2009 Ford Super Cabela's FX4 Edition

Ford is expanding its relationship with Cabela's, the world's largest outdoor outfitter, by offering a new Cabela's FX4 package for 2009. According to customer data, seventy-six percent of F-Series buyers hunt and fish and a key way for Ford to connect with those outdoor enthusiasts is as the official truck of Cabela’s for the last six years with products prominently placed at stores nationwide and featured in Cabela’s publications and TV programming. The Cabela's FX4 package features a unique two-tone paint scheme in five colors: Ebony, Oxford White, Forest Green Metallic, Royal Red Metallic and Silver Metallic with Sterling Grey Metallic lower body accents, running boards and wheel lip moldings. Custom mud flaps and unique Cabela's badging finish off the exterior.

The interior features standard cloth seats with the Cabela's logo or available Aniline leather seats with a unique two-tone embossed grain pattern. All weather floor mats also wear the Cabela's logo. And for the avid outdoor enthusiast, additional lockable storage in the front console and underneath the rear seats is perfect for keeping equipment secure and out of sight.

According to the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), installation of spray-in bedliners grew from 27 percent in 2004 to nearly 34 percent of all pickup trucks in 2006, and will continue to grow at a steady rate to nearly 40 percent in 2008.

Developed in partnership with PPG Industries, Tough Bed exceeds the standards of today's typical aftermarket spray-in bedliner solutions. This military-grade coating has been through the government's toughest blast mitigation testing to determine whether the material can with stand the force of a bomb blast. It has performed equal to or better than other protective coating systems at one-third the thickness.

The special bedliner material formula is immune to the effects of ultraviolet radiation and will not fade or chalk. It also protects against physical damage to the pickup box such as gouging, scratching, cracking and chipping. It is covered by a 3-year/36,000-mile factory limited warranty. All F-Series Super Duty models are built at Ford's Kentucky Truck Plant in Louisville, Ky.

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2008 Peugeot 207 HDi LeMans

To honour its long tradition of motorsport success, Peugeot Australia has secured a limited run of just 75 examples of the special edition 207 “Le Mans Series”. Based on the Peugeot 207 HDi - paying homage to its recent diesel-powered endurance racers, the special edition model features a comprehensive list of unique additions.

Buyer’s can choose between two colours - Bianca White and Obsidien Black, with the special edition models boasting a red stripe running down the centre of the car and lion’s head insignia on the doors. The 1.6 HDi engine delivers maximum power of 80kW maximum torque of 240Nm from just 1750rpm. Equipped with a Diesel Particle Filter System (FAP), fuel consumption is just 4.8 litres per 100km in the combined cycle, while emitting only 126 grams of CO2 per km.

The 207 “Le Mans Series” is distinguished on the exterior with several features as follows:
- Sport front bumper with Shadow aluminium grille
- Black Chrome headlights with AFS
- Body coloured side mouldings, bumpers strips and side view mirror
- Long racing stripe trimmed along the bonnet, roof, and rear spoiler
- Decal accents include a Peugeot logo striping on the doors and Le Mans Series logos on the tailgate
- Multispoke 17-inch Pitlane aluminium wheels
- Rear spoiler
- Chrome exhaust extension

The 207 “Le Mans Series” is now on sale from only $31,990 plus dealer delivery and on-road costs.

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2009 Mercedes-Benz McLaren 722S Roadster

Mercedes-Benz has revealed details of its astonishingly quick McLaren 722S Roadster, the car named in tribute to the Mercedes-Benz Roadster that Sir Stirling Moss drove to victory in the final Mille Miglia road race in Italy back in the 1950s.

Delivering 478kW, acceleration from 0-to-100 km/h in 3.7 seconds and a maximum speed of 335km/h, this two-seater cabriolet, according to Mercedes-Benz, surpasses the existing benchmark among open-top super sports cars – the SLR McLaren Roadster. In addition to increased power, the new SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S features even more dynamic suspension tuning and improved aerodynamics.

At the heart of the SLR Roadster 722 S is a powerful supercharged 5.5-litre, V8-engine, which is hand-built in the Mercedes-AMG engine shop in Affalterbach. The special strengths of this high-performance engine include extraordinary responsiveness to movements of the accelerator, a high torque and an unmistakable V8 sound. The maximum speed is 335km/h, which Mercedes-Benz claims is unrivalled by any other series-production roadster.

With just 150 examples, the Mercedes-Benz McLaren 722S Roadster will be predominantly hand-built at the Formula 1 workshops of McLaren in Woking, England, and the car will be available from January 1, 2009.

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2008 Paris Motor Show - Live Renault Press Conference

This Thursday, October 2nd, The Auto Channel will be presenting the Renault Press Conference live from the 2008 Paris Motor Show on TheAutoChannel.com.

The event will commence at 10AM local Paris time (that's 11AM London, 4AM New York, 1AM California). At the conclusion of the live Internet broadcast the press conference will be continuously rerun.

In the meantime, to whet your appetite, enjoy a nice promo video for Renault's Altica concept car.

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Volvo Reduced CO2-Emissions and Lower Fuel Consumption

One of the world's most advanced wind tunnels is Volvo Cars' new tool in the quest for lower fuel consumption and reduced carbon dioxide emissions. Volvo Car Corporation is the first car manufacturer to own a wind tunnel that fully simulates the airflow around and underneath the car's body, combined with wheel rotation on a flat road surface. "Our 20 Million Euro investment is already paying quick dividends. We have succeeded in reducing air resistance in the new Volvo C30 DRIVe by more than 10 percent. This in turn leads to around 3 grams lower CO2 emissions per kilometre," explains Tim Walker, aerodynamics expert at Volvo Cars.



Translated into fuel consumption, this is a reduction by just over 0.1 l/100 kilometres according to the official EU Combined Cycle. In a real driving situation, however, where speed and therefore air resistance are often higher, the actual saving in fuel can be more than twice as high, that is to say in the region of 0.3 l/100 km. This means that a driver who covers 15,000 km per year will save about 45 litres of fuel - almost a full tank in a Volvo C30. It's an economy benefit that is also appreciated by the environment.

"With a firm focus on environmental properties for the foreseeable future, our recently upgraded wind tunnel is going to be a particularly valuable tool. Aerodynamic improvements to the body and underside of the car will help us cut CO2-emissions across the whole model range," says Magnus Jonsson, Senior Vice President, Research & Development at Volvo Cars.


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Aston Martin launches DBS auto

Responding to customer requests, Aston Martin has now launched its DBS with an automatic transmission, which it is calling the Touchtronic 2.

Basically, a similar unit to the DB9’s automatic, the Touchtronic 2 is a transaxle ZF transmission which has been upgraded to handle the higher power and torque from the V12 of the DBS. Buttons on the fascia are used to select drive, park and reverse settings, with leather-trimmed magnesium paddles mounted behind the wheel to shift up and down gears. Once a paddle is activated, manual control is selected, with the driver needing to select “Drive” to return to full automatic mode. There is also a “Sport” setting with more aggressive throttle mapping and gear changes.

The 0-100km/h time of 4.3 seconds is unchanged, mainly due to a shortening of the final drive ratio from 3.15:1 to 3.46:1. Top speed of 307km/h is also unchanged.

In addition, the DBS now comes with BeoSound, Bang and Olufsen’s bespoke audio equipment for the DBS. 13 channels, 10 speakers, 1000W - it’s all fitting for Aston Martin.

An optional 2+2 seating configuration will now be offered also, along with new 10-spoke 20-inch wheels with a diamond turned surface, which saves 8kg in unsprung mass.

Pricing on the DBS starts at $497,441 for the manual, and $505,691 for the new Touchtronic 2, excluding on-road costs.

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2009 Mazda Mazdaspeed 3

The 2009 Mazdaspeed 3 is sorta like George Foreman, only there's no Mazdaspeed Lean Mean Grilling Machine and it doesn't hawk mufflers for Meineke. Other than that, totally analogous. Even though it's based on the aging 3, the 'Speed 3 keeps knocking out the competition, just like George.

Like any good high-performance special edition, the Mazdaspeed 3 benefits from being based on an excellent car to begin with. Frequently hailed as the most enjoyable car in its class to drive, the regular Mazda 3 lends some very regal bloodlines. The 'Speed 3 takes those genes and adds a turbocharged engine that cranks output up to a sensational 263 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. But the transformation from civilized 3 to "MS3" doesn't stop with the powertrain. In addition to the usual litany of changes like a lowered ride height and firmer springs and dampers, Mazda added various braces to minimize flex during aggressive cornering.

The ability to provide knockout acceleration, excellent handling manners and hatchback practicality at a very reasonable price has made the Mazdaspeed 3 a victor in every comparison test we've put it in. Rivals like the Honda Civic Si, Mini Cooper S, Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart, Nissan Sentra SE-R Spec V, Subaru WRX and Volkswagen GTI have all fallen at its feet. While some may offer a little more of this or a tad more of that -- particularly AWD and available automatic transmissions -- the mighty 2009 Mazdaspeed 3 is still the best bet in its weight class.

The Mazdaspeed 3's 2.3-liter turbocharged direct-injection four-cylinder engine pumps out 263 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque. All that power is sent to the front wheels through a six-speed manual gearbox, the only transmission available. A limited-slip differential and an electronic torque limiter (which regulates the torque based on gear selection and steering position) are used to enhance traction and minimize torque steer.

Acceleration is exhilarating, with the 0-60 sprint taking just 5.9 seconds and a blast through the quarter-mile taking only 14.2 seconds. That turbocharged power takes a toll on fuel economy; the EPA estimates 18 mpg city/26 mpg highway and 20 mpg combined.

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Acura MDX Facelift Spied

Honda engineers are hard at work testing a refreshed Acura MDX and seen here are first photos of running prototypes. Design-wise, the major changes seem to be limited to the front end. We can see through the camouflage that a new grill is definitely in the works. It appears to be a very similar grill to the one on the all-new 2009 TL.

We'd speculate that redesigned headlights and a revised lower bumper fascia are also in order, however, it's not clear if there will be any changes under the hood, despite statements from Honda saying they'd like to offer a V6 diesel in the MDX by 2010 or 2011.

© Source: worldcarfans
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Renault Ondelios Concept

It’s no suprise that the French carmakers will do their best to have the most interesting stands at the upcoming Paris Motor Show and so far it seems that Renault has taking the lead. After announcing the new Renault Megane yesterday, today they’ve released details another premiere, the Renault Ondelios. Not the most beautiful concept we’ve seen, the Ondelios is Renault’s interpretation of a high-end crossover.

First thing that stands out is the aluminium-finish grille flanked by headlamp units with LED headlights, the butterfly-type side doors and the boomerang shaped tail lights. “Ondelios is inspired by motion rather than speed and is a whole new response to the call of the open road,” said Patrick Le Quément, Renault’s Design Director.

Meant to be a luxury car, the Ondelios offers all the passengers their own Samsung interactive portable multimedia devices which they can use for sharing data or multiplayer gaming, speakers incorporated into the headrests and a multizone HVAC system enables each passenger to set the temperature to his or her own liking. The dashboard also offers a whole bunch of features, like active display skins showing driver aid and ride information, monitor at the base of the windscreen displays the different menus and pictures from the door mirror cameras, three large strip displays provide driving-related information, revs and how the hybridized drivetrain is operating and a digital speedometer.

The Renault Ondelios is built on a hybrid powertrain, which combines a 205hp (150kW) 2.0 dCi engine, with two 20kW electric motors at the front and rear, mated to a seven-speed, double-clutch gearbox. They operate in mild hybrid mode, giving the engine extra boost as required and use a brake and boost system, recovering energy during braking then delivering it to the engine to boost acceleration. The Ondelios goes from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 7.8 seconds, while keeping fuel consumption at 4.5 litres/100km (52.2 US mpg) and CO2 emissions at 120g/km.

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Future Audi EV

In the future, the state of California says that every manufacturer must have a zero-emission car,and Audi doesn’t want to be kept out of that lucrative market. Starting 2010 the company will offer its own electric version of the Up! concept revealed in 2007 at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

If built, the future electric Audi will be offered in different body versions, including a three and five-doors "service hatch"(large hatchback) first used on the A2. The car will feature a front engine, because the rear-engined concept version is too expensive to produce. It will also feature LED-s and fiber optic lights.

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Volkswagen Pickup Concept

At this week’s 62nd IAA Commercial Vehicles Show, Volkswagen will debut the VW Pickup Concept, a double-cabin pickup truck that rumors referred to as the VW Robust or Taro. The concept will actually be a preview of the production version, which is currently under development. The concept looks very interesting, especially with that ‘beach patrol’ theme, highlighted by the blue LED lights on the roof and the SAR (search and rescue) stickers on the side of its body.

No word about the specs, but, according to the German carmaker, the pickup production is scheduled to start in the fall of 2009 at the VW plant in Pachero, Argentina and sales will follow soon after, in South America, South Africa, Australia and Europe. Nothing mentioned about the US market, but we definitely expect the car to be available to across the ocean.

So, VW gets ready to enter new grounds with this pickup truck. In a market where large cars are not so attractive any more, this might look like a bold move, but, equipped with the right engine and powertrain, this car might really work for the German giant.

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SEAT Exeo at Paris auto show, Teaser Site launched

Well the Paris Motor Show surely is big stuff for the major European manufacturers. After quite a lot of them already announced to unveill new models or major facelifts for actual ones, you would think that no news could appear just a few days before the beginning of the show. Well guess again, this time Seat thought it was better late than never to begin the hype around its up coming mid-size sedan, the Exeo.

The Dutch dealership has created this clever little teaser site which counts down until the beginning of the show in Paris. Besides this timer, several photos are depicted featuring some aspects of the new model. All of them point to the Exeo, Seat’s new mid size sedan, which is Audi’s old generation A4.

As expected, the Exeo will be based on the old A4, after Volkswagen, the parent company of the two manufacturers decided that another rival for the Ford Focus or Opel Insignia wouldn’t hurt the sales. Plus it would give a boost in profits for the Spanish manufacturer which is getting back on its feet after some quite troublesome years.

Even though it will essentially be the old car, I have to admit that the latin design will be quite interesting. After all, they managed to transform a pretty dull Golf V into the gorgeous looking Leon.

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Mercedes SL500 by Lorinser

The Mercedes SL got a facelift from Sportservice Lorinser which makes the car suitable more than ever with the “Sport light” nature. Sportservice Lorinser has reset the jewel among sports cars: the aerodynamic body parts of the Swabian vehicle customiser are fascinatingly reminiscent of the original racing car character, when the letters SL still stood for "Sport Light".

The new model received a new spoiler bumper featuring three huge openings with racing grill inserts and a blade shaped spoiler hung below. New side skirts with large air openings in the rear part come to complete the sports look. The new Mercedes SL is now nearer to ground which makes driving at high speeds more fun than ever.

The RS 9 wheel is full of energy, and this central theme also applies especially to the design of the rear of the vehicle: while the series model tends to appear rather simple here, the Lorinser spoiler bumper draws a great deal of power from its strong contours.

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2009 Volvo S40

2009 Volvo S40 offers the impressive value it used to -- the base price of the entry-level 2.4i has risen by more than $4,000 to roughly what the turbocharged T5 model cost last year. As for this year's T5, now known as the T5 R-Design, its base price has ballooned to $32,350, which pits it squarely against the aforementioned all-stars.

To be fair, Volvo didn't just arbitrarily jack up the S40's price. A number of formerly optional or unavailable features are standard this year, such as Bluetooth compatibility, a six-CD changer and a sunroof. And as ever, the S40 carries on Volvo's tradition of offering top-notch safety features and superbly designed seats. As such, the base 2.4i is still a viable alternative for car shoppers who want the style and accoutrements of a premium sport sedan without the hefty price tag -- although the Acura TSX does offer more high-tech features and better safety ratings.

However, it's hard for us to recommend the 227-hp T5 R-Design and T5 AWD R-Design models, given their newly inflated prices. At about $28,000 to start, last year's T5 was an interesting "tweener" of a car, offering zesty performance and European sophistication for the price of a nicely optioned family sedan. But the 2009 S40 T5 R-Design now goes toe-to-toe with the A4 2.0T Quattro in the price column, despite lacking the Audi's handling prowess and all-around sophistication.

The 2.4i is equipped with a naturally aspirated 2.4-liter inline-5 that generates 168 hp and 170 pound-feet of torque. The T5 R-Design and T5 AWD R-Design receive a turbocharged 2.5-liter inline-5 that pumps out a healthy 227 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque. A five-speed automatic transmission is mandatory on all models.

According to Volvo, the 2.4i will trot from zero to 60 mph in an unhurried 8.4 seconds. The T5 R-Design accomplishes the same task in a more respectable 6.7 seconds, while the AWD model's added weight results in a 7.0-second sprint. EPA fuel economy estimates stand at 20 mpg city/28 highway and 23 combined for the S40 2.4i, while the T5 R-Design comes in at 19/28/23, and the T5 AWD R-Design yields 18/26/21.

© Source: edmunds
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2009 Audi TT RS Breaks Cover

The Uber TT has broken cover sans disguise. We’re digging the big air ducts on the front end. What’s under the hood is of more interest.

Supposedly it’s a twin turbo 2.5 liter five cylinder. 350hp is rumored, but given what the tuners can do with an ECU and some free flowing pipes and intercoolers, an Audi TT based budget priced 500 hp Porsche Turbo killer might not be out of the question. Somehow doubt it’s coming across the Atlantic though. Pity, as always. Note the fake TT-S grill badge!

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BMW 740 drifting

Erick Mahle, from team FULLOPP, is taking his daily driver BMW 740 for a spin... so you will never have to.



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2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution GSR

A winged, blinged all-wheel-drive sport sedan, the Lancer Evolution GSR is a continuation of a line of long-legendary rally cars that first gained notoriety on the World Rally Championship. Originally designed as a homologation model for WRX, worldwide demand grew and the first models exported to the United States were the Evo VIII or Evo 8. As with the Nissan GTR, the Lancer-Evolution’s reputation preceded its North American arrival by way of the exposure it received on the Grand Turismo video game.

The Lancer Evolution carries over the basic body design of the standard Lancer, with the addition of ground effects, a front lip kit, a rear diffuser and through the addition of the GSR Sight, Sound and Spoiler package, the famously gargantuan rear wing is included at just the right height to cut the driver’s rearward visibility in half.

A good-looking three-box sedan, it is one you shouldn’t shy away from. Possessing side lines that mimic the look of a BMW 3-Series four-door, it stands out from other vehicles in its niche. Rally-inspired foglamps and HID headlamps in front as well as the intercooler poking through a portal in the lower grille are there for all the fan-boys to get hot and bothered by, while a central NACA duct to introduce cool air to the intake and two flanking vents help to exhaust trapped air from under the hood area.

Powered by the forcefulness of a 2-liter inline four-cylinder engine with Mitsu’s MIVEC variable valve timing system, the intercooled and turbocharged engine produces 291-horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque. But that’s just on paper. The engine, known internally as the 4B11, has ditched the use of a balancer shaft as seen on the previous Evo engine, due to improved NVH and new hydraulic engine mounts.

The GSR arrives standard with a new five-speed manual gearbox that has no dedicated reverse gear. Due to space limitations, an arrangement was made to use the 1st and 3rd gears and combine them with synchromesh to get that backward motion.

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1968 Volkswagen 411

(from Volkswagen Press Release) Forty years have passed since Volkswagen presented the VW 411, at that time the company’s largest and most powerful model yet, to some 200 journalists in Wolfsburg. The journalists had earlier put the VW 411 through its paces on the new Volkswagen proving ground in Ehra-Lessien, testing the vehicle’s equipment and performance. Volkswagen built 367,728 units until production ceased in July 1974, and 416 of these are currently registered as old-timers.

The history of what was known as the Type 4 began in 1962 as development project EA 142. The economics of series production, which began in February 1967, were based on the sale of 822,500 vehicles over a four year period with daily production of 1,000 units. The price of the VW 411 ranged from 7,770 to 9,285 DM.

Compared to the VW 1500/1600 launched in 1961, the VW 411 was noticeably larger and better equipped. Volkswagen aimed to establish the new vehicle in the upper midsize segment which was beyond the reach of the Beetle and the Type 3, and to expand the market position in the long term by broadening the model range. For this reason, the publicity concentrated on technical innovations and the high level of comfort as well as highlighting typical Volkswagen characteristics such as quality, economic efficiency and service.

In the run-up to the market launch on October 5, 1968, dealers, the press and customers responded positively to the VW 411. Once the car had come to market, problems with the clutch on the first models delivered and an increasingly negative press curbed sales prospects. The most common complaints from customers related to engine and driving noise, the engine’s limited output and what was perceived as an unaesthetic front end.

The company introduced an improved version, the VW 411 E, for the 1970 model year. Electronic fuel injection boosted engine output to 80 bhp and the front end, which had given the model the nickname of “Nasenber” (coati), received a facelift. The VW 411 E Variant, provided even more space for luggage, and this estate version was soon selling twice as well as the hatchback saloon. Type 4 exports to the USA began in 1971, and the car sold better than expected there, soon accounting for roughly 40% of total sales.

Even though the VW 411/412 did not break any sales records, the model nevertheless has an important role to play in Volkswagen’s automobile history as the last large series model with air cooling and a rear-mounted engine. A 1966 prototype is on display at the Automuseum Wolfsburg. The Type 4 has by no means been forgotten. Type 4 fan clubs in Germany and abroad have been presenting their lovingly preserved automotive rarities at a stand at Techno Classica since 2005.

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2009 Mercedes-Benz S 600 Pullman Guard Limousine

(from Daimler Press Release) Mercedes-Benz is proud to present a prestigious new luxury limousine for use by government leaders, captains of industry and royalty – the S 600 Pullman Guard with integrated Highest Protection. The latest in a long and unique tradition of large, armoured, prestige limousines from the world's oldest automaker, this model also marks a special anniversary for the Stuttgart-based firm: 80 years of manufacturing vehicles with factory-integrated special protection.

The very first Mercedes-Benz car to be built with factory-integrated special protection was a Pullman limousine version of the "Nьrburg" 460 (W08) series which was introduced in 1928. At the beginning of the 1930s, this was followed by the 770 (W07) "Grand Mercedes" (which provided protection befitting the status of Japanese Emperor Hirohito, to name but one prominent user) as well as by the special-protection variants of the 500 (W08) and 770 (W 150) model series.

Like the famously luxurious and spacious open-plan Pullman railway coaches after which it is named, the new S 600 Pullman Guard treats its occupants to a travelling environment characterised by generous accommodation and the highest comfort. The vehicle owes its remarkably spacious interior to its 4315-millimetre wheelbase (115 centimetres longer than that of the long version of the special-protection S-Class). Indeed, with an overall length of 6356 millimetres, the S 600 Pullman Guard is a vehicle of truly majestic proportions which offers its passengers not only a maximum of comfort, but also a superbly appointed setting for discreet meetings, equipped, of course, with all the key communications and entertainment systems. This ensures they are always able to remain fully in touch with the rest of the world while enjoying the luxury and comfort of their own very special place in it.

The technical basis for the new Pullman limousine is provided by the S 600 Guard, the top of the Mercedes-Benz Guard range. It is powered by a superbly smooth twelve-cylinder biturbo engine with a displacement of 5513 cubic centimetres and an output of 380 kW/517 hp with an impressive 830 Nm of torque.

The suspension and basic vehicle structure have been modified as it would be impossible to guarantee the long-term overall stability of the vehicle with its extra-long wheelbase if the lengthening process consisted of simply inserting an additional body section. The modifications also provide a solid foundation for the integration of the heavy special-protection elements. Furthermore, the new state limousine is equipped with a higher rear roof for easier access and greater headroom. Four passengers can be accommodated in the rear compartment behind the partition — in comfortable seats whose face-to-face arrangement recalls the great Pullman tradition.

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Maserati GranTurismo MC Corse Concept

Maserati has taken its flagship GranTurismo S to even higher performance levels with the creation of the GranTurismo MC Concept. Designed purely as a track-day special, it boasts significant styling changes which aim to improve its aerodynamic efficiency without spoiling the elegant lines of the original model.

The Maserati Corse Concept features two large air intakes designed to improve air flow to the engine and brakes, combination air inlet/vents integrated into the bonnet and pumped guards to accommodate the wider track.

The side profile undergone extensive aerodynamic testing and now incorporates new side air vents linked to the side skirts similar to the Nissan GT-R to channel hot air from the engine bay around the car.

The rear boasts twin exit exhaust pipes integrated into the rear diffuser and a much steeper spoiler angle to compliment the added aerodynamic effects of the new front splitter.

Maserati Racing Department engineers have almost entirely stripped out any reminder of the original interior to save weight and added an FIA approved roll cage, Sparco race wheel, and carbon race seats, dashboard and control console. The Corse Concept runs a highly tuned version of the 4.7-litre V8 engine from the GranTurismo S which now develops 330.9kW and 510Nm at 4,750rpm.

This has been achieved through the installation of a high performance air intake system combined with an exhaust system fitted with a race-type catalytic converter. The end result is an overall weight of less than 1,400kg and a power to weight ration of less than 4.2kg per kW.

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Hydrogen-powered Mecedes-Benz B-Class spotted in U.S.

It sounds almost too good to be true, but cars which run on hydrogen fuel cells emit only water vapor into the atmosphere and in contrast to oil, hydrogen is not a fossil fuel with only limited reserves. However, there are many challenging hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, all of which have combined to slow the production of road-going hydrogen vehicles.

Car manufacturers are seemingly uneasy about propagating this form of motive power. Research has been going on for decades and numerous breakthroughs have been announced. So far though, only a handful of prototypes and some limited series production vehicles have appeared. A fuel cell car is basically an electric vehicle since the fuel cell stack is used to combine hydrogen with atmospheric oxygen. The chemical energy from the reaction is then converted into electric power, which drives the vehicle.

Matthias Brock from Daimler in Stuttgart said he believes that the fuel cell is very promising when it comes to zero-emission driving in local areas. Mercedes has around 100 test vehicles underway – the world’s largest fleet of fuel cell vehicles. The company is currently working on a B-class with fuel cell power, which could be produced in limited numbers from 2010. “We estimate that between 2012 and 2015, the car could be ready for series production,” Brock said.

Whether cars need to be completely emission-free is another issue. Andreas Ostermeier from the German federal environment ministry in Dessau said that the notion of zero-emissions is an irrelevance. Petrol and diesel engines no longer pose a threat to air quality. Petrol engines which comply with the Euro-5 standard laid down by the European Union use the latest technology to reduce toxins to levels far below those of even a decade ago. The same will apply to diesels when Euro 6 becomes legally binding from 2014. “Nowadays fuel consumption and a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions are at the top of the agenda,” Ostermeier said.

Hydrogen is complex to produce, which puts the fuel at a further disadvantage as conventional fuels continue to get cleaner. It is also an expensive fuel source as one example shows. Hydrogen can be gained by using steam to reform natural gas.

In regions such as South America, bio-fuels could be the most viable alternative whereas in highly-populated urban regions in Western Europe, the pure electric car offers the most potential for the future.

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Corvette ZR1 UK Pricing

The fastest and most powerful series production car from GM, the new Corvette ZR1, is on sale in the UK with first customer deliveries scheduled to arrive towards the end of the year.

And when GM says first deliveries it actually means just two left-hand drive (yep, no right-hand drive folks) models will arrive in 2008 and only single digit volumes will be available for 2009, which could be just as well since on-the-road (OTR) pricing for the 647PS Vette has been set at a whopping £109,000 ($201,000 US). Just for the record, and even though the ZR1 boasts many unique features that set it apart from the rest of the Corvettes, the 505PS Z06 costs £62,100.

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RUF GTR3 spotted

AutoJunk spotted this black-matte Ruf GTR3, and you have to admit it looks pretty amazing! I really want one!

Powering the GTR3 is a twin-turbo 3.8-liter flat six engine pumping out 700 bhp at 7,000 rpm with torque topping out at 657 lb-ft. Drive is sent to the wheels via a rumored seven-speed sequential automatic gearbox that’s said to allow the GTR3 to reach a top speed of 224 mph.

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2009 Jeep Compass Overland

Next to the Jeep Patriot Back Country Concept, Chrysler will also present the Compass Overland prototype at the Paris Auto Show.

The Jeep Compass Overland prototype takes the Compass even more upscale with premium safety, connectivity and audio features, and exterior styling cues from the Overland models of Jeep Commander and Jeep Grand Cherokee. Inside are a redesigned interior and unique, embroidered seats designed for additional comfort.

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Bentley Arnage – Final Series

It’s been 10 years since the four-door flagship of the Bentley range was released. 1998 saw the introduction of the Arnage - a stately, luxurious sedan with all the Bentley hallmarks of immense torque, precise handling and cossetting opulence. Today Bentley has announced that the last run of Arnages will be released under the Final Series banner.

A run of 150 cars will be built, but then folks, it’s all over. 90 years of tradition is wrapped up in these last cars, and it also marks the 50th anniversary of the 6.75-litre V8 that we’ve come to know in so many Bentleys. However the real kicker in the press release is this line: “Arnage Final Series also signals the end of an era, as Bentley prepares for the future.”

Bentley has also moved with the times, with the entertainment centre head unit getting an SD card slot, and IPod input, as well as USB, Mini USB, and a 3.5mm auxillary jack. Of course, Naim audio is standard.

But it’s under the bonnet that things really heat up. Using the same engine as the Brooklands, the Arnage final series gets the full-welly twin turbocharged V8, with 373kW and a colossal 1000Nm of torque. ZF’s supreme six-speed automatic bolts up to it for smooth shifting, and it will move this 2.6-tonne sedan from 0-100km/h in 5.5 seconds.

“The Final Series is the perfect model to give our Arnage flagship a splendid send off,” said Stuart McCullough, Member of the Board, Sales and Marketing. “Handcrafted at Crewe, this exclusive run of 150 cars represents the ultimate expression of Bentley luxury and effortless power.”

© Source: caradvice
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2009 Suzuki Wagon R

Suzuki has a new Wagon R on the market in Japan. It's joined by a new Wagon R Stingray variant as well, and the duo will set about filling the shoes of their bestselling predecessors. The new Wagon Rs don't lose their signature boxiness, but they wear all-new sheetmetal and sit on a longer wheelbase. The standard Wagon R gets a friendly face with large, tall headlamps, while the sportier-themed Wagon R Stingray gets a chrome grille strip that runs between its thinner, horizontal lamps.

The rest follows the standard kei-car formula. Darker, more masculine colors characterize the Stingray, while the Wagon R clearly includes women in its target audience, sporting a color palette loaded with the lighter solids and pastels. Normally-aspirated and turbocharged 660cc engines are offered, mated to either 4- or 5-speed automatics or a CVT, depending on trim level. The turbocharged Stingray with CVT even gets paddle shifters to give drivers complete control over the 64 ponies corraled underhood. A snazzier, dark interior with some nifty lighting is also available in the Stingray.

Suzuki hopes to sell 18,000 new Wagon Rs every month, and if the previous generation showed us anything, we can expect to see a variety of spinoff models over time.

© Source: autoblog
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2009 Jaguar XF Review

If Jaguar made its reputation with fast, luxurious, and beautiful sports cars exemplified by the XK series from the original XK 120 of 1949 through today's XK, it has also built some fine sedans to broaden its lineup. The best-known and most influential was the mid-sized Mark 2, produced from the late 1950s through the 1960s, is a classic today, was successfully raced, and inspired the S-Type of 1998 through 2008. The large XJ sedans, in all their various guises over the years since the nameplate debuted in 1968, have also cemented the company's reputation for distinctive styling.

Jaguar is known for its sumptuous old-English interiors, with leather and burled wood aplenty. That's the XJ, the XF, while incorporating both materials, also features textured aluminum trim for a sportier and more contemporary look. It works. There is plenty of electronic trickery - get in, press the start button, and the air vents in the dash rotate from their closed positions while the JaguarDrive Rotary Gear Selector knob rises from its flush storage position in the console - but that is appropriate for a modern luxury car. There is also plenty of room, as the high sides disguise a roof that is higher than it may appear, and moving the wheels to the car's corners produces ample interior space. Leather is used for the seats, instrument panel top, steering wheel rim, and door trim, with wood and aluminum across the dash and on the console. Plastic is notable by its absence, and what little is used looks much like the aluminum. The navigation system, standard in the Premium Luxury model, has a simple touch-screen interface, which also serves for the audio and climate control systems and trip computer.

With 300 horsepower (at 6000 rpm) and 310 lb-ft of torque (at 4100 rpm), the naturally-aspirated XF engine is by no means deficient. It's capable of moving the car from a standstill to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds, and makes wonderful music while doing so. The six-speed automatic transmission helps both acceleration and economy, and I found 25 mpg or better easily attainable at normal highway speeds. Jaguars are known as high-speed, long-distance touring machines, and the XF will shine in that role.

© Source: theautochannel
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2009 Ford Mustang

(from Ford Press Release) GLASS ROOF MUSTANG SHINES LIGHT ON 45TH ANNIVERSARY OF FORD'S ICONIC MUSCLE CAR

Roof options: Segment-first, factory-installed glass roof option now available on both the V-6 and GT models. Added extras: The "Premium" array now includes ambient lighting, satin aluminum instrument panel trim, interior upgrades and SIRIUS® Satellite Radio. Style selections: "Bullitt" and "Warriors in Pink" packages continue in 2009.

Ford Mustang, the country's best-selling sports car for 22 consecutive years and one of the auto industry's most successful nameplates ever, celebrates its 45th anniversary with a new panoramic glass roof option that opens the world to pony-car enthusiasts from Maine to Maui and all points between. The segment first, factory-installed glass roof is available as a $1,995 option on Mustang V-6 and GT models.

The glass roof joins the coupe and convertible to give Mustang customers three roof choices. It also addresses the fact that 62 percent of buyers in the sports car segment are interested in a sunroof or moonroof on their next vehicle, according to J.D. Power and Associates research. Mustang's new roof allows customers to let the sun shine in for half the price of moving up from a coupe to a convertible.

While allowing occupants an unrestricted view of the world above and around them, the special tinted, reflective glass reduces energy used by the vehicle's air conditioning system by 20 percent and also protects the interior fabric from fading and deteriorating. A manually operated roller blind allows owners to block the light on bright days.

For 2009, Ford has also added more standard equipment to the popular "Premium" arrays offered on both the Mustang V-6 and GT, including SIRIUS® Satellite Radio, ambient lighting, satin aluminum instrument panel trim and upgraded interior trim.

A new, optional GT Security Package includes an active anti-theft system and wheel locking kit and Brilliant Silver clear coat metallic joins the list of available Mustang exterior colors.

© Source: seriouswheels
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2009 Volkswagen Jetta TDI – video

Take a Road Trip with The Auto Channel in the all-new 2009 Turbo Clean Diesel VW Jetta TDI.
In this episode of ROAD TRIP, Mark Fulmer rides along with Norbert Krause, Director of Volkswagen's Engineering and Environmental Office, in the new 2009 Jetta TDI.



© Source: theautochannel
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Honda Accord - most affordable large car

During its relatively short time on the market, the new Accord has accumulated some very impressive titles mostly thanks to its big car benefits and small car economy. Overall, the four-cylinder Honda Accord has been named the most fuel efficient and affordable large car with a starting price tag of only $29,990.

The 2.4 litre EURO4 compliant DOHC i-VTEC engine produces peak power of 133kW and 222Nm, while boasting fuel economy of 8.8 litres per 100km. With an equally impressive CO2 emissions level of just 209 g/km, the Accord outstrips many medium cars in the economy stakes and even rivals some small cars.

“The Accord offers the highest level of refinement in the large car segment and represents outstanding value for money. Both variants offer excellent fuel economy, which means less money being spent at the petrol pump.”

Safety features include dual front and side airbags, ABS brakes with Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Vehicle Stability Assist, active front head restraints and front seatbelt pre-tensioners as standard.

Creature comforts are equally generous, with steering wheel mounted cruise and audio controls, dual-zone climate control, power windows and mirrors, security alarm, audio system with six-stack CD player and six speakers with MP3 compatibility as well as 16 inch alloy wheels.

© Source: caradvice
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2008 Lancia Ypsilon Versus

(from Lancia Press Release) Lancia Ypsilon Versus will be introduced at the 2008 International Paris Motor Show. Lancia Ypsilon VERSUS show car produced with the Versace Group brand that will also dress the models on the stand with garments chosen to suit the expressive motifs of the exhibition space. All this confirms the strong bond between Lancia and the world of Fashion. Together with Design and Cinema, Fashion is one of the brand's languages of reference, as is borne out by the choice of Lancia cars as official vehicles for the Milan fashion week.

The Lancia Ypsilon continues to cause a stir, confirming its place as a true icon of Italian design. This time, it is the turn of the ‘Ypsilon VERSUS’, an original version created as a result of collaboration between Lancia and Versus, a Versace Group brand that has always been a byword for exquisite styling innovation. With its pronounced tendency for a young, dynamic style, Versus reflects the taste of an audience that is very aware of fashion trends and full of vitality. Attention to detail, care over proportions and top-quality workmanship and materials are the strengths of the brand collections. So it seemed quite natural to combine the VERSUS brand with Ypsilon, the Lancia model directed at the same young and sophisticated audience.

The show car is the forerunner of a special series that will be produced in a limited edition (500 cars) and marketed from March 2009. The car confirms Lancia’s interest in the world of fashion. Despite the apparent differences between motoring and fashion, the two worlds actually share important qualities such as talent, creativity and innovation. The winning ingredients of world-renowned Italian style, in other words.

The ‘Ypsilon Versus show car’ features certain exterior features of great visual impact. Beginning with the special Bronzino Bronze body colour that bears a screen-printed ‘Versus’ logo on the roof. The exterior also boasts bronze 16" alloy rims. The original bronze chrome finish is also repeated on the grille, handles, moulding on the doors and rear bumpers and tailgate handle, sporting the Versus logo.

© Source: seriouswheels
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Audi S4

The S-express has just rolled in! These are the first pictures of the new Audi S4 flagship – and it’s lean, mean and ready to go.

Audi has bucked the trend for stuffing ever bigger engines into its ‘S’ cars with this S4 – ditching the V8 of its predecessor and instead dropping a supercharged V6 under the bonnet.

Losing the big V8 means this S4 is significantly lighter at the nose, which should improve handling, yet the supercharger means it still generates 333bhp (a loss of only 6bhp), while torque increases by 30Nm – with 439Nm now on tap!

As a result, the 0-62mph sprint is dispatched half-a-second faster, at 5.1 seconds, but fuel economy is up a substantial 26 percent! Set to make its debut at the Paris Motor Show, the newcomer loses none of the aesthetic aggression of the outgoing car, with 18-inch alloys, lowered suspension, quad exhaust pipes and trademark aluminum wing mirrors.

© Source: autoexpress
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BMW 7 Series ActiveHybrid concept

BMW has joined the hybrid party with the introduction of a 7 Series hybrid concept car which will be shown at next month’s Paris motor show. Although we have previously seen the 7 series in hydrogen form, this concept is a little more traditional-hybrid in its underpinnings and may simply be the German company’s way of saying, we can do it too.

The BMW Concept 7 Series ActiveHybrid is based on a BMW 750i, which is powered by a mighty 300 kW (600 Nm of torque) V8 petrol engine with twin turbochargers and high precision jnjection. The petrol engine is kept intact, with an electric engine added only as an aid, making this B-em-veh what the industry calls a mild hybrid.

Generating its power from brake energy regeneration, the main purpose of the electric motor is to supply electric power to the power-consuming items on board. Allowing the petrol engine to run more smoothly

Fuel and emissions ratings have both improved by a respectable 15 per cent compared with the stock 750i. Meanwhile the electric engine has added an additional 15kW of power and peak torque of 210 Nm (this does not necessarily mean the concept has 810 Nm of torque).

The concept sounds rather familiar as its core design philosophy is similar to that of the Toyota Prius. However it does differ, in the most important way, batteries!

The Big T has had well documented problems integrating Lithium-Ion batteries in the new Prius, meanwhile BMW has equipped this concept with a high-performance lithium-ion battery integrated in the luggage compartment.

From the outside the concept is differentiated by an aluminium band stretching across the entire width of the front end beneath the number plate as well as its 20-inch light-alloy rims in V-spoke design.

© Source: caradvice
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Mercedes-Benz coupé CLC 180 Sport

Its distinctive lines and clear taut surfaces mean the CLC makes a strong impression. With modern exterior design and a luxurious interior, the newest Mercedes-Benz coupé delivers on high expectations for quality and driving experience.

Model featured is a Mercedes-Benz CLC 180 Sport at £21,020 on-the-road (including VAT, delivery, 12 months’ Road Fund Licence, number plates, first registration fee and a full tank of fuel).

Credit provided subject to status by Mercedes-Benz Financial Services UK Ltd, MK7 8ND. Guarantees and indemnities may be required.

© Source: mercedes-benz.co
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Ford Ka

The baby Ford will make its world debut at next month’s Paris Motor Show, but company bosses have already confirmed trim levels. There’s a choice of Studio, Style, Style + and Zetec, each with its own unique styling features and equipment. Buyers will also be able to specify optional extras such as Bluetooth phone connectivity and heated seats.

The Ka shares platform architecture with the Fiat 500, and is built on the same production line at the Italian firm’s Tychy factory in Poland. Ford has spent thousands of hours ensuring the car is stronger dynamically than its Fiat twin, though. Engine options will be limited to a 1.2-litre petrol unit with 68bhp or a 74bhp 1.3-litre TDCi turbodiesel. Both models emit less than 120g/km of CO2, while the oil-burner promises 67.2mpg fuel returns. Ford says the Ka will arrive in showrooms here in “late 2008 to early 2009”.

© Source: autoexpress
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Mercedes Gullwing

Here’s a Merc with wings! This is the Mercedes Gullwing, set to fly to the top of the tree when it hits showrooms in 2010 after a Geneva show debut the same year. This heavily disguised mule looks like the offspring of an encounter between a Dodge Viper and a Mercedes SLR, thanks to its slung back cabin and disproportionately long bonnet, but one feature gives its true identity away – the doors.

This is the first time a Gullwing mule has been spotted with production-ready top-hinged doors (albeit sporting some gargantuan panel gaps), verifiable by the pair of riveted black panels on either side of the roof, which cover the hinges. Previous mules were a mishmash of Viper and Mercedes SL parts.

Details on the Gullwing are sparse at present, though sources suggest the newcomer, codenamed C197 internally, will wear an AMG badge and have a unique moniker aimed to distinguish it as a standalone, flagship model. To ensure exclusivity and prestige, production will run for only two years, limited to around 6000 cars per year worldwide.

It’s difficult to decipher many styling details through the distracting disguise on this test mule, but front daytime running lights are visible, as well as (only just) a pair of ‘shark fin’ vents at either side of the bonnet bulge.

Power is expected to come from either a turbocharged V8 or a naturally aspirated V10 engine, pushing out between 550bhp and 650bhp. Our spies also spotted a pair of silver paddle shifters behind the wheel of this mule (though they didn't manage to snap them), suggesting power will go to the wheels via Mercedes’ 7-Tronic automatic gearbox.

© Source: autoexpress
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