Sneak Peek: 2011/2012 Toyota Etios

These are the first teaser images of the Toyota Etios, a new small car for emerging markets.

The car, which will be unveiled as a concept at next month’s New Dehli motor, won't be a Nano rival, however, as it's set to cost around $10,000 (£6000). Instead, it will challenge one of India's other best-selling cars on price, the Maruti Swift.

The Etios name means 'the origin of', and the concept car is said to be 90 per cent production reality.

Toyota will showcase both the hatch and notchback body styles in Delhi, with the latter set to go on sale first, followed three months later by the hatch.

Toyota wants a gradual ramp-up in production to ensure that there is no compromise on its quality and hence wants the hatch, which will sell in larger volumes, to come later.

Toyota is understood to have squeezed out costs wherever possible to ensure that the Etios is as price-competitive as possible. That means limited sound-proofing, a hard but durable interior, basic seats and one windscreen wiper.

The Etios will come with two engine options — a 1.4 diesel which powers the Yaris and a 1.2 or 1.3-litre petrol. Toyota already has a 1.3 (K3) engine but it is not clear if that motor will be further downsized to under 1200cc to meet small car regulations.

It will be sold from the end of 2010 in markets including India, Russian and South America, and it is likely to be built at Toyota’s new Indian factory from late 2010, with production also earmarked for Brazil in 2011.

Toyota will display the car alongside 13 other concept and production vehicles at the New Delhi show, which begins on January 5.

Thanks to: Autocar

Unofficial Picture Up Date: 2011 Honda CR-Z

These are the first pictures of the production version of Honda’s new CR-Z hybrid sports car, according to reports on Japanese websites.

The pictures are reported to be taken from a promotional video for the car, and confirm that visual changes from the concept are minimal – only different front and rear lights and alloy wheels, as well as minor modifications to its front feature. LED front and rear lights will make production.

Details have been scarce so far on its tech features, but a leaked sales brochure recently confirmws that the production Honda CR-Z will be powered by the 1.5-litre i-VTEC four-cylinder engine mated to a six-speed manual gearbox seen in the concept. It produces, according to the brochure, 113bhp at 6000rpm and 107lb ft at 4800rpm.

Honda’s Integrated Motor Assist electric motor adds a further 13bhp at 1500rpm and 58lb ft at 1000rpm. The brochure also claims the CR-Z will get from 0-62mph in 9.7sec.

The interior will glow three different colours depending on which mode is selected: Econ, Normal or Sport.

Dimensions have also been revealed in the brochure. The Honda CR-Z will have a 2435mm wheelbase, a length of 4080mm, a width of 1740mm and a height of 1395mm.

The production car will be launched at next month’s Detroit motor show before sales start in April with a price tag of around £18,000.

Thanks to: Autocar

Hot News: Toyota MR-2 to Make Return?

Toyota may need to rethink its sports car plans. According to survey results that just came to light in Japan, the Honda CR-Z generated far greater interest among the media and the public at October's 2009 Tokyo Motor Show than Toyota's FT-86 Concept. One of the main reasons given was that the CR-Z is ready for the market and will land in showrooms in Japan by February 2010, while the FT-86 won't appear until late 2011 and potentially will have a revised design.

That's not to say Toyota will scrap its edgy rear-drive FT-86. Far from it. Co-developed with Subaru, the FT-86 will employ a Subaru platform, 2.0-liter naturally aspirated boxer engine with revised Toyota head unit, and a six-speed manual gearbox from the Impreza. It will also have a Subaru twin brother -- albeit wearing a slightly different body.

The survey results also show that there is a definite and growing market interest in hybrid sports cars along the lines of the CR-Z. Interestingly, Toyota has had one on the drawing board for some time. Spotted circling Germany's Nurburgring way back in 2005, draped in heavy black camouflage, was a hybrid prototype employing a widened MR2 platform.

At the time, the MR2 prototype was powered by a mid-mounted, 3.3-liter V-6 hybrid driving the rear wheels and electric motors propelling the fronts. And at the 2004 Geneva Motor Show, Toyota collaborated with ItalDesign to create the Alessandro Volta concept car, powered by a 3.3-liter hybrid and said to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 4 seconds. While Toyota dropped the MR2 in 2007 (the car was also known in Japan as the MR-S), rumors of its revival have been heating up recently, with a hybrid version reportedly heading the list.

A rear drive, hybrid-powered sports car with MR2 roots would fit in perfectly with what new Toyota CEO Akio Toyoda has been saying of late. "We want to design cars with more exciting exteriors and handling," he stressed at a recent gathering of Japan's Car of the Year jurors.

To help it tap into what the market really wants, the world's biggest carmaker will create Toyota Marketing Japan Ltd in January next year. No doubt topping the division's to do list will be developing a plan for a CR-Z fighter combining solid performance, high fuel economy and low emissions -- all wrapped up in a excitingly styled body. Calling it MR2 -- a name familiar to enthusiasts around the world -- would seem to be a solid fit, although Prius Coupe could also be a possibility. We should know much more as 2010 unfolds.

Thanks to: Motor Trend

Happy New Year 2010!!!

It's 2010 now!!! I just wanna say Happy New Year. Hoping all things will be better. I hope the automotive world will shine again. And I hope my blog will be better. Thanks readers for visiting my blog. Keep visiting my blog.

Hot News: Saab to Continue Production

GM has canned tomorrow’s deadline for the closure of Saab and announced that production lines will roll again to fulfil orders for the new 9-5 and 9-3 Cabrio the company has announced.

However this does not mean that GM has abandoned plans to sell off its troubled Swedish outpost and is still considering offers after a failed bid from Dutch car maker Spyker. "We are preparing a wind-down process . at the same time we are open to options to bids that come in," a Saab spokesman said.

GM is thought to still be in talks with potential buyers for Saab. A revised Spyker bid is thought to still be on the table, as well as the American company Merbanco Inc. General Motors is also believed to be considering continuing making the soon to be launch 9-5 saloon, albeit with Buick branding.

Thanks to: Autocar

Spied: 2012 Hyundai Veloster (First Shots)

The first photos of the 2012 Hyundai Veloster Coupe have surfaced. Apparently snapped during cold weather testing in South Korea, the photos show a car which has begun to evolve from the two-door Veloster concept shown at the 2007 Seoul Auto Show.

n the view of the car's full length the Veloster's exaggerated wheel arch is shown. Unlike the concept, it appears to taper off into the sidesill. The car still maintains a steeply-raked windshield, cresting at the intersection with the roof, which then slants downwards in less dramatic fashion than the concept.

The shape of the rear is not terribly clear, but taillight placement looks to be similar to the concept. The cutout in the cover also implies that the car has kept triangular-shaped headlights. We do like the interesting center-placement of dual-exhaust pipes, something carried over and modified from the concept.

Hyundai Motor America CEO John Krafcik has indicated that the production version of the Veloster will retain at least 70% of the concept's styling. it will use a 140-horsepower 1.6-liter direct-injection engine capable of 40mpg. A turbocharged, 175-hp engine is also expected. One transmission option will likely be a dual-clutch automatic box.

The 2012 Hyundai Veloster will likely hit showrooms by the end of 2010 or the beginning of 2011. In the U.S. it may be used to replace the Tiburon coupe.

Continue reading to view one more image.

New Car: 2010 Mahindra Xylo D2

Mahindra & Mahindra has launched a new variant of the Xylo with a heart transplant. Christened as Xylo D2, the MPV gets a 2.5-litre mDI CRDe engine – a combination of M&M’s direct injection and common-rail diesel technology.

The engine complies to the BSIII norms and this ensures better fuel efficiency figures. The 2.5-litre mDI CRDe motor produces a max power of 95bhp which is 17bhp less to the existing Xylo. Torque too has gone down by 2kgm and the new engine churns out 22kgm of max torque at 1600-2600rpm.

Available only with black bumpers, there are no significant changes on the outside to differentiate it from the existing Xylo. Interiors remain the same and the D2 will have seating options for seven and eight passengers.

With just one variant on offer and retailing at Rs 7.28 lakh, on-road Mumbai, the D2 will be available in three colors - Gold Shimmer, Mist Silver and Fiery Black.

Thanks to: Autocar India

Hot News: Audi Q5 Hybrid Confirmed

Audi will launch its first hybrid model, the Q5, at the end of 2010, the company has confirmed.

The Audi Q5 hybrid is likely to be powered by a 3.2-litre V6 petrol engine in combination with a pair of electric motors housed within the gearbox and a lithium-ion battery pack.

In an interview with Autocar last year, Audi's R&D chief Michael Dick said the firm had postponed development of a hybrid Q7 in favour of the smaller Q5.

“We are looking to make the Q5 our first true hybrid model, and the plan is to have it ready for lithium ion technology,” said Dick in the exclusive interview.

The hybrid Q5 had been tipped to be launched at this year's Frankfurt motor show, but Audi said it will be unveiled later in 2010 with sales starting in early 2011.

The Q5 will be one of a number of new models Audi is planning to introduce before 2015. The firm said in a statement it wants to increase the number of models it offers from 34 to 42, with next year also seeing the arrival of the A1, A7, A8 and R8 Spyder models.

Thanks to: Autocar

Hot News: Fiat/Zastava Topolino is Coming

Fiat SpA's purchase of a majority holding in Serbian car-maker Zastava looks set to go through before the new year.

The 1bil EUR joint venture between Fiat and the Serbian government was originally planned to go ahead in 2008. The global economic slowdown put paid to that, but since a meeting between Fiat boss Sergio Marchionne and Serbian President Boris Tadic last week, the deal is expected to be finalised within days.

Fiat is expected to make its new Topolino city car, a three-metre two-seater based on the Panda, on the Serbian company's production lines. The car will be positioned below the Panda and the 500 on price, and is expected to use Fiat's new 900cc 'MultiAir' engine in 65bhp, normally aspirated form.

Hot News: GM Recalls 59,031 Units Chevrolet Equinoxes and GMC Terrains

In addition to its Corvette targa top recall, two of GM's newest crossovers -- the 2010 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain -- have also made this week's recall list, with 59,031 vehicles being called back in all by the automaker to fix a faulty computer module that can disable the climate controls, radio, center stack illumination and the defroster.

While the problem can affect nearly all aspects of the center stack, the NHTSA is most interested in the defroster for safety reasons. Should the defroster be disabled, the vehicle's windows could fog up and make it hard to see out, possibly leading to an accident.

To keep owners' windows fog-free, your local Chevrolet and GMC dealers will replace the bad computer module in the center stack for free under NHTSA Recall ID No. 09V489000 and GM Recall ID No. 090298. The recall is expected to begin in January 2010 alongside the Corvette recall.
Thanks to: Motor Trend

Hot News: Chevrolet Recalls 22,090 units 2005-2007 Corvettes

Corvette buyers who opt for the removable targa roof are no doubt enticed by the idea of being able to enjoy open-air motoring when desired as well as having the security and comfort of a hard top when needed. Some of them may be getting a bit more than they bargained for, though, as GM is recalling thousands of targa top Vettes to replace roof panels that are coming apart.

The recall covers 22,090 model-year 2005 through 2007 Corvettes and model-year 2005 and 2006 Corvette Z06s equipped with the targa roof to replace the removable roof with a new design. Roofs that came with the cars have shown an unfortunate tendency to have the adhesive holding the actual roof panel on the removable roof to its frame fail. Failed adhesive leads to a loose panel that can cause wind noise, poor roof fit and water leaks. Should the adhesive fail completely, the roof panel can separate from its frame and come off of the car, possibly while driving and possibly causing an accident with vehicles caught in the path of the flying roof panel.

Chevrolet dealers will replace the entire removable roof with a new unit that has a different design that will eliminate the adhesive problem. The recall will begin in January 2010 under NHTSA Recall ID No. 09V491000 and GM Recall ID No. 090230.

Thanks to: Motor Trend

Spied: Interior shots of 2011 Hyundai Elantra (MD)

After a long hiatus of spy shots of the next-generation Hyundai Elantra, we have the first clear images of the completed interior of the brand's popular compact offering. From these shots, it is evident that Hyundai has ditched the conservative design of the current Elantra in favor of a rather radical and polarizing one.

Code-named 'MD', the redesigned Elantra is yet another rendition of Hyundai's Fluidic Sculpture design theme that is also conveyed in the new Sonata and Tucson. The 2011 Elantra sedan will feature a sportier overall appearance, with larger front grille, stretched head-lamps, steeper windshield rake and lower roof-line.

As for now, we have no confirmed details on 2011 Elantra’s engine options but you can expect to see Hyundai’s new 2.0L Theta four-cylinder engine placed under its hood. In addition, Hyundai will probably introduce a 1.6L four-cylinder engine in the entry-level, Elantra Blue model, which will achieve above average mileage thanks to the applied gasoline direct injection technology.

The sales date has not been confirmed for the 2011 Elantra. However, sources report that the launch date is tentatively scheduled for July of 2010. Our take? With Hyundai's 24/7 in full force, we expect the Elantra to be launched much earlier, especially considering the fact that the new compact sedan is next in line for unveiling according to the brand's plan. We will see for now.

See more images for yourself after the jump and comment below on whether Hyundai is taking the right direction or not with the Elantra's new interior.

Unofficial Picture: 2011 Ford Mustang 5.0 V8

Tis' the embargo breaking season, and various outlets on the Web have given Mustang fans a bright red Christmas present: the first official photos of the the 2011 Ford Mustang GT in advance of its world debut at the 2010 Detroit auto show. Pictured here is the first shot of the car, with the 5.0 badge proudly adorning its flank, along with our first look at the engine bay.

Key information about the 2011 Ford Mustang GT has already been leaked - namely that a 5.0L V-8 will come packing a full 412 hp at 6500 rpm, and 390 lb-ft of torque.

The engine itself features an aluminum block with lined cylinders that, along with the four-valve cylinder heads, are all new for 2011. Variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust cams, a counterweighted crankshaft, and new tubular headers are part of a package that, Ford claims, can still achieve 25 mpg. Available transmissions will be the 6R80 six-speed automatic, or the MT82 six-speed manual.

The 2011 Mustang GT's extra oomph should help it to stay competitive among its archrivals. The Chevrolet Camaro SS pumps out 426 horses in its top spec form, while the Dodge Challenger SRT8 makes 425. The 2011 GT doesn't exactly blow those numbers away, but its lighter curb weight and cornering prowess could give it an advantage.

We'll have all the complete details on the new Mustang in the next few days, or before if the embargo dam continues to break.

Thanks to: Motor Trend

Merry Christmas

Hey readers! I just wanna say Merry Christmas to you who celebrates it. Hoping all your hope will be answered. Keep visiting my blog and enjoy your holiday!

Hot News: Ferrari 599 GTB Hybrid

We may see the fruits of Ferrari's F1 experience with the kinetic energy recovery system (KERS) in production by next year. According to Italian automotive magazine Quattroruote, Ferrari is readying a 599 GTB Hybrid that may debut at the Geneva auto show in early March.

To little surprise, the magazine says the system uses lithium-ion batteries and an electric motor, and that the system recovers energy through deceleration and braking. A mild hybrid? Sounds like. But the magazine says the system could reduce fuel consumption by 35%. Currently, the EPA puts the 599 GTB (pictured) city/hwy fuel economy at 11/15 mpg.

Thanks to: Motor Trend

Hot News: Geely to Buy Volvo

IT’S official – Volvo is heading into Chinese hands. Ford has agreed to sell the Swedish manufacturer to Chinese giant Geely. In a statement, the Blue Oval said that it still had ‘some work to do to complete the deal’ but it is likely to be finalised in the Spring.

The news at last gives Volvo security, ensuring that cars like the upcoming new S60 and an electric version of the C30 hatchback have a future. Following the sale of Land Rover, Jaguar and Aston Martin, Volvo is the last of Ford’s Premier Automotive Group (PAG) brands to go. The sale to Geely will give the Chinese firm a vital foothold in the European market.

However, while Volvo is now safe, fellow Swedish firm Saab is still waiting a last minute lifeline following General Motors' plans to wind down the company. For more details click here.

Thanks to: Auto Express

Hot News Up Date: Toyota Etios

Toyota’s new small car for emerging markets will be called the Etios, according to Autocar India sources.

The car, which will be unveiled as a concept at next month’s New Dehli motor, won't be a Nano rival, however, as it's set to cost around $10,000 (£6000). Instead, it will challenge one of India's other best-selling cars on price, the Maruti Swift.

The Etios name means 'the origin of', and the concept car is said to be 90 per cent production reality.

Toyota will showcase both the hatch and notchback body styles in Delhi, with the latter set to go on sale first, followed three months later by the hatch.

Toyota wants a gradual ramp-up in production to ensure that there is no compromise on its quality and hence wants the hatch, which will sell in larger volumes, to come later.

Toyota is understood to have squeezed out costs wherever possible to ensure that the Etios is as price-competitive as possible. That means limited sound-proofing, a hard but durable interior, basic seats and one windscreen wiper.

The Etios will come with two engine options — a 1.4 diesel which powers the Yaris and a 1.2 or 1.3-litre petrol. Toyota already has a 1.3 (K3) engine but it is not clear if that motor will be further downsized to under 1200cc to meet small car regulations.

It will be sold from the end of 2010 in markets including India, Russian and South America, and it is likely to be built at Toyota’s new Indian factory from late 2010, with production also earmarked for Brazil in 2011.

Toyota will display the car alongside 13 other concept and production vehicles at the New Delhi show, which begins on January 5.

Thanks to: Autocar

Hyundai Adds Edition Models for UK Market

Hyundai is driving into 2010 with a line-up of special edition family cars focussed on offering maximum value for money. Called Edition, the i10, i20 and i30 models boast more style, added equipment and aggressive pricing aimed at stealing a march on rivals.

Starting at £8,425, the i10 Edition stands on 14-inch alloy wheels and has body-coloured door mirrors, body side mouldings and front fog lights as well as remote central locking, air conditioning, electric windows, a height-adjustable drivers' seat and a leather steering wheel and gearknob. With CO2 emissions of 119g/km, the 1.1-litre car qualifies for £35 road tax.

Next up, the 1.2-litre i20 Edition three and five-door cars cost from £10,565 to undercut the cheapest Ford Fiesta by £700 - but still boast half-leather seat trim, air conditioning, electric windows, leather steering wheel and gear knob. Standing on 15-inch alloys, they also have front fog lamps, steering wheel audio controls, a CD-radio with Aux and USB connections and remote central locking - luxuries normally found in much more expensive models.

Flagship Edition is the i30, which has an exclusive sporty look from a modified front grille, hexagonal air intake and sculpted fog lamps, plus side skirts and a new rear bumper with twin exhaust trims. Priced from £13,400, this model is claimed to be over £4,000 cheaper than an entry-level Ford Focus even though it has 16-inch alloy wheels, privacy glass, sports pedals, a chrome-finished gear knob, electric windows, remote central locking, electric heated door mirrors and a six-speaker stereo-radio CD player with Aux and USB connections and steering wheel audio controls.

Like all i30 models, the Edition has a choice of ESP as standard, along with active front head restraints and six airbags. Engine choices are 1.4 or 1.6-litre petrol or a .6-litre CRDi diesel, and stop-start is a £200 option.

[Source: Hyundai]

Hot News: Fiat 500 Electric at Detroit Show 2010?

Earlier today, we reported that a Chrysler-badged Lancia could turn up on Chrysler's stand at the Detroit show next month and speculated that it could be the Delta. Now sources are telling Automotive News the same thing and that it will be joined by an all-electric Fiat 500.

According to Automotive News' sources, the Lancia model badged as a Chrysler on the show stand will indeed be the Delta and will feature a Chrysler family grille to go along with the badges. They say that while Chrysler doesn't plan to bring it or the electric 500 to the U.S. in the near future, the company is likely testing the waters with the Delta and production plans could come quickly if public reaction is good.

In addition to the all-electric 500 concept, Fiat will also bring the entire 500 line to Detroit. That includes the basic 500 coupe, the 500C convertible and the high-performance 500 Abarth. The gasoline-powered 500s are expected to go on-sale in the U.S. in late 2010. They will be powered by Fiat's 1.4L FIRE MultiAir four-cylinder engine, which produces 100 hp naturally aspirated and up to 175 hp when turbocharged. Chrysler and Fiat recently announced that the engine would be built at Chrysler's Dundee plant in Michigan while the 500 itself is built in Toluca, Mexico.

Performance enthusiasts in Detroit will also be in for a treat, as Chrysler will reportedly carve out a section of its stand to feature Fiat's high-end makes. On the supposed guest list are the new Maserati GranCabrio convertible and the Ferrari 458 Italia supercar. A Chrysler spokesman declined to identify which cars would be on the show stand, but confirmed that Chrysler and Fiat will not hold press conferences as they have no new production vehicles to show.

Thanks to: Motor Trend

Hot News: Chrysler Badged Lancia Delta to Debut at Detroit Show 2010

Chrysler recently told reporters it wouldn't be holding a press conference at the 2010 Detroit auto show next month because it has nothing to show. Or does it? Rumor has it that Chrysler may be planning to unveil a Lancia rebadged as a Chrysler at Detroit.

Reports are starting to spread across the 'net that Fiat is planning to jumpstart the American company's aging lineup with an Italian Lancia rebadged as a Chrysler. Numerous anonymous sources told Bloomberg News that the vehicle will be shown in Detroit and will demonstrate how Fiat products can be integrated into Chrysler's line. Fiat is also reportedly looking at using the Chrysler name on Lancias in other parts of the world.

The question then becomes, which Lancia model to use? The company only has four models, so any guess has a decent chance of being right. All are either hatchbacks or small vans, and with the Chrysler Town & Country already in the lineup, the Lancia Phedra is out and the Musa likely is as well. That leaves the Ypsilon and the Delta, and of the two, the five-door hatchback Delta seems the more likely candidate.

Looking vaguely like a Mazda3 hatchback, the Delta would slot below the Chrysler Sebring in size, but if all the features make it across the pond, it would offer more content than the Sebring and give shoppers an alternative to the blocky Dodge Caliber elsewhere on the lot. In Europe, the Delta is offered with five engines, three gas and two diesel, all of which are inline-fours. For the U.S., the gasoline engines would be the most likely candidates and range from 120 hp to 197 hp and 152 lb-ft to 236 lb-ft of torque, good enough to move the Delta to 62 mph in 7.5 to 10 secs. Fiat has recently committed to building a 1.4-liter, MultiAir four-cylinder gasoline engine in the U.S. for Fiat and Chrysler products, a version of which would be a good candidate to power a Delta-sized car.

Thanks to: Motor Trend

Hot News: Cadillac to Reveal CTS-V Coupe and a New Concept Car at Detroit Show

Cadillac has revealed that a V-Series high-performance variant of the new 2011 Cadillac CTS Coupe will share the spotlight with a new concept at the Detroit auto show next month. The concept is believed to be a pre-production version of either the ATS or XTS small and large cars that Cadillac has been teasing over the past year or so.

So far, Cadillac has released only this tightly cropped teaser picture of the unnamed concept and the promise that it will showcase the latest advances in Cadillac's Art and Science design language. While the picture purposely obscures the vehicle, we can see that it is a sedan and bears significant resemblance to the current CTS but with new headlights and mirrors likely too small to see production.

Based on information provided by our own Todd Lassa during a no-photographs open house at GM headquarters back in August, we believe this concept is the XTS. Lassa described the XTS as having a short axle-to-dash ratio and a grille that blended styling elements of the Sixteen and Converj concepts. The car he was shown was also painted gray while the ATS was painted blue, though GM has had more than enough time to repaint them. The ATS, meanwhile, was described as having a shorter, wider grille to make the car look wider, not taller. This picture appears to suggest a larger car, but the angle makes it difficult to be certain.

If it is the XTS, it will most likely be built on a stretched version of GM's Epsilon II FWD architecture and will likely feature the 3.6L direct-injection V-6 engine and will offer AWD. If it's the ATS, it would likely be built on a shortened Sigma platform and will be RWD, likely using both V-6 and four-cylinder engines. Both cars are planned for a 2011 debut likely as 2012 models.

Thanks to: Motor Trend

Spied up Date: 2011 Volkswagen Touareg

Our spy shooter just caught the 2011 Volkswagen Touareg SUV cold-weather testing in advance of an expected 2010 Detroit auto show debut.

The Touareg has always been a capable off-road performer, but this next-generation SUV will likely put most of that heavy equipment on the options list to allow for better handling and, oh yes, fuel economy far better than the 2010 Touareg V-6's 14/19 mpg city/highway.

Even so, that doesn't mean some Touareg owners might not drive their SUVs through extreme conditions, which is what brings us to these photos. Viewed from the side, it's clear this Touareg has classic SUV proportions like the outgoing model. Where it might differ is in front overhang, which appears to have grown just a bit in this 2011 model.

Without all the camouflage, the Touareg should fit right in with the rest of the Volkswagen lineup thanks to its wide grille and horizontal lines. In the U.S., the Touareg isn't offered with a V-8 anymore -- only V-6 gas and diesel engines are on the powertrain menu. For the 2011 Touareg, expect this to continue. A supercharged 3.0L V-6 making 290 hp mated to an eight-speed automatic will replace the V-8's former position; the present V-6 won't carry over to the new Touareg, but a diesel will. Eventually, a hybrid will become an option. But, regardless of the powertrain, Volkswagen might want to lower prices before sending the 2011 Touareg to dealerships. A 2010 Touareg VR6 FSI starts at $41,240.

Thanks to: Motor Trend

Hot News: Honda to Unveil New City Car Concept at New Delhi Show

Honda will unveil a low-cost city car concept at the Delhi motor show next month.
The car, which is expected to be built in India and Thailand, is currently being referred to as the "New Small Concept".

It will be sold in emerging markets, but Honda insiders have suggested it could be sold in the West

The new Nissan Micra is being developed in much the same way; it is the first car to be built on a new global small car platform, designed to be cheap enough to build and sell in developing markets but also sophisticated enough for Western Europe.

The Honda concept will be launched in Delhi on 5 January - the same time as Toyota's clow-cost city car, which is codenamed EFC, or Entry Family Car. It is expected to be given a different production name, however.

A production date and target price for the Honda city car will be revealed at the Delhi show.

Thanks to: Autocar

Hot News: GM Evaluating New Saab Offers

GM says it is evaluating several last-gasp offers for Saab - including a dramatic late bid from Spyker.

Dutch supercar maker Spyker submitted an 11-point proposal on Sunday, giving GM until 5pm Eastern Standard Time (10pm UK time) on Monday 21 December to accept. GM had said on Friday that it had ended talks, and would begin closing Saab down.

Spyker CEO Victor R. Muller said the proposal to GM addressed each of the issues that arose during the due diligence process. He added that the renewed offer would remove each of the obstacles that were standing in the way of a swift transaction.

“We have made every effort to resolve the issues that were preventing the conclusion of this matter and we have asked GM and all other involved parties to seriously consider this offer,” said Muller.

“We are very confident that our renewed offer will remove the impasse that was standing in the way of an agreement on Friday, and this would still allow us to conclude the deal prior to the expiry of the deadline originally set by GM of 31 December.

“Despite our collective eleventh hour set-back, we are returning to the table with a renewed offer, that addresses every known issue brought to light during the initial negotiations and that has the full backing of the Saab management.

"The new offer eliminates the need for an EIB loan approval prior to year end, for example, which will allow the deal to be concluded within GM’s deadline.

"Our efforts are based on our passion for saving an iconic brand that we would be honoured to shepherd, and the jobs and livelihoods of thousands of loyal Saab employees, suppliers and dealers around the world."

Sweden's unions have urged GM to consider the new offer, with If Metall chairman Stefan Loefven saying: " I understand the frustration felt by everyone who is dependent on Saab, to be thrown between hope and despair is terrible. GM must now respond with a serious examination of the new bid."

Thanks to: Autocar

Hot News: Saab is Gone

Saab is to be closed down by General Motors, after no new buyer for the troubled Swedish firm could be found. Some 3400 people employed directly by Saab are expected to lose their jobs, and 1100 dealers worldwide will have to find new franchises.

GM’s European president Nick Reilly said no deal could be reached with the sole remaining bidder, Spyker Cars.

“Despite the best efforts of all involved, it has become very clear that the due diligence required to complete this complex transaction could not be executed in a reasonable time. In order to maintain operations, Saab needed a quick resolution,” he said.

Thanks to: Autocar

USA: 2010 Kia Soul Ignition Hits the Road

The second special edition Kia Soul to be offered in the States this year after the "Denim" is the "Ignition". Based on the Soul+ model, the limited run version features a unique ignition orange exterior finish with contrasting black rally stripes, a rear spoiler, an alloy fuel door and black 18-inch alloy wheels with machined accents.

Like the previously launched Denim, on top of the Soul+ standard equipment, Kia has loaded the Ignition with more features including a higher-grade audio system with iPod connection, center speaker, subwoofer, external amplifier and speaker lights that pulse to the beat of the music, carpeted floor mats, moon roof, fender vents with side marker repeaters and fog lights.

The new Kia Soul Ignition is available for order with prices starting from $17,500 for the model with a five-speed manual gearbox.

[Source: Kia]

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2010 Shelby GT500 Super Snake with 725hp

Las Vegas-based tuners Shelby are releasing another new set of mods for the Mustang. The limited edition 2010 Ford Shelby GT500 Super Snake includes improvements both to power and performance.

"Over the past 12 months, my team of hot rodders was hard at work on a Super Snake package for the next generation GT500," said Carroll Shelby. "Every lesson we learned kicking the competition around on the track over the past two years has been poured into this new car to keep Shelby owners out front."

That is why the company mounts an optional Shelby/Kenne Bell supercharger kit, which raises power output to 725 horsepower. You can also take the car down a peg, and opt for the Ford Racing Supercharger, which helps to produce a maximum 630 hp and 590 ft-lb of torque. Either way, the driver will take control of a six-speed manual gearbox featuring a 3.73:1 rear axle ratio via the short-throw shifter. A Borla exhaust unit is also included on both.

The Super Snake gets a standard Ford Racing handling package, which includes lowered springs, adjustable dampers, front strut tower brace and tuned stabilizer bars. You can purchase the optional Shelby/Eibach handling package as well. Custom Alcoa 20-inch wheels surround the cross drilled rotors. A six-piston Shelby/Baer brake system is also part of the package, as are the front brake cooling ducts.

Visual changes begin with the new fiberglass hood, Super Snake striping, rear decklid lettering, and various badging. Shelby headrests and floormats are also included.

Although the company does say that, "Exclusivity will be assured as a limited number of Super Snakes will be built," what they do not say is how few units will be produced. This information would surely be beneficial to anybody considering the car as an investment.

The 2010 Ford Shelby GT500 Super Snake will begin production in August. Pricing for the 630 hp package starts at $29,495, while the 725 hp kit goes for $33,495. Installation is included, but the price of the car is not.

Scirocco TDI by JE Design

German-based tuner JE Design has released a new range of styling and performance accessories for the Volkswagen Scirocco.

Under the hood, JE Design equips the standard 2.0-liter TDI engine with a revised ECU module which boosts the engine's performance from 140 hp (103 kW) to 180 hp (133 kW) and 400 Nm of torque. Performance stats include a 0-100 km/h time of 8.4 seconds (a reduction of 0.9 seconds) and a top speed of 213 km/h (an improvement of 6 km/h). The company also offers a performance package for the 2.0-liter TDI CR, it produces 205 hp (171 kW) and 410 Nm of torque (up from 170 hp (125 kW) and 350 Nm of torque). 0-100 km/h takes 7.1 seconds (an improvement of 0.7 seconds) and the top speed is increased to 229 km/h (up from 222 km/h).

The 2.0-liter TDI performance package costs 1,249 euros while the 2.0-liter TDI CR package retails for 1,449 euros.

In terms of styling, JE Design offers a full body kit (919 euros) that features a bold front spoiler, side skirts with air inlets, and an aggressive rear skirt. Other design tweaks include gull-wing doors (1,549 euros), a stainless steel exhaust system with two oval center mounted end pipes (899 euros), and lowering springs which reduce the ride height by 30mm (299 euros). The company also offers a unique set of 19-inch wheels which are available in shadow silver (2,810 euros) or graphite matt (2,930 euros).

USA: 2011 Kia Sorento Starts at Under $20K

The 2011 Kia Sorento hits showrooms in January, and as the U.S. Kia consumer Web site reads, will start at $20,790. That price will get you a base trim Sorento with a 2.4L four-cylinder engine and six-speed manual transmission. Step it up to the LX and you'll still get the four-banger making 179-hp/169 lb-ft, but have the option for front-wheel or four-wheel drive. A six-speed automatic gearbox comes with the trim as well.

Top tier seven-passenger EX editions can be had with the four-cylinder or the 276-hp 3.5L V-6 with 248 lb-ft of torque. It too gets either front-wheel or four-wheel drive and an automatic transmission.

Base and LX models get features like 17-in. alloys, air conditioning, dual curtain and side airbags, four-wheel ABS, and Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD). Bluetooth with Sirius Audio system, 18-in. wheels, fog lights, push buttons start, back up warning system, and traction control are just some of the standard goodies on the Sorento EX .

[Source: Kia]

Continue reading for the full price list.


Base -- 2.4L I4 M/T 4x2 $20,790
LX -- 2.4L I4 A/T 4x2 $23,190
LX -- 2.4L I4 A/T 4x4 $24,890
EX -- 2.4L I4 A/T 4x2 $25,390
EX -- 2.4L I4 A/T 4x4 $27,090
EX -- 3.5L V6 A/T 4x2 $27,990
EX -- 3.5L V6 A/T 4x4 $29,690


All prices include a $795 destination and handling charge.

Unofficial Picture: 2011 Audi A1

Looks like Audi is attempting to get N'Sync with younger customers! This amazing spyshot has been leaked onto Facebook by an unknown user showing what's believed to be the first undisguised image of the production-ready Audi A1.

Snapped during what appears to be a promotional video shoot, the front-end of the MINI-rival can be clearly seen. The similarity to the graffiti-style sketch in the teaser video (click here) is also uncanny.

If you were wondering why Justin Timberlake was being filmed alongside the newcomer, as the recently announced Audi A1 ambassador, Timberlake will be featured in a series of advertisements for the new supermini, which is set for a debut at the Geneva show in March. For more details click here.

Thanks to: Auto Express

New Car: 2010 Kia Soul Ignition

Kia seems to love special-edition Souls nowadays and has released what it says is number two of four heading our way. Called the Ignition Soul, it follows the footsteps of the previously released Denim edition and wears largely cosmetic, but distinct, attributes said to be cool and hip.

The first thing you'll notice is it's bright orange, or ignition orange in Kia speak, livery that makes the uniquely styled model really stand out. It's matched with an offset black stripe, sporty body kit, rear spoiler, and black-faced 18-in. alloys. A metal fuel door adds a nice touch to the exterior too.

Since it's based on the Soul+ model, the Ignition gets all the usual bits like cruise control, Bluetooth, iPod connection, rear passenger tinted windows, and an upgraded audio package. A bevy of storage bins and power outlets are included inside as well, while body colored door handles and rearview mirrors spruce up the already fiery exterior.

All this orange coolness can be had for $17,500 (not including destination and handling), or around $305 more than the top tier Soul Sport.

Thanks to: Motor Trend

New Car: 2011 GMC Acadia Denali

When the GMC Acadia debuted as a full-size, three-row crossover, it aggressively invaded the territory of the GMC Yukon. Although the Yukon’s full-frame platform is stouter and therefore capable of heavier towing and hauling—whereas the unibody Acadia is comparatively light and more fuel efficient—two three-row trucks sharing a showroom are bound to share customer interest.

So it’s only natural, then, that the Acadia would poach the Denali tag from the Yukon catalog as well. According to GMC, nearly half of all Yukon sales are loaded-to-the-brim Denalis, which makes a Denali version of the Acadia full-size crossover a “logical extension.” (Guess when you’re being run by the government you try to avoid the term “no brainer.”) Like the Yukon Denali, the Acadia Denali will be showroom shorthand for “I’ll take one with everything, please,” or maybe “Give me the one the most like an Escalade.”

Thanks to: Car and Driver

Ferrari California Spider by Edo Competition

Tuning firm Edo Competition has unveiled their new styling and performance packages for the Ferrari California.

On the performance side, Edo offers an ECU recalibration package which boosts the roadster's output from 460 hp to 500 hp (367 kW) and 369 ft-lb (500 Nm) of torque. When combined with Edo's new high performance exhaust system, with adjustable butterfly valves and custom designed high flow catalytic converters, the Ferrari California rockets from 0-100 km/h in 3.9 seconds before hitting a top speed of 315 km/h (196 mph).

Other performance options include an adjustable sports suspension, a ride-height reduction kit, and a variety of different wheel and tire combinations available in 20 and 21 inches.

The company also offers a bespoke interior design service which allows customers to create a lavish cockpit that reflects their unique personality.