Lincoln MKT coming to Detroit, facelifted MKZ to LA

Mark Fields, Ford's president of the Americas, has confirmed that the Lincoln MKT crossover is due to be reveal this January at the Detroit Auto Show, while a refreshed MKZ will be unveiled at the Los Angeles Show in November.

We already knew the Ford Flex-based CUV was headed to Detroit, with power provided by either a 3.7-liter or a 3.5-liter Ecoboost V6. Both six- and seven-passenger seating arrangements will be offered, along with Blind Spot Monitoring and a Cross Traffic Alert system which utilizes two sonar modules to notify drivers that a vehicle has moved into their blind spot by shining a light on the corresponding outside mirror. Sales are expected to begin later in 2009 and Ford is insistent that the MKT won't share any body panels with its platform sibling.

The facelifted MKZ sedan will sport the new split-wing grille originally found on the MKR concept. New taillights are also rumored to be part of the package and sales should begin later this year or early in 2009.

Steven Millen and his Ford GT ready to run in Dunlop Targa Rally

A little over two years ago we had the chance to spend some time at the track with Steve Millen and his race-prepped Ford GT before the team embarked on its fifth excursion to New Zealand to run in the Targa Rally.

Last year, the team wasn't able to compete due to health issues with a member of the Stillen consortium, but this year they're back and the orange GT is meaner than ever.

For the 2006 campaign, Stillen built up the Ford GT in a few months, equipping the mid-engine supercar with a performance exhaust, catalytic converter delete pipes, AP Racing front brakes, Penske shocks, a full cage and MOMO racing seats and harnesses. This year, they've tweaked the suspension, upgraded the brakes front and rear, added a set of Nordskog gauges and a GPS speedometer, along with pulling a few more ponies out of the supercharged 5.4-liter V8 and sending the additional grunt through an AP Racing clutch and a lower final drive ratio.

The Stillen Ford GT will battle it with everything from Evos to Porsches over 38 stages run on closed public roads, and according to Millen's navigator, they'll be providing updates throughout the race.

BMW exec confirms electric city car

Fuel-efficient city cars are being created at automaker R&D departments the world over, and even BMW plans on getting in on the action. BMW CEO Norbert Reithofer has confirmed that the German automaker was working on a 'mega city car' that will carry an all-new look, and two powertrains. One micro car will receive motivation with the aid of standard combustion, but the other will be pure electric. The electric vehicle will also comply with a California mandate that by 2012 there must be a fuel cell or battery-powered car that can travel 200 on a single charge. For comparison sake, GM promises at least 40 miles for the Chevy Volt, and Mitsubishi is looking at 100 mpg for the iMiEV.

It's also worth mentioning that the BMW CEO specifically pointed out that it meets California regulations, signaling that the vehicle would be available Stateside. There is still no word regarding which of BMW's three brands would be used for the vehicle, but we're still very sure it won't be a Rolls Royce.

[Source: AutoCar]

Mercedes CLR coming in 2010

Mercedes is preparing a new open-top four-door models based on the C-Class. It will be called CLR and will be launched in 2010.

The engines option will include: three diesel engines including a four cylinder CDI delivering 170 hp and 204 hp and the three-litre V6 with 272 hp. The petrol engines will range from 170 hp and 220 hp on the three-litre V6 to 272 hp-306 hp from the 3.5-litre one. An AMG version will be powered by the familiar 6.2L V8 engine.

Prices for the compact model will start from around 35,000 euros.

Infiniti bringing FX37 to Paris, no FX37 for the U.S.

Infiniti will equip its European FX series crossover with the 330 hp, 3.7-liter V6 (VQ37VHR) and it's slated to make its world debut at the Paris Motor Show next month.

Infiniti has decided to only offer the 3.7-liter V6 on its range of vehicles abroad, and there are no plans to bring the FX37 Stateside.

Infiniti's crossover will be available in both FX37 GT and FX37S versions, with 0-60 times in the 6.8-second range and a top speed of 145 mph. Standard equipment includes 20-inch alloys, Scratch Shield paint, all-wheel-drive, xenon headlamps and a seven-speed automatic gearbox controlled via steering wheel-mounted paddles. The FX37S comes equipped with 21-inch wheels, sports seats and Continuous Damping Control.

Lotus Europa Diamond Anniversary

Diamonds are a girl’s best friend, unless they’re imbedded in a Lotus. This weekend, to celebrate its 60th anniversary, the company will unveil a special edition Lotus Europa Diamond Edition valued at £150,000 (about $262,000).

The interior was upgraded using the finest quality leather for a superior quilted trim, and the one-of-a-kind gear knob and controls feature sparkling diamonds set in cool matt black metal. The diamond scheme is completed with a specially designed rev counter and speed dials that feature diamonds highlighted by hidden LED accent lighting.

A diamond paint job was accomplished by adding glass flakes to high gloss black paint. Tinted glass and black and silver wheels complete the monochrome diamond scheme on the outside.

For anyone getting the idea that all they have to do is steal the car to drive off with the £111,000 worth of diamonds, think again. Although the car has real diamonds, they will be fake when the car is on display.

2008 Fiat Qubo

Fiat revealed details today on the new Fiorino-based Qubo MPV. Although Fiat does not currently sell to the U.S., it is rumored the company will possibly be making a comeback. So it is good to know what Fiat will offer in a fuel-efficient multi-purpose vehicle.

Fiat is known for using versatile designs for the inside of its MPVs. The Qubo’s larger brother, the Multipla, seats six by having three full seats in the front and rear. Fiat claims the Qubo is as resourceful by offering sixteen different interior variations.

Power for the five-seater comes from a choice of gasor diesel engines like the 1.3-liter 75 bhp Multijet or 1.4-liter 73 bhp petrol engine and can be hooked up to a 5-speed manual or a robotized 6-speed automatic transmission.

Sales have already begun in France and will have spread to the rest of Europe by the beginning of next year. Price of the Euro-only car starts at about €13,000.

Audi R4 - new rendering

First rumors said it will be calledR4, then possibly the R3; but either way it looks like it will have a future. Here is a new rendering of Audi’s plans for a smaller roadster to go under the R8.

The future R4 (or R3) will replace the current generation TT and will compete with the next-generation Porsche Cayman set to be launched in 2013. It will be offered in both coupe and roadster versions.

The Audi R4 will be built off an all-new mid-engine platform and will be a strict two-seater. The R4 will be powered by a series of engines, but the top of them will likely be a V6 engine delivering around 280-300hp.

BMW working on 4 cylinder turbo, may come to U.S.

Rumors of a new four cylinder engine from BMW have been confirmed by BMW's North American leader Jim O'Donnell. Questions on whether it will be offered in the United States, though, are still very much in the air. "We can't really confirm or deny when it is going to come into the US, or if it is going to come into the US, until after the election and the government makes it clear what is going to be the platform that manufacturers have got to work to," says O'Donnell. It really seems so simple to us. If an automaker has a new engine that offers both good performance and good fuel economy, it should be offered in the U.S. market.

Granted, the last effort to sell four-cylinder Bimmers in the States didn't go over so well. But BMW's reputation was earned first by cars like the 2002, which was motivated by a sprightly little four-banger. Considering the fact that BMW owns the MINI brand, the automaker should know better than anyone else that Americans are now willing to spend a good deal of money on small cars with small engines. We'll gladly support a revival of the tii badge on a lightweight 1 Series platform powered by a nice turbo four.

UK Ford dealers take 1000 orders for Focus RS

The fastest piece of machinery ever devised by Ford of Europe, the highly anticipated Focus RS, just had its first public showing in London and is about to be officially unveiled in Paris next month. But with delivery expected to begin sometime next year, Ford dealers in the United Kingdom alone have already taken over 1,000 orders for the new hot hatch. Color options haven't even been officially announced yet – with only Electric Green, Electric Blue and Frozen White confirmed so far – but most customers have already specified their color choices.

[Source: Ford]

NFL, players ordering bulletproof vehicles after Collier attack

Professional football players have been victims of gun violence on several occasions over the past year and a half, and investigators in the latest incident involving Carolina's Richard Collier say the offensive tackle was targeted. The NFL and some top athletes have had enough and contacted the Texas Armoring Corporation for help. The TAC creates custom bullet-proof vehicles for movie stars and public figures, and the company is a self-proclaimed expert at converting luxury vehicles into a blingtastic Brinks-mobile. The TAC says that 80-90% of attacks happen in the car, making armored vehicles a good option for those in the public eye. Professional athletes buying an armored car from the TAC can also get a professional threat assessment from two former CIA operatives.

A quick glance at the TAC website shows that you can get a Cadillac Escalade with 8,000 miles and the ability to stop an AK47 or M-16 for $147,000. That's a bit over blue book for a used SUV, but when considering that it has one-inch-thick glass and European B6 level protection, the six figure price tag isn't all that shocking. It's just sad that we're at the point athletes need a 9,000 lb, overstuffed SUV to get to the game in one piece.

[Source: Business Wire]

Suzuki Kizashi drawings

We first had three different concepts, then heavily camouflaged spy shots and now this latest drawing give us a pretty good idea of how the 2010 KIzashi will look like (just pretend its a coloring book).

The Kizashi will be built in three different body versions: a wagon, crossover and sedan. The last one, showed in the drawings was previewed by the Kizashi 3 Concept unveiled at the New York Auto Show.

The base version will be powered by a 2.5-liter 150-horsepower four-cylinder engine, but there will also be a 3.6-liter 300-horsepower DOHC V-6 version. A 2.0-liter turbodiesel will be available in many markets.

The 2010 Kizashi will be priced from around $21,000 and should finally provide Suzuki with an appealing mid-sized world car.

2009 Lexus IS

Lexus revealed first images and details of the facelift 2009 IS (European model shown) that will make its official debut at the Paris Auto Show.

Refreshed interior and exterior styling represents a further evolution of what Lexus calls its "L-finesse" design philosophy. Lexus said it worked on the suspension, steering, transmissions and paddle shift technology to make improvements to driving dynamics. Aerodynamics and transmission enhancements have reduced the IS 220d’s CO2 emissions by 3%, and by 8% for the Sport version. Lexus ride is also safer now that it has made the electronic stability control known as Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) standard on all IS models

Spy Shots: New Porsche 911 GT3 spied in Spain

Hardcore Porschephiles rejoice, for Stuttgart is preparing a new 911 GT3. It should come as no big surprise since the entire 911 range has once again received a facelift, so following the Carrera, Carrera 4 and Targa models, we can expect a new Turbo, a new GT3 and a new GT2. Apparently the naturally-aspirated hardcore model is the next up to bat, if these spy shots snapped cliffside in Spain serve as any indication.

The shots make for easy comparison: the new GT3 seems to blend elements from the outgoing model and its yet more hardcore brother the GT3 RS, both of which can be seen alongside the new test mule (second from the right, straight on till morning). Expect the same updates found on the rest of the revised range, plus a wing that lies somewhere in between that found on the current GT3 and the current GT3 RS. The centrally-mounted exhaust pipes look bigger than the previous version, but that's all we can tell from the rear shots at this point. With a little patience, we'll be able to see the new GT3 undisguised shortly.

[Source: World Car Fans]

Citroën C3 Picasso unveiled ahead of show

It sounds as if Citroën sees it's new C3 Picasso as a rolling contradiction in terms. According to the automaker, it is compact and spacious and blends strength and comfort; quality and affordability; performance and economy; contemporary and retro design; square shapes and flowing curves and style and practicality. All right, we can give them style and practicality, which the peculiar C3 seems to offer in spades -- though the French people mover is stylish in the same way it's namesake's paintings are a beautiful, if not an acquired taste. After reading through Citroën's press release, pasted after the break, it sounds as if there are plenty of innovative storage options as well. We do like how the automaker revels in its own quirkiness and was able to make the cockpit seem so bright and airy with all that glass. Four engines will be offered, two gas and two diesel.

Honda readies refreshed Civic Hybrid and i-DTEC gearbox

It's the impending debut of the all-new Prius-assaulting Insight hybrid that's got our hearts all aflutter over Honda's booth at the upcoming Paris Motor Show, but that's not all the automaker will be bringing with it to the City of Lights. Along with the new dedicated hybrid we'll see the latest version of its older and somewhat less interesting brother, the Civic Hybrid, that along with the rest of the Civic line for '09, gets a small bit of freshening for the new model year. We do like the looks of the new front-end, but besides that, there's not much to see here... and so we move along to the CR-Z hybrid coupe that Honda's been showing off since Tokyo. Big H's other stab at saving the world runs on hydrogen, the FCX Clarity. Despite the fact that nobody in Europe will be able to buy it, it'll be there with bells on.

Honda will also use the Paris Motor Show to introduce the Continent to its new-for-'09 Jazz, known to us Yanks as the Fit. Something else that should be of interest to the Europeans is Honda's first automatic gearbox for its ubiquitous 2.2-liter diesel engine, dubbed the i-DTEC, which rounds out the new stuff that Honda has to show in Paris.

[Source: Honda]

All-new Honda City launched in Thailand

Despite the fact that the entire world got an unabated view of it already, Honda has just dropped the curtain on its brand-new City economy car that's now officially on sale in Thailand. No, we won't get this car in the States; it's destined to remain primarily in Asia and emerging markets. That's a shame, 'cause we can see plenty to like here, starting with its powertrain. A 1.5-liter i-VTEC engine sends a healthy 120 horsepower to the front wheels through either an automatic or manual transmission with five speeds. As you might imagine, it will positively sip fuel in the process. In Thailand, the new City will sell for 524,000 – 694,000 baht. Not that it matters since it won't be sold here, but that equals about $15,000 in U.S. dollars.

Renault Ondelios Concept crossover

Most concepts these days are designed with one eye on production, but every once in a while we get a humdinger like the Renault Ondelios Concept that's scheduled to debut next month at the Paris Motor Show. The Ondelios is Renault's far out vision for a high-end crossover of the future. The exterior has a slippery shape with a drag coefficient of 0.29 and a look that's certainly... umm... futuristic. The transition from the dark-colored carbon fiber body to the glazed greenhouse is supposed to blend and make the whole car appear as one piece of material. The two gull-wing doors swing up and the side sills lower to become steps, thus easing ingress into the six-seat CUV of tomorrow.

Occupants will find slim line seats inside that recline like a business class seat with footrests, as well as personal entertainment devices on the back of each cantilevered headrest. The dash is completely smooth with controls that light up from beneath the surface, while views from various outboard cameras are projected at the base of the steeply raked windshield. Renault's vision of the future must include a continued concern over fuel economy, as the Ondelios is a diesel hybrid with a 2.0L dCi engine supported by two electric motors placed at each end. Renault claims the hybrid concept, which comes packing a 7-speed double-clutch transmission, could hit 62 mph in 7.8 seconds. Of course, the Ondelios Concept appears to be nothing more than designers and engineers at Renault stretching their legs a bit while the developing the next Megane, Clio and Twingo.

Quantum of Solace featuring Aston Martin DBS

Bond is back! And so is his Aston Martin DBS (well, likely a new one because I think we all shed a tear when he wrecked the first one in Casino Royale.) Here’s the latest trailer for the new Bond flick, the Quantum of Solace. In this quick preview we get to see his Aston in action as well as some of the movie’s lesser cars like the new Ford Ka.

2010 Ford Mustang details revealed

Autoblog put its hands on the first detail pictures of the 2010 Ford Mustang GT that will make its official debut at this year’s Los Angeles Auto Show.

The 2010 Mustang will be offered with a V-6 and a variety of V-8 engines. Although there is not much in the pictures, we can tell the design will be somewhat faithful to the Giugiaro concept that was unveiled in 2006 at the Los Angeles Auto Show. This includes the sleeker bumper and headlights as well as a new rear end treatment.

Make sure to spice up your new 'Stang with Aftermarket 2010 Mustang Parts from AmericanMuscle.com.

2009 Dodge Charger details released

Chrysler has released official details of its refreshed 2009 Dodge Charger, changes to which most notably include a new-generation HEMI V8 in the R/T model that produces 368 horsepower and 395 lb-ft torque, up from 340 hp and 390 lb-ft. Sounds like someone's going hunting for a G8 GT. The increase in power comes from a new variable valve timing system, and along with the continued use of MDS (multi-displacement system), the 5.7-liter V8 can achieve up to 24 mpg on the highway. The 6.1-liter HEMI V8 in the SRT8 and the 3.5-liter V6 in the SXT model remain unchanged, although the 2.7-liter V6 in the Charger SE drops from 190 to 178 horsepower.

On the outside the Charger gets a new taillamp design and the antenna has now been moved to the rear window. The SE model benefits from the upgraded interior of the R/T including satin silver trim on the door, center console, cup holder, and shifter bezel. The SE model also receives a trunk cargo net and premium floor mats.

Cadillac considering supercharged CTS-V Sport Wagon

Put your checkbook away. As desirable as a CTS wagon in hot-rod V trim is, it's not here yet. The CTS Sport Wagon was developed as a way to offer the European market a configuration that's sure to sell, and it's headed to North America by the end of next year. When the Caddy wagon finally gets here, it will have the excellent 3.6-liter V6 providing power. Wagons aren't great sellers here, though, so the CTS Sport Wagon will likely be a niche model, dashing most of our hope that Cadillac will put its hottest powertrain in the two-box car just like BMW, Mercedes and Audi do.

The hardware port would be mostly a snap. The supercharged V8 is ready to go and the CTS-V has been developed around that engine, so there's suspension and drivetrain parts already on the shelf, and the V has already set the style direction for bodywork tweaks. While we won't be holding our breath for a CTS-V Sport Wagon that can rip off 12-second quarters while hauling 120 cubic feet of stuff, Cadillac's David Caldwell points out that the pre-existing hardware would make it "a relatively easy add." A high price – though still less than the German SuperWagens – wouldn't help the sales case, and really, there's only like ten of us wagon freaks, anyway. It probably won't happen, but it could, and it would be quite a welcome respite from those high-CG truck-lookin' things.

Ferrari 430 Scuderia Spider

Lies. Damn lies and speculation. Rumor would be another way to put it, as word of a potential convertible version of the 430 Scuderia spreads across cyberspace. Tentatively referred to as the 430 Scuderia Spider, the roadster would naturally be based on the lightweight, Enzo-rivaling 430 Scuderia supercar, but with the roof chopped off.

Various reports have given conflicting information about what kind of roof mechanism would be fitted to the Spideria, including a retractable hard-top similar to that found on the new California, a manual cloth roof to keep weight down, or the same automatic fabric top from the conventional F430 Spider. Or maybe no roof at all, who knows. The wide range of speculation leads us to chalk this up to pure rumor. The removal of structural rigidity and the addition of weight would seem antithetical to the Scuderia's entire raison d'etre. However the prevailing reports suggest that the Spider will also get the California's new seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox, be produced in a limited series of 300 and be unveiled on November 5 at the Ferrari Challenge weekend in Mugello... the same event where Ferrari unveiled the FXX Evoluzione last year. Jon Sibal, the skilled supercar illustrator we've come to know and trust, has presented a few renderings of what the 430 Scuderia Spider could look like.

2010 MINI Crossover Concept

Rumors about a Crossover from MINI circulated for quite a long time. Today, the company wanted to prove they are as serious as possible about this and revealed first preview of the future model with the unveiling of the Crossover Concept. Official debut will be made at the Paris Auto Show.

The MINI Crossover Concept is a new model variant for the first time measuring more than four meters in length, with four drive wheels, four doors and four single seats. These features alone place the new car right in the line of vision of new target groups seeking to combine the individual style of the brand with enhanced versatility within the interior and innovative functionality throughout.

The Concept features an all-wheel drive system that gives the new model an even wider range of practical use in new areas and a new experience on routes already driven. But in doing so the MINI Crossover Concept is not limited to the usual status of a conventional all-wheeler. Rather, to offer its additional mobility potential even more consistently, the Concept Car comes with numerous design features making it an all-round talent for a unique experience in everyday life, for enjoying leisure time to the utmost, for adventure travels of all kinds and for travel planning.

ASI's 800hp Tetsu GTR Bentley Continental GT

What does SEMA mean to you? For most of us, it's a place for the country's top tuners to show their wares to a power-hungry public. But the dark side of SEMA never ceases to rear its ugly head, and further proof will be available at the Toyo booth where the Tetsu GTR Bentley Continental GT will be displayed.

The unholy brainchild of Japanese tuner ASI features a custom carbon fiber wide-body kit that makes ASMA's unfortunate creations look demure in comparison. The two-tone paint scheme... uhhh... compliments the massive haunches, deep side skirts and GT-style wing, while 22-inch blingalicious rollers prove that chrome is still in high demand... unfortunately.

According to Modified Luxury and Exotics, only 29 Tetsu GTRs will be produced, each putting out over 800 hp. We'll be on hand to provide live shots of the other five vehicles featured at the Toyo stand, assuming our camera lens doesn't crack when we zoom in on the GTR's gaudy fascia.

[Source: Modified Luxury and Exotics]

Renault Megane III made officially official

As its expansive name might suggest, the Megane is a hugely important car for Renault, competing in the same highly competitive segment as the Ford Focus and Volkswagen Golf. But while the rest of Renault's range – including the Clio, Twingo and Laguna – has seen recent replacement, the second-generation Megane has carried on essentially unchanged for six years. The Megane won't have to wait any longer as Renault has properly released photos and details of its new mid-range vehicle, anticipated for unveiling at next month's Paris Motor Show.

The new Megane's styling takes cues from the concept unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show this past March, but seems to share more in common with the larger Laguna sedan. The Megane also promises to deliver significant improvements in terms of quality and equipment levels over the model it replaces. A new analogue/digital instrument cluster is incorporated, along with an intuitive color-coded cruise control module, hands-free entry and ignition and Bluetooth DVD sat-nav system. Powertrain options range from 100-hp to 180-hp gasoline engines and diesel choices ranging from 85 to 150 hp, all of which are mated to a range of five- and six-speed manual and automatic transmissions.

Renault says no fewer than six different versions of the Megane will hit the market by 2010, each developed as its own model to give each its own individual identity. We'll venture a guess at a three-door hatch, five-door hatch, four-door sedan and wagon. A hard-top convertible would also be a safe bet. But what enthusiasts want is the Renaultsport version, as the French automaker has long commanded attention in the hot hatch realm.

Gumpert Apollo coming to the U.S.

Gumpert Apollo- Fastest New Supercar?



Top Gear’s top car couldn’t stay off these shores forever. It seems that Gumpert will officially import its Apollo supercar to the U.S. The car may look ugly, but its 650 hp Audi-sourced twin-turbo V8 makes it beautifully fast. The only thing quicker than the car is the money escaping your wallet. Base price is around $400,000 and can climb as high as $750,000.



For regulation purposes, the cars will be imported as a kit and assembled in the U.S. Watch as the assembler, Evolution Motorsports of Arizona, goes through the U.S. spec cars.

Volvo C30, S40 and V50 1.6D DRIVe

Volvo will unveil at the Paris Auto Show diesel versions for the C30, S40 and V50 models with fuel consumption of just 4.4 litres/100 km (C30) or 4.5 litres/100 km (S40 and V50) aand C)2 emissions of 115 and 118 g/km mean that the C30 and V50 have best-in-class CO2 emissions in their segments.

The DRIVe models are based on the Volvo C30 Efficiency concept car that was shown at the Frankfurt motor show in October 2007. The measures adopted to reduce CO2 emissions that were presented then will be in production before the end of the year in the C30, S40 and the V50.

2008 Chevrolet Orlando

Chevrolet today unveiled the first details on the Orlando Concept that will make its official debut at the Paris Auto Show. Orlando is a seven-seat multi-purpose vehicle with distinctive sport utility-like design, adaptable seating and impressive interior space.

The Orlando is based on the recently announced all-new Cruze compact sedan and explores the potential of combining the versatility attributes of a sport utility, a family van and a wagon in a single execution.

Under the hood, Chevrolet placed the latest-generation 2.0-liter turbo diesel, developing 150 hp and 320 Nm of torque that provides a powerful and fuel efficient powertrain.

MINI creates Bzzz for Clubman with new commercial

MINI has a new commercial for the Clubman that looks like a teaser for a new Tim Burton film -- all it's missing is Johnny Depp. Detailing the arcane goings on at a funeral for a fly, we aren't sure how the commercial is supposed to make humans want to buy the car, but that's why ad guys get paid the big dollars and we don't. However, we do have to admit that the three-swatter salute was a nice touch.

Pontiac G8 GXP officially rated at 415 hp

The V8-powered Pontiac G8 GT has garnered a fair amount of respect around Autoblog HQ, with almost everyone who's spent time behind the wheel singing the praises of the Aussie-imported four-door muscle car. We're all suckers for rubber-melting torque and rear-wheel motivation, and even El Capitan Neff has thought about retiring his Alero for a shot at G8 ownership. For the rest of us, a six-speed manual would seal the deal.

Next year Pontiac will finally offer a proper cog swapper on its G8 GXP, and not only do drivers get to row their own gears, but they're getting an extra 13 horses and 15 lb.-ft. of torque to boot. The SAE has finally performed its official testing on the 6.2-liter LS3 V8 and output is up to 415 horsepower and an equal amount of twist.

With 19-inch HSV wheels framing 14-inch (front) and 12.76-inch (rear) discs and Brembo calipers, a standard LSD and a stiffened suspension, the additional power is just another reason to be smitten by the Pontiac G8 GXP. That, and the Tremac TR060 manual.

Artega plans new model

In an interview with CarMagazine, Artega announced there will also be a second model, smaller engines and more besides.

The new model will feature a lighter and more economical four-cylinder engine. Also, by 2010 Artega will launch a soft-top version of the current Artega GT.

The 2010 might also be the year when the Artega will enter the US market.

The Artega factory will officially open in September 2008 when the first dealer demonstrators are to roll off the line. By the end of the year, the batch of limited-edition ‘Intro 2008’ models will be completed, plus perhaps 50 built-to-order customer cars

2011 Chevy Volt revealed!

Though its first official public debut isn't scheduled until early next week, the 2011 Chevy Volt has been introduced to the internet early courtesy of the The Car Connection, which published these apparently official pictures of the revolutionary series hybrid today. In the past few weeks we've seen official teasers shots of the car mixed with spy video taken on the set of Transformers 2: Revenge of the Fallen, all of which have only served to increase excitement ahead of the car's official debut next week. These pics give up the goods like no others, however, and show various GM execs and engineers directly responsible for its development posing alongside like proud papas. The list includes, in order, Tony Posawatz, Bob Lutz, Bob Boniface, Frank Weber, and Andrew Farah.

What we see is a vehicle about the size of the current Chevy Cobalt or next-gen Cruze with a very aerodynamic front end and high rear decklid. There are some futuristic design elements too, including the LED fog lights, black expanse beneath the windows and Volt badging attached to the sideview mirrors. Perhaps the most poignant pic of all is Lutz himself doing a double-handed lean on the production Volt, as GM's product czar has been the most visible figure during the car's very public development.

Next Escalade to go Lambda

MotorTrend reports that GM insiders are saying that the next-generation Cadillac Escalade will jump from its current GMT900 truck platform to the Lambda crossover architecture that underpins the GMC Acadia, Saturn Outlook, Buick Enclave, and Chevy Traverse. MT points to the Buick Enclave Super that didn't happen as evidence that an Escalambda would be able to handle an eight-cylinder engine, which would be a step up from the rest of El Generalissimo's increasingly-crowded crossover lineup. Edgier, CTS-like styling would likely be a given, too.

Frankly, this is a good idea. The packaging afforded by the Lambda platform is vastly superior to what the GMT900 trucks offer. Remember that in the latter, the 3rd row is bolted to the cargo floor, it doesn't fold flat, and it's generally uncomfortable. The Lambda solves that instantly, and is better suited for what's positioned as a luxury vehicle anyway. Ride quality would be much better, and if GM Design were to deliver an interior on par with what's now found in the CTS, a Lambda-based Escalade would probably represent a quantum leap forward in terms of styling and refinement over the current vehicle.

As for the Avalanche-based Escalade EXT, MT says that GM's mulling over the idea of moving to a unibody pickup, a la the Zeta-based GMC Denali XT concept, to replace both of those vehicles. Again, not a bad idea, especially for Cadillac. The downside is that owners of the current vehicles who use them to tow will likely need to look elsewhere to fill that need. Still, if Cadillac's gig is to sell legit luxury vehicles, moving to more car-like platforms makes all kinds of sense. It's going to be really interesting to see if any of this stuff actually pans out.

[Source: MotorTrend]

Porsche Cayenne S Transsyberia special edition

Porsche has won the Transsyberia Rally that runs 4,400 miles across Russia, Siberia and Mongolia three times in a row using only slightly modified versions of its Cayenne S. Not only that, it swept the podium in 2007 and took the top six places in this year's rally that ended just a few weeks ago. In celebration of these achievements, the German sportscar and erstwhile SUV maker is offering a special edition Cayenne called the Cayenne S Transsyberia. Scheduled to debut at the Paris Motor Show next month, the Cayenne S Transsyberia features the 405-hp direct-inject 4.8L V8 from the Cayenne GTS mated to Porsche's six-speed automatic transmission with a final drive ratio shortened 15% to 4.1:1. That scoots the big ute to 60 mph 6.1 seconds, half a sec quicker than a stock Cayenne S.

What really sets the Cayenne S Transsyberia apart, however, are its exterior color combinations, which include Black/Orange, Crystal Silver Metallic/Orange, Black/Meteor Grey and Meteor Grey Metallic/Crystal Silver Metallic. These contrasting color combos are coordinated with the 18-inch wheels, rear spoiler, skid plates, and air intake slats. The large "Cayenne S Transsyberia" model designation graphic that runs across the doors and the roof-mounted light bar are also both no-cost options but really make the package what it is. The interior is adorned with ornamental trim and the exterior color combo is carried through, and there's also a twelve o'clock mark on the steering as an homage to this truck's motorsports connection.

Porsche says deliveries will start in Europe in January 2009, while 600 units of the Cayenne S Transsyberia are slated for North American consumption

Saturn Astra too expensive, not profitable

Car buyers here in the States are clamoring for fuel efficient transportation, but so far the Saturn Astra hasn't been on the top of buyers lists. The Astra is a smash hit in Europe , but it may just be too expensive compared to the competition with a starting price of $16,495. General Motors isn't keeping the price high to make a profit on the small volume import, either. GM vice chairman and quote master Bob Lutz told Automotive News that the Belgian-made Astra isn't profitable in the U.S. at all anymore due to the weak value of the Dollar vs. the Euro. The Astra has gone up in price by $500 since its introduction to reflect the broadening gap between the two currencies, and the price hike was implemented only to lessen the hit from the currency exchange. The Astra is not just a financial burden for the General – it isn't exactly a sales success, either. GM has sold only 7,914 so far this year, which is far below the projected pace of 25,000 annual units. Part of the problem is that few people actually know the Astra exists, and those who do may not want to pay the relatively high price of entry.

Gustav evacuee wins Mustang on the way home

Norris Cadiere and his family were among the thousands who evacuated their New Orleans-area homes ahead of Hurricane Gustav last week. The Cadieres, who waited out the storm in Georgia, decided to stop at the Hollywood Casino in Bay St. Louis, MS on the way back to their home in Marrero, which is around 10 miles outside New Orleans. Norris was playing the maximum bet on one of the casino's nickel slots when he got lucky, and the slot machine started going berserk. Cadiere thought he had won himself a thousand bucks or so, but he soon learned that, in fact, he had won a $30,000 2008 Mustang convertible (we're assuming it's a GT, given that price). All too often, violent storms like this result in a loss of some kind for those affected by them. In the Cadieres' case, not only did they wind up with a brand new car, but their house escaped the storm unscathed as well. Little did they know that when they took their unplanned (and almost certainly unwanted) road trip last week, Lady Luck would be riding shotgun the whole time.

[Source: SunHerald.com]

Lexus releases details on updated 2009 range

Lexus has some changes in store for most of its model lineup in 2009, though there doesn't appear to be anything in store for enthusiast drivers to rejoice over. Also cause for jeers instead of cheers: price increases from .8 to 1.1 percent, depending on model. The IS 250 and 350 do get revised suspension and steering tuning to go with exterior styling tweaks and the revised interior carries a new center cluster and an off switch for the VDIM stability control. The IS F über-IS also gets a new interior rendered in terra cotta and black that's termed "sporty."

The only news in the GS department is a 40% increase in trunk space for the GS 450h hybrid, which sounds fantastic but only amounts to 10.6 total cubic feet. The big LS sedans stay largely the same, though some new variants join the party. AWD versions of the LS 460 and LS 460 L tuck a Torsen differential onto the transmission's output shaft, which then marshalls torque between front and rear axles. Slick. The AWD LSes come standard with air suspension, variable-ratio steering, and adaptive suspension. Hit the jump for the full press release with detailed pricing info.

[Source: Toyota]

Lexus Announces Model Year Price Changes on Select Models

09/05/2008

September. 5, 2008 - Torrance, CA. - Lexus announced Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices (MSRP) today for the 2009 IS 250 and IS 350 luxury sport sedans, IS F high-performance luxury sport sedan, ES 350 luxury sedan, GS 350 and GS 460 luxury sport sedans, GS 450h luxury hybrid sport sedan, LS 460 and LS 460 L premium luxury sedans, the recently added LS 460 and LS 460 L all-wheel drive versions, and the LS 600h L premium hybrid luxury sedan.

The 2009 IS 250 and IS 350 will receive significant enhancements to both its exterior and interior. Exterior changes include newly designed 17- and 18-inch wheel, front and rear bumpers, a revised front grille, and side rear-view mirrors with incorporated turn signals. The interior will receive a newly designed center cluster and foldable rear headrests.

Mechanically, both the IS 250 and IS 350 receive a revised suspension and steering tuning, further enhancing the cars' handling. In addition, the IS 250 will come standard with Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) with a cutoff switch, which had been available only on the IS 350. The 2009 IS 250 manual and automatic, IS 250 all-wheel drive, and IS 350 receive a 0.8-1.0 percent increase or $300. The IS 250 with a manual transmission will carry a base MSRP of $31,155, the IS 250 with an automatic transmission will have a base MSRP of $32,325, the IS 250 all-wheel drive will carry a base MSRP of $34,785 and the IS 350 will have a base MSRP of $36,605.

Launched earlier this year, the Lexus IS F also will receive a few enhancements for the 2009 model year. New features include a revised instrument panel cluster design, illuminated mirror controls, a new open/close moonroof switch, and a piano-black center-cluster finish for navigation-equipped vehicles. A sporty new terra cotta and black two-tone interior will also be offered in 2009. The IS F will have a base MSRP of $56,610, an increase of 1.1 percent or $610.
The 2009 ES 350 will carry over unchanged with a base MSRP of $34,320, an increase of 0.6 percent or $200.

The 2009 GS 350, GS 350 all-wheel drive, and GS 460 luxury sport sedans carry over unchanged, with each receiving a 0.6-0.7 percent increase or $300. The GS 350 will have a base MSRP of $44,850, the GS 350 all-wheel drive will be $46,800, and the GS 460 will be $53,320. The 2009 GS 450h hybrid luxury sport sedan receives an increase in trunk capacity of more than 40 percent, yielding 10.6 cu. ft. of space. It will have a base MSRP of $56,400, an increase of 1.1 percent or $600.

The 2009 LS 460 and LS 460 L luxury sedans carry over with the addition of front-passenger-seat memory. The LS 460 will have a base MSRP of $63,675, an increase of 1.2 percent or $775; the LS 460 L will have a base MSRP of $73,585, an increase of 0.9 percent or $685.

The newest additions to the LS lineup are the all-wheel drive versions of the LS 460 and LS 460 L, and they will carry base MSRPs of $67,200 and $77,110, respectively. The AWD system features a highly compact center TORSEN® Limited-Slip Differential (LSD) that distributes drive torque between the front and rear wheels. In addition to the luxury, convenience and safety features found on the current LS 460, both AWD versions will come standard with air suspension, Variable Gear-Ratio Steering (VGRS), and Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS).

The 2009 LS 600h L flagship hybrid luxury sedan adds front-passenger-seat memory to a long list of luxury features and will have a base MSRP of $105,885, an increase of 0.9 percent or $985.

The MSRP does not include a delivery, processing and handling fee of $825.

Live-superbike

Superbike - Aggregate

1 21 Bayliss T. (AUS) Ducati 1098 F08 29'55.384 (153,267 kph) 2 66 Sykes T. (GBR) Suzuki GSX-R1000 k 1.266 3 3 Biaggi M. (ITA) Ducati 1098 RS 08 28.636 4 36 Lavilla G. (ESP) Honda...
SBK RIDERS RANKING

1
Bayliss
AUS
334

2
Neukirchner
GER
252

3
Corser
AUS
242

4
Checa
ESP
233

5
Haga
JPN
230

Nissan Livina XR New

Nissan
The style with SPACIOUSLY COMPACT You will find extra spaces And Luxury Interor design /desain interior yang mewah.Hopefully it will Add More Style to Life. supporting with  dynamic hatchback .
Live with More Power and Control LIVE WITH MORE POWER AND CONTROL
Nissan Livina makes you Easy Everyday Use EASY EVERYDAY USE .more space,  Riding Comfort RIDING COMFORT
Here  are Pricing For Nissan Livina In  Jakarta,

Price for   Nissan Livina untuk wilayah Jakarta:

Tipe:	Harga:
Livina XR 1.5L M/T	Rp.148.000.000,-
Livina XR 1.5L A/T	Rp.156.000.000,-
Livina X-gear	Rp.162.500.000,-
Livina X-gear AT	Rp.170.500.000,-

NB: Untuk pertanyaan langsung mengenai , Layanan purna jual.
Nissan Customer Relation Departement

Jl. M.T. Haryono Kav. 10
Jakarta 13330, Indonesia
Telp: +628121128000
Fax : 021-8584928
E-mail:customer.relation@nissan.co.id

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