Ford Ka 1.3 TDCI Zetec

With its cheeky looks and fun handling the original Ford Ka has been the favourite small car of a whole generation of drivers. And as we found in our exclusive drive of the 1.2-litre petrol last week (Issue 1036) the all-new model looks set to continue the success story.

This time around, the Ka has another string to its bow – it's available with a diesel. The 1.3-litre unit is the same as the unit which is fitted to its sister car, the Fiat 500, and on the road its 74bhp output means the little oil burner delivers punchier acceleration than 1.2-litre petrol versions.

It’s also smooth enough around town to compliment the light controls. Only available in top spec Zetec trim the diesel commands a £700 premium over the equivalent petrol so it’s the only Ka to break the £10,000 barrier.

Nevertheless, emissions drop to 112g/km, while claimed economy is an impressive 67.3mpg. While diesels currently account for just four per cent of the UK city car market, CO2-based taxation means their popularity is sure to grow. And with Ford expecting 40 per cent of Ka sales to be Zetec models the little diesel should be a big seller.

With new bushes the front axle has been tightened too and with the help of retuned dampers this has allowed Ford to soften the springs by 30 per cent. And the end result is less body roll, a better ride and far more engaging handling. The electric power steering has been reworked too and it’s sharper, better weighted and more communicative than the 500’s.

© Source: autoexpress
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Audi TT-S starts at $45,500

Audi announced today that pricing for its U.S.-spec TT-S will begin at $45,500 for the Coupe model and $47,500 for the open-air Roadster. The TT-S joins the TT 2.0T and TT 3.2 in Audi's lineup, settling atop the range with a turbocharged, direct-inject 2.0L TFSI engine producing 265 hp @ 6,000 RPM and 258 lb-ft of torque. That's 15 more horsepower and 22 more lb-ft of torque than the TT with Audi's 3.2L V6.

The TT-S Coupe also manages to hit 60 mph in an impressive 4.9 seconds while achieving a combined fuel economy rating of 24 mpg. Top speed for both the Coupe and Roadster, however, will be electronically limited to 155 mph. For their money, buyers will also get Audi's S tronic dual-clutch transmission, magnetic ride suspension and the brand's trademark quattro all-wheel-drive system.

If the TT-S is still not fast enough for you, the TT-RS is on its way. While it may not make it to U.S. shores, the TT-RS will pack a 2.5-liter TFSI five-cylinder producing 340 hp and 330 lb-ft of torque, which will be mated to a six-speed manual and quattro all-wheel-drive. 0-60 times for the TT-RS are expected to drop even further down to 4.5 seconds. Expect the price to also go up even further in turn.

© Source: autoblog
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Kizashi concept spied

Suzuki’s Kizashi 3 concept has hit the road and our spies have managed to get the best pictures yet of the Mondeo-rivalling newcomer.


Not set to go on sale until 2010 this is the first time the concept has been spied in the metal testing since it made its debut in New York earlier this year.

Despite the confusing disguise on this test model, it’s clear to see the road car will keep most of the concepts original styling. The main exterior changes have been made to the roofline which is not as raked and now looks more conventional. The swirling alloy wheels have also been dropped and the lights and air-intakes have been replaced leaving a less dramatic looking car.

Engine details are still unconfirmed but it is rumoured the Kizashi will either be getting either an all-wheel-drive 300bhp, 3.6-litre V6 or a front-wheel-driven 2.5-litre four-cylinder unit.

The Kizashi is likely to be manufactured in Suzuki’s new Indian manufacturing plant in Delhi before being shipped around the world. Expect a competitive price tag too.

© Source: autoexpress
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2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8 Roadster to debut at SEMA

SEMA Show will be all about going retro with the Camaro and Challenger, and here’s more proof: the Challenger SRT8 Roadster concept by Group Five.

The car features chopped windscreen and seats only for two with the rear passenger area being hidden by a tonneau cover. On the exterior the roadster concept will feature a front spoiler, a hood shaker, a redesigned rear bumper with new exhaust pipes and a set of restyled rear LED lights.

Group Five aims to put the car into limited production.

© Source: topspeed
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Rinspeed Xtreme Porsche Cayenne by Toyo Tires

Toyo revealed the vehicle that will be presented at the SEMA Show: the Rinspeed Xtreme Porsche Cayenne. The new vehicle will be fitted with Toyo (of course) Proxes SR II tires and will feature a new suspension kit in order to improve the stability of the SUV.

It doesn’t seem that there are any engine modifications. It would make sense if it this Cayenne just came for the Toyo Tire guys, but because Rinspeed is attached too, we were hoping for a cool scuba mod or at least a few more horses.

© Source: topspeed
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Watch the LS9 crate engine being built

Mated to a Corvette ZR1, the LS9 can get you from 0-60 in 3.3 seconds, and it will travel a quarter mile in 11.3 seconds. GM Performance Parts announced earlier in the week that beginning next fall, you won't need to own a ZR1 to get your hands on an LS9. The supercharged, 638-hp beast will be available as a crate engine to put under the hood of any project car that can handle the power.

The GM Performance Parts team is so excited about the crate LS9 that it shot a video of the blown small block being hand-assembled. The clip shows some of the more significant parts of the LS9's production process, as well as some of the testing performed to ensure your crate engine is up to snuff. The guys building LS9s are lightning fast at their craft, too, and we're sure most gearheads would love to have some of the equipment they use during the build process. Hit the jump to see the moving pictures for yourself, and start dreaming about your own fire-breathing LS9 project car.

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Hyundai releases tech specs on 2010 Genesis Coupe

Hyundai's headline figure for the 2.0-liter turbo-equipped Genesis coupe is 30 mpg. While we can't fault Hyundai for trying to hype the two-door's fuel efficiency, for us, there are more important numbers to look at. Primarily power and weight.

The 310 hp, 3.8-liter V6 model equipped with either a six-speed manual or auto 'box tips the scales at 3,402 pounds, and will be available in Grand Touring and Track models. The GT variant includes a power-adjustable driver's seat, heated front thrones, navigation system, 360-watt stereo with 10 speakers, Smart Key, push-button start, Xenon HIDs, HomeLink with compass, heated mirrors, a back-up warning system and sunroof. The Track model ditches the rear-end nanny and chrome accents on the front fascia, and instead gets black leather seats, 19-inch wheels wrapped in Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tires (225/40 front, 245/40 rear), 13.4-inch front brakes squeezed by four-piston Brembo calipers and 13.0-inch rear discs clamped by four-piston units. A torsen-type LSD, 22mm rear sway bar, 25mm front sway bar and strut tower brace accompany higher-rate coil springs and shocks to round out the package.

The turbocharged 2.0-liter Genesis Coupe comes in at 3,303 pounds, and is putting out 220 hp on premium fuel, with peak torque (223 lb.-ft.) arriving at 2,000 rpm. Transmission choices depend on which model you choose (six-speed manual or five-speed automatic), and range from the entry-level 2.0T variant to the 2.0T Premium, with the six-speed manual the only option cog-swapping on the 2.0T Track and 2.0T R-Spec.

The standard coupe gets 18-inch wheels hiding 12.6-inch (front) and 12.4-inch (rear) brakes, with single-piston floating calipers. The MacPherson front and five-link rear suspension is complimented by a strut brace, 24mm front and 19mm rear sway bars. The steering rack is 2.7 turns lock-to-lock, and all models come equipped with keyless entry, one-touch up-and-down windows, six-speaker audio with USB/iPod/Aux jack, steering wheel controls, cruise, projector beam lights and Bluetooth integration. The Premium model benefits from a 360-watt stereo and 10-speakers, along with the Smart Key system, push-button start, Homelink, navigation and sunroof.

More importantly, the track model gets 19-inch wheels wrapped in the same rubber as the V6 model, HID headlamps, LSD, 25mm (front) and 22 mm (rear) sway bars, 13.4-inch (front) and 13.0-inch (rear) Brembos, along with stiffer springs and shocks. The R-Spec model gets all the good bits from the Track variant, but doesn't include all the heavy niceties inside.

PRESS RELEASE

HYUNDAI RELEASES ADDITIONAL ENGINEERING AND FEATURE INFORMATION FOR THE ALL-NEW 2010 HYUNDAI GENESIS COUPE

Genesis Coupe Delivers an Estimated 30 MPG

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., Oct. 30, 2008 – Hyundai released additional engineering and feature information for the all-new 2010 Genesis Coupe today. The Genesis Coupe, and its rear-wheel drive platform-mate the Genesis sedan will make their Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show debuts next week.

"One of the program targets for the Genesis engineering team was world-class weight efficiency," said John Krafcik, vice president, Product Development and Strategic Planning, Hyundai Motor America. "When you look at the size and content of both Genesis models, you'll find we lead all our competitors in weight efficiency. We also target leadership in power-to-weight ratio. We think that's just smart strategy in today's world. It pays huge dividends in both performance and fuel economy, and that's especially important in the segments in which these cars compete."

Vehicle Engine Curb Weight (pounds) Length (inches)
Genesis sedan 3.8-liter V6 3748 195.9
Genesis sedan 4.6-liter V8 4012 195.9
Genesis Coupe 2.0-liter turbo 3303 182.3
Genesis Coupe 3.8-liter V6 3402 182.3

Both Genesis Coupe and sedan are rich in ultra-high-strength steel, leading to world-class body rigidity. The Genesis sedan is 10-12 percent stiffer in torsion than Lexus and Mercedes-Benz competitors, yet it is lighter than these benchmark sedans, and offers more interior room. At just 3,303 pounds, the Genesis Coupe 2.0T is hundreds of pounds lighter than all of its IRS-equipped rear-wheel-drive competitors, with body-bending rigidity 24 percent higher than BMW E46 M3.

Vehicle Length Curb Weight (lbs.) Horsepower Power-to-weight ratio
Genesis Coupe 3.8 182.3 3402 310 (est.) 11.0
BMW 335i 181.1 3571 300 11.9
Infiniti G37 183.1 3616 330 11.0
Camaro LS 190.4 3780 300 (est.) 12.6
Challenger 197.7 3819 250 15.3

This focus on weight efficiency pays dividends across the board. The Genesis sedan owes its ability to deliver both strong performance (0-60 mph in just 5.7 seconds) and excellent fuel economy (25 mpg EPA highway rating) in great part due to its impressive weight efficiency. Similarly, the Genesis Coupe 2.0T sets a new benchmark for front-engine, rear-wheel-drive gasoline fuel efficiency with a remarkable 30 mpg estimated EPA highway rating, because of its weight-efficient platform and its efficient 2.0-liter, low-pressure, turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

"While some turbochargers sacrifice smooth drivability with high operating boost pressures in the 20 psi range, Genesis Coupe uses a refined, low-boost calibration for smoothness and efficiency," said Derek Joyce, Genesis Coupe product manager. "We could have opted solely for big performance numbers, but our focus for the 2.0T was a more balanced package."

GENESIS COUPE PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS
With the start of U.S. market production now just a few months away, Hyundai Motor America is releasing model configuration and color choices for the 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe.
"Genesis sedan has set a new benchmark for the $35,000-$40,000 premium sedan, and we think Genesis Coupe will do the same in the sport coupe segment," Krafcik said. "From our 30-mpg 2.0T with its low-pressure intercooled 4-cylinder turbo, to the 3.8 Track model with an estimated 310-hp and Brembo braking system, Genesis Coupe offers a wide range of powertrain and performance choices for driving enthusiasts of all stripes."

There are seven basic Genesis Coupe configurations:
• 2.0T
• 2.0T Premium
• 2.0T Track (6-speed manual transmission only)
• 2.0T R-Spec (late availability, 6-speed manual transmission only)
• 3.8
• 3.8 Grand Touring
• 3.8 Track

GENESIS COUPE 2.0T: A MORE EFFICIENT TAKE ON THE REAR-WHEEL DRIVE SPORT COUPE
Standard equipment includes:

• 2.0-liter, low-pressure, turbocharged, intercooled 4-cylinder engine with dual continuously variable valve timing delivering an estimated 210-hp (regular), estimated 220 hp (premium), an estimated 223 ft-lbs of torque (at just 2,000 rpm), an estimated 30 mpg EPA highway rating and an estimated top speed of 137 mph
• M6VR1 6-speed manual transmission (Optional: A5SR1 5-speed electronic automatic transmission with lockup torque converter and steering wheel-mounted paddle-shift Shiftronic controls)
• 18-inch Euroflange alloy wheels with staggered Bridgestone Potenza RE92A tires (P225/45VR18 front, P245/45VR18 rear)
• Electronic Stability Control with ABS, Electronic Brake-Force Distribution and Brake Assist
• 12.6-inch ventilated front rotors with 60mm single piston floating caliper
• 12.4-inch solid rear rotors with 43mm single piston floating caliper
• Sport-tuned MacPherson strut dual-link front suspension and five-link rear independent suspension, 24mm front stabilizer bar, 19mm rear stabilizer bar
• Strut brace
• Quick-ratio hydraulic steering (2.7 turns lock-to-lock)
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System
• Front, side, side air curtain air bags
• Active front head restraints
• Driver's lumbar support
• Black-out front lower fascia
• Trip computer
• Air conditioning
• Satin silver and chrome interior accents
• Keyless entry system
• Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob
• Power windows (one-touch up and down), door locks and mirrors
• AM/FM/XM/CD audio system with six speakers
• USB/iPod/Aux jack connectivity
• Steering wheel audio controls
• Cruise control
• Projector beam headlamps with auto light control
• Integrated Bluetooth including steering wheel controls
• Temporary spare with steel wheel (T135/90D17)

The 2.0T Premium model adds or substitutes:
• Power driver seat
• 360-watt AM/FM/XM/CD-changer Infinity premium audio system with 10 speakers including DVC subwoofer, eight-channel external amplifier, and diversity antenna
• Smart Key with push-button start
• Electrochromic mirror with HomeLink and compass
• Sunroof
• Navigation system (mid-year availability)


The factory-tuned 2.0T Track model builds from the 2.0T Premium, adding/substituting:
• 19-inch Euroflange gunmetal finish alloy wheels with staggered high-performance summer-compound Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tires (P225/40YR19 front, P245/40YR19 rear)
• Unique Brembo braking system with 13.4-inch ventilated front rotors, 42mm four-piston fixed front calipers (red), 13.0-inch ventilated rear rotors, 32mm+28mm four-piston fixed rear calipers (red)
• Unique track-tuned suspension, higher-rate coil springs, higher-control shock absorbers, 25mm front stabilizer bar, 22mm rear stabilizer bar, strut brace
• Torsen-type limited-slip differential
• Black leather bolster seats with high-friction red cloth insert
• Aluminum pedals
• Aero windshield wipers
• Rear spoiler
• Xenon HID headlamps
• Fog lamps
• Lightweight temporary spare with aluminum wheel (T135/80D18)
• Navigation system (mid-year availability)
• Note: Automatic transmission not available with 2.0T Track

Later in the model year, a tuner-focused performance model, R-Spec, will arrive at Hyundai dealerships. Genesis Coupe R-Spec is meant to be the ultimate upgradeable, affordable, turbocharged rear-wheel drive performance platform. R-Spec equipment includes:
• 2.0-liter low-pressure turbocharged intercooled four-cylinder engine with dual continuously variable valve timing delivering an estimated 210-hp (regular), estimated 220-hp (premium), an estimated 30 mpg EPA highway rating and an estimated top speed of 137 mph
• 6-speed manual transmission
• Electronic Stability Control with ABS, Electronic Brake-Force Distribution and Brake Assist
• 19-inch Euroflange gunmetal finish alloy wheels with staggered high-performance summer-compound Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tires (P225/40YR19 front, P245/40YR19 rear)
• Brembo braking system with 13.4-inch ventilated front rotors, 42mm four-piston fixed front calipers (red), 13.0-inch ventilated rear rotors, 32mm+28mm four-piston fixed rear calipers (red)
• Track model suspension tuning (higher-rate coil springs, higher-control shock absorbers, 25mm front stabilizer bar, 22mm rear stabilizer bar, strut brace)
• Torsen-type limited-slip differential
• Quick-ratio hydraulic steering (2.7 turns lock-to-lock)
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System
• Front, side, side air curtain air bags
• Active front head restraints
• Driver's lumbar support
• Air conditioning
• Keyless entry system
• Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob
• Power windows (one-touch up and down), door locks and mirrors
• AM/FM/XM/CD audio system with six speakers
• USB/iPod/Aux jack connectivity
• Projector beam headlamps
• Lightweight temporary spare with aluminum wheel (T135/80D18)
• Note: Automatic transmission not available with R-Spec

GENESIS 3.8: 310 HORSEPOWER AND STANDARD LEATHER INTERIOR – A NEW BENCHMARK FOR PERFORMANCE AND REFINEMENT IN ITS CLASS

Standard equipment includes 2.0T equipment, and adds or substitutes:
• 3.8L DOHC V6 engine with dual continuously variable valve timing delivering an estimated 306-hp (regular), 310-hp (premium), and a top speed of 149 mph
• M6VR2 6-speed manual transmission (Optional: ZF 6HP19 6-speed electronic automatic with lockup torque converter and steering wheel-mounted paddle-shift Shiftronic controls)
• Black leather seats
• Fully automatic temperature control
• Premium door sill plates
• Chrome front fascia accents

In addition to 3.8 equipment, the 3.8 Grand Touring adds or substitutes:
• Unique brown leather seat interior environment
• Power driver seat
• Heated driver and passenger seat
• 360-watt AM/FM/XM/CD-changer Infinity premium audio system with 10 speakers including DVC subwoofer, eight-channel external amplifier, and diversity antenna
• Smart Key with push-button start
• Xenon HID headlamps
• Electrochromic mirror with HomeLink and compass
• Heated mirrors with outside turn signal indicators
• Backup warning system
• Sunroof
• Navigation system (mid-year availability)

The factory-tuned 3.8 Track model deletes backup warning system and chrome front fascia accents from the Grand Touring model, and adds or substitutes:
• Black leather seats
• 19-inch Euroflange gunmetal finish alloy wheels with staggered high-performance summer-compound Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tires (P225/40YR19 front, P245/40YR19 rear)
• Unique Brembo braking system with 13.4-inch ventilated front rotors, 42mm four-piston fixed front calipers (red), 13.0-inch ventilated rear rotors, 32mm+28mm four-piston fixed rear calipers (red)
• Unique track-tuned suspension, higher-rate coil springs, higher-control shock absorbers, 25mm front stabilizer bar, 22mm rear stabilizer bar, strut brace
• Torsen-type limited-slip differential
• Aluminum pedals
• Aero windshield wipers
• Rear spoiler
• Black-out front lower fascia
• Xenon HID headlamps
• Fog lamps
• Lightweight temporary spare with aluminum wheel (T135/80D18)

Genesis Coupe will be available in nine exterior colors:
• Karussell White
• Bathurst Black
• Silverstone
• Nordschleife Gray
• Acqua Minerale Blue
• Tsukuba Red
• Mirabeau Blue
• Lime Rock Green
• Interlagos Yellow

Genesis Coupe features four different interior themes:
• Black environment, premium black cloth seats (2.0T, 2.0T Premium, R-Spec)
• Black environment, black leather-bolstered seats with high-friction red cloth insert (2.0T Track)
• Black environment, black leather seats (3.8, 3.8 Track)
• Black environment, saddle brown leather seats (3.8 Grand Touring)

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LSE Range Rover Sport Coupe to debut at SEMA

For all those who thought the BMW X6 SUV/Coupe was brilliant, here’s the next step. With the help of some customization from LSE Design, an U.K. based tuner, the Range Rover Sport was transformed from a 4-door SUV into a coupe. The 2009 LSE Range Rover Sport Coupe will be built in a limited edition of just 200 units, each priced at $250,000. According to the manufacturer only 50 units will be produced for the U.S. so you’d better start saving some money.

Although the car is cool, this isn’t exactly an original idea considering the Range Rover Sport is based on the Range Stormer concept and Land Rover is possibly putting the LRX into production.

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Nissan 370Z in Need for Speed: Undercover

We can't remember the last time, if ever, a video game made us really want to check out a car, but we have to see the new Nissan 370Z now. In the Need for Speed: Undercover teaser video it looked neat, but in the official shots a few days later the car looked like it was suffering from bloating and cramps. For some reason, however, the Z in motion -- and with, of course, perfect lighting -- does it for us. The perhaps overly teased front and rear lights make a certain sense now, but the truncated rear end still gives us pause. We're not yet settled on how we feel about it, but we can't wait to see it in person. Check it out video of the 370Z in Need for Speed: Undercover for yourself after the jump, and stay tuned for live coverage from the LA Auto Show.

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Mercedes-Benz GLKs go from mild to WTF

Mercedes-Benz' presence at SEMA has traditionally included a smattering of pimptastic E- and S-Classes lining the booths of the Big Balla tuners, and this year, we can expect more of the same. But to get the word out about the new GLK, Mercedes enlisted the help of four firms to accentuate the lil' 'ute's character and clientele.

Heading the line-up is the unfortunately named Urban Whip (above), the handy work of Florida-based Boulevard Customs, who removed the roof, fitted a custom wide-body kit, 26-inch wheels and wrapped up the package with a redesigned interior and booming sound system. We're impressed with the execution, but the proportions are far from becoming.

Just as odd, if slightly less ridiculous, is the Four Corners Rock Crawler created by Legendary Motor Cars. The GLK gets a handful of off-road upgrades to make treks to the beach a breeze, but the party-piece is a winch that can bring skateboarders up to speed, allowing them to grind down the integrated side rails.

Any assembly of M-Bs wouldn't be complete without a Brabus-massaged model, so the Widestar was born. Based off a GLK equipped with a reworked 320 BlueTEC V6 turbodiesel, the Widestar's extra grunt is complimented by new front and rear arch flares, redesigned bumpers, Brabus wheels and a custom interior.

Finally, there's the RENNTech Rally Racer, inspired by the unlimited-class rally cars that attack Pikes Peak during the annual Hillclimb. Aside from the Cessna-sized wing and aggressive body kit, the only thing we know about the RENNTech is that it features a hybrid powertrain that supposed to make quick work of the corners.

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Halloween Cars

Collection of Halloween cars from around the world. Some are scary than others but good effort everybody! Happy Halloween!

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Bugatti plans Sang Noir version of the Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport

Bugatti is going from ultra-exclusive to uber-exclusive with the Veyron Grand Sport. The company has promised to make only 150 examples of the open top Veyron, and yet it feels the need to make a speciality version. According to Car the Veryon 16.4 Grand Sport will have a Sang Noir edition limited to only 15 units (like the coupe version) and will be launched after the "normal" 987bhp Grand Sport becomes available to customers in April.

It’s likely that the Grand Sport version will carry similar traits to the coupe. This means a redesigned front grille, a black background for the headlights, side mirrors featuring same color as the front grille, deep black exterior paint and custom alloy wheels in black.

© Source: topspeed
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McLaren F1 sold for £2.5 million

RM Auctions sold a 1997 McLaren F1 for £2.530.000 (about $4.12 million at current rates). Although this does not come close to the all time record set by a Ferrari GTO for $28.5 million, it does set a new record for McLaren F1 prices and is about four times the origional sales price a little over a decade ago.

The McLaren F1 is powered by a BMW sourced 6.1-liter V12 engine that delivers 627 hp at 7,400 rpm. In March 1998, the F1 hit a record speed of 240.14 mph. It held this record until February 2005 when it was broken by a Koenigsegg CCR going 242.2 mph.

The F1 wasn’t the only high dollar car of the day. The auctions sold a 1965 Ferrari 250 LM Berlinetta and a 1959 Ferrari 250 GT Tour de France each for a price of £2,255,000. A 1938 Horch 853 Special Roadster was sold for £1,127,500 and a 1938 Bugatti Type 57C Atalante for £660,000.

© Source: topspeed
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Infiniti G37 S

Meet Infiniti’s answer to the BMW 3-Series. Nissan’s luxury brand launches next spring, and the G37 is being billed as an alternative saloon for buyers wanting something distinctive on their drive.

All models in the Infiniti range use a 3.7-litre V6 engine with a choice of six-speed manual or seven-speed auto gearboxes, as well as four-wheel drive and four-wheel steering. Standard equipment is generous, too, with only top-end goodies such as intelligent cruise control, brake assist and a Bose stereo system as options.

Infiniti has been firmly established in the US since 1989, and with its wide grille, odd-shaped lights and jutting rear bumper, the G37’s American influence is clear to see. Inside, the cabin is well built, but the dash and steering wheel plastics feel cheap and can’t match the standards of rivals. Another niggle is with the boot. There’s plenty of space inside, but there’s no external release on the bootlid – you have to push a button on the dash even if the whole car is unlocked.

Fiddly technology aside, the G37 delivers some old-school fun. With its 316bhp petrol V6, it is certainly big on power. Blip the throttle and the twin oval tailpipes emit a growl which is more to the tune of a V8 than a six. On smooth roads, the G37 is a superb cruiser, and overtaking is instant, thanks to the 360Nm of torque on offer.

Meaty steering, wide tyres and the four-wheel-steer system on our test car made for a grippy and engaging drive. However, the suspension is too firm for anything other than motorways, and the ride is harsh, considering this is supposed to be a luxury car. It might be generously specced, but the Infiniti can’t match the likes of BMW in terms of ride, economy or practicality.

© Source: autoexpress
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BMW 6 Series Prototype Spied

BMW’s next-generation 6 Series coupe and convertible, expected to be introduced in 2011, have been spied in early testing. Though heavily camouflaged, the convertible in our photos looks to be longer and lower than the current car, with considerably tighter overhangs front and rear. It’s hard to see the exact lines of course, but the new 6 Series has a smoother, more streamlined look.

The vehicle spotted testing in Germany has a cloth soft top, but closer examination suggests that this may also be part of the camouflage. The wrapped decklid gives the impression that this is a convertible, so the next 6’er just might sport a retractable hardtop, to compete with Mercedes’ SL.

© Source: worldcarfans
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2009 LSE Coupe

At first glance, the 2009 LSE Coupe partly resembles a Range Rover Sport, but if you take a closer look, you’ll notice that instead of four doors, there’s only two—that’s exactly what LSE Design UK CEO Andrew Green wanted you to think. “We designed the car to look like it just rolled out of the manufacturer’s factory; not as if a tuning firm got their hands on it,” he describes. “We wanted it to look natural, so that when people look at it, they wouldn’t be able to see the differences compared to a regular Range Rover Sport.”


For the past 18 months, LSE Design UK designers have been hard at work creating the LSE Coupe to officially unveil at this year’s SEMA Show. Green also raced the Coupe in this past summer’s 10th Anniversary of the Gumball 3000 Rally. Though official specs haven’t been released yet, Green did mention that all the body panels on the LSE Coupe have been redesigned, creating a subtle, but unique look from its original platform. LED lights surrounding the exterior give it a dramatic look, while its panoramic sunroof, 2+2 seating and light performance upgrades definitely sets it apart.

Starting at a base price of $250,000, LSE Coupe owners can fully customize their ride with additional upgrades that allow you to personalize it to your specifications. Under the hood, the standard engine revs out about 500 horsepower, but those who want an extra boost can opt for numerous performance upgrades, such as an ECU enhancement. LSE Design UK is also currently working on building different engine options and a twin-turbo variant.

Additional amenity extras include: shades from a never-ending palate of choices offered from House of Kolor paints; aluminum and metal interior accessories (LSE is working with manufacturers who also do the interior for Bentley, Bugatti and Rolls-Royce); diamond-studded accessories like the speedometer with an individual jewel for each 10 mph increment on the dial; leather, Alacantra and suede interior; tunable exhaust system; performance brake upgrades and so much more. Basically, you pick out what you want your LSE to have, and they’ll ship it to you just the way you want it!

While they are in a partnership with Land Rover, LSE worked out a deal that would allow them to sell the coachbuilt SUV through selected Land Rover dealerships across the country and even provide service under an LSE warranty. While specs are still being announced, Green did mention that LSE will hopefully be coming out with electric variants of the LSE Coupe in the future, as well as a long wheel base Range Rover and maybe even their own coachbuilt SUT.

© Source: dubmag
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2009 Hyundai Grandeur

The 2009 model Grandeur, still based on the Sonata platform, has received minor revisions to the styling and trim both inside and out but the really significant changes are a below $40,000 base price for the V6 petrol engine car and the introduction of a new 2.2-litre CRDi turbo-diesel, first seen in the Hyundai Santa Fe SUV.

Hyundai is certainly hoping the price drop will help it shift the Grandeur at a better rate than has been the case to date. Having opened sales in 2006 with 541 leaving dealers, by last year this figure was back to 267 and up to September this year just 90 Grandeurs had been sold.

The problem is that any large car is a hard prospect to shift in the current economic climate, and that’s even harder when you are a company that has made a name by selling small cars cheaply. Hyundai hopes the reposition of its price and simplifying the model to just one specification with a choice of engines will make it more appealing to buyers.

In addition to the 3.8-litre V6 petrol engine, which has been the standard fare in the Grandeur to date, the 2009 model will be offered with a 2.2-litre CRDi turbo-diesel engine. The diesel engine develops 114kW of power at 4000rpm and 343Nm of torque between 1800rpm and 2500rpm.

Both engines use a five-speed automatic gearbox with Selectronic manual shifting and claimed fuel consumption for the diesel is a reasonable, for a large car, 7.9 litres per 100km, while the petrol car claims 10.8 litres per 100km. There is no change in the performance specifications of the 3.8-litre V6 with 194kW of power at 6000rpm and 348Nm of torque at 4500rpm.

The petrol engined car has been reduced in price from $42,990 to $39,990, while the diesel powered Grandeur is priced at $41,990. The only option is metallic/mica paint at $375. Changes to the exterior include a new radiator grille, chrome inserts in the front and rear bumpers, indicators in the door mirrors and new style 17-inch alloy wheels.

© Source: caradvice
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AC Schnitzer BMW X6 Falcon

Idle hands are the devil's playthings, and apparently AC Schnitzer has a lot of time on its hands. You're only required to read the first two lines of the company's press release to realize that the crew formerly known for creating rolling automotive masterworkz have officially donned their collective bouffants, made like the Fonz and jumped the shark. Here's proof: The BMW X6 Falcon.

Using the X5 Falcon as unfortunate inspiration, the X6 variant gets the same stretched out body work, giving the 'ute a 70mm wider track in the front and an additional 80mm in the rear. According to AC, extensive testing was done on the Nurburgring to hone the Falcon's high-speed prowess, aided by a new front lip, air intakes, repositioned fog lamps, side skirts and rear wing. Black or silver 22-inch Type VII wheels fill the massive arches and although it's not clear in the release, we suspect that some lowering springs were used to keep the ride-height in check.

As for power, the only models to benefit from engine tweaks are the X6 3.0d and 3.5d, boosting power to 272 hp (from 235 hp) and 310 hp (from 286 hp), respectively. And naturally, AC will sell you a set of chrome tailpipes, aluminum interior trim, pedals and floor mats emblazoned with its logo.

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Techart GTstreet R

Techart has worked its magic, yet again, on the 997 Porsche 911 Turbo, boosting output of the twin-turbo'd flat-six to 660 hp and 634 lb.-ft. of torque. The Techart GTstreet R benefits from a duo of new turbos, larger carbon fiber inlet pipes, revised intercoolers and a new cat-back exhaust mated to the revised manifold which all help to drop the 997's 0-60 time to 3.4 seconds when equipped with an auto 'box and 3.5 seconds with a manual. Top speed is a claimed 214 mph.

Keeping the Techart-modified 911 planted at speed is a new coil-over kit and 20-inch wheels that work in conjunction with a wind-tunnel-tested body kit and carbon fiber spoiler to add another 22 pounds of down force. If those specs aren't enough to make it stand out, Techart also offers a new hood, carbon fiber headlights, side sills and air ducting for the rear bumper.

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McLaren planning three new models, including one $96k sports car

McLaren has several fingers in a handful of pies, and with its tenure with Mercedes-Benz coming to an end, it has more time to focus on expanding its range to compete with the big boys from Ferrari, Lamborghini and Porsche.

According to CAR, three new models are being developed, spanning the range from a modern-day F1 to a $96,000 (£60,000) "entry-level" halo sports car that takes aim at the Porsche 911. The new coupe will utilize McLaren's extensive fabrication and materials experience, but at a sub-$100k price point, don't expect construction methods akin to its greatest hits. Power could be provided by a M-B mill, but McLaren isn't ruling out the development of its own engine.

Filling the rest of the range will be the P11 supercar, reportedly using a 600-hp, AMG-sourced 6.2-liter V8, and a yet-to-be-named vehicle that will slot in below its range-topper and 911-fighter. The recent appointment of Frank Stephenson – the man who brought us the MINI and Fiat 500 – as design director, partnered with McLaren's legendary chassis development means good things are on the way. Here's hoping some of it finds its way to U.S. shores.

[Source: CAR]

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Audi's new up!-based city car

The up! is primed to be VW's long-awaited encore to the "People's Car," providing consumers abroad with an extremely efficient run-about that can get up to 95 European MPGs. The up! sounds like a vehicle VW should have been building all along, but does it sound like an Audi? The scribes over at Auto Express think so, and their rendering of an Audi up! looks the part. The image is a lightly reworked version of the stylish little up! concept, with body panels and roof lines looking very much like the V-Dub city car from that was first unveiled at Frankfurt.

The headlights are more vertical on the Audi and the open mouth look on the up!'s lower fascia is truncated by Audi's trademark split grille. The C-pillar is more triangular than the up! and the taillamps look like they were ripped from an A4 and stretched vertically.

Auto Express is reporting that an Audi version of the up! will be available in 2012. If that's true, it's unlikely we'll see the micro-Audi in the States in '12 anyway. We colonials aren't usually up (rimshot) for spending a big premium for a really small car that isn't named MINI.

[Source: Auto Express]

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2009 Honda Element debuts, priced from $20,175

Honda has taken the wraps off its redesigned 2009 Element after a number of leaked shots revealed the CUV's new skin. Priced from $20,175 for a 2WD LX model to $25,185 for a 4WD EX with Honda's Satellite-linked navigation, the new Element arrives looking much more grown up than its quirky predecessor. Retaining the same lunch box shape as before, the '09 Element gets a new front end with its own version of Honda's new corporate grille that debuted on its bigger brother, the Pilot SUV. Whereas the first Element used matte black plastic fenders to get across its off-the-beaten-path personality, the new one is dressed in color keyed sheetmetal on all four sides. The rear end has also been tweaked with a redesigned lift gate and taillights.

The Element's interior includes new color combos, titanium-look accents, new fabrics and revised switchgear, as well as a new convertible center console with a removable cooler. There's also a new three-compartment overhead console available. Buyers can choose from three models: the base LX, up-level EX and sportier SC. All three are powered by Honda's 2.4L inline-four engine with i-VTEC that produces 166 horsepower and 161 lb-ft of torque. Fuel economy ranges from 18 city/23 highway for the SC and 20/25 for the LX and EX.

The new Element is certainly an improvement over the outgoing model, at least in the looks category, but functionally speaking it offers the same experience as the one before. Which isn't necessarily a bad thing considering the Element offers unique capabilities in a small, efficient package.

[Source: Honda]

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Lexus reveals four tuned IS Fs, IS 350 and LX570

Lexus decided that its presence at SEMA should revolve around its most tuner-friendly models, specifically its range of IS sedans. So in addition to the Five Axis IS F that's been making the rounds since late last year, Lexus has tapped some notable names in tuning, along with a few magazines, to create a handful of bespoke vehicles to populate its booth. But the IS 350 and four tweaked IS Fs won't stand alone. They'll be joined by another Five Axis creation built around the GS 460, along with an LX 570 SUV created by the crew at Icon 4x4 Design.

Click here for our take on each model, along with official details on each IS F, the Lexus' F-sport-tuned IS 350 and the big 'ute.



IS 350 with F-Sport Accessories

Lexus Description: The IS 250/350 is Lexus' entry point into the luxury sport sedan arena. It's a tuner-friendly and robust platform that responds extremely well to performance upgrades. This car is fully loaded with all the offerings from the F-Sport performance accessory catalog. It also sports a new concept ground-effects body kit designed to complement the increased performance and aggressive stance provided by the F-Sport components.

Autoblog's Take: As much as Lexus wants to make the IS 350 a serious sports sedan, it's always been hampered by a cushy ride, fade-prone brakes and at-the-limit understeer. Thankfully, Lexus' line of F-Sport accessories has the potential to cure many of those ills. We're particularly interested in how the Bilsteins, springs and beefier sway bars shore up the chassis, all of which -- along with the Advans -- should cure the IS 350's terminal plowing. While we're big fans of in-house-developed performance parts, particularly since they can be rolled into the monthly payments, we're curious how much all this kit would add to the MSRP... and how close the sticker would be to an IS F.

Exterior

• Four-piece ground-effects body kit and grille by Five Axis
• Lexus Genuine Accessory rear spoiler
• PPG Vibrance Orange Glow 3-stage paint with satin accents

Interior

• Custom leather interior appointments by Five Axis and Turinmodel, Inc.
• F-Sport floor mats

Engine

• F-Sport Performance Air Intake
• F-Sport Carbon Fiber Engine Cover

Exhaust

• F-Sport Performance Exhaust

Suspension

• F-Sport Bilstein Shocks
• F-Sport Lowering Spring Set
• F-Sport Sway Bar Set
• F-Sport Under Chassis Brace

Wheels

• F-Sport 19" Forged Aluminum Wheels - Front: 19"x8" - Rear: 19"x9"

Tires

• Yokohama Advan Sport Ultra-high Performance Tires - Front: 225/35-ZR19 88Y - Rear: 255/35-ZR19 96Y

Brakes

• F-Sport Performance Brake Upgrade Kit (Fr) 355mm x 32mm Rotor Six-piston opposed, 2 piece fixed, bolt-in-bridge caliper
• F-Sport Performance Brake Upgrade Kit (Rr) 345mm x 28mm Rotor Four-piston opposed, fixed, bolt-in-bridge caliper

IS F by Fox Marketing/Artisan Performance

Lexus Description: Fox Marketing and Artisan Performance teamed to create this subtle yet aggressive makeover of the already aggressive IS F. The subtle part involves the numerous bodywork changes, which enhance rather than rethink the lines of the IS F, making it look even more muscular in the process. 'Aggressive' can be applied to the engine which gets the full twin-turbo treatment. Fox expects the changes will yield something north of 600 horsepower.

Autoblog's Take: We've already gotten the details and a few pics of the Fox Marketing/Artisan Performance IS F, and we're suitably impressed with the custom body kit, burnt-orange hue, blacked-out roof and iForged wheels. Add a bespoke twin-turbo setup, JE pistons and Crower rods good for an estimated 600+ horsepower and we're willing to overlook the custom Callaway golf club set in the trunk. But what we can't overlook is the lack of braking upgrades and the simple set of Eibach lowering springs. Balance is key, and that's the only thing the Fox/Artisan IS F is lacking.

Exterior

• BASF Glasurit Sunset Orange Pearl paint
• Webasto Hollandia 9001 sunroof
• BodyKits.com Licensed Fox Marketing front bumper
• BodyKits.com Licensed Fox Marketing side skirts
• BodyKits.com Licensed Fox Marketing rear valance
• Custom fender flares
• Lightwurkz BASF Black painted HID headlights
• Lightwurkz BASF Black tinted taillights
• Impressive Signs graphics
• Meguiar's Car Care Products
• Paint & body by Powell Customs

Interior

• Black leather seats with blue stitching
• Callaway golf clubs in the trunk

Engine

• Artisan Twin-Turbo kit
• Artisan air intake with AMSOIL filter
• Artisan front mount intercooler
• Brian Crower connecting rods
• JE Pistons
• Mishimoto radiator
• AMSOIL 0w-30 synthetic engine oil
• AMSOIL transmission fluid
• Tuned by Kenny Strickler of TurboChargers.com

Exhaust

• Artisan cat-back exhaust

Suspension

• Eibach Pro Kit

Wheels

• Front: 20x9.5 iForged FS Imola
• Rear: 20x11.5 iForged FS Imola

Tires

• Front: 255/35-20 Toyo T1R
• Rear: 305/30-20 Toyo T1R

IS F by Import Tuner Magazine/TEIN

Lexus Description: Import Tuner Magazine and TEIN suspension company put their collective heads and expertise together to create an IS F that's focused on track performance, while still remaining practical for the street. Weight reduction, added chassis stiffness, special suspension and big sticky tires take care of the corners, while a comprehensive nitrous system boosts the engine for bursts of overtaking power. Coming soon to a track near you.

Autoblog's Take: What would an Import Tuner vehicle be without a healthy shot of NOS and a TEIN figurine? Certainly not up to the mag's idee fixe of bikini-clad babes and bright-colored body kits. Thankfully, TEIN was around to stop the madness with a set of coilovers equipped with its EDFC electronic damping system. The Tom's front and rear suspension braces should do wonders for chassis flex, along with the rear strengthening brace, and we can't deny any vehicle that's sporting stitch-welded body seams, adjustable front control arms and biggie-sized Brembo GTs. We give it five points for a complete package, but deduct two points for excessive vinyl usage.

Exterior

• Five Axis dry carbon front lip
• Black chrome dipped emblems and front grill
• Smoked headlights
• S&A Design vinyl

Interior

• Bride racing seats (Brix II for driver, Xax II for passenger)
• Custom tinted interior trim
• TEIN Dampachi mascot

Engine

• NOS 12.8 lbs composite bottle
• Nitrous bottle opener
• Single fogger wet nitrous system
• Quick release bottle bracket
• Ntimidator dual LED purge kit
• Nitrous bottle heater
• P.O.D. system
• Nitrous pressure gauges
• K&N intake
• Tom's Linear Throttle Controller

Exhaust

• Fujitsubo custom full titanium dual exhaust

Suspension/Chassis

• TEIN re-valved Comfort Sport monotube coilovers with Electronic Damping Force Control (EDFC)
• SPD Metal Works adjustable fr. upper cont. arms
• M1 Fabrication stitch-welded body seams (strategic locations)
• Tom's upper performance rod
• Tom's front and rear suspension member braces
• Tom's rear body strengthening brace

Wheels

• Volk RE30s - Front: 19x9"; +38 offset - Rear: 19x10"; +38 offset

Tires

• Yokohama Advan Sports - Front: 255/35-19 - Rear: 275/35-19

Brakes

• Brembo GT Big Brake kit - Front: 6-piston calipers and two-piece rotors - Rear: two-piece rotors
• Baker custom rear stainless steel brake lines

IS F by 0-60 Magazine

Lexus Description: With track performance a common theme among IS F builders, 0-60 Magazine ups the ante on their IS F project with a supercharger to tease out another load of horses from the big V8. Carbon fiber body components reduce weight while lowering the center of gravity and a custom roll cage adds stiffness and protection. A beefy brake upgrade kit was added to balance the performance equation.

Autoblog's Take: We know first-hand that the 0-60 crew knows how to drive (we rode with Spinelli in a GT-R), so it's no surprise that the buff book's IS F blends the right amount of power with the proper dose of stick. Although they haven't provided us with output figures for the GReddy-supercharged bent-eight, our educated guesstimation puts it somewhere in the neighborhood of 550 hp. That extra grunt and the carbon fiber body panels should do a lot to cure the IS F's biggest issue: weight. And with a custom roll cage, TEIN suspension, upgraded brakes and a set of Yokohama Advan RZ wheels wrapped in Hankook Ventus EVO V12 rubber, this is the first IS F we'd actually like to drive. We await a call from Mr. Scotto.

Exterior

• Seibon Carbon Panels: Hood, Fenders, Trunk, Spoiler

Interior

• Design Craft Fabrication custom roll cage
• Sparco Chrono Road Seats wrapped with interior-matching leather

Engine

• Greddy MP92 Supercharger w/ custom aluminum intake manifold
• Greddy Intelligent Informeter Touch
• Greddy Intake and filter
• Braille Carbon Battery

Exhaust

• Custom system using Greddy Spectrum Elite components

Suspension

• Tein Super Street Coilovers w/ EDFC Kit

Wheels

• Yokohama Advan Racing RZ Wheels - Front: 19x9" - Rear: 19x10"

Tires

• Hankook Ventus EVO V12 - Front: 245/35-19 - Rear: 275/30-19

Brakes

• Performance Friction Lexus IS F Z-Rated brake upgrade kits (front and rear) - Forged 4–piston monobloc calipers - Radial mount caliper brackets - 2-piece rotor/hat assemblies (372mm front; 355mm rear)
• Z-rated Carbon Metallic ® multipads specifically for IS-F chassis
• Stainless steel braided brake lines

IS F by MotorworldHype.com

Lexus Description: MotorworldHype has taken another path that is a bit less aggressive, yet more easily accessible for the average consumer. Lots of carbon to reduce some unwanted mass and a well-rounded package of suspension, brake, engine and cosmetic changes provide sharper responses in all directions.

Autoblog's Take: Show before go or a well-rounded package? The MotorworldHype IS F is equipped with all the tried-and-true show-car standards: Volk TE37s, Michelin Pilot Sport 2s, a carbon fiber splitter and diffuser, along with a Brembo GT front brake package. While this IS F might be a good representation of what your standard owner might do to his V8-powered luxo-sedan, we can't help feeling like this one was phoned-in.

Exterior

• Carbon fiber aero package featuring carbon front chin/splitter and rear diffuser
• Weight reduction package featuring carbon fiber replacement trunk lid
• Lexus Starfire White paint
• Gloss black emblems
• Gloss black window sills and roof
• Matte black tips

Interior

• Blue Alcantara seat inserts

Engine

• Custom air intake system

Exhaust

• Borla high performance exhaust system

Suspension

• Tein Full Suspension System w/ EDFC

Wheels

• Rays Engineering Volk Racing TE 37 in matte black - Front: 19x8.5" - Rear: 19x9.5"

Tires

• Michelin Pilot Sport 2 - Front: 235/35-19 - Rear: 265/30-19

Brakes

• Brembo GT Big Brake Kit w/ 6 piston front calipers and floating rotors

LX 570 by ICON 4x4 Design

Lexus Description: ICON specializes in 4x4s that are typically off-road oriented. But they envisioned something different for the plush, yet rugged LX 570. Their approach here is to give the LX a clean and stealthy appearance through clever use of colors and trim, then top with performance improvements to further enhance the appeal of Lexus' premier luxury utility vehicle.

Autoblog's Take: Footballers take notice (both in the U.S. and Europe) -- your wife's ride has arrived. With only a custom intake, a new exhaust and a "performance brake system", the ICON LX 570 puts money where it matters – to its customers. The firm normally know for serious off-roaders has taken the path most-traveled with its SEMAfied 'ute and we're guessing you care about as much as us.

Exterior

• Matte two-tone gray paint
• Black chrome trim and emblems
• Side trim removed, roof rack deleted

Interior

• All wood panels replaced with carbon fiber surface effect coatings
• Window tint

Engine

• Custom intake system

Exhaust

• Stainless steel exhaust system

Wheels

• Custom finish 24" MOZ Calgary wheels

Tires

• Pirelli Scorpion Zero Asimmetrico 285/35R-24

Brakes

• 6-piston front, 4-piston rear performance brake system

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Nissan drops 370Z ahead of LA Debut!

Looking pretty much like what everyone has been expecting for months now, the 2010 Nissan 370Z dropped this morning. The company hasn't released any details, although from the new nomenclature we can surmise that the sports car contains the new 3.7L V6 as used in the Infiniti G37. The new Z goes on sale early in 2009, and we'll see it live at the LA Auto Show in a few weeks.

[Source: Nissan]

ALL-NEW 2009 NISSAN 370Z COUPE READIES FOR DEBUT

Nissan offers the first look at the upcoming 2009 370Z Coupe, which makes its world debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show on November 19th. The all-new 2009 Nissan 370Z, the first full redesign of the iconic Nissan Z since its reintroduction as a 2003 model, solidifies the strengths of its predecessor with an unmatched balance of performance, style and value. The all-new Z will go on sale at Nissan dealers in early 2009.

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2009 Bentley Continental GT Speed

Bentley Continental GT Speed weighs a staggering 2350kg and can travel at an obscenely fast 326km/h (that’s 202mph) the first Bentley production car to hit the crash through the 200mph barrier. Acceleration from 0-100km/h will take you just 4.5 seconds or quicker than BMW’s M5. Not only that, the Speed can match the M5 in the S-bends too.

Although the engine is essentially the same as in the standard Continental GT, its been tuned to deliver more grunt. Step on the drilled alloy accelerator pedal and get ready for a serious g-force assault. Initially – it feels like the Bugatti Veyron boosting up, as the torque driven acceleration for a car of these proportions, seems positively unnatural.

Power is up nine percent to 449kW and torque has jumped by 15 percent to a huge 750Nm. Despite the substantial increase though, the Speed is only marginally quicker than its GT sibling. Either way, life at full throttle in any Bentley Continental GT, is just a blur.

The Speed’s extra wide 20-inch, 26-spoke forged alloys (the GT gets 19-inch wheels) would have to rate as the word’s best looking wheels, and shod with specially made Pirelli 275/30ZR20 P-ZERO rubber, grip levels through tight bends mean that the laws of physics as I know them, have been re-written by the Bentley boys.

However, when you are dealing in the over $420,000 league, standard is never enough, and optional carbon ceramics are all but mandatory, despite the $30,000 price tag. As always, you get what you pay for, try 420mm x 40mm cross-drilled front discs and 356mm on the rear with eight-piston callipers! With over $450,000 worth of car sitting in your driveway its hard not to feel better than the bloke next door with his unwashed diesel powered VW Polo, but at least he owns his!

© Source: caradvice
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Aston Martin DBS Touchtronic

It’s the pinnacle of the Aston Martin line up and the car of choice for James Bond. And now for the first time the stunning DBS can be ordered with the British firm's Touchtronic gearbox.

The transmission of choice on 90 per cent of standard DB9’s the automatic gearbox has been reworked to suit the sporty nature of the DBS. Aston Martin’s engineers contemplated using the automated manual Sportshift unit from the smaller Vantage but decided that despite its more traditional torque converter set up the automatic Touchtronic could offer the right blend of usability and involvement to keep DBS customers happy.

And the end result is very impressive – when driven in conventional auto mode the gearbox makes the DBS easy to live with in traffic and it copes with low speed manoeuvring better than the automated manual in the Vantage. But given the DBS’s power and focused handling, plenty of driver interaction is crucial and thankfully the steering wheel mounted paddles offer excellent control and a lovely throttle blip on the downshift. The upshifts are 15 per cent faster than in the standard DB9 and if you press the Sport button they are 25 per cent quicker. In addition to making up changes faster the Sport button also gives you a sportier throttle response.

Crucially, if you change up a gear at half throttle the changes are smoother than the Vantage’s Sportshift transmission too and with a shorter final drive ratio, despite being 30kg heavier, the Touchtronic DBS matches the manual’s 0-100mph performance.

Not only that, emissions drop from 388g/km to 367g/km, while claimed combined economy rises from 17.2mpg to a still scary 18.2mpg. But then fuel costs are not high on the list of super car owners concerns and even with its £3,000 price premium over the manual it’s no surprise that Aston Martin predict that the Touchtronic will account for 75 per cent of future DBS orders.

© Source: autoexpress
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2010 Porsche BoxsterCayman leakage

The team at Autoweek.nl supposedly snatched a few images of the facelifted Boxster and Cayman from Porsche's configuration page, revealing a slightly revised set of headlamps and air intakes, along with restyled LED taillights inspired by the 2009 911. But what's mounted amidships is far more important.

The 2010 Porsche Boxster and Cayman will go on sale next year, rumored to be powered by a new 2.9-liter engine. The standard models will be putting out approximately 265 hp and 222 lb.-ft. of torque, while the S-equipped line will feature the same engine equipped with direct injection. Output is reported to swell to 320 hp and 274 lb.-ft. of torque, with power being sent to either a six-speed manual or Porsche's new PDK dual-clutch gearbox.

© Source: autoblog
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Hyundai i20

Hitting the big time in small cars has become the holy grail for motor makers desperate to survive our current cash-strapped climate. Hyundai didn’t manage that with its pedestrian Getz. Now it’s hoping that car’s successor, the i20, will be able to take the fight to big guns such as the Ford Fiesta, Vauxhall Corsa and Volkswagen Polo.

The i20 is longer, lower and wider than the Getz, so while its predecessor was instantly forgettable, the newcomer is rather stylish. There’s neat detailing around the front and pronounced lines that run the length of the doors. In terms of looks, the i20 is not unlike a cross between a Mazda 2 and the Corsa.

The five-door that we drove will be in showrooms in January, while the three-door – which is simply shorter, rather than a different shape – comes four months later. Inside, Hyundai has played it safe. The design is functional and clear, and looks stylish without resorting to gimmicks. And as with the exterior, it’s all very well put together with tight, accurate lines around panels.

Boot space is a handy 295 litres, which is bigger than either the Corsa or new Fiesta. And while the rear seats don’t perform the one-touch folding tricks of the Honda Jazz, they do split and fold flat, although the seat backs are slightly higher than the boot floor. Put them back up, and there’s space for a six-footer to sit behind another six-footer. Headroom is generous for rear seat passengers, as is foot space, while legroom is the only constraint.

Where the i20 really scores is with standard kit. Even the entry-level Classic gets air-con, CD player, MP3 socket and electric windows. Owners of the i20 will also get six airbags as standard and active head restraints which move forwards to cushion against whiplash injuries. These are measures Hyundai believes will lead to the car winning five stars in Euro NCAP’s safety tests. The firm estimates the i20 will be priced around £1,000 less than the equivalent Fiesta, so the range should start at about £8,000.

The Korean firm is further appealing to our rediscovered thriftiness with the engines on offer. The range includes the 1.2-litre petrol used in the i10, plus the i30’s 1.4-litre unit. But the headline grabbers will be the 75bhp and 90bhp 1.4-litre diesels that both return 64.2mpg and 116g/km of CO2. The 90bhp oil-burner is a relaxed cruiser, although you have to work it surprisingly hard for any turn of speed. The i20’s new chassis is a big step forward over the lacklustre Getz. It corners with composure, and the electric power-steering is responsive and accurate.

© Source: autoexpress
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2009 Nissan 370Z official images

Following the mass hype surrounding spy shots of the prototype car around the Nürburgring, Nissan has released the first official images of its highly anticipated 370Z Coupe. These official images confirm what many suspected regarding the design of the new coupe, including the Maxima-inspired headlamps and tail lights.

However Nissan has now also indirectly confirmed that the new Z car will use the 3.7-litre VQ37VHR V6 engine by officially referring to the new model as the 370Z for the first time.

This same engine is currently used in the Infiniti G37 Coupe where it develops around 246kW; however this is speculated to have jumped by as much as 15kW for the 370Z. Nissan has boasted that this new model would target the German sports coupes, having used the BMW Z4 M and Porsche Cayman S as benchmarks during development.

This also supports current speculation which suggests the 370Z could eventually be offered with an optional DSG transmission, given its recent inclusion in the Porsche range as well as the success of Nissan’s own DSG transmission in the GT-R.

The all-new 370Z will go on sale in Europe from early 2009. Full details and specifications are set to be released on to coincide with its global debut on November 19.

© Source: caradvice
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Porsche Cayman and Boxster facelift - leaked official images

After the official unveiling of the new 911 line, today Dutch AutoWeek published the first images of the updates to the Cayman and Boxster. Like their bigger brother, both models get redesigned front bumpers with LED lights and revised rear bumpers with new tail lamps. This new look should tie the little Porsches over until the complete redesign due in 2012.

Although no official details are available, both the Cayman and Boxster are expected to get an upgraded engine possibly courtesy of the 911’s direct injection technology. Also from the 911 parts bin will likely be the will be offered with PDK dual-clutch transmission

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