auto car show: August 2008

Spy shots: RR4 wearing even less camouflage

RR4
RR4
RR4

The RR4 -- the Rolls-Royce that asks that you "don't call me 'baby'" -- is slowly undressing, striptease-like, before its final reveal at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show. Previous spy shots hinted at rear suicide doors, or coach doors as Rolls-Royce refers to them, and now it is official: the hinges on the rear door are on the rear of the door. The car has plenty of Phatom-esque cues, and although it doesn't look anything like the initial sketch, it looks like it could be a very attractive proposition when it shows up for the big dance. Still no word on engines, but we have no doubt its output will be something along the lines of prodigious.

[Source: Global Motors]

Spyker to build lightweight race-derived C8 LM 85

Spyker C8 LM 85

Take your exotic sports car and put it in a room with its racing counterpart. Put on some R&B, dim the lights and wait nine months. It's a winning formula that has worked for some of the world's best automakers and resulted in such stunning performance vehicles as the Ferrari 430 Scuderia, Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera, Aston Martin DBS and Porsche 911 GT3 RS, to name just a few. Now Spyker is getting ready to cue up the Barry White with the upcoming LM 85.

Named for the starting position of the Spyker C8 GTR2 racer at Le Mans, the LM 85 will be the latest race-derived, hardcore exotic sportscar. It will be based on the short-wheelbase C8 Laviolette, but lightened and tightened. Power could be as high as 450 horses, while the suspension is expected to be stiffened and weight removed to get a 0-100 km/h (0-60 mph) figure near 3.8 seconds and top speed bumping the 300 km/h (186 mph) mark. Only a highly symbolic 24 examples are expected to be built in an effort to bring the niche Dutch automaker back from the brink.

[Source: Auto Motor und Sport and Motor Authority]

Tanner tests his Top Gear skills on the Lambo Reventon

One-third of American Top Gear, Tanner Foust, spent a day in the Lamborghini Reventon, and here's his verdict: "Thumbs up big girl!" The fractional bit of additional horsepower didn't mean much to him, but he did say the brakes were more capable, and, surprise, the car is quite wide and people like to stare at it. After six hours on Italy's B-roads, that basically sums up his impressions. Since he didn't have too much to say in print, we really do hope he's saving the zingers for the show...

[Source: AutoFiends]

SEAT Ibiza Cupra unveiled

In Europe, budget-minded pistonheads have a treasure trove of hot hatches to choose from, and SEAT will be adding another model to the mix later this year.

Seat Ibiza Cupra will be officially unveiled in Paris, but Seat has dropped the first few images and a handful of specs ahead of its official unveiling in the City of Light this October. The Cupra is packing a twin-turbocharged, 1.4-liter TSI four underhood, sending 178 hp to the front wheels through a seven-speed DSG gearbox. Traction control and ESP are part of the package, along with a stiffer suspension, 17-inch wheels and bolstered buckets. The exterior benefits from a new fascia incorporating massive grilles and tiny fog lamps, side skirts and a new rear bumper.

© Source: autoblog
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Audi R8 GT3 unveiled

Call it a new car or not, Audi has made it official that their new Audi R8 GT3 that sports 550hp is going to be available to the market from autumn 2009.

“The R8 is the first production Audi bearing the name and genes of a successful racing sportscar and is therefore an excellent base from which to build up our first big customer sport program,” explains Head of Audi Motorsport Dr Wolfgang Ullrich.

Built on a rear-wheel-drive architecture, the new Audi R8 GT3 is looking even better and sports things like a rear wing, a full roll cage, heat extractors over the engine bay or a longer spoiler. But did we mention the performances? It runs on a new 6-speed sequential sports gearbox that takes the suspension components from the regular R8 and sports 550 hp?

© Source: carblog
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Fisker new hybrid models

Fisker Automotive is going to have its work cut out for it when it comes to meeting its self-imposed deadline of bring the Karma sedan to market by the fourth-quarter of 2009. To complicate matters even further, the automaker is now rumored to be working on three more plug-in hybrids. That would represent a truly serious undertaking for such a small automaker. To ease matters slightly, all four models would use the same basic underpinnings -- including the most important piece of all, the lithium ion battery and its assorted bits.

Fisker has recruited Quantum Technologies, a company which has seen success building vehicles for the military, for help in creating the drivetrain for its electric vehicles. Reportedly on the drawing board are a coupe, a convertible and an SUV, all of which should go a long way towards meeting Fisker's goal of selling 15,000 vehicles a year by 2011.

© Source: autoblog
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BMW 1-Series in the Schnitz

Who'd have thunk it? AC Schnitzer has turned the awkward looking BMW 1-Series coupe into something really rather desirable.

The styling features, which fit to the car with or without the M-Technik bodykit, include front and rear skirt 'attachments' and enlarged side intakes on the front spoiler.

According to AC Schnitzer this gives the car a 'greedier, more competitive look'. Right you are.

Engine upgrades are available throughout the range. The 120d gets a power boost to 210bhp from 177bhp, while the 123d goes up from 204 to 240bhp.

The most appealing however is the 135i, which AC Schnitzer has ramped up from 306 to 360bhp - that's 15bhp more than a 3.6-litre Porsche 911 Carrera...

© Source: topgear
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2008 Mercedes Benz E Class

The 2008 Mercedes-Benz E-Class features one of the most diverse engine and transmission lineups in the luxury sedan market. The Mercedes-Benz E-Class is unique in that it is the only luxury sedan available with a diesel engine. "Being a diesel," reports Edmunds, "it boasts superior fuel mileage and plentiful torque." The Mercedes-Benz 2008 E320 features a 3.2-liter V-6 diesel that produces 210 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque. Other engine choices include a 3.5-liter V-6 (E350) that produces 268 hp and 258 pound-feet of torque; a 5.5-liter V-8 (E550) that produces 382 hp and 391 pound-feet; and a massive 6.2-liter V-8 (E63 AMG) that produces 507 hp and 465 pound-feet.

The "manic" Mercedes-Benz 2008 E63 can hit 60 mph in just 4.3 seconds. The E350 does it in the mid-6-second range, the E550 takes 5.2 seconds, and the E320 is no slouch either, taking just 6.8 seconds, all according to Edmunds. It's no wonder Kelley Blue Book claims "the E-Class' engine lineup is one of the most dynamic on the planet." In testing, ConsumerGuide finds the 2008 Mercedes-Benz E-Class offers effortless acceleration and passing power, no matter the engine choice. The E350 is "stately from a stop but gathers speed quickly and has fine passing power"; while the E320 is "similar," it suffers from turbo lag when accelerating from a stop and passing. The E550 is "impressively gutsy from any speed," they conclude.

Buyers of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class E350 or E550 may choose either rear- or all-wheel drive, known as 4Matic. Edmunds reports that "all rear-wheel-drive E-Class models come with a seven-speed automatic, while the 4Matic models feature a five-speed...the automatic offers three modes: Comfort, Sport and Manual." ConsumerGuide says "in all, the transmissions provide smooth, timely shifts."

Fueleconomy.gov ratings for the 2008 Mercedes-Benz E-Class are as follows: 23/32 mpg (E320 diesel); 17/24 mpg (E350 rear-drive), 16/22 mpg (4Matic); 15/22 mpg (E550 rear-drive), 13/19 mpg (4Matic); 12/19 mpg (E63). In their testing of a Mercedes-Benz 2008 E550 4Matic, ConsumerGuide achieves 17.5 mpg. They note "premium-grade gas is required in all non-diesel models."

In the handling department, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class is no match for its archrival, the BMW 5-Series. Where the BMW is marketed as the ultimate driving machine and lives up to that, the E-Class is "certainly adequate...but isn't a willing partner like a 5 Series can be," writes Edmunds. They add, "although the Benz E550 is, without question, a track star during acceleration runs, super-athletic moves on a twisty road are not the car's forte."

© Source: thecarconnection
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Renault Safrane

Introduced in 1992 instead of the famous Renault 25 and in operations till 2000, the French automakers decided to replace Safrane with the remarkable Vel Satis. But that didn’t affect sales as they expected, so now the company is thinking of reviving it as a mid-size luxury sedan but the news aren’t THAT great.

Apparently the new Renault Safrane is only going to be available in Gulf States like United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Oman,Kuwait and Qatar.

Suddenly we’re not so very impressed with this V6 powerplant anymore unless they give it a greenlight for either South Africa or Europe. And make it for a good price if you want us to buy it.

© Source: carblog
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2009 Kia Forte

It’s obvious that the South Koreans from Kia are doing their best to make it the right way. After the great success with Kia Ceed, the guys are going to release a new model dubbed the 2009 Kia Forte.

Main focus is on fuel efficiency considering the high gas (oil) prices, but I’ll have to be honest though it’s not for the racetrack, they really did a good job with the design. As for what’s under the hood, the 124 hp 1.6 liter engine will be offered as standard while the 2.0L versions will come later.

Kia also has great expectations. They estimated (more like .. wish) to sell some 30,000 units this year and up to 250,000 units in 2010. The biggest factor to these figures are the prices which start at ~$11,300 and top up at $18,300. Main competitors for the 2009 Kia Forte are Hyundai Avante, the Renault SM3 or the GM Daewoo Lacetti.

It should go on sale this week.

© Source: carblog
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SEAT Ibiza Cupra unveiled

SEAT Ibiza Cupra

In Europe, budget-minded pistonheads have a treasure trove of hot hatches to choose from, and SEAT will be adding another model to the mix later this year.

The Ibiza Cupra will be officially unveiled in Paris, but Seat has dropped the first few images and a handful of specs ahead of its official unveiling in the City of Light this October. The Cupra is packing a twin-turbocharged, 1.4-liter TSI four underhood, sending 178 hp to the front wheels through a seven-speed DSG gearbox. Traction control and ESP are part of the package, along with a stiffer suspension, 17-inch wheels and bolstered buckets. The exterior benefits from a new fascia incorporating massive grilles and tiny fog lamps, side skirts and a new rear bumper.

Prices and performance stats haven't been released yet, but the Renaultsport Clio 197 competitor should be priced around £16,000 when it hits dealers in Europe in December.

Viper ACR and Corvette ZR1 battle on the 'Ring

A couple months back, the bone-stock Corvette ZR1 put supercars everywhere on notice when it took on the famed Nurburgring and ran a Nissan GT-R-beating 7:26. The track-ready, fire breathing Viper ACR bested the Corvette's amazing effort by posting an incredible 7:22 lap time. Despite a four second difference in total track time, blogger Andi Baritchi slapped both track videos together (after 30 seconds of annoying scrolling text) to verify that the Viper ACR came out on top. Hit the jump to view the two fastest American-made, street legal, 600+ hp beasts as they tangle in a 'Ring battle for the ages. The video proves what we already knew, but it's still fun to see how two very different, yet very similar vehicles, handle the twists and turns of the Nurburgring.

Mid-engine Audi R3 to replace TT

Audi R3

Over the past week, CAR has donned its prognostication cap and tapped it's "internal sources" in an attempt to foretell Audi's future product plans. A few of stories have ranged from inane to insane, but one post seems entirely plausible and has blinded us with excitement.

Audi's mid-engine R4 was pronounced stillborn this past year, but with Volkswagen bringing its own midship concept to the Los Angeles Auto Show this November, Audi might revive plans its own version to market in the next five years. The new R3 would effectively replace the TT, providing a better business case for VAG to produce a mid-engine platform and silencing critics that have constantly complained that the TT is merely a tarted up Golf.

If the Volkswagen version is well received and given the green light, expect it to debut in 2013, with Audi's variant following shortly thereafter. In an attempt to keep from directly competing with the Porsche Boxster, Audi will exclusively offer the R3 with four-cylinder engines, including a 180 hp, 1.8-liter TFSI, 220 hp, 2.0-liter and a 280 hp, 2.0-liter on the S-line model. Diesels are also being considered, ranging from a 125 hp, 1.6.-liter to a 204 hp, 2.0-liter.

[Source: CAR]

Toyota unveils new Avensis

Toyota Avensis

Toyota will use the upcoming Paris Motor Show in October to unveil its redesigned flagship model for Europe, the Avensis. Think of it as the old country's version of the Avalon. Though we only have a rear 3/4 shot to go by, the new Avensis looks considerably more chunky than the current model, with a short deck lid, large rear tail-lights, a strong shoulder line and some interesting concave surfacing above the side sills. We don't know much else, other than that it will be offered with more powerful and cleaner engines when it goes on sale in Europe around January.

Toyota also announced that it will be bringing out the production version of its iQ city car and the Urban Cruiser for the Paris show. The Urban Cruiser is basically a ruggedized, soft-roading version of the Scion xD, while the iQ is based on the concept of the same name that debuted at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2007.

2009 Honda Civic Coupe revealed in brochure

2009 Honda Civic Coupe

Just last week we revealed official images and specifications for the updated 2009 Honda Civic in sedan and hybrid body styles. Lest you coupe fans feel left out, we've finally found information on Honda's newish two-door in DX, LX, EX/EX-L and Si levels from a PDF brochure and the brand's U.S. website. As with the sedan, the front and rear of the Civic Coupe see the most change, though it'll take a trained eye to spot the differences out back. The front grille, though, looks more aggressive and sports a new honeycomb pattern, and the lower bumper has been redesigned with new air intakes. We likey. Also of note are the new clear turn signal lenses. On the inside, the available navigation system flips down to reveal a slot-loading CD player and inputs for digital audio cards, whatever those are. There's also a new USB music interface in the center console so you can just plug a flash drive full of tunes into the dash. A 140-hp, 1.8-Liter i-VTEC® engine powers the standard coupe and offers up to 36 highway mpg. Honda hasn't released any of this information through its media website, and the consumer website still isn't showing any 2009 Si models, so expect the big H to release more information on its '09 coupes in the coming weeks.

Nissan Shiraz Concept

Nissan Shiraz Concept

Design student Miguel Ángel Iranzo Sánchez created the vehicle you see above, and he describes it as "a mix between a[n] SUV and a sportscar infused with Nissan brand DNA." For his efforts, which took an entire summer, he won a scholarship to get his Masters in Car Design in Valencia, and -- put on your Price is Right voice for this -- a brand new car! A Nissan Note, to be exact.

Billed as 100-percent all-terrain, ecological, sporty, and Nissan, we admit it's interesting. The doors are gullwing, and the interior is terrific concept car simplicity.

RENNtech's Pikes Peak-inspired hybrid GLK

RENNtech Mercedes-Benz GLK

Of all the trucks that have proliferated into the Mercedes-Benz line-up, the GLK isn't exactly the most aggressive. But according to the latest reports, Mercedes is lining up an array of aftermarket tuners at the SEMA show to infuse what appears to be more than a little testosterone into the compact sport-ute.

First up to bat is RENNtech, the Florida-based company responsible, among other things, for the bringing the McLaren SLR 722 to America and actually getting it to produce 722 horsepower. RENNtech has taken inspiration from the Pikes Peak challenge – one of the most iconic and power-craven hill-climb events in the world – to create this hardcore GLK. Little is known in the way of details, but the vehicle is said to feature RENNtech's first performance hybrid drivetrain.

Brabus, Blvd Customs and Legendary Motorcars are also said to be preparing modified GLKs for SEMA, although Mercedes has not yet confirmed its participation in the show.

Microsoft getting into the car WiFi biz

The Internet has been invading every aspect of our lives, but until recently most of us have gone without a connection to the World Wide Web inside our cars. That's changing with third party companies and OEMs beginning to offer 3G WiFi solutions for automobiles, and Microsoft says it's working on an even better idea. The Seattle-based software giant is working with the Universities of Massachusetts and Washington to develop a more reliable WiFi experience that enables the reception of multiple signals simultaneously to cut back on choppy service.

Microsoft's WiFi solution would leverage fledgling municipal wireless infrastructures to bring the Internet to your car. The Ballmer boys are betting that WiFi services will spread like wildfire in the future, and its new technology will be able to utilize multiple signals at the same time to make in-car Internet as smooth as what you get at home. On the surface, in-car Internet sounds ridiculous, but think of all the iPhone-like apps that could make your life easier. Weather, navigation, information, show times, and even gaming for your passengers would be a click away. You could even read Autoblog in the parking lot while your spouse goes shopping.

[Source: Kicking Tires]

2009 Lexus LS 600h L Pebble Beach Edition

(from Lexus Press Release) Lexus LS 600h L's distinctive L-finesse styling is complemented by a unique exterior/interior color combination exclusive to the Pebble Beach Edition with a Truffle Mica exterior paint combined with an exclusive two-tone Alabaster and Black leather trim interior with Dark Grey Bird's-eye maple wood trim. Additional styling cues include 19-inch, five-spoke wheels with a unique finish, Pebble Beach interior badging, premium black floor mats with stainless steel badging, and blue illuminated scuff plates.

The Pebble Beach LS hybrid comes standard with the Advanced Pre-Collision System (APCS) which incorporates the world's first system designed to help detect pedestrians in the vehicle's path, as well as world's first Driver Monitor System that helps warn drivers if it senses an obstacle ahead of the car and that the driver's head is not facing forward. The APCS system helps prepare the car for evasive action or collision by triggering appropriate sensors in the car and retracting the front seatbelts. Furthermore, the Pebble Beach Edition LS 600h L is equipped with the Advanced Parking Guidance System, Rear-Seat Entertainment System (RSES), power rear-door sunshades and rear-seat side airbags.

© Source: seriouswheels
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2009 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe

(from Chevrolet Press Release) 2009 CORVETTE: ENHANCEMENTS BRING MORE CHOICES, REFINEMENT TO CHEVY’S LEGENDARY SPORTS CAR

After a milestone year in 2008 that saw the introduction of the LS3 6.2L V-8 as the new standard engine, a custom, leather-wrapped interior and more upgrades, the Corvette powers into 2009 with a raft of enhancements that further distinguish it and give customers more choices – including a lower-priced convertible model.

Of course, that range of choices also includes the ZR1, with its 6.2L supercharged engine that produces 638 horsepower (476 kW). (Please see the separate Corvette ZR1 release for complete information on Chevy’s world-class supercar.)

“The Corvette is an American icon with world-class credentials,” said Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager. “It’s the car we all aspire to own and the 2009 edition, with more choices and features, only amplifies that craving.”

New for 2009 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe:

- Color-keyed door and instrument panels with red and titanium interiors

- Power-operated pull-down hatch now standard

- Gray stitching on Ebony base seats (previously red)

- New door sill plates with the Z06 logo

- Acoustic package standard on all Z06 models

- The Z06 also receives a larger-capacity dry-sump oiling system. It upgrades to the 10.5-quart (9.9 liters) system of the new ZR1. The previous oil system held eight quarts (7.5 liters).

- The popular museum delivery option (RPO R8C) remains available for all Corvette models.

© Source: seriouswheels
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Nissan GT-R Nismo tuning package

While tuners from every corner of the globe have been hastily showcasing aftermarket performance add-ons for the GT-R, Nissan’s in-house tuning arm has been completely quiet - until now. Nismo has today unveiled its official Club Sports Package for the legendary GT-R - and it will only cost you around $58,000 for the privilege.

The package consists of a new tire and wheel setup, suspension, Nismo branded race seats from Recaro and a new titanium exhaust system. The wheels are a lightweight 20-inch forged aluminium product from Ray’s finished in Gunmetal grey, saving a valuable 6kg all up.

These are wrapped in Bridgestone Potenza RE070R run-flat tires and incorporate a valve tire pressure monitoring system.The upgraded suspension package uses Bilstein Damp Tronic shock absorbers and Nismo-developed springs which have been engineered to suit the GT-R’s three distinct suspension modes.

The new driver and passenger race bucket seats were jointly developed with Recaro using a carbon shell wrapped in black leather which features embroidered Nismo and Recaro logos.

In total, they save a further 6kg each, and have been specifically designed to give added support through high-G turns - especially in the shoulders.

Finally, the exhaust system has been assembled from a mix of pure titanium and titanium alloy saving an additional 5kg while cooling has been improved with a new carbon fibre rear diffuser.

Fortunately, the entire package can be further divided into three distinct categories: chassis, seat and exhaust, which can be ordered separately - however there has been no official word on how these components actually effect performance.

© Source: seriouswheels
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2009 Audi TT RS Spied

Work is under way to develop the hottest ever version of Ingolstadt’s sports coupe, likely to be badged TT RS. It promises to be a real alternative to the Porsche Cayman when it goes on sale in late 2008 in Europe.

The TT RS will use a 2.5-litre in-line five-cylinder petrol unit, ten years since Audi last used a similarly designed engine. Early reports indicate that Audi will boost performance to hefty 260kW using twin sequential turbochargers.

This entire grunt will be channelled through Audi’s permanent 4WD quattro system and a six-speed manual ‘box, though the DSG dual-clutch system will also be available as an option.

Expect a sporty styling with bespoke wheels, alloy-effect door mirrors, aggressive bumpers, RS-batches on the brakes and sill extensions.

Volkswagen’s new 210kW 3.6-litre V6 petrol engine, lined up for a hot version of Volkswagen’s Passat, will be released at the same time in a more refined form, to replace the 3.2-litre V6 currently powering the range-topping TT.

© Source: caradvice
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2009 Chevrolet Malibu

Fillback now have 2009 Chevy Malibus in Stock and available!

© Source: youtube
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2010 Suzuki Kizashi Spied

Hiding under yards of heavy black vinyl, padding and netting, is the all-new mid-sized family sedan from Suzuki: the Kizashi! Although the name may (or may not) change, we suspect the later, this is the production version of the concept that made its world debut at the New York Auto Show earlier this year.

Obviously toned down a bit from the sleek concept, the Kizashi will be built in Sagara, Japan, and will arrive at dealerships in Australia in early 2010. Suzuki is pitting the Kizashi up against Toyota’s Camry and – in the U.S. – the hot selling Chevrolet Malibu, therefore it was no surprise to find a few of the Chevys out testing with the Kizashi prototypes.

Power-wise, we’re expecting the base model to be equipped with a ~120kW 2.3-litre 4-cylinder engine, and the top-of-the-line Kizashi will be powered by a 3.6-litre V6 (with around 220kW) mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. One Suzuki engineer recently told CarAdvice that the Kizashi will be available in higher specification as an All-Wheel-Drive, pitching it as a competitor to the Subaru Liberty.

Will Suzuki break into the mid-sized market with the Kizashi?

© Source: caradvice
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Audi A7 four-door hard-top cabrio

Audi A7

The blokes at Car say they've got the scoop on the upcoming Audi A7, including a convertible version depicted in the rendering on the right. Power is rumored to start with six cylinders across the range, with a V10-powered S7 and a twin-turbo V10-motivated RS7. Expect a variety of transmissions to be on offer as well, including manuals, automatics and dual-clutch gearboxes with six or seven speeds, along with the availability of quattro all-wheel-drive.

Sources have suggested that, while Audi will be behind the game in bringing a four-door coupe in the Mercedes CLS mold to market in the first half of 2010, it's got another segment-busting trick up it's sleeve: a full four-door convertible. And according to Car's illustrators, the A7 cabrio will feature a full retractable hard-top. Many have toyed with the idea of a four-door convertible – most recently arch-rival Mercedes with the Ocean Drive concept from Detroit '07 – but Audi may be the ones to actually revive the long-lost segment. Parade detail, here we come.

[Source: Car]

Hyundai recalls 65,000 Elantras for fuel pump problem

Alfa 8C GTA

Some 2008-model Hyundai Elantras are being recalled due to fuel pumps that could lose pressure and decreasing engine performance. In Elantras with the 2.0-liter Beta engine, gasoline with ethanol added creates a buildup of film on the pump's electrical contacts. This can cause the engine to hesitate during starting or while running. The recall is voluntary, and if you have one of the affected cars, don't hesitate to contact your dealer.

[Source: Freep]

Bugatti releases new palette for Veyron Hermes

Bugatti Hermes Veyron

The announcement actually came from Monterey but was quickly overshadowed, somewhat ironically, by the unveiling of the open-top Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport and the subsequent auction of its first example for $3.2 million. The unveiling of the new-tint Hermes Veyrons took place at the Quail motorsport gathering on Monterey Peninsula, where Bugatti revealed the four new color schemes available: "indigo blue and vermilion", "indigo blue and lime green", " black and garance red" and "Prussian blue and blue jean". We're not entirely sure what all these colors are, exactly, and given that Bugatti put them in quotation marks, we're not sure they're sure, either. They undoubtedly would have shown us pictures of all four, but given that these 1.5 million euro hyper-exotics are made to order and available only from the end of the year, we doubt examples of each color option have been made yet. Of course they all come decked out with the H-pattern grille, eight-spoke wheels, lavish calfskin interior and exclusive package of specially-made Hermes luggage.

Lexus planning IS cabrio, lightweight IS-F

Lexus IS-F

The higher-ups at Toyota may have decided to axe the replacement for the Lexus SC convertible, but don't get too used to the idea of a world without a wind-in-your-hair Lexus. Word has it they've given the green light to a convertible version of the current IS sedan. Of course, lopping off the doors and roof of a four-door is hardly unheard of, as that's just what Audi did to make the A4 convertible, but while that 'vert is set to be replaced by the A5 cabrio, Lexus is going the opposite direction.

The IS cabrio is tipped to come in 250 and 350 varieties, with Lexus reasoning that there'd be no market for an IS-F convertible. But fret not, as the same reports suggest that a lightweight IS-F sedan is on its way, again going the opposite way of the Germans as BMW just canceled the M3 CSL program. Things are about to get a whole lot busier at the Lexus plants in Tahara and Kyūshū.

Renault's Persian-market, Maxima-based Safrane

Renault's Safrane

The Persian Gulf is fast becoming a demanding market for luxury automobiles. So demanding, in fact, that some automakers have begun creating special models just for consumption there. Just days ago we brought you news that Rolls-Royce, having already shipped a golden Drophead Coupe for one special customer, was launching a limited edition Phantom saloon called the Peony edition.

This, however, is not a special Rolls-Royce. We won't list all the ways in which it isn't a Roller, but will save your time and ours by listing instead what it shares in common. It's a luxury sedan, and it's made specially to be engulfed by the Gulf market. That's about it. The Safrane nameplate was previously used for Renault's lackluster flagship sedan, replaced by the reviled Vel Satis in 2000. So what is this exactly that has revived the name? A rebadged Samsung SM5, essentially. That vehicle is produced in an 80.1% Renault-owned joint venture in South Korea. If you're noticing some similarities with our own Nissan Maxima, you've got a keen eye, as it shares its platform with the last-gen Maxima as well as the Nissan Teana (itself available only in the Asian market).

2008 Lexus IS F

The higher-ups at Toyota may have decided to axe the replacement for the Lexus SC convertible, but don't get too used to the idea of a world without a wind-in-your-hair Lexus. Word has it they've given the green light to a convertible version of the current IS sedan. Of course, lopping off the doors and roof of a four-door is hardly unheard of, as that's just what Audi did to make the A4 convertible, but while that 'vert is set to be replaced by the A5 cabrio, Lexus is going the opposite direction.

Lexus IS cabrio is tipped to come in 250 and 350 varieties, with Lexus reasoning that there'd be no market for an IS-F convertible. But fret not, as the same reports suggest that a lightweight IS-F sedan is on its way, again going the opposite way of the Germans as BMW just canceled the M3 CSL program.

© Source: autoblog
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2005 Mini Wears Bisazza

(from Mini Press Release) 'MINI WEARS BISAZZA' - TAILORED MOSAIC OUTFITS ADORN FOUR MINIS

Woodcliff Lake, NJ - May 13, 2005... This spring, four MINIs morph into mobile mosaics as internationally renowned Bisazza transforms two MINI hardtops and two MINI convertibles into one-of-a-kind works of modern art. Bisazza craftsmen have encrusted each MINI with over 30,000 colored glass tesserae, creating four "artomotive" masterpieces in the themes of a Zebra, Summer Flowers, Tartan plaid and a Dama. The tesserae, each one-half inch by one-half inch in size were used to transform the vehicles, with 31,700 tesserae laid on each convertible and 37,004 on each coupe.

Two of these stunning works - the Tartan and the Dama - are on display at the Conran Shop in New York City from May 14 to June 5. The cars are part of Conran's exclusive British Influence exhibition, curated by Max Fraser, celebrating 'all things British.' The exhibition is also concurrent with the 17th International Contemporary Furniture Fair (ICFF) from May 14-17 at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City. The ICFF is North America's leading trade fair for avant-garde interior design with 500 exhibitors from all over the world expected.

The mosiac-ed MINIs are on tour around the world at select design and furniture exhibitions. The cars debuted in Milan at the Salone Internationale del Mobile, April 13-18, 2005. The two other MINIs - Zebra and Summer Flower - are also currently on display in Berlin Mai in Berlin from May 5-16. "The partnership between MINI and Bisazza underscores a shared philosophy that values designs that are as thrilling as they are sexy, as classic as they are innovative," said Jim McDowell, Vice President, MINI. "We are thrilled to engage with such an avant-garde partner."

About Bisazza
Since its founding in 1956, Bisazza has led the world in creating the most innovative glass mosaic products. The company pursues a dual objective: to preserve the traditions of the earliest Italian arts-and-crafts industries and mosaic techniques, while simultaneously developing into a cutting edge manufacturer characterized by a strong entrepreneurial spirit, an ability to predict market evolution, and a readiness to incorporate modern manufacturing techniques.

Bisazza products are used for the construction and refurbishment of interior and exterior spaces, swimming pools, fitness and wellness centers and can be found in prominent hotels, boutiques and residences worldwide.

Headquartered at Alte, in the northern Italian province of Vicenza, Bisazza has three additional production facilities, nine global branches located in Australia, France, Hong Kong, India, Germany, Spain, the UK , USA, Russia and dedicated showrooms in Milano, Moscow, New York and Berlin.

© Source: seriouswheels
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2008 Kawasaki Ninja 250R

The Ninja 250R is playfully referred to as the Ninjette, and has been considered one of the better beginner bikes since its introduction over 20 years ago. This year's redesign is radical, with new bodywork, more power, beefed up brakes, and—most tellingly—the inclusion of a gas gauge. The Ninja 250R is a great commuter bike for those willing to trade some horsepower for fuel efficiency. Best of all, the Ninja is priced at only $3499.

One of the most important features to consider for new riders is seat height, and the 2008 Kawasaki Ninja 250R's saddle sits only 30.5 in. from the ground. It has a rear cowl that can be replaced with a passenger seat for an extra $99. Hidden underneath its sporty bodywork—which is available in green, red or blue—is a carbureted, liquid-cooled, DOHC 249 cc parallel twin engine with exhaust routed through a 2-into-1 system.

The powerplant is now quieter and packs better low- and midrange power—oh, and a tastier exhaust note too. Retuned intake and exhaust ports smooth out the power delivery, and maximum torque is a modest 16.2 lb.-ft. at a stratospheric 9500 rpm. But with only 333 pounds to haul around (plus rider), that number becomes bigger than it sounds. The engine is mated to a traditional six-speed gearbox.

Slowing this tiny package is easy with a two-piston, 290 mm petal-disc setup mounted up front, and a 220 mm disc at the rear wheel. The 37 mm fork is nonadjustable, but the rear Uni-Track suspension has five-way preload adjustability. Larger 17 in. wheels not only accommodate the larger brakes, they also enable vast possibilities for tire fitment.

© Source: popularmechanics
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Bugatti Veyron Fbg par Hermes

We know what you're thinking, because we're in the same lamentable position ourselves: you'd totally order up that uber-exclusive Hermes edition Veyron, but you're not a big fan of the brown and tan paint scheme. Fortunately Bugatti has heard your cries, brother, and announced the availability of new color options for the Veyron Fbg.

The announcement actually came from Monterey but was quickly overshadowed, somewhat ironically, by the unveiling of the open-top Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport and the subsequent auction of its first example for $3.2 million. The unveiling of the new-tint Hermes Veyrons took place at the Quail motorsport gathering on Monterey Peninsula, where Bugatti revealed the four new color schemes available: "indigo blue and vermilion", "indigo blue and lime green", " black and garance red" and "Prussian blue and blue jean".

We're not entirely sure what all these colors are, exactly, and given that Bugatti put them in quotation marks, we're not sure they're sure, either. They undoubtedly would have shown us pictures of all four, but given that these 1.5 million euro hyper-exotics are made to order and available only from the end of the year, we doubt examples of each color option have been made yet. Of course they all come decked out with the H-pattern grille, eight-spoke wheels, lavish calfskin interior and exclusive package of specially-made Hermes luggage.

© Source: autoblog
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