Cars Heaven

Looking for a Job????

2011-06-27T13:13:00.000-07:00

"Looking for a Job? Can't find an appropriate one? Wait! Here's a treasure for Job-Hunters!http://izeks.com/jobs/Realjobs.htm"

It can be really difficult for one to get a job but not Now!

CLICK THE LINK ABOVE - Discover THE TREASURE!

Electronic Arts releases Ferrari download pack for Need For Speed Shift

2010-02-11T15:30:00.000-08:00

In terms of overall playability, the Need For Speed Shift is as good as Microsoft’s Forza 3 and probably that of Gran Turismo 5. But while the other two games are the ones that draw all the attention, NFS Shift is slowly but surely gaining some ground on its aforementioned competitors.

But if you’ve played NFS Shift, you’re going to notice that a particular car brand is noticeably missing from the roster of cars available in the game. Fret no more because Need For Speed Shift will finally make Ferraris available through a downloadable pack that should be made available on Xbox Live on February 16.

Among the Ferraris included in this new DC are the FXX, F50GT, 599GTB Fiorano, California, 575 Superamerica and five variants of the F430: Spider, Scuderia, 16M Scuderia Spider, Challenge and GTC

In addition to having your own Ferraris, the DC also comes with 46 special challenges uniquely created for just Ferrari, including eliminators, endurance races, hot laps, and a world tour.

Downloading these Ferraris to your game will cost you $10, or if you’ve saved yourself enough Microsoft Points, you can get them for a pauper’s price of just 800 points.

BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics ready for Production????

2010-02-01T13:53:00.000-08:00

Unveiled back at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show, the BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics is now rumored to entering production. According to sources at InsideLine, BMW will produce between 5,000 and 10,000 units of the 21st century plug in hybrid keeping the same diesel burning and electric poer train combination. According to the same sources at Edmunds, this might be the second true production super car after the M1, but "there will be less of the synthetic glass and more solid structure added to the final design." We expect the production version of the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics 2+2 seater plug in hybrid to debut sometime in 2012.

Powered by a three cylinder turbo diesel power plant combined with two electric motors for a maximum output of 356 HP and 590 lb-ft of peak torque. This ensures that the new 2+2 will consume 75.1 MPG and emit only 99 grams/km of CO2 while being able to accelerate from 0 to 60 MPH in just 4.8 seconds and reach a very green top speed of 155 MPH.

BBC hopes to launch Top Gear video game

2010-01-29T14:22:00.000-08:00

BBC – yes, that BBC – is venturing into the video game industry with a few games planned for the iPhone, the Nintendo DS, and the Nintendo Wii. One title that’s being considered to make an appearance on these platforms is the network’s top-rated auto magazine show, Top Gear.

Reports are still scarce as of the moment but according to Neil Ross Russell, Managing Director for BBC Worldwide, the arm that handles BBC’s commercial endeavours, said that the network is “open to conversations in games about all kinds of business models.” In addition to the Nintendo platforms, BBC is also looking into producing games for the iPhone and Facebook, two platforms that have recently been a goldmine for game developers.

The hiring of former senior EA games executive, Rober Nashak, to head up its digital entertainment division is a step in the right direction for BBC, which is hoping that having Nashak on-board will help the network successfully break into the video game industry.

Gemballa MIG-U1

2010-01-13T02:01:00.000-08:00

Whenever we hear the word Gemballa, thoughts of highly modified Porsche Cayeness and super tuned Carrera GT comes to our minds, however it comes at no surprise that this Gundam winged Ferrari Enzo super car comes from the same stable as Tornados and Mirages. The Gemballa MIG-U1 will be limited to only 25 units, every single one of them being individually adjusted.

Gemballa is remaining a bit tight lipped about the specifics surrounding the MIG U1 and won’t reveal any of the tuned super car’s official details until the invitation only launch in Dubai. The kit looks like it started as a take on Ferrari’s FXX program and then morphed into something more reminiscent of a stealth bomber with its pronounced wing and assortment of scoops all covered in a coat of Championship White. On the inside, the Enzo’s business only attitude has been given a bit of a plush makeover with special quilted red Alcantara covering the seats, steering wheel and interior trim as well as an in dash LCD screen to control the MIG’s in car entertainment system. Once again the German tuner has shown us their ability to take an already attractive high performance machine and completely transform it into something unrecognizably out of this world.

2010 300S8 Chrysler

2010-01-10T02:15:00.000-08:00

Chrysler will unveil at the Detroit Auto Show the 2010 300 offered in two trim levels: 300 S6 and 300 S8. Sales will begin in the spring of 2010.

The 2010 300 will feature full-chromed grilles and fascia accents for blacked-out grilles with chromed surround and body-color fascia accents. Both models will be offered with 20-inch polished face wheels with painted pockets.

The 300 S6 will be offered with a 3.5-liter high-output V-6 engine with Auto Stick that delivers a total of 250 hp. The 300 S8 version gets a 5.7-liter HEMI V8 engine that delivers a total of 360 hp and a peak torque of 389 lb.-ft.

Both models will be offered with all the latest technologies: a 13-speaker Kicker audio system with a 322-watt amplifier and 100-watt subwoofer, Uconnect™ Phone, iPod® Control and SIRIUS Satellite Radio.

2010 Lambo Superleggera

2010-01-08T01:11:00.000-08:00

Despite the rumors of the Italian super car maker Lamborghini making a Super Veloce Gallardo, the raging bull is going to bring a factory tuned version of their more compact dream machine to market, but it won’t be wearing an SV logo. Instead the new car will focus on reducing weight as a means of going faster and will be appropriately named the LP570-4 Superleggera when the car makes its official debut in march at the Geneva Motor Show. We won’t come across any official images until a little closer to the reaveal, but thanks to the creative mind of JonSibal we can show you this rendering of what the upcoming Superleggera should look like.

The new Lamborghini LP570-4 Superleggera will weigh in at around 140 pounds less then the standard version while packing an extra 10 HP as well. The new figures will leave the LP with a much more favorable power to weight ratio and is expected to be capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 MPH in only 3.5 seconds.

Mazda RX-9

2010-01-03T03:00:00.000-08:00

Just before Christmas the report was that Mazda RX-7 will be revealed in 2011 and it will replace the RX-8 sports car. Now, according to Cars UK, Mazda will also reveal the RX-9, a sports car, that according to the British magazine makes "more sense."

Of course is not the first time you hear about a possible RX-9, first rumors appeared at the beginning of the year. The RX-9 will be powered by a Renesis 16X engine that will deliver a total of 350 hp. The car could also take advantage of new technology that would improve the fuel consumption by twenty percent of the traditionally gas-hungry rotary engine.

Bugatti by JMV Designs!

2009-12-31T00:46:00.000-08:00

Even if the exotic French automaker Bugatti has yet to announce the fate of a successor for the Veyron super car, that hasn’t stopped outside sources from dreaming up their own next generation 250 MPH+ dream machine. Take these renderings from the Canadian John Mark Vicente, a graduate of the Communication Design program at Emily Carr University. His creation is called called Renaissance and these wild computer aided renderings take all of the current Bugatti’s design cues that have become synonymous with the 1001 HP Veyron like the overall double bubble shape and signature twin air scoops protruding through the roof in order to ingest clean air at insanely fast speeds.

John Mark takes the Veyron to the next level with a full iRobot treatment by adding a new aggressive nose with much more angular LED headlamps, snarling snout and a more pronounced diffuser that looks to have been made from carbon fiber. Speaking of the lightweight wavy black stuff, the Renaissance also shows off its carbon construction with the A-pillars that sweep back into the forward section of the roof as well as with its rear flanks. Out back the forward thinking Bugatti trades in the Veyron’s curves for a much more angular rear end that matches the nose, while the larger diameter rims dress the would be super car up from every angle.

Ralf Shumacher wants to return in F1!!!!

2009-12-29T05:02:00.000-08:00

Ralf Schumacher wants to emulate his brother Michael by making a return to Formula One next season.

The younger Schumacher last raced in 2007 for Toyota and has raced in the German DTM touring cars for the last two years for Mercedes. But Schumacher told German newspaper Bild that he is ready to give up his DTM seat if an attractive F1 seat was to be offered to him.

"I have noticed that the Formula One fire is once again burning within me," he said. "I can understand Michael's decision 100 per cent and I would not have hesitated for a second. You can't stop the passion: racing was and is our life and we have always looked for challenges."

Schumacher won six grand prix in nine years and admitted his reputation had been damaged by his lacklustre spell at Toyota. The 34-year-old also confirmed he had already turned down an offer to race for one of F1's four new teams next season.

"The challenge must be the right one," he said. "There is no point signing a second-best contract, and it's not about the money but whether together we would be able to achieve something. For me the Toyota years are in the past. I know what I can do and I feel good and ready."

Bat Limo in real!!!!

2009-12-28T03:04:00.000-08:00

The closest thing to a real life Gotham City we have right now is New York City, and it only seems appropriate that you’d find at least one Batmobile patrolling the Big Apple’s streets these days.

This one - while sporting the look of the iconic Batmobile of the two Tim Burton-directed Batman movies of the early 90’s – though, is a little bit more stretched than what we’re used to from the Caped Crusader’s official ride.

But then again, this is New York City, a place where the only thing predictable about it is its unpredictability; spotting the BatLimo running around its streets is hardly surprising to us.

We’re just disappointed that those flame burners are just for decorations; it would’ve been awesome if they actually worked.

Next Lambo Superleggera

2009-12-27T04:40:00.000-08:00

According to rumours hardcore version of LP560-4 is planned soon. The name of the 2007 Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera successor will be LP570-4 SV and it packs less weight, only 10hp more and a stripped-down interior. Reworked front suspension and CC brakes are expected also.

The brand new supercar will feature a new front spoiler with similar style as the LP670-4 SV and a large rear wing like the Supertrofeo G. That is really it, nothing revolutionary.

Dealers and VIP customers will be able to see the hardcore version of the current Gallardo at a presentation event next January. The public unveiling is expected for the Geneva Motor Show 2010. Deliveries to customers start from May 2010.

But this isn’t the complete story! This SV-version will not be the last version in the Gallardo LP560-4 series, a fifth and final hardcore rearwheel drive version will come later next year or early 2011 to keep production running until 2012 when the Gallardo successor is expected.

So prepare yourself for a LP570-4 SV in 2010 and a LP590-2 SV in 2011!

2013 Nissan GT-R Hybrid

2009-12-24T01:45:00.000-08:00

A few days ago we announced that the next generation Nissan GT-R set to be unveiled in 2013 will be offered straight from the factory with a hybrid drivetrain option, and it might not be quite as new as you think. Thanks to our friends at Inside Line. we have learned that the future hybrid GT-R was on display earlier this year in Geneva and was shown under the guise of the Infiniti Essence concept. When we finally see Nissan’s new lines for the next generation GT-R super car its design will clearly have been inspired by the luxury concept. However the new Nissan GT-R is also said to carry over much more than just body lines, it is rumored that the hybrid power trin unit from the Essence concept will find a new home in the production car GT-R.

Now the Nissan GT-R has quite a legacy to live up to, and despite coming from an unproven vision, the gas/electric combination of internal combustion and wires wrapped around magnets that can be found under the skin of Infiniti’s last concept should be more then adequite to get the job done. The Essence showcar is powered by boosted 3.7 Liter V6 engine producing 440 HP combined with a 160 HP electric motor for a total of 600 HP. The current GT-R only makes 480 HP, a number which by no means should be considered minimal, and Nissan’s engineers spent a lot of time developing the GT-R’s VR38DETT power plant with its plasma sprayed cylinder liners and twin turbocharged setup the greener GT-R will most likely retain its current 3.8 Liter V6 and simply integrate it into the Essence’s electrified power train. This means that producing a maximum output of over 600 HP should be no problem for the next generation super car, meaning well more then 100 HP more than the current GT-R while fuel economy is improved closer to the 30 MPG range.

Pricing for the next generation Nissan GT-R hybrid will be in the neighborhood of $100,000 but we are still awaiting a gas/electric Spec V.

Land Rover Freelander 2

2009-12-22T13:30:00.000-08:00

Land Rover UK has added a new model to it Freelander 2 line-up: the Freelander 2 Sport version which will go on sale in January 2010 at a price of £26,695. The new model will be available in two different trims and two exterior colors: Santorini Black and Lago Grey.

The Sport version will be distinguished by exclusive 19" limited edition diamond-turned alloy-wheels, a unique two-tone interior together with a rear spoiler, color-keyed exterior trim and matching door handles and mirror casings.

Gemballa MIG-U1

2009-12-21T14:02:00.000-08:00

When we hear the world Gemballa thoughts of highly modified Porsche Cayennes and super tuned Carrera GTs, however it comes at no surprise that this Gundam winged Ferrari Enzo super car comes from the same stable as Tornados and Miarges. The MIG U1 is a limited edition creation, and it was made specifically for the Ilyas and Mustafa Galadari Group of Dubai, Gemballa’s newest Distributor for the Middle East market and boy is it special.

Gemballa is remaining a bit tight lipped about the specifics surrounding the MIG U1 and won’t reveal any of the tuned super car’s official details until the invitation only launch in Dubai. The kit looks like it started as a take on Ferrari’ FXX program and then morphed into something more reminiscent of a stealth bomber with its pronounced wing and assortment of scoops all covered in a coat of Championship White. On the inside, the Enzo’s business only attitude has been given a bit of a plush makeover with special quilted red Alcantara covering the seats, steering wheel and interior trim as well as an in dash LCD screen to control the MIG’s in car entertainment system.

Concept Climax

2009-12-21T01:36:00.000-08:00

The British automaker Climax Cars has announced their intention to launch a new sports car that will compete with other limited production models like the Ariel Atom V8 and Caparo T1. The new sports car is called Climax Sports Racer and will be limited to only 200 units, wearing a price tag starting at £92,000. The Climax Sports Racer is a stripped down race inspired performance vehicle that combines the latest in automotive technology along with dramatic hand crafted aluminium bodywork.

The Climax Sports Racer will be powered by a 4.6 Liter V8 driving the rear wheels and making up to 345 HP and can accelerate from 0 to 60 MPH in just 3.7 seconds and reach a top speed in excess of 170 MPH. A more powerful Climax Sports Racer S will come equipped with a supercharger and produce up to 450 HP for an even more electrifying high performance experience. The Climax’s chassis will be made from extremely light weight extruded aluminum which provides the car with exceptional handling and is equipped with a fully adjustable suspension to optimize the car’s set up for either road or track. The Sports Racer can be specified with options that include ceramic brakes, sequential and paddle shift gearboxes, engine power upgrades and full racing harnesses.

2010 Acadia Denali

2009-12-18T06:08:00.000-08:00

First launched in 2007, the GMC Acadia is being offered for the first time with the Denali line. The new Acadia Denali will go on sale in the third quarter of 2010 and will be available in both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive models, as well as seven- and eight-passenger configurations.

Acadia Denali is powered by a 3.6L direct injection V-6 engine with VVT mated to an advanced six-speed automatic transmission.

The SUV will feature a mono-color exterior (Quicksilver Metallic, Summit White, Carbon Black, Red Jewel Tintcoat or White Diamond Tricoat) and chrome honeycomb grille, chrome accents, body-color fascias and fender flares, mahogany wood steering wheel and wood accents, lighted sill plates and 20-inch, two-tone chrome-clad wheels.

Justin Timberlake to be Audi's Brand Ambassador

2009-12-18T06:04:00.000-08:00

Out of all the things we’re envious of Justin Timberlake – the singing voice, the movie credentials, and of course, Jessica Biel – his latest endorsement deal just might be the one we’re most jealous of.

The four-ringed car brand, Audi, recently chose Timberlake to be its new brand ambassador for the new Audi A1. Curiously, this announcement comes a few days after a report that the A1 may not be headed to the US.

Nevertheless, you can’t deny Justin’s international appeal, as evidenced by the global popularity of his one-time boy band group, N’Sync – Ok, we just had to put N’Sync somewhere in here - so even if the car doesn’t hit US shores anytime soon despite earlier reports saying on the contrary, who’s to say that his presence as Audi’s new brand ambassador won’t have an impact on the other parts of the globe.

According to Audi, Timberlake’s involvement will center on a soon-to-be-launched – possibly in the Spring of 2010 – Audi A1 Internet campaign, where as Audi put it, “Timberlake will play a leading role”.

Naturally, Justin himself seems to be very excited about his new partnership with Audi, saying that, "Audi has always been at the forefront of engineering and technology", says Timberlake, and I am very excited to be a part of the next evolution conscience with Audi and the A1”.

Enzo's successor will get a 700Hp turbocharged V8

2009-12-17T00:38:00.000-08:00

Up until now we have only been speculating about what will power the Ferrari Enzo's, but now we know for sure because according to source at Cars UK, Ferrari had to chose between another V12 or a boosted V8 developing somewhere in the neighborhood of 700 HP for the future f70.

It seems that their source is a well connected Ferrarista that was looking to buy the new super car and of course he had a few questions. The first one being "What engine does it have?". The answer that followed was simply put, "V8". With the follow up question being, "What about turbo lag?". The reply he received from the cool and collected Ferrari customer service representative was, "Turbo lag is no longer an issue".

Ferrari has set their sights a little higher with the Enzo’s successor because the upcoming F70 will compete head to head with other high end super cars like the Lamborghini Reventon and Bugatti Veyron. Following Ferrari’s mantra of building one less model then they think they can sell, there will only be 399 F70s produced and will retail somewhere in the $1 Million range.

SLS AMG Desert Gold Edition

2009-12-15T01:04:00.001-08:00

The new SLS AMG was presented at he Dubai Internation Auto Show in a very special color: matt silk finish with the designation "AMG Desert Gold".

This special edition SLS AMG combines the matte gold on the aluminium body with striking highlights in high-gloss black. All the decorative and mounted features that are in shining chrome or Silver Shadow in the standard SLS AMG have been given a deep-black paint finish by AMG’s designers. The car sits on black-painted AMG light-alloy wheels in size 9.5 x 19 at the front and 11.0 x 20 at the rear.

Michael Shuamcher gonna return to F1, but in a Mercedes F1 Car

2009-12-14T13:07:00.000-08:00

If reports by German newspaper Bild are accurate, the 2010 Formula One season just got more interesting.

According to the paper, seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher is set to return to Formula One, only this time, he won’t do it with Ferrari, but instead, with Mercedes.

At the same time, news magazine Focus also reported about Schumacher’s impending deal with Mercedes, saying that the only thing that’s keeping the signing a formality is Schumacher passing a physical.

Sources have also said that “the signature is just a formality. Schumacher feels fit and healthy. The latest (medical) tests were entirely positive”.

Should he pass his physical with flying colors, Schumacher’s deal with Mercedes is expected to be around 3.5 m euros – a far cry from what he used to make while winning titles left and right with Ferrari.

Then again, we’re pretty sure that money is what prompted Schumacher to return to the sport he retired from three years ago. It’s all about the competition for him, an itch couldn’t scratch while sitting around as a consultant for Ferrari.

While nothing has been confirmed yet, there’s no denying that should Schumi return to the sport he once dominated, it’s going to make for a pretty exciting 2010 F1 season.

First images of the Kia K9

2009-12-14T00:52:00.000-08:00

These could be the first images of the Kia K9, a Hyundai Genesis-based large saloon.

The design sketches were shown at a design conference in Seoul, Korea during a speech given by Kia's design boss, Peter Schreyer

Although details are limited, it's rumoured that the car would be based on the Genesis platform and initially be offered with V8 power in the US, with other markets testing reaction to it.

However, a Kia source denied any knowledge of the car, saying it had not been presented in a forward product plan briefing given earlier this month.

Instead, he suggested that the pictures could be an early design sketch for Kia's K7, which will go on sale as the Cadenza in the US.

Lotus to buy in to Lotus F1 team

2009-12-14T00:40:00.000-08:00

Lotus Cars is about to buy in to the Lotus F1 team in the near future.

Tony Fernandes, the 45-year-old Malaysian entrepreneur and AirAsia chief who has set up the revamped F1 team, currently uses the Lotus name under license from Proton, the owners of the British sports car maker Lotus Cars.

"Over time that relationship will grow," Fernandes said. "Lotus will probably buy into the team at some stage. More and more technology from our side will flow into Lotus cars and we will promote the Lotus brand.

"I see it in time being no different from how Ferrari works."

The original Lotus team was founded by Colin Chapman in 1958 and won seven constructors' and six drivers' world championships. It last raced in 1994.

"I don't think we can claim any of the heritage," said Fernandes, "but we are very clear about making sure we don't destroy any of the prestige.

"It's phenomenal history, a phenomenal brand. We can't claim it, but we will work with it, we'll celebrate it and we'll honour it."

9ff GTR! Fastest Production Car?????????

2009-12-13T01:47:00.000-08:00

Forget about Bugatti Veyron, forget about Ultima GT-R or SSC Ultimate Aero TT. 9ff made official the GT9-R - a car that is believed to become the fastest production car ever.

The 9ff GT9-R is powered by a 4.0-liter six-cylinder Boxer engine that delivers a total of 1120 hp. This amount of power will be more than enough to sprint the car from 0 to 60 mph in just 2,9 seconds and to hit a top speed of 414 km/h (257.2mph).

If this amount of power is just to much for you, 9ff will also built another version that will deliver "only" 987-hp, and even a 750 hp version.

There will only be 20 units of this beats around the world, and prices have not been announced yet.

Lamborghini Toro Concept design by Amadou Ndiaye

2009-12-12T07:29:00.000-08:00

Another Lamborghini design concept has come out of the woodworks, only this time, the study was done by independent designer Amadou Ndiaye.

Calling it the Lamborghini Toro LA690-4 - a modern rendition of the Lamborghini Espada of the 60’s – Ndiaye named it LA690-4, which stands for “Longitudinale anteriore” (“Front Longitudinal” in English) while the number ‘690’ stands for the car’s supposed horsepower and ‘4’ for its all-wheel drive system. Ndiaye also outfitted the Toro LA690-4 with a front-mid mounted V12 engine and a 7-speed double clutch transmission. As far as the car’s exterior is concerned, the designer opted to use both carbon fiber and magnesium to maintain the car’s weight.

Overall, the Toro LA690-4 looks extremely stylish although we can’t find a uniquely distinct quality about it that Lamborghini hasn’t already used in the past. Nevertheless, it scores with us, both for the aggressive package and the awesome name.

2011 Audi S8

2009-12-11T01:31:00.000-08:00

Now that Audi has revealed the redesigned A8 luxury Sedan, it is only a matter of time before the German automaker’s in house tuners develop the A8 into a high performance sports inspired S8. Although we still have no clue as to what Audi will do with the working parts, we do have some idea as to what the upcoming S8 will look like thanks to this rendering that shows off the four ringed automaker’s standard S-line upgrades like LED lights, lower hanging side skirts, a chrome grille and side mirrors mirrors as well as a set of sporty 21 inch wheels.

Edo LP600/4

2009-12-11T01:28:00.000-08:00

Edo Competition has just revealed a new stunning package for the Lamborghini Gallardo supercar. Called edo LP600/4, the kit delivers a total of 600 hp and 572 Nm of torque, sprints from 0 to 60 mph in 3,5 seconds and can hit a top speed of 211 mph.

The edo LP600/4 features a newly developed sport suspension system, which is adjustable in compression and rebound damping, 19 in. three-piece racing wheels and new stainless steel high-performance exhaust system with butterfly valves.

Lotus Evora as the best Sports Car of the last 12 months.

2009-12-09T13:42:00.000-08:00

The Lotus Evora was selected by Top Gear magazine and online teams as the best Sports Car of the last 12 months.

The Top Gear Awards, now in their 10th year, searched for the most exciting and innovative sports car of this year. The awards are not only well established, but are also truly global, running across 24 international editions and Top Gear websites in the UK, US and Australia.

Conor McNicholas, Editor of BBC Top Gear magazine commented "It’s pretty, quintessentially British, fast and handles like a dream. Evora takes Lotus to a new place in terms of quality but more importantly delivers a sports car rush that puts other marques to shame."

Dany Bahar, CEO of Group Lotus plc said, "I am delighted that the Evora has won the Top Gear award for Sports Car of the Year 2009. Top Gear is very well regarded around the world and it is a fantastic achievement for all who have worked on the Evora to win such a prestigious award.”

Dany continued, "I am particularly pleased that the Top Gear team commented on the huge improvements in quality at Lotus, confirming that the Evora is an exciting supercar that can also be used for every day driving."

Mercedes SLS AMG tuned by Mec Design

2009-12-09T01:54:00.000-08:00

Back in November we brought you the German tuner Mec Design’s first take on the all new Mercedes SLS AMG. The tuned SLS was a bit much for some enthusiasts to handle, perhaps because MEC sprinkled a bit too much rice onto the new super car and made it into a JDM inspired big mouth front bumper design filled with a front mount intercooler. Having seen the flaws in their original creation, MEC has just come up with a new rendering that is more Classic Gullwing meets 21st century tuner car.

Although the rims have remained the same, MEC Design has changed their color choice to white and done away with the squared off edges in favor of a much rounder front bumper filled with LEDs, driving lights, air ducts and a blacked out grill opening. MEC has also incorporated a pair of much more flowing side skirts and what looks like a wide body kit in the back to house the wider rubber. This new design is definitely worlds apart form the first drawing, but the question that remains to be asked is if it really is better than the original?

What do you think?

Pagani Zonda Crash!

2009-12-09T01:15:00.000-08:00

Nothing breaks heart more than seeing a $1 million dollar supercar get smashed into pieces. But that’s the reality we’re looking at after a Pagani Zonda F crashed in Hong Kong. The latest Zonda crash is the third one to befall the Zonda supercar with two of them coming in Hong Kong.

From what we’ve gathered, the driver of the Zonda F was on his way home from a track event when a wayward truck lost control and the Zonda, in a sweeping move to avoid the oncoming mass of steel, swerved and ended up torpedoing into a row of parked cars.

As you may know, there are only 106 Pagani Zondas in the world - only 25 of which are Zonda Fs – so each time we hear about another crash of this exotic beauty, its another punch in the gut for us supercar-lovers.

McLaren "We can emulate Ferrari"

2009-12-08T01:39:00.000-08:00

McLaren boss Ron Dennis has revealed that a desire to emulate Ferrari's success is behind his company's decision to build road cars.

Dennis conceded that the decision to build McLaren road cars has led to the impending end of the team's exclusive F1 deal with Mercedes, but he insisted the long-term gains will justify the deal.

"It is really a development of the brand," said Dennis, who was presented with a lifetime achievement award at the award ceremony.

"We have had some great partners - and I have to mention Mercedes-Benz. They have been phenomenally strong partners of us, and there was a time when we had to think hard and long about what was the right thing for McLaren.

"When I look at the achievements of Ferrari and what we intend for McLaren, it is absolutely categorically the right thing for us to plough our own furrow. It is a win-win situation for everyone.

"I am delighted for Brawn and the Mercedes GP team of the future, and at the end of the day, we were extremely supportive of solving the problems with Brawn."

Dennis also dimissed suggestions he could return to the race team next season, insisting his sole focus is now on McLaren's road car division.

"No. No. No," he said when asked about an F1 comeback. "My role in active F1 is definitely over.

"I will go to some grands prix because I love it. My brain is in McLaren but my heart is in motor racing, so I will definitely be at some grands prix. But it will not be on the pit wall and not as anything other than a spectator."

McLaren plans to build a range of sportscars over the next few years - with the MP4-12C due to be the first of the new range.

Jaaag XJ-R??????

2009-12-08T01:14:00.000-08:00

It wasn’t all that long ago that Jaguar dropped the R moniker from their XJ lineup of luxury limousines and replaced it with the Vanden Plas and Super V8 series Jaguars. So there are still enough Jaguar enthusiasts out there that thirst for a next generation XJ-R. The Jaguar XJ has been completely redesigned for the 2010 model year and with the impressive makeover, the English automaker has announced that they will indeed bring back the high performance R version of the XJ much like the current XK-R and XF-R models. At the moment this is still just speculation, however the folks at Auto Gesport have taken it upon themselves to come up with this rendering of what a 2010 XJ-R might look like.

When it does come to market, the XJ-R would follow the same treatment as the other R models with features like larger intakes in the front bumper, meatier rubber and massive set of stoppers to bring the 500+ HP supercharged XJ to a halt from what will most certainly be incredible speeds. You can also expect a bit more lightweight carbon fiber to find its way into the new car adding an additional element of sport to the new car. When the future XJ-R does arrive in showrooms, it will compete head to head with other full size luxury sport saloons like the Audi S8 and the Mercedes Benz S63 AMG. And with a 0 to 60 MPH sprint time of less than 5 seconds it just might give a few other dedicated sports cars a run for their money as well.

NISSAN GT-R Tommy Kaira's Sports Package

2009-12-07T13:52:00.000-08:00

The When it comes to the art of aftermarket styling, there are few tuning firms that can compete with Tommy Kaira. Especially when it comes to Nissan GT-R, after all not many tuners can boast about building a $100,000 sports car based on the classic RB26 powered Skyline GT-R’s twin turbocharged straight six tuned to make around 550 HP, the ZZII. With the 2009 Auto Show circuit coming to a close, Tommy Kaira is already making plans for the 2010 Tokyo Motor Show with a heavily tuned Nissan GT-R. package will focus on not only improving the vehicle’s visual appeal, but the super car’s aerodynamics as well.

At the moment all we may have are a few sketches, but you can easily tell that Tommy Kaira is planning on turning Godzilla into a real monster. The aero package looks like it will consist of deeper lip spoiler and LED driving lights incorporated into a carbon fiber front bumper. There will be even more of the lightweight black stuff used for the side skirts that lead into a baked over fender for the rear arches and a race car quality diffuser out back with a taller carbon fiber win up top.

Stay tuned, for more details!

Aston Martin announced the price for the Rapide

2009-12-07T01:56:00.000-08:00

The GT sedan seems to be the hottest ticket on the market these days with Italians selling Quattroportes and now the Germans getting in on the action with the new Panamera, but the coachbuilders of England have not had anything to boast about until recently when they began work on a fast four door of their own in the $200,000 price range.

When the Aston Martin Rapide arrives in showrooms it will be wearing a $199,950 price tag and will come complete with the new car smell from Aston’s Austrian facility. With over 200 man hours being deidcated to each Rapide and an estimated first year production run of 2000 units, give or take a few, the English craftsmen will deidcate 18,333 and a third days to making Rapides. With the hand built sports car experience that Aston Martin’s employees have gained from over the years will certainly play in the new Rapide’s favor.

Audi A8 Virtual Preview

2009-12-07T01:16:00.000-08:00

After a successful and extravagant debut at the Audi Pavillion in Miami a few days ago, the new Audi A8 luxury sedan is now poised to become a new challenger in the race for supremacy in the luxury sedan market - a market that features no less than the BMW 7-series, the Mercedes Benz S-Class, and the Lexus LS.

In the event that you missed the world debut of the A8, check out this video regarding everything you need to know about Audi’s new ride. Who know, you might end up wanting one as soon you finish watching.

Enjoy.

2013 for Porsche!

2009-12-05T05:52:00.000-08:00

Forward thinking automotive designers are getting younger and younger these days. At age twelve we were exploring the world of middle school, girls suddenly became less icky and the homework started piling on. However there is one such 12 year old who has put down the PlayStation controller long enough to come up with a few rendering of what Porsche’s lineup of high performance sports cars will look like in 2013.

What is so amazing is that these renderings look good enough to have come from a drafting table in Stuttgart. For the 2013-2014 model year, according to our up and coming designer, the 911 will be a few inches longer thanks to a new nose inspired by the GT3 race cars with larger air intakes and a more pronounced smile. Porsche’s latest entry level model will be a Spyder based on the rebirth of the classic 356. A few other drawings reveal a future 928 that is in fact a two door Panamera coupe and the Roxster that as far as we know won’t go into production. However these are some really good renderings that we feel will be right in line if not spot on as to what the German sports car builders will be rolling off the assembly lines a few years from now.

NISSAN GT-R Spec V

2009-12-05T05:26:00.000-08:00

Nissan’s hardcore GT-R Spec V will go on sale in Europe.

The firm has confirmed that just 40 examples of the £124,900 sports car will be available across the continent. That's more than double the price of the standard car.

The main improvements, Nissan says, are improving the car’s ability to “brake later and harder, corner faster and accelerate sooner”.

A carbon-ceramic brake system jointly developed by Nissan and Brembo has been added to the GT-R. Other developments include revised springs and fixed-rate dampers, while a titanium exhaust system has also been added.

Power from its twin-turbo 3.8-litre V6 engine remains unchanged at 478bhp, but torque has been boosted by 14lb ft to 448lb ft. Performance is enhanced by a new high gear boost control device, which improves boost from the turbos to provide greater in-gear acceleration.

Lightweight forged aluminium wheels feature, as does a carbonfibre rear spoiler, a carbonfibre grille and carbonfibre brake ducts. These changes shed 60kg off its 1775kg kerb weight.

The Spec V is strictly a two-seater, with the seats being Recaro carbonfibre-backed items trimmed with black leather. Carbonfibre trim also features on the rear Bose speakers and the instrument panel.

Vincent Wijnen, Nissan’s European vice-president for marketing, said: “For a very small number of sports car fanatics, the GT-R is not enough. They have to own the ultimate version and to cater for that desire, we will sell just 40 examples of Spec V in Europe.

“Its combination of lighter weight, more focused driving dynamics and exclusivity will guarantee the Spec V’s place as one of the most desirable cars anywhere in the world.”

The only example currently in Europe is on display at the firm’s Nurburgring showroom, while the only UK centre that will take orders for the car is on Merseyside. The order book on the car is now open, with the first deliveries starting in April.

Ferrari Italia 458 named CAR OF THE YEAR by Top Gear

2009-12-04T01:31:00.000-08:00

The Ferrari 458 Italia has scooped two prestigious awards from BBC Top Gear Magazine, one of the world’s most influential automotive magazines. Not only did the British monthly nominate the 458 Italia “Supercar of the Year”, but also, for the very first time for a Ferrari, the coveted title of “Car of the Year”. This brings Ferrari’s tally of consecutive BBC Top Gear Magazine awards to the astonishing figure of eight in seven years.

The Ferrari 458 Italia was revealed at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September to immediate critical acclaim. Following an extensive international media test drive programme in Maranello, the home of the fabled Prancing Horse, the car has been the subject of enthusiastic reviews, with its handling, roadholding, ride comfort and performance all being subject to the kind of superlatives rarely seen from the world’s leading journalists.

In electing the Ferrari 458 Italia as their Supercar of the Year, BBC Top Gear Magazine underlined how it has established “the new benchmark in getting from A to B as rapidly as possible.” They also described the 570-hp V8-engined berlinetta as “a game-changing car.”

When nominating the car for the overall top award as Car of the Year, the magazine described how it became “our winner because the scope of its abilities is absolutely breathtaking”, concluding that the Ferrari 458 Italia “isn’t just a worthy winner, it’s off the scale!”

2010 Dodge Viper

2009-12-03T06:58:00.000-08:00

For all the Viper fans out there the 2010 is a very painful year. Is the year when the last Viper unit will be produced. But even if the sports car has come to an end, Dodge decided to get out of the market in style; so they have promised that 2010 will be the best year in Viper’s history.

Even if there will only be 500 units produced, Dodge announced more special, limited-edition models available across 2010 lineup. Also there will be two new exterior colors, including Toxic Orange Pearl Coat and Bright Silver Metallic Clear Coat, new wider, dual racing stripe pattern, revised fifth gear ratio and more than 7,600 possible appearance combination.

The 2010 Viper SRT10 will be powered by a 8.4-liter V10 engine that produces 600 hp and 560 lb.-ft. of torque. It will sprint from 0 to 60 mph in less than 4 seconds, quarter-mile time in the mid 11-second range and 0-100-0 mph in 11 seconds flat, and a top speed of 202 mph.

Adieu to SLR

2009-12-03T03:32:00.000-08:00

As you know by now the Mercedes SLR (the legendary name simply stands for "sporty", "light" and "raceworthy") will go out of production. First launched in 2004, the SLR was never a very successful model; there’s an overall of 2000 units produced. The last units to be produced are the Mercedes Benz SLR Stirling Moss.

During its life time, the SLR was offered in two coupes, two roadster versions and finally the SLR Stirling Moss limited to only 75 units. Production of the SLR series will then cease at the end of 2009.

The SLR spirit lives on

The SLR project was conceived for a limited period, and as a limited edition, from the very start, and is now coming to a magnificent, entirely fitting end with the SLR Stirling Moss. The SLR spirit lives on, however, and will be perpetuated by the enthusiastic members of the SLR. CLUB. In addition to a passion for driving, the members of this exclusive community of gentleman-drivers, all of whom have an SLR model in their garages, share a discerning, sophisticated lifestyle and the enjoyment of encounters with like-minded enthusiasts. The high-quality event calendar of the SLR.

The birth of a legend

The SLR legend was born in 1955, when Rudolf Uhlenhaut, then head of passenger-car testing and in charge of racing-car development at Mercedes-Benz, transformed a fascinating idea into reality. He combined the design and technology of the spectacular Mercedes-Benz 300 SL "Gullwing" model produced since 1954 with the outstanding characteristics of the 300 SLR, one of the most successful racing machines of all time, which at that time dominated all the major road races – above all the notorious Tourist Trophy in Northern Ireland and the two Italian classics: Targa Florio and Mille Miglia. Here Stirling Moss and Dennis Jenkinson piloted the racing Mercedes to victory in a record time that still stands to this very day. But the Brits were not the only ones to achieve success in the Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR. Juan Manuel Fangio, who went on to become Formula-1 World Champion five times, and the speedy Karl Kling drove the sports car from Untertürkheim to many a place on the rostrum.The road-going Coupé version of this legendary racing machine – better known as the "Uhlenhaut Coupé" among automotive aficionados – was at the heart of the passionate affection for the SLR held by automotive enthusiasts.

The models in the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren family, which have been rolling off the assembly lines at the world championship-winning team’s headquarters in Woking since 2004, are the most emphatic reminders of the glory years of the SLR during the 1950s. They have brought the core values of the historic SLR models into the modern era – an exciting design featuring many details reminiscent of its predecessors, innovative technology and carefully hand-crafted, high-grade materials. They also continue the tradition of the high-class Gran Turismo models in time-honoured fashion. The Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren models offer a beguiling mix of optimum handling, extremely high speed and outstanding acceleration, not to mention a wealth of exquisite appointments, all of which makes for a truly unique driving experience.

To keep faith with the traditionally unique standing of the SLR, Mercedes-Benz and McLaren Automotive pooled all of their extensive motor-racing know-how to produce the super sports car. By way of example, the SLR models set the very highest of standards in terms of handling, rigidity and safety for high-performance cars thanks to the extremely widespread use of exceptionally lightweight yet very strong carbon-fibre materials, including the carbon-fibre front structures based on Formula 1 monocoque constructions, which optimise the car’s crashworthiness.

Bentley Mulsanne will go on sale in U.S for $285,000

2009-12-02T00:49:00.000-08:00

The illustrious English automaker Bentley has just announced that the 2010Mulsanne luxury limousine will go on sale in the U.S. Market next Fall for the mere sum of $285,000. Bentley’s new luxury car, which it is proclaiming as the “pinnacle” of luxury cars, made a resounding world debut earlier this year at the 2009Pebble Beach Conours , an event that drew the attention of the most prominent automotive enthusiasts from around the world.

Names after the notorious 250 MPH back straight at the Circuit de la Sarthe, the Mulsanne is powered by a hand built fuel sipping V8, the 2011 Mulsanne will be offered with an assortment of options aimed at tailoring the new luxury sedan to even the pickiest of car consumers starting off with over 114 paint options, 21 shades for the carpeting, nine different wood veneers and as many as 24 kinds of leather hides to choose from for the interior. If those aren’t enough factory options Bentley’s bespoke service department will bend over backwards to exactly match a customer’s taste. With more standard leather and wood veneer than any other Bentley built in recent years, each example of the Mulsanne will take a minimum of nine weeks to put together. So send in your order early, because otherwise you might get stuck with someone else’s second hand dream car.

Audi A8 World Premiere in Miami

2009-12-01T02:56:00.001-08:00

Audi has now announced that the new model of their flagship will go in world première at Design Miami 09 , today. Rupert Stadler, Chairman at Audi, says that the new A8 shows everything that the engineers at Ingolstadt are capable of.

The aim was to get as close as possible to the perfect automobile! The new A8 will have everything that is necessary to strike back at competitors like Mercedes-Benz and BMW that showed facelifts or new models of their flagships a while back. Audi also says that the new A8 will place itself above every other car because of it’s design, performance, luxury and technology.

For most of us performance is the main indicator. We have good news! Because Audi will present new V6 and V8 engines, both in diesel as petrol version. Next to that they will also follow the green trend in the car industry, by making a new hybrid saloon. In contrast with that we can expect a V10 petrol monster that will – of course – be called; S8.

CMT-380

2009-12-01T02:29:00.000-08:00

With green vehicles becoming quite the rage these days and Los Angeles being at the epicenter of trend setting environmentally friendly car consumers the 2009 L.A. Auto Show is the perfect place for the Capstone Turbine Corporation to unveil the CMT-380 which is a high performance hybrid electric super car powered in the more traditional sense by batteries that work in conjunction with an ultra low emission range extending micro turbine.

If the shape of the CMT-380 looks familiar, that is because it is. Based around a Factory Five Ford GT replica, the futuristic super car packages the very unconventional automotive power train in a classic American sports car chassis and is able to accelerate from 0 to 60 MPH in just 3.9 seconds, reach a top speed of 150 MPH all with an unprecedented 500 mile range. The Capstone C30 micro turbine runs on either diesel or biodiesel and requires no exhaust treatments in order to meet the stringent CARB approval. The CMT-380 is able to run for up to 80 miles as a zero emission vehicle thanks to the lithium polymer battery cells before the 30 Kw turbine kicks in to recharge the batteries and give the CMT its incredible range. Just like traditional BEVs, the lithium ion units can be recharged at home or any public station.

Shelby GT500CR Mustang

2009-12-01T02:14:00.000-08:00

After their big announcement at the 2009 SEMA Show, the American specialty car builders from Classic Recreations have released the details about their brand new Shelby GT500CR Mustang . The 21st Century muscle car will be offered in three different trim levels including, Intro, Performance and Venom; all being powered by a very appropriate hand built 427 cubic inch V8 engine.

The base level Intro model’s fuel injected 7.0 Liter eight cylinder delivers a total of 545 HP and will be shifted by a Tremec five speed manual and ride on a set of retro 17 inch rims. There will also be a 150 shot of nitrous on tap whenever that extra jolt of power is needed. The Performance version gets a sport steering rack wider rear tires and an updated coil over suspension. On the inside the Performance model also benefits from a pair of Carroll Shelby Scat Rally series 1000 seats. The most most powerful version, Venom, will deliver a total of 780 HP thanks to an intercooled ProCharger forced induction system, even more rubber in the rear as well as a set of genuine racing buckets. So no matter what your budget may be, Classic Recreations is able to put you in the car of your dreams.

Abu Dhabi's Police New Car F999 Launched

2009-11-30T03:04:00.000-08:00

Over in the Middle East, there’s really no limit to what people can do and what they can come up with. That, of course, comes with the territory of being a country that’s rich beyond imagination.

You only need to look at the fancy digs the local authorities ride in, which includes a police-spec Nissan GT-R , a Chevy Camaro, and a customized chopper to name a few. And while those are pretty sick rides even for police standards, they all pale in comparison to the newest vanguard of road safety to hit the streets of Abu Dhabi: the F999.

For all intents and purposes, the F999 is a formula race car that the Abu Dhabi police is turning into, quite possibly, the fastest police vehicle in the world. It’s more than just a novelty, too. It’s got the standard emergency lights attached to the car’s rear wing and the entire police livery ensemble.

Ok, The F999 is in fact part of a public awareness campaign that is being done in Abu Dhabi in line with the county’s historic first-time hosting of a Formula One race last month. In the end, the whole purpose of the event was to get people to be more aware of road safety, lest they be chased down by the F999.

2011 Ford Mustang

2009-11-30T01:04:00.000-08:00

Ford will unveil at the Los Angeles Motor Show the 2011 Mustang muscle car. For 2011, the Mustang adds a new high-performance, all-aluminum Duratec® 3.7-liter DOHC Ti-VCT V-6 that delivers 305 hp, but also a new Performance Package.

The new 3,7 liter V6 engine delivers a total of 305 hp and 280 ft.-lbs of torque. Combined to a six-speed automatic transmission, the 2011 Mustang has a fuel economy of 30 mpg (29 mpg with six-speed manual transmission).

The new Performance package combines the new V6 engine with a 3:31 performance rear axle and Mustang GT-based suspension and braking components. It adds 19-inch wheels and Pirelli performance tires and electronic stability control calibration with Sport mode for performance driving.

“This new V-6 engine really speaks to what Mustang is all about,” said Barb Samardzich, Ford vice president of global powertrain engineering. “It produces power everywhere in the rev range and loves to be pushed hard. The Duratec 3.7-liter builds on our promise to use advanced technology to deliver both power and fuel economy.

With so much additional horsepower standard, the 2011 Mustang received enhancements to its chassis to maintain the outstanding balance and driving behavior Mustang owners expect. Damper tuning and spring rates were revised to provide a smooth highway ride while a new rear lower control arm and stiffened stabilizer bar bushings improve stiffness and handling for better cornering response.

While Mustang’s aerodynamic improvements were designed mainly to improve fuel economy, engineers also adjusted the vehicle’s front/rear lift balance. The result is a car that tracks more securely and feels more “planted” to the road surface at higher speeds, helping to keep the tires in better contact with the pavement.

Maisto's Crystal embedded Lamborghini Murcielago LP640

2009-11-29T00:26:00.000-08:00

If this was a real car, we’d give it a few days before some wandering fool decides to pick off a piece of those crystals.

Fortunately, it’s nothing more than a scaled car model, although judging by the price tag it commands, it’s the type of toy you’d be crazy to take out of the box.

This diminutive Lamborghini Murcielago LP640 model was created by Maisto and it comes with a sparkling star-studded twist in the form of 7,688 Swarovski crystals embedded on the car. Shiny, isn’t it?

Before you salivate at the thought of buying you’re lady one of these – not that she’d care for the car but more so for the Swarovski – we have be the bearer of bad news and say that Maisto not only made 550 of these but they also only sell them in Europe. And, oh, by the way, one piece costs $2,500.

Forking over $2500 for a toy, albeit a Swavorski-embedded one, might be too much for a lot of people but we have to say that something like this doesn’t get released after every fortnight. So if you’re interested, you better get moving before stocks run out.

Tesla Roadster Sports Brabus

2009-11-27T15:42:00.000-08:00

With the increasing popularity of electric vehicles, it only makes sense that high end tuners like Brabus are delving into the world of Tesla tuning along with the forward thinking electric charging station chain RWE with this modified electric roadster. RWE recognizes that the single largest drawback of an EV is the amount of time that it takes to recharge the batteries and feels that if owners had access to in home rapid charging stations, like their Eco-Power unit, that we would see a lot more on the road already. So at this year’s Essen Motor Show Brabus and RWE will have this lightly modified Tesla Roadster on display complete with the more practical Eco-Power charging station that fits in your garage and is able to top off the batteries three times faster than with a conventional outlet.

The TESLA Roadster Sport Brabus Green Package kit includes a carbon fiber front lip and the obligatory highly efficient LED driving lights integrated into the roadster’s grill. Out back Brabus has incorporated a rear wing made from the lightweight woven black stuff and a downforce producing rear diffuser, while a set of staggered Monoblock S alloy wheels measuring 18 inches up front and 19 inches on the back axle. For those high performance electric car owners who miss the sounds of the internal combustion engine, Brabus has also incorporated a space sound generator that can produce tones ranging from race cars and V8s to futuristic songs that are referred to as Beam and Warp. And if that still isn’t enough to convince you, RWE is also offering the use of all their public charging stations to their Eco-Power customers free of charge for up to one year.

Spied Mercedes SLK 2011

2009-11-27T05:14:00.000-08:00

Mercedes third-generation SLK has been spied testing in Italy.

The new Mercedes SLK will not be a radical departure from the current model; it remains a two-seat, rear-drive roadster with a two-piece folding hard-top.Mercedes has decided against adding two occasional seats in the rear to increase the car’s practicality. While its chief rival, the BMW Z4, has grown bigger, the new SLK will retain similar dimensions to the current generation model.

Although this test car is very heavily disguised, it’s easy to see that the biggest change will be to the new SLK’s front end, where the current model’s triangular SLR-style nose will be replaced by a flatter grille more like the SL’s.

LED driving lamps set into the lower half of the front bumper are just visible behind the disguise.

Expect the new SLK to have a range of four and six-cylinder petrol engines, with a twin-turbo 3.5-litre V6 rumoured for an AMG model. It is also likely the SLK will get a diesel for the first time.

The next SLK is expected to go on sale in 2011.

Loma's Corvette C6

2009-11-27T05:05:00.000-08:00

Corvette’s C6 has been upgraded by German tuner Loma Performance.Loma’s C6 Blackforce One uses a twin-turbo V8 engine, tuned to produce 783bhp. A special carbonfibre clutch has been fitted, while carbonfibre driveshafts, sports exhaust system and a rebuilt gearbox also feature.

The car can get from 0-62mph in 3.4sec and go on to reach a top speed of 205mph. Carbon-ceramic brakes have been added to boost its stopping power and it is fitted with 20-inch OZ wheels.

Loma has also added a host of exterior and interior styling changes. Carbonfibre is used for the wheel arches, front lip spoiler and rear diffuser and it has been equipped with daytime running lights.

Inside, it gets Alcantara trim on the doors and steering wheel, and customers can choose from more than 300 different types of leather for the seats.

Production will be limited to 25 units, with prices starting from 190,000 euros (£173,000). It will be launched at the Essen motor show this weekend.

Two Buyers interested in SAAB

2009-11-26T15:18:00.000-08:00

Two new potential buyers for Saab have already emerged just days after the collapse of the sale of the troubled car maker to the Koenigsegg group.

According to reports in the Swedish press, both Beijing Automotive (BAIC) and Wyoming-based merchant bank Merbanco are now seriously investigating buying up the ailing Swedish brand.

Both companies have previously shown interest in Saab; Merbanco was among the last three bidders this summer, when GM chose Koenigsegg.

Beijing Auto was a minority partner in the Koenigsegg bid and, it was keen to restart production of the outgoing 9-5 in China.

Christopher Johnson, owner of Merbanco, is self-confessed Saab enthusiast and his father, a partner in Merbanco, founded AGCO, which was involved in a number of company turnarounds, including Massey Ferguson.

Any BAIC bid could run into significant hurdles, according to other reports in the Swedish press.

The Götbergs Posten is claiming that the Koenigsegg bid collapsed partly because of worries about BAIC getting hold of GM’s technology. Saab’s revival centers on the launch of the new 9-5 range, which is based on GM’s latest Epsilon 2 platform.

It seems unlikely that GM would be willing to let BAIC take over Saab, particularly as it was concerns about technology transfer that helped scupper the deal to sell Vauxhall/Opel to Magna, which was backed by a Russian state bank.

But one positive for Saab appears to have come for the European Investment Bank, from which Saab is receiving a loan. The EIB has reportedly said any loan previously agreed with Saab can be transferred to its new owner.

2011 Cadillac SLS

2009-11-26T15:06:00.000-08:00

GM launched this days in China the 2011 SLS luxury sedan at the Guangzhou Auto Show. It will be offered in four different version, with prices ranging from 448,000 RMB to 698,000 RMB.

The new 2011 Cadillac SLS will be offered with a choice of two new engines: a 3.0-liter SIDI engine that delivers 272 hp with 300 Nm of torque, and a 3.6-liter SIDI engine with 310 hp and 374 Nm of torque. Both engines are mated to a six-speed automatic-manual transmission.

The list of technologies featured in the new SLS includes: MagneRide, an electromagnetic active suspension system, and Air Quality Control. It will be offered with a choice of five body colors: Black, Titanium Silver, Golden, Space Gray and Platinum Gray combined with two interior colors: Champagne and Ebony.

Rolls Royce Phantom goes GREEN

2009-11-26T00:26:00.000-08:00

The idea of ‘green cars’ keeps on growing. Even a brand like Rolls-Royce, where the engineers shouldn’t break their heads about this, will present enviromental friendly cars. After the Hybrid Ghost was announced, a first electric Phantom could hit the road in just 12 months.

Company CEO, Tom Purvis, has previously revealed a wish to produce an electric Phantom and with the BMW sponsorship of the 2012 London Olympics this could be the right move to meet the strong inner-city CO2 legislations. The Electric Phantom will only be available in limited numbers. In that way the powerfull petrol engines will stay more important for the German/British luxury car manufacturer.

Ferrari F70 Monster coming in 2012

2009-11-25T14:24:00.000-08:00

As you may already know, the exotic Italian automaker Ferrari is busy preparing a successor for their last anniversary celebrating halo super car, the Enzo. It only makes sense that the future car will be called the F70 in honor of a 70th anniversary and is promised to be unveiled sometime in 2012. The upcoming F70 would compete head to head with other high end limited edition super cars like the Lamborghini Reventón

and Bugatti Veyron. There will only be 399 F70s produced and prices will range in the $1 Million region.

With efficiency high on their list of priorities, Ferrari wants to keep the future F70’s weight to a minimum (1000 kilograms), just like the Millechilli. Now this would be a substantial undertaking for any ordinary automaker, but Ferrari is ready to apply every weight saving technique in their arsenal. While the Enzo was powered by a high revving V12 that made 650 HP, the F70 will use a new direct injection twin turbo V8 , quite similar to the legendary F40, with output in the area of 660 HP. This should be enough for the future super car to sprint from 0 to 60 MPH in under three seconds and the F70’s top speed will go up to 230 MPH.

Police given Nissan GT-R

2009-11-25T03:00:00.000-08:00

Abu Dhabi’s Police Force has received its latest addition to their line-up of crime fighting vehicles. It’s a Nissan GT-R painted in the colors of the United Arab Emirates’ flag.

Enhancements? A siren system, some communication equipment and additional Police equipment in the back of the vehicle. The specifications stayed the same. So still 478bhp at 6400rpm, 434lb.ft of torque at 3200rpm and a 0-60mph time in 3.8 seconds.

Bloodhound SSC - 1000MPH Dream!!!

2009-11-24T14:49:00.000-08:00

Since automobile invention Man has developed an insatiable appetite for speed, and while cars have come a long way in a little over a century of continuous improvements and the vehicles of today bare little resemble to their ancestors their purpose remains the same. The current land speed record stands at 760 MPH and belongs to the English built THRUST SSC, however that might not last for too long because the same team of speed freaks are working on a super sonic car that will go 1000 MPH. The team’s first attempt will will take place on the Hakskeen Pan, a 10 mile stretch of dried up salt bed in South Africa, and they plan on doing it in 2011.

Unlike the Thrust’s Rolls Royce turbines, the new car called the Bloodhound SSC, will be powered by an EJ200 jet engine from a Eurofighter Typhoon that delivers an amazing 133,150 HP worth of thrust. Doing a little math we deduce that it is equivalent to the output of around 180 F1 cars. While that truly is like strapping yourself onto a rocket, the land speed record holder, RAF fighter pilot Andy Green has shown that he can be cool under pressure. With an all new design and a more powerful engine setup, the Bloodhound SSC is sure to set a few records.

Breaking NEWS!!! Koenigsegg not purchasing SAAB

2009-11-24T14:37:00.000-08:00

General Motors has just announced that the proposed sale of its Saab unit to a consortium led by Swedish sports car maker Koenigsegg has been canceled. And this time, it's not because the Detroit automaker wanted to keep Saab as was in case with Opel, but because Koenigsegg backed out of the purchasing of the Swedish brand in the same way that Penske did with Saturn.

"We're obviously very disappointed with the decision to pull out of the Saab purchase," said GM President and CEO, Fritz Henderson.

"Many have worked tirelessly over the past several months to create a sustainable plan for the future of Saab by selling the brand and its manufacturing interests to Koenigsegg Group AB. Given the sudden change in direction, we will take the next several days to assess the situation and will advise on the next steps next week," Henderson added.

In September, Koenigsegg Group AB had signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Beijing Automotive Industry Holdings Co. Ltd. (BAIC) to explore growth opportunities in the Chinese and international markets for the products of both SAAB and BAIC.

The Swedish sports car maker has yet to release an official statement on the matter.

Michael Schumacher Might Make a Comeback with Mercedes GP

2009-11-24T03:44:00.000-08:00

Michael Schumacher’s aborted comeback with Ferrari after Felipe Massa’s season ended with a head injury may have been canned prematurely.

And while we were all disappointed that Schumi’s return to F1 didn’t materialize, we now have rumors that the seven-time world champion may be returning to race in 2010.

The twist is it might not be with Ferrari.

Schumacher and Mercedes GP (formerly Brawn GP) are in ‘preliminary talks’ over the prospect of Schumi driving for the team in 2010. With Jenson Button’s sudden defection to McLaren, Mercedes GP has yet to find a teammate for Nico Rosberg and Schumacher’s name has been brought up recently. If Schumi does decide to race for Mercedes GP, it would create a vaunted all-German pairing that could rival both Ferrari and McLaren.

Looking deeper into all of this, it doesn’t seem as far-fetched as it sounds; after all, Schumacher’s relationship with team principal Ross Brawn has been well-documented with the pair being responsible for Ferrari’s dominance for the better part of the decade.

In the event that Michael Schumacher ends up in Mercedes GP, it automatically makes the 2010 F1 season all that more tantalizing, so much so, that March can’t come soon enough.

Restyled Volkswagen Tiguan SUV Showed at Auto Guangzhou 2009

2009-11-24T03:38:00.000-08:00

At the 7th China (Guangzhou) International Automobile Show, which opened on Monday, Volkswagen and its Chinese partner Shanghai Automotive Industry Corp (SAIC) revealed the 2010MY domestic market version of the Tiguan SUV. In comparison to the current Tiguan sold in Europe, North America and other international markets, the Chinese models features a new grille that extends to the headlights and a re-profiled front bumper.

Inside, from what we can tell by looking at these first official photos, changes are limited to a new three-spoke steering wheel and the redesigned instrument panel that features two central gauges incorporating two smaller dials.

VW Shanghai's press release does not clarify if these styling changes are exclusive for the Chinese-spec model or if they will pass on to the Tiguan sold in other markets as well.

2011 BMW 5-Series Pics and Specifications Revealed!!!

2009-11-23T15:37:00.000-08:00

The BMW 7-Series smaller brother both in terms of size and styling, the new 5-Series, was officially launched today. Key highlights include a less controversial exterior design that's more muscular and draws heavily on the Bavarian firm's flagship limousine and the return of the BMW's driver orientated center console and the classic four circular gauges on the instrument panel. Add to that an increased length of 4,899mm or 192.9'' (previous model: 4,841mm or 190.6'') combined with a wheelbase of 2.968mm or 116.9'' (+80mm or +3.15') and a revised engine lineup that includes turbocharged inline-six and V8 units.

The increased length and what BMW describes as the largest wheelbase in the segment, are said to translates into an extra 13mm of knee room for the rear passengers, compared to the previous 5 Series, while the sedan also get a 520-litre boot with the option to specify 40:20:40 split folding rear seats.

The new 5-Series, codenamed F10, is based on the same platform as the 5-Series GT and the latest 7-Series sedan. The double wishbone layout up front is combined with a multilink axle at the back while for the first time, the 5 Series comes with Electric Power Steering with Servotronic assistance.

Those that specify the car with Variable Damper Control or Adaptive Drive packages, the Drive Dynamic Control (DDC) chassis configurator allows for fine tuning of the chassis with the choice of Normal, Comfort, Sport and Sport+ with each mode changing the levels of steering assistance, throttle response, gear change characteristics, degree of Dynamic Stability Control interaction and, courtesy of adjustable dampers, the ride and handling characteristics.

All models will come equipped with a Brake Energy Regeneration system that recharges the vehicle's battery during engine over-run while the 520d is the first 5 Series to come with Auto Start-Stop.

At launch, the 2011 BMW 5-Series will be available in Europe with four petrol and three diesel engines. The diesel lineup includes:

- A 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 184HP and 380Nm (280.2 lb-ft) for the 520d that accelerates from 0 to 100km/h (62mph) in 8.1 sec, has a top speed of 227km/h (141mph) and returns a combined fuel economy of 5.0lt/100km (56.5 mpg US)

- The 525d is powered by 3.0-liter straight-six turbo diesel that makes 204HP and 450Nm (332 lb-ft) for a 0-100km/h (62mph) sprint time of 7.2 sec, a top speed of 236km/h (147mph) and an avg fuel consumption of 6.2lt/100km (37.9 mpg US).

- The 530d features a 245hp and 540Nm (398 lb-ft) 3.0-liter turbo diesel for a zero to 100km/h (62mph) time of just 6.3 seconds and an electronically-limited top speed of 250km/h (155mph). It returns a combined 6.3lt/100km (37.3mpg).

The gasoline range includes:

- The 523i which is equipped with a 204HP and 270Nm (199 lb-ft) 3.0-liter naturally aspirated inline-six that allows for a zero to 100km/h (62mph) sprint in 7.9 seconds and a top speed of 238km/h (148mph) with a combined fuel economy of 7.6lt/100km (30.9mpg US).

-Next up is the 528i with a 258HP and 310Nm (228.7 lb-ft) straight six. 0 to 100km/h (62mph) comes in 6.6 seconds while top speed is electronically-limited to 250 km/h (155mph). This model returns an average fuel consumption of 7.8lt/100km (30.2mpg US).

-The 535i gets a new, 3.0-liter inline-six with a single, twin-scroll turbocharger (instead of the 335i's two turbochargers). It makes 306HP and 400Nm (295 lb-ft) for a zero to 100km/h (62mph) sprint time of 6.0 seconds and an electronically-limited top speed of 250 km/h (155mph) with a combined fuel economy of 8.5lt/100km (27.7mpg US).

-The range topping 550i features a twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 engine with 407HP and 600Nm (442 lb-ft). It hits the 100km/h (62mph) mark in just 5.0 seconds and has an electronically-limited top speed of 250 km/h (155mph). BMW says that it returns a combined 10.4lt/100km (22.6mpg US).

An eight-speed automatic transmission will be offered as standard on the 550i and an option on all other models which come equipped with six-speed manual gearboxes.

As a further option, BMW also offers a Sport Automatic variant of the eight-speed transmission that allowsmanual selection of gears by means of shift paddles on the steering wheel.

In the States, the new 5-Series will be offered with a choice of three gasoline engines. The entry-level 523i features a naturally aspirated inline-six rated in the U.S. at 240HP; the 535i with a turbocharged straight-six producing 300HP and 300 lb-ft of torque; and the 550i that gets a twin-turbo 4.4L V8 cranking out in U.S-spec "over 400HP" and 450 lb-ft of torque.

BMW said that in the U.S., the 528i and xDrive all-wheel drive variants of all three models will arrive a little after the launch of the RWD 535i and 550i in 2010. In addition, the U.S.-spec 535i and 550i will be available with a choice of 6-speed manual transmission, BMW's new 8-speed automatic transmission, or a new "Sport Automatic" 8-speed.

On the technological side, the 2011 5-series will be available with various standard and optional goodies such as Head-up Display, Night Vision with pedestrian recognition, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Change Warning, Speed Limit Info, two rear entertainment packages and a Surround View system that uses cameras in the side mirrors and the front wheel arches in conjunction with Park Distance Control and the optional Reversing Assist camera to provide a 360 degree view on the iDrive display to assist parking.

Last but not least, the new 5er also features a 4th generation iDrive control screen available in two versions: with 7.0-in. dimensions and 800 x 480-pixel resolution in standard form, or with the optional Navigation system, in a 10.2-in., 1280 x 480-pixel version with a wider range of features and functions as seen in the latest 7 Series.

The 2011 5-Series is scheduled to go on sale in Europe in March 2010, and shortly after in North America and other international markets.

Cadillac CTS Coupe revealed!

2009-11-23T02:34:00.000-08:00

Cadillac added today a new model to the CTS line-up. Previewed by the CTS Coupe Concept revealed in 2008 at the Detroit Auto Show, the new model will go on sale in the spring of 2010. The V-Series version will follow in 2010.

The CTS Coupe is powered by a direct injected 3.6L V-6 engine that delivers a total of 304 hp and is mated to a six-speed manual transmission with Driver Shift Control.

The CTS Coupe comes with two suspension-tuning levelsx: a Performance Package with 18-inch wheels and all-season tires (available in both RWD and AWD,) and the Summer Tire Performance Package, with 19-inch tires and wheels and a higher level of road holding capability. StabiliTrak, the advanced electronic chassis control system, is standard.

New Aston Martin Unvieled

2009-11-22T14:57:00.000-08:00

As the marque’s first production four-door sports car, Rapide encapsulates core values of Power, Beauty and Soul; four ‘swan wing’ doors provide access to cosseting sports seats both front and rear bestowing occupants with ample accommodation. A 301 litre luggage compartment affords generous space for belongings for all four passengers whether they be sports bags or indeed, sets of skis, creating an Aston Martin which can be enjoyed on any occasion, anytime, anywhere.

Rapide’s rear environment has been intelligently packaged to create a space where passengers feel a part of the driving experience with clear views to the front and sides. Comfort and support is supplied in the form of two hand trimmed individual seats and a personal face-level heating and air conditioning system. Aiding the practicalities of everyday use, the luggage compartment features a movable bulkhead to permit access from the rear cabin while the rear seats fold flat at the touch of a button to create a flat loading space increasing the luggage compartment from 301 litres to 750 litres.

At the heart of every Aston Martin lies an evocative engine providing effortless power and torque: Rapide features a hand-built 6.0-litre V12 engine producing 470 bhp (477 PS / 350 kW) with peak power being delivered at 6000 rpm and 600 Nm (443 lbft) peak torque at 5000 rpm. A specifically tuned six-speed Touchtronic 2 automatic transmission features as standard, allowing the driver to change gear automatically or manually via the steering column-mounted magnesium paddles.

First shown in 2006 in concept form at the Detroit Auto Show, the Rapide project received an immediate green light from Aston Martin’s new shareholders in mid 2007 following the sale of the marque by the Ford Motor Company. In a little over two years, Aston Martin’s design and engineering team have delivered a new car from the ground up. Rapide has been developed from the ‘V/H Architecture’ platform which already forms the backbone to Aston Martin’s critically acclaimed line-up: the DBS, DB9 and Vantage range.

Chief Executive, Dr. Ulrich Bez said: “Rapide is the culmination of the Aston Martin ange of sports cars, a car that seals the revival of a truly admired marque. There is now an Aston Martin for every taste and for every use.

Director of Design, Marek Reichman who led the in-house design team which penned the Rapide said: “Like a race horse standing still, you can see its power and elegance, the shape of Rapide’s rear haunches are muscular conveying the power that lies beneath while its low stance produces a powerful look.

First deliveries of the Rapide will commence early in 2010 and will be available globally through Aston Martin’s 125 strong dealership network

2010 Saleen S281

2009-11-22T03:20:00.000-08:00

Saleen has unveiled the another member to its line-up of 2010 high-performance cars during the SEMA motorshow. The sports car is called the 2010 Saleen S281. It is the second Saleen vehicle launched this year, following the 2010 435S introduced in August.

As you may have noticed the S281 is based on the 2010 Ford Mustang. The limited edition’s exterior design features a different front, sides and rear. The familiar Saleen extended rear fascia and trunk lid with an integrated wing complete the package. Additional exterior highlights include 20-inch, 7-spoke alloy wheels with Pirelli P-Zero Rosso tires and Saleen S281 Supercharged fender badging.

The S281’s 4.6-liter V8 engine is equipped with a Saleen Series VI.5 twin-screw supercharger and dual-stage intercooler. The engine produces 485hp and 460lb.ft of torque, sent to the rear wheels through a short-throw, five-speed manual transmission and a limited-slip differential. The Saleen Racecraft suspension system is newly developed and includes tuned, single-rate front and rear springs, nitrogen-pressurized front struts and rear shocks with a wide range of damping adjustments.

The interior features leather sport seats with ultra-suede inserts, highlighted by chevron-like ultra-suede red tabs in the seatback bolsters. The gauges got their own treatment, same goes for the steering wheel, center console and shifter. Contrasting Saleen logos are found in the door panels and Saleen logos in the door sill plates illuminate when the door is opened.

ASI desgins F430 Scuderia Exhaust Tips

2009-11-21T15:28:00.000-08:00

ASI and Ito Racing have teamed up and started offering a new exhaust system next to ASI’s F430 body styling and aerodynamics kit. The exhaust is made of stainless steel and titanium cutter tips. It will offer more power and efficiency with an unique exhaust note. However, the Japanese tuner is still testing it and was unable to share some figures with us.

The system gives the regular 430 a “Scuderia” twist with center-release exhaust tips. Official price is 9,000 USD.

We will keep you posted when more information unveils itself!

BMW M6 Re-designed?

2009-11-21T15:23:00.000-08:00

The BMW M6 has been on the market for close to five years now, by my calculations, that means that it’s due for an upgrade sometime soon. That’s probably the reason behind these renderings by Cardess Design. They are purely speculative and are therefore unlikely to provide much of an insight into what BMW have planned.

There’s not much else that we can say about the design of the car. BMW would most likely opt for a more conservative design than this.

Speculation places the release of the car sometime next year with both coupé and convertible being released at the same time. The M variant will most likely include the 4.4 liter twin-turbo V8 from the X5M and X6M.

Can Lambo Urus replace Mucielago?????

2009-11-21T02:57:00.000-08:00

The Italian super car builder Lamborghini launched their flagship dream machine Murcielago back in 2001 and the slightly smaller Gallardo followed suit in 2003 and aside from a few special edition variations and the limited edition Reventon the automaker hasn’t come out with much else. However things are about to change as the Murcielago is being replaced by the all new Jota, a model that will be built on top of an all new carbon fiber chassis and utilizing more of the woven black stuff along with aluminum to create the skin under which a 6.0 Liter direct injected V12 that will put down around 700 HP.

Instead of numbing things down and introducing an entry level V10 version, sources say that Lamborghini is also working on an even more powerful model called Urus. The new car will be built from a modified version of the Jota and feature a full carbon fiber body. The Urus should be powered by a modified version of the Jota’s V12 engine except that it will be tuned to deliver up to 800 HP. The added output should bring the Lambos 0 to 60 MPH sprint to sub three second levels and will compete head to head with the Enzo’s successor, the Ferrari FX70.

Maximize Porsche Panamera's Output

2009-11-17T15:13:00.001-08:00

The amount of potential that can be gained with a simple microchip, when modified correctly, is the simplest and most practical method of squeezing every last drop of output out of your car’s 21st century motor. One perfect example is the Porsche Panamera, from the factory the four door sports car comes with a hearty 500 HP under the hood.

The engine computer re-calibration specialists at McChip already have a program that is designed to boost the Panamera’s 4.8 Liter turbocharged V8 by another 50 HP and bring some torque up as far as 624 lb-ft when equipped with Porsche’s Sportchrono package. That ain't all, because with more power comes more responsibility, like the kind you experience at 193 MPH, the chipped Panamera’s new top speed. Although the German tuners McChip are asking more for this particular unit than you would expect to pay for an ordinary car, at $2,250 this is well within the range of power hungry Prosche owners, and they won’t even have to worry about getting greasy.

BMW X6 Actve Hybird USA Price Announced

2009-11-16T14:52:00.000-08:00

BMW is the only automaker that can successfully come up with market segments and then serve them to customers who are more than eager to gobble them up. The German automakers latest creation is the BMW X6 SUV, or sports activity vehicle, now this differs from ordinary SUVs because instead of being a storage box on wheels an active lifestyle calls for truck like ground clearance combined with a fastback roofline and room for four, even though it still has the same footprint as a full sized sport utility vehicle. This sounds perfect for the American market.

Despite the questionable nature of this fresh design, BMW is pushing the niche appeal of their luxury vehicle to the next level with a BMW X6 Active Hybrid version and it will only cost consumers $89,775. Not bad considering that you will be able to counter any SUV protesters by informing them of your X6’s gas/electric hybrid drivetrain and then turn around and tell your muscle car friends about the BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology V8 and that you are laying down 485 HP and 575 lb-ft of torque to the pavement, just make sure that both conversations don’t coincide.

Mercedes takes over Brawn F1 team

2009-11-16T06:35:00.000-08:00

German car giant Mercedes has bought the Brawn Formula 1 team in a move that is likely to see Jenson Button join McLaren as Lewis Hamilton's team-mate.

Mercedes will buy 75% of Brawn in partnership with an Abu Dhabi investment company but will continue as McLaren's engine partner until 2015.

Brawn, who won both world titles in their debut season in 2009, will be rebranded as Mercedes Grand Prix.

Nico Rosberg will be their lead driver, with Nick Heidfeld his likely partner.

Fellow German Timo Glock, who drove for Toyota last season, is also a possibility.

The team has not yet confirmed Rosberg, who drove for Williams in 2009, but he is widely known throughout F1 to have already signed for the Mercedes team.

Mercedes motorsport vice-president Norbert Haug indicated that talks with Button were ongoing but had already revealed the team is in negotiations with Heidfeld.

"We are talking (with Button) and that's why we cannot announce the driver line-up," said Haug on Monday. "We have to accept that speculation takes place, but that's the name of the game."

But he added: "This will be an international team like Mercedes-Benz is a global player.

"We definitely do not want to have a pure German team. It's an international team and we want to have the best drivers in the car."

Daimler chairman Dieter Zetsche, whose company owns Mercedes, echoed Haug's thoughts.

"What we would like to see is the best drivers in the two seats," he said. "We certainly would not be opposed if one of them was German but that is not a prerequisite."

Button, who won the drivers' title this year, has been trying to secure a pay-rise from his £3.5m salary but it seems Mercedes is not interested in granting his wish. Courtesy BBC News

Jaguar XK Coupe

2009-11-15T15:16:00.000-08:00

Exclusive, innovative and individual: These three attributes best describe the STARTECH accessories program for the latest Jaguar XK and XKR models, which is available for coupes and convertibles. A customized XK Coupe that celebrates its world debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show IAA 2009 in Frankfurt/Main gives a good first look at the complete product lineup for the British automobiles.

The engineers and designers from STARTECH have developed subtle sporty body modifications, custom-tailored 21-inch forged wheels with corresponding ride-height lowering and eye-catching interior options.

Adding sporty emphasis to the elegant lines of the two-door with subtle components was a challenge the STARTECH styling team mastered with great success. The team developed spoiler flaps that attach to both sides of the production front apron. They upgrade the car’s appearance and reduce lift on the front axle. All STARTECH aerodynamic-enhancement components are made from carbon fiber. To make these components not only ultra-light but also extremely strong STARTECH uses the same ‘Prepreg’ production process in an autoclave used in motor racing and aerospace engineering.

The face of the Jaguar is further upgraded with daytime running lights. Using precise-fit design elements these lights are beautifully integrated into the stylized air vents on both sides of the bumper. The STARTECH carbon-fiber rear molding serves as the perfect backdrop for the two tailpipes of the exhaust system and gives the rear of the Jaguar even more character.

Germans taking the Lead!!!

2009-11-14T15:49:00.000-08:00

After three quarters of 2009 have come and gone, it looks like Volkswagen’s mission to become the world’s largest automaker is coming along sooner than anyone thought.

Thanks to a number of benefits from state-backed stimulus packages around the globe, Volkswagen has overtaken Toyota for the title of largest automaker after producing over 4.4 million cars for the first nine months of 2009 as opposed to the Japanese giant’s 4 million cars produced in the same span.

A big part in Volkswagen’s rise to the top involves the company’s infiltration of the Chinese market, which is also now the world’s largest car market. After launching a fleet of tailor-made VWs for the Chinese market, the company sold over 128,000 cars in the month of July alone – a sign that the Chinese seem to be warming up to buying imported cars like Volkswagen .In addition to their strong showing in China, VW also benefited from a number of cash-for-clunkers schemes in countries like Germany and in the UK.

As far as Toyota is concerned, the Japanese brand’s reign at the top didn’t last as long as it hoped after upstaging General Motors for the top spot just last year. It didn’t help matters when Toyota decided to ease up on the production of their cars as it continues to struggle in regaining its form after the global financial crisis.

Toyota’s decision to ‘decelerate’ production was the opening Volkswagen needed to seize the title of ‘world’s largest automaker’. Whether it retains that title longer than Toyota did is still up in the air, but if there’s one thing Volkswagen is confident of, it’s the fact that it has a lot of momentum on its side compared to its Japanese counterparts.

Rolls Royce Ghost- The First Rolls Royce i Like

2009-11-14T03:10:00.000-08:00

Ghost is the essence of Rolls-Royce in its simplest, purest form. Every inch delivers on the power of simplicity.

The classic Rolls-Royce proportions are all present and correct: the 2:1 ratio of the height of the wheels to the height of the body; the long wheelbase and bonnet; the short overhang at the front and long overhang at the rear.

Exterior Designer, Andreas Thurner says "…it looks natural, not styled". Its powerful presence leaves no doubt that it's cut from the same cloth as the rest of the marque - exactly what we set out to achieve.

Effortlessly Dynamic

"Nothing should distract from the pleasure of driving Ghost. Nothing does." says Helmut Riedl, Engineering Director. It is a simple pleasure, offering a seemingly endless surge of power when the throttle is pressed down.

The V12 engine remains whisper-quiet even when accelerating - Ghost's occupants will only notice the scenery pass at a quicker rate. Engineered to grip the road at all times, it creates a more dynamic drive and the famous Rolls-Royce 'magic carpet ride' for driver and passengers.

It's a true Rolls-Royce driving experience - from the authority driving position you get a commanding view along the Silver Satin bonnet, past the Spirit of Ecstasy to the road ahead.

Inner space

Inside, Ghost is refined and cosseting. Entering and exiting is both effortless and graceful - the low sill height means you step 'onto' rather than 'into' Ghost. The unique rear-hinged coach doors open to 83 degrees adding an extra sense of theatre for the rear passengers.

Once inside, you are greeted by a simple yet contemporary interior with large expanses of soft full grain leather, natural wood veneers and Blenheim wool carpets. The cashmere-blend roof lining adds to the sense of openness and space, enhanced by the optional Panorama sunroof.

It's like being cocooned in your own convivial private sanctuary that leaves you relaxed and unruffled after the longest journey.

1104HP BEAST!!!

2009-11-13T14:26:00.000-08:00

The Danish car maker Zenvo revealed new details on their first supercar: the ST1 (S stands for Supercharger, T for Turbo and 1 for model number one). The design of the Zenvo ST1 is made from free flowing accelerating lines creating the shapes of the wheel arches, the roof lines, side line and the lower side air intake.

The sharp lines are connected by muscular organic surfacing creating dramatic reflections. The front is designed around the hexagonal trademark Zenvo grille flanked by the large front air intakes used for brake cooling and housing the front light. The theme of the front is repeated in the rear which is designed around the big diffuser necessary for high speed stability and down force. As on the front the center volume is flanked by large air exits extracting hot engine air as well as housing the exhausts and rear lights. The rear spoiler, mandatory for a car capable of extreme high speeds, is partly integrated. It has a unique aerodynamic design following the raked shape of the rear end.

The ST1 is powered by a turbocharged and supercharged (yes you can do both, crazy Danes) 7.0-liter V8 that delivers 1,104 hp and 1055 lbs ft. of torque. The sprint from 0 to 60 mph is made in about three seconds and a top speed goes up to 233 mph.

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG orderes begin on November 16th;

2009-11-13T14:19:00.000-08:00

The German automaker Mercedes Benz has announced that the new SLS AMG super car will be taking domestic orders for the new Gullwing starting next Monday, on the 16th of November starting at 149,000 Euros, or 177,310 Euros including the continent’s Value Added Tax.

The SLS AMG is made up of an aluminum space frame body complete with gullwing doors, an AMG 6.2 Liter V8 mounted in the front midship position developing a maximum output of 571 HP and 480 lb-ft of torque in part thanks to the power plants dry sump lubrication system that sucks the pistons back down to Bottom Dead Center and can accelerate the SLS from 0 to 60 MPH in just 3.8 seconds. The super car is shifted via one of Mercedes Benz’s seven speed double clutch transmissions mounted at the rear of the vehicle in a transaxle configuration for ideal weight distribution of 47/53, front/rear. The SLS sits on an AMG tuned lightweight aluminum double wishbone sport suspension to reduce the unsprung mass and keeps the car’s center of gravity as low to the road surface as possible. The car’s curb weight has been kept to 1620 kilograms based on the Deutsches Institut für Normung, or German Institute of Standards. This combination of carefully chosen parts and fine tuning results in a superlative driving experience that can be enjoyed by everyone from a performance driving novice to a track day super star, thanks to this uncompromising sports car concept.

HAMANN Ferrari California

2009-11-13T09:02:00.000-08:00

Refining super sports cars is more than just business for the company HAMANN Motorsport. Their passion for detail, for something special and unique is the main incentive for extraordinary modifications. The latest stroke of genius once again confirms this. The HAMANN interpretation of the Ferrari California with its exclusive and extensive refining programme does not only make the hearts of real Ferrari fans beat faster.

Most of all, the car body kit proves that HAMANN does not only focus on changing the visual appearance. Apart from design elements such as a bonnet made of carbon fibre, specific modifications at the front, sides and back boost the aerodynamics. Thereby, the front spoiler reduces the lifting forces of the California which significantly improves the handling and agility. Moreover, the unobtrusive side skirt set calms the airflow between both axles. And moreover, a back spoiler increases the contact pressure. Here, the HAMANN engineers agreed on a small wing profile which considerably enhances the car body design. As the combination with the perfectly integrated and three-part rear diffuser renders enough grip for the road. Mainly on country roads with many curves, the HAMANN aerodynamics kit unravels its power and generates pure driving pleasure.

The extra agility and handling gives room for more performance. Also here, HAMANN Motorsport contributes its know-how. An adjustment for the motor management is in preparation and a sport exhaust system will also be especially engineered for this sports car. This combination will advance the performance of the serial 4.3 litre V8 engine with 460 hp by up 20 percent.

Another technical highlight in the offered tuning programme is the multi-part HAMANN aluminium wheel called EDITION RACE. The black varnished rim star and the titanium bolting of the high-gloss polished rim flange emphasise the racing character. As the wheel is produced in forged technology, it is extremely light. This reduces the unsprung masses which noticeably improves both the acceleration and the braking response. The recommended wheel-tyre combination measures 9.0Jx21 inches with 245/30ZR21 tyres for the front and 12.5Jx21 rims with wheels measuring 345/25ZR21 are fitted at the back. The wheel-tyre combination is perfectly enhanced by the suspension which is used in order to lower the sports car.

Also in the interior, HAMANN has a lot to offer to its customers. In addition to the serially offered interior,HAMANN Motorsport offers an extensive programme, ranging from personalised floor mats to a perfectly finished complete leather

Lamborghini Shines in London!

2009-11-13T08:48:00.000-08:00

As if prowling around the streets of London in a Lamborghini Murielago isn’t stlyin’ and profilin’ enough, this man just had to take it over the top.

In the understatement of the millennium, this chrome-finished Murcielago is indeed eye-catching. I won’t pretend to try to dive into what the owner was thinking when he decided that the Murcielago he owned needed something to spice it up even more.

So instead of fine-tuning his supercar, he decided to go for the long ball and have it chrome-painted.

The result, as you can plainly see, is a car that you wouldn’t want to be staring at in broad daylight – unless, of course, you want to go blind - with the sun at its glorious peak.

Onuk Sazan - Turkish supercar

2009-11-13T08:27:00.000-08:00

This new Turkish speed machine does away with the three letter moniker and instead caries the nickname of its creator’s late offspring, much like Enzo Ferrari did with the Dino. The Onuk Sazan is in every aspect a bona fide super car, the body is made from intricately worked composite materials, each pony only has to lug around about four pounds and the asking price is a cool €200,000.

Dr. Onuk is better known for creating some of the world’s most impressive water craft, the Sazan is an homage to the Doctor’s son, Kaan who lost his life in a tragic car accident back in 1996. Sazan, as he was known by his fellow classmates, thus became the only name that Onuk could consider for his latest creation. At the moment the prototype version of the Sazan is powered by a Chevrolet Corvette Z06 sourced LS7 V8 engine that has been slightly tweaked to deliver a maximum output of 512 HP. When the new Turkish super car does indeed go into production, you can expect to see a turbocharged version of Nissan’s award winning VQ series V6 engine under the deck lid tuned to put down around 485 HP to the rear wheels. Although we don’t often hear of automobiles coming from this Eurasian region, make no mistake and don’t discount the Onuk Sazan as a world class super car.

2009 BMW Vision EfficientDynamics

2009-11-13T02:34:00.000-08:00

The 2009 BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics is an interesting technological marvel. It evokes dynamism and carries the evocative appeal of its bloodline, while setting new standards as a luxury hybrid vehicle. Conceived as a plug-in hybrid car, the BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics emits fewer emissions and is fuel-efficient. It’s the embodiment of a sustainable vehicle.

In terms of design the super car highlights efficiency in a sports car. It was envisioned as a two-seater mid-engined coupe with improved aerodynamics. The hybrid vehicle’s powertrain can pull off a fuel consumption of 62.6 mpg. The revolutionary car is powered by a turbo-diesel three-cylinder engine and two electric motors. The car has a wonderful chassis and suspension. The roof and door inserts of the car are made of polycarbonate glass which makes them grow dark in response to incoming light. With 356 hp, this machine can reach 60 mph in 4.8 seconds and obtain a top speed of 155 mph.

2009 Iacocca Silver 45th Anniversary Ford Mustang

2009-11-13T02:06:00.000-08:00

The all-new Mustang is a result of the 45th Anniversary of One the biggest car's manufacturer super hit Brand "Mustang"! With a powerful V8 engine together with a supercharger aspiration and a tremendous 550 hp or horsepower capability, this truly is one of the most innovative and powerful car models produced under the Ford name.

This 2009 Iacocca Silver 45th Anniversary Ford Mustang also features the same security, safety, stability and balance that only the Ford brand can offer amongst the many cars and automobiles available in the commercial market as of today. It is one of the few cars that are considered top of the line, high quality and best performing in any and all types of conditions on and off the road as of today. Whether it is with regard to the interior of the vehicle itself or with regard to the exterior, Ford has really outdone itself with this new car model since it contains all of the outstanding features and capabilities that define luxury and elegance to a whole new level amongst the thousands and thousands of car models available in the commercial market.

2010 Carlsson Mercedes-Benz E-CK63

2009-11-12T16:12:00.001-08:00

This proud product of the Mercedes name features a 6.2 liter capacity V8 all powerful engine, a natural aspiration, a 585 hp or horsepower capability, 94.4 hp per liter feature and the standard ability to accelerate from zero to 62 miles per hour or 100 kilometers per hour in just 4.5 seconds. Elegance and simplicity combined into one car, that is the phrase that can best describe this innovative and state of the art car model brought into the commercial market under the Mercedes franchise.

This 2010 Carlsson Mercedes-Benz E-CK63 car model features all of the security, safety and balance that only the Mercedes brand can offer. From the lights to the wheels to the interior up to the exterior, every inch of this wonderful and amazing Carlsson model truly deserves to be of the highest quality amongst its competitor models available in the market. It also features the luxury and lavishness that can only be found in Mercedes made cars and automobiles and nowhere else. As a member of the E-Class of vehicles and cars, the Carlsson model for 2010 truly is one of the best if not the best car available for the use and utilization of everyone.

Aston Martin’s heaven

2009-11-12T13:23:00.000-08:00

IT’S hard to imagine blowing £1.2million on a car, unless you were the lucky Spaniard who won the £110million Euro Lottery draw recently.

But I went through the full experience of buying the world’s most expensive new car, the Aston Martin One-77.

The only bit I missed out on was writing the cheque for £1.2million, even though I got so carried away I thought about selling the house.

But I would still have been a whole lot short.

We’ve all dreamed of having more money than sense and that’s what you need here — in billionaire territory.

First up for the One-77 buyer is arriving in style. Most fly by helicopter to Aston’s HQ, at Gaydon in Warwickshire. Then they get the red-carpet treatment by being met by the car’s creator, Dr Ulrich Bez.

After he unveils it from under a silk sheet, you drool over what is more sculpture than car.

But you get a reality check as you are politely asked to sign a cheque for £200,000, the deposit you need to be seen as a serious buyer.

Then the nitty gritty — a meeting with Aston design chief Marek Reichman and access to the firm’s top-secret design studio. Here he explains how he was briefed by Dr Bez to create “the most amazing Aston ever”.

He recalls: “It was like all my Christmases had come at once, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

“I had no idea about cost, I was just told to design the ultimate Aston. We wanted it to look like it had been built by hand, sculpted from metal.”

Reichman then tells how the car evolved, through sketches, displayed on the studio walls, to clay models.

Advertisement
Quantcast

After just three days, he and five designers had whittled down the options to four sketches. But it took four months to create the full-sized clay model.

Reichman says buyers are speechless when they first see the car in the metal but then quickly want to know: “When can I sit in it?” followed by: “When can I drive it?”

Next task is to check out an almost endless list of colour schemes for their car, inside and out, and what wood, leather and other trims they want.

It’s like visiting a Savile Row tailor. Display boards show you various sport, traditional or luxury materials you can choose. Then there are colour-swatch charts you can spend hours studying in search of your unique hue. You even give your chosen colours your own names.

Aston have created five new exterior colours for the One-77.

I picked one with the codename Sandstone Blue but renamed it Blue Gibbo. I also chose a metallic bronze dashboard, just to be different

Your exotic choice of wood stretches to eight different grains, including bamboo.

Customers can spend months before choosing their colours and materials, most consulting their partners for advice, as well as the Aston experts.

Having made their decision, they return to the studio to see in computer- generated 3D, on a cinema screen, just how their dream machine will look and if it is exactly what they want.

Reichman’s greatest joy in meeting his customers is seeing how passionate they are about their car.

He says: “One buyer told us he was having an extra bedroom built on his house so he could wake up next to the car every day.” Another was so excited he just sat on the floor of the carbon-fibre chassis making engine noises and holding a pretend steering wheel.

Each buyer also meets Aston chief engineer Chris Porritt, who explains how every part — and its F1 carbon-fibre chassis — are handcrafted so it handles and performs to perfection.

Porritt takes each customer out on to Aston’s own test track so they can experience the car’s magic — and the sound of its awesome 7.3litre, V12 engine.

Porritt and his team then fine-tune the suspension and set-up to suit the individual buyer’s style of driving, right down to how quick they want the gear changes to be. Even the sound of the engine can be specially tuned.

Finally, when the customer’s car is completed, Aston provide expert tuition on how to handle a machine that is capable of 0-60mph in 3.3 seconds and a top speed of more than 200mph.

But it takes between nine months and a year for each car to be lovingly hand-built — and the first buyer is expected to pick up their One-77 in the middle of next year.

Dr Bez adds: “The One-77 is not like any other supercar. It is a completely different animal because of the way it combines beauty and power.

“The design is both pure and complex and there is nothing comparable. That is why people want this car.”

Zenvo ST1

2009-11-12T07:20:00.001-08:00

If you are - as the Zenvo ST1 claims to be - Denmark's first supercar, you want to do the job properly. Uphold national pride and all that.

Which is why, if you are Denmark's first supercar, you should not limit yourself to either a turbocharger or a supercharger. If you are Denmark's first supercar, you need both.

You need 1,104bhp of supercharged, turbocharged 7.0-litre V8 nestling in the middle of an angular, over-the-top lump of supercar.

Yes, 1,104bhp. That's what Zenvo Automotive, the Danish demons behind the ST1, claim to have squeezed from the Corvette-derived engine, which can run on standard petrol or E85 biofuel.

All that power batters the rear wheels through a six-speed manual gearbox, though Zenvo says it is working on a flappy-paddle transmission that can deal with the monstrous torque. Good luck, gents.

Zenvo plans to build just 15 ST1s, but has not yet announced a price. We're guessing this means they'll be Really Really Cheap. Yep, definitely cheap...

Lamborghini Murciélago LP 650-4 Roadster

2009-11-12T02:51:00.000-08:00

It’s official – we have photos of Lamborghini’s new limited run special of the Murcielago roadster, and they’re HOT. So hot, in fact, you’ll probably never see one.

With blistering performance, an with a 0-62 mph race clocking in at a cool 3.4 seconds – the 6.5L V12 engine makes use of every bit of the 650 monstrous horsepower it’s rated at, up from the 640 hp of the last Murciélago engine.

All I can say is wow, this is one bad bull…

This special edition Lambo will only be available in limited production (LP, duh) and can only be had in te Grigio Telesto exterior, a unique greyish paint with a special bright orange Arancio LP 650-4 decal plastered on the front spoiler and door sills – so that you can make sure everyone knows you just laid down an obscene amount of money on a car nobody’s probably ever gonna see besides looking at these pictures. The car’s so limited, only 50 models are slated to be built and no price is even mentioned (for those of which money is no option, obviously).

It may sound like we’re hatin’, but it’s much deeper than that. I just wanna drive one. And that’ll probably never happen. Well, maybe in a wet dream. Anybody have about $500k I can borrow?

Bugatti Veyron For $25,000?????????

2009-11-12T02:39:00.000-08:00

When it comes to any type of supercar you can be sure of a few things. They are always going to have the power that enables them to reach high speeds, the interior is always going to be made with the best leather you will ever see or feel, and the price tag is way out of our reach. Obviously there are some positives and negatives about them that does not give us the option to own one of our own.

Many of us dream of the day when these high powered vehicles would drop down in price – but we never believe that it might happen. That is until now! The Bugatti Veyron is one of the fastest and most lucrative supercar in the industry and right now people are given the choice to ride one for just $25,000. The only downside to this is that you will only be able to have the car for a single day.

We warned you it was a lucrative car! It seems that Holders Vehicle Contracts has a Veyron that they have been trying to rent out to someone who wishes to experience the thrill of driving around in it – even if only for one day. Vehicles Contracts is located in England and deals with dozens of vehicles. Not only will you have to spend a large amount of money – but you will also have to deal with signing a complicated company.

Melkus RS2000 Concept

2009-11-12T02:33:00.000-08:00

Heinz Melkus had the dream to create a supercar similar to that of the RS1000. That dream is coming true thanks to his son and grandson Peter and Sepp Melkus. The East German race car builder has plans to produce 25 models of the RS2000. The prototype for the new model began in 2007and was finally revealed to us during the Frankfurt Auto Show.

It is said that they had a challenge making the RS2000 – which was supposed to embody the elegance and uniqueness from its predecessor. They did not want to alter the design of this legendary supercar – but rather to enhance it in a subtle way. They were able to use the modern sports car engineering to reinterpret the classic design.

With this in mind they were able to make it sportier and slightly more stronger. This also goes along well with the engine beneath the hood that is providing all of that strength. It is equipped with a 1.8 liter, 4 cylinder, 16 valve Elise engine that is able to push out 270 horsepower. It is connected to a 6 speed transmission.

It has a curb weight of 2,090 pounds and is able to rev from 0 to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds. Owners of this limited edition supercar will have the advantage of customizing the inside of the car. However, it will come standard with a few items that its competition has. It has a price tag of €107,500.

Lamborghini Reventon

2009-11-12T02:21:00.000-08:00

Clearly a Lamborghini, but nothing quite like it. A super car without equals: the Lamborghini Reventon is a road vehicle with an extreme specification and, at the same time, a limited edition masterpiece – a coherent style, angular with sharp lines, inspired by the very latest aeronautics.

With just 20 produced, each 1 Million Euro (without taxes) Lamborghini Reventon is a symbol of extreme exclusivity, yet still offering the extraordinary performance that makes the Reventon so unrivalled: under the completely autonomous design, the Reventon possesses the entire technical and dynamic competence of the twelve cylinder Lamborghini.

Born in Sant’Agata Bolognese

The Lamborghini Reventon has been entirely designed in Sant’Agata Bolognese, the original birthplace of the Lamborghini and the native home of every super car born under the sign of the bull. The design drawn up in Lamborghini’s Centro Stile (Style Center) is fine-tuned in close collaboration with the Lamborghini Research and Development Department. Thus, the Reventon is not only “haute couture” but it also stands out for its elevated dynamism whilst being entirely suitable for every day use.

The Lamborghini Reventon is not destined to remain a one-off. A total of 20 Lamborghini friends and collectors will be able to own this extraordinary car and, naturally, enjoy the incomparable pleasure of driving it.

The name Reventon has been chosen according to Lamborghini tradition. Reventon was a fighting bull, owned by the Don Rodriguez family. It is included in the list of the most famous bulls ever and is known for killing the famed bullfighter Felix Guzman in 1943.

Made of Carbon Fiber

Although it is based on the extraordinarily successful Murcielago LP640, the exterior design of the Reventon is completely new. Just like the base model, the exterior is made of CFC, a composite carbon fiber material, which is as stable as it is light. The exterior components are glued and fixed to the body comprised of CFC and steel.

The front is characterized by the acute angle of the central ‘arrow’ and by the powerful forward-facing air intakes. Although they do not supply air directly to the turbine like an airplane, bearing in mind the 650 hp, an abundant volume of air is necessary to cool the carbon brake disks and the six cylinder calipers.

Characterised by Coherent Functions

Naturally, both doors on the Reventon open upwards – since the legendary Countach this has also been a symbol of the V12 Lamborghini product line. With their asymmetric configuration, the large air intakes below the doors provide an example of the extreme coherence with which a Lamborghini fulfils its function: on the driver's side it is large to increase the flow of oil to the radiator. On the passenger’s side of the vehicle, the air intake is flat because in this case, it only has to ensure the flow below the floor. The aerodynamically optimized flat floor structure terminates at the rear with a diffuser featuring an accentuated shape. This guarantees excellent road grip and stability even at 200 mph.

A Masterpiece with Tested Technology

The technology found in the Murcielago LP640 has not been modified. The engine in the LP640 forwards is the classic twelve-cylinder engine with 6.5 liter displacement. Only for this car, Lamborghini guarantees, an astounding 650 bhp at 8,000 revolutions per minute (rpm). The huge torque, equal to maximum 487 lb-ft, ensures a powerful switch from any number of revolutions: even the slightest pressure on the accelerator is spontaneously transformed into thrust. The robotised e.gear changes gear faster than even the most expert driver. In addition, the permanent Viscous Traction four-wheel drive system ensures that every force is constantly translated into movement.

With the Lamborghini Reventon, Lamborghini has done it again; it has created an unequalled super car; the perfect synthesis between the exclusivity and appeal of a limited edition design masterpiece, and the dynamism and driveability of a standard sports car. Thus, the Lamborghini legend is further enhanced by another, stylish future classic.

Devon GTX at the 2009 SEMA Show

2009-11-12T02:15:00.000-08:00

The Devon Motorworks GTX is the latest and greatest American made super car. So far we have seen the car debut at Pebble Beach and even set a lap record at Laguna Seca, however we still haven’t seen the new super car from racing driver Justin Bell. The Devon GTX is a pure driving machine; with an inherent beauty that comes from a simplistic and functional design. The GTX’s body features bold wheel arches that house some seriously wide rubber and steel while Devon’s first interior is filled with retro touches like the cueball looking shift knob that looks like it came right out of a classic muscle car. We think that Mr. Bell and his team of automotive craftsmen at Devon Motorworks are taking a step in the right direction with the GTX and will definitely be giving more exotic super cars from around the world a run for their money.

Top Gear is Back!!!

2009-11-11T02:49:00.000-08:00

Everyone’s favorite automotive television show Top Gear is coming back with its 14th season this coming November 15th at 21:00 GMT on BBC channel Two. The new series will bring back the ringleader Jeremy Clarkson, the looker Richard Hammond and Captain Slow James May as they drive a trio of drop top super cars that are as special as they are. We have seen the crew preparing for the season 14 premier where they will be driving an Aston DBS Volante, a Ferrari California and a Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder on the Romanian road Transfagarasan.

Gran Turismo 5

2009-11-11T02:38:00.000-08:00

Just in case the wait for Gran Turismo 5 has left you chomping your nails in anticipation, it’s always a good idea to remember just what you’re waiting for. These new screenshots of the game come in 18 megapixels, which, if you don’t know, is as crisp as it can get.

The realism is uncanny, even for our pretty lofty standards, and seeing these photos does beg the question: how much longer do we have to wait?

Arash AF-10 - 550 hp British supercar gets official

2009-11-10T07:02:00.001-08:00

Announced back in 2008, the British supercar Arash AF-10 is now official. It will go on sale at a price of 360,000 euro ($540,000 at the current rates). But if you want to buy one you better hurry up as there will only be 70 units produced in 5 years.

Under the hood the AF-10 is using a central-mounted 7,0 liter LS7 engine used on the Corvette ZR1. The engine delivers a total of 550 hp at 6200 rpm and a peak torque of 475 lbs-ft and it is mounted to a six-speed manual transmission type Graziano GT-ME1. The Arash AF-10 can hit a top speed of 205 mph.

The supercar is featuring a 100% carbon construction using aluminum honeycomb and nomex panels for better strength. The rear window and driver to engine compartment window are made of non shatter and scratch resistant plastic, while the front windows and side windows are constructed of laminated glass. All body parts have been constructed using the carbon autoclave process of eliminating excess resins via pressure and heat to make parts lighter and stiffer than ever constructed.

For those of you who need more than 550 hp, Arash announced there will also be a 800 and a 1000 hp version. Also there will be a smaller version, the AF-8 for those who don’t want to pay that much.

Diamond-coated Koenigsegg Trevita CCXR up for sale in South Africa for $5 million

2009-11-10T07:00:00.001-08:00

One of three of Koenigsegg’s CCXR has found itself in South Africa and is now being sold for a “paltry” $5 million.

As eye-whopping as the number is, this particular Trevita CCXR is not like most Koenigsegg supercars you can find anywhere in the world – and even that is an understatement considering you don’t find a lot of these cars anywhere to begin with.

The reason for the exorbitant price tag is because this particular one – along with two others – comes with a diamond-coated carbon fibre finish, which, if you don’t know, is a unique carbon fiber technique where the individual fibers are coated in a diamond finish.

Combine that with the Trevita CCXR’s gargantuan capability to produce over 1000 horsepower and you have a car that is being sold for a cool $5 mil. The only thing Koenigsegg needs to worry about now is finding someone that’s prepared to shell out that kind of money for a shiny and glittering supercar.

Pagani Zonda '09

2009-11-10T02:28:00.000-08:00

Pagani Zonda is never shy of a drive at the racetrack, a fact that was proven numerous times in the past with records for production vehicles a the Nurburgring Nordschleife. With the input of its avid track focused customers, the Pagani team has created the Pagani Zonda R using bespoke engineering solutions to meet the performance demands for a trackday version of the highly popular Pagani Zonda F.

The central monocoque is made of a Carbon-Titanium composite, increasing rigidity while reducing significantly the weight. Bolted directly to the chassis is the Mercedes AMG 6.0 litre race derived V12 engine, with 750 hp and 710 Nm of torque. A direct throttle actuation via mechanical cable ensures immediate throttle response.

The Xtrac Magnesium cased dog ring gearbox combined with tha Automac Engineering AMT system performs gearshifts in 20ms, triggered by the drivers input on the paddles behind the steering wheel. A 12-way Bosch Motorsport traction control and ABS system allows the driver to fully adjust the settings while driving the Pagani Zonda R.

At the pits, each driver will be able to find a suitable setup thanks to a fully adjustable suspension and wing configuration. The effectiveness of the rear is matched by a complex new front bonnet, a masterpiece realised with the help of models by Ennegi, as well as the closed underbody and rear diffusor. Aerodynamic setups rage from a high downforce setting of 1.500kg to a 350kmh top speed setting.

Aspa forged AvionAl suspension components as well as machined structural ErgAl parts holding the engine and gearbox have been designed to reduce the weight of the overall car, Poggipolini Titanium screws are used on the whole car. These measures lead to a dry weight of 1.070 kg.

The interior has been designed to offer a perfect environment for the driver. The controls are limited to the indispensable, but the quality finish reflects the usual demanding Pagani standards. The bespoke Toora seats are FIA homologated and comply to latest HANS standards, five-point safety belts and a CrMo roll-cage assure the occupants' safety.

The lucky owners of the Pagani Zonda R will experience a level of performance on the track, that is simply not possible on the road. A power-to-weight ratio of 701 hp-per-ton will catapult them from 0 to 60 mph in less than 2,7 seconds, the Brembo carbon ceramic brakes ensure the car comes to a standstill even quicker.

The Pagani Zonda R is built in a limited production run and sold at a price of 1.460.000 Euro plus taxes, a performance machine, a track toy, a collectors item, a masterpiece signed by Horacio Pagani.

Technical Data
Engine
Type: Mercedes-Benz AMG - M120 - 12 cylinder V 60°, 48 valves; displacement 5987 ccm, dry sump
Max. Power: 750 hp (551 kW) @ 7.500 rpm
Max. Torque: 710Nm @ 5.700 rpm
Stroke: 80,20 mm
Bore: 89,00 mm
Traction control: 12 Stage - Bosch Motorsport traction control system
Intake: Single throttle bodies, mechanically operated
Exhaust system: Hydroformed Inconel, ceramic coated
Transmission: Longitudinal mid engine; rear wheel drive with self-locking differential
Gearbox: XTRAC 672 bespoke magnesium casing gearbox, 6 speed sequential dog gearchange with Automac Engineering AMT system
Carbon-ceramic brakes: 4 ventilated Brembo disks, hydraulic power brake 12 Stage - Bosch Motorsport Race ABS
Discs
Front: 380x34 mm 6 piston caliper
Rear 380x34 mm 4 piston caliper
Wheels: Forged alloy APP wheels; 19" front, 20" rear
Tyres: Pirelli P Zero Zonda R: ant. 255/35/19; post. 335/30/20
Suspensions: 4 independent wheels with double A-arm; Forged Avional suspension arms; pull rod helical springs and Öhlins adjustable shock absorbers
Structure: Central carbon-Titanium chassis, Engine is a stressed member; front and rear Cr Mo space frames; bodywork carbon fiber MD System
Dimensions
Length: 4886 mm
Width: 2014 mm
Height: 1141 mm
Wheelbase: 2785 mm
Dry weight: 1070 kg
Safety: Roll cage in Cr Mo steel; carbon fibre seats HANS compatible; five point harness
0-100 km/h: 2,7 sec
Top speed: > 350 km/h
Weight-to-Power ratio: 1,43 kg/hp

Maybach Zeppelin '09

2009-11-10T02:19:00.000-08:00

The Maybach brand is bringing out the new Maybach Zeppelin to spearhead its luxury saloon model range - Stuttgart. The newcomer represents the absolute zenith in the high-end luxury saloon segment. This makes it a worthy successor to the legendary Maybach Zeppelin, which was revered worldwide as the ultimate in high-class automotive engineering in the 1930s. The hallmark features of the new Maybach flagship’s unique sense of style include a stunning paint finish, featuring a shoulderline in a contrasting colour, as well as the exquisite, meticulously crafted materials in the interior, whose long list of optional extras includes a world first – a highly sophisticated perfume atomiser. The new model's performance outclasses the rest of the Maybach range, making it the most powerful Maybach ever. In a nutshell: the Maybach Zeppelin epitomises stylish elegance and vehicle manufacture as no car has ever done before. The new Maybach Zeppelin is being built in a limited edition of 100 worldwide.

A Maybach brochure dating from 1930 clearly sets out the firm’s stall: “To create only the very best from the very best – a car that fulfils every last wish and stands out for its supremely refined elegance and power.” At that time, Karl Maybach had developed a luxury car, the likes of which had never been seen before. Maybach derived the design of its mighty twelve-cylinder drive unit from the same engine he had developed to power the daring airships of aviation pioneer Ferdinand Graf von Zeppelin. Inspired by the Count’s visionary personality, he christened Germany’s first ever series-production twelve-cylinder car “Zeppelin”, and offered it to a highly discerning (and solvent) clientele with a displacement of either seven or eight litres (150 hp or 200 hp).

Even today, the name “Zeppelin” has an incomparable ring to it in the realm of high-end luxury cars. As the flagship model in today’s range of Maybach Saloons, the new Maybach Zeppelin does justice to its branding. The name is not merely intended to rekindle memories, after all: as in bygone times, Maybach is once again building the Maybach Zeppelin for distinguished drivers who are seeking something extra special, even in this most luxurious of automotive segments. Not only do the Maybach 57 Zeppelin and Maybach 62 Zeppelin stand out for their exquisite elegance, inventive ideas and phenomenal performance.

Yet greater power for the Maybach Zeppelin

The Maybach 57 S and the long-wheelbase version, the 62 S, serve as the technical basis for the new range-topping model. Supreme performance is assured in both cases by the 6.0-litre V12 biturbo power unit under the bonnet, which has been further refined by Mercedes-AMG and now delivers 471 kW/640 hp (+ 28 hp) and an electronically limited peak torque of 1000 Newton metres. The models’ extra-special status is documented in befitting fashion by a plaque in the engine compartment, which is engraved with the inscription “MAYBACH ZEPPELIN – ONE OF 100”. If the customer so wishes, a reference to their vehicle’s limited nature can be included in the passenger compartment too.
Needless to say that both versions of the Maybach Zeppelin have extraordinary performance capabilities. The decidedly sporty Maybach 57 Zeppelin for owners who enjoy taking the wheel themselves races to 100 km/h from standstill in 4.9 seconds and attains an electronically governed top speed of 275 km/h. The Maybach 62 Zeppelin, which is conceived first and foremost as a chauffeur-driven car, completes the 0 - 100 km/h sprint in 5.1 seconds and has a limited top speed of 250 km/h.

A two-tone exterior identifies the new Maybach flagship

Whatever angle it is viewed from, the new Maybach Zeppelin radiates character and the sort of style which appeals to all the senses. From the outside, the luxury brand’s new top-of-the-range model can be recognised by its two-tone special paint finish which is applied in a long series of steps. The shoulderline is painted right through to the background of the headlamp assemblies in Rocky Mountains light brown, forming a stylish and scintillating contrast to the Taiga black finish used for the rest of the vehicle body while reinforcing the impression of three-dimensionality too. Naturally, customers may also specify any other paint finish of their choice for their Maybach Zeppelin. Dark red tail light units and a fine vertical partition in the tailpipe add striking visual touches at the rear.

The Maybach's newly designed elegant 20-inch wheels in a Chrome Shadow finish complete the picture. These were first painted with a black undercoat, before having a silver topcoat applied using an elaborate painting process that causes the tone to gradually increase in darkness from the outside in.

The streamlined exterior mirrors, which produce even less wind noise, are new to Maybach. They have a more angular design and are separated from the door frame by a slender arm, giving them a more expressive look. They also feature an enlarged mirror surface together with integral indicators in the shape of a horizontal “V” for even greater perceptual safety.

The curving “ZEPPELIN” lettering that appears below the distinctive double “M” emblem on the radiator grille and on the boot lid instantly gives away the elite status of the Maybach Zeppelin.

Finest-quality leather and high-gloss piano lacquer trim

The new Maybach Zeppelin is a car for connoisseurs, as is immediately apparent from its interior. Here, the luxurious leather appointments in California beige leather form a delightful contrast with the exclusive leather in deep Stromboli black that gives added impact to the shoulderline on the inside too – elegantly mirroring the exterior’s colour scheme in the process. At the same time, the lustrous deep black tone of the leather harmonises beautifully with the exquisite piano lacquer finish of the trim elements. The precisely crafted contrasting topstitching in the dashboard and on the doors reinforces the Maybach Zeppelin’s sense of dynamism. The unusual diamond quilting pattern on the seat cushions and backrests together with the black piping gives the opulently styled seats a character all of their own. The occupants’ feet rest on genuine lambskin carpeting.

The limited-edition special models bear a number of discreet identifying markings in the interior too. The centre console in the front, the partition screen that is available as an option for the Maybach Zeppelin 62, plus the silver champagne flutes included as standard are all marked with the lettering “MAYBACH ZEPPELIN”, while the door sill panels as well as the key ring are engraved with the word “ZEPPELIN”.

World first – a system for a fine interior fragrance

Customers are also able to opt for an especially refined equipment detail that is exclusive to the Maybach Zeppelin – an imaginatively designed, extremely high-quality perfume atomiser, the only one of its kind in the world. It easily eclipses all previous efforts to produce something similar, both in terms of its visual appeal and its operation. Its sophisticated technology and premium fragrances create a unique aromatic experience in the Maybach Zeppelin’s interior at the push of a button – stimulating the senses of the occupants not with an overpowering perfume but with a soft, delicate scent.

The system’s core component is an internally illuminated Plexiglass sphere on the rear centre console, into which Maybach Zeppelin owners can insert a vial of their preferred fragrance. Underneath the sphere’s base, which is finished in piano lacquer, there is a dedicated regulator pump. At the push of a button, this compressor draws in pre-purified from the vehicle’s interior and directs it into the Plexiglass sphere in a gentle stream. The airstream passes through four apertures in the top of the vial’s cap, allowing it to carry perfume molecules from the tip of the cap into the vehicle interior. Air which has been suitably purified by the vehicle’s own climate control system also flows out of a ventilation outlet at the bottom of the sphere, thereby helping to distribute the scented air throughout the passenger compartment.

The ingenious control understands the human sense of smell

The perfume atomiser can be activated either from the driver’s seat or by means of a button in the rear centre console, with an additional thumbwheel in the rear for sensitive aroma control. The chosen fragrance gently wafts into the passenger compartment within ten to twelve seconds. On models with a partition screen, only the passengers in the rear are able to activate the atomiser.

The aroma experts took the human sense of smell into consideration when designing the control mechanism. As the nose adjusts to smells in such a way that it no longer perceives them after a short while, the perfume atomiser switches off after about ten minutes to prevent the occupants’ sense of smell from being overwhelmed to the point where they can no longer enjoy the fine aroma. Once the system has switched off, the fragrance quickly evaporates. Thanks to the sophisticated control and the high-quality perfumes used, the fragrance does not seep into either the interior’s materials or the occupants’ clothes.

Reactivating the atomiser later allows the aromatic experience to be enjoyed all over again.

Artistic, hand-blown vials and specially developed fragrances

The system comes supplied with two select fragrances, which have been exclusively developed for the Maybach by a renowned perfumer from global specialist Givaudan: one light and refreshing, the other woodier, richer and heavier, making it an ideal complement to the interior of the Maybach Zeppelin. The foundation for the latter is agar, the most expensive wood in the world, which is burned in the Japanese ‘ko-do’ incense ceremony.

Maybach Zeppelin owners can also use other fragrances, or even have one specially developed and enjoy the luxury of immersing themselves in their very own, personally designed aroma. The fragrance holders are easily interchangeable, allowing owners to quickly switch between two or even three scents to suit their mood, fashion, style or sense of wellbeing, for instance. The specification includes a total of three valuable vials, which are hand-blown by a well-known glass artist.

The elaborate, silent-running perfume atomiser system is a patented Maybach innovation that was developed in-house.

The Maybach 57 Zeppelin costs €406,000, the Maybach 62 Zeppelin has a price tag of €473,200 (German list price, excl. VAT). The perfume atomiser that is exclusive to the Maybach Zeppelin can be ordered for an extra €3950 (German list price, excl. VAT).

The new Maybach Zeppelin goes on sale on 3 March 2009, with the first models due to be delivered to customers in September 2009.

Lamborghini Murcielago LP710 Audigier

2009-11-10T02:07:00.001-08:00

In cooperation with internationally acclaimed designer Christian Audigier, edo competition has pulled out all the stops to create the fastest Lamborghini ever made. The limited edition edo Lamborghini Murcielago LP710 Audigier, of which only five will be produced, is a vehicle engineered to the highest standards, combined with Christian Audigier's unusual themes and unparalleled sense of color.

For those wishing to follow in the footsteps of international celebrities, there's no way around Christian Audigier. With his luxury clothing label he is setting new standards in the fashion world, exemplified by the sparkling skull and pirate themes adorning his designer pieces. However, Christian Audigier's creativity is not limited to fashion; it also translates to the world of automotive design, as evidenced by this latest cooperative effort.

Thanks to his inexhaustible imaginativeness, the matte black outer skin of the edo Lamborghini Murcielago LP710 has been completely restyled. However, it doesn't end there! The redesigned interior is an impressive sight as well. Carrying the creative theme inside, the seats, door panels and center console have been upgraded using his exquisite designs.

2009 Chevrolet Corvette GT1

2009-11-10T02:03:00.001-08:00

Edition (Regular Production Option GT1) commemorates the success of Corvette Racing and the Corvette C6.R:Eight American Le Mans Series GT1 manufacturers and team championships Five-time 24 Hours of Le Mans class champions 74 victories in international sports car competition

Included in the GT1 Championship Edition package:
Graphics inspired by C6.R livery feature Corvette Racing "Jake" mascot, ALMS championships, and driver flags
ZR1-style body color full-width spoiler and chrome wheels
Custom leather-wrapped ebony interior with exclusive yellow accent stitching
GT1 embroidery on leather seats, instrument panel, and center console armrest
Special engine cover with carbon pattern and yellow Corvette lettering
Windshield banner (owner installed)

GT1 Championship Edition to be produced in Corvette coupe, convertible and Z06 models in spring 2009:
Available in 45U Velocity Yellow (with black headlamps) or 41U Black
Specific VIN sequence 300001 series for 45U Velocity Yellow representing the No. 3 Corvette C6.R
Specific VIN sequence 400001 series for 41U Black representing the No. 4 Corvette C6.R
Production limited to 100 per each color and body style combination (600 total)
Coupe and convertible versions also include Z51 Performance Package and NPP Performance Exhaust
Optional MX0 6-speed paddle shift automatic on coupe and convertible
Optional C2L dual roof package on coupe
Optional U3U Navigation System on all models

2009 Bentley Continental GT

2009-11-10T01:55:00.000-08:00

Two figures alone would seem to say it all about the Bentley Continental GT: it accelerates from 0-60mph in 4.7sec (0-100km/h 4.8sec) and reaches a top speed of 198mph (318km/h). In fact such bold statistics barely scratch the surface of the Bentley Continental GT's true capabilities.

The aim from the start of the Bentley Continental GT project was to create a car with an unrivalled performance envelope, so that it would not only be quicker and more powerful than any rival on paper, but that these extraordinary talents would also be able to be used safely and to the full in the real world. The Bentley Continental GT is not and never was about theoretical performance potential - every aspect of its ability has been specifically tailored so that it is not just possible to access its performance, it is easy and natural.

Moreover, the Bentley Continental GT concept also dictated that the resulting car would recognise that, though we would all wish otherwise, road conditions in all markets mean that frequently its owners will not be able to make use of its full potential. Indeed in some regions traffic conditions are such that being able to extend such a car is more of a rare treat than an everyday occurrence. Which is why in addition to being able to thrill its occupants at a moment's notice, the Bentley Continental GT is also configured to comfort and cosset them the rest of the time - in the tradition of a true British Grand Tourer.

The Bentley Continental GT is the first product designed entirely under the patronage of the Volkswagen Group and a £500 million investment in the marque has enabled a transformation of the site at Crewe. This made it possible for the Bentley Continental GT to be designed, engineered and assembled on site.

The investment has also made it possible for Bentley to recruit over 400 new staff to Crewe, giving Bentley greater independence and control over its future than at any time since it first passed into proprietary ownership in 1931.

Engine

The heart of the Bentley Continental GT is its 5998cc, four camshaft, 48-valve, twin turbocharged W12 engine. It can now be revealed that its power output, hitherto quoted as 'in excess of 500bhp', is in fact 552bhp (560PS) (411kW) at 6100rpm. Maximum torque is 650Nm (479lb ft) which may sound an impressive enough statistic in isolation but its true significance only become apparent when you learn that it is generated at just 1600rpm. Typically, a performance car engine will force the driver to wait until it is spinning at between 3-5000rpm before it will deliver maximum thrust; in the Bentley Continental GT it's all there at barely more than idling speed. No other car in production makes its torque so instantly accessible.

But this just the start of the story for this engine has other claims to fame beyond its headline-grabbing outputs. Its exterior dimensions, for instance, make it the smallest 12-cylinder engine currently in production, despite its considerable 6-litre displacement. The block is just 513mm long, 715mm high and 710mm wide. This has been made possible entirely by its 'W' formation where instead of arranging the cylinders in two long rows as you would in a conventional V12 configuration, each bank of cylinders is actually staggered, effectively creating two V6 engines mated on a common crankshaft. The angle between the two main banks is 72deg, that between the staggered cylinders just 15deg. The result of this is an exceptionally compact motor, a trait that brings advantages in many areas. Clearly it helps hugely with weight distribution as a geographically small engine is easier to locate nearer the centre of the car. This in turn helps the overall packaging of the car and, in particular, its frontal crash performance, a crucial consideration in a Bentley which has a short front overhang as one of the main features of its design language.

It is no secret that the basic engine architecture has been supplied to Bentley from its parent company, the Volkswagen Group, but by the time Bentley's powertrain team had finished re-engineering it to an exclusive specification for the Bentley Continental GT, it could be truly considered a unique engine in its own right.

Clearly the major engineering challenge was to adapt the engine to accept forced induction, a process that required major re-engineering of the block, the replacement of many internal components and all new inlet and exhaust manifolds. The result would have to cope with a rise in output from 420bhp in standard form to 552bhp once installed under the bonnet of the Bentley Continental GT.

The engine features special pistons, specifically designed for the Bentley Continental GT in order to deliver the desired compression ratio of 9.5:1, a phenomenally high figure for a turbocharged engine. The engine also features seven main bearings, pent-roof combustion chambers and variable valve timing on both inlet and exhaust valves. The timing is infinitely variable within its fixed range, which is some 52 degrees on the inlet camshafts and 22 degrees on the exhaust camshafts.

A huge amount of work was also undertaken to make sure the Bentley Continental GT could use very efficient air to air intercooler. Fitting them within the already cosy confines under the Bentley Continental GT's bonnet was not the matter of the moment, but Bentley's engineers regarded their inclusion in the specification as not negotiable and, after several months work, they were integrated into the under bonnet package.

The Bentley Continental GT also uses a dedicated exhaust system, using two six-into-one manifolds. Much attention has been paid not simply to ensure the exhaust provides maximum efficiency, but also that its sound is appropriate to the fastest Bentley road car in both tone and volume.

The turbochargers are made for Bentley by renowned specialists, KKK, and need operate at only the comparatively conservative boost pressure of 0.7bar to provide the Bentley Continental GT with its headline performance. Given this, the existence of maximum torque at 1600rpm and the engine's 6-litre capacity and it's easy to see how turbo-lag, the sole undesirable side-effect of this variety of forced induction, has been effectively removed from the equation. As with all Bentley-designed powerplants since the birth of the company in 1919, smooth power is not something you need to wait or ask for - it is there, at your disposal at every point of the rev-range from idle to its 6100rpm red-line.

Controlling all this power is Bosch's state of the art ME 7.1.1 engine management system which comes complete with two throttle bodies, exhaust gas temperature regulation, boost pressure regulation, two air mass sensors, four knock sensors with adaptive learning and the latest ESP 5.7 electronic stability programme. Ignition is achieved without the need for a distributor, thanks to each cylinder being provided with its own coil. The engine is fully compliant with future Euro IV emissions regulations and has been calibrated to run on standard 95RON octane pump fuel.

Such is the power of the Bentley Continental GT's powertrain that Bentley engineers took the decision to reinforce its already substantial engine mounts with Kevlar bindings to make sure it does not move even under the most extreme circumstances.

Powertrain testing

The engine in the Bentley Continental GT has undergone some of the most gruelling and exhausting test procedures of any engine in order to ensure that it can be depended upon to accommodate all and more than any owner could ever need. Naturally prototypes have and continue to rack up millions of miles in some of the hottest, coldest, driest and most humid places on earth, but perhaps no single test illustrates the relentless pursuit of engineering perfection than those tests performed with the engine out of the car and sitting on a bench.

Perhaps the most eye-opening of these is a test where the engine is switched on and revved to maximum revolutions (6100rpm) from cold and then left there, not for a few minutes or even a few hours. It is left to run at maximum speed for 100 hours or, put another way, over four Le Mans in a row.

Another test puts the engine through an advanced programme of cyclical accelerations, decelerations and steady state running at all points in the rev range for 500 hours non-stop or, to put that perspective, just four hours short of three weeks.

The engine has also been exposed to prolonged thermal shock cycling where internal temperatures are swiftly brought to a peak whereupon its coolant is replaced by ice-cold fluid in order to induce the swiftest possible drop in temperature before the engine is re-heated up to maximum temperature again and the process is repeated.

Transmission

Not many gearboxes are capable of handling the extraordinary torque loadings that the Bentley Continental GT engine is able to produce and none so far fitted to a luxury coupé has had the benefit of six gears. Yet with the help of its partners at ZF, that is exactly what Bentley has provided for the Continental GT. Designated 6HP26, the new gearbox is the most advanced of its kind in the world, offering not only six ratios but also the ability to lock up its torque converter in every gear, providing effectively manual gearchanges via either the gear lever or steering wheel paddles.

The gearbox itself is exceptionally light and compact, given the torque it must handle, indeed it has almost 30 per cent fewer components than a conventional five speed automatic, decreasing weight and improving both reliability and efficiency. Though variants of this gearbox have been supplied by ZF to other luxury car manufacturers, that used by the Bentley Continental GT is distinguished by being adapted for use with a four-wheel drive transmission and has been further modified for use in the Bentley Continental GT.

Not only does the Bentley Continental GT carry bespoke gearing, tailored precisely to the unique torque characteristics of the engine and the car's exceptional top speed, it has also been fundamentally redesigned for installation in the Bentley, placing the front differential ahead of the torque converter in order to push the front wheels as far forward as possible, creating a minimal front overhang, an inimitable Bentley design trait. Direct drive equates to 22.7mph (36.5km/h) per 1000rpm which, with a 0.691:1 top gear ratio, gives 32.85mph (52.86km/h) per 1000rpm. At first this may appear a relatively long-legged ratio, after all the Bentley Continental GT will sit at the UK national speed limit (70mph) with just over 2100rpm on the rev-counter. In fact, and in keeping with the car's extreme sporting aspirations, this ratio has been chosen to ensure that maximum power and maximum speed coincide as closely as possible.

All-wheel drive

Pointing the power in four directions was part of the original strategy for ensuring the Bentley Continental GT would remain, safe, usable and enjoyable in all weather conditions routinely found around the world.

The system used employs a central Torsen (TORque SENsing) differential and a free differential on each of the front and rear axles. Both the front and centre differentials have individual cooling radiators.

After exhaustive investigation and a substantial test programme of available alternatives, Bentley's engineers decided to divide the drive equally between the front and rear axles, giving a conventional 50:50 torque split. This is the combination that was found to be best at providing not simply the safety demanded of a car with this performance potential, but also the most favourable handling response.

Naturally this front to rear ratio is infinitely variable according to available grip and the Torsen differential together with the 4 wheel ASR can sense slip of less than one per cent and act accordingly, apportioning the engine's torque to either the front or rear axle. It would, in reality, take exceptional conditions for this to happen such as both wheels of one axle being on black ice but in more conventional circumstances the Torsen differential will always be able to optimise the torque loadings between the axles.

Thanks to the Bentley Continental GT's advanced electronic stability programme, the need to equip each axle with a limited slip differential is obviated. When slip is detected at one wheel, the ESP system can apply the brake individually to that wheel and allow the torque to be transferred across the axle to the tyre with the most grip. In normal use this system acts entirely unobtrusively but it does, in fact, possess the ability to keep the Bentley Continental GT moving forward when traction is available to just one of its four wheels. It is true that luxury coupés rarely find themselves in these conditions but it is also true that this is because their hitherto practical limitations have tended to keep them from places where such circumstances are more likely to occur. But with all-wheel drive, advanced traction and stability systems (not to mention its spacious interior, large boot and ski-friendly through-loading facility), the Bentley Continental GT will easily take its occupants to remote mountain resorts where no other luxury coupé would dare to follow.

Electronic Safety Systems

Bentley takes the responsibility of putting a 200mph car on sale to the general public extremely seriously and, in addition to the clear traction advantage afforded by its all-wheel drive hardwear, Bentley's engineers have been working just as hard to make sure the software is there to back it up too.

ABS anti-lock brakes, HBA (Hydraulic Brake Assist) and EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution) in conjunction with the Bentley Continental GT's varied array of other defences designed to keep the car under control.

These include ASR traction control that employs the ABS sensors to detect when traction is lost at either end due to a combination of a low grip surface and an excessive application of power. Under these circumstances, the ASR will instantaneously cut the power until traction is restored.

As mentioned earlier, the Bentley Continental GT also features the latest Electronic Stability Programme (Bosch 5.7). This ESP system, which necessitates the use of a fly-by-wire throttle, operates by a system of sensors analysing a number of different parameters such as speed, throttle opening, steering angle and the car's yaw and pitch. When one of these parameters is breached, indicating a possible or impending loss of control, the ECU is informed and appropriate action is taken. Depending on the nature and severity of the situation this might amount to little more than throttle modulation or it could involve the targeted application and release of individual brake callipers until full control is restored.

The final weapon in this armoury is MSR drag torque control. This is an intermediate, electronic control system, designed to intervene before a potential loss of control is addressed by ESP or ABS. During deceleration it modulates engine braking to ensure deceleration is consistent, swift and helps remove the possibility of a wheel locking when the transmission changes down on a reduced grip surface.

Body Structure

It is widely understood that whether your ultimate aim is fine handling, exceptional ride quality or any blend of the two, the fundamental essential quality that must be provided before all others is a rigid structure. Without this firm foundation, the good offices of finest suspension systems and tyres will be irretrievably undermined. The trick is to remove as far as possible the frequency at which the body will start to vibrate from the frequencies of the disturbances introduced all over the body by everyday life on the road. The stiffer the bodyshell, therefore, the less the body will vibrate in sympathy with road imperfections and the better suspension will be able to work.

It is also true that the potentially positive effect of adding stiffness to a car's bodyshell is entirely negated if the weight of that shell rises in proportion to the additional stiffness gained.

When presented with a brief for the Continental GT, Bentley's engineers were told that nothing less than exception torsional rigidity would enable the Continental to meet its dynamic targets. And the challenge they faced was providing such stiffness to a car with such a long wheelbase relative to its overall length and one which, thanks to its pillarless design, lacks a B-post between the front and rear side windows.

The first step to realising its targets was taken in the virtual world. Every single component on the Bentley Continental GT was designed on a computer and integrated into three dimensional digital models of the car. Using the latest Computer Aided Design (CAD) technology alongside Digital Mock Ups (DMU), Finite Element and Dynamic Crash Analysis (FE and DCA), Bentley's engineers were able to predict, analyse and enhance the Bentley Continental GT's structural integrity long before the first prototype was built.

Next, Bentley's engineers turned to adhesive technology. Adhesives have played a vital role in aircraft and aerospace technologies for some time (where they are used, for instance, to attach wings to aircraft fuselages) but it is only now that their full potential is being realised in the arena of car design. If understood correctly and used properly, adhesives can bring huge improvements to a body structure's rigidity with a minimal increase in weight. Adhesives are therefore used throughout the structure of the Bentley Continental GT, but particularly where there are long seals, such as around the door apertures.

Another emergent technology employed for the first time by Bentley is laser-welding. This process is expensive but, by introducing a new level of control into the welding process, it allows a considerable extra degree of strength to be introduced into each weld while, at the same time, ensuring minimal wastage and therefore saving weight.

Chassis

The Bentley Continental GT is without doubt the most sporting Bentley since the original company went into liquidation in 1931, but it would be no kind of Bentley at all if it was tuned to provide invigorating handling at the expense of a bone-jarring ride. The Bentley Continental GT is as its name describes, a long distance British Grand Tourer and while capable of being enthralling to drive, it also recognises that most of the time it will be driven on motorways or in towns when handling response will always be of secondary interest to overall ride quality.

Therefore, in the spirit of no compromise it was laid down that the Bentley Continental GT had to be as comfortable as it was quick, as responsive as it was restful. This was no mean feat to achieve and Bentley's engineers had to turn to one of the most sophisticated suspension arrangements ever configured to realise it.

Suspension at the front of the car is provided by twin upper and lower arms that converge as in a conventional wishbone arrangement but, in fact, never meet. The system is described as a 'virtual king pin axis' arrangement because the pivot point, where the arms would eventually meet is actually in the plane of the wheel rather than at a point in-board of the wheel.

The problem with the conventional system is that the torque loadings will only not be felt by the driver if they are equal either side and therefore cancel each other out. But if one wheel slips on a low friction surface, the loadings become unequal and this is fed straight back to the driver through the steering wheel. But by having the axis in the plane of the wheel, the torque is not created in the first place. The result is a car capable of putting phenomenal amounts of power through its front wheels without risking the dreaded 'torque steer' that would otherwise afflict it.

The rear suspension of the Bentley Continental GT is a multi-link arrangement designed to promote stability under all conditions be they braking, acceleration or cornering. Using trapezoidal wishbones and tie rods to give the rear tyres a firm foothold on the tarmac regardless of loading, this system plays a critical role in assuring that the Bentley Continental GT meets its targets for both ride and handling.

Much of the suspension at the front and rear, including all control arms, are made from aluminium that not only helps reduce the weight of the car but, critically, also keeps unsprung mass to a minimum, helping to achieve optimum ride quality.

Self-levelling air suspension has also been specified as standard equipment for the Bentley Continental GT. Much more expensive than a conventional steel spring, air suspension brings many benefits that would otherwise have been denied to the Continental GT. Air suspension works very simply with air-filled rubber bellows acting within a sealed tube with a concentric damper in the middle. As the wheel moves up, it compresses the air in the bellows which then offers resistance and thereby a springing effect.

One of the main advantages of air suspension over a steel spring is that the laws of gas dynamics mean that if you increase the mass on the axle, it compresses the spring further so the natural frequency of the car bouncing on its spring is held nearly constant whereas in a conventional system the frequency would become lower. This can be exploited to ensure that the car never suffers from that stodgy feeling that affects all steel sprung cars when they are heavily laden. In addition, the pressure acting on the spring is uniform across the entire strut whereas any conventional spring will inevitably be subject to some side loadings.

Another crucial benefit of air springs is the scope it provides in being able to tailor the car's ride characteristics. By carefully shaping the bellows, you can ensure that as they go up and down, they also go in and out effectively varying the spring rate as they do. The further in they go, the less air they contain and the softer the springing will consequently be. The bellows on the Bentley Continental GT are therefore designed to be quite narrow at the centre of each wheel's movement so that the suspension is relatively soft about its central point with obvious benefits in ride quality. Then, as the springs are compressed or expanded through acceleration, braking or cornering, the bellows widen to accept more air, firming up the ride and providing an extra level of control precisely when it's needed.

The final primary advantage of air suspension is packaging. If you were to ask a conventional spring to provide the same low frequencies that the Bentley Continental GT can achieve, there are only two ways of achieving it. You can either make the spring very long at which stage it can become unstable under compression, or you can shorten and widen it, bringing inevitable packaging problems. Using an air spring has allowed Bentley's engineers to allow for a much wider range of frequencies within a given space.

Air springs also allow Bentley to lower the ride height of the Bentley Continental GT at speed, optimising its aerodynamic performance. Currently the suspension is programmed to lower the car by 15mm at 100mph (161km/h).

The dampers used on the Bentley Continental GT are continuously and infinitely variable and the most sophisticated yet seen on a Bentley. Controlled entirely by computer, the dampers possess the ability to change their characteristics many times during a single 'event' such as a wheel moving up and down over a bump.

The electronics are so sophisticated they don't merely look at a force and react accordingly - they monitor the entire car. One example of how this works to the benefit of the Continental GT's ride comfort is that the computer can decide to let a wheel move to accommodate a single event if the car itself is in a fundamentally stable state. So if a bump is encountered, the damper will allow the wheel to travel upwards in the normal way. If however the body, let us say, is already moving downwards in reaction to an immediately prior event, the computer will analyse the relative movement of body and wheel and, if need be instruct the dampers to stiffen, thereby checking the upward motion of the wheel towards the descending body.

The overall set-up of the suspension has been configured to make the Bentley Continental GT an inherent mildly understeering car in steady-state cornering. This approach has been adopted primarily because Bentley believes that oversteer is a condition that should only ever arise at the driver's command. A car with low levels of natural understeer will, when the limit of adhesion is finally broached, gently start to run wide in a corner, a condition that can easily be cancelled by a simple lift of the accelerator. Bentley believes this is undoubtedly the safest and therefore the only responsible route to take.

That said, Bentley is equally aware that most Bentley Continental GT drivers will be of the 'press on' variety and have made it possible for the engine's torque to be used to overcome understeer in certain conditions, allowing the car to adopt a stance of neutrality or even mild and controllable oversteer, regulated by the ESP system.

Steering

The Bentley Continental GT features rack and pinion steering with speed sensitive Servotronic power assistance. The rack and pinion was chosen as it is the most precise form of steering available and offers great feel to the driver, an essential consideration in a car such as this. The rack has been designed with a fixed ratio so as to provide maximum linearity and consistency across the locks and has been equipped to give excellent feel both on and off-centre.

Wheels and tyres

The Bentley Continental GT uses the same size wheels and tyres on both the front and rear axles after extensive investigation revealed this to be the optimum solution for a front engined car such as this when fitted with four-wheel drive. Two wheels will be available with 19in rims as standard and 19in split rims as an option. Tyre size is 275/40R19. These sizes have been chosen not only because they fit the ride and handling requirements of the Continental GT, but also because either can be fitted without changing the overall gearing of the car.

Brakes

The Bentley Continental GT is equipped with the largest brakes ever to be fitted to a standard production car. The ventilated front discs have a 405mm diameter (15.9in) and are 36mm (1.4in) thick, making them wider than the actual wheels of most production cars. Ventilated discs are also used at the back, this time of 335mm width (13.2in) and 22mm thickness (0.9in).

These brakes are not available on any other car, indeed they were created specially for the Continental GT by Teves to a specification laid down by Bentley. Teves were also responsible for their appropriately huge callipers.

The reason Bentley chose a brake specification beyond that yet offered on any production road car is simply that it holds the conviction that the Bentley Continental GT should stop as well as it goes.

The energy contained within a fully laden Bentley Continental GT travelling at around 200mph is naturally considerable. Through months of real world tests and computer analysis it was determined that nothing less than the finest braking system in the world would be capable of delivering not only the retardation Bentley required, but also the ability to do so again and again with no fade or loss of performance.

This formidable braking hardwear is also backed by a comprehensive software package. In addition to Hydraulic Braking Assistance (HBA) and anti-lock (ABS) and drag torque control (MSR), the Continental GT also comes with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD). This system monitors the level of grip available to each tyre and apportions braking force accordingly. This not only helps reduce stopping distances but also greatly enhances the feeling of control enjoyed by the driver under heavy braking.

Aerodynamics

The role played by aerodynamics in modern car design has advanced considerably from the age where making the smallest hole in the air is the most important consideration. Aerodynamics affect almost all areas of the car and without both the exploitation as well as the avoidance of the airflow, no modern car will realise its full potential.

And the faster the car, the more important are its aerodynamics, not simply to realise such speeds, but also to keep the car stable and its under-bonnet temperatures cool.

The Bentley Continental GT's shape can be said to be a thoroughly modern interpretation of classic fastback design and as a result it boasts the enviably low drag coefficient of just 0.32. However one of the historical drawbacks of such a shape is that if the airflow is allowed to spill off the back of the car unchecked, it creates classic conditions for encouraging rear-end lift. This could potentially change the balance of the car, alter the effective weight distribution and create unwanted instability.

To counter this, the Continental GT has two specific aerodynamic devices, neither of which is immediately visible to naked eye when the car is stationary, that takes the potentially threatening airflow and turns it to the car's advantage.

The first is a rear spoiler that lies across the base of the rear windscreen and deploys once the car is travelling at above a certain speed. This effectively interrupts the flow of air coming off the back of the car and uses it actually to push the car harder onto the road rather than let it create unwanted lift. Working in close conjunction with the rear spoiler is a diffuser underneath the back of the car, which not only contributes greatly to the car's overall stability, but also helps extract air from underneath the car and this reduces drag.

Another crucial responsibility of the aerodynamics team is to ensure there is sufficient airflow to and from all heat-generating components. One look at the displacement of the engine, its power output and the tightly packaged under-bonnet area gives some idea of the challenge involved. But in fact, the cooling requirement is that the Bentley Continental GT should be able to run fully laden in 40°C ambient temperature and at maximum speed until it has drained its fuel tank - a tougher test by far than will ever be replicated by any owner on the public road. To achieve this, thousands of hours were spent creating and studying computational fluid dynamics data (CFD) to ensure the correct airflow to all areas under the bonnet and to the brakes. In those areas where this flow in inherently compromised, (such as for both the front and central differentials) individual cooling radiators have been installed.

Acoustics

In many luxury cars, the primary acoustic aim is to reduce noise intrusion from the wind, road, suspension and powertrain to create the greatest level of refinement possible. But when you are charged with creating an all-new Bentley some rather more subjective and no less important considerations need to be accommodated. In short, the Bentley Continental GT needs not only to look like a Bentley from bumper to bumper, it needs to sound like one too.

Bentley's acoustic engineers have been at work since the very start of the Bentley Continental GT project deciding first how the car should sound and then determining how that sound should be achieved. So important is their work that they were able to influence the design of both the intake and exhaust manifolds to make sure a true, unique and instantly identifiable Bentley soundtrack would greet the occupants. Bentley also carried out extensive customer research among existing Bentley owners and prospects who will be new to the marque, in conjunction with benchmarking the sound quality and quantity of other luxury sportscars.

The sound of the Bentley Continental GT is therefore deep, smooth, muscular and inspiring

In keeping with its Grand Touring aspirations, the Continental GT has also been configured to be an extremely refined car. In pursuit of this, the design has been helped by the provision of an astoundingly smooth engine and a very rigid bodyshell. These have provided Bentley's engineers with a platform that already possesses minimal noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) characteristics.

Beyond that, the task was to investigate every component, every system and the car as a whole to make sure no unnecessary NVH sources were inadvertently designed into the car. This work was carried out first in the virtual world and was then incorporated into the wind tunnel programme.

It continued on Bentley's own Hydropulse four poster rig at Crewe which replicates road conditions without the potential for inconsistency caused by changes in weather and traffic and, of course, on real roads around the world to ensure that every part, from the smallest seal to the body structure itself, contributed to making the Bentley Continental GT the most refined car in the marque's history.

Use of Electronics

There are many elements of the Bentley Continental GT's specification that deserve to be described as extraordinary but perhaps none more so than its use of electronics.

Consider these points: Each Bentley Continental GT contains approximately two miles (3.2km) of cabling and the main wiring harness alone weighs over 50kg. A Continental GT also contains 70 microprocessors. A PC has just one. It has 35 individual control units - black boxes by another name - and they all talk to one another via three Control Area Networks (CAN) working at 500 kilobits/sec, and one superfast fibre-optic serial network operating at 4.2megabits/sec. A conventional low-speed serial network functions at just 9.6kilobits/sec. At any one time, the quantity of CAN messages in use around the car can number over 2000.

This electronic dialogue is important because all the various features on the car need to know what the others are up to as rarely does one have no impact on any of the others. For instance if the windows are being lowered, this is information that is likely to be of interest to the security systems. Another example is the information provided by the self-levelling sensors in the suspension is also of use to systems such as the ESP to help it constantly monitor the car's progress and the automatic headlight levelling to keep the beam at a constant pitch.

This system also helps simplify operations as it saves the same information being gathered by independent systems. One example of this is that responsibility for measuring vehicle speed has been allocated to the ABS sensors but this information is also used by the powertrain network for the engine management and transmission.

The easiest way to understand how the Bentley Continental GT's internal communications are configured is to imagine the networks as a huge notice board upon which all contributing systems post information as they receive it. Once there it can be seen by all other systems and, if need be, acted upon accordingly.

Conclusion

As can be seen, the Bentley Continental GT is one of the most sophisticated cars ever to be produced, breaking new ground in several areas while offering a level of performance for a four seat car that is unique in both quantity and quality. And while Bentley's engineers have made use of many processes and components that already existed within the Volkswagen Group, the result is as much a Bentley as it would be if it had gone to external suppliers.

Technologically the car is a tour de force and a mobile showcase for the technical capability now resident in Crewe. It shows that Bentley has both the backing and the ability to take on the world with a product unlike any other in the market place - one that still benefits from the unrivalled understanding of handcraftsmanship that has been handed down the generations at Crewe, but one that also sits right at the cutting edge of 21st century knowledge. Not once during the development of the Bentley Continental GT, has this blend of the traditional and advanced worked with less than total harmony. Using techniques both new and old, they have produced a car that does not need to look back because it knows already exactly from where it has come.

When, 75 years ago (1928), WO Bentley announced what would become his most fabled car, the Speed Six, he saw no problem in producing a design that could be both a limousine and a Le Mans winner, both disciplines in which the car went on to excel; and while the Bentley Continental GT cannot claim to cast its net quite that wide, the same principle of creating a car with the ability to both cosset and enthral is the same now as it was then. Then it created one of the world's few automotive legends; it is not for Bentley Motors to make such lofty claims for the Continental GT - all we would say is that it is a car of which we are inordinately proud and can only hope that, could he see it, it is also a car to which WO would be equally proud to lend his name.

The Cadillac Converj will go into production and hopefully it will stay the same

2009-11-10T01:31:00.000-08:00

General Motors is heading in a new direction with the scheduled production version of the Chevrolet Volt extended range electric vehicle that is set to come out sometime in the near future, however it was the luxury version of this economical EV, the Cadillac Converj, that most recently stole the spotlight at the 2009 Miami Auto Show, taking home the Concept Vehicle of the Show award. The Converj is set to be built upon the same platform as the Chevrolet Volt, and it was back in January at the 2009 North American International Auto Show where the Converj made its debut, GM Vice Chairman Bob Lutz said if the luxury EV was approved, that the production model would resemble the concept, much like the Camaro did.

The Converj concept is a strict four seater, and although it has a swept back coupe like profile which is used to give this car a sportier image, the seating arrangement is also necessary because a large part of the car’s center section is taken up by the "T" shaped battery used to power the car. The battery pack contains more than 220 lithium ion cells that can power the car for up to 40 miles. After the battery runs out, the electric will be replenished by a gas powered engine that exclusively charges the battery. Just like the Volt, the car is designed to be fully charged after plugged in for eight hours on a normal household 120 volt outlet, or in as little as three hours if you have a high capacity 240 volt socket.

Ariel announces pricing for Atom V8

2009-11-10T01:29:00.001-08:00

If you’re a speed freak that has dreams of sitting behind the wheel of a car that has Veyron-like speeds but don’t have the moolah to spend for one, we now have a much cheaper alternative that has roughly the same power of the Veyron at a little over one-eighth the price.

The folks from Ariel, creators of the ultra-fast Atom, have released the price tag for the V8 production-ready Atom. As it stands, each car goes for around €134,000. With the power coming from a V8 engine based on two Hayabusa motorbike engines, the Ariel Atom is the literal and figurative definition of a rocket on wheels.

The production version of the Atom V8 can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just under 2.5 seconds, numbers that equal that of the more obscenely expensive Bugatti Veyron. For around €134,000, it’s a relatively cheap bargain for a car that’s not only obscenely fast, but extremely rare as well – only 25 units have been made with 19 already been sold.

So if you’re the lucky six that can pluck away the remaining Ariel Atoms, consider yourself lucky beyond measure.

Range Rover Sport 2010

2009-11-09T14:24:00.000-08:00

The Range Rover Sport is getting a makeover for 2010. Where Land Rover has to be careful when touching up the evergreen Range Rover, it gets to go wild (in a very British way) for the Range Rover Sport.

Outside the lines have been smoothed out, and the front had been given a more protruding bumper. The front also features new LED headlamps and a new two-bar grille. The interior has also been redesigned with higher quality materials and soft-touch finishes.

Just like the 2010 Range Rover, Jaguar’s 5.0-liter V8 is making a new home in the SUV. The Sport gets the same 375 hp and 510 hp supercharged upgrade as its bigger brother. This is a 75 hp and 120 hp (respectively) upgrade in this lineup. The naturally aspired version makes the 0 to 60 mph sprint in 7.2 seconds, and the supercharged version in 5.9 seconds.

Chrysler to announce logo change?

2009-11-09T13:02:00.000-08:00

After struggling for the past year with sputtering sales, Chrysler has bounced back from its mediocre run and is looking to reinvent itself to once again become a major driving force in the US auto industry.

And according to patent filings done by the company at the US Patent and Trademark Office, it looks like one of the first steps Chrysler is taking towards the road to redemption is changing their company’s logo.

Over the years, the company hasn’t been shy in changing their logo. Before today, the last change occurred just last year after the company decided to tweak their previous logo to ‘The New Chrysler’. Less than a year after that logo was made, the company has decided to completely change it to a winged logo that has a blue emblem in the middle with the word ‘Chrysler’ spread across it.

Now, Chrysler has yet to confirm the change in the company’s logo, but they’ve also announced that there will be a press briefing tomorrow so you can expect that at some point during the whole event, the topic of the impending logo change will crop up.

In the meantime, check out the history of the Chrysler logo from its inception in the 1950’s to the latest one that will – supposedly – be announced tomorrow.