 317-horsepower V8. In addition to brisk acceleration around town and prodigious passing power, the 5.6 allows a 9,100-pound tow rating when properly equipped. We've driven the Armada with and without a trailer and were very impressed by its stamina when hitched up.

Of course, that type of power and the Armada's heavy, boxy body translate into poor fuel economy -- which is subpar even by full-size truck standards. In today's climate of high gas prices, an unstable economy and global warming concerns, Nissan's Armada is entering uncharted choppy waters. And like the Spanish Armada, the full-size Nissan has smaller models conquering its sales as buyers move away from thirsty, large SUVs.

Mind you, such vehicles will always be preferred for serious off-road and towing duties. Although a large crossover like GMC's Acadia is superior for simple people-hauling, it just can't handle the rigors of lugging a Bayliner. However, the Armada's newer rivals from Chevrolet/GMC and Toyota have similar heavy-duty capability and are superior offerings to boot, with a wider choice of engines and a more refined ride.

© Source: edmunds
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First episode of Top Gear Season 11

After a very long break, the team of Top Gear are back. The first episode aired last night and, as expected, the entire show has been posted on YouTube, broken up into six different clips. Watch them race an M3 against a Prius. BBC isn’t too happy about their content being flowed around on the internet so if the clips below at one point don’t work I will keep trying to update them or posting a new way for you guys to access the content. Enjoy the videos!



© Source: carversation
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2009 Lexus RX spied

The current Lexus RX range has been around since 2003 and it’s beginning to show its age. Australia was first introduced to the RX range with the arrival of the RX330 which was followed by the RX350 in 2006. The RX400h currently tops the range. However, Lexus is working on a new RX.

Our sources say the RX will be undergoing a major update for the 2009 model year, with production beginning on the revamped RX in late December this year, with cars expected mid-late 2009.

The “new” RX will measure in a fraction larger. It will still offer a 3.5-litre V6 (203kW & 341Nm), but we’re expecting a new 6-speed transmission to go along with the V6.

The current hybrid car only has 155kW and 288Nm of torque, however insiders say a new 400-horsepower (298kW) hybrid powerplant is expected in the RX by 2010 or 2011.

From the photos it seems that the new RX still looks like one we know now, but no doubt it will be modernised to keep up with current styling trends.

© Source: caradvice
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2008 Ronn Motor Scorpion

(from Ronn Motor Company) Ronn Motor Company is blending the world of exotic performance cars with eco friendly fuel solutions with its first car, the Scorpion. Exclusive styling and uncompromising performance engineering will deliver the ultimate driving and ownership experience.

THE SCORPION:
The first automotive design of several will be a mild hybrid, called the "Scorpion". This will be a light weight hand built carbon fiber body, over a race car designed chrome-moly chassis, powered by the latest high tech Acura V-Tech, V-6, Type S, 3.5 Liter power-plant from the 2008 TL TypeS. On board will be our Hydrogen on demand system, which provides 130 octane Hydrogen in real time, blended with gasoline in ratios of 30-50%. Coupled with a close ratio six-speed transmission and other fuel saving measures, the "Scorpion", highway fuel economy will be in the 40 mpg range, and capable of producing 450 horsepower with the twin-turbo option.

© Source: seriouswheels
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STRUT Land Rover Range Rover Sport Ascot Emerald

(from STRUT Site) STRUT Options

- Primary Grille

- Front Air Dam Intake

- Side Vent

- STRUT Insignia

© Source: seriouswheels
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Lamborghini Murcielago LP 640 Roadster Versace

At well over $700,000 Australian Dollars for the Roadster version of Lamborghini’s big V12 flagship, the Murcielago LP640, it’s fair to say that buyers of this spectacular machine are members of a very exclusive club. But in the world of the stratospherically rich, there are always buyers who quest for even more exclusivity and Lamborghini will build the perfect car for them.

Presenting, the Lamborghini Murcielago LP 640 Roadster Versace, a collaboration between two of the world’s most exclusive Italian companies, Lamborghini, who practice art on four wheels and Versace, the ultimate fine fabric fashion label. Price is unknown at this time.

This limited edition car will be built to order and is a product of a Lamborghini’s “ad personam” project, whereby clients can virtually create a car that is all but unique to them. By that, I mean, they can write their own equipment specs, paint colour and interior trim with fittings.

The LP 640 Roadster Versace, will only be available in a pastel white paint with the Versace Greek key motif on the door. The car also comes with a fully transparent engine hood, while inside, the superb sports seats are upholstered in black and white leather.

Central to the car, is the Collection LP 640 exclusive accessory collection in black matt calf skin, consisting of; briefcase, gloves, driving shoes, belt, wallet, sports bag, suitcase, pair of jeans and a hat.

For those of you who may not be able to stretch the budget to include the Lamborghini car, you at least own one of these exclusive dual branded fashion items, which you can find on display at Versace Boutiques and some Lamborghini showrooms from November this year.

© Source: caradvice
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2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class Review

Mercedes-Benz's three-pointed star has long been synonymous with style and prestige, but it has historically taken a backseat to BMW's blue and white propeller as a symbol of driving excitement. This was certainly true of the first-generation SLK roadster, which offered decent straight-line speed and a then-novel folding hardtop but lost points due to its archaic recirculating-ball steering design and generally less-than-sporting demeanor. But when the folks at Mercedes set about redesigning the SLK a few years ago, they had evidently grown tired of playing second fiddle to their Bavarian rival in the minds of discerning drivers. That's the only way to explain the downright frisky performance of the 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class roadster.

Now in its fourth year of production, the current-generation SLK continues to offer sports-carlike handling, broad-shouldered power and the all-weather convenience of a retractable hardtop. Blessed with numerous updates for 2009, this aging model remains one of the most capable and desirable cars in its class. While purists may be tempted by the standard manual transmission on base SLK300 models, speed lovers of all stripes will be intrigued by the midlevel SLK350's newly pumped-up engine. Boasting 300 horsepower and 265 pound-feet of torque -- increases of 32 hp and 7 lb-ft over last year -- the already quick SLK350 should be noticeably quicker. Also of note, all 2009 SLKs are endowed with what Mercedes calls a "Direct Steer System," which includes a 25 percent quicker steering ratio and a progressive-effort build-up based on steering angle. Other enhancements include a new 5-inch LCD screen, an in-dash six-CD changer, freshened exterior styling and optional iPod/MP3 connectivity.

None of this comes cheap, naturally, and the 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK is one of the most expensive choices for a luxury convertible or roadster. As such, one could also consider the sublime Porsche Boxster as well as less desirable (but less expensive) models like the Audi TT, BMW Z4, Honda S2000 and Nissan 350Z. However, these ragtop models lack the Benz's retractable hardtop, and they would be hard-pressed to match the SLK's classy interior appointments. What really sets the SLK apart, though, is its complete package. In the premium roadster segment, at least, the three-pointed star is now synonymous with performance as well as other, more traditional Mercedes traits.

© Source: edmunds
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