2009 Mercedes-Benz SL Preview

Mercedes-Benz has released these official photos of the facelifted SL roadster, which is heading for a world debut at the Geneva show in March.

Tracing the SL's heritage back to the 300SL Gullwing roadsters from the 1950s, Mercedes says the new SL gets reshaped headlamps, a new hood with twin power domes, air outlets behind the front wheels and new fenders that all link it more firmly to its past. The formerly optional AMG styling kit is now standard on the SL, which is set to go on sale in the spring.

A trio of models returns to the lineup: the V-8-powered SL550 with its seven-speed automatic; a V-12-powered SL600 with a five-speed automatic; and the SL63 AMG edition.

In the cockpit, a new three-spoke steering wheel has been installed (as in the CLS four-door), and new gauges wear red needles that oscillate to maximum and to zero when the car starts. An updated COMAND system integrates a six-disc changer, a music hard drive and MP3 player connectors, along with Bluetooth.

The SL's top lowers or raises in 16 seconds. The Airscarf option, which had been offered in Europe, pumps warm air around the occupants' necks in cold-weather driving. The system is built into the SL's seats and headrests; it's standard on V-12 and AMG models and an option on the V-8 version.

© Source: thecarconnection
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Nissan's GT500 GT-R to tackle SuperGT with V8 power

The debut of the production Nissan GT-R remains one of the hottest happenings in the automotive world this past year, but the return of the GT-R to Japan's SuperGT series is of equal importance. We've already seen what the new racer will look like as it gears up for its assault on the GT500 class, and today, Nissan finally released all the technical details about the SuperGT competitor. Let the bench racing begin.

As rumored, the GT-R will be powered by the VK45DE V8 that's been successfully campaigned in the 350Z over the last two years. The naturally aspirated mill produces 500+ hp and well over 376 lb.-ft. of torque. The 4.5-liter sends power to a six-speed sequential gearbox and on down to the rear wheels. Nissan opted for the V8 instead of the production GT-R's twin-turbo'd 3.8-liter V6 because the new mill is still too green to compete in the upper echelon of motorsport and the torque output isn't up to GT500 standards – something that's key to competing in SuperGT.

Nissan's Works program will be fielding five GT-Rs spread across four teams, with the first race set to begin March 15-16 at Suzuka.

© Source: autoblog
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Spyker - The car Jet Li drove in the movie War will cost you 300,000 Euros

Just got done watching the movie War with Jet Li and Jason Statham. Did I enjoy the movie? YEA! What’s not to like? Fighting, shooting, guns, all kinds of guns, gangsters killing each other.. and CARS! It doesn’t take much to make me like a movie, as long as the plot is not too wacky, and there’re planty of action, gadgets and cars to keep me entertained, I’m happy.

Anyways, back to the cars. I was just drooling over the car that Jet Li was driving. Of course as soon as the movie was done.. I was Googling for more infor about it.

This baby has 400 hourses under those curves and a top speed of 187 MPH! Unless there were some special effects added to the movie, it purrrrred like a wildcat coming at ya!

If you want to buy one it’ll cost you about 300,000 Euros (convert that yourself).

© Source: trendsquad
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Saab 9-1 concept bound for Geneva

Saab has got its work cut out for it over the next few years, as it attempts to recreate itself – once again – by offering a slew of new products that will hopefully differentiate it from the rest of the General's line. The next big small thing from Saab is the 9-1 concept, which aims to compete with the BMW 1-series, the Audi A3 and Volvo's C30.

Originally, the 9-1 was supposed to make its debut at the London Motor Show, but Saab designer Anthony Lo divulged to Auto Motor Und Sport that the new hatch would be unveiled this March at the Geneva Motor Show.

Details about Saab's new compact offering are still scarce, but expect styling to be heavily influenced by the Aero X concept, with power provided by either a turbocharged 1.4-liter four or a BioPower mill.

© Source: autoblog
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Skoda Superb

Worthy and reliable as it shall doubtless be when it goes on sale in the UK this autumn, the new Skoda Superb isn't the easiest car to get excited about.Especially when it looks, well, not vastly different to the current Superb.

But wait. Because round the back of the humble Superb lurks a technological innovation that could change the face - or at least the arse - of motoring. And that innovation is called Twindoor.

Patented by Skoda, Twindoor is a nifty tailgate that allows you to open just the bootlid to load small items, or the entire hatch - including the rear window - for bigger stuff. Which, we guess, makes the Superb half saloon and half hatch. A haloon, perhaps. Or a satch.

Still not enthused? Well, how does a 3.2-litre V6 tickle your fancy? Still nothing? Touch-screen DVD? Flappy-paddle gearbox? No? Fine, be apathetic. But don't come crawling to us when you've got an awkwardly shaped flat-pack wardrobe that won't fit into the back of your saloon.

© Source: topgear
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$15,000 Green HumanCar set for Earth Day launch

Finally, we have release date for the hotly anticipated HumanCar’s human-powered hybrid concept Imagine LMV. The green car dubbed Imagine will be unveiled on Earth Day in April which makes it a great PR move. The $15,000 super-human hybrid is expected to feature an exoskeletal safety cage chassis, dual electric motors and variable human power inputs among other standard equipment.

The Low Mass Vehicle has a top-speed of 30-mph making it doubly beneficial for the environment since a) it lets out no smoke, and b) with that kind of speed what are the odds anybody being killed in an accident! And because the car is allegedly ‘human-powered’ you can also expect to get a rigorous workout while driving it to work.

Salient features of the Imagine LMV exotic super-human hybrid electric vehicle include Plug-in iPod ‘blast-zone’ stereo standard, voice operated T2S2T Internet functionality, RFID locator, and an integrated H-chat to VOX Communications system. I expect at least Governor Schwarzenegger to buy it if no one else does!

© Source: seriouswheels
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2008 BMW 128i Convertible Road Test

Base price: $33,875
Engine: 3.0-liter in-line six with Valvetronic, 230-horsepower, 200 lb-ft
Transmission: Six-speed automatic
Length x width x height: 171.7 x 68.8 x 55.6 in
Wheelbase: 104.7 in
Curb weight: 3494 lb
Fuel economy (EPA city/hwy): 18/28 mpg
Safety features: ABS, traction control, Electronic Stability Control, front and side airbags, tire pressure monitoring system
Major standard features: Power windows, doors, and mirrors, AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system, keyless entry with alarm, alloy wheels, auto climate control, tilt/telescope wheel, power leather seats, power cloth convertible, rain-sensing wipers
Warranty: Four years/50,000 miles

How small is too small? That's the question American automakers and auto buyers alike are asking these days. The bigger the better, or so goes the traditional way of reasoning, and nowhere is that more true than in the luxury market, where a driver's personal success was long measured by the sheetmetal inch.

Rising fuel prices, concerns about global warming, and general social trends have begun to shift our way of thinking, as they already have our motoring cousins abroad. The original Baby Benz, and later the Mini and Audi A3, have begun to reshape our perceptions of luxury. And now comes BMW's redefining 1-Series coupe and cabriolet.

Of all the major luxury brands, perhaps no nameplate is more suited to downsizing than the Bavarian marque. True, BMW's big 7-Series rivals the best of the breed, but the heart and soul of the brand is its compact 3-Series. And the 3-er itself is heir to the legendary 2002, upon which the new 1-Series is modeled.

Pulling power
Since it's not that much smaller and not a lot lighter, the 1-Series really needs some pulling power. The European version we got to drive was equipped with a 3.0-liter in-line six with Valvetronic variable valve timing that makes 218-horsepower and 199 pound-feet of torque. It's a peppy package that delivers plenty of acceleration, right off the line, launching from 0-100 km/h (62 mph) in 6.8 seconds.

Our 125i felt very well connected to the road. Steering was precise and predictable. But as much as we liked the enhanced EPS technology, it was not quite BMW. There's a subtle, seat-of-the-pants difference that remains unmistakably obvious, even if only in the most aggressive turns. So, we're glad to see the maker stay with hydraulic power assist for the U.S. versions of the 1-Series.

© Source: thecarconnection
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2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart Preview

Automotive companies do battle on various levels. Their economy cars face off against the next guy's el-cheapo Kleenex box. Mid-range entries battle for volume supremacy. High-performance models duke it out at the upper end for headlines in the enthusiast press.

The 2009 Ralliart looks to fill the gap in Mitsubishi's Lancer lineup that includes the base Lancer models and the esteemed Evolution. At the Detroit auto show where the Ralliart made its debut, Mitsubishi had two previous Ralliart-badged cars to help position their newest model. The older Galant and Starion were both road-rally terrors in their day, and it was nice to see Mitsubishi polish-up those old racers and show them to the world.

The Ralliart is powered by a new 2.0-liter intercooled and turbocharged engine that develops about 235 horsepower, up from the base Lancer at 153 but well shy of the Evo's 291.

The direct-shift twin-clutch six-speed gearbox (like the Evo) feeds all four wheels via a full-time system with the manufacturer's Active Center Differential. The ACD employs an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch center differential that directs torque forward or back depending on what's going on at each exact moment. Front helical and rear mechanical limited slip differentials ensure the Mitsu can put down as much power as the road surface allows.

The Ralliart sports a more aggressively styled nose and arse, the latter featuring twin exhaust tips. Inside, the changes are minor, but include paddle shifters from the Evo. Tempting options will quickly escalate the Ralliart's base price; Recaro seats, HID headlights, 650 watt Rockford Fosgate nine-speaker audio system, Sirius satellite radio, power sunroof, and a 30 GB Hard Drive Navigation system.

The exact rollout schedule and final pricing for the Ralliart aren't set yet, but as more facts become available, we'll fill you in. It should be interesting to see how this new Lancer fares against its nemeses from Subaru and Mazda.

© Source: thecarconnection
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2009 Hummer H3T Alpha

(from Hummer Press Release) 2009 H3T BRINGS HUMMER’S UNIQUE STYLE AND LEGENDARY CAPABILITY TO THE TRUCK MARKET

CHICAGO – HUMMER is bringing its unmistakable style and unmatched capability to the truck market with the 2009 H3T. It is based on the architecture of the popular H3, but features a five-passenger crew cab and a separate five-foot-long (1.5 meters) bed.

The H3T is bigger than a midsize truck and smaller than a full-size truck, creating its own niche in the market. It also is infused with the attributes expected of a HUMMER, including exceptional off-road capability and a premium interior that is as functional as it is comfortable.

In addition to its segment-defying size, the H3T also stands apart from other trucks with its signature HUMMER off-road capability. It is the only midsize truck to come standard with full-time four-wheel drive, 32-inch tires and functional skid shields. It also is the only midsize truck to offer front and rear locking differentials, as well as 33-inch tires. The V-8-powered H3T Alpha can tow up to 5,900 pounds (2,676 kg).

Powertrain
Standard in the H3T is the Vortec 3.7L I-5 with dual overhead cams and variable valve timing. This inline five-cylinder engine offers an excellent combination of power and efficiency, delivering 242 horsepower (180 kW) at 5600 rpm* and 242 lb.-ft. of torque (328 Nm) at 4600 rpm. It is backed by a five-speed manual transmission or an available four-speed, electronically controlled automatic.

The H3T Alpha’s 5.3L engine is a powerful and efficient member of GM’s legendary small-block V-8 family. It is rated at 300 horsepower (224 kW)* and 320 lb.-ft. of torque (434 Nm).* An aluminum cylinder block is used with the H3 Alpha’s engine. It helps reduce overall mass and maintains a more desirable front-to-rear weight balance.

© Source: seriouswheels
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2009 Suzuki Equator Preview

The Suzuki pickup truck that will bow at the Chicago auto show next week could carry the name Equator, according to Web site PickupTruck.com.

New Suzuki truck will be built by Nissan North America at its Smyrna, Tenn., plant. The Suzuki pickup will be a version of Nissan's mid-size Frontier pickup, though neither company has specified whether it will be a four-door or two-door truck, long or short bed, four- or six-cylinder.

The pickup will enter production next year, and will only be sold by Suzuki in North America, and in no other global markets. Though the truck will be a rebadged Nissan Frontier, it will get a new fascia and other differentiation. It's not planned to be a high-volume vehicle, though.

In a release accompanied by this artist's rendition of the new truck, Suzuki says that "using several lightly modified versions of its new truck, Suzuki will showcase both the company's diverse brand spirit and illustrate the capability and flexibility of the all-new Suzuki truck."

Stay tuned for more details from Chicago's auto show next week.

© Source: thecarconnection
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2008 Cuda Concept Design by Rafael Reston

---- Specifications ----

Engine 5.4 liter V8
Weight 2822 lbs
Aspiration natural
Torque 580 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
HP 671 hp @ 7000 rpm
HP/Weight 4.2 lbs per hp
HP/Liter 124.3 hp per liter
Body Style Coupe
Seating Capacity 4
Doors 2
Engine Location Front
Body Material Aluminum body, carbon fiber hood
Weight 1280 kg
Length 4647.97 mm
Width (total) 1921.46 mm (2177.23 mm)
Height 1320.56 mm
Wheelbase 2946.95 mm
Front Track 1665.68 mm
Rear Track 1669.55 mm
Ground Clearance 148.22 mm
Tires Front: 275/30 - ZR 21 Rear: 330/30 - ZR 22
Wheels Front: 21 x 11 - inch machined Aluminum Rear: 22 x 12.5 - inch machined Aluminum
Cargo Volume 390 liters
Fuel Capacity 60 liters
Engine Configuration V
Cylinders 8
Aspiration/Induction Normal
Displacement 5408.7 cc / 330 cu in
Valves 40 valves / 5 valves per cylinder
Valvetrain DOHC
Horsepower 681 Cv @ 7000 RPM
Torque 580 ft-lbs @ 4400 RPM
HP to weight 1.879 Kg / Cv
HP / Liter 126.11 Cv / Liter
Redline 7250 RPM
Compression Ratio 9.2 : 1
Fuel Type Gasoline / Alcohol
Front Suspension Reverse-L independent MacPherson strut, 34 mm tubular stabilizer bar
Rear Suspension Three-link solid axle with coil springs, Panhard rod,
26 mm solid stabilizer bar

© Source: seriouswheels
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1970 Roadrunner

Seller: Corvettes Only
Address: 2300 West Hampden Ave
City: Englewood
State: Colorado
Country: USA
Price: $79,900.00
Date Added: January 30, 2008
Expiration: May 29, 2008
Link: www.corvettesonlydenver.com
Views: 50

Description:
1970 Plymouth Roadrunner(RM-Code), Burnt Orange Exterior(lazer straight)/Burnt Orange Interior(Original), 383/375 H.P.Dyno Tested, Numbers Matching, Steel Ram Air Cleaner, Edelbrock Performer Aluminum Intake w/Holly 750DP, 727-Torqueflight Automatic Transmission, 3.23:1 Rear Axle. Complete professional restoration of body, jams, engine compartment, & trunk to 100 pt. specs. Complete restoration of front & rear suspension with large sway bars & urethane bushings, & gas shocks, Wilwood front disc brake conversion. American Racing Torque Thrust wheels w/B.F.Goodrich TA radials 265/65/15 fronts & 275/60/15 rears tires. Hooker Supercomp headers with 2.5 inch aluminized Magaflow exhaust. Factory build sheets, visor tag, owners manual, restoration receipts, all OEM equipment removed comes with car including tires and wheels. You will not find a cleaner, straighter, Roadrunner then this, its perfect!!

© Source: seriouswheels
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Red Bugatti Veyron is decked up for the love season

Your thought as a Bugatti in Ferrari’s skin is justified! Although it is officially considered as the Italian red color, I’m sure none of us can stop from comparing it with the trade mark Ferrari red. But that doesn’t dampen its status as the car looks outstanding in all red with a black leather interior.

The idea was to design a car that would uncompromisingly unite the passion of the designer, the skill of the engineer, absolute luxury and racing technology.Sillicon Valey Auto Group is having this beautiful Veyron for sale with full warranty.

© Source: luxurylaunches
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Mitsubishi Lancer Prototype-S

The Geneva motor show may be over a month away, but we're already looking forward to it. Because we're going to see this: the Mitsubishi Lancer Prototype-S. And, if these sketches are anything to go by, it's going to look awesome. The Prototype-S previews a hatch version of the new Mitsubishi Lancer set to go on sale in the UK this autumn, called the Sportback.

Although Mitsubishi describes the Sportback as a competitor for the Alfa 159 Sportwagon - indicating that it falls into the estate category - the rear end looks much more conventionally hatch-ish to us: indeed, that slanted, rakish rear end reminds us of the current Focus five-door.

The Sportback is expected to account for 80 per cent of Lancer sales in the UK - the rest being saloons - and aims the Lancer squarely at the new hatchbacked Impreza.If the powertrain of Prototype-S is anyt Prototype-S,Mitsubishing to go by, the Impreza WRX ought to be worried: the Mitsubishi puts out 237bhp from its two-litre turbo engine, 10bhp up on the WRX.

Naturally, the Sportback will get Mitsubishi's full-time four-wheel-drive system with active centre diff, as well as the Evo's twin-clutch SST gearbox. However, don't expect to see the full-blown Evo in hatch form - sadly, the hottest Lancer will remain saloon-only. Which is a pity, because a car this good-looking deserves - nay, demands - the full Evo treatment.

We'll let you know if the Prototype-S lives up to expectations from the show floor in Geneva.

© Source: topgear
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2009 Ford Escape Preview

Ford's Escape crossover gets a more powerful four-cylinder engine for 2009, and that engine also gets transplanted into the Escape Hybrid and the similar Mercury Mariner/Hybrid models for the new model year.

The new engine is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that should boost fuel economy by one mile per gallon in the EPA cycle. At the same time, Ford says the new four-cylinder will make 170 horsepower, an 11-percent boost over the existing base engine. The 17 additional horsepower come in part from a new variable cam timing system and from the increase in displacement over the former 2.3-liter four.

The V-6 option gains power for 2009, too. The 3.0-liter V-6 now makes 230 horsepower, up 30 hp and also up one mpg in fuel economy thanks in part to its six-speed automatic transmission, which replaces a four-speed unit used on the Escape and Mariner last year.

Other tweaks, include a new chin spoiler and rear tire spoilers, clean up the Escape's aero profile and help boost fuel economy, while a new 16-inch tire also cuts down on rolling resistance.

Ford says the new Escape is more connected too. That's because the Sync infotainment system is offered in the 2009 model, along with the Sirius Travel Link system with 911 Assist, which helps passengers get in touch with emergency workers when the need arises.

Other revamps for 2009 include new suspension tuning and standard stability control with roll stability control on Hybrid models.

© Source: thecarconnection
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2010 Saturn Aura Spied!

First we saw it in the south of France, then in Germany, later in the States, and now in Sweden: a prototype of the production version of Opel’s GTC Concept, which made its debut in Geneva in 2007.

By adding two doors to the concept, this becomes the next generation Opel Vectra, which is now known as the Insignia. Here in the States, we’ll likely be calling this the next generation Saturn Aura. And even under the busy camouflage, one can easily see that the front styling and overall feel of the design slightly mimics Opel’s GTC Concept, as well as Saturn’s new face.

These photos also include the first interior view of the new Aura, which shows a careful evolution of the current car’s cabin.

Based on the new Epsilon 2 platform, our sources are telling us that Opel’s version will go on sale in late 2008 as a 2009 model, but we may have to wait a bit longer here in the States to see the new sleek Saturn make its debut.

© Source: thecarconnection
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Mercedes CLC

Now we've got that pesky Padberg woman out the way, we can have a proper look at the new  Mercedes CLC. We saw a couple of teaser shots of the baby coupe, but now the two-door C-Class has been revealed in all its voguish glory.

When we say C-Class, we're talking about the old one: like its predecessor, which launched in 2001, the CLC is based on the previous-gen C. But Merc engineers say they have revised more than 1,100 components to bring it bang into fashion.

Most obviously, the CLC's front end has been completely overhauled, giving it a similar face to the current C-Class. It's a similar story round the back, with a LED brakelight strip stolen straight off the C. Following the SLK and the SL, the CLC gets Merc's new direct steering system, which should provide more tactile, sporty handling and do away with the traditional lazy Mercedes cornering manners.

There are no surprises under the bonnet: the CLC comes with the same choice of engines as the current C-Class, minus the 6.2-litre V8 out the C63 AMG. Opt for one of the bigger V6s and you've got the choice of a seven-speed auto with flappy paddles, or a six-speed manual.

No word on prices yet, but the new Merc CLC will go on sale in Europe from May this year.

© Source: topgear
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Renault Twingoing cheap

Remember the baked bean price war in the 90s, when the cost of a can fell to mere pennies? Well, we're hoping for a similar battle in the city car sphere.

Because when Fiat announced the pricing for its new 500 last year, we were pleasantly surprised that the entry-level model weighed in at just £7,900.

But now Renault has gone and undercut the Italians by pricing the new base-spec Twingo Extreme at £7,500 - which, it notes pointedly, is a full £400 cheaper than the Cinq.

For your cash, you get a 1.2-litre, 60bhp petrol engine and more kit than you might expect: remote central locking, electric windows and fog lights. We were rather hoping for window winders and a four-speed 'box.

If you want to completely nullify the Twingo's cracking value, Renault will provide you with a bunch of 'personalisation exterior decals' - or stickers, as the rest of us call them - to chav up your city car. Union Jack door handles, St George wing badges... they're all there. Just say no, kids.

We eagerly await an even-more-base spec 500 from Fiat, priced at a competitive 99p.

© Source: topgear
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2008 Honda Accord EX-L V-6

(from Honda Press Release) The all-new 2008 Honda Accord moves the world of mainstream transportation in a refined, dynamic and sophisticated direction with an expanded range of innovative technologies designed for more power, greater efficiency and enhanced safety across the entire lineup of sedans and coupes.

Completely redesigned for 2008 with increased dimensions for a more spacious interior, the sedan styling theme expresses a powerful presence with sharp and strong character lines. The coupe is further individualized with an aggressive stance and unique proportions that create a muscular, sporty demeanor.

An available 3.5-liter i-VTEC V-6 engine produces 268-horsepower – the most ever for any Accord – while introducing a new generation of fuel-saving Variable Cylinder Management™ (VCM®) technology and achieving a Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (PZEV1) rating. The VCM system operates in six-cylinder mode for power and 4- and 3-cylinder modes for efficiency, resulting in an EPA city/highway fuel economy rating of 19/292 miles per gallon (Accord Sedan V-6).

Also new for Accord, an Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure enhances frontal collision compatibility with vehicles of different sizes and bumper heights. Additional safety equipment standard to all Accord models includes Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®), also known as Electronic Stability Control; sidecurtain airbags; dual-chamber front side airbags with passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS), active front seat head restraints, anti-lock brakes and more.

The Accord is available in sedan and coupe body styles with 2.4-liter 4-cylinder and 3.5-liter V-6 engine choices. Available transmissions include a 5-speed manual (standard with all 4-cylinder engines), a 5-speed automatic (standard on sedan V-6 models, available with all 4-cylinder engines and V-6-powered Accord Coupes,) and a 6-speed manual transmission (exclusive to the Accord Coupe EX-L V-6 6MT).

Sedan trim levels range from the well-equipped Accord Sedan LX and plus featured LX-P (177-horsepower 4-cylinder engine), to the nicely-equipped Accord Sedan EX (190-horsepower 4-cylinder engine or 268-horsepower V-6 engine), to the premium and upscale Accord Sedan EX-L (190-horsepower 4-cylinder engine or 268-horsepower V-6 engine). Coupe trim levels range from the well-equipped Accord Coupe LX-S (190 horsepower 4-cylinder engine), to the nicely-equipped Accord Coupe EX (190-horsepower 4-cylinder engine) to the premium and upscale Accord Coupe EX-L (190-horsepower 4-cylinder engine or 268-horsepower V-6 engine).

© Source: seriouswheels
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2008 Lexus RX 400h Review

Introduction
When it debuted two years ago, the Lexus RX 400h marked the beginning of a new paradigm by introducing more efficient hybrid technology to the popular but highly consumptive luxury SUV segment. While more affordable hybrid utilities from Toyota and Ford have been around for several years and other larger upscale SUVs from Chrysler and GM are now joining the hybrid parade, the 2008 Lexus RX 400h remains the lone "green" entry in the midsize luxury utility class.

Using full-hybrid technology, the RX 400h's gasoline/electric powertrain can operate in gas-engine-only, electric-only or combination modes depending on conditions. The system combines a V6 engine with an electric motor-generator to drive the front wheels and stores its energy in a nickel metal hydride battery pack that fits inconspicuously under the vehicle's rear seat. (All-wheel-drive models feature an additional electric motor to drive the rear wheels.) These components work together seamlessly to generate up to 268 horsepower and 0-60-mph sprints in fewer than 8 seconds. During light acceleration or when coasting, the 400h saves fuel by running solely on battery power. It all adds up to acceleration similar to that of some V8-powered rivals while achieving the best fuel economy in the midsize luxury SUV class.

Of course, none of this comes cheap. A typically equipped 400h will cost close to $50,000, about $4,000 more than a similar RX 350. Even with gas above $3 a gallon, it will take many miles and years of driving to recoup the cost. And from a pure "save the planet" standpoint, buying a Prius still makes much more sense. That said, this is still one very likable vehicle. Quick, fuel efficient and luxurious, the RX 400h comes with a set of attributes that just about any luxury SUV buyer will find appealing.

© Source: edmunds
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2008 Honda S2000 CR

(from Honda Press Release) The S2000 CR is an entirely new trim level for 2008. The lighter, stiffer and more aggressive overall design is engineered to maximize the S2000's potential on a racetrack with the goal of substantially-improving track times, chassis balance and feel. Compared to the S2000, the factory-tuned S2000 CR provides more aggressive track-oriented suspension settings, increased body and chassis rigidity, overall weight reduction, and aerodynamic spoilers tuned for reduced lift and enhanced chassis balance at high speeds. A removable aluminum hardtop replaces the convertible soft top.

The aerodynamic package reduces lift through large and specially-tuned front and rear spoilers. Exclusive chassis features include a quicker steering ratio, more aggressive Bridgestone Potenza RE070 tires (in place of RE050 tires), a larger rear tire size, firmer springs and dampers, larger stabilizer bars and the S2000's new wheel design in Kaiser Silver. A rear body brace has been added to the area previously occupied by the soft top, resulting in additional rigidity. Relative to the base 2008 S2000, cumulative weight savings total 51 pounds (hardtop installed) and 99 pounds (hardtop removed). A sport-tuned muffler adds to the vehicles heightened performance feel.

The S2000 CR interior follows traditional racecar themes. Fabric seating surfaces with yellow stitching help create a sporty appearance while synthetic suede bolsters enhance lateral grip. An exclusive spherical aluminum shift knob on the S2000 CR rests 12.6 mm lower for a 6 percent reduction in shift stroke compared to the conventional S2000 cylindrical shift knob (aluminum/leather wrapped). Additionally, shift load effort increases by 10 percent for even more direct feedback when engaging a gear.

© Source: seriouswheels
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2008 Jeep Commander Review

What's New for 2008
Engine and feature upgrades are in store for the 2008 Jeep Commander. The 4.7-liter V8 is considerably more powerful this year as well as being slightly more fuel efficient. Off-road technology and versatility are bolstered with the Hill Descent Control and Hill Start Assist electronic driving aids as part of the Quadra-Drive II four-wheel-drive system. Inside, the Commander has five-passenger seating available for the first time. To entertain the troops, this year's Commander can now be had with the hard-drive-based "MyGIG" infotainment system and Sirius Backseat TV.

Introduction
Jeep's big people mover is back for its third year of production. It's the only seven-passenger SUV in Jeep's lineup, and it carries the burden of providing rugged off-road abilities with luxury and convenience features for the whole family.

Though its blocky exterior styling is obviously influenced by the beloved Cherokee of the 1980s and '90s, the Commander is actually related to the current Grand Cherokee. It rides on the same wheelbase but is a little longer and notably taller. The height gain, in particular, allows the addition of stadium-style rear seating and a 50/50-split fold-flat third-row seat.

For 2008, the Jeep Commander receives a few significant changes. Under the hood you'll find a revised version of the optional 4.7-liter V8 engine. It now makes 305 horsepower, a whopping 70-hp increase over last year's 4.7-liter V8. Jeep even says that the new engine is slightly more fuel efficient (although gas mileage is still pretty abysmal). The base V6 and top-shelf 5.7-liter V8 remain, but we think that the vast majority of buyers will be quite satisfied with the new 4.7-liter V8.

While these changes are welcome, the 2008 Jeep Commander still suffers from problems it had from the outset. Most significantly, its cargo capacity is meager for this segment of vehicle and the third-row seat -- the whole reason for the Commander in the first place -- is cramped and suitable for small children only. Meanwhile, the tall height and rugged suspension don't do the vehicle any favors in terms of on-road manners. Though still a decent choice for a shopper wanting real off-road ability plus seven-passenger capacity, we think most shoppers will be better off with more well-rounded midsize SUV choices like the Ford Explorer and Toyota 4Runner. And if seven-passenger capacity is a priority, crossovers like GMC's Acadia or Mazda's CX-9 are also excellent choices.

© Source: edmunds
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2008 Honda S2000

(from Honda Press Release) The manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) for the 2008 Honda S2000 starts at $34,300, plus destination and handling charges, when the vehicle goes on sale today, announced American Honda Motor Co., Inc. The 2008 S2000 MSRP reflects a $50 increase compared to 2007 prices.

The MSRP* for the newly-introduced S2000 CR starts at $36,300, plus destination and handling charges. The S2000 CR enhances the S2000 with more track-oriented suspension settings, aerodynamic-enhancing bodywork, a removable aluminum hardtop that replaces the convertible soft top, higher rigidity and reduced weight. The S2000 CR equipped with air conditioning and an AM/FM/CD audio system is available for the MSRP* of $37,300, plus destination and handling charges.

The S2000 represents the purest expression of Honda fun-to-drive DNA with its 2-seat, open-topped roadster configuration and sophisticated front-engine, rear-wheel-drive platform. As a true sports car that can serve as a practical and fun daily driver that can also feel equally at home on a racetrack, the 2008 S2000 further evolves with the addition of a club racer-inspired S2000 CR. The added S2000 CR features are designed to appeal to enthusiasts who enjoy open track day events and also provide a more ideal starting point for racers who modify the S2000 for competition in club racing events.The front engine, rear-wheel-drive S2000 rewards driving enthusiasts with a potent 2.2-liter, 16-valve DOHC VTEC® 4-cylinder engine and a precise, short-throw 6-speed manual transmission, along with tenacious handling and an ideal 50/50 weight balance.

The renowned high-revving engine delivers 237 horsepower at 7800 rpm and 162 lb-ft. of torque at 6800 rpm. Perfectly complementing the engine's high-output characteristic is a compact, longitudinally-mounted, close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission that features a direct linkage for precise shifting and quick throws. Additional performance features include a front and rear double wishbone suspension, electric power steering and a torque-sensing limited-slip rear differential.

New for 2008, the S2000 has revised spring and damper tuning that subtly influences steering feel and high speed vehicle behavior. The instrument panel has a revised meter design for the fuel and temperature gauges, adding to the aesthetics of the display. Specifically, the fuel and temperature meters now reside along the arc formed by the tachometer instead of a semi-circle configuration below and to the right of the tachometer. Also, a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) has been added.The S2000 has dual-stage, dual-threshold front airbags (SRS) for the driver and passenger, three-point seat belts with load limiters and automatic tensioning system, and roll bar.

© Source: seriouswheels
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1949 Ford F-8 School Bus 403 Olds School Bus

Seller: autobarn
Address: 325 McGill Ave, Ste 500
City: Concord
State: North Carolina
Country: USA
Price: $165,000.00
Date Added: January 27, 2008
Expiration: March 27, 2008
Link: http://autobarnclassiccars....
Views: 1549

Description:
Stock Number: 1118, Year: 1949, Engine: 403 Olds, Exterior Color: Yellow, Interior Color: Grey, Transmission: Automatic, DoorsSchool Bus, STK 1118: 1949 Ford F-8 School Bus. This overwelming creation just gushes excitement and enthusiasm. It has been seen nationally by millions of people and featured on numerous TV programs as well as magazines. No detail was overlooked on this restored/modified wonder, it turns heads of all ages at any venue.

This massive 8ft. wide bus is lowered 3.5 ft., shortened 7 ft. and sports a 403ci Oldsmoble engine with front wheel drive on a complete Eldorado frame. Listed is a sampling of the coverage that the School Bus has attained. Monster Garage Show on the Discovery Channel - School Book Fairs across the Nation - Featured on a Major Japanese TV Network show - HOT ROAD TV - Speed Channel - NBC News in Washington DC, Philadelphia, PA - ABC News in Detroit - numerous magazines and newspapers all across America, Europe and Canada - Featured Vehicle at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas 2 years in a row - Traveled to 45 States and Canada - Major West Coast TV coverage - 1 Year Representing the Childrens Inn at the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, MD - Sold over 10,000 T-shirts. Call 800-650-1055 or visit us at www.autobarnclassiccars.com for additional information.

© Source: seriouswheels
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2008 speedART BTR-XL 600 Cabriolet based on Porsche 911 Turbo

(from speedART Press Release) 2008 speed ART BTR-XL 600 based on Porsche 997 Turbo convertible.

• BTR-XL 600: his kryptical shortening stands for "Bi-Turbo Racer - Extra Large" with 600 hp
• Power: 600 hp / 800 nm - modified VTG-Turbo-charger
• Exhaust-system: Sport – exhaust with sound switch and black tail pipes, sport-catalysts and headers
• Aerodynamic: Aerodynamic–Kit BTR-XL includes frontbumper and front chin spoiler with carbon-grill for better cooling and aerodynamic, side skirts, rear diffusor, adjustable rear-spoiler and carbon covered mirrors in zinnober-red (speedART special color)
• Suspension: adjustable sport-suspension
• Brake: Sport-brake-system FA: 380 x 32 mm 6 piston, RA: 380 x 28 mm 4 piston
• Interior: different carbon parts, 340mm speedART airbag-sport steering wheel, short shifter, speedART floor mats set and speedART entrance blends.
• Wheels right: RSC II Elegance BE, 3-piece. FA: 8,5 x 20“ with 245/30 ZR20; RA: 12 x 20“ with 325/25 ZR20 inner wheel center in black
• Wheels left: Cross Racing 3-tlg. FA: 8,5 x 20” with 245/30 ZR20; RA: 12 x 20” with 325/25 ZR20 inner wheel center in white
• Performance data: 0 – 100 km/h: 3,4s
0 – 200 km/h: 10,8s
V-max: 325 km/h (without modified gearbox)

© Source: seriouswheels
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2008 Audi Q7 test drive

Audi Q7 is our clear favorite, compared to the utes that share its running gear, the Porsche Cayenne and the Volkswagen Touareg. The Q7’s the only one with a third-row option, for one, and its suave styling trumps the plain look of the Touareg and the dowdy, ungainly Cayenne. And when we road tested it last year, we favored the Q7 over the BMW X5, saying “Despite its beefy stats and tons of equipment, Audi’s first true SUV is a lighter, nimbler piece than its data sheet spells out. Among its colleagues,ews only the Range Rover Sport approaches its sense of style and deft blend of on- and off-road personalities.”

It holds true in the 2008 model year, as the Audi’s luxe interior continues to impress us, and the pals we chum around in it. The Q7 has stunning interior materials for a sport-ute. The carpeting in the cargo area is better than most “custom-built” homes we saw while gawking this month, and they’re bordered in high-quality trim, with bits of chrome even apparent behind the second-row seats. I’m not a big user of third-row seats, but with them folded down the Q7’s cargo hold would easily swallow two weeks’ worth of luggage.

This time around, we found a little less to like about the six-speed Tiptronic automatic. It’s a little quick to dodge around the gears, and the throttle tip-in it set to feel quick–but it can feel jumpy in city-street driving.Another disappointment in any SUV of this size is fuel economy, and in this the Audi’s doesn’t disappoint. City mileage is tagged at 12 mpg — and on the highway it doesn’t get much better, at 17 mpg.

My test vehicle carried a base price of $59,375, with a generous helping of standard gear ladled on, including a navigation system, the third-row seat, Sirius, a rearview camera, and a power tailgate. Options including an air suspension, a panorama sunroof, chrome wheels and voice-activated navigation, pulled the tally to $66,775.

If that tab for the Q7 doesn’t make you blink, the few minor quibbles we have with its transmission should be easy enough to overlook. But Land Rover’s Range Rover Sport is a good alternative in this sky-high price range.

© Source: thecarconnection
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Cadillac BLS Wagon

If you're the sort of person who panics in coffee shops at the myriad options - skinny, tall, half-caf, semi-ethical, all of that - and just want a damn cup of coffee without the questions, the new Cadillac BLS Wagon might be for you.

So long as you're looking for a reskinned Saab 9-3 with blocky styling, that is. Because the BLS Wagon does away with the confusing lists of trim levels and options, and instead embraces the Henry Ford school of choice. In that you don't get any.

The BLS Wagon comes in one single trim level, which Cadillac calls Elegance and we call The Whole Enchilada because we're a bit sad like that. You get leather, satnav, parking sensors and, well, everything really.

You do get some choice in powertrain department, however. Engines range from a 1.9-litre, 148bhp turbodiesel to the biggest 2.8-litre V6, which develops 252bhp.

Our partners has driven the BLS Wagon, and now we can report that it's, erm, rather like the 9-3: comfortable and secure without ever feeling truly exciting. But if you're just too busy to tick all those options boxes, it just might be for you.

© Source: topgear
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Mazda2 news

Not content with shaving every gram of extra weight off the Mazda2 to make it one of the lightest cars around, the Mazda engineers have gone even further and lobbed the two rear doors off their featherweight supermini.

Yes, this is the three-door Mazda2, due to debut at the Geneva motor show in early March. It retains the same swoopy shape as its five-door brother, but with a slightly sleeker profile thanks to that narrower blacked-out B-pillar.

The overall dimensions remain the same as the five-door, as do the engine choices: 1.3- and 1.5-litre petrol units and a 1.4-litre turbodiesel.

Although Mazda is yet to put the three-door model on the scales, it says that the loss of the two rear doors may help to tip the 2 under the 1,000kg mark: an impressive achievement for a car with enough safety kit on board to get a five-star Euro-NCAP rating.

Still no word on a hotter MPS version Mazda2, though, but we rather like the idea of a flyweight supermini with a warmed-up engine. We'll be trying to convince Mazda of the wisdom of our plans in Geneva soon.

© Source: topgear
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Volvo Loses Big for Ford, While Jag and Land Rover Profit

Ford’s Premier Auto Group was profitable in 2007 as Jaguar and Land Rover, which are now on the auction block, ended the year in the black. The small profit offset losses at Volvo, which was badly hurt by the decline in the value of the U.S. dollar.

Don Leclair, Ford’s chief financial officer, disclosed the information about Ford’s three European brands Thursday as the company reported a net loss of $2.7 billion for 2007. Ford’s losses for the past two years now exceed $15.3 billion and the company does not expect to be profitable in 2008, Ford executives said, citing the continuing pressure from slow economic growth in the U.S.

Leclair and Ford president and CEO Alan Mulally reiterated while Ford will proceed with the sale of Land Rover and Jaguar, it is planning hang on to Volvo despite the new operating loss and a one-time write-off of $2.4 billion linked to the sliding dollar. Ford didn’t disclose the size of the operating loss. The red ink is certain to increase pressure on Volvo’s management to reduce costs or find a way to build vehicles in the U.S.

Mulally, however, also emphasized Ford was making steady progress towards returning Ford to profitability in 2009 despite the economic difficulties in the United States, which has already forced the company to trim first quarter production.

Mulally said Ford’s market share in the U.S. dropped to 12.8 percent in 2007 when it wound up trailing Toyota Motor Corp. in total sales in the U.S. for the first time ever.The company also is finalizing a new “global product plan” that will feature more crossovers and passenger cars, he said.

Leclair said the blue-collar buyout offers will be very similar to the early retirement package Ford offered in 2006 when it was starting its restructuring. Some 12,000 Ford employees or about 22 percent of the company’s hourly workforce was now “retirement eligible,” meaning they had worked for Ford for 30 years or more, Leclair said.

© Source: thecarconnection
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1988 CHEVROLET C-1500 SILVERADO SLE

Seller: castrol101
Address: WISE
City: BALTIMORE
State: Maryland
Country: USA
Price: $3,500.00
Expiration: May 25, 2008
Views: 83

Description:
$3500.00 OR BEST OFFER!!!
THIS IS A 1988 CHEVROLET C-1500 SILVERADO SLE. THE OPTIONS ARE AC, POWER STEERING, POWER BRAKES, POWER LOCKS, POWER WINDOWS, CRUISE CONTROL, TILT WHEEL, 4 SPEED AUTOMATIC, AND 350 V8 ENGINE. IT IS A 1988 BODY STYLE THAT LOOKS THE SAME AS A 1998, AND AS CLEAN AS A 1998. THE INTERIOR IS AS CLEAN AS THE EXTERIOR. EVEN THE HEADLINER IS STILL IN EXCELLENT CONDITION. IT ALSO HAS NEW IDLER ARM, PITMAN ARM, AND BALL JOINTS. ALL THE GLASS IS GOOD AND ALL THE LIGHTS WORK. THIS TRUCK CAN BE HISTORIC TAGED IN THE STATE OF MARYLAND WITH NO INSPECTION NEEDED, AND NO EMMISSIONS.

FOR MORE INFO OR PICS CALL!!!
410-477-0160 OR 443-527-9941

© Source: seriouswheels
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2008 Obsidian SG-One Ford Mustang

(from Obsidian Press Information) What would you build if you had finances without limitations, a love for classic Mustangs and a passion for hot rodding? Forget everything you know and believe about classic Mustangs because were talking about something that's never existed before. Something that says, You've achieved the highest levels success and perfectly reflects who you are. It must exceed the wildest dreams of even the most discerning enthusiast without disappointment or delay. It must redefine the standards by which all others are judged. It must be the absolute pinnacle of achievement. All of this requires the finest coach level craftsmanship, ingenious engineering, seamless integration of only the best components and several years to complete. So, we proudly introduce you to the Obsidian SG-One Mustang.

Classic styling meticulously blended with sophisticated technology. A Twin supercharged and intercooled EFI engine with more horsepower than any factory Shelby Mustang , a new Corvette ZR-1 or a new Dodge Viper. They'll know you're coming with the beautiful but subtle supercharger whine, a camshaft idle you'll love and a muscular exhaust sound thats not too loud on the inside yet intimidating on the outside. A fully integrated tube chassis with roll bar easily handles the power while a NASCAR style belly pan provides high speed aerodynamics.

The body has been extended 7 over stock to comfortably sit virtually anyone up to 7 feet tall. Formula One style paddle shifters enable lightning fast and consistent gear changes. Enormous Brembo four wheel disc brakes with hydro boost provide fade-free stopping power in a hurry. A fully adjustable coil over suspension system is tuned for carving out corners while providing excellent ride characteristics. A performance rack and pinion steering system gives the utmost in road feel and goes precisely where you point it. Custom 18 front and 20 rear aluminum wheels and BF Goodrich KDW tires provide a nose down appearance with superior dry and wet weather traction and razor sharp handling and braking.

Powerful, graceful and elegant, she's one of a kind. In fact, there's only one available and it will never be reproduced. That should come as no surprise though. After all, its just like you are: in a class all by itself. We suggest acquiring the Obsidian SG-One now before its gone!

© Source: seriouswheels
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PontiacG8 Definitely Not Lost in Translation

We’re still waiting for some seat time in the much-anticipated, rear-wheel-drive Pontiac G8 sport sedan, but the details continue to trickle in regarding exactly how the G8 differs from Australia’s home-grown muscle car, the Holden Commodore SS, which the G8 will be assembled alongside.

Fortunately, it’s sounding like what’s soon arriving to Pontiac dealerships is remarkably similar mechanically to Australia’s muscle car icon.According to Pontiac’s marketing director, Craig Bierly, there are relatively few chassis differences between the Commodore SS and the sporty G8 GT model. Bierly verified that the so-called FE2 suspension, standard on the G8 GT and optional on the G8 V6, is identical to that used in the Aussie Commodore SS. On the other hand, the FE1 suspension, standard on the V6 model, is a U.S.-exclusive tune.

Prices and equipment for the G8 were announced last year. The G8 V6, with a 256-hp, 3.6-liter V-6, will start at $27,595, while the G8 GT, with a 361-hp, 6.0-liter V-8, teases at $29,995 — both significantly lower than the Commodore’s translated sticker price.

One thing that the U.S.-market Commodore..ehem, G8 GT…will have on the big 6.0-liter V-8 that the Down Under car doesn’t is Active Fuel Management, which brings the V-8’s EPA highway estimate up to 24 mpg. The 25-mpg figure for the V-6 model isn’t much better, and is significantly lower than that of the Grand Prix, which the G8 is replacing. Performance is a strength though for both models; the V-8 can get to 60 mph in 5.3 seconds, and the car has a near-ideal weight distribution.

GM’s Australian division, Holden, also built the GTO coupe, which was sold in the U.S. through the 2006 model year. It was closely related to the Australian-market Holden Monaro and was eventually discontinued due to slow sales. GM had been hoping to sell 20,000 GTOs per year, but sales struggled to reach that rate in any of its model years; the company is hoping to move about 50 percent more than the original GTO target, according to Bierly, or about 30,000 G8s annually.

The first 888 G8s to be sold in the U.S. will be brought over as a group and given a special instrument-panel plaque featuring a VIN-related number sequence from 001 to 888. There are well over twice that number of Pontiac dealerships in the U.S.

© Source: thecarconnection
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HUMMER Web Site Nabs New H3T Truck

It’s embargo time again for Chicago’s auto show - and the new HUMMER H3T is the latest victim to fall. HUMMERguy.net’s Web site says this photo was taken in anticipation of a Detroit show debut, but of course HUMMER had an HX concept for the ongoing Cobo affair earlier this month.

The new HUMMER truck has a short bed and lots of nifty cargo features, like a built-in lunchbox, according to the Web site. No specs are produced, but GM’s 3.5-liter in-line five and the palindromic 5.3-liter V-8 are expected to be options. The new truck will be built alongside the Chevy Colorado/GMC Canyon twins in the GM plant in Shreveport, La., starting this year.

© Source: thecarconnection
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Spied! New Benz ML Gets Frosty Reception

Recently we’ve got a batch of Spied photos of Mercedes’ facelifted ML as it paused during a fuel stop in some snowbound place we’re glad to be far from.

The latest shots clear up some details that older spy shots haven’t revealed, and shows a distinctly different front end than the redesigned ML-Class brought to market a few years back. The front bumper gets a bit more butch, with protrusions which flare out at the corners, beneath the headlights. The flares lead into a larger lower grille-opening, resulting in an ML with a more pronounced “jaw line” than the current model. The tweaked ML also showcases a new hood, with a taller central bulge further augmented by two chiseled strips flanking the Mercedes star. The new ML’s fog lamp clusters have also been reshaped and fitted with some revised mesh trim. Some tape on the headlights suggests that some minor changes will also be made to the headlights.

Changes to the rear are more subtle, but it appears that the rear bumper has also been slightly redesigned. The tail-lights look unchanged, although the internal lighting elements may employ brighter LED technology which would up the safety quotient, but do nothing to enhance styling.

All in all, this facelifted ML is typical for Mercedes — a cautious update halfway through a car’s life cycle. Can we expect a new M-Class in 2012, then? We’ll keep you posted.

© Source: thecarconnection
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2008 Lexus LF-A Roadster Concept

(from Lexus Press Release) The engineers and designers at Lexus continue to use their groundbreaking LF-A premium sports car concept as a medium for expressing their ideas about what a high-performance sporting vehicle not only can be, but should be. In this latest expression of the LF-A, they have removed the car's top to create a high-performance roadster.

The LF-A Roadster is based on the sturdy yet lightweight carbon-fiber and aluminum body used for the LF-A coupe, which helps maintain the structure's strength and rigidity even without a top.

Like its coupe counterpart, the LF-A Roadster is powered by a high-revving V10 engine that approaches 5.0 liters in displacement. The V10, capable of more than 500 horsepower and test-track speeds greater than 200 mph, is mounted in front of the passenger compartment but behind the front-axle centerline in what the LF-A's engineers refer to as a "front-mid" configuration.

The engine is connected via a torque tube and propeller shaft to a transaxle that is controlled by paddle shifters. The torque tube is a structural member that adds rigidity to the drivetrain and chassis while also reducing vibration.

Helping to provide balance and scale to the design, which features an overall length of 175.6 inches and a wheelbase of 102.6 inches, are high-performance tires on turbine-styled alloy wheels. The front tires are 265/35R20s, while the rears are 305/30R20s. Like the LF-A coupe, the brakes consist of 14.2-inch cross-drilled, vented discs up front, and 13.6-inch cross-drilled, vented discs at the rear. The front brake calipers are six-piston units and the rear calipers use four pistons each.

© Source: seriouswheels
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2007 Volvo XC70 Catalina Island Rescue Unit

(from Volvo Press Release) Southern California's lifeguards have been glamorized by Hollywood for decades. While they share the spirit of adventure and camaraderie, these dedicated men and women are highly trained professionals who take safety very seriously.

Guided by the surfing lifestyle and casual beach culture, the XC70 SR's brilliant yellow and red paint scheme is authenticated by Catalina Island's City of Avalon official seal. The Volvo XC70 is capable of back-country emergency duty; all-terrain victim support services and a broad array of rescue missions that are critical to those in need.

The Volvo Catalina Island Rescue unit epitomizes the company's slogan and offers rescue operations specialists a glimpse of what is possible - a safe, comfortable and capable response support vehicle from a manufacturer committed to the idea that human life is to be celebrated and preserved.

Wrapped with eye-catching Surf Rescue graphics and City of Avalon insignia, the concept model can be easily seen on a crowded beach, in deep canyon terrain or from air support equipment. It sports a custom-crafted front fascia that wears a one-off milled aluminum billet grille. Front and rear skid plates and wider wheel lip cladding has been added for extra body protection from flying sand. The new fascias also reduce front and rear overhang, thereby improving approach and departure angles.

The XC70's 3.2-liter in-line 6-cylinder normally aspirated engine produces 235 horsepower and 236 lb.-ft. of torque. It's mated to a six-speed "Geartronic" automatic transmission that enables the driver to shift manually when desired. All-wheel-drive with Instant TractionTM is standard. Electronic Hill Descent Control (HDC) uses the vehicle's brakes and engine torque to crawl in bottom gear on steep downhill slopes.

© Source: seriouswheels
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MCE MC1 super car is no more mysterious

Finally the wraps over the identity of the much speculated mystery super car has been taken off. It’s now official as the MCE MC1 and is the outcome of the joint efforts of MotorCity, a design firm based in Germany, and C2P Automotive.

The former being the brain behind this concept and the latter executing it. Although it’s still strictly a concept, this super car is powered by a 600bhp V10 and features an all-carbon fiber monocoque chassis. Its wheels are enormous at 20-inches up front and 21-inches in the rear.

In terms of size, CAR states that the MC1 is "slightly shorter and narrower than a Lamborghini Murcielago LP640, and a mere 15mm higher." As of yet there is no word about this not-a-mystery-now car reaching the production stage but both companies need funding to get this baby on the road.

© Source: seriouswheels
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Maybach 62 S Landaulet hoped to hit the roads soon

After a long wait, Maybach 62 S Landaulet will actually take shape has the Daimler is intending to take it to the production level. It is an open-air version of the ultra-luxury 62 S sedan that was first shown in November.

The global head of sales for Mercedes, Klaus Mair, has said, “Maybach hopes the Landaulet will help draw more attention to the brand.” Technically speaking, the Landaulet is powered by the upgraded V12 engine that Maybach engineers developed for the Maybach 57 S and Maybach 62 S.

Thanks to twin turbochargers and water intercooling, the V12 develops a maximum output of 612 hp and 738 pound-feet of torque. Roll over for more images and also to know its estimated price tag………..

Although the company is uncertain about howmany of them will be created, they have surety from anxious customers who are ready to buy it at 800,000 euros ($1.2 million) each.

© Source: seriouswheels
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2007 Volvo S80 T6 HPC by Heico Sportiv for SEMA

(from Volvo Press Release) The lights of Las Vegas reflect flawlessly in the gleaming aluminum paint of the Heico Sportiv S80 T6 High Performance Concept (HPC). Being shown for the first time in North America at the 2007 Specialty Equipment Market Association tradeshow in Las Vegas, NV, the S80 T6 HPC is a literal reflection of power, sophistication and athleticism as can be seen in its unique 7-layer "aluminum effect" body paint. But the S80 T6 HPC is more than just a pretty face. It's a true example that a powerful luxury sedan can also be sensitive to the environment.

Performance
The first order of business was to make a significant increase in horsepower. The standard Volvo T6 engine produces 281 horsepower, which is enough to move the S80 with spirited ease. But this is a SEMA concept and a significant bump in horsepower and torque were a necessity. Once the engine was modified to run on E85 ethenol, Heico turned its attention to maximizing power with high-performance engine software, a new intercooler and a stainless steel racing exhaust system. The end results were impressive: 350 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 405 lb.-ft. of torque between 1,500 and 4,000 rpm. The Heico S80 T6 HPC is estimated to reach 62 mph in just 5.8 seconds.

But getting that power to the ground required extensive work. As the standard S80 3.2 is a front-wheel-drive car it was determined that to truly explore the vehicle's potential all-wheel drive was needed. Enter Volvo's renowned Haldex All-Wheel-Drive system with Instant Traction. The system continuously routes power to whichever wheel has the most traction and Heico modified it with heartier gears to handle the enormous amount of torque.

Stopping power is provided via a 6-piston braking system with custom blue-painted calipers and high performance brake pads. Volvo's ABS and electronic brake distribution systems are fully functioning. Large 13.9-inch disc brakes reside in custom forged alloy wheels measuring 9-inches wide and 20 inches in diameter. The specially developed Volution X wheels are wrapped in aggressive 255/30R-20 Continental tires.

© Source: seriouswheels
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2007 Volvo C30 by Heico Sportiv for SEMA

(from Volvo Press Release) Above all else, it's a Volvo. Since Volvo Cars began showing concepts at the annual Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) tradeshow five years ago only one rule has been set: all standard safety systems must remain intact and functioning no matter how extensive the modifications made to the vehicle. The Heico Sportiv C30 is no different. Despite its eye-popping orange interior and boldly designed surf pattern exterior, the Heico Sportiv C30 is still a Volvo at heart.

Volvo's Intelligent Vehicle Architecture (VIVA), first introduced in the XC90 SUV, is a key component of Volvo's smallest car. It is a unique approach to building a car that integrates everything from its crashworthiness to its dynamic styling and exciting driving characteristics. This is possible due to several interacting units, including a very stiff chassis, front and rear structures with unique energy-absorbing properties and, as always, a focus on crash protection for the occupants.

SEMA
Windswept beaches, twisty island roads and outrageous North Shore waves have just landed in the middle of the Nevada desert. Yet this is not a mirage. It's the groundswell of excitement generated by the debut of the breathtaking Volvo C30 by Heico Sportiv. One look at this modified special-version C30 is enough to spark island fever among those longing to leave civilization behind and embrace the Aloha spirit of adventure.

The beauty of Volvo's new C30 is that it begs to be customized. Like a blank canvas or a pristine white sand beach, Heico's designers dressed the solid white flanks of the C30's exterior with a radiant, splashy orange surf-pattern kit. The bright orange wave originates at the lower front fenders, artfully climbs up the doors, crests the edges of the tailgate and wraps neatly around the rear fascia.

© Source: seriouswheels
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2008 Cragar Ford F150 by Performance West Group

(from Performance West Group) Introducing the Cragar F150. A modern muscle truck with the kind of clean, yet aggressive appearance that are the hallmarks of Cragar’s muscle car and drag racing heritage.

The compelling, heady muscle car beat can be heard in the Cragar F150’s anthem. From the menacing scoop mounted atop the matte black hood, to the Fire Red paint that covers its boldly accented body, the Cragar F150 is clearly the next step in the evolution of authentic American Muscle. Fender flares, Sport Louvers, custom rocker panels and an Extang Tri-Fecta Soft Tonneau Cover further enhance the theme.

Under the hood, the Cragar F150 offers enhanced performance, starting with its tire smoking 330 horsepower 5.4 V8 engine. A Blackwing Dual Snorkel Cold Air Intake, matched with a Cragar Custom Tuned Stainless Steel cat back exhaust system provides free breathing for the big bore V8. Cragar Ford F150 is also equipped with an advanced engine management system that even includes a Hand Held Programmer, enabling the enthusiast to dial up the performance of the Cragar F150 whenever the occasion warrants it The combination of 22 inch Cragar Classic S/S Wheels, Pirelli Scorpion Zero Asimmetrico tires and a lowered suspension provide sports car like cornering, while the Cragar Big Blue brake package with its 6 Piston Calipers and 16” Cross Drilled Rotors insure that the Cragar F150 can stop as effectively as it can accelerate.

© Source: seriouswheels
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Chicago '08 Preview Ford Transit Connect rumored to arrive

We were reported last January that the European Ford Transit Connect would be coming to the U.S., and now we've learned that the Euro van is expected to join the assemblage of debuts at this year's Chicago Auto Show.

Speculation is that the front-wheel-drive mini-ish vans will hit showrooms as a 2009 model and come with a 4-cylinder engine. It is also said to have seating for five, but meant to compete with another, larger European transplant, the Dodge Sprinter.

Since Ford hasn't even acknowledged that the vehicle will be at Chicago, it hasn't issued a price, but MSRP for the Sprinter Van is $32,150 and the Sprinter Wagon goes for $34,350. If nothing else, we're happy to see Ford's European migration this way continuing, and there's even a Transit Connect SportVan! Now if we could work on some of those passenger car offerings...

© Source: autoblog
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2012 Jaguar XJ Spies Nab It, But You’d Never Recognize It

While the world gets a grip on the loveliness that is the new XF sedan, Jaguar’s pressing ahead with a revamp of its big XJ sedan. And that’s exactly what spies have captured in cold-weather testing–the first prototypes of the new XJ coming in time for the 2012 model year.

Jaguar facelifted the XJ for the 2008 model year, but a total makeover has been in the works for more than a year, in spite of collapsing sales in the U.S. and an imminent sale to India’s Tata Motors.

The prototype has the body of the current XJ, but with a wider track and a modified platform. Codenamed X351, the XJ replacement is expected to bow by early 2011.

© Source: thecarconnection
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2009 Dodge Ram

(From Chrysler Press Release) Dodge Unleashes Game-changer Into Truck Market
In addition to the new-generation 5.7-liter HEMI which produces 380 hp (283 kW) and 404 lb.-ft. (548 N•m) of torque, the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram offers a 4.7-liter V-8 providing 310 horsepower (231 kW) and 330 lb.-ft. (447 N•m) of torque, and a 3.7-liter V-6 generating 215 horsepower (160 kW) and 235 lb.-ft. (319 N•m) of torque; four- and five-speed automatic transmissions; part-time and on-demand four-wheel-drive transfer cases; and 3.21, 3.55, 3.92 and 4.10 axle ratios.

Equipped with the new HEMI, the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram R/T regular-cab 4x2 model with a short bed and 4:10 gears blasts from 0-60 mph in 6.1 seconds.

The all-new 2009 Dodge Ram is offered in regular cab, Quad Cab® and crew-size cab, with three box lengths: 8-foot (regular cab), 6-foot-4-inches (regular cab and Quad Cab), and a new-for-2009 box length of 5-foot-7-inches (Ram crew 1500). Five trim levels are available, each with a unique appearance: ST, SLT, TRX, Sport, and the top-of-the-line Laramie.

An improved frame design incorporating high-strength steel supports an all-new, first-in-segment, multi-link coil spring rear suspension that improves ride and handling characteristics without sacrificing payload (up to an estimated 1,850 pounds) and towing capability (up to an estimated 9,100 pounds).

© Source: seriouswheels
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43rd 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 to be painted Petty blue and auctioned

While the rights to the first 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 brought $400K at Barrett-Jackson last weekend, we'd rather have the 43rd car built, which will go up on eBay's virtual auction block from February 12 to February 22. Chrysler is working the numerology angle, linking the 43rd Challenger to living legend Richard Petty and the #43 he made famous while driving Mopar stock cars to victory over his long racing career.

Pre-qualified bidders will have the opportunity to take home the 43rd Challenger built, which will be the only one finished in B5 Blue in a nod to the Petty Blue (or Corporate Blue) finish that adorned The King's racers. Carbon fiber-look hood stripes, a chrome fuel filler lid and a numbered dash plaque finish this particular one-off appearance package, and the auction winner also gets a VIP Package to this May's Dodge Challenger 500 NASCAR race at Darlington.

All proceeds from the auction will benefit the Petty family's Victory Junction Gang Camp, so it's for a good cause. Wanna bid? Go here to get pre-registered.

© Source: autoblog
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1968 Plymouth GTX 440 Six Pack Wagon by Performance West Group

(from Performance West Group) Rumor has it that in 1968, a long time Mopar enthusiast named Herb purchased a new Plymouth Satellite station wagon. Living in suburban Chicago with his wife and five children, a wagon was the vehicle of necessity, rather than choice. But Herb had never lost his enthusiasm for the red hot performance cars he owned in his youth, and he continued to lust for a vehicle with the kind of power that he had once enjoyed.

In 1969, with the release of the Road Runner 440 Six Pack, Herb could stand it no longer. According to the story, Herb called Mr. Norm’s Grand Spaulding Dodge, the Mecca for ultimate performance Mopars and asked if there was any way that his nearly new Plymouth could be enhanced with the same 440 Six Pack that made the just released A12 Road Runner and Superbee such street and strip terrors. Herb was assured that his B-Body wagon was a fraternal twin to the Road Runner and could be fitted with the full complement of parts. In fact, the swap was nothing more than a bolt in and all of the parts for the conversion, including the 440 engine, were in stock. Without hesitation, Herb brought the wagon to Mr. Norm’s and a week later took delivery of his Plymouth wagon, one that was quite unlike any other.

Fast forward to today. The Plymouth wagon has been found sitting in a back yard in California, where it has been for nearly a decade. While some of the go fast goodies are missing and the car is somewhat neglected, it’s rust free, completely intact, and ready to be restored to its former greatness.

The Plymouth GTX 440 Six Pack Wagon is a great example of the incredible performance of the late 1960’s big block Mopars. And complementing the ground pounding performance is timeless styling that leaves no question what year and brand of vehicle it is, unlike today’s generic, appliance like front wheel drive cars. The Plymouth GTX 440 Six Pack Wagon is the absolute antithesis of these seemingly nameless, faceless commodity vehicles. The GTX 440 Six Pack Wagon beckons you to pack your bags, fill up a large cooler with your favorite refreshments and get ready to go cruisin’ in style.

The 1968 Plymouth GTX 440 Six Pack Wagon is a perfect expression of what a confident, exciting time the 1960’s were. It makes no pretense or excuses for what it is. One thing is sure; The GTX 440 Six Pack Wagon isn’t politically correct. Rather, it’s brash and arrogant, confident and ambitious, like the generation of Americans that inspired it and those that appreciate for what it is today.

© Source: seriouswheels
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Suzuki’s Exhibits for the 78th Geneva International Motor Show

At the 78th Geneva International Motor Show, to be held from 4–16 March 2008, Suzuki Motor Corporation will be exhibiting the following models: Concept A-Star (concept car), Splash, Concept Kizashi and Concept Kizashi 2 (concept cars) and SX4 WRC (2008 model).

Concept A-Star (concept car)
Visitors to the Suzuki booth will see the European debut of the Suzuki Concept A-Star, which had its world premiere at Auto Expo 2008 in New Delhi.

The Concept A-Star shows the ideas behind Suzuki’s fifth world strategic model, which is under development. The production car will be the smallest model in the Suzuki world strategic model lineup. It will reflect an emphasis on environmental compatibility through Euro 5-compliant emissions, class-leading CO2 emissions pursuing 109g/km or less, and low fuel consumption. It will also have a superior combination of comfort and performance.

Suzuki Splash
The Splash follows the Swift, Grand Vitara, and SX4 as Suzuki’s fourth world strategic model. It made its world debut at the 2007 International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt and is going on sale this spring.

Developed to make transportation fun for every member of the family, the Splash combines ample roominess and colourful, attractive looks with a comprehensive safety package and performance that makes day-to-day urban driving a pleasure. Plus, it delivers environmental compatibility through low fuel consumption and CO2 emissions of just 120g/km.

© Source: automotoportal
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First Production 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 Sells for $400,000

Dodge and notMYkid partnered to auction the first production 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8(R) at the 37th annual Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction on January 19, in Scottsdale, Ariz. The winning bid was placed by Craig Jackson, Chairman/CEO of the Barrett-Jackson Auction Company.

"Dodge is ecstatic that the sale of the first production 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 to roll of the assembly line raised $400,000 for such a worthy cause," said Mike Accavitti, Director -- Dodge Brand and SRT Global Marketing, Chrysler LLC. "The introduction of an all-new, modern Dodge Challenger has generated a lot of excitement, and the enthusiasm for the new car was evident on the auction block."

The all-new 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 features the proven 6.1-liter HEMI(R) V-8 engine mated to a five-speed automatic transmission, a race- inspired interior and an exterior design stays true to Challenger heritage while delivering host of modern features and technologies and "race inspired, street legal" SRT DNA.

Developed by Chrysler's in-house performance engineering organization, the 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 was engineered with a focus on the five pillars of every SRT vehicle: bold exterior design that resonates with the brand image, a race-inspired interior, world-class ride and handling across a dynamic range, a standout powertrain and benchmark braking.

The 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 will make its worldwide debut on Feb. 6, at the Chicago Auto Show.

© Source: automotoportal
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2009 Ford Escape Preview

Ford's Escape crossover gets a more powerful four-cylinder engine for 2009, and that engine also gets transplanted into the Escape Hybrid and the similar Mercury Mariner/Hybrid models for the new model year.

The new engine is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that should boost fuel economy by 1 mile per gallon in the EPA cycle. At the same time, Ford says the new four-cylinder will make 170 horsepower, an 11-percent boost over the existing base engine. The 17 additional horsepower come in part from a new variable cam timing system and from the increase in displacement over the former 2.3-liter four.

The V-6 option gains power for 2009, too. The 3.0-liter V-6 now makes 230 horsepower, up 30 hp and also up 1 mpg in fuel economy thanks in part to its six-speed automatic transmission, which replaces a four-speed unit used on the Escape and Mariner last year.

Other tweaks, include a new chin spoiler and rear tire spoilers, clean up the Escape's aero profile and help boost fuel economy, while a new 16-inch tire also cuts down on rolling resistance.

Ford says the new Escape is more connected too. That's because the Sync infotainment system is offered in the 2009 model, along with the Sirius Travel Link system with 911 Assist, which helps passengers get in touch with emergency workers when the need arises.

Other revamps for 2009 include new suspension tuning and standard stability control with roll stability control on Hybrid models.

© Source: thecarconnection
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2008 Subaru Legacy Sports Tourer and Outback – world’s first Boxer Diesel passenger car

It’s here. The world’s first boxer diesel engined-passenger car has arrived, offering outstanding refinement, throttle response and fuel economy coupled with ultra-low emissions and exceptional handling thanks to the light weight and low centre-of-gravity of its horizontally-opposed powerplant. On sale from February 2008, the Subaru Legacy Sports Tourer and Outback crossover mid-sized estates are priced from just £19,995 on-the-road for the Legacy 2.0TD R model. Saloon versions may follow once supplies become more plentiful.

This is Subaru’s first diesel engine – developed in-house using over 40 years’ expertise in ‘boxer’ engine technology coupled with turbocharging know-how gleaned from the fierce World Rally Championship arena. The Japanese manufacturer’s Boxer Diesel engine will initially only be fitted to European-market cars, with the yet-to-be introduced new Forester receiving the engine in September and new Impreza three months later.

Class-Leading Figures
The 150 PS Boxer Diesel Legacy and Outback not only have the best fuel efficiency in the 4WD passenger car class but beat all main 2.0 litre two-wheel drive rivals including the new Ford Mondeo TD and VW Passat – both in lower-powered 140 PS formats.

The Legacy Sports Tourer 2.0TD R, for example, returns 49.6 mpg on the Combined Cycle with 151 g/km of CO2.

Its 2WD Ford Mondeo estate equivalent returns 47.9 mpg with 156 g/km, while the VW Passat 2.0 TDI estate gives 47.1 mpg and 158 g/km.

Comparing the new Legacy Sports Tourer with the 4WD version of the Passat – called the 2.0 TDI 4Motion – shows the Subaru to be 8.7 mpg better on the Combined Cycle with emissions down by 31 g/km compared to the VW.

Nor are these figures achieved at the expense of performance. The Legacy Sports Tourer has a 126 mph top speed and 0-60 mph time of 8.5 seconds while the Outback is only slightly behind at 124 mph and 8.8 seconds for the 0-60 mph dash.

© Source: automotoportal
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2008 Dodge Grand Caravan

The 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan is all new. It's a necessary redesign for Dodge, to remain the leader of the minivan pack. And it's a good one, with many improvements, including a new optional 250-horsepower V6 and six-speed transaxle (a minivan first), with fuel economy of just one less mile per gallon than the standard 175-hp V6 with a four-speed.

The wheelbase has been slightly extended and the stance has been widened. It's a couple inches longer and 18 pounds lighter. There's more headroom but it's no taller. Aerodynamics are better and it's quieter inside. The redesigned rear suspension delivers a good ride. Electronic stability control is now standard. The new Grand Caravan has earned five-star front and side crash ratings, and four stars in rollover ratings, from NHTSA.

The Grand Caravan is all about transporting people comfortably and safely, while keeping them entertained. Making the time pass quickly. Its designers focus on interior creature comforts, and they have succeeded with the '08 model. The base 3.3-liter V6 gets an EPA-rated 17 City and 24 Highway miles per gallon.

Model Lineup
The 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan SE ($21,740) uses the smallest of the three available engines, a 3.3-liter overhead-valve V6 mated to a four-speed automatic transaxle. Seating is two-two-three, with the Stow 'n Go (second- and third-row seats fold flat, into the floor) optional as part of a package ($3740). (New Car Test Drive uses manufacturer's suggested retail prices, MSRP, which may change at any time without notice.) The standard interior includes a four-speaker AM/FM/CD sound system and fabric seats.

The Grand Caravan SXT ($26,805) uses a 3.8-liter overhead-valve V6 with six-speed transaxle and Stow 'n Go standard. The interior adds overhead storage and pinpoint LED lighting.

© Source: nctd
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2008 Detroit Auto Show Mazda CX-9 Wins 2008 North American Truck of the Year Award

The 2008 Mazda CX-9 crossover sport utility vehicle (SUV) was today named the North American Truck of the Year. Determined by 48 automotive journalists from the United States and Canada, the prestigious North American Truck of the Year award recognizes the most outstanding truck of the year, a category that includes conventional pickup trucks, body-on-frame SUVs and the emerging breed of passenger-car-based SUVs known as "crossovers." Factors considered for the award include innovation, design, safety, handling, driver satisfaction and value for the dollar.

Established in 1994, the North American Truck of the Year award honors vehicles that become new benchmarks in their class or set new standards. The vehicles are judged by various categories including design, safety, fuel economy, handling, performance, comfort, driver satisfaction and affordability.

The Mazda CX-9 deftly blends sporty driving spirit with seven-passenger sport-utility vehicle (SUV) practicality. CX-9 is powered by a 273-horsepower 3.7-liter V6 engine and features a new Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) system, which helps see and prevent the unexpected. Priced from $29,400, the CX-9 is available in three trim levels -- Sport, Touring and Grand Touring -- and offers cutting-edge safety technology.

Headquartered in Irvine, Calif., Mazda North American Operations oversees the sales, marketing, parts, accessories and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States, Canada and Mexico through nearly 900 dealers. Operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada Inc., located in Ontario, Canada, and in Mexico by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City.

© Source: theautochannel
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2008 Nissan 350Z Review

Introduction
This year, there's been a considerable amount of attention focused on Nissan's new GT-R sports car; 473 horsepower has a habit of doing that. However, unless you've got $70,000 (assuming -- ahem -- no dealer markup) and have your name on a waiting list, this Skyline successor will likely remain out of reach. Thankfully, Nissan has another legendary sports car for the rest of us: the Z.

Available as a coupe or convertible, the 2008 Nissan 350Z is a proper sports car priced for the everyman. Its fairly compact dimensions, sharp handling, potent V6 and rear-wheel drive make it fun to drive in almost any situation. Plus, the car's styling still looks fresh, even though the current-generation Z debuted for 2003.

For 2008 the 350Z stands pat, though it does mark the first full year of availability for the limited-production Nismo 350Z. The Nismo has effectively taken the place of the now-discontinued Track trim. This racetrack-oriented model comes with a specially tuned suspension, additional body reinforcements, a full aerodynamic package, Brembo brakes, and unique wheels and exhaust.

In testing, we've found the Nismo to be the best-handling 350Z to date, though this enhanced performance does come at the expense of fairly punishing ride comfort and noise. The remaining trim levels are more suited for everyday use, although the clutch can be too stiff in traffic. No matter which trim you choose, you'll still get one of the best values out there for a rear-drive performance car. Of course, the Z isn't perfect. Compared to models like the BMW Z4 and Mazda RX-8, the Z lacks handling finesse and cockpit refinement, and against the various permutations of the Ford Mustang GT, it lacks personality. But for an affordable sports car that delivers all-around performance and style, the 2008 Nissan 350Z is an ideal choice.

© Source: edmunds
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2008 Saab 9-3 Convertible Road Test

Likes: Convertible appeal, four-seat utility, distinctive style, room.
Dislikes: Expensive, quirky bits, slower than the average Euro ragtop.
TCC's Take: Probably the best Saab convertible ever, but there's not much to woo away the Audi/Benz/BMW crowd.

It takes a special kind of enthusiast to appreciate Saab's lineup of sedans, wagons and convertibles. There's nothing particularly different on the spec sheet, but for whatever reason - some quirky cachet - they appeal to a very specific breed of driver.

And while the Swedish carmaker's 9-3 Convertible gets the same kind of top-to-bottom renovation that the sedan and wagon models also receive for the 2008 model year, it doesn't move the needle much when it comes to wooing new buyers away from the likes of BMW and Audi, not to mention cheaper hardtop convertibles with Euro nameplates.

In part, it's a big pricetag that makes the 9-3 not such a bargain. It carries a base price of $38,965 for the base 2.0T version and tops out around $45,000 for the V-6-powered Aero. Fully loaded the Convertible nudges $50,000, in a convertible world filled with cheaper four-seat hardtop cabrios like the Pontiac G6 Convertible and Chrysler Sebring, and comparably priced ones like the Volkswagen Eos and Volvo C70.

And while it's a good-looking, solidly built, decently powerful, and an entertaining drive, the Saab's primary appeal lies more in factors that folks judge when buying sedans. It's not the sex appeal of its thick flanks that stands out, it's the 9-3's large trunk (12.4 cubic feet) and rear-seat legroom that tops other four-seater ragtops. It's not the blazing power that snicks through a manual shifter, but the seamless gearchanges of its six-speed automatic that feels right.

© Source: thecarconnection
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2008 Ford Mustang Review

What's New for 2008
More features are added to the 2008 Ford Mustang. This includes standard front seat side airbags, available xenon headlights and, for the V6 models, 18-inch alloy wheels. Those who have a thing for pink should be thrilled with the new Warriors in Pink package that provides their ride with that color's accents inside and out. Sales of this package also help support the Susan G. Komen cancer charity.

Introduction
Man O' War, Sea Biscuit, Secretariat. Along with those legendary thoroughbreds, one might include another steed famous for thrilling its fans for nearly half a century: the Ford Mustang. Through the decades, the Mustang has survived oil crises, ever-tougher emissions standards, corporate shake-ups and Americans' diminished interest in sporty coupes thanks to an infatuation with SUVs and pickup trucks. While other so-called pony car rivals have been sent to the glue factory, the original has gotten stronger and more popular.

Most recently, the Mustang's major redesign in 2005 resulted in head-spinning styling that had both old- and new-school car enthusiasts stampeding to their local dealers. Inspired by the 1965-'69 Mustangs, the current car stands out thanks to its big grille, round headlights, side sculpting, tri-bar taillights and, on the coupe, triangular quarter windows and fastback roof.

True, the 2008 Ford Mustang is lacking a bit in refinement compared to competitors such as the Nissan 350Z and Mazda RX-8. But the Mustang's style, available V8 power, respectable handling and affordable price more than make up for it. It's a recipe that obviously resonates with Americans, as it is the best-selling rear-drive sport coupe and convertible by a considerable margin. Even as Chevy and Dodge get set to re-enter the muscle car game, there's no doubt the Ford Mustang will remain a truly a legendary thoroughbred.

© Source: edmunds
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1980 Pontiac Trans Am Turbo Indy 500 Pace Car

Seller: Gateway Classic Cars St. Louis
Address: 5401 Collinsville Rd
City: Fairmont City
State: Illinois
Country: USA
Price: $25,995.00
Date Added: January 20, 2008
Expiration: May 19, 2008
Link: http://www.gatewayclassicca...
Views: 309
Description:
ENGINE: 4.9L 301CI Turbo
BODY STYLE: Coupe
TRANSMISSION: Auto
EXTERIOR COLOR: White
MILEAGE: 51806 (actual)
INTERIOR COLOR: Charcoal

Description: VERY NICE AND VERY RARE 1980 TRANS AM TURBO INDY 500 PACE CAR! ACTUAL MILEAGE, EVERYTHING WORKS EXCEPT A/C DOES NOT BLOW COLD, NEW TIRES AND BATTERY, THIS CAR IS COMPLETELY STOCK AS WHEN IT WAS PURCHASED, ONE FAMILY CAR AND IS READY TO SELL, COMES WITH DOCUMENTS FROM PONTIAC HISTORIC SOCIETY, SERVICE MANUALS, OWNER'S MANUAL, ORIGINAL RADIO INSTRUCTIONS, AND MUCH MORE, FOR EXACT DETAIL ABOUT THIS CAR, PLEASE CALL 800-231-3616.

© Source: seriouswheels
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2009 BMW M3 Convertible Preview

It's a blend of the portly convertible we drove last year, and the edgy, electric V-8-powered GT BMW dropped on us last fall in the Spanish countryside. BMW's confirmed an M3 Convertible will join its lineup in Europe in the near future, and while preparations to bring the car to the U.S. aren't complete, technical details of the new convertible have made their way on the Interwebs.

The M3 Convertible starts with the M-essentials, shared with the coupe and sedan sportscars already available from BMW. The powertrain for the new vehicle will be based around BMW's 4.0-liter, which develops 420 hp in European spec, along with 295 pound-feet of torque. It's a light-alloy block manufactured alongside BMW's Formula One engines and weighs 445 pounds, 33 pounds less than the six-cylinder engine in the previous-generation M3. European-spec engines also feature regenerative braking.

Outfitted with a six-speed manual gearbox, the M3 Convertible should dash to 60 mph in less than 5.3 seconds; the stock M3 coupe delivers the same scoot in less than 4.8 seconds. Both coupe and convertible (and coordinating sedan) are limited to 155 mph.

Like the 3-Series convertibles, the M3 Convertible offers up a retractable hardtop with a steel frame and a three-piece roof system. The lid flips and stores itself in the trunk in 22 seconds, and is paired with a wind deflector and a specially programmed automatic climate control for open-air driving.

With the extra heft of body stiffening measures and the top mechanism, the M3 Convertible's put on a few hundred pounds more than the coupe. So the Convertible version of the M3 gets a retuned suspension, along with body reinforcements and a high-performance braking system.

© Source: thecarconnection
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Lexus IS-F Racing Concept

Tucked away at the Tokyo tuner show, details on this track version of Lexus's M3 rival remain sketchy. All we know is that it looks truly mean.

The massive front aero kit and rear spoiler hint that the racing IS-F could compete in Germany's DTM series. But the word on the show floor is that the car is nothing more than the pet project of IS-F chief engineer Yukihiko Yaguchi. As pet projects go, it's a good 'un.

In unrelated related news, we also hear that an IS-F will compete in this year's Super GT championship in Japan. That's the same series the awesome GT-R racer we saw earlier this month will enter, although the IS-F will compete in the GT300 class, not the Nissan's GT500 division.

Best of all, the IS-F GT300 is likely to be mid-engined, a revelation that Super GT officials have described as 'crazy' and we describe as a thoroughly good idea.

© Source: topgear
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Mitsubishi Concept-RA

This is the Mitsubishi Concept-RA, a coupe design study unveiled this week in Detroit. When we saw it in sketch form back in November, we reckoned it might just end up being the best-looking car in the show.

And, in truth, the Concept-RA isn't bad - a muscular, swooping body running back from a pair of evil headlights and Mitsu's trademark trapezoidal grille. Not bad, but not quite good enough to justify our uncharacteristic pre-Christmas excitement. And that matte black engine hood is just wrong, even if it is made of lightweight plastic resin.

The details of the Concept-RA remain as we reported back in November - a 2.2-litre turbodiesel producing 310lb ft of torque and driving all four wheels through the Evo's Super All-Wheel Control system. It'll return over 40mpg, neatly sidestepping future emission regulations and making the RA a realistic production proposition.

Which means that Mitsubishi could finally be serious about bringing an Eclipse to Europe - by 2009, if show floor whispers are to be believed. It could point to a diesel Evo, too. We're fine with both, thanks.

© Source: topgear
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Detroit 2008: EyesOn Design Awards favor Cadillac

One bit of news we passed over on the way out the door of COBO Hall on Tuesday was the winners of this year's EyesOn Design Awards at the 2008 Detroit Auto Show. There are four awards given away each year, including Best Concept and Production Car and Best Concept and Production Truck. Cadillac sweeped the car side of things with the CTS-V being honored as Best Production Car and the CTS Coupe Concept named as the Best Concept Car. The BMW X6, meanwhile, was named Best Production Truck and the Chrysler ecoVoyager Concept nabbed the Best Concept Truck award.

The EyesOn Design awards are sponsored by the Detroit Institute of Opthamology and judged by a panel of automotive designers including ex-VP of Design for GM Wayne Cherry, Chrysler's Senior VP of Design Trevor Creed, the renowned Henrik Fisker, GM's VP of Global Design Ed Welburn and Mazda's Franz von Holzhausen.

© Source: autoblog
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Detroit 2008: CHAMCO Pickup

Laugh if you must, the wares that CHAMCO were showing off at the Detroit Auto Show were certainly a lot more humble than what you'd find at Lexus. China America Cooperative Automotive is seriously considering bringing pickup truck to the United States that they've retained the services of Steve Saleen to help guide them through the federalization process. The goal is to have the vehicle on sale here by 2009. Styling-wise, CHAMCO's un-named truck isn't going to win any EyesOn awards, but at $13,500, who cares? Besides, it could have looked a lot more grotesque, but it's not entirely a toad.

The equipment levels will meet market expectations, with power steering, windows, locks, and mirrors. Not a cupholder in sight, though. Materials inside the Anony-Truck will have you reliving the glory days of 1985, when truck interiors were seemingly blow-molded on the same production line as 2-liter soda bottles. Power comes from a 2.7-liter four cylinder serving up 150 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque through either a five speed manual or four speed automatic. Chortle now, but keep in mind another automaker from Asia that got its start with cheap little un-named pickups -- Toyota. For CHAMCO, it could be a smarter entry point than cars, anyway. The Ranger can only carry on for so long, and everyone else has pushed up the size and price of their once-small trucks.

© Source: autoblog
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Details remain scarce on Toyota's new inline-four

When Toyota unveiled the Venza in Detroit, the only details about what would motivate the CUV/wagon/Camry-on-stilts were two possible powerplants. The first was the range-topping 268-hp 3.5-liter V6, while details about an "all-new" 2.7-liter four-cylinder were scarce. KickingTires tapped CSM Worldwide who made an educated guess on the new engine's output and pegged it at 188 hp, a predictable though sizable bump in power over the 157-hp, 2.4-liter four currently used throughout Toyota's lineup.

The new engine will not only power the base Venza, but will also find a home in the engine bay of the Camry and Highlander. The only concern is how fuel economy will be affected by the extra .3-liters of displacement, but Toyota assures that "excellent fuel economy" will be achieved when mated to the Venza's six-speed automatic.

© Source: autoblog
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2008 Toyota Sequoia Limited 4x4

You would expect a sport-utility that measures 17 feet long, stands 6 feet tall, carries eight passengers and is hooked up to a 5.7-liter V8, four-wheel drive and 20-inch wheels to be called Sequoia. Talk about full-size! Talk about lumbering! There was a time when the Sequoia felt like a 7/8ths-scale SUV, but now that this all-new edition is based on the full-size Tundra pickup, the 2008 Toyota Sequoia is a 6,000-pound, card-carrying member of the elite ExpeNaviBurbaLade club.

That's why we didn't expect that this 2008 Toyota Sequoia Limited 4x4 would ride so comfortably and handle so delicately, or that it would prove so quick with its 381-horsepower V8. It's a major accomplishment to get something this large to drive like something small.The new Sequoia might have the backbone of a simple pickup truck, but it could be the perfect full-size luxury sport-utility.

Big Power
To motivate the 5,985-pound, four-wheel-drive Sequoia Limited, Toyota went to the correct parts bin. Step one was to install the potent 381-hp 5.7-liter V8 and six-speed automatic from the 2008 Toyota Tundra. In fact, the Tundra and Sequoia have been developed in parallel, so nearly everything from the Sequoia's front bumper to the B-pillar is structurally identical to the Tundra.

Not only is the 5.7 a more powerful and capable V8 than the Sequoia SR5's standard 276-hp, 4.7-liter V8, but also the combination of the big V8 and its six-speed automatic is actually more fuel-efficient than the 4.7-liter V8 and its five-speed automatic. Our Sequoia Limited 4x4 (which runs on 87-octane fuel) earned a combined average of 14 mpg, backing up the EPA's official rating of 13 mpg city/18 mpg highway.

With few exceptions, the 2008 Toyota Sequoia Limited 4x4 appears to be the best all-around eight-passenger SUV available. Its roots may go back to the truck-based sport-utility vehicle, but the 2008 Toyota Sequoia has all the comfort and conveniences of a minivan and it doesn't drive like a truck. This is a huge step forward in SUV evolution.

Sure, this test truck wears a $56,000 price tag, so it will leave some people wondering why it doesn't wear a Lexus badge, and indeed maybe it should. If that's the case, keep in mind that $24,000 separates a base SR5 2WD, at just under $35,000, and the fully optioned Platinum for $58,795.

© Source: edmunds
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Holden GM cancels VE Sportwagon for US market

Holden wasn't sure if it was going to build a new VE Commodore Wagon when developing its new line of rear-wheel-drive Zeta-based sedans. Wagons are fleet darlings in Australia, and the new one from Holden was for some reason switched from the long-wheelbase Caprice and Statesman platform to the shorter Commodore platform. That reduced the wagon's cargo capacity, which in turn threatened its very existence. But after hearing that its parent company, General Motors, was interested in importing the VE Sportwagon as a Pontiac G8 wagon, Holden gave the wagon a green light in good faith that there would be additional sales from exports to offset the loss of fleet sales.

Well, Holden just lost the U.S. market, as Bob Lutz told Australian journalists at the 2008 Detroit Auto Show that the VE Sportwagon, a higher-octane version of the VE Commodore Wagon, would not be coming to America. His reasons include the cost of meeting U.S. regulations and the fact that Yanks don't seem to be interested in wagons at all anymore. Audi, BMW and Mercedes offer them but sell hardly any, while Dodge tried to make the sport wagon mainstream again with the critically-acclaimed Magnum. We all know how that turned out.

We bet that if the Magnum were a hot seller, GM would then have no qualms importing the VE Sportwagon. As it stands, though, without the Magnum, a Pontiac G8 wagon would be competing with Audi, BMW and Mercedes wagons for a small slice of this very niche segment's sales.

© Source: autoblog
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Hyundai Genesis gets new grille just for Detroit, what gives?

When the production version of the Hyundai Genesis was revealed, debate over its styling was a hot topic. Of particular interest to commenters was the grille, dubbed the "Klingon forehead" by some of you, which has a vertical center spine with three horizontal bars that turn down when they meet from either side. We instantly noticed the absence of Hyundai's logo on the grille and surmised that perhaps the Korean automaker felt that the presence of its logo would somehow divert attention away from the levels of luxury and refinement that people might normally associate with Hyundais.

With that in mind, we were surprised to find this Genesis V6 model with a different grille on the floor of the 2008 Detroit Auto Show. When asked what it was doing there, Hyundai responded that the badgeless grille is the only Genesis grille for now, but this version was done up as a kind of market research exercise. We were also told that it had been taken out of Hyundai's display before the Detroit Auto Show opened up to the public.

Well, we've decided to help Hyundai figure out which grille is preferred most by consumers. Vote for your preference below and, who knows, Hyundai might be listening.

© Source: autoblog
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2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class Review

What's New for 2008
The racetrack-inspired CLK63 AMG Black Series coupe joins the lineup. It boasts a 500-horsepower 6.2-liter V8 along with a track-ready suspension, upgraded composite brakes, no backseat and seriously supportive front seats. Only 350 are slated for the U.S. market. On the other end of the spectrum, the volume seller CLK350 gains a few new standard features, namely a sport suspension and twin six-spoke 18-inch wheels.

Introduction
Sitting midway between the compact C-Class sedans and the über-expensive CL-Class coupes and SL-Class roadsters, the 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class offers the best of both worlds. Specifically, the CLK boasts sleek two-door styling, something not available in the C-Class, along with luxury and performance that virtually equals that of the pricier cars.

The CLK is available as a coupe or convertible. Both models lack a B-pillar (the traditional side pillar behind the front doors), and this gives the car a very graceful look. The drop-top, drop-dead gorgeous version of the CLK is thesnew only oercedes convertible that can seat four people, though unlike its siblings and a few of its rivals, it forgoes a retractable metal roof in favor of a traditional well-insulated cloth top. No matter which model you look at, power is plentiful. It ranges from 268 horsepower in the CLK350 on up to 500 hp in the mighty, new-for-2008 CLK63 AMG Black Series coupe (which actually is available in colors other than black). Neatly splitting the difference between these two is the 382-hp CLK550.

Overall, we're quite fond of the CLK, and those who value luxury and performance equally should find the 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class more than sweet enough for their cravings. This segment contains many tempting (and potentially less expensive) choices, however. The ultra-responsive and communicative BMW 335i still reigns supreme as the driving enthusiast's choice, while Infiniti's G37 offers potent performance along with a considerably lower price tag. Making your decision process even tougher this year is the new Audi A5 with its sensuous styling and standard all-wheel drive. If you're looking at the V8-powered CLKs (the 550 and AMG versions), you might also consider the BMW M3 and Audi's S4/RS4 and S5. If it's the limited-edition Black Series coupe you're eyeing, bear in mind there are many, many fine cars you might consider at or below its lofty $135,000 price point, not least of which is the Porsche 911 GT3.

© Source: edmunds
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2008 Motor City UAV Rolls-Royce Phantom by Tommy Z Design

(from Tommy Z Design) New from Tommy Z Design, the 2008 Motor City UAV Phantom. This plush Rolls Royce features a few upgrades for the current Phantom owners. 24" TIS or Forgiato wheel options with Michelin run flat 305/35/24 tires from Chrome Automotive Group . Other options include clear flashing corner lights , shatterproof rear glass , performance enhanced air intake and exhaust with PCM upgrade. The car is painted in a amethyst, anthracite color and features a onyx black leather interior with walnut burl accents. For entertaining, a 6 cd/dvd changer and satelite TV can be enjoyed from the rear stadium style seating.

The vehicle also features veneered picnic tables in seatbacks, power assist for rear doors, 4 year unlimited warrany , 6.7 liter 48 valve v12 Rolls Royce engine with 460 horsepower. The car also features dynamic stability control and the ultimate in traction control.

The mighty V12 engine produces 531 ft•lbf (720 N•m) of torque. The engine is derived from BMW's existing V12 powerplant. It is 1.63 m (63 in) tall, 1.99 m (74.8 in) wide, 5.83 m (228 in) long, and weighs 2485 kg (5478 lb). The body of the car is built on an aluminium spaceframe and the Phantom can accelerate to 60 mph (100 km/h) in 5.7 s. It has a six-speed automatic transmission and double wishbone suspension.

An extended wheelbase Phantom was presented in the Rolls Royce display at NAIAS, which is 250 mm longer than the standard Phantom.

This vehicle is located in the Featured vehicles section in the DUB showcase display at the 2008 North American International Auto Show. www.tommyzdesign.com - www.dubmagazine.com

© Source: seriouswheels
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2008 Lincoln MKT Concept

(from Lincoln Press Release) LINCOLN UNVEILS ULTIMATE TOURING VEHICLE CONCEPT; PREMIUM UTILITY FEATURES ELEGANCE, SPACE, EFFICIENCY

Growth opportunity: The Lincoln MKT concept shows a new potential vehicle for Lincoln, demonstrating the brand’s new design language works as well on a spacious luxury utility vehicle as it does luxury sedans like the new 2009 Lincoln MKS.

EcoBoost power: Ford’s global solution for improving fuel economy and greenhouse gas emissions for millions of customers – EcoBoost engine technology – powers Lincoln MKT.

Responsible luxury: The Lincoln MKT concept reaches a new level of responsible luxury with the use of more environmentally friendly materials that offer a premium look and feel.
DETROIT, Jan. 14, 2008 – Lincoln today pulls the wraps off a new premium utility concept vehicle – unsurpassed in its balance of spaciousness, comfort and fuel efficiency – that shows customers a new way to tour in style.

The Lincoln MKT concept features a 3.5-liter V-6 EcoBoost engine with turbocharging and direct injection that produces the power and torque of a V-8 engine with the fuel efficiency of a V-6. EcoBoost – combined with advanced transmissions, electric power steering, weight reductions and aerodynamic improvements – is a key part of Ford Motor Company’s vehicle sustainability strategy.

The company is introducing EcoBoost engines that will deliver up to 20 percent better fuel economy on half a million Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles annually in North America within the next five years. Ford will first introduce EcoBoost in the Lincoln MKS next year. The luxury sedan will feature a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V-6, delivering an estimated 340-horsepower and more than 340 lb.-ft. of torque on regular gas.

© Source: seriouswheels
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2008 Auto Futura CAV GT

(from CAV Press Release) The CAV GT is performance and power refined in a seamless body. Expect the same gut-wrenching experience and white-knuckle acceleration on road and track. Expect that, and more. It takes time and dedication to build a CAV GT. Six hundred man-hours is devoted to the development of each vehicle from the construction of the chassis to the time it leaves our factory.

Our committed team shares a vision to manufacture a quality product that will provide pleasure and pride to its owners. In addition to our staff based at Westlake, Cape Town, we employ subcontractors who share our work ethic and exacting standards. To achieve the quality we strive for in every CAV GT each step of the manufacturing process is meticulously planned. Our extensive R&D has enabled us to create enhancements to the CAV GT for improved road and track performance.

The perfect body is created through a specialist shaping and spraying process that is subcontracted to a team dedicated solely to this outcome. The body is baked several times so that it is cured and stable before a final spray painting. The whole process takes 200 man-hours before it is ready to leave the paint shop. On its return to our factory, the body panels are removed and carefully stored.

Engine
The CAV GT is designed to accept a Ford V8 small block 289/302 cid. A 351 can also be used. Induction Holley 4 barrel or 4 x 48IDF Webers or Injection System. Recommended power unit 342 stroker with approximately 450bhp SAE. Fuel injection system on request.Electronic breakerless ignition is recommended.

© Source: seriouswheels
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2008 Land Rover LRX Concept

(from Land Rover Press Release) Land Rover unveiled a vision of its future at the North American International Auto Show (Detroit Auto Show) with the world debut of the LRX hybrid concept - a bold evolution of Land Rover design that indicates the brand’s progressive shift into new areas of the market, while remaining true to its core values. As the company prepares to celebrate its 60th anniversary during 2008, the three-door LRX, with its more compact size, lighter weight and sustainability-focused technologies, clearly addresses the needs of a changing world and offers the potential of 120 g/km CO2 emissions.

“The LRX concept delivers the powerful message that we are as serious about sustainability as we are confident about the continuing relevance and desirability of our vehicles,” says Phil Popham, Land Rover’s managing director. “LRX is in every respect a Land Rover, but it’s a very different Land Rover.

COMPACT AND PREMIUM
LRX is described as a cross-coupй and dramatically extends the scope of what Land Rover represents. Though 5.9 in (149 mm) shorter than the LR2/Freelander 2 and 8.1 in (205 mm) lower, LRX was conceived as a premium vehicle, designed to appeal to new customers in the luxury and executive sector – those who want many of the benefits of an SUV and the presence of a larger vehicle, but in a more compact package.

The first all-new Land Rover revealed since Gerry McGovern became the company’s design director, LRX is a natural extension of the Land Rover range, complementing the existing models and helping to define a new segment. Its many recognizable Land Rover design cues include bold new interpretations of the signature clamshell bonnet, the floating roof and the solid ‘wheel-at-each-corner’ stance.

Its compact size is one of its greatest assets, which will appeal to anyone who wants the versatile ability of an agile SUV with the cachet of the Land Rover name. In addition, its lower weight and the reduced aerodynamic drag resulting from the smaller frontal area would help give significant gains in fuel efficiency and reduced CO2 emissions.

© Source: seriouswheels
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Detroit 2008 Ferrari fills in details on F430 Spider Bio Fuel

Ferrari's press conference here in Detroit was rather short and to the point. They reminded us that Kimi is World Champion and that the team is busy readying his defense. They also pointed out that the F430 GT is doing a bang-up job in GT2. And then they talked about the street cars.

Besides telling us that Ferrari had a record year, with sales up 8% to 6,400 units worldwide, they also showed the E85 ethanol-powered version of the F430 Spider. The F430 Spider Bio Fuel runs on the familiar mix of 85% natural ethanol and 15% gasoline, which results in a modest 10HP power bump and fuel economy that improves by 5% over the standard gas-only V8. So that means that the sweet-sounding 4.3-liter plant is now good for a true 500 HP.

The bio fuel car on display in Detroit is still labeled a concept, but the company says that it'd like to put it into production as part of its efforts to reduce fuel consumption and cut emissions 40% by 2012. As we mentioned yesterday, the regions where ethanol is readily available – like the Midwest states, Brazil and Sweden – are not major markets for the sportscar maker. But ethanol is already being used in the ALMS and elsewhere, so Ferrari already has some experience with it. We already put in our request to have one in the AB Garage. We'll let you know how that goes.

© Source: autoblog
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Maserati shows Quattroporte Collezione Cento at Detroit

Maserati has unveiled a special edition of its flagship model. Only 100 units of the special edition Quattroporte Collezione Cento will make it through production lines. Quattroporte sedan is Maserati’s bestseller and rainmaker, it is the car that turned around the fortunes of the
marque, transforming Maserati into a profit making company after a long spell of losses.

The ‘Collezione Cento’ is the Quattroporte decked up for a more luxury. Cento comes in a new ‘ivory’ color with livery on the sides. 20-inch wheels with polished rims add to the glamorous look of the Cento. Interiors are plush and luxurious with colored leather seats, diamond-shaped
stitching and polished Wengé wood inserts.

Entertainment system which includes AUX-IN socket, iPod docking station, SIM card seat and a USB port. To mark the special edition status, each car will come with a numbered plate built into the dashboard molding. Quattroporte Collezione Cento is powered by a 400bhp engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

© Source: automotto
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Ferrari 250 California Spyder would be auctioned

The second annual “Ferrari Leggenda e Passione” auction is all set to start bids for the Ferrari 250 California Spyder. Only 100 units of rare model, considered by many to be the most valuable car that came out of the Ferrari stable, were manufactured by the company between 1957 and 1962.

At the event, one each of the 1958 LWB covered headlamp version (s/n 0923GT) which is finished in classic Ross ores, and the 1961 SWB version (s/n 2377GT) with coachwork and original Nero black finish, will be put under the hammer. The classic rides are estimated to fetch around $4,000,000 to $6,000,000 at the May 18 auction to be held by RM Auctions in association with Sotheby in Milan, Italy.

© Source: bornrich
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Mitsubishi unveils Lancer Ralliart - 2008 Detroit Auto Show

At the Detroit Show, Mitsubishi has unveiled the latest member of the Lancer family, the Lancer Ralliart. The Ralliart is powered by a 2.0-L DOHC MIVEC turbocharged engine that churns out max power of 240PS and a torque of 343Nm. Power is transmitted to all wheels by Mitsubishi’s twin-clutch SST automated manual transmission.

Ralliart looks much like the Evo X, but has distinguishing features primarily as front bumper design, rear air dam, dual mufflers and an intake in the lightweight aluminum engine hood. Interiors of the car have also been handled well and appear to be in good taste.

© Source: automotto
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2008 Ford Shelby GT500 - Performance

Just as the big-block GT500 from 1968 was a step up from the GT350, the 2008 Ford Shelby GT500’s 5.4-liter V-8 is a step up from the 4.6-liter V-8 used in Mustang GT – and even the landmark powertrain used in the last SVT Mustang Cobra. Not coincidentally, the new Shelby GT500 sports the largest-displacement engine installed in a volume version of the Mustang since 1973.

While the 5.4-liter V-8 block, dual overhead cams and four valves per cylinder contribute significantly to horsepower capability of the GT500, adding a supercharger and intercooler are the icing on the cake. In fact, the configuration is similar to the Ford GT supercar, offering the right combination of classic Ford big-block power and modern technology. Using the Ford GT as a blueprint, SVT engineers gave the GT500 more total horsepower than any factory Mustang in the car’s celebrated history: 500!

SUPERCHARGED PERFORMANCE
Using the stout, cast-iron, 5.4-liter Triton V-8 as a starting point, the Shelby GT500 employs a Roots-type 8.5-pounds-per-square-inch Eaton supercharger and water-to-air intercooler to help it produce a broad torque band on its way to making a satisfying 480 foot-pounds.

The unique intake manifold helps to channel the supercharged fuel-air mixture into the cylinders. The special low-profile manifold design also effectively packages the entire induction system under the GT500’s functional air-extractor hood. Fuel comes from a dual-bore electronic throttle body borrowed from Ford’s 6.8-liter V-10 truck engine program.

© Source: svt.ford
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Fiat planning a convertible for the 500

Fiat 500 is one of the most decorated cars, it has a long list of awards including the European COTY award. The model is about to get another trim, Fiat has confirmed that a convertible version of the 500 is on the anvil and could be unveiled this summer.

Details on the convertible version are scarce, but engineers at Fiat will have to work overtime to ensure that the model does not loose the class leading five-star Euro NCAP occupancy rating. This in turn implies that Fiat may well go with a Targa trim for enhanced protection in the new model.

© Source: automotto
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Taiwan Hybrid - Door Less Solar Car

Hybrid is the future of automobile industry. They say wicked wheels know how to maintain a balance by giving a due amount of respect to environment and also bringing a smile on the face of its pround owner. And I believe in this!My curiosity is what’s latest happening at the front of solar cars? If you are also wondering the same then answer lies in the World Solar Challenge competition. The car of the year was coupe designed by researchers at the National Kaohsiung University of Applied Sciences in Taiwan.

Weighing 250kg, it has a top speed of 70mph with built-in lithium-polymer batteries that has the potential to tap sun’s profuse rays for continuous three hours. Being carved out from Nomex honeycomb, it is robust and has earned good reputation in the market. It is fire resistant and has been used for aircraft and spaceship parts. It is been said that by this year end, the car will hit the market for $25,000. You want attached doors or it door less coupe looks more unique?

© Source: elitechoice
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Detroit Autoshow 2008 Chrysler 300C Hollywood limousine

Chrysler 300C Hollywood limousine comes face to face with the oddly similar Maybach Landaulet with every revolution of its turnstile. Like the Landaulet, the 300C Hollywood also features a partially exposed cabin, but this time over the front seats rather than the rears. The fully-enclosed rear passenger cabin is accessed by two large suicide doors and features plenty of leg room thanks to its chassis stretch.

There's also a repository for three bottles of Cristal (or whatever bottled spirits you prefer to imbibe) and two flutes in between the seats. Meanwhile, the driver is left to convene with Mother Nature and her elements up front where the interior luxe is decidedly lesser. In fact, the 300C Hollywood limo becomes much more interesting when you look at it through a socio-polical lens. It's clear where the Haves and the Have Nots are supposed to sit, with a nice partition in between them to keep the classes separated. OK, perhaps we should just pop open a bottle of Cristal and stop reading into it too much.

© Source: autoblog
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Fisker Karma

Autoblog is at the 2008 Detroit Auto Show this week and one of the cars there that is drawing a lot of attention is the Fisker Karma. The Karma, designed by Henrik Fisher, is a premium hybrid sedan. Autoblog reports it is powered by the Q-DRIVE, a system from Quantum Technologies in which a four-cylinder engine powers a generator to move the car.

It can do the zero to 60 hop in 5.8 seconds and reach a top speed of 125 mph. It can run on just electricity or in sports mode which uses the four-cylinder engine. Luxury features of the four-door sedan include a navigation system and DVD player with headrest-mounted displays. The first 99 will be signed by the designer. The cars won't be available until 2009 and sell for $80,000.

© Source: luxist
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2008 Mazda Furai Concept

(from Mazda Press Release) As the latest in Mazda’s award-winning and highly acclaimed series of Nagare concept cars, the Furai P2 concept vehicle celebrates 40 years of rotary engine and international motorsports heritage with the raciest interpretation of NAGARE design language to-date.

Furai is the sort of car that could only come from a company that incorporates the “Soul of a Sports Car” into everything it builds, but with an eye toward the future and the environment through the use of renewable fuels. Driving toward sustainability, Furai was initially tuned to operate on 100 percent ethanol fuel, the first time a racing three-rotor rotary engine has been fueled by ethanol. Research continues in earnest with partner BP into other renewable and future fuels, including ethanol gasoline blends like E10.

The Furai concept serves as a turning point in the Nagare developmental process. While the four previous concept cars explored different ways to express Mazda’s emerging design philosophy and to explore an aesthetic, this one is all about function – every last texture and detail serves some functional purpose. In essence, the Furai creative process boiled down to guiding air over and through the body in fruitful ways. To prove that this concept goes far beyond static aerodynamic analysis, Mazda’s design, motorsports and R&D teams worked together to construct Furai as a 180-mph rolling laboratory to demonstrate its functional capabilities on demand.

Furai not only probes future design possibilities, it also ventures ahead with alternative renewable fuels. Consistent with Mazda’s recently announced “Sustainable Zoom-Zoom” initiatives, Furai’s three-rotor powerplant has been tuned to run powerfully on ethanol (ethyl alcohol) and ethanol gasoline blends. There are exciting advances being made in renewable fuels, from current blends like E10 (10% ethanol and 90% gasoline) with research ongoing in making Ethanol from cellulostic materials, to future renewable gasoline components like Butanol, a higher order alcohol which is fungible with gasoline. The addition of these renewable components improves Mazda’s understanding of how these fuels work with the company’s technology. and reduces the consumption of fossil hydrocarbons and the emission of harmful greenhouse gasses.

© Source: seriouswheels
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2008 Jeep Renegade Concept

Chrysler rolled out three concepts at the 2008 Detroit auto show, each pairing exciting design and glimpse-of-the-future features with environmental friendliness.

All three deliver power through an electric motor system and advanced, yet-to-be-developed lithium-ion battery pack, but each model has a different type of "range extender for the powertrain" - a gasoline or diesel engine that cycles on only when the battery has little charge remaining.

This modular electric/lithium-ion technology that all three employ is being developed by Chrysler's new ENV1, an in-house organization at the company that's focused around developing electric-drive vehicles and advanced-propulsion technologies.

At only 153 inches long (just a few inches longer than the MINI Cooper) and less than 63 inches wide, the Jeep Renegade concept is a little two-seater that could be equally in its place on sand dunes, tight forest trails, or tight city streets. The Renegade, at least visually, looks like a back-to-basics approach, with a cut-down windshield, prominent roll bar, and an easy-to-clean, hose-out interior, and lightweight aluminum construction - along with, of course, good ground clearance and four-wheel drive.

But propulsion is provided by an electric motor system, with regenerative braking much like a hybrid to help increase efficiency in stop-and-go driving. On plugged-in-and-recharged power alone, the Renegade can go about 40 miles; after that, the little 1.5-liter, three-cylinder Bluetec diesel engine kicks in to charge the system and also run the motors, for a total range of about 400 miles. All considering, its powertrain yields a petroleum-equivalent fuel economy of up to 110 mpg, Chrysler says.

The Renegade comes with no roof per se, but it can be equipped with one of many lids depending on the occasion and the cargo to be hauled. For instance if mountain biking the roof would be formed to accommodate two bikes in back. Also, its seats are treated with a waterproof material that's flexible and soft to the touch. Materials take a decidedly environmental bent, with a soy-based foam used for the seats and doors, and a no-gloss exterior finish that's actually just molded composite - to avoid the use of paint solvents.

© Source: thecarconnection
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Detroit 2008 Geely FC makes an argument for Chinese cars

Of all the Chinese automakers in attendance this year at the 2008 Detroit Auto Show, Geely is the only one with cars we believe could actually be sold in the U.S. We have no idea if its new FC sedan, which debuted in China just five months ago, would pass strict U.S. safety and emissions standards, but its design, features and build quality seemed just up to snuff for an American consumer shopping for an inexpensive four-door sedan.

The FC was developed in-house by Geely and features a 1.8L four-cylinder with variable valve timing producing 137 horsepower and mated to a five-speed manual. A 13-second trip to 62 mph isn't a world record, but it's just enough to keep up with traffic and return good fuel economy at the same time. There's also an available in-dash navigation system, dual airbags, and ABS brakes with electronic brake force distribution. The interior, as well, didn't look or feel like it was made from recycled Tonka toys.

Mind you, we're not saying the FC would set the sales charts on fire in the U.S., but it could be competitive with the bottom dwellers in its class. For a Chinese automaker hoping to sell cars in the world's largest market, that's progress.

© Source: autoblog
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Mercedes admits R-Class was a failure

That the R-Class has not been the most successful vehicle in the history of Mercedes-Benz is no big secret, but after staunchly espousing its virtues for year, the automaker has finally admitted it. And as any recovering addict could tell you, admitting you have a problem is the first step on the long road to recovery.

Mercedes had pegged production of the crossover at its Vance, Alabama, plant at 50,000 units annually, with half of that staying in the United States. Last year, however, American dealerships sold only 18,000 units. According to Daimler CEO Dieter Zetsche, the R-Class "has definitely not lived up to our original plans."

Mercedes is planning a replacement for R-Class, and while it could retain the same big CUV/wagon set-up, the next R is more likely to take another format altogether. Mercedes biggest competitor at BMW, meanwhile, is evidently thinking otherwise with the X6 crossover it just unveiled yesterday.

© Source: autoblog
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Detroit 2008 Mitsubishi brings the retro to D-town

During Mitsubishi's press conference on Sunday, it paid particular attention to the marque's motorsport heritage with a video montage/quiz game on how Ralliart has fared in the last quarter century of rallying and road racing. That's no surprise, considering the introduction of the Lancer Ralliart, but Mitsu also brought a few of the vehicles that shaped its racing legacy and proudly displayed them on the show floor.

The first vehicle that caught our eye was the Group A Starion Turbo that barely got a wash before being put away wet after its last race in 1988. The Starion racked up over a dozen wins in Japan and throughout the world during its four-year campaign, but beyond its on-track successes, the weights still taped onto the wheels and the rear-mounted radiator .

The 1981 rally-prepped Lancer (2nd generation, above left) was particularly impressive, but the Galant GTO R73-X was what floored us. This Galant is a one-of-a-kind concept from 1972 that had its stock 1.6-liter inline-four swapped out for Mitsubishi's Formula Two-derived, 200-hp two-liter DOHC four.

© Source: autoblog
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Detroit autoshow 2008 Hang Ten with Tang Hua

A trio of bright yellow Dr. Suess-mobiles are being displayed by the Chinese company in the basement of COBO. As you might imagine, Chinese cars don't necessarily get that much respect here in Detroit, but when they look like these three Disneyland rejects, showgoers can't help but smile. Or laugh. And they don't even have the decency to run on dead dino juice, so that just makes them even more comical here in Motor City.

Each of these three "neighborhood electric vehicles" has its own charms, but we tend to like the amphibious one above the best. And what better customer to espouse your product than the "Renowned environmentalists - President Bush..."

© Source: autoblog
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Spy Shot: Aston Martin Rapide

With its Le Mans racing program soon to be bolstered by GT2 and LMP1 entries, and with sales of its ever-so-desirable GTs ever increasing, Aston Martin is preparing to add the four-door Rapide to its production line-up. And if this spy shot is any indication, things seem to be moving along nicely.

Aston was anticipated to decide by year's end where the Rapide would be built. Although the company just moved to a new facility in Gaydon, the automaker was reportedly in discussions with a number of smaller contractors – including Pininfarina, Karmann, Magna-Steyr and Valmet – over potentially outsourcing the Rapide's manufacturing. As we already know, these private coachbuilders are all in dire need of the contract.

Confirmation that Aston would build the Rapide was one of the first things its new owners did after acquiring the company from Ford, and we're looking forward to seeing the production version in the flesh after seeing this spy shot.

© Source: autoblog
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2008 Chrysler ecoVoyager Concept

At the 2008 Detroit auto show, Chrysler rolled out three concepts, each pairing exciting design and glimpse-of-the-future features with environmental friendliness.

This modular electric/lithium-ion technology that all three employ is being developed by Chrysler's new ENV1, an in-house organization at the company that's focused around developing electric-drive vehicles and advanced-propulsion technologies.

The Chrysler ecoVoyager concept is a sleek, rounded one-box design - looking like a low-sling crossover vehicle - that's said to celebrate the "romance of automobile travel embodied in a four-door, four-passenger distinctively American design." Chrysler design chief Trevor Creed named elegance, simplicity, and serenity as design priorities. With an overall length of about 191 inches and width of 75.2 inches, its footprint is similar to that of a mid-size four-door sedan.

A 200 kW (268-hp) motor system would drive the wheels and power the ecoVoyager with enough gusto to reach 60 mph in 8.8 seconds and go on to a top speed of 115 mph. Regenerative braking would recapture energy lost in braking or decelerating, increasing efficiency. Range from the battery system would be about 40 miles, while total range of the hydrogen fuel cell system in combination would be about 300 miles.

© Source: thecarconnection
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2009 Cadillac CTS Coupe Concept

Having earned critical acclaim, industry awards and brisk sales, Cadillac CTS has moved into the vanguard of contemporary design. In doing so, Cadillac designers faced the question of what to do next. Their answer celebrates that design legacy with the exhilarating Cadillac CT Coupe Concept, which premiered at the 2008 North American International Auto Show.

The CT Coupe takes Cadillac's acclaimed Art and Science design language and adds more of both. More expressive, more technical and very personal, the CT Coupe extends the dramatic design of its sedan predecessor with all-new sculpted bodywork aft of the front fenders.

Performance-bred powertrain and suspension systems
As is the case with its design, the CT Coupe extends the acclaimed capabilities of the sedan in terms of performance technology. This includes the capability to support a broad engine range of gasoline and diesel engines.

The CT Coupe, of course, ascertains the sedan's 3.6L V-6 engines, including the 304-horsepower (227 kW) Direct Injection power plant. The Coupe Concept also is designed for a new 2.9L turbo-diesel being developed for international markets. This new engine, tailored for use in the CTS, will deliver an estimated 250 horsepower (184 kW) and 406 lb.-ft. of torque (550 Nm).

A six-speed manual transmission backs the engine, sending torque to an independently sprung rear axle. The CT Coupe's sport-tuned suspension gives it a slightly lower ride height than a production CTS - a look enhanced by the car's rakish shape and large, 20-inch front and 21-inch rear wheels.

Behind the chrome, split-spoke, aluminum alloy wheels is a set of high-performance brakes, featuring cross-drilled rotors. Six-piston calipers clamp down on the front rotors, while four-piston calipers grab the rear rotors. All of the rotors have a distinctive, yellow-painted finish.

© Source: thecarconnection
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2008 Dodge ZEO Concept

Chrysler rolled out three concepts at the 2008 Detroit auto show, each pairing exciting design and glimpse-of-the-future features with environmental friendliness.

All three deliver power through an electric motor system and advanced, yet-to-be-developed lithium-ion battery pack, but each model has a different type of "range extender for the powertrain" - a gasoline or diesel engine that cycles on only when the battery has little charge remaining.

This modular electric/lithium-ion technology that all three employ is being developed by Chrysler's new ENV1, an in-house organization at the company that's focused around developing electric-drive vehicles and advanced-propulsion technologies.

The Dodge ZEO is a four-passenger, 2+2 sport wagon and takes a nearly opposite design direction from the Chrysler, with a long hood, rearward cabin, and monster 23-inch wheels. The ZEO, according to Creed is a "new, responsible breed of muscle car for the 21st Century." With a powerful 200 kW electric motor for a light 2650-pound curb weight, the ZEO can rip out zero-to-sixty times of less than six seconds and is designed to be the environmentally friendly all-electric vehicle for driving enthusiasts.

With a larger lithium-ion battery pack on board, the ZEO can achieve a 250-mile driving range, according to Chrysler, and get a gasoline-equivalent fuel economy of about 120 mpg. That is, provided you don't spend too much time near the 130-mpg top speed in your concept-car fantasy.

© Source: thecarconnection
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2008 Audi R8 V12 TDI

(from Audi Press Release) Audi is presenting a revolution in the top class at the Detroit Auto Show 2008 – the first 12-cylinder diesel engine in a high-performance roadgoing sports car. The V12 TDI with a displacement of six liters powers a concept car based on the Audi R8. This unit generates a huge 500 hp and 1,000 Newton-meters (737.56 lb-ft) of torque. Audi is writing a new chapter in diesel technology with this power unit. Equipped with the expertise that Audi has built up through its motor sport activities, the R8 V12 TDI in matt "Grace Silver" embodies superb road handling, pioneering technology and fascinating design.

The V12 TDI is closely related to the engine in the Audi R10, the two-time Le Mans winner – so it catapults the Audi R8 into supercar terrain concerning performance too. It sprints from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in just 4.2 seconds and its top speed is well over 300 km/h (186.41 mph). The peak torque, reached at only 1,750 rpm, paves the way for effortless acceleration that is unrivaled even at this level.

The new V12 TDI belongs to Audi's family of V engines but has the ideal included angle for this engine type of 60 degrees between cylinder banks. Its highlights include the new chain drive layout that includes the two newly developed high-pressure pumps for the common rail injection system.
Its sound is as thrilling as you'd expect in a sports car of this caliber. For all the subtle smoothness that typifies this design principle, the twelve-cylinder unit is full-bodied and equipped with energetic overtones that make no secret of its performance potential.

© Source: seriouswheels
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2008 Saturn Astra XR Three-Door - full test.

Everything you need to learn about the character of the 2008 Saturn Astra XR can be found in its key fob. The switchblade style favored by VW lets you know that Saturn is thinking GTI here. Of course, there are consequences for thinking in German, as you can tell by the key fob's cryptographic buttonry. There are two slash marks in parallel on one side of the face, two slash marks at approximately 45-degree angles to each other, and you're supposed to figure out that one button locks the doors and the other unlocks them. And then there's the clock, which reads only in military-style 24-hour time.

Lots of Growl, Not Much Bite
This 1.8-liter version of the Ecotec inline-4 seems a little low-tech with its iron block, yet its weight is comparable to that of an aluminum-block engine (so Saturn claims) and it features variable valve timing on both the intake and exhaust camshafts. But it all adds up to no more than 138 horsepower at 6,300 rpm and 125 pound-feet of torque at 3,800 rpm, which is not exactly the sporting power we were hoping for.

The overall propulsion is pretty good, and the engine has a wide, generous power band, but it's always growling and grows coarse as you approach redline. There's not much snap to this engine, and when you rev it to the power peak, you bounce right off the rev limiter at redline, which lies only a few rpm higher at 6,500 rpm.

As in most German cars, the shift action of this five-speed manual combines long, light-effort throws with strong but notchy gear engagement. It's not as intuitive to find the path between gears as we'd like and the 2-3 shift in particular requires the accuracy of a Golden Gloves jab and can't be rushed. At the test track, the slightly heavy 2,814-pound Astra XR plods to 60 mph in 8.8 seconds and then crosses the 1,320-foot mark in 16.8 seconds at 82.5 mph. (This happened in 3rd gear instead of 4th, a rare occurrence among cars like this.)

Hot or Not?
The 2008 Saturn Astra XR's racy good looks are both its best feature and its biggest source of disappointment. It looks hot. But it's not just hot; it's hot in that hot hatch way that screams "Small car, big fun!" Unfortunately, the XR just can't quite cash the check its appearance writes, as the engine and transmission seem to be on a mission to deliver only the thrifty 25.2 mpg we observed despite our best efforts.

For all that, this is a fun car to drive, but it's not sharp enough to make you overlook the Mini Cooper and the Volkswagen GTI. Then again, this Astra XR's bottom line at $20,330 makes it look a lot more interesting.We're waiting for the Astra Red Line that has to be waiting in the wings. If the Holden Astra VXR is any indication, it should be great.

© Source: edmunds
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2009 Ford Verve Concept

Ford Motor Co. finally ready to fill one of the biggest holes in its North American line-up? Actually, make that a small hole, as in the mini-compact model it desperately needs to draw in both "Millennial" buyers, as well as older motorists looking for basic, fuel-efficient transportation.

While the Verve, which debuts at this week's Detroit Auto Show, is officially designated a "concept" car, there's little doubt that this prototype is a close snapshot of what Ford plans to launch in 2010. With Verve, Ford will launch its first true "world car" in more than a decade. The concept vehicle - and the production model to follow - have been jointly developed by Ford's North American and European product development team.

An underlying design goal was to make the Verve look stylish, chic and sporty, rather than soft, flabby and cheap like the entry-level econoboxes of the past. The hood is sculpted to give it an athletic feel, the side profile seems energetic, with pillarless side windows. A panoramic glass roof keeps the small cabin from feeling claustrophobic. The high-mounted LED taillamps complete the sculpting of the overall package. Verve sits atop 18-inch 12-spoke, two-piece alloy wheels, something you normally wouldn't expect in a car of this class.

Two versions of Verve are being shown in Detroit, a three-door concept, primarily geared for Europe, as well as a four-door, more suited for the States. But that distinction could vanish. While this new generation of customers may expect more than their parents, it's as important as ever to woo them over, since someone buying an entry-level model, like Verve, will eventually move up into more expensive cars, trucks and crossovers.

It's all the more important to score with an entry into this rapidly expanding product segment. Small vehicles, in general, are expected to account for nearly half the global market, with demand soaring in the so-called "B-car" segment. Even in the U.S., Ford projects, sales will jump by 25 percent between now and 2012, to about 3.4 million annually.

© Source: thecarconnection
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Enter the dragon - Nissan GT 500

Now we're torn. Yesterday we saw the Aston DBR9 Le Mans racer in Gulf livery and were certain we'd found the coolest racing car of the year. But now Nissan has gone and taken the wraps off the awesome GT500 GT-R, in Tokyo, and we're all torn.Because, well, just look at it. The GT500 is, as you might have guessed, a racing version of the GT-R (Top Gear's Supercar of the Year, no less), set to compete in Japan's Super GT Championship.

It'll race in the top category, the GT500 - quite possibly the fastest GT series in the world thanks to a list of regulations that reads something like: 'Do more or less whatever you want, so long as you keep under 500bhp.' As the road-going GT-R puts out some 480bhp, that means it won't be much more powerful on paper. But, as a quick look at (and, more important, a quick listen to) this video of the car in testing reveals, there has been some pretty serious work put into the GT-R's 3.8-litre twin-turbo V6. What a noise.

Nissan hasn't released any technical details on the GT500 yet, but we do know that it won't be allowed traction control, ABS or stability control. Whoever takes control of that thing needs cojones of carbon fibre. The organisers of the Super GT confidently assert that over the past few years, they've introduced more stringent regulations regarding aerodynamics, aiming to bring GT500 cars in line with GT1 cars. By the looks of the rear end of the GT500, those regulations aren't too strict yet: look at the size of that rear wing and diffuser.

The GT500 also shows off Nissan's new works livery, which owes much to the paintjob on the current Fairlady Z race car. According to the Nissan spiel, 'the red symbolises the passion for racing, while the black signifies the high performance of the new GT-R'. Even if you painted the GT500 pink and plastered it in fluffy bunny decals, it'd still look scary enough to make Ross Kemp weep. We'll find out more about the GT500 GT-R at the end of this month.

© Source: seriouswheels
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2008 Honda Pilot Concept

The new Honda Pilot was presented at the Detroit auto show, as a thinly disguised concept car. The production version, dubbed a 2009 model, goes on sale in the spring.

The Pilot rides on a newly redesigned version of its front- or all-wheel-drive platform. In passing, the Pilot prototype bears a resemblance to Ford's Explorer America concept. Honda says it's a bolder look, with "authentic" SUV styling.

Under its hood the Pilot pulls its load with a V-6 engine outfitted with Honda's variable-displacement system, which can operate the V-6 in four-cylinder and three-cylinder modes to boost fuel economy.

Inside the Pilot keeps its eight-passenger seating arrangement. And since it's larger inside this time around--by how much Honda's not saying just yet--the third-row seat will be easier to access, and there will be more room for people and cargo inside. The front two chairs are captain's chairs, Honda adds, while the second row is split 60/40, as is the rear bench. Both the second and third row fold flat to create a large cargo area.

The Pilot was penned in Honda's U.S. design studios, and will continue to be built in the company's plant in Lincoln, Ala.

© Source: thecarconnection
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2009 Volkswagen Passat CC Preview

The destined-for-production model unveiled at Volkswagen's Detroit show stand undeniably has more than a little extra dash of panache compared to the Passat sedan.

The so-called 2009 Volkswagen Passat CC not only bears the name of one of one of America's most popular on-a-budget family sedans; it has a similar size overall, too. Just a little bit of utility is sacrificed for a lot more style and flair, along with a host of high-tech features, to create a product that promises to be more desirable and exclusive.

Having learned its lesson with the big, expensive Phaeton, VW looks to be reaching upscale from the Passat with a new, more incremental strategy as it bolsters its product line with products like the upcoming Tiguan.

The swoopy, "four-door coupe" design is supported with details that maintain the car's luster up close and do set it apart from the mainstream Passat, like frameless doors and a contrasting mix of smooth transitions, such as that from the back window seamlessly into the trunk, and expressive creases, such as those which form behind the front wheels, become bolder, and form a sharp crease that wraps around and functions as a decklid spoiler.

In Europe, the Passat CC will come with a variety of engines, including two different common-rail turbodiesel four-cylinder engines and three different direct-injection gasoline four- and six-cylinder engines. In the U.S., the Passat CC will come with the same powertrains as the pedestrian Passat - either with VW's familiar 2.0-liter FSI turbocharged four-cylinder, making 200 horsepower, or with the 280-hp, 3.6-liter V-6 and 4Motion all-wheel drive. A six-speed manual or six-speed automatic will be offered on the 2.0 FSI, while the 3.6 will get a six-speed automatic with Tiptronic shift control.

© Source: thecarconnection
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2008 Arden Range Rover AR7

(from Arden Press Release) Elegance, discreet sportiness and understatement have always been the characteristics of British cars. The car enhancement specialist and registered automobile manufacturer from Krefeld was unable to resist the attraction of these vehicles over 30 years ago. It has for many years been a refuge for customers wanting it to individualise their Jaguar or Range Rover and emphasize its typical characteristics.

Ardens latest development is the AR7. It is based on the Range Rover LM, which Arden completely converts and provides with more overtaking prestige. The base vehicle which is impressive due to its sheer size becomes captivating with its extraordinary sporty look. Meanwhile enhanced performance of the Range Rover compressor motor contributes to the sporty driving performance.

Superior performance
Arden obtains not less than 480 HP from the from the supercharged V8, its cubic capacity having been raised to 4.5 litres. Together with the torque which has been increased to an ample 680 Nm, this provides the not exactly light Range Rover with an appealing driving performance. The sheer power catapults the British SUV from nought to one hundred km/h in 6.5 seconds. Outstanding engine power goes without saying. Even if speeds beyond 200 km/h do not happen often due to the flow of traffic, the Arden AR7s 480 HP make over 240 km/h possible.

© Source: seriouswheels
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2008 MMI Avocet

(from MM Industries Press Release) MMIs new Avocet British, good looks and affordable performance

A new British-built sportscar, which combines a stylish, ultra-lightweight two-seater body with exceptional chassis dynamics and awesome performance is unveiled at the 2008 Autosport International Show at the NEC in Birmingham. MM Industries, which now owns the former Strathcarron sportscar business, is presenting its production Avocet two-seater during the shows two trade days, prior to a public launch later in the year.

The Avocet is displayed by Surface Transforms (Stand E304) - whose latest technology carbon ceramic brake system is fitted to the car. The system, which will be available as an extra cost option, reduces overall weight by 2.5 kilograms per corner, with a resultant improvement in handling and braking performance.

MMI has placed an order for a limited initial production run of the car, which now features a significantly restyled doorless moulded bodyshell and incorporates some of the latest lightweight composite materials. The standard car features a steeply inclined windscreen, although a very attractive low-line wrap-around aero-screened Spyder version is also planned.

The standard powertrain incorporates a Ford 2-litre Duratec engine, recalibrated by Roush to suit the installation and develop 150bhp. An uprated 225bhp version, developed by Roushs Mountune performance division, will be available as a special order option. An all-up weight of around 700 kilograms will, in power to weight terms, position the Avocet alongside the quickest and, with a 0-60 time under 5 seconds, is expected to make the car extremely competitive.

© Source: seriouswheels
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2008 Hartge Hunter based on BMW X3

(from Hartge Press Release) HARTGE HUNTER splendour X3 as expertly off-road vehicle

As a successful race driver and team manager on the international stage, Herbert Hartge applies motor sports technology know-how into each of his BMW-based vehicles. The reason a racy all-wheel-drive vehicle is now fully suitable for hunting on even the most challenging terrain situations, lies not only in the fact that hes able to fall back on a wealth of gathered rallye sport experience: Herbert is truly an avid and passionate hunter.

The modified X3 renders his passion. As HUNTER it embodies a fine sleek manner of moving expertly and stylishly over rough and smooth. The necessary ground clearance of 23 cm is provided by longer spring/damper units, additional front spacer blocks and very good all-terrain-pneus (255/55 R 18) which are mounted on HARTGEs CLASSIC 2 light alloy wheels.

The full range of HARTGE performance enhancements naturally extend to the version for the bhp-spoiled hunters society. In the 3.0sd 335hp/246 kW (factory 283 hp/210 kW) blow the mort through the hunting horn. The power-plus is gained through tuning of the electronic control unit (ECU): within technical territories tuner HARTGE is already a famous hunting authority.
Automatic differential locks on both axles ease the HUNTERs ability to stalk through difficult terrain. Stainless steel grating protects and guards the radiator from damage due to thick underbrush or rocks.

Again, this X3 clearly demonstrates its supremacy on off-road terrain. HARTGEs HUNTER enriches the hunting scene as an off-road vehicle, which in contrast to the British Landy or German G-Class cuts a fine figure onroad as well with speeds up to 210 km/h (dependent upon tyre manufacturer).

© Source: seriouswheels
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2008 Aston Martin DBR9 Gulf Oil Livery

(from Aston Martin Press Release) Aston Martin Racing will return to Le Mans in 2008 to defend its GT1 title in the distinctive blue and orange livery of Gulf Oil.

Two Aston Martin DBR9s will look to emulate Gulf’s first victory at the 24 hour race 40 years on.

Alain Dujean, Gulf Oil vice president international, said: “This is arguably the most important year ever for Gulf in motorsport. The famous Gulf racing colours first tasted victory at Le Mans in 1968, so 2008 already had great significance for us, but for Gulf to have joined up with Aston Martin Racing for this year is fantastic – the coming together of two great automotive names, for what I hope will be a long and fruitful partnership.”

David Richards, chairman of Aston Martin, said: “Endurance racing is engrained in the heritage of both Gulf and Aston Martin and we have also both been intrinsically linked through Le Mans for many decades. It was perhaps destined that, in the year we defend our GT1 title and Gulf celebrates the 40th anniversary of its win, we would finally race together at La Sarthe.”

The two Aston Martin DBR9s for 2008 will be entered as numbers 007 and 009.

© Source: seriouswheels
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Seat's new diesel BTCC challenger

Seat will be switching to diesel power for this year's BTCC with a TDi Leon racer.

Seat ran diesels in the World Touring Car Championship last year and was only narrowly beaten to the title when Yvan Muller's Leon went pop at the final round.

Despite this, Seat Sport UK have an uphill battle ahead; they have yet to receive their new engines from Seat Spain, they've carried out no testing and neither their drivers (Jason Plato and Darren Turner) have driven diesel race cars.

Don't expect the cars to tug around at the back come the first race - those diesels have an incredible amount of torque...

© Source: topgear
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2008 New Delhi Auto Show Learning the Indian market

The Indian auto market, like the Chinese auto market, is pretty new to me, and probably to you too. So in reporting on this show, I consider it mostly as a learning experience.

Oh, sure, We've heard of many of the brand names sold over there, but less so of the model lines offered. However, understanding as to where they all fit in locally, and potentially on the international stage, is at the moment somewhat of a puzzle for myself and most Westerners.

Tata Sumo Grande MUV (multi activity vehicle) is pictured above. It will go on sale later this month in India for around $16,500. I can't imagine what Tata's $2,500 car might be like, after looking at this. GM displayed the Korean designed Chevy Captiva. It sells in India for around $45,000. Wow!

Suzuki, or more accurately Maruti Suzuki, showed the A-Star which will go into production later this year. Maruti Suzuki is the first company in India to produce cars. They have revolutionized the Indian auto market, and currently have over 50% of the indian auto market.

© Source: edmunds
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2009 Dodge Ram Preview

When the Dodge Ram was last completely redesigned, in 1994, with its aggressive big-rig grille and very upright appearance, Dodge's market share among full-size pickups about tripled.

Today, the appetite for full-size trucks isn't quite as strong as it's been, and competition's tough. The Toyota Tundra was redesigned and up-sized last year to take on the likes of the Ram head-to-head; GM and Ford have both also recently redesigned their full-size trucks.

Most notably, the new Ram will feature a crew cab design for the first time, called Ram Crew, with full-access rear doors that open 90 degrees. Crew cab body styles are the fastest-growing among pickups and account for about 50 percent of the market. Besides Ram Crew, the new Ram will be offered in standard and Quad Cab styles, and in five different trim levels.

The new rear suspension design also has another important benefit: a wider, deeper cargo box. And with an improved frame design, it makes no payload or towing sacrifice. Max payload remains an estimated 1850 pounds, while max towing capability is about 9100 pounds.

The 5.7-liter HEMI V-8, which about 40 percent of customers upgrade to, gets more horsepower, while fuel economy increases an estimated four percent - thanks to new variable valve timing, a variable intake, and an expanded range for the fuel-saving Multi-Displacement System (MDS). It's now rated at 380 horsepower and 404 lb-ft of torque, while the mid-range 4.7-liter V-8 has been completely revamped to make a very competitive 310 hp and 330 lb-ft. The base engine will remain a 215-hp, 3.7-liter V-6. A five-speed automatic transmission is standard with the Hemi and optional with the 4.7-liter; otherwise a four-speed automatic is offered. Part-time and on-demand four-wheel drive systems are available, plus four different axle ratios to meet various needs from towing to off-roading. Electronic stability control will be standard across the line.

© Source: thecarconnection
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Nissan, Chrysler close to deal on small cars

Nissan is nearing an agreement with Chrysler LLC to supply the American company with a version of its Versa subcompact for rebadging and sale in South America.A deal could be announced in the coming few days, and Nissan could start manufacturing the vehicles in the next 12 to 18 months, an industry source familiar with the matter said.Under the plan, Nissan Motor Co. will supply about 20,000 vehicles a year and build the cars at its plant in Mexico. That facility currently produces a 1.8-liter Versa for the United States.

The car is badged the Tiida in Mexico and elsewhere overseas.The agreement is smaller than some had originally speculated. It will cover only one model, and does not address Nissan's gap in pickup trucks. Chrysler's strength in SUVs and pickups was seen as an area where Nissan might tap that company's expertise.

Cooperation on the Versa would be the second major exchange between the companies. Nissan already supplies Chrysler with continuously variable transmissions.

Nissan has similar OEM arrangements with other automakers. It buys and rebadges commercial vehicles from Mazda and Isuzu and minicars from Mitsubishi and Suzuki. In reverse, it sells commercial vehicles to Isuzu and minivans to Suzuki.In 2008, Nissan will build a mid-sized pickup for Suzuki at Nissan's factory in Smyrna, Tenn.

Under the new ownership of Cerberus Capital Management LP, Chrysler is looking for outside alliances to reduce product development costs. It already has a deal with China's Chery Automobile Co. to produce small cars for world markets, including the United States.

A car for U.S. dealerships is due in 2009.

© Source: seriouswheels
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Sneak Preview - the first commercial from Porsche Cayenne GTS

The commercial features the new Porsche Cayenne GTS! The new Cayenne GTS is the latest addition to Porsche’s legacy of performance and race-bred engineering. The GTS transfers Porsche’s six decades of racing experience to the streets. It boasts a lowered suspension and broader stance to match its 405 hp and 21-inch wheels.

The powerful, throaty growl of the GTS radiates through the standard sport exhaust, making it a distinct and memorable sound to any car aficionado. Experience the Cayenne’s “Call of the Wild” by watching it’s never seen before the commercial. The commercial will debut mid-January during the NFL playoffs.

© Source: youtube
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Bugatti developing Є2.5m car - More expensive, powerful and faster than the Veyron

The Bugatti Veyron, one of the most expensive cars in the world, has become an instant legend in a couple of years. Designed by Volkswagen, the Veyron is powered by a W16 (that’s two V8s) engine that produces 1001 horsepower and has 4 turbochargers. The $1.4 million roadster accelerates from 0-60 in 2.46 seconds and 0-100 in 5.5 seconds and has a top speed of 253 mph. The special edition Bugatti EB Veyron 16.4 Pur Sang, which was shown to the media at the Frankfurt Motor show, was sold out in less than 24 hours.

The latest news in the year is that Bugatti is developing $3m uber-Veyron track car. The speculations made earlier were of a super-luxury sedan, an entry-level roadster and a targa variant of the existing Veyron. German website Motor Auto und Sport has posted a series of drawings, which could be the rumored model, more expensive, more powerful and faster than the Veyron. The new rumored model of the supercar is touted to be more track-focused but still road legal. It will get its power from the Veyron’s 8-liter quad-turbo W16 engine thet produces 1,175 hp.

The new supercar is said to be being developed under the codename ‘Project Lydia’ after Ettore Bugatti’s wife. It would exceed 400 km/h and get a Nurburgring lap time of 6 minutes and 40 seconds. The project was originally due for release next year, but it looks like the project has been put on hold for now. Meant for the super-rich only, the rumored supercar is estimated to cost a whopping Є2.5 million.

© Source: bornrich
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2008 Vodafone McLaren Mercedes MP4-23

(from Daimler Press Release) Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Daimler Board, and Ron Dennis, Chairman and CEO of the McLaren Group, welcomed all the guests to the official presentation, with Lewis Hamilton, who celebrates his 23rd birthday today, and Heikki Kovalainen joined on stage by Pedro de la Rosa and fellow test driver Gary Paffett to unveil the MP4-23. The car was completed yesterday and left the McLaren Technology Centre in the UK at around 18:00 GMT on Sunday and was driven in a Mercedes-Benz Actros to the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart-Unterterkheim, having covered approximately 1000kms, arriving around 10:00 this morning.

Upon arrival in Stuttgart, the car was transported to the 53,000 sqm Mercedes-Benz Museum, one of the world’s largest and most renowned car museums. About 700 Mercedes-Benz employees from the nearby manufacturing plant Stuttgart-Unterterkheim had the opportunity to attend today’s event at the end of their early shift alongside the more than 400 media and other guests. The Mercedes-Benz employees had the opportunity to enter a draw of which the lucky winners were able to meet and spend some time with Lewis and Heikki.

Following today’s event the car will be transported to the Circuito de Jerez in Southern Spain, where on Wednesday 9thJanuary Heikki and Pedro will start the test programme with two MP4-23 chassis at a private test. The team will remain at the circuit for five track days, excluding the weekend.

© Source: seriouswheels
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2008 Dodge Dakota Sport Extended Cab

AS-TESTED PRICE: $27,860
DRIVETRAIN: 4.7-liter V8; rwd, five-speed automatic
OUTPUT: 302 hp @ 4600 rpm, 329 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm
CURB WEIGHT: 4494 lb
FUEL ECONOMY (EPA/AW): 16/13.3 mpg

Dodge Dakota has the big black box jutting from the back of the center console into the rear of the cab is actually a giant subwoofer--the key part of the optional 508-watt premium audio system. That subwoofer chews up a healthy chunk of the limited space behind the front seats, especially since our particular test truck was just an extended-cab model and not a pile-everybody-in crew cab. But it will send shock waves through everyone who does get inside and the folks in the car the next lane over, too.

The 4.7-liter V8 is stout, and the five-speed automatic shifts smoothly, but there’s nothing here that urges you to give the right pedal a strenuous workout. And if you do, this truck’s combination of rear drive, front weight bias and lack of any kind of traction control means you’ll want to do that only when the road ahead is dry and runs straight. The ride is standard pickup, bumpy on the Detroit area’s chunked-up roads.

The bucket seats are comfortable, but the Chrysler bean counters thought they’d save a few cents by taking some inches off the seatbelt webbing, which makes finding a comfortable driving position or reaching the glovebox a real challenge. The jump seats in back are best left in the stowed position, because even small children are going to feel cramped back there.

© Source: autoweek
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1958 Packard Hawk - 50-Year-Old Memory

Its godfather was crisis; its sire was wannabe corporate savior Roy Hurley. The 1958 Packard Hawk was a last-gasp effort to save the once-proud automotive manufacturer from extinction. Only 588 Hawks rolled off the assembly line before Packard went defunct, but some vintage-car aficionados think the Hawk was one of the snazziest sports cars made in America during the 1950s.

Packards essentially became Packards in name only, and sales continued plummeting as Packard lovers derided the more inexpensively constructed mid-'50s Packards as "Packardbakers."

To restore Packard's reputation for quality, Hurley decided to use his custom-built two-door hardtop as a prototype of the '58 Hawk. Touted as the "Family Sports Car," the Hawk actually began production in January 1957. Although similar-looking to Studebaker's 1957 tail-finned Golden Hawk, the Packard Hawk was distinguished in key ways by its designer, Duncan McRae. Hawk front hoods were among the first automotive uses of fiberglass. Lighter than metal and aerodynamically low to the ground, the hoods stabilized fast-flying Hawks by utilizing the downward air pressure thrust on the car's front end much better than those of Golden Hawks. Supercharged, the Hawk became the fastest production vehicle in Packard's history. Its 289-cubic-inch Studebaker V8 engine--as powerful as the standard 352-cubic-inch '56 Packard--made its much lighter body a virtual rocket.

DOLLARS & SENSE
ORIGINAL LIST PRICE: $4,700
CURRENT MARKET VALUE: $34,500 (est)

© Source: autoweek
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2009 Audi TTS – Detroit Auto Show

Audi couldn't quite wait 'til Detroit to show its production-bound TTS - the much-anticipated high-performance version of the TT line that also marks the TT's tenth anniversary.

Most notably, there's a lot more power under the hood, a 2.0-liter 'TFSI' four-cylinder engine that makes 272 horsepower. The engine, according to Audi, takes gasoline direct injection and turbocharging and "blends them to form a perfect partnership." Peak torque is an impressive (for a 2.0-liter four) 258 pound-feet, between 2500 and 5000 rpm. With the new engine tune and extra power, the two-liter has also been strengthened and extensively reengineered, and the intercooler has been optimized, with maximum turbocharger boost dialed up to 17.4 psi - exceptionally high for a production vehicle.

A six-speed manual is standard-equipment for Europe, but all U.S. models get the available six-speed S tronic DSG gearbox - which shifts faster than a standard automatic transmission - cuts the zero-to-62-mph time by two tenths of a second. S tronic now also has a new pressure reservoir for the DSG unit's multi-plate clutch system allows it to pull off shifts even faster.With the S tronic, the TTS Coupe will be able to accelerate from zero to 62 mph in only 5.2 seconds and on to an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph. Accelerating from 80 to 120 mph in fourth gear takes only 4.4 seconds - a testament to the engine's broad torque curve.

U.S. pricing has not yet been announced, but based on the European prices mentioned in Audi's release (Coupe starting at 44,900 euros), the U.S. Coupe will likely start in the upper $40k range. The TTS will go on sale in early summer for Europe, late November for the U.S., as a 2009 model.

© Source: thecarconnection
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Full Test 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X GSR

Well, 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X is slower than the Evo IX it's replacing. A lot slower.

Hey, don't shoot the messenger. Channel your anger toward Hiroshi Fujii, the platform manager for the Evo in Mitsubishi's research and development department, and the man they call Dr. Evo. It was Fujii and his team that created the Evo X, the largest, most refined and most technically advanced Evo ever.

Fujii's team has packed this all-wheel-drive, turbocharged sport sedan with active differentials, a dual-clutch semiautomatic gearbox and an all-new all-aluminum engine. They've strengthened its structure, fortified its five-speed manual transmission and added active stability control. Heck, it's the first Evo with a navigation system, HID headlamps and Bluetooth. It would seem that the doctor and his nurses spent years adding everything to the car except speed.

More Good News
And that's the deal with the Evo X; it's better than its track test numbers tell the world. It still feels like an Evo, but it's a more livable Evo that can be driven and enjoyed by those of us over 30.

No, it's not the quickest of its kind, but the aftermarket will fix that quarter-mile thing with the determination of a gunshot. Just give the guys at HKS or Vishnu Performance a few months. They'll have the new 4B11 2.0-liter cranked up like your favorite tweaker on a Saturday night. Then there will be no reason to look down upon Fujii's latest creation.

It's the right car at the right time to continue the model's tradition of affordable turbocharged all-wheel-drive performance. Evo-heads the world over better start saving up.

© Source: edmunds
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DC Designs' Ambierod - Most expensive designed car ever shown at Auto Expo

After designing a Bond car and thousands of other designer car for the style conscious, renowned car designer Dilip Chhabria of DC Designs will officially unveil his super luxury concept car dubbed Ambierod on January 10, 2008 at the Auto Expo in New Delhi. The news in the sir is that the luxury car will be unveiled by Bollywood star Sanjay Dutt. The Ambierod design takes its inspiration from the design of the oldest Ambassador.

If it goes into production, it’s expected to come in Rs 4 crore (U