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Well the rumors turned out to be true. GM has announced today that the Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport will be returning for the 2010 model year (that’s if GM is still around and product plans don’t end up changing under another owner). The 2010 Chevrolet Grand Sport will carry a LS3 under the hood and will feature wide-body styling along with a racing-bred suspension.
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Cadillac CTS-V
Coming in great style and power, Cadillac CTS-V is one of the best cars of 2009. A great car on the roads, Cadillac CTS-V is laser fine and has a powerful V8 engine which displays a hose power of 556 hp. It runs 0-60 in 3.9 seconds. The genteel look and a super engine make it a top class car of 2009.
Honda Fit
When talking about the best cars of 2009, one cannot miss Honda Fit, which comes in great fuel efficiency. A car of the new generation, Honda Fit gives a comfortable travelling. You can take the car for long drives with all your family members and the luggage, as the Honda Fit is so spacious. Very reasonably priced, the Honda Fit is equipped with a quite powerful engine that gives back fuel economy.
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Father of Lotus, Colin Chapman, said his secret to engineering racing and sports cars was to "add lightness." An intriguing phrase, to say the least. And one that might well have been lost in time by similar mutterings made by countless other automotive impresarios had Mr. Chapman's cars not kicked ass on the track and the street.
We mention Chapman because underneath the polyester bodywork of the Dodge Circuit, there is large helping of Lotus. Specifically the Lotus Europa, a slightly larger, fixed-roof Elise derivative. But the Europa's 197-hp, 2.0L GM-sourced turbo I-4 and six-speed manual gearbox have been dumped. In their place is a 268-hp DC permanent magnet motor driving the rear wheels through an 8.3:1 planetary reduction gearset. While the base Europa engine is rated 200 lb-ft of torque, Dodge claims the Circuit motor is good for (swallows deeply) 480 lb-ft...Continued
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TORRANCE, Calif. - 04/23/2009 American Honda Finance Corp. (AHFC) this week launched Acura-branded financial services to better satisfy the needs of Acura dealers and customers.
The creation of Acura Financial Services (AFS) marks a major milestone in Acura history. This is just the first step of a multifaceted effort to further enhance customer service and raise the brand image for Acura, the luxury nameplate that pioneered the launch of Japanese luxury automobiles in the U.S.
"With our most recent ranking in the top two, three and four positions in the luxury lease segment of the 2008 J.D. Power and Associates Consumer Financing Satisfaction Study, the timing is perfect to utilize our years of experience and expertise to create financial services that will meet the needs of Acura clients," said Stephen E. Smith, senior vice president of AHFC. "The creation of separate Acura-branded financial services parallels other moves to strengthen and differentiate the Acura luxury brand."
About American Honda Finance Corporation
American Honda Finance Corporation, a wholly-owned subsidiary of American Honda Motor *** Inc., is the captive finance provider of consumer financial products for Honda and Acura automobiles, sport utility vehicles, trucks, minivans, Honda motorcycles, Honda power equipment, and Honda marine products. In addition, AHFC also provides Honda and Acura dealerships with vehicle floorplan programs, real estate, construction and capital loans, revolving lines of credit and inventory insurance.
Source: Honda/Acura
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IT’S a lot like 1969 again. The Dodge Challenger, with styling that draws heavily on a sport coupe Chrysler introduced in late 1969, made its return last year. The Chevrolet Camaro, whose shape evokes the popular 1969 model, recently went back into production. Each is a clean and lean interpretation of its ancestor from the muscle-car era.
Meanwhile, Ford’s retro-futuristic Mustang, based on a late 1960s fastback model, has been around since the 2005 model year — and is beginning to look as droopy as a Fu Manchu mustache. So for the 2010 model year, a sartorial segue to a more ripped look, to stay current with the competition, was in order.
None of the period-perfect charm of its predecessor has been lost in the newest edition of Ford’s seminal pony car. But you’d probably need to park a 2009 next to a 2010 to see how truly different they are. The redesign seems to have carved away about half the body fat; what’s left is, appropriately enough, all muscle.
“Muscle goes modern,” Mark Fields, president of Ford’s Americas division, said when he introduced the car in November at the Los Angeles auto show. “This car is a modern legend — with more than nine million of them sold in the last 45 years. We needed to make sure the legend continues to live up to expectations.”..Continued
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CHERRY HILL, N.J., April 23 /PRNewswire/ -- Subaru of America, Inc. announces its sponsorship of the Get Out More Tour, kicking off today at the first of many retail locations across the country.
The Get Out More Tour will feature outdoor recreation experts Randy and Sheri Propster as they visit more than 50 specialty outdoor retailers in their colorfully wrapped Subaru Tribeca. At each location, Randy and Sheri will share their extensive outdoor expertise and passion for wilderness exploration as they instruct fresh air enthusiasts in everything from trip planning and choosing the right gear and apparel, to essential outdoor safety skills.
"This tour was a natural fit for Subaru, since our line of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive vehicles are so often used to 'get out more' and explore the great outdoors," notes Tim Mahoney, senior vice president and chief marketing officer, Subaru of America, Inc. "That Randy and Sheri are big proponents of safety in the outdoors will resonate with our customers since the Subaru brand is well-known for its safety standards."
With All-Wheel Drive standard for Subaru vehicles, the vehicles provide a perfect means for getting away from crowded urban areas. Subaru also offers an array of accessories and sports gear that enhances the outdoor experience. Outdoor sports enthusiasts will find Subaru roof carriers for bicycles, kayaks, skis and snowboards at Subaru dealers across the United States, and Subaru-branded camping gear such as tents, lanterns, backpacking hydration systems, and more - can be found at www.subarugear.com.
The Get Out More Tour, in conjunction with Backpacker magazine, will also feature Get Out More Tour tents at five popular outdoor festivals - Appalachian Trail Days, Asheville Mountain Sports Festival, National Trails Day, Big Bear Paddlefest, and Gauley Riverfest. For a complete listing of tour dates and locations, visit www.getoutmore2009.com.
Source: Subaru
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BMW has been slightly tweaking its popular 3-Series models since it was introduced in 2005, with another freshening apparently in the pipeline. BMW will be giving its 3-series coupe and convertible a modest refresh for the 2011 model year and we have the first photos of a prototype running the streets of Germany.
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If you're the kind of person who loves to be the center of attention, the Aptera 2e is the car for you. The three-wheel, two-seat electric car draws a crowd everywhere it goes.
We discovered this Tuesday as we drove the 2e around downtown San Francisco, where the car literally stopped traffic. People pointed. They snapped pictures. They asked "What is it?" and "How much?" One person asked, in all seriousness, if you can drive it under water. Another asked, perhaps inevitably, "Can it fly?"
"It flies right past gas stations," replied Paul Wilbur, president and CEO of Aptera Motors. The line came out so quickly you get the impression he's used it before.
But as odd as the 2e looks -- and we'll get to that in a moment -- it's a real car that rolls silently into driveways by the end of the year.
The 2e is about the size of a Honda Civic on the outside and a Honda CRX on the inside. It seats two people in relative comfort and has enough room to haul three sets of golf clubs or 22 bags of groceries. Wilbur knows this because he loaded that many in there himself.
Read More at Wired.com
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Back in our January 2007 issue, CAR Magazine named the then-current 911 GT3 as the best Porsche ever. So you could say its updated successor has quite some act to follow. Priced at £81,914 (up from its predecessor’s £79,540), it goes on UK sale in autumn 2009.
This new Porsche 911 GT3 looks like the old GT3 to me
Yes, it’s another evolutionary crawl from VW Beetle towards supercar for Porsche, but the details are there for us anoraks to relish. The wheels (still 19s wrapped in the familiarly hopeless-in-the-wet Michelin Pilot Sport Cups) are replaced by more fiddly, less substantial looking lightweight items with a race-style centre cap. There are also fresh LED lights, subtly reprofiled bumpers, a new front splitter, and new cooling vents at the top of the front and rear bumpers.
And let’s not forget that distinctive new rear wing...
Indeed, what a whopper! Its end plates, too, give a clue to the fettling that’s gone on beneath the skin – 3.8, they say. So the naturally aspirated flat six has grown from 3.6 to 3.8 litres. That 200cc extra capacity, plus Variocam technology acting on both intake and exhaust cams (it’s similar to BMW’s double VANOS system, where before only the intake cam was automatically tweaked as revs changed) allows power to edge up from 409 to 429bhp, while there’s more torque on tap – up to 317lb ft from the old car’s 289lb ft...Continued
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Gemballa has taken Porsche’s Cayenne Turbo and turned into a Tornado 750 GTS - leaving it looking less like an SUV and more like a sports car.
Along with very aggressive looking carbon-fiber body modifications, Gemballa focused on reducing the weight of the Tornado 750 GTS by 250 kg (550 lbs). The tuner also fitted the powerful SUV with light 22-inch GT SPORT forged wheels.
Let’s get down to what all of you are probably dying to know. Keeping the V8 from the Cayenne Turbo, Gemballa added profound modifications including a sports exhaust system, increased the capacity up to 5.0L and added racing turbochargers and air intercoolers.
Read More at eGMcarTech.com
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The Peugeot RD concept design of 27 year old Carlos Arturo Torres Tovar is now on exhibition as a full-size model at the 2009 Auto Shanghai in China. The Colombian has just graduated from the National University of Colombia where he studied Industrial Design.
His concept car was the winning project in Peugeot’s 5th Annual Design Competition which saw prospects from 95 different nationalities submit over 2,500 projects. The theme for the contest was “Imagine the Peugeot of the Worldwide Megalopolis of tomorrow” which in essence asked them to picture the transportation needs of future megacities and design a vehicle to satisfy them.
What sold the RD concept for Peugeot and the selected jury was its high road-holding ability with ease of use in congested traffic, the environmentally friendly electric motor and the 3-wheeler’s driving sensation of a sedan. It also features panoramic all-around visibility and head-up display. Peugeot has been building this show unit since October 2008.
On top of seeing his design come to life in a 1:1 scale, the winner also takes home a cheque for 10,000 euros and an Xbox 360 game console. Twenty nine short-listed entries also received certain prizes.
Read More at AllWorldCars.com
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Hartge has unveiled its tuning package for the BMW X6 xDrive35d making the diesel fuel-sipper more powerful than it already is.
Output has been increased to 328-hp with a maximum torque of 498 lb-ft. That allows the Hartge BMW X6 to go from 0 to 62 mph in 6 seconds with a top speed of 159 mph. Details
Official Press Release:
The X6 from HARTGE - the new crossover dimension
Two ton diesel sprinter with a top speed of 256 km/h
Herbert Hartge and his team have pushed the skilful stylistic blend of a four-wheel drive vehicle from the SAV segment (below the waistline) and a coupé (above it) into a new dimension. His X6 xDrive35d is more than an extraordinary symbiosis of a high-street thoroughbred and a crossover workhorse. Although the diesel engine with Twin turbocharger is already the most powerful in its class, the specialists from Germany’s Saarland region have breathed on the power plant so it now generates no less than 241 kW (328 hp) at 4400 rpm and a mighty 675 Nm of torque low down at 2000 rpm. At the same time, the emissions remain well within limits for such a powerful vehicle at 220 g/km. Indeed, the X6 xDrive35d from HARTGE uses half a litre less diesel per 100 kilometres than its series counterpart under comparable conditions. Equally impressive are the performance figures. Despite a weight of 2,185 kg, the X6 takes only six seconds to reach 100 km/h and is thus significantly quicker off the mark than the standard xDrive35d (6.9 sec.). The maximum speed - there is no electronic limiter on the HARTGE model - has been measured at 256 km/h.
Visually underscoring the concentrated power hidden beneath the bonnet is the HARTGE aerodynamic kit in high quality PUR-RIM material. Wheel-arch extensions linked by side sills provide sufficient room for the HARTGE suspension, which includes a set of sports springs with or without level-control system for the rear axle and lowering by 30 mm, and the company’s “CLASSIC 2″ wheels (10.5 x 22″ offset 33 at the front and 12 x 22″ offset 23 at the back).
These attractive aluminium wheels are fitted with ultra-wide tyres (295 / 30 ZR 22 at the front and 335 / 25 ZR 22 at the rear). Rounding off the kit are a front spoiler and a rear skirt with an integrated diffuser while carbon casings for the exterior mirrors, stainless-steel tail pieces with quadrilateral tail pipes (large version) left and right for the exhaust system, HARTGE emblems and insignia emphasize the individual outfit of this X6.
The interior is dominated by a sporting atmosphere à la HARTGE. Via the HARTGE 3-spoke leather steering wheel with carbon inserts - alternatively, carbon steering-wheel covers are available - the driver’s glance falls on a 300 km/h speedometer and rev counter with dials in silver metallic and red needles. Plenty of room for personal touches to the “interior architecture” of the X6 is given by a variety of accessories including decor and interior trim, carbon parts for the dashboard and consoles, aluminium foot rest and pedal set, as well as black velour foot and load-area mats.
A full HARTGE conversion for the X6 xDrive35d - including fitment and painting work - costs EUR 29,353.94 including 19% VAT. Naturally, all parts can also be retrofitted individually.
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Of the 20 exclusive Lamborghini Reventons produced to date, there was no doubt that one had to make it into the hands of an uber-rich Saudi man who likes to go fast (and we’re sure someone else who likes to go fast owns one in Dubai, UAE as well).
Watch as he guns it on an open highway in the dead of night multiple times until finally getting an unobstructed opportunity to get it up to an indicated 356kph, or 222mph. (Way cool dashboard gauges on the Reventon, by the way.)
Note: Please don't try this on an American highway... Not only because it's silly illegal and dangerous (just like it is over there), but rather because American highways sadly aren't up to par for high-speed driving of this caliber. Why, you may ask? Two reasons: first, drivers here aren't taught to keep right and will refuse (or be oblivious) to yield when you flash your beams from the inside lane at high-speed, so you will most likely rear-end them (with a difference of speed of 150mph+) and everyone in both cars will very quickly be dead. That's one reason.
Second, the majority of highways here aren't safe enough for 200mph speeds due to shortcomings in construction as well as design. For example, asphalt-to-concrete bridge transitions for some maddening reason are never completely seamless in America as they are most everywhere else in the world I've been in, but instead have huge humps and bumps that will throw a car going 200mph clear off the road. The other thing: If you keep in mind that America has the largest highway system in the world by far at well over 40,000 miles of pavement (and that we're in a huge national deficit), it's clear that it's simply too costly to invest in, operate and maintain the latest über-expensive German asphalt road-making machines that are responsible for the smooth-as-glass surfaces seen on the Autobahn and many other motorways around the world, including the new ones in the Middle East.
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I know what you are thinking. You feel the Skoda Fabia Scout above is nothing more than a regular Fabia with different bumpers, wheels, roof rails and plastic.
Yeah, you are right
Read MORE
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07:56 GMT, April, 2009 Gaydon, Warwickshire Land Rover is introducing a new armoured version of its multi award-winning Discovery 4x4 vehicle.
The new Discovery Armoured combines Land Rover’s legendary all-terrain capability with discreet, state-of-the-art protection, whilst providing highly versatile and comfortable transportation for five people and a generous 500kg payload.
Benefiting from Land Rover’s extensive experience in the armoured vehicle market, including the Range Rover Armoured, the Discovery Armoured is supplied with a full three-year, 80,000km factory warranty on the base vehicle and armour, along with comprehensive after-sales support from specialised technicians.
“The broad range of capabilities provided by the new Discovery Armoured make it the ideal choice for government agencies, security organisations and businesses whose employees are exposed to high-risk locations,” says John C Wright, Land Rover’s manager, Government and Direct Sales. “The Discovery has been carefully engineered to help enable occupants to travel across challenging terrains with confidence.”
Ballistic armour
Read MORE
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Try splitting a market segment. That is, encapsulate the positives of both ends with none of the negatives. The Audi A6 does it deftly, bridging the space between the midsize A4 and full-size A8. Naturally, it shares engines with both, a 3.2L V-6 and a 4.2L V-8. But for 2009, it receives something in between: Audi's new supercharged 3.0L V-6.
Underhood the 2009 Audi A6 3.0T, the supercharger provides 11.6psi maximum boost to produce 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. Max torque is available from 2500 rpm to 5100 rpm, where max horsepower starts and stays until the 6800 rpm redline. The result is eyebrow-raising acceleration as you pull the six-speed automatic's paddle shifters and watch as the digital speedometer slot-machines into triple digits. And that seat-of-the-pants sensation translates to the hard data: Acceleration to 60 mph takes 5.4 sec, just a tenth off the pace of the outgoing Nissan 350Z Track. Sure, the Z reaches the quarter-mile mark a little over a tenth faster, but this A6 is an inconspicuous, all-wheel-drive, 4139-lb sedan.
Audi is keen on that unassuming nature. The Roots-type blower sits concealed between the cylinder banks of the V-6. Hood popped, there's no indication of a power adder - save for the "TFSI" misnomer. There's no belt whine at speed, either. The engine fires in silenced, but powerful blasts. It's quiet and deceivingly quick -- a good combination for, say, a spy...Continued
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BMW ULTIMATE SERVICE - Maintenance Program Upgrades Now On Sale for All BMW Models
Woodcliff Lake, NJ - March 31, 2009… BMW of North America announced today that all BMW models are now eligible for purchase of a Maintenance Program Upgrade which extends BMW’s standard Maintenance Program period to 6 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first (excludes ALPINA B7). Vehicle owners may purchase the two-year Maintenance Program extension from an authorized BMW Center during the first four years after the vehicle’s in-service date or 50,000 total miles, whichever comes first. MSRP for the extension ranges from $1,395 to $2,995, depending on the model. For a small surcharge, the period to enroll a vehicle is extended through the fifth year of vehicle age or 60,000 total miles. Most recently BMW made the M3, M5, M6, and Advanced Diesel models eligible for Maintenance Program extensions.
“BMW is committed to helping North American owners maintain their vehicles properly,” said Alan Harris, Vice President of Aftersales for BMW of North America. “BMW’s Maintenance Program keeps vehicles well cared-for and more valuable in the pre-owned marketplace. Our decision to make the six-year Maintenance Program Upgrade available to purchase for all BMW models makes it possible for more vehicles to remain under the care of an authorized BMW Center for a longer period of time, and that’s the best way to ensure longevity for each vehicle.”
Purchasing a Maintenance Program Upgrade is simple: a BMW owner visits an Authorized BMW Center to enroll any BMW during the first five years or 60,000 miles of its service life. Starting in April, BMW shoppers can also visit BMWUSA.com and utilize the Build-Your-Own module to include the Maintenance Program extension as a vehicle accessory; once completed they can either send this information directly to a BMW Center or print it for their convenience. Once enrolled by the center, Maintenance Program coverage is extended on the vehicle through the sixth year of service or 100,000 total vehicle miles, whichever comes first. Maintenance Program coverage stays with the vehicle (rather than the buyer), so a BMW’s second or even third owner may benefit from the coverage.
BMW Ultimate ServiceTM:
Providing owners with incredible value and peace of mind
All 2009 BMW passenger vehicles feature BMW Ultimate ServiceTM, a suite of services that includes the BMW Maintenance Program (formerly called Full Maintenance), Roadside Assistance and the New Vehicle Limited Warranty. BMW AssistTM with TeleService is part of the optional Premium Package or can be ordered separately as a stand-alone option.
BMW Ultimate ServiceTM includes:
The BMW Maintenance Program is the only no-cost maintenance program in the industry that covers wear and tear items like brake pads and rotors for four years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. BMW owners pay nothing for all scheduled inspections, oil changes, brake pads, wiper blade inserts and other wear-and-tear items.
BMW Roadside Assistance is one of the industry’s most comprehensive plans available. Not only is it no-charge for the first four years, but there is no mileage limit. BMW drivers enjoy the assurance of on-the-road help 24 hours a day, seven days a week, anywhere in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico. This includes everything from flat tire changes, emergency gasoline and lock-out assistance, to towing, alternative transportation and even trip-interruption benefits. This service also includes valuable trip routing advice.
BMW New Vehicle Limited Warranty: All 2009 BMW passenger vehicles are covered by BMW’s excellent Limited Warranty, which includes:
• New-vehicle warranty - four-year/50,000-mile coverage of the vehicle.
• Rust-perforation warranty - 12-year/unlimited-mileage coverage.
BMW AssistTM provides the driver with services that enhance on-the-road security and convenience, for added peace of mind. The BMW Assist and Bluetooth® System is included in the Premium Package or available as a stand-alone option. BMW includes the Safety Plan for 4 years at no additional cost. BMW is the only manufacturer that offers this duration of service as other manufacturers only include the first year of service. The BMW Assist Safety Plan is a subscription based service that is subject to certain limitations.
The in-vehicle equipment for BMW Assist includes GPS technology and hands-free communication functions to deliver emergency and other services, accessed via buttons in the overhead or center console. The BMW Assist system transmits the location and vehicle information to the BMW Assist Response Center. A response specialist speaks with the vehicle occupants to coordinate dispatch, notify emergency contacts on file, and link BMW Roadside Assistance or emergency services as needed and/or requested. A severe accident automatically activates the Automatic Collision Notification function. The BMW Assist Safety Plan also includes Door Unlock and Stolen Vehicle Recovery services, which can save the owner time and money. New to BMW Assist is MyInfo, which allows users to send business listings and street addresses with associated phone numbers from the internet, directly to their BMW.
TeleService automatically notifies the BMW center when a vehicle will need service. A service advisor then proactively calls the customer to set up a convenient appointment and have the needed parts ready.
BMW Assist subscribers can also enroll in the BMW Assist Convenience Plan (available at an additional cost of $199 per year) to avail themselves of many BMW Assist concierge services, from finding the lowest fuel price or the best French restaurant in the area to information on flight arrival gates or times, as well as receive directions, and traffic and weather information. On 2007 and later models, a selected destination and its phone number can be sent directly to the BMW Navigation system (if so equipped) and the customer’s Bluetooth linked mobile phone, after a push of the Concierge menu option. New for 2009 is BMW Search, which allows those vehicles equipped with both the BMW Navigation and BMW Assist system to gain online access to the Google Maps database inside the vehicle to quickly find a desired business with just a key word. The Convenience Plan also includes Critical Calling, a service that can connect the driver to a requested party via a response specialist in case their mobile phone is not in the vehicle or its battery is discharged.
Lastly, the BMW Assist system includes Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity with phonebook access and speech recognition for dialing by name or number via the steering wheel controls. Use of this feature requires a customer-provided compatible Bluetooth mobile phone. To learn more about BMW Assist, please visit www.bmwassist.com.
Performance with a conscience
BMW strives to produce its motor vehicles and other products with the utmost attention to environmental compatibility and protection. Integrated into the design and development of BMW automobiles are such criteria as resource efficiency and emission control in production; environmentally responsible selection of materials; recyclability during production and within the vehicle; elimination of CFCs and hazardous materials in production; and continuing research into environmentally friendly automotive power sources. Tangible results of these efforts include the recycling of bumper cladding into other vehicle components; water-based paint color coats and powder clear coats; near-future availability of hydrogen-powered models; and various design and engineering elements that help make BMWs easier to dismantle at the end of their service life.
BMW Group In America
BMW of North America, LLC has been present in the United States since 1975. Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA, LLC began distributing vehicles in 2003. The BMW Group in the United States has grown to include marketing, sales, and financial service organizations for the BMW brand of motor vehicles, including motorcycles, the MINI brand, and the Rolls-Royce brand of Motor Cars; DesignworksUSA, a strategic design consultancy in California; a technology office in Silicon Valley and various other operations throughout the country. BMW Manufacturing *** LLC in South Carolina is part of BMW Group’s global manufacturing network and is the exclusive manufacturing plant for all X5 Sports Activity Vehicles and X6 Sports Activity Coupes. The BMW Group sales organization is represented in the U.S. through networks of 338 BMW passenger car centers, 335 BMW Sports Activity Vehicle centers, 142 BMW motorcycle retailers, 83 MINI passenger car dealers, and 30 Rolls-Royce Motor Car dealers. BMW (US) Holding Corp., the BMW Group’s sales headquarters for North America, is located in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey.
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LSD Design released information on their new wing (lambo) doors for the Nissan GT-R. The creatively named LSD Flügeltürbeschläge, which is not actually a good choice for a "safe word" with your dominatrix, is one more step in the quest by aftermarket parts makers to customize every Nissan GT-R that comes off the line.
We kid, of course. "Flügeltürbeschläge" loosely translates from German as a more multisyllabic way of saying "fitted wing door." Details
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The World's Most Exclusive High-End Sports Car: The NOVITEC TuLesto with 777 hp and a Top Speed of More than 350 km/h
There are many fascinating automobiles money can buy but its spectacular design, its uncompromising high-performance concept and its limited edition of just eleven cars make the new NOVITEC TuLesto the most exclusive high-end sports car in the world.
The mid-engine racer is 204 centimeters wide and weighs in at just 1,260 kilograms. It is built by German automobile manufacturer NOVITEC in Stetten in Bavaria. At the heart of the two-seater is a V8 engine with dual superchargers and a rated power output of 777 hp / 571.8 kW. Thanks to its carbon fiber and aluminum construction the coupe has an excellent power-to-weight ratio of just 1.62 kg/hp. The result is driving performance that only very few super sports cars can match: The sprint from rest to 100 km/h takes less than 3.4 seconds, and the NOVITEC TuLesto reaches 300 km/h after just 22.6 seconds. Top speed is more than 350 km/h.
The new high-end sports car represents NOVITEC's first proprietary car and marks the company's 20th anniversary. "With the NOVITEC TuLesto we transform our collective know-how from two decades of automobile tuning into an uncompromising high-performance sports car for eleven of our long-time customers from around the world," says NOVITEC managing director Wolfgang Hagedorn."The TuLesto offers an optimal symbiosis of exceptional driving dynamics and exciting yet aerodynamically efficient styling."
Light-weight construction was one of the main goals from the very start of the NOVITEC TuLesto project. The designers materials of choice are normally found in racecars. The chassis and the integrated safety cell are made entirely from aluminum, making them extremely light while at the same time giving them extraordinary rigidity.
The striking design of the NOVITEC TuLesto is the result of a cooperation between NOVITEC and the Italian design studio Luca Serafini Stile in Modena. The unmistakable shape of the TuLesto was created using state-of-the-art CAD and CFD technologies, further augmented by the use of the wind tunnel. The TuLesto is 462 centimeters long, 204 centimeters wide and has a height of 122 centimeters.
The spectacular curves of the fenders, the front apron, the shape of the rear and the smooth underbody with integrated venturi tunnel and diffuser were calibrated in the wind tunnel to create an optimal aerodynamic balance.
For perfect weight distribution the NOVITEC TuLesto was designed with a classic mid-engine layout. The 4.4-liter four-valve V8 engine with dual superchargers is installed directly behind the cockpit. The high-tech engine produces a maximum power output of 777 hp / 571.8 kW at 8,200 rpm and a peak torque of 727 Nm at 6,300 rpm.
Motorsports was also the inspiration for the power transfer: The six gears of the semi-automatic gearbox with integrated anti-slip differential are shifted with carbon-fiber paddles behind the steering wheel. An adjustable traction control system with launch control for perfect starts guarantees maximum driving safety on the road and on the track.
Another elementary contribution to the superior driving dynamics of the NOVITEC TuLesto comes from its ultra-light light-alloy wheels with diameters of 20 or 21 inches. These wheels were custom-developed for this coupe and are fitted with semi slicks up to 355 millimeters wide on the rear axle.
The NOVITEC engineers and technicians also used racing technology on the suspension: As in GT-series racing, the TuLesto features double-wishbone suspension front and rear, height-adjustable struts with various selectable damping rates, and adjustable sway bars. For easy negotiating of underground parking ramps or similar obstacles the TuLesto front can be raised four centimeters at the push of a button. The anti-lock braking system features ceramic composite discs and six-piston fixed calipers front and back for maximum stopping power and endurance.
The interior design has a decidedly sporty nature but also offers creature comforts such as a climate-control system and a high-end sound system. Lightweight carbon fiber plays a dominating role in the interior as well: It is used for dashboard, center console and door trim as well as for the bucket seats which will be custom-fitted in form, shape, size, color and upholstery to each of the eleven future owners.
The creation of the eleven Limited Edition NOVITEC TuLesto super sports cars can be viewed in a web special at www.TuLesto.com.
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Lotus have decided that they would like to improve the eco-ness of the Exige and Elise models. By doing this Lotus have had to perform various upgrades to both of the cars, in the form of powertrain and aerodynamic tweaks.
It was reported that the Elise and Exige will now feature a 9% reduction in CO2 emission and a similar increase in fuel economy. According to the press release there will be a 0.7 litre per 100km fuel efficiency improvement on the Elise S, which brings the combined total down to 7.6 litres per 100km.
Mike Kimberley, CEO of Group Lotus plc, stated, “The Lotus philosophy of performance through light weight is even more relevant in today’s emission focused ecological world. This design philosophy has enabled Lotus to offer fantastic levels of performance, with Lotus cars being some of the greenest performance cars on the market”.
Read More at EasyCarBlog.com
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NEW YORK – Conspicuous consumption has taken a back seat during these hard times, and an apparent beneficiary of that is the Hyundai Genesis, introduced last year as an affordable upscale sedan.
Starting at $32,250, it has drawn buyers who until recently might have opted for more costly prestige cars, such as the Mercedes-Benz S-Class (stickered at $89,350 and up), says John Krafcik, president and CEO of Hyundai Motor America.
Such a downshifting in consumer preferences may be tied to today’s public disdain of perceived excesses, from Wall Street bonuses to corporate jets. If there’s a time for flaunting it, it’s not now.
So, the Genesis becomes an understated luxury for many affluent consumers who want to avoid overt displays of extravagance and status, Krafcik says.
“A huge number of Genesis buyers are coming from premium brands,” he says at the auto show here, where Hyundai unveils its Nuvis concept cross/utility vehicle. It also displays the Equus, a costlier car than the Genesis, but only sold in South Korea, Hyundai’s homeland. Ward’s has reported Hyundai hopes to sell the Equus in the U.S. in about two years.
Read More at WardsAutoWorld.com
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Immediately noticeable is the lower, tougher posture of the car that is made possible by a Chassis Kit which includes a new bespoke-valved Bilstein struts, more rigid springs and anti-roll bars.
It now sits 25mm lower up front and 20mm lower at the rear with a significantly more balanced ride. Lightweight 20 inch RD2 Monoblock wheels are standard and 20 inch RS2 multi-piece wheels are optional on the car. The wheels are covered with P Zero Nero’s by Pirelli. The performance ratings of the engine have been improved with electronic modifications to increase boost and optimize fuel efficiency and timing. Air to cool the engine is provided by a free-flowing intake and a larger, more efficient intercooler. A larger exhaust conducts exhaust gases out the rear through stainless sport mufflers with four tips. More details and photos after the jump!
Consequently, there is significant boost to horsepower of 414bhp and torque of 404lb-ft, higher than the Bmw M3 which is powered by a V8 unit.
Read More at 4WheelsNews.com
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Tom’s revealed today its latest customization for the Lexus IS350 dubbed the IS45. This new programme includes a power increase to 350 hp and 488 Nm of torque but this is not all: the tuning company also offers a new front lip spoiler, new side sills and a rear apron with integrated exhaust system featuring 4 pipes.
Read More at 4WheelsNews.com
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As a general rule, adding weight to a car is to be avoided if at all possible, as it's a detriment to performance and fuel economy. Adjust your goals, though, and it becomes a reasonable tradeoff. Take for example the 2009 Infiniti G37x S, an all wheel-drive version of Infiniti's star entry-luxury car.
If you skip straight ahead to the numbers, you'll find the G37x S is heavier and slower and doesn't handle quite as well as the G37 S sedan, but the numbers don't tell the whole story. Infiniti clearly designed its G37x cars to outperform their rear-drive G37 counterparts in less-than-ideal weather conditions, such as those in cold weather states during the winter.
While the all-wheel-drive G37x S would likely fair considerably better on snow-covered roads than the standard G37 S, on hot, dry asphalt, it falls slightly behind. The only major difference between the 2009 G37 S sedan we tested late last year and the G37x S sedan we just tested is the inclusion of Infiniti's "Advanced Total Traction Engineering System for All Electronic Torque Split" all-wheel-drive system lifted from Infiniti's crossovers, along with the seven-speed automatic transmission. Both cars featured the same 328-hp, 3.7L V-6 producing 269 lb-ft of torque and both were equipped with the optional Sport package.
Read More inside Motor Trend
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According to L’Automobile Magazine, the Mercedes-Benz is preparing a roadster version of the AMG SLS which will make its debut in 2011.
For those who don’t know, the SLS AMG Coupe will be officially unveiled at this year’s Frankfurt Motor Show and will hit the showrooms in spring 2010 with a price tag of 160,000.
Read More at 4WheelsNews.com
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Unveiled last week in south of France, the Nissan and Nismo unveiled their FIA GT1 ready GT-R, a “little” 600hp modified 5.6l V8 engine (VK56DE) giving not less then an incredible 650Nm of Torque and which achieve a quite honorable 2:05.447 lap time at Paul Ricard…
We hope both Nismo and Nissan to be as successful on the old continent that they are here in Japan !
Media Days and the Official Test Session for the FIA GT were held at Circuit Paul Ricard HTTT (5.842km) in the South of France on the 6th and 7th April.
At the Press Conference of SRO, the official promoter of the FIA GT Championship, which took place at midday on the 6th April, the R35 NISSAN GT-R, built according to the 2010 FIA GT1 regulations was unveiled in front of more than 200 people.
The objectives for NISMO's FIA GT program for 2009 is to develop GT-R race car which shall be available for sale to the privateers who wish to take part in the FIA GT World Championship from 2010 and onwards.
Read More at NihonCar.com
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Aston Martin's much-anticipated Rapide sedan has finally broken cover with an official pic, and it's gorgeous.
The big sedan will go head-to-head with Porsche's bloated Panamera and try to take some starch out of Mercedes, BMW and Audi as the big sedan war heats up.
"The Rapide will be the most elegant four-door sports car in the world," Dr. Ulrich Bez, company CEO, said in a press release. "It completes the Aston Martin range while conveying our established attributes of power, beauty and soul."
And spectacular styling.
Back before the economy cratered and auto sales tanked, it seemed everyone and his brother was promising a big sedan with power to match. Even companies that really have no business building sedans - coughPorsche coughLamborghini - were arguing they simply must have a four-door high-performance sedan if they are to compete.
Read More at Wired.com
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According to the news-makers at Japanese auto magazine Best Car, Honda is working on returning the Beat name to the streets of Tokyo after a 13 year absence.
The original Beat ran on a rear-wheel-drive platform and was powered by a 47kW 660cc engine, putting it in the ‘kei’ category – a class of car so small and with such a low environmental impact, that tax breaks and parking discounts are part of the benefits of owning one.
Best Car says that Honda is looking at the market closely and working feverishly to bring the new Beat – based on the Honda OSM concept – to showrooms at the right time, likely around 2011.
Read More inside The Motor Report
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Mercedes-Benz has adjusted option packages on its new GLK-class premium SUV to help cope with an oversupply of high-priced versions.
Ernst Lieb, CEO of Mercedes-Benz USA, said the company exported too many high-end models for the January U.S. launch.
“We planned production in June and July of last year, and we didn’t know where we would be in January,” he said. “We had models coming at $40,000-plus.”
Read More at YourAutoClub.com
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IT’s the big cat that’s got bosses full of pride! Jaguar insiders have been talking about the new XJ for months – and, with these pictures, we can finally see why they’ve been so excited.
This is our best look yet at the car described by Jaguar as one of the most radical it has ever produced. The new flagship limousine, set to make its world debut in July, has a bold shape designed to draw the limelight away from the Mercedes S-Class and BMW’s latest 7-Series.
In addition to its striking body, the new XJ will benefit from a futuristic interior, along with a range of more powerful, hi-tech engines.
As you can see, the model takes themes first seen on the widely acclaimed XF – Auto Express’s current Car of the Year – and makes them even more dramatic.
Read More at Auto Express
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A tax-efficient crew van version of the Defender 110 4x4 Station Wagon is now available from Land Rover under the Utility Wagon banner.
A change in its classification from passenger car to light commercial means that companies acquiring one should be able to reclaim the VAT paid on it.
The Indian-owned manufacturer has created the Utility Wagon by installing what it refers to as a utility pack. Available as a no-cost option on all three trim levels
Read More at Business Car
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Made Popular:27 hours ago - U.S. Top Gear non-host and racer Tanner Foust, a champion drifter, has traded in his Nissan 350Z to get fast and furious with this: a RWD, NASCAR V8-powered Scion tC Formula Drift car.
This car could not be less like a real Scion tC if it tried and, for drifting, it's probably a good thing it isn't.
Read More at Yahoo.com
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Call it another victim of the economic downturn. When asked if the Toyota A-BAT concept was still under consideration for production, Bob Carter, Toyota Motor Sales USA vice president and general manager replied "We have a lot of top priorities right now, and A-BAT isn't one of them."
Toyota introduced the A-BAT (Advanced Breakthrough Aero Truck) at the 2008 Detroit auto show as a potential design for a compact pickup in the U.S. It featured a unibody construction like the Honda Ridgeline and was powered by a hybrid powertrain. It was believed last year that Toyota had already green-lighted A-BAT production.
No reason was sighted for Toyota's choice to pause the A-BAT program.
Read More inside Automobile Magazine
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TORRANCE, Calif., April 15 /PRNewswire/ -- The Scion xB urban utility vehicle adds value for the 2010 model year with an all-new standard Pioneer head unit and no increase to xB's base price. Also new for the model year is an optional Alpine Premium audio unit that's navigation- and back-up camera-ready. The 2010 xB will arrive at dealerships later this month.
The base manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) for the iconic xB is $15,750 when equipped with a five-speed manual transmission, and $16,700 for the four-speed automatic with sequential shifting. In addition to the new head unit, the boxy xB receives one new exterior color, Sizzling Crimson Mica, which replaces Blackberry Crush Metallic.
All Scions come mono-spec with a generous list of standard features including power steering, windows, door locks and mirrors; cruise control; remote keyless entry; air conditioning; four-wheel anti-lock brakes with electronic brake assist; dual front passenger airbags; front seat-mounted side airbags; front and rear side curtain airbags; and tilt steering wheel with audio controls.
The delivery, processing and handling (DPH) fee for all Scion models is $670 and is not included in the MSRP. DPH fees for vehicles distributed by Southeast Toyota (SET) and Gulf States Toyota (GST) may vary.
The xB focuses on youth with its all-new standard 160-watt Pioneer audio system. New features for 2010 include an organic electroluminescent (OEL) screen, USB connectivity, Advanced Sound Retriever (ASR), and a subwoofer RCA output. It also features USB and universal auxiliary (AUX) ports located on the center console which allow users to listen to their portable music collection through the xB's six Pioneer speakers.
Connectivity is achieved by simply plugging the portable music player, including Apple iPod and iPhone, into the USB or AUX port. The head unit's screen displays album, title, and artist information from select portable audio and storage devices. The audio system provides outstanding sound quality through the car's stereo system and constant power to select iPods. Music is controlled through the head unit and the steering wheel audio control buttons for radio, CD and certain USB devices. iPod users can also utilize an alphabetical speed search to find a specific artist or album.
The ASR function restores a wide, deep and rich quality to MP3/WMA/AAC sound. Through the subwoofer RCA output, xB owners can add an external amp to drive one or more subwoofers. Unique to the Pioneer system is the customizable welcome screen that also allows users to create a personal message of up to 16-characters.
A newly-available 200-watt Alpine Premium audio system has the same basic features as the standard Pioneer audio, but adds a 4.3-inch color touch panel thin film transistor (TFT) screen, HD Radio(TM) technology, and Media Expander (MX). The user can listen to HD Radio technology with the Alpine Premium audio system and view text, song titles, album and artist on the head unit. Alpine's MX improves compressed audio sound often found on digital music. The optional audio system is also back-up camera and navigation-ready.
Scion also offers an optional plug-in navigation unit for the Alpine Premium audio system. Navigation and audio functions utilize the head unit screen for display. Features include voice guidance; day and night screen modes; support in English, French and Spanish; 200 available address book entries; map coverage across the U.S. and Canada including Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands and Hawaii; three map views (3-D, north up, and heading up); and more than six million points of interest. Users can also program up to three destinations before arriving at their final programmed stop. Scion makes this navigation unit customizable by allowing the user to change the vehicle position icon from an arrow to an icon of the xB which can be customized in every xB exterior color.
Both the standard Pioneer and optional Alpine Premium head units retain key Scion audio system features such as Scion Sound Processing (SSP) where listeners can choose from three pre-set equalizer settings, satellite radio compatibility and MP3, AAC and WMA capability. In addition, both units adjust the volume control based on driving speed. The sound systems feature six speakers: a tweeter and a speaker in each front door panel, plus two full-range speakers in the rear doors.
SOURCE: PRnewsWire.com
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Ferrari F450/F500/F142/whatever: tell me about the tech!
Per Car Magazine UK: "This is where it gets interesting. The F142 project will stick with a V8 slung amidships, but apart from that the engineering recipe is markedly different from the F430’s. It’s an important advance: the V8 makes up three-quarters of Ferrari’s entire production.
We’re still not sure of the V8’s capacity, but it will definitely use Bosch-developed direct injection operating at exceptionally high pressures for this 500bhp application. One source we spoke to suggested the new car will use a downsized, turbocharged V8 to lower emissions and consumption, but other reports suggest a capacity stretched out to 4.5 litres or beyond. Expect plenty of details to lower internal friction, including super-polished camshafts to boost efficiency.
Whatever the final size, it’ll still be a high-rev screamer – such is the Ferrari way – and the California’s seven-speed twin-clutch transmission is set to provide the finger-flicking gearbox thrills. However, Ferrari’s software will be tuned for more sporting shift points than on the California GT...Continued
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The on-track rivalry between the Ferrari and McLaren Formula 1 teams has been one of the most intense and hard fought in the history of grand prix racing. Now McLaren wants to take that battle to the streets. If surprise plans announced by McLaren Group chairman Ron Dennis today come to fruition, within five years McLaren Automotive, the division of the Group that currently builds the Mercedes-McLaren SLR, will be a stand alone company building up to 4000 high-performance sports car a year.
Centerpiece of the plan is an all-new mid-engine McLaren sports car codenamed P11. Dennis gave no detail about the car, but it is a Ferrari F430-sized coupe. The P11's design is the work of talented American Frank Stephenson, whose credits include the new Mini and the new Fiat 500, and stints at Ferrari, Maserati and Alfa Romeo. It's a handsome, relatively conventional looking coupe that appears to feature advanced aerodynamics, including a flat floor and movable rear wing.
Given F1 division McLaren Racing's long standing engineering expertise -- the team was the first to use structural carbon fiber in a grand prix car, for example -- it's reasonable to assume P11 will feature extensive use of lightweight materials and sophisticated electronic controls. While no details of the engine or transmission have been released, sources close to McLaren say the car will offer significantly higher levels of performance than either the Ferrari F430 or the Lamborghini Gallardo.
Dennis says McLaren Automotive has been working on the P11 for more than two years. More than 20 prototypes have been built and are undergoing testing. The silver-grey coupe shown briefly to assembled media at the high-tech, high-style McLaren Technology Center in Woking, England, will be the show car. Sources say the P11 may make its public debut at this year's LA Auto Show...Continued
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A short while back, BMW began releasing some teaser photos of a small roadster called the Z2. At the time, production seemed like a long shot at best and many people just wrote the lightweight roadster off as a concept and nothing more. Now, BMW has officially announced that the Z2 will enter production and will be more than able to compete with the vehicles in its class.
One look at the body of the Z2 and it apparent that many of the same design principals have carried over from it's slightly larger counterpart, the Z4. Many of the same components will also be shared between the Z2 and Z4, which will make the transition into full scale production much more efficient.
Power for the Z2 will come from a few different engines, with the lowest trim using a 150 horsepower naturally aspirated inline-4.
Read More at InventorSpot.com
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It’s the shock of the week – this is the first official picture of Vauxhall’s new Astra! In a measure of the desperation that the company faces, this image of its new compact family car has just arrived at Auto Express without any warning at all, completely out of the blue!
Making its debut alongside the firm's Insignia VXR, the new Ford Focus rival has finally broken cover in five-door form – although there’s also a striking three-door variant and a Sport Tourer estate version on the way too.
As you can see, it’s clear from this image that it’s taking much of its inspiration from its big brother, the Insignia. It boasts a sporty look with a low nose and high tail, mixing a sleeker version of the Insignia’s nose along with the same stylish kick along its flanks...Continued
