VW Microbus back on the table?

The 2001 VW Microbus concept was really cool; so much so that it looked like it was headed for 2005 production. Then the project started getting expensive at the same time the U.S. dollar began to hit the skids. So, then-boss Bernd Pischetsrieder swung the axe, and it was curtains for the retro breadbox. Fast-forward to the present. Instead of a spiffy new Microbus, we now have the Routan, which is fake German for "Dodge Caravan." Not very exciting, to say the least.

A revival of Flower Power's official vehicle seemed hopeless -- until now. The Sydney Morning Herald reports that VW's entertaining the possibility of a 21st-century Microbus built on the same platform as the new sedan that'll pe produced at VW's Chattanooga, TN facility. An unnamed "senior Volkswagen official" told the paper that European production's basically a non-starter, and Volkswagen Group of America's Jill Bratina played it coy, saying only that a second vehicle line out of Chattanooga is "conceivable in the foreseeable future." A locally-built, car-based Microbus is an idea that certainly piques our interest.

Sony picks GT Academy winners to race in Dubai 24 Hours

First art imitates life and now video games do the same, with Sony Computer Entertainment Europe and Nissan having joined forces to create the GT Academy. Over the course of eight months, the academy culled a group of wannabe racers from a field of entrants who posted the best lap times in GT5 Prologue. Then, for five days at Silverstone, the finalists competed in the game and on the actual track, watched by ex-F1 racer Johnny Herbert and a panel of five judges.

The two winners were just announced, and Top Gun status went to Lars Schlomer and Luis Ordonez. Schlomer is a taxi driver in Bonn, Germany; Ordonez is an MBA student from Spain. Now that they've won, they'll be thrown into boot camp for four months to learn to how to race for real silver: in four months, they'll have to earn their racing licenses and get ready to drive a factory-backed Nissan 350Z in the 24 Hours of Dubai this coming January.The rest of us will have to be content with GT5 Prologue for now...

[Source: Sony]

Swift-GT2-A/T

all new jazz 08 M&A/T or Swift-GT2-A/T CASH :
Harga OTR (On The Road)

1.Swift ST M/T = 137.000.000
2.Swift ST A/T = 148.000.000
3.Swift GT2 M/T = 149.000.000
4.Swift GT2 A/T = 160.000.000

KREDIT:
1.Swift ST M/T DP = 21.000.000
2.Swift ST A/T DP = 23.000.000
3.Swift GT2 M/T DP = 23.000.000
4.Swift GT2 A/T DP = 25.000.000

*Mesin M15A 1.500 cc VVT Injection
EURO 2
*New Design Front Grill and Bumper
*New Design Alloy Wheel 16 inch
*New Design Rear Bumper
*New Twin Pipe Muffler
*New Reverse Lamp
*New Rear Upper Spoiler
*New Side Skirt
*Steering Wheel Audio Switches with *Single Disc Audio System
*Sporty Instrument Panel
*MID ( Multi Information Display )
*Build in Audio Set
*Manual Air Conditioner with Outside *Temperatur
*5 Seater Capacity
*Flexible 2nd Row Seat Arrangement
*Door Instruments with Central Lock
and Power Window
*Front Door Pocket
*Front Door Holder
*Glove Box
*Rear Cup Holder

Blogged with the Flock Browser

Mercedes-Benz-SL-65-AMG-Black-Series

Mercedes Benz and AMG had finally released first official information and had given details about the Black Series edition from new SL65 AMG. Ini the method of Mercedes-Benz and AMG to tempt the consumer who wanted the vehicle that more ekslusif from AMG regular. This model was offered with the price $320,000 in the USA and €309,000 in Europe. Supercar this used the machine 6.0 litre V12 with two turbocharger that produced the maximal power 661hp (493kW) /5,400 rpm and peak torsion 738 lb-ft (1,000Nm). This meaning that 20hp (15kW) higher than SLR McLaren 722.

Blogged with the Flock Browser

Nissan raises GT-R MSRP by nearly $7,000

Nissan announced today a price increase for the 2009 GT-R, raising the MSRP nearly $7,000 from $69,850 to $76,840. The price for the Premium model has been increased even more, going from $71,900 to $79,090 in one fell swoop. Fortunately, the adjusted prices do not affect customers who placed their orders with dealers before September 5. Nissan cited increased material costs as the reason for the adjustment.

Since the GT-R is already one of the best performance bargains on the market today and customers are paying a premium to own one, we doubt that the price increase will have any effect on sales. Still, $7,000 is a serious chunk of change that could go towards aftermarket toys from Cobb Tuning or HKS.

[Source: Nissan]

2009 Audi A3: Tweaked and priced

Audi gave up the details on the European-spec A3 earlier this year, but it took until today for it to disclose what changes will carry over to the U.S. model when the 2009 A3 goes on sale later this month.

A cursory inspection of the exterior and specs doesn't reveal much, but dig a little deeper and the revisions become obvious. The fascia has been tweaked with a few cues from the recently revamped A4, including new LED daytime running lamps, and redesigned rollers fill the wheel wells, hiding Audi's optional Magnetic Ride suspension system.

The five-door's powertrain choices remain, with either a 2.0-liter turbocharged four or a 3.2-liter V6, and all-wheel-drive is finally available as an option on the 2.0T model. Previously, Audi's hill-start assist was only available with the S-tronic dual-clutch transmission, but it's now standard on models fitted with the six-speed manual.

Pricing has been set at $26,920 for the front-wheel-drive, six-speed manual model equipped with the 2.0T, while the top of the line 3.2-liter Quattro variant comes in at $36,975.

BMW X2 is X1's sporty sibling

We're less than a month away from the official unveiling of the BMW X1 concept in Paris, but the boys from Bavaria are already planning a sportier, two-door version of their new compact 'ute. Dubbed the X2, this coupe-ish soft-roader will be to the X1 what the X6 is to the X5.

The 1-series-based X1 is currently carrying the codename "Sports Activity Wagon" (SAW), whereas the X2 is known internally as a "Sports Activity Runabout" (SAR). In keeping with BMW's new nomenclature and styling, the X2 will sport different bodywork, up-market materials, more standard equipment and a wider track to differentiate the two-door CUV from its four-door counterpart. Powertrains fitted with BMW's Efficient Dynamics system will be part of the package, beginning with 1.6-liter four-cylinder engines, eventually evolving into mild- and plug-in hybrid drivetrains.

While the X1 has already been green-lit for production, the X2 is still in limbo. But if it does come to market, expect the X2 to bow sometime in 2011 after the X1 launches in 2010.

[Source: CAR

how will you tune the Camaro?

With sales of the 2010 Chevy Camaro starting in the first quarter of 2009, it's inevitable that a variety of tuner versions will be popping up left and right. Deviant Art member Morfiuss decided that was too long to wait and beat everyone to the punch with his photoshopped rendition of a Hamann Camaro. We think he did a stellar job, penning in a new front fascia, side skirts, flared fenders, 20-inch rims, and gullwing doors that depict what Hamann would probably do if they got their hands on a Camaro. It's not likely to happen, but it does beg the question -- how would you tune the Camaro? Would you build a Euro-style version similar to the Hamann, or how about an all-out drag racer set for ten second time slips? Our pick? A street/track version styled after the Mark Donohue's Penske Camaro that was so dominant in the Trans-Am series in the late 1960's.

Be sure to swing by AmericanMuscle.com and check out our large selection of Chevrolet Camaro Parts.

[Source: DeviantArt.com via MuscleCars.at]

Seven-seat Land Rover LR2 could hijack LR3 name

The LR2 gives Land Rover a semi-affordable entry model that is much more fuel efficient than the rest of the luxury SUV-maker's lineup. To help keep LR2 sales strong in a car market that is increasingly tougher for crossovers and SUVs, Land Rover is reportedly looking at adding a third row of seats by 2010. So the question is, how does Land Rover differentiate the seven-seat LR2 from the five-seater? Sometimes an automaker will just increase the number in the model's name by one, but that apparently doesn't work well with the luxury automaker's brilliantly simple naming convention.

One idea is to shuffle names around to differentiate the two LR2 models. The seven-seat LR2 could be called the LR3, while the current LR3, a different model entirely, would then get bumped up to LR4 status. We understand there aren't many options for Land Rover, but shuffling around model names with which customers are already familiar seems extreme. Why not make the seven-seat model the LR2 L or LR2 XL or LR2 ES? There is, after all, already an LR2 HSE.

Subaru debuts boxer diesel Forester and Impreza

Subaru debuted its new 2.0L diesel boxer engine earlier this year in the Legacy and Outback, and soon it will also be offered in the Forester and Impreza, though only in Europe. These two latest models to feature the unique horizontally opposed oil-burning engines will debut at the Paris Motor Show next month. The Forester 2.0D will offer 147 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque while returning 44.8 combined mpg in the European cycle, which is class-leading for a small CUV over there, while the Impreza 2.0D offers 148 hp and 258 lb-ft (fuel economy for the Impreza 2.0D was not released for some reason). The diesel Forester will hit showrooms later this month while Euro shoppers will have to wait until January for the diesel Impreza. While we certainly hope Subaru is tweaking its 2.0L diesel boxer engine to meet emissions standards in all 50 U.S. states, we haven't heard one word about it.

BMW 8 Series on the way, no M-version planned

With their scopes aimed squarely at the upcoming Porsche Panamera and Mercedes-Benz CLS, BMW's M performance division is rumored to be working on their own four-door luxury GT for a 2010 launch. With its styling based heavily on the BMW Concept CS (pictured above), the platform for the new flagship will be shared with the new 7 Series. Under the hood, most expect to see a 6.0-liter V12 based on the current M5's V10, or a twin-turbocharged V8 like the one rumored for the next-gen M5. Even though both of those engines promise prodigious amounts of power, and the lightened chassis will be tuned for performance, BMW insists the new car will not be badged an M8. Regardless, we seem to recall that the lack of an M badge on the mid-90's BMW 850CSi didn't seem to deter enthusiasts.

2009 Ford Focus RS revealed... again!

Though it first debuted the 2009 Focus RS at the London Motor Show in July, Ford of Europe will do it again at the Paris Motor Show next month and today has given us even more info about the fastest European car to ever wear the Blue Oval badge. The '09 Focus RS is powered by a turbocharged Duratec 2.5L five-cylinder producing about 300 horsepower and 325 ft-lbs of torque and can reach 62 mph in less than six seconds on its way to a top speed of 162 mph. The front-wheel-drive pocket rocket will channel all that energy to the ground through a Quaife Automatic Torque Biasing limited-slip diff and what Ford calls the 'RevoKnuckle' front suspension. We couldn't explain how it works, but Ford found the system so effective at reducing torque steer that a heavier all-wheel-drive was taken off the table during development.

While we first saw the '09 Focus RS in July, Ford has released even more images of the car including details shots of the diffuser, hood louvers, wheels and fender vents. Ford has also revealed that in addition to 'Ultimate Green', buyers will be able to order their RS in Performance Blue and Frozen White. Those orders will be fulfilled sometime in early 2009 when the cars begin arriving in dealerships. Check out the new pics in our gallery below and read Ford's official press release after the jump for all the info you'd ever want to know about the 2009 Focus RS.

600 hp, twin-turbo Fox Marketing/Artisan Lexus IS-F

The 2009 Lexus IS-F is slated to get some serious attention at SEMA, and Fox Marketing and Artisan are out to prove that show and go aren't mutually exclusive.

The plan is to create an IS-F that has the power to match its presence, and to that end, Artisan developed a twin-turbo setup that huffs compressed oxygen into a 5.0-liter V8 equipped with JE pistons and Crower rods. With a Mishimoto radiator, an Artisan exhaust, a healthy amount of boost and a thorough tune, Artisan is estimating over 600 hp at the rear wheels.

Aesthetically, the team sought to compliment the stock IS-F's styling, so they've fitted a bespoke body kit consisting of custom front and rear bumpers, and a set of side-skirts that cleanly integrate into the blistered rear fenders. iForged rollers fill the wheel wells, sized 20x9.5-inches in front and 20x11.5-inches in the rear, and wrapped in Toyo T1R tires (255/35R20 front and 305/30R20 rear). The Glasurit Sunset Orange hue is courtesy of BASF, and according to Brian Fox, they'll be blacking out the headlamps, grille and emblems to tie everything together.

Artisan plans to have its IS-F exhaust on sale next month, and when we check out the Lexus booth this November, we'll be able to see Fox/Artisan's efforts in person, along with a handful of other tuned and tweaked IS-Fs

Rent an R8 for $8,000 per day... not including the flight to Tokyo

The Peninsula Hotel in Hong Kong bought 13 Rolls-Royce Phantoms for shuttling guests around the city. The Peninsula Hotel in Tokyo has purchased just one car, and will leave the guest to drive himself. That car is an R8, finished in the hotel's trademark Brewster Green, with a gold Peninsula logo outside, and cognac leather inside. To avail yourself of it -- once you've gotten to Tokyo -- you'll need to book the Peninsula Suite, which goes for the ho-hum figure of ¥850,000 per night. That $8,000 U.S. every day to burble at single-digit speeds in Tokyo traffic, although you are allowed to take it outside of Tokyo. Come to think of it, the speeds probably don't matter -- if you have that kind of money, there's a good chance you've got an R8 or better in your own garage already...

Spy Shots: Ferrari Enzo successor "FX70" spotted

We've been patiently waiting for a successor to the Ferrari Enzo for some time now, and here's evidence that development of the next supercar from Maranello is underway. Codenamed FX70, the mule is housed in the shell of an F430 Scuderia, though there are a number of clues that what you're looking at is something very special. Take for instance the wheels, which are grossly oversized for the Scuderia. The track is also much wider and out back there's a large center-mounted exhaust. Next Autos reports that Ferrari is working on two separate engine options for the FX70 including a 700-hp twin-turbo V8 and a twin-turbo V12 that could reach 800 hp. Rumors suggest that Ferrari may go with the TT V8 in deference to the climate concerns of our time, though we hardly expect Ferrari to mix in too much green with that Rosso Corsa Red.

[Source: Next Autos]

Honda's new hybrid is the Insight!

Honda is reviving an old name for its new Global Hybrid that goes on sale next spring by calling it the Insight. The new five-door hatchback "Prius-Killer" will be the most direct competitor yet for Toyota's iconic hybrid. Learning from the lesson that hybrid buyers apparently prefer their cars to be recognizable as such rather than being derivatives of existing models, Honda has modeled the new Insight after its low volume FCX Clarity fuel cell car and will be debuting it as a concept at the Paris Motor Show next month before it goes on sale as the least expensive hybrid in the world in 2009. Recent comments by Honda have hinted at a price starting at $18,500 for the Insight, which goes on sale 10 years after the original. Unlike the tiny two-seater that had limited appeal and utility, this new one is expected to appeal to a much wider audience. Honda is planning for worldwide sales of 200,000 units a year with 100,000 going to the U.S. market.

[Source: Honda]

Schumacher gets caught speeding off the track

More speeding in products from the Volkswagen corporate empire; only this time, the driver was smart and didn't try to run. The driver in this Italian incident, none other than Michael Schumacher, is probably capable of evading the Caribinieri -- though maybe he's not as adept at handling a real car as he is behind the wheel of a four-wheeled fighter jet. Schumi exercised fine judgement and politely accepted his 75 Euro fine, which carries a three-point penalty on his license.

The racing champ told German newspaper Bild that he was "very sorry" and that "it's out of character" because "speeding is for racetracks only." Maybe something's lost in translation, but we have this urge to say "now we know, and knowing is half the battle" after that sparely worded statement.

[Source: F1-Live]

Mazda Kiyora city car concept

Mazda has confirmed its Paris Motor Show lineup, which will be led by the Kiyora concept, a water-themed, Nagare-styled city car built on a new platform that features a "next generation" direct-injected four-banger. No additional details have been relayed at this time, other than it's supposed to be lightweight and efficient, in keeping with Mazda's "Sustainable Zoom-Zoom" approach. (As an aside, you should know that it's quite amusing to watch grown adults actually say this stuff with a straight face at press conferences.) Also officially confirmed now is the updated MX-5, complete with the new happy face that hit the web on Wednesday. It's joined by the Mazda6 MZR-CD 2.2L diesel and the Mazda2 MZ-CD 1.6L diesel, both of which are also world premieres. As always, we'll be in Paris to bring it to you live next month.

Citroen Hypnos Hybrid CUV concept

Citroen looks content to carry on in its quirky ways with its latest concept, the Hypnos hybrid utility vehicle. Residing squarely in the same vein as new coupe-like crossovers like the BMW X6 and Infiniti FX models, the French machine goes that extra step towards the crazy house. From the renderings in our gallery below, the front doors appear so long and exagerated that the rear portals bottom-half is taken up entirely by the wheel wells. Things get even stranger from there with jewel-like seats and a DNA-style double-helix center section adorning the interior.

Under the hood will be a hybrid powertrain with an engine producing 200-horsepower plus an undetermined amount of force from the electric half of the drivetrain. This 50-mpg powertrain is one part of the concept that we hope is based in reality. Fortunately, we're pretty sure that these renderings are just conceptual while the real vehicle will debut in concept form at the upcoming Paris Motor Show in October.

Kuwait orders 150 Dodge Charger police cars

Choosing them for their portrayed image of "strength and power," officials in Kuwait have ordered 150 Dodge Chargers to be modified as police vehicles. As the Charger is the leading volume vehicle for Chrysler LLC in the Middle East, the choice doesn't come as much of a surprise. Delivery of the cop cars, however, isn't expected to take place for another couple months. In the meantime, the lot of them are heading to Canfield Equipment Service in Michigan where they'll be fitted for their new Kuwaiti roles in traffic, security, and emergency response.

[Source: Chrysler]

HKS Hyundai Genesis Coupe

Hyundai made a huge splash at the New York Auto Show this year with its Genesis Coupe, and it's looking for a repeat performance next month at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas. The Koreans are working with several aftermarket tuners to create special coupes for the tuner show and they just passed along a photo of one of them. This example was created by HKS USA and includes the usual array of body work mods along with plenty of mechanical upgrades. Hyundai hasn't provided details on the engine re-work yet other than noting it's got an HKS GT Turbo package, so presumably this car will use the 2.0L turbo four-cylinder as its starting point. Since the guts of the engine are being beefed up, we can safely assume this thing will be running considerably higher boost than a stock Genesis. Hopefully the HKS Hipermax III fully-adjustable suspension will help make all this power usable on the street as well as the track. The Genesis Coupe may just yet prove to be a very formidable competitor to all those new Mustangs, Camaros and Challengers appearing over the next few months, and we can't wait for our chance to drive one.

[Source: Hyundai]

It's electrifying! Chrysler to show dealers three EVs with production in mind

While everyone is aware of what GM, Honda and Toyota have been up to when it comes to fuel-saving technology, Chrysler has been playing it close to the chest. The Auburn Hills-based automaker, however, will show its dealers three new all-electric cars at the end of this month that are said to be production capable. Jim Press, the Chrysler exec who came from rival and current hybrid-leader Toyota, added that Chrysler's future platforms were being designed with electrification in mind and that is still has access to technology from its previous owner, Daimler.

Like General Motors, Chrysler seems convinced that its EVs need to have plug-in capability. The goal, says Press, is 300 miles of range. To make that a reality, a very good set of batteries will be necessary – likely lithium-ions – and Press assures us that his company is working with multiple suppliers. Will any of the production-ready models be anything like the concepts shown off last year in Detroit?

[Source: Automotive News - sub. req'd]

Hyundai i20 and i-blue concept coming to Paris Auto Show

Hyundai will unveil at the Paris Auto Show the i20 that is set to go on sale at the beginning of 2009. Next to it the company will also display the i20 i-blue concept, the ix55 SUV and a hybrid concept version of the Santa Fe.

Based on the all-new i20, Hyundai’s latest i-blue car concept incorporates a number of modifications to reduce emissions. The i20 i-blue concept is fitted with Hyundai’s all new 1.4 CRDi diesel engine, which produces 90 hp.

GM releases first official photo of 2010 Chevy Camaro SS

Regardless of the fact that over a dozen official looking images of the 2010 Chevy Camaro SS showed up on the web early last week, this single high-res image of the modern muscle car is notable for the fact that it is the first overall shot that GM has officially released. It showed up on the automaker's media site yesterday evening all by its lonesome with no accompanying details, but what else is there to know besides the fact it's packing a 6.2L LS3 V8 producing 422 hp and 408 lb-ft of torque? And for those who were wondering before, the nostril vent does appear to be part of the production package. Perhaps this picture's sudden appearance portends more information to come.

Stop by AmericanMuscle and check out our selection of 2010 Camaro Parts.

Digital twin spark full Injection

Digital twin spark full Injection 
DTS-i is Digital Twin Spark ignition means 2 spark plugs at either ends of combustion chamber instead of the conventional single spark plug which helps in better & faster combustion.
Now it has been upgraded to DTS-Fi which is Digital Twin Spark Fuel Injection. In fuel injection the usual carburettor has been replaced by a fuel injector which injects fuel in to the engine.

Pulsar DTS 1 Montain riding

DTS 1 Pulsar Montain riding. vacation riding

 Tag: Pulsa DTS F1 , bajaj New 

DC BOOSTER (Booster Pengapian DC)

DC BOOSTER (Booster Pengapian DC) adalah

Now we will talk about DC Booster.The Product claimed Up the RPM.

i found in the forum:"SPESIAL UNTUK YANG MASIH MEMAKAI CDI DC LIMITER. PRODUK INI BISA MENAIKKAN BATAS PUTARAN MESIN. BATAS PUTARAN MESIN DIGESER KE RPM YANG LEBIH TINGGI. TENAGA MOTOR AKAN KELUAR SEMUA. JADI SERASA MEMAKAI CDI DC UNLIMITER" 

DC BOOSTER  can be used  in 4 stroke motor  and 2 stroke motor:
* HONDA : Kirana, Karisma, Supra X 125, Supra X 125 PGM-FI, Vario, Click, Nova Dash, Nova Sonic, GL-Max Neotech, GL-Pro Neotech, Megapro, New Megapro, LS2, NSR 150, CBR 150.
* YAMAHA : Jupiter, Jupiter-Z, New Jupiter-Z, Jupiter MX 135LC, New Vega-R, Mio, Mio Soul, Nouvo, Nouvo Z, X-1, Tiara, 125Z, V-Ixion, TZM, Touch.
* SUZUKI : Shogun 110, New Shogun 110, Shogun 125, New Shogun 125, Smash, New Smash, Arashi, Satria 125, Spin, Skywave, Satria F150, Cool, Raider 125, Raider 150, Thunder 125, Thunder 250, FXR 150.
* KAWASAKI : Blitz, Blitz-R, Blitz Joy, Kaze ZX130, New Kaze 125, Kaze Zone 125, Ninja 150RR / ZX150.
* KYMCO : Khusus yang memakai CDI DC.
* BAJAJ : Pulsar.
* APRILIA : RS 125, RS 250.
* CAGIVA : Mito, Stella.

Yamaha New Motor

It seems the Product will Launch soon. it will be the next revo. i think the revo is the transition for these new Motor.The New Yamaha powered up with 110 cc Plus injection engine and it will taka a fight in market with Yamaha Vega R And Suzuki Shogun 
Produk “Entry Level” Bertampang Jupiter MX
if you watch at the first sight,  you will recognize that it is like Jupiter  MX, But the dashboard like Honda CS 1 this convensional mode signs that it is entry level of Honda. combined with Suspensi ganda dan cakram tunggal plus sistem transmisi manual tanpa kopling khas bebek konvensional motor ini semakin mengaskan bahwa memang segmen yang mereka incar adalah pada segmen entry level. Now  we just wait and see for the Launching of these Product

Suzuki Shogun 125 Modified

Shogun Suzuki Modified green color, Modifikasi nyentrik  

New Suzuki Shogun 125 Modified Pictures

New Suzuki Shogun 125 Modified Pictures

TAken from thailand, we found black Shogun Modified.
Modifikasi shogun Hitam

Suzuki Hayate Modified Style

Here are a picture collections of Suzuki Hayate Modified style, it was taken from thailand, with grey coated painting, it was good looking. for every eyes of modificator in all over the world,

All wheel chrome coated

New Suzuki Hayate 125 Racing

New Suzuki Hayate 125 Racing

Look at the style of the suzuki racing hayate, it is from Thailand, with Yellow coated design , and huge power of Modified suzuki, it will be the khight street ever.
Tag: Midification, contest, Modifikasi

Rendering of the 2010 Kia VG

So the Kia VG mule that has kept spy photographers busy the last few weeks has now been given a computer animated face and body. It's a nice looking ride, though has a surprising amount in common with the Hyundai Genesis... which means we also see, well, a lot of other cars in it. But that's not a bad thing, really, because the result is a tasty little creation, especially coming from Kia. The lines are a touch more forceful than those on the Genesis, which goes along with Kia being the sporting brand, or so they say. If the final version looks even close to this rendering, and they give it performance to match... well, then Kia will have taken a giant leap forward.

[Source: Kia World]

2009 Honda Legend reveals de-shielded Acura RL

Remember when Superman chose to relinquish his super powers for love in the Man of Steel's first sequel? Without that 'S' on his chest, Clark Kent quickly got the crap kicked out of him by a truck driver. If the 2009 Acura RL with its giant shield grille is Superman, then the Euro-only 2009 Honda Legend is surely Clark Kent. So many people have decried the new shield grille that we thought it'd be interesting to gauge reaction to the new Legend, which is basically the same car as the RL without the Acura overtones. To our eyes the Legend's new face is as boring and uninteresting as Acura's new grille is obnoxious, which truly does it make it the Clark Kent of cars

PRESS RELEASE

Extensive Updates for the Honda Legend

• New 3.7 litre V6-engine with more torque, lower CO2 emissions and improved fuel efficiency
• Faster acceleration
• Extensive styling updates
• Revised automatic gearbox with faster shift times and more responsive paddle-shift
• Even greater refinement for noise absorption to enhance Active Noise Cancellation system

At the Moscow motor show, Honda has revealed the look of the re-styled Honda Legend to Europe.

This revised model gives a new edge to the top of the range Honda and responds to customer feedback on the current model. The most noticeable change is to the exterior style of the Legend, with new lights, bonnet, front wings, boot lid, bumpers and the adoption of standard 18" wheels.

Under the restyled bonnet is one of the most powerful V6 engines in this sector, giving the power of a V8 engine, while retaining the smoothness and fuel economy inherent to this layout.

The new engine has an additional 200cc that helps to give the new Legend greater torque across the whole rev range. Complementing this increase in capacity the 3.7 litre V6 has VTEC added to the exhaust valves, joining the system already fitted on the inlet side. These realised a 20% increase in torque in the mid-range. The result is an enhancement to the feeling of power, as well as the improved acceleration.

Coupled to this revised engine, is an all-new 5-speed gearbox that helps the driver exploit and enjoy the revised power unit. The new box has switched to a straight gate and empowers the driver with additional control over gear selection with revised steering wheel mounted paddle-shifters and new gearbox software. The new transmission reacts faster to changes in driver input even in the normal automatic mode and so gives the driver access to power when it's most needed.

The combined effects of the improved transmission and increase in torque mean that the new Legend can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.1 seconds, 0.2 seconds quicker than before. Fuel economy and CO2 have also improved over the previous model, despite the improved acceleration performance.

Central to the concept of the current Legend is the cabin refinement which reduces the stress of modern motoring. This theme has been taken a stage further with the new car by equipping it with a suite of NVH reducing technologies. The most advanced of these is the Active Noise Cancellation system (ANC), which cancels out low frequency noise by playing the opposite wave form through the Bose sound system. New to the flagship is a new form of sound deadening mat that has improved noise reducing properties and is lighter than conventional materials. An acoustic windscreen and improved bushing complete these improvements to the already very refined Honda flagship.

Safety is a cornerstone of the Legend, and adds Active Head Restraints to its already impressive safety equipment. The new head restraints are similar in principle to the items found in the Civic and Accord models and compliment the reassuring ACE (Advanced Compatibility Engineering) body structure. Optional in some markets are the Adaptive Cruise Control and CMBS systems, which use millimetre wave radar to detect and help reduce the risk of collisions.

The chassis of the Legend has also received some attention to further enhance the Legend's rock solid, yet entertaining handling. Although the very advanced SH-AWD system remains unchanged the settings for the suspension have been altered to improve the ride and handling.

The already well equipped Legend gets some more revisions to compliment the new model. Rear seat passengers can now enjoy the benefits of heated seats, while the Bose Audio system now has a USB socket, to enable the easy connection of an iPod.

Wald International preparing Nissan GT-R kit

Wald International has never been one to offer subtle styling. Whether it's the Lexus IS-F or the Mercedes-Benz CL, the Japanese tuner loves to create a bold look with vents, wings and wheels. The tuner recently turned its attention to the Nissan GT-R, and while we don't have official information on the car, the photos offer a good look at what the package will include. A vented front fascia and splitter, side skirts, rear fender flares, a rear diffuser, carbon fiber rear spoiler and 22-inch wheels all lend to the more aggressive look. We actually like the majority of the body kit, although we'd prefer the rear fender flares to be the same color as the body, and the larger wheels probably don't do much for the performance of the car.

Chrysler design done with the 'edge,' going organic

Trevor Creed resigned from the position of Chrysler's head of design, and as of today is succeeded by Ralph Gilles, the man who designed the 300C. Since every change at the top comes with a "new sheriff in town" speech -- or at least one-liner -- this is what Gilles had to say: "It's definitely time for a new aesthetic at Chrysler. ... We're done with the 'edge' look."

Gilles says he wants the Pentastar's cars to look more "organic." This being art, however, that could really mean anything. For concrete examples and practical considerations he mentioned the Dodge Zeo and Chrysler Ecovoyager, and said that he wants to design "sexy" cars that will appeal around the world. Intriguing statements from the gent known for a car that epitomizes the American muscle sedan, but we are all in favor, and we say "aye." The only question is how soon will they start the redesign, and what will organic look like?

GM axes Kappa II Platform

There’s no secret now that GM i trying to find solutions to become again what it once was: a profitable auto maker. After announcing that the company will focus on small cars, GM has now announced that there will be no Kappa II platform; meaning we will not see in the future models like Pontiac Solstice, Saturn Sky, Daewoo SX2 and Opel GT roadsters.

When the Pontiac Solstice and Saturn Sky came to the market, GM was losing around $10,000 per unit built. Why? Because, according to GM, this models are “image cars” for their respective brands, which is how GM justified the losses on them.

The Kappa architecture is hydroformed as part of the fabrication process to achieve the dimensions and frame rails needed. Many of the body panels (namely the hood, deck-lid, and fenders) are hydroformed as well. Hydra-forming is a costly fabrication method, particularly for vehicles that have such low starting prices and low volume to boot. Add on the fact that the Kappa vehicles are largely “hand built” cars (at least by today’s standards); it becomes quite evident why GM will likely never get a return on investment with the Kappa products

[Source: GM Inside News]

Toyota Hybrid iQ coming in 2010

Toyota will unveil the production version of the 2009 iQ at the Paris Auto Show. Measuring less than 10 feet in length, the iQ is not just the world’s smallest 4-seater ever built, but it is also a serious green machine with CO2 emissions levels starting at a mere 99 g/km.

But this is only the beginning. Starting 2010, it will also gain the title of the world’s smallest hybrid. Inspired by the next generation Prius, the hybrid iQ will be powered by a 500cc engine and a small electric motor. That means drivers will have the option to plug in to an electricity supply to extend the car’s range.

Aston Martin to revive Lagonda with new concept at Geneva '09

Lagonda is set to celebrate its 100th anniversary next year. But while enthusiasts are bound to celebrate by recalling Lagondas of yore, Aston Martin plans to give us all something more tangible to commemorate by reviving the long-dormant marque. (Truth be told, having been founded in 1906, Lagonda marked its centenary two years ago already. But we're not going to let some simple facts get in the way of a good story, now are we?)

The British automaker produced luxury cars independently until 1947 when it was bought by Aston Martin. Although Aston used the Lagonda name as a model designation from 1976 to 1989 for a quirky angular four-door, with a handful of coachbuilt specials and concept cars in between, the last model Lagonda produced was the 1961-65 Rapide, a nameplate which Aston is also revived with its upcoming four-door coupe model, previewed by the 2006 concept in Detroit. While the production Rapide is expected to continue as an Aston Martin, the company is planning a unique concept car to be unveiled at the Geneva show next March that will show the way forward for the rejuvenated marque.

While Aston has not confirmed what form the vehicle, which could hit the streets as soon as 2012, will take, they've reportedly ruled out the possibility of a sport-ute. Sources suggest a new competitor aimed at Bentley and Rolls-Royce, although the Longonda will be more focused on performance than long distance cruising. No telling what that will mean for Aston's partnership with Mercedes-Benz, which has its own failing Maybach brand competing in the segment as well. However the resuscitation of Lagonda is bound to form a vital component of Aston Martin's ambitious growth plan. (Press release after the jump.)

[Source: Aston Martin]

Ferrari California is easy to drive... you know, for the ladies

So far the only video footage we've seen of the new Ferrari California has been either computer animated or sitting still with a giant chin talking. But the fellas over at Autocar magazine in the UK made their way down to Maranello with video cameras in tow for an up-close-and-personal with the newest Prancing Stallion. After the jump you'll find some focus-changing fun angles of the new California, as well as a brief interview with product development director Roberto Corradi, who amusingly informs us that the car was made easier to drive and more softly styled to accommodate female customers.

[Source: Autocar]

Alfa GT redesigned in 8C mold

We already know that Alfa Romeo intends to use the lauded design of the 8C Competizione as the new template for its range-wide styling language. The MiTo was the first to receive the treatment, with project 149 coming next and renderings of the 159 replacement showing the same. The next to follow in the 8C's footsteps could be the GT, but the rendering you see above doesn't come from the factory. It was done by an enthusiast forecasting what a revised GT could look like. We don't know yet if the GT will continue for another generation or if it will be replaced by something else entirely, but if the compact 2+2 (positioned above the new MiTo and below the current Brera) does see another incarnation, it could look something like this.

[Source: Autoblog.it via CarScoop]