Spied: 2011 Audi RS3

Audi’s hottest hatch ever is almost ready and we have the best pictures yet of how the brand-new RS3 flagship will look.

Spied testing at the famous Nurburgring race circuit in Germany, the mule captured in the pictures is wearing an S3 Sportback shell, but don’t let this fool you, underneath, the RS version is a different beast altogether.

As well as Audi’s trademark Quattro four-wheel-drive system, it is expected that the RS3 will get a modified version of the same 2.5-litre, five-cylinder turbocharged engine found in the TT RS. As a result the RS3 will have no shortage of power, with over 330bhp and 450Nm of torque. The result of this will be a 0-60mph time of less than five seconds.

Mated to an S-tronic gearbox, the RS3 will also get a host of exterior additions over the S3, including a body kit, bonnet air-intakes and twin exhausts.

Expect Audi to unveil its new hot hatch in Paris this September. Expect a starting pricetag of around £38,000 too. For more details click here.
Thanks to: Auto Express

Hot News: BMW X4??

The success of the BMW X6 has raised the possibility of an X4 at BMW, Autocar has learned.

The giant sports-coupe/off-roader has been an unexpected success for the firm since it was launched in 2008. BMW has sold 80,000 units worldwide since its launch, which is double its initial predictions.

A BMW source revealed to Autocar that a smaller car in the same mould as the X6, likely to take the X4 name, was under consideration, but it had yet to be given the green light for production.

"We haven't made any firm decision," said our source, "however, the X6's success shows there is a continued demand for sporty off-roaders."

The X4 could be spun off the new X3's platform; that car is set to be launched later this year. It's styling could draw influence from 2001's X Coupe concept, as well as the X6.

BMW has created several niche products over the past few years, including the recently-launched X1 and 5-series GT models. The BMW Concept Gran Coupe from the Beijing motor show is tipped to be launched in 2012 as the 8-series.

Thanks to: Autocar

Hot News Up Date: Opel/Vauxhall City Car

The design of Vauxhall/Opel’s new city car will be signed off within the next six to eight weeks ahead of it going on-sale towards the end of 2012.

This is according to Nick Reilly, the boss of General Motors Europe. Reilly told Autocar that he believes his experience in conceiving, building and selling small cars will allow the car to be profitable in what is traditionally a difficult market segment to make money in.

“The whole cost chain, from development through to marketing, has to change in order to hit worthwhile profit targets with small car,” he said. “Not every rival of ours has this experience.

“There is a segment in which wealthier and younger car buyers don’t associate status with the size of the car. They want a good-looking car and are interested in technology and environmental factors such as CO2, or features such as an iPod connector.

“This segment has great potential – and there are not a great deal of rivals that are successfully exploiting it. That’s the reason why we are working intensively on such a project.”

Reilly said the pricing of the car, which will be designed and built in Europe, would reflect the positioning of the Opel brand in relation to its rivals. Although he wouldn’t be drawn on exact pricing, Reilly said it would cost more the cheapest Corsa but less than the most expensive Corsa.

It has been conceived a four-seater, but a five-seat variant is under consideration. Initial sales will be for the three-door model, with a five-door variant set to follow. It is shorter than a Corsa.

Reilly described the car as “setting new interior standards”. Engines will mainly be four-cylinder units, all equipped with a stop-start system, although three-cylinder engines are also under consideration. Reilly ruled out fitting the car with a two-cylinder engine, but an electric version will be launched.

“Such as car would suit electric drive,” said Reilly. “With pure electric drive, it becomes easier the smaller the car because you don’t need such big battery as in larger cars. Electric drive won’t likely be available at first – but it’ll come as soon as it is possible.

Thanks to: Autocar

Spied: 2012 BMW 5-Series Hybrid

The hybrid version of the BMW 5-series has been spied testing.

BMW’s first hybrid saloon will come with a straight-six petrol engine and be able to run on electric power alone.

A concept version of the car, the Active Hybrid 5-series, was unveiled at this year's Geneva motor show, and the production model is expected to go on sale next year.

The concept was fitted with a 40kW/52bhp electric motor sandwiched between the engine and the eight-speed automatic transmission.

The car is said to improve fuel consumption and reduce CO2 emissions by 10 per cent compared with a conventional six-cylinder 5-series.

It can also tailor the performance of the hybrid system by using the sat-nav to predict obstacles such as hills, corners and traffic obstructions that could affect the battery life.

By doing this, the car can charge the battery during the journey and then turn off the engine before it reaches its destination, finishing the trip on electric power alone.

BMW says this technique extends the electric-only range by up to 30 per cent.

Thanks to: Autocar

Beijing: Hyundai Introduces New Direct Injection I4, V6 and 8-speed Automatic

Hyundai’s new Accent was the star of the companies exhibit at this year’s Beijing Auto Show, but the debut of two new engines and a new automatic transmission will have broader implications for the rest of the company’s lineup.

In addition to the 2.4L GDI four-cylinder in the Sonata (pictured above), two new gasoline direct-injection engines were unveiled at Beijing, a 1.6L four cylinder putting out 138 horsepower, a 28 horsepower bump over Hyundai’s current 1.6L four banger. The 1.6 GDI should appear in the Accent, Elantra, certain Kia models and the upcoming Veloster compact sports car. Even more enticing was the mention in a product video that the 1.6 could potentially be turbocharged and paired up with a dual-clutch gearbox, though no timeline was given for either technology.

Hyundai’s long awaited GDI version of the Lambda V6 was also previewed, although the engine was only rated at 296 horsepower, which is a few ponies less than the current Lambda makes in Hyundai’s Genesis Coupe. One can assume that there will be different variations, and that the engine will see a bump in power when it comes Stateside. Hyundai also joins Lexus in the elite 8-speed automatic club, and it’s a sure bet that the Genesis Sedan and Coupe will get the new 8-speed auto option.

With Hyundai positioning itself as a premium brand, the company has an obligation to innovate on its own, and not just play catch-up – even if they’re hot on the heels of world leaders like Lexus.

[Source: Hyundai via AutoGuide.com]

Continue reading to view Hyundai's official video releases.

Audi Q7 New Cars

The Q7 is the latest addition to the Audi family and PPI Automotive Design from Stuttgart, Germany has been hard at work redesigning this vehicle for it’s customers. The result is the PPI PS Q7®

Audi Q7
Audi Q7
Audi Q7
Audi Q7
Audi Q7

Hot News: TVR to Make Comeback

Nikolai Smolenski, the Russian oligarch who owns TVR, has revealed plans to revive the marque with a new Corvette-engined model to be produced in Germany.

The cars are likely to be built by Gullwing, which currently makes the AC MkVI, the successor to the AC Cobra. Alan Lubinsky, AC’s owner, said discussions to make TVRs are under way, but no deal has been concluded as yet.

Smolenski bought TVR from its long-time owner, the late Peter Wheeler, in 2004 for a rumoured £15 million, but was unable to sustain production and the company collapsed in 2006 amid considerable acrimony, leaving around 250 workers without jobs.

Smolenski has been linked with secret plans to show a new prototype TVR at Goodwood’s Moving Motor Show in July.

In an exclusive interview with Autocar, Smolenski revealed that his new car will have a modified version of the traditional steel backbone chassis and all-independent suspension that were used for all previous TVR models.

There is no question of reviving TVR’s own-design V8 or straight six engines, Smolenski said, due to homologation and cost reasons.

“We looked at every engine available — including making our own — and decided that the Corvette was the most powerful off-the-shelf design going. Fitting it to our chassis allows us to meet all current regulations and is not too big a step.”

In the longer term, the revived TVR company plans a hybrid concept, said Smolenski. “I always wanted an automatic model,” he said, “but the chassis wouldn’t allow either a regular auto or an automated manual. The hybrid concept would allow us to kick out the conventional gearbox completely.”

The first new-generation TVRs will be convertibles, reminiscent of the Tuscan, because Smolenski believes that most customers prefer open-top cars. It is too early to forecast names or prices, he said, but a new car “shouldn’t cost any more” than the European price of an equivalent Corvette.

Thanks to: Autocar

New Car: 2011 Ford Fiesta S1600

Ford is celebrating its pocket rocket pedigree with a limited edition, high performance edition of the Fiesta called the S1600.

Following in the footsteps of mighty fast fiestas of the past, like the XR2i and the RS.

The S1600 certainly looks the part, with plenty of exterior changes over the Zetec S on which it’s based, including a full body kit with a new front bumper, chunky side skirts and downforce supplied via a rear diffuser and large rear spoiler.

No fast ford would be complete without the now obligatory contrasting blue and white racing stripes, and this model will also get a 17-inch white alloys, so it will certainly stand out from the crowd.

The S1600 is based on the Zetec-S, and carries over the same 1.6-litre, 118bhp Duratec petrol engine, or the 95bhp Duratorq TDCi diesel option. Customers after a power hike, can take advantage of a 20bhp engine upgrade package being offered by Mountune, the same firm that can transform the Focus RS into a power crazed RS500.

To hot up the interior, Ford has added heated, leather sports seats, a leather trimmed steering wheel and gear knob. Plus Motorsport-branded floor mats and scuff plates.

Only 650 of these special feisty Fiestas are being created, and they are available to order now priced from £16,645 OTR.For more details click here.

Thanks to: Auto Express

Spied: 2011 Opel/Vauxhall Astra GSI

It’s full speed ahead at Vauxhall! Still fresh from its launch late last year, the new Astra isn’t exactly looking dated, but the wraps are already off the sporty GSI model, which was caught testing undisguised in Germany.

The GSI will be semi-hot hatch to whet our appetites before the arrival of the full-blooded VXR model next year. From the pictures you can clearly see the tweaked front end and twin exhausts, while the car sits several centimetres lower to the ground than the standard model.

This version will get a 2.0-litre twin-turbo four-pot putting out 190bhp. That should mean than it will beat the old GSI’s 143mph top speed and improve on the 0-62 time of 8.2 seconds.For more details click here.
Thanks to: Auto Express

Spied: 2013 Ford Ranger

Could this be the all-new Ford Ranger? The American company has been tight lipped about what will replace the Ranger when its production run ends in 2011, but these spy-shots taken today reveal that a new pick-up truck is definitely in the pipeline.

Underneath the camouflage, the newcomer looks very similar to the double cab model on currently sale, but with wider, more pronounced rear arches, and a more sloping bonnet.

As part of Ford’s new global development strategy, designed to save costs, this next generation mdel will all be built on the same ‘T6’ global platform, which will make it longer and wider than the current machine.

It is expected that the 3.0-litre TDCI duratorq diesel engine from the top-spec Wildtrak edition will be carried over to the new model, which puts out 153bhp.For more details click here.

Thanks to: Auto Express

New Concept Car: Alfa Romeo - Zagato TZ3 Corsa

It's a Corsa – but not as we know it! This is the TZ3 Corsa, which is Zagato’s birthday present to Alfa Romeo. The Italian coachbuilder designed the incredible machine to mark the latter’s 100th anniversary.

It honours the racing partnership between the two companies over the past century, and is based on Alfa’s 8C Competizione supercar. But the newcomer’s bespoke bodyis even more spectacular.

The covers were pulled from the TZ3 Corsa at the exclusive Villa D’Este Concours D’Elegance event on the shores of Lake Como, Italy. It features a carbon fibre tubular chassis, coupled with a tubular frame and a hand-made lightweight aluminium bodyshell.

It’s possible to make out some of the cues from the 8C in the head-turning shape, although the two models are completely different at the rear, where the roofline has been extended in the pursuit of better aerodynamics.

The TZ3 Corsa weighs only 850kg, and is powered by a 4.2-litre dry sump V8 engine – which offers several different settings that can be adjusted by the driver. It delivers 420bhp to the rear wheels through a six-speed sequential gearbox. As a result, Zagato claims 0-62mph in less than 3.5 seconds, while top speed is in excess of 185mph. For more details click here.

Thanks to: Auto Express

Hot News: Infiniti CUV to Use Mercedes A-Class Platform?

Mercedes-Benz powertrain technology may work its way into future Infinitis, but it appears at least one Daimler-engineered platform may wind up underpinning a new Infiniti compact crossover designed expressly for the European market.

According to the French publication L'Automobile, the Daimler-Renault-Nissan alliance may enable Nissan to craft a smaller CUV for Europe. Reportedly dubbed the "DX," the vehicle would slot in beneath Infiniti's current small crossover -- the EX -- and allow the brand to target BMW's X1 and the upcoming Audi Q3.

L'Automobile suggests the crossover could ride on the same underpinnings as Mercedes-Benz's A- and B-Class vehicles. We wouldn't be too surprised to see Infiniti tap Daimler for a four-cylinder engine for the Euro-only model, although it could also look to parent Nissan for a thrifty engine. Thus far, the only platform sharing announced as part of the Alliance has involved small cars. It's more than likely that the next-generation Smart ForTwo, ForFour, and the Renault Twingo will ultimately share a common architecture.

If the DX comes to fruition, it'll be a sign that Nissan is finally getting serious about marketing the Infiniti brand in Europe. The brand recently began installing turbo-diesel V-6 engines into its Euro-spec EX and FX crossovers, and will do the same when it launches the new M abroad. Infiniti also revealed it was likely to launch a premium compact car, which would compete against the BMW 1 Series, Lexus CT200h, and Audi A3.

That car is still a few years away, but don't be too surprised if it incorporates a few components or designs that originated in Germany.

Thanks to: Motor Trend

Hot News: Peugeot and Citroen to Get Mitsubishi RVR in 2012

Mitsubishi’s compact Outlander Sport will go the same route as its larger Outlander brethren and head to Europe as rebadged Citroens and Peugeots in early 2012.

The move mirrors the original collaboration agreement between Mitsubishi and Peugeot-Citroen on the Outlander SUV from a few years ago. Known as the Citroen C-Crosser and Peugeot 4007, these badge-engineered Outlanders feature slightly modified bodywork and rather distinct Citroen and Peugeot front grilles. With the Outlander Sport, or ASX as it will be called on European soil, we can expect much of the same, although the currently unnamed Citroen and Peugeot variations will be equipped with its own corporate 1.6-liter diesel engine. The Euro-spec Outlander Sport will come with the choice of a 1.6-liter gasoline engine or an all-new 1.8-liter diesel of its own; U.S. models will, of course, get a gas-powered, 2.0-liter inline-four.

For both companies, the cooperation was a natural step. Citroen-Peugeot eyes opportunity within a market segment that is expected to expand globally by almost 60 percent by 2015. For Mitsubishi, presenting the French automaker group with the keys to its newest compact ‘ute helps to bolster volume and production. Peugeot-Citroen is projecting a combined sales of 50,000 vehicles per year when both models are released.

The Outlander Sport, or RVR as it is known in its home market, has already been released in Japan. Its U.S. arrival date is pegged at Fall 2010 while European models are expected sometime in the middle of this year.

In addition to the Outlander and Outlander Sport, Mitsubishi’s i-MiEV city car is being rebadged as the Citroen C-Zero and Peugeot iOn for the European market, starting later this year.

Thanks to: Motor Trend

Kia Forte Earns 2010 "Top Safety Pick" by IIHS

Kia Motors has announced that its compact Forte sedan has received a "Top Safety Pick" status for 2010 by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. This is the third model from the Hyundai/Kia line-up to receive this prestigious title for 2010, with the other two being the Kia Soul and the all-new Hyundai Sonata.

It is important to note that this rating only applies to Forte's built after October 2009, as the automaker made revisions to the car's B-pillar and roof to qualify it for the award.

For a vehicle to qualify for the rating, it must score the top rating of Good in frontal-offset, side-impact, and rear-impact crash tests. New for 2010, a car must also score a good rating in its roof-strength test that measures occupant protection in the case of a rollover. The car must also be equipped with electronic stability control (ESC), standard equipment in the Forte.

With the new standards implemented for 2010, there are only 31 vehicles in the market that qualify for the Top Safety Pick, a low number compared to that of 2009. Other cars in the compact segment that earned the top rating are the Volkwagen Golf, Toyota Corolla, Subaru Impreza, Scion xB, and Nissan Cube. Honda Civic's equipped with optional stablity control also earned the award.

[Source: Kicking Tires]

Audi R8 Black 5 Cars

the 2009 Audi R8 V10 since breaking the first pics and providing video of it running last month. But now we get an unblemished look from Autoweek.nl at the new hotness from the four rings in all its re-powered glory. The new R8, with it's 5.2 liter V10, flared-out side-blade, and modified nose is definitely swoon-worthy, as evidenced by these unbelievably clean shots apparently snapped outside of Quattro GmbH in Germany. We can't wait to see the times this thing posts on the Nurburgring.

Audi R8 Black
Audi R8 Black
Audi R8 Black
Audi R8 Black
Audi R8 Black

Beijing: Hyundai Unveils All-New Verna (Accent)

Of the more U.S.-relevant reveals at the 2010 Beijing Auto Show in China today is this Hyundai Verna. Why? Because it's the overseas version of what we know as the 2011 Hyundai Accent.

Sporting Hyundai's latest 'fluidic sculpture' design language, the Verna comes off overall as a shrunk-down 2011 Sonata - not that that's a bad thing. The now-familiar sweeping side character line, oversized headlights, and wavy front grille are all present on the new Accent - a vehicle that has been in need of a significant makeover for some time.

From what we can see of the interior, Hyundai seems to have applied a slightly up-market touch to the inside of its new Verna. The Korean automaker also claims to have made large improvements to NVH levels in the compact sedan.

Underhood, the 2011 Verna features the new-generation Gamma gasoline engine in either 1.4-liter or 1.6-liter DOHC inline-four configurations. The larger of the two is expected to be offered in the U.S. and 106 horsepower and 114 pound-feet of torque are available in the Chinese-spec version. Transmission options include a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic.

Hyundai, like many other automakers, has been enjoying strong sales in China, with over two million vehicles being sold there since the brand arrived in 2002. In 2009, Hyundai posted a 94-percent year-over-year sales boost, making for an easy decision to maintain its presence in the market.

We'll continue to keep you updated as more information on the U.S.-spec 2011 Hyundai Accent arrives.

[Source: Hyundai via Motor Trend]

Continue reading to view more images.

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Hot News: 2011 Volkswagen Polo Sedan

Volkswagen has christened the Polo saloon the Vento for the Indian market. The Vento, which means wind in both Italian and Portuguese, follows the VW tradition of naming its models after prominent winds. VW certainly hopes the Vento badge clicks in India when the car goes on sale this July. In fact, India is one of the most important markets for the Vento and the German company hopes to sell 25,000 units every year once production is in full swing.

The Vento (code: VW251) is essentially the saloon version of the recently launched Polo and it shares a common platform with the hatchback. Both the saloon and the hatch are similar upto the B-pillar, except for a different grille and lights to differentiate it from its hatchback sibling. The Vento’s rear section or third box is well integrated with the body and the VW engineers were aware that the Polo’s rear seat would be inadequate for saloon car customers and hence the wheelbase has been extended by an estimated 50mm for better legroom. Headroom too will be better as the roof doesn’t taper down as sharply as in the hatch. Using the Honda City as the Vento’s benchmark, VW engineers hint at best-in-class comfort with the use of special seat cushions to withstand prolonged use without compromising comfort. Boot space is expected to be in the region of 500 litres with a split seat option on offer. Equipment levels are expected to be higher than in the Polo and the top-of-the-line version could get some of the features from the Jetta.

The Vento will initially get two engine options – a petrol and a diesel. Both these engines displace 1.6 litres and both produce 105bhp. However, the diesel has a thumping 25.5kgm of torque to the petrol motor’s 15.8kgm and their driving characteristics will differ like chalk and cheese.

Like in the Jetta, the petrol motor in the Vento is a naturally aspirated unit but it’s more advanced. While the Jetta’s 1.6 motor had two valves per cylinder driven off a single cam, the Vento has a four-valve head and double overhead camshafts. VW is likely to introduce the same engine in the Indian Polo after the Vento is launched.

The 1.6 common-rail diesel is brand new and comes from the same engine family as the 1.2 turbo-diesel that powers the Polo and the bigger 2-litre diesel under the hood of the Jetta. This engine comes with 90bhp and 105bhp power outputs and thankfully VW has decided to give us the more powerful engine. If the relatively lightweight Polo is anything to go by, then the Vento won’t be more than a 100kg heavier than the hatch, which should give it a good power-to-weight ratio. While the petrol Vento may not match the Honda City for pace, the diesel Vento should be a close match for the 110bhp Verna diesel. Both these engines, the diesel in particular, have been tuned more for fuel economy and driveability.

Sadly, there are no plans to introduce a TSI engine. The direct-injection and turbo-charging hardware in a TSI motor is proving too costly for a saloon in the sub-Rs 10 lakh category. Also, both the petrol and diesel will come with five-speed manual transmissions initially but a DSG ’box in the top-end diesel maybe introduced at a later stage.

VW plans to price the Vento between Rs 7-9 lakh and is gearing up for a July 2010 launch. This all-new saloon with a brand new set of engines promises to blend performance, luxury and economy like no other mid-size car. Can the Vento blow its rivals away? Wait for a few months to find out.

Thanks to: Autocar India

New Car: 2011 Suzuki Wagon R

Maruti Suzuki has raised the curtain on its blue-eyed-boy, the all-new WagonR. Maruti now prices the hatchback in par with its competition, with the base version priced at Rs 3.28 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi), rising up to Rs 4.12 lakh for the top-end (Vxi) variant with ABS and airbags.

The all-new WagonR that replaces the existing car model is the fourth generation and is based on a completely new platform. The WagonR will now be powered by the peppy 1-litre K-series motor, the same engine powering the Estilo and A-star.

Under the skin the car is all-new. The latest WagonR is underpinned by a brand new chassis that is leagues ahead of the outgoing model. Tailored blanks are used all over and these specially treated, sandwiched and layered pieces of steel help provide stiffness without adding wasteful bulk.

On the outside, substantial styling changes have been made. The square edges of the car are rounded out, particularly at the front end. The new WagonR gets a prominent nose with large lights, a wide grille and a massive, stretched air intake below the bumper. The ‘smiling’ grille, as Maruti calls it, is part of the company’s new-found styling language also seen in the face-lifted Estilo.

The passenger cabin has improved and now sport dual tone interiors with alluminum touches all around. The WagonR’s dashboard is embellished with silver-accented surrounds for the air vents and vertical and horizontal strips. The interiors feel much more upmarket than before.

Maruti hasn’t messed around with the car’s strength; the tall roofline, high seats and ‘spacious for a hatchback’ interiors promise to keep this car on the top of the charts.

Thanks to: Autocar India

New Car: 2011 Lamborghini Murcielago LP 670-4 SV Chinese Edition

Despite China’s relatively short motoring history, there’s a growing number of multi-millionaire car collectors eager to snap up the hottest exotic metal.

And Lamborghini is keen to tap into this lucrative market. The supercar maker’s sales grew 11 per cent in the country last year, and the arrival of the limited-edition Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce Chinese Edition aims to cement the firm’s presence in the country.

Not more than 10 SVCEs will be built, each with a special flat grey and orange livery. Every car will feature a numbered plaque with the name of the owner engraved in it too.

There are no mechanical changes, so the 660bhp V12 remains, and the 0-62mph time of just 3.2 seconds and 213mph top speed are unchanged.

Also making its debut at the Beijing show is the Superleggera version of the current Gallardo which has just gone on sale in Lamborghini’s seven Chinese dealerships.For more details click here.
Thanks to: Auto Express

New Car: 2011 Volkswagen Phaeton

A newly revised rival for the S-Class? Now that’s Phaeton talk! Despite lacklustre sales of the first-generation car, VW has unveiled a facelifted version of its luxury flagship ahead of its debut at the Beijing Motor Show.

Featuring air-suspension and four-wheel drive as standard, the newcomer is aimed squarely at the top end of the market. That takes it dangerously close to Audi A8 territory – a car also built by the VW Group. And just like the A8, the Phaeton will be offered with a standard or extended wheelbase – the latter pushing out the car’s length from 5.06 metres to 5.18m.

For effortless cruising, a range of engines with either six, eight or 12 cylinders is available, including one diesel and three petrol options. The best seller in the UK will be the 237bhp 3.0-litre V6 TDI. The common-rail direct-injection unit is capable of sending the Phaeton from 0-62mph
in 8.6 seconds, but still returns 33mpg.

Petrol fans can choose between a 276bhp 3.6-litre V6, a 330bhp 4.2 V8 or a full-blown 444bhp 6.0 W12. The latter is the same engine fitted to the outgoing Phaeton, not the recently announced 6.3-litre W12 offered on the Audi A8.

In keeping with the model’s understated character, the styling changes are predictably low key. A new front end has pulled the VW flagship into line with the rest of the brand’s portfolio. But unlike VW’s other new models, the Phaeton’s more upright grille is finished in chrome instead of shiny black. The standard bi-xenon headlights and rear light clusters now feature LED lights.

With such a sombre exterior, it’s the luxurious cabin that’s designed to get customers excited. There’s four-zone climate control, while the 18-way electric seats should ensure anybody can get comfortable. Buyers can choose between a three-seater rear bench or two separate electric rear seats and a virtually limitless range of wood, leather and Alcantara trim.

Cutting-edge equipment includes an eight-inch touchscreen sat-nav, which can download satellite images from Google maps and overlay your selected route. A front-mounted camera can recognise road signs and flash them to the driver, plus there’s a self-dipping Dynamic Light Assist system which keeps the headlights on full beam, and masks part of the light if it senses oncoming traffic. Expect the entry-level petrol V6 to start from around £50,000 when it goes on sale at the end of the year.For more details click here.
Thanks to: Auto Express

New Concept Car: BMW Gran Coupe

In a move reminiscent of—and likely inspired by—its sultry Concept CS of 2007, BMW is unveiling a new, low-profile, four-door coupe concept at the 2010 Beijing auto show. Called the BMW Concept Gran Coupé, it’s meant to showcase the company’s design abilities and philosophy. It’s also another one-off concept that we wish BMW would actually build.

According to BMW, the Gran Coupé “concentrates the design expertise of the brand” and “captures a sense of superior dynamic performance and high-quality elegance.” Whatever. It’s a sleek, low-slung, long-wheelbase sedan with a coupe-like roofline and short overhangs. Despite its thorough execution and rather production-feasible look, the possibility of it reaching the market in its current form is probably very low. Details about its powerplant and drivetrain technology are not available, but what we can tell you is that the Gran Coupé is a few inches longer than the new 5-series at nearly 197 inches, but is about four inches lower at 55.1.

Full-LED headlights and a prominent BMW kidney grille dominate the forward-angled shark nose, with sweeping lower air inlets helping to accentuate the width of the car. The doors feature frameless windows, which add sleekness by rolling up over and obscuring the B-pillars. The overall theme, with dynamic concave and convex lines and powerful wheel arches, is one of elegance and aggression. The concept’s slim-looking rear end features L-shaped LED taillights and a full-width LED third brake light across the top of the rear window. As with most concepts, the wheels also contribute to the look, with the Gran Coupé’s oversized rolling stock sporting thin, relief-milled spokes that extend into the center of the wheel, lending a three-dimensional appearance.

Details about the interior are nil, furthering our belief that this concept is probably pure eye candy. Rumors of a high-end BMW four-door coupe, possibly carrying a revitalized 8-series moniker, have come and gone ever since the CS concept was shown a few years back. This Gran Coupé will likely serve as the latest addition to those rumors, but we expect at least certain elements of its design to crop up on BMWs sometime soon.

Thanks to: Car and Driver

New Concept Car: Chevrolet Volt MPV5

GM has shown a few variations of the Chevrolet Volt before—the headed-for-production Opel Ampera, the gorgeous Cadillac Converj concept, and the sporty Opel Flextreme GT/E among them—and now comes a more family-friendly twist on the extended-range hybrid formula. The Chevrolet Volt MPV5 concept, debuting at the 2010 Beijing auto show, is a five-passenger MPV that uses the Volt’s platform and extended-range powertrain technology.

As such, the Volt MPV5 packs a 16-kWh T-shaped lithium-ion battery pack that feeds a 150-hp, 370-lb-ft electric motor. Like in the Volt sedan, the electric motor provides all the propulsion; the 1.4-liter gasoline engine onboard exists solely to generate electricity once the batteries are depleted. Chevrolet says the MPV5’s all-electric range is 32 miles, down 8 miles from the regular Volt’s, while the range with the gas engine humming away is identical, at 300 miles. Charging time on a regular 120-volt household outlet is quoted as taking “over eight hours,” while a 240-volt hookup will charge the MPV5 in “about four.” The vanlet is said to top out at 100 mph, no doubt after a thrilling five-minute mosey.

As you’d expect given its name, the five-seat MPV5 takes interior and exterior styling cues from the Volt sedan. Up front, the closed-off grille and the lower front fascia are immediately recognizable. The wheels are “inspired” by the Volt’s and wear low-rolling-resistance rubber. A full underbody tray, special taillamps, the rocker panels, and “blades” on the rear quarter-panel help improve atmospheric slipperiness. The styling was handled jointly by GM’s North American crossover design team and members of the General’s Australian design studio. (We hear design proposals were exchanged on the back of Foster’s beer coasters.) The collaboration worked—the MPV5 is a sweet-looking people hauler. The squat stance, bulging fenders, and large rolling stock give it a sense of aggression sorely missing from the crayons-ground-into-the-rear-seat set. Of course, the similarly sultry Volt concept was watered down for production, so we reserve the right to change our opinion if the same fate befalls this concept.

The Volt’s gauge cluster and touch-sensitive center stack are used here, and the two-tone leather seats carry over, too. The second-row seats flip and fold, and the MPV5 can swallow as much as 62.3 cubic feet of AA batteries—you know, just in case. There are 30.5 cubes of storage when the rear seats are up.

The MPV5 may not be as exciting as the Converj or Flextreme GT/E, but it’s the sort of mainstream-oriented variant that could allow GM to recoup its Volt powertrain investment sometime before the earth cools to a ball of over-polluted ice. Expect to see this, or something very similar, on the world’s roads not too long after the Volt sedan goes into production later this year.

Thanks to: Car and Driver

New Concept Car: Ford Start

Ford’s latest foray into the realm of chic, urban automobiles comes in the form of the Start concept. Set to debut at the Beijing auto show, the Start is intended to showcase FoMoCo’s ability to build a car that’s both stylish and efficient. The car also previews a 1.0-liter three-cylinder EcoBoost gasoline engine that we’re told will eventually make its way to the U.S.

The pint-sized Start concept is an attractive design that, like the Mini Cooper and Fiat 500, places the wheels at the far corners of the body. At 145.0 inches long and just 66.5 inches wide, the Start is 10 inches shorter and about an inch narrower than Ford’s upcoming Fiesta five-door hatchback. The two-door, four-seater’s fast rear glass is somewhat reminiscent of the first-gen Euro-market Ford Ka, but the Start is far more chic and modern. Brushed aluminum borders the glass, and the roof panel is removable so occupants can enjoy convertible-esque motoring. The concept has LED lighting all around, and the rear turn signals illuminate sequentially from the center out. The Start’s design team reportedly drew inspiration from classics like the Porsche 356 Speedster and Alfa Romeo Zagato SZ, although we’re hard-pressed to see much of either of those cars in the final product. Instead, it looks as if the designers had photos of the Audi A1 and Citröen C2 Pluriel taped to their drawing boards.

Thanks to: Car and Driver

Ford Mustang Cars 2010

Since its dramatic 1964 introduction, Ford Mustang has been the icon of American performance with its bold style, brawny engine and rear-wheel-drive excitement, earning its place as the top-selling sports car for 19 years straight. For 2006, Ford is building on the clean-sheet 2005 design by offering a V-6 "Pony Package," 18-inch wheels on GT models, a pair of new colors and , later in the model year, a darker aluminum interior upgrade option.

Ford Mustang
Ford Mustang
Ford Mustang
Ford Mustang
Ford Mustang

Audi r8 cars

Audi r8

Audi r8

Audi r8

Hot News: Ferrari Plans Revealed

The Prancing Horse is galloping into the future. Ferrari has promised a raft of new models, including a new range-topping replacement for the Enzo and a 458 Scuderia.

As part of Fiat’s plans – revealed today – the supercar firm will launch at least one new model every year, between now and 2013. A replacement for the 612 Scaglietti – currently codenamed F151 – and an open top version of the 458, which will carry the Spider tag, are due in 2011. The 612 replacement is likely to be the first Ferrari to use the hybrid technology debuted by the 599 HY-KERS concept car.

In 2012, there will be a fresh 599 GTB – currently codenamed F152 – and the new Enzo. As we have already revealed, this new hypercar is likely to get a twin-turbocharged V8 engine, which together with a lightweight carbon chassis, should leave the Bugatti Veyron trailing.

In 2013, the Maranello-based company will reveal a lightweight, more powerful 458, carrying the Scuderia badge, as well as a revised and updated California.For more details click here.
Thanks to: Auto Express

Hot News: Maserati's Business Plans

It’s not just Fiat’s bread and butter models that are getting a revamp. The firm’s wide-ranging product strategy revealed some exciting news for Maserati fans, with the announcement of an all-new model.

Details are scarce, but the entry-level car will cost less than €55,000 (£47,820) when it goes on sale and will be positioned at the top of the E segment, against cars such as the forthcoming Audi A7, Mercedes E63 AMG and V8-powered BMW M5.

The firm described it as a “new product package with specific contents in order to exploit Maserati “DNA”. So expect high performance and a bespoke, crafted interior to feature when the newcomer arrives.

Also announced in the objectives for the brand’s future was confirmation of a New Generation of Quattroporte with “a completely new style, offering outstanding driving emotions and high-level quality.”

Maserati has pledged to increase its market share in the Quattroporte’s segment from 3 per cent to 8 per cent, by making the newcomer more affordable, with prices starting at around £75,000 in the UK.

The Granturismo and Grancabrio will also continue. No details of replacements were mentioned, as the cars are both relatively new, but the firm will make tweaks to keep the models competitive. For more details click here.
Thanks to: Auto Express

Hot News: Alfa Romeo Confirms Raft of New Models

Fiat has made an unequivocal commitment to revitalising Alfa Romeo into a proper premium brand, including a planned return to the American market in 2012. And it’s planning to launch six new models to celebrate, including the new Spider and two Chrysler based 4x4s.

The first of the new cars will be the all-new replacement for the 159, named the Giulia. There will be two versions due in 2012, a saloon and a Sportwagon estate, both based on an extended version of the Giulietta’s platform.

A new Alfa Spider will follow in 2013 - the only model to be jointly developed by both Chrysler and Fiat in the next four years, using a shared platform and engine line-up.

Alfa will also produce two SUVs, the first will compete with the likes of the Audi Q5 and will be on sale in 2012. The second will be a Q7 rival due in 2014. Alfa don’t have an established 4x4 history, so both of these cars will be developed by Chrysler, but with Alfa-designed bodywork.

The final new model will be a five-door version of the Mito, but it won’t appear until after a major overhaul of the current model, due in 2012. For more details click here.
Thanks to: Auto Express

Spied: 2011 Audi R8 Clubsport

Audi's already upgraded its R8 with a V-10. So what could be next? If these photographs, taken by our resident spies, serve as any indication, a Clubsport model, a presumably lighter and quicker version of the already-stunning supercar with upgraded aerodynamics.

The most obvious change is the massive rear wing, which our photographers say is fixed. Look closer and you'll see a larger diffuser and exhaust pipes. Check the rear bumper for its air-outlets just aft of the rear wheels, and the front bumper for the subtle trace of canards on each end. More power and less weight would be a natural complement.

The R8 5.2 FSI is a very rapid and drivable car already, but we can't wait to see what Audi has in store next.
Thanks to: Motor Trend

Spied: 2011 Aston Martin Rapide Sport

If über-sports sedans are your thing, get a load of this. As previously announced, Aston Martin will be running the 24 Hours of Nürburgring on May 15th with its new Rapide sports sedan. Now our spy shooters have caught up with the four-door racer at - where else? - the Nürburgring, as it prepares for its motorsports debut.

It's fairly easy to tell this race-spec version apart from its road-bound sibling. If the light-alloy racing wheels don't tip you off, surely you'll notice the sliding Lexan side window and the silver roll cage inside this matte-black Rapide.

Aston Martin has previously contested the 24-hour German race in its Vantage sports car, famously spawning the commemorative Vantage N24 and GT4. And we're guessing that, as in years past, Aston CEO Ulrich Bez will score some seat time himself during the endurance race.
Thanks to: Motor Trend

Lamborghini cars

Lamborghini
LamborghiniMurcielagoSV
lamborghini murcielago
2009 Lamborghini Murcielago
lamborghini

Lamborghini cars

LamborghiniMurcielagoSV
lamborghini murcielago
2009 Lamborghini Murcielago
lamborghini