2008 Nissan Skyline Coupe2008 Nissan Skyline Coupe

(from Nissan Press Release) Nissan Skyline Celebrates 50th Anniversary of Style and Performance

Tokyo (April 24, 2007) – Nissan Skyline celebrated its 50th anniversary today in grand style at an event held at Tokyo’s new Midtown development. Dating back to 1957, the Skyline is a legendary car in the Nissan line-up with a long heritage of style and performance, beloved by motoring fans all over the world.

Taking this opportunity, Nissan also showed the all-new Skyline Coupe today, making its first appearance in Japan. The new Skyline Coupe is scheduled for release this fall in Japan.

Present at the celebrations were the chief engineers that led the product development of each generation Skyline, including Shinichiro Sakurai, chief development engineer of the first Skyline model. The event featured a film presentation that reflected the evolution of the Skyline design, performance and image throughout the different eras of each generation Skyline.

A fashion show entitled “Skyline GT Collection” was held in commemoration of the anniversary, featuring twelve of today’s most popular fashion models, including Yoko Horiuchi. The models were dressed in specifically designed outfits, inspired by each generation Skyline.

Celebrity guests included musician Joe Hisaishi, actor Ken Watanabe, while major league baseball player Ichiro offered his congratulations via a video message. Each of these celebrities share in a common trait with the Skyline i.e. that they were born in Japan but have since gained fame and recognition in the global arena. Mr. Hisaishi’s latest composition, I Will Be, written for the Skyline’s new TV commercial, was performed for the first time by Mai Hisaishi, who is also featured on the commercial.

The Skyline 50th Anniversary exhibition, featuring each generation Skyline model, will be open to the public at Tokyo Midtown Garden from Tuesday, April 24th to Sunday, May 6th. The new Skyline Coupe and the Skyline GT Collection fashion line will be on exhibit at the Midtown Atrium from Wednesday, April 25th through Sunday, May 6th.

Renault Espace

It's hard to believe that the Renault Espace has been around since 1743.

Mainly because it hasn't. But the first-generation Espace was introduced way back in 1984 - a lifetime ago when shoulder pads were the size of badgers and MPV stood for nothing more technical than Major Perm Volume.

And as you'll have noticed if you've hailed an airport taxi recently, the original people carrier is still going strong. Renault has just released details of its 2007 Espace line-up, which includes a new entry-level Team version.

It'll weigh in at £18,595, undercutting the base Ford Galaxy and Chrysler Voyager by almost a grand.

The Espace also gets a new trim level - Dynamique S - to replace the Privilege and Initiale specifications.

And if that news wasn't enough to send you into a pique of electronica-inspired delirium, there's even a choice of two new diesel automatic engines.

The 2.0 dCi 150 Auto FAP and 2.0 dCi 175 Auto FAP get Renault's new six-speed automatic 'box, which has been developed in conjunction with Nissan.

Time to party like it's 1984.

2007 Autodelta Alfa Romeo Brera J5 3.2 C

(from Autodelta Press Release) The Autodelta Brera J5 3.2 C (C stands for “Compressore”) is a cutting-edge blend of Italian fashion and the pursuit of ultimate performance through advanced technology. It redefines Autodelta’s never-ending quest to draw the maximum dynamics and driving pleasure from Alfa Romeo’s exciting production models, and is the culmination of more than a year’s intense research and development as well as hard work and innovative thinking put into application.

Announcing that this new car is supercharged brings another strong Autodelta tradition into the equation, one that has become very central to their engineering philosophy in recent years. With a huge wealth of experience in supercharging – including its application on the famous ‘Arese V6’ with a 400bhp step arriving in final stages of its development, as well as on the direct-injection JTS engine, where Autodelta is the only company worldwide to offer forced induction on this Alfa Romeo unit (and in fact of all the major carmakers only VW have a production supercharged direct-injection engine) – it was logical that Autodelta would turn to this tradition as they looked to raise the Brera’s bite in the power stakes. The Brera J5 3.2 C’s dedicated supercharger unit is supplied by Rotrex to Autodelta; in fact the Rotrex C30-94 is considered to be the most compact supercharging unit available today noted for its durability, light inherent weight and compact form; Rotrex superchargers were also chosen by Koenigsegg to power their CCX supercar, which set the record for the fastest production car in the world. The Rotrex C30-94 properties make it perfect for installation in the Brera’s engine bay which offers little excess room, its installation and that of its dedicated oil cooler being positioned in an optimum manner to allow maximum air flow via the new Autodelta-designed front bumper.

The Autodelta Brera offers 348 bhp and 430 Nm torque, the additional 88 bhp over the standard model turning this into a powerful four wheel drive 2+2 sportscar easily capable of fulfilling its driver’s innermost demands and desires. 0-100 km/h is achieved in 5.3 seconds while top speed is 260 km/h. However an Autodelta model is always an all-round player, and the Brera J5 3.2 C is the complete package, fully developed in every area, the result of much of hard work which focused in detail on every aspect of the sports car. The Brera’s engine electronics have been significantly re-mapped to make sure that power is put down in an optimum manner, with smooth delivery and in perfect synergy with the car’s capabilities. A brand new stainless-steel exhaust system, created in conjunction with Autodelta’s exhaust development partner Ragazzon, offers optimum gasflow properties as well as a distinct Alfa Romeo exhaust “note”, and is immediately recognisable by its quad-oval tail pipes which are each engraved with the Autodelta legend. The suspension has been re-worked with new Autodelta Sport Line Dampers with Coil Over springs being specially developed for the car; while an upgraded braking system perfectly manages the additional requirements demanded of it by all the extra power.

Autodelta is also about style, and this area of the car has not been neglected by our experienced design team. A typical Alfa Romeo driver demands performance with inherent Italian styling; understated but individual. An Autodelta driver also makes these demands, but pushed to a further level; understated charms combined with aggression, sleek yet with the exclusive handcrafted Autodelta tradition instantly recognisable. To achieve these core requirements Autodelta’s designers have evolved the “F1 look” that they first introduced on the Autodelta GT Super in 2004 and then the Autodelta 147 GTA AM Super (2005). With this dashing styling treatment, the front bumper arches upwards to meet the traditional “heart” grille, that most famous of all Alfa Romeo symbols, and one which sets an Alfa Romeo apart from the crowd. This remains the most distinctive feature of the car that Autodelta’s designers seek to amplify, but never challenge. The new front bumper at the same time has been optimised to provide maximum delivery of air to the new supercharger oil cooler via the introduction of extra cooling slots on the bumper’s flanks. At the rear, the customary Autodelta splitter enhances the curving rump of the Brera. The subtle but distinctive looks of the Brera J5 3.2 C are finally completed by 19-inch OZ Racing Ultraleggera wheels and Dunlop SP Sport Maxx tyres; OZ Racing and Dunlop tyres are also development partners in the Brera J5 3.2 C project.

Ford Trasit Sportvan

Transit van modifications are usually limited to a selection of deeply witty slogans scratched in the dirt on the rear doors, with a selection of choice dents for good measure.

But we've found the Transit that takes White Van Man mods to a new level.

Unveiled at the Commercial Vehicle Show this week (if you weren't there, why not?), the Transit SportVan was introduced to the world by TG's good friend Sabine Schmidtz - she who terrified Richard all the way round the 'Ring.

Limited to a production run of just 500, the SportVan is aimed at those who want to make a 'bold statement' with their van.

We can't argue with that. With a custom paintjob, bonnet stripes a la Fiesta ST, twin exhausts and full bodykit, the SportVan looks every inch the race-honed repo van.

There's no upgrade in performance, though, because the short wheelbase SportVan retains the standard 128bhp TDCi Duratorq engine.

No matter: it's still cool... in a sort of porno-stash chic fashion. You'll be seeing SportVans with 'I wish my wife was this sporting' scrawled across their panels from June this year.

2008 Chevrolet Corvette: Iconic Sports Car Recieves Larger, More Powerful LS3 6.2L V-8 and Host of Driving, Interior Refinements

Chevrolet Corvette & Corvette Z06

2008 Chevrolet Corvette

2007-04-27 -- Get comfortable. There’s so much new and exciting with the 2008 Corvette that you’ll want to grab a hot drink, sidle up to your computer screen and absorb all the details.

New for 2008:

• All-new LS3 6.2L V-8 engine for Coupe and Convertible:
• 430 hp (321 kW)*
• 424 lb.-ft. of torque (575 Nm)*
• 436 hp / 428 lb.-ft. (325 kW / 580 Nm)* with new, optional dual-mode exhaust system
• High-flow cylinder heads
• Enhanced valvetrain
• High-flow intake manifold
• Larger-bore block with structural enhancements
• Improved manual transmission shift effort
• Quicker shift times on paddle-shift six-speed automatic
• 2.73 performance axle ratio available with six-speed paddle shift; included with Z51 package
• Improved steering feel
• Standard split-spoke cast aluminum wheel design for Coupe and Convertible (Competition Gray finish optional)
• Available polished forged aluminum wheel design
• New Keyless Access remote key fob with integrated key
• Interior trim enhancements for all models, including wrapped center trim plate with Cyber pattern and new, brushed aluminum accents
• Custom Leather-Wrapped Interior Package available for all models in exclusive, new Linen and Sienna colors
• New sill plates
• iPod/MP3 jack included on all sound systems except navigation (Personal Audio Link available as accessory for navigation system)
• OnStar and XM Satellite Radio standard on all models
• Auto-dimming mirrors with compass standard on all models
• Two new premium exterior colors: Jetstream Blue Metallic Tintcoat and Crystal Red Metallic Tintcoat

Model Lineup

	Engines		Transmissions
	6.2L V-8 (LS3)	7.0L V-8 (LS7)	6-spd manual	6-spd paddle shift automatic
Corvette Coupe	s	–	s	o
Corvette Convertible	s	–	s	o
Corvette Z06	–	s	s	–

Key:
Standard	s
Optional	o
Not available	–

The changes involve everything from an all-new, larger and more powerful V-8 engine to refinements in driving characteristics that solidify the Corvette’s position as the preeminent American sports car – and further the argument that it is one of the world’s best. There are also a host of exterior and interior refinements that raise the Corvette’s luxury status and enhance the feeling of craftsmanship.

“Corvette is an uncompromising sports car that rewards its owners with impeccable performance and great comfort,” said Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager. “The changes and enhancements to the 2008 Corvette reflect continual improvements that speak to Chevrolet’s unflagging commitment to building the best sports car – and with nearly 55 years of experience, the Corvette just keeps getting better and better.”

Also back again for ’08 is the 505-horsepower Corvette Z06, an American super car that has won over enthusiasts, journalists and racers around the world for its balance of racetrack-bred performance, daily-driving civility and value.

Here’s a look at the new and enhanced features for ’08 Corvette models:

Engine – A new, 6.2L LS3 small-block V-8 is the standard engine in Coupe and Convertible models. It is rated at 430 horsepower (321 kW)* and 424 lb.-ft. of torque (586 Nm)* with the standard exhaust system; with the new, optional two-mode exhaust system, power ratings increase to 436 horses / 325 kW and 428 lb.-ft. / 592 Nm. As a result, the standard Corvette is true supercar, capable of 190 mph. The LS3 with the six-speed paddle-shift automatic is the fastest automatic-equipped Corvette ever, with 0-60 mph capability of 4.3 seconds.

This new iteration of the storied small-block family features a revised, larger-bore cylinder block – 4.06-inch / 103.25 mm vs. the previous 6.0L’s 4.00-inch / 101.62 mm bores – high-flow, LS7/L92-style cylinder heads; larger-diameter pistons; revised camshaft and camshaft timing; revised valvetrain with offset intake rocker arms; high-flow intake manifold; high-flow fuel injectors from the Z06’s LS7 engine; and a new engine beauty cover.

The LS3 features an aluminum cylinder block with cast iron cylinder liners. In addition to its larger bores, which help create a 376-cubic-inch displacement, the block casting also features revisions and machining in the bulkheads that enhance its strength and improved bay to bay breathing. But while the bore of the 6.2L engine is increased when compared with the previous 6.0L engine, the engine’s stroke remains at 3.62 inches (92 mm). The pistons for the larger 6.2L engine also are new and are designed for its high-rpm performance capability.

Breathing for the new 6.2L engine is accomplished via new, high-flow cylinder heads. They’re based on the large port/large valve design found on the LS7 engine and other GM L92 engines, with larger-capacity, straighter intake ports. The design optimizes intake flow to the combustion chamber and the exhaust ports are also designed for better flow.

Complementing the larger-port design of the heads are commensurately sized valves. The intake valve size alone increases from 2.00 inches (50.8 mm) to 2.16 inches (55 mm) – an increase of nearly 9 percent. The intake valves feature lightweight hollow stems, which enable the engine’s 6,600-rpm capability. The exhaust valves also are large, measuring 1.60 inches (40.4 mm) in diameter.

To accommodate the engine’s large valves and enable more direct intake port flow, the intake-side rocker arms are offset 6 mm between the valve tip and the push rod. Actuating the valves is a new camshaft, with intake-side lobes providing more than a 5-percent percent in increase in lift, from 0.521-inch to 0.551-inch (13.25 mm to 14 mm). Exhaust-valve lift remains unchanged from the LS2. The camshaft timing was revised to optimize performance with the higher-lift intake cam profile.

Ensuring the cylinder heads receive all the air they can handles falls to a new, acoustically tuned intake manifold. The composite design is manufactured with a “lost core” process that improves runner to runner variation and reduces airflow losses. An acoustic foam material is used to reduce radiated engine noise; it is sandwiched between the outer top of the manifold and an additional “skull cap” acoustic shell. Also new beauty covers atop the engine shield the rocker covers and also feature a noise-reducing, acoustically tuned insert to provide a more refined engine sound.

2008 Chevrolet Corvette

Exhaust system – Optional on ’08 Coupe and Convertible models is a new, two-mode performance exhaust system. Similar in design and function to the system used on the Z06, the dual-mode exhaust uses vacuum-actuated outlet valves, which control engine noise during low-load operation, but open for maximum performance during high-load operation. It is not identical to the Z06 system; the Coupe/Convertible uses a 2.5-inch-diameter exhaust, while the Z06 uses a three-inch system.

With the new, dual-mode performance exhaust, power output for Coupe/Convertible rises from 430 horsepower (321 kW) and 424 lb.-ft. of torque (575 Nm) to 436 horses (325 kW) and 428 lb.-ft. (580 Nm). This system gives the Corvette a more aggressive exhaust sound character that will appeal to performance enthusiasts.

Transmissions and axle ratios – The shifting efforts for both the six-speed manual transmission and paddle-shift six-speed automatic transmissions have been improved in ’08 Corvette models. The manual transmission shifting improvements include a more positive and direct feel during gear changes, with better gate-to-gate location.

The six-speed paddle-shift automatic transmission on Coupe and Convertible is improved with new hardware and a new controller calibration that deliver quicker shifts. This change bolsters the feeling of performance and driver control when using the shifting paddles.

Also new for ’08 models is the availability of the 2.73 performance axle ratio with the automatic transmission. It is included with the Z51 package.

Steering system – The Corvette’s precise rack-and-pinion steering system is revised to provide improved feel at all speeds. The revisions are due to a new, premium machining process of the system’s internal components, a new, stiffer intermediate shaft and controller calibration changes.

Wheels – Corvette Coupe and Convertible models come with a new split-spoke wheel design for ’08. The design was introduced on the limited-edition ’07 Indianapolis 500 Pace Car replicas with a Sterling Silver finish. The standard 18-inch front wheels and 19-inch rear wheels feature a Sparkle Silver finish, with a Competition Gray version optional.

Also new is a distinctive, performance-oriented forged aluminum wheel for Coupe and Convertible. It comes in a polished finish.

Exterior colors – There are two new premium exterior colors available with 2008 Corvette models: Jetstream Blue Metallic Tintcoat and Crystal Red Metallic Tintcoat; they replace Le Mans Blue Metallic and Monterey Red Metallic Tintcoat.

Custom Leather-Wrapped Interior Package – Available on Coupe, Convertible and Z06 models, the new Custom Leather-Wrapped Interior Package offers a stylish, two-tone leather-appointed cabin with details that enhance the feeling of Corvette’s craftsmanship. Details include:

2008 Chevrolet Corvette

• Two-tone, leather-wrapped upper and lower instrument panel, door pads and seats
• Choice of new, exclusive colors: Linen or Sienna, with unique color breakup
• Padded door panel armrests
• “Corvette” embroidered on passenger-side dash pad
• Embroidered crossed flags logo on headrests
• Unique center trim plate with Bias pattern.

Interior enhancements – All models feature a new wrapped instrument panel center trim plate, with bright surrounds for the shifter and cupholder. There are also new metal-finish door sill plates that greet passengers as they step into the vehicle, as well as a new lighted control knob for the available Magnetic Selective Ride Control.

Feature changes and enhancements – All Corvette models now come standard with features that were previously optional or part of equipment packages. They include:

• OnStar with available Turn-By-Turn Navigation
• XM Satellite Radio
• Auto-dimming rearview mirrors (with compass)
• Audio input jack on all radio systems except navigation; Personal Audio Link is available as a dealer-installed item with the navigation system.

The ’08 Corvettes also come with a new Keyless Access fob, which features the key and remote-function controls integrated in a single unit.

Corvette design and interior details
Dramatic fender forms and exposed headlamps combine with the grille to create a strong visual identity for the Corvette, while the tapered rear deck and fascia improve high-speed performance. The lean rear design sports round taillamps and center-exit exhaust. The fixed Xenon high-intensity discharge headlamps provide superior lighting performance. With a 0.286 coefficient of drag, the Coupe models are the most aerodynamic Corvettes ever.

The 2008 Corvette Convertible features a power-operated soft top with the 3LT package; an easy-to-operate manual top is standard. Both configurations use a five-layer fabric that conceals the underlying structure for a good top-up appearance, plus it helps preserve the car’s excellent aerodynamics and reduces road noise.

Corvette’s interior is inspired by the car’s dual-cockpit heritage. High-quality materials, craftsmanship and functionality help deliver premium quality meant to enhance performance driving. The instrument panel and doors are covered with cast-skin foam-in-place trim that looks like a leather-wrapped, padded panel. It is warm and inviting and has double the life of conventional trim materials.

2008 Chevrolet Corvette

An AM/FM/XM radio with CD player and audio input jack is standard. An optional Bose audio system with an in-dash six-disc changer adds to the choices available to the audiophile owner. Steering-wheel mounted audio controls – introduced in ’07 – are included with the Bose premium system.

A full-function OnStar system is standard and an onboard navigation system with voice recognition is available. Using a 6.5-inch (165 mm) color touch-screen display, the DVD-based system contains all the map data for the 48 contiguous states and most of Canada on one disc.

Driving dynamics

2008 Corvette Coupe and 2008 Corvette Convertible have a hydroformed steel rail backbone structure, which features cored composite floors, an enclosed center tunnel, rear-mounted transmission and aluminum cockpit structure. Suspension cradles, control arms, knuckles, springs, dampers, bushings, stabilizer bars and steering gear have all been redesigned. New Goodyear Extended Mobility Tires (EMT) take advantage of the latest sidewall design and compound technology for run-flat capabilities.

Three suspension choices allow drivers to choose the setup that best suits their driving style. The standard suspension is tuned for a balance of ride comfort and precise handling. Corvette is now more poised at even higher handling levels, yet easier to drive.

The optional Magnetic Selective Ride Control suspension features magneto-rheological dampers able to detect road surfaces and adjust the damping rates to those surfaces almost instantly for optimal ride control. Cross-dilled brake rotors are included when this feature is selected, allowing customers to combine the larger brakes from the Z51 performance package with the comfort of Magnetic Selective Ride Control.

The Z51 Performance Package brings Coupe and Convertible performance very close to the widely admired previous generation Z06. The Z51 offers more aggressive dampers and springs, larger stabilizer bars, Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar EMT tires, enhanced cooling and larger cross-drilled brake rotors (13.4 inches / 340 mm in front and 13 inches / 330 mm in rear) for optimum track performance while still providing a comfortable ride.

With each suspension, three standard dynamic chassis control systems – anti-lock braking, traction control and Active Handling – operate in concert. In all, the dynamic chassis control systems are smarter, less intrusive and more adept at making the total driving experience precisely what drivers have come to expect from their Corvette.
Corvette Z06 details

As the fastest, most powerful and most technologically advanced production model in Corvette’s history, t he Corvette Z06 offers an unprecedented level of capability and technology, making it one of the best performance values on the market.

Value-Packed Holden Epica Now On Sale

Mid size - without compromise

Holden Epica CDXi

2007-04-27 -- Holden’s new value-packed and fuel efficient mid-size sedan, Holden Epica, is now on sale – with a special money back offer for private buyers.

The Holden Epica is available in two variants (CDX and CDXi) with a choice of either a 2.0 or 2.5-litre in-line six cylinder engine, depending on model.

A five-speed manual or automatic transmission is offered depending on model, with the 2.0-litre CDX manual sedan sharply priced at $25,990 (plus dealer delivery and government charges).

Epica’s impressive fuel economy (ADR081/01) is 8.2 litres/100km for the manual variant and 9.3 litres/100km for the automatic – better than some of its four-cylinder rivals in the mid-size sedan segment.

Holden Epica also offers generous interior space, excellent standard specifications, stylish fit and finish and Euro-influenced exterior design.

The 2.0-litre engine produces peak power of 105kW and peak torque of 195Nm*. The 2.5- litre engine produces peak power of 115kW and peak torque of 237Nm*. All models meet Euro IV emission standards.

Holden is also introducing an innovative marketing push to add impact to the new vehicle’s launch. Private customers who choose to purchase another vehicle will have the option to return their vehicle within 30 days or 1500kms – whichever comes first – if they are not satisfied with their purchase. (Business fleet, government and rental buyers are excluded).

The vehicle must be in the same condition as when delivered apart from any normal wear and tear that is to be expected and must be free from any damage (including body and mechanical).

GM Holden Executive Director Sales, Marketing and Aftersales, Alan Batey, said the money back offer added another incentive that gave Epica an edge in this competitive market segment.

“This offer is a unique and differentiated marketing tool to launch the new nameplate in this highly competitive mid-size sedan segment,” Mr Batey said. “We believe Epica stacks up incredibly well against the opposition for specification, value and fuel economy. Adding the money back offer into the mix will be a further attractive incentive for private customers considering this car.”

The money back offer campaign applies to new Holden Epica vehicles purchased from participating Holden dealers and delivered to private (non-fleet) customers between Apr 12, 2007 and Dec 31, 2007 . Full terms and conditions are listed below.

The Holden Epica model line up is:

* Holden Epica CDX - 2.0-litre manual transmission
* Holden Epica CDX - 2.5-litre automatic transmission
* Holden Epica CDXi - 2.5-litre automatic transmission

* Holden Epica CDX standard features include:

o – 16-inch alloy wheels (15-inch steel spare)
o – front and rear power windows
o – cruise control
o – air-conditioning
o – six-speaker CD audio system (MP3 compatible),
o – ABS
o – traction control
o – front and side airbags for driver and front passenger.

* Holden Epica CDXi models include all of the above, plus:

o – 17-inch alloy wheels (15-inch steel spare)
o – sports body kit
o – climate control air conditioning
o – curtain airbags
o – electronic driver information display
o – eight-speaker six-disc audio system (MP3 compatible)
o – front fog lamps
o – leather-wrap steering wheel and gearshift.

An optional pack featuring leather trim (two colour options) is available on CDXi.

Recommended retail price (plus dealer delivery and government charges)

* 2.0-litre Holden Epica CDX sedan (manual) $25,990
* 2.5-litre Holden Epica CDX sedan (automatic) $27,990
* 2.5-litre Holden Epica CDXi sedan (automatic) $30,990

* Optional leather trim pack (CDXi only) $ 2000
* Metallic paint $ 360
(Metallic paint cost included in CDXi pricing)

Accessories

Sports body kit (CDX)
18-inch alloy wheels – chrome
Bluetooth kit
Rear parking sensors
Roof bars
Exhaust tip (stainless steel)

* Power and torque figures as per ECE regulations
Figures quoted using 95 RON (PULP)

Holden Epica Money Back Offer – Terms and Conditions

1. This Money Back Offer Contract only applies to new Holden Epica vehicles that are purchased from participating Holden Dealers and delivered to private (non-fleet) customers between 12 th Apr 2007 and 31 st Dec 2007 (applies to all new Epica “Vehicles”).
2. Any Vehicle that a Customer wishes to return to a Dealer pursuant to this Contract must, when returned by Customer, be in the same condition as when delivered apart from any normal wear and tear that is to be expected and must be free from any damage (including body and mechanical).
3. A Vehicle returned under this Money Back Offer Contract must be returned to the dealer that originally sold the Vehicle.
4. The Customer’s ability to return a Vehicle under this Money Back Offer Contract shall expire on the earlier of 30 days from the date of delivery (inclusive of this date) of the Vehicle or when a total of 1,500 kilometres is displayed on the Vehicle’s odometer.
5. The addition of any non-factory modifications or accessories to the Vehicle at any time after delivery of the Vehicle will void the Customer’s ability to return the Vehicle under this Contract.
6. To gain any financial benefit under this Contract, the Customer must provide proof of purchase of a new (not used) motor vehicle of equal or greater value than that appearing on the original final purchase invoice for the Vehicle (“Replacement Vehicle”). The Replacement Vehicle must have been purchased within 30 days of delivery of the Vehicle. Proof of purchase of a Replacement Vehicle is defined as either an original copy of a paid purchase invoice contract or an original copy of a contract for the sale of a new motor vehicle properly signed and executed by the Customer and a new motor vehicle dealer.
7. Excepting any of the above automatic exclusions from this Money Back Offer Contract (listed in 1 –6), the Dealer agrees to accept any Vehicle covered by this Money Back Offer Contract and shall upon receipt of written approval from the third party Claims Assessor engaged to review Claims, reimburse the Customer the full value of the original final purchase price of the Vehicle. A third party will be fully responsible for assessing all Claims.
8. No liability is accepted by GM Holden Ltd or the Dealer under this Contract for any other agreement or contract that the Customer may have entered into in relation to the Vehicle, including any agreement or contract in relation to the financing of the Vehicle and any associated early termination charges.
9. The Customer’s personal details will be collected and passed to the third party Claims Assessor for the sole purpose of assessing and processing Claims under this Contract. The Dealer is not responsible for assessing the Claims under this Contract but will advise the Customer within seven (7) days of whether a claim has been accepted by the Claims Assessor.



Source: GM / Holden

Price confirmed on BMW's new M3

Want to put of the UK's first V8-powered BMW M3s in your garage? You'll have to part with at least £50,625. That's the official base price of the new 414bhp M-division coupe, as confirmed by BMW UK today; deliveries will start in September.

That price makes the new M-car £6.5k more expensive than the last M3 coupe was when it was discontinued. However, it also happens to be a piffling £50 less than you'll pay for a new Audi RS4 saloon, a fact conceived to go unnoticed by few who have to decide between the two performance cars, or indeed anyone at Audi's UK headquarters in Milton Keynes.

BMW has also confirmed a few other technical details about the new super-coupe. It will, apparently, crack 62mph in just 4.8sec and hit a limited top speed of 155mph. The surprise news comes with the fuel consumption claim; BMW says, thanks to brake energy regeneration and an enhanced double-VANOS valvetrain, the new M3 will return 22.8mpg on the combined cycle. That makes it eight per cent more frugal than the last M3, as well as a good twenty-five per cent more powerful.

source: www.autocar.co.uk

Mini Clubman: first official pictures

You've probably seen enough spy shots to have gained a good impression of what the new Mini Clubman will look like, but these are the first official images of the Mini estate to be released by BMW, and they're the most accurate guide yet as to the finished look of the car.

We dug up these profile sketches from the press material given away by Mini at the Geneva motor show in March. Judging by them, the Traveller concept's 'suicide door' has been kept, to aid entry for rear passengers. Although you can't tell from these profile sketches, it only features on the passenger side. The split boot doors are also present on these images, evident from the panel gap that vertically bisects the rear panel and the boot.

Engines and chassis parts are shared with the new Mini hatchback. This means there will be a choice of 1.4-, 1.6- and 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol units, plus the new diesel Cooper engine, which should be the favourite choice in this load-lugging Mini.

The Clubman will be unveiled this September at the Frankfurt motorshow, and go on sale in early 2008.

source: autocar.co.uk

First Drive—2008 Buick Enclave

Here's a better Buick you can own right now

AT A GLANCE:
2008 BUICK ENCLAVE
ON SALE: Now
BASE PRICE: $32,790
DRIVETRAIN: 3.6-liter, 275-hp, 251-lb-ft V6; fwd, six-speed automatic
CURB WEIGHT: 4780 lb
0 TO 60 MPH: 8.1 seconds
FUEL MILEAGE (EPA COMBINED): 19 mpg

Even though the all-new 2008 Buick Enclave is on sale (with $1000 incentive) and in customers' hands, General Motors hoped the media would wait until the end of May to report on it. That's when it will have the official media drives at which point it would hand out the official media information.

Rather than wait until then to give you our take on the Enclave, we did what you could do and took a test drive courtesy of a local Buick dealer. The drive impressions you read here are based on that journey.

Chalk it up to enterprising journalism. And to getting you what you have come to expect from AutoWeek: Information first and information fast.

With all the commotion coming out of the Shanghai auto show, it would be easy to forget that U.S. citizens buy Buicks, too. While the rest of the world was out examining the Riviera concept, we checked out a new Enclave at dealerships across this country right now.

Enclave is the best looking Buick to hit the streets in years. From the delightfully tight and tidy panel gaps to available 19-inch chrome rims, the Enclave looks good—and dare we say surprisingly young. Best of all, there is no trace of wretched Rendezvous anywhere: This design is virtually unchanged from the concept that wowed show goers to its dealer-lot production trim.

Looks are nice, but Enclave shines when you get behind the wheel. From our brief test we found body roll to be well controlled with little or no dive under braking. Taut handling doesn’t come at the expense of ride quality; the ride is smooth, and this cross-over responds well to steering input through the turns. Our short drive revealed greater car-to-driver feedback than other Buicks, which bodes well for it on the consumer stage.

Of course, taut handling is a relative term with a 4,780 lb curb weight. The all-wheel drive system adds an extra 205 lb and the extra mass taxes the 3.6-liter V6, requiring the use of all 275 hp and 251 lb-ft when times comes to pass. Sluggish downshifts, likely engineered to maximize fuel economy, contribute to its somewhat lazy acceleration.

We found the best way to hustle through traffic is to manually select gears from the six-speed automatic via +/- buttons on the shifter. You still won’t get the spirited response of a Mazda CX-7 (and its 3929 lb curb weight), but you’ll have the option of bringing seven friends along, something you can’t do in the Mazda. At the concept’s introduction, Buick said it would have a V8 engine as option, but we haven’t heard much about it since.

Seating for eight doesn’t mean Enclave will need a trailer to haul luggage when all spots are filled (though you could tow a maximum of 4,500 lbs, if you were so inclined). With 18.9 cubic feet of cargo space available behind the third row, you can bring plenty of gear for the ride; folding all seats net 116.2 cubic feet of storage. Other crossovers in this segment top at around 85 cubic feet of storage, so this is a clear winner. Haul lots of people, piles of stuff, or some combination; you won’t leave much behind.

Of these handsome General Motors sport utes—Saturn Outlook/GMC Acadia/Buick Enclave (a Chevy is yet to come)—to hit lots, many will choose the Enclave as the best-looking model out there. Now that’s high praise… for any automaker, but especially Buick. Throw in a quiet interior and world-class ride should give those shopping Japanese crossovers a real reason to think Buick. Oh, and comparable Enclaves will run several thousand dollars less than the competition from Lexus.

It does not take long behind the wheel to realize the (last generation) Lexus RX was the Buick engineers’ target for interior noise levels. When cars blow past at highway speeds and only a whisper transmits to the cabin, you know they’ve done their job well. With the radio on, exterior noise virtually disappears. Check the Bose 5.1-channel audio upgrade box and prepare to experience music. Laminated window glass, triple seals around the doors and plenty of sound-deadening materials are some of the so-called QuietTuning features that isolate noise and vibration at speed.

Cloth seats in the CX model are of a higher quality than those found in a Saturn Outlook that we recently sampled. Leather seats come standard in CXL models. Rear-seat entertainment systems are available in all Enclaves and include wireless headphones. A rear-view camera is included with the navigation system upgrade.


By PHIL FLORADAY
autoweek

2007 Shanghai Auto Show

Chery A6CC Concept
Geely KingKong 2
Huanghai NCV
Roewe W2
GreatWall i7
Great Wall GW413EF
GreatWall Cowry MPV
Soar Automotive 1
Chery Shooting Sport
Hafei HF8 MPV
Brilliance Jinjue FRV
Chery Tiggo 6
BYD F3-R
Chang'an CV8 Concept
Shuanghuan CEO SUV
Shuanghuan Little Noble
Geely Vision 2
FAW Weizi
JAC C926
Haima H11

Haima Auto 3
Huanghai CUV
BYD F6
BYD F8

source: automen

2007 Hamann Renntaxi BMW Z4 M Coupe Photos

2007 Hamann Renntaxi BMW Z4 M Coupe Photos

Fiat Looks for Opportunities in China

Fiat had a small but impressive lineup at the Auto Shanghai. The Italian company is trying to revive its local operation and find new partners to cash in on the China automotive boom.

Currently, Fiat has just one small production plant in China: a joint venture with Nanjing Auto, where a small number of Palio and Siena cars are being produced each year. Now that Nanjing Auto is focusing on reviving MG, Fiat is looking for a new angle to make its way in the China market.

At the Shanghai show, many visitors were attracted to the stylish new Bravo hatchback. As Fred Duan, commercial director of Nanjing-Fiat, put it: "When you buy an import car in China, you want something special." Bringing in the Bravo would provide a halo effect for the brand, but it wouldn't be a mainstream product. The midsize Linea — which was the centerpiece of Fiat's stand here — could do that job, but the business case has not yet been made for its local production.

Fiat is also trying to find new partners. Sergio Marchionne, Fiat's energetic CEO, said in a recent interview that his company is "in the position of choosing with whom it wants to develop cars in China." One potential candidate is Chery. The two companies have signed a deal that will see the Italian company using Chery's self-developed ACTECO engines in its China-market models. Chery recently ruled out the possibility of buying Nanjing's stake in the Nanjing-Fiat venture — but there are other options, one of which is for Chery to assemble Alfa Romeos.

Another potential candidate is the largely unknown Zotye Holding. Zotye, which produces a Daihatsu Terios look-alike, recently bought the ailing Jiangnan Automobile plant in Hunan province. According to Zotye officials, the company is in talks with Fiat to assemble up to 100,000 Lancia cars a year at the Jiangnan plant.

Chery Ripens

Among Chinese indigenous brands at the Shanghai auto show, Great Wall and Chery run neck and neck in the number of new-model debuts. We think Chery had the edge, though, with such memorable products as the A6CC sport coupe, the Shooting Sport wagon and the Tiggo6 SUV, among others.

Chery's almost limitless ambition to become a major exporter to the Western world led to hot anticipation of its Shanghai show lineup. And the reality lived up to expectations as Chery proved again that it is increasingly a force to be reckoned with.

There were many highlights, notably the neat Bertone-designed A6 and its companion, the A6CC sport coupe, which brought to mind the elegant Pininfarina-designed M14 roadster. One can only hope that at least one sporty model will make it into production. There seems at least to be a fighting chance that the A6CC will make that leap, since Chery described two power options for it: a V6 3.0-liter with variable valve timing and a four-cylinder, turbocharged 2.0-liter variant.

In addition, there was much interest in the Shooting Sport, Chery's take on a sporty wagon in the same style as the Audi A3 Sportback. Another concept was a bigger brother to the Toyota RAV4-like Tiggo SUV. Called the Tiggo6, it paired rugged looks and permanent all-wheel drive. Chery highlighted the fact that among possible powertrain options, its self-developed 1.9-liter diesel has already passed Euro V emission-control regulations.

But that, substantial as it appears, was not all. Chery also unveiled two hybrids, the A3 compact and the A1 minicar, which featured the same combination: a 1.3-liter diesel engine mated with a 30 kW electric motor and a CVT transmission. Company officials remained tight lipped on production possibilities.

MG Rover's New Owners SAIC and Nanjing Dominate — and May Cooperate

The Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation (SAIC), one of China's dominant conglomerates, had a vast hall to itself at the Shanghai show. Much of it was devoted to the fruits of joint ventures with General Motors and Volkswagen — but a huge chunk was reserved for the Roewe 750, a revived Rover 75. Elsewhere at the show, Nanjing Auto presented its new MG7.

To show-goers, the Roewe 750 looked more promising and more accomplished than Nanjing's MG. Just before the show's opening, SAIC chairman Hu Maoyan told the Associated Press in an interview that his company is open to cooperation with Nanjing Auto.

SAIC showed it has big plans for the Roewe brand. The company displayed a hybrid version of the executive sedan as well as a concept car called the W2, which was designed by former MG-Rover designers in cooperation with SAIC engineers. Shanghai Auto targets adding a second model to the Roewe range by the end of this year, and the solid-looking package that was the W2 is a clear indication of the path the company is following.

SAIC plans to start export of the Roewe 750 next year to European countries, and the W2 may not be far behind.

2007 Lumma Design CLR 500 RS based on BMW M5

(from Lumma Design Press Release) The LUMMAnator! Spectacular CLR 500 RS with 560 HP in the BMW M5-Basis

* V10 with 560 HP
* Racing exhaust system with racing catalytic converter
* Complete body-kit with impressive rear apron with integrated diffusor
* Motor optical package of carbonized parts and red cylinder cover
* Sport chassis and 40 mm lowering
* LUMMA DESIGN-set of wheels in an impressive 21 inches
* sporty interior accessories in matching colours to exterior chassis

The swabian tuner LUMMA DESIGN continues its series of refined premium vehicles through CLR 500 RS. This time the development was based on the current BMW M5. This high performance limousine receives a complete body-kit in spectacular optics, a new chassis, a racing exhaust system, numerous interior accessories as well as power enhancement providing even better performance. This car, which is refined using every trick in the tuning book, celebrated its premier during the Auto Salon in Geneva 2007 as Show Car at the stand of the Swiss tuning specialists Forcar Auto accessories, where it became THE crowd puller.

BMW bases its M-Models on high-rev concept. The M5 is based on the same principle. Its 10-cylinder motor has the character of a racing engine. Considering the old racing saying "you can never have too much horsepower", soon may prove true within the stock power of 507 HP to being insufficient for various drivers. Question: How to get that extra kick? Answer: Drive to LUMMA DESIGN and order the performance enhancement 560 HP! A complete electronical optimization of the ECU is manditory. Larger metallic racing catalytic converters and a racing exhaust system extract more horse power from the V10 engine. The removal of the Vmax-limitation insures that the Bavarian Express races a solid 327 km/h.

LUMMA DESIGN also provides the CLR 500 RS with a classy motor optic package. It is complete with air collector and air filter casing made of carbon and as well a red cylinder head cover. A treat for the eyes!

Impressive Appearance through Body Extension

The body exterior of the CLR 500 RS makes one thing crystal clear; this is not just chicken feed; rather a very big deal. LUMMA DESIGN widens the car body from front to back 5cm on each side. The spectacular looking body-kit includes a new front spoiler bumper, wheel arch extensions and a rear apron. As an optical highlight, the rear apron features an impressive integrated racing-diffuser which is painted in racing typical black. It extends over the complete lower rear-end and embedded within is an impressively large tailpipe on each side. LUMMA DESIGN is well aware most motorists receive only this view in full. Causing quite a stir for the CLR 500 RS is the outstanding paint job in colour orange provided by LUMMA DESIGN.

For improvement of performance and weight, LUMMA DESIGN equips the CLR 500 RS with a lightweight trunk lid made of carbon-kevlar fibre with an embedded rear spoiler lip for improved downforce. Rarely does chrom match to such a sporty vehicle. Closer to what racing sport dreams are made of is the use of carbon fibre. That's why LUMMA DESIGN covers all exterior chrom parts are with real carbon.

Mighty 21" Wheels

As for the theme wheels, LUMMA DESIGN comes up with its own special creation. The noble three-pieced wheels are made of a combination between aluminium and stainless steel. They come in a highly-polished titanium finish with five spokes branching out in "Y" form to the rim. LUMMA DESIGN attaches great importance to true grandeur mounting its glamourous wheels in large 10x21" size equipped with Yokohama tyres 255/30-21 in front and 11,5x21"and 295/25-21 in back.

The reduction of centre of gravity of the vehicles goes along with agile driving performance. LUMMA DESIGN accomplishes this through the addition of H&R sport suspension lowering the CLR 500 RS by 40mm.

As mentioned above, the LUMMA DESIGN exhaust system is equipped with racing catalysators providing higher performance for the CLR 500 RS. It really gives one goose bumps with an awesome sound racing through two 115 mm thick exhaust pipes. Look out when it breaks loose!

LUMMA DESIGN supplies the interior with a sporty comfortable ambiance. The two-toned leather dйcor glistens in Lamborghini-orange. LUMMA DESIGN offers other matching extra interior parts in orange coloured carbon as well. The Winterlingen based tuner even matches the instruments to the outside vehicle. For this reason, even the tacho scale that LUMMA DESIGN extended to 360km/h, comes in orange. The LUMMA DESIGN self-designed steering wheel is ergonomically formed so that the driver can securely steer the CLR 500 RS and comes embroidered in carbon-leather combination. The final shine is found in the cockpit through both the gas pedal and foot rest comprised of anodized aluminium embossed with the LUMMA DESIGN logo.

Daihatsu Xenia

Daihatsu is the maker of China's best-selling passenger cars, yet the Japanese company has lacked a presence of its own in the world's biggest auto market. This is about to change.

Back in the mid-1980s, Daihatsu struck a licensing deal with Tianjin Xiali, a then-new automobile manufacturer, which resulted in the Chinese production of the Daihatsu Charade. This agreement has long expired, but Xiali, which now belongs to the country's biggest auto company, FAW, is still the best-selling brand in China. And its main products are still based on the old Charade.

Once Toyota made huge inroads into China, it was inevitable that its microcar specialist subsidiary, Daihatsu, would gain a foothold. The right moment came at Auto Shanghai 2007, where Daihatsu introduced its Xenia minivan, which will be produced at the FAW Jilin factory.

The Xenia, which was originally available in ASEAN markets, is a seven-seat minivan powered by 1.3- and 1.5-liter four-cylinder gas engines. It will retail for $9,100 to $13,000 in China.

FAW Jilin plans to set up a national network of dealerships and after-sales operations. Daihatsu's target is 30,000 units of its new model sold in 2008.

2007 Saab 9-3 Convertible, Now Available with Sand

Sand returns as an available convertible top color option on the 2007 Saab 9-3 Convertible, shown here, Blue is also available this year. (Saab, United States)

The sand often times conjures memories of walks on the beach with the fresh sea air swirling in and out with the tide. With the availability of optional tan colored top, in place of the standard black or optional blue colors, Saab 9-3 customers are now able to reminisce year-round in this robust four-season convertible.

A Sand convertible top was only offered in 1993 and 1994 on the first generation convertible. After a 13-year hiatus, and many customer and dealer inquiries, the Swedish-born brand conceived by aircraft engineers, the option returns.

“Saab is a customer-focused brand,” said Yanlin Sun, Saab 9-3 Convertible marketing manager. “Our customers and dealers alike asked us to bring back the sand ... so we did.”

Since launching its first convertible, Saab has played a major role in advancing the popularity of open-top cars as a practical, all-year-round means of transport. The 2007 Saab 9-3 Convertible's premium quality, sprightly performance, sporty styling and generous equipment levels attract those who long for cruising around in the open air.

The 2007 Saab 9-3 Convertible is offered in the 2.0T and Aero trim levels priced at $38,240 and $43,845 respectively. As with all Saab models, the 2007 Saab 9-3 Convertible comes standard with no-charge scheduled maintenance, the GM 5-year/100,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty as well as a 4-year/50,000 mile Limited New-Car Warranty.

Saab is a division of General Motors Corp. Saab Automobile USA is the importer and/or distributor of Saab 9-3, Saab 9-5 and Saab 9-7X automobiles for Saab Automobile AB, Sweden . For the 2007 model year, Saab markets seven engines/transmissions that perform at an EPA-rated 30 mpg on the highway, including the Saab 9-3 Convertible.

Visit www.saabusa.com for more information.

Source: Saab

Mercedes-Benz CLK Sport Edition: Exclusive Coupés and Cabriolets now even more dynamic and attractive

With its sporty appearance and sumptuous level of appointments, the immediately available Sport Edition is a new highlight among the Coupés and Cabriolets of the Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class. 18-inch light-alloy wheels in an exclusive design, AMG styling features in the exterior and bi-xenon headlamps as standard give this special model a particularly distinctive appearance. The sporty, exclusive atmosphere of the interior is especially characterised by the grippy AMG ergonomic sports steering wheel, aluminium-look sports pedals and special velour floor mats.

The letter combination CLK has denoted excitement and driving pleasure for many years. The new "Sport Edition" special model now makes the Coupés and Cabriolets of the Mercedes-Benz
CLK-Class even more desirable. Both externally and in the interior, the Sport Edition further upgrades the CLK models and makes them even more attractive and dynamic.

The exciting design of the CLK-Class is accentuated by muscular AMG styling features for an even more dynamic appearance. These include a front apron with more pronounced contours, as well as the rear apron and side skirts which typify AMG models. Large, 18-inch light-alloy wheels in a new, six twin-spoke design (front 225/40 R 18, rear 255/35 R18) further enhance the sporty appearance and contribute to driving pleasure. The same applies to the perforated front brake discs. The brake callipers of Sport Edition models bear the lettering "Mercedes-Benz".

The special CLK Sport Edition models are equipped with bi-xenon headlamps including dynamic beam control, cornering lights with an integral foglamp function and a headlamp washer system as standard. The Active Light System is also available as optional equipment. A large, chrome-plated exhaust tailpipe and a special rear silencer provide a sonorous, sporty exhaust note.

Sporty, masculine features

The new Sport Edition is based on the already sporty configuration of the luxurious AVANTGARDE design and equipment line. In models equipped with an automatic transmission, an AMG sports steering wheel with upper sections of perforated leather and steering wheel shift paddles ensures an even more sporty touch. Depending on the engine variant, a further technical highlight is available in the form of the 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission, the world’s only car transmission of this kind. Its seven gears can be shifted either automatically, via a manual shift programme or by means of steering wheel shift paddles as in the motor racing world. Moreover, 7G-TRONIC Sport reduces gearshift times by up to 30 percent.

The sporty atmosphere of the interior is accentuated by black upholstery in a combination of high-quality ARTICO man-made leather and fabric. A black leather interior is also available on request. Other sporty touches include a sports pedal cluster with an aluminium look and non-slip studs, as well as velour floor mats with silver-coloured edging.

The special models of the Mercedes-Benz CLK Sport Edition are available as Coupés and Cabriolets, with a choice of six powerful engine variants which are among the most economical in their class.

This attractive enhancement package provides a further individualisation option, and is only available for AVANTGARDE variants of the CLK models. The cost of this sporty equipment package is 3 332 Euro (incl. VAT).

Park Avenue Comes to Auto Shanghai 2007

Shanghai General Motors is showing the newest member of its Buick lineup, the Park Avenue luxury sedan, on the GM stand at Auto Shanghai 2007. The Park Avenue made its global debut in Shanghai on April 10.

Like the affluent New York City boulevard of the same name, Buick's Park Avenue is trendy and luxurious. With its range of advanced technologies and high-grade amenities, not to mention a stylish design that conveys a sense of power and passion, it is representative of traditional American luxury sedans.

"The Park Avenue is the perfect blend of tranquility and power," said Shanghai GM President Ding Lei. "It shows Buick's ability to move with the times while continuing to leverage our global resources and local knowledge. Designed especially for business leaders and other elites, it is a component of our effort to maintain our leadership position in China by addressing the needs of all of our customers."

The Park Avenue is the first vehicle available in Asia that takes advantage of GM's new global rear-wheel-drive architecture. The precise and stable vehicle structure ensures a premium driving experience. At 5,175 mm in length, 1,899 mm in width and 1,480 mm in height, and with an impressive 3,009-mm wheelbase, the Park Avenue also offers a very spacious ride.

The Park Avenue's genuine leather seats, with eight-way power adjustment for the front seats, are designed to accommodate people of varying sizes. All seats incorporate a massage function. A high-quality entertainment system with LCD panels and an advanced heating, ventilation and air conditioning system offer the relaxation and comfort that one would expect of a luxury sedan. The Park Avenue's GPS navigation system contains road information for more than 300 cities in China. The Bluetooth mobile phone system is also available.

Like all Buick products, the Park Avenue offers a high level of safety and peace of mind. It is equipped with the GM Local Area Network (GM-LAN) high-speed communication system, which is based on the top-of-the-line 32-bit 500 kb/second engine control system. With a signal transmission speed approaching real time, information flow from various sensors is instantaneous, enhancing efficiency and safety. Further enhancing safety are six intelligent air bags for the driver and passengers.

The Park Avenue is powered by GM's smooth yet powerful AlloyTec V-6 engine, which accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.8 seconds. The engine control unit features the latest Bosch E77 32-bit ECM processor. With the Remote Engine Start (RES) function, the driver can start the engine up to 20 minutes in advance and within 60 meters of the vehicle. The RES function also can adjust the temperature inside the car.

Customers have a choice of two engine displacements. The Park Avenue's 3.6-liter engine generates maximum output of 187 kW (250 hp) @ 6,500 rpm and maximum torque of 340 Nm @ 3,200 rpm. Its 2.8-liter engine offers maximum output of 150 kW (201 hp) @ 6,000 rpm and maximum torque of 265 Nm @ 3,000 rpm.

Shanghai GM is offering five Park Avenue variants: the 3.6-liter Flagship, which is priced at RMB 498,800; the 3.6-liter Elite, which is priced at RMB 388,800; the 2.8-liter Luxury, which is priced at RMB 458,800; the 2.8-liter Elite, which is priced at RMB 368,800; and the 2.8-liter Comfort, which is priced at RMB 328,800.

JE Design Altea XL

We love the Volkswagen Rabbit and the Audi TT as much as anyone. But the VW global brand portfolio has a few other gems that we don't get to see in North America: potential pocket rockets that provide great grist for European tuning houses such as JE Design.
The Seat Altea XL is merely the latest example of a hot sport compact that is sadly not available on this side of the Atlantic. Sourced from VW's Spanish subsidiary, the Altea undergoes a substantial transformation by JE Design, which revamps the engine and suspension and adds an aero body kit.

The firm starts with the 2.0-liter four-cylinder TDI engine, tweaking it to produce 176 horsepower and 299 pound-feet of torque. JE Design shaves a full second off the 0-to-60-mph acceleration time, which drops to just under 8.9 seconds. Velocity tops out at 130 miles per hour.
JE Design installs performance brakes and an adjustable coil-over suspension that lowers the ride height by 1.4 inches. A stainless-steel exhaust system and a choice of 18- and 19-inch rims enhance the package.

The Altea's exterior is transformed with a new grille, available in matte black or body color, plus headlamp "eyebrows," a front spoiler, side skirts and a rear apron. Customers can also order chrome door handles.

15 New Models From Audi by 2010

Audi of America will introduce 15 new models over the next three years, including four or five in segments that the brand does not currently occupy.

Among the new models will be a hybrid edition of the Q7 crossover in 2008, Audi executives said in an interview in the trade publication Ward's. The brand is also planning to launch a new Q5 as it looks to expand its presence in the crossover market.

Audi expects to switch over completely to direct-injection gasoline and diesel engines by 2010 and will introduce new technologies such as a lane-departure warning system. It also plans to make Bang

source: insideline

From Cowry to Coolbear, Great Wall Puts on a Show

Great Wall, a major pickup truck and SUV producer in China, is about to launch its second plant to produce passenger cars and minivans. That explains the company's special emphasis on those categories in its display at Auto Shanghai. Altogether, there will be 10 new models and a self-developed engine.

IL previewed the Cowry and the i7 earlier this month. The i7 will be the first model to roll out of Great Wall's new 200,000-unit-a-year production facility, which will come on stream later this year.

Other new models will include the Toyota-like Florid and Coolbear, plus the Peri. All were shown at Auto Beijing last year. The Peri got Fiat's attention for its striking similarity to the Italian automaker's Panda. A pending lawsuit couldn't stop Great Wall from creating a four-wheel-drive version of the minicar the company calls its "first mini-SUV."

In addition to the new cars, a new self-developed gasoline engine will be highlighted. Code-named "GW4G15," it is a four-cylinder, 16-valve DOHC unit with variable valve timing and a Bosch engine management system. This powertrain complies with Euro 4 regulations.

Geely Concepts

Geely will unveil three new concept cars and the first Geely-made London taxi at Auto Shanghai 2007.

Geely says its aim is to move away from the image of being a producer of bread-and-butter models and highlight its R&D ability. The company also intends to take what it calls "active steps" to enter the North American and European markets. The trio of concepts being showcased at Shanghai point to that goal with their modern engines and greatly improved quality.

Pride of place goes to an updated version of the Meirenbao (Beauty Leopard) sport coupe. An observer can be forgiven for wondering what happened to the rest of the car.

Next comes the Vision II, an updated version of the Vision that started as the FC-1 midsize sedan from the 2005 Frankfurt show. Very little information is available on this car ahead of the unveiling.

The third model will be a second version of the King Kong; the original went on sale last year.

The Geely stand will be further enlivened by the appearance of a prototype China-built London taxi. Last year Geely and the British Manganese Bronze Holdings Plc, proprietor of London Taxis International signed a memorandum of understanding on Chinese production of the iconic London taxicab. After the show's unveiling, production models are scheduled to be built beginning in 2008. The company hopes to raise production to 20,000, destined for both local and export markets.

2007 Audi Cross Coupe Quattro Study

(from Audi Press Release) The compact performance SUV Audi Cross Coupe quattro

At the Shanghai Motor Show (20 - 28 April 2007) Audi will present a study that defines a new segment in the field of crossover vehicles. The Audi Cross Coupe quattro combines the design and dynamism of a compact premium sports car with the spaciousness and versatility of a four-seat sport utility vehicle (SUV). Innovative technical solutions show new ways of achieving efficiency, driving pleasure and comfort in a manner that is typical of Audi. The Audi Cross Coupe quattro: a car whose visual appearance clearly tells you what it is capable of and whose engineering matches this standard – on all roads, under all conditions.

The silhouette is typical Audi; the design of the study, painted in Liquid Silver, is highly reminiscent of the sporty models produced by the Ingolstadt brand. The proportions and the large 20" wheels point clearly towards the offroad potential of the Cross Coupe quattro. A new element is the fabric folding roof, which, when it is open, gives optimum levels of headroom and fresh air. The hood is opened and closed electrically.

The transversely installed four-cylinder inline TDI engine with common-rail fuel injection and piezo injectors is a completely new development. With power output of 204 bhp and 400 Nm of torque, it gives the vehicle a sporty performance and a surprising degree of efficiency. On average the ultra-modern 2.0 TDI needs just 5.9 litres of diesel per 100 km. The diesel particulate filter and Bluetec system reduce soot and nitric oxide emissions effectively. Even today, the Audi Cross Coupe quattro satisfies the emissions standards of the future.

The quattro permanent four-wheel drive system is a matter of course on an Audi with offroad potential. A Haldex clutch ensures that traction is precisely distributed according to the situation. The sporty Audi S tronic dual-clutch gearbox executes gearshifts in a matter of milliseconds.

The running gear, featuring a McPherson-strut front axle and a four-link rear axle is perfect for sporty and agile handling that retains a high degree of stability and makes cornering distinctly fun. As an additional quality, the driving comfort of the running gear impresses on all types of road and in rough terrain, meeting even the standards expected of a vehicle in a higher class. Ceramic brake discs promise excellent, non-fading deceleration. 20" wheels give the Cross Coupe quattro the ground clearance required.

Numerous electronic systems support the driver. The Audi drive select system makes it possible to preselect three highly individual configurations for the engine, gearbox, steering and adaptive shock absorbers. The result: a car that can be enjoyed in three completely different ways.

Besides the standard "dynamic" drive select mode and the "sport" setting, the Audi Cross Coupe also has the "efficiency" driving program. Here, the engine map and the shift points are modified to support a particularly economical driving style. In addition, the system deactivates components that are particularly energy-hungry, for example the air-conditioning compressor.

Another innovation is the MMI control panel, which is operated by a touch pad. The monitor of the system employs, for the first time, dual-view technology. The system can produce different images for the driver and front-seat passenger. These images are only visible when viewed from a specific angle. This allows the driver to read data from the on-board computer while the front passenger watches a TV programme, listening to the sound through headphones.

The sound system with the prominent extending tweeters sets a new infotainment standard in the class. The ambient lighting with numerous light sources gives the interior a stylish ambience, even at night.

General Motors on Track To Build Chevrolet Volt

In this latest chapter of the saga of the Chevrolet Volt, the project is still alive and well. Speaking to the Society of Automotive Engineers earlier this week, GM engineering chief Jim Queen said the automaker is planning to build its Chevrolet Volt plug-in electric car in the future.

"We will get this into production," Queen said. "We are very, very serious about this."

However, Queen admitted that GM is still trying to figure out how to make the Volt provide "profit for the enterprise."

GM execs are making a considerable effort to reassure the public that the Volt is not being shelved. In a posting on the GM FastLane blog on March 24, GM Vice Chairman Bob Lutz insisted that "we're not unplugging anything," in reaction to the drumbeat in the media that the Volt is little more than an expensive science project.

"We are 100 percent committed to making this happen," Lutz wrote, adding that the Volt is "the toughest and most exciting effort GM has undertaken."

GM took the wraps off its plug-in electric concept in January at the 2007 Detroit Auto Show, but noted that it needed to have suppliers more fully develop battery technology in order to make the Volt a reality.

"We are very optimistic about what we hear from the battery guys," said Elizabeth Lowery, GM's vice president of environment and energy in a recent interview with Inside Line. "We're doing architecture, while they're doing the batteries."

Porsche 911 996 Top Art Concept Design by Bogdan Urdea

(from Top Art) TOP ART AUTOMOTIVE DESIGN, Romania; designer Bogdan Urdea

The custom bodykit has brand-based inhouse design and top-tuners influences, mixed along with a personal touch. A new aggressive street based look, aiming to be more a comprehensive tuned serious facelift than a simple reinterpreted bodykit. Its main characteristics: flowing edges and curves, slick design continuing and enhancing its stock one of a kind shape.

Versions / interpretations:
Silver neutral
Orange “mission virtual to real plus”
Romanian police pursuit vehicle

Modifications:
Front and rear spoilers redesigned, with aerodynamic extractor and diffuser

Side skirts, new rear wheel wings/arches for a better admission

New hood and rear aileron with direct air flow for the turbo intercoolers

Reshaped mirrors

Panoramic view thanks to the new roof top that integrates an extra carbon fiber direct air flow for the engine compartment

Vertical doors kit

All new elements made of carbon fiber

20’ custom wheels (with Porsche logo integrated as design element for spokes)

Yokohama Advan tires

LED front signals/rear lights

Big brake kit, sport suspension, modified exhaust, upgraded engine specs

Interior changes based on carbon fiber/black leather with a new multimedia surround sound system (amplifiers, subwoofers, speakers, central DVD screen and rear camera)

Byd Bidding for Place on World Stage

Byd Auto, which is owned by one of China's biggest mobile phone battery producers, aims to become a serious player in the auto industry worldwide. The company, based in Xi'an city, says it wants to manufacture 500,000 cars a year by 2009

At Auto Shanghai, Byd showed its F3R, which looks very much like Shanghai GM's Buick Excelle HR-V (known as the Suzuki Reno here). The F3R is the hatch version of the F3 sedan, which in turn is a close copy of the locally produced Toyota Corolla.

Top-spec models will be powered by a 1.5-liter four-cylinder Mitsubishi-sourced gas engine, complete with a Delphi fuel-injection system. Basic models will get Byd's own 1.3-liter unit. Sticker price will be the equivalent of about $8,900, which will include an MP3 player, four-wheel disc brakes and other modern conveniences. Byd says it has paid special attention to safety, so there are ABS and intelligent headlamps — although no mention of airbags.

Byd currently sells the Suzuki Alto-derived Flyer subcompact in addition to the current F3. The F3R is one of a group of models in Byd's pipeline including the BMW 7-esque F6 and the F8 hardtop convertible, which looks like a result of a collision between a Mercedes-Benz CLK and a Renault Megane CC.

2007 Twike

• Futuristic design, forward-looking technology.
• Low energy consumption and high efficiency.
• Piloting a TWIKE is the revolutionary driving experience.
• TWIKE -tomorrow's mobility for today's people.

Intelligence on three wheels

The TWIKE captivates you with its innovative design and on the road performance. With a top speed of 55 miles per hour and a range of up to 90 miles, whether for work or play, open convertible top in the summer, or buttoned up warm and dry in the face of wind and rain and even snow, your trusty TWIKE takes you where you want to go.

Joystick steering: Simple intuitive, and fun!

With the joystick you have complete fingertip control of steering, acceleration, turn signals, and brakes, all in one hand. Cruise control provides for a relaxed and energy saving ride.

The design: sleek and elegant

The TWIKEs aerodynamic shape is as efficient flowing through the air as it is pleasing to the eye, and the soft convertible top adds to the fun of driving. Different models, options, and colors offer room for individual expression.

The TWIKE battery: powerful and enduring

With 336 volts and up to 17 amp hours of power, the battery provides for fast acceleration, hill climbing strength, and long range. High technology for eco-friendly locomotion.

The computer: Monitoring system for safety and information

The on-board computer passes the pilots commands on to the TWIKEs electronic brain. The digital display informs the pilot about battery charge, range, speed, and much more

The electric motor: Strong and Efficient

The high performance AC motor converts energy efficiently into motion, and the intelligent control system provides for slip-free braking and acceleration even on icy roads. And through the magic of regenerative braking, the motor can also convert motion back into energy, effectively refueling the battery whenvever the vehicle decelerates.

The hybrid drive: fitness through pedaling - a true sports car

The TWIKE ACTIVE combines an electric motor with a pedal drive, in a unique system that converts muscle power directly into motion, while allowing electric power to assist instantly and at any time. This new exo-bionic synergy between person and machine fulfills the desire for freedom and independence, while still allowing movement through space with efficiency and quickness. Time spent powering the TWIKE trains the muscles, boosts the circulation, and sharpens the mind.

Extreme efficiency: Responsibility for the Future

The unrivalled efficiency of about one kilowatt hour of electricity used per one hundred miles travelled means an ultra low energy cost of far less than one cent per mile. And driving a TWIKE becomes even more eco-friendly if the power to charge it comes from renewable resources. As a zero emissions electric vehicle, the TWIKE may be eligible for federal, state, and local tax credits and incentives in your area.

-The TWIKE Manufacturer, Germany, www.twike.com ,
-Director of North American Operations: Mike Patterson, www.twike.us

The TWIKE Battery

The TWIKE can be fitted with different battery types. The NiCd batteries offer an economical relationship between capacity, power, and weight. Facts like quick chargeability, high capacity at temperatures between -10 and 45C, and long lifespan are the advantages of this type.
The NiCd battery offers a maximum range of 90km and is the most robust and durable battery today. If you need a range of more than 100km per charge you have the option of using the new NiMH battery.
The TWIKE battery modules work on a high voltage level. 280 cells in series provide a net voltage of 336V. The reliability and endurance of the modules is achieved through an optimal control and monitoring system. The on-board computer uses five different charging phases to always ensure maximal battery capacity. Computer and battery management system communicate permanently and transmit the data to the digital display.

The range depends on several factors like speed, weight, road conditions, and weather. The range of the TWIKE ACTIVE also depends on your own fitness. By using your muscles you can extend the range by 5-20%. In extreme conditions the actual range can be higher or lower than the given values.

Technical data:

Type: Three wheeled vehicle, convertible, two seater
Registration: motorcycle. ZEV
Maximum speed: 55 mph Range per charge: Up to 90 miles, depending upon battery type
Charging: 120v or 240v
Economy: The electric equivalent of 250 to 500 miles per gallon
Drive Motor: 336V, 3kW, asynchronous motor
Weight: 520 pounds empty, 990 pounds maximum loaded
Dimensions: 9 long x 4 wide x 4 high
Luggage space: sixteen cubic feet
Construction: Aluminum alloy space frame with thermoplastic body
Price: between ~ 18,000 and ~30,000 , depending on range and exterior

2007 Katech Performance Street Attack Corvette C6 Z06

MAKING THE BEST CORVETTE EVEN BETTER

Katech Performance Allies with Endurance Racing Legend Dick Barbour to Produce Corvette C6 Z06 Package

CLINTON TOWNSHIP, Mich. Katech Performance has made the Corvette C6 Z06 even better with more power and enhanced induction, cooling and exhaust. The C6 Z06 vehicle package (KAT-A4691) promises 600+ horsepower and fine finishing touches for enthusiasts who desire a truly unique Corvette.

To develop the package, Katech Performance consulted with endurance racing legend Dick Barbour of Dick Barbour Racing. Barbours accomplishments include multiple 24 Hours of Le Mans and 12 Hours of Sebring class victories as well as three Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) championships.
Katechs own rich motorsports history includes more than 50 drivers and manufacturers championships, said Caleb Newman, vice president, director aftermarket operations, Katech Performance. The C6 Z06 package draws from our collective expertise. Weve crafted a vehicle worthy of the most astute Corvette aficionados.

The C6 Z06 package features a Katech Performance Street Attack LS7 engine with Katech forged 11:1 pistons, solid bushed titanium connecting rods, upgraded camshaft, high-lift beehive valvesprings, ultra-light titanium retainers and ported cylinder heads. Other modifications include a Katech adjustable billet aluminum belt tensioner, coil relocation brackets and paint-matched valve covers.
Our Street Attack LS7 produces 600 horsepower for the C6 Z06, said Newman. Thats an increase of nearly 100 horsepower over stock. What weve created is one of the industrys most powerful yet durable and civilized engines. Its a thrill on the highway yet reserved on city streets. Our C6 Z06 is a true 600 horsepower daily driver.

Newman went on to explain that each Street Attack LS7 is hand built by the same technicians that produce championship winning engines for all Katech race programs. Each is meticulously calibrated and dyno-tested before leaving the facility.

Further C6 Z06 engine and exhaust enhancements include a Ron Davis custom aluminum radiator with integrated oil cooler, Goodridge oil cooler lines, high flow air filter, KoolMat race tunnel heat shield, Kooks ceramic-coated headers and a CORSA 100-percent stainless steel performance exhaust system.

Katech Performance has enhanced the C6 Z06 transmission with a high-performance clutch and an RPM Transmission Stage IV T56 upgrade featuring 300M output shafts, bronze fork pads and cryo-treated, micropolished internals. Stoptech stainless steel braided brake lines and AP Racing Super 600 brake fluid have been added to ensure the C6 Z06 stops as quickly as it starts.

Inside, a Caravaggio hand-stitched steering wheel with a flat bottom, emergency brake boot and shift knob and boot make known the vehicles elegant demeanor. Here the driver also will find a serialized Katech Performance manufacturers plaque.

Katech Performance can transform a customers C6 Z06 upon delivery to its Clinton Township, Mich., headquarters or can coordinate the vehicles purchase directly through a dealership. For more information or to request a catalog, call 866-KATECH1 or visit Katech Performance online at www.katechengines.com.

Katech Performance, the aftermarket performance division of Katech Inc., engineers and manufactures race-proven crate engines and components for LS1/LS6 and LS2/LS7 engines including solid belt tensioners, coil relocation brackets, cylinder heads, dampers, pistons, push rods, throttle bodies and valve covers, among other high-performance products for the street and track.

Katech Inc. was founded on the need to provide responsive service and skills to factory race efforts in all forms of racing, including the American Le Mans Series (ALMS), NASCAR, SCCA SPEED World Challenge, American Speed Association (ASA) and International Motor Sports Association (IMSA). Today, Katech is an industrial leader in advanced racing and high-performance engine development, manufacturing, testing and assembly, and offers support services for the professional racer including boring, honing, fabrication, welding and prototype parts development.

FAB Design Mercedes CL600

FAB Design has made its reputation as a Mercedes-centric tuning house, specializing in engine modifications and aerodynamic body kits. It has combined those strengths in its latest offering, a special edition of the CL600.

With its S60 BT performance kit, FAB upgrades the Mercedes twin-turbo V12 to 650 horsepower and 826 pound-feet of torque. Despite the car's mass, the 0-to-60-mph sprint takes less than 4.2 seconds, while top speed climbs to 199 miles per hour.

FAB also prides itself on its design work. The wide-body aero kit for the CL includes a new front bumper, front fenders with air intakes, side skirts, rear fenders and rear bumper.

Inside, FAB has trimmed the cabin in Alcantara and an unusual "croco look" leather.

Finally, the firm has upgraded brakes and exhaust, and has fitted 20-inch Dunlop Sportmax performance tires on its Evoline alloy wheels.

source: insideline

2007 Porsche Cayenne S Transsyberia

The Specialist for Long-Distance Rallies: the Cayenne S Transsyberia.

Porsche is adding yet another highlight to the Company's wide range of customer sports activities: the Porsche Cayenne S Transsyberia based on the new Porsche Cayenne S and serving as the perfect vehicle especially for long-distance rallies.

This ultra-sporting offroader is making its debut in the Transsyberia Rally taking contestants from Moscow all the way though Siberia to Ulaanbaatar in Mongolia from 2-17 August.

The Porsche Cayenne is well-known and admired for its outstanding onroad qualities in the SUV segment. Now the second generation, which is making its debut at Porsche Centers the world over at this very moment, moves up this benchmark to an even higher standard. The new power units with direct gasoline injection, for example, provide even more power and performance on less fuel, cutting fuel consumption by up to 15 per cent versus the for­mer models.

Another highlight is Porsche's new PDDC Dynamic Chassis Control featuring two active anti-­roll bars to almost completely eliminate body sway in bends.

Off the beaten track, the new Cayennes are naturally also on home ground, maximum axle articulation ensured by PDDC when driving offroad serving to further improve the already superior traction offered by the electronically controlled all-wheel drive.

Last year two private teams participated in the Transsyberia Rally for the first time with the Porsche Cayenne S, finishing first and second in their very first attempt. Attracted by the successful participation of these two cars, Porsche has obviously become aware of the event and, in response, now offers the dyed-in-the-wool Cayenne driver the option to enter motor­sport successfully with this outstanding model.

To ensure such superiority in motorsport, Porsche has enhanced the already very good off­road qualities of the Cayenne to an even higher standard, developing a special model sui­ted particularly for successful participation in long-distance rallies. Precisely this is why the new Cayenne S Transsyberia being built from the beginning in a small series of just 26 units comes, inter alia, with extra-rough special offroad tyres, a safety cage, a shorter final drive ratio, a transverse lock, a reinforced, even larger underfloor cover, as well as beefed-up track control arms on the front axle. At 385 bhp (283 kW), engine output of the eight-cylinder re­mains unchanged.

Now sporting, ambitious Porsche customers will be participating at the wheel of a Cayenne S Transsyberia in one of the last adventures in the world on four wheels – the Transsyberia Rally. From 2-17 August, they will be following the route of this very demanding orientation rally from Moscow all the way through Siberia to the finish line in Ulaanbaatar in Mongolia. In all, they will be covering almost 6,200 kilometres or 3,850 miles on public roads, gravel tracks and the toughest trial paths, even crossing rivers and taking special tests in the Gobi Desert. And while navigation is perhaps the biggest challenge on the long stages of the Rally, it is particularly the driver's personal skill and, of course, the qualities of the car that count in the special trials on tracks closed to the public.

Autodelta GT Super Evo

Autodelta, the famed Alfa tuning house, showed off its first edition of the GT coupe more than two years ago, and since has created the GT 3.2 Super Evo.

The news here is twofold: Autodelta says it now is preparing bespoke high-performance variants of the Alfa Spider, the 159 and the 159 Sportwagon for introduction later this year and has begun to put a local distribution network into place in the Middle East to tap growing demand for its products in the Gulf region.

The latter point was driven home recently by a customer order in Dubai for a full-spec GT 3.2 Super Evo, which employs a Rotrex supercharger to boost output to 341 horsepower and torque to 287 pound-feet. The factory claims 0-to-60-mph acceleration in 5.2 seconds.

The car, commissioned by brothers Walid and Wissam Shihabi, is the first fully bespoke Autodelta program to be completed in the United Arab Emirates. The conversion was performed by Autodelta engineers at Gargash Motors, the official Alfa importer in Dubai.

2010 diesel Nissan Maxima

In a move that signals a major commitment to diesel as an alternative-fuel powertrain, Nissan on Wednesday said it will launch its first clean-diesel engine in the U.S. in 2010 in the Maxima sedan.

Speaking to the Council on Foreign Relations, Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn laid out an ambitious plan for expanding clean-diesel technology into the product lineup in the near future. "You can expect to see more diesel engines in our product lineup in Europe, Japan, North America and China by fiscal year 2010," Ghosn said.

He did not provide any powertrain specifications for the 2010 Maxima. In a statement, Nissan said further details about the car, including its launch date, will be announced later. Nissan currently has diesel offerings in its cars sold in Europe.

Ghosn lauded the "potential benefits" of diesel, noting that there is growing demand in the U.S. for increased fuel economy and CO2 emissions reduction.

2007 Diatto by Zagato - Ottovu Project

(from Zagato Press Release) Diatto by Zagato - Ottovu Project

The Geneva motor show goes on - the by now classic tradition of passionate clients of exclusive car manufacturers, which has always stimulated the creativity of the Italian vehicle body makers and enhanced international motor shows.

Notably Zagato, founded in 1919, is the only Atelier capable of marrying historical workshop experience with the most modern design and development technologies.

On the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the Diatto brand, two keen collectors turned to Zagato with the aspiration of resurrecting past collaboration. Way back in1921, Ugo Zagato designed a lightweight and aerodynamic body for the Diatto 254DS chassis.

Having applied for and, of course, obtained authorisation from the current owner of the Diatto brand, and having received the two mechanized chassis, the Zagato Atelier produced two tailor-made outfits for the lucky customers in the typical Italian high-class tailoring tradition.

In 2007, the Milanese Atelier with its typically rationalist approach to a project, revamps, with a sporty note, the artistry of one of the most historical brands of the Italian automotive industry: Diatto.
Created in 1835 with a Perfected Wheel patent, Diatto made their first car in 1905 and often crossed paths with Zagato in their close collaboration with Ettore Bugatti, the Maserati brothers and Tazio Nuvolari.

The bodywork of the two new grand touring cars is entirely made of aluminium, one of Zagato’s strengths, valued and recognised far and wide by the most demanding collectors. The lids are moulded in a single piece to underline the freedom that a non-industrial approach to the product still allows.
The smooth but clear-cut lines characterise the generous and at the same timecompact dimensions, typical of the most admired pure Italian sports cars, making them a cult for fans all over the world.
Reminiscent of the legendary Zagato Ottovù, these first two grand touring cars willbe an "Instant Classic" in shape and contents.

The trilobal front and rear of the vehicles recall the design of the Diatto competition cars that have raced to victory more than 300 times on circuits all over Europe. Particular care has been taken with the interior and the exclusive design and functionality of the rear of the vehicle, so as to provide enhanced passenger comfort. The luggage compartment, immediately behind the seats and also visible through the rear window, recalls the by now traditional solutions of the Milanese Atelier.

In the third millennium, following the successful Aston Martin GTZ series and the all-round appreciation for the Ferrari 575GTZ, Zagato Atelier reasserts its original approach to the automotive world by producint collector’s items that maintain and increase their value over time.

Diatto By Zagato – Ottovu Project

Engine: 8V 4600 CC, Powered By RoushPower: over 500HP

Chevrolet Volt E-Flex Concept at the 2007 Shanghai Auto Show

E-Flex Hydrogen Fuel Cell Continues Move Toward Electric Drive
General Motors Unveils Second Propulsion System for Chevrolet Volt

SHANGHAI - GM's global commitment to developing transportation that reduces oil use and promotes energy diversity continued today at the Shanghai Auto Show with the unveiling of the next iteration of the E-Flex electric architecture, configured with GM's newest, most efficient hydrogen fuel cell system to date.

This second variant of the E-Flex system uses GM's new fifth-generation fuel cell propulsion technology and a lithium-ion battery to provide up to 300 miles (483 km) of petroleum- and emissions-free electric driving. The fuel cell E-Flex is a true Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) and operates all-electric from both hydrogen fuel cell-generated electricity and grid electricity. It is plug-in capable, adding up to 20 additional miles (34 km) each time it is charged, further reducing trips to the refueling station.

The E-Flex system is a flexible all-electric production vehicle architecture that can be configured to run on electricity from a number of sources. It was first shown in January at the North American International Auto Show in the Chevrolet Volt concept vehicle. The Volt is a battery electric vehicle with 40 miles of all electric-range and uses a small bio-fuel engine with a generator to extend its range to 640 miles (1030 km).

"The beauty of our E-Flex strategy is that it allows us to package various propulsion systems into the same space depending on what energy is available locally," said Larry Burns, GM's vice president of Research and Development and Strategic Planning. "It also provides flexibility in the sources of energy. We can obtain hydrogen or electricity from a myriad of renewable sources - wind, solar, geothermal, hydroelectric and biofuels - or from traditional sources such as natural gas, clean coal, nuclear or even gasoline.

"E-Flex provides flexibility in two ways: in the propulsion systems that can be used, and in the sources of energy that can be commercialized to compete with oil and meet global transportation growth in a sustainable way."

Independent studies indicate hydrogen fuel cell vehicles offer superior overall efficiency and fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to internal combustion engines running on gasoline, when considering both the creation of the energy and its use in the vehicle.

GM's fifth-generation fuel cell system is half the size of its predecessor, yet it provides the same power and performance. The fourth generation currently powers the Chevrolet Sequel concept vehicle. The Sequel stores 8 kg of hydrogen and delivers a range of 300 miles (483 km). The fuel cell Volt will also deliver 300 miles of range, but with only 4.0 kg of hydrogen (75 miles / kg).

GM's advancements are a strong indication that our fuel cell technology has the potential to be a competitive alternative to the internal combustion engine - in size, performance, durability and cost.

"Our progress has made us increasingly confident that our fuel cell propulsion system will be automotive-competitive," said Burns. "But before this technology can be made widely available, governments, energy suppliers and infrastructure companies around the world need to collaborate with GM and the auto industry to develop a market for fuel cell vehicles and hydrogen fuel."

A variety of technological advancements and lightweight materials contribute to the efficiency of the Volt. With an estimated curb weight of 3,500 pounds (1,588 kg), it weighs 30 percent less than the Sequel. The fuel cell propulsion system is packaged entirely under the hood and is equivalent in size to a four-cylinder engine with automatic transmission. The Volt also features molded GE plastic panels on the fenders, window glazings, instrument panel and steering wheel, which offer between 30 percent and 50 percent weight reduction per part.

The E-Flex fuel cell variant also showcases GM's third-generation wheel hub motors, packaged inside the rear wheel to add considerable torque for all-wheel electric drive capability. The new coreless motor technology reduces mass and produces more power compared to the first generation shown in 2003.

2007 Shanghai Auto Show: Buick Riviera Concept Debuts

Live from Shanghai Auto Show: Buick Riviera Concept

2007 Shanghai Auto Show: BMW Concept CS

photo:cn.autoblog.com

The BMW Concept CS.
Description in Brief.

Character:
• Concept study of a four-door Gran Turismo for the luxury segment.
• Modern, sophisticated surface design bearing testimony to a supreme standard of craftsmanship and experience in moulding convex-concave surfaces.
• The very essence of brand values so typical of BMW in a new segment ensuring a perfect combination of superior dynamics and stylish exclusivity.
• Modern interpretation of the premium concept ensured by extreme precision in every design detail, choice of the most refined materials, and perfect craftsmanship.
• Previously unseen combination of vehicle dimensions and weight ensured by consistent implementation of lightweight strategies.
• European-style aesthetics, clear emphasis on the car's stretched look, low-slung roof-line, low centre of gravity, extremely long wheelbase (see "Exterior and Interior Dimensions").
• Innovative interior design with layered surfaces, clearly defined joints serving a functional purpose.
• Clearly defined, sporting seat position for four occupants.

Exterior design:
• Sporting, sleek and low-slung all-round look as an expression of a four-door Gran Turismo.
• Highly expressive, dynamic front-end design with the striking BMW kidney grille as the central highlight.
• Prominently positioned BMW kidney grille to ensure a good supply of cooling air to the engine.
• Re-interpretation of BMW's classic contour line at the side, door handlers fitted flush in position as a consistent testimony to the car's attractive sculpture.
• Powerfully flared wheel arches, 21-inch light-alloy wheels, body width increasing towards the rear and thus emphasising the sporting, wide track of the car.
• Flowing roof area with aerodynamically optimised contours.
• Innovative headlights with LED reverse projection technology and extremely slender rear lights behind clear glass.
• Night design with homogeneous light bodies.

Interior design:
• Uncompromising, highly aesthetic interior design with layered surfaces (layer design concept) and clearly defined functional joints.
• Driver-oriented cockpit with clear ergonomic structuring of functions relevant to the driver and oriented towards superior comfort in the controls and displays.
• Layer design concept also applied to the design of the double circular dials to provide clearly structured information on several visual levels.
• Focus on the joints and seams around the body panels serving to consciously use air venting and ambient interior illumination options.
• Supreme exclusivity and perfect craftsmanship in the finish of the interior highlighted by contrasting colours and surfaces in different kinds of leather.
• Introduction of particularly sophisticated, powerful-looking ceramics as the material for the controls and instruments.
• Innovative sports seats with a fold-up collar element.

New Limited-Edition 2007 Ford Shelby Gt500 Offers Mustang Enthusiasts a Chance to Hit the Redline

• Production of limited-edition Red Stripe Appearance Package for 2007 Ford Shelby GT500 to begin in May.
• Special package includes unique exterior striping and badges, Red and Black leather seating, special interior trim and logos and branded Shelby GT500 car cover.
• 2007 Ford Shelby GT500 tops in segment quality, says RDA Group research—92 percent of owners would definitely recommend the vehicle to family or friends.

Even with demand for the most muscular Mustang ever – the Ford Shelby GT500 – at a record high, Ford is cranking up additional interest with a new, limited-edition package that adds unique visual appeal to the Shelby GT500. Enter the "Red Stripe Appearance Package," to be available beginning in May.

The Ford Shelby GT500 is the most powerful Mustang on the road today and arguably one of the most successful projects from Ford’s Special Vehicle Team (SVT) in terms of performance, excitement and, importantly, quality.

In fact, early indicators show the Shelby GT500 is a quality standout. In the most recent Global Quality Research System (GQRS) study from RDA Group, an independent research company based in Bloomfield Hills, Mi., the Shelby GT500 earned praise as the highest-quality Mustang model, with the fewest “things gone wrong” in the first three months of ownership.


The Mustang line scores above the segment average in quality, according to the GQRS study, and the Shelby GT500 specifically scored the top result in the “sports car” segment.

“The unmatched quality and power of the latest Mustang masterpiece explains why 9 out of 10 owners are completely satisfied with their overall ownership experience,” the April 2007 RDA Group report concluded.

New Limited-Edition Ford Shelby GT500 Package to be Available Beginning in May

The new Red Stripe Appearance Package will be available on any new 2007 Ford Shelby GT500 Coupe with either White or Black exterior paint. Included in the special-edition package are Bright Red overbody and bodyside stripes, a Red and Black leather interior, unique red-accent exterior badges, including red-tinted Cobra emblems in the grille, fenders, and in the faux gas cap on the rear panel. Even the "SHELBY" letters on the decklid feature red accents.

The Red Stripe Appearance Package also adds unique new premium floor mats with a Red and Silver embroidered "Cobra Snake" logo, plus a fitted Shelby GT500-branded car cover.



The appearance package carries an MSRP of $1,650 and will be available from early May through late June, marking the end of the 2007 model run.

"The red package is all about exclusivity," said Robert Parker, Ford’s Car Marketing manager. "Our Mustang customers are eager to buy unique vehicles like the Shelby GT500 and will certainly appreciate the opportunity for something even more exclusive, made in an even more limited number. These are great customers and very passionate. I’m glad we can continue to deliver what they want.”

Shelby GT500 is among the Most Successful Performance Mustangs Ever

Enthusiasm doesn't begin to describe the ongoing demand for the Ford Shelby GT500. In the hyper-competitive auto market where supply routinely surpasses demand, the Shelby GT500 still has a long waiting list of buyers.

The Shelby GT500 was created by racing legend Carroll Shelby and Ford SVT and is a modern interpretation of the classic Shelby Mustang of the 1960s. Beneath the hood of every GT500 – including the new Red model – is a 5.4-liter supercharged V-8 engine officially rated at 500 hp. A 6-speed manual gearbox features evenly spaced gears that help provide a sharp, lively driving experience on both road and track.

In addition to the engine upgrades, Ford’s SVT engineers retuned and upgraded key Mustang chassis components. Improvements include revised shocks, spring rates and upgraded stabilizer bars that help the 2007 Ford Shelby GT500 maneuver with authority.

The GT500's unique design features include wide upper and lower fascia openings with a functional air splitter. On either side, slanting headlamp openings add to the dramatic front appearance. The carefully tailored hood has heat extractors protruding near the leading edge, combining to provide improved airflow and aerodynamics.

The MSRP of a 2007 Ford Shelby GT500 starts at $41,675.

About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles in 200 markets across six continents. With more than 280,000 employees and more than 100 plants worldwide, the company’s core and affiliated automotive brands include Ford, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lincoln, Mercury, Volvo and Mazda. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company.

For more information regarding Ford’s products, please visit www.fordvehicles.com


Source: Ford Motor Company

Saab Aero X Concept Competes in Villa d'Este Concorso in Italy

Lake Como, Italy 2007-04-19 – When good looks and elegance are the most important criteria for judging a car, then there can hardly be a more prestigious and stylish event than the Concorso d’Eleganza on the grounds of the Villa d’Este on Lake Como, Italy. Since 1929, collectors from around the world present their exclusive cars here to a specialist jury and the public.

In 2002, the event returned to its roots. Since, the latest drivable concept cars are again participating alongside the classic vehicles – just as planned in the event’s original mandate. Over the past years, the “Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este Design Award,” which is assigned by the public, has been won by such landmark designs as the Alfa Romeo 8C Spider, Peugeot 907 Coupé and Pininfarina Rosso Spider.

The organizers invited Saab to this year’s event (April 20 – 22) with the Saab Aero X sports car prototype, which was voted “Best of Show” by AutoWeek Magazine at its 2006 Geneva Motor Show debut. In addition, AutoCar magazine in the U.K. voted the Saab Aero X “Concept Car of the Year.”

At the Lake Como event, the Saab Aero X will be driven by Anthony Lo, GM Europe director of Advanced Design. “Although the Saab Aero X has already received a lot of positive recognition, taking part in the Concorso d’Eleganza at Villa d’Este is a very special feeling. It truly is an honor to represent our design team here,” Lo said.

Saab is a division of General Motors Corp. Saab Automobile USA is the importer and/or distributor of Saab 9-3, Saab 9-5 and Saab 9-7X automobiles for Saab Automobile AB, Sweden. For the 2007 model year, Saab markets seven car variants that have an estimated EPA-rated 30 mpg on the highway.

Source: Saab

Buick Riviera Concept - Official Photos

The Buick Riviera, a stunning concept car designed to showcase Buick's new global design direction, made its global debut today at Auto Shanghai 2007. The gullwing Riviera concept coupe was developed with global design input by the Pan Asia Technical Automotive Center (PATAC) in China, a design and engineering joint venture between General Motors and Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation (SAIC).

The Riviera was introduced today by Rick Wagoner, GM Chairman and CEO, and Hu Maoyuan, SAIC Chairman.

The Riviera has been engineered to accommodate a new hybrid system that will go into production at Shanghai GM, GM's flagship joint venture with SAIC, in 2008.

The fuel-efficient car, which will feature several technological and manufacturing advances, represents the latest achievement of GM and its partners in the promotion and development of alternative propulsion technologies in China.

According to Ed Welburn, vice president, GM Global Design, "Developing and launching the Riviera in China underscores the diversity, strength and depth of the GM global design network. It also reflects PATAC's growing role within the GM Design family and China's significance as the world's largest Buick market."

The Riviera also marks the return of a renowned Buick nameplate after an eight-year hiatus, having sold more than 1.1 million units in the United States between 1963 and 1999.
The Buick Riviera, with its tightly stretched carbon fiber body panels, combination of positive and negative curves, strong front and rear identities and gullwing doors, captures the essence of Buick classics, Welburn said, while presenting a thoroughly 21st century design.

"The Riviera concept certainly lived up to the nameplate's reputation," Welburn said.
"We developed the Riviera to communicate the global design vocabulary of the Buick brand and set the stage for General Motors' design, engineering and manufacturing centers to work together on the next generation of Buick mid-size luxury cars."

According to James Shyr, PATAC Design Director, the Riviera's enticing curves and 'earth and water' interior tones are drawn from diverse inspirations including classic Buicks, ancient Chinese artifacts and modern electronic icons. The car, inside and out, communicates universal beauty - a look that transcends cultural or national boundaries.

"Designing this car made us realize how small the world could be. It's not East. It's not West. It's not the United States or China. It's Buick," Shyr said.

Exterior Design - A Sense Of Existence, Not Anonymity

To establish their design direction, PATAC designers looked in part to Buick icons such as the original Y-Job Concept of 1938, the 1960s Le Sabre, Electra 225 and the Riviera coupes of the 1960s and '70s.

The Riviera design is structured around the Buick tri-shield logo, sitting proudly on a trihedral waterfall grille which is formed by three meeting planes. This takes the traditional Buick treatment to a new level of sophisticated boldness.

The Buick logo leads into a reflective strip through the hood, a mark of respect to the distinctive mid-hood crease prevalent in classic Buicks. Elongated LED headlamps flow up the hood sides to three-section, top-mounted chrome portholes as a single piece of jewelry.

The logo, hood strip, headlamps, side mirrors and rocker covers all have 'icy green' backlighting available at night, matched by backlit logo and exhausts at the rear.

Designers have cleverly incorporated several other design signatures from the original Riviera generation. They include the "double sweep spear" line along the bodyside and the flared tail design.

"This car was inspired by great Buicks - their grace, their gesture. This car was designed to achieve a sense of existence. It's not an anonymous car when it drives past you but it's not completely in your face either. We wanted to create something which would make you want to run your hand across it rather than just look at it," Shyr said.

In this theme, the 'Shell Blue' exterior color was chosen to elicit the right level of attention. The color is a metallic silver with light blue accents, perfectly highlighting the coupe's exterior curves.
The gullwing doors, selected for their exotic appeal, achieve an expansive entrance to the two-plus-two seating configuration. Measuring 1938 millimeters at their widest point, they add to the coupe's sleek sideline. At night, fully opened doors gently shine the "Buick" name on the ground.

The use of carbon fiber in all body panels allowed the designers greater flexibility through reduced mass and added strength. This made the gullwing engineering demands easier to realize and sharp, tight radius curves possible across the body surface.

The Riviera sits on 21-inch 10-spoke forged aluminum wheels, combining polished and satin finishes, with low-profile tires. Taking their cue from Formula One cars, the side mirrors are sweeping yet unobtrusive.

PATAC designed the Buick Riviera to accommodate the new hybrid system, which will be introduced in China in 2008 prior to the Beijing Olympics. The new hybrid system fits naturally with the Riviera's 'earth and water' design theme.

Interior Design - All About Relaxation

In a word - sanctuary. The use of rich blue and subtle creams, representing earth and water themes, are conveyed through high-quality leather bucket seats, plush carpet and a luxurious padded steering wheel. Completing the organic feel, the roof comprises two shaded glass windows offering increased headroom and a celestial connection for occupants.

"We had to have the driver feel relaxed and tranquil inside the car. We used earth and water tones and avoided hard, aggressive edges," Shyr said.

The interior has no discernable start and finish point for the front and sides, creating a comfortable lounge feel. It is immediately futuristic yet somehow familiar.

The three-dimensional speedometer, inspired by past classics but utterly modern in design, compliments the touchpad styled central console loosely modeled on a computer mouse. An LCD display screen crowns the central console.

Interior designers were encouraged to consider people's personal belongings to enhance their feeling of familiarity and comfort in the vehicle. Continuing the theme of calm simplicity, electronic shifter pads replace the traditional transmission shifter. Controls are kept to a minimum to avoid driver distraction.

Ambient light strips are applied from across the console and inserted on the door liner, stretching to the front seats. Deliberately imitating precious Chinese jade stone, the lights are tinted a subtle icy green, which also offers tribute to a favored color of Buicks in days gone by.
Interior trim treatments befitting the Buick prestige abound - miniature aluminum tri-shields in the front seat headrests, a wooden floor mat in the rear and a rear central armrest which can move sideways left and right to accommodate passengers of different sizes.

Royal blue Alcantara, a soft plush covering, was chosen for the door, console and roof while sandy white leather covers the lower door, lower console and seats.

Ancient Influences In Modern Design

The design team set out to create a modern global design - not something which could be superficially described as a Chinese car. At the same time, they sought to draw from their heritage outside the automotive industry from classic shapes, concepts and artifacts. They wanted to include a subtle Chinese essence and influence if one looked deeply enough.
A strong influence was the yuanbao, a small curvaceous gold or silver ingot used in ancient China as currency and popular today as a symbol of ancient Chinese prosperity.

"This design was about the East and the West co-existing in harmony. We always wanted to make a global car, to take a sense of the Buick DNA and create something for the world," Shyr said.

"It is so wonderful that our designers can take some of the rich culture behind them and make it international. East, West, Buick, China - there's no missing piece in the puzzle in here. Riviera has captured the essence of Buick - grace, gesture, form and emotion."

Mercedes-Benz CLK Sport Edition Offers Exclusive Coupés and Cabriolets

With its sporty appearance and sumptuous level of appointments, the immediately available Sport Edition is a new highlight among the Coupés and Cabriolets of the Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class. 18-inch light-alloy wheels in an exclusive design, AMG styling features in the exterior and bi-xenon headlamps as standard give this special model a particularly distinctive appearance. The sporty, exclusive atmosphere of the interior is especially characterised by the grippy AMG ergonomic sports steering wheel, aluminium-look sports pedals and special velour floor mats.

The letter combination CLK has denoted excitement and driving pleasure for many years. The new "Sport Edition" special model now makes the Coupés and Cabriolets of the Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class even more desirable. Both externally and in the interior, the Sport Edition further upgrades the CLK models and makes them even more attractive and dynamic.

The exciting design of the Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class is accentuated by muscular AMG styling features for an even more dynamic appearance. These include a front apron with more pronounced contours, as well as the rear apron and side skirts which typify AMG models. Large, 18-inch light-alloy wheels in a new, six twin-spoke design (front 225/40 R 18, rear 255/35 R18) further enhance the sporty appearance and contribute to driving pleasure. The same applies to the perforated front brake discs. The brake callipers of Sport Edition models bear the lettering "Mercedes-Benz".

The special Mercedes-Benz CLK Sport Edition models are equipped with bi-xenon headlamps including dynamic beam control, cornering lights with an integral foglamp function and a headlamp washer system as standard. The Active Light System is also available as optional equipment. A large, chrome-plated exhaust tailpipe and a special rear silencer provide a sonorous, sporty exhaust note.

Sporty, masculine features

The new Mercedes-Benz CLK Sport Edition is based on the already sporty configuration of the luxurious AVANTGARDE design and equipment line. In models equipped with an automatic transmission, an AMG sports steering wheel with upper sections of perforated leather and steering wheel shift paddles ensures an even more sporty touch. Depending on the engine variant, a further technical highlight is available in the form of the 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission, the world’s only car transmission of this kind. Its seven gears can be shifted either automatically, via a manual shift programme or by means of steering wheel shift paddles as in the motor racing world. Moreover, 7G-TRONIC Sport reduces gearshift times by up to 30 percent.

The sporty atmosphere of the interior is accentuated by black upholstery in a combination of high-quality ARTICO man-made leather and fabric. A black leather interior is also available on request. Other sporty touches include a sports pedal cluster with an aluminium look and non-slip studs, as well as velour floor mats with silver-coloured edging.

The special models of the Mercedes-Benz CLK Sport Edition are available as Coupés and Cabriolets, with a choice of six powerful engine variants which are among the most economical in their class.

This attractive enhancement package provides a further individualisation option, and is only available for AVANTGARDE variants of the CLK models. The cost of this sporty equipment package is 3 332 Euro (incl. VAT).


Source: DaimlerChrysler

Alfa Romeo 159 by Novitec - More Photos

2007 Shanghai Motor Show: Audi Cross Coupe quattro concept

PRESS RELEASE

At the Shanghai Motor Show (20 - 28 April 2007) Audi will present a study that defines a new segment in the field of crossover vehicles. The Audi Cross Coupé quattro combines the design and dynamism of a compact premium sports car with the spaciousness and versatility of a four-seat sport utility vehicle (SUV). Innovative technical solutions show new ways of achieving efficiency, driving pleasure and comfort in a manner that is typical of Audi. The Audi Cross Coupé quattro: a car whose visual appearance clearly tells you what it is capable of and whose engineering matches this standard – on all roads, under all conditions.

The compact performance SUV

The silhouette is typical Audi; the design of the study, painted in Liquid Silver, is highly reminiscent of the sporty models produced by the Ingolstadt brand. The proportions and the large 20" wheels point clearly towards the offroad potential of the Cross Coupé quattro. A new element is the fabric folding roof, which, when it is open, gives optimum levels of headroom and fresh air. The hood is opened and closed electrically.

The transversely installed four-cylinder inline TDI engine with common-rail fuel injection and piezo injectors is a completely new development. With power output of 204 bhp and 400 Nm of torque, it gives the vehicle a sporty performance and a surprising degree of efficiency. On average the ultra-modern 2.0 TDI needs just 5.9 litres of diesel per 100 km. The diesel particulate filter and Bluetec system reduce soot and nitric oxide emissions effectively. Even today, the Audi Cross Coupé quattro satisfies the emissions standards of the future.

The quattro permanent four-wheel drive system is a matter of course on an Audi with offroad potential. A Haldex clutch ensures that traction is precisely distributed according to the situation. The sporty Audi S tronic dual-clutch gearbox executes gearshifts in a matter of milliseconds.

The running gear, featuring a McPherson-strut front axle and a four-link rear axle is perfect for sporty and agile handling that retains a high degree of stability and makes cornering distinctly fun. As an additional quality, the driving comfort of the running gear impresses on all types of road and in rough terrain, meeting even the standards expected of a vehicle in a higher class. Ceramic brake discs promise excellent, non-fading deceleration. 20" wheels give the Audi Cross Coupé quattro the ground clearance required.

Numerous electronic systems support the driver. The Audi drive select system makes it possible to preselect three highly individual configurations for the engine, gearbox, steering and adaptive shock absorbers. The result: a car that can be enjoyed in three completely different ways.

Besides the standard "dynamic" drive select mode and the "sport" setting, the Audi Cross Coupé also has the "efficiency" driving program. Here, the engine map and the shift points are modified to support a particularly economical driving style. In addition, the system deactivates components that are particularly energy-hungry, for example the air-conditioning compressor.
Another innovation is the MMI control panel, which is operated by a touch pad. The monitor of the system employs, for the first time, dual-view technology. The system can produce different images for the driver and front-seat passenger. These images are only visible when viewed from a specific angle. This allows the driver to read data from the on-board computer while the front passenger watches a TV programme, listening to the sound through headphones.

The sound system with the prominent extending tweeters sets a new infotainment standard in the class. The ambient lighting with numerous light sources gives the interior a stylish ambience, even at night.

2008 RUF CTR 3

(from RUF Press Release) RUF CTR 3

Technical data:

Body

Body build in steel, aluminium and kevlar-carbon. Rollover protection in A-pillar and in birdcage. The birdcage forms a torsion resistant unit with the front chassis by joining to the sill beam and the A pillar.

Front structure steel, zinc dipped
Safety passenger compartment steel, zinc dipped
Engine and transmission frame space frame and birdcage
Front bonnet and doors aluminium
Body shell Kevlar-Carbon composite

Engine
Type turbocharged boxer
Cylinders 6
Displacement 3,746 cc / 228.6 in3
Bore 102 mm / 4.01 in
Stroke 76.4 mm / 3.01 in
Output 515 kW (700 hp) at 7,000 rpm
Max. torque 890 Nm / 656.5 lb-ft
Compression ratio 9.2 : 1
Engine control unit Bosch Motronic with OBD-2
Turbo charger two KKK turbo chargers
Intercooler two air-air-intercoolers

Transmission
Power delivery rear wheel drive
Transmission sequential 6-speed-manual transmission,
transversal, angle drive, shift indicator in the instrument panel
Limited slip differential multi-disc locking differential
Locking value load / deceleration 40 % / 60 %

Chassis
Front axle McPherson struts, anti-roll bar
Rear axle multilink rear axle, anti-roll bar
horizontal coil over shock absorbers
Steering Power assisted rack and pinion

Brakes
Brake callipers front/rear 6 piston fixed light alloy callipers
Brake discs front/rear ventilated and cross drilled
ceramic composite discs
Brake disc diameter front/rear 380 mm / 15 in / 380 mm / 15 in
Anti-lock braking system Bosch ABS 8.0

Wheels and tyres
Wheels front/rear 8.5 x 19 / 12.5 x 20
Tyres front/ rear 255/35 ZR 19 / 335/30 ZR 20

Size and weights
Length 4,445 mm / 175.0 in
Width 1,944 mm / 76.5 in
Height 1,200 mm / 47.2 in
Wheelbase 2,625 mm / 103.3 in
Front track 1,506 mm / 59.3 in
Rear track 1,585 mm / 62.4 in

Empty weight with 6 speed manual transmission
According to DIN 1,400 kg / 3,086.4 lbs
According to EG-standards 1,475 kg / 3,251.8 lbs

Performance
Top speed 375 kph / 235 mph
0-100 kph / 0 62 mph 3.2 sec

Price
Euro 380,000.00 (plus VAT)

Spadaconcept Codatronca

Gotham ne'er-do-wells beware, it's the new Batmobile!

Not really. Although the forces of evil should still fear the Spadaconcept Codatronca.

Odd name for an odd-looking car, but that rear fin looks so good we can forgive it.

The Codatronca is the work of Spadaconcept, an Italian father-and-son design team with a huge list of design credits to its name, including work for Aston, Alfa and Lancia.

The Codatronca is intended for production and the current working prototype uses a Corvette 7.0-litre V8 engine tweaked to realise 700bhp, which is enough to propel the car from 0-60mph in three seconds and on to 208mph.

There will be three versions of the Codatronca with varying power outputs.

The 'basic' Sport Tourism model will use the standard 512bhp Corvette V8, while the Fast Sport Tourism model gets an extra 1bhp to boost power to 513bhp. The full-on 700bhp mutha is called the Super Sport Tourism.

It'll be a while before the Codatronca goes into production, but we're looking forward to it.

Just be careful that the police don't clock your speed on the digital display tucked into the back of that rear fin.

2007 GM Daewoo G2X

(from General Motors Press Release) G2X - An Exhilarating Roadster for Korea

The premiere of the unique G2X roadster a few months ahead of its domestic sales, which start in late summer, is a true highlight of this year’s Seoul Motor Show.

Its longitudinally front-installed 2.0-liter 260-hp engine with turbocharger and gasoline direct injection accelerates the roadster to 100 km/h from a standing start in just 5.5 seconds, and to a top speed of about 227 km/h.

“The G2X is a classic roadster with abundant power and breathtaking acceleration. Hence, it will offer true sports car performance and an exhilarating driving experience,” said Grimaldi. “To further strengthen the GM Daewoo brand, we will offer Korean consumers something no other Korean manufacturer has in its showroom.”

The G2X brings with it a lot of personality thanks to its exciting shape, which contrasts sharp edges with curved surfaces to create a dynamic look. With a wide stance, sleek silhouette, long front-hinged hood and short overhangs, the proportions are typical of its class.

High-tech features such as gasoline direct injection, a twin-scroll turbocharger with intercooler, double camshaft phasing and twin counter-rotating balance shafts provide the basis for the 1,998-cm 3 four-cylinder engine’s impressive performance data. Maximum output of 194 kW/260 hp at 5,300 rpm and high torque plateau of 353 Nm (35.9 kh.m) between 2,500 and 5,000 rpm ensure plenty of power in all situations.

For the G2X, engineers designed a classic sporty configuration based on a rigid chassis, wide track (front/rear: 1,543/1,561 mm) and long wheelbase of 2,415 mm. All four wheels are suspended from twin A-arms made from forged aluminum, the center of gravity is low, and the weight distribution of 51:49 percent (front/rear) is well balanced.

An automatic five-speed transmission with limited slip differential efficiently provides propulsion power to the rear wheels. A torque beam between the transmission and rear axle suppresses reactions to acceleration/deceleration effects. All wheels are fitted with large disk brakes, while ABS and ESP (which, like Traction Control, can be switched off) monitor safety.

2007 Hyundai Veloster Concept

(from Hyundai Press Release) Hyundai Unveils Trio of New Vehicles at 2007 Seoul Motor Show.

Seoul, Korea, 04/04/2007
• Veloster sporty coupe concept targets Y-Gen

In a demonstration of its growing design and engineering capabilities, Hyundai Motor Co. unveiled three brand-new models at the 2007 Seoul Motor Show which opened at KINTEX today. Leading the trio was the Veloster, a sporty coupe which caters to the unique requirements of the Y-generation. Joining the sporty concept car were two production models: the TQ van, a thoroughly fresh interpretation of Hyundai's hugely successful H-1 van and the FD estate wagon, styled at the company's European Design Center in Russelsheim which marks Hyundai's long-awaited return to this popular segment.

Veloster

Styled at Hyundaiґs Design and Technical Center at Namyang, the Veloster (codenamed HND-3) coupe is the third in a series of daring concept cars to be developed by the central styling studio in Korea.
The Veloster name, a compound of velocity and roadster evokes the sporty characteristics of a classic two-plus-two. A panoramic glass roof and other futuristic styling cues help project a high-tech image. Designed to cater to the tastes of the Y-generation, Veloster combines simple, iconic design with good value and robust construction.
"With Veloster, we wanted to try something really different. Weґre keenly aware that we need radically new products for the Y-generation, the first-time twenties something buyer," said Oh Suk-Geun, Hyundai's vice president of design. "This is really a bold new direction," he added.

First Drive: 2007 BMW X3 3.0si

Previews

Land Rover and Acura recently launched entries into this growing segment, so how is the revised X3 looking these days?


Three years ago, the BMW X3 was a novelty: a slick-handling luxury compact SUV. We liked it, but didn’t love it. Now, newcomers such as the Land Rover LR2, the Acura RDX, and the upcoming VW Tiguan, come surprisingly close to matching what we remember enjoying most about the baby Bimmer—gifted handling, abundant luxury, premium brand cache—and do so at a price that undercuts the X3. Hmmm. Time to take a fresh look at the Bimmer.

And a fresh thing we found. Technically, a freshened thing: for 2007, BMW gave its cute-ute a significant update—inside, outside, and under the hood. But what remained to be seen was how far these changes would go towards ingratiating the X3 to us to the extent that we could actually love the thing, not merely accept it. Moreover, would they help justify the X3’s ever-climbing price?

Mild exterior freshening

Well, it looks better. Or at least somewhat better. Now that all other BMWs—including the larger, all-new X5—have taken on “flame-surfacing” overtures, the X3’s wedgy, angular flanks look even more dated than they did when the X3 was introduced for the 2004 model year. But there have been improvements. The new bumpers are no longer the masses of black plastic that made early X3s look about as high-brow as a base Kia Sportage. In back, the cluttered taillights have been cleaned up nicely. Up front, the grille slats are now a sporty silver hue, and with the xenon headlamp option come BMW’s now-ubiquitous “corona ring” spectacles. That’s better than nothing, we guess.

Interior and Powertrain

Upgraded interior

Inside, upgrades are subtle, yet very effective in raising the cockpit’s perceived quality. Previous X3 interiors never felt quite up to par with other BMWs, but that is no longer the case. More soft-touch materials and a healthy amount of lustrous wood trim dress things up convincingly, though BMW’s button-heavy ergonomics remain. The navigation system is a joke, making us almost wish for iDrive.

On the upside, our X3 came with the $800 (and worth every penny) Comfort Seats, which feature no fewer than 16 ways of adjustment, including a separate upper-back-angle adjustment as well as three memory settings. Better still is the standard two-row, two-panel panoramic moonroof that bathes the cabin in sunlight.

As always, we appreciated the impressive cabin layout, which yields a near-perfect driving position whilst offering rear passengers the kind of legroom they might expect in a one-size-up ute. The leather upholstery has been upgraded from last year’s mediocre “Montana” leather to a higher grade “Nevada” leather. And as always, the 71-cubic-foot cargo area (with the rear seats folded) gets a gold star as one of the most spacious among all compact SUVs.

The 3.0si engine: Valvetronic and 260 horsepower

Best news of all for the 2007 X3 is the installation of BMW’s lovely 3.0-liter inline-six in “si” guise. This engine differs from last year’s 3.0i by a magnesium-and-aluminum composite block and the fitment of BMW’s innovative Valvetronic variable valve lift system, which meters intake air so precisely that the conventional throttle body is bypassed altogether once the vehicle is warmed up. Horsepower climbs to 260 at 6600 rpm and torque rises to 225 lb-ft of torque at a low 2500 rpm, compared with 225 hp and 214 lb-ft for the 3.0i. We’ve enjoyed this motor in every BMW that has it, with crisp initial throttle response and acceleration that builds and builds the deeper you plant your foot.

The X3 is available with a six-speed manual transmission (unlike the new X5), or a three-mode, six-speed automatic as a no-charge option. Our tester came with the latter, and equipped thus, upshifts felt quick and decisive, particularly in sport mode, which raised shift points to just about where we’d put them. Kickdowns, however, often suffered from some delay. We’d have spent more time using the manumatic mode to shift manually if the sport mode wasn’t as good as it is. Perhaps if it came with steering wheel–mounted shift paddles, like the Z4 3.0si, the story might be different.

Driving Impressions and Pricing

Quick reflexes

The only other slight disappointment was with the engine speed-sensitive variable assist steering, which felt a touch slow just off-center. Aside from that, however, the steering feel was both meaty and communicative and the rest of the chassis proved faultless. Gone was the wretched ride quality of previous models, which reminded us of when our older siblings would take us sidewalk sledding, sans the snow. However, not lost on us was how BMW left the optional Sport Package off this particular tester, an equipment group that features more aggressive suspension tuning, sexy 18-inch wheels and low-profile tires. Turns out, despite leaving us with the less-attractive 17-inch wheels, the base setup is more than gifted in terms of maintaining body control under all handling circumstances, rendering the Sport Package all but unnecessary. Our advice: skip it and upgrade the wheels if you must.

Oh yeah, there’s the money issue

Turns out, skipping options is a good thing, considering that, even without the Sport Package, our Montego Blue X3 arrived with an eye-watering sticker price of $47,975. Sure, it came with front/rear park-distance control, navigation, curve-following xenons and a $2500 premium package containing items like auto-dimming mirror and homelink; but, frankly, those should have been included in the X3’s $38K base price. Adding the Sport Package would have knocked the price over the $50K wall. Still, forty-eight large for an X3? Whoa.

Shortly after our first X3 encounter in January, 2004, we wrote, “we like the idea of the X3 better than the vehicle itself.” After three years and a major update, this is still true. Because on paper (not counting the window sticker), the X3 3.0si is everything we’ve ever wanted in a vehicle like this. And in terms of driving dynamics, it is every inch a BMW. In general, however, it remains expensive and still lacks the overall charisma that we loved in its big brother, the X5. And though it can still drive rings—corona rings, even—around some of its new competitors, it’s not so much better as to justify the price.

BY STEVE SILER
caranddriver.com

Phoenix Motorcars Observes Earth Day in San Diego

Phoenix Motorcars' five-passenger, zero-emission, all-electric sport utility truck (SUT)

California-based all-electric vehicle manufacturer, Phoenix Motorcars, Inc., will showcase its five-passenger, zero-emission, all-electric sport utility truck (SUT) during EarthFair 2007 held April 22, 2007 at Balboa Park in San Diego.

“Participating in EarthFair allows us to introduce a cool vehicle to help cool the earth,” says Daniel J. Elliott, CEO of Phoenix Motorcars. “This annual event educates and celebrates ways to save our environment. Our class of vehicles is a safe, reliable and smart transportation solution to make a positive impact on our quality of life.”

The SUT will be on display at the Cleaner Car Concourse, an environmentally-friendly exhibit area featuring alternative fuel vehicles. In addition, Phoenix Motorcars’ SUT will participate in the Cleaner Car Caravan, a parade of alternative fuel vehicles to raise awareness about the benefits of all-electric vehicles.

Phoenix Motorcars’ battery-electric SUT can travel at freeway speeds while carrying five passengers and a full payload. The SUT exceeds all specifications for a Type III ZEV, having a driving range of over 100 miles, can be recharged in less than 10 minutes and has a battery pack with a life of 12 years or more.

It is powered by UQM Technologies Inc.’s (AMEX: UQM) propulsion system, utilizes Boshart Engineering’s homologation process and is equipped with a non-toxic, revolutionary Altairnano NanoSafe™ (NASDAQ: ALTI) all-battery pack.

A limited number of vehicles will be available to consumers in 2007 with an expanded consumer launch scheduled for 2008. Phoenix Motorcars will also introduce an SUV model in late 2007. Currently, Phoenix Motorcars targets operators of fleet vehicles, such as public utilities, public transportation providers and delivery services.

EarthFair 2007 is the world’s largest free environmental fair and Earth Day celebration attracting over 60,000 spectators. EarthFair features more than 200 exhibitors, special theme areas, five entertainment venues, the Children’s Earth Parade and Cleaner Car Caravan.

For more information, visit www.earthdayweb.org

ABOUT PHOENIX MOTORCARS, INC.
Phoenix Motorcars Inc., a privately-held company headquartered in Ontario, Calif., has been an industry leader in the development of battery-electric, freeway-speed vehicles since 2001. The mission of Phoenix Motorcars is to manufacture zero-emission vehicles including Sport Utility Trucks and Sport Utility Vehicles to reduce the toxic emissions from the largest contributor to air pollution, personal automobiles. Phoenix Motorcars has strategic alliances with UQM Technologies, Inc. (AMEX: UQM), Altair Nanotechnologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: ALTI) and Boshart Engineering.

For additional information, visit www.phoenixmotorcars.com

Source: Phoenix Motorcars Inc.

Pricing Announced for the 2008 Buick Enclave Luxury Crossover SUV

2008 Buick Enclave luxury crossover SUV

General Motors of Canada announced today that pricing for the all-new 2008 Buick Enclave will begin at $40,895 for front-wheel drive CX models and $43,895 for all-wheel-drive CX models. The front-wheel-drive CXL begins at $48,295, while the all-wheel-drive version starts at $51,295.

Available this summer, the all-new 2008 Buick Enclave luxury crossover will come equipped with a comprehensive list of standard and optional equipment, a suite of owner services and a price unmatched in the segment.

A new, 275-horsepower 3.6L V-6 engine with variable valve timing powers the Buick Enclave. The sophisticated dual-overhead camshaft engine is mated to Buick’s first six-speed automatic transmission, offering excellent fuel economy and great handling.

The 2008 Buick Enclave offers a spacious cabin with comfortable seating for up to eight adult passengers. A seven-passenger seating configuration is standard, featuring second-row Smart Slide captain’s chairs and a third-row seat that can accommodate three adults. With Smart Slide, occupants have quick and effortless access to Enclave’s third row. An eight passenger seating configuration is also available and Buick’s standard QuietTuning ensures a library-quiet driving experience.

All Buick Enclave models come equipped with six standard air bags, including dual-stage frontal air bags, roof rail head curtain air bags for all three seating rows, and thorax side air bags for first-row seats. Other standard safety features include four-wheel disc brakes with ABS, StabiliTrak electronic stability control system with rollover mitigation technology, tire pressure monitoring system and traction control.

“The new Buick Enclave was designed to be a segment-leading luxury crossover and expresses the new face of Buick,” said Jeff Monforton, GM of Canada’s marketing manager for SUV’s. “With its stylish design, relevant technologies, luxury features and quiet, and well-crafted interior, we believe the 2008 Buick Enclave is well positioned to attract new customers.”

For added confidence and convenience, all Buick Enclave models come standard with the industry’s best coverage and a suite of owner services, including a four-year/80,000 km vehicle warranty, a five-year/160,000 km powertrain warranty, and OnStar with Turn-By-Turn voice-activated navigation and one-year Directions & Connections Plan.

Headquartered in Oshawa Ontario, General Motors of Canada employs 19,000 people nationwide. GM of Canada manufactures a variety of vehicles, engines, transmissions and other components, and markets the full range of General Motors vehicles and related services through 759 dealerships and retailers across Canada. Vehicles sold through this network include Chevrolet, Buick, Pontiac, GMC, Saturn, Hummer, Saab and Cadillac.

Source: Buick

Audi Debuts S line for 2008 A5

INGOLSTADT, Germany — The 2008 Audi A5 will get two "striking S line packages" from the home office, the automaker said on Wednesday, noting that the up-level package will be available in the U.S. upon the launch of the car. For the time being, though, Audi says it is only releasing information on Europe-spec A5 coupes and that the information is "subject to change for U.S.-spec cars."

The S line sport package adds a sport suspension with ride height lowered by 10 millimeters (0.4 inch). Wheel choices include 18-inch alloy wheels with a five-spoke design or 19-inch alloy wheels with a 20-spoke design. A 20-inch wheel of seven-twin-spoke design will make its debut in the middle of the year.

Exterior design cues include distinctive front and rear bumpers and side ventilation grilles at the front. The diffuser insert at the rear and the central bar on the lower side of the front bumper are in contrasting platinum gray.

The cabin gets a black interior with silver stitching and sport seats in a cloth/leather combination or in "fine nappa" leather with an embossed S line logo. Other details include a three-spoke leather-covered sport steering wheel, inlays in matte-brushed aluminum, and the S line logo on the door sill trim and front fenders.

Prices have not yet been announced.

Suzuki Spices Up SX4 Lineup With Street Sport and Touring Editions

NEW YORK CITY — Suzuki was bound to have some fun with the blank canvas that is the 2008 SX4 sedan. And so we now get a glimpse of the tuning potential of the new SX4 with the Street Sport and Touring Editions that were introduced in April.
The Street Sport is equipped with a 143-horsepower 2.0-liter DOHC four-cylinder linked to a five-speed manual transmission. It also gets upgraded with a sport-tuned suspension. Exterior touches include a rear-end spoiler, xenon projector-style headlights and a silver front grille. The Street Sport also gets custom-fitted 18-inch alloy wheels, high-performance Yokohama 18-inch tires and color-painted brake calipers. The cabin is modified with "bone colored" leather seats and trim.

The SX4 Touring model stands out with a striking dark red paint job with high-gloss coating. Like the Street Sport, the Touring edition gets color-painted brake calipers and a silver front grille. The cabin is decked out in "mushroom colored" cloth seats.

2007 LC470

(from LC470) The all-new LC 470 is a lightweight, two-seat road and race car inspired by the classic European cars of the '50s.

With GM V8 power provided by racing legend Dick Guldstrand, the LC 470 delivers a unique combination of modern driving comfort, exceptional handling, and blistering performance.

• 0 - 60 in 3.5 seconds
• 180+ mph
• 2036 pounds
• 47% front/ 53% rear weight distribution
• GM ZZ4, LS6 or LS7 V8 engine
• Tremec TKO 600 five-speed racing transmission
• Powder-coated tubular chassis
• Ceramic coated side exhausts
• Forged aluminum suspension
• Power rack & pinion steering
• 4-piston front and rear disc brakes
• Moto-Lita steering wheel
• Smiths gauges
• Custom aluminum wheels
• Trunk holds two golf bags
• Full warranty, unlimited mileage

Lamborghini Alar

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina — The Lamborghini Alar 777 has been officially launched in Argentina. Unfortunately, since it's too late for us to believe it's an April Fools Day joke, we must wonder if this is simply an intriguing concept gone horribly wrong.

The local press and blogs in Argentina have assured the rest of us in the Outside World that the local Lamborghini distributor has indeed launched its own unique kit car of sorts, a rebodied version of the defunct Diablo.

The Alar was designed by Joan Ferci, whose previous Diablo-based creations include the Coatl and the Eros GT-1. Under the bizarre skin, the Diablo V12 reportedly has been massaged to deliver 700 horsepower. Ferci claims a top speed of 223 miles per hour.

Local sources say the plan is to build only a few hundred vehicles — at $750,000 per copy.

Abt Turns Its Attention to Audi R8

KEMPTEN, Germany — German tuner Abt is planning to celebrate its 110th anniversary with the unveiling of a 530-horsepower version of the recently introduced Audi R8 at the Frankfurt Motor Show in the fall.

The new car, which receives a host of visual and mechanical modifications, is set to form the centerpiece of Abt's Frankfurt Motor Show spread in September before entering production in limited numbers at the company's Kempten-based headquarters in southern Germany.

Distinguishing the Abt R8 from standard versions of Audi's new two-seater is a distinctive body kit, parts of which are fashioned from carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic in a bid to reduce curb weight. Along with aggressively styled bumpers and chunkier side sills, the new car also receives a new hood, widened air ducts behind the doors, a prominent fixed spoiler at the rear, and towering 20-inch wheels in Abt's signature five-spoke design.

Power for Abt's reworked R8 is set to come from a supercharged version of Audi's 4.2-liter V8 engine delivering a claimed 530 hp — some 110 hp more than the standard R8. That's sufficient, according to the German tuner, to provide the Porsche 911 Turbo-chasing two-seater with 0-to-62-mph acceleration in 3.8 seconds and a top speed of 197 mph.

Allied to the sharpened performance is a heavily revised suspension featuring adjustable ride height as well as shock absorbers that adjust in both compression and rebound.

First Drive: 2008 Chrysler Sebring

Previews

Three tops, a restyled body, and generous feature content bring the ’Bring sort of almost up to par.

Chrysler’s perennial rent-a-convertible has been one of America’s most common ragtops since its 1996 introduction. Stunningly attractive in its day, the first Sebring had undeniable appeal, even if no one that drove it would attribute its commonality to more than its styling. Now, after a brief drive of the all-new 2008 Sebring convertible, which, for better or worse, falls in line with the unattractive, redesigned 2007 Chrysler Sebring sedan, we find that in spite of offering more technology, more engine choices and, for the first time, an optional retractable hardtop, the new Sebring lacks even the sort of charisma that made the first Sebring so popular in the first place.

No longer the ugly duckling, but hardly a swan

While still far from a beautiful, the Sebring looks much—make that much, much—better as a convertible than a sedan. The convertible top design dictated a longer trunk lid compared with the sedan, so an additional three inches of length were added, stretching those deep strakes further down the body in a far more becoming way. Furthermore, said contours are interrupted only by the small cutlines of one door, as opposed to two, and the simple, two-window greenhouse is far less cluttered than that mess of glass, pillars, and plastic trim found on the upper half of the sedan. Still, she’s got a face only a manufacturer could love, and even with the Limited’s 18-inch wheels, the body appears thick-waisted.

The Three Tops: Motown’s newest trio

Perhaps the most interesting thing about the Sebring is the fact that Chrysler gives its customers—whether they are fleet or retail—no fewer than three choices in convertible top materials. No other convertible has more than one except the Mazda MX-5 (which has two). Base-base-base models (obviously mostly intended for rental fleets) and mid-grade Touring models will come with an easy-to-clean vinyl soft top. A cloth top is part of an upgrade package on Touring models and is standard on top-shelf Limited models, with the aforementioned retractable hardtop optional on both.

The differences among all three are only skin deep, as all three tops use the same motors and structure assembly and fold under the same decklid, which thankfully has been left free of the hood’s silly pinstripes. This cost-saving measure means that even the soft tops gobble up as much trunk space as the hard ones when sandwiched in back, a configuration that leaves just seven cubic feet of space—enough for two squished golf bags. Top raised, however, all three models boast a huge-for-a-convertible 13 cubic feet, which, incidentally, measures just half a cube less than the sedan. They also share the same big, attractively curved, heated glass rear window. Thanks to the lack of pillars and the large rear window, the outward vision is excellent from any of the four spacious seating areas.


Three Trims, Three Engines

Feature content for the ’08 Sebring Convertible generally follows that of the sedan, but unlike the sedan, trim level and engine choice are intrinsically tied. Base models, which start at $26,145, are outfitted on the okay side of not bad, with lots of power goodies but few luxury items, while power comes from the same 2.4-liter four-cylinder “world” engine found in everything from the Dodge Caliber to the Kia Rondo. In the Sebring, the motor sends 173 horsepower and 166 lb-ft of torque to the 16-inch front wheels, reasonable output for a naturally aspirated four-pot but hardly soul-stirring when there’s 3750 pounds to lug around and a four-speed slushbox to work with.

The jump to the $28,745 Touring model is more than worth the additional $2600, not only on account of its dressier satin silver interior trim, stain- and odor-proof seat fabric, remote starter, 17-inch wheels as well as additional options, but for the two extra cylinders of its 189-hp, 191 lb-ft, 2.7-liter V-6. Unfortunately, the four-speed remains the sole transmission, even though most of its competitors offer at least one more forward gear.

We’re conflicted about the $32,345 Sebring Limited model. On one hand, who can complain about leather upholstery, Boston Acoustics speakers, fog lamps, 18-inch wheels, and, best of all, Chrysler’s 235-hp 3.5-liter V-6 that produces 232 lb-ft of torque? Even better is its quick-shifting six-speed automatic. On the other hand, how much fun can you really have when within your field of vision are two lengthy swaths of tortoise-shell trim (did ’ya hear that, Grandma?) surrounded by metallic trim pieces that don’t come close matching those on the center stack? The rear seating area is the opposite, appearing to have been covered in a thick coat of paint, and is particularly dreary when the gray interior is selected. It’s almost worth saving $3600 by opting for the Touring model with the cloth seats.

All Sebring stereos are well suited to vacation duty, playing as they do MP3s, DVDs, and anything that you might be able to plug into the auxiliary input jack. SIRIUS and Bluetooth connectivity are optional on all, while Touring and Limited models offer Chrysler’s nifty, voice-activated Harman/Kardon MyGIG navigation/audio system, which includes a touch-screen, voice commands, available real-time traffic reports, and a 20-GB hard drive capable of storing 1600 songs and an octet of jpeg photos for display on the LCD screen. Also available is a single heated/cooled cupholder capable of heating your latte to 140 degrees, or chilling your soda to just above freezing.



Driving Impressions and Pricing

Driving Impressions

During our brief first drive through Malibu, California, the Sebring offered few surprises. The four-banger/four-speed automatic is ho-hum, fine for the rental crowd but nothing we’d want in our driveway for longer than maybe a day. No, probably less. The 2.7-liter V-6’s additional torque and broader torque curve makes the Sebring Touring much more palatable, if not as robust as the Limited’s 3.5-liter/six-speed combo.

Turning the wheel revealed the same odd steering sensations that we found on earlier Sebring and Avenger drives, specifically sharp turn-in followed by vagueness. The light steering effort didn’t help us get our bearings, either. The structure, however, is very rigid, providing a good enough foundation for a decent suspension setup. The strong brakes followed suit with good feel and predictable stops. The Limited comes with the most aggressive rubber (215/55 performance tires), and equipped thus, made squirting through the twisty mountain roads into “the Valley” sort of fun, that is, once you got used to the steering. It certainly runs rings around the last one from a driving perspective.

The value question

All that said it’s hard to consider the Sebring convertible a terribly good value. After all, its $26,145 base price is $7150 more than a base Sebring sedan. The $32,345 Limited model starts some $8350 more than its four-door counterpart. Want that hard top? Get ready to shell out an additional two grand. Priced such, the Sebring convertible is sailing into some rough competitive waters, where it will face predators such as the vivacious Volkswagen Eos and the tire-burning Ford Mustang GT convertible. For that kind of coin, charisma should be included for no extra charge.

Lotus Eleven plus

When Lotus invited us down to its test track in deepest Norfolk to see how the new 2-Eleven dealt with being pushed to its very limits, we thought it'd be a bit impolite to refuse.

This is, after all, perhaps the most extreme road-legal beast ever to come out of Hethel.

Lotus has taken the Elise's aluminium tub, added a modified running gear from the Exige S and bolted on all-new ultra-lightweight composite bodywork to create a stripped-down, hardcore racer.

Throw in a 1.8-litre Toyota-sourced engine (supercharged, naturally) producing 262bhp and you've got a power-to-weight ratio of 338bhp per tonne and a car that'll dispatch 60mph in under four seconds - and 100mph in well under 10.

All of which sounded to us like a perfect recipe for some serious track thrashing action - and we weren't wrong.

We're just putting the finishing touches to our video of the 2-Eleven in action, but make sure you check back here very soon, because - trust us here - you don't want to miss this one.

Saleen Unleashes 600-HP "Ultimate Bad Boy Edition"

IRVINE, Calif. — This summer's showstopper is bound to be the Saleen S281 Extreme "Ultimate Bad Boy Edition," which has been commissioned by Cannonball Run World Events, Inc. to commemorate its event called "The Great American Run." The winner gets one of the modified 600-horsepower Bad Boy Mustangs as a prize.

Saleen has modified 25 of its stock S281 "Extreme" Mustangs, adding an additional 50 horses to the world's fastest production Mustang that churns out 550 hp and 525 pound-feet of torque. The 2007 Saleen S281 Extreme gets several aftermarket options, including black-on-black paint, forged five-spoke one-piece wheels that are painted black, a numbered gold plaque and official "Great American Run" decals.

The event marks the stateside arrival of Europe's most famous road rally. The inaugural U.S. event runs from July 29 to August 4 and is unusual in that the object is to complete the course with an average speed at or below the national speed limit. "The object of the rally is not who can reach the final destination first, but rather who can most closely attain an average speed of 61 mph over the 3,000-mile route," organizers said.

The event will involve 400 cars starting from four cities: Washington, New York, Atlanta and Miami. Saleen has signed on as the title sponsor of the event. For more information, check out the Cannonball World Web site.

Volvo: Small change

If Train 'A' leaves Paddington travelling at 39mph and arrives in Exeter three hours later, and Train 'B' leaves Paddington 20 minutes later travelling at 59mph, can you spot the changes to the Volvo S40 and V50 ranges?

Stumped? We were until we saw the answers and were told that the front end has a restyled grille with 50 per cent larger badge.

There are also clear lensed headlights, new rear lights, revised bumpers and a different handle for the estate's boot.

Mensa types will be more intrigued by the improved storage options inside the cabin, front armrest that can be flipped back to work as a table for those in the rear, and an MP3 connector now placed under the front armrest.

Less cerebral Volvo fans will be more interested in the extra 10bhp for the T5, while the D5 will receive a new six-speed manual gearbox later in the year to Volvo's swiftest diesel estate.

Now then, back to Trains A and B. The answer is simple: you should take the car because it will take you from door to door.

source: topgear

Automotive Engineering International Magazine Names 2007 Lexus LS 460 As 2007 Best Engineered Vehicle

2007 Lexus LS 460

The votes are in, and readers and editors of the award-winning Automotive Engineering International (AEI) magazine say the 2007 Lexus LS 460 is the Best Engineered Vehicle of 2007.

"The voters had good reason for choosing the Lexus LS 460," Kevin Jost, Editor-In-Chief of Automotive Engineering International, said. "The Lexus LS 460 brings consumers at least nine world-firsts, including safety breakthroughs such as an advanced obstacle-detection system, emergency-steering assist and rear pre-crash systems. For driving pleasure, there's also an eight-speed automatic transmission."

The 2007 Lexus LS 460's world-first highlights include:

• eight-speed automatic transmission;
• pre-crash safety system;
• advanced obstacle-detection system;
• driver-monitoring system;
• emergency-steering assist;
• intelligent powertrain control system;
• rear pre-crash safety system;
• roof climate diffusers; and
• VVT-IE electrically actuated camshaft phasers.

The Best Engineered Vehicle award winners are announced in AEI's April 2007 edition, its largest of the year as it also previews 2007 SAE World Congress, set for Cobo Center in Detroit April 16-19. While the 2007 Lexus LS 460 received Best Engineered Vehicle, second-place went to the 2007 Chevrolet Silverado / 2007 GMC Sierra, and the 2007 Porsche 911 Turbo finished third.

-- The 2007 Chevy Silverado / 2007 GMC Sierra especially was recognized for its impressive fuel economy; these full-size pickups with V8 engines can attain more than 20 miles per gallon and can run on E85 fuel.

-- The 2007 Porsche 911 Turbo received high marks for its advanced materials and aerodynamic engineering, as well as its comparative fuel economy and good emissions characteristics.

Source: SAE International

Lotus introduces collector's edition Elise Type 72D

PRESS RELEASE

ATLANTA--Lotus Cars USA, Inc. is pleased to announce the 35th Anniversary commemorative edition type 72D. This exclusive Collectible Edition model memorializes one of the finest Formula 1 designs of all time -- the Lotus 72. It was in this vehicle that the legendary Emerson Fittipaldi proved unstoppable, winning five of eleven races in 1972, thus becoming the youngest champion in F1 history.

This collectible edition will be offered in the very limited quantity of just 50 units worldwide. Each 72D will be sequentially numbered, with special certification documenting the legacy of the vehicle, individually signed by both Clive Chapman, son of Lotus founder Colin Chapman, and Michael J. Kimberley, Group Lotus CEO. A decorative type 72D commemorative driving helmet and display case will be included with each vehicle.

Special vehicle equipment includes gold accents and pinstriping throughout the exterior of the vehicle, two-toned leather and Alcantara interior, gold cast wheels, type 72D rear spoiler, gold and black laurels and badging, among numerous others. Configuration also includes Lotus Touring Pack, Sport Pack, Metallic Paint, Starshield, type 72D pack, and Destination, with an MSRP under $60,000. The type 72D will be introduced later this year through authorized North American Lotus dealers.

This extraordinary vehicle will be showcased at the New York International Auto Show in the Jacob Javits Center April 6 through April 15.

About Lotus Cars USA:

Lotus Cars USA, Inc. is a subsidiary of Group Lotus plc, (www.grouplotus.com) and the distributor of Lotus vehicles in both the United States and Canada. With 50 dealers in the USA and 3 dealers in Canada, Lotus offers two high-performance models: the world-renowned Elise and more aggressive Exige S.

Considered the world's best-known British performance brand, Lotus has long been a perennial racing champion, automotive innovator, and even the choice vehicle for James Bond.

The Lotus Engineering Company pioneered numerous automotive systems and components, and has been behind the design and construction of some of the most successful cars in history. As the world's premier automotive consultancy, Lotus operates engineering centers in Asia, North America and Europe.

Volvo Discontinuing Slow-Selling R Models After 2007 Model Year

NEW YORK — Volvo's R-badged performance lineup, which was introduced in the mid-1990s, was designed to give BMW and other competitors a run for their money. But because buyers didn't embrace hotted-up versions of vehicles known largely for their safety attributes, Volvo will drop its R models after the 2007 model year, the company told Inside Line.

But they may not be gone for good. "It's not something we'll put on the shelf and forget," said Volvo spokesman Dan Johnston. But he did not disclose a timetable for any new performance Volvos and added that the three vehicles set for launch in the next several months — the 2008 C30 hatchback, the 2008 XC70 crossover and the 2008 V70 wagon — will not have the R designation. The C30 and XC70 hit showrooms in October, and the V70 will arrive in January. Johnston said there hasn't been a performance development yet on the company's new inline six-cylinder engine.

R-model sales have been disappointing for the Swedish automaker. Volvo had set a target sales volume of 3,800 units of its S60 and V70 performance versions in the U.S. last year, but only sold 1,636 units of the two models. The Rs were a model variant intended to inject new interest in the vehicles after the initial launch. Johnston said the R badging didn't "stand for race or rally, it just meant a high-performance Volvo."

The S60R and V70R were equipped with 300-horsepower turbocharged engines and all-wheel drive.

2007 Saleen S331 Sport Truck based on Ford F-150

(from Saleen Press Release) SALEEN'S NEW S331 SPORT TRUCK HITS THE PRODUCTION LINE

UNITING PERFORMANCE AND STYLE WITH FUNCTIONALITY

IRVINE, CALIF. The Saleen S331 Sport Truck threatened to redefine the sport truck segment when the prototype was released at the 2006 Los Angeles Auto Show. Just as promised, Saleen has followed up with the production launch of both supercharged and 3-Valve versions of the Saleen S331 Sport Truck. Designed and engineered by the same technicians that hand-build the Saleen S7, the S331 merges the functionality of a truck with optimum performance and styling of a world-class sports car.

The production Saleen S331 Sport Truck offers a new level of sophistication to the truck world. For the first time truck owners will feel appropriately suited arriving at the lake or symphony, said Steve Saleen, Founder and Vice Chairman of Saleen, Inc. Performance trucks seem to be universally defined as weekend drivers and show cars. The Saleen S331 maintains its position as a Saleen performance vehicle, while remaining a very capable and comfortable daily driver that has phenomenal towing capabilities. Not to mention that it looks as good as it performs.

POWERTRAIN

For 2007, both Saleen S331 Sport Truck models are available as a Super Cab and feature a 331 CID (5.4L), 3-valve SOHC V-8 engine with a four-speed automatic transmission. The supercharged model packs a punch at 450 hp and 500 lb-ft of torque, which is due in part to the patented, high-flow Saleen Series VI integrated twin-screw supercharger, while the 3-Valve offers 325 hp with 380 lb-ft of torque. For increased cooling, an aluminum dual-core radiator and high-flow cooling system are also available as options on either model.

SALEEN SERIES VI INTEGRATED TWIN-SCREW SUPERCHARGER

Saleen has taken the same technology and design used to develop the proven Saleen Series VI Integrated Twin-Screw Supercharger that has been immortalized on the Saleen S281, and re-engineered it to deliver maximum results for the S331.

The Millionth Mini Rolls off the Line

OXFORD, England — The one-millionth Mini rolled off the production line at Plant Oxford in England late last week as sales records continue to be shattered. Mini owner BMW Group says sales reached 7,854 in March alone, a new record for the Mini Cooper and Mini Cooper S. In 2005, more than 200,000 Minis were sold.

Number 1,000,000 was a customer-ordered pepper-white Mini Cooper S with almond green roof and a special "million" graphic that extends from the roof to the hood. It has almond green leather seats, steering wheel and gearshift knob to match.

The little cars will be even more omnipresent soon, with the new Mini One and Mini Cooper D coming out this month, and the Mini Clubman being launched later this year.

The Plant Oxford facility builds as many as 700 Minis per day, working around the clock with nearly 5,000 employees. Almost 80 percent are built for export to 80 countries outside the U.K., BMW says.

Seoul Auto Show: GM Daewoo G2X

SEOUL, S. Korea — GM Daewoo will get a Korean-market version of the Saturn Sky roadster this summer. Unveiled last week at the Seoul auto show, the Daewoo edition is called G2X.

The showcar features the same turbocharged 2.0-liter gasoline direct-injection engine that powers the Sky Red Line. Rated at 260 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, the engine propels the two-seater from zero to 60 mph in less than 5.5 seconds; top speed is 141 mph.

The G2X is fitted with a five-speed automatic transmission and limited-slip differential. ABS, traction control and stability control are standard.

GM Daewoo will have a unique position in the Korean market with the G2X. It will announce pricing closer to the car's official on-sale date in August.

Seoul Auto Show: GM Daewoo L4X

SEOUL, S. Korea — GM Daewoo will join the evolving market in South Korea for large rear-wheel-drive sedans with a companion model to the upcoming Pontiac G8. A concept version of the Daewoo sedan, badged as the L4X, made its debut last week at the Seoul auto show.

GM Daewoo said the L4X is "close to a production version." It did not specify when the actual production model would go on sale, but sources in South Korea expect to see the big sedan reach Daewoo dealers in 2008.

Basic engineering, as with the Pontiac G8, was done by GM's Holden subsidiary in Australia.

The L4X features GM's 3.6-liter V6 mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. The engine delivers 258 horsepower and 251 pound-feet of torque.

In South Korea, the production version of the L4X will compete with Hyundai's upcoming premium sedan, a rear-wheel-drive successor to the home-market Dynasty, recently previewed at the New York auto show as the Genesis concept. Unlike the Hyundai sedan, however, GM has no plans to market the big Daewoo sedan in North America. A companion model, expected to be badged as a Buick, is expected to make its debut later this month in China at the Shanghai auto show.

2007 Seoul Auto Show: Renault-Samsung QMX Concept

SEOUL, S. Korea — Renault-Samsung has premiered the QMX, a concept version of a future crossover utility vehicle. It's the South Korean subsidiary's version of the Renault Koleus CUV concept that was shown last fall at the Paris auto show. The Koleus will be manufactured by Renault's South Korean subsidiary starting at the end of this year.

Renault is trying to make the best out of its global production network. That's why its majority-owned Korean brand, Renault-Samsung, was selected as the manufacturing operation for this brand-new crossover. Samsung's own version, called QMX, is a break from the company's traditional lineup, which comprises three midsize passenger cars based on Nissan design and mechanics.

QMX stands for Quest Motoring Experience, the company says. Officially, it's still a concept, but it is fairly close to the final version that will be launched later this year. It was developed in cooperation with Renault's Japanese affiliate, Nissan, which will utilize it as a basis for the next-generation X-Trail.

The QMX is powered by a Renault-sourced 2.0-liter common-rail diesel. Other features include Hill Start Assist and Hill Descent Control.

via insideline

BMW Art Car

1995 BMW 850 CSi Art Car by David Hockney


1992 BMW 3 series Touring Art Car by Sandro Chia


1991 BMW Z1 Art Car by A. R. Penck


1990 BMW 730i Art Car by Cesar Manrique


1991 BMW 525i Art Car by Esther Mahlangu

1979 BMW M1 Art Car by Andy Warhol


1982 BMW 635 CSi Art Car by Ernest Fuchs

1989 BMW M3 Group A Raceversion Art Car by Michael Jagamara Nelson


1989 BMW M3 Group A Raceversion Art Car by Ken Done

Lexus Announces Pricing for 2008 Lexus LS 600h L Luxury Hybrid Sedan

2008 Lexus LS 600h L Luxury Hybrid Sedan

Lexus announced the manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) for the all-new 2008 Lexus LS 600h L luxury hybrid sedan. The Lexus LS 600h L will be the ultimate Lexus statement, providing the highest level of luxury, technology, performance, safety and efficiency.

With an extensive list of standard luxury equipment and technological features, including the world's first full hybrid V8 powertrain, the 2008 Lexus LS 600h L will carry a base MSRP of $104,000 when it reaches Lexus dealers in June.

The full-time all-wheel-drive 2008 Lexus LS 600h L will be the world's first vehicle powered by a full hybrid V8 powertrain and will be mated to a newly developed dual-stage electronically controlled, continuously variable transmission. It will deliver power and performance on par with modern 12-cylinder engines, producing more than 430 horsepower while still delivering fuel efficiency equal to or better than the combined fuel-economy ratings of V6 all-wheel-drive mid-sized luxury sedans. The 2008 Lexus LS 600h L will also carry a Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV) rating, emitting nearly 70 percent fewer emissions than the "cleanest" of its competitors.

Source: Lexus

New York Auto Show: VW Touareg 2 Debuts

PRESS RELEASE:
TOUAREG 2 MAKES U.S. DEBUT AT NEW YORK INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW

Features a fresh exterior and two recently updated engines

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. – Volkswagen's first-ever SUV has been restyled for the 2008 model year, returning as the Touareg 2. The updated version will enter showrooms with refreshed exterior styling, an impressive list of safety features and vehicle capabilities, and three powerful engine options. After its U.S. debut at the New York International Auto Show, the Touareg 2 arrives at dealerships later this spring, with pricing starting at $39,320.

Taking design cues from others in the Volkswagen model lineup, the Touareg 2's updated exterior styling now echoes the brand's signature design with its new Volkswagen "face"- specifically its chrome front grille. The Touareg 2 also has a redesigned aerodynamic and sporty rear spoiler with integrated third brake light. Other distinctive exterior features include 17-inch alloy wheels, standard on the VR6 FSI, and 19-inch alloy wheels, standard on the V8 FSI and V10 TDI Twin Turbo models; redesigned headlamps and darkened taillights; redesigned luxury seating system, with standard 12-way power driver's seat; and four all-new exterior color options – Alaska Gray, Cranberry, Galapagos and White Gold.

The Touareg 2 boasts three engine variations- with both the VR6 FSI and V8 FSI recently upgraded. The Touareg's 3.2-liter VR6 has been replaced with a more powerful 3.6-liter VR6 FSI, which has an additional 40 horsepower, now at 280 hp. The FSI technology has considerably improved the driving performance of the Touareg 2. This significant performance upgrade is accompanied by increased torque with an optimized torque curve. The recently upgraded 4.2-liter

V8 FSI is the first eight-cylinder Volkswagen engine with unleaded fuel direct injection, generating an impressive 350 horsepower, 40 more than the previous V8, and 325 lbs. ft. of torque. The Touareg 2's 5.0-liter V10 TDI Twin Turbo offering delivers 310 horsepower and a staggering 553 lbs. ft. of torque. All three Touareg 2's offer an incredible 7,716 pounds of towing capacity.

The Touareg 2 also features a variety of driving systems designed to ensure safety and enhance the vehicle's handling. These features include a new rollover sensor system, which records both turning angle and turning speed to determine whether the vehicle will encounter a possible rollover situation. The rollover sensor system merges with the airbag control device to activate side and side head curtain airbags if a rollover hazard is present. An enhanced tire pressure monitoring system that informs the driver of any tire pressure loss is now standard. The Touareg 2 features various Electronic Stabilization Program innovations, including hydraulic braking assist, a preventative braking pressure build-up system for sudden lifts off of the gas pedal which prepares the vehicle for a sudden stop. Other ESP innovations include rain brake support, which intermittently wipes the rotors dry when windshield wipers are activated; and an understeering control logic system which improves turning behavior during understeering.

In addition to these features, the Touareg 2 boasts a world-first "ABSplus" braking system. This Volkswagen-developed and patented system shortens braking distance for the Touareg 2 by up to 20 percent on loose roadbeds by pushing a portion of the road material under temporarily locked wheels to form a chock. This innovation is the first of its kind in the world and is a Touareg 2 exclusive feature.

The Touareg 2 includes a noteworthy array of vehicle capabilities. A permanent four-wheel drive system, 4XMOTION™, provides improved traction on virtually any surface. Hill Roll Back Assist and Hill Descent Assist features stabilize the Touareg 2 during off-road ventures. Standard independent suspension and improved axle pitching further allow this powerful vehicle the capability to navigate uneven terrain with confidence. The Touareg 2 also boasts 33-degree approach and departure angles, 45-degree climbing capability, 35-degree lateral inclination, adjustable air suspension and up to 23-inch fording depth with the optional air suspension.

Additional standard features include Sirius™ Satellite Radio, park distance control, power liftgate, new instrument cluster with larger display, and a new silver metallic trim standard on the VR6 FSI.

Touareg 2 is available with all-new Lux, Lux Plus and Technologie option packages. These packages further enhance the Touareg 2 with additional upgrades including a ten speaker Dynaudio premium sound system, keyless access with a start/stop button, and Bi-Xenon headlights with AFS II, which help improve night time visibility and enhances the driver's ability to negotiate turns by allowing them to 'see' into the curve.

Founded in 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc. is headquartered in Auburn Hills, Michigan. It is a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG, headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany. Volkswagen is one of the world's largest producers of passenger cars and Europe's largest automaker. Volkswagen sells the Rabbit, New Beetle, New Beetle convertible, GTI, Jetta, GLI, Passat, Passat wagon, Eos, and Touareg through approximately 600 independent U.S. dealers. Visit Volkswagen of America online at vw.com.

Lexus LS 460 Named 2007 World Car of the Year

NEW YORK — The 2007 Lexus LS 460, with its unusual automatic parking system and eight-speed automatic transmission, was chosen as 2007 World Car of the Year at the New York auto show on Thursday. Jurors lauded the LS 460 for being the "embodiment of the Lexus brand's 'pursuit of perfection.'"

The Lexus beat out the Audi TT and the Mini for top honors. The LS 460 was part of original pool of 28 contenders nominated by World Car jurors from 22 countries.

The Audi RS 4 was named 2007 World Performance Car of the Year, while the Audi TT earned the 2007 World Car Design of the Year. The Mercedes-Benz E320 Bluetec was honored as the 2007 World Green Car of the Year.

The BMW 3 Series won World Car of the Year in 2006.

2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK 63 AMG Black Series

(from DaimlerChrysler Press Release) From motor sport to pure culture: The new CLK 63 AMG Black Series based on the Official F1™ Safety Car – the high-performance AMG vehicle that has been providing Formula One safety since 2006. The coupe, optimized for the racing circuit, is powered by an AMG 6.3-liter V8 with its performance boosted to 373 kW/507 hp and 630 Newton meters of torque. Top-rank handling is assured by the sophisticated AMG threaded suspension with 19-inch AMG forged wheels, new steering and the generously dimensioned AMG high-performance brake system with its composite disks. Visually, too, the CLK 63 AMG Black Series clearly shows its descent from the Official F1™ Safety Car: its striking front apron with large cooling intakes, flared wheel arches, diffusor-type rear apron and carbon-fiber airflow breakaway edge, all demonstrate the car’s sporting and pur sang pedigree.

The new CLK 63 AMG Black Series is technically and visually oriented towards the Official F1™ Safety Car and thus addresses all sports-car enthusiasts who value high competitiveness. An output upgraded by 19 kW/26 hp accelerates the CLK 63 AMG Black Series from zero to 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds – thus 0.3 seconds faster than the standard model with 354 kW/481 hp. The top speed (electronically limited) is 300 km/h.

Mercedes-AMG engineers achieved the increase in power to 373 kW/507 hp by completely redesigning the intake and exhaust systems. The high-revving, naturally-aspirated AMG engine, with its 6208 cc displacement, gets its fresh air via larger-dimensioned intake ducts. The new AMG sports exhaust system with full-length twin pipes stands out with its unmistakable, pleasant AMG V8 sound. Together with a newly calibrated engine control unit, these measures ensure not only efficient load change behavior, but also let this eight-cylinder unit respond to the accelerator with even greater alacrity.

Power is transmitted through the AMG SPEEDSHIFT 7G-TRONIC. Compared to the standard CLK 63 AMG, the rear-axle ratio of the pur sang special series has been made about six percent shorter – to confer even more agility in acceleration in all speed ranges. For maximum sporting dynamics, the transmission has only the “M” and “S” driving programs; the comfort-oriented “C” is deleted. The driver can switch between the seven gears by using the AMG aluminum shift paddles on the steering wheel, while an indicator in the instrument cluster shows the gear selected at any given time.

In the “M” manual program, shift times are about 20 percent shorter than in “S”. Moreover, in the “M” program the driver benefits from the great tractive power of the V8, since there is no automatic downshifting under full load and kickdown; the transmission always remains in the gear selected. When the engine-speed limit is reached, the AMG SPEEDSHIFT does not shift up automatically in the manual drive program – and in this way supports a dynamic driving style on the race track. A visual upshift icon on the AMG main menu signals the recommended gear change.

Optimized Cooling for Top Stamina

The visual appearance of the CLK 63 AMG Black Series shows its racing inspiration. The redesigned front end is descended 1:1 from the Official F1™ Safety Car, and its generously dimensioned cooling-air intakes hint at the sophisticated cooling measures. For greater stamina under extreme operating conditions, a larger main radiator and an optimized power steering cooler, as well as an additional transmission cooler are built into the left front wheel arch. The engine oil cooler is located in the right wheel arch. The cooling measures are complemented by optimized air ducts with lateral openings in real carbon in front of the front wheels. The front fenders are made of high-strength and yet lightweight carbon-fiber composite material. On their flank, a “6.3 AMG” badge hints at the exceptional power of the naturally-aspirated V8. Redesigned side skirts extend to the broad rear fenders, which are in turn connected by a newly developed rear apron. The components taken over from the Official F1™ Safety Car include not only the carbon diffusor fins and the integrated chromed dual tailpipes of the AMG sports exhaust system, but also a cooler for the heavily stressed rear axle. The separate oil cooler has an active extraction-type fan, which is particularly effective in suppressing temperature peaks. On the trunk lid, a new airflow breakaway edge, also made of carbon, is responsible for reducing lift forces on the rear axle.

Adjustable AMG Sports Suspension for Best Track Performance

Like its counterpart in the Formula One World Championship, the CLK 63 AMG Black Series also has a newly developed and quite special AMG sports suspension. The adjustable threaded suspension guarantees optimum road contact and maximum precision. For competitive driving, the driver can create his personal suspension setup: not only the level, but also the compression and rebound stages of the shock absorbers, front-axle track and camber, and rear-axle track are adjustable.

Both axles have newly developed components like spring links, wheel carriers, thrust arms, camber and torque struts, as well as completely reworked elastokinematics. Compared to the standard CLK 63 AMG, the Black Series has over 75 millimeters more track at the front axle and 66 millimeters more at the rear. Added stiffness under high lateral dynamics is provided by strut braces in the engine compartment and trunk. On the rear axle, a multi-plate locking differential ensures optimum traction, with 30 percent locking effect in the overrun and 10 percent under traction. Acceleration skid control (ASR) and the Electronic Stability Program ESP® are calibrated to meet more intense driving demands.

Lightweight Forged Wheels, Sports Tires for a Perfect Grip

The wheel and tire combination used forms a perfect partner for the AMG threaded sports suspension. Pirelli P Zero Corsa sports tires in size 265/30 R 19 (front) and 285/30 R 19 (rear) permit exceptional grip and amazing cornering speeds – with outstanding characteristics in the wet. The tires are mounted on handsome multi-spoke forged wheels. AMG aluminum wheels in size 9.00 x 19 and 9.50 x 19 are produced using advanced lightweight forging technology. The weight reduction results in improved response behavior from the parameter power steering, which is also modified for greater precision and agility.

AMG High-Performance Brake System with Larger Front Composite Disks

Looking through the tracery of the AMG forged wheels, you can catch a glimpse of the ventilated and perforated disk brakes. The front axle has larger 360 x 36 mm brake disks which were tested in racing. Their rear-axle counterparts measure 330 x 26 mm. Perfect deceleration, optimal apportionment of brake power and enormous fade resistance are hallmarks of the AMG high-performance brake system – even when being tested to the maximum on the track.

Interior with the Functional Feel of a Genuine Racing Car

The transfer of technology from motor sport, a Mercedes-AMG tradition fostered over decades, is equally evident in the interior of the CLK 63 AMG Black Series. This dedicated two-seater sports touring car not only dispenses with rear seats, but with its bucket-type seats, rich carbon trim and black headliner, displays the functional atmosphere of a true racing car – and thus documents 40 years of Mercedes-AMG motor sport history. The new AMG bucket-type seats come without side airbags and are covered in barely inflammable nylon velour with embroidered silver AMG logos. Carbon trim on the center console and on the inner door cladding, also with stamped AMG logos, aluminum door handles and anodized black trim strips, brings a feeling of quality to the interior. On the center console, the specially shaped selector lever and the new, matt-finish start/stop switch add further highlights.

Its diameter reduced by 15 millimeters, the new AMG performance sports steering wheel comes fitted with silver aluminum shift paddles. The steering wheel rim, 365 millimeters in diameter, is flattened on its underside to ensure that the driver of the CLK 63 AMG Black Series always has a perfect seating position and vehicle control.

AMG Instrument Cluster with RACETIMER

The carbon-embedded AMG instrument cluster with its 320 km/h scale furnishes an exclusive ambience and high functionality at the same time. The AMG main menu in the cluster is perfectly tailored to serious racing: it shows the current gear engaged, as well as an upshift recommendation in “M” mode, or alternatively engine oil temperature or battery voltage, as well as the RACETIMER. This last function enables the driver to determine his lap times on a closed course. The RACETIMER stores the time of the fastest lap, average and maximum speeds, and the length of the laps.

Despite its raceworthy handling, the CLK 63 AMG Black Series retains those typical qualities that distinguish a true Mercedes-Benz: everyday practicality, longevity, safety and quality. Following in the path of the SLK 55 AMG Black Series, the new CLK 63 AMG Black Series was developed in the AMG PERFORMANCE STUDIO opened in 2006. The first units of the unlimited AMG special series will be delivered to customers starting in June.

Volkswagen Lays Out Timetable for U.S. Launch of Jetta SportWagen

NEW YORK — U.S. fans of the Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen now have a clue about when the vehicle is bound for their local dealership. The automaker on Wednesday set the timetable for the U.S. launch of the car, starting in August with the 2.5-liter Jetta SportWagen that uses the 170-horsepower 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine.

The launch of the base model will be followed with the 2.0T Jetta SportWagen that gets the 200-hp four-cylinder engine in the fall. In early 2008, the Jetta SportWagen will be available with a 2.0-liter clean diesel engine.

Prices have not yet been announced.

The SportWagen's standard features include air-conditioning, anti-theft vehicle alarm, cruise control, CD player, traction control, antilock brakes and eight-way adjustable front seats. A panoramic sunroof is optional.

Ford Flex

Ford's profits might be taking a battering Stateside at the moment, but at least the Blue Oval has proved it can still get some things right with this: the Flex.

Unveiled in New York, Ford is describing the seven-seater as a 'family crossover', but to us it looks like a good ol' Yank station wagon.

That's definitely a good thing. The Flex carries over a healthy dose of the styling from 2005's Fairlane concept... and there's a hint of Mini Clubman about it in that white roof too, we reckon.

Away from the slide-rule styling, there's nothing too ground-breaking about the Flex. It gets a 3.5-litre V6 likely to produce about 260bhp as well as, we're told, a 'class-exclusive refrigerator'.

Yes, it's a fridge that'll chill two litres of liquid in a mere two-and-a-half hours. Obviously this is important to Americans.

We do, however, like the sound of the seven-colour ambient interior lighting, which should appear on next year's Ford Focus as well.

The seven-seater Flex is due to go on sale in the US next summer, but sadly seems unlikely to get anywhere near the UK.

source: topgear

Great Wall Cowry

BAODING, China — Great Wall Auto, which has yet to display its vehicles in North America, is in the process of gradually expanding its product portfolio. China's largest maker of pickup trucks and SUVs last fall displayed three small-car concepts at the Beijing Motor Show, and later this month it will unveil two additional vehicles at the Shanghai show.

In keeping with its colorfully named predecessors (Florid, Cool Bear), the latest Great Wall concepts are dubbed Cowry and i7, although China insiders also know them by their more prosaic development code names of V80 and CH031, respectively.


The Cowry (V80) is a compact four-door MPV that would look right on home on the streets of Tokyo, if not Santa Monica. Fitted with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, it will be priced from $15,500 to $19,400.

The i7 (CH031) is a jaunty five-door hatchback with an exaggerated, oversize grille. It will be offered with a range of four-cylinder gas and diesel engines from 1.2 to 1.5 liters and will be priced from under $15,000.

Both models are scheduled to go on sale in China later this year. They are among five new models that Great Wall plans to exhibit at Shanghai, including a 4x4 edition of the GW Peri minicar.

Great Wall executives say they hope to sell 120,000 vehicles this year, including 80,000 in China and 40,000 overseas. Last year, the company built around 100,000 vehicles, virtually all of them pickups and SUVs.

Hyundai Veloster

SEOUL, S. Korea — The Hyundai Veloster is definitely not your conventional sport coupe.

Unveiled at the annual motor show here, the Veloster concept (known internally as HCD-3) is an oddly styled two-door with 2+2 seating and a panoramic glass roof. The vehicle was styled at Hyundai's Design and Technical Center in Namyang, under the direction of Design Vice President Oh Suk-Geun.

The company says Veloster is aimed at Gen-Y buyers and "combines simple, iconic design with good value and robust construction."

Some styling cues from the Veloster could find their way into the next-generation Hyundai Tiburon.

1966 Volvo Amazon Custom Coupe by Bo Zolland

(from Bo Zolland) This a custom Volvo Coupe design by Bo Zolland for a custom car and Volvo collector in Arizona.

1966 Amazon 2 Door is the base, but with added custom tricks and coupe roof. The front and grille are little modified due to identification visibility. The car will have a Volvo 2004 S-80 T-6 engine/trans and rear wheel drive, modern brakes etc. Air ride suspension and a mix of modern Volvo and Vette components in chassis.

Hartge BMW E93 Coupe-Convertible

MERZIG, Germany — BMW tuning house Hartge has added another potent weapon to its arsenal, with a special edition of the new 3 Series (E93) coupe-convertible.

Hartge offers various stages of tune for both the 335i gas and 330d diesel engines — the former can be boosted to 340 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque, while the latter is pumped up to 270 hp and 436 lb-ft, primarily through modifications to the engine control unit. A stainless steel exhaust system is also available.

An adjustable sport suspension lowers ride height and adds stiffer settings. Hartge wheels shod with Z-rated performance tires are offered in sizes up to 20 inches, with run-flat tires available on request.

Hartge aero body add-ons include a front lip spoiler and carbon casing for the outside mirrors. Even more goodies are available for the interior, including a three-spoke leather steering wheel, carbon trim, aluminum pedals and a choice of a wood or a leather-covered gearshift knob.

Seoul Auto Show: Kia KND-4

SEOUL, S. Korea — Only a few months after the introduction of its Kue concept at the Detroit auto show in January, Kia in Korea has unveiled the KND-4, another take on the future direction of utility vehicles.



The KND-4 "gives a bold hint at how future Kia compact SUV models might look," the company says. The acronym KND indicates the vehicle's origin, at Kia's Namyang Design Center.
The KND-4 is a four-seater with LED headlamps and taillamps, flared wheel arches, wraparound rear glass and 20-inch wheels and tires. Its design cues are likely to find their way into future Kia crossover vehicles.

The cabin is outfitted with the latest in information technology, including an ultrathin LED display, Bluetooth wireless capability and a Blu-Ray DVD player. The floor, instrument panel and door panels have a metallic finish, and the cockpit features indirect lighting.

A 2.2-liter four-cylinder diesel delivers power to all four wheels via active torque transfer.

Lexus Rolls Out Brawny 2008 LX 570

NEW YORK — Lexus took the wraps off its 2008 LX 570 on Wednesday, showing off a refreshed full-size SUV with 5.7-liter V8 and a six-speed automatic transmission, both of which were developed for parent company Toyota's Tundra pickup. The LX 570 arrives in showrooms in early 2008.

Lexus did not announce pricing for the LX 570, but since the outgoing LX 470 starts at $68,110, including a $715 destination charge, it is expected that the new model will start above $70,000.

The outgoing LX 470 was equipped with a 4.7-liter V8 that delivered 268 horsepower and 328 pound-feet of torque. The LX 570's V8 churns out 381 horses and 401 lb-ft of torque. Towing capacity on the LX 470 is 6,500 pounds; towing capacity on the LX 570 is 8,500 pounds.

Lexus carefully revamped its eight-passenger luxury SUV, adding a new suspension, 10 standard airbags and such high-tech features as a new blind-corner monitor feature designed to aid the driver in tight spots such as parking garages. A new Crawl Control feature for increased throttle control when maneuvering over rough surfaces, increased wheel travel and multiterrain antilock brakes are designed to improve the SUV's off-road abilities.

The overall wheelbase of the new LX 570 is the same as its predecessor, but exterior length has increased by 4 inches. Exterior design cues riff off the Lexus L-finesse design theme, "making it more refined and dynamic than its predecessor," said the company.

Options include heated rear seats, a 19-speaker Mark Levinson audio system, a hard disc capable of storing up to 2,000 songs, a rear-seat entertainment system with a 9-inch screen, and Lexus Intuitive Park Assist.

2007 Chevrolet Beat Concept: More Photos!

(from General Motors Press Release) Chevrolet Beat Concept: Micro Import Tuner
NEW YORK – Injo Kim was inspired by everyday heroes when he led the team that designed the Chevrolet Beat concept, which debuts today at the New York Auto Show.

“Every morning when you wake up, you yearn to be a hero that day,” said Kim, assistant manager of the minicar exterior design team at GM’s Design Center in Inchon, South Korea. And in Kim’s mind, that hero is driving the Beat, Chevrolet’s concept interpretation of a micro import tuner that’s “simple, free and casual, with a strong heart.”

The Chevrolet Beat is a front-wheel-drive, three-door hatchback wrapped in a bright Vertigo Green exterior finish that exudes energy and extends into the interior. The overall mood of the exterior and interior design is that of a high-performance, high-tech micro tuner car, with fascias, rocker panels, lamps and wheels enhanced for personalization, a strong trend among buyers in this market.

The Beat exterior lines convey speed, with a fast, dramatic, sloping rake from the top of the rear spoiler down to the hood, and elongated front LED headlamps that seem to extend from the base of the twin-port grille to the A-pillar. Integrated door handles set flush within the B-pillar give the doors a clean, uncluttered look. Big, bold, 17-inch wheels are pushed to the corners, and brake calipers in matching Vertigo Green provide a dash of drama at the wheels. The rear fascia carries Chevrolet’s trademark twin taillamps; these LED lamps are set vertically, extending just under the rear glass.

The high energy continues inside the Tachyon Black/Titanium interior with a wraparound dash in Vertigo Green, and a dashboard that features color-coordinated fabric. The green is further pulled through with contrasting stitching on the fabric and mesh seats. The black headliner features fiber-optic lights that create a “star” effect.

Young buyers expect technology, and the Beat delivers, with a center stack that has a pop-up feature. When pushed up, the door reveals a navigation system and when pushed down it reveals a useful center storage compartment. The premium Alpine sound system features six speakers and a trunk-mounted subwoofer.

“The sound system and the pop-up juke box will always make you the life of the party,” said Sungtae Baek, interior designer for the Chevrolet Beat.

Keeping the Beat on the move is a 1.2-liter turbocharged gas engine mated to an automatic transmission.

Ford Rolls Out "Game Changer" 2009 Flex

NEW YORK — Ford rolled out the 2009 Flex here on Wednesday and said the full-size crossover is designed to be a "game changer" for the company. The Flex, which is the production version of the 2005 Ford Fairlane concept, goes on sale in summer 2008.

The Flex gets the automaker's all-purpose 3.5-liter V6 engine mated to a six-speed transmission. Technical specs have not yet been released, but Ford said in a statement that "The powertrain is expected to deliver more than 260 horsepower, 245 pound-feet of torque and good fuel economy." All-wheel drive will be an option.

The Flex retains some of the town-and-country feeling of the Fairlane concept, with tweed-like fabric and miniature houndstooth inserts for the base Flex SE's seats. The Fairlane emphasized such suburban activities as picnicking, so it's no surprise that the Flex gets such touches as a refrigerator that can hold seven 12-ounce cans. Other details include a multipanel Vista Roof, capless fueling, a 2,300-song personal jukebox and programmable interior lighting. Safety features include standard front-and-side seat-mounted airbags, three-row side curtain airbags and traction control with roll stability control.

Exterior design cues include a horizontal three-bar grille, an all-black greenhouse and standard 18-inch wheels.

Pricing has not yet been announced.

2007 Chevrolet Groove Concept

(from General Motors Press Release)
CHEVROLET GROOVE: PURE ‘FUNKASTALGIA’
NEW YORK – Inspired by a “half-soldier, half-modern” military helmet, the Chevrolet Groove concept is contemporary and funky, but evokes classic Chevrolet heritage design cues like an upright windshield and prominent fender flares that give the Groove a strong, sturdy stance reminiscent of a retro hot rod.

Groove lead exterior designer Jawook Koo, of the GM Design Center in Inchon , South Korea , was seeking a mini design that was big on presence.

“I wanted to get out of the mini vehicles stereotype that is characterized by a weak, insecure and ‘cute’ appearance, so that consumers can feel safe just by looking at the vehicle,” said Koo.

The Groove’s design conveys anything but weakness. The striking matte Lunar Quartz exterior finish contrasts with the strategic use of satin silver exterior chrome details. Big, five-spoke 17-inch wheels pushed all the way to the rear give the impression of a vehicle that’s much longer than it is, thanks to the short-but-pronounced hood and long, flat cabin, a design that provides for a roomy interior. Contrasting Vertigo brake calipers bring additional attention to the big wheels.

The front overhang includes open-air vents that are integrated into the front LED fog lamps, and the elongated front headlamps further “lengthen” the vehicle.

Getting this front-wheel-drive concept in the Groove is a highly efficient, 1-liter diesel engine.

KITT Pontiac

In many millennia, when the aliens finally take over, they will look back on the 1980s as a golden period of human culture. Rubiks cubes, Donkey Kong... and of course KITT from Knight Rider.

And here's your chance to own the coolest car since, erm, ever.

KITT is being sold by Kassabian Motors in California with an asking price just shy of $150,000. That's a mere £75,000 to be the Hoff.

One of only four 'camera cars' used for close-up shots in Knight Rider, the Pontiac TransAm has been restored to full Season 1 specification.

Sadly, that specification seems unlikely to include KITT's molecular bonded shell (impenetrable to almost all forms of conventional firearms and explosives), pyroclastic lamination, etymotic equaliser or ultramagnesium charges, which all appeared at some point during Knight Rider.

However, KITT does feature a pair of operational dashboard televisions - one connected to a camera on the nose of the car, and another hooked up to a hidden DVD player. DVD player? In 1982? We knew KITT was advanced, but...

source: topgear

Fourth-Generation BMW M3 Debuts

MUNICH, Germany — Less than four weeks after it was unveiled in concept-car form BMW has pulled the wraps off the definitive production version of its new M3. The muscular-looking two-door, planned to go on sale in North America as a 2009 model following a planned public debut at September's Frankfurt Motor Show, is the fourth iteration of BMW's original motorsport-inspired coupe.

If it looks familiar, that's because the production car is a virtual carbon copy of the earlier concept shown at the Geneva auto show last month. The two share the same styling and design features, down to the finest detail.

The new M3 is once again based on the 3 Series coupe. However, a host of visual modifications make it appear more athletic than its standard sibling. They include a deep front spoiler, a distinctive power dome in the hood, chrome air vents behind the front wheel arches, new exterior mirror housings, widened fenders and four chromed tailpipes. It is all set off by new 18-inch forged alloy wheels and a lightweight carbon-fiber-reinforced roof that helps to lower the crucial center of gravity. The new model is slightly enlarged to provide it with an aggressive hunkered-down stance befitting its reputation as one of the world's most distinguished performance cars.

In a move aimed at extending the new M3's appeal, BMW plans to follow up the introduction of the coupe model revealed here with sedan, cabriolet and wagon variants, each sharing the same mechanical package but with individually tuned suspensions.

Powering the latest incarnation of the M3 is a new 4.0-liter V8 engine derived from the 5.0-liter V10 unit used in the larger M5. The engine kicks out a solid 420 horsepower at 8,300 rpm and 295 pound-feet of torque at 3,900 rpm — an increase of 77 hp and 25 lb-ft to make this the most powerful M3 ever.

At the moment, BMW has confirmed just one gearbox for the new M3: a reworked version of the outgoing model's six-speed manual fitted with the lower 3.86:1 final drive. BMW had been expected to also offer the option of a seven-speed sequential manual gearbox, as on the M5. However, it appears this will not be the case. Instead, the German carmaker is said to be planning the introduction of an all-new double-clutch gearbox for later this year, possibly on the M3.

With a claimed time of 4.8 seconds from zero to 60 mph, the manual version of the new M3 outsprints its predecessor to the tune of 0.4 second. Top speed remains limited to 155 mph. However, the new car is geared to run to over 175 mph without electronic intervention.

2007 Project Kahn Bentley Continental GT

(from Project Kahn Press Release) Project Kahn: Mission Statement

Few break free from the pressures of conformity to the accepted rules, to do so convention must be challenged, and existence redefined. Once boundaries are rejected it is possible to believe that the world can be changed.

Kahn Alloy Wheels

In the design of most wheels form follows function. In the design of Kahn wheels, form is the function. This is because at Kahn design it is not about racing, it is all about design. The Kahn philosophy is based on the rule that only the best is good enough. As opposed to other manufacturers that release many designs into the market every year; Kahn chooses to present only one or two designs a year. This is because Kahn spend many months fine tuning their designs until every shape, curve and line are perfect to their application.

Kahn Styling Accessories

This is also true for Project Kahn vehicle body styling accessories. Each individual accessory is created with a unique application in mind. This ensures a perfect fit which not only provides optimum aesthetics and optimum safety.

Newly developed by Project Kahn is an eight-piece body which consists of a three piece rear valance, two side skirts, a two piece front valance and a rear boot spoiler. This kit has been developed by the specialist Project Kahn team and has undergone many hours of testing not only to ensure safety but also to ensure that a perfect fit and look is achieved for each and every car.

This body kit accentuates the cars already stunning exterior and provides an aggressive look that is not matched by any other manufacturer worldwide. The reason this kit has been developed is to cater for our customers constant demands for exclusive vehicles with that ‘little extra something’. It is this ‘little extra something’ that can make or break a vehicle such as this and in this case it definitely makes it.

Club Racer-Inspired 2008 Honda S2000 CR Prototype Makes World Debut at the 2007 New York International Auto Show

Honda S2000 CR Prototype

The club racer-inspired 2008 Honda S2000 CR Prototype making its world debut at the 2007 New York International Auto Show (NYIAS) introduces a higher level of track-worthy performance and style to the S2000 roadster, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced today.

The Honda S2000 CR will be available as an entirely new S2000 trim level when it goes on sale in the fall of 2007. The lighter, stiffer and more aggressive overall design is engineered to maximize the S2000's potential on a racetrack with the goal of substantially-improving track times, chassis balance and feel. The factory-tuned roadster provides highly-aggressive suspension settings, increased body and chassis rigidity, overall weight reduction and an aerodynamic body kit dialed-in for reduced lift. An aluminum hardtop replaces the convertible soft top as standard equipment.

"The Honda S2000 CR is the closest thing you can get to a Honda-built racecar with license plate holders and a horn," said John Mendel, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "Its features and equipment are designed to appeal to weekend club racing enthusiasts."

The full-body aerodynamic package reduces lift through large and highly-tuned front and rear spoilers. Exclusive chassis features include a quicker steering ratio, Bridgestone Potenza RE070 tires, a wider rear tire size, firmer springs and dampers, larger stabilizer bars and a new wheel design in a dark gray color.

Substantial structural bracing has been added to the storage area previously occupied by the soft top, resulting in additional rigidity. The aluminum hard top replaces the soft top of the conventional Honda S2000, resulting in an overall weight savings of approximately 90 pounds when removed (relative to the current S2000).

The exclusive interior is highlighted by unique cloth seating surfaces with yellow stitching, a unique spherical aluminum shifter and carbon fiber-style trim panels. Air conditioning and an AM/FM Stereo with CD player are optional equipment. Standard features for the Honda S2000 include 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels, ABS and Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA). While VSA serves to effectively enhance driver control during acceleration, braking, and cornering, the system can be disabled with the touch of a button when conditions warrant it.

Widely considered the quintessential roadster-style sports car, the Honda S2000 is the performance icon for the Honda brand and combines uncompromising racetrack-ready performance with everyday usability. The Honda S2000 rewards driving enthusiasts with a potent 2.2-liter, 16-valve DOHC VTEC® 4-cylinder engine and a precise, short throw 6-speed manual transmission, along with tenacious handling and a perfect 50/50 weight balance.

The renowned high-revving engine delivers 237 horsepower at 7,800 rpm and 162 lb-ft. of torque at 6,800 rpm. Perfectly complimenting the engine's output characteristics is a compact, longitudinally-mounted, close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission that features a direct linkage for precise shifting and quick throws. Combined with a front and rear double wishbone suspension, precise electric power steering, and a torque-sensing limited slip differential, the end result is a complete, no compromise, performance package for the enthusiast driver.

For more information about Honda vehicles, please visit www.honda.com

Source: Honda

2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee Offers All-new Engine, Refreshed Interior and Exterior and More Premium Amenities

• All-new 4.7-liter V-8 engine delivers increased horsepower and torque, improved fuel economy
• Refreshed exterior and interior design stays true to its authentic Jeep(R) character with signature seven-slot grille, trapezoidal wheel openings and attention to rich details and craftsmanship
• Jeep Grand Cherokee is available with all-new SIRIUS Backseat TV(TM)
• Even more innovative, premium amenities are available, including MyGIG(TM) Multimedia Infotainment System, HID auto-leveling headlamps and heated first- and second-row seats

The Jeep(R) brand unveiled today the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee that features an all-new 4.7-liter V-8 engine that delivers a 30 percent increase in horsepower, a 10 percent increase in torque and improved fuel economy compared with the engine it replaces. The 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee also offers a refreshed interior and exterior design and a host of innovative premium amenities, including one not found on other full-size sport-utility vehicles (SUV) on the road today - SIRIUS Backseat TV(TM). The vehicle will arrive at Jeep dealerships starting this fall.

"With a choice of five engines, three four-wheel-drive systems and more premium amenities than ever before, the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee sets the benchmark for full-size SUVs just as it did when it debuted in 1992," said John Plecha, Director -- Jeep Brand Marketing and Global Communications. "Now available with SIRIUS Backseat TV, the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee just made road trips or short trips with kids even more enjoyable."

Only Full-Size SUV with Five Engine Offerings

The 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee is the only vehicle with a choice of five engine offerings:

• Award-winning 3.0-liter common rail diesel V-6 engine -- Now available on Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited and Overland
• 3.7-liter V-6 engine -- Standard on Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo
• All-new 4.7-liter V-8 engine -- Standard on Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited
• 5.7-liter V-8 HEMI(R) engine -- Available on Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited, standard on Overland
• 6.1-liter HEMI V-8 engine -- Standard on Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8

All-new for 2008 is the 4.7-liter V-8 engine that offers better fuel economy, power and torque than the previous 4.7-liter engine, while at the same time delivering improvements in refinement.

The new 4.7-liter V-8 incorporates two spark plugs per cylinder (the only Chrysler Group engine to do so, other than the 5.7-liter HEMI), increased compression ratio, improved cylinder-head port flow and a new combustion system. The result is 305 horsepower (227kW), a 30 percent increase, and 334 lb.-ft. of torque (453 N*m), a 10 percent increase over the previous 4.7-liter V-8 engine. And, like the engine it replaces, the new 4.7-liter V-8 engine is flex-fuel capable, which gives customers the ability to use up to an 85 percent concentration of ethanol (E85) to fuel their vehicles.

Improvements in the new 4.7-liter V-8 result from significant revisions to the induction system, a lightweight piston/rod assembly and reduced accessory drive noise through lower accessory drive speed. Engine smoothness at idle is enhanced with a new cam design, two spark plugs per cylinder and a valve-lash adjuster system. The new 4.7-liter V-8 also is equipped with electronic throttle control.

First to Offer All-new SIRIUS Backseat TV

The Chrysler Group will be the first and only auto manufacturer to offer SIRIUS Backseat TV in its 2008 model year vehicle lineup, including the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee.

SIRIUS Backseat TV features three channels of respected children's TV featuring many of the most well-known kids' programming, including Nickelodeon, Disney Channel and Cartoon Network. Rear-seat passengers will be able to watch shows such as Nickelodeon's "SpongeBob SquarePants," Disney Channel's "Hannah Montana" and Cartoon Network's "Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends."

SIRIUS Backseat TV operates via an in-vehicle satellite video receiver and two small roof-mounted antennas. Programming is displayed on the vehicle's second-row (except minivan: second- and/or third-row) video screen, and channel name, program title and rating will be broadcast and displayed on the screen. For added flexibility, rear-seat passengers can enjoy SIRIUS Backseat TV while front-seat occupants listen to SIRIUS Satellite Radio. The system can be operated from either the rear-seat entertainment unit or the radio head unit. In addition, when the vehicle is in park, programming can be displayed on the MyGIG screen for front-seat viewing.

Innovative Premium Amenities

Along with SIRIUS Backseat TV, the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee includes a variety of premium amenities that are new for 2008, including the new MyGIG(TM) Multimedia Infotainment System that has a built-in navigation, audio, entertainment and communication system. MyGIG enables customers to use touch-screen or voice commands to control all of the features, and includes a 20-gigabyte hard drive where music and photos can be stored. There's space reserved on the hard drive for approximately 1,600 songs; that's over 100 hours of music. There also is a voice-memo recorder feature. MyGIG supports real-time traffic information, available through SIRIUS Satellite Radio, and can provide an alternate drive route based on current traffic.

Also new on the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee are high-intensity discharge (HID) auto-leveling headlamps. HID auto-leveling headlamps provide approximately three times the light output of conventional reflector lamps for improved nighttime illumination. The auto-leveling feature automatically adjusts the headlamps to the vehicle pitch depending on the load and number of passengers in the vehicle. This feature also benefits oncoming traffic as the system prevents drivers from being distracted by glare from the headlamps. The auto-leveling feature is only available with HID headlamps.

ParkView(TM) Rear Back-up Camera (with or without navigation), ParkSense(R) Rear Back-up System, SmartBeam(R) headlamps, rain-sensing wipers, memory seats and mirrors, iPod connectivity and 18-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels also are part of the vehicle's available features and options.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee also features three new safety and security technologies for 2008: Hill Descent Control, Hill Start Assist and Trailer Sway Control.

Hill Descent Control (HDC) is standard on Grand Cherokee 4x4 models. Operational in the "4WD Low" position, HDC provides downhill assistance at a controlled rate of speed. By means of electronic brake control, HDC supplements the gear reduction and engine braking that a traditional mechanical low-range transfer case provides. For ease of operation, Grand Cherokee's HDC is activated and deactivated automatically, after the HDC button is engaged, as the system senses changes in topography. The system works whether the vehicle is in forward or reverse.

The available Hill Start Assist (HSA) allows the driver time to transition from brake to throttle to achieve a smooth launch on a grade. The system will hold brake pressure for two seconds upon the driver's release of the brake pedal. The ABS system decreases wheel pressure in response to increasing throttle to provide a smooth launch.

Trailer Sway Control is optional on all Grand Cherokee models. This system reduces trailer sway and provides improved trailer stability and increased towing safety.

Refreshed Exterior and Interior

With its upright and substantial posture, the Jeep Grand Cherokee's design offers an athletic and contemporary appearance. The grille has been lengthened, and the headlamps are more circular for a more dominant and expressive front view. A new HID headlamp, optional on Limited and standard on Overland, includes an internal optic lens for the park/turn function. Fog lamps also have also been lowered for enhanced performance. Off-road enthusiasts will be pleased with the new two-piece front fascia, allowing for the entire lower piece to be removed before hitting the off-road trails.

On the inside, the vehicle's two-tone instrument panel features a new level of refinement with bright accents, a soft-touch surface and updated styling. A new tilt and telescoping steering column is standard, with a new steering wheel that includes bright accent bezels, which house the electronic vehicle information center's switches. The Limited model's steering wheel adds two-tone leather and bright chrome accent rings, and the Overland features a real wood rim for added luxury. Also new is the updated line of instrument clusters that feature new brighter LED illumination, with the Limited and Overland models receiving a modern and elegant treatment where, when the vehicle is started, the dark-tinted lens fades to reveal chrome-ringed black gauges that are surrounded by a bright silver accent field. The new floor console has improved cup holders and a new leather-wrapped and chrome-accented parking brake handle. The door panels have new armrests for improved ergonomics and comfort. New for the Overland model are the new saddle perforated leather seats that feature accent piping for an even more upscale look.

Jeep Brand

The Jeep brand has seven models in the 2007 model year, the most available to retail consumers at one time in its 65-year-plus history.

The expansion of the Jeep brand has taken place in just two years. At the start of 2004, the brand's trio of tough, capable, rugged SUVs included the venerable Jeep Grand Cherokee, Jeep Liberty (Cherokee outside North America) and the icon of the brand, the Jeep Wrangler.

In 2005, the Jeep Commander was introduced. In 2006, the redesigned Jeep Wrangler was unveiled. Also debuting in 2006 were three more all-new Jeep vehicles: Jeep Patriot, Jeep Compass and the four-door Jeep Wrangler Unlimited.

Source: Chrysler Group

Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen Makes U.S. Debut at New York International Auto Show

Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen (PRNewsFoto/Volkswagen of America, Inc., Derek Lepper)

The VW Jetta SportWagen, a sporty and dynamic wagon version of Volkswagen's top-selling model, made its U.S. debut today at the New York International Auto Show (NYIAS). The Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen mixes practicality with European style and balances both elegance and sportiness. Its exceptional ride and handling and segment-leading safety features, along with its design are perfect for those with an active lifestyle.

Delivering performance and value, the Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen will be offered with three engine variations. The VW Jetta SportWagen will launch with an upgraded 2.5-liter, five cylinder engine that now produces 170 horsepower. The 2.5L Jetta SportWagen arrives in dealerships this August, and will be followed with the 2.0T, four cylinder engine that produces 200 hp. In early 2008 the Jetta SportWagen will be available with a 2.0L clean diesel engine.

Aside from offering the sporty feel and fun to drive performance of a Volkswagen Jetta, the SportWagen opens up a new world of possibilities in the way of usable cargo room- 32.8 cubic feet to be exact, or an even more impressive 66.9 cubic feet with the rear seat folded down. For those whose active lifestyle requires even more room, there is an optional fold-flat front passenger seat that provides additional cargo space. Fold-flat front passenger seat is available with "V-Tex" leatherette seating.

Like the Volkswagen Jetta, the SportWagen continues the Volkswagen tradition of offering a long list of standard equipment. Some of the many standard features include: air conditioning, anti-theft vehicle alarm, cruise control, CD player, traction control, four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, eight-way adjustable front seats with height, angle and lumbar support adjustments, and a height-and-telescoping steering wheel. Available as an option on the Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen is a panoramic sunroof. The panoramic sunroof offers its passengers an impressive 12.7 square feet of either daylight or starlight, providing them an open air connection with the outdoors.

The Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen also enjoys a long list of standard safety features such as: driver and front passenger front airbags, driver and front passenger side thorax airbags, Side Curtain Protection(R), and rear-impact optimized head restraints on driver and front passenger seat.

Founded in 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc. is headquartered in Auburn Hills, Michigan. It is a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG, headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany. Volkswagen is one of the world's largest producers of passenger cars and Europe's largest automaker. Volkswagen sells the Volkswagen Rabbit, Volkswagen New Beetle, VW New Beetle convertible, Volkswagen GTI, Volkswagen Jetta, Volkswagen GLI, Volkswagen Passat, Volkswagen Passat wagon, Volkswagen Eos, and Volkswagen Touareg through approximately 600 independent U.S. dealers.

Visit Volkswagen of America online at http://www.vw.com/

"Side Curtain Protection' is a registered trademark of Volkswagen of America. All other trademarks used in this document are the property of their respective owners.


Source: Volkswagen of America, Inc.

Infiniti EX Concept Features Coupe-Inspired SUV Design, World Debut of Two Advanced Technologies at NYIAS

Stylish Design Concept Previews New Infiniti Production Crossover SUV

Infiniti EX Concept (PRNewsFoto/Nissan North America)

The Infiniti EX Concept, which makes its world debut at the 2007 New York International Auto Show (NYIAS), follows in the tradition of previous Infiniti design studies with its combination of seductive design, elegant interior and advanced technology systems - including an advanced Around View Monitor (AVM) and Lane Departure Prevention (LDP) system. And, like many of the Infiniti concepts that have come before, the new EX Concept is a very real preview of an upcoming production vehicle - the 2008 Infiniti EX crossover SUV.

"The Infiniti FX, Infiniti M and most recently the new 2008 Infiniti G Coupe, can all trace their evolution from show stoppers to Infiniti showrooms in a short period of time," said Mark Igo, vice president and general manager, Infiniti Division, Nissan North America, Inc. "With this stunning Infiniti EX Concept, we're pleased to announce that along with the basic exterior and interior designs, the production Infiniti EX will include much of the EX Concept's innovative technology, including the Around View Monitor and Lane Departure Prevention."

Coupe-Inspired Exterior

The Infiniti EX Concept's sculpted elegance expresses a timeless appeal - sleek lines that portray speed, grace and finesse. Its layout combines the look and feel of a luxury coupe - including short front and rear overhangs - and the ample interior roominess, optimized seating height and luggage space of an SUV.

"The Infiniti EX Concept is the perfect fusion of a luxury coupe and a high-utility SUV," said Igo. "Its 'right-sized' packaging gives it excellent around town maneuverability, while the wide rear hatch and low load floor make it a versatile performer for everyday and weekend use."

The Infiniti EX Concept exterior includes many signature Infiniti touches, including the double-arch grille, large L-shaped headlights with Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS), integrated fog lights, distinctive LED taillights and "dynamic arch" profile. The exterior also features a high-mounted rear hatchback spoiler.

Special features created especially for the Infiniti EX Concept are the all-in-one sash-style side door mirrors with integrated LED turn signals and electric outside door handles with push switches. The Infiniti EX Concept also includes paint and 19-inch 7-spoke aluminum alloy wheels mounted with 245/55R19 tires.

The most striking exterior design element of the Infiniti EX Concept is its dramatic liquid crystal full-length glass roof panel that is able to change from transparent to translucent via input from a special touch sensor system.

"The Infiniti EX Concept's glass roof technology is a fascinating study in how technology can be utilized to change the entire interior atmosphere of a vehicle by adding or subtracting not just light, but the occupants' view of the outside world," said Igo.

Elegant Interior Design

Like all Infiniti vehicles, the Infiniti EX Concept is conceived to offer a reinvigorating and engaging interior environment, one that is both indulgent and inspiring. The "wave-inspired" cabin layout is focused on the driver, with easy-to-read high-contrast gauges with violet-color illumination and an electric soft-touch shifter system.

The Infiniti EX Concept's rich, leather-appointed and aluminum-alloy trimmed interior also offers plenty of passenger luxury - with deep, supportive seats and an ambient lighting system that includes special indirect headrest illumination.

A large, leather-appointed center console box provides utility for driver and front passenger, while the instrument panel includes a wide LCD monitor and signature Infiniti analog clock. The advanced audio system includes aluminum speaker finishers, matching the door-side trim. The roomy rear cargo area combines function with design with its aluminum-alloy flooring with luggage rails.

"The Infiniti EX Concept's interior is all about driving pleasure and passenger comfort," said Igo. "Like the exterior, it offers a coupe-like feel but surprising utility - ideal for today's active lifestyles."

Advanced Platform and Powertrain

Under the EX Concept's dramatic body is an equally advanced platform and powertrain based on the latest Infiniti production hardware. Its advanced FM platform provides the same high levels of handling precision and balance as it does for the Infiniti M, FX and G Coupe and Sedan. For use in the Infiniti EX Concept, the wheelbase has been shortened to 112.0 inches for a small turning radius, while the rear multi-link suspension utilizes a low shock absorber layout to enhance cargo area utility. It rides on 19-inch 7-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels with 245/55R19 tires.

The Infiniti EX Concept is powered by a V6 engine, coupled to a 5-speed automatic transmission. The Infiniti EX Concept also includes an all-wheel drive system.

The World Debut of Two New Technologies

The Infiniti EX Concept's advanced technology design is highlighted by two systems that are expected to be the first production versions in the world when the new Infiniti EX goes on sale in North America in late 2007.

The Infiniti Around View Monitor utilizes small front, side and rear- mounted cameras to project an all-around view of potential objects on every side of the vehicle - helping reduce blind spots when parking.

"Conventional mirrors, no matter how carefully you use them, just can't provide a view around the vehicle that the Around View Monitor's four-camera system does," said Igo. "Rear bumper sonar systems help detect objects behind a vehicle, but again they can't give the view of the space around the vehicle that the AVM does."

The Lane Departure Prevention system builds on the Lane Departure Warning (LDW) system that is currently available on the Infiniti FX and M. Rather than just use an audible/visual warning system to alert the driver of unintentional vehicle movement outside the designated lane, the LDP system uses the vehicle's Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system to help assist the driver in maintaining lane position if the vehicle inadvertently starts to drift outside of the lane.

Both Lane Departure Prevention and the LDW systems use a small camera installed behind the windshield to detect lane markers in front of the vehicle and calculate its position relative to lane markers and warn the driver of lane drift (pending lane change without use of the turn signal) with a visual display and audible buzzer.

If the driver does not return the vehicle in the direction of the center of the travel lane, the LDP system assists the driver by using gentle control (generating part of the necessary yaw movement), using the VDC's brake actuator to control the brake pressure of each individual wheel to generate the intended movement.

"Infiniti has taken a leadership position in offering the first production Lane Departure Warning systems for production vehicles. We're now poised to take the next big step with the upcoming EX's Lane Departure Prevention system," said Igo. "We're confident that the production Infiniti EX will be just as stylish, dramatic, luxurious and innovative as this Infiniti EX Concept show vehicle. The line continues to be drawn."

The Infiniti EX Concept was created at the Nissan Technical Center in Atsugi, Japan.

About Infiniti

Infiniti offers a full-line of luxury performance automobiles, including the Infiniti G sports coupe and sedan, the Infiniti M luxury performance sedan, Infiniti FX premium crossover SUV, and the Infiniti QX full-size luxury SUV.

More information about Infiniti and its total ownership experience can be found at www.Infiniti.com


Source: Nissan North America

Kia Soul Will Join Kia Line-up in 2008 as a 2009 Model

Kia Motors America Will Introduce Consumers to Its Newest Crossover Vehicle

Kia Motors has announced that the Kia Soul crossover concept, which is on display at the New York International Auto Show, will go into production in 2008 as a 2009 model year vehicle. (PRNewsFoto/Kia Motors America)

Kia Motors America (KMA) will add another vehicle to its line-up in 2008, the Kia Soul crossover utility vehicle (CUV). Announced at this year's North American International Auto Show in Detroit that it will become a production vehicle, the Kia Soul was originally unveiled as a concept car during the 2006 Detroit show. A collaborative effort between Kia's design studio in California and design studio in Korea, it will go on sale at the end of 2008.

"The Kia Soul's aggressive and youthful styling is raising the bar for vehicles in its segment, and we are excited that it will be joining the ever-expanding Kia line-up in 2008," said Len Hunt, executive vice president and COO of KMA. "The flexibility, function and utility this vehicle provides, as well as its dynamic appearance, further demonstrate Kia's commitment to producing vehicles that create passion with consumers."

Exterior Design with Attitude

The architecture of the Kia Soul's stance is reflective of its sporting and confident character. A wrap-around windshield, muscular wheel flares, stylish front headlamps and a sloped roofline help convey Soul's athletic appearance, which is geared toward satisfying customers with an active lifestyle. The Soul's exterior exudes an athletic presence, while several design cues lend a svelte, edgy look indicative of urban attitude.

Atop the sloped roofline is an automatic panoramic sun/moon roof. The front section of the panoramic roof slides backward and fits over of the rear section allowing for open-air driving with unobstructed views for both front and rear passengers. Also up top are roof racks integrated into the Kia Soul's design with rails for sliding objects forward and backward.

Stylish Yet Functional Touches

A symmetrical combination headlight design incorporates the headlamps and grille opening in a functional layout, while the front brush guard with integrated fog lamps is functional and helps convey the Kia Soul's SUV toughness. Side vents add some character while helping to cool the engine compartment.

The Kia Soul's side panel construction was designed with safety in mind and is strong enough to allow "freestyle" passenger doors (rear-hinged in back) that, when opened, reveal the lack of a B pillar, which makes for easier ingress and egress. High taillight placement lends to a contemporary look but also to better visibility and safety for occupants.

A rear brush guard smoothly envelopes the license plate underneath a power lift gate activated by the key fob. And the rear lift gate includes a unique backpack compartment that can be configured to accommodate an individual's active lifestyle needs; it folds out like a mail slot for wet or muddy items such as a wetsuit and hiking shoes, or even a skateboard depending on its configuration.

Looking Deep into the Soul

The Kia Soul's interior was inspired by high-quality audio equipment, with the front dash designed around the fr