Super Cars

Woodward 2008: Advance Automotive's Heldo

2008-08-17T07:56:00.000-07:00

We've seen everything from Challengers and Camaros to Vespas and Vipers today, but there was only one Heldo. Advanced Automotives' Heldo is a steel tube space frame concept with composite bodywork and a 350-horsepower 32V Cadillac Northstar engine. According to the Advance Automotive website, the rear engine Heldo can reach 60 mph in a mere 4.1 seconds, take 12.2 seconds to hit a quarter mile, and pull north of 1g on the skid pad. We have no way of verifying those lofty performance statistics, but we can tell you that it looks very cool in silver. Some of our favorite features are the gull-wingish doors, crazy thin LED tail lights, and the exposed carbon fiber hood, but the crazy aqua duct side pods may have to go. Will we ever see a production Heldo on public roads? No, but we wouldn't mind if we did. Click on the high resolution gallery below to see the Heldo in all its odd glory.

Monterey 2008: Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport

2008-08-17T07:45:00.000-07:00

The wraps – and the roof – have come off the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport here in Monterey, finally answering a question few have asked and even fewer will sample.As you'd expect, Bugatti hasn't just hacked the roof off the Veyron and gone to the pub. The windshield is slightly higher, the daytime running lights have been tweaked and then there's the showpiece: a removable, transparent polycarbonate roof, which blends the A-pillars into two painted carbon fiber strips that lead into the massive air intakes feeding the 1001 hp, quad-turbocharged, W16.If you stow the roof at home for the world's fastest open-air, four-wheeled experience and the heavens decide to open, a folding roof stored in the luggage compartment can be – according to Bugatti – "opened like an umbrella." With the soft-top in place, speeds are limited to an incredibly low 130 km/h (81 mph), otherwise, the Grand Sport can hit 252 mph with the polycarbonate roof and 224 mph with the top removed.Bugatti made several structural enhancements to ensure the Grand Sport shares the same chassis rigidity and safety standards as its fixed roof counterpart. The monocoque has been reinforced around the side skirts and transmission tunnel, the doors feature new longitudinal beams, and the air intakes have been redesigned to include ten-centimeter-wide carbon fiber elements to protect occupants in the event of rollover.Only 150 examples will be made available, with the first 50 going to registered Bugatti customers. The first model will be auctioned off at the Gooding & Company auction tomorrow night, with all the profits over the 1.4 million euro ($2.05 million) sticker going to charity.Hit the jump for the press release.

AUTO INSURANCE

2008-08-14T11:30:00.000-07:00

If you own your own car, you probably already know a little about car insurance. You may have heard the words deductible or premium. But, do you truly understand the different parts of an auto insurance policy and do you know how to choose the best coverage?
Forty-seven states require that you have at least some kind of car insurance, so it's a good idea to know what the law requires you to have and what additional or optional coverage will help to protect you in the event of an accident.
Before purchasing auto insurance, you must consider a variety of factors including what kind of car you have, your driving record and the amount of money you are willing to pay. Understanding the simple basics of auto insurance will make you confident that the car insurance policy you choose will take care of your needs in the event of an accident.
In this article, we will walk you through the types of coverage that insurance companies offer and discuss possible insurance needs. Additionally we will look at what affects the price of auto insurance, how to bring the costs down and how to understand the components of your policy.
Types of Coverage Everyone who drives needs car insurance. In fact, most states require it by law. When you buy car insurance, you are buying what is called a policy. Your policy is based on a variety of factors including what kind of car you drive as well as what kind of insurance you want. Auto insurance policies are actually a package of different types of insurance coverage.
The first step in understanding an auto insurance policy is to learn the various types of coverage insurance companies offer. Some of this coverage may be required by your state and some of the coverage may be optional.
Liability - This coverage pays for accidental bodily injury and property damages to others. Injury damages include medical expenses, pain and suffering and lost wages. Property damage includes damaged property and automobiles. This coverage also pays defense and court costs. State laws determine how much liability coverage you must purchase, but you can always get more coverage than your state requires.
Collision - This coverage pays for damages to your vehicle caused by collision with another vehicle or object.
Comprehensive - This coverage pays for loss or damage to the insured vehicle that doesn't occur in an auto accident. The types of damages comprehensive insurance covers include loss caused by fire, wind, hail, flood, vandalism or theft.
Medical Coverage - Pays medical expenses regardless of fault when the expenses are caused by an auto accident.
PIP - Personal Injury Protection (PIP) is required in some states. This coverage pays medical expenses for the insured driver, regardless of fault, for treatment due to an auto accident.
Uninsured Motorist - Pays your car's damages when an auto accident is caused by a driver who doesn't have liability insurance.
Underinsured Motorist - Pays your car's damages when an auto accident is caused by someone who has insufficient liability insurance.
Rental Reimbursement - This type of coverage will pay for a rental car if your car is damaged due to an auto accident. Often this coverage has a daily allowance for a rental car. Many insurance policies combine a number of these types of coverage. The first step in choosing the insurance you want for your car is to know the laws in your state. This will tell you the minimum insurance you need for your car. It's good to keep in mind that, just because your state may not require extensive insurance, extra coverage may be worth the expense. After all, no one wants to be stuck with thousands of dollars worth of bills because of an auto accident. Now, let's take a look at how to determine your insurance needs.

Car Insurance DeductiblesPurchasing auto insurance is not simply about the value of your car or how often you get into accidents, it is also about how much money you are willing to pay for your coverage. All auto insurance policies have a deductible. The deductible is the part of your policy that you are responsible for paying. Auto insurance policies don't simply take care of all necessary expenses. You are required to pay for some of the damages, but the amount depends on your policy. Deductibles vary by state, but are most often in amounts of $100, $250, $500 or $1,000. For example, if you are in an accident that causes $2,500 worth of damage and your deductible is $500, you are required to pay the $500 and the insurance company will take care of the remaining $2,000.
When deciding what insurance policy you want to purchase, choosing a deductible is an important step. After all, you will have to pay the deductible for each and every situation in which you require your insurance company to cover damages. Deciding how much you are willing to pay and how often you think you will need to make an insurance claim will help you decide what deductible amount is right for you. In addition, the premium you pay, or the price of your total coverage annually, can be lowered by choosing a higher deductible. In other words, if you are willing to pay higher out-of-pocket costs, you can lower the total cost of your insurance.
Purchasing an auto insurance policy doesn't have to be confusing. You want a policy to take care of your expenses in the event of accident, theft, vandalism or most any other instance in which there is damage to your own or someone else's vehicle. By knowing what your state requires, what your needs are, what discounts you qualify for and how much coverage you want for your car, you will be able to choose the right policy.
Auto Insurance GlossaryDeductible - The amount an insured person must pay before the insurance company pays the remainder of each covered loss, up to the policy limits.
Multi-Car discount - A discount offered by some insurance companies for those with more than one vehicle insured on the same policy.
No-Fault Insurance - Many states have enacted auto accident laws permitting auto accident victims to collect directly from their own insurance companies for medical and hospital expenses regardless of who was at fault in the accident. Although there are many legal variations of no-fault insurance, most states still allow people to sue the party at fault if the amount of damages is above a certain state-determined amount.
Personal Auto Policy - The most common auto insurance policy sold today. Often referred to as "PAP," this policy is written in simple wording and provides coverage for liability, medical payments, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, and physical damage protection
Split Limit - Any insurance coverage with separately stated limits for different types of coverage.
Term - The length of time for which a policy is in effect.
Usage - This refers to the primary function or purpose of your vehicle. For example, if you primarily drive your car to and from work, the usage is considered "commute."

2009 Audi RS6

2008-08-12T14:00:00.000-07:00

It looks like we won't have to wait for the Paris Motor Show to get our first glimpse of the 2009 Audi RS6 sedan and it's lesser A6 siblings. Audi has released all the details on its new four-door M5-eater, packing a direct-injected, twin-turbo'd V10 putting out 580 hp and 479 lb.-ft. of torque. The same mill that powers the Avant version allows the sedan to sprint to 60 in 4.5-seconds on its way to an electronically-limited top speed of 155 mph. The duo of turbos huffs 1.6 bars of boost into the dry sump-equipped 5.0-liter V10, with peak torque arriving at 1,500 RPM and maximum horsepower available at 6,250 RPM. A six-speed tiptronic transmission allows drivers to choose between automatic or manual mode, reducing shift times by one-tenth of second, and sending power to Audi's Quattro all-wheel-drive system. Dynamic Ride Control reduces pitch and roll, providing three damper settings – sport, dynamic and comfort – all of which can be activated through the revised MMI system.The RS6 is fitted with 19-inch wheels at all four corners, wrapped in 255/40R19 rubber, and framing 390mm front discs clamped by fixed, six-piston calipers in front and 365 mm rotors, gripped by single-piston calipers in the rear. Buyers can upgrade the wheels to 20x9.5-inch rollers, which allow the fitment of Audi's ceramic brake system (420mm discs in front and 356 mm discs out back).The standard A6 sedan and Avant benefits from the new MMI system, along with a new single-frame grille, bumpers, air vents and fog lamps. An S-line package includes 18-inch wheels and a sports suspension that drops the ride height by 30mm. Six gasoline engines and four oilburners will be available, including the 170 hp, 2.0-liter gasoline TFSI four-pot, a 290 hp, 2.8-liter FSI V6, a 350 hp, 4.2-liter FSI V8 and the new, supercharged 3.0-liter V6. Audi's diesel offerings range from 2.0- to a 3.0-liter TDIs.Sales of both models will begin in mid-October and all the details are available in the two press releases after the jump.

MINI Rickshaws

2008-08-11T03:32:00.000-07:00

The rickshaw is a time-honored method of transportation in China. While the vehicles were initially pulled around by men on foot, the pedal-powered versions have grown much more popular in recent years and are a symbol of Chinese culture. When Beijing MINI needed an interesting way to communicate that the Clubman model was being introduced in Chinese, especially in light of all the media attention on the Olympics, it back-halved a slew of new Clubmans, mounted a pedicab front-end and sent them out for business. According to China Car Times, MINI's publicity stunt is working exactly as planned. Though the vast majority of media coverage is centered on those games from Greece, the MINI Rickshaws have managed to make some headlines of their own. We think the cabs turned out pretty cool, even incorporating the sunroof into the final design.

Goldammer Goldmember

2008-08-09T12:47:00.000-07:00

The floodgates will open on the '09 Acura TL soon enough, but in the meantime, Inside Line has posted a set of press photos and confirmed the car's final specs. As has been previously reported, there are two versions: a base 3.5L front-drive car with 285 horses and the range-topping TL SH-AWD, which gets a 305-horsepower 3.7L V6. The Type S is history, replaced in essence by the SH-AWD. Both TL models are mated to 5-speed automatics, and a stiffer chassis should help make time spent behind the wheel more engaging.Inside, the layout is one that should be familiar to anyone who's spent time in a new Honda or Acura. Metallic-look wings arc out from a center stack topped by a multifunction LCD screen and finished at the bottom by Honda's all-in-one controller for audio/info/nav interfaces. In short, techno-gadgetry abounds. The new TL is a larger car than it predecessor, with a 1.4-inch longer wheelbase and 6.2 inches added to its overall length. Consequently, interior space also improves over the outgoing sedan.While the current-gen TL is Acura's most attractive vehicle, we have a feeling the new-for-2009 edition may not age as gracefully. The new corporate shield grille is in place, adding bling to the nose and offering enough frontal reflective surface to repel a Klingon phaser bombardment. If you miss the obviously-an-Acura front end, you might need to do a double-take to recognize in profile thanks to a C-pillar kink that apes BMW...and Infiniti, and the Jaguar XF, just to name a few. Out back, the trunklid repeats the shield motif that started up front. Regarding the car's styling, there's much for you to discuss in the comments below. Stay tuned for plenty more information and our first drive impressions of the new TL in the days to come.

2008 Dodge Viper ACR

2008-08-09T12:11:00.000-07:00

I have to admit that I'm biased when it comes to the Dodge Viper. I've had a soft spot for the venomous snake since the GTS coupe hit the streets in 1996. The aggressive design, powerful 8.0-liter V10 with 450 horsepower (doesn't sound like much now, but it sure seemed like a lot then), and the blue paint scheme with white racing stripes were the ideal combination for my dream sports car. I'm going to be that guy at the 2030 Barrett-Jackson purchasing a mint, low-mileage, numbers-matching 1996 or 1997 Dodge Viper GTS, and, of course, you'll be the one watching on SPEED commenting how I'm paying way too much for a classic American muscle car.

2009 Acura TL fully revealed

2008-08-09T10:01:00.000-07:00

The floodgates will open on the '09 Acura TL soon enough, but in the meantime, Inside Line has posted a set of press photos and confirmed the car's final specs. As has been previously reported, there are two versions: a base 3.5L car with 285 horses and front-wheel drive; and the range-topping TL SH-AWD, which gets a 305-horsepower 3.7L V6. The Type S is history, replaced in essence by the SH-AWD. Both TL models are mated to 5-speed automatics, and a stiffer chassis should help make time spent behind the wheel more engaging.Inside, the layout is one that should be familiar to anyone who's spent time in a new Honda or Acura. Metallic-look wings arc out from a center stack topped by a multifunction LCD screen and finished at the bottom by Honda's all-in-one controller for audio/info/nav interfaces. In short, techno-gadgetry abounds. The new TL is a larger car than it predecessor, with a 1.4-inch longer wheelbase and 6.2 inches added to its overall length. Consequently, interior space also improves over the outgoing sedan.While the current-gen TL is Acura's most attractive vehicle, we have a feeling the new-for-2009 edition may not age as gracefully. The new corporate shield grille is in place, adding bling to the nose and offering enough frontal reflective surface to repel a Klingon phaser bombardment. If you miss the obviously-an-Acura front end, you might do a double-take to deduce what the car is in profile thanks to a C-pillar kink that apes BMW...and Infiniti, and the Jaguar XF, to name a few. Out back, the trunklid repeats the shield motif that started up front. Regarding the car's styling, there's much for you to discuss in the comments below. Stay tuned for plenty more information and our first drive impressions of the new TL in the days to come.

Porsche Boxster RS 60

2008-08-07T14:39:00.000-07:00

Our colleague Chris Tutor recently took the Porsche Boxster RS 60 Spyder for a few quick turns around Barber Motorsports. A tad more powerful than the Boxster S, and filled with red leather, he discovered it was plenty of car on the closed circuit. We recently had a chance to get the special edition RS 60 off the track and onto the back roads of Rhode Island and Connecticut, and got to see what the car could do on twisting country lanes – and unexpectedly, in the rain. The likewise unexpected result: damn near perfection. Follow the jump to find out how,and check out the gallery of hi-res and sometimes very damp images below.

And then there's the matter of purity. This particular blogger had a thing about Porsches: you either had a 911, or you had... whatever it is you had. We owned a 993 for a while, and simply could not understand how anyone could leave the Porsche dealership with anything other than The Icon. We didn't look down on Boxster drivers... we simply didn't quite... get it.

Porsche can charge you $59,065 for the Boxster RS 60 Spyder because, for all it doesn't come with, it comes with one thing worth every red pfennig: deliciously coordinated delivery of sublimely engaging driving sensations you will not find anywhere else outside of Porsche. It's been said ad infinitum. I will say it again: no other automaker has distilled the thrill of driving as perfectly as Porsche.The steering wheel is the perfect size, in the perfect place. There are no buttons on its spokes for cruise control or volume or the dash information display. It says, "I am not a universal remote. I am for driving."The seats – gasp -- leave one plenty of room in the cabin, something I couldn't entirely say of the last 911 I drove. The sports recliners also hug perfectly -- even during those Over-the-Road hauls -- in a way that keeps your lower back, kidneys, and rump far too busy being comfortable to bother you.

FF4 Subaru WRX

2008-08-07T14:14:00.000-07:00

Filming on the Fast and Furious 4 film has been wrapped up for a few weeks. Despite that, fans will still have to wait until next summer to get their fill of Dom's return. However, that hasn't stopped the franchise from soaking up attention and generating some initial buzz a year early. The lead 2008 Subaru WRX, driven by one Paul Walker, has been making the rounds at automotive events recently. We first spotted it staked out front of the SpoCom show in Long Beach, CA back in June. Now it has turned up at a Motor Press Guild meeting in Los Angeles, CA. Thanks to reader Chad, we also have photos for proof. Surprising enough, the vehicle is not outrageously modified. It features Enkei NT03 wheels painted to resemble the Volk Time Attack series, Veilside seats, a harness bar, Cobb Tuning ECU flash tune, as well as a Veilside body kit that is subtle in comparison to their usual flair.

2009 Ford F-150

2008-08-07T13:27:00.000-07:00

Ford's plans to manufacture the F-100 pickup, its answer for consumers who want a more fuel-efficient pickup, have been shelved (for now). A proposed smaller and lighter sibling to the popular F-150 pickup, the F-100 would have been built at the Michigan Truck Plant in Wayne, Michigan. Instead of designing a new small truck, one that consumers may not have warmed up to in the first place, Ford is reportedly making an "unprecedented" investment in more fuel-efficient powerplants to drop under the hood of the best-selling F-150. According to Ford, much of the funding will be directed towards its EcoBoost engines that utilize turbocharging and direct injection to deliver increased power and efficiency. The company is also looking at a technology called "ethanol boosting" which injects a small amount of the biofuel into the engine to increase fuel economy even further. Investing in new engine technology is expensive, but Ford is counting on reduced warranty costs (they have decreased by $1.2 billion in the past 18 months) to help offset development fees.

2008-08-06T11:26:00.000-07:00

Nissan has finally confirmed in writing what many of us had known all along... the 2009 model year will bring the new G37 Sedan, G37 Convertible, and the G37x Coupe to Infiniti showrooms. The G35 sedan gets a bump from 3.5-liters (306 hp) to 3.7-liters (328 hp) as it now shares its engine with the coupe. Rebadged the G37, an optional brake package adds 4-piston front/2-piston rear brakes and larger rotors to the sedan. A new 18-inch wheel design and standard Scratch Shield paint (self-healing) round out the upgrades. The all-new G37 convertible marks Infiniti's first drop-top since the 1992 M30 was discontinued, and the first open-air G. Based on the G37 Coupe, it features a three-piece automatic retracting hardtop. Finally, the new G37x is a G37 coupe fitted with Nissan's ATESSA E-TSÔ all-wheel drive system. While the G37 Sedan and G37x will go on sale in September and debut in less than two weeks at the 2008 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, we'll have to wait until the LA Auto Show in November for the debut of the G37 Convertible. Of course, Autoblog will be at both events to cover it for you.

Foil Tape Paint Job

2008-08-06T10:43:00.000-07:00

When a BMW 335i owner in Munich became bored with his black coupe, he hired a team to wrap it in white tape. Two days later, he drove home in his refreshed "Alpine White" coupe (with an M3-appearing black roof). No, it's not normal tape. It's a special 3M wrap, and the process is known as "foiling." Apparently, the German military has been using the process (with an olive drab tape) for some time now. Likewise, the process is popular with race teams and taxi companies. Available in countless colors, the tape itself is thick enough to protect the paint from minor chips and nicks, and it can be left adhered to the surface for 3-4 years without damage (!). Adhesion isn't a problem either, as the tape can even withstand an automatic car wash without peeling off. Thanks for the tip Frank.

Bugatti Veyron Sang Noir

2008-08-04T10:04:00.000-07:00

If you're thinking about dropping $1.5 million on a set of wheels, would a special edition really tip the scales one way or another? Well, Bugatti evidently thinks so. After having produced the Pur Sang and the Fbg par Hermès editions, the ultra-premium auto marque revealed the Sang Noir last month.
Now, after disgruntled U.S. buyers lost out on the opportunity to buy the Pur Sang when it sold out to an invited group of European customers in Paris, Bugatti has announced that its American clientele will get first crack at the limited run of 15 Sang Noir Veyrons before they're offered elsewhere in the world. And who said holding American citizenship isn't worth what it used to be?

Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport

2008-08-04T09:58:00.000-07:00

Our buddy Richard Owen over at Supercars.net has revealed that the long-rumored targa-style Bugatti Veyron will officially be called the Grand Sport. We recently learned that the pop-top Bug will make its public debut at the Pebble Beach Concourse d'Elegance in a couple of weeks. What we didn't know was that Gooding & Company will be auctioning the first order slot on August 17th, right after the best-in-show trophies are handed out at Pebble Beach.While an open-top Veyron will instantly appeal to some, the thought of removing a chunk of aerodynamically essential material from the roofline will have many others questioning their sanity. Have no fear, however, as Bugatti has developed the roof so that there will be no draft inside. Even with its top speed limited to just 217, this will be one of the fastest open top cars around. We'll get you more details as they become available, but for now, get thee to Pebble if this is the the car you've been waiting for. And bring more than $2,250,000, the expected starting price. Bugatti is planning to build just 80 of these Grand Sports.

Volkswagen Golf VI

2008-08-04T09:49:00.000-07:00

Volkswagen was planning to unveil the sixth generation of its popular Golf model this week, but the internet strikes again with a preview of the new people's hatch ahead of its official reveal. Information is limited so far and comes primarily from bloggers who don't speak the Queen's English, but from what we can tell the next-generation Golf will be larger than the current model. Indeed, it does appear to be a bit wider and maybe even lower than the current model. Might we even see some hints of the Scirocco in its design, as well? Our source indicates that the range of engines available with the Golf VI will include a 1.4L TSI, 1.8L TFSI and maybe even the 2.0L TFSI, while diesels will include the company's 1.9L and 2.0L TDI motors. A manual, automatic and DSG transmission will also be on the spec sheet. Contrary to some reports, VW of America has said that the new Golf will be sold in the U.S., though not until late next year. That's all we know for now, and it's admittedly basic stuff, so stay tuned this week for the official word from Volkswagen. Until then, scope out the new Golf VI in our gallery below.

Trekking Fiat 500 makes SoCal stop

2008-08-04T09:23:00.000-07:00

im Magill's little Fiat 500 made a stop in SoCal this weekend and we were among the lucky few who got some seat time in it. As we recently blogged, Jim shipped his microcar to the States all the way from Belfast, Northern Ireland to help raise some cash for the Northern Ireland Children's Hospice, and to meet with some fellow Fiat tifosi along the way. As part of the plan the Cinquecento is being driven to some high profile events to show it off and help spread the word about his cause. In the OC this past Saturday morning, the car attracted a ton of attention at a weekly car show, even sitting in the shadow of a few Zagato-bodied Lancias and Alfas. While the nearby Isettas made it seem positively huge, the tiny Fiat was still appreciated for its frugality and miniscule footprint. After the show we went for a spin and stopped to take a few pics of the car next to a handy Smart ForTwo. Follow the jump to see what we thought of it.

2009 Nissan GT-R

2008-08-03T03:20:00.000-07:00

Nissan recently granted Autoblog four fleeting days with a red 2009 Nissan GT-R. While it seems every major automotive outlet has tested "Godzilla" on the track (including our First Drive), we chose instead to keep it on the streets to see if one of the world's most powerful and fastest accelerating cars could be domesticated by stop-and-go traffic, family errands, and carpool duty. Of course, we only stuck to that routine for a day or two... the rest of the time was spent on the famed canyon roads of Southern California. Follow the jump to read about our 100-hour experience in the Nissan GT-R and don't miss what very well may be the most beautiful gallery of high-res images we've ever published courtesy of our own Drew Phillips and all ready to become your next desktop wallpaper.

Aprilia RSV 1000 R

2008-08-03T03:06:00.000-07:00

When the sportbike discussion inevitably turns to outright performance, the Aprilia RSV 1000R is usually left out of the equation. It is true that the Italian bike is down on horsepower when compared with its racier relatives from Ducati and especially against the inline four machines from the Japanese manufacturers. While the Big Four from Japan continuously improve their unique (but very similar) breed of liter-class sportbikes with completely new designs every few years, Aprilia has sat back and made very small and incremental changes to its V-Twin contestant, and though its acceleration is surely a tick or two behind the leaders, it is important to consider the fact that everything is relative in the world of liter-bikes. Remember, barring something truly special, any liter-class sportbike from the last decade is sure to be the quickest vehicle on any given road. So, what does the Aprilia offer to make up for its apparent lack of horsepower? Read on.

Mercedes SLK55 AMG

2008-08-03T02:59:00.000-07:00

It sits there, all tension and sinew, ready to pounce on lesser cars. Start it up and it barks with a clear V8 voice that thumps off the neighbor's house, setting them discreetly peeking from behind their lace curtains. This is an SLK? Oh yeah. No longer a blocky Benz with dwarfism, the SLK55 AMG ripples with muscle and delivers speed like a spin kick to the temple. A bad-ass Mercedes, indeed.

2009 Subaru Impreza WRX and 2.5GT

2008-08-02T13:43:00.000-07:00

It's official folks. Those of you that picked up a 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX have been had. The road-going rally rocket gets an update for 2009 and with it comes a retuned 2.5-liter boxer four-pot producing 265 hp and 244 lb.-ft. of torque – a 41 hp and 18 lb.-ft. increase over the outgoing model. Power will be sent to all four wheels through a five-speed manual – the only transmission available -- with low-profile 225/45R17 summer tires replacing the 205/50R17 rubber of the 2008 model.The suspension has been revised to include stiffer springs, uprated dampers, upper strut mounts cribbed from the STI and larger anti-roll bars fore and aft. The Aero package is no longer an option – it's standard – and includes an STI-inspired grille on both the sedan and hatch, while the five-door receives the STI's rear spoiler and underbody diffuser.Impreza obsessives that ran out to buy a 2008 model might be miffed, but Subaru had to make adjustments to keep the WRX competitive, particularly with the Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart becoming a serious contender in the turbo'd sedan segment.

Maybach 57

2008-08-02T13:34:00.000-07:00

Do you want other motorists to think you're a rock star?Or your neighbors to believe you bought the popemobile?Either way, the convertiblelike, four-door 2009 Maybach Landaulet will fill the bill. The Landaulet, which debuted as a show car late last year at the Dubai auto show, will go on sale in the United States in December, said Hans-Dieter Multhaupt, vice president of program management for Maybach and the Mercedes-Benz S class, SL, SLK and SLR."The Landaulet is for a superrich individual who wants something that is extremely extraordinary and enjoys being driven in a car with acres of sky above them," Multhaupt...

Ford Edge

2008-08-02T13:29:00.000-07:00

As midsize utes or crossovers go, Ford's Edge is as good as any. The styling is good, and the Mazda 6 chassis is a fine starting point for a composed and agile, semiresponsive (considering its weight) tall wagon. The chassis is firm ... READ MORE
AUTOFILE/2007 Ford Edge: Design and a trick roof in a heavy crossover---Ford is turning plenty of heads with its Edge crossover. The struggling company is counting on the Edge to carry a lot of the burden of its comeback after the sport/utility vehicle fallout that stifled Explorer and Expedition sales. Virtually all owners we heard from listed the sporty, standout appearance at the top of their reasons for purchase.

2008 Honda Accord Coupe V6

2008-08-02T13:22:00.000-07:00

Accord coupe looks a bit bulky, with squared-off lines where you once found graceful, flowing forms. It looks great from the side and back but not so much when looking at the front straight-on. It's just too boxy, most ... READ MORE
2008 Honda Accord 4DR EX---A pity for Honda, this car's styling is definitely a victim of the European and Japanese pedestrian crash standards, what with its ungainly upright grille and high hood. But thumbs way up on the way the car drives, which is what matters, of course.
2008 Honda Accord: Honda’s eighth-generation midsizer aims for segment domination---After 32 years of success with the Accord, Honda folks could be forgiven if, in a moment of weakness, they took their eye off the ball and let the all-new 2008 model slide by with minimal changes.

Jeep Compass

2008-08-02T13:04:00.000-07:00

OUR TAKE: Chrysler wants to pare its model lineup, and the most frequently cited example of why is this Compass. We can't think of a better candidate to disappear. Well, maybe the Aspen. Or the Nitro. Gee, it's kinda easy once you get started, isn't it?Anyway, this Caliber-in-disguise is better to drive with the five-speed manual than the last one we tested (which used a CVT). It cruised along fairly quietly on the freeway, and it wasn't so coarse and buzzy around town--all because we got to choose how hard it revved and when. But it rides and handles like the too-tall econobox it is. If this is the driving...

Buick LaCrosse

2008-08-02T12:59:00.000-07:00

General Motors will begin exporting its U.S.-built Buick Enclave luxury-crossover vehicle to China this fall, pending approval of the Chinese government.The Enclave will be imported by Shanghai GM and sold in more than 400 Buick dealerships

Hummer H3

2008-08-02T12:55:00.000-07:00

It took awhile, but Hummer is getting a midsized truck, the H3T, which will launch with a sticker price of $31,495, including shipping. The H3T is based on the H3 sport/utility vehicle and will arrive in showrooms in September. It has room for five passengers and a five-foot long bed.General Motors says the pickup will cater to a niche that wants Hummer-functionality, but doesn’t need a vehicle as large as the H2 SUT. GM envisions it competing with the Toyota Tacoma and Dodge Dakota.Power comes from a 3.7-liter I-5 rated at 239 horsepower and 241 lb-ft of torque. It’s mated to a five-speed manual, and a four-speed automatic is optional.The H3T comes standard with electronic four-wheel drive, 32-inch tires and skid shields. It also offers front- and rear-locking differentials.

Bugatti will add open-air Veyron

2008-08-02T12:37:00.000-07:00

Bugatti will make a "targa" version of its Veyron supercar next year, a Volkswagen source said.The VW subsidiary plans to offer a variant with a removable hardtop "because there was no other solution which could fit with its safety cage," the source, a former Bugatti executive, said.There will be no storage space in the car for the roof, the source said.Bugatti spokesman Georges Keller confirmed the brand is developing a Veyron convertible.Bugatti is not saying how many Veyron convertibles it will build. It plans to make only 300 units of the $2.1 million (1.3 million euros) Veyron coupe....

1968 Dodge GSS Hemi Dart

2008-08-02T12:28:00.000-07:00

If you ever ask a 1960's Mopar fan who the king of high performance is, they'll instantly tell you "Mr. Norm!" Owner of Grand Spaulding Dodge in Chicago, Norm Kraus was known for fitting performance parts to all types of Mopars, and even started the development for factory cars like the 383 and 400 Dart GTS. The king of all Mr. Norm's cars, however, was the Hemi GSS Dart. Each of the cars was fitted with a 426ci Hemi V8 with a pair of Holley carbs, a heavy duty cooling package, and aftermarket headers. In an effort to save weight, a fiberglass hood and front fenders were used, as well as a front bumper and doors stamped for a lighter gauge steel. In addition, the radio, rear seats, exterior mirrors, and window mechanisms were all removed. The result was a non-street legal drag car that could run down into the 10's in the quarter mile, making it the fastest factory built muscle car ever produced.
Forty years later, Mr. Norm is producing a limited run of 21st century Hemi Darts. Serial #1, pictured above, was on the showfloor of the Chicago Auto Show to commemorate the 1960's along with other vehicles to commemorate each decade from the last 100 years. Each car is based on a hand-picked 1968 Dart that is fully restored - the preparation process for the restoration takes 400 hours alone. To ensure that the new Hemi Dart retains its title as the king of muscle cars, engine options include a 610 horsepower 472ci Hemi V8 and a 825 horsepower 572ci Hemi V8 that both run on 91 octane. Follow the jump for more on Mr. Norm and the Hemi GSS Dart or check out the gallery of photos below.

2007 Nissan Nismo 350Z

2008-08-02T11:56:00.000-07:00

MORRISON: On a racetrack, I would not be surprised to find this Nismotuned setup nets faster lap times. On the street, I was surprised to find that the car is more comfortable than previous, or non-Nismo, versions. The suspension did not seem any harsher than I’m used to in other Z cars, and the overall ride was better in my view. The uncontrolled body motions that plagued earlier cars appear to be gone; there’s no more “porpoising” over imperfect pavement.There is definitely more grip—thank the suspension, the tires and the reduced unsprung mass with the lighter wheels.Where the non-Nismo car wags its tail readily,...

Chellsie Memmel

2008-08-02T11:54:00.000-07:00

Sport: GymnasticsAge: 20Hometown: West Allis, WisconsinYears in competition: 15, including nine years on the U.S. national team.Her story: The daughter of two All-American gymnasts, Memmel began her gymnastics training at age one and became active in national competition in 1999. In 2003, she won five medals at the Pan American Games, and in 2005, she tied for U.S.A. Gymnastics Women's Athlete of the Year.When her car passion started: "I started paying more attention to cars when I was learning to drive." First car: A red Volkswagen BeetleWhat she owns now: Audi TT, Dodge Ram 1500Dream car: "My silver Audi TT"Ultimate goal: "To represent the United States at the Olympic Games and win the team gold!"

2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart

2008-08-02T11:36:00.000-07:00

Mitsubishi has just released pricing on the all-new 2009 Lancer Ralliart and for $26,490, you can get behind the wheel of the turbocharged, all-wheel-drive Evo Lite. Equipped with the same 4B11T/C as the Evolution X, the Ralliart is putting out 237 hp through a modified version of the Evo IX's AWD system. That includes an Active Center Differential, along with front and rear mechanical LSDs and settings for Tarmac, Gravel and Snow. Active Stability Control is part of the package, as is Traction Control, but unfortunately, Ralliartists have to make due without the Active Yaw Control equipped on its big brother.The optional Recaro Sport Package will set you back an additional $2,750, and includes front Recaro buckets, HID headlamps, a 650-watt Rockford Fosgate sound system with a six month subscription to Sirius Satellite Radio.All the details are available in the press release below the fold.

Ford debuts all-new Ka

2008-08-02T11:33:00.000-07:00

Sure, you've these pics before (though not in high-res), but Ford has now officially revealed its all-new Ka that will be the automaker's big debut at the 2008 Paris Motor Show in October this year. Unfortunately, they neglected to release any details about the car, instead throwing out a bunch adjectives like "fresh, funky and fun" and "fashionable, modern" and "youthful and cheeky". None of those confirm what engines will be offered or what kind of fuel economy the car achieves. We do know the Ka will share its underpinnings with the Fiat 500 and be built in the same factory in Poland, so it would be safe to assume that Ford's "cheeky" hatch will use similarly high quality materials and be built tight as a drum, as well. Engine choices are presumed to be 1.4L and 1.6L petrol powerplants and a 1.6L diesel, and a hot ST version using the 500's turbo 1.4L is rumored to be arriving later. Thanks to the high-res images in the gallery below, we can now inspect the Ka's design inside and out. Its cockpit is very unique, with a number of different textures and contrasting colors to keep it "fresh, funky and fun." Our one worry is how far up the center console the radio has been placed. With those eency-weency buttons, it could be difficult to operate on the move. The exterior is defined by Ford of Europe's now familiar 'Kinetic Design' language, and suits the tiny three-door well. Its proportioned so that the tiny wheels aren't totally overcome by the car's visual mass, and the big headlights that dominate the front fenders in conjunction with the blacked out grille give the Ka an expressive face. Would you say the Ka's a winner, or more importantly, would you consider purchasing it if Ford chose to sell it in the U.S. one day?

2009 Mazda6

2008-07-30T14:52:00.000-07:00

The 2009 Mazda6 is an all-new midsize sedan from Mazda that was designed, engineered, developed, and will be manufactured completely on U.S. soil. While the Japanese and European markets have been enjoying the new 6 (Atenza) since late last year, the North American market finally gets to bask in the sleek new bodywork, along with a bigger engine under the hood. Follow the jump to see if the latest product from team "Zoom-Zoom" can compete head-to-head with the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, and Nissan Altima.

2008 Mini Cooper S JCW

2008-07-30T14:32:00.000-07:00

We've had the opportunity to get behind the wheel of a few MINI variants, including a 2007 Cooper S and more recently a 2008 Cooper Clubman. Despite some quirky interior design cues and limited practicality, it's hard not to love the MINI for its superb handling and slick-shifting transmission. Still on our to-do list, however, was to experience some of the John Cooper Works options that were absent on our previous test cars. Fortunately we were able to schedule a short drive with a 2008 MINI Cooper S with a few select JCW options. Are the upgrades worth the price of admission? Read on...

First Drive: Maserati Quattroporte S in Europe

2008-07-30T13:37:00.000-07:00

Let's be honest: cars can be a mode of transportation, but you're not reading Walkoblog or Cycleblog, now are you? At the heart of matters, what we're really pursuing here is that unbridled enthusiasm we had for cars as children. With every comparison of engine output and Nurburgring lap times, we're reaching back to the schoolyard, childishly debating the superiority of one sportscar over another. And all these galleries of high resolution images we bring you are just our updated version of hanging posters of Ferraris and Lamborghinis on the walls of our childhood bedrooms. How disappointed our younger selves would be, however, at what we end up driving when we finally have the means: ho-hum family sedans, bloated SUVs and wobly mini-vans. If only someone made an exotic sedan – not a compromise between the two, but a genuine exotic with four doors. That's exactly what Maserati did in 2003 with the revival of the Quattroporte, with a little help from sister-brand Ferrari.
With the Quattroporte, Maserati has proven itself capable of satisfying both our inner child and the one sitting in the back. A tough act to follow, then, because a sequel is seldom as exciting the original. But after 15,000 units delivered, the Quattroporte was treated to a mid-cycle refresh, sharpening up its already luscious styling, throwing in a host of new features and, most tantalizingly, dropping a bigger, more powerful engine into the mix. With such promise in store, we headed out to Austria to see what the boys from Modena had cooked up... and to seek out that boyhood grin once again.

2004 Subaru WRX

2008-07-30T13:31:00.000-07:00

Although modded WRXs are a dime a dozen throughout the States, surprisingly few have made it into our Flickr pool – that's just not right. It's one of the most competent platforms going for enthusiasts, and after last year's Subie v. Evo posts, we though it was high time to highlight another well-done Rex as our Reader Ride.This 2004 model has had the kitchen sink and all the plumbing thrown at it, including an 18G turbo, Turbo XS up-pipe, downpipe and HKS exhaust. High-flow injectors ensure that the heavy breathing is accompanied with the right amount of sacrificial fuel, while a UTEC engine management system orchestrates it all to the tune of 301 AWHP.According to Autoblog reader and Subie owner Jerome, there's some sort of gravitational pull between a WRX and thieves in Jersey, so he's decided to dispatch the aero bits in favor of a more subdued sleeper look. He seems a bit disappointed by it, but we'd like to assure him that Q-ships are the way to go.You can follow the jump to read Jerome's own description, along with a couple more photos and instructions on how to submit your own ride for selection.

Ford Flex Autoblog Garage

2008-07-30T13:09:00.000-07:00

Ford has been banking on strong sales of its crossover vehicles to help counter the sinking ship that is its line of SUVs. While the new Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX, along with the brand new Ford Flex and revised Escape, have sold well enough to post a meager 2.8-percent gain in overall sales so far this year, that number apparently isn't high enough to warrant a third shift at Ford's Oakville, Ontario plant that the automaker was hoping would be necessary. Unfortunately, this shift cancelation means that 350 workers who had planned on showing up for their first day next Monday are now left jobless. While there are certainly buyers out there who require the capability to haul around their entire families and their associated gear, all large passenger vehicles -- crossovers like the new Flex included -- face an uphill battle now to overcome current market conditions, as this latest announcement once again proves.

Mitsubishi i Turbo - Live in NY

2008-07-30T13:04:00.000-07:00

I'm the resident kei car obsessive here at Autoblog. That means I'm the guy who actually thinks, "That is awesome," when he reads the (Google translated) announcement of yet another Suzuki Wagon R variant. Hell, I did two posts on the one-off Hello Kitty Mitsubishi i. Keis are cool. So, you can imagine how happy I was to see that Mitsubishi brought along a small fleet of its i minicars to the New York Auto Show this year. Mitsubishi's focus at the show was squarely on the the all-electric i MiEV, which goes on sale in Japan next year and will be tested in North America this fall. The gasoline-powered version was on hand, too, though. I drove the i MiEV for AutoblogGreen, and was a passenger in a black i Turbo. Head over to AutoblogGreen for driving impressions of the i MiEV, and note that many of the observations there apply to both the electric and gasoline-powered cars. The i Turbo you see here is powered by a 660cc 3-cylinder that delivers around 64 horsepower. It's got around half the torque of the electric i MiEV and it's buzzier-sounding (obviously), but it felt just as well-suited to city driving in New York as its battery-powered counterpart. It can comfortably transport four adults and a bit of cargo, too. Try doing that in a smart.Mitsubishi is monitoring public reaction to the cars this week, so if you go to the show and like what you see, make sure to let them know. Me? I'll happily take one in black -- with a DAMD kit for optimum not-exactly-badassedness.

2009 Audi A4 Avant

2008-07-30T12:55:00.000-07:00

Wagon lovers rejoice! Audi's new 2009 A4 Avant has made its official North American debut at the New York Auto Show. The press release, after the break, introduces us to the newest 2.0 liter TFSI four cylinder engine, variants of which have won "Engine of the Year" trophies three times. Coming in at 211 horsepower along with 258 lb.-ft. of torque, the A4's base engine is reportedly capable of propelling the car to sixty in 6.5 seconds. The impressive output of Audi's new four-banger almost makes up for their decision not to offer the sedan's 3.2 liter FSI V6 in the Avant. That engine features the newest version of the patented Audi Valvelift Technology (AVS) and offers up 265 horsepower. Six-speed transmissions will be offered in both the A4 sedan and Avant -- no mention of Quattro systems or the new 7-speed DSG. It seems like Audi's been holding back the new A4 for so long that we can hardly believe that we'll see it in dealerships this October, but we'll continue to sate your appetites with pictures until then.

2009 Pontiac Solstice Coupe - Live Reveal

2008-07-30T12:11:00.000-07:00

Sporting a specific output of 130 horsepower-per-liter, the turbocharged, direct-injected Ecotec four-cylinder from GM that's featured in the Pontiac Solstice GXP, Saturn Sky Redline and SS versions of the Chevy HHR and Cobalt, is already one heck of an accomplishment. But wait... there's more -- power that is. According to Motor Trend, shortly after the Solstice Coupe goes on sale next year, the blown-Ecotec could make 300 horsepower or more, putting it in close competition with performance stalwarts such as Nissan's Z. What's more, the same engine should also be available in the convertible versions of both the Solstice GXP and Saturn Sky Redline as well, paired only with a five-speed manual tranny in all applications. This is just a rumor at this point, but MT seems pretty confident in its validity, citing higher intercooled boost along with a new fuel rail as the tech behind the power increase. The rumor does not mention if the higher-output mill will appear in other applications, though we remember something about the Camaro possibly getting a turbo-four mill as an option, and a tuner-friendly option offering 300 galloping horsies in stock form would make for a very interesting option in the pony car.

Kia coupe headed to production mid-2009, replacing Spectra

2008-07-30T12:03:00.000-07:00

Wave goodbye to the Spectra name; Kia's planning on sending the moniker packing when the car is replaced in mid-2009. Kicking up the style as a way to grab the dollars of younger buyers, Kia will introduce the styling paradigm laid out by the Koup Concept at last year's New York Auto Show, which will grace a production sedan and coupe. The sedan will hit the market first, with the coupe following within a couple months. The hatchback Spectra will be out of the U.S. lineup entirely; Kia thinks the coupe and its sexier lines will move more units. European buyers will still be able to purchase the Spectra hatch as the cee'd, though. More style in this instance is a good thing. We've seen the Koup, and we like it. We've driven the Spectra, and we like that, too. If Kia can successfully match the chassis to the expectations set by the body, the Spectra's successor should have no problem maintaing that model's best-seller status in the Kia lineup.

Hamann BMW 6-Series

2008-07-30T11:45:00.000-07:00

With BMW giving the 6-Series a refresh for 2008, it was just a matter of time before the tuners brought out the new goods. Hamann has announced its new line of products for the 6er starting with two different styles of aerodynamic packages that including the basic kit and a race edition version. As always, a variety of wheel options are available in 20 and 21 inch sizes. Performance upgrades are also available, including engine tuning for the 630i, 650i and 635d, a sport exhaust system, an adjustable coilover suspension system, and a sport brake system. Full details are in the press release after the jump.

2009 Porsche 911 Targa 4S

2008-07-30T11:35:00.000-07:00

Hope for the best, prepare for the worst. That seems to be the motto of the newest iteration of the latest generation of the Porsche 911. The new 911 Targa is available exclusively with all-wheel-drive, in either Targa 4 or Targa 4S guise, bearing the 911 Turbo-derived electronic four-wheel-drive system that replaces the viscous mechanical system on the previous generation, and coupled to Stuttgart's new PDK dual-clutch transmission.
What sets the Targa model apart, though, is its sixteen-and-a-half-square-foot glass sliding roof, specially treated to filter out UV rays that can be opened in just seven seconds to let the air in. Sale of the new model in the United States will begin in October, just as the sunshine's going away (depending on where you live) with list prices of $89,500 and $100,100 respectively.
Check out the press release after the jump for more info, and the images in the gallery below for more angles.

Honda OSM Concept

2008-07-30T11:26:00.000-07:00

Honda says that the OSM roadster on display at the 2008 British Motor Show is merely a design study, but given that "design study" is frequently a euphemism for "future design language," we wonder if we're seeing the next iteration of Honda car styling. Frankly, we hope so, because this is worlds better than what we've seen from the automaker of late, from the Accord right on up to the bland and bloated Pilot. The OSM, short for Open Study Model, is a shapely two-seat convertible that we'd be happy to drive today. Well, maybe with headlamps that weren't lightsaber-sized. Other than that, we love the jaunty look, especially in back, where the taillamps sweep gently from one side of the car to the other. Since it's a styling exercise, there's no specific powertrain combination associated with it, but Honda assures us that the car is an indication that lightweight, low-emissions motoring needn't be boring. No kidding, guys. Inside, the cockpit basically evolves the two-tier instrument panel you'll find in the current Civic into a far more attractive driving environment that we hope to see in road cars sooner than later. While Honda says there's no plan to create a production sport/econo roadster like this anytime soon, somebody's obviously thinking about it. Future S2000 replacement, maybe? "Design studies" such as this don't happen by accident.

2009 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG Black Series

2008-07-30T10:45:00.000-07:00

After months of spy shots and speculation, the Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG Black Series is finally out in the open. And with a $320,000 price tag, a twin-turbocharged 6.0-liter V12 and only 200 units on their way to the U.S., it's a serious stopgap between the deceased SLR and Mercedes' 2011 SLC gullwing supercar.Mercedes' in-house tuners applied their tried and true philosophy to the SL65 AMG Black Series, beginning with a carbon fiber hood, fenders and trunk, along with nixing the retractable hard top in favor of a fixed carbon fiber roof with an integrated roll cage. As such, the Black is 550 pounds lighter than the stock SL65, coming in at 4,122 pounds.Seven vents – three in the bumper, two on the hood and two in the fenders – feed copious quantities of air to the 6.0-liter V12, fitted with a duo of upgraded turbochargers. Power is up to 661 hp available at 5,400 rpm, while torque remains the same at 738 lb.-ft. With a five-speed automatic gearbox equipped with AMG's speedshift software, the Black can hit 60 mph in 3.9 seconds on its way to a gearing-limited top speed of 199 mph. Expect the SL65 AMG Black Series to debut in Paris, with sales beginning in the U.S. early next year.

2008 Maserati GranTurismo

2008-07-30T09:57:00.000-07:00

When we review a car, at some point we take it out to find a secluded location for a photo shoot. Anyone who does drive by usually keeps on going without asking any questions. Not so with a gleaming Nero black Maserati GranTurismo and a "Where are my sunglasses?" yellow Corvette Z06 sitting side by side. This was the scenario that transpired when fellow Autoblogger Chris Shunk swung by the Ann Arbor office for a joint photo shoot of our respective review vehicles. Corvettes, even screaming yellow Z06s, are pretty commonplace in Michigan. Maseratis, however, are anything but. The GranTurismo sashayed onto the world's automotive stage in March 2007 at the Geneva Motor Show looking right at home in the company of the models who always adorn the displays of Italian marques at such events. Read on to find out what Maserati's latest coupe is like to live with

Hemi-powered Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow

2008-07-30T09:42:00.000-07:00

Remember back in the day when the engine output on a Rolls-Royce was listed as "adequate" or "more than adequate"? We don't know what the old guard would make of this, but adequate doesn't even come close.
This vintage Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow has had its "ordinary" 6.75-liter V8 swaped out for a 592 Hemi, complete with dual-stage nitrous system for a reported output of over 1,000 horsepower. The chrome engine popping out of the hood might not be the average Rolls buyer's cup of tea, as it detracts from the usually-dominant classic grille, but the leather-covered roll cage is pure class. And here we thought the modern day Phantom was powerful enough as is....

Qvarnis kör Gemballa Mirage i Nr 8 2007

2008-07-30T08:58:00.000-07:00

Det finns dagar då det känns mindre tufft att gå till jobbet, men nu börja svetten bryta fram kraftigt i pannan. Gemballa Mirage GT är en hyperventilerad version av Carrera GT som kräver mycket, för att inte säga allt, av föraren. Läs allt om Qvarnis slitsamma provkörning av Gemballas 672 hästars Carrera GT i Street Xtreme Nr 8 2007

Lukas Koos Zlayer Veilside Rx-7 från Nr 7 2006

2008-07-30T08:08:00.000-07:00

I mångt och mycket är Zlayer en summering av tio års bilbyggarerfarenhet, lika många extrema bilbyggen baserat på sju olika bilar. Och det är, vill Lukas mena, hans bästa projekt hittills. Bilen är döpt till Zlayer - The Seven Death Sins Project och bakom namnet ligger ett mer genomtänkt tema än vad man först anar. Den sjunde bilen. Baserat på en RX7, som fick ett nysving tack vare Fast & Furious – Tokyo Drift.

Goldberg-It's All About the Muscle

2008-07-28T03:12:00.000-07:00

“I’ve always been pretty much an old-school muscle-car guy,” says the 37 year old. “Ninety percent of my cars are ’73 and older."

“When I was a kid, all my buddies’ older brothers used to have them (muscle cars),” he says. “My dad was a Jaguar guy, which is cool an all, but there’s something about having that muscle. Something about being able to slam the throttle down and smoke your tires at any time.”

Probably the scariest vehicle in his collection, Goldberg says, is a Shelby Cobra replica built by some of his Atlanta neighbors, the Elliotts, as in NASCAR champ Bill Elliot. “I’ve had it for five or six years and I’ve put maybe 300 miles on it. It’s so scary. It’s got maybe 900 horsepower with the power-to-weight ration of maybe an F-15.”

CINDY MARGOLIS

2008-07-28T03:02:00.000-07:00

“The best part about these hot cars is that they’re MY cars, a fact I’m very proud of.” Cindy is quick to point out. “My career has allowed me to buy some really fun toys.”

Riding on 22-inch Momo wheels and sporting a custom exhaust for that extra grunt, this mack-daddy of luxury cargo carriers is fitted with a custom DVD system and an XM radio, giving her lucky passengers an abundance of entertainment options.

Wonder where Cindy’s affection for rapid transport stems from? Better bone up on you DNA studies. “My Dad used to race and build cars as a hobby,” Cindy says with a twinkle in her eye. “So I guess you could say I have the ‘need for speed’ in my blood.”

Sasha Vujacic-the power of class

2008-07-28T02:49:00.000-07:00

Sasha Vujacic shares a rambling ranch house with his parents, brother and sister on a quiet street in Rancho Palos Verdes. It looks more like the home of a Toyota executive than a pro athlete. Except that the cars lined up in the driveway are definitely not Toyotas. And while owning a Lamborghini, Mercedes-Benz or Audi, or even one of each, is not that atypical of pro ballplayers, Sasha’s cars are unique in that he likes them to look pretty much the way they come from the factory, even down to the wheels.

“I have had my Mercedes CLS 550 about a year and it is beautiful and very fast. But now I have the Audi S8 and it is a beast. It goes like a rocket. Every European has to have an Audi because it is one of the best cars in the world.” Sasha and his family plan to use the Audi to explore outside the L.A. area.

“The Ferrari is excellent, but I prefer the Lamborghini, how it looks and how it drives. I just love it because it looks like a spaceship. I want to kiss it every time I get inside,” he jokes “My car is a manual shift, which is the only way to drive it; the automatic is just not as good to drive.”

Ashley Force-A Force to be reckoned

2008-07-28T02:38:00.000-07:00

Ashley Force is in her element: the NHRA Nationals in Englishtown, New Jersey. It’s a few hours before she suits up in her green and white uniform and launches her funny car to 321 miles per hour for John Force Racing, competing with her legendary father John Force.

It’s June, midway through Ashley Force’s first season competing in the funny car division, a right she’s earned climbing the ranks of professional drag racing. She is currently the only woman in her class, and the tenth in history to earn a funny car license. While her charismatic dad is visibly in her corner, she’s made her own way.

In contrast to her public persona, Ashley’s not flashy; she wears little makeup and is down to earth, spending time with her dog and hitting the gym during downtime. Her basic taste is reflected in her daily driver. “When I was 16 I got an F-150 truck,” she says. “I still have it to this day. It’s the only car I ever owned and I love it.” She’ll get a new Mustang soon, but that doesn’t stop her from harboring strong feelings about her Ford pickup.

Napoleom''Hollywood''Harris-Kansas City Chiefs

2008-07-28T02:12:00.000-07:00

Harris poses with his Bentley Arnage (silver). He has added 21-inch rims. The interior is stock except for upgraded the stereo with a TV, DVD player and some additional speakers.

His Range Rover is modified with 24-inch wheels and a STRUT crimped mesh grille and two side vents. The interior is stock.

The black S550 has 22-inch rims and Lorinser body upgrades done by The New Auto Toy Store. The interior is stock.

4x4

2008-07-28T02:00:00.000-07:00

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GTS

2008-07-28T01:49:00.000-07:00

Audi TT RS

2008-07-27T15:02:00.000-07:00

Audi TT RS: the lowdown
Audi's ultimate TT – a 350bhp RS version – has made it from the drawing board and onto the race track. Audi didn't introduce hot S and RS versions of the first generation coupe, but the TT Mk2 looks set to put that right. The butch bodykit, wheels and oval pipes mark out the flagship TT, while a blown fivepot will provide the power. Expect the TT RS to arrive in 2008; a TT S with around 280bhp arrives first.
Pumping up the power...
The TT RS will run a turbocharged version of the naturally aspirated, 2.5-litre five that's offered in North American Jettas. Peak power is said to be around 350bhp. Power will be sent to all four wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox. The S-tronic double clutch gearbox will also be offered, most likely with seven speeds. With 350bhp on tap and a kerb weight around 1400kg, the TT RS will really shift. With a power-to-weight ratio bang on 250bhp, expect a sub-5.0sec 0-62mph demolition. That's Porsche 911 Carrera S territory. The TT S is tipped to run the S3's high pressure turbocharged 2.0-litre. Peak power climbs from the hot hatch's 261bhp to around 280-300bhp. Expect the TT S to arrive in 2007, with a likely price around £33,000. The TT RS could touch £40,000.

Audi R8 V10

2008-07-27T14:53:00.000-07:00

Audi R8 V10: the lowdown
Audi's R8 mid-engined supercar caused a stir when it was first driven back in January. The 414bhp 911 rival was warmly received by CAR's testers - and it even trumped its Porsche and Lambo rivals on our first test in the US. However, lurking in the back of everyone's mind was the thought of the potent V10 version in the pipeline. After all, the R8 shares many components with its Gallardo brethren, so it was only a matter of time before the V10 would be dropped in. And now our spies have caught a V10 test car being put through its paces at the Nurburgring in Germany.
What's new on the latest R8 then?
An extra couple of cylinders and a whole lot more grunt, that’s what. It’s believed that the V10 will kick out around 80bhp over than the current V8, plus a wedge more torque. This should bring it up to somewhere near the magic 500bhp mark, giving the R8 a healthy dollop of mid-range punch over the current V8. There was initially rumour that Audi would reign in the V10 to avoid luring punters away from Lamborghini, but since the Gallardo Superleggera arrived on the scene with its thrilling 530bhp, there’s less need to worry about internal squabbles.

Audi RS5 Scoop

2008-07-27T14:48:00.000-07:00

Audi is busy prepping three new versions of its new A5 coupe – headlined by this blistering 450bhp RS5 that arrives early next year to take on its new BMW M3 and Mercedes C63 rivals. Like all R models, the topdog A5 has been fully developed by Quattro, Audi’s in-house go-fast engineering team. As our impressions show, the RS5 will get the full Quattro treatment. The glorious high-revving 4.2-litre V8 that powers the RS4 gets plumbed into the RS5’s nose, complete with two small and highly responsive turbochargers that will take peak power up to the 450bhp. That’s not a great deal more than the S5’s 354bhp, but the RS5 searing pace will come from its phenomenal blower-enhanced torque – expect at least 500lb ft of twist action to plateau across the rev range.

Audi RS6 scooped

2008-07-27T14:30:00.000-07:00

Seemingly not… Audi’s piping hot RS6 – caught here undergoing its final rounds of Nürburgring dynamic tests – takes the 429bhp 5.2-litre V10 from the S6 and bolts on not one but two ultra-responsive turbos for a headline-grabbing 530bhp. That’s a 43bhp more than BMW’s M5 and 16bhp more than the Mercedes E63. Who said the horsepower war was over... Although Audi remains tight-lipped about the RS6’s details, expect both saloon and Avant estate to bow in at the Frankfurt Motor Show in mid-September, with the saloon wearing a £65,000 price tag, putting it on a par with the M5 saloon and slightly cheaper than Mercedes’ E63. And as with the lesser S6, expect the popular RS6 Avant hold-all to be the more popular seller, despite its £1270 premium and 50kg weight penalty over the RS6 saloon.
More power always sounds good, but you were hardly blown away by the S6
True, we thought the S6 was a bit low-key and subdued, but don't forget that while Audi’s S models are engineered and developed inhouse, RS models are the work of quattro, Audi’s independent tuning house. And as we experienced with the RS4, the go-faster gurus at quattro know all about driver engagement and scalpel-sharp dynamics. Which is why this oddly – and rather effectively – camouflaged RS6 mule was being hammered mercilessly around the 'Ring.

Audi A1 scooped

2008-07-27T14:15:00.001-07:00

Bloody hell, that’s one very hot Polo…
Or one very well disguised Audi A1. Unless you were really looking carefully, this prototype could easily be mistaken for a tuned Polo. Even we considered the possibility of a mad run-out edition of the mint with a hole. But no. Under this disguise is an early prototype of Audi’s forthcoming Mini-rivalling A1. That's why it's running on Ingolstadt number plates, you see. And there are more clues, more of which later. The real A1 won’t appear in Audi dealers until 2009, but a concept version is expected at next month’s Tokyo Motor Show. But you don't have to wait that long. Back in July 2007, CAR Online had a world exclusive when we got hold of leaked Audi sketches. These were direct from Audi’s design studio and showed us exactly what the A1 will look like.
But hasn’t Audi already tried the small car thing with the A2?
It has, but unfortunately that car was too expensive and never took off in the numbers required to make it a hit. The old A2 ceased production in 2005, and arguably was too far ahead of its time. Had it been launched now, its aluminium platform and eco-credentials would no doubt have made the car a success. Now Audi is having another crack with the A1, though it won’t be as revolutionary as the A2. It’s all part of Audi’s plans to become the world’s largest premium car maker by 2015.

Audi A5 Sportback

2008-07-27T13:58:00.000-07:00

Hold on, an A5 Sportback? That means it's a five-door wagon, right?
Not quite. Confused? Well, it's neither an Avant nor a five-door Sportback as we know them. Rather, it's designed to be half wagon, half coupé. So this secret new A5 variant has a neat electrically powered tailgate that should combine the practicality of a five-door with the style of a coupe. So does that make it a coupate, or an estoupé? No, we're not sure either... As CAR Online's exclusive images show, Audi is clearly intent on carving out a niche of its own after Mercedes stole a march on the 'four door coupé' segment with the CLS, which will be facelifted next year before a replacement in 2011. BMW too has showcased a 7-series based CLS rival - our July issue cover star, the Concept CS. So, not content to simply follow the pack, Audi plans an aggressive two-product strategy to tackle the emerging practical coupe class, starting with the A5 Sportback you see here. Read on for the full story.
Sounds exciting. Tell me about the A5 Sportback then
The A5 Sportback will remain a four-seater, and Walter de'Silva and his artists have blessed it with sleek looks and back seats with more space than in the latest A5 coupé - great news for the style-conscious executive with normally sized friends and family. 'It combines hatchback practicality with one of the prettiest shapes ever conceived in Ingolstadt,' said a senior engineer at Audi. And we wouldn't disagree; the Sportback will retain the face of the current A5 while combining elements of the forthcoming A4 in the profile and an entirely new curvy rear end. Dynamic highlights will include a Quattro 4WD system with a 40/60 front/rear torque split for sportier handling, as well as the introduction of yet another acronym for your repertiore in QVT - quattro torque vectoring - which will continually monitor torque distribution to the wheels and act accordingly, promising enhanced agility and traction. Insiders predict three turbocharged direct-injection petrol four-pot engines delivering 150, 177 and 211bhp, as well as a 265bhp 3.2 V6. And yes, there will be an S5 Sportback too, set to be powered by the 354bhp 4.2 V8 currently found in the S5. You want more? Ok then, we're told there's a mile-munching RS5 is in the works, set to be unleashed with at least 450 angry horses stuffed under the bonnet. But for those of us who have to think about the dull realities of tax and emissions, a new 204bhp 2.0-litre diesel should partner the familiar 170bhp unit in the Sportback. As yet there's no word on the 2.7 V6 oil burner featuring, but it's a banker that the popular 240bhp 3.0 TDI will. Want to go cleaner? A Bluetec diesel is mooted, as well as a hybrid. Don't hold your breath for that though.

Audi's TT gets hot

2008-07-27T13:47:00.000-07:00

I spy with my little eye…
Quad exhausts? That’s the standout feature on the back of this TT, and that means you’re looking at the S version of Audi’s little coupe. And it’s definitely official too. As well as the taped-over Audi badge and Ingolstadt number plates, this car has new integrated LED daytime running lights. When asked about the car an Audi spokesman said that the company was currently not acknowledging any further development of the TT. So that’s a yes then.
What does that badge say?
I’m afraid we can’t fully make it out, but it’s definitely an Audi S or RS badge. Look closely and you can see ‘TT’ overlapping between the silver and red. Why is it an S and not an RS? Firstly quattro GmbH, the company that builds RS models, does not have enough space to build another new model. The RS4 saloon is already a special order model to make way for the RS6 Avant. And secondly a higher volume, though slightly cheaper S model makes more economic sense than a hardcore, low-volume RS.

Audi TT S

2008-07-27T13:41:00.000-07:00

A swifter TT to give the 350Z and Cayman a fright?
Right in one. Audi is busy prepping a brisk S version of its new TT, ready to make its debut at the Geneva motor show next March. We've already spied an even hotter RS version, but for the moment TT fans will have to make due with the S version. Not that they'll have much to moan about. As previewed in the Clubsport Quattro, we expect the S to use a heavily tweaked version of the S3's 2.0-litre direct injection four-pot engine, hooked up to a revised version of Audi's double-clutch transmission. The hotter S will be easily identified by those large gaping front air intakes, deeper chin, bigger 19inch alloys and new exhaust pipes.

Audi R8 Spider revealed

2008-07-27T13:38:00.001-07:00

Audi will next year launch this open-top version of its R8 supercar. The Spider is one of a growing choice of R8s – buyers bored of the default 911 will soon be able to pick between two petrols and a V12 diesel, plus coupe or targa bodystyles. It’s typical of a car maker not exactly afraid of baffling buyers with extensive choice of engine/gearbox/driven wheels even in its most humdrum ranges.It’s also a logical step as Porsche makes plenty of capital out of the 911 soft-top versions – and the R8 is aimed squarely at that domestic rival. Our artist’s impression has been built using the exclusive sketch CAR smuggled out of Ingolstadt last year (image, middle right) and isn’t mere fantasy. Expect to see twin speedster humps sprouting above the mid-mounted engine and a subtly truncated aluminium blade ahead of the rear wheels.Audi R8 Spider: the hoodOur sources in Germany suggest that the roof of the Spider will be a removable targa affair, with detachable panels rather than a canvas hood or folding hard top. Although more flexible, the latter two would be hard to engineer with the mid-mounted engine sitting where you’d need a cubby for the lowered hood and associated mechanism. As most of these cars will be sold in warmer climes of the world’s biggest soft-top market (think Florida), targa panels shouldn’t worry typical buyers.Today’s R8 coupe costs £78,200 suggesting the Spider will cost nearer £85,000 with the 414bhp 4.2-litre V8 engine option. But there is a raft of engines under development at Audi, creating a supercar range with a car for all tastes.

Audi TT Speedster scooped

2008-07-27T13:31:00.000-07:00

Is Audi about to launch a limited edition run of its speedster TT? The company showed the TT Clubsport Quattro one-off concept at a hot-hatch festival in Austria in 2007 – and today our spies in south Germany have caught this test vehicle on the road.The Clubsport is a concept car, but when shown at the Wörthersee festival, official Audi spokesmen freely admitted they were 'considering a low-volume production run'. Think of it as Ingolstadt's answer to the Smart Crossblade – a PR stunt rather than a volume seller.
With a name like Clubsport, does this TT really fly?
The original Clubsport speedster used the regular 2.0-litre TFSI engine tuned to produce 300bhp – 40 more than the same engine in the S3. A reworked intake manifold and racing air intake boost the power, which is sent to all four wheels via a six-speed S-tronic gearbox. Production versions could obviously use another engine from the TT's range (there are now versions sporting from 180bhp to 268bhp). And you'd better pack your waterproofs; there is no roof whatsoever on the speedster. Perfect for California, less perfect for Clacton-on-Sea.
It looks somehow bigger than the regular TT...
The Clubsport certainly looks squat and purposeful. Don't forget the track is 80mm wider, accommodated by flared wheelarches housing 20-inch wheels shod with 265/30 rubber.

Audi A6 scoop

2008-07-27T13:29:00.000-07:00

Audi A6 scoop
By Tim Pollard and Georg Kacher (artist's impression by Larson)

Audi will unveil the new A6 exec in 2010 – a year after its key rivals the BMW 5-series and Mercedes E-class. Our artist’s impression, compiled with the help of sources in Ingolstadt, reveals a slick-looking evolution of today’s four-door, but we’re left wondering if Audi needs to evolve its styling more dramatically. Isn’t the new A6 at risk of becoming just another Russian doll Audi design?
The now firmly established ‘goatee beard’ grille dominates the A6’s nose, and will be flanked by beautifully detailed headlamps incorporating Audi’s daytime running light eyebrows. The rest of the look is stock Audi: sober, classy but hardly exciting.
The new Audi A6: high tech
If we worry – prematurely – that the looks could end up being an enlarged photocopy of the Audi A4, there are no such concerns under the bonnet. This new A6 will be a significant new model: it’s the first mainstream Audi saloon to usher in a new construction method.
So far Audi has offered aluminium construction on its lower volume cars, such as the R8, TT and A8, but the A6 will also get a multi-material spaceframe to snip away excess flab – and improve handling, economy and emissions in the process.

Audi RS6 Avant

2008-07-27T13:27:00.000-07:00

Audi RS6 Avant: the lowdown
Audi has begun testing a prototype of the world's fastest estate: the forthcoming RS6 Avant. Crammed into that nose is a Lamborghini V10. Don't go shrugging your shoulders – it isn't the 429bhp, 'lower-powered' unit from the S6, but a twin-turbo version that will summon an extra 100 horses. That'll be enough to make the RS6 demolish 0-62mph in around 4.5sec – as quick as a BMW M6. Click 'next' for more.
RS chassis mods...
That hardly flush bonnet tells a story: this mule runs the Audi-Lamborghini 5.2-litre V10. Breathed on by twin turbochargers and with revised internals and breathing, the V10 will kick out in excess of 520bhp. Naturally, the RS6 uses quattro four-wheel drive to lay that kind of power down, with torque biased 40:60 to the rear to enhance the driving experience. Beefed up brakes lurk behind those bigger alloys, while the suspension has adaptive damping to offer the optimum mix of comfort and dynamism.

Aston Martin Roadster

2008-07-27T13:25:00.000-07:00

Aston Roadster: the lowdown
Here are the best spyshots yet of Aston Martin's soft-top version of the V8 Vantage. The two-seater, to be unveiled at the Los Angeles auto show at the end of November, is set to be called Roadster, rather than adopt the Volante name typical of soft-top Astons. Power comes from the 380bhp 4.2-litre V8 used in the coupe. Expect a price around £90,000, with deliveries due in spring 2007.
What's new?
There's more to the Roadster than a simple tin opener-job on the coupe. While convertibles are typically spun off saloon bodies, the V8 Vantage is a hatchback, so Aston's designers have had to create a new rear end. It's a handsome rump, flowing into a lip spoiler just like the coupe's. The powered, fabric roof stows to reveal those twin buttresses, and a wind deflector folds up to soothe turbulence.

Porsche 911 GT3 facelift

2008-07-27T13:13:00.000-07:00

The latest Porsche 911 has been caught undergoing initial testing. Hot on the very brisk heels of the facelifted 997 – due on sale in July 2008 – comes Porsche’s track-biased 911.
At this stage it’s unclear whether the car snapped in our photos is the GT3, or the niche-within-a-niche GT3 RS. The front splitter, nose-mounted air vent and central exhausts are common to both models but that big rear wing is straight from the current RS.
Quite why the RS would appear on test before the ‘regular’ GT3 – which goes on sale in summer 2008 and has yet to be scooped – is unclear, unless the GT3 is getting said wing. From our pictures it’s unclear whether this car has the RS model’s wider rear track.
So tell me about the next Porsche 911 GT3 and GT3 RS.
The GT3’s 3600cc flat six – which can trace its mechanical origins back to the GT1 Le Mans racer – will be further tweaked to boost performance. At 113.6bhp per litre, the current car’s 409bhp output is pretty close to the engine’s limit but the power hike will still be significant.
The latest news to leak from Stuttgart is that the next 911 Carrera S will have 380bhp as standard. A performance pack could take that to over 400bhp so the GT3 will put a clear step between it and the S with over 430bhp. Expect peak power at a frenzied 7800rpm (and redlined at 8500rpm) while torque should climb from the current 298lb ft.
The power increase will be enough to drop the GT3’s 0-60mph sprint to just four seconds and nudge its top speed to 195mph (current car's 193mph). Porsche’ s PASM active suspension system will be recalibrated to deal with the performance boost, and as before, ceramic composite brake discs will be a (costly) optional extra.

Lancia Delta scooped

2008-07-27T13:07:00.000-07:00

I saw this car a few days ago and i'm very curious about it's origins and make. the black stripes are velcro. Please help! pic was taken in Cape Town, South Africa -Raz

Toyota readies a Smart rival

2008-07-27T13:05:00.000-07:00

A Toyota Smart? Tell me more...
Remember the Toyota Endo (pictured)? It was one of many concept cars vying for attention at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2005, but the Japanese firm is now readying a production version to show this autumn, CAR Online has learned. It's a sub-Aygo city car to square up to DaimlerChrysler's Smart Fortwo; DC boss Dieter Zetsche recently told CAR Online that Smart had been close to extinction, but the product planners were convinced that the market for tiny city cars would grow in an environmentally pressured age, so the brand was saved. Toyota now wants a slice of this market and a production Endo is due in showrooms in 2008.
So they're putting the Toyota Endo into production?
Something like it, yes. Although the concept pictured has lashing of the usual show-car frippery (internet on the go, cartoon styling and Star Trek lights), its basic architecture will influence the production version, we hear. So expect something similar at the unveil at September's Frankfurt show. The European-designed Endo concept was short (3000mm) and tall (1520mm), to cram in sufficient space for four passengers. Word is, the production model could offer 3+1 seating, with three spaces for adults and a fourth occasional jump seat - similar to the original Fiat Trepiuno concept, in fact.

Toyota Auris

2008-07-27T13:02:00.000-07:00

Toyota threw open the doors of the hi-tech design studio behind its most important forthcoming car – the crucial Corolla-replacement Auris – underlying its ambition to makes cars that are stylish and good-looking as well as reliable and environmentally-conscious. The normally top secret Toyota Europe Design Development centre, or ED2, in the south of France – a suitably James Bond baddie type lair nestling in tranquil woodland overlooking the Cote d’Azur – boasts an impressive back catalogue of concept and production cars since opening in 2000.

Alfa Romeo 159 GTA

2008-07-27T13:01:00.001-07:00

It may look like the victim of a boy-racer driveby, but beneath this Alfa 159’s butchered bodywork sits the underpinnings of the next generation GTA performance flagship. The hallowed Gran Turismo Alleggerita badge was first seen in 1974, when the 1600 Giulia Sprint GTA entered the gruelling Targa Florio in Sicily. Back then the GTA was all about achieving giant-slaying performance through weight-saving. This time the emphasis is purely on power. Our sources claim that beneath that sculpted bonnet sits a tweaked version of Alfa’s new 3.5-litre, direct injection V6 engine that’s expected to pump out at least 350bhp. Expect it to comfortably beat the outgoing 156 GTA’s performance figures, cracking 60mph in six seconds dead, pushing up to 165mph flat out and spitting a wailing exhaust note form those four tailpipes.
Sounds enticing. How much will it set me back?
There’s no word on pricing but given that the last GTA was a bit of a performance bargain, don't expect to pay anything more than £35,000 for the new model. Specific mechanical details are also still few and far between but, given the speed and poise of the car as it thrashed its way around the Nürburgring, it’s going to give those who can't stretch to – or want – an M3 plenty of pause for thought. Unlike the previous GTA which set new standards for torque steer and unruly front-drive tyre scrabble, the upcoming model will run an uprated version of the 159’s all-wheel drive system, via a six-speed transmission with a closer stack of six ratios. A modified nose with a wider and lower air intake will help with cooling, as do the pronounced extractor vents behind the front wheelarches to dispel hot air. There’s even a pretty good chance that when it unveils the car – probably at the Geneva motor show next year – Alfa will match the colour of that rear wing to that of the car...

Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione

2008-07-27T12:59:00.001-07:00

We've seen the 8C for ages! Why doesn't Alfa just launch it?
It's true that the 8C has suffered a long gestation, but then the Fiat group has had more pressing priorities on its hands than launching profligate supercars. Like saving its bread-and-butter business with big-selling cars like the new Grande Puntoand 500. We first saw the 8C coupe in concept form back in 2003 at the Frankfurt show, but now Sergio Marchionne has stemmed the company's losses (peaking at a staggering £3 million a day, don't forget) Alfa has been able to turn its attention to treats like the production 8C. It finally arrives with customers this autumn - four years after it first emerged under the flashbulb glare of Germany's biggest car show. Although Alfa has shown the production 8C already, it is now readying the final settings for the first customer cars that arrive in September.

Alfa Romeo Mito at the Ring

2008-07-27T12:53:00.000-07:00

We might have already seen the official shots of Alfa's gorgeous new Mito, but the Italians continue to test their new Mini rival and we've caught it near the Nurburgring in Germany. This is Alfa’s first new car since the Competzione 8C, and many of the supercar's beautiful design touches have trickled down to the Mito. For our money this is the best-looking small car on the planet. It's packed with the sort of details more normally reserved for high-end Italian sports cars: sleek frameless doors, LED taillights and bulging body work will surely make it next year’s must-have superminis. It even wears its disguise tape with a degree of panache.

Maserati Coupe

2008-07-27T12:51:00.001-07:00

The big two-door has turned up at the Nurburgring, as chassis tuning steps up a gear. It's a spacious four-seater: think Maserati's answer to the Ferrari 612 Scaglietti, but at an estimated £80,000, for around half the price. The GT is based on a cut-down version of the Quattroporte, with a shortened rear overhang and wheelbase. Maserati's wonderful, charismatic V8 is mounted in the nose, which kicks out 400bhp in the saloon. Power is sent to the back wheels via the Cambiocorsa paddleshift gearbox mounted at the rear with the differential. The aim is to get as close as possible to a 50:50 weight distribution. The swoopy body is new, but the design will take inspiration from the Quattroporte's stunning look. The huge oval grille, soon to get a Trident badge, is in place to test engine breathing; quad tailpipes poke through the rear valance. The new GT is tipped for an unveiling at the 2007 Geneva show.

Renault Megane spied

2008-07-27T11:46:00.000-07:00

Pretty impressive…
Indeed, though the nature of this particular straight at the Nurburgring means just about everything can get airborne here. This is the next Megane, rather than any sort of hardcore-spec Renaultsport product – the game being given away by this car's wider wheelarches and bonnet vent on a pre-facelift car. The Mk3 car will make its debut in production form at the Paris Motor Show in autumn 2008. The Mk6 VW Golf is also pencilled in to be shown in Paris at the same time…
Will the next Renault Megane be as good looking as the current car?
That’s a subjective thing: the current Megane has sold well in the UK, but sales have been more sporadic around mainland Europe. Blame that shapely rear, which will be toned down for the next generation car. However, the new Megane will still be adventurously styled, and won’t have any of the conservatism that features heavily on the new Laguna. The Megane range currently kicks off with a 1.4-litre at £11,960 and we expect the Mk3 range to start at under £12k, too. Renault could however spring a surprise, and start the range with the turbocharged 1.2-litre currently found in the Twingo.

Volvo's 4x4 push

2008-07-27T11:38:00.000-07:00

More SUVs on the way from Volvo
The XC60 sports utility vehicle is still two years away from Volvo showrooms, but a baby brother is being planned – and other new models in the same vein could follow. That’s the message from the Swedish car maker’s vice-president of brand, business and product strategy, Lex Kerssemakers. Unveiled as a concept early this month at the Detroit Motor Show, the XC60 (above) will go on sale in early 2009 alongside the larger XC90 and V70-based XC70. It'll be virtually unchanged from the Detroit concept shown here.
'My job is to fill in the numbers…'
Kerssemakers told CAR Online: 'We are happy with our S range of saloons; there will be no additional model that will go higher than the S80. And we are happy with our range of C cars, the C30 and C70. The next step for us will be growth of the XC range we created 10 years ago.' And dropping the biggest clue yet that more than car was on the way, he added: 'My job is to fill in some of the numbers between XC10 and XC90 [above]. We can do this - there’s space for them.'

Kia and Hyundai change their image

2008-07-27T11:26:00.000-07:00

What Kia and Hyundai are doing next
The Korean giants are planning a bit of an image change. The world’s fastest growing car producers (in volume) are planning the next phase of their expansion. Both Kia and Hyundai are gunning for a stronger international status and want to become serious global players in the automotive market. However, this isn’t enough for the Eastern auto makers. Whilst maintaining their familiar value-for-money status, Kia wants to bump its image up to a sporty brand. Hyundai is hot on the tails of the luxury market, with cars such as the Genesis Concept (above) paving the way for future models.
Luxury and sporty?! Sounds like they’ve got their work cut out...
They certainly have. Kia’s first hurdle is a pretty fundamental one – there isn’t anything close to a sporty car in its range. The only radical car to grace Kia's design board of late was the KND-4 Concept (above), which was a design experiment to showcase the way for future Kias. It's worth remembering that Hyundai is hardly renowned as a Rolls-Royce rival either. On top of this, both marques are fed up with being confused with one another, and are after a more clear-cut identity to distinguish themselves. How do they intend to do this? By changing the names of the cars, of course.

Tesla Roadster scooped

2008-07-27T10:53:00.001-07:00

DETAILS

Tesla is Silicon Valley start-up company pioneering this radical electric sports car, the Tesla Roadster. It’s entirely battery-powered, and the motor delivers the equivalent of 248bhp – enough to whirr from zero to 60mph in just 4.0sec, and on to over 130mph. Very quietly. Not bad at all for a sporty milk float. First deliveries are pencilled for this autumn, costing £48,000.
What’s it doing in Norfolk?
These exclusive shots capture the Roadster being thrashed near Lotus’s Hethel HQ, where the car will be built. Small surprise, since the Tesla is based heavily on the Elise chassis and bodywork. As if you couldn't tell from the facsimile looks... Whether the handling will be up to Lotus’s standards remains to be seen, but the suspension is being tweaked to cope with the heft of the battery packs; it should still be pretty sharp with wishbones on each corner and a bonded aluminium chassis.

CARS PRODUCTS & TOOLS

2008-07-27T10:46:00.000-07:00

2008 Ford Mustang Bumper

CARS HEADLIGHTS

CARS TIRES

2008 Ford Mustang Bumper

2008-07-27T09:56:00.000-07:00

Replacement Bumper 2005-2008 Ford Mustang
"BUMPER COVER, FRONT, PRIMED -- A High Quality, Direct Fit OE Replacement For Bumper Cover" Fits: Front.

Replacement Bumper 2005-2008 Ford Mustang"BUMPER COVER, FRONT, PRIMED -- A High Quality, Direct Fit OE Replacement For Bumper Cover" Fits: Front.

Replacement Bumper 2005-2008 Ford Mustang "BUMPER COVER, FRONT, PRIMED -- A High Quality, Direct Fit OE Replacement For Bumper Cover" Fits: Front.

CARS HEADLIGHTS

2008-07-27T03:32:00.000-07:00

Chevrolet Headlamp
Notes :
Assy, Halogen, Rectangular, Single, 6"X8"
Part # :
CPW8912
OEM # :
N0191511
Fit :
1981-1986 Chevrolet K20 Suburban (81-86)

Chrysler Headlight
Notes :
Base Model, w/o Leveling Device
Part # :
CPW20-5805-00
OEM # :
4780012AD
Fit :
1999-2004 Chrysler 300m (99-04)

GMC Headlight
Notes :
EXCEPT DENALI
Part # :
CPW3321181LAS
OEM # :
16526135
Fit :
2000-2006 Gmc Yukon Xl 1500 (00-06)

Volkswagen Headlight
Notes :
Without Fog Lamps
Part # :
CPW65315
OEM # :
1J0941018B
Fit :
1999-2001 Volkswagen Golf (99-01)

Volkswagen Clear Headlight
Notes :
w/ Fog Lamp, Type 4, w/ Black Housing, Includes Wiring Harness, One Set - ELEGANTE
Part # :
CPW80-5653-40
OEM # :
PERFORMANCE
Fit :
1999-2005 Volkswagen Jetta (99-05)

Chevrolet Clear Headlight
Notes :
HID Diamond Cut Design, w/ HID kits, w/ Wiring Harness, One Set - ELEGANTE
Part # :
CPW80-6443-00
OEM # :
PERFORMANCE
Fit :
1992-2000 Chevrolet Blazer (92-00)

Chevrolet Headlight
Notes :
Composite Type, Assy
Part # :
CPW20-1669-00
OEM # :
15034929
Fit :
1988-1999 Chevrolet C1500 (88-99)

CARS TIRES

2008-07-27T03:18:00.000-07:00

Ultimate R compound track performance that's truly streetable.
Representing our pinnacle of handling performance, the Michelin® Pilot® Sport Cup is a competition-oriented, race-compound tire designed specifically for serious performance enthusiasts. Utilizing our extensive Formula One motorsports experience, the Michelin Pilot Sport Cup features a racing-inspired tread compound optimized for on-track performance. The Michelin Pilot Sport Cup delivers extreme cornering power, fast and consistent track times and is DOT (Department of Transportation)-approved for street use.
Long tread life in a competitive environment.
Optimized for on-track performance.
DOT-approved racing tire for ultimate dry performance

Formula One-inspired.
Drawing inspiration from Formula One tire design, the new Michelin® Pilot® Sport PS2™ tire represents a quantum leap in tire design and engineering. The Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 significantly outperforms not only its predecessor, but all other Michelin high-performance summer tires as well, both in wet and dry conditions. An infusion of the most advanced tire-making technologies and techniques, from the highly guarded C3M Technology™ production process to a Formula One-inspired four-groove tread design, allows the Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 to stretch the very limits of what an ultra-high performance tire can achieve. Note: All comparisons are between Michelin tires within this category.
Superb wet/dry performance
Best-in-class performance
Precise cornering and handling

Discover the reason you drive a sports car.
The Michelin® Pilot® Sport tire raises the bar on comfort and tread life in a tire designed to help you get the most out of your ultra-high performance sports car. The Michelin Pilot Sport is a summer tire that excels on dry and wet pavement while providing predictable cornering and exceptional tread stability under high torque. Michelin Pilot Sport tires offer such impressive performance properties they can even be found at Porsche and BMW Driving Schools.
World-class dry handling
Excellent wet performance
Predictable cornering

If your sports car is your daily driver, this is your tire.
The Michelin® Pilot® XGT® V4 is a high-performance all-season tire that also offers the long tread life and comfort needed for everyday driving. Utilizing our patented BAZ Technology™, which helps resist distortion at high speeds, the Michelin Pilot XGT V4 helps provide exceptional handling along with a smooth, comfortable ride.
High level of comfort and long tread life in a high-performance tire

Confidence - come rain or shine.
The Michelin® Pilot® XGT® Z4 tire takes the performance characteristics of the Michelin® Pilot® XGT® V4 and the Michelin® Pilot® XGT® H4 to the next level in a Z speed rated all-season tire. The Michelin Pilot XGT Z4 balances tight and responsive handling in nearly any weather condition with long treadwear and a smooth quiet ride.
High level of comfort and long tread life in an ultra-high performance tire
Exceptional high-speed handling and durability
Excellent street handling

World-class high performance every day.
Quite possibly the most technologically advanced tire we make, the Michelin® Pilot® Sport A/S tire offers all-season performance without sacrificing any of the world-class handling qualities that Michelin Pilot tires are known for. The Michelin Pilot Sport A/S utilizes our patented C3M Technology™ to precisely place three specialized rubber compounds across the tread, allowing exceptional performance in dry, wet and cold weather conditions. The Michelin Pilot Sport A/S also features super strong Aramid reinforcements — the same material used in our Formula One racing tires — to help maintain the shape of the tire at high speeds.
Outstanding all-season handling and response
Confident wet-weather performance
Exceptional winter traction

When did driving to the store become so much fun?
The Michelin® Pilot® XGT® H4 provides an exceptionally high level of performance characteristics in an H-performance rated all-season tire. Designed for drivers looking for tight, responsive handling in nearly any weather condition, the Michelin Pilot XGT H4 offers long, even treadwear and a smooth, quiet ride.
Confident wet-weather performance
Exceptional comfort in a high-performance tire

Inspired by WRC. Optimized for the street.
Drawing inspiration from WRC (World Rally Championship) tire designs, the Michelin® Pilot® Exalto® PE2™ tire was created for consumers who demand crisp and responsive handling in both wet and dry conditions. A descendent of the Michelin® Pilot® Sport PS2™, the Pilot Exalto PE2 tire features LMA (Life Maximized Adherence) tread compounding. This technology helps sustain handling and grip throughout the tire's life.
Race-inspired design
Confident, aggressive cornering
Exceptional wet traction

Pure performance all year long.
As the all-season version of the World Rally Championship-inspired Pilot® Exalto® PE2™ tire, the Michelin® Pilot® Exalto® A/S tire delivers extreme cornering grip and handling performance year-round and in nearly any weather condition. Now drivers of sports cars and sports sedans can enjoy the exceptional handling and sporty look they want all year long.
World-class wet and dry handling
Year-round performance
Excellent cornering grip

CAR Washing & Drying

2008-07-27T02:29:00.000-07:00

Ultima Paint Guard PlusWorld's Best Clearcoat Paint Sealant! Apply in 10 minutes or less. Lasts a full season.

Sonus Acrylic Glanz Spray SealantBy itself or with Klasse, this spray sealant shines & protects in 5 minutes!

P21S Carnauba Car Wax#1 rated carnauba car wax! Deep, rich show car shine.

Wax Blaster Wax RemoverFinally, a wax remover that works!

Sonus Klasse AIO & Clay BundleEasiest way to clean, polish and protect your car!

Klasse Car WaxThe Perfect Shine starts with Klasse! Click to learn more...

Deluxe Wheel BrushCarrand's Deluxe Wheel Brush is the ultimate brush for detailed wheel cleaning.

Sonus Tire & Wheel Care KitSafe wheel care!

P21S Gel Wheel CleanerIncludes sponge, sprayer and wheel care booklet.

Flitz Liquid Metal PolishRestore, Polish and Protect!$14.99

OXO Detailers Scrub Brush

Wurth High Gloss Clear Lacquer

Fire apparatus

2008-07-27T02:15:00.000-07:00

This really is my true love. It's what I do for a living and couldn't really see myself doing much else. These big vehicles are expensive, tedious to care for and often go longer than a decade without replacement. THEY NEED TO BE CARED FOR... Allow me to take care of your fleet.
Fire apparatus, ambulances, police cruisers and other public safety vehicles deserve special attention.

Subaru Impreza STi

2008-07-26T14:19:00.000-07:00

DETAILS

This is how the new Subaru Impreza STi will look when it is unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September. CAR Online’s exclusive artist's impression is based on the styling of the standard new hatchback Impreza, with input from Subaru insiders who have shaped the new STi. And yes, it’s a hatchback. In an attempt to capture more Golf buyers, Subaru will only offer the Impreza as a five-door in Europe. The US saloon version won’t be offered here, and the estate dies. As our images show, the STi version loses its hallmark rear wing but will keep the huge bonnet air scoop and blistered wheelarches that made the old car so distinctive. Dinner-plate foglamps, gold wheels and world-rally blue paintwork will all be options and should help appease die-hard Impreza nuts disappointed with the new car’s styling. And of course, add a few stickers and you’ve got Subaru’s next WRC car.
So how have they spruced up the dull new Impreza?
At the rear is a venturi and a small lip spoiler over the rear screen, ice-effect lenses on the rear lights and vents for the uprated brakes. Under the bonnet will be a development of the current car’s 2.5-litre turbocharged flat-four making close to 300bhp and launching the STi to 60mph in 4.5 seconds. Unlike the Mitsubishi Evo due to be launched at the same time, Subaru is sticking with a six-speed manual transmission; its rival will offer the option of a paddle-operated twin-clutch automated manual, similar to Volkswagen’s DSG system. But the changes to the Impreza’s bodyshell are more significant and bode well; the firm claims that the hatchback is lighter, stiffer and has a lower centre of gravity than the outgoing car as the engine sits lower in the chassis. The new rear double-wishbone suspension will improve handling and boot space. And the stronger structure is claimed to give improved crash performance.

Saab 9-5 disguised as a Vectra

2008-07-26T14:13:00.000-07:00

DETAILS

Yes, believe it or not beneath this rather odd camouflage lurks a next-generation Saab 9-5 mule, riding on a version of Opel/Vauxhall’s ubiquitous Global Epsilon architecture and due in Saab showrooms by 2009. It’s part of GM’s plan to introduce no fewer than five new Saab models in short order – a welcome move but after years of chronic under-investment, some might say way too late. The 9-5 will come in the anticipated saloon and estate versions, and will be longer, wider and sit on an extended wheelbase to distance it from the next–gen Vectra. And our sources claim the 9-5 will be engineered to accept an extra-cost hybrid drivetrain, dubbed Performance Assistant. An auxiliary 30bhp electric motor compensates for any turbo lag on both petrol and diesel powerplants, providing short range zero-emissions mobility.
What of these other Saab models you mentioned?
The oddball but ugly Vauxhall Signum will be canned, replaced by an estate-cum-SUV crossover that insiders describe as a four-door coupé with a shooting brake rear end. Both Vauxhall and Saab will pitch in this model near the top of their model ranges, with the Saab version expected to be called 9-4X. Out in early 2010, the strikingly styled five-seater crossover Saab will be much better looking than the Signum (not hard, that) and even more cleverly packaged, with an optional third row of seats which folds flat, Zafira-style. Its part-time four-wheel drive system will be supplemented by the optional Performance Assist, installed to drive the rear wheels.

Lexus IS facelift (2009)

2008-07-26T14:10:00.000-07:00

DETAILS

Lexus will relaunch the IS compact exec with a facelifted version in autumn 2008. Expect to see the new saloon in the fourth quarter, which points to an unveiling at the Paris motor show 2008. This isn't a big facelift, with only some minor visual tweaks centering on the front end – hence the disguise around this prototype's snout. It's the sort of facelift where the indicators move to the door mirrors, that sort of minor detail shuffling.Lexus IS facelift: the new enginesLexus will also revise the range structure, with a simpler model ladder and we hear the current range of engines (a 2.5- and 5.0-litre petrol, plus 2.2-litre turbodiesel) will be only lightly revised.Although every other Lexus model range now includes a hybrid, there are no plans for a petrol-electric IS just yet. However, CAR Online understands that a folding hard-top IS convertible is very much on the cards.The IS is the mainstay of Lexus's UK range, selling around 8000 units a year. Expect prices to stick close to today's range of £24,000 to £51,000 for the madcap IS-F.

Lexus LF-A snapped at the 'Ring

2008-07-26T14:01:00.000-07:00

DETAILS

Japanese luxury brand Lexus hopes to shed its reputation for low-character luxury cars when it launches its first supercar later this year. It plans to copy the success the NSX had for domestic rival Honda, which helped to transform that brand into one associated with sporty dynamics. As mission statements go, this prototype LF-A has a definite swagger: the low-slung, bespoilered supercar was seen pounding the Nurburgring in Germany at high speed and bystanders reported a shrieking V10 wail unlike any of the more serene Lexus models we're used to. Click 'Next' to read the full mechanical spec on one of next year's most intriguing supercars.
Haven't I seen this before?
Lexus has shown the LF-A concept car in numerous guises since 2005, most recently at the 2007 Detroit Motor Show, where officials were briefing journalists that, yes, it was becoming more and more likely for production. Now we can see why. The finished car will be unveiled on home turf at the Tokyo Motor Show in October, and it's destined to go on sale in 2008. Although lightly disguised, it's not hard to see that Lexus has barely toned down the concept car for the road. There are still outrageous styling cues never before seen on a Lexus limo - including cooling scoops on the bonnet and a huge great spoiler sprouting from the rear deck.

Lexus LF-A testing gathers pace

2008-07-26T13:52:00.000-07:00

DETAILS

Lexus will enter a race-spec LF-A in the May 2008 Nurburgring 24-hour race. The bewinged supercar, caught here by CAR's spy photographers, is being entered by the R&D team at Lexus and Toyota in the best signal yet that the Japanese supercar will get the green light.The engineers have recently stepped up development work on the LF-A project, prompting speculation that the production version will be unveiled sooner rather than later. We've waited three years since the car was first shown as a concept car in 2005 and it's been wheeled out at a variety of motor shows since then, but officials have refused to be drawn on when the real car could be launched. Worry is, it's now growing a beard...The development team has been unusually busy in April 2008, as it continues to test a batch of prototypes on roads and tracks around Europe. These latest spyshots from the Nurburgring in Germany and the surrounding area reveal a car that's changed little since previous scoops, but the engineers are clearly experimenting with different aero solutions - including the mother of all wings on the race-spec car (first picture, above right).As well as the rear wing, the race LF-A's front bumper and air dam are new, the door mirrors are more streamlined, the bonnet has quick-access pins and the fuel filler has been upgraded to a quick-fill system.Lexus LF-A: on a wing and a prayerOther models we've observed make do with a smaller, retractable spoiler - and this distinguishes the roadgoing car from the racer. If successful at the Nurburgring, insiders say, Lexus is considering entering a team at Le Mans to do battle with the diesel-powered Audis and Peugeots.It's clear that the show-off exhaust pipe layout pioneered on the IS-F performance saloon is fast becoming a Lexus trademark on its faster cars. Otherwise, little has changed visibly from our earlier scoops. Tellingly, Lexus is benchmarking the LF-A against the Porsche 911, clearly visible in one of our new scoop photos.The LF-A is expected in production by 2010, according to a well placed source CAR Online spoke to today.F1 pace, Lexus graceWe know that the LF-A is due to run a V10 of just under 5.0 litres in capacity and developing a solid 500bhp. That's enough for 200mph performance, but Lexus is believed to be developing a petrol-electric version too. A hybrid LF-A could become the first truly green supercar on sale, trumping the rather far-flung ideas being touted in Maranello.

Dodge Challenger outed

2008-07-26T13:47:00.000-07:00

DETAILS

The production-ready Dodge Challenger is on the prowl, and CAR has caught it undisguised for the first time. The official launch is at next month’s Chicago Auto Show, and it’s almost a carbon copy of the concept we drove back in 2006.
In fact, it’s not far off the 1970’s original and is a much more faithful rendition of its iconic dad than the Mustang. The car in our pictures is the SRT-8 version, identifiable by the badge on the front grille and those lovely red brake callipers.
It’s the first one that isn’t bathed in the HEMI orange we are now well acquainted with from the concept . While losing some of the immediate impact, the silver looks sleeker and stealthier. It brings out details such as the ‘thrust’ line running the length of the car, with that kick-up at the rear window – just like the 38-year-old original. Incidentally, over half the orders Dodge have received so far are for orange cars.
Changes over the concept include the addition of a subtle black rear spoiler, tweaked five-spoke alloys, and some slightly more conventional rear lights and door handles. Other than that, it’s a pretty smooth transition from motor show to showroom.

Ford's new F150 revealed

2008-07-26T13:37:00.000-07:00

DETAILS

That’s a mighty fine looking truck, pardner...
Er yes, thank you. It may not be familiar to those of you outside North America, but Ford’s F150 has been America’s best-selling full-size pickup for 30 years, the truck that has sustained the Blue Oval through some of it leanest times – and we’ve caught the all-new 2009 model fully undisguised well before its debut next January at the Detroit motor show.
The biggest news is the introduction of a diesel model - a first for Ford’s icon. Powered by a version of the 3.6-litre V8 diesel currently found in the Range Rover, but bored and stroked to a 4.4-litres, the biturbo diesel F150 is expected to pump out 330bhp and a hefty 525lb ft of torque. Plenty of blue-collar muscle for hauling boats, caravans and horseboxes.

2008-07-26T13:33:00.000-07:00

DETAILS

Two-thousand-and-one seems a very long time ago now... The Millennium celebrations were slowly receding, George Bush junior stepped up to the presidential plate and Jaguar released its smallest car, the X-type. Remember that? Now all the launch hubbub has died down, the X-type has soldiered on into old age with barely a facelift to its name; the addition of an estate helped of course, but the X-type's fortunes have reflected those of Jaguar as a whole. It's not been selling especially well and Jaguar flogged just 32,500 last year worldwide (down from a high of twice that the year after launch). BMW sold more than half a million 3-series models last year. Time for Jaguar to act, then... The facelifted X-type will be seen later this year, going on sale in spring 2008.
So what's new on the facelifted X-type?
Jaguar is wielding the surgeon's knife inside and out. We hear that the changes will be akin to those foisted on the XJ luxury car, itself recently facelifted. So expect nothing radical: there will be a new grille (just visible under the disguise in our shots), different bumpers and side mouldings, fresh paint colours and new wheels. The shots at the rear show a newly emphasised Jaguar blade, the chrome strip across the bootlid.

Jaguar XKR-S

2008-07-26T13:17:00.000-07:00

DETAILS

A ducktail spoiler, 20-inch wheels and more air ducts and scoops than an air-conditioned Monaco apartment... Is this the new Jaguar XKR-R? Our spies caught this prototype being piloted around the Nurburgring by Jag's chassis specialists earlier today, leading to speculation that it could be the much-rumoured high-performance R version under development. However, closer inspection reveals this is the XKR-S - the fastest Jaguar since the XJ220, with a derestricted top speed of 174mph. It's a fettled and honed special edition version of the XKR that arrives in dealers in summer 2008. Only 200 will be built, all in coupe bodystyle. This car is a prototype undergoing final evaluation ahead of launch.What's new on the XKR-S?The engine is untouched from the regular car, but they've kindly removed the 155mph limiter. How nice of them. That 420bhp 4.2 V8 will whisk you, your partner and two short friends or family members to 60mph in 4.9 seconds. Best not mention the 294g/km CO2 rating, though...The special-edition XKR-S is distinguished from lesser XKs by - for Jaguar - the mother of all body kits, visible on this development car. There's a new front splitter, a smattering of wire mesh, wider sidesills, that distinctive kicked-up tail spoiler and a new rear bumper and diffuser pack to improve the aero. Gigantic 20-inch rims complete the exterior makeover. Although this prototype is a light blue silver, production cars (as seen at the 2008 Geneva motor show) will all be in black metallic.Jag is pitching the XKR-S as a gentleman's GT: the sort of car that can be used every day, but also on long trips to the south of France or even the occasional track day. That's why there are new springs, dampers and anti-roll bars, and the CATS chassis system is recalibrated.This isn't just an everyday special edition, though. We can't help noticing that the XKR-S prepares the way for next year's XKR-R...

Peugeot 308 CC spied

2008-07-26T13:13:00.000-07:00

DETAILS

Peugeot makes more folding hard-top convertibles than any other brand - so it should come as no surprise that the French are developing a 308 CC complete with balletic, disappearing roof. CAR's spies caught this prototype testing in Scandinavia as the engineers make sure everything - not least that metal roof - works in the winter chill.We won't see the 308 CC until summer 2009; Peugeot isn't rushing the different bodystyles of the 308 and development is likely to be slower than the 207, we hear.
A Peugeot 308 with a folding roof... will it actually work?Hopefully. Early 206 CCs were blighted with problem roofs, but those cars were built by Heuliez and Peugeot has brought the new 207 CC roof system inhouse. Today's 307 CC is engineered by roof specialist ATS and we expect the 308 CC pictured here to be built by Peugeot alone, probably at its Sochaux factory in France.Insiders who've seen the 308 CC describe it as an elegant vehicle, with a strong resemblance to the 308 RC Z concept car that will eventually spawn a mini-TT coupe later in 2009/2010. The nose in particular is strikingly similar, we understand.Peugeot is increasingly introducing high-tech gizmos on its cars, and the 308 CC will continue to pilfer gadgets from the ranks of luxury car makers. It's developing a seat heating system akin to Mercedes' Airscarf for the 308.
How many convertibles does Peugeot actually sell?As I said, Peugeot builds more folding hard-tops than anyone else globally - and 165,000 of them were the 307 CC last year. Just 5 percent of 307s sold in the UK are the CC and there's little reason to doubt it can repeat those sales with the newcomer. However, the market is increasingly crowded now, with VW's Eos and Focus CC all nibbling into sales of the earlier French entrants.

Crazy Taxi: Fare Wars Review

2008-07-26T12:02:00.000-07:00

DETAILS

Crazy Taxi takes the logic of a typical arcade racing game and turns it on its head by throwing in a little money-making strategy to the usual theme. Players drive through a jam-packed city, picking up fares and getting them to their destination by any means necessary -- ramming into traffic, jumping over ramps and, basically, driving around like a complete lunatic. Forget the safety standard -- these customers hate to wait. (They'll even jump out of the cab, at top speed, if it takes too long for them to get there.) This game was a big hit in arcades and on the Sega Dreamcast a few years back, so it should be no surprise that Sega decided to take it for another run with Crazy Taxi: Fare Wars for the PSP.
Instead of making a completely new game, Fare Wars essentially works like a "greatest hits" collection. Players can choose between Crazy Taxi and Crazy Taxi 2, putting their best efforts on display through the streets of San Francisco or New York. Both games work the same, with passengers needing to be picked up and paying out the nose if they reach their destination in a timely manner. The gameplay continues to run smoothly, with fine-tuned steering and lots of manic stunts to multiply the dollar amount earned throughout each run. Crazy Taxi 2 also adds a fun little "jump" feature, where players can make their vehicle leap upon command to get over traffic jams -- a nice touch, even if a bit unrealistic. (It goes like ten feet off the ground, instead of just the wheels going up and down.)

Need for Speed ProStreet Review (PS3)

2008-07-26T11:37:00.000-07:00

DETAILS

Editor's note: Since Electronic Arts didn't host multiplayer sessions, we were unable to test Need for Speed's online play. Expect an update, and possible score adjustment, in the future.]

See more screens from Need for Speed ProStreet ...Electronic Arts' Need for Speed franchise needs to go into hibernation and re-emerge as a vehicular orgasm full of twisted steel and sexy automobiles. It should not, under any certain terms, remind us of an old Ridge Racer game, yet that's the first thing that sprung to mind upon playing the latest effort, Need for Speed: ProStreet. Not only is the game repetitive, but it's also jaggier than a box of serrated knives.
Instead of focusing on underground night racing (the subject of the last 900 Need for Speed games), this one takes place during the day at organized and sponsored events. And instead of completing individual races to progress through the career mode, you must win entire Race Day events, earning enough points by placing first in a series of competitions. Some task you with crossing the finish line first, while others challenge you to earn the best lap time or through the new personal hell, 1/4 drag events. These require you to build up enough grip on your tires (essentially achieving a solid burnout) and then burst from the starting line, the goal to get the best time without blowing your engine. Problem is, we struggled getting the car to move. Our opponents almost always got the jump on us, and although the game shows you how to win, thanks to a helpful intro cut scene, it only plays once. We hoped that practicing would at least walk us through the event, but that isn't the case. It's probably fun in real life, but it doesn't translate well to a video game.

See more screens from Need for Speed ProStreet ...In addition, the game sometimes suffers from anti-aliasing issues that make the cars and tracks appear jaggy. This is unacceptable given the advancements in technology and the better-looking racing games on the market, namely Project Gotham Racing 4, Motorstorm and DiRT. And although EA's welcome to disagree with us, ProStreet's presentation blows compared to previous Need for Speed video games. Forget about a flashy intro, slick looking menus and actors set behind computer-generated visuals. Menus sport faded colors, the 3-D characters are merely passable and the game loves to load; just getting into the Career Mode takes several moments. And for whatever reason, you can't load your profile (called an Alias) from the Career tab. You have to manually scroll to the bottom of the menus and load it from there, which makes little sense. Basically, EA phoned in the presentation.