Chevrolet's Beat conception

Some two million online voters have declared Chevrolet's Beat the best of three city car concepts.

The Beat triumphed by more than 100,000 votes, which, according to Chevy, means that it will 'significantly inspire' its next-gen city car - effectively the new Matiz - due to launch in 2010.

Luckily it was also GM chief Bob Lutz's top choice. "We're glad the Beat won - it was our favourite," said Lutz. "If it hadn't been so popular with the public we would have had to get all of our staff to vote to make sure it came out on top!"

© Source: topgear
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Mercedes C 63 AMG Estate - official press release

Mercedes-Benz has finally announced the C 63 AMG Estate which will be shown in Frankfurt. As anticipated, the Mercedes C 63 AMG Estate features the 6.2-liters V8 engine magnificently engineered by AMG in Affalterbach with a power output of 457 ps and 600 Nm of torque that drives the rear wheels through an AMG 7G-TRONIC 7-speed automatic transmission. The C 63 AMG Estate accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds and reaches a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited). Sales will start at the beginning of 2008, with a price of 69,853 € (incl. VAT, in Germany).

Affalterbach - Following in the Saloon’s footsteps, the C 63 AMG Estate is now also due to be launched. Under the bonnet with its distinctive power domes, the AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine delivers effortless acceleration. The high-revving naturally aspirated engine sets the benchmark in this segment with its maximum output of 336 kW/457 hp at 6800 rpm and maximum torque of 600 Nm at 5000 rpm. The unique high-performance estate accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds; top speed is 250 km/h (electronically limited).

Power is transferred by the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC. Equipped with AMG steering wheel gearshift paddles and the three driving modes “C”, “S” and “M”, the seven-speed automatic transmission delivers a decidedly sporty or comfort-focused ride depending on the driver’s tastes. The standard specification includes 18-inch five-spoke AMG light-alloy wheels with 235/ 40 R 18 (front) and 255/35 R 18 (rear) wide-base tyres. 19-inch AMG multi-spoke light-alloy wheels shod with 235/35 R 19 (front) and 255/30 R 19 (rear) tyres are available as an option.

© Source: eurocarblog
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2008 Jaguar XK-Series Review

Introduction
A new Jaguar doesn't come along every day, and even when one does, it's usually hard to tell since it looks just like a past Cat. While there are certainly cues here and there to remind of its prestigious genealogy, the 2008 Jaguar XK is clearly a new kitten -- and a sexy one at that. However, there's more to this luxury coupe and convertible than sleek and muscular styling.

This is a Jaguar that drives as well as it looks, and although it's not quite a canyon-carving sports car, the XK and the high-performance XKR are sporty enough to please those looking for something more than just a pretty automotive fashion accessory.

The XK was fully redesigned last year. One major change over the previous XK8 is the car's all-aluminum body structure and body panels. Sure enough, the XK is a bit lighter than before and significantly less portly than its main competition. Jaguar also claims that the aluminum structure's extra body stiffness has improved handling, ride quality and crashworthiness. While we passed on testing that last assertion, we can say that ride and handling are certainly better than before and certainly competent enough. Just don't expect the XK to keep up with a Porsche 911 in the mountains.

Powertrains and Performance
The standard Jaguar XK is powered by a 4.2-liter V8 that generates 300 hp and 310 pound-feet of torque. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift control. In testing, we hustled the coupe up from zero to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds, while the convertible did the sprint in 6.3 seconds. The XKR features a supercharged version of the same engine puffed up to produce 420 hp and 412 lb-ft of torque. Our test of an XKR Convertible revealed a 0-60 time of 4.9 seconds, with the coupe being a few ticks quicker.

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2008 Ford Focus by 3dCarbon

(from Ford Press Release) Inspired by a love for all things European, 3D Carbon outfits the 2008 Focus four-door sedan with its Euro Series body kit.

The six-piece includes front air dam, side skirts, rear lower skirt, rear deck lid spoiler and upper roof spoiler. A Webasto 900 Series twin-venting sunroof helps open up the interior. The sharp little sedan’s wheel wells are filled with 19-inch, forged aluminum NC wheels wearing Pirelli rubber. The interior is decked out in two-tone Barracuda leather by Katzkin with sound supplied by Balupunkt.

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2007 Ford Urban Rider Expedition

(from Ford Press Release) Cruise the ‘hood in style in the Urban Rider from 3D Carbon. The 2008 Expedition is converted to a hip street custom with a new front fascia, side rockers, rear bumper lower valance and rear tailgate spoiler.

An Eibach performance suspension sets the Urban Rider down over polished NC-forged, six-spoke aluminum wheels wrapped in Pirelli rubber. A Katzkin two-tone leather interior and tinted windows add the finishing touches.

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2007 Dodge Ram BFT

(from Chrysler Press Release) “Built for towing,” the Dodge Ram BFT is also one “big fast truck.” Designed to be the “ultimate” workhorse, the vehicle will appeal to the hardcore truck buyer. And there’s one thing the heavy-duty trucker can never get enough of: a bigger box.

The design team placed a standard cab on a 160-in. Dodge Ram Heavy Duty wheelbase frame so the 9.4-ft chopper fits snuggly in the 10-ft. box. The team also accommodated the dually setup with a 6-in. suspension lift kit from Superlift and Alcoa’s 22.5-in. 10-lug semi wheels. The BFT also features full-length polished bed and step rails.

The Ram BFT has a Banks-enhanced 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel engine that is mated to an automatic transmission.

In the end, the Ram BFT provides “maximum” hauling and towing power. And isn’t dependability, durability and capability what Ram life is all about?

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2007 Chrysler Town and Country Black Jack

(from Chrysler Press Release) The Chrysler Town & Country Black Jack draws its inspiration from the Luxor Hotel in Las Vegas - a dominant and enigmatic presence on the Strip. Massive, dark and simple in shape and design, the icon casts a shadow over the surrounding properties.

It sits on custom one-off 20-in. wheels with new bright finishes built by Alcoa Forged. They are tucked around a set of Brembo SRT brakes, matched with an adjusted ride height. Its stance is sophisticated, yet approachable. Covered in a custom Amber-Black Pearl paint, the hood features a ghosted “Black Jack” logo and pin stripe provided by Jim-Tech. Chrome accents complement the billet-style grill.

The exterior was designed to draw people to the stunning inside. LED lighting, provided by OSRAM-Sylvania Group, was crucial to the application of Las Vegas allure. To give it an “after hours lounge bar” setting and atmosphere of light and shade, the team created dual panoramic-style roof openings. After relocating the gas tank, light-sensitive “scintilla” provided by Sensitile was used. Constructed of 100 percent acrylic, Scintilla transforms the way in which the surface interacts with interior lighting. The scintilla actually illuminates the players’ “field.”

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2007 Jay Leno E85 Chevrolet Corvette

(from General Motors Press Release)LAS VEGAS – “Tonight Show” host Jay Leno’s predilection for performance cars is no secret, but many fellow enthusiasts may not know that he is keenly interested in alternative fuels.

To prove that red-blooded power mixes easily with a touch of green, Leno partnered with Pratt & Miller – the engineering company that builds and campaigns C6.R Corvettes – to develop a modified Corvette Z06 that is capable of running on E85 ethanol. It was unveiled at the 2007 SEMA Show.

More than merely a conversion of the stock LS7 engine to E85 capability, Leno’s alternative-fuel supercar is powered by a custom, 8.2L (500-cubic-inch) all-aluminum small-block V-8 that pumps out approximately 600 horsepower and 585 lb.-ft. of torque.

The engine is built around a custom aluminum cylinder block that was CNC-milled from a single block of billet aluminum. And while the cylinder heads, intake system and dry-sump oiling system are stock LS7 components, the engine – which has larger bore and stroke dimensions than the 7.0L (427-cubic-inch) LS7 – uses a one-off reciprocating assembly, including a forged steel crankshaft, forged rods and forged pistons. Katech Engines, the company that builds engines for the Corvette C6.R racing program, developed the engine.

The fuel system and engine control computer were modified to accommodate E85, and spent gases exit through a Corsa exhaust system. Supporting the 600-horse engine’s power is a blueprinted and strengthened T-56 six-speed transmission and a high-performance Centerforce dual-friction clutch.

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Pontiac Solstice SD-290

(from General Motors Press Release) Designed to evoke the emotions of classic sports cars, the Pontiac Solstice SD-290 race concept captures the purposeful design of vintage racecars. The design is dramatic, featuring a passenger cockpit tonneau cover and a driver windscreen, creating a pure racecar that looks ready to take the checkered flag even while sitting on the starting grid.

Aerodynamics have been improved and the SD-290’s weight reduced with the removal of the windshield, side glass, window regulator, convertible top, climate system and windshield wiper system. Complementing the design are new side fender gill panels, a new hood with heat extracting grilles and a competition red paint scheme.

Backing up the race-ready appearance is the available Club Sport Z0K suspension package and an all-business cockpit filled with auxiliary gauges, a roll bar and racing seat.

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Nissan GT-R racer

This is our first look at the new Nissan GT-R racer, which will debut in next year's Japanese Super GT series.

Unfortunately for Nissan and its racing/tuning arm, NISMO, this is not a series in which the production car's amazing four-wheel-drive traction will give it an advantage, like the Skyline GT-Rs of old: the cars are built to very specific regulations which outlaw four-wheel-drive and allow bespoke silhouette designs.

This year, the championship was won by a Honda NSX, which beat Nissan's 350Z racer. Whether or not the new GT-R will be more successful remains to be seen, but it shares little with the road-going car. Nissan GT-R Still, it doesn't rob the Super GT car of its visual impact. It's quite something, and it's a shame they'll have to run it with sponsors - this black colour is perfect.

© Source: topgear
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Caparo: police issue

Caparo have joined forces with the Metropolitan Police to come up with this T1 showpiece.

It's obviously never going to become a real world patrol vehicle, but the very idea is enough to fuel a good few minutes of school boy like day dreams.

Imagine how quickly you could get through town in this with the sirens blaring?

It is however real enough to be making an appearance at this week's MPH show, that's on from November 1-4 at Earls Court, London and next week on the 8-11 at Birmingham's NEC. Get tickets here.

© Source: topgear
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2008 Infiniti QX56 Review

Summary
If its styling agrees with you, then the rest of the 2008 Infiniti QX56 should, too, thanks to an improved interior and plenty of high-tech goodies.
Pros
High-tech electronic features, powerful and refined V8, impressive balance of ride and handling, massive towing capacity, roomy second- and third-row seats.

What's New for 2008
The Infiniti QX56 undergoes its first major freshening since its debut. The 2008 QX56 has subtle styling changes, a significant redesign of its interior and the addition of new standard and optional equipment that brings it more in line with other top, large luxury SUVs.

Powertrains and Performance
The 2008 QX56 is offered with either 2WD or 4WD with low-range gearing. Power comes from a 5.6-liter V8 that produces a healthy 320 horsepower and 393 pound-feet of torque. The V8 is matched to a standard five-speed automatic transmission. The QX56 is quick for a full-size SUV, going from zero to 60 mph in 7.3 seconds. Towing capacity is 9,000 pounds on rear-wheel-drive models when properly equipped. As is typical for this class of vehicle, gas mileage is poor, with 12 mpg city and 17/18 mpg highway using the EPA's revised 2008 testing regimen.

© Source: edmunds
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2008 Ford Edge Review

Summary
Strong acceleration, agile handling, a smooth ride and a roomy passenger compartment give the 2008 Ford Edge major points in the midsize crossover segment. Unfortunately, mediocre braking performance sullies its otherwise impressive credentials.

Pros
Quiet and comfortable ride, agile handling, potent V6, all major safety features are standard, roomy cabin.
Cons
Questionable brakes, lackluster interior design and materials, low maximum cargo capacity.
What's New for 2008
The 2008 Ford Edge gets more luxury and convenience features. Highlights include Ford's "Sync" system (which allows voice operation of cell phones, PDAs, MP3 players and USB storage devices), an optional power liftgate and a voice-activated navigation system. This year also sees a new Limited trim level, which replaces last year's SEL Plus.

Powertrains and Performance
The Edge comes with a 3.5-liter V6 rated for 265 hp and 250 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission is standard. All trim levels offer a choice of either front-wheel or all-wheel drive. On AWD models, power flows primarily to the front wheels until wheel slippage occurs, in which case nearly all the power can be redirected to the rear.

The Edge is quick, with a 0-60-mph time of just 7.4 seconds (front-driver version). Shifts from the six-speed automatic are smooth and well-timed, though we wish there was better manual access to gears. (You're limited to "D," "O/D off" and "L.") Properly equipped, the Ford Edge can tow up to 3,500 pounds, which is average for the segment.

© Source: edmunds

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2007 SEMA Show: Aims for Drama With 550-HP Escalade Sport Concept

LAS VEGAS — Urban hipsters should find their heads swiveling at the Cadillac Escalade Sport concept, one of the luxury marque's 2007 SEMA Show offerings.

The Escalade concept boasts a sport-tuned suspension with a 2-inch-lower ride height, a high-performance brake package and unique air induction and exhaust systems. The underhood cover protects a small-block V8 with approximately 550 horsepower linked to a 6L80 six-speed automatic transmission.

The exterior gets a modified front and rear fascia with new upper and lower grilles, a new roof rack, new hood and retractable side steps with aero rockers. Eye-popping 24-inch forged alloy wheels add to the sense of drama with this concept.

The cabin is outfitted with Recaro sport bucket seats in the first and second rows with the third row deleted. The rear hatch gets an aluminum cargo floor. The driver gets a modified center console with new shifter and shift knob, along with billet aluminum pedals.

Cadillac brags that the concept "showcases even more of the dramatic presence and power" that has made Escalade an "image leader."

What this means to you: The already impressive Escalade takes on even more stature at the SEMA show.

© Source: edmunds

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2007 SEMA Show: Motocross Is Springboard for Dodge Dakota MX Warrior Concept

LAS VEGAS — The over-the-top graphics on the Dodge Dakota MX Warrior concept at the 2007 SEMA Show make more sense when you understand how one of its co-creators spends his spare time.

Scott Waraniak, a design student at Detroit's College for Creative Studies, is also a motocrosser who races KTM bikes and is no stranger to flying dirt, rocks, adrenaline and horsepower. Hence the orange-and-battleship-gray vinyl wrap on the Dakota MX Warrior laid on top of the "surf blue" exterior. By the way, that's Waraniak's bike in the back of the Dakota, which Dodge likes to promote as more of a personal leisure vehicle instead of a workhorse like its bigger sibling.

The Dakota MX Warrior gets a suspension that's raised 4 inches, 20-inch Mopar chrome wheels and 31-inch tires. Other touches include a custom hood with one-off intake scoopers to feed air into the 4.7-liter Magnum V8. Custom steel bumpers and an integrated winch mounted on the front bumper round out the package.

What this means to you: A must-see if you're into motocross and Detroit muscle.

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2007 SEMA Show: Cadillac CTS Sport

LAS VEGAS — The public unveiling of the 2009 CTS-V is still more than two months away. Meanwhile, at the 2007 SEMA Show, Cadillac aims to fill the void with the CTS Sport concept.

This one looks like mostly a cosmetic package, with few of the high-performance mods expected on the next CTS-V, which is being unwrapped at the upcoming Detroit show and goes on sale next fall.

The CTS Sport gets a variety of exterior add-ons, including new front and rear fascias with carbon-fiber and wire-mesh inserts, a modified hood with wire-mesh inserts and carbon-fiber front fender extractors and rear deck lid spoiler. You'll also spot the forged and polished 20-inch wheels, the painted calipers and drilled/slotted rotors on the high-performance brakes, and the rectangular exhaust tips with wire-mesh inserts.

Inside, the CTS Sport features Recaro leather sport seats and carbon-fiber trim.

Under the hood is a production-based, direct-injection 3.6-liter V6 — a far cry from the supercharged big-bore V8 that's rumored for the new CTS-V.

What this means to you: Look for the real deal in January at the Detroit show.

© Source: edmunds

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2007 SEMA Show: Jay Leno Shows off Green 600-HP Modified Corvette Z06

LAS VEGAS — If Al Gore were to make an appearance at the 2007 SEMA Show, there's no doubt that he would find an excellent photo op in front of Jay Leno's E85 Z06-inspired C6RS Corvette. The car's 600 horses aren't an issue, since Leno's rocket runs on ethanol.

"The C6RS is the result of an idea we hatched to prove that high-performance cars and alternative fuel technology weren't diametrically opposed concepts," said Leno, who increasingly sounds like the voice of reason when it comes to automotive trends. "I love the idea of having 600 horsepower at my disposal, but using a homegrown alternative to gasoline."

The C6RS Corvette's fuel system and engine control computer were modified to use E85, with the spent gases exiting through a Corsa exhaust system. The custom 8.2-liter all-aluminum small-block V8 is linked to a strengthened T-56 six-speed transmission and a high-performance Centerforce dual-friction clutch.

The comic did not choose green paint for this SEMA offering. Instead, it is clad in C6.R-inspired black paint. Other design cues include wider front and rear fenders and a wider rear fascia with an integrated spoiler on top and a racing-style diffuser at the bottom. The cabin deliberately veers away from a spartan look, with premium features that include a two-tone shift knob and boot, leather-covered console armrest and racing-style pedal covers.

What this means to you: Leno appears to be committed to giving us the best of both worlds.

© Source: edmunds
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2008 Ferrari FXX Evolution

(from Ferrari Press Release) FXX programme extended for further two years thanks to new evolution kit developed with assistance of Client Test-Drivers

The innovative FXX programme, based on the eponymous prototype car and launched by Ferrari in June 2005, is being extended to 2008/2009. The FXX, which is the most advanced GT ever created at Maranello, has been updated with an evolution package aimed at further improving its handling and performance. The package was developed as a result of Ferrari's collaboration with its Client Test Drivers and with the invaluable support of Michael Schumacher. The FXXs equipped with this package will also sport a new livery in addition to new rear wing profiles.

The FXX is not homologated for road use and there are no plans to compete with it either. In fact, the FXX prototype is designed exclusively for track driving as part of a specific R&D programme agreed with a selected group of just over 20 clients involving 14 group test sessions and 14 private ones in the last two years. Thanks to readings taken over the 16,500 kilometres of tests carried out in 2006 and the 18,500 kilometres covered in 2007, the modifications made to the car have focused on honing its aerodynamics, running gear and electronics. Seven-times Formula 1 World Champion Michael Schumacher also joined the ranks of the client test drivers and gave the programme the benefit of his vast experience on several occasions.

Maranello's engineers studied the wealth of information gained to develop a kit which will cut the FXX's Fiorano lap time to under 1'16'' (previously it was 1'18''). The FXX's 6262 cc V12 engine can now punch out a massive 860 hp at 9500 rpm. Gearshifting takes just 60 ms, a drop of 20 ms on the previous time, and the gear ratios have been adapted to make use of the extra 1000 rpm now delivered by the engine.

The FXX evolution package includes participation in a series of track events that Ferrari is organising at international circuits for 2008/2009. Six events are planned for each year (two in North America, two in Europe and two in Asia). In addition to these, the FXXs will also be participating, as per tradition, in the prestigious end-of-season Ferrari World Finals.

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2007 SEMA Show: Chevrolet Takes the Wraps off 2008 Cobalt SS Coupe

LAS VEGAS — General Motors used the 2007 SEMA Show to reveal the details about the upcoming 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt SS, which promises to have more kick than the previous Cobalt SS Supercharged.

GM says the '08 Cobalt SS will churn out 55 more horses than the Cobalt SS Supercharged. The new model uses the 2.0-liter Ecotec turbocharged and intercooled engine with 260 horses linked to a GM Powertrain Sweden five-speed transmission with a short-throw shifter. It sprints from zero to 60 mph in about 5.7 seconds, according to Chevrolet. The coupe was developed by GM Performance Division, which put it through its paces at the Nürburgring circuit.

Chevy noted that the Cobalt SS coupe has powertrain and chassis enhancements that are similar to the new Chevrolet HHR SS, "but with larger Brembo brakes, a slightly taller final-drive ratio and other variances." The Cobalt SS coupe gets a new FE5 Sport suspension with specific stabilizer bars, spring rates and damper tuning. A "no-lift shift" feature on manual-transmission models is said to "achieve the best acceleration time via an algorithm in the engine controller."

What this means to you: The most powerful Cobalt yet.

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2007 SEMA Show: Hummer H3 Is Crossed With Corvette Z06

LAS VEGAS — The Hummer H3R Off-Road Concept unites the H3 SUV and the 7.0-liter V8 from a Chevrolet Corvette Z06, with some intriguing results, at the 2007 SEMA Show. But don't get too excited. Hummer hustles to say, "No, a production H3 equipped with an LS7 engine isn't in the cards."

"The H3R pays homage to the racing SUV while pushing the envelope on what could be considered 'stock' — supposing the factory decided to drop in the 505-horsepower 7.0-liter V8 from the Corvette Z06," Hummer said in reference to Team Hummer, led by Rod Hall.

One smart bit of detail here includes a forward-tilting hood with a Lexan see-through insert, as well as power-operated hood hinges. The H3R has a racing-inspired paint job with custom badging, 20-inch wheels and Mickey Thompson Bear Claw 35-inch off-road tires.

A washable rubber floor replaces the carpeting, and there's a navigation radio system and auxiliary performance gauges.

What this means to you: Unlike some of GM's other SEMA show offerings, this one won't see the light of day outside of the concept.

© Source: edmunds

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