2009 Nissan 370Z revealed early in So. Cal.

InsideLine hosted a little soirée for Nissan/Datsun devotees to show off the 2009 Nissan 370Z ahead of its unveiling this Tuesday at the LA Auto Show, and the crew from StreetFire was on hand to provide some pics and a video of the reveal.



Beyond the trio of teasers and "leaked" images that found their way onto the Web this past week, these new shots finally give us a clear view of all the exterior styling details and a few shots of the thoroughly revised interior. The upkick in the door's edge that leads into the side windows is a particularly nice touch, as is the new steering wheel, revised instrument panel with integrated LCD and dual stitching on the leather dash.



[Source: StreetFire]




Nissan 370Z Reveal before LA Autoshow

Smart ForTwo by Hermes

French designer Hermes must have exhausted itself working on the Bugatti Veyron, because it seem like the company wanted to tackle something small for its next project. What better place to go than the smallest car on the market, the Smart ForTwo.

The Hermes Smart ForTwo was created to celebrate the decade anniversary of the micro car. It comes with new interior, entirely covered in leather and canvas, while several pockets are made in Hermès’ style as well as umbrella which clips to the back of the seats. The special edition Hermès Smart ForTwo is available in a number of exterior colors, ten interior leather colors and in both hard top and convertible variants.

So the car may not be faster, but a least you look cooler as you back up traffic

[Source:Sybarites]

Nissan 370Z slips out ahead of early unveilings

Nissan is planning not one, but two, separate events to reveal the new Nissan 370Z to a select group of gearheads ahead of its unveiling next week at the LA Auto Show. But Nissan's worst-kept secret keeps leaking out. So in addition to a handful of teasers, a few game-play screen caps and a trio of spy shots, GTRWorld has seven pics of Nissan's newest Z car out in the open.

While the new head- and tail-lamp treatments have garnered the most attention, a few elements haven't been in clear view until now. The slight indentation in the roof matches the revised hood, while the shortened hatch and new bumper eschews the outgoing model's harsh creases for a more bulbous back end. Inside, the rear strut tower brace that seriously compromised the 350Z's trunk space has been moved just aft of the doors and everything in the engine bay looks ready for production.

[Source: GTR-World]

Aston Martin Racing reveals new Vantage GT4 to replace N24

At the Dubai Autodrome this week, Aston Martin revealed the car that will replace the Vantage N24, which has raced successfully in the FIA GT4 class and endurance events like the 24 Hours of Nürburgring for the past two years. Named the Vantage GT4, the new racer will employ a racing version of the production car's 4.7L V8 in place of the N24's slightly smaller 4.3L V8. Other race-bred modifications include a free-flow exhaust system, dry sump lubrication and new engine management software calibrated for racing. The new GT4 is hand-built by Aston Martin and can be ordered by race teams from the factory with a six-speed manual transmission or Sportshift tranny with paddle shifters. The production car's interior gets gutted and replaced with a molding of the dash that's covered in Alcantara suede (which also covers the steering wheel), a steel roll cage and Recaro competition seats. The suspension has been beefed up for race duty and the wheels are now cast magnesium wrapped in Yokohama race rubber, but Aston has carried over all of the production car's active safety systems like stability control, traction control and ABS. If you're a gentleman racer, you can order the new Vantage GT4 from the factory for £96,645 and have it ready to race by this January.

[Source: Aston Martin Racing]

Toyota Prius production in the U.S. could be delayed until 2011... or not

Toyota has been scrambling to right its financial ship after cutting its profit forecast by 63% in the face of dismal US auto sales. The Japanese automaker set up an emergency committee to look at areas to cut costs, and all programs are said to be on the table. Though Toyota has announced nothing specific to this point, Japan's Nikkei Business Daily is announcing that the first US-built Priuses may not be produced until 2011. That would mean a one year delay of the opening of Toyota's Mississippi plant, which has already seen a product shift and cost overruns. The new 2010 Prius, which will initially only be built in Japan until the Mississippi plant comes online, is scheduled to be unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show in January.

Toyota is currently denying that Prius production at the Mississippi plant has been delayed. We're a bit skeptical of the Nikkei report anyway considering the Prius is still in high demand despite the economic downturn.


[Source: Reuters Associated Press]

Subaru Dex

The JDM market is apparently enamored with vehicles that look like they're stuck in the shipping crate. We saw the first generation Toyota bB here as the Scion xB before it went on an eating binge and lost all its charm. That original bB went on to another generation, and has its own scions in form of some Daihatsu models. Subaru inked a deal back in April to share models between Toyota and Daihatsu, and this hideous little box with the star-motif badges is the result. There are three trim levels, and the Dex will relieve you of $15,000-$20,000. And here we thought even Subaru had relinquished its weird years ago. Turns out it was there all along, and the Dex is the ballcap-shaped box of contrived quirk that proves it.

[Source: Inside Line]

edo competition takes on the Porsche Cayenne GTS

For Porsche Cayenne GTS owners who wish they would've opted for the forced induction 'ute, edo competition has come up with a performance and styling package that helps close the gap between the two models. The German tuner adds another 45 horsepower through the use of high-flow cats, a performance air filter, and a recalibration of the ECU. As a result, the Cayenne GTS is capable of reaching 60 mph in a mere 6.4 seconds and a top speed of 168 mph. Handling and braking is improved with massive 15-inch, six-piston front brakes and an adjustable sport suspension. Other upgrades include 22-inch forged wheels, power dome hood, a new front fascia, and a variety of interior options.

[Source: edo competition]

2009 GT-R will get 5 more hp

Nissan announced a few updates for the 2009 GT-R, updates that include 5 more hp from the 3.8-litre twin turbo V6 "VR38" engine. The 2009 model year will be called Series II Nissan GT-R R35 and will be first launched in Japan.

There are other changes to the car, but they are mostly minor. The white body color changed from paint code QX1 to QAB (Storm White); Brembo brake calipers are rebadged to Nissan; front license plate is base removed (U.S. already has it); gas tank is size expanded from 71 liters to 73.8 liters (about .75 gallons).

All this does come at a premium. There is a five percent price increase.

[Source:GTR Blog]

9ff GT9R

Because 9ff’s 253 mph GT9 was just to pedestrian, the 9ff people are rumored to be going back to the drawing board for more speed. If the GT9R can add a few miles to its top speed, it just may capture the production car top speed crown (set at 256 mph by SSC Aero Twin-Turbo.)

There are no other details at the moment, but the guys over at Supercars.net assembled what they think it will look like. This includes a new wing, an updated front facia, front splitter, wheel well extractors, brake cooling ducts, side exhaust and a distinctive roof-mounted air scoop.

[Source:Supercars]

The Ferrari Zobin Concept

It can be argued that Ferrari is known for living out on the styling edge and for staying too true to its own designs. Witness the wild Enzo supercar and compare that to the new California. The former is an F1 car with an enclosed body and the latter has been called a sell-out Ferrari for the masses. As such, we're always interested in new takes on the Ferrari design ethos, and we particularly like this concept called the Zobin by Iranian engineer Siamak Ruhi Dehkordi. The rear end looks cribbed from the one-off P4/5 produced by Pininfarina, but the front end places the Enzo's F1-inspired nose amidst the contortions of a metal band that swoops around to create both the front spoiler and front fenders, while still maintaining an open-wheel F1 look. The headlights are suspended from the metal band and seem to float beside center fuselage. This is a single-seater concept that's powered by a fictional engine of unknown cylinder count and displacement located amidship, but we're more interested in the design itself that we think is both edgy and honors those Ferraris that have come before it.

[Source: CarBodyDesign via CarScoop]

Ferrari, Rolls-Royce and Land Rover pass on 2009 Detroit Auto Show

The global economic downturn is affecting other things than the availability of credit, the unemployment rate and the fate of the world's largest automaker. We had already heard that Suzuki was planning on skipping this year's 2009 Detroit Auto Show in January (Porsche passed on the 2008 show), but the small Japanese brand has now been joined by a few heavyweights that compete at the very high end of the automotive spectrum. It turns out that Ferrari, Rolls-Royce and Land Rover are all three not attending this year's Detroit show, presumably because they don't have anything exciting to announce and the money could be better spent elsewhere.

What's surprising about this trio of top shelf brands missing out on Detroit is that we always thought luxury goods were least vulnerable to a crappy economy. Sure the middle class and poor get poorer, but the super wealthy usually have a few million stuffed under their mattresses to see them through. Thus, if not less expensive Land Rovers, at least Ferraris and Rollers would still be bought in decent numbers. Apparently that's not the case, as even the most expensive of autos are seeing sales slow and if they don't have a new production vehicle or concept car to show, then a trip to Detroit is the vacation nobody wants to take.

[Source: LA Times, Photo by STAN HONDA/AFP/Getty]

Tenth and final 2010 Ford Mustang teaser reveals rear taillight

A tease is only fun for a short while, and we're ready for this one to be over. Ford's unveiling of the 2010 Mustang has been unbearably slow, and the only reason we aren't going crazy right now is because we will have seen the car in person by this time next week. The latest (and final) tease to come from Ford shows most of the updated rear end. We really like what we see, especially the rear spoiler which now has a ducktail design instead of being raised from the rear decklid. The taillights maintain their classic three-pillar design, although they now have a more tailored look that flows along the line of the rear bumper. According to Ford, there will also be an option for a rear-view camera, although we don't know exactly where the camera will be placed.

Check out WheelHQ.com and their large inventory of Saleen Wheels.

[Source: Ford]

Audi R4 back on the table?

Audi made it clear last March that the baby R8 was dead. Despite numerous rumors that Audi would get its own version of the upcoming Porsche Boxster/Cayman replacement, the decision was made to nix plans to create the mid-engine Audi R4 over fears that it would cannibalize sales from its Porsche-badged brethren. An Audi spokesperson went so far as to say that, "It was never in our product planning." Well, AutoExpress is reporting that tales of the R4's demise have been a bit premature.

Apparently the new mid-engined R4 is a go. It will occupy a slot in the Audi lineup above the TT and below the R8, with prices starting around £35,000. Like the R8 it will be a two-seater only, available as either a coupe or roadster. AutoExpress even has an image of the car showing a strong familial resemblance to the big-brother R8. To distinguish it from its Porsche siblings, the Audi is said to be getting Quattro AWD and aluminum construction. Powerplants should include the full range of TFSI engines, from the 2.0L turbo, all the way up to the new supercharged and turbocharged 335-hp 2.5L five-cylinder from the TT RS. A high-performance diesel and a gas V6 are also said to be in the mix. Expect a traditional six-speed manual as standard and a seven-speed, S-tronic twin-clutch, semi-automatic as an option.

The R4 won't appear until 2011 at the earliest, allowing Porsche time to launch the Boxster/Cayman first. If that's not enough good news for Audi fans, AE is also reporting that the company is planning an R6 to go head-to-head with the Jag E-Type replacement as well as the Porsche 911. The R10 has also been green-lit, giving Audi a full range of R-badged sports cars for just about any budget. However, AE failed to mention anything about the supposed R3 and its Volkswagen counterpart.

[Source: AutoExpress]

Bolwell Nagari supercar priced under $200k Australian

Australia is about to produce a new lightweight supercar that's set to debut at a pretty compelling price point. The car is a revival of the Nagari, which was produced in Oz back in the '60s and '70s. All of the usual supercar components are present and accounted for, including the abundant use of carbon fiber, twin Recaro seats and a Momo steering wheel with a flappy-paddle gearbox, as the Brits would say. That transmission is hooked up to a Toyota-sourced 3.5-liter V6 engine mounted amidships that powers the rear wheels.

The motor's a bit short on power at 295 horses to be considered supercar caliber, but it's pushing around just about one ton of car, so the power to weight ratio is actually quite good. The price? About $200K in Australian bucks, which converts to about $130,000 USD, though dollar conversions are always a bit problematic. That strikes us as a decent deal, and those who agree and place their refundable deposits will get a first drive early in 2009.

[Source: Go Auto via World Car Fans]

ROUSH announces P-51B Mustang for 2009

ROUSH wowed us last year at SEMA with the P-51A, an aviation-themed Mustang that combined Jack Roush's two favorite things: planes and cars. Customers apparently like the car too, because the initial production run of 51 was bumped up by 100 to accommodate the additional interest. The P-51 is back for a another year, now with a 'B' designation, along with a few new features to differentiate it from the previous model.

ROUSH has upgraded the 14-inch front brakes to include six-piston calipers, and the wheels are now painted in black chrome and wrapped with Cooper RS3 high performance tires. Inside, ROUSH has added one of their vent pod gauges to show boost levels. The rest of the P-51 remains relatively the same, including the 510 horsepower supercharged V8, full ROUSH suspension, and fighter plane design scheme.

Stop by WheelHQ.com and check out their large selection of Bullitt Wheels.

[Source: ROUSH]

Nissan GT-R named Car of the Year by Automobile Mag

Nissan has hit a major home run with its latest Skyline, known as the GT-R here in the States. In fact, the car was knocked so far out of the park that it seems an obvious choice for anyone's Car of the Year. Nissan's latest supercar boasts enough performance to take on the best from the rest of the world regardless of price, making it an amazing value despite costing upwards of $80,000. As such, the new GT-R has been awarded the Car of the Year trophy from Automobile Mag. Who are we to argue?

Other winners of Automobile's year-end awards include Audi's stunning A5 coupe, which takes the award for Design of the Year, though it seems it feels like the A5's already been around for more than a year. Man of the Year goes to Honda's CEO, Takeo Fuki, who's company is now reaping the rewards for staying true to its initial vision of rational, fuel efficient designs after all these years. It's pretty hard to take exception with these choices, though 2009, which is right around the corner, is shaping up to be the year of fuel efficiency. Follow the jump for Automobile Mag's official press release, which has a few extra award winners we didn't mention.

[Source: Automobile]

PRESS RELEASE

AUTOMOBILE Magazine Names the Nissan GT-R Automobile of the Year

ANN ARBOR, Mich.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- AUTOMOBILE Magazine, America's leading automotive lifestyle publication and part of Source Interlink Media, LLC, a subsidiary of media and marketing services company Source Interlink Companies, Inc. (NASDAQ:SORC), announced today that the Nissan GT-R is the 2009 Automobile of the Year. The magazine also named the Audi A5 Design of the Year, Honda president and CEO Takeo Fukui Man of the Year, and Direct Fuel Injection Technology of the Year.
The winners are featured in the pages of the January 2009 issue of AUTOMOBILE Magazine, available on newsstands beginning December 2, 2008.

2009 Automobile of the Year: Nissan GT-R

The much anticipated Nissan GT-R is the first Japanese supercar to seriously threaten the reigning opposition, many of whom the GT-R bested on Germany's renowned Nurburgring. Editors noted that while the Nissan GT-R rides like a subway car, sounds like an appliance and weighs a ton, it still deserved to be named Automobile of the Year for delivering high-intensity fun and astonishing performance.

'For decades, previous versions of the GT-R were never exported to the United States. Now we know what we've been missing, and are we happy to be invited to the party,' said Jean Jennings, president and editor-in-chief of AUTOMOBILE Magazine. 'What we love about the GT-R is that it refuses to compromise. It is not comfortable, it is not trying to make friends and it is not trying to influence people. It exists for one reason only ' to go fast ' and it does.'

In awarding the GT-R its ultimate prize, AUTOMOBILE Magazine editors cited the car's 'neck-snapping acceleration,' 'super-accurate steering' and 'incredible value' by supercar standards.

Design of the Year: Audi A5

AUTOMOBILE Magazine's Design of the Year is notable for its restraint, elegance, and perfect execution on the interior and not just the exterior, according to editors. Initially, the editors were skeptical of Volkswagen Group design chief Walter de Silva's assertion that the Audi A5 is his best-ever design. It was on seeing the A5 on the road, however, that the magazine's editors could fully appreciate the quality of the A5's total design. Audi has indeed created a beautiful car.

'The first point of appreciation comes upon approaching the car,' said Design Editor Robert Cumberford. 'The second comes when the door is opened to one of the best interiors offered today, in any car at any price. The A5's elegance, stability, and sheer visual presence make it a clear winner.'

Man of the Year: Takeo Fukui - President, Honda Motor Company

In a year when the U.S. auto market has been challenged by fuel prices and the financial meltdown, Honda stands as an exception. With Takeo Fukui at the reins, Honda maintained a diverse model mix, especially in the small-car arena, and successfully positioned itself for the current marketplace.

BMW announces 335d and X5 xDrive35d pricing

BMW announced pricing for its all-new 2009 diesel models during a live webcast today. Fitted under the hood of the 335d and X5 xDrive35d will be a 3.0-liter twin-turbo diesel rated at 265 hp and 425 lb-ft of torque (BMW's own flagship 6.0-liter gasoline V12 barely tops it with 444 lb-ft). The torque precludes BMW from fitting a 6-speed manual to the engine, so both models will arrive with a 6-speed Steptronic automatic. The sedan will sprint to 60 mph in just over six seconds with the SAV adding about a second to the time. Base MSRP for the BMW 335d will be $44,725 (the price includes destination fees), while the base MSRP for the X5 xDrive 35d will be $52,025 (including fees). Both vehicles will qualify for the IRS Alternative Motor Vehicle Tax Credit, though the exact amount has yet to be determined. For comparison's sake, the 2009 VW Jetta TDI gets a tax credit of $1,300 while the Mercedes-Benz GL320 BLUETEC gets $1,800. The first shipment of vehicles will arrive at dealers before the end of the year.

[Source: AutoblogGreen]

Ferrari SP1 first product of Portfolio coachbuilding program

You remember that mystery Ferrari prototype that was spied at Fiorano back in August? After initial speculation settled down, the prevailing wisdom suggested that the car in question was a one-off coachbuilt creation designed by former Pininfarina (and now independent) stylist Fioravanti for one wealthy customer. In the second issue of Ferrari's official magazine, the reports were confirmed. We're still trying to get a hold of those images for you, but in the meantime the report has hit the internet.

Called the SP1 (for Sport Prototype 1), the Fioravanti-designed special was built for prominent Ferrari collector and Japanese business executive Junichiro Hiramatsu and forms the first product of Maranello's new Portfolio program. The initiative gives the extremely wealthy the opportunity to collaborate with various Italian design houses (including Fioravanti, Pininfarina and Zagato) with full factory support to commission custom creations. The unique vehicles can be based on the Enzo, F430 or 612 (the 599 and new California remaining, for the time being, outside the program), and need to retain certain structural requirements and ultimately meet Ferrari's measure of taste, but beyond that, the sky's the limit. The sky, and your bank account, of course.

[Source: AutoWeek.nl]

Mirror-finish Bugatti Veyron

Visitors to Wolfsburg, Germany are in for a treat. The Lower Saxony city is home to Volkswagen, and in 2000 the auto giant built a veritable automotive theme park there to rival anything from California to the Persian Gulf. Called Autostadt (German for "car city"), the site attracts some two million visitors each year. The park holds several world records; serves as an accredited source of extra-curricular education; and encompasses a customer center, factory tour, test track, movie theater and various pavilions showcasing Volkswagen's history, production techniques and numerous subsidiaries.

The latest pavilion to open at Autostadt is the "Premium Clubhouse" in which this mirror-finish Bugatti Veyron stands as a center-piece. Chromed way beyond the level of other shiny superlikes, like the chromed Ferrari 599, McLaren's grand prix car, the chrome SLR or even Bugatti's own Pur Sang edition, the reflective Veyron sits in a mirrored room designed to blur the line between the observer and the observed as visitors see their reflection repeated infinitely in the space around them. Sounds like a real trip to make the actual trip worthwhile.

[Source: Carpages]

PRESS RELEASE

Autostadt reopens premium pavilion on the 31st of October 2008

Experience the extraordinary: architecture, art and design in the Premium Clubhouse

Friday the 31st of October 2008, saw the opening of the Autostadt in Wolfsburg's redesigned pavilion: with its spectacular display of architecture, art and design, the "Premium Clubhouse" represents the Volkswagen Group's multi-brand luxury and premium division. The British architect, Stephen Williams, accentuated the pavilion's unusual elliptic interior by adding a curved walkway and a lounge that virtually floats into the space. The exhibition area is characterised by the mirror-finish Bugatti Veyron, an artwork by artist Olaf Nicolai, and the artistic installations of Anselm Reyle and Peter Zimmermann.

Working site-specifically, Nicolai creates mental spaces in which he explores aesthetic perceptions. He challenges the observer to pay close attention as he transforms objects showing them in a different light. In his new work "Après vous", Nicolai displays a mirror-finish Bugatti in a mirrored room. The Bugatti Veyron is arguably the most technically intricate vehicle of all time, with its superb craftsmanship represents the pinnacle of excellence and exclusivity in the automotive world. The harmonious planes and structured lines of this elegant automobile are a reflective area in which the observer sees himself reflected back ad infinitum from the mirrors, thus becoming part of the exhibit: a phenomenon of endless play-back in which both the boundaries of the space and the boundary between object and observer are blurred.

The Autostadt in Wolfsburg is the Volkswagen Group's communications platform which invites its visitors to explore the world of mobility. Last year alone the theme park attracted almost two million guests. The visit by the 17 millionth guest marked a milestone in the success story that is the Autostadt, one of the most outstanding leisure destinations in Germany.

Nestling in a 25 hectare landscape and dotted with shimmering lakes, the Autostadt's unique architecture, design and surroundings provides a perfect backdrop for its many riveting attractions: in the ZeitHaus (museum) an exhibition of the classics of automobile history illustrates why they set benchmarks in their day; artworks and films engage with the Volkswagen Group's core values; interactive research stations invite participation. Cultural events – from themed communication to "Movimentos, the Autostadt Festival Weeks" – open new horizons. As an accredited extra-curricular place of learning, the Autostadt plays a significant part in the educational institutions of Lower Saxony.

Nissan 370Z officially rated at 332 HP

Images of the all new 2009 Nissan 370Z have been trickling out of Nissan for the past few weeks as a lead up to the car's official unveiling at the 2008 LA Auto Show. Details have been mostly speculation thus far, but now some of the rumors can be laid to rest, thanks to information in a photo caption from the LA Auto Show's website. The new Z will reverse the recent automotive trend of bloated model redesigns by featuring a reduced wheelbase and more lightweight body pieces. We also now know that its VQ37 engine will put down exactly 332 horsepower. That is a couple more ponies than are currently produced by the same engine inside the Infiniti G37. For those who like to rest their left foot while driving, a 7-speed automatic transmission will also finally be offered. And for those who enjoy some fancy footwork, but don't have a perfectly calibrated heel-toe, a rev-matching downshift system will be available for the 6-speed manual.

[Source: LA Auto Show]

BMW Performance releases 3-Series teaser

We're always up for a new 3-Series, and a performance variant straight from the manufacturer is even better. It looks like a new Bimmer is forthcoming from BMW performance, and the post-jump YouTube video shows just enough to keep us intrigued. We can catch a few details, and from what we can see and hear, this new performance Bimmer sedan will likely be faster and lighter than the standard 3. What it doesn't look like is an upgraded M3, as the front air dam isn't as large or aggressive as its M-powered sibling and it's lacking the M's quad-tip exhausts. What we do see is BMW Performance badging, carbon fiber side mirrors, and plenty of plastic molding to keep the souped-up 3-Series closer to the ground. BMW did mention that we'd see the new Performance 3-Series in its entirety some time in November, and we'll be first to show it to you when it hits the Internets.

[Source: eGMCarTech]

9ff takes Porsche 911 GT2 to 670 hp and beyond

The Porsche 911 GT2 is hardly lacking for horsepower, but the 9ff crew can never leave "good enough" alone. With a pair of V670 turbos, a 9ff custom intake manifold, headers and exhaust system with a two-stage valve that takes the engine note from raucous to profane, the 9ff GT2 puts out 670 hp and 590 lb.-ft. of torque. Zero to 62 comes up in a supercar embarrassing 3.6 seconds and 124 mph is dispatched in a scant 9.8 seconds. Naturally, the ECU has been modified to make use of the additional boost and breathing mods, while simultaneously raising the rev limiter to 7,200 rpm. The additional power is shoveled to the transmission via a single-mass flywheel and racing clutch, while a coilover suspension does its best to keep the GT2 on terra firma at all times. And if having the ability to bully ZR1s, Enzos, and Carrera GTs isn't enough, a 910 hp version is on the way.

[Source: 9ff]

Nissan working on 600 hp GT-R LM

Rumors have been circulating for almost a year that Nissan plans to campaign the GT-R in several different series outside of SuperGT, including the Grand Am championship and the 24 Hours of LeMans. Japan's Best Car magazine supposedly has it on good authority that Nissan is developing a road-going model of the LeMans competition car that will carry an "LM Edition" badge and be sold in limited numbers.

According to the Japanese pub, the twin-turbo, 3.8-liter V6 will be putting out approximately 600 hp and will be equipped with upgraded brakes, lightweight wheels, a beefed up transmission and reworked suspension components, in addition to a new aero kit to increase downforce.

Nissan has produced several limited edition models of each generation of the Skyline GT-R before, including an LM Edition of the R33 that campaigned in LeMans in the late 90s. One good turn deserves another, and with 600 hp under the hood, things are bound to get interesting both on the track and on the street.

[Source: BestCar via Carscoop]

Dodge Challenger SRT10 Concept... moving and stuff

We left last week's SEMA Show in Las Vegas with a much deeper respect for the Dodge Challenger. We're so used to seeing Mustangs dominate the automotive aftermarket trade show and expected the new Chevy Camaro, which was actually the Official Car of SEMA this year, to make a big splash. But it was the Challenger that was on hand in droves, be it from independent shops and tuners who got their hands on one to play with or Dodge itself, which showed up at SEMA with three Challenger concepts, the most impressive of which was arguably the Challenger SRT10 Concept (the other two were the Challenger Targa and Blacktop). Imbued with the Viper's 8.4L V10 producing 600 horsepower, as well as functional upgrades like a ram air scoop, carbon fiber front splitter, Bilstein shocks and bigger wheels and brakes, the Challenger SRT10 arrived in Vegas ready to do business. Unfortunately, the business at hand was looking pretty in Dodge's display. Thankfully we found this video online of the Challenger SRT10 doing what we want it to: convert solid rubber into a gaseous state.

Jaguar planning Boxster rival, XF coupe and cabrio

Tata is looking to move quickly to expand Jaguar's range of saloons, and why not with such a legacy of sports cars and world-beaters from which to draw? Jaguar became a household name due in large part to racing successes with such cars as the legendary XK120, C-Type and D-Type. More recently in the '90s, the British automaker has tested the exotic waters with its slinky XJ220 supercar. Rumors of a less expensive sports car in the vein of a Porsche Boxster are currently filtering out from dealerships that have spoken with the marque's new management, along with convertible and coupe versions of the popular XF sedan, which has already served to spark a renewed interest in the brand.

Considering that the X-Type is largely considered a colossal failure, don't expect another low-cost sedan. And, though some of its competitors (BMW, we're looking at you) seem to think selling as many SUVs as possible is still a good thing, Tata also owns Land Rover and doesn't want its two iconic British automakers to compete with one another. Sounds rational.

[Source: Automotive News]

Next-gen Ford Focus

The transfer of styling cues from one Focus to another seems to have its polarity reversed. Apparently, we haven't been clear enough when clamoring for Ford's Euro models, as this image of the new Euro Focus certainly looks like it's cribbed some of the weird from the North American car. Check the hood, and its indented midsection -- way to make the grille look like a demented smiley face. That strake down the flanks, while better executed here, reminds us of the very same line on our extra ripe (and still good!) Focus. Huge headlamps with a post-plastic-surgery look further offend the eyes, but we hope that this rendering is a bit off the mark, and the real Focus is a little sharper.

Things aren't rumored to get any better inside, with an iDrive-like interface to "improve ergonomics." Higher quality materials will also fill the cabin, so at least it will be a more hospitable place to pass the hours swearing at the inscrutable electronics. At least it'll carry Ecoboost engines underhood, of which we have nothing snarky to say.

[Source: AutoExpress]

Ferrari Scuderia Spider 16M to celebrate F1 title

After winning its 16th Formula one constructors championship last week, Ferrari has chosen this week to release a open top version of the F430 Scuderia. The Scuderia Spider 16M gets all the goodies from the lightweight Scuderia coupe like the 510 hp 4.3L V8 and the 6-speed F1 paddle shift gearbox. Ferrari is claiming the Scuderia Spider is the fastest open top model they've ever tested around the Fiorano test track, presumably beating out even the might F50 of decade ago. The Scuderia is 176 lbs lighter than a standard F430 spider at 2954 lbs dry. That's claimed to be good enough for a 0-62 mph sprint in 3.7 seconds and a terminal velocity of 195.7 mph. As a limited series model Ferrari has of course added lots of distinguishing features like a carbon fiber shell around the roll bar, number plaque on the dash and special interior trim packages. Only 499 Scuderia Spiders will be built and they will undoubtedly be priced higher than the $277,000 US base price of the coupe. For those with access to that much disposable cash, it will surely be worth the price of admission.

[Source: Ferrari]

Special series Scuderia Spider 16M unveiled at World Finals in Mugello to celebrate Prancing Horse's 16th F1 Constructor's title

Scarperia, November 9th 2008 - Ferrari has chosen to unveil the new Scuderia Spider 16M at the World Finals in Mugello in celebration of its recent victory in the Formula 1 Constructor's World Championship 2008. This new high performance sports car features the very best of Ferrari's latest mid-rear-engined 8-cylinder technology. In fact, the Scuderia Spider 16M is faster round the Fiorano circuit than any other Prancing Horse open-top road car yet built. This truly evocative special series model, of which just 499 unique examples will be produced, is aimed at the most passionate clients, drivers who demand both exclusivity and superb driving pleasure.

The Scuderia Spider 16M is available in a choice of two new signature colour schemes: the standard version is black with grey trim, while a tricolour livery is also available as part of the Carrozzeria Scaglietti Personalisation Programme. The new car also sports a special plaque on its rear grille commemorating Ferrari's 16th Constructor's World title. The exclusivity of the interior is underscored by the silver "limited series" plaque just above the air vents at the centre of the dashboard. Other exclusive features include a roll-bar with carbon-fibre outer shell and a specific new generation audio system that can be combined with the removable customised Ferrari iPod Touch 16 GB with central dock just in front of the dashboard.

From a technical point of view, this car has a dry weight of 1340 Kg (80 kg lighter than the F430 Spider). This, combined with the 510 hp provided by its V8 engine and a power-to-weight ratio of 2.6 kg/hp, means that it delivers blistering 0-100 kph acceleration in just 3.7 seconds and a superb top speed of 315 kph.

A new section dedicated to the Scuderia Spider 16M, complete of technical specifications and images is available online at www.ferrariworld.com.

SCUDERIA SPIDER 16M - TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Engine
Naturally aspirated mid-rear 90° V8, 4308 cc
Maximum power output 375.4 kW (510 hp) at 8500 rpm
Maximum torque 470 Nm (47.7 Kgm) at 5250 rpm
Max engine speed 8640 rpm (at limiter)
Compression ratio 11.9:1
Bore and Stroke 92 mm X 81 mm
Specific power output 118.4 hp/litre

Transmission
Six-speed plus Reverse F1 gearbox
Dry dual clutch
Electronic differential E-diff + F1-Trac
Oil gearbox lubrication with oil/water heat exchanger

Performance, fuel consumption, emissions
Acceleration 0-100 km/h 3.7 s
Maximum speed 315 kph
Drive weight/power 2.6 kg/hp
Fuel consumption 15.7 l/100 km (combined ECE)
CO2 emissions 360 g/km (combined ECE)

Chassis and bodywork
Car dimensions:
- Length 4512 mm
- Width 1923 mm
- Height 1216 mm
- Wheelbase 2600 mm
- Front track 1669 mm
- Rear track 1616 mm
Dry weight * 1340 kg (-80 kg vs F430 Spider)
Kerb weight * 1440 kg
Weight distribution 43% front, 57% rear
Fuel tank capacity 95 litres
Independent front and rear forged aluminium double wishbone suspensions, titanium helical springs, hollow anti-roll bars and lighter electronic shocks
398mm X 36mm carbon-ceramic material front brake discs with aluminium 6-pot callipers
350mm X 34mm carbon-ceramic material rear disc brakes with aluminium 6-pot callipers
19" five-spoke split rims front and rear
Tyres: 235/35 front and 285/35 rear; Fabbrica Pirelli PZero Corsa only

Electronic control systems
CST Stability and Traction Control System. Steering wheel-mounted manettino with five settings to integrate the F1 gearbox, CST and F1-Trac (Stability and Traction Control System), suspension control. *Figures refer to the European market versions

SEMA 2008: Custom ThunderFlite T-Bird soars

Suzie and Dean Arnold dreamt of building a show car that would evoke the spirit of the dream cars that manufacturers used to build in the '50s and '60s. They decided to use a 1961 Thunderbird as the base vehicle and got long-time collaborator Don Johnson to finalize the design. Then Dean got to work building it. The result is the car you see here. To most of the people passing it at SEMA this week, they probably thought it was a vintage dream car rather than a modern custom. It certainly looked like it had just been dusted off and shined up after sitting mothballed for the past 40 years. Every detail seems period correct, and we particularly liked the Batmobile-esque double-bubble roof.

SEMA 2008: Hennessey shows a pair of turbocharged Ford GTs

Hennessey is perhaps more closely associated with Dodge Vipers to most people, but they also do work on Ford's late, great supercar, the Ford GT, too. What Hennessey does with the GT is sort of up to you. One option they can do is a swap, wherein the factory supercharger is removed and a pair of turbos are fitted. With additional modifications, that car can reach more than 235 mph. If it strikes you as a sacrilegious thing to do to a rare factory-supercharged car, you can keep your blower and simply add the twin turbos as well. They call that one the Ford GT1000 for the metric tonne of horsepower it produces. It can squirt from 0-60 in 2.6 seconds and cover the quarter in 10.6 on its way past 240 mph. The company had one of each on hand at SEMA this year in front of the duPont Registry trailer.

SEMA 2008: Carbonite SL

If you were this close to purchasing an SLR but recent events concerning a guy named Lehman severely reduced your amount of disposable cash, then allow us to introduce you to the SL Carbonite. For the price of a 2003-2008 Mercedes SL, plus $47,400 for Carbonite's hood, fenders, front and rear fascias, lowered suspension and Mandrus 20-inch wheels, you can have an SL(R) for a song that's a lot less pricey than the Mercedes-McLaren. Carbonite has also said it will only build 20 of these cars per year, which means your money could get you even more exclusivity than the real thing. Of course, what your money can't do is erase the fact that you don't actually have the real thing -- but that hasn't stopped so many others

SEMA 2008: SMART goes John Deere green

Tom Mutchler at Consumer Reports says his first drive in a SMART reminded him of his John Deere x300 lawn tractor. Slow and noisy, but they both fit in his garage. Apparently, Black Deere LLC had the same impression of the little car and showed up at SEMA with one in John Deere's green and yellow livery. Other than being painted to match farm machinery, the SMART ForTwo Passion Cabriolet sports four air horns and an air-compressor powered truck horn. You might not see this thing coming at you, but by God you'll hear it.

[Source: Consumer Reports]

SEMA 2008: K.I.T.T. helps sell Knight Rider GPS for Mio

There were a lot of movie and TV-themed vehicles at SEMA this year, but one of our favorite entertainment tie-ins had to be the Mio Knight Rider GPS system. We told you about this way back in June, played with it when the new K.I.T.T. visited the Autoblog Garage, and messed with it some more in Vegas. It sounds exactly like you'd hope it would. "Michael, you're going the wrong way, you ninny," isn't in the regular playlist, but it did have some attitude. Even better than laying hands on the Mio, however, was the fact that K.I.T.T. ( no, not the Mustang) was actually in the Mio booth selling the product. It was almost too much to handle. As we told you in June, the Mio Knight Rider GPS unit uses the voice the one-and-only William Daniels, the original voice of K.I.T.T., and asks cordially "Hello Michael, where do you want to go today?" when powered up. The 4.3-inch LCD display is also flanked by a series of red LEDs reminiscent of K.I.T.T.'s nose-mounted lights. It's available for sale now at about $270.

SEMA 2008: Factory Five GTM looks slick in coppe

Factory Five is one of those companies that you may have heard of but probably don't know where. If you happen to correctly relate them to the car world, you might remember them as a kit car company, one of dozens of Cobra re-creators out there. Well, a few years back they decided to do something a little bit different. They created their own unique design rather than copying someone else's work. The result was the Factory Five GTM.

Some see Ford GT40, others see Corvette and still others think it's an Ascari, Nobel, Rossion or even a Carrera GT. While it may somewhat resemble some of those other great shapes, it is truly something unique. Well, sort of. Like the Anteros we just told you about, there's a bit of Corvette in the mix. It uses a bespoke chassis, but is powered by an LS7 V8. Weighing in at just 2,350 lbs. it has the power-to-weight ratio of a Rolex Grand-Am prototype. It can get to sixty from a standstill in 3 seconds and cover the quarter in 11 flat. We saw one in Vegas at SEMA and when people asked about it in the supercar gallery post, we decided it might need a little extra attention. Enjoy the gallery and if you decide you'd like one, you're in luck. Factory Five is offering $2,000 off the kits.

SEMA 2008: Charger Coupe shows up in General Lee trim

We had heard rumors that there was going to be a Dodge Charger Coupe at SEMA this year. We had hoped it would be something like the Charger show car from several years ago, the black one that looked a lot like the bad guy's car in Bullitt. In fact, that car was supposed to be made and shown at SEMA, but we never tracked it down. What we did find was probably just as good. If it wasn't going to be black, it might as well have been orange, and orange it was. Orange with a black confederate flag on the roof and a big "01" on the doors. Yep, it was the General Lee. In a year when we saw a Fast and Furious real Charger, a Bullitt movie Mustang, the Ecto-1 from Ghostbusters, and a smart fortwo that had made a trip to the Batcave, it was probably inevitable that we would find the General amidst all of the Challengers and other MOPARS on display. Not that we're complaining or anything.

Motor modify

Motor Modify contest show off