204 hp lithium battery powered MINI E revealed!

BMW has finally unleashed some information and photos of the much anticipated MINI E set to debut next month at the LA Auto Show. For those who haven't been paying attention, late last spring BMW announced plans to build and lease a fleet of 500 battery powered MINIs starting sometime in 2009. The front wheels of the MINI E receive torque through a single speed gearbox from a 204 hp, 162 lb-ft electric motor. Those numbers are rather unusual for an electric drive system which usually has much more torque. Nonetheless, the MINI E can hustle to 62 mph in 8.5 seconds and, according to BMW, can cover about 150 miles on a full charge of its lithium ion battery pack.

Anyone who has driven a MINI knows that the back seat is for small kids or occasional use only. For the purposes of this electric version, that is no longer an issue as that area has been completely consumed by the battery pack. The pack itself has a capacity of 35 kWh and judging by the description the company has used a similar set up to the Tesla Roadster. Instead of larger cells specifically designed for automotive applications, this pack uses 5,088 cells arranged in 48 modules. As always, charging time depends on the current and voltage of the outlet the car is plugged into. MINI will be supplying a high current charging station with the cars that can be installed in the driver's garage to facilitate quicker charges, providing a full charge in 2.5 hours. The regenerative braking system can provide three-quarters of the braking requirements when running in urban stop and go driving. Aside from the battery pack replacing the rear seat and the yellow trim, the main change inside is a battery meter that replaces the tachometer in front of the driver. BMW will be leasing the 500 cars to commercial and private customers in California, New York and New Jersey starting early next year. They may eventually expand the program to Europe as well.

[Source: MINI]

Ford to sell Mazda shares to insurers?

While GM is being swamped with the persistent rumors surrounding the addition/dissolution of Chrysler, Ford's rumor mill has been heading in the complete opposite direction. It appears Volvo is on the way out of Dearborn, but Mazda may be sneaking through the exit first. Recent reports since disputed by Mazda have Ford selling off a portion of its 33.4% stake in the Japanese automaker, which means the Blue Oval would lose majority ownership status. The Nikkei daily in Japan has been all over the Ford/Mazda story, and the latest news involves selling 20% of Mazda to 20 Japanese firms including some insurance companies, leaving Ford with a stake of around 13%.

Ford is allegedly unwilling to sell the shares to its competition, so splitting the Mazda shares in 20 small chunks makes picking up all the shares difficult. Besides five insurance companies, parts maker Denso, steel companies, and trading companies are also rumored to be taking part in the purchase. The price of 1% Mazda ownership is in the neighborhood of $40 million, and the total sale could approach $1 billion. Japanese media is reporting that any deal could be announced next month, and neither Mazda or Ford are saying a word at this point.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

SEMA Preview: Toyota Venza Sportlux by Street Image

Toyota's SEMAfied Venzas won't stop, even if we ask nicely. The second modified don't-call-it-a-Camry wagon comes courtesy of Street Image, which will bring the SportLux Venza "performance show car" to SEMA. A contradiction in terms if we've ever heard it.

According to Toyota PR, the SportLux is a model that could be offered as a factory tuner, complete with six-piece body kit, spoiler, custom grille and, of course, a hood scoop.

Thankfully, Street Image's blood, sweat and tears didn't stop with the body, so a TRD supercharger has been fitted to the engine (although no power figures were divulged), sending the additional grunt to four, 24-inch Chrome Cognac No 20 wheels (seriously), suspended by a set of custom coilovers. The same brakes fitted to the Five Axis vehicle appear on the SportLux, and in keeping with the "Lux" part of its name, black suede covers the roof, sunvisors, pillars and trunk, along with a black and burgundy leather interior, accent lighting and color matched trim. An Eclipse AVN6620 sound system with a 7-inch TFT display churns out 2,500 watts of only the finest Michael Bolton.

Hit the jump to read the press release and expect more from the show floor in a few weeks.

[Source: Toyota | Image: Jalopnik]

Mercedes-Benz E-class coupe

The crew from CAR laid out what the future holds for Mercedes' two-door offerings and now its tapped Larson to render what the forthcoming E-class coupe will look like ahead of its debut at the Geneva Motor Show next year.

Taking cues from the Fascination concept unveiled in Paris, the sporty E-class features a pair of drawn and halved headlamps that nix the oval units fitted to Mercs in the last decade, along with a pair of highly stylized rear fenders sporting a two-tiered blister that flows into the reworked rear end.

Engine choices will range from 184 hp four-cylinders (E200k) to an E63 AMG variant putting down 481 hp, while a 525 hp Black Series version will be offered further down the line. Seven-speed automatics will proliferate throughout the range, along with direct injection on all gasoline-powered models.

Having learned from past mistakes, Mercedes-Benz will throttle back some of its high-tech features, nixing the brake-by-wire system, along with the air suspension and active body control. But all won't be lost. When the convertible version arrives six months after the coupe, Mercedes will offer it with a heated fabric roof to keep occupants warm in the winter, while infra-red night vision, hard-drive navigation and front seats that tilt and slide to ease ingress and egress will keep Mercedes' owners in their element.

The 2009 E-class coupe (code-named C206) should arrive in June, while the drop-top variant (A206) will follow later next year.

[Source: CAR]

Corvette C7 put on indefinite hold

According to multiple unnamed sources speaking with Autoweek, General Motors has put its plans for a C7 Corvette on "indefinite hold, with no official or set timetable." That's a pretty broad admission, but not entirely surprising considering the financial issues plaguing GM, the rest of the domestics and the world as a whole.

Originally it was thought that the current C6 Corvette would undergo significant upgrades over the course of the next five years, with the C7 coming to market in 2014. That timeframe doesn't appear to hold water anymore, and Autoweek maintains that GM's leadership doesn't have a clear plan for what the future holds for the 'Vette, not to mention the rest of the General's lineup.

However, Corvette vehicle-line executive Tom Wallace assured the weekly pub that the halo coupe isn't going anywhere. "We're still working on future Corvettes," Wallace said, and "there are changes, some neat stuff, coming for 2010 that I can't talk about yet." Wallace went on to say that the 2010 model wouldn't be considered an all-new car and that the 35-mpg CAFE standards for 2020 are having an effect on future drivetrains specs of the next Corvette.

[Source: Autoweek]

SEMA Preview: Toyota Venza AS V by Five Axis

Toyota gave a sneak peak of its two tuned Venzas ahead of their unveiling at SEMA, and the first, designed and executed by Five Axis, is an attempt to portrait the jacked-up wagon as the go-to vehicle for active lifestyle types.

The Venza AS V (Active Sports Versatility) features a custom body kit, Five Axis-designed AD R6:F_SPEC 20x10.5-inch deep dish wheels wrapped in Yokohama Advan ST tires (305/45s all around), TRD big brakes with six-piston calipers gripping 15-inch discs up front and four-piston calipers clamping 13.6-inch rotors in the rear, along with a custom rear cargo unit and a Magna Car Top cargo lifter mounted on the rear bumper.

All the details are in the press release below the fold and expect more live images to follow in a few weeks.

[Source: Toyota ]

Cadillac prices 2009 CTS-V from $59,995

The Cadillac CTS-V has already proven that its impressive power stats translate nicely to the track with sub-8 minute 'Ring times and a 0-60 time of 3.9 seconds. The General is also positioning its new 556-hp halo sedan as a performance bargain, having announced today that it will go on sale around November 1 with a starting price of just $59,995. That's more than $40,000 cheaper than the less powerful XLR-V, and we'd argue the CTS-V is more attractive with its v2.0 Art and Science styling and works much better as a daily driver with its back seat and usable trunk. The CTS-V also makes the larger $80,900 STS-V sedan completely irrelevant considering its 86-hp power advantage, improved aesthetics and quicker moves. Even the vaunted BMW M5 with its higher starting price of $83,900 and less powerful 500-hp 5.0L V10 engine can't touch the CTS-V in price or performance

[Source: GM]

PRESS RELEASE

Cadillac's All-New 2009 CTS-V Ready For Launch

The 2009 CTS-V, Cadillac's 556-hp expression of ultimate performance and luxury, begins production this month with initial sales beginning around November 1. The latest in the brand's V-Series of high performance models, the new CTS-V is intended to reach the top of the world's most desirable luxury cars, at a starting price of $59,995 in the US market.

"The launch of the new CTS-V presents a compelling proposition for luxury and performance enthusiasts," says Mark McNabb, North America vice president, Cadillac/Premium Channel. "The CTS-V is a strong statement about Cadillac design and technology and a new member in the club of the highest performing luxury cars."

The CTS-V, based on Cadillac's critically acclaimed CTS sports sedan, expresses the full extent of the brand's dramatic design and technology. Designed to enter the stratosphere of the world's fastest and most exclusive luxury sedans, CTS-V includes advanced performance technology such as a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine and Magnetic Ride Control, the world's fastest reacting suspension.

The new CTS-V comes standard with a nearly complete collection of features, including a hand-crafted cabin, a 6-speed manual transmission and a Bose surround sound system with a 40-gigabyte hard drive with a USB port. In addition there are a few options available, including a new 6-speed automatic transmission with steering wheel mounted shift buttons, 14-way adjustable Recaro performance seats, microfiber interior accents and a large "Ultra-View" sunroof.
"Along with the new Escalade Hybrid, the CTS-V is a key aspect in Cadillac's ongoing renaissance, with dramatic designs and very sophisticated technologies for luxury consumers," McNabb said. "These two new high-tech Cadillac models pave the way for a series of new Cadillac models coming in 2009, including the upcoming CTS Sport Wagon and SRX Crossover."

Ferrari’s plans for the future

The hardtop convertible California is already a very successful model, but Ferrari is not one to dwell on success. Once the California goes on sale in the U.S. in June 2009, Ferrari will prepare a redesigned F430 for the second half of 2009. The car will feature a new aluminum chassis and a direct-injection engine derived from the California, as well as the new seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

In 2010 or 2011 we will see a retractable hardtop variant of the 599 GTB Fiorano; while the 612 Scaglietti will be replaced in 2011.

The biggest news coming from Ferrari is a limited edition high-performance car, possibly 2010 or 2011. The car will use lightweight construction inspired by the Millechili concept, which was unveiled last year at Ferrari’s 60th anniversary event. The concept has a 550-hp, twin-turbocharged, direct-injection 3.0-liter V-8. The production car will likely be powered by a V-12.

[Source:Automotive News]

Toyota iQ commercial

Toyota revealed today the first commercial of the iQ minicar that has just been launched on the Japanese market. Toyota expects to sell 100,000 units of the iQ in its first year of production globally.

CFCS auctioning off 2010 Chevy Camaro SS #3

The all-new Chevy Camaro is a pony car that's a few months away from its scheduled production date, so that means it's charity auction time. Ford and Chrysler have already proven that a new Mustang or Challenger can bring hundreds of thousands of dollars to a deserving charity, and GM and the College for Creative Studies hope they can create similar bidding magic. Up for grabs on eBay is the number three production Camaro. It's a loaded SS model with a 422 hp 6.2L V8 mated to a six speed manual tranny. The winning bidder should take delivery of the vehicle at Suburban Chevrolet Cadillac Saab HUMMER of Ann Arbor, MI in the spring of 2009, but the auctioneer warns that delivery could be delayed until later in the year.

The winning bidder will also have to come strong with the Benjamins, too, as three bidders have already brought the price over $40,000, and the auction doesn't end until October 25. We're sure the folks at CFCS would be happy if the General can surpass its own auction success from the ZR1.

[Source: College For Creative Studies]

New Camaro

The 2010 Chevrolet Camaro will arrive in early 2009 looking much like the concept. Of the three trims, the LS, LT and SS, the SS will be packed with the most performance goodies. Among them will be Brembo brake discs with four-piston aluminum calipers and much shorter gears, thanks to the TR6060 six-speed manual transmission. The 3.6-liter V6 will make 300 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque, while the LS3 V8 will lay down 422 hp and 408 lb-ft. According to Chevrolet, the V6-equipped Camaro will run from zero to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds regardless of transmission choice. The V6 coupe will cover the quarter-mile in 14.5 seconds with an auto and 14.7 seconds with a manual, both at 97 mph. The brakes don't sound quite as impressive, though, as the base Camaro stops from 60 to zero mph in 132 feet. Not surprisingly, the V8-equipped Camaro SS delivers better numbers across the board as the manual hits 60 mph in 4.9 seconds and runs a 13.4-second quarter-mile at 108 mph according to Chevrolet. Strangely enough, it also claims that the automatic-equipped SS Camaro, which is rated at 400 hp, runs from zero to 60 mph in just 4.6 seconds and through the quarter-mile in 13.3 seconds.

 

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Honda reveals all-new JDM Odyssey

Honda's JDM Odyssey – not to be confused with the U.S.-market people mover that shares the same name – has been hailed as one of the best handling minivans in Japan. For 2009, Honda has taken everything good about the outgoing third-generation model and made it better, beginning with a sleeker exterior that pulls a few cues from the Honda FCX Clarity.

Underneath the new, slightly stretched sheet metal lies a reworked chassis sporting double wishbones at all four corners, optional all-wheel-drive and a 2.4-liter four-cylinder i-VTEC powerplant putting out 171 hp in standard guise and 203 hp in the range-topping Absolute model.

The interior is adorned with all the techy tidbits that made previous generations a hit with family-toting geeks, including a sci-fi inspired dash and a new multi-positioned camera system that allows drivers to get a bird's eye view of the vehicle. Similar to the Fit sold in the States, the seating can be arranged in a multitude of ways, including folding flat to create something resembling a bed.

[Source: Autoblog]

Lexus GS 460 by Five Axis

Lexus is gearing up for a big showing at SEMA. In addition to bringing four tuned IS Fs, including one from our friends at 0-60 magazine and another from Fox Marketing/Artisan Performance, long-time Toyota collaborator, Five Axis, will be debuting a heavily reworked GS 460 in Vegas.

Also on hand will be IS Fs from Import Tuner/Tein and MotorworldHype, along with an ICON-designed LX 570 sporting serious off-road upgrades, an IS 350 kitted out with F-Sport accessories and a prototype body kit, plus the 2009 IS F with a handful of upgrades and a new interior color.

PRESS RELEASE
Lexus Brings New Project Cars and Energy to the 2008 SEMA Show

Torrance, CA, October 16, 2008 - Lexus is taking its performance message to the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show for its second official appearance this fall with a bevy of new project cars and multiple ways to sample its IS F high-performance sedan and F-Sport products. Headlining the project cars will be a fresh take on the Lexus GS 460 by Five Axis.

"The introduction of the IS F last year was our first opportunity to stimulate major interest from the performance community," said Brian Bolain, Lexus national engagement marketing manager. "We followed up with the F-Sport line of performance accessories for the IS 250/350 and judging by the market's overall response, there was clearly some pent-up demand."

A good barometer of that response lives in the array of project cars that will be on display in the Lexus space which, like last year, is situated next to the Motor Trend proving ground between the Central and South halls.

Projects On Display

Riding a wave of momentum from its Project IS F car introduced at SEMA last year, Five Axis has turned its attention to the Lexus GS 460. Project GS will debut inside the Lexus SEMA booth on Tuesday, November 4 and designer Troy Sumitomo will be on hand to talk about his latest creation.

Project IS F also returns to SEMA with a newly (and heavily) modified V8 engine filling its engine bay. Now bored and stroked to 5.75 liters, the car was a major hit at SEMA last year and has been bulking up on horsepower and torque ever since.

Four unique IS F project cars created by these independent builders will be on display at the Lexus space:

• Fox Marketing/Artisan Performance
• Import Tuner Magazine/TEIN Suspension
• 0-60 Magazine
• MotorworldHype

Each team is taking their own performance and design approach, with some focused on increased track performance and others making sure their rides are even more fun on the street, as well as the track.
Lexus will also display a special LX 570 created by ICON 4x4 Design. This concept brings a stealthy and functional look to the LX ("anti-bling" says ICON's Jonathan Ward) augmented by several performance upgrades.

More Inside

Step into the air-conditioned Lexus booth next to the proving ground and you will find several displays including:

• IS 350 equipped with F-Sport accessories and concept body kit
• F-Sport accessories on display with information
• 2009 IS F with the latest factory updates including a new interior color and other detail changes

In the Driver's Seat

A small test track (Motor Trend Proving Ground) adjacent to the Lexus booth gives attendees the chance to drive the potent IS F as well as an F-Sport-equipped IS 350. The track will be open to Lexus cars during normal show hours beginning Wednesday, Nov. 5 at 9:00 a.m. until the track closes Thursday at 5:00 p.m.

Next to the booth, Lexus will strap an IS F to a chassis dyno for full throttle runs through a simulated ¼ mile. Power shifting the 8-speed Sport Direct Shift transmission is encouraged. The dyno will run from noon Tuesday until 3:00 p.m. Friday.

Also not to be missed are the IS F video racing simulators where drivers can pit themselves against one another on Laguna Seca's iconic Corkscrew for prizes and bragging rights. Helmets are optional.

Chinese government bans importation of Hyundais from S. Korea

According to a report by Reuters, the Chinese government has suspended the importation of Hyundai and Kia products from South Korea. The importation ban allegedly stems from complaints filed by dealers that the automaker violated anti-trust laws in China by throwing more support behind its own dealers and thus limiting the support offered to independent retailers.

A Hyundai spokesperson confirmed that the automaker has not received import permits since mid-September, but that the Chinese government and Hyundai are working to resolve the matter.

While any ban imposed on Hyundai would temporarily hurt the company in China, only about 50,000 units are imported from South Korea each year, with the majority of Hyundai and Kia's combined 520,000 annual sales in China coming from vehicles produced locally in a joint venture between the automaker and Chinese companies.

[Source: Reuters]

All eight, £115,000 Caterham RS Levantes sold out

With only eight examples of the Caterham RS V8 Levante being produced, it's no surprise that well-to-do track-tards have snatched up all of them after it went on sale this spring.

The 500-hp Caterham is packing a supercharged 2.4-liter V8 driving the rear wheels through a six-speed gearbox, and with a body comprised almost entirely of carbon fiber, Kevlar and aluminum, the 1,150-pound ode to maximizing minimalist motoring is able to hit 60 in under three seconds. That kind of firepower isn't cheap, with each example fetching £115,000, and thankfully, Caterham is requiring all the RS Levante's owners to enlist in a two-day advanced driving school when they take delivery.

Mazda set to expand range

According to president and CEO James Muir, the company would like to go a bit upmarket, attracting buyers looking for an aspirational brand. We're okay with that as long as Mazda's don't lose their sporty edge in the process. To make the transition, the automaker is looking to offer more variations of models already in its line and to add a few new ones. A new entry-level model could show up first, drawing styling cues from the company's radical concept cars such as the Kiyora concept recently shown as the Paris Motor Show. That new city car could be known as the Mazda1. A small crossover is also on the drawing board and was previewed by the awesome Kazamai concept from Moscow.

Also present and accounted for is the rumor that just won't die: a new RX-7, which would undoubtedly be powered by a version of Mazda's unique Renesis rotary engine. We'd expect the new RX to be a bit more than just an RX-8 with its rear doors lopped off, as the 7 has always been Mazda's top performer. That new halo car would complement the more aggressive MX-5 that the automaker is currently working on.

[Source: Autocar]

HUMMER with wooden wheels called "art"

We're not sure what's so artistic about a HUMMER H3 with wooden wagon-style wheels, but apparently someone with a higher aptitude than ourselves has created just such an exhibit. It's parked outside the Royal Academy of Arts in London and was created by an artist named Matthew Harrison. According to the press release, he "has combined the legendary off-road vehicle with 'Wild West' wooden wheels to create a sculpture that is a mixture of art, engineering and motoring. For Harrison, "the crux of the 'Hummer' is formed by both its 'being' and its afterlife." We couldn't have sarcastically come up with a better line than that, so we'll just leave it as is. If you'd like to see this rolling sculpture in person, you can do so starting October 17 and it will be parked until the 20th. Enjoy.

[Source: HUMMER]

Jay Leno sued over alleged wrongful purchase of collector car

Jay Leno is a big player on the antique car auction circuit, and his loaded airport hanger in Burbank is proof that the Tonight Show host has purchased his fair share of rare rides. One such vehicle was a 1931 Model J Duesenberg that he aquired from Manhattan's Windsor Garage back in 2005. The car was owned by the now deceased Macy's heir John Strauss, and his estate is suing Leno because they contend the garage sold it to him illegally. The garage states that Mr. Strauss, who suffered from dementia, owed over $29,000 in parking fees, giving them the right to sell the Duesenberg and a 1930 Rolls Royce that was purchased by another auctioneer. The Srauss estate says the garage was paid hundreds of thousands of dollars for parking over the years, and $29,000 was drop in the bucket.

We don't know all the legal issues (like title transfer of the Deuse) surrounding the suit between the Strauss estate and Jay Leno, but it seems as though the Windsor Garage would be a better target for the lawsuit. They did, after all, sell the vehicle that they were paid to care for. Then again, we have no idea what the laws are in Manhattan concerning garages that aren't paid and the delinquent cars that sit on their property, either.

[Source: MSNBC]

Confirmed: This is the 2010 Toyota Prius

Jalopnik is reporting this morning that images published last night on the web of what appeared to be the next-generation 2010 Toyota Prius are, in fact, the real deal. Toyota PR reportedly confirmed to the website that what we're looking at is the same car that will be revealed in January at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show. We've also included some spy shots in the gallery below that would seem to corroborate this.

As Damon pointed out last night, the new design is an evolution of the current model that incorporates some recent favorite styling cues of Toyota designers like the bulbous badge housing up front. The interior, however, is a marked step away from the current model's spaceship controls, and thankfully eschews that car's dash-mounted shifter for a new one properly placed on the buttressed center console. Mechanically speaking, the new Prius is expected to arrive with a more powerful gas engine, bigger electric motor and, despite continuing to use nickel-metal hydride rather than lithium-ion batteries, improved fuel efficiency. It is the Prius after all.

UPDATE: Toyota has confirmed publicly on its Open Road Blog that these shots are indeed the 2010 Prius.

[Source: Jalopnik]

Audi RS4 Crash Video

Ouch! This RS4 Avant crashed happened at the the Audi Driver International 2008 at the Castle Combe circuit in the Wiltshire, England.

Mercedes GLK by Brabus

BRABUS tunes all manner of Mercedes-Benzes, and even branches out by pumping performance into diminutive smart cars that have very little business going fast. Likewise, BRABUS also tunes Mercedes SUVs that usually have no business bragging about their performance, and there's a new Merc ute on the scene that has yet to get the German tuning firm's treatment... until now. BRABUS has just released details on its new Exclusive Program for the Mercedes-Benz GLK that allows owners to tune the new soft-roader to their heart's content. Whether you're driving a diesel-powered GLK or gas-powered variant, BRABUS has a host of engine mods to eke out more power and two new suspensions to firm up the ride. Likewise, there's a new front apron, roof attachment, rocker panels and rear apron, as well as an array of new wheels to choose from. There's also a catalogue's worth of interior accessories, and in all more ways to customize your GLK than we care to enumerate here.

[Source: BRABUS]

Mitsubishi plans 400 hp Lancer Evolution X

Mitsubishi may be adding new power to the Lancer Evo X line. It seems that Mitsubishi has approved plans to build a new range-topping model called the FQ400 next year. It should produce around 400-hp by utilizing a new turbocharger, exhaust manifold, a revised ECU and fuel system. Power like that should be good for a 0 to 60 mph sprint in 3.5 seconds and top speed of around 170 mph./p>

No other details are available yet, but pricing should start around $79,015.

[Source:Egmcartech]

Ferrari California priced at £143,000 abroad

As you read this, journalists in Europe are getting their first taste of the Ferrari California, flogging the new coupe/convertible through the rolling hills of Italy, and periodically stopping to snack on shaved white truffles and sip Brunello di Montalcino. Jealous? We are. But rest assured our time will come. If it doesn't, then at least we know what we'll have to remove from our tanking 401k to get a California of our own... in Europe.

Evo is reporting that the Ferrari California will set back our friends abroad £143,000, placing it right in between the F430 coupe and spider. To put that into a U.S.-dollar perspective, the F430 coupe costs around $185,000 in the States, while the drop-top F430 is priced somewhere north of $210,000.

We'll have to wait to see how the 460-hp California fares in the first round of reviews, but in the meantime, start saving your pennies and get in line.

[Source: Evo]

Nissan recalls 200,000 vehicles over passenger air bag issue

Nissan is recalling 200,000 vehicles due to a faulty sensor system that could affect the car's passenger sid airbag. The problem is described as an issue with an electrical component that could interfere with the sensor system, which could then prevent the side airbag from deploying in certain circumstances. We gather from the report on Recall.gov that the sensor telling the car whether or not someone's riding shotgun could malfunction, and in the event of a crash the car could assume no one's sitting there at not deploy the passenger airbag. Most of the vehicles affected are 2007 or 2008 Nissan Altimas, tallying over 140,000 units of that model in all. Other models affected include '07 and '08 examples of the Infiniti EX35, G35 Sedan, G37 coupe and the Nissan 350Z, Rogue and Murano. The Japanese automaker claims that there have been no injuries as a result of the defect, but apparently it was deemed significant enough to pay for a recall and be safe today rather than sorry tomorrow. Owners of an affected Nissan vehicle can call 1-800-647-7261 and Infiniti owners can dial 1-800-662-6200 for more information, as dealers are able to test the system and replace the passenger-side seat cushion where the offending hardware is located.

[Source: Detroit News, Recalls.gov]

Rendered or Real? 2010 Toyota Prius

We're far from convinced that the image above is the 2010 Toyota Prius, but judging by the front detail pic and the interior shot, it could be the most accurate portrayal we'll see before it's unveiling in Detroit this January.

The pic, published over at PriusChat by bossdowner, shows a restyled front end that takes a few cues from recent ToMoCo offerings, including the bulbous badge housing, deeper air dam and recessed fog lamps. The headlights are a nice touch, but we still haven't warmed up to the L-shaped design originally shown on the new Maxima and forthcoming 370Z.

As for the interior, it's a sea of bland in a dark gray plastic that would make the Germans proud. However, we dig the raised center console with an integrated pass-through to access the 12-volt outlet.

[Source: PriusChat]

Ford releases 11th teaser image of 2010 Mustang

The painfully slow undressing of the 2010 Mustang continues today with a clear shot of the car's new shifter. Specifically, we can see that a five-speed stick is still standard-fare for the pony car from Ford, though its closest competitors, namely the Dodge Challenger and Chevrolet Camaro, are equipped with six row-for-yourself ratios. On the positive side, the gear knob looks very high class and appears hewn from aluminum. Judging from the last teaser, the matte aluminized finish is carried out through much of the GT's interior, from the shifter to the steering wheel and dash. There are five more teaser images to be revealed before the 'Stang's final reveal at the LA Auto Show, where we'll be on hand to bring you the goods in living color.

[Source: Ford]

Cadillac mulling V8 diesel for CTS

According to MotorTrend, General Motors is considering fitting its 4.5-liter Duramax V8 Turbodiesel inside the Cadillac CTS sedan as a stepping-stone between the standard V6-equipped CTS and the barn-burning CTS-V.

The report contends that the Duramax V8 would be an easy fit inside the confines of the CTS' engine bay with the addition of the CTS-V's bulging hood. The dual-overhead cam, four-valve diesel V8 puts out 310 hp and a tire decimating 520 lb.-ft. of torque and GM already has a transmission that can handle the grunt. The oilburner currently meets the tougher 2010 emissions standards which would allow it to be sold in all 50 states, and with a reported 20-25% increased fuel economy over the V8 model, the diesel CTS could provide some competition to similar offerings from Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz. According to MT, the amount of modifications would be minimal and the addition of the CTS diesel would help to boost GM's CAFE certification to meet the stricter 35 mpg requirements in 2020.

[Source: MotorTrend]

The blind Belgian's record speed run in a Lamborghini

Today we bring you more video of the blind Belgian who recently broke the blind land speed record in France. Luc Costermans piloted a Lamborghini Gallardo borrowed from supercar rental agency GT Drive to 192 mph on the Istres airstrip, which is a pretty amazing feat, but one that's likely to be challenged by former world record holder Mike Newman. Although they aren't in English.

900-HP Super Challenger and Super 'Cuda

The new Dodge Challenger is offering tuners one of the hottest platforms to work with since the Mustang in 2005, and there will no doubt be plenty of different variations on the floor at SEMA in just a few weeks. We don't know if we'll be able to spot them all, but we are definitely going to be keeping our eyes out for these two bad boys built by Mr. Norm's Garage. Who's Mr. Norm, you ask? He's the legendary owner of Grand Spaulding Dodge that was famous for building some of the fastest Mopars in the country. Mr. Norm is now working his magic on the current Dodge lineup, and will be be showcasing the two Challengers you see here. The Super Challenger features a supercharged version of the 6.1L Hemi putting out 900 tire-shredding horsepower plus Rodtana forged wheels, Hotchkis suspension upgrades, massive SSBC brakes, and a custom front spoiler and side scoops. The other Challenger features similar performance upgrades but has been converted to replicate the legendary AAR Cuda.

[Source: Jalopnik.com]

Aston Martin One-77 already sold out and then some

If you're looking to be one of the lucky (and rich) buyers of the Aston Martin One-77, you may already be too late. Aston claims that over 100 wealthy buyers have signed up for the One-77 supercar, though it plans to build only enough to satisfy the car's label: 77. Amazingly, those customers have dropped a £200,000 deposit without ever having so much as seen a totally uncovered photo of the British supercar. But hey, it's an Aston, so how ugly can it be? If you've got money to burn, we can think of few ways to better spend over £1 million on an automobile, especially considering that it's rare enough to actually increase in value over time. It would help, too, if you could park and store a vehicle with a carbon fiber chassis, aluminum body, and 700-hp V12 engine, but that doesn't sound like much fun at all. From what we've seen of the car so far, it wouldn't be fair to force the museum life on the One-77.

[Source: Telegraph via Luxvelocity]

Dodge Mopar Challenger Targa and Blacktop

While a V10-powered Challenger is devilishly delectable, our Mopar-loving hearts beat for something a bit more balanced with a healthy dose of motorsports cred. To that end, Dodge created the Challenger Targa to campaign in the Targa Newfoundland enduro earlier this year.

Affectionately known as "Samantha," the Challenger began its existence as a Mopar Challenger drag race car, complete with a 392 HEMI V8 crate motor putting 540 hp and 490 lb.-ft. of torque to the rear wheels via a Tremec six-speed manual and a modified rear diff. The green hue of the Challenger Targa is pulled from the Viper, but the snake's influence doesn't stop at aesthetics. A KW race-ready suspension, six-piston calipers with 380mm Stop-Tech rotors (front) and 355mm, rear discs with four-pot calipers are all culled from the V10 'Ring-slayer.

In addition to the Targa model, Dodge and Mopar will debut the Challenger Blacktop at SEMA, retaining the 5.7-liter V8 and six-speed manual gearbox. Most of the modifications focus on style, including the black-on-black racing stripe paint scheme, custom spoilers and front brow. A Mopar coilover kit drops the Blacktop over 22-inch Viper wheels created by Factory Reproductions and wrapped in 265/35/R22 (front) and 305/30/R22 (rear) Dunlop rubber. A Mopar cat-back exhaust and cold air intake remain the only modifications to the engine, and if the V8's sound isn't intoxicating enough, a Kicker audio system will keep the Blacktop's driver entertained while bombing along Highway 15 on their way to the SEMA festivities in Sin City.

PRESS RELEASE

Dodge Challenger Blacktop
A menacing creation from the minds of the Mopar Underground design team. The Dodge Challenger Blacktop began life as a 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T equipped with a 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 and six-speed manual transmission. Mopar Underground added custom-made spoilers and front brow. To finish off the look, a black-on-black racing stripe paint scheme was added. The "in the weeds" stance and superb handling characteristics are accomplished by the Mopar coil-over suspension and strut tower brace. Blacktop rolls on massive 22-inch Dodge Viper wheels from Factory Reproductions wrapped in Dunlop tires measuring 265/35 R22 front and 305/30 R22 rear. To ensure the powertrain can keep up with the suspension, underhood performance is enhanced. The addition of Mopar components, including a cat back dual-exhaust, cold air intake, allow the HEMI V-8 to breathe easy. The interior has been enhanced with Katzkin leather seating finished in bright red plus a Mopar Kicker audio system for premium sound.

Dodge Challenger Targa
The Dodge Challenger Targa is a full-blown competition car that raced and completed the infamous Targa Newfoundland race this year. "Samantha" started life as a Mopar Challenger drag race package car. Many features were borrowed from the Dodge Viper, but the most noticeable is the snakeskin green paint. To keep the front end down, a Mopar chin spoiler "Splats" developed in a full scale wind tunnel, was added to the front of the car. Mopar gauges keep a close eye on the vital signs. The Mopar hood is equipped with a scoop to make room for the 540-horsepower, 490 lb. ft. of torque, 392 HEMI® V-8 Mopar crate motor. Mated to a Tremec six-speed manual gearbox, the engine blasts power to the rear wheels through a production 2009 modified gear ratio in the rear end. An abundance of fade resistant stopping power comes from Stop-Tech brakes. Up front, the six-piston calipers clamp 380-millimetre rotors, while in the rear, four-pot calipers work with 355-mm rotors. Developed by KW, the race suspension and brake upgrades came from a proven hero - the Dodge Viper ACR, which just broke the production car lap record at the world-renown Nurburgring in Germany. With only a few exceptions, the Dodge Challenger Targa was built using parts available through Mopar.

GM COO says no small car for U.S.

While at the Paris Motor Show, General Motors COO Fritz Henderson told Automotive News that GM has no plans for a minicar in the U.S. While Henderson acknowledges the popularity of the Smart mini/city car, he describes it as a phenomenon and doesn't see a strong case for a similar sized minicar for Chevy in the States. His feelings are that American small-car buyers are happier with something like a Cobalt or Aveo instead. What that means for the future of the Beat, Groove or Trax is uncertain, but it doesn't look good from this statement. And with costarring roles in Transformers 2, it seems like not having them in showrooms is just plain stupid. Hopefully AN just got the quote wrong.

[Source: Automotive News, sub. req.]

Dodge bringing Viper-powered Challenger SRT10 Concept

Though the Official Car of SEMA this year is the Chevy Camaro, we expect tons of tuners to show up in Las Vegas with the Dodge Challenger. The Challenger has been on sale all year, which has given the customizing crowd plenty of time to modify the new muscle car. None, however, will match the vehicle that Dodge itself is bringing to Sin City.

Meet the Challenger SRT10 Concept, which sports an 8.4L V10 engine graciously donated by a Viper SRT10. You can see the Challenger SRT10 Concept hanging out with a Viper SRT10 ACR in our gallery below, as well as what happens when you attempt to transfer the engine's 600 horsepower and 560 lb-ft of torque to the ground through the Challenger's rear tires. Needless to say, enough tire smoke is produced to affect the weather in China. Other mods include a functional carbon fiber shaker hood that feeds air to the voluminous V10, a carbon fiber front splitter and rear deck lid, a new rear spoiler, BILSTEIN shocks at all four corners, larger wheels, bigger brakes and quad exhaust tips out back. More carbon fiber trim can be found in the cockpit along with new sports seats and a red engine start push-button just like in the Viper.

Uh... we likey, but we also want to know how serious an exercise this is. Could Dodge actually build and sell the Challenger SRT10 now that we know the Viper's V10 fits between its front wheels just fine? Is this Dodge's answer to the Shelby Mustang GT500KR?

[Source: The Scoop]

PRESS RELEASE

Dodge Challenger SRT10 Concept

Auburn Hills, Mich., Oct 14, 2008 - The opportunity for SRT engineering to "one-up" itself comes to fruition with the 2009 Dodge Challenger SRT10 Concept. Power for the 2009 Dodge Challenger SRT10 Concept comes from the Dodge Viper 8.4-liter, all-aluminum V-10 engine with 600 horsepower and 560 lb. ft. of torque. It's a vehicle that delivers the well-known SRT credo of benchmark performance. The Dodge Challenger SRT10 Concept includes a fresh coat of Tornado Red paint with a carbon-fiber deck lid and hood. The "shaker hood" is a nostalgic representation of the 1970 HEMI Cuda, giving the 600-hp Viper V-10 engine room to breathe. Brakes have been upgraded and BILSTEIN® shocks at all four corners improve handling balance. The interior boasts sport seats and carbon-fiber accents throughout and, of course, true to the Viper-powered vehicle lineage, a red engine start push-button in the dash.

Nissan 370Z partially revealed in Need for Speed teaser

Recently published spy shots of the upcoming 370Z have largely revealed the overall shape of Nissan's iconic Z car. But there's certainly more to see, and thanks to an official movie trailer for the upcoming Need for Speed: Undercover driving game, we've got a few glimpses of the final product. The 370Z will apparently be a drivable car in the game, which features a more theatrical story-line than most driving titles. The character you see above is Hector Maio, one of the game's criminals who pals around with his brother Zack. We've got screen captures from the video below, as well as the video itself after the jump. There are only glimpses of the 370Z throughout most of the video, particularly the car's headlights on in the dark, but near the end we see Hector greeting his, ahem, associates around it.

[Source: Carscoop]

Hyundai Genesis Coupe tested... in Korea

Hyundai is currently holding the first round of press drives featuring the Korean-spec Genesis Coupe and CAR's Middle-Eastern arm has released the first ever review of the automaker's entrant into the realm of rear-wheel-drive performance.

CAR's test was apparently limited to the 310-hp, 3.8-liter V6 model equipped with the six-speed automatic gearbox, allowing the 3,500-pound coupe to sprint to 62 in 5.9-seconds. With more torsional rigidity than the E46 BMW M3, the imported British pub reports that tail-out antics are easily achieved and the exhaust note is "thoroughly enjoyable." The list of gripes is brief, including steering that's a bit too light for the tester's taste, some less-than-savory plastics, the lack of paddle shifters on the steering wheel and compromised trunk space on account of the hatch's odd shape. But overall, CAR seems suitably pleased with the Genesis Coupe, impressed with the bang-for-the-buck quotient and the fact that the new two-door delivers something the Koreans have lacked up until now: soul and emotion.

[Source: CAR Middle East]

New Hyundai Genesis Coupe commercial from South Korea

When Hyundai publicly unveiled the Genesis Coupe at the New York Auto Show earlier this year, it did so with a barrage of stunt driving and indoor drifts that made us badly want to get behind the wheel. The marketing team over at Hyundai must have picked up on that vibe, because they've produced a nearly two-minute long commercial for the South Korean market that consists of a gun metal gray Genesis Coupe slip sliding across a baron landscape. The resulting montage of Genesis Coupe clips shows it drifting elegantly through a cloud of its own dust and makes us want the RWD coupe that much more. Good job, Hyundai Marketing Dept. The entire video was shot to look almost completely black and white, which makes the contrast of the Genesis Coupe's curves stand out in a most complementary way. We were somewhat disappointed by one graphic that states a 0-100 km/h time of 6.5 seconds, but that's in line with what we've been hearing for the V6 model (keep in a mind a 0-60 mph time would be a smidge quicker). Hit the jump to see the video for yourself, and let us know if you agree that it looks a lot like recent Mazda Zoom Zoom commercials.

Bond fan buys totaled Aston for $120k over list

The people behind the latest Bond films seem to have a knack for destroying perfectly good Aston Martin DBSs. First they rolled one (repeatedly) in shooting Casino Royale. Never missing an opportunity to total a perfectly good Aston, they crashed another one in a rock quarry for the opening sequence of the upcoming Quantum of Solace sequel, but not before a factory test driver tanked another one into Lake Garda in northern Italy. And while you might figure a totaled Aston would, naturally, be worth less than a new one, you've evidently underestimated the clout of the 007 mystique.

Daniel Craig, the latest actor to take up the James Bond mantle, has revealed that the tanked DBS was extracted from the Italian lake and sold to a collector for an outrageous £200,000, some 60,000 thousand pounds sterling more than the £134k price of a brand new (and functional) example of the top-of-the-line British supercar. Somebody evidently needs to explain to said collector that the DBS in question was not a working example of the submersible Lotus from For Your Eyes Only. Rinspeed's got that one covered.

[Source: What Car?]

McLaren P11 already caught on the road

Earlier today we told you the latest news on McLaren's upcoming "F1 Jr." P11 project. We even showed you a glimpse of what is believed to be a styling buck for the new F430/Gallardo fighter. Expected to show up in production trim about 18 months from now, the P11 will certainly be a tough secret for McLaren to keep. The P11 is one of the most highly anticipated sequels in automotive history, so it shouldn't come as much of a surprise that spy shots of running prototypes have already surfaced. This time it's Auto Express publishing a few pics of the car in the wild. Heavily camo'd, the car was spotted near the McLaren F1 shop in Woking, Surrey. Even in disguise you can see that the car looks like it will be as trim as we hoped it would be. Expected stats include a 6.2L AMG V8 possibly turbocharged to 500 hp, 1,100-kg curb weight, 0-60 in under four seconds and a top end of 200+ mph. AE also thinks pricing should fall into the £150,000-£200,000 range.

[Source: Auto Express]

Ford may be considering sale of Mazda stake

The financial peril that currently faces the U.S. domestic automakers is no secret, and according to Wall Street Journal report published yesterday, Ford is mulling over the possibility of unloading at least part of its controlling stake in Mazda to raise cash. Japanese media, via the AP, said that Ford would likely keep some interests in the Japanese automaker after such a move -- no surprise when you consider how closely tied Ford and Madza are right now in terms of shared technology. The Oval's third-quarter numbers are expected to be pretty ugly, and the Journal's source said that the potential sale of its Mazda holdings is one of many moves reportedly under consideration as Dearborn looks for ways to add to its cash on hand. For its part, Mazda denies that any decision has been made (a non-denial, really -- no outlets reported that a deal had yet been completed) and Ford weighed in with a to-be-expected "no comment." As they say, to be continued...

[Sources: The Wall Street Journal, AP]

Lexus IS 250 Sports Concept

At the ongoing Australian International Motor Show in Sydney, the same show where Australian sportscar-maker Elfin took the wraps off its new Type 5 Clubman, Lexus unveiled a new version of its IS 250 sports sedan called the Sports Concept.

So what, you ask is the Lexus IS 250 Sports Concept? Think of it as IS F-light, but not quite as light on substance as appearance packages from its German rivals (think Audi S-line or Mercedes AMG sport packages). The show car has been outfitted with 19" wheels hiding cross-drilled two-piece rotors clamped by six-pot calipers up front and four-pots in the rear, painted trademark Lexus F blue. It also sports Billstein shocks and springs; sway bars and chassis braces; an enlarged air intake and cat-back exhaust; a new clutch and short-shift kit; a carbon fiber engine cover and an assortment of spoilers and skirts.

In short, what we're looking at is an IS F, only without the 5-liter V8. The revised breathing systems squeeze out a modest 1.5 percent increase in output from the 2.5-liter V6 for a total of about 213hp. The add-ons are currently being considered for the Australian market, but we're sure there are plenty of fans of the IS F on this side of the globe who don't need to hit 60 in the fours and wouldn't mind a more affordable alternative given the current economic climate.

[Source: Lexus]

Kicherer CL60

If Drake, the ur-vampire from Blade Trinity, were a car, this is the car he would be. Starting with a CL600, tuning firm Kicherer didn't waste time throwing pieces at the car's already aggressive styling. Instead, Kicherer attacked the CL's jugular: sloppy performance due to the car's portliness.

The biturbo V12 gets 53 extra horses to corral 570 in total, torque gets smacked up to 664 lb-ft., the engine gets a new transmission control module to better deal with the extra juice, and out back, the rear axle gets a locking rear differential. The car is lowered an inch, and firmer springs help keep things settled when it's go time. Will all this turn the car into a cheetah? Probably not, but with the carbon goodies added throughout and the 20-inch Kircherer RS-1 wheels, it will look mighty good doing whatever it does.


[Source: Inside Line]

PRESS RELEASE

One thing is for sure, a Mercedes CL is one of the most comfortable and largest coupés on the market. And those who will choose the CL 600 with V12 biturbo will even be able to take pleasure in something like sports car characteristics despite the giant's opulent weight.

And should you care to provide the Super Benz's sheer luxury with an extra dose of dynamic vitality, Kicherer has in stock what you are looking for.

The specialists from Lake Constance have redefined the CL with several new components – and baptised it CL 60.

Among other things, this reinterpretation includes a storming increase in performance from 517 hp to 570 hp and an improved torque resulting in 900 Nm.

Moreover, the vehicle has been provided with a high-performance rear axle equipped with a differential lock and a modified transmission control module assuring that the excessive powers will always be transformed into performance – whatever the situation.

The contact to the tarmac is established by the handcrafted multipart 20" Kicherer RS-1 wheels. Accordingly, the chassis has been lowered electronically by 25 millimetres and comes up with a slightly racier characteristic now – which, however, will still offer the spoiled owner a sufficient amount of remaining comfort.

The exterior has been blessed with several modifications as well. Here, altered side skirts, a front and a rear apron meet a handful of high-end carbon components by Kicherer. At the front, the latter consist of special deflectors for the bumper and a modified front grill. At the side, they consist of mirror shells made of that precious material mentioned before, and, at the rear, we find an impressive diffuser framed by a four-pass sports exhaust system.

The interior will delight the owner with sporty luxuries as well, since here he will find an opulent combination of finest leather and racy carbon intarsia.

For all these reasons and more, the Kicherer CL 60 is, without any doubt, the most consistent realisation of a dynamic luxury coupé in our time. Appearance and performance have come together in perfect harmony.

Transporter 3 trailer #2 shows more Audi A8 co-sta

Lionsgate has released the second trailer showcasing that buff delivery guy with the English accent, and if you thought Transporter 2 was an all-out sprint on the ludicrous side, wait until you get a load of the stunts in Transporter 3. It not only shows off more of Statham's body and his 1-liner prowess, it also shows off more bad dialogue, more absurd stunts, and more reasons why it's Crank but with a bracelet and an Audi. It will clearly be a movie where you put your brain down in the seat next to you and then load up on greasy popcorn and root beer with wide-eyed glee. But that doesn't mean we won't see it. Check out the trailer after the jump, and mark your calendars for November 26.

[Source: Transporter 3 Blog]