Subaru Impreza WRX STI Travis Pastrana Edition

Tucked away in a corner of McCormick Place was this custom WRX STI built in as part of a cooperative effort between Subaru and Travis Pastrana's race team, Vermont SportsCar. The car commemorates Pastrana's third consecutive Rally America National Championship, and although a one-off, many of the parts on the car can be purchased through your local authorized Subaru dealer.

The exterior features custom yellow paint, a carbon fiber hood and rear spoiler, front chin spoiler, and a set of PIAA 2100 HID driving lights. Handling is improved thanks to an SPT strut tower brace, lower chassis brace, and BFGoodrich G-Force Super Sport A/S tires wrapped over satin black Work Evolution XD-9 wheels.

Under the hood, the 2.5-liter boxer engine gets an upgraded ECU and custom downpipe, while the interior now sports custom blue Alcantara seats with yellow piping, short-throw shifter, Kicker sound system and... an XBox 360.

[Source: Subaru]

Volkswagen CC Gold Coast concept

It made its debut over the summer at Pebble Beach. It showed up again in November at SEMA. And finally, we have a set of our own live shots of the CC Gold Coast concept because Volkswagen sent the swanky 4-door to Chi-town.

The Gold Coast is doused in a rich-looking brown finish dubbed "Pepe Pepper" by DuPont, and it adopts a squat, muscular stance riding on a set of KW coilovers. 19-inch wheels fill out the wells nicely, and a full ground effects kit brings the look even closer to the ground. Veedub's 280-horsepower 3.6 FSI V6 sits underhood, mated to a six-speed DSG. Stopping power on this looker is further enhanced with a set of the Audi R8's ceramic discs in front.

Frogeye Sprite Austin Healey the first of several Sprite models

Frogeye Sprite Austin Healey

Frogeye Sprite Austin Healey the first of several Sprite models.

The Austin Healey Sprite which was introduced in 1958 was a diminutive roadster with an unmistakable headlight arrangement.
The prominent headlights were initially intended to be flip-up units. However the cost of retractable headlights was to high, and instead they were fixed in what would have been the 'up' position. Their unusual location gave rise to the cars affectionate nickname, the "Frogeye" Sprite.
The Austin Healey Sprite MK I was powered by a 1.0 litre, inline, four cylinder engine which developed a grand total of 43 horsepower. Coupled to a four speed manual gearbox it was capable of propelling the car up to 84 mph.
The Frogeye Sprite (which was discontinued in 1961) was the first of several Sprite models. In 1962 the MK II Austin Healey Sprite was introduced. The MK II introduced several updates, the most noticeable of which was a more conventional headlight layout. From 1961 the Austin Healey Sprite was also sold as the MG Midget.

Scion tC Release Series 5.0

As we told you last week, Scion is taking advantage of this year's Chicago Auto Show to drop yet another tweaked Scion tC, just like they did last year. This year's example is the 2009 Scion tC Release Series 5.0, of which 2000 examples or fewer will be built.

One thing that makes this Release Series more interesting than some of its predecessors is the fact that Scion's modifications go beyond new paint and wheels. Besides the gloss black paint and red-lined, matte black, 18-inch wheels, parent company Toyota has added virtually everything in their TRD parts catalog. RS 5.0 gets lowering springs, a rear sway bar, a sport muffler and special badging, and there's also an optional rear lip spoiler.

The interior features the same blacked-out TRD theme, with a leather-covered steering wheel, black seats and TRD-badged floor mats. To keep it from being too dark and depressing, the seats feature red inserts and stitching. Best of all, this TRD-infused package will add just $2,300 to the base price of the standard tC. Expect to see the new tC arriving in dealers beginning in March.

Suzuki circles the wagons with three customized Equators

At last year's Chicago Auto Show, Suzuki showed off three versions of the Nissan Frontier Equator. Those three concepts were the RMZ-4, Quad and Quay, each designed to haul a superbike, a quad and a boat, respectively. Since then, we've driven an Equator and heard that the production truck will sell for $17,995, but we still haven't seen any on the road (Suzuki America's Chris Brown noted that the Equator just started arriving in dealerships). Flash forward to the 2009 Chicago Auto Show and we're looking at three more Equator "concept" trucks, as Suzuki tries to prove that this is the most tuner-friendly truck on the planet.

To be fair, these are less concept and more custom, having undergone some restyling and tweaking by the likes of 4-Wheel & Off-Road, Off-Road and Truckin' magazines. The three "Hill/Street Hues" customs are apparently a play on the Hill Street Blues. We don't get it either.

Although the U.S. might not even realize that Suzuki is still in the car and truck business, Brown wanted us to know that they are committed to this market. After all, Suzuki is the 11th largest vehicle maker worldwide, and America does love trucks.

Toyota unveils new 4.6L V8, Platinum Package for Tundra

Toyota doesn't have a press conference scheduled for the 2009 Chicago Auto Show, but it does have two noteworthy debuts. The first is an all-new 4.6L V8 engine that will replace the current 4.7L V8. The new eight-cylinder produces 310 hp and 327 lb-ft of torque while delivering an estimated 15 mpg city / 20 mpg highway. That puts the new 4.6L V8 near the head of the pack in terms of power and fuel economy for standard V8s in the segment. The engine will also be paired with a "new" six-speed automatic. Rather than simply use the six-speed auto that's paired with the larger 5.7L V8, Toyota engineers instead used the truck's five-speed auto, added an extra gear and respaced the ratios.

Toyota's second debut in Chicago was a new Platinum Package available on Tundra CrewMax Limited models with the 5.7L V8. Though it shares an adjective with the new Ford F-150 Platinum, Toyota's top shelf truck is more low key and the package adds $5,140 to the vehicle price. Included is a new grille with chrome bumpers, unique 20-inch wheels, daytime running lamps, branded door sill protectors and Platinum badging around the truck. The package also includes a number of upgrades for the interior like a power moonroof, nav system and wood trim on the shifter, steering wheel and door trim.

Kia Forte rolls into Chi-town

The replacement for the Spectra retains many of the design elements first seen on the Koup Concept, and we're glad it does. The complex lines of the side profile and particularly where the A-pillar meets the hood make it quite attractive. Even Kia admitted that the Spectra was a fairly forgettable car, but we're guessing that the Forte will be making waves in the small sedan segment. In addition to the standard 10-year/100,000 mile powertrain warranty, Forte owners will get a 2.4L inline-4 with 173 horsepower and up to 25/34 mpg in SX trim, while the LX and EX offer a 2.0L inline-4 with 156 horsepower and 26/36 mpg. Pricing has yet to be announced, but expect it to be highly competitive within its class.

Lexus expands F-sport parts to includes GS, IS convertible and IS AWD

Lexus wasn't doing much in the Windy City this week, so it used the opportunity to release a new line of F-Sport accessories for the GS, IS AWD and upcoming IS C.

Thankfully, Lexus is keeping the majority of its F-Sport items focused on performance, beginning with 18- or 19-inch wheels and six-piston front and four-piston rear brakes, each equipped with stainless steel lines and uprated brake pads. Bilstein shocks, lowering springs, sway bars, a chassis brace, clutch set, short shifter kit, intake and stainless steel exhaust round out the performance options, while a carbon fiber engine cover, shift knob and floor mats appease the dress-up crowd.

When installed by an authorized dealer, the TRD-developed performance parts carry a 12-month warranty on their own or for the balance of the new car warranty. We're looking forward to getting some seat time in a fully-kitted IS 350 equipped with all the F-Sport goodies, so stay tuned for a thorough review. Make the jump for a listing of all the F-Sport parts.

20 years of the Mazda Miata/MX-5

Twenty years ago, Mazda took the wraps off the first generation Miata/MX-5 in Chicago. Over the next two decades the lightweight roadster solidified its place in the enthusiast hierarchy and evolved with larger engines, more gears and extra amenities. Amazingly, it never lost its edge.

Mazda wanted to commemorate the Miata's milestone at this year's Chicago Auto Show, but rather than trot out a 20th Anniversary Edition with a few badges and a custom color, Mazda dusted off a handful of concepts, one-offs and notable MX-5s that defined the roadster and help create the Cult of Miata that a few Autoblog staffers continue to worship at to this day.

GM finally rolls out Corvette Stingray Concept

General Motors used the Chicago Auto Show to introduce the world to its latest concept vehicle, the Corvette Stingray, which will be featured in the upcoming Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen movie on June 26th. According to GM, the vehicle is nothing more than a styling buck that was influenced by the original 1959 Stingray racer when it was spotted by director Michael Bay while he was touring GM's operations looking for inspiration for the first Transformers movie. Don't expect this concept to spawn any sort of production vehicle, which, needless to say, is a shame.

In robot mode, the Corvette Stingray Concept will take the form of Sideswipe, who will reportedly be a skater with wheels for feet. The General doesn't have anything in the way of new product to show off here in Chicago, so it's using the blockbuster movie to drum up interest instead. It's working... sorta.

Check out CorvetteGuys.com and their large selection of Corvette Apparel.

New AUTOBOTS on display

In addition to the Corvette Centennial Concept, Chevrolet showed three more AUTOBOTS at the Chicago Auto Show that will make their big screen debuts in the upcoming Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen live action flick, along with one that we're all very familiar with. While we've seen images of the Chevy Volt on the Transformers set, this is the first time that GM has displayed the vehicle for public consumption. This is no show car, as the vehicle on display showed significant wear and tear from its day job. In robot form, the Volt will be known as Jolt, which makes us hope for some shocking footage this summer.

The other two vehicles were the Chevy Beat, which will be called the Spark when it enters production soon, and the Chevy Trax. These two vehicles will be known as Skids and Mudflap respectively, and we're hearing these two 'bots could provide a bit of comic relief to what will otherwise be a sobering storyline. Lastly, we have the yellow and black Camaro, aka Bumblebee, which was represented in both car form and in 17-foot-tall robot form.

Hyundai introduces R-Spec Genesis Coupe for enthusiasts

Hyundai has been one of the few companies keeping us busy at the Chicago Auto Show. Besides showing the Rhys Millen drift car and announcing pricing for the Genesis Coupe, the automaker trotted out the R-spec enthusiast model.

While the car they brought to the show is basically a concept, the R-Spec package will be available through dealers and will give performance junkies more in some areas and less in others. The full list of equipment is in the press release after the jump, but the highlights are a 210-hp turbo'd inline-four that returns 30 mpg and a top speed of 137 mph. Available only with the six-speed manual, it comes with stability control, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, 19-inch wheels, Brembos, a Torsen limited-slip differential, a beefier suspension and summer-only Potenzas. To reduce cost and weight, the R-Spec doesn't include Bluetooth, automatic headlights, cruise control, trip computer, chrome interior accents and steering wheel audio controls. Basically, the R-spec is packing all the heavy-hitting hardware from the Track model and ditches the frippery that drivers and customizers aren't interested in.

The Genesis Coupe R-Spec will be available mid-2010 with a base price of $23,750, or $3,000 less than the 2.0T Track model. That should allow a lot of extra cash for some tuner bits. Besides the performance tweaks, the R-Spec will only be available in three colors: Karussell White, Bathurst Black and Tsukuba Red. Good names, good colors, good kit and a good price.

Hyundai and Red Bull sponsor Rhys Millen Genesis Coupe drift car

Professional drifters will have a new competitor to contend with this year as Hyundai jumps into the mix with Rhys Millen. The Genesis Coupe is still a couple of months from going on sale here in the U.S., but Hyundai is ramping up its promotional efforts. The latest is a sponsorship deal with Rhys Millen Racing to run the new coupe in several different series. Millen is building a drift/race car based on the coupe with a 550-hp Lambda V6. While roadgoing Genesis Coupes get a normally aspirated 3.8L V6 as the top engine, Millen's machine is punched out to 4.1 liters and boosted with a Turbonetics turbocharger.

The team has taken a stock coupe chassis and stripped it down to the bare essentials. They will be stitch welding all the seams to improve rigidity and then adding carbon fiber body panels with a goal of getting the car's weight down to 2,400 lbs. Along with support from the factory, the Millen car will also be wearing Red Bull colors. Millen will run the car up Pikes Peak this summer and spend the rest of the year campaigning it in Formula Drift Professional Drifting Championship, as well as selected races of the Redline Time Attack series.

Acura unveils TSX V6 for 2010

Acura fans have something to rejoice about today as the Japanese automaker just released a new model here at the Chicago Auto Show. Before you get too excited, know that it's not rear-wheel-drive or powered by a V8 engine, but it's still a nice addition to the line-up. For the 2010 model year, the front-wheel-drive TSX sedan will be available with a 280-horsepower 3.5L V6 engine (most likely a version of the same engine offered in the Honda Accord, though Acura didn't confirm). The package also includes a slightly revised front fascia, retuned suspension system and new 18-inch wheels that are a full inch larger than the ones that come standard on the four-cyliner model. Acura says this new TSX model is a harbinger of good things to come, as the automaker plans to heavily revise all of its models for the upcoming model year. While we wait for that to take place, sales of the new V6 TSX should begin later this summer.

Ford Taurus SHO kicks off Chicago

In the metal, the Blue Oval's highest-performance SHO builds very discretely on the standard Taurus's muscular new bodywork, with a unique dark-gray grille and matching 19- or 20-inch alloys, along with distinct parking lamp bezels, a modest decklid spoiler and obligatory badging. Much to our editor-in-chief's chagrin, Ford chose to roll out the new model in maroon and silver, oddly foregoing the SHO-only Atlantis Green hue, but both examples looked attractive in their respective paints.

If Ford has missed an obvious aesthetic trick with the SHO, it's with the engine, which is hidden under an innocuous black plastic cover. SHO enthusiasts have practically made scale jewelry out of the first- and second-generation Taurus SHO's Yamaha V-6 engine and its prominent intake runners, and the new Ecoboost engine looks utterly undistinguished. Thankfully, the twin-turbo 3.5-liter V-6 should provide enough performance to win over the diehards.

Given how many Tauruses (Taurii?) are likely to populate America's roads over the next few years, the SHO is likely to be a first-class sleeper, so subtle are its visual modifications. In any case, Ford isn't shying away from comparing their new baby with flashier, more expensive cars, casually noting that the car's performance figures should compare favorably with BMW's 5-Series and Chrysler's 300C all-wheel drive, the latter of which marketing and communications vice-president, Jim Farley, proudly notes is $900 pricier.

Ford gets down to business, rolls out customized Transit Connect vans

In addition to rolling out the hotly anticipated Taurus SHO, Ford has also unveiled a gaggle of Transit Connect commercial vanlets in Chicago, including five customized examples for the winners of Blue Oval's "Connect with Connect" contest. The small-business owning winners were on-hand for the presentation, and although they knew they had won themselves new vehicles, they evidently had no idea that Ford was customizing their TCs.

Ford plans to release the Transit Connect to dealers this summer with a starting price of $21,475 (including destination charges), and although the upright commercial vehicle will operate in what is essentially a class of one, several comparisons were made to the Chevrolet HHR, which has a markedly smaller cargo and weight capacity. In any case, Dearborn says the 135-cubic foot interior can swallow a six-foot ladder and carry a payload of 1600 pounds (more than a standard-cab Dodge Ram, Ford notes), and it returns up to 40% better fuel-economy than full-size commercial vans.

During the press conference, Ford restated their commitment to roll out at least four pure EVs in America by 2012, of which a flotilla of pure-electric Transit Connects will be the first, likely for commercial fleet use only.

Ford unveils Harley-Davidson F-150

Flush from the news that its F-150 pickup performed markedly better than many of its primary competitors in a new series of IIHS side-impact crash tests, Ford has rolled out its latest larger-than-life Harley-Davidson model.

Outside of the appearance items, the HD is essentially a Platinum Edition F-Series in motorcycle leathers, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. Available in either Lava (dark maroon) or Tuxedo Black, the Harley looks very aggressive in the metal – and the effect is not just a function of scale. The bold six-bar grille and 22-inch Harley-branded polished/painted alloys clearly set it apart as a distinct model from other F-Series pickups, and Ford has also slathered the pickup in oversized emblems and strange red "swoosh" marks on the rocker panels. While we could do without the latter flourishes, the truck still strikes us as particularly good-looking in Lava.

Ford's 14th Harley-branded product also has a seriously dolled-up interior that is likewise not for introverts. The prevailing theme behind the cabin's styling is that of a Harley biker jacket, and the materials, color choices, and the gigantic badges on the seats and center console (including a serialized plate) are unsubtle but appropriate.

Stop by AmericanTrucks.com and check out their large selection of F150 Accessories.

Dodge Ram 3500HD

When it comes to consumer loyalty, you'd be hard pressed to find a more dedicated group of fans outside the heavy-duty pickup segment. Recognizing this, Dodge has brought a slew of full-size trucks to the Chicago Auto Show in the form of the 2010 Dodge Ram 3500, 4500 and 5500 HD Chassis Cabs.

Dodge started the heavy-duty retrofit with the highly-competent 1500 model introduced last year, then proceeded to create a crew cab variant that's claimed to be packing the most room in its class. Both regular and Mega Cab variants will be offered, along with two bed sizes (six-foot, four-inch or eight-foot) and five trim levels: ST, SLT, TRX, Laramie and Power Wagon.

Pickup aficionados will notice the new bumper treatment, larger grille (with chrome, black or body-colored trim), wider fenders for the dually models and the subtle tailgate lip to improve aerodynamics.

The HD comes standard with Dodge's HEMI 5.7-liter V8, putting out 383 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque through a beefed-up 545RFE five-speed automatic. However, with a take-rate of over 90% for the diesel engine on HD models, Dodge is offering the optional 6.7-liter Cummins inline-six that channels 350 hp and 650 lb-ft of torque to a 68RFE six-speed automatic featuring low-speed "creeper" mode and Electronic Range Select, allowing the driver to limit which high gear is used while towing. Two 4x4 models will be offered, along with four different axle ratios, and on the topic of towing, the Ram 3500 HD, equipped with the Cummins turbodiesel, dual rear wheels, 4x4 system and a 4.10 rear axle ratio can handle a maximum payload of 5,110 pounds and a towing capacity of 18,500 pounds.

Record-setting Viper ACR makes an appearance

As Will Ferrell once said, "If you've got it, flaunt it." The boys at SRT are quite proud of the Viper ACR's 7:22.1 run of the Nürburgring, and they have brought the car out to Chicago to let everyone know who sits atop the podium. We would've assumed it was just your everyday Viper ACR except that the team that set the record has signed the carbon fiber rear wing including the driver, SRT engineer Tom Coronel. The record-setting run, which was done back in August, bested the likes of the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 (7:22.4), Maserati MC12 (7:24.3), Pagani Zonda F Clubsport (7:24.7) and Ferrari Enzo (7:25.3). We've included a new gallery of the car from the show and embedded the video of the lap after the jump in case you missed it the first time around.

Mr. Norm's Super Challenger

Along with Barack Obama, the Cubs, Al Capone and the Sears Tower, Chicago is home to the world's most famous Mopar dealer, Mr. Norm's legendary Grand Spaulding Dodge. While Mr. Norm sold the dealership in the late 1970's, the Mopar Hall of Famer has recently made a resurgence, officially introducing the 1968 Dodge GSS Hemi Dart last year in Chicago as well as the Super Cuda and Challenger at SEMA just a few months ago. The Challenger is making an appearance here in Chicago as well, with a slick new two-tone paint scheme and 900 supercharged horsepower underneath the hood. Other features include a carbon fiber front and rear spoiler, Katzkin leather interior, SSBC eight-piston front brakes, and a Hurst pistol grip shifter. Like the Hurst and its HEMI Challenger, Mr. Norm is selling a production version of the car with a a variety of styling options and performance levels ranging from 600 to 900 horsepower.

U.S.-spec Nissan Cube and Cube Krom

While we've already told you pretty much everything we know about the new-to-these-shores Nissan Cube, what we haven't shared are many pics. We covered the asymmetrical Cube when it appeared at the LA Auto Show, but based on your comments, more is better in this case. When we saw the special Cube Krom on the eve of the Chicago Auto Show, we figured we could remedy that situation by adding a fistful of new photos to the database.

Whether in blinged out Krom trim or regular old just-Cube form, this is one unique vehicle with an attitude that reminds us of the first-generation Scion xB. It should, as these two vehicles came from the same Japanese market that values quirky, versatile and small in the same package. In addition to the plain white model that was in Los Angeles, Nissan brought along the Krom and another customized version seen here. This green example shows the customization possibilities that Nissan wants to promote in this new model. The body kit, wheel upgrade and rear spoiler really make this Cube shine.

Alton XUV - Return of the ginormous Ford trucks

At last year's Chicago Auto Show we found on one of the most outrageous trucks we'd ever seen. It was the Alton F-650 XUV and it was enormous. This year, the same company is back with a new project based of the all-new 2009 F-series. The Alton XUV Command Center is an urban assault vehicle of the highest order, with a massive footprint, several huge strobes and a length list of features. If the 660 lb-ft of torque isn't enough to pummel Geos in its path, the extra power boost provided by a tank of nitrous will finish the job. And the inside is just as much fun.

Where last year's concept had one massive TV that dropped down inside the tailgate, this version has screens for each passenger, and even provides a unique rear-mounted command post where someone can control that nitrous system. As it was last year, this Alton XUV is parked in an area of the show floor set aside for Ford's work vehicles. Besides the Command Center, there were a number of other work truck concepts and real-world F-Series applications including an F-750-based fire truck, a massive cherry picker and even a Dewalt-themed construction site office.

Stop by AmericanTrucks.com and check out their large inventory of Ford F150 rims.

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2010 Ford Taurus SHO!

The SHO must go on. SHO me the money. It's SHO time!

We've heard them all during the months of speculation leading up to this moment. Without further ado, we present to you the 2010 Ford Taurus SHO. That's right, Ford has decided to revive the moniker once affixed to the sports sedan that wowed the automotive world way back in 1989. The original SHO survived three generations of Taurus models, was sold for 10 years straight and attracted over 100,000 buyers. But just as the Taurus itself devolved from America's best-selling car to a rental fleet afterthought, the original SHO ended production in 1999 having gone from a budget sports sedan to an overpriced, underpowered executive whip.

Ford is working on rehabilitating the Taurus name with a significant redesign that debuted last month at the Detroit Auto Show. Using that sedan as its canvas, the new SHO may also restore respect to a name that has fallen too far. A 365-hp twin-turbo EcoBoost V6, all-wheel-drive and plenty of upgrades is a good place to start. Follow the jump to learn everything there is to know about the return of the SHO.
Ford is currently in the process of stuffing its new 3.5L EcoBoost V6 into any that fits. The Ford Flex, Lincoln MKS and upcoming Lincoln MKT are all getting it. Being based on the same platform as the MKS, it was a no-brainer that the redesigned 2010 Taurus would also get the twin-turbo, direct-inject engine that Ford promises will deliver V8 power with V6 fuel economy. Rather than simply affix the EcoBoost badge to the Taurus' trunk and call it a day, Ford product planners decided that this model would be the perfect vehicle to once again wear the letters S-H-O.


That model designation originally meant Super High Output, which definitely applies to the modern version. Whereas the original SHO used a high-revving 220-hp 3.0L V6 (later a 235-hp 3.4L V8) developed and built by Yamaha, the new SHO's advanced engine turns a relatively small 3.5 liters of displacement displacement and a lot of pressure into 365 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 350 ft.-lb of torque at 3,500 rpm. That makes this version of Ford's 3.5L EcoBoost V6 the most powerful one available with 10 more horsepower than its other applications.



Unlike the original SHO, however, this new one is about much more than just the engine. Backing up the potent powerplant is a torque-sensing all-wheel-drive system mated to Ford's 6F55 six-speed SelectShift automatic transmission. The tranny is augmented by a manual mode that can be controlled either by the console shifter or paddle shifters, and will also rev match downshifts and hold gears even when the tach is bouncing off the engine's redline.



The SHO further separates itself from lesser Taurus models with a beefed up suspension that includes SHO-specific shock absorbers, springs, stabilizer bars and strut mount bushings. Furthermore, the new SHO also features Ford's new SR1 suspension setup with MacPherson front struts and a multi-link set up in the rear. We'll have to wait for a test drive to determine for sure, but the SHO's suspension should be noticeably sharper than that of the standard Taurus and its other platform-mate, the Lincoln MKS. There will even be an optional Performance Package that includes better brake pads, recalibrated steering, a "Sport Mode" for the stability control system and shorter 3.16 to 1 final drive ratio. Nineteen-inch wheels wrapped in Goodyear Eagle rubber will be standard, while 20-inchers wearing Michelin high-performance summer tires will also be available.



New wheels are one of only a few items that will visually set the SHO apart from lesser Taurus trim levels. The grille features a dark grey finish that matches the wheels and new parking lamp bevels are SHO-only items. There's also a decklid spoiler out back along with a simple SHO/EcoBoost badge on the trunk lid. One of the exclusive colors available will also be Atlantis Green, which Ford says was inspired by the Deep Emerald Green seen on many second-generation (1992-1995) SHO models.



While the exterior styling adheres to the same sleeper philosophy as the original, the new SHO interior is a bit more outgoing. The seats are leather-trimmed and two-tone with Mike Suede inserts, which Ford proudly points out are produced from post-consumer yarns made of plastic soda bottles. The dash and door panels also feature acres of aluminum trim, and SHO branding appears on the floor mats and passenger-side dash panel.

Those are basically the lengths to which Ford has gone to transform its new Taurus into a modern day interpretation of the original SHO. There is some bad news, however, some of which will likely not go over well with the SHO faithful who live on websites like SHOtimes.com, SHOforum.com and BringBackTheSHO.com, and who Ford also claims it listened to during the car's development.



For one, the original Yamaha 3.0L V6 (upper left) was one of the most gorgeous engines ever created with an overlapping system of intake runners that is a marvel to behold. The 3.5L EcoBoost V6 in the new version (upper right) is covered by a boring, black plastic shroud with SHO branding. Also, aside from the aforementioned availability of a SHO-inspired shade of green, there's not much that visually connects the new car to the original. Though the first- and second-gen SHOs did not look drastically different than a standard Taurus, there were certain SHO elements that have become associated with the car, specifically the "slicer" wheels that debuted in '90/'91 and were standard on all second-gen models.



Then there's the question of whether another Ford product might have been a more appropriate choice for a modern day SHO. The Fusion, for instance, is smaller, lighter and less expensive than the current Taurus. While the redesigned 2010 Fusion does offer a Sport model with a big V6, we envision a more balanced Fusion SHO that honors the original with front-wheel-drive, a manual transmission and high output 2.0L EcoBoost four-cylinder. It might be nice, but it's not the way Ford went.

The 2010 Ford Taurus SHO will start at $37,995 when it goes on sale this summer. That's a lofty price tag for a Taurus, but not for a 365-hp, all-wheel-drive sedan stuffed with this much tech and luxury. The original SHO stickered for just under $20,000 in late 1988, which was also considered a big premium to pay for Ford's bread-and-butter family sedan. But auto pundits of the day quickly realized that the SHO was a performance bargain compared to more expensive cars from brands like BMW. Based on what we've learned so far, the same thing will likely be said of the new one.

Hyundai's Veloster concept headed for production... and America!

Back at the 2007 Seoul Motor Show, Hyundai somewhat quietly unveiled a slick little coupe concept dubbed Veloster. The chunky, funky two-door then proceeded to make the rounds that show season, including stateside debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

Thanks in part to good feedback, there was considerable speculation in 2007 that the front-drive showcar was being considered for production as a possible Scion tC fighter. In the intervening years since those rumors surfaced, however, Hyundai has gone on to roll out both concept and production versions of the Genesis Coupe, a development that seemingly extinguishing the Veloster's star. But all is not so – we have just learned from well-placed sources within Hyundai that the coupe (also known as the HND-3) has been given the green light. Furthermore, the car will not only reach production, it will find its way into U.S. dealerships, likely as a 2011 or 2012 model.

We expect the Veloster to keep its front-drive, two-plus-two layout, and it would make sense for the car to generate less power than the more performance-oriented 2.0T Genesis Coupe – a car that has 210 horsepower and 223 pound-feet of torque. The Veloster showcar was powered by Hyundai's 2.0-liter inline-four, and the production car figures to do the same. For reference, the corporate powerplant makes 141 hp in the new Elantra Touring, although a few more ponies would likely find its way into the barn for the sportier Veloster. If the Korean automaker can keep the concept's tidy packaging (it's nearly 21 inches shorter than the Genesis Coupe), performance should still be quite sprightly while returning attractive fuel-economy figures.

Interestingly, this news may also help explain why Hyundai chose to pass over branding the Genesis Coupe as a Tiburon. The Veloster's production name has reportedly not yet been decided upon, and as the shark moniker still has some brand equity – and the model itself has always been configured as a front-drive and four-cylinder – it's possible that the name could live on with this new model.

Maybach exhumes long-dormant nameplate for new super-lux model

One of these days, the guys at Daimler headquarters in Stuttgart will realize that, to make Maybach a success, the marque is going to need to do more than revive some old names and slap 'em on an oversized version of the old Mercedes S-Class. Until then, however, it's full speed ahead on the current course, as Maybach is poised to unveil Zeppelin editions of its current models.

Reviving the old nameplate of the original Maybach's top-spec model, the new Zeppelin is little more than a pricy trim package. €406,000 (about $525k USD by today's rates) gets you a Maybach 57 Zeppelin, while the larger 62 commands a €473,200 ($612k) sum. In exchange, you get some unique 20" dark chrome rims, the requisite special badges, dark red tail lights, vertical exhaust outlets, special leather upholstery ("California beige" with "Stromboli black" stitching), piano lacquer trim, a set of silver champagne flutes and a plastic fragrance dispenser.

Maybach says they'll only make 100 Zeppelin editions, but remember: that's a maximum, and we'd be surprised if they actually sold that many.

[Source: Daimler]

2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe to start at $22,000

We've known rough performance numbers on the 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe for some time now: 0-60 in under six seconds, up to 30 mpg with the 2.0T, and so on. But one set of key numbers has eluded us until now: price. Hyundai's rear-drive performance hopeful will weigh in at $22,000 for the base 210-hp 2.0L turbo model, and the 306-hp 3.8L V6 will start at $25,000.

Despite being the price leader, the 2.0T still piles on a lot of kit including a six-speed manual transmission, a full compliment of brake-related electronics (ABS, traction control, brake force distribution, and brake assist) and 18-inch alloys wrapped in Bridgestone Potenzas. Standard creature comforts include keyless entry, cruise control, air conditioning, leather wrapped wheel and shifter, a six-speaker AM/FM/XM/CD/MP3 player with USB port and steering wheel audio controls, and Bluetooth.

Tuner types and gearheads will probably be most interested in the newly announced mid-priced 2.0T R-Spec model ($23,750). Hyundai has chosen not to make the R-Spec a stripped-out lightweight performance model. As such, the model still includes things like the aforementioned six-speaker stereo, air-conditioning and remote keyless entry, but the 137-mph coupe also gets Hyundai's full compliment of performance hardware, including uprated Brembo brakes, stiffened suspension, a Torsen limited-slip differential, and 19-inch gunmetal alloys wrapped with summer tires.

On the top end, a full-house 3.8-liter Track model Genesis Coupe with six-speed ZF automatic will run $31,000, and that model will get the performance bits from the R-Spec listed above, along with HID headlamps, a rear spoiler, and so on. Inside, buyers will be greeted by leather seats, aluminum pedals, proximity key, power moonroof controls, and a ten-speaker 360-watt stereo with subwoofer and eight-channel amplifier.

Given the wide variety of packages and options available, we expect the Genny Coupe to be cross-shopped against a wide constellation of performance autos, including everything from the Mitsubishi Eclipse and Lancer Ralliart/Evo to the Ford Mustang, Nissan 370Z, Infiniti G37 and BMW 1-Series.

So... what tricks did Hyundai miss? If there are any glaring omissions on the Genesis Coupe's options list, it's that a navigation system won't be available until mid-year. Dealers should expect their first shipments of Genesis Coupes beginning later this month.

[Source: Hyundai]

2010 Mazda CX-7 debuts with refreshed look and new four-cylinder

While we were gathered here in rainy Chicago for the Auto Show, we received word that the 2010 refresh for the Mazda CX-7 has in fact debuted some 500 miles away in Toronto, Canada. This switcheroo had us searching the floor here in McCormick for a 2010 model lazing away in the corner of Mazda's stand, but instead we only found the 2009 model. After the press conference, we stopped to chat with James O'Sullivan, Mazda's North American president and CEO, and he confirmed the Canadian debut was in fact the global premier.

The big news coming out of the Canadian International Auto Show for 2010 is that the CX-7 is getting a new 2.5-liter normally-aspirated four-cylinder model (the same engine is employed in the 2010 Mazda6 and Mazda3). So-equipped, the CX-7 generates 161 horsepower (at 6000 rpm) and maximum torque of 161 pound-feet of torque (at 3500 rpm). The turbocharged, 244-horsepower 2.3-liter engine remains unchanged. Further details like fuel-economy, price, and trim specification for this model will be revealed "at a later date," and in fact there is no official confirmation that the normally-aspirated inline-four will come to America, although it would be hard to imagine Mazda not doing so.

Beyond powertrains, Mazda has refined the CX-7 inside-and-out, including a redesigned front end with a larger five-point grille and different front and rear fascias. Inside, new gauge faces have taken up residence, along with a 4.1-inch color TFT information display, an available blind-spot monitoring system, three-position seat memory for the driver's seat (and a power backrest for the passenger seat), and Bluetooth for both phones and audio.
Further refinements have also been exacted on the CX-7 with the goal of increasing stiffness, reduced NVH, and lowered wind noise, although Mazda is not yet disclosing how those improvements have been arrived at.

So... why the brush-off for the Windy City? After all, the CX-7 isn't built in Canada, right? In our talk with O'Sullivan, we learned that the reason is three-fold:

1. Mazda wanted to focus on the 20th anniversary of the Miata (which made its global debut in Chicago).
2. Canada is a particularly strong market for Mazda, where it maintains a 5% market share (the U.S. only recently cracked 2%).
3. Mazda models go on sale earlier in Canada than they do in the U.S. In the case of the 2010 Mazda3, cars are shipping to Canadian dealers this week – American showrooms won't see cars for a month or more. The same story figures to play out with the CX-7, meaning that an earlier public review was a necessity.

In any case, U.S. consumers will have to wait until the New York Auto Show in April for their first look at the 2010 CX-7.

[Source: Mazda]

Lamborghini Gallardo stilettos rendered

Lamborghini: sexy. High heels: also sexy. That doesn't mean they belong together. Fortunately, the heels are no closer to reality than the rendering on the right. Designed by Modo illustrator Tim Cooper as a potential product from Tonino Lamborghini, the firm run by Ferruccio's son whose bluetooth earpieces, perfumes, smoking accessories and coffee makers we've shown you previously.

Based on the design of the defunct Gallardo Superleggera, these pumps are pretty well thought-out, right down to the carbon fiber stilettos holding up the back. As a curious distraction, these make for some funny footwear. We just hope Tonino doesn't get any ideas.

[Source: CGTalk via Motive]

Mercedes introduces armored E-Class

A Mercedes should isolate its occupants and be built like a tank, and the new Mercedes-Benz E-Guard fulfills both requirements to the letter. The E-Guard is the latest addition to the automaker's line of armored vehicles, based on the standard E-Class and upgraded with an array of security measures.

Mercedes installs body armor right into the chassis, replaces the windows with bulletproof polycarbonate, a blast-proof floor and run-flat 17-inch tires. The result is virtually indistinguishable from a standard E-Class, making the E-Guard less of a target for would-be assassins and carjackers in the world's less friendly locales. To help cope with the added weight, Mercedes has fitted a special Level II air suspension, while the standard engines from the E350, E500 and E350 CDI pull the extra duty. While some may say it's impossible to put a price on safety, Mercedes begs to differ, charging a 10,000 euro premium for the armored E while politely reminding you that you're not paranoid if they're actually trying to get you.

[Source: Mercedes-Benz]

GM confirms 10,000 more salaried employees to go this year, plus pay cuts

The pain just keeps on coming for workers at General Motors. The company confirmed this morning that it will eliminate 10,000 salaried positions around the world before the end of this year. That will take GM's global white collar staff from 73,000 down to 63,000. Of the 10,000 heads to be cut, 3,400 will be in the United States where the company currently has 29,500 white collar staff. Those jobs will be eliminated by the end of April through another program of buyouts.

Those that remain in their jobs after May 1 will be taking home less in pay every week. From May 1 through the end of the year, those in executive positions will see a 10% cut in base pay. Those at lower pay grades will see salary cuts of 3-7%. Whether the cuts remain in place into 2010 will depend on the state of the business at the end of this year. In this economy, a job with 5% less pay is probably better than no job at all, but it still sucks.

[Source: General Motors]

PRESS RELEASE

GM to Reduce Salaried Employment Levels

DETROIT -- GM is notifying its employees that it will reduce salaried employment globally from a current level of 73,000 to approximately 63,000. These reductions are expected to take place in 2009.

These difficult actions are necessitated by a severe drop in vehicle sales worldwide and by the need to restructure GM for long-term viability. GM outlined the need for the reductions in its restructuring plan submitted to Congress on December 2, 2008. The announcement this week begins implementation of this aspect of the plan.

Salaried employment reductions will vary by global region, depending on the staffing levels in the region and market conditions. Details of the reductions and separation programs will be shared directly by regional leadership with the affected employees.

In the United States, approximately 3,400 of GM's 29,500 salaried employees will be impacted. These reductions will be made using GM separation programs and policies, which provide for severance payments, benefit contributions and outplacement assistance. The majority of the reductions are expected to take place by May 1, 2009.

GM also announced a temporary pay reduction for a majority of U.S. salaried employees. This begins May 1, and will be effective through the end of the year, when it will be reviewed. In the U.S., executive employees will have their base pay reduced by 10 percent, and many other salaried employees will see reductions of 3 to 7 percent.

Other countries are currently reviewing compensation and benefits for salaried employees.

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ARK ReDesign unveils three-door Range Rover Sport conversion

Land Rover has been threatening to build a sport-oriented three-door model for some time now. The British offroaders first whet our appetites with the Vesuvius orange Range Stormer, a 2004 show vehicle that eventually evolved into the production five-door Range Rover Sport. More recently, Land Rover has shown off the LRX, also a three-door concept, but word is that it, too, could grow an extra set of doors by the time it reaches showrooms.

Thus, the aftermarket has taken up the slack, with companies like LSE taking up the slack and building shortened, "coupified" versions of the Range Rover Sport. Now, a new UK firm called ARK ReDesign is taking up the torch, and it plans on offering its own three-door variant shortly. Official details remain slim, but ARK says they will offer to perform the door-ectomy on either a new Sport or a customer's pre-existing vehicles, whether stock or modified.

[Source: ART ReDesign]

PRESS RELEASE

3 Door Range Rover Sport under development by emerging UK automotive design & engineering company ARK ReDesign.

ARK ReDesign – The absolute finest in bespoke automotive engineering.

Introducing the bespoke 3 door Range Rover Sport - the product of a series of enhancements to the original vehicle and soon to be available from ARK ReDesign.

The three door variant offers an enhanced sporting look and feel and yet remains
in-keeping with the design intent of the original vehicle – being equally at home on the most challenging terrain as it is on the high street.

Initially offered to a factory level specification, the 3 door vehicles will have standard factory trim and paint options. In addition, there will also be the option to individually tailor a vehicle to meet any specific requirements (phone or email to discuss individual requirements).

ARK ReDesign also plan to offer these modifications to current Range Rover Sport owners (standard and modified vehicles).

Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano to gain new HGTE package?

Ageing can be a tedious affair, especially for Italian beauty queens. So when Ferrari GTs begin to show their age, Maranello typically treats them to a spa vacation, re-emerging more youthful and exuberant than before. The 575M got a GTC handling package as it approached retirement, the 612 Scaglietti got the HGT-S package a couple of years ago, and the next guest booked for treatment, according to sources, is the 599 GTB Fiorano.

However, the Fiorano's nowhere near the end. It was only introduced three years ago; both the 612 and the F430 are due for replacement before the 599 is sent off to play mahjong and shuffle-board. But reports suggest that the 599 is to gain from a new HGTE package – the H standing for "handling", GT for "gran turismo" and E for "evoluzione", telling us that this package, tipped to debut at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show, promises more than those installed on its sisters. Sources suggest that $25k over the $300k sticker price will get you 20-inch modular wheels wrapped in fresh rubber, a retuned exhaust, new front grille, upgraded spring rates, revised anti-roll bars, and some more carbon fiber bits in the cabin. Strictly necessary? Hardly. But if Maranello wants to make the 599 GTB even sharper, who's going to complain? Thanks to Jerome for the tip.

[Source: Driver's Republic via CarPlatform.com]

Nissan projects $2.9B loss, announces 20,000 job cuts

Nissan hasn't posted an annual loss in nine years, but the automaker is poised to take a big hit on its 2008 earnings, and like the rest of the industry, it is scrambling to restructure. The Japanese carmaker is expected to report a $2.9 billion shortfall, prompting Carlos Ghosn and his team to chop 20,000 jobs – fully 8.5 percent of its employees worldwide. Some of the job losses will be arrived at through early retirement packages and the ending of temporary worker contracts, but most will be out-and-out layoffs. The personnel cuts will leave Nissan with 215,000 workers globally and take place now through March of 2010.

Nissan's planned cuts are markedly more aggressive than those employed by other Japanese automakers, suggesting that Japan's third-largest automaker is even more pessimistic about the potential for near-term economic gains. That appears to be particularly true in its domestic market, where the strong Yen and other factors have conspired to result in 12,000 of the planned job losses. Thanks for the tip, Karen!

[Source: Associated Press via ClockOnDetroit]