Ferrari 430 Scuderia at 2008 Melbourne Motor Show

The 430 Scuderia has made a belated appearance on the Australian Motor Show circuit bypassing Sydney and heading straight for Melbourne.

Finished in a stunning deep yellow gloss, the 430 sits centre stage at the Ferrari stand proudly displaying its’ Enzo killing prowess for all passing the main centre walk way of the Melbourne Exhibition Centre.

© Source: caradvice
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1987 FERARRI 328 GTS

Seller: fourmsales
Address: 3080 main st
City: buffalo
State: New York
Country: USA
Price: $49,995.00
Date Added: February 28, 2008
Expiration: June 27, 2008
Link: fourmsales.com
Views: 304

Description:
Four M Import & Exotic Sales of Buffalo presents this:
1987 Ferrari 328 GTS!
This 328 GTS Ferrari is the one! Finished in Rosso Corsa Red over Tan Italian leather, this 328 GTS is the #1 desired color combination. This car runs and drives 100% in every way, and is a true pleasure to drive. The exterior of the car has no dents or scratches and appears to be all original paint. The interior leather is in excellent condition and shows no unusual wear of any kind. All 4 wheels are in great shape, and have no curb rash or chips. The tires are 95% new. If you are looking for a stunning 328 GTS, Don't let this one pass you by! Call Today!!! This Vehicle has been NYS Inspected, serviced, and is ready for immediate delivery. Canadian and out of State buyers Welcome! We are 15 minutes from 3 Border crossings and the Buffalo International Airport. We specialize in helping Canadian buyers import vehicles and can arrange transport if needed. We can also ship Worldwide!
CONTACT: John Caruso 716-998-0792.

© Source: seriouswheels
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2008 Holden Coupe 60 at Melbourne Auto Show

We're elated when an embargo doesn't break or official images don't somehow manage to find their way to the wrong people ahead of time, because then we're totally surprised by things like this: the Holden Coupe 60. Unveiled today at the Melbourne Auto Show, the Coupe 60 honors Holden's 60th diamond anniversary in the car building business. Removing the two rear doors has allowed designers to make the sports coupe concept a full 60 mm shorter than the VE Commodore sedan that shares the same rear-wheel-drive Zeta platform, but the coupe's long wheelbase remains identical to the sedan.

The Coupe 60 looks absolutely brutal sitting on its 21-inch wheels that can barely be contained by the car's swollen fender flares. While the VE face up front is familiar, the design as a whole is decidedly clean thanks to a lack of wings, scoops and other superfluous paraphernalia. The only aerodynamic assistance is provided by a serious looking air diffuser in the rear apron, a rear deck lid spoiler and completely flat underbelly. Finally, Holden dipped its coupe concept in a one-off paint color called "Diamond Silver" that references the brand's diamond anniversary.

The Holden Coupe 60 is powered by a 6.0L flexfuel V8 sending power to the rear rubber through a 6-speed manual transmission, though Holden has withheld exact horespower and torque numbers. Brembo brakes bring the whole affair to a hault, while side-exiting exhaust tips add just the right amount of cool. The interior has also been heavily modified with one-piece carbon fiber seats, a flat-bottomed steering wheel, lots of suede and an LCD instrument cluster that looks lifted straight from a race car.

© Source: autoblog
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2008 FPV at Melbourne motor show

Despite how it might seem, all the action at the Melbourne motor show is not happening over at the Holden and HSV stands. Dearborn's Australian outpost put on its brass knuckles too and is teasing Melbourne showgoers with Ford Performance Vehcie's latest, greatest muscle. The arrival of the new FG Falcon means that a full lineup of FPV variants follows, and the new F6, GT and Super Pursuit ute are all on display. Like HSV, which hasn't announced power numbers for its W427, FPV is keeping the stats for its new machinery under wraps for now.

We're confident that the numbers will match the cars' gloriously extroverted looks. Colors out of a gumball machine, matte black accents, and stripe packages give the cars a vintage musclecar vibe. Big wheels, big brakes and all the requisite badges and bulges complete the look. The F6 is particularly evil, with its black wheels, "eye black," and visible intercooler. The interiors of all the cars appear to be very well-detailed, with snazzy instrumentation, sharp looking accessories, and very inviting seats.

As with the higher-end standard FG Falcons, power comes from either a turbo inline-six or a beefy Boss V8. FPV takes those already-impressive engines and makes them even more imposing. We know we have the Mustang and its impressive Shelby-badged factory specials, but man, what we wouldn't give for some of this Aussie muscle.

© Source: autoblog
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Mercedes G55 AMG with McLaren SLR engine

The German automakers keep on making more and more powerful sport-utes – some capable of pulling jumbo-jets and driving up buildings – with seemingly no end in sight. But for one owner, a stock Mercedes-Benz G55 AMG just wasn't enough to outperform his neighbor's Porsche Cayenne Turbo, so he had the engine swapped out for the 720-hp 5.5L supercharged V8 from the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren. The result? 0-60 in 4.2 seconds in a package that's rivaled in its exotic-engined brutality only by the long-departed Countach-powered Lamborghini LM002.

Of course there's only one place on earth that such a unique creation could possibly call home: Abu Dhabi, the same über-wealthy gulf emirate where the obscenely wealthy built Ferrari theme parks and drive $1.4 million hyper-exotics with $14 million license plates. Where else?

© Source: autoblog
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BMW 1 Series Coupé at Melbourne Motor Show

BMW’s best 1 Series yet, the Coupé is a noticeable presence at this year’s Melbourne International Motor Show. The two-plus-two-seater is based on the rear wheel drive 1 Series Hatch but is longer by some 121mm (4360mm). A real Coupé (Astra I’m looking at you) with a proper boot, the 1 Series is also 13mm lower that its’ hatch back cousin.

Powered by a twin-turbo 3.0 litre six cylinder petrol engine (recently voted International Engine of the Year), the 135i delivers 225kW of power and 400Nm of torque to thrust the 1,560kg Coupé from standstill to 100km/h in 5.3 seconds!
Six Pot Calipers up front and twin pot rears should see equally impressive stopping times from the claimed 250km/h top speed which incidentally has a combined fuel consumption of 9.2 litres per 100km (not yet confirmed by ADR testing).

Riding on a double-pivot tie bar strut set up in the front and multilink rear suspension in the back the 135i also features an electronic management system designed to mimic a limited-slip differential for optimal traction to the 18 inch (rear) wheels.

Pricing is expected to be between $75,000 and $85,000 when 135i Coupé goes on sale next month. There has as yet been no official decision on an M varaiant though an M Sport Pack will be available.

© Source: caradvice
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Volkswagen in Geneva the new Scirocco is coming

The new Volkswagen Scirocco will debut next week in Geneva 34 years after the first generation Scirocco. The new coupè, based on the Golf platform, will be quite a bit bigger than the original, with space inside for 4 adults.

Initially the engine range will include four TDI and TSI engines ranging from 122 ps (presumably the 1.4 TSI) to 200 ps (probably the 2.0 TSI). The Scirocco will also include new technologies such as an adaptive chassis control system.

© Source: eurocarblog
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Opel Meriva Concept ready for Geneva

The current Opel Meriva on sale to Europeans is a rather ho-hum affair, which is why there's actual anticipation for the Meriva Concept that will debut next week at the Geneva Motor Show. Images of the Meriva Concept have already leaked out, but Opel has made the concept's existence official by releasing the good, high-res stuff and an accompanying press release. This four-door hatch concept that's guaranteed a spot on the production line is cloaked in Opel's new design language, which means clean lines and a simple face with the brand's new grille.

There are two elements of the Meriva Concept that we find interesting enough to mention again (the rest you can read in the press release after the jump), which include its rear FlexDoors and the kink in its window line. Rear suicide doors are a common feature on concept cars because they allows designers to eliminate the B-pillar, giving photographers a better view of the interior from behind the velvet ropes. The Meriva Concept, however, retains its B-pillars, suggesting the rear suicide doors have a definite shot at making it to the final production car.

We'll finally meet this car in person next week at the Geneva Motor Show, but we don't expect it to make the return trip badged as a Saturn like so many other Opel models.

© Source: autoblog
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Geneva '08 Preview Magna Steyr MILA Alpin concept

Three years ago, Magna Steyr debut what it called the Mila concept car -- Magna Innovation Lightweight Auto. Conceived as a pure driver's car, it was an environmentally-conscious single-seater that ran on natural gas up to 120 mph. Last year around this team, Magna followed up the Mila CNG with the Mila Future, a further evolution of the concept that bore two seats, completely covered wheels and an impossibly complicated folding hard top.

For the next evolution of the MILA, Magna apparently thought that no one was serving the mountain climbing concept car market and stepped up to the challenge. The Mila Alpin is a chunky little off-road number that can climb 45-degree angles, runs on CNG, has 3+1 seating and what looks to be a seriously small turning radius. We hope the Magna stand in Geneva has a model Matterhorn so we can try it out.

© Source: autoblog
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Geneva '08 Preview Koenigsegg CCX and CCXR Edition

The Swedes seem to have a way of cutting through the hype. While its rivals call the special versions of their supercars things like "Hermes edition" and "Versace edition", Koenigsegg simply calls theirs the Edition. Too cold up there to tolerate fancy fashion labels tarting up their supercar.

It's been three months since we brought you the news of the Koenigsegg CCX and CCXR Edition, and the extra-special exotics will finally have their day in the spotlight as the Scandinavians make their way southwards to Geneva. As a quick refresher, the Edition models feature a twin-supercharged 4.8-liter V8, producing 888 hp in the CCX Edition and 1,018 hp in the ethanol-burning CCXR. Like Henry Ford said, you can have it in any color, as long as it's black: the Edition models come in bare carbon fiber, heavily lacquered to make it shine, with red accents for the ethanol version.

Extra equipment, from the carbon-fiber wheels to the rearview camera, come as standard, while special interior touches round out the package, including color-matched leather carpets and special instruments and controls. Only 14 CCX Editions will be made, and just 6 of the CCXR Edition, the first two of each already spoken for at over $2 million apiece with the first delivery taking place right under our noses at the Geneva show.

© Source: autoblog
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2010 Fiat Panda may take retro cues from 500

The Fiat Panda has been on the market in its current form since 2003, making it a likely candidate for replacement in the next couple of years. The miniscule five-door hatch was a big success contributing to Fiat's revival, winning the European Car of the Year award in 2004 before donating its platform for the even more successful 500 retro-hatch.

Italian car site OmniAuto is featuring a series of renderings predicting what the next Panda could look like, borrowing some of the retro cues from its Fiat 500 stablemate. Of course, this is mere speculation at this point, and while Fiat could decide to capitalize on the sell-out success of the Cinquecento with a similarly-styled five-door, it could alternatively deem keep the two models entirely separate.

© Source: autoblog
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Pininfarina will unveil Sintesi at Geneva Motor Show

All set to walk the red carpet at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2008 is the Sintesi by Pininfarina Design Department. Still a concept only, this drop-dead beauty is the synthesis of the brand’s values, their love for work and passion for innovation, of beauty driven by functionality, of sportiness and elegance.

What’s more fascinating is that the Sintesi concept will debut with an innovative feature that is called Clancast. Exclusive to Pininfarina, the Clancast system talks with other cars on the road to communicate traffic patterns, eliminating the need for traffic lights and other street signs.

However, Sintesi isn’t only the expression of Pininfarina design; it also embraces innovative technologies that allow us to explore new typologies of mobility, active safety and packaging solutions. Wait till March for official unveiling.

© Source: luxurylaunches
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2008 Creative Workshop Sport Speciale

With modern engineering and traditional Carrozzeria build techniques, this hand built, one-of-a-kind masterpiece is a seamless fusion of style and performance. A car that provides soul and character that no modern car and few classics can emulate. This car captures all of what those magnificent cars of that era were, yet provides a level of ergonomics and performance those cars could only dream of.

Additional Details:
Body:
- Body constructed with exact “Carrozzeria” build techniques, as the famous Italian builders of the 50’s did. Body construction is “Superleggera” style.
- All body and chassis elements of car completely fabricated from raw materials – from special thermo-formable acrylic headlight covers to the shift knob, which was machined from a solid block of Stainless Steel.
- Panel “rub protection” in matching leather beading
- Color: Ferrari Rossa Barchetta, OEM code 320

Ergonomics:
- Full heat protection on all cockpit panels
- Adjustable seats – seating position from 5’2” to 6’3”
- Interior door pockets, with matching custom storage pouches
- Custom seats trimmed in Italian glove leather
- Side Exhaust pipes custom bent for burn protection and increased ground clearance
- Custom floor mats
- Integrated passenger compartment heating system

Functionality:
- Removable Head Faring
- Original, Marchal racing fog lights
- Clear Mylar chip protection on all forward facing surfaces
- Integrated trickle charge system
- Original “Quick Fill” racing Monza fuel cap

Performance:
- Power to Weight Ratio: 4.95
- Weight Distribution: 1000lbs/Front (45%), 1230lbs/Rear (55%)
- Fuel Injection: 12 individual injectors and throttle bodies. Completely programmable – both on the acceleration and deceleration curve.
- Traction: Cutting edge limited slip traction control. No noise, no clicking, power-to-positive-grip-wheel.
- Handling: Racing, quick ratio rack steering, NASCAR-inspired fully adjustable front sway bar.
- Completely adjustable coil over shock absorbers, with multi-position rebound control valving.
- Fuel Cell: Fully Baffled, “1000 rivet style” hand built gas tank, Approximately 20 Gallon capacity.
- Mechanical, self-proportioning, 4-wheel race disc brakes
- Completely hand constructed header and exhaust system. Ceramic coated.

© Source: seriouswheels
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SEAT Leon Cupra K¹

Every so often, we wish that Volkswagen's SEAT brand was available here in the US. Sure, the Spanish automaker's vehicles are badge-engineering exercises that raid the corporate partsbin for powertrains, switchgear, and the like, but their styling is unique and some of the packages have definite appeal.

Take, for instance, the just-announced UK-market Leon Cupra K¹. With the stylish Leon Cupra as its base, the K¹ adds an appearance package that is, to put it plainly, pretty bitchin'. Intended to make the car look more like the Cupra BTCC racers, the kit includes new front and rear treatments, side skirts, and a sweet-looking center-exit exhaust. We think the K¹ kit is actually better-looking than the BTCC bodywork. Like its standard-bodied counterpart, the K¹ gets power from a 240 PS (236 HP) version of VW's 2.0 TFSI four-cylinder. That's good enough to give the Cupra a top speed of 153 mph. Hot hatch, indeed.

© Source: seriouswheels
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The Dracula Dacia Logan

Who knew the Prince of Darkness was into Eastern European econocars? After all, he is immortal, so you'd think he'd want something that'd probably last him a little longer than a Dacia Logan. Then again, Transylvania was part of Dacia in ancient times, so maybe this is how he cheekily shows his sense of nostalgia. In any case, there's no accounting for personal taste, and from the looks of things, Dracula's is pretty bad.

Look at those airbrushed scenes on the bodywork; the wall-to-wall Alcantara interior; the red LED "starlight" headliner; the custom "Dracula" badging; the coffin-shaped amp housings; the 8-million-speaker audio system -- clearly, this was a project he eagerly sunk his teeth into. From the looks of things, chicks dig it, too. At least until he sinks his teeth into them. Still, the thought of eternal life with a Dacia Logan -- particularly this one -- makes a stake through the heart seem like a pretty good option.

© Source: autoblog
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BMW X6 pricing

For some, the new BMW X6 sports activity coupe may be the car you've been waiting for. For others, the vehicle is a curiosity for embodying traits of both a crossover and sports sedan. It's got the ride height of a soft roader, but the sleek design and headroom-sacrificing profile of a performance vehicle. If this kind of cognitive dissonance appeals to you, a BMW X6 can be yours starting from $52,500 for the xDrive 35i model powered by the brand's superlative twin-turbo inline six-cylinder. That's not chump change, but is certainly less than the X6 xDrive 50i that starts at $63,000.

For the extra ten grand or so, the X6 xDrive 50i is fitted with BMW's brand new twin-turbo 4.4L V8 that produces 400 hp and 450 pound feet of torque. BMW Blog also reveals a ton of optional equipment that's available for the X6, as well. These two MSRPs are just a starting point from which the cost of your X6 could take off like a rocket... that's made of money... and aimed at BMW HQ in Munich. If you require things like a navigation system ($1,900), heads-up display ($1,200) or the Active Ventilated Seat Package ($2,100), bring a lot of rocket fuel to your local BMW dealer.

© Source: autoblog
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2008 Mazda6

New 2008 Mazda6 is motivated by an all new 2.5 litre four-cylinder petrol engine managing a semi respectable 125kW and 226Nm the 6’s performance, though hardly likely to tear a hole in the space-time continuum, is nonetheless capable, sinuous and free-revving thanks to precision tuned VVT.

The engine sounds spirited and healthy, no NVH up top and no messy struggling in the lower reaches. It works in perfect harmony with the Activematic five speed auto to keep things moving with silky fluidity and thanks to the little paddle shift controls behind the steering wheel, can motivate things a little more hurriedly when required.

The new Mazda 6 is a great deal for the money, an enjoyable drive and packed with features. It’s safe, good looking and comes with enough toys to keep you happy.

Specification:
• Engine: 2.5 litre four-cylinder petrol
• Power: 125 kW @ 6000 rpm
• Torque: 226 Nm @ 4000 rpm
• Top Speed: 207 km/h (claimed)
• 0-100km/h: N/A
• Drive: Front Wheel Drive
• Transmission: Five Speed Activematic (auto)
• Turning Circle: 11.4 metres
• Emission Rating: Euro IV
• Fuel Capacity: 64 litres
• Fuel Consumption: 8.8l / 100km (combined average)
• Fuel Type: 98 octane PULP
• Towing Capacity: 1,500 kg (braked)
• Warranty: 3 years / Unlimited kilometre
• Weight: 1,513 kg (Tare)

© Source: caradvice
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Ford Flex priced from $28,995

The latest addition to Ford's seemingly ever expanding lineup of crossovers, the Flex, will start showing up at dealerships this summer and it now has a price tag. The new full size Flex SE will be starting off at $28,995 for the front-wheel-drive model, which includes the cost of getting the vehicle from the Oakville, Ont. factory to the showroom.

Two other trim levels will also be offered, as will all-wheel-drive, all of which easily pushes the price over $30,000. The AWD Flex Limited, for instance, kicks off at $37,255. Initially, power will be supplied by Ford's 3.5L V6, but a turbocharged EcoBoost model will be added next year.

© Source: autoblog
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3-wheeled Electric Car is Faster than a Porsche

Electric cars are reputed to be slow and aesthetically unappealing, but ZAP, which stands for Zero Air Pollution, have defied both stereotypes with their front-wheel-drive ZAP Alias.

This futuristic two-seater amazingly stands on just three wheels and claims to be faster than a Porsche. It can go from 0 to 60 mph (about 100 km/h) in just 5.7 seconds with a top speed of 156 mph (more than 250km/h) and boasts a 321.85 hp that matches the Porsche 911 Carrera.

Though it challenges the Porsche in speed, it isn’t exactly meant for cross-country cruising with a distance range of 100+ miles (160.9km). Nonetheless, this clean and green car looks to have a bright future in a world that is facing environmental challenges more than ever. Listed at US$32,500, the ZAP Alias is expected for launch in 2009, but booking reservations can be made now at www.zapworld.com for US$5,000.

© Source: goldarths
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2008 Audi A3 8L by RDX Racedesign

(from RDX Racedesign Press Release) Sporty muscular look: Aerodynamic kit for Audi A3 model 8L by RDX RACEDESIGN

* Aerodynamic construction kit Audi A3 model 8L (except S3) for 615.56 euros
* Front bumper spoiler ready for combination with Audi S6 daytime headlights
* Custom-fit for single-frame grille use on Audi A3 / 8P Sportback
* precisely fitting; in high-quality robust GRP
* Body-styling parts with TV-parts approved certificate/TV cleared

A new aerodynamic body-styling kit for the Audi A3 8L is being put on the market as from today by the tuning specialist RDX RACEDESIGN Automotive, Germany. It brushes up the first-generation A3 with rejuvenating body-styling at the same time giving it a really sporty appearance.

The aerodynamic kit comprises a front bumper spoiler, intended for use with a single-frame grille. It can be combined with the original Audi grille for the A3/8P Sportback as well es with various other single-frame grilles* supplied by RDX RACEDESIGN. In addition it can also be used on vehicles with or without headlight washing systems. The final detail, so-to-speak the "crowning" detail, is the chance to have Audi S6 day lights fitted, which can be ordered from Audi dealers.
Optical lowering and more side "muscles" are provided by a side skirt set (129.95 euros), which shows off the sporty air scoops on each side The new appearance is finished off by a new RDX RACEDESIGN rear apron fitted with an attractive design fold for 255.00 euros. The rear part is supplied without openings for the exhaust unit. They can be cut out to size as required.

The kit is available as a set for 615.56 euros. A price advantage of around 70 euros!

All RDX RACEDESIGN components display excellent custom-fitting, good paintability qualities and are of course TV tested and certified. The front part is supplied with TV parts approved certificate, the side skirt and rear with TV clearance. For further information on the wide range RDX RACEDESIGN tuning programme please call 09176/ 99 55 90 or refer to the homepage www.rdx-racedesign.de.

© Source: seriouswheels
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2008 Lexus LS600h L

Sam Abuelsamid recently spent a week behind the wheel of the very expensive, very luxurious Lexus LS600h L. The über-Lexus has the V12 offerings from Audi, Mercedes, and BMW in its sights -- lofty targets, to be sure, but based on Sam's account, the big hybrid might well have a missile lock on its competition this time around.

If you thought the "hybrid penalty" on mass-market hybrids like the Prius or Altima was a tough financial pill to swallow, you're going to need the Heimlich maneuver performed once you look at how the LS600h's numbers work out.

© Source: autoblog
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2008 TechArt GTstreet Cabiolet based on Porsche 911 Turbo

(from TechArt Press Release) World premiere at the Geneva Auto-Salon 2008

TECHART GTstreet convertible – uncompromisingly sporty.

In hall 2 of the 78th International Geneva Auto-Salon, the world premiere of TECHART Automobildesign will be unveiled. Here, the new TECHART GTstreet convertible will be presented to the press and international public; the car is based on the Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet.

Uncompromisingly sporty, unreservedly suitable for everyday use. TECHART is continuing this traditional philosophy with its GTstreet convertible. Since 2001, when the Porsche 911 Turbo model from the 996 series was used, vehicles bearing the TECHART GTstreet logo have been among the fastest and highest performing road-worthy sports vehicles in the world.

The new TECHART GTstreet is continuing this impressive trend, based on the current Porsche 911 Turbo generation. At the world premiere on 4th March 2008, this convertible model will stand alongside the GTstreet Coupй, which was officially launched in Geneva in spring 2007 and caused a real sensation.

Unmistakable characteristic appearance and breath-taking performance. The TECHART GTstreet convertible now develops 463 kW (630 hp) and can reach a maximum speed of 345 km/h.

© Source: seriouswheels
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2008 Mitsubishi Prototype S

Autobild spilled the beans over the weekend, and today, Mitsubishi lifted the embargo on its Geneva-bound Prototype S, which is basically the forthcoming Lancer Sportback in light concept trim. Beneath the hatchback's skin lies the powertrain used in in the new US-market Lancer Ralliart -- 240 horses, dual-clutch, full-time AWD, and active center differential.

It's anyone's guess whether Mitsubishi will elect to offer it outside Europe, where the body style is sure to be a bread-and-butter seller. We certainly wouldn't turn it away, though; there's always room for more hatchbacks with "go."

© Source: autoblog
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2008 Cadillac STS-V Review

With flashy contemporaries like the BMW M5 and Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG, the 2008 Cadillac STS-V always had an uphill battle to win some celebrity among luxury-minded horsepower junkies. However, it isn't a German or even a Japanese high-performance sedan that has effectively torpedoed the STS-V. No, the shot below the water line has come from within its own family. The forthcoming CTS-V will sport 81 more horsepower, 111 more pound-feet of torque, greater agility and a much better interior at a lower price. In other words, the little brother is way cooler. Jacksons one through four can relate.

Things started off well for the STS-V, as it was the most powerful car to ever don the old wreath and crest logo. With a supercharger stuffing air into the 4.4-liter Northstar V8, this high-performance Caddy pumps out 469 hp and can go from zero to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds. Although not quite as prodigious as the BMW M5 or Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG, the STS-V is still a mean machine that can also soak up miles upon miles of freeway cruising in luxurious comfort. For American muscle car lovers with a healthy bank account, the STS-V presents a tremendous combination of performance and luxury. Of course, its German competitors are more refined and technologically advanced, but they also cost at least $6,000 more.

On the luxury front, the 2008 STS-V comes standard with all the regular STS's options, including this year's new lane-departure and blind-spot warning systems. The interior has also been given a light polish, with a much nicer steering wheel and a sportier combination of wood and aluminum accents. In total, this large sedan is very nice, but like its performance credentials, it will be greatly outdone by the future CTS-V. Little brother sports a more eye-catching design, better materials and newer electronic gizmos. Plus, it's actually the same size as the M5 and E63 -- the STS-V is the big-boned member of the family.

Given that size, the 2008 Cadillac STS-V will certainly have some appeal to those who need the maximum amount of space available in a high-performance luxury sedan. We're not sure how many people actually do, though, so seemingly, the STS-V's only other advantage over its little brother is that you can actually get one. The CTS-V won't be available until later in 2008 and even then, it may be hard to come by initially. It should be worth the wait, but the STS-V certainly won't disappoint if you absolutely have to have a super Caddy this very second.

© Source: edmunds
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Toyota FT-HS performance hybrid concept

Perhaps not the most ideal tag line to promote Toyota’s newest performance concept, think of the FT-HS - or Future Toyota Hybrid Sports - as a ‘Prius on steroids’. With rising fuel prices, the FT-HS prototype makes sense - a battery to keep the nutters happy, and a 3.5-litre V6 engine to keep a smile on your face.

The electric motor adds almost 50 percent more power to the petrol-only engine similar to the one found in the humble Aurion family car. When combined, the FT-HS has a targeted output of over 300kW - just a little more than a Prius. With its aerodynamic profile and liberal use of weight saving materials, Toyota expects a 0-100km/h dash in the four-second range.

If the hybrid-sports car doesn’t quite catch on, Toyota Australia’s corporate manager of product planning Peter Evans says alternatively it could be interpreted as a vision for the Toyota Supra of the future.

The FT-HS concept will be featured on Toyota’s stand at the Melbourne International Motor Show.

© Source: caradvice
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2007 Mitsubishi Double Shotz Concept

(from Mitsubishi Press Release) Toy manufacturer Mattel has announced that Mitsubishi Motors Research and Design of America (MRDA) employee Gary Ragle is among seven designer finalists to be selected in the company's first-ever Hot Wheels® Designer's Challenge™. MRDA was among six automotive manufacturers to participate in the challenge, which marked the first time Hot Wheels® has turned outside the company to seek new vehicle designs.

Created to represent the ultimate Mitsubishi vehicle and the spirit of the brand's future, the sleek design of Ragle's Mitsubishi Double Shotz celebrates the 4G63 engine and the Lancer Evolution. "The design takes the concept of the Lancer Evolution to the next level and ties it in with the enjoyment and imagination of the Hot Wheels® brand," said Ragle.

After being selected by a panel of judges that included editors from the Los Angeles Times, Car and Driver, and Men's Journal, along with Hot Wheels® designers and executives, the designs were unveiled at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show in Las Vegas on October 30th, 2007. The Hot Wheels® Designer's Challenge™ product line will be available in stores in the spring of 2008.

© Source: seriouswheels
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Maserati GranTurismo S - new images

We’ve got two images of the new Maserati Granturismo S. In one of the two photos we can finally see the sexy rear of this new Maserati, with its big exhaust tubes.

We must see Maserati GranTurismo S in Geneva. As soon as we get non-watermarked photos we’ll show them to You!

© Source: eurocarblog
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2008 Chevrolet Corvette 427 Special Edition Z06

(from General Motors Press Release) Chevrolet announced the 2008 Corvette 427 Limited Edition Z06, a limited-production model that pays homage to the big-block Stingray models of the mid-1960s. The 427 designation refers to the cubic-inch displacement for the highest-performance engines offered between 1966 and ’69 – and is also the cubic-inch equivalent of the Z06’s 7.0L LS7 small-block V-8.

The 427 Limited Edition Z06 features a Crystal Red Tintcoat exterior, the first Z06 ever offered with a red metallic tintcoat paint. It also features graphics on the hood and fascia that evoke the style of the famed “stinger” hood design and graphics that were offered with 1967 models equipped with the 427 engine. Also unique to this model are “427” hood badges. Each example is numbered and signed by Wil Cooksey, the Corvette assembly plant manager who is retiring after 15 years on the job, and comes with a certificate of authenticity.

Available under order code Z44, this special Z06 enters production this spring. Only 427 will be offered in the United States and Canada, with 78 more exported outside North America. That’s a total of 505 production vehicles – the same number of horsepower produced by the LS7 engine.

The special-edition Corvette carries a MSRP of $84,195 and includes the 3LZ premium equipment package with a custom, leather-wrapped interior. A navigation system is the only option ($1,750). As with other Corvette models, customer delivery is available at the Corvette Museum, in Bowling Green, Ky.

The 427 Limited Edition Z06 joins the Indy 500 Pace Car replica – available in coupe and convertible configurations – as the second limited-production Corvette model introduced for 2008, giving enthusiasts and collectors a wealth of choices. In January, Chevrolet also announced the 2009 Corvette ZR1, which enters production later this summer.

© Source: seriouswheels
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2008 speedART Titan BTR 550 Porsche Cayenne Turbo

(from speedART Press Release) speedART TITAN BTR 550
speedART presents the new TITAN BTR 550 based on Cayenne Turbo facelift:

Engine upgrade:
-power kit with 550 hp and 830 nm incl. sport exhaust system with sound switch

Sound:
-sport exhaust system with sound switch or
-sport exhaust muffler
-design twin tail pipes (polished or matt black)
-cat cross pipes (for second cats, OBD2 compliant)

Body Kit:
body kit TITAN BTR consists of:
-front spoiler with design
-fog lights and improved brake cooling system
-side skirts
-wide fender flares
-rear diffuser
-roof top spoiler
-real carbon-border-flaps on engine hood for improved aerodynamic.

Wheels and suspension:
-modular wheel set type „TITAN-Elegance“ in 10x22“ with 295/30 ZR22“, also available up to 11,5x22” with 335/25 ZR22”
-air suspension lowering module

Interior:
-sport-steering wheel (upholstered)
-real carbon parts
-special leather in carbon-look

© Source: seriouswheels
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The first Pratt and Miller C6RS Convertible

Just days after we became enamored with Jay Leno's E85-powered C6RS Corvette at SEMA this past year, Pratt and Miller announced it would be producing the cars for the public, providing you had a Corvette and $185,000 to do the conversion.

Included with each C6RS is carbon fiber bodywork, an adjustable suspension, upgraded brakes, and a 600-horsepower 500ci V8, among many other modifications. Pratt and Miller set availability of the C6RS for April of this year, but the first has already been delivered in the form of a yellow convertible. Who's the lucky customer? None other than Jim Miller, co-owner of Pratt and Miller. We guess if anybody deserves the first one, it's him. Thanks for the tip, Fletcher!

© Source: autoblog
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2009 Chevrolet Corvette Z03 Concept by Ugur Sahin Design

(from Ugur Sahin Design Press Release) European automotive coachbuilder unveils design for limited production, carbon fiber Corvette Supercar.

Gorenchem, The Netherlands, February, 2008 - Automotive design and coach building firm Ugur Sahin Design announced plans to build a Chevrolet Corvette Supercar entitled the Corvette Z03 Concept. The vehicle will be built in a limited production of just 100 units utilizing the platform of the world renown Corvette Z06 and will have a restyled body made of carbon fiber. Beyond the rebodied exterior, modifications will be made to the power plant, suspension and interior.

To take the concept from design to reality the company has organized a team of innovative partners including Flybrid Systems (Winner of Professional World Motorsports Engine Innovation 2007), Modesi Design (technical studies and engineering), Fischer Motorsports (carbon fiber production and engine tuning) and Kirkham Motorsports(aluminum body and panel production). In addition, the expertise of automotive legend and former Corvette chief engineer Dave McLellan has been instrumental in consulting Ugur Sahin Design on the production management of the limited series Z03 Corvette.

As for performance, replacing the stock body panels with carbon fiber parts will see a weight reduction of approximately 100 pounds. The vehicle will have three performance packages available ranging from 500 to 750 hp. The top package will be equipped with dual Tial/Garret oil lubricated and liquid cooled ceramic bearing turbochargers combined with a revolutionary Motec electronic engine management system. More detailed specifications on engine and drive train components will be released shortly. All aspects of the vehicles personalization will be handpicked by the customer including custom mixed paint, upgraded interior treatments including gauges, dashboard, custom created RECARO seats and more. Interior upgrades are an important part of the vehicle.

Details on pricing and availability will be made public in March. The first production vehicles are set to be delivered to the US market late in 2008.

© Source: seriouswheels
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2009 Honda Accord - Euro spec

With the all-new European Honda Accord set to debut next month in Geneva, word is that buyers will be disappointed to hear there are apparently no plans to launch a high-performance Type-R version of the new chassis.

Honda does not feel the all-new model fits the Type-R brand, adding that the new European Accord is designed to propel the company into competing with the likes of BMW and Audi. Honda does have plans to release Accords with modified suspension and body kits, but with standard engines, much like Audi does with its S-line models.

The United States will see the all-new Euro Accord re-badged as the 2009 Acura TSX, first arriving at the New York Auto Show next month.

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Audi TT Speedster CGI

Loosely based on the TT Clubsport concept, the Audi TT Speedster represents the TT in its purist driving form.

Drawing inspiration from the classic drop-top, the TT Speedster features a pillar-less low-slung panoramic windscreen and roll-over bars which protrude no higher than the sports bucket seats to retain its low stance.

If it ever arrives in showrooms, expect Audi’s venerable Quattro all-wheel-drive system coupled with a 2.0-litre TFSI engine pushing the 220kW mark.

The possible small-series production of the TT Speedster is being considered by Audi.

© Source: caradvice
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MINI Crossman SUV CGI

Spy shots of an unmistakably MINI adaptation have been floating around the web for some time now, indicating MINI are planning to eventually release an SUV based on its successful Cooper model.

This would unfortunately not mark the first occasion that MINI has derived its design for a new model almost entirely from the Cooper with the questionable MINI Clubman making its debut late last year.

The Crossman, as interpreted by our CGI, seemingly retains the proportions of the Cooper, adapting them to suit an SUV model with arguable success.

Expect official details to emerge in 2009 with potential sales to begin in 2010.

© Source: autoblog
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Geneva '08 Preview Zenz concept

Here's another concept to add to the long list of four-wheeled flights of fancy we'll soon be covering in the land where hot cocoa runs free, i.e. Geneva. The Zenz is penned by Ralf Zenz, a German car designer who's all about marrying high-performance and efficiency in one fun package.

Though the car on display in Geneva will just be a model, it shows off the slippery design that achieves a drag coefficient of just 0.21Cd, something we suppose that's not that hard to achieve when you ditch such real world features as door handles, sideview mirrors and windshield wipers. Nevertheless, an efficient 140-hp diesel engine propelling only 1,675 lbs. of car should make for decent performance. Zenz claims the concept's top speed is 143 mph, while its efficiency target is pegged at 3.0 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers. There are no plans to sell the Zenz, but it, like every concept in Geneva, will vie for the attention of automakers and well-funded venture capitalists who could put it on the path to production.

© Source: autoblog
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Renault Clio

Ford's next-generation Fiesta isn’t the only supermini heading for the limelight. As our spies can reveal, Renault also has plans to shake up the sector – with an all-new evolution of the Clio.

Inspired by the latest Laguna, the Clio MkIV is expected to go on sale early in 2009. There will be three and five-door hatchbacks, plus a new estate, and the most obvious changes have been made to the nose. As part of a push to improve its pedestrian safety rating and road presence, it has revised headlights, a fresh grille, larger badge and reshaped bonnet.

At the rear, the alterations are less obvious, but include distinctive lamps and a sharp horizontal crease across the tailgate which helps to improve boot capacity. Changes to the supermini’s profile are less pronounced, mainly because the next Clio shares its chassis with the current machine. That means the wheelbase remains the same, as does the roofline.

Inside, however, a host of enhancements to the layout and equipment have been made. As a result, the Renault will be more of a match for the new Fiesta, which promises to be the best-equipped car in its class.

Clio buyers can expect rain-sensing wipers and keyless entry and start, as well as a new satellite navigation system to replace the basic set-up in the existing model. Although details of the engines remain secret, it’s thought the French firm will carry over the current line-up – so the Clio will get a varied range of petrol and diesel units.

© Source: autoexpress
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The € 900,000 Maybach Landaulet

Maybach has announced the production version of the Maybach Landaulet - the semi-convertible ultra-luxurious limousine, with a 620 ps V12 bi-turbo engine and a € 900,000 price tag.

Probably Maybach hopes that such an over the top car will save the brands’ sagging sales. The first deliveries will start in the autumn of 2008.

In November 2007, Maybach revived the aura of the grand carriages of days gone by with its Landaulet study. The response from the public to this masterpiece was overwhelming, so much so that Maybach decided to offer the hand-built Landaulet based exclusively on the customer’s own specifications. A limited number of vehicles will be built in the Manufaktur workshops in Sindelfingenover a restricted period. The finest materials are painstakingly handcrafted by select craftsmen to meet the customers’ exacting requirements - just as the discerning Maybach clientele would expect. According to the latest Luxury Brand Status Index (LBSI), a survey of 531 U.S.millionaires recently voted Maybach the most prestigious luxury automobile brand.

The Maybach Landaulet is a masterpiece of automotive engineering and comes with its very own exciting yet distinguished, authentic style. While the chauffeur’s workplace is appointed with high-grade, smooth black leather and trim elements in glossy piano lacquer, the passengers in the rear with its optional contrasting colour scheme enjoy their place in the sun. They travel on opulent reclining seats upholstered in exquisite Grand Nappa leather in an environment of utmost luxury and exquisite style.

Engine and suspension
The Maybach Landaulet is powered by an uprated V12 engine, developed for the Maybach 57 S and the Maybach 62 S. Thanks to twin turbochargers, the V12 engine develops 450 kW/612 hp from a displacement of 5980 cubic centimetres. Equipped with the AIRMATIC DC (Dual Control) electronically controlled air suspension system and the Adaptive Damping System (ADS II) the Landaulet model achieves an outstanding level of ride comfort whilst at the same time proving that even a prestigious automobile can display excellent agility and handling qualities.

The Maybach Landaulet will cost EUR 900,000 (or US$ 1.35 million). The first customer vehicles are due to leave Maybach Manufaktur in autumn 2008.

© Source: eurocarblog
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World's first wooden sports car Splinter

A U.S. design company has created the world's first wooden supercar, which would put both Porsche and Lamborghini in the shade with a staggering top speed of 240 mph, media reported Thursday. The 4.6 meter-long, two-seater "Splinter" car, made from maple, plywood and MDF, has a 4.6 liter V8 petrol engine and a six-speed gearbox.

Splinter weighs 1,134 kilograms -- 240 kilograms less than the lightweight Porsche 911 GT3. Despite its power, it will achieve 20 mpg, according to its designer, Joe Harmon, 27.

World's first wooden sports car Splinter is due to hit the road later this year. The design company, Joe Harmon Design, has not yet decided on a price for the super car.

© Source: luxurylaunches
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Travis Pastrana getting a new co-driver

The first person to perform a double back flip on a bike has to have some loose screws. Fortunately, that quality has benefited Travis Pastrana's medal collection, and his no-holds bared attitude has translated well from motorcycles into rally racing. Pastrana and his co-driver Christian Edstrom have won the Rally America National Championship for the past two seasons with their Subaru WRX. Now, after one event into the 2008 season, Edstrom has announced his retirement from the Subaru Rally Team. Pastrana's spectacular attempts to perform double back flips in the WRX may have played some part in the co-driver's departure, although he declared his desire to spend more time with his family and the need to put more focus into his day job as the real motivation behind his move.

With no lack of talent under its roster, Subaru Rally Team has pegged World Rally Championship winning co-driver Derek Ringer to step in and strap down next to the X-Games King. Ringer previously partnered with the late Colin McRae on numerous occasions, including 1995 when they won the WRC title. The new Subaru Rally Team of Pastrana and Ringer will see action this weekend at the second round Rally America National Championship event in Salem, MO.

© Source: autoblog
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Updated Aston Martin V8 Vantage with more power coming to Geneva

The Aston Martin V8 Vantage continues to build on its advantages -- exclusivity, hand-stitching, and that winged badge -- to make it a full-bodied competitor to that other marque from Stuttgart. According to Car magazine, the Vantage will get some engineering tweaks and its engine capacity will grow by almost half a liter, to 4733-cc. A year ago Aston merely fiddled with the ECU on the N400 and found 20 extra horses.

We hope an even more plump double digit number comes with this kind of growth in displacement. The cabin is also expected to receive a polish, with things like the Ford key -- and perhaps the Volvo switches -- being kicked out of the old boy club. A face-lifted range of DB9s is also expected. All of these changes leads us to our one request for Aston, please be careful with what is already perfection.

© Source: autoblog
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Geneva '08 Preview Lancia Delta more photos and details

It'd be far too easy to dismiss the Lancia Delta over here. Made by a quirky and obscure division of Fiat, Lancia hasn't sold vehicles in the United States since 1982. Although the Italian automaker has a rich history, its current models are rather strange and mostly undesirable. But this is the vehicle that could bring them back, launching Lancia back into a period of prosperity with exciting new models to come.

Ahead of its unveiling in Geneva, Lancia has released a whole mess of details on the new Delta, based closely on the Delta HPE concept from Paris 2006. Power will come from 1.4-liter TurboJet engines with either 120 or 150 horsepower, or a 120-hp 1.6-liter MultiJet turbodiesel, mated to six-speed transmissions in either manual, semi-automatic or automatic versions. Once the Delta is more established in the market, Lancia plans to offer a 2.0L 165-hp MultiJet turbodiesel, a 1.9-liter Mutlijet twin-turbodiesel and an all-new 1.8-liter Turbojet gasoline engine that could become the Delta Integrale with all-wheel-drive.

Before the Delta is unveiled in Geneva, computer gamers will get a preview of the new model at the "Lancia Village" on the Second Life computer simulator.

© Source: autoblog
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2008 Audi A4 Avant

Audi presents the new Audi A4 Avant. Compared to its predecessor, the new estate from Ingolstadt is quite a bit longer, at 4.70 cm. The external dimensions are the same as the saloon, with its shorter front overhang and a body that is both more rigid and lighter.

The A4 Avant has a luggage capacity of 490 liters with the rear seat up and 1,430 liters with the rear seat folded.

The engine range will be the same as the saloon: at the start there will be two gasoline engines, the 1.8 TFSI (160 ps, 250 Nm) and the 3.2 FSI (265 ps, 330 Nm), and two diesel engines, the 2.0 common-rail TDI (143 ps, 320 Nm) and the 3.0 V6 TDI (240 ps, 500 Nm). The 2.0 TDI engine will also come in a 170 ps version, with a torque of 350 Nm.

© Source: eurocarblog
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2008 Jaguar XJ6 D Review

Introducing the 2008 Jaguar XJ6 D. This is proof that Jaguar is still building great looking cars only this time it’s a diesel. There’s something quite special about driving a Jaguar too. It’s as if drivers around you are a little protective of the old girl. For the first day or so, behind the wheel of the XJ6 D, I was content to amble around at limo slow speeds and soak up my fellow drivers admiration of the car.

Lurking beneath the bonnet is a seriously capable 2.7-litre V6 twin turbo diesel, that won’t quite fly you to the moon, but it will get you to where you want to go – quickly. It’s no fat cat either. The XJ6 D like all XJ models has a body made entirely of aluminium, which keeps its weight down to a class leading 1659 kilos. That’s significantly lighter than the best from Germany. Power from this engine is a modest 152kW, which pairs up nicely with a not so modest 435Nm of torque. If you compare this engine to the 3.0 Litre V6 petrol powered car, the diesel is way out in front. Although maximum power for the 3.0 litre six is 16kW more than the diesel, that power is not on song until high up in the rev range at 6,800rpm. The diesel on the other hand is reaching the high notes at 4000rpm. Far more useable and a lot more fun!

When you buy a Jaguar XJ, you expect superior ride quality. That’s been a core brand value of the company, forever. It simply doesn’t matter that it’s a diesel. Buyers will expect Jaguar to have dealt with the fact that diesel engines generate higher levels of vibration than petrol engines. And they have. If you purchase an XJ6 D, you will be driving in the only car in its class, to have electronically controlled active engine mounts, which cancel out 90% of engine vibration at idle as well as those from poor road surfaces.

Specifications:
Engine: 2.7 Litre twin turbo diesel with intercooler
Power: 152kW
Torque: 435Nm
0-100km/h: 8.2 seconds
Top speed: 225kph
Fuel tank: 85L
Fuel consumption (combined): 8.1 L/100kms
Kerb weight: 1659 kg
CO2 emissions: 214g/km (low)
Drive: Rear wheel drive
Turning Circle: 11.7m
Price: $154,900 to $234,900

© Source: caradvice
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Chrysler unveils diesel 300C SRT!

When we heard word of a diesel-powered Chrysler 300C SRT, visions of overdosing our right foot on torque were instantly conjured. While the Pentastar has unveiled such a car in Europe, it's not exactly what you think. Basically a trim package for the 300C in Europe, the SRT model gets visual enhancements to its buttocks including new rear taillight clusters and a deck lid spoiler, but the car still uses the same 3.0L V6 diesel producing 218 bhp and 376 pound feet of torque you can get in other models.

While the wheels appear to be the same butch 10-spokers as our own 300C SRT8, the front fascia lacks the deeper chin spoiler and the grille is Chrysler's Euro-spec Bentley-like tight mesh. One Autoblogger described the diesel 300C SRT as Chrysler of Europe's version of an Impala SS, i.e. long on looks but a bit toothless. For Europeans who prefer the American machismo only the 300C can provide, however, the SRT version delivers.

© Source: autoblog
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2008 Smart fortwo first steer

Say what you like about Dan Brown’s The Da Vinci Code. But the book and later movie did have one good effect. By introducing the world’s largest car market, the US, to the Smart car it did its bit to keep Smart, DaimlerChrysler’s bold experiment in alternative urban motoring alive at a time when the pressures to wind the whole thing down were strong.

The second generation Smart fortwo, launched yesterday in Sydney is Smart US-style. Not surprisingly it’s bigger all round than the original version which began its conceptual existence in the early 1990s as a joint venture between Mercedes-Benz and watch-maker Swatch.

The new fortwo is 19.5cm longer, 4.3cm wider and 1.9cm higher than the car it replaces. It has a larger boot, with 70 litres more space for 220 litres in total.

There are four variants, with coupe and cabrio body styles powered by either a rear-mounted naturally aspirated 999cc in-line three-cylinder (52 kW, 92Nm) or a turbocharged version of the same engine (62kW, 120Nm). It’s quite a jump on the 699cc 45kW, 95Nm engine of the previous model. Top speed for all variants is 145km/h. Stated fuel consumption is 4.7 litres per 100km for the base engine and 4.9l/100km for the turbo.

The new Smart isn’t perfect, but it is smart. As a statement of ecological soundess, combined with impressive engineering detail it’s up there with the Toyota Prius. And then there’s the price: $19,990 for the base engine coupe, with the turbo at $21,990. The base engine cabriolet its $22,990, or $24,990 with the turbo engine. Mercedes-Benz Australia expects to sell about 300 fortwos this year, a number kept low by restricted supply because 30,000 have been pre-ordered by American customers.

© Source: caradvice
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Former McLaren designer targets Lotus with new sportscar

It turns out that the McLaren F1 project was a point of departure for its creators. Gordon Murray, the chief designer, went his own way and is preparing to revolutionize the city car. Several of his colleagues stayed at McLaren's road car division to develop the Mercedes SLR, while others presumably returned to the racing division. A few former McLaren engineers went on to work on the Caparo T1, and now another one of the designers, Jim Dowle, has revealed plans for his own sportscar.

Although the car is just entering the clay-model stage and doesn't even have a name yet, PistonHeads has some preliminary details. Dowle's sportscar will reportedly carry a £35k price tag and will target the Lotus Exige but be more usable. The target weight is 870kg, and while the definitive powertrain has yet to be determined, the package calls for 200 horsepower mounted in the middle of the aluminum/carbon chassis. We'll have to keep our eyes pealed, because if the project ever makes it to even limited production, it promises to be one hell of a ride.

© Source: autoblog
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2008 Audi A3 Cabriolet at Melbourne Show

Accompanying the new A4 on the Audi stand will be the topless A3 Cabriolet, which has been confirmed for Australia in the lead up to the Melbourne International Motor Show.

The A3 Cabriolet is scheduled to launch in Australia by July, and will be offered in several engine variants including a 1.6-litre manual, 1.8 TFSI S tronic and 2.0 TFSI manual and S tronic variants.

The Audi A3 Cabriolet boasts a semi-automatic lightweight soft top (a fully-automatic version is available as an option) which opens in just nine seconds.

Official pricing and specifications will be released closer to the release date, with Audi forecasting sales of 120 A3 Cabriolets in 2008.

© Source: caradvice
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2008 SsangYong Range

SsangYong today held a press conference in Sydney outlining the brands intentions for 2008 and ahead.The Korean company, which is owned by Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation (SAIC), only sold 2,123 cars last year but intends to move around 3,500 units this year, having revised its specifications and pricing.

To achieve its ambitious aims, SsangYong has just finalised a joint venture with the Barbagallo group to improve efficiency and access to a wider dealer network.SsangYong is now the first manufacturer in Australia to offer a diesel-only range with Russell Burling, the Director, insisting that Australians are moving towards diesel powered cars at a rapid rate.

The company has introduced new premium SPR variants (SPR stands for Super) which according to Mr Burling have all the boxes ticked from factory. The SPR models feature leather heated and electrically adjustable front seats, automatic lights and rain sensing wipers as well as rear parking sensors and T-tronic automatic transmission.

SsangYong has already landed 08 built stock in showrooms, taking only two weeks to import cars from Korea. All 2008 models will now come with ESP, front and side SRS airbags, Anti Rollover Protection (ARP), Brake-force Assist System(BAS) and Hill Descent control (HDC) as standard equipment.

© Source: caradvice
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Gemballa Cayman GT 4.0L RS

Now that's more like it. After the unfortunately-styled Tornado GTR700, we were afraid the Porsche tuners at Gemballa had lost their minds. Fortunately, they were quickly back on their feet and only days later they've given us the new Cayman S-based Gemballa GT 4.0L RS.

The business end of Gemballa's Cayman boosts engine capacity from 3.4- to 4.0-liters, and although Gemballa haven't released official output numbers, that's sure to give the Cayman a serious kick in the ass. Gemballa weren't about to go sleeper on us, so they've fitted a full new aero kit, 20-inch multispoke racing rims, a whole mess of silver carbon fiber bits and a custom two-tone leather and Alcantara cockpit, plus a new exhaust and adjustable sport suspension. For the tamer crowd, Gemballa also offers the more sedate GT package that stops short of boring out the engine and features a more reserved body kit – that is, in relation to the bonkers GT 4.0L RS.

© Source: autoblog
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2009 Volvo XC60 Preview

The safest car we have ever built - that's the claim Volvo is making about the new XC60. From a firm that has built its entire reputation on making strong cars, it's a bold statement.

Designed as a baby brother to the XC90, an SUV which has been a massive success for the Swedish firm, the XC60 will get its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show in a fortnight. It will go on sale in Europe in the autumn, and in North America early next year.

The XC60 features a variety of intelligent safety systems. The biggest of these is what Volvo is calling City Safety - a unique system that can help the driver avoid or reduce the effects of the type of low-speed impacts that are common in city traffic and urban tailbacks. In short, if the XC60 is about to drive into the vehicle in front and the driver does not react, the car brakes itself.

Volvo believes it's the first manufacturer in the world to offer this type of feature as standard. Its likely to spread to other models in the range - most notably the larger XC90 SUV and the S80 sedan - at the earliest opportunity.

There will be a choice of three engines from launch in European markets; the turbocharged 3.0-liter in-line six from the V70 wagon which produces 285 hp, and two variants of the 2.4-liter D5 turbodiesel, producing 185 and 163 hp respectively. All-wheel drive is fitted as standard, but during 2009 a front-wheel drive version of the 2.4 will be launched.

© Source: thecarconnection
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Geneva '08 Preview Peugeot 308 SW

Peugeot has been bringing its 308 line-up into full focus, arriving in Geneva with both the 175-hp hot-hatch version as well as this, the new 308 SW. The wagon replaces the previous 307 SW and adds upgrades with a number of innovative and utile features.

Despite its compact size, the 308 SW can actually accommodate seven passengers, thanks to removable third-row seating. Without the third-row and with the modular second row in place, the 308 SW can accommodate an impressive 674 liters of cargo under the load-bay cover. Remove the second-row seats as well, and the spacious little sport-wagon can swallow a cavernous 2,149 liters all the way up to the roof.

Compared to the 308 hatch, the sport-wagon had its wheelbase stretched 100mm and the rear overhangs by an additional 124mm. Other improvements include a larger glass panorama roof that extends beyond the second row (see right), and a liftgate with a separately accessible glass window. Combine that with the more aggressive styling of the new range and the 308 SW shapes up to be a compelling package for European buyers looking for some extra versatility without losing the driving dynamics and economy of a conventional small car.

© Source: autoblog
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Alan Mulally wants an FG Falcon

But is he getting one for himself? One could certainly infer that's the case based on this GoAuto article, which reports that the Ford CEO was so blown away by the Falcon G6E Turbo he sampled at an Australian test facility that he told Trevor Worthington (Ford Australia's product-development veep), "I want one." And that brings us to the question of the day: is the head of Ford really bringing over a new Falcon for himself to drive?

Because while we in the peanut gallery generally agree that the Blue Oval stuff in Europe and Australia has it all over the American-market offerings (Mustang and F-Series excluded), there would be no greater acknowledgment of this than the CEO of Ford cruising around in a desirable RHD-only Aussie sedan while we make do with the Taurus, which even the execs recently made fun of. Americans will need to wait for the arrival of the new global RWD platform that's set to underpin multiple US-market rear-drivers sometime in the early 2010s, assuming Ford doesn't hedge like GM and use CAFE as an excuse to temper expectations regarding RWD models in the States.

© Source: autoblog
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Geneva '08 Preview Alfa Romeo to unveil production 8C Spider

Let's be honest here. There are some cars on which we report because they're new and that's what we do. But some are just pure pleasure. Now try to figure out into which category the Alfa Romeo 8C Spider falls.

Although we've already seen plenty of the Alfa 8C in both coupe and roadster bodystyles, we can never get quite enough, and at this year' Geneva show, Alfa will finally be showing the production version of the 8C Spider. Technical details carry over from the luscious fixed-roof 8C Competizione, and little is expected to have changed from the concept spider unveiled at Pebble Beach in 2005 to the production version being unveiled now. As with the initial run of the coupe, only 500 spiders will be produced, so this could be our best chance to get up close and personal with the hottest model this side of Scarlett Johansson.

© Source: autoblog
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1991 Ferrari F40

Seller: Professional Sales Inc.
Address: 1148 Ford Rd.
City: Bensalem
State: Pennsylvania
Country: USA
Price: $619,000.00
Date Added: February 18, 2008
Expiration: June 17, 2008
Link: ht...ltimate-carcollection.com
Views: 711

Description:
1991 Ferrari F40 red/red with recent major service just completed by an authorized Ferrari dealer. Well documented non tracked and never abused car with only 3400miles.

Source: www.TheUltimate-CarCollection.com/
Professional Sales, Inc.
1448 Ford Rd.
Bensalem, PA 19020
Contact Name: Mike Haber
Phone: 215-633-0775
Fax: 215-633-1213

© Source: seriouswheels
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Bolwell’s new Nagari ready for Melbourne Show

Bolwell Car Company has released a new frontal image of its fully finished new Nagari sports car.

According to the press release, “the faired-in, four-headlight front end echoes the legendary McLaren F1, while other elements capture the spirit of the best Italian mid-engined exotics.” The new Nagari obviously also pays tribute to its 1970’s namesake.

At next week’s Melbourne Motor Show, the Australian public will get their first chance to see the new Nagari up close and personal.

Powered by a 3.5-litre supercharged V6, similar to the TRD Aurion, the 900kg sports car is said to rip from 0-100km/h in around 4 seconds.

© Source: caradvice
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Geneva '08 Preview Peugeot 308 GT THP 175

It says a lot about Peugeot that BMW – well known and lauded for its engines – turned to the French automaker to develop and produce the motor for the second-generation MINI. Never to miss an opportunity, Peugeot put the same engine into the 207 GTi, and has now shoehorned it into the 308 to create the new 308 GT THP 175, which parent company PSA will be unveiling in Geneva.

The 1.6-liter turbo four produces 175 horsepower, but Peugeot insists the real kicker is in the torque: 195 lb-ft of it, which gets the hot 308 up to 62mph in a very respectable 8.3 seconds. Even more respectable, however, is the fuel economy of 37.1mpg and low carbon emissions of 180g/km. Naturally, the appearance has been updated to go with the bigger engine, with a new front bumper, rear spoiler and lowered suspension, and a new steering wheel and aluminum shifter and pedals inside. Buyers can choose between manual or automatic transmission, each with six speeds. Although the 308 GT THP 175 will only be offered as a three-door, a detuned five-door will also be offered driving 150 horses through a four-speed auto. What would be even more interesting is if this same engine found its way into the production 308 RC-Z.

© Source: autoblog
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Fiat 500 Abarth Geneva preview

Following leaked official images finding their way onto the web, Italian car maker Fiat has officially revealed its new Fiat 500 Abarth hot hatch.

Set to make its first public appearance at the Geneva Motor Show next month, the Abarth represents a high-performance edition of the outrageously popular Fiat 500.

The Abarth’s new 1.4-litre 16v petrol turbocharged engine delivers a maximum 99kW at 5500rpm and peak torque of 206Nm at 3000rpm in Sport mode, and 180Nm at 2500rpm in Normal mode.

Like the original Fiat 500 upon which it is based, the Abarth variant will fully comply with future Euro 5 emissions standards.

It has also adopted the new TTC (Torque Transfer Control) system, which improves the transfer of drive torque to the wheels, but, above all, ensures that the car behaves impeccably on bends, making it safer and more entertaining even with a sporty driving style.

© Source: caradvice
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Geneva '08 Preview KTM to reveal details on X-Bow Dallara Series

Customers have been anxiously awaiting the delivery of their track-ready X-Bows, and with pre-orders growing by the day, KTM plans to reward the first 1000 buyers with the special-edition Dallara Series.

The limited edition model, as we reported previously, will be finished in "Gleaming White" paint instead of the bright orange we'd been seeing beforehand, and named for the Italian racing chassis manufacturer with which KTM partnered for the X-Bow's development. Unfortunately, even after its debut at the Autosport Internantional show in Birmingham (in England, not Alabama), KTM still hasn't released the technical details that set the Dallara Series apart from the subsequent "ordinary" models that will follow, however sources indicate that all the juicy details will finally be revealed at the Geneva show, so stay tuned.

© Source: autoblog
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2008 BMW 1 Series Review

Few brands have grown more than BMW in the past 25 years. That growth can be seen in their sales figures and the vehicles themselves. Today's 335i is larger than 1986's 535i, for instance, and it certainly sells in much greater volumes. This trend toward bigger and heavier has altered the brand's lineup to the point that there's now room for a cheaper, smaller entry-level car. Stepping boldly into the gap is the 2008 BMW 1 Series.

The 1 Series already debuted in Europe earlier this decade as a four-door hatchback, but that body style's limited appeal to American shoppers prevented its journey across the pond. With the introduction of new coupe and convertible body styles, however, BMW believes the timing is right for a small car revival.

With their compact two-door bodies, high-performance engines and scalpel-sharp handling, the 2008 BMW 128i and 135i are arguably the spiritual successors to BMW's classic 2002 coupe. Yet the 1 Series features many of the modern high-tech and luxury features that have become just as much a part of BMW during this decade as the raw driving experience. Some features like active steering and navigation with iDrive are dubious in terms of value, while others like keyless ignition/entry, premium hi-fi stereo and the convertible's heat-reflective leather seating are welcome niceties in a small car.

The 1 Series coupe is 8.7 inches shorter than a 3 Series coupe and a bit narrower as well. Though its front engine, rear-wheel-drive configuration is pretty unpopular in this size category because of its lack of space efficiency, BMW reckons its layout has unique appeal to people who care more about driving than carrying passengers. As such, the 1 Series comes with the same engines as the 3 Series: a 3.0-liter, 230-horsepower straight-6 for the 128i and a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter six good for 300 hp in the 135i.

Considering its $30,000-plus price tag and its rear-wheel-drive layout, this is a coupe and convertible without any real apples-to-apples competitors. Potential rivals are either too big (Infiniti G37), have front-wheel drive (VW Eos), are too mechanically different (Mazda RX-8) or are more an unrefined muscle car (Ford Mustang GT) than a finely balanced sport coupe/convertible. Plus, with its tiny backseat, the 1 Series toes a very fine line between usable four-seat coupe and a 2+2 sports touring car like an Audi TT.

© Source: edmunds
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Geneva 2008 - Rolls Royce Phantom Coupe

Rolls Royce is going to show the Phantom Coupè in Geneva. The third model in the Rolls lineup is a very close relative of the Drophead Coupè convertible, with the same 6.75-liter V12 engine (460 ps, 720 Nm) and similar suicide doors.

According to Rolls Royce, the Phantom Coupè is the most driver-oriented car in its line-up, with a very rigid chassis, which shouldn't compromise ride comfort. Production will start in the summer of 2008. Prices still undefined.

The Phantom Coupé features rear-hinged coach doors which add considerably to the ease of access to the rear lounge seats as well as to the overall aesthetics. Crucially, they aid the overall stiffness of the body as the rear hinged doors allow for an uninterrupted A-pillar helping to make this the most torsionally rigid Rolls-Royce ever. A brushed steel finish of A-pillar and bonnet, as seen for the first time on 100EX, is also available for the Coupé.
At the rear is a spacious picnic boot. A split tail compartment that opens in two parts, gives easy access to 395 litres of space. The lower tailgate also provides a comfortable seating platform for two adults when lowered.

At the core of the Phantom Coupé is an advanced aluminium chassis, perhaps the single most significant component in delivering the marque’s legendary refinement. Lightweight and exceptionally strong, it impacts positively on ride comfort, handling and safety. Hand made, it requires over 130 meters of welding to create each body.

© Source: eurocarblog
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1989 Ferrari Mondial T Cabriolet

Seller: Professional Sales Inc.
Address: 1148 Ford Rd.
City: Bensalem
State: Pennsylvania
Country: USA
Price: $45,900.00
Date Added: February 18, 2008
Expiration: June 17, 2008
Link: ht...ltimate-carcollection.com
Views: 281

Description:
Source: www.TheUltimate-CarCollection.com/
Professional Sales, Inc.
1448 Ford Rd.
Bensalem, PA 19020
Contact Name: Mike Haber
Phone: 215-633-0775
Fax: 215-633-1213

© Source: seriouswheels
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2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Review

The 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution is entirely new and based on the similarly redesigned 2008 Lancer compact sedan. As before, it's a high-performance version, with a potent turbocharged engine, all-wheel drive and related upgrades to improve handling and braking. The Evo X, however, is meant to be more refined and accessible to a wider range of buyers. It starts with the new Lancer platform; a slightly longer wheelbase and a much stiffer body structure give the 2008 Evolution a more substantial feel. The Evolution also benefits from the Lancer's sharper exterior styling, improved interior and new entertainment and safety features.

However, while its styling and newfound creature comforts are key to bringing new folks into the Evo cult, maintaining the performance and handling that created that cult in the first place is paramount. On that front, the Evo X is a mixed bag. Specifically, the new Lancer has gained weight over its predecessor, which wipes out the added horsepower gained by its all-new aluminum block (versus iron) turbocharged inline-4. When comparing acceleration numbers from this and the prior generation, the two work out to nearly even. The new engine is certainly a smoother operator, however, cleanly building boost in a linear manner even at low engine speeds. It doesn't have the same high-rpm kick as its predecessor, but it's still a hell-raiser and easier to live with.

There are two Evo varieties available. The GSR is aimed at the more hard-core enthusiast set, with more aggressive suspension settings and a standard five-speed manual transmission. The MR not only sports a softer suspension, it features Mitsubishi's new automated twin-clutch manual transmission that's operated via metal paddle shifters behind the steering wheel. (It can also operate as a traditional automatic.) This transmission swaps ratios with lightning-quick precision, which is welcome regardless of whether you're driving at 10/10ths or just turning your brain off and leaving it in "D."

Like past Evos, the X sends power to all four wheels, but this one manages to feel more rear-biased in the way it drives and handles. Credit the fact that this is more than simply all-wheel drive. Dubbed Super All-Wheel Control, Mitsubishi's system features an active center differential that sends power to all four wheels, while Active Yaw Control calculates various vehicle dynamic factors and compensates to maximize grip. With a hard launch, you can expect a 0-60 mph time of about 5.0 seconds. And around our skid pad, the GSR managed an impressive 0.99g of grip, which is supercar territory. Throw in sublime steering and the Evo X becomes one of the best-performing cars at any price.

© Source: edmunds
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Follow-Up Test 2008 Hummer H3 Alpha

The 2008 Hummer H3 Alpha reminds us of an old advertisement for Marlboro cigarettes, the one where a cowboy is seen lighting his cigarette from a flaming log plucked from the campfire. You see, cowboys don't use Bics or Crickets. Hell, this guy is so manly he doesn't even use the manliest, smelliest of lighters, the Zippo. Hell no. He uses a chunk of fiery lumber like a real man — a Marlboro man — is supposed to.

Similarly, the 2008 Hummer H3 Alpha seems to say, "Let the crossovers have their comfy rides and reasonable step-in heights and decent cargo space and fuel economy. I am the Alpha male. The leader of the pack. I will breed first, eat first, walk first in line and I will light my cigarette by whatever absurd means I damn well please."

GM pumped up the five-cylinder shortly after the H3's introduction, but that was merely a stopgap until the Hummer could do the sensible thing and plunk a V8 under that fake, plastic hood vent. Sure, it required the firewall to be modified and the front frame rails to be swapped out, since this 300-hp 5.3-liter V8 is essentially the same engine that powers most GM full-size pickups.

Due to some exhaust constraints and air emissions sensitivity, the Alpha's version of this V8 makes 15 fewer horses than the engine makes in the big pickup. Still, that's 58 hp more than the 3.7-liter inline-5 that remains the choice in the base model of the H3. In day-to-day driving, the V8's massive increase in torque will matter more to owners than the off-road friendliness of the inline-5. At 320 pound-feet, the V8 pumps out 78 more lb-ft of twisty torque action than the five-banger. Its peak torque also arrives at 4,000 rpm instead of 4,600.

This means that an H3 Alpha won't get left at the lights by every other car on the road, as the original did. The Alpha gets up to 60 mph in 8.8 seconds. Not exactly greased lightning, but it is more than 2 seconds less slow than the original, plus much, much quicker than a stationary object. Still, the Alpha is a second slower to 60 mph than the V6-powered Toyota FJ Cruiser, another truck on the cartoonish extreme of styling, and only about a second quicker than the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, the basic off-road buckboard that can muster only 205 hp.

So what did we learn? Well, we learned that the chassis of the Hummer H3 is not bad, at least by the standards of a vehicle supposed to be dedicated to off-road performance. And we also learned that when we take off-road vehicles to the test track, we're going to feel a twinge of guilt about it later.

© Source: edmunds
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Mercury Blues

It’s nice to know that singer Alan Jackson has a thing for Mercury, because it doesn’t seem like many other American motorists do. Despite the addition of some critical new products, including the 2009 Mariner hybrid crossover, as well as the restyled and renamed Sable sedan, things aren’t looking too good for the “other” Ford division.

Sinking fast, Mercury’s sales fell a painful 35 percent in January, compared to year-earlier numbers. And for all of 2007, the brand’s volume slumped 7 percent, to a grand total of jut 168,422 cars, trucks and crossovers. That’s barely a third of Mercury’s all-time record, 528,033, set back in 1985. And it’s even less than the numbers that convinced General Motors to pull the plug on its Oldsmobile division.

Dead man driving? There are plenty of analysts, such as Joe Phillippi, of AutoTrends Consulting, and Dan Gorrell, who question why Ford continues to pump resources into a brand that has had only one up year since the mid-1980s. They’d pull the plug and focus the automotive’s limited resources on the brands that matter, including both the Blue Oval, and Lincoln, which actually posted a much-needed gain, in 2007.

Going back a few years, Ford had a seemingly good reason to stoke Mercury’s fire. The brand had a reputation for styling and performance, and was a bit more exclusive than the mainstream Ford division. By the time the original Sable came out, in 1986, however, Mercury was little more than a badge-engineered alternative, it’s products perhaps offering a slight more bling than those carrying the Ford nameplate.

So why not put Mercury out of its misery?
That’s a question new marketing czar, Jim Farley, has had to consider. But for now, at least, he’s giving the troubled brand a reprieve. While he’s still formulating his strategy, Farley seems intent on turning Mercury into a Detroit version of Toyota’s Scion. Industry aficionados will recall that the young executive initially came to the public’s attention as the first general manager of Toyota’s youth-oriented nameplate.

But time, as the old cliché goes, really is running out. Farley and the rest of the Ford management team need to pull some sheet metal rabbits out of the hat soon or there won’t be any Mercury left to save.

© Source: thecarconnection
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Gemballa Tornado GTR700 Cayenne

We all get that the Porsche Cayenne, though it has its talents, is no prize pig down at the beauty pageant. But this is just mean. Like a caricature of the Cayenne itself, we can applaud the go but shudder at sight of the show. Under the hood, Gemballa has primped and preened the twin-turbo V8 to produce somewhere in the neighborhood of 700 horsepower. It will also offer a 2WD conversion – that's got to be a first – to go with the severely dropped ride height and beefed-up suspension.

The mad-science plastic surgery is another story, however, as Gemballa opens up the Cayenne's mouth, adds a carbon-fiber hood insert, cuts open a whole mess of new vents, throws on some Ferrari-esque tail-lights and a set of roof-mounted brake lights to boot. Inside they've added fully-adjustable racing buckets front and back, separated by a strange-looking full-length center console. Maybe Gemballa was trying to prove a point when it decided to mix styling cues from the Carrera GT with its ugly step-sister the Cayenne. Whatever it is, we don't get it.

© Source: autoblog
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Top Secret's V12 Supra heading to Nardo for top speed run

There have been a fair number of tuners that have made the trek to the Nardo test track in Italy to see if their modified rides could break an illustrious top speed. The MTM Bimoto TT comes to mind, as does AC Schnitzer's GP3.10 3-series, Edo Competition's Lamborghini LP640 and 9ff's insane GT9. Another contender has been added to the list and it's just as impressive as the rest.

Top Secret has been making the show rounds with its twin-turbo'd V12 Supra for the past year, but it's finally putting its money where its mouth is and going for a top speed of 400 km/h (248 mph) later this year in Italy. Breaching 200 km/h hasn't been an issue since the boosted 6.0-liter V12 is supposedly pushing out over 1,000 hp.

© Source: autoblog
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Audi opens the order book on hottest TT ever

Prices are out on the hottest Audi TT ever - the 268bhp TT-S, and as you'd guess, it's no steal.

We brought you all the details on the lower, harder TT just before Christmas, and today Audi has opened the order book, with prices starting at £33,380 for the coupe.

That puts it on the steep side of a three-litre BMW Z4, and that's before you've specced the S-tronic flappy-paddle gearbox, which'll take you beyond 35 grand.

Fancy the convertible? That'll be two grand over the coupe, sir.

Steep stuff, but don't forget that the TT-S will be quick enough to eat the Cayman S or Boxster S from the lights. It's a fight we look forward to staging later this year.

© Source: topgear
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Spy Shots 2009 Range Rover Sport

The 2009 Range Rover Sport looks like it's getting a slightly revised face. After undergoing minor cosmetic surgery, the Sport comes out with grillework that's reminiscent of the Land Rover LR2's as well as a new front bumper. Out back and along the sides, the SUV seems to be unchanged compared to the current model.

One of Brenda Priddy's clandestine operatives snagged the freshened Ranger Rover Sport frolicking undisguised somewhere in Europe where it looks cold and snowy. As for when it'll be shown to the public, who knows? Geneva's just around the corner, though, so we'll have our gang keep an eye out for it when they're not eyeballing Renaults or noshing on good chocolate and tasty Lake Geneva perch filets.

© Source: autoblog
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Melbourne '08 Preview 2008 Ford FG Falcon

It's a couple of years late to the party, but the all-new Ford FG Falcon is set to arrive in Australia later this year, when it'll match up with GM's Holden Commodore sedan and Ute offerings on the sales charts and at Aussie stop lights for years to come. Like the Holdens, the Falcons are rear-wheel-drive. The FG is all-new, with a more rigid architecture, new and/or upgraded powertrains, increased variety in terms of visual and interior options, and improvements in fuel economy as well. The factory performance wing, FPV, will also introduce a full range of FG-based sedans and Utes as well. We'll bring you more on the FPV cars when additional info and the all-important photos are released.

As for the standard FG Falcon offerings, the sedan will come in XT, G-Series, and XR trim levels, with the Ute joining it in base, R6, and XR Trims. As before, powerful inline six-cylinders (normally-aspirated and turbocharged) are joined by a range-topping V8 -- this time, it's the hand-built FPV-supplied 5.4L Boss 290. As impressive as the V8 is (388 hp / 383 lb-ft), however, the turbo six (362 hp / 393 lb-ft) makes a hell of a case for itself. An LPG-fueled E-Gas version of the I6 is also offered on the Falcon XT sedan and the XR6 Ute. Follow the jump for a quick-and-dirty rundown on the engines, as well as the overview press release sent out by Ford.

© Source: autoblog
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2011 Lotus Esprit to feature BMW's 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8

When we last saw the Lotus Esprit in 2004, it was equipped with a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V8 rated at about 350 hp. Offering much more motivation than its early turbocharged 4-cylinder powerplant, the Esprit V8 was quick -- pedal to the floor, the two-seat coupe could punch through 60 mph in less than 5 seconds. Impressive as it was just a few years ago, there are more than a handful of cars (at half the price) that can shame the Lotus back across the Pond today.

To keep the upcoming 2011 Lotus Esprit at the front of the pack, it is rumored to be fitted with the 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 found under the hood of the recently released BMW X6. The powerplant is rated at 400 horsepower with only light boost under the German's hood. Under the fiberglass cover of the future British Esprit, it will most likely be tuned to deliver nearly 500 horsepower. It will need every bit of power it can get, as the new Lotus will be competing with the Porsche 911 Turbo, Ferrari F430, and the new Nissan GT-R.

© Source: autoblog
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Volvo XC60 - first official images

Our friends over at Autoblog.nl have discovered these first official images of the Volvo XC60, out a couple of days before the embargo date.

The Volvo XC60 is the new mid-sized SUV from the swedish brand, from which much is expected in terms of sales. At the moment there are no technical details available and nothing is known about when sales will start.

© Source: eurocarblog
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2011 Chrysler 300 Sticks With Rear-Drive

New fuel-economy regulations are threatening to kill off a whole generation of new, rear-drive vehicles planned by a handful of manufacturers. But at one company, the mainstay rear-drive sedan is sticking around–mainly because there’s no budget to change its orientation.

Chrysler’s plans for its large 300/Charger sedans include a major makeover for the 2011 model year. But while Chrysler’s new managers have been dropping hints about the future of the HEMI engine, there’s not much they can do about the rear-drive layout of the big sedans.

A switch to front-wheel drive could improve the fuel economy of the sedans, but reports to TCC say that there’s no money set aside to make the switch to front-wheel drive. The Canadian plant where the 300/Charger and new Challenger are built formerly was outfitted to build front-drive sedans, back when the plant produced the Chrysler “LH” cars in the early 2000s.

The revamp in the works for the early part of the next decade will be fairly substantial. Chrysler is said to have decided that a bold styling statement is critical to the lineup’s sales success–but certain features of the car, like its low roofline, will change to give the cars a more updated look.

© Source:  thecarconnection
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Nissan GT-R V-Spec 70 hp more, 150 kg less

What is better than efficient? Perhaps "super-efficient" would be the word. Well according to the Nissan, the word on everyone's lips is V-Spec; and it is easy to imagine why. It originally took 7 minutes 38 seconds for the Nissan GT-R to tear round the track at Nuerburgring, but Nissan want more - they want to beat the record of 7 minutes 25 seconds.

In reality, the GT-R is not so much a devastating rocket, but a precision rifle - extremely efficient. The forthcoming 'extreme' model, the V-Spec will be a bit of both. It will be optimised to attain, or perhaps even redefine, perfection. Auto Express, going by the latest gossip, have put forward the idea that the
original power output of 473bhp will be increased to a huge 550bhp, matched by a weight reduction of 150kg. Consequently, the redefined weight to power output ratio of 2.9 kg/ bhp, would be a formidable weapon. Even the body-kit will get a make-over, with side-skirts and rear spoiler in order to prevent take-off. It should be released in 2010 at a price of no less that 100,000 Euro.

© Source: eurocarblog
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Mitsubishi Eclipse: Mitsubishi copycat coupé blasts off

Mitsubishi has facelifted the Eclipse, and given it a gaping grille complete with a thick central bar. The result is a front end that closely resembles the Nissan supercar. Other improvements in-clude a deeper chin spoiler, plus revamped front and rear bumpers.

There is also an updated spoiler design on the range-topping GT model for better aerodynamics. The enhancements combine to provide the coupé with a more aggressive feel than before. A new exhaust system has also been fitted, and is tuned to boost performance and give a superior sound.

Buyers will have a choice of two engines. The GS version features a 162bhp 2.4-litre four-cyclinder petrol powerplant, while the flagship GT is fitted with a 3.8-litre V6 delivering 265bhp. That’s enough to propel the new Mitsubishi from 0-60mph in only six seconds.

Both variants come with either a manual or automatic transmission. The latter incorporates a Sportronic manual override, with buttons letting drivers select ratios themselves for greater involvement. Inside, the Eclipse has a long list of equipment as standard, including a high-end nine-speaker, 650-watt stereo.

Owners also benefit from an electric sunroof and automatic climate control, while the seats are trimmed in luxurious leather. Large 18-inch alloy wheels with a unique design are also fitted.

Our sources have told us Mitsubishi UK is keen to bring the newcomer to showrooms here. Con-version to right-hand drive would be relatively inexpensive. However, a major stumbling block is the fact the Eclipse is such a strong seller in the American market; as a result, the maker simply doesn’t have the capacity to sell it in Britain for now.

© Source: autoexpress
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Caught in the classifieds Jensen SV8

Spring is just around the corner, which can mean only one thing for cabrio sales: a price rise. Interest in convertibles will boom in the coming months, and all that’s needed to spark buyer interest is one sunny weekend.

If you’re planning to invest in a sporty open-topped motor, we spotted one that comes with an almost unrivalled degree of exclusivity. Production of the Jensen SV8 was short-lived, and only a handful of vehicles left the factory complete. However, if you look hard enough, you can still find the odd one for sale – and this 2000 W-reg example is virtually brand new, with only 400 miles on the clock.

At £29,950, it certainly isn’t cheap, but you’ll be buying a piece of motoring history – and it comes with air-conditioning and full leather upholstery, too.

The Jensen’s 4.6-litre V8 engine is borrowed from the Ford Mustang Cobra, so performance is first-rate. What’s more, the solid chassis is admirably stiff considering that the SV8 is a soft-top. You can’t expect the kind of build quality we take for granted from mass-produced motors, but this is no ordinary sports car.

You could spend the same amount of money on a nearly new Porsche Boxster, but the German model is a much more common sight than the ultra-rare Brit.

© Source: autoexpress
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Focus in sight for UK-bound Logan

There's a Dacia coming to the UK that promises to offer a cut price alternative to Ford's Focus.

Replacing the existing Logan – which reaches our shores in the form of the supermini-sized Sandero hatchback next year – it’s bigger and much better-looking, and has enough space inside for a family of five. Buyers can also expect a far more modern cabin, with a step up in quality and plenty of equipment as standard.

The engine range will comprise a 1.6-litre petrol, while there are plans for a turbodiesel, too. All models get stability control as standard.

Crucially, though, it will still carry a budget price. The range, due here in 2010, is likely to start at around £8,000. And as well as the hatchback in our main picture, our spies have seen a prototype version of a saloon being put through its paces in Romania, where the current Logan is built. An estate will be offered, too.

While the new Logan hatchback won’t be arriving here for a couple of years, Renault’s first UK-bound Dacia, the Sandero, will reach showrooms in less than 12 months’ time.

Unveiled at last autumn’s Frankfurt Motor Show, the budget supermini is based on the current Logan. It’s similar in size to a Fiesta, yet will carry a price tag in the region of £6,000.

While saloon and seven-seat estate variants are offered in Europe, the hatch is the only Logan-based model destined for the UK. It will be sold in selected Renault main dealers.

© Source: autoexpress
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Geneva 2008 Lamborghini Gallardo LP550

If the Aston Martin DBS was fairly deservedly cut to shreds in the latest annual appointment of the Evo Car of the Year, then the Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera did not fare much better with the judges, surprising given the high expectations surrounding the car from Sant'Agata Bolognese. The callous sneering in the Porsche and Ferrari camps was easy to imagine.

To quench these flames of derision, Lamborghini are said to be approaching completion of an ambitious upgrade project on the Gallardo, transforming it into what will be known as the Gallardo LP550, widely predicted to be unveiled at the 2008 Geneva Auto Show. A stupendous piece of news, so unexpected that we are still trying to savour the mind-blowing specifications: The 5.2-liter V10 engine of the Gallardo will be modified using the experience gained by Audi technicians working on the V8 engine of the Audi RS4 and R8 models. The engine should deliver a maximum power output of 550 ps (hence the name) and a maximum torque equal to 530 Nm.

It is not only the engine that will receive improvements. The transmission (both the manual gearbox and the e-gear sequential gearbox) will be capable of handling more power and torque, while the permanent 4-wheel-drive system will also be optimised and lightened. To finish off this 'come-back' package, the brake system and body will also undergo minor alterations.

© Source: eurocarblog
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Geneva 2008 Toyota IQ and Urban Cruiser

The new cars announced by Toyota should be a truly important addition to the forthcoming Geneva Motor Show. On display will be the IQ urban car and the brand new model, the Urban Cruiser. The IQ was first seen in concept form in Frankfurt in September 2007 and time-wise in terms of development it has beaten the Volskwagen UP!, which was displayed only a few stands away at the same show.

Three passenger spaces have been confirmed, despite the length being less than three metres. Also confirmed is the shape of the prototype, with large wheels and a smoother drive. Even though the glimpses we have had of the IQ seem to be similar in concept to the Smart For Two, Toyota insists that the technology, the security and the design research represent an automotive revolution. As of yet, the specification details and performance stats, as well as the pricing have not been released, but we know that the car will not be available on the market before the end of 2008.

The other world premiere at the show will be the Urban Cruiser, a compact SUV designed for city use with fuel consumption and emissions reduced to a minimum. For the time being, we have little information and only one photo, but in Geneva we will discover more on this new car, that at first glance reminds us of the design of a few models sold in the States such as the Xb by Toyota's Scion brand.

Always concerned about the environment, Toyota will put forward the brand new hybrid prototype 'Plug-In'. At Geneva Toyota plans to display the 1/X Plug-In Hybrid concept with Flexible Fuel Vehicle (FFV) technology, as well as the personal mobility concept i-Real.

© Source: eurocarblog
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Toyota Yaris restyling spy-shots

Toyota has started work on the facelift for the Yaris, which by all accounts should be released by mid 2008. In brief, the nose has been corrected and the rear lights have been modified. However, perhaps these modifications are not an example of a proper restyling but simply an annual model retouch.

The Yaris Japanese car will undergo a few minor changes, only recognisable by a keen eye. The radiator grille will become narrower, whilst the tail lights will have new covers. The engine line-up will most likely be upgraded for better fuel economy and lower emissions.

© Source: eurocarblog
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2007 H and R Springs Lincoln MKZ Project

(from H and R Springs Press Release) The Lincoln MKZ—with features such as All Wheel Drive, 263 HP V-6 engine, and ranking as the Highest Premium Car in Initial Quality—is well poised to take on the BMW 3 series and Audi A4 Quattro, but offers a much better value. As H and R 2007 project car, it creates a paradigm shift by combining American style with European handling and luxury. The 2007 H and R MKZ has a modern demeanor—a super clean, lean look and powerful stance that better showcases its newest components.

The body of the MKZ has a classic, yet contemporary silhouette. The monochromatic black paint molds to the sleek lines of the car, while the chrome badging and highlights allow the Ford/Lincoln heritage to shine through. A 3D Carbon front spoiler helps to increase the vehicle’s grip on the road while the top and rear lip spoilers increase its sticking power. To incorporate contemporary elements into the design and provide a measure of Super Euro Tuner, stylish Euro fender vents and a black custom grille have been added. Vivid cannibal red MKZ badges make a statement by providing a marked contrast for the look and the LED under lighting offers a pleasant ambiance. Consequently, the look of the MKZ’s detailing reiterates the H and R reputation for quality components.

Due to the Ford Motor Company’s commitment to performance and the specific handling characteristics of the MKZ, H and R has combined comfort and premium performance with its newly created MKZ suspension kit. The H and R suspension, tuned to lower the Lincoln 2.5 inches, results in a smooth and refined ride. Lowering the vehicle improves the handling and the look of the car while also showcasing the custom, hand assembled, polished silver O.Z. Botticelli wheels. The combination of the 20-inch high-performance Pirelli P Zero tires and Botticelli wheels is definitely eye-catching. Also noticeable are the Borla exhaust and shiny exhaust tips, as well as the world class Brembo calipers. Similarly, Goodridge brake lines and Motul lubricants add a level of proven performance to the MKZ’s newest additions. The level of detail exacted upon the MKZ’s performance components demonstrates H&R’s continued commitment to quality and premium aftermarket products.

The interior of the MKZ exudes quality and superior functionality as well. To compliment the newest exterior features, the fully custom, subtly enhanced interior has gone from minimalist factory leather to deluxe black microsuede. The upholstery contains stylish accents in tuxedo black that invite visions of indulgence, as does the working European refrigerator. The addition of the custom, backseat refrigerator is perfect for keeping the high-end Voss and Apollinaris cool. The brake and gas pedals have been upgraded to high-grade aluminum to be more aesthetically pleasing while the center armrest is structurally enhanced and further padded to ‘double the cush level for sidin’ down the strip—don’t hate on playas brotha!’ A gently sparkling rear LED lit console further improves the interior ambiance of the MKZ, while the new design further defines the MKZ as being a comfortably functional vehicle with superior components.

© Source: seriouswheels
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2009 Ford F-150

(from Ford Press Release) Ford introduces the new 2009 F-150, the new benchmark in the full-size pickup segment from the industry's truck leader. F-150 offers the most capability, most "smart" features and most choice in the full-size pickup market.

F-150 is new from the inside and out - from its segment-first features, tough new exterior, more spacious, flexible and refined interior and unparalleled choice of cab styles and trim levels - including a new Platinum series that redefines truck luxury. F-150 expands its capability by adding more usable interior space to the SuperCrew model, a stronger, lighter frame - which provides improved horsepower and fuel economy - and more standard safety features than previous models.

Ford Work Solutions is an industry-exclusive suite of innovative and affordable technologies that includes four industry-first features: An in-dash computer, powered by Microsoft Windows CE with Windows Auto, provides full high-speed Internet access, via Sprint Mobile Broadband Network, and works with Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones. The “Built Ford Tough’ computer, integrated into the trucks’ center stack, is equipped with a 6.5-inch, high-resolution touch screen (with stylus), two gigabytes of memory, a secure digital slot for additional memory, a USB port, and a wireless keyboard and mouse.

Ford Work Solutions will be available later this summer on the 2009 F-150 XL, XLT and FX4, and F-Series Super Duty XL and XLT pickups and E-Series vans. Transit Connect vans join the lineup in mid 2009. Many items will be available for dealer installation to upgrade existing trucks already in service.

The new 2009 Ford F-150 offers the most capability, most ‘smart’ features and most choice in the full-size pickup market. The new 2009 F-150 is new from the inside and out – from its segment-first features, tough new exterior, more spacious, flexible and refined interior and unparalleled choice of cab styles and trim levels, including a new Platinum series that redefines tough truck luxury. The addition of Platinum brings Ford to a total of 35 unique F-150 configurations.

© Source: seriouswheels
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Make sure to stop by AmericanTrucks.com and check out our large selection of Ford F150 Truck Parts.

Audi Q5 - first hybrid version

In an interview with Automotive News, Joel Weinberger, head of Audi's dealer council, revealed some interesting information about the next Audi Q5. When questioned about the position of the market in the USA he replied, "The Q7 is a really big vehicle. Just size-wise you have to look at the (Lexus) RX 330 as your target. The Q5 will fit into that niche and it should not cannibalize the Q7. It will be bigger than the (BMW) X3 and (Acura) RDX. Smaller SUVs tend to be more female-oriented."

Other interesting news on the engine front: in the American market the hybrid variant will arrive first and only afterwards will the diesel version be released, "The Q5 will go hybrid first and not diesel. Audi has told me the unit cost of a diesel is $4,000 more but they realize they cannot sell it for $4,000 more - the premium will be half of that. We'll sell them if they can keep pricing in line."

© Source: eurocarblog
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Geneva 2008 Ford Kuga

The Kuga CUV is based off the C-car platform that underpins the C-Max and Euro-Focus (also our Mazda3 and Volvo S40/C30), and is motivated by Ford's 2.0-liter Duratorq TDCi common rail diesel. 136 hp and 236 lb.-ft. of torque can be sent to either the front wheels or all four depending on the model (Trend or Titanium, respectively) and the Kuga comes standard with ESP, Anti Rollover Mitigation, ABS and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution.

Inside, Ford boasts a handsomely outfitted cabin, with seating for five and a 60/40 split rear seat that offers a bit of practicality alongside the Kuga's style.

As much as we'd like to bemoan the fact that Ford is still offering products abroad that we think would do wonders for the marque here at home, we can only hope that Mr. Mulally's plan to globalize Ford's lineup happens soon and sends over some of the Kuga's mojo.

© Source: autoblog
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Geneva '08 Preview 2009 Ford Fiesta is filled with Verve!

With two and a half weeks to go before the Geneva Motor Show, Ford has finally released details on the production version of its new global small car. After the Verve concept debuted at the Frankfurt Motor Show last September, the speculation began about what it'd be called when it arrived in showrooms. Ford's marketing team decided that more than three decades of brand equity was too much to throw away, so this car will be called the Fiesta everywhere in the world that it's sold, including the United States. US fans probably shouldn't get too attached to the 3-door hatchback shown above, though, as it's all but certain that we'll be getting a four-door sedan instead.

Fiesta stays remarkably true to the Verve concept. Aside from some detailing of the light clusters and framed side glass replacing the concept's flush glazing, the production car is virtually identical to the concept on the outside. This good news continues when you open the door, as the basic interior design is the same as the concept's, but with slightly less flashy-looking switchgear. Underhood, the Fiesta gets a range of five gasoline and diesel-fueled four-cylinder engines. Like the new Mazda2 with which it shares its architecture, the Fiesta is the same size as the car it's replacing, but high-strength steels allow it to be lighter.

Production kicks off this fall in Cologne, Germany, to be followed by a second assembly plant in Spain. An Asian facility will be announced at the Beijing show in April, while a site for North American models will be announced later.

© Source: autoblog
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Geneva '08 Preview Bugatti taps Hermès for special edition Veyron

When a vehicle costs $1.4m, can go 253 mph and has a lifetime production run of only 300 vehicles, it's a very special ride. How, then, do you up the ante to make the vehicle even more amazing? When you're talking about the Bugatti Veyron, more power than the stock 1,001 hp just isn't the answer, so the super-upscale automaker is looking to pile on even more luxury on the inside. Bugatti is tapping into its history to once again team up with Hermès on a ultra high-end interior package. Hermès, which became famous for its leather saddles in the 1800s, switched over to cars and planes early in the 20th century, and the company supplied materials for Bugatti in the '20s.

Bugatti is set to unveil the Hermès Veyron at the 2008 Geneva show, and we'll be there to snap pictures of the absurdly rare supercar right from the show floor.The Hermès Veyron will likely have a production run similar to that of the Pur Sang, which included all of five units, and sold out in less than one day. One would think that for $1.4m you would get the top of the line interior, but it looks like the richest and luckiest of society's elite will get their hands on this exclusive four-wheeled beast.

© Source: autoblog
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Webasto bringing LigHT concept to Geneva

All right. Let's get one thing out of the way right now. The picture above is not the LigHT concept that Webasto will be showing in Geneva. No, that square-jawed little number is the aftermarket firm's Welcome 2 concept that debuted back in 2003, based off a Mercedes CL500.

With that out of the way, Webasto will be showing off a roadster concept next month that plays off the German company's idea of "Moving Innovations" by featuring a vehicle that includes a "hybrid top" that makes use of new structural materials and some kind of auxiliary heating system.

© Source: autoblog
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Porsche 997 RSR 2008

Porsche are planning to update their most powerful racing 911, the 997 RSR, with a view to it competing in the GT2 category in the 2008 season. After eagerly watching its little sister, the 997 GT3 Cup S, the RSR performed with prowess in a busy 2007 season. It notched up victories in the 24-hour Leman and Spa and achieved overall victory at the Nuerburgring 24 hours.

Other than changes to the front aerodynamics, the principle modifications are concentrated beneath the skin of the creature. The Sachs suspension has a greater range of adjustability and the 3.8L Boxer engine has undergone a few optimisations in order to achieve 465bhp at 8000 rpm, with maximum torque of 430Nm at 7250 rpm. The maximum engine speed is fixed at a good 9400 rpm.s

The sequential 6-speed gearbox is lighter and more efficient than its precursor and has been developed from the experience obtained from the RS Spyder. Thirty-five units are being produced for the major teams around the world at a price of 349,800 €, excluding tax.

© Source: eurocarblog
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Honda Accord 2008

Honda unveils the new Accord for Europe, with a sportier design, a whole slew of new safety systems and three new engines, all Euro 5 compliant. The new Accord is both wider and slower than the current model, with sharp edges and a wider stance.

The engine line up includes a 2.0-liter i-VTEC gasoline engine (156 ps). Power output is unchanged compared to the current model but fuel economy and emissions are much improved. The 2.4 i-VTEC engine gains 10 ps (200 ps now), as does the new 2.2 i-DTEC diesel engine compared to the i-CTDi engine of the current Accord. The i-DTEC engine outputs 150 ps with 350 Nm of torque. All engines are matched to a 6 speed manual gearbox, Automatic transmissions are an optional for the gasoline engines.

A new feature is a service reminder that presents the driver with either the distance or days remaining to a required service, with an enlarged warning symbol appearing when the due date is imminent.

Storage space includes two centre console side pockets; a lidded storage area to side of the steering wheel; large front door pockets able to hold bottles and maps; bottle holders in the rear door panels, and a large centre console box. Rather than a fold-down pocket design, the large glovebox now has an independent lid and is subdivided with a tissue box compartment as well as space secured for a manual. The lid of the centre console box doubles up as an armrest and is slide-adjustable by 89 mm. Two cupholders are provided in the centre console, while rear seat passengers have access to a further two contained in the centre armrest, revealed when it is folded down.

© Source: eurocarblog
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Renault Koleos - officially announced

The Renault Koleos has been 10 months in waiting while the french carmaker has been perfecting the look, lavishly decorating the interior, and awaiting an engine that will be up for the job. Fast forward to today and we discover that Renault will finally unveil their new SUV at the forthcoming Geneva Auto Show next month. Going by the name of Koleos, it will be the European version of a Nissan aided design developed in a joint venture with Samsung in Korea.

The Koleos' car-length (4.52m) and shape will remain identical to its Korean cousin, even if from the aspect of the photos there seems to be a sort of stylistic imbalance: the alloy rims look too small for the wheel arches whilst the view from the back leaves some doubt as to the width to height proportions. The engine line-up will include two power-steps of the 2.0L turbodiesel engine, at 150 hp (320 Nm) and 175 hp (350 Nm) and the petrol 2.5L which will have an output of up to 170 hp.

The ‘all mode’ 4-wheel drive system already seen in the Nissan X-Trail, allows 100% traction on the front wheels in normal driving conditions, variable to a 50-50 ratio when necessary. The ‘hill descent control’ system and a ground elevation of 206mm (188mm for the diesel engines) should allow the Koleos to go on excursions into the wilderness without the fear of misadventures.

© Source: eurocarblog
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Lancia Delta Official Brochure reveals Pricing

We are still waiting for the final material, but after having seen the three official photos that have provoked a widespread debate amongst readers of our Italian blog, new information has begun circulating in the form of a brochure revealing, in part, the pricing of the new Lancia Delta.

A pricing hierarchy of three specification levels will apparently be proposed: the Argento (silver), Oro (gold) and Platino (platinum) each with differing degrees of equipment and finish. The 120bhp 1.4 T-Jet turbocharged gasoline engine will probably not be available in the top-spec Platino version, for which the 190 ps 1.9 Multijet twin-stage turbo-diesel is expected to be finally put under an Italian hood (it was first used in the Saab 9-3 in a 180 ps power-step).

The initial pricing, at least on the Austrian market, gives us an hint as to the positioning of the Lancia Delta on the European market as a whole: The 1.4 T-jet will cost 22,100 € in the Argento spec and 24,340 € for the 1.6 Multijet in the same spec. For the 150bhp 1.4 T-jet Platino spec, 27,500 € will be needed. As a point of reference, the Austrian Fiat website displays a price of 17,990 € for the Fiat Bravo 120bhp 1.4 Turbojet Active.

Also included in the brochure are a number of performance statistics. The 120 bhp 1.4 T-jet promises a top speed of 190 km/h and an acceleration from 0 to 100km/h in 10 seconds with an average fuel consumption of 6.8 litres/100km, whilst the 150bhp petrol version should reach 206 km/h and will reduce the acceleration time to 8.2 seconds with an average fuel consumption of 7.2 litres/100km.

The 120bhp 1.6 Multijet is confirmed as the most economic with an average fuel consumption of only 4.9 litres/100km, with a top speed of 186 km/h and an acceleration of 0-100km/h in 11 seconds. For all of the Deltas the minimum size of the tyres will be 205/55 on 16" rims, with five other different types of optional alloy rims at 17" and 18" and tyres up to the 225/40 Pirelli PZero Rossos.

© Source: eurocarblog
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Novitec F430 Spider

Spring is drawing near, and Novitec are preparing for the arrival of a new sister for the F430 Coupé: enter the Novitec F430 Spider powered by the same twin supercharged V8 as the Novitec Bi-Compressor Evoluzione. Thanks to the two superchargers which work at 0.38 Bar, the power output will increase the original 490 hp to a whopping 656 hp, achieved at 8200 rpm, however it is not simply the mechanics that have undergone changes.

Following tests in the wind tunnels of the Research Institute for Motor Vehicles in Stuttgart, Novitec has developed new aerodynamic additions to the body comprising front and rear wings, skirts for the side panels and a rear extractor. Other changes include grey tinted lights and a body that sits on 20” rims adopted for this version, both of which are relatively small modifications to a creature from the Maranello dream factory, already magnificent in its original state.

© Source: eurocarblog
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Toyota Yaris restyling spy-shots

Toyota has started work on the facelift for the Yaris, which by all accounts should be released by mid 2008. In brief, the nose has been corrected and the rear lights have been modified. However, perhaps these modifications are not an example of a proper restyling but simply an annual model retouch.

The Yaris Japanese car will undergo a few minor changes, only recognisable by a keen eye. The radiator grille will become narrower, whilst the tail lights will have new covers. The engine line-up will most likely be upgraded for better fuel economy and lower emissions.

© Source: eurocarblog
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Geneva '08 Preview Chevy Aveo 3-door

Chevy has completed the Aveo facelifts and will introduce the updated Euro-market 3-door at the Geneva Motor Show next month. You can sum it up like this: it's like the Aveo5, minus the doors for second-row passengers. The rear windows pop open for ventilation and an 84-horse 1.2L or step-up 1.4L that generates 101 hp will supply power.

The interior styling carries over, as do the exterior visuals that share the Aveo 5-door's gigantic grille, fake fender vents, and the like. If this were offered in the US, it might make a nice alternative to the Yaris Liftback -- also a 3-door.

© Source: autoblog
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Alfa Romeo Spider by Novitec

Kudos to Novitec for creating one heck of a sleek looking bodykit and a cool set of alloy-wheels for the Alfa Romeo Spider. The tasteful and non intrusive bodykit consists of a new front bumper and rear diffuser cfombined with a new set of oval tailpipes and 20-inch alloy rims wrapped in Pirelli 255/30 R20 tires.

Buyers can also opt for a lower-suspension kit to complete the roadster’s looks. Isn’t it a damn shame that Alfa Romeo didn’t use a rear-wheel-drive layout for this gorgeous looking car?

© Source: carscoop
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Fifth Gear Drives the Maserati Granturismo

“This is the sexiest, most desirable, most fabulous-looking car you can buy today”. This is how Fifth gear start by describing the Maserati Granturismo and for the most part we agree. The whole focus of the Maserati GT is on comfort, with ample passenger space and an extremely quiet engine on the inside. However, in a world where the BMW M3 offers much more engine power with a much lighter body resulting in greater performance for a lower price, the Maserati seems to be outdone. I know we are talking about a GT but the balance between driving pleasure and driving comfort is perhaps weighted a little too much towards the latter. At the end of the day the Trident shows itself off proudly on the Maserati’s body leading us to expect a bit more pep in what instead feels more like a lumbering cruiser – powerful, yet unable to perform when needed and rather emotionally unsatisfying. To be precise, it has the feel of a 4-door car that is missing two doors.

However, if it is more pep you are after, perhaps there is a solution after all. In contrast to many other cars where the sport-mode button is there almost for decorative purposes, in the Maserati GT it really finds its raison d’être. When the sport-mode is activated, the steering, suspension and acceleration all sharpen up drastically, making it altogether more satisfying when pushing it to the limit. Unfortunately two problems remain: the Maserati’s excessive weight and the lack of power from its 4.2 V8 which stops it from being top of its category when you compare it to the engines of its competitors. We do however anticipate news of the implementation of a new engine perhaps the 4.7 of the Alfa Romeo 8C Competition that at this moment is being tested in a few prototypes, if our suspicions are correct.

© Source: eurocarblog
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2009 Hyundai Elantra Touring

Hyundai has added a hatchback version of its Elantra compact sedan to battle it out with cars like the Dodge Caliber, Toyota Matrix, Mazda3 hatchback and Nissan Versa. Like the Elantra sedan, the Touring will battle those cars on value and price, but certainly not on styling.

Standard equipment includes four-wheel-disc antilock brakes, six airbags, a tire pressure monitoring system and stability control, something not found standard on the competition. Other features new to the Touring model are standard USB and auxiliary audio inputs. The center stack design has also been changed.

Power still comes from the same four-cylinder engine, but for an economy car it isn't completely anemic.

© Source: cars
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Military-spec VW Touareg

The good news is that this ultra-cool military edition of the Volkswagen Touareg actually exists. The bad news -as you probably have already guessed, is that it won’t be available any time soon at your local dealership.

However, we would imagine that it shouldn't be too difficult to create a road-legal replica of the army-prepped Touareg.

© Source: carscoop
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Toyota 1X

The Toyota 1/X concept debuted at the Tokyo auto show in 2007, but now the automaker has brought the concept to the show floor in Chicago. The Toyota 1/X is pronounced "one-Xth," in case you were wondering. We weren't, and explaining that the fractional name is meant to highlight the concept's low weight is a bit tedious, but here we go. The 1/X is a hybrid, of course, and despite being smaller and lighter than a Prius, it has the same amount of interior room.

The 1/X is a whopping 924 pounds lighter than a Prius, which would help explain how it gets twice that hybrid's mileage. Don't get too excited, though, this is a concept through and through. Heck, the images aren't even of a whole car, just a cut-out to show where all the parts fit. The power plant is in the back and powers the rear wheels. The concept is also made of carbon fiber, which is lightweight but extremely expensive. We see the 1/X as a great thought, but probably one that's a long way from reality.

© Source: cars
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2008 Saturn VUE Hybrid

It shouldn't take a Nobel Prize in economics to realize that buying a hybrid to save money isn't always the wisest financial decision. Put simply, the price premium associated with all that high-tech gasoline-electric wizardry would take years to recoup with fuel savings alone. Federal tax credits aid some models, but the 2008 Saturn Vue Green Line has more going for it than just the generosity of Uncle Sam.

The Vue essentially shares the same unsophisticated, "mild" hybrid technology found in the Aura Green Line sedan and Malibu Hybrid. Compared to the systems found in the Ford Escape Hybrid or in Toyota's various vehicles, the Saturn electric motor provides very little assistance during acceleration and does not have enough juice to power the Vue by itself. Instead, the electric motor is mostly used to automatically restart the gas engine when it shuts down at a stop, which is where most of the fuel savings originates. However, while the related Aura Green Line sedan provides a meager 2 mpg advantage over the standard four-cylinder Aura, the Vue Green Line betters its gas-only edition by 6 mpg.

So the Vue Green Line is more fuel efficient than the regular Vue, but how does it do against its true competition? Well, the hybrid Vue is on average about 5 mpg more efficient than four-cylinder competitors like the Honda CR-V, Nissan Rogue and Toyota RAV4. The Vue has a slightly higher base price, but when comparably equipped, the four cash out for about the same. But, with a $1,550 federal tax credit, it's technically cheaper. The Vue may not be a class leader (especially in terms of space), but this newly redesigned crossover still boasts solid road manners, a lengthy features list and a high-quality interior.

For now, though, the 2008 Saturn Vue Green Line makes a lot of sense. It gets significantly better gas mileage than its primary competitors and costs less when you consider tax credits, while still being an attractive, well-built compact crossover. It doesn't take a Nobel Prize in economics to view the Vue Green Line as a wise decision.

© Source: edmunds
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2008 Nissan Xterra Review

What's New for 2008
The 2008 Nissan Xterra gets only a few trim upgrades this year. Mechanically, the truck remains unchanged. X models now get standard power features, remote keyless entry and cruise control. There's also a new Technology Package featuring Bluetooth, XM Satellite Radio pre-wiring (automatic-transmission models only), an auto-dimming rearview mirror and an upgraded Rockford Fosgate audio system.

Introduction
The 2008 Nissan Xterra is an SUV that's made to go off-road. That may seem like an obvious statement, but today's SUV shopper faces an ever-expanding mix of traditional truck-based models and car-based crossover versions. The Xterra is all truck, and that makes it very capable when the pavement ends. In short, the Xterra is an SUV for buyers who like the crunch of gravel under their tires.

On four-wheel-drive models, the Xterra's off-road prowess comes thanks to 9.5 inches of ground clearance and underbody components that are neatly tucked above the frame. There's also a rear differential that locks at the push of a button and, as with any true off-roader, ultralow gearing. Electronic Hill Descent control can keep the Xterra's speed in check when moving down those steep hills, and Hill Start Assist keeps you from rolling backward if you come to a stop going up a steep hill.

On the pavement, the 2008 Nissan Xterra is not as refined as the latest crossover SUVs. But its ride is decent enough that using it every day won't try your patience. Even long road trips are feasible and comfortable. The Xterra's rack-and-pinion steering is precise, and its 4.0-liter V6 provides a satisfying amount of power. A soft brake pedal feel is the vehicle's only significant driving weakness.

© Source: edmunds
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2008 PPI Audi R8 Razor

(from PPI Press Release) World premier at the Essen Motor Show 2007: The PPI R8 and PPI R8 Razor – automobile lifestyle in carbon fiber

With the launching of the R8, Audi heats up against rivals Porsche, Ferrari and Bentley vigorously providing stiff competition. The Swabian, German tuners PPI Automotive Design GmbH, customize Audi’s flagship sportscar by stoking up the fire with even more coal going that extra mile by providing an enhanced look combined with improved driving dynamics. A wind tunnel-tested aerodynamic kit of carbon fibre in combination with a performance enhancement and special lightweight magnesium wheels in 19-inch dimensions provides measurably improved appearance whether on the race track or the elegant promenade of the elite jet set.

The stage 1 kit produces an increase power output of the original motor from 309kw/420hp to 348kw/460hp and increases torque from 430Nm/317lb-ft to 465Nm/343lbs-ft. A performance kit with durable components designed by PPI consists of corrosion resistant stainless steel sport rear muffler with throttle system. Just beginning at low-end torque, the resulting sound signals pure power, but with high speeds one experiences an even more imposing sound. Matched to this is a complete optimised engine management plus sport air filter providing the unit with extra breathing abilities. Results are a top speed of 192 mph (311 km/h) and sprinting from 0-60 mph in only 4,0 seconds; a six-tenths decrease versus standard production.

The new PPI MAG9 wheel design characterises the connection of high technical demands to sporty elegance. The two-part magnesium wheel with nine spokes and a wheel rim of carbon fibre commands not only by its exclusive look, but also through its outstanding craftsmanship setting new benchmark standards in the Audi tuning arena. The offered PPI MAG9 comes in dimension 9 x 19 front and 11 x 19 rear. Through the use of ultra light material magnesium resulting in reduction of unsprung mass, acceleration as well as deceleration and handling are distinctly improved. Weighing a mere 7,8 kg for front axle rims and 8,2 kg for rear axle rims, the PPI wheel are absolute champions in the lightweight arena. Optimal tires developed for the PPI R8 Razor in cooperation with Michelin are the supplied Michelin Pilot Sport Cup in dimensions 235/35 ZR19 (front) and 305/30 ZR19 (rear).

© Source: seriouswheels
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2009 Acura TSX Preview

Acura will launch the second generation of its TSX sports sedan at the New York auto show next month -- and in advance of the big public party they've released this teaser photo of the new sedan.

The new TSX, Acura says, gets advances to its performance, styling, technology and safety -- pretty standard stuff for a vehicle once named to Car and Driver's 10Best list.

The TSX bears a clear resemblance to the new RL sedan shown at the Chicago auto show last week. And since its roots are in the European Honda Accord, which remains a four-cylinder vehicle, we expect the new TSX to stick with a version of Honda's global four-cylinder engine, although some reports indicate the TSX will be the first Honda to receive a new low-emissions diesel engine sometime in 2009.

Stay tuned for more information on the New York show debuts at the link below, and check back for more details on the TSX as the show opens on March 19.

© Source: thecarconnection
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2008 Mr Norm's Dodge Hemi Ram 1500 Super Truck

(from Mr. Norm's Press Release) Mr. Norm’s Super Truck- Online Auction During Chicago Auto Show to kick-off first new Mr. Norm’s model in 35 years.

The 2008 Mr. Norm’s HEMI Ram 1500 Super Truck is built on the formula that made Mr. Norm famous; fueling passion while respecting the person. That is demonstrated once more in this collectible truck you can really drive. When Mr. Norm ordered performance oriented Mopars new at Grand Spaulding Dodge, he configured each batch to be the best model possible for performance upgrade, carefully choosing the options he knew his customers wanted, allowing them to personalize each vehicle once they took delivery. This time tested approach shows why Mr. Norm is still the King of High Performance. The result is a 2008 Super Truck that gives you real performance, real personalization, and real collectible value delivered at a tremendous value and convenience.

The Mr. Norm’s Concept Super Truck has certainly generated tremendous buzz, premiering at SEMA as the lead vehicle in the Sony Exhibit, being featured in the Dodge Exhibit at numerous auto shows, and earning a ton a magazine coverage. A steady stream of Mopar Enthusiasts began calling in asking if there were any Super Trucks left, eager to put down pre-build deposits. Now that the build have been authorized to begin, we don’t expect that the remainder of the 100 unit build to last very long. It takes approximately 12 weeks to build and deliver a Mr. Norm’s Super Truck (NST). With the ’08 production run ending in late April, the most owners should have their truck just in time for the summer driving season.

You can be one of only 100 to own a Limited Edition Mr. Norm’s Super Truck including for as low as $32,275. Even fully loaded with available Performance Proven ™ upgrades, a 4x2 standard cab comes to about $42,000 before tax, title, & license with estimating cash incentives.

© Source: seriouswheels
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35 DODGE COUPE

Seller: CRUIZER
Address: 1017 BRIARWOOD DR
City: EASLEY
State: South Carolina
Country: USA
Price: $32,950.00
Date Added: February 11, 2008
Expiration: June 10, 2008
Views: 37

Description:
35 DODGE COUPE [slick willie] ARZ CAR NO RUST. PS,PB,AIR,TILT.318/AUTO
ALL STEEL, MUSTANG 2 WITH HYDRO-ELECT PS, FRONT BUCKETS,WITH
REAR SEAT ALL INT GRAY AND IS VERY GOOD,BATTERY IN TRUNK WITH
SHUT DOWN. ALL GUAGES INC TAC WORKING.VERY NICE CRUIZER--NO
DISAPOINTMENTS.

© Source: seriouswheels
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SEAT Ibiza 1.9 TDI DAB

The SEAT Ibiza 1.9 TDI DAB has been launched in UK and is equipped with DAB Digital Radio. The SEAT Ibiza 1.9 TDI DAB is powered by a 100 PS 1.9-litre four cylinder turbodiesel engine and a five-speed manual gearbox.

The SEAT Ibiza 1.9 TDI DAB price is £10,995 RRP and only 300 units will be sold. The top speed of the SEAT Ibiza 1.9 TDI DAB is 118 mph and has a 0 to 60 mph acceleration time of 10.8 seconds.

And it’s as quick as it is slick, with a 0 to 62 mph time of just 10.8 seconds and a top speed (where legal) of 118 mph. The torquey 240 Nm powerplant is frugal, too: around town drivers can look forward to 42.8 mpg while in the combined cycle the Ibiza is good for 55.4 mpg. All this, plus CO2 emissions of just 132 g/km and highly competitive group 5 insurance.

With a recent survey showing that more than a third of the UK population knows about DAB technology and, in May of last year, sales of DAB receivers exceeding sales of VHF radios for the first time, there’s never been a better time to explore the benefits of in-car DAB.

And if you've already discovered all the new stations available on DAB with an in-home or portable product, the new SEAT offering means there’s no need to miss out on that DAB-only rock station, jazz outfit or rolling news channel.

Unique styling and great value pricing: from £10,995 RRP.

© Source: zercustoms
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Spy Shots 2009 Infiniti FX

The official unveiling of the 2009 Infiniti FX in Geneva is just a few weeks away, but prototypes are out and about as we speak, and one of Brenda Priddy's minions caught a copper-colored example in Los Angeles yesterday. While the head and taillights are taped off, not much is left to the imagination. The car's basic overall shape remains the same, but a more pronounced grille opening dominates the protruding nose. It's flanked by angry-looking reshaped headlamps that stretch backward onto the fenders. It's certainly a departure from the more reserved look of the current one's schnoz. The tape running the length of the body obscures a character line that's been seen in other photos.

Out back, pointier taillamps mimic the reshaped lighting up front, and the integrated spoiler on the rear hatch is now body-colored, as opposed to the blacked-out piece on the current car. Brenda also reports that the new FX is slightly longer than the one it's set to replace. An FX37 with at least 300 horsepower is expected, as is as a step-up model sporting a 5.0 or 5.5-liter V8 making something in the vicinity 375 - 400 horses. We'll be in Geneva to bring you the news as it happens.

© Source: autoblog
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1940 DODGE 2DR SEDAN STREET ROD

Seller: oldcars
Address:
City: Palmyra
State: Missouri
Country: USA
Price: $9,950.00
Date Added: February 8, 2008
Expiration: June 7, 2008
Link to your website: www.oldcars.fotki.com
Views: 304

Description:
This car is in very good running condition and is equipped with a 1972 Corvette 350 engine, auto, ps, tilt wheel, electric doors, Mustang II front suspension, dual exhaust, aluminum spoke wheels and white letter tires. To view additional photos, go to www.oldcars.fotki.com Worldwide delivery is available.

© Source: seriouswheels
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2008 Skoda Fabia Estate Launched

Skoda announced that the 2008 Fabia Estate has been launched in the United Kingdom. The 2008 Skoda Fabia Estate is priced from 9,360 pounds, for the 1.2 HTP 12v 70bhp version, to 13,775 pounds for the 1.9 TDi PD 105bhp version.

Skoda Press Release:
Skoda’s new Fabia Estate is on sale from Thursday the 7th of February.

The compact load lugger, which costs between £9,360 and £13,775, not only represents great value for money but is also supremely practical thanks to its 1,460-litre stowage potential.

Insurance groupings that start as low as 2E for the 1.2 HTP (70bhp) Fabia Estate 1 and a whopping 60mpg combined (1.4 TDI 80bhp), should also help keep running costs to a minimum.

Skoda’s network of nearly 130 retailers is expecting big demand for the new model. Over 30,000 examples of its predecessor were sold between 2001 and 2007 and the 2008 version looks set to do even better.

© Source: zercustoms
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Kia Ceed Auction in UK

BCA Measham organized an auction on the 1st February that featured a number of Kia Cee'ds. The Kia Cee'd usually is priced around 9,300 pounds outside the UK, but at the auction the top price offered was 10,100 pounds. All the cars put on auction were sold with a £500,000 turnover.

BCA Press Release:
The new Kia Cee'd made an impressive auction debut in a special sale staged at BCA Measham on 1st February.

The special invitation Live Online sale attracted 30 buyers with a further 15 bidding online and offered the first opportunity to buy the Cee’d at auction.
A total of ten 56-registered Kia Cee’d hatchbacks were featured in a sale that saw 57 vehicles offered and sold from the manufacturer. The 100% sell out success generated a turnover of nearly £500,000, equivalent to 100.25% of CAP Clean.

Across the board the Cee’d models averaged just under £9,300, equivalent to 111% of CAP Clean. Top performers included a 0656 113 LS model that realised 118% of CAP Clean at 13,500 miles, while a 0756 113 LS model at 9,000 miles sold for £10,100 – the highest price for a Cee’d on the day.

Kia’s Used Car Remarketing Manager David McCluskey commented “The Cee’d has consistently gained strong reviews since launching in 2006 and we were expecting a lot of demand for the cars on offer at BCA – it’s safe to say the car exceeded even our own high expectations in this special launch sale. We were also pleased to see plenty of demand for Picanto and Carens, and strong values achieved by Sedona, Sportage and Rio.”

© Source: zercustoms
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1968 Dodge GSS Hemi Dart

If you ever ask a 1960's Mopar fan who the king of high performance is, they'll instantly tell you "Mr. Norm!" Owner of Grand Spaulding Dodge in Chicago, Norm Kraus was known for fitting performance parts to all types of Mopars, and even started the development for factory cars like the 383 and 400 Dart GTS. The king of all Mr. Norm's cars, however, was the Hemi GSS Dart. Each of the cars was fitted with a 426ci Hemi V8 with a pair of Holley carbs, a heavy duty cooling package, and aftermarket headers. In an effort to save weight, a fiberglass hood and front fenders were used, as well as a front bumper and doors stamped for a lighter gauge steel. In addition, the radio, rear seats, exterior mirrors, and window mechanisms were all removed. The result was a non-street legal drag car that could run down into the 10's in the quarter mile, making it the fastest factory built muscle car ever produced.

Forty years later, Mr. Norm is producing a limited run of 21st century Hemi Darts. Serial #1, pictured above, was on the showfloor of the Chicago Auto Show to commemorate the 1960's along with other vehicles to commemorate each decade from the last 100 years. Each car is based on a hand-picked 1968 Dart that is fully restored - the preparation process for the restoration takes 400 hours alone. To ensure that the new Hemi Dart retains its title as the king of muscle cars, engine options include a 610 horsepower 472ci Hemi V8 and a 825 horsepower 572ci Hemi V8 that both run on 91 octane.

© Source: autoblog
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2008 Mercedes-Benz SL AMG

(from Daimler Press Release) SL 63 AMG: exclusive with AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission: The sportiest SL-Class ever – AMG dream machine with revolutionary transmission and 386 kW/525 hp V8 engine

Affalterbach – Emotional performance courtesy of cutting-edge engineering: the new Mercedes-Benz SL 63 AMG in a nutshell. The roadster is powered by an AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine developing 386 kW/525 hp and 630 Newton metres – which makes it today’s most powerful model with a V8 naturally aspirated engine in its class. The SL 63 AMG comes exclusively with the all-new, innovative AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission. The newly developed power transfer concept features a compact, wet start-up clutch that replaces the conventional torque converter. The resulting direct connection to the powertrain, together with the double-declutching and Race Start functions, guarantees an extremely emotional, supremely dynamic driving experience. The SL 63 AMG sets new standards in the open-top sports car segment thanks to this outstanding drive combination and the retuned, even more agile AMG sports suspension based on Active Body Control – turning it into the sportiest SL-Class ever.

The new SL 65 AMG will also be launched alongside the SL 63 AMG. Thanks to its 450 kW/612 hp AMG 6.0-litre biturbo engine developing 1000 Newton metres of torque, the V12 top-of-the-line model delivers effortlessly superior refinement in its purest form. Both Mercedes-AMG SL-Class Roadsters also hold in store extraordinary thrills and breathtaking dynamism thanks to the hallmark AMG equipment features. The vario-roof, which opens in 16 seconds and is also available in an optional glass version, continues to ensure an unrivalled driving experience.

The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission is an all-new, unique concept, available exclusively in the new Mercedes-Benz SL 63 AMG. It combines the best of two worlds: the sporty, direct and agile feedback of a manual transmission and the maximum convenience of an automatic transmission.

© Source: seriouswheels
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2008 Lexus IS-F Preview

Performance sells, especially in the compact sports-luxury class. And for that class, factory tuner cars provide a showcase for the manufacturer's most serious commitment to performance. If the formula is simple - let the in-house hot-rodders loose on what is already a first-rate sports automobile - the implementation is not, and it has a positive effect on the rest of that automaker's cars, especially the all-important compact sports-luxury sedans, coupes, and convertibles.

For a start, the engine was developed in partnership with Yamaha. Nothing new there, as Toyota/Yamaha partnerships go back to the Toyota 2000GT of the late 1960s. The Yamaha engineers involved were last associated with the company's most recent Formula One engine effort, so they were well-versed in high-performance engine design and development. The block is die cast aluminum, with a forged steel crankshaft featuring mirror-polished journals for minimum friction. Connecting rods and pistons are designed and built for strength and durability in high-rpm operation.

The Yamaha-designed cylinder heads have a lightweight four valve per cylinder valvetrain with titanium intake valves, a dual-intake induction system that opens a secondary intake above 3600 rpm for more power, the SFI D-4 direct and port fuel injection system (similar to that used in other IS models) that allows a high 11.8:1 compression ratio for increased power and efficiency, and a new twist on the VVT-i variable cam phasing system. VVT-iE still uses conventional hydraulic control to "degree" exhaust camshafts - rotate the shaft relative to its static position to advance or retard valve timing and change valve overlap. Because this uses engine oil, which needs to be warmed to operating temperature and viscosity for the system to work, it doesn't operate when the engine is cold. To get by this problem, the intake camshafts are degreed by computer-controlled electric motors. The result is improved running from cold, increased power - and increased fuel efficiency and decreased emissions. Unlike some competitors, the IS-F will not come with a "gas guzzler" surcharge. Maximum power, all 416 horses worth, is developed at 6600 rpm, with maximum torque 371 lb-ft at 5200. Redline is 6800. And EPA mileage is 16 city, 23 highway.

If the engine is interesting, the transmission is even more so. Manual shifting is a necessity in a high-performance automobile, and high-tech high-performance these days means an automated manual gearbox, with lightning-fast up- and down-shifts controlled, along with the clutch, by electronic and hydraulic wizardry. Such gearboxes are found in all major road-racing series, and in many of the IS-F's competitors. They are not torque-converter automatics with manual shifting. Audi's twin-clutch DSG is the benchmark. Lexus challenges it with an eight-speed gearbox with a twist - it's both a torque-converter automatic in automatic mode, and fully manual in manual mode in gears two through eight. First uses the torque converter to deal with the stresses of starting, but it's locked up otherwise in manual, to provide a direct connection between the engine and transmission. Upshifts can take as little as one tenth of a second, with downshifts taking two-tenths. Engine and transmission revs are automatically matched during downshifting.

© Source: theautochannel
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Fiat 500 Pepita sets gold standard for small cars

Every year in Rome is held a luxury show called the Scrigno, Tesori d'Italia, which roughly translates to mean the Italian Treasure Chest.We want to show you what Studio M had on display this year. Called the Fiat 500 Pepita, it is Italy's iconic small car painted with the same 24k gold micro-powder paint as last year's Maserati. Studio M went a bit further this time by modifying the 500 Pepita even more.

The side walls of the tires are also brushed with gold and frame a set of aftermarket wheels from OZ; the dash has been covered with Australian mother of pearl inlay; the gear shift, hand brake and pedals are lined with Swarovski crystals and the designer floor mats are made out of cashmere. The car costs about 60,000 euro, but Studio M is more than happy to customize one for you by upholstering the interior with the skin of crocodile, snake, shark, rayfish or lizard, as well as dumping the Swarovski crystal for one of 48 other precious stones. Sure, it's a bit ironic that a small economy car has been made to epitomize the luxurious tastes of wealthy Italians, but we've heard time and again that Europeans are willing to pay more for small cars over there.

© Source: autoblog
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2009 Hyundai Sonata

Hyundai has quickly developed a full range of products in its US lineup, and quality scores from companies like JD Power show those vehicles now rank among the best in the industry. For all of Hyundai's progress the past few years, the South Korean automaker has taken its time getting navigation systems into its fleet of cars and trucks.

For '08, the Azera, Santa Fe, and Veracruz all get nav systems, the Genesis sedan receives a separate high-end interface, and the bread-and-butter 2009 Sonata will get the tech as well. The folks over at Kicking Tires proclaim the interface to be bright, clear, and easy to use. It's about time. With Hyundai raising the price of entry for the Sonata to match (or exceed) the competition, it's important that the midsize sedan has everything the competition offers. It's just a shame that it took until now for them to do it.

© Source: autoblog
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2008 Porsche Cayenne GTS meets North America

Following breakfast here at the 2008 Chicago Auto Show, Porsche took the cover off its new Cayenne GTS for the first time on our shores. After emphasizing how well the updated 2007 Cayenne has done in the market, the Stuttgart-based automaker talked about running the 2007 TransSyberia Rallye with what is essentially a stock Cayenne S. In the hands of rally veteran Rod Millen, the Cayenne with added safety equipment and spare parts finished first overall in its first attempt at the 4,000 mile race.

Porsche NA marketing VP David Pryor proclaimed the GTS, however, as the best handling SUV in the world thanks to its 21-inch wheels, 20mm lower ride height and Porsche Active Suspension Management. Its 4.8L V8 has direct fuel injection to help it put out a stout 405 hp, and it's mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox. If you're up for it, the 405-hp GTS model goes on sale now in the U.S. with a base price of $69,300.

© Source: autoblog
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2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8

(from Chrysler Press Release) The Ultimate Modern American Muscle Coupe

Powered by a 6.1-liter HEMI® V-8 engine that produces 425 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque

Chicago, Feb 6, 2008 - The return of the iconic Dodge Challenger brings what pony car fanatics crave: ground shaking performance, unmistakable design cues reminiscent of the original Challenger, world-class ride and handling characteristics and benchmark braking. On top of that it features a wide variety of modern amenities and technology designed to delight a new generation of driving enthusiasts.
“The all-new Dodge Challenger SRT8 is engineered to give customers everything they want in a modern muscle machine,” said Mike Accavitti, Director – Dodge Brand and SRT Global Marketing, Chrysler LLC. “The new version of Dodge’s American classic boasts tire-smoking performance and head-turning design while offering a wide array of state-of-the-art technology, such as GPS navigation, ‘Keyless Go’ entry, a MyGIG™ infotainment system and UConnect hands-free communication.”

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.

Dodge will offer the limited-edition 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 in three colors: HEMI® Orange, Bright Silver Metallic and Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl Coat. Each two-door, rear-wheel-drive coupe will be produced with a numbered dash plaque, carbon fiberlike hood stripes and will be powered by SRT’s 6.1-liter HEMI V-8 engine that boasts 425 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque.

With a U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $37,995 (including $675 destination), the all-new 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 arrives in Dodge showrooms this spring.

Performance targets for the all-new 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 include a 0–60 mph time in the low 5-second range, 0–100–0 mph in less than 17 seconds, a ј-mile elapsed time of less than 14 seconds, 60–0 mph braking distance of approximately 100 feet, and a skid pad performance of 0.88 g.

© Source: seriouswheels
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2008 Infiniti EX35

It's easy to forget that the luxury brands the Japanese automakers started in the late '80s were established specifically for the U.S. market. However, much like its competitors, Nissan's Infiniti brand has expanded outside of North America, establishing itself in several Asian markets, and is now in the midst of an all-out assault on Europe.

Infiniti Europe hopes to have 78 dealers across the continent by the end of 2010 selling an initial line-up consisting of the new EX 35, FX and G models. It's also reportedly considering the development of a compact crossover around the size of the Audi A3 specifically targeted for Europe. Nissan realizes, however, that it will take a long time for Infiniti to establish itself in the market, and as a result is planning to financially subsidize its European dealerships in the short term until they can turn a profit.

© Source: autoblog
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2009 BMW M3 ALMS Race Car

(from BMW Press Release) BMW of North America to partner with Rahal Letterman Racing for 2009 season

BMW presented the racing version of the new BMW M3 at the Chicago Auto Show. Powered by a 485 bhp eight cylinder engine, this impressive race car has been designed to compete in the American Le Mans Series (ALMS) beginning in 2009. The car is based on the fourth generation of the BMW M3, the high-performance sports car produced by BMW M GmbH.

BMW's 2009 entry into the American Le Mans Series will be driven by a partnership between BMW of North America, LLC and Rahal Letterman Racing, co-owned by US motorsport legend Bobby Rahal.

The BMW M3 Race Version: Sportiness personified.
In the course of developing the race version of the BMW M3, BMW's engineers were faced with an ambitious task: to improve upon the sportiness of an already sporting car. A better base would, though, be difficult to find. In standard form the vehicle delivers powerful dynamics and sporting aesthetics. Thanks to an eight cylinder engine producing 414 bhp, BMW's customers are provided with a unique driving experience.

Those engine blocks, cast in BMW's light alloy foundry in Landshut - the very source of BMW's Formula One castings - selected for race duty need to withstand even more power: the BMW P65 race engine delivers 485 bhp.

In order to enable the BMW M3 to make full use of this performance on the race circuit, the experts in Munich have not concentrated solely on the engine, but have race-tuned the chassis as well. The race version of the BMW M3 is wider and significantly lighter than its production equivalent, enabling it to perfectly transmit the power of its V8 to the track. Widespread use of carbon-reinforced plastic (CRP) provides proof of substantial weight reduction. As with the production version, the race car's roof is manufactured from this high-tech material.

The race version of the BMW M3 is clearly aimed at the top echelon of motorsport. As such, it is no surprise to discover that in the course of its development, begun in mid-2007, numerous Formula One techniques were applied. These include computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and wind tunnel analyses, both of which have ensured the best possible aerodynamic package for the BMW M3.

BMW Group in America
BMW of North America, LLC has been present in the United States since 1975. Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA, LLC began distributing vehicles in 2003. The BMW Group in the United States has grown to include marketing, sales, and financial service organizations for the BMW brand, the MINI brand, and the Rolls-Royce brand of Motor Cars; DesignworksUSA, an industrial design firm in California; a technology office in Silicon Valley and various other operations throughout the country. BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC in South Carolina is part of BMW Group's global manufacturing network and is the exclusive manufacturing plant for all Z4 models and X5 Sports Activity Vehicles and the upcoming X6 Sport Activity Coupe. The BMW Group sales organization is represented in the U.S. through networks of 338 BMW passenger car centers, 335 BMW Sports Activity Vehicle centers, 142 BMW motorcycle retailers, 82 MINI passenger car dealers, and 30 Rolls-Royce Motor Car dealers. BMW (US) Holding Corp., the BMW Group's sales headquarters for North, Central and South America, is located in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey.

© Source: seriouswheels
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Ford Verve Sedan Concept - US Version

Ford's European-developed Verve will go on sale in the States sometime in 2010, aimed to capture some of the burgeoning small car market. Making money on small cars is always the sticking point when talk turns to subcompacts, and Ford's eyeing Mexico as the production location for the Verve. The Detroit Free Press has spoken with insiders who concur that while it'd be tough to build the Verve in the United States, Cuautitlan, Mexico make