New Car: 2010 Ford Fusion

Ford has released an image and details on the updated 2010 Ford Fusion. Highlights include a revised engine and transmission lineup, as well details on the hybrid versions of both the Fusion and its Mercury twin.
The lone photo provided by Ford shows a more aggressive front end for the Fusion, with fenders that bulge out more at the corners and a larger chrome grille with “eyebrows” that stretch above the restyled headlights. Trapezoidal openings in the lower front fascia are reminiscent of Ford’s European Kuga crossover and U.S.-bound Fiesta small car. Changes to the rear were not revealed, but we do know that restyled taillights and fascias are in the cards.
No images of the Milan have been released, but based on the camouflaged development vehicle that was on hand for the announcement, expect a larger grille as well as updated rear styling.

The Fusion powertrain lineup has been completely overhauled. All transmissions, both manual and automatic, will have six speeds. Front-wheel drive is still standard, with all-wheel drive continuing as an option on V-6 models.
Mirroring changes made for the 2009 Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner, Ford will replace the Fusion’s 2.3-liter four-cylinder with a bored and stroked version that displaces 2.5 liters, as well as drop in a reworked version of the 3.0-liter V-6. The four-cylinder option now delivers 175 hp and 172 lb-ft of torque, up from 160 and 156, respectively. Ford is also claiming that the four-banger will achieve 33 mpg on the highway when mated to an automatic transmission, which bests the four-cylinder versions of the Toyota Camry (31 mpg) and Honda Accord (30 mpg). Ford says to expect a 0-to-60-mph time of 9.5 seconds for 2.5-liter Fusions equipped with the six-speed auto.
The 3.0-liter V-6 now makes 240 hp and 228 lb-ft of torque, increases of 19 hp and 23 lb-ft over the current version. It will also be E85-capable, and using the ethanol-heavy fuel will yield an additional 10 horses—and fewer mpg.
Ford’s 3.5-liter V-6 will finally see duty in a Fusion as the standard powerplant for Sport models, helping to differentiate a trim that is currently little more than an appearance package. The big V-6 is rated at 263 hp and 249 lb-ft of torque, and Ford says 7.0-second 0–60 sprints will be possible. Unlike the other engines, the 3.5-liter will not be shared with the Milan.
The 2010 Fusion and Milan will be fully revealed at the upcoming Los Angeles auto show.

Spied: 2011 BMW 6-Series

The lid has been lifted on BMW’s next 6-Series. Auto Express has the first pictures of the German car makers soft-top. But what’s more surprising is the coupe is yet to break cover. Wearing a similar disguise to the MINI Crossman in recent spy shots, the pictures clearly show the new 6-Series convertible will continue to wear the more traditional canvas roof - not the folding hard-top used on rivals like the Mercedes SL.Following a series of facelifts the next 6-Series will be a brand new version, seven years after the current model made its debut. Expect changes to be subtle though with refinement and build quality taking priority. The engine line-up is unlikely to change much from the current cabrio either.Still in the early stages of testing the cabrio version of the new 6-Series isn’t expected to go on sale until early 2011 and unusually the hard-top will follow after. BMW expect this new strategy to maximise the soft-tops sales when the car is released in the spring. For more details click here.

Thanks to: Auto Express

Check out WheelHQ.com and their large selection of BMW Wheels.

Spied Up Date: 2010 Mercedes CLK

It's the news E-class fans have been waiting for! Mercedes’ forthcoming CLE is ready to hit the road... These exclusive images of the hotly tipped replacement for the CLK show the upcoming car carrying out final tests before it goes on sale next year. It appears the coupe will be almost identical to the concept that inspired it.Subtly decorated in black tape, it’s clear to see under the minimal disguise that the new CLE will have a more angular and sporty design than the car it replaces. Sharp creases down both sides and a more rounded outline help distinguish the coupe further. Despite its change in class the exterior will still draw many influences from the current C-class range, including the large sports-styled front grille and CLS rear lights.Inside, the dash will offer a less complex setup than the current car and the sat-nav has been moved to a higher position offering better visibility while creating more space. The new coupe will also be a proper 2+2 coupe with enough room in the back for passengers.Under the bonnet the 3-Series and A5 rival is expected to carry a similar range of engines to the current C-class including a new 2.2-litre four-cylinder BlueTec diesel unit delivering 201bhp tipped to be a top-seller.The changes are part of Mercedes‘ plan to help return the E-class to its once legendary status. Expect a convertible version of the new CLE to follow in 2010 a year after the coupe. For more details click here.

Thanks to: Auto Express

Sneak Peek: Center Console of 2010 Ford Mustang

Does everybody know what time it is? That's right, with another Wednesday come and past, it's 2010 Mustang teaser picture time. After last week's up-close shot of what we're fairly sure is the hood, Ford has dropped another interior picture on us this week.

Except that it's not entirely new, it's the same picture they dropped two weeks ago (left), but zoomed out a bit to show us more of the center console. The centerpiece, of course, is the shift knob, which has been borrowed from the Bullit-edition Mustangs. Also in view now are the climate controls as well as some of the stereo controls. We see here that it will have Sirius Satellite Radio available, as well as seat heaters and the ability to disable at least some of the electronic nannies. There's also some nice stitching revealed on what appear to be leather seats.

Of course, most of this isn't news to us since we've already seen the entire interior unmasked in spy shots, sans fancy shift knob. Despite the multitude of spy shots already making their rounds on the internet, Ford has remained committed to their one-teaser-a-week rollout, so expect three more pictures to pop-up on Ford's official 2010 Mustang webpage. Ford is obviously trying to built suspense around the new 'Stang prior to its debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show next month, but considering we pretty much know what it looks like already, we have to wonder how much there will be left for them to surprise us with in a few weeks. Ford's shown their commitment to their rollout plan, but as we've asked in the past, is it time to just show the car already?

GM Daewoo releases Lacetti Premiere, America still waits

GM Daewoo has commenced sales of the long-awaited Lacetti Premiere compact sedan today in South Korea. Unveiled at the Paris International Motor Show this month, the Lacetti Premiere is a collaborative work of GM's global design and engineering teams as it will be also sold in other markets around the world, including the United States. In the U.S. and Europe, it will be called Cruze and badged as a Chevrolet.

Assembled at GMDAT's Gunsan plant, the Lacetti Premiere will initially be powered by an ECOTEC III 1.6L 4-cylinder engine that produces 114 horsepower. Coupled to it is a standard Hydromatic 6-speed automatic transmission. It is expected to achieve over 40 MPG. The Lacetti Premiere has a base price of 11.15 million Won (US$7600) in South Korea. Later models will be available with a 150 horsepower 2.0L turbodiesel engine.

Perhaps the more significant news is the Cruze's impact in the U.S. and the world. The USDM Cruze will be assembled at GM's Lordstown facility, and will replace the aging Cobalt. The Cruze will also pack the 1.6L engine and will reach U.S. showrooms in, get this, 2010. GM stated that it took 27 months to develop the Cruze and is counting on it to make a very needed impact in the competitive C-segment market in America. The Cruze will arrive in Europe in spring 2009.

[Source: Trading Markets]

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BMW 135i by Hartge

German based BMW Group tuning specialist Hartge first showed us off-the-shelf parts for the 1-Series coupe when it was first released, and then shortly followed with the aerodynamics kits. Now Hartge have developed an ECU upgrade for BMW's already potent 3.0-liter bitrubo engine in the 135i coupe releasing an additional 44hp.

The result is a total of 350hp at 5660 rpm and 480 Nm (lb-ft 354) at 2950 rpm. The sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) arrives in 4.8 seconds – a half second faster than its standard 5.3 seconds. Also, an unrestricted top speed allows 280 km/h (174mph).

Hartge states that a 135i fully equipped with the entire suite of components will cost in Germany € 48,162.14, excluding VAT.

New Car: 2009 Honda Element

Honda has dropped details and pictures of the restyled 2009 Honda Element online today. The changes are mostly cosmetic, updating the quirky SUV with Honda's latest family look. Under new sheet metal and an updated interior, the Element retains the same engine and transmissions, so the 2009 Element is a refresh, not a full redesign.

The most obvious change is right up front, where the grille has been restyled to mimic Honda's new bold chrome ring look first seen on the redesigned 2009 Honda Pilot. Honda has also restyled the front fenders -- this time in metal rather than composites -- and squared the wheel arches all the way around.Inside, the 2009 Element has been updated with modern gadgets such as Bluetooth connectivity, Honda's satellite-linked navigation system with Voice Activation, a rear-view camera for automatic transmission models and USB digital media connectivity.

Under the hood remains Honda's versatile 2.4L i-VTEC inline four-cylinder engine making 166 hp and 161 lb-ft. of torque. It can be mated to a five-speed manual or a five-speed automatic transmission and can be had in front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive format on the LX and EX models and front-wheel drive only on the SC model. When two wheels are driven, the 2009 Element gets an EPA-estimated 20 mpg city and 25 mpg highway with the automatic transmission, while AWD models get 18 mpg city and 23 mpg highway regardless of what transmission they're mated to.

The base model Element LX will start at $20,845 including destination charge, while a fully-loaded Element SC carries a manufacturers suggested retail price of $26,345. Honda hasn't announced an on-sale date yet, but the restyled Element should see dealer showroom floors fairly soon.

Ford Mondeo by Rieger

20 year old German based tuning firm Rieger has released a subtle styling package for the new Ford Mondeo wagon that builds off of the standard appearance with something that is a bit more noticeable without being to extravagant. The kit offers a front lip spoiler, side skirts with cutout shaft and rear bumper fascia. All components are available in either ABS plastic or carbon fiber look. The rear bumper fascia comes in three versions depending on exhaust configuration – dual pipes on both right and left side, single sport pipe or single downward curved pipe. Moreover, Rieger also offers for the Mondeo a coilover suspension by KW and chip tuning upgrades from SKN Technology.

New SL-Class Facelift by Lorinser

Following the teaser image from earlier this month, well known German tuner, Lorinser, have finally pulled the sheet off their new facelifted SL-Class. Designed in characteristic Lorinser form, the SL-Class program includes front bumper fascia, wide flare fenders with grille vents, side skirts also with grille vents and diffuser look rear bumper fascia which accommodates four pipe exhaust system. Also available for the package are the Lorinser RS9 wheels and lowered suspension. Lorinser states in their press release that performance engine upgrades are currently in development.

Seat Leon Body Kit by JE Design

VW Group tuning specialists JE Design have gone ahead and developed a fourth, no wait, fifth aerodynamics body package for the Seat Leon. Still closely resembling the base Leon P1 kit (non-Cupra, FR & wide body), the German tuning expert now offers a carbon fiber look adhesive film in various colors.

The body kit consists of a front bumper fascia with new LED daylight running lights, grille, headlamp lens strips, side skirts and newly designed rear bumper fascia skirt attachment which accommodates four 90mm exhaust pipes.

Under the hood, JE Design is offering a new power increase via engine management upgrade that bounces the standard 103 kW (140 hp) up to 130 kW (176 hp). Torque also increases by 85 Nm to 405 Nm.

New 19-inch multispoke wheel-set, 4-piston brakes and coilover suspension capable of lowering ride height from 35mm to a ground scraping 65 mm round out the package. See press release below for full details.

Widebody Kit for W204 C-Class by Expression Motorsport

Belgian Mercedes tuner Expression Motorsports have put together a DTM inspired wide body package for the new W204 C-Class. Larger air vents in the bumper and hood enhance engine cooling while the widebody kit allows for the larger wheels up to 22-inch to be fitted. The kit consists of front bumper fascia with fog lamps and LED indicators, front carbon fiber lower lip spoiler, hood from C 63 AMG, hood vents, 10 piece fender flair set, side skirts, rear bumper fascia with carbon fiber diffuser and integrated LED F1 brake light and deck lid wing plus additional carbon deflector. Finally, a double twin-tip exhaust system along with an assortment of wheel packages round out the kit which Expression Motorsports refers to as their EX C Motorsport kit.

New Concept Car: Renault Sand 'Up

This unusual combination of pick-up and cabriolet is the Renault Sand’Up, a heavily modified concept version of the Dacia Sandero hatchback due on sale in the UK next year - and the first Renault concept from the firm’s Brazilian design studio.
Described as a 2+2 coupe, the car is based on the Sandero Stepway, a four-wheel drive version of the Sandero on sale in Brazil and Argentina.
Similar in design to the Citroen Pluriel, the Sand’Up’s arcing roof pillars allow for three different body structures; convertible, pick-up truck and what Renault describes as a coupe.
The Sand’Up has a load bed that can extend by 40cm giving 1.7 metres load space thanks to its fold flat rear seats. When equipped with its manual hard-top, the concept also gets a split tailgate clamshell boot, similar to the Renault Koleos. Other features include electro-hydraulic doors, previously used on the Laguna concept, and rear view camera wing mirrors.
Powered by a 1.6 litre engine running on ethanol and driving the front wheels, the Sand’Up will produce 108bhp and 109 lb ft of torque, and reach 60mph in 10.6 seconds.
Renault are unlikely to launch a car like the Sand’Up for the European market, but another South American market only model could be possible.
Pick-ups are a popular alternative to passenger cars in Brazil; Renault says younger buyers are interested in the look of a pick-up rather than its practicality.

Thanks to: Autocar.

Hot News: Audi Green City Car

Take a look at the smallest, most beautifully formed Audi ever. Auto Express has learned that the German firm is planning a new city car – and it will be based on VW’s ultra-economical micro-machine, the up!
The new baby blends fuel economy and style never seen before from Audi. It will share nearly all its underpinnings with the VW, while maintaining the badge appeal and executive air that buyers have come to expect from the four-ringed brand.
Bosses had previously hinted at the possibility of a small car, and speculation suggested it would be based on the same platform as the A1 concept, first revealed at the Geneva Motor Show in March.
But now it has come to light that the platform will be shared with the up! – which will also spawn a raft of other models from fellow VW Group brands Skoda and SEAT.
Audi’s new car will rival top-end versions of the Ford Ka and Fiat 500. As you can see from our pictures, the model adds a distinctive body to the chassis of the up!, with a gaping grille, neat headlamps, beefy wheelarches and a sculpted rear end. But the most innovative move – and potentially the model’s biggest selling point – is the choice of ultra-economical powerplants. Engineers at the VW Group are working on a pair of 600cc two-cylinder turbocharged units – one diesel and one petrol.
Fuel economy is predicted around 95mpg, with super-clean CO2 emissions of less than 100g/km – meaning the Audi won’t cost a penny in road tax under current rules. The company is also toying with the idea of introducing a 1.2-litre three-cylinder engine.
Yet near-100mpg fuel returns are clearly not enough – as an electric powertrain is also under development. Details are sketchy at the moment, but ultra-low running costs and emissions are guaranteed.
In addition, Audi has hinted that an eco-minded replacement for the A2 could be on the way. Rupert Stadler, chairman of the manufacturer’s board of management, told us: “We have intentionally left a gap between the A3 and forthcoming A1. Although it’s too premature to talk about the car that will fill it – as it needs time – the A2 had a certain type of DNA with its aluminium body, and this should be respected. But electric drive is a must.”
This newcomer could be based on the larger, MPV-style space up! displayed at 2007’s Los Angeles Motor Show.
However, the up! project is not without its problems. Originally, VW had planned for a rear-engined, rear-wheel-drive layout, devised to provide more interior space. But top brass have since revealed that this threw up issues in testing, with the car proving unstable in cross winds and suffering difficulties with engine cooling.
So, a more modern and straightforward front-engined, front-wheel-drive layout is likely to be adopted. The up! is due on sale in 2010, with its Audi sister model following in 2012.

Thanks to: Auto Express.

New Car: 2009 Porsche Cayman & Porsche Boxster

It's a Porsche double-whammy! Thanks to images that were leaked onto the internet when they appeared on Porsche's online car configurator, Auto Express can bring you the facelifted versions of the Cayman and Boxster.
Set to go on sale next year, the new models get subtly tweaked exteriors with restyled headlights, new air intakes and sleek LED tail lights. However, under the skin, there are bigger changes. Out goes the old 2.7-litre flat-six cylinder engine and in comes a new 2.9-litre unit with 265hp and 300Nm of torque, up 20hp and 27Nm over its predecessor. As a result, expect a 0-62mph in around six seconds for the entry-level Cayman. A six-speed manual gearbox will be standard, but like the 911, Porsche's PDK twin-clutch gearbox will be available as an option and thanks to its snappier shift, expect a couple of tenths to be shaved off the 0-62mph time. Other options will include a limited-slip differential (LSD) for the first time too on the entry-level model.
The range-topping S models gets a 320bhp direct injection version of the new 2.9-litre engine, capable of accelerating the Cayman S from 0-62mph in 5.3 seconds, with the PDK-version hitting the benchmark in five seconds dead. Not only do these improvement result in more performance, but they also help to reduce fuel consumption and emissions too.
In addtion, expect a slightly restyled interior with new trim and upgrades to the navigation and entertainment systems.

For more photos click here.

New Car: 2010 Nissan 370Z

Earlier this month, Nissan provided us special access to a camouflaged prototype of its next-generation Z sports car. Now come three photos and official confirmation that this Z will indeed be the 370Z -- or officially speaking, the 2009 Nissan 370Z Coupe
What does this mean? Well, for starters, that the rumor mill was 99.99% correct. If you go off name alone, the next-generation Z will be powered by a 3.7L V-6 engine -- no doubt the same one that is in the 2009 Infiniti G37 sedan and coupe. Output should be the about the same as those vehicles as well -- somewhere in the neighborhood of 330 hp and 270 lb-ft of torque. Now we don't know all of this for sure, as no details were provided with the images, only this statement:

"All-New 2009 Nissan 370Z Coupe Readies for Debut. Nissan offers the first look at the upcoming 2009 370Z Coupe, which makes its world debut at the Los Angeles auto show on November 19. The all-new 2009 Nissan 370Z, the first full redesign of the iconic Nissan Z since its reintroduction as a 2003 model, solidifies the strengths of its predecessor with an unmatched balance of performance, style, and value. The all-new Z will go on sale at Nissan dealers in early 2009."

We can, however, learn a bit more by examining the photos. Both exterior shots are of a right -hand-drive model, so we can't assume everything you see here will make it to the North American market. Same goes for the interior. Even though it shows a more accurate left-hand-drive configuration, there are no guarantees that color, trim, or any of the optional equipment shown (such as that nav system) will make it to production.
Still, there are some tasty morsels here.
As you see from the both exterior shots, the 370Z adopts the boomerang-shape head- and taillights first seen on the 2009 Maxima. There is also a new front-end treatment -- two structures curve up and in off the lower airdam, like a pair of canines. Without camouflage, the dramatically shortened wheelbase, heavily sculpted front fenders, and revised door handle all become more obvious. The rear three-quarter angle provides a much better view of those V-shaped lights as well as the backswept roofline and bobbed tail. Most dramatic is the greenhouse. Gone is the 350Z's nose-to-tail beltline; now the window line curves up after the door's trailing edge, creating a small set of rear windows - and daylight openings reminiscent of the original 240Z. For more details click here.

New Car: 2010 Aston Martin One-77

While teasers may be the latest trend among automakers, it does put them in a vulnerable position for internal leaks. Arising on the Web today are what look to be the first uncovered photos Aston Martin's latest ultra-fast (and expensive) One-77 supercar in its full production-ready splendor.

The images, courtesy of Dutch blog 925.nl, clearly show the car's extra-wide stance and intricate carbon fiber bodywork. Characteristic Aston lines -- somewhat reminiscent of a Coke bottle -- permeate exotic's exterior and are accentuated further by aggressive functional vents and diffusers, both fore and aft. To the sides, the likely gull-wing doors incorporate deep grooves, while louvers adorn the One-77's hood in order to keep ample airflow on the 7.3L V-12 powerplant.Now that the Aston Martin's approximately $2 million One-77 has broken cover, expect more images and information to surface in the coming weeks.

New Car: 2009 Dodge Trazo

The first fruits of Nissan and Chrysler's manufacturing partnership have been bared and launched today at the Sao Paolo Motor Show in Brazil in the form of the Dodge Trazo C1.8. The ethanol-capable sedan is being launched in Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay and is a version of the Versa built by Nissan.

"The new Trazo C1.8 by Dodge allows us to enter into a segment in which we currently do not compete," said Mike Manley, Executive Vice President of International Sales, Marketing and Business Development for Chrysler in a statement. "The Trazo C1.8 offers customers a high-quality vehicle with great value and provides our dealers with further opportunities to expand their business."The Trazo C1.8 rides on a 102.4-in. wheelbase and slips through the air with a low 0.31 drag-coefficient. It's powered by a 1.8L 16-valve DOHC four-cylinder engine with Variable Valve Timing that is E100 ethanol capable, perfect for countries like Brazil that use ethanol extensively. The engine will be mated to both manual and automatic transmissions, though Chrysler did not elaborate on what transmissions those would be. The car will be backed by a three-year, 50,000-kilometer limited warranty.

Nissan is also reportedly working on a small car for Chrysler to sell in the U.S., though it's unknown at this point if it will be at all related to the Trazo.

Hot News: 2011 Volkswagen Sedan for USA

Despite an ongoing feud with Porsche over who actually owns the company, Volkswagen AG's management is promising the very latest engine technology and sleek new sheetmetal for a new car it is planning to build in the U.S. Based on the Passat’s architecture, but with its own unique interior and exterior looks, the new sedan will compete for the heart of the mid-size sedan market now ruled by the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord. Although the current Passat architecture already underpins a stylish spinoff in the 2009 Passat CC, the new vehicle will reportedly not replace the Passat, leaving the family with three vehicles squeezed onto one platform.
Walter de’Silva, the chief of Volkswagen design, declined to show any drawings of the new vehicle to a group of Tennessee government officials visiting VW headquarters in Wolfsburg, Germany, but insisted the design of the new car is destined to stand out from the competition. “It's not boring,” he said.
De’Silva, who was in charge at Audi when it rolled out the Q7 in 2005 as well as the production R8 and redesigned TT in 2006, confirmed he had “frozen” the final design of the new sedan. “The car is completely designed. I don't freeze a model that I don't feel passionate about,” added de’Silva, who has also won awards for cars such as the elegant Audi A6 and the Lamborghini Murciélago roadster. De’Silva indicated that the new American-built Volkswagen will incorporate the same design philosophy that animates the 2009 Volkswagen Golf, which has just gone on sale in Europe. “We gave the new Golf simple surfaces” he said. “It gives a clear look at what to expect from future Volkswagen models.” The new Golf also has a new front-end and grille design that will carry over on future models, he said. “We need to be unique. We need to be consistent with VW’s brand history and we need to communicate quality, solidity, simplicity, and sustainability,” the latter of which is the car industry’s new shorthand for responsible, eco-friendly vehicles.
For the powertrain, VW is clearly leaning toward a TDI diesel or a direct-injection gasoline engine, which the company has been steadily refining right alongside its new clean diesel engines. The direct-injection gasoline engine could be equipped with a new turbocharging system as well variable valve timing, while the automatic transmission would be ditched in favor of VW’s computer-controlled, dual-clutch DSG. Earlier this year, Volkswagen won the “Golden Drop of Oil 2008” award for the new seven- speed DSG gearbox. The German Automobile Club awards the prize annually for technical developments which “reduce fuel consumption and safeguard the environment.
Tobias Loesche-ter Horst, the director of VW’s advanced gasoline-engine development team, noted that automatic transmissions generally don't have a very good reputation among European drivers. However, Volkswagen officials say that part of their plan for the new sedan is to move closer to the American mainstream. VW has been able to appeal to American enthusiasts, but the company wants to triple its sales in the U.S. by broadening its appeal among the more mainstream buyers who have made bestsellers of cars such as the Camry and Accord.
At the same time, Volkswagen wants to make sure the new car, which will be priced below the Passat, will retain much of its genuine German heart even if it’s built in the U.S. "It's not our philosophy to develop a car for a particular market," says Stefani, who also added that VW does, however, pay close attention to the specific preferences of customers in key markets such as the U.S. and China.

Spied Up Date: 2010 Chevrolet Equinox

No, that’s not a Chevy Malibu wagon, but it’s the closest thing to it. This Equinox prototype looks like a miniaturized Traverse and shares the current Chevy face first seen on the Malibu.
The next Equinox will ride on a lengthened version of the Saturn Vue’s TE platform—a combination of the Theta (current Equinox and Pontiac Torrent) and Epsilon (Malibu and Saab 9-3) architectures—which by our calculations makes it 75-percent car. The stretched TE platform will also underpin Cadillac’s SRX replacement, as well as the Saab 9-4x crossover. A fifth version for GMC is also possible—rumored to be called Terrain—which would top GM’s quartet of Lambdas for crossover proliferation.
Little has been done to hide the identity of the five-seat crossover, save for removing the bow ties and blacking out most of the trim. The added length is visible in the longer rear doors as well as the thick C-pillar that separates the door glass from the rear quarter windows. The smooth front end has a sporty look while large fender flares give a somewhat rugged feel. A lone interior shot shows a clean cabin with chunky door handles, vent, and gauge pods.
Under the hood will be one of the first applications of GM’s new 2.3-liter direct-injection four-cylinder engine, which product boss Bob Lutz says will allow the Equinox to lead its segment in fuel economy. A larger—and thirstier—option could be the 257-hp 3.6-liter V-6 that’s found in the Vue. Two-mode and plug-in hybrids are also a strong possibility. The Equinox will continue to be offered in all-wheel- and front-wheel-drive variants.
An on-sale date of May 2009 has been previously discussed for the Equinox, but a delay would not surprise us given GM’s recent production schedule changes.

Hot News: BMW's Green Supercar

BMW is exploring a plan to build what a senior company official calls "a breakthrough green supercar" by the end of 2012.
The new car would rival the Audi R8 and forthcoming Mercedes SLC, and has been described by company insiders as ‘a puristic two-seater that draws on all the very latest BMW technology and lightweight build processes.’

The car is also intended to showcase BMW’s Efficient Dynamics programme, combining fuel-saving technology such as direct injection, brake energy regeneration and stop-start.
A source privy to early design proposals says that the new BMW supercar will be the equivalent of a modern-day M1, a car that the company recently made reference to with the retro M1 Homage concept.
The as-yet-unnamed new model will be capable of combining supercar performance and driving dynamics with fuel consumption and CO2 emissions "on a par with or better than a mid-range 5-series".
The car will be mid-engined, with power most likely to come from a retuned version of the company’s twin-turbocharged, 3.0-litre straight six petrol engine.
BMW is also considering introducing it with a kinetic energy recovery system similar to the one that the company’s F1 team will be using next year.

Thanks to: Autocar

Hot News: Audi Sketches Drop on Web

The last renderings we saw out of Audi's design studio were of the retro-cute A1 Concept from the Paris Motor Show last month -- that is until today, when new design sketches were released that give us an idea of where Audi is going with a few key models.

First up is a sketch of what the 2010 Audi A5 Sport back may look like. Appearing more sedan-like than hatchback, the A5 Sportback nevertheless integrates the A5 coupe's nose and tail, with swooping bodywork in-between. Reports peg the A5 Sportback to retain the same engine options as the coupe, with possible 'S' and 'RS' versions to come, for those looking for more sport appeal. The A5 Cabrio is also shown, and looks exactly as one might think - just like an A5 coupe, sans roof.

We also get our first look at the 2011 Audi A8 - the German automaker's flagship sedan. We've been told that the next-generation luxury sedan will retain the model's trademark all-aluminum construction, and if these renderings are any indication, the A8 is taking on a more aggressive look - we can't complain there. The top-range S8 is said to boast a 5.0L V-10 FSI powerplant good for a whopping 620 hp.

Last up is Audi's contribution to the four-door coupe world - the highly-anticipated A7. Based on the same architecture as the A5 (and upcoming A6, for that matter), the A7 will be a sportier, budget-oriented competitor to the Mercedes-Benz' CLS sedan for the 2010 model year, with a debut in late 2009. Engine details aren't crystal clear yet, but expect the base engine to be one of Audi's 3.0L supercharged six-cylinder mills. For more photos click here.

New Concept Car: Chevrolet GPiX

Just last month, GM teased compact crossover fans in America with images of its Orlando concept, a small seven-seater based on the upcoming 2011 Chevy Cruze. However, even before it bowed at the Paris motor show the automaker canceled plans to bring the CUV stateside, opting for a small car from Asia instead. And now the General is introducing another soft-roader not intended for U.S. consumption -- the new Chevrolet GPiX Concept, created specifically for markets in South America.

Making its debut at this year's Sao Paulo International Auto Show, the GPiX was styled by GM's Brazilian design studio, and the automaker believes it could help create a new segment for the region. Featuring a sleek two-door body style but with high-enough ground clearance to handle unpaved roads, GM's general director of design for Latin America, Africa, and the Middle East Carlos Barba says the vehicle "offers the sporty design and versatility necessary" for countries like Brazil. Its front-end a variation on the Chevrolet design theme found on vehicles like the Traverse and upcoming Cruze, the GPiX concept sports off-road cues such as flared wheel arches and 17-in., mixed-use tires, while seating just four and including extras like a panoramic glass roof.

Its name standing for Global Image, the GPiX is designed to be built at a cost that would make it affordable in the developing world. Despite featuring extras like Bluetooth, an entertainment system, and seats that fold flat into the floor, the president of GM Brazil and Mercosur (a trade region encompassing much of South America) believes the GPiX "could result in the development of many models for Brazil and Mercosur region." That said, considering GM is focusing much of its attention on global vehicles like the Cruze and Opel Insignia (which will reach the U.S. as the next Saturn Aura), if a GPiX-based crossover becomes a runaway hit in the southern hemisphere, it's always possible the General might be convinced to bring a version stateside, too.

CLK 63 AMG Black Widow by Vorsteiner

The Vorsteiner name is still somewhat fresh in our brains following the recent E92 M3 CSL package story, but the California based tuner wants us to remember it permanently. So they've quickly released another kit but this time for the Mercedes-Benz CLK 63 AMG Black Series dubbed, “Black Widow”.

Striving to subtly enhance the already dangerous looks of the Black Series CLK, Vorsteiner have crafted functional front and rear spoilers which are constructed of lightweight dry carbon fiber. Vorsteiner states the spoilers improve down force & aerodynamics during high speed tests at the track over 321km/h (200mph).

The carbon fiber rear spoiler balances the fr

ont end out by extending the original factory rear lip spoiler design by approximately 50mm with a more aggr

essive wing profile. Both of these components are a direct bolt onto the factory body panels without any modifications required.

Hyundai ranks 5th in Auto Bild Quality Report

Auto Bild, one of Germany's most renowned car magazines, has posted its annual Quality Report, and Hyundai has ranked 5th out of 22 brands.

Topping the list was undoubtedly Toyota with Honda and Mazda tying for second place. Opel came in fourth place. The survey is conducted based on seven criteria, including customer satisfaction and the number of recalled cars. Hyundai was the only automaker in the survey to not have a single car recalled in the past two years. To note the quantum leap Hyundai has made, the automaker came in 11th place last year.

Unofficial Picture: 2010 Renault Scenic

This is picture of Renault’s new Scenic are patently the real deal. They come directly from the EU patent office – and the famously secretive firm will be kicking itself that they’ve been exposed.
The images reveal how the Scenic and seven-seat Grand Scenic people carriers will look at launch in the spring. They share the new Mégane platform, and the hatch’s influence is clear from the front-end styling. Both variants get the Renault corporate face, while the elongated lights stretch up the bonnet.
The main difference between the Scenic and the stretched Grand comes at the back. While the five-seater has conventional high-level tail-lights, the bigger car features boomerang-shaped clusters which curve round the flanks. But unlike the latest Mégane, the Scenic sticks to the template of the previous-generation model, retaining the gently sloping roofline and kinked rear pillars.
Engines will broadly be shared with the hatch, with the emphasis on 1.5-litre diesels delivering up to 110bhp, and the larger 130bhp 1.9 and 150bhp/180bhp 2.0 dCi units. At least one model will emit less than 130g/km of CO2, and so cost only £90 a year in road tax from 2009.
Gadgets such as keyless entry are likely to remain. But Renault will work to eradicate the electrical glitches that are to blame for the current car’s poor reliability.
The higher-quality cabin features a Mégane-style dash, while the Grand’s clever hideaway rear seats are carried over. Prices aren’t likely to change, with the five-seater from £14,500 and the Grand Scenic starting at £16,000. For more details click here.

USA: 2009 Kia Optima website up and rolling

Kia Motors has finally updated its American website, now including the refreshed 2009 Kia Optima. The facelifted Optima, penned by Peter Schreyer, made its debut last March at the 2008 New York International Auto Show. The revision includes redesigned front and rear fascias, refreshed interior, upgraded engine outputs, and added fuel economy.

Different from the pre-production model unveiled in the Big Apple, Kia has revised the grille and now incorporates the more stylish "tiger-tooth" style corporate grille. No, the stunning LED taillights did not cross the Pacific, but an optional navigation system did.

Kia has not released sales date or pricing information for the 2009 Optima. However, I did spot a silver one here in Toronto (maybe a prototype) implying that it will arrive in showrooms very soon. Click on the image to visit the website.

[Source: Kia]

SEMA Show 2008 Preview

I just checked my e-mail. And my friend shared this web sites. This site tells about the preview SEMA Show 2008. There are 13 cars that you can see with photo slideshow. From Hummer H3T Weekend Warrior until 1970 Dodge Challenger T/A 340 Six Packs by Hotchkis. I hope you enjoy this site. Thanks to DJ for sharing this site. Click here to see the site.

Hot News: Infiniti GTR Saloon on Way

Nissan’s GT-R is growing, Auto Express can reveal. Sources in Japan have discovered that the hi-tech supercar will soon be available as a four-door – and it’s set to wear an Infiniti badge.
The flagship will rival the Porsche Panamera and BMW M5, and it uses the same four-wheel-drive chassis and twin-clutch gearbox as the GT-R coupé. However, it will have a longer wheelbase and place an emphasis on comfort and luxury rather than performance. Instead of the GT-R’s twin-turbo 3.8-litre V6, the saloon will have the same 5.0-litre V8 as the Infiniti FX50 SUV, tuned to give around 420bhp. That should still mean a 0-60mph time of five seconds and a top speed of 170mph. Expect the saloon to arrive in spring 2011.

Thanks to: Auto Express

Spied: 2010 Mini Cooper S Convertible

MINI is getting ‘roofless’ with its Cooper S – and these are the best picutures yet of the sporty drop-top. Our spies have managed to spot the flagship ‘S’ version of the Cooper almost completely undisguised on test in Germany, and it looks like MINI is onto another winner.Like previous versions, the new Cooper S Convertible gets a mulit-layered fabric roof and engineers will be working hard to ensure the newcomer offers as much interior refinement as the hard-top version.Gone are the trademark roll hoops of the previous version – MINI has decided to replace them with a a solid roll-over bar that pops up in the event of an accident, but otherwise hides behind the rear-seat backrests.With the top down, the C-pillar is just as wide and prominent as in the current model, so unfortunately rear visibility hasn’t been improved, but the new top should stow better than in the current model. Just like the tin-top, the Convertible gets the same 1.6-litre turbo delivering 175bhp – enough for a 0-60mph time of around seven seconds. Along with the rest of the Convertible range, the Cooper S will make its first appearance at the Geneva Motor Show in March. For more detail click here.

Spied: 2010 Bentley Continental GTC Speed

The lid has been lifted on Bentley’s most powerful production cabriolet ever. This is the Continental GTC Speed – a 200mph bruiser with all the menace and performance of its hard-top sibling. Spied here in the final stages of testing, we’ve managed to capture the GTC Speed without any disguise. Not for the self-conscious, the cabrio looks set to stand out with huge alloy wheels, vast twin exhausts and a neat boot spoiler. Under the bonnet lies a 600bhp 6.0-litre, W12 engine, capable of propelling the GTC from 0-60 in under 4.5 seconds, and onto a 200mph top speed. In-gear pace will be incredible thanks to 750Nm of torque which is fully available from only 1,750rpm.It will come at a premium though – expect to pay around £150,000 when it reaches showrooms early next year. For more details click here.

Spied: 2011 Hyundai "PO" 6-seater sheds camo

Leftlane has gotten a hold of a batch of new spy shots of Hyundai's upcoming 6-seater crossover, code-named "PO." Different from past spy shots of this, however, is that this particular prototype was caught driving with almost no camouflage.

The 6-seater crossover was first previewed at the 2005 Chicago Autoshow, carrying on Hyundai's Spanish nomenclature pattern as "Portico". With the PO, Hyundai is attempting to prosper in a segment that has only seen doomsdays with epitomes such as the Chrysler Pacifica and Mercedes-Benz R-Class. The PO is expected to be powered by either a 3.3L V6 rated around 240 horsepower or a 3.8L V6 producing about 280 horsepower. An Aisin 6-speed automatic is in the runnings, and it will be available in front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations.

Due to go on sale in the third quarter of 2009, the PO will be produced in South Korea. Stay tuned for more information and click on the image to view the full images.

[Source: Leftlane]

Spied: 2011 Lamborghini Supercar

These are the first spy pictures of Lamborghini’s next-generation supercar, the replacement for the Murcielago, snapped here testing outside Audi’s research centre in Germany.
According to insiders at Lamborghini, it is likely to carry the ‘Jota’ name, and is expected to be lighter, wider and faster than its forebear.
The test mule is based on the current Murcielago, but beneath its skin the next car is thought to have an aluminium chassis rather than a steel tub to reduce weight. The prototype is clearly wider than the Murcielago around the front end.

The engine’s expected to be a 6.0-litre V12 with direct injection, able to deliver around 700bhp to all four wheels.
We know little about what the finished supercar’s will look like but the styling’s expected to be inspired by the €1million Reventon hypercar.
It’s also a fair bet that carbon fibre will be used extensively to help keep weight as low as possible while the rood and doors are likely to be made from aluminium. For more photos click here.

Thanks to: Autocar

Hot News: Electric Rolls-Royce

Rolls-Royce is seriously considering building electric versions of its cars, probably as plug-in hybrids, as a hedge against any possible future ban on big-engined saloons in urban areas.
The company’s new CEO, Tom Purvis, says the company needs to prepare itself for much-tougher inner-city CO2 legislation, and believes that the near-silence of electric propulsion, and the fact that full torque is available from a standstill, would align perfectly with Rolls-Royce’s core values.
He also said that many owners would find the notion of an electric Rolls “very cool.”
“When you study how our cars are used by their owners, you soon see that they either do huge open-road mileages, or relatively small distances in urban areas,” Purvis said, “an electric Rolls-Royce would be ideal for the second category.”
Purvis believes the technical expertise the BMW group has already amassed in producing its forthcoming electric Mini will greatly reduce the time it will take to engineer a new plug-in Rolls if the decision is taken to green-light the project. But he insists that engineering and market research are yet to begin.

Thanks to: Autocar