Cars Plaza

BMW 3 series price features variants

2011-03-22T08:02:00.000-07:00

Carlsson 2011 Mercedes CLS 63 AMG

2011-02-28T23:17:00.000-08:00

Back in December lat year, Carlsson previewed a modification package for the 2011 Mercedes CLS, being one of the first tuners to target the vehicle. Now, the tuner is offering us the full info, with the package scheduled to be introduced at the Geneva Auto Show.

Carlsson 2011 Mercedes CLS 63 AMG

The tuning company is offering a multitude of modifications for a number of models from the CLS range, but the company is trying to make us pay attention to the CLS 63 AMG tuning package.

The vehicle’s 5.5 liter biturbo V8 unit now delivers 600 hp, with the tuner also upgrading the connection to the road by installing the C-Tronic suspension for vehicles that come with the Airmatic suspension. The car rides on a set of 20-inch rims, which bring a 40 percent weight reduction, compared to the factory wheels.

The exterior of the CLS has been gifted with a subtle aerodynamic package that consists of a new front bumper, that comes with a carbon fiber lip and stainless steel mesh grille and a fresh rear bumper, which houses a diffuser, a set of oval tailpipes and the third brake light.

Ford Ranger Wildtrak at 2011 Geneva Motor Show

2011-02-28T23:11:00.000-08:00

We're not at the 2011 Geneva International Motor Show, but our friends from Jalopnik are, and they just sent us photos of the new 2011 Ford Ranger Wildtrak double cab making its debut there.

The Ranger Wildtrak is Ford's top-of-the-line midsize truck for markets outside North America. It's a stylish version of all-new Ranger "T6" that goes on sale later this year.
There's no official word yet on the Ranger Wildtrak's powertrain, though we expect there's a five-cylinder 3.2-liter diesel with a robust 197 horsepower and 346 pounds-feet of torque under its hood. It's rated to tow up to 7,385 pounds (3,350 kilograms).

The Wildtrak rides on unique 18-inch alloy wheels and also receives a roof rack and "sports hoop which enhances its profile," according to a Ford press release.
Inside, the Wildtrak features a special "hydrographic finish" on the centre console surrounding the audio controls that looks similar to carbon fiber. The seats are trimmed with a combination of leather and woven cloth inspired by athletic clothing with ventilated sections. Contrast stitching and a discreet strip on the seat upper and bolster, in distinctive Wildtrak Orange, accentuate the premium feel of the interior.

Ford Ranger Wildtrak

Skoda VisionD Concept

2011-02-28T23:07:00.000-08:00

Skoda, one of the small brands in the Volkswagen group trying to make a name for itself, is trying to reinvent its image at the 2011 Geneva Auto Show, where it is introducing this week both a new logo and, of more importance to us, a new Design Concept.

Skoda VisionD Concept

Staying true to the overall lines that make the brand recognizable, the design concept is intended as a vessel for the old Skoda design to travel into the future. The model has been designed with a long wheelbase and short overhangs, integrated tailgate and... that's about it.

What powers the VisionD is not important (probably a VW engine would fit in it just fine), so the Czech auto maker made no effort to describe how it sees a possible production version of the model move about. No other technical details have been provided.

Ford B-Max Concept

2011-02-28T23:06:00.000-08:00

Ford B-Max Concept

The latest generation Fiesta spelled success for American manufacturer Ford on all the markets the model is being sold. It was only logical that after trying for years to find the right recipe and make it work, the auto maker would try to expand the offering.

The 2011 Geneva Auto Show which kicks off today will witness the unveiling of the B-MAX concept, a platform that might not only preview a bigger and meaner Fiesta-inspired model, but at the same time definitely showcases what Ford plans to do with its cars in the future.

The most striking feature of the concept is the absence of the B-pillar, a type of solution chosen to accommodate the twin rear sliding doors. The door concept, promises Ford, is already being fitted onto a model which will be launched in the future.

Maybach 57 S Unveiled at Geneva

2011-02-28T23:04:00.000-08:00

At the 2011 Geneva Auto Show, Xenatec will present its customer-specified Xenatec-Coupe. The Coupe, which is based on the Maybach 57 S will be presented in a specially constructed pavilion in the gardens of “La Réserve” Hotel on the banks of Lake Geneva.

The new customer-specific vehicle from Xenatec was configured by Fredrik Burchhardt, the designer at Xenatec. The vehicle is designed according to a customer’s exact specs and was hand-built by the team at Xenatec, the company noted.

When it comes to the exterior of the vehicle, the paintwork is complete with a matte finish that is applied by hand in several layers to create a shimmering brass tone. The overall paint finish is completed by delicate silver along the vehicle’s flanks.

The company noted that the stylistic treatment that is applied in the exterior of the vehicle is a hallmark of all Maybach automobiles. To sum up, Xenatec said that the vehicle is designed by artists, manufactured for experts.

Inside the coupe, the company has exclusively combined natural non-dyed mid-brown buffalo hide and dark nappa leather in espresso brown that are hand-stitched by master craftsmen. To add to the beauty of the interior Xenatec has lined the footwells of the new vehicle with blackberry Alcantara.

Until now the Weinsberg, Germany based Xenatec has not mentioned anything about the pricing or when the Xenatec Coupe will arrive in the market.

Volkswagen Bulli Concept

2011-02-28T23:03:00.000-08:00

Is Volkswagen trying to “Bulli” disgruntled fans of the brand into a rapprochement? Here, on the eve of press previews, it rather looks like it.

Few concept vehicles from the last decade were more warmly received than the 2001 Volkswagen Microbus concept, a vehicle that, for various reasons, VW decided not to place into production. This upset a vocal demographic in VW’s fan base, all but rabid for the retro-themed bus. But now, VW wants to kiss and make up.

On Tuesday, the brand will introduce the Bulli, what it calls a refinement of the 2001 Microbus concept, which derives its name from what the Germans called the original 1950 Microbus. (Semimodern models are still being produced in Brazil and some other international markets.)

That midcentury vision has morphed dramatically in the ensuing 61 years. In fact, the Bulli’s profile sooner evokes a Scion xB or Kia Soul than it does its namesake. Gone are signature features like panoramic windows, seating for up to nine, sliding doors and a woefully gutless gas engine. Instead, the Bulli has four conventionally opening doors, six seats, an iPad-based infotainment system and an electric motor.

Lamborghini Aventador supercar with UW ties

2011-02-28T23:02:00.000-08:00

Koenigsegg Agera R

2011-02-28T23:00:00.001-08:00

Koenigsegg, the Swedish "hypercar" manufacturer, is muscling its way toward Bugatti Veyron territory with its new Agera R, an even more potent version of the pre-production Agera prototype that it displayed at last year's 2010 Geneva Auto Show.

The Agera R features a larger 5.0-liter version of Koenigsegg's twin-turbocharged V8, rated at up to 1,115 horsepower when running on E85 ethanol and 885 pound-feet of torque. The Agera shown last year borrowed its 4.7-liter V8 biturbo engine from the earlier Koenigsegg CCX. That engine was rated at 897 hp and 811 lb-ft.

Koenigsegg says the Agera R has a "theoretical top speed" of around 273 mph, although it is electronically limited to 233 mph. The company adds that the speed governor "can be unlocked for shorter periods of time, if all necessary conditions are met, such as road condition, tire wear, service level of car" and so on.

Power is delivered to the rear wheels via a new seven-speed dual-clutch automated manual gearbox, jointly developed with Cima, and an electronic differential. The Agera R rides on specially developed Michelin Super Sport tires, rated at speeds up to 260 mph.

Mazda MX 5

2011-02-28T22:56:00.001-08:00

While it requires some nifty manoeuvring to get inside the MX 5, it is surprisingly comfortable once you're settled in place.

This close to the ground the headroom appears generous and the sporty recaro seats are supportive and luxurious to the touch.
With space at a premium, controls need to be practical and efficient and that they are. Some of the plastics are a touch hard but that's probably because the cabin is designed to withstand those surprise showers when you are caught with the top down.
Storage is limited but clever and the retractable roof has its own cavity so the boot is able to handle that overnight bag or a couple of shopping bags with the top up or down.

2010 Audi Q5 Overview

2011-02-01T21:05:00.000-08:00

2010 Audi Q5

The 2010 Audi Q5 is a little SUV with a big SUV mindset. It offers power, towing capability, and luxury, for less money than most competitors.

At the heart of the 2010 Audi Q5 is a 270-horsepower, 3.2-liter V-6, which is mated to a manually shiftable six-speed automatic. Audi’s all-wheel drive system delivers the power to all four wheels for safe all-weather driving. This package is good for 18 city and 23 highway mpg, and can tow a hefty 4,400 pounds – that is a much higher tow rating than the BMW X3, Volvo XC60, and Lexus RX350 offer with their competitive powertrains.

2011 Audi Q5

Inside this little SUV is a big interior that offers up to 57 cubic feet of cargo room. Optional sunroofs in both the front and the rear shine the light on the five lovely leather-clad seating positions – the front seats with an optional heating feature – and exquisite wood and alloy trim. Dual zone climate control and a leather-wrapped steering wheel help keep the driving experience cozy, while a 10-speaker stereo with optional Bang & Olufson speakers entertain the whole crowd. When music fails to keep the munchkins entertained, an optional TV and DVD entertainment system is sure to entertain those toughest to please little critics.

Underneath this lovely interior, Audi’s sports-oriented suspension keeps the Q5 well planted. An optional active suspension system with a ride height adjustment feature allows the driver to set the Q5 low for some fun driving, or raise it up to gain clearance for any off-road maneuvers.

2011 Audi A5 Interior

Along with the Quattro® all-wheel drive system, antilock brakes and stability and traction control provide a great safety net to keep the Q5 stable and out of harm’s way. A stout aluminum frame and airbags all around make for an excellent crash-worthy package that achieves Five-Star crash test ratings for front and side impacts.

The 2010 Audi Q5 is all Audi, and all good. Power, functionality, comfort, and safety combine in this little SUV with a big list of options and fun.

Mercedes-Benz S-Class S -350L (Petrol)

2011-02-01T20:57:00.000-08:00

Mercedes-Benz S-Class

Drive to your office in style in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class - India's most preferred car manufacturer. A Mercedes-Benz car in India is an ideal family as well as personal choice any time.

A stablemate of Mercedez Benz models, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class is reportedly the world's best selling luxury flagship sedan. As the first model in the Mercedes-Benz lineup, the S-Class has introduced many of the company's latest innovations, including advanced safety systems, drivetrain technologies, and interior features. In fact, it was S-Class that introduced the first airbag supplemental restraint systems, seatbelt pretensioners, and electronic stability control
The body type is sedan. The fuel type is petrol and the transmission type is automatic. Mileage-city is 6.8 kmpl.

Mercedes-Benz to Reveal the C-Class series in Spring 2011

2011-01-03T07:50:00.001-08:00

With the year coming to an end, various companies from the automobile industry are planning for substantial additions to their existing assortment of luxury cars. Mercedes-Benz also has a few similar schedules as it has announced to reveal its latest C-Class series for consumers in spring next year.

Mercedes-Benz C-Class

Mercedes Apprentices tuck a full-size V8 in a small B-Class B 55

2011-01-03T07:49:00.001-08:00

If there were to be declared a range of cars least exciting out of all the product series that Mercedes offers, the B-Class would perhaps be the one to earn the modest tag. According to recent news, a team of trainees at the Rastatt plant in Germany has presented the B 55 in an altogether new dimension with a V8 engine and rear-wheel drive.

B-Class B 55

The idea of converting a B-Class into a 289kW V8-powered rear-wheel drive was conceived by plant manager Peter Wesp. The task of building the very special vehicle based on B-Class was assigned to few of his staff members and Wesp allowed complete creative freedom for the project. A foreman in the technical vocational training department Andreas Würz accepted the challenge immediately. After sizing up the car with a measure-tape, Würz came to a conclusion that “Actually it should be possible to fit a V8 into the engine compartment.”

2012 Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG leaked pictures

2011-01-03T07:47:00.000-08:00

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG has apparently been leaked onto the internet by a German online magazine, and with it, a few details on what supposedly is under the bonnet.

2012 Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG

We saw recently the 2012 C-Class revealed, hinting at the current SL-Class with its sculpted headlamps and revised front end. The new C 63 AMG seen here builds on those features, but in typical AMG fashion adds a sense of dynamism, and brute power.
The inverted mouth on the front air dam, lowered suspension and huge wheels are the big hints to its performance potential, however the sedan version may in fact be different to an upcoming coupe of the C 63 AMG.

2012 Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG

Evocars, the website in which the images appeared, reports that the coupe will use the new 5.5-litre turbocharged V8, while the sedan will continue using the 6.2-litre naturally aspirated unit under the bonnet of the current model, albeit with more grunt.
A new seven-speed transmission for this model is said to feature a race-start mode – we’re hoping it’s the new double clutch box – while the interior is suitably tricked up to AMG specs.
AMG fans will have to wait until later this year before we get final details, but from what we can see, things are looking good.

2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class

2011-01-03T07:46:00.000-08:00

2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class

Mercedes-Benz C-Class series in Spring 2011

2011-01-03T07:45:00.001-08:00

Mercedes-Benz C-Class

With a brand-new high-resolution color display screen built into the instrument cluster and a stylish new dashboard with grained surface, the latest C-Class integrates a prominent decorative trim emphasizing the premium character of the interior. It also boasts of a fuel consumption improvement of upto 31 percent and efficiency-enhancing measures such as new engines, refined 7G-Tronic Plus automatic transmission and the ECO start/stop function.
“In terms of drive and protection systems the new-generation C-Class offers the same comfort and safety as our luxury models. High-grade interior features remind one of the new CLS, the C-Class sets completely new standards in its segment with respect to perceived value and quality,” explains Joachim Schmidt, Sales & Marketing Director at Mercedes-Benz Cars.

GTA to Offer Spano Spyder and Spano R Variants

2011-01-01T22:04:00.002-08:00

GTA Motors has reportedly confirmed plans to bring out two more versions of the GTA Spano namely a Spyder and a more track-focused R variant. However, the company refrained from providing more details of the future supercars.
According to Skiddmark, “two additional versions are in the pipeline.”
Incidentally, the GTA Spano is powered by a V10 engine which is longitudinally positioned at the rear capable of churning out 780 hp and a torque of 920 Nm. The supercar can clock 0 to 62 mph in less than 3 seconds with a top speed touted at more than 219 mph.

Mercedes Benz to Begin Sale of 2013 SL-Class in 2012

2011-01-01T22:04:00.000-08:00

Mercedes Benz will begin the sale of its 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class in the last quarter of 2012. This sports car that was introduced to the drivers since 1954 comes to the next span of life after five generations and a facelift in 2008.

The 2013 SL-Class will be powered by a new 5.5L V8 engine mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission. This combination provides this sports car a power of 387 hp. A 4.0 liter twin turbo engine is also in consideration for the new entrant along with a hybrid powertrain.
At first look, the 2013 Mercedes SL-Class will look almost identical to its previous generations. What makes it different from the previous generations is its wider and lower stance. The company has also reduced the weight by using the aluminum chassis, which will help in improvement of fuel economy and driving performance.
The 2013 Mercedes Benz SL-Class, which is scheduled to begin sale in the last quarter of 2012, will come with a price tag ranging between $102K and $198K.

2010 Audi Q7 30 Year Quattro Edition Gallery

2010-08-18T22:13:00.000-07:00

2010 Audi Q7
2010 Audi Q7
2010 Audi Q7 30 Year Quattro Edition

Audi Q7 S-Line by Je Design

2010-07-12T19:24:00.000-07:00

Audi Q7 S-Line is an amazing car with great performance and good-looking, but Je Design wasn’t satisfied by its appearance and style and decided to make it “more”.

Je Designed made new performance enhancement, electronically lower suspension and new rims.

The tuning kit has many elements as the headlamps lens caps for an aggressive look, impressive front spoiler, new tailgate skirt attachment, dual tailpipe corrosion-resistant stainless steel and a wing spoiler tail fin, including C-pillar trim.

The most impressive improvement are the wheels, specially created for SUVs like Q7, Cayenne or Touareg and are made in the dimension of 10 x 22”, available in the next color versions:
• SMVP ( black matt / front polished )
• CSSVP ( shadow-silver / front polished )
• GSGHP ( graphit-silver glossy / lip polished )
• GSMHP ( graphit-silver matt / lip polished )

Audi R8 Valkyrie by SR Auto Group

2010-07-12T19:21:00.000-07:00

Audi R8 is a beautiful and powerful car, but SR Auto Group wanted more and presented this amazing tuning kit for it.

What we see from the first look is the matte-black pain and the carbon fiber aero parts from PPI.

The tuning package comes with: side and rear tail lamps, black wheels, 20 inch Advance One ADV alloy rims, matte-black face, new air vents, side skirts and a rear diffuser made of carbon fiber.

At the interior we have a mix between black leather, Alcantara and red stitching for the seats.

I think this is a great tuning and I would love to test one Audi R8 Valkyrie by SR Auto Group.

2011 Buick Regal Photo gallery and price

2010-07-06T00:16:00.000-07:00

Buick today announced pricing for the all-new 2011 Regal. Prices start at $26,995 for the premium CXL model, including a $750 destination charge.

Regal’s CXL turbo model will start at $29,495, including a $750 destination charge.

2011 Buick Regal

2010 Ford Kuga Gets Updated

2010-07-06T00:05:00.000-07:00

2010 Ford Kuga

Ford’s good-looking crossover Kuga has received an update in UK. Like all other upgrades these days, it’s all about better fuel economy and lower CO2 emissions. So the performance suffers, for example Kuga’s revised 2.0 liter diesel engine has only 4 more horsepower than the previous version!

Rolls Royce Bespoke Picnic Set

2010-07-06T00:04:00.001-07:00

Some of the Luxury car makers also offer branded goodies to please their customers, and also to charge them a few extra grands! Now Rolls-Royce Motor Cars in-house Bespoke design and engineering team has come up with an exquisite four-person picnic set finished in polished aluminum, veneer and leather. It’s limited to 100 units.

Bentley Continental Supersports Convertible

2010-07-06T00:02:00.000-07:00

The new Bentley Continental Supersports Convertible made its first public driving debut at 2010 Goodwood Festival of Speed moving motor show, driven by ‘Bentley Boy’ Derek Bell. Regardless of this horrible color, this 620-hp luxuriously sporty Bentley is a superb car for every occasion. The drop-top Supersports is the ultimate version of the Continental, you know, unless they make yet another edition of this model!

2010 Kicherer Mercedes SLS AMG Black Edition Photo Gallery

2010-06-27T19:46:00.002-07:00

Visually, the SLS Supersport Black ride renders newly-shaped carbon-made front lip and rear diffuser, as well as a special matt-black foliation, which underlines uniquely its sporty nature and further adds more exotic feeling. Additionally, an adjustable sports suspension unit and a set of sleek, custom 3-piece 20-inch RS-1 Lightweight alloys fitted with high-end tires secure greater comfort and strengthened driving properties.

2010 Volkswagen AKTIV Project

2010-06-27T19:46:00.001-07:00

The partners of AKTIV are as follows: Adam Opel GmbH, AUDI AG, AZT Automotive GmbH, BMW Group, Federal Highway Research Institute (BASt), Continental, Daimler AG, Ericsson, Ford Forschungszentrum Aachen GmbH, Hessian Road and Traffic Authority (HLSV), Hochschule für Technik und Wirtschaft des Saarlandes - University of Applied Sciences, IBEO, ifak e.V. Magdeburg, MAN Nutzfahrzeuge AG, PTV AG, Robert Bosch GmbH, Siemens AG, Technische Universität Braunschweig (Braunschweig University of Technology), Technische Universität München (University of Technology, Munich), Tele Atlas Deutschland GmbH, Transver GmbH, Universität Kassel (University of Kassel), Vodafone Group R&D Germany and Volkswagen AG. Many university and research institutes as well as small and medium-sized businesses have also been subcontracted to work on the projects.

2011 Ford Mondeo pictures

2010-06-27T19:42:00.000-07:00

The 2011 Mondeo range will start to go on sale across Europe from September 2010. Further information and technical details of the 2011 Mondeo range will be released closer to launch and its debut at the Moscow International Automobile Salon (MIAS) on August 25.

2011 Ford Mondeo
2011 Ford Mondeo Side View
2011 Ford Mondeo

2011 Jaguar XJ Saloon Pictures

2010-06-27T19:38:00.000-07:00

2011 Jaguar XJ Saloon
2011 Jaguar XJ Saloon

2011 Jaguar XJ Saloon
2011 Jaguar XJ Saloon
2011 Jaguar XJ Saloon

2011 Jaguar XJ Saloon

How to Remove Deep Scratches from Your Car

2010-06-25T19:42:00.001-07:00

The repair described in this article assumes the presence of deep scratches and numerous chips spread over the paint of a body pane. It also assumes the unavailability of a compressor and paint gun. The purpose of making the following repairs yourself, therefore, is to reduce costs by doing preparatory work before turning the car over to an auto body paint shop for repainting.

You will need these supplies: wax-removing solvent; a sanding block; a tack cloth; 80-, 240-, and 400-grit sandpaper; glazing putty; spray cans of zinc chromate and finishing primer; and a rubber contour squeegee.

Here is what to do:

After washing and drying the body panel, clean it with wax-removing solvent.

Use 80-grit sandpaper attached to the sanding block over the damaged area. Keep the sanding block flat against the surface and apply moderate pressure. Move the sandpaper in a back-and-forth motion. Do this until you produce bare metal. Then, wipe the area clean.

Using a piece of 240-grit sandpaper attached to the sanding block, sand the area again to remove scratches in the metal that were made by the 80-grit sandpaper.

The next sanding step is done to get the area as smooth as possible. Use 400-grit sandpaper attached to the sanding block. Keep the sandpaper wet.

After sanding, wash the area with plain water and wipe it with the tack cloth, which will remove fine particles.

Let the surface dry completely.

Cover moldings and adjacent panels with newspaper held in place with masking tape. This is done to guard against primer overspray.

Hold the spray can of zinc chromate primer parallel to the area, at a distance of 10 to 12 inches. Moving the can back and forth, spray the primer onto the surface until all bare metal is covered.

Let the primer dry.

Scoop a glob of glazing putty onto the edges of a rubber contour squeegee and spread it onto the surface. Use moderate pressure so that the putty will stick. Move the squeegee in one direction only.

After the putty dries, sand it with 240-grit sandpaper attached to the sanding block. Sand until the putty is level with the surrounding surface. Run your hand over the area to make certain no high spots remain. Then, inspect the putty for the presence of pits or rough areas and to determine whether you inadvertently sanded off too much, leaving a low spot. If necessary, apply another layer of glazing putty and repeat the sanding operation.

Attach 800-grit sandpaper to the sanding block, saturate the paper with water, and sand the repaired area of the panel until the surface is as smooth as possible. Dip the sandpaper into water frequently.

When you are satisfied with the smoothness of the panel, wash it and then wipe it with the tack cloth. Let the surface dry completely.

Apply the finish primer, using the same technique described for application of the zinc chromate primer. The panel is now ready for painting.

2011 Ford Mondeo Facelift

2010-06-25T19:41:00.000-07:00

2011 Ford Mondeo

The new edition of the highly popular Ford Mondeo will make its debut at Moscow Motor Show on August 25. The new model features an updated design inside and out for both sedan and estate versions, and also gets two new engines. Ford says that the quality of the new model is also enhanced. Not that the current Mondeo is bad, but there’s always room for improvement!

Elton John’s Audi A1 Sold For £350,000

2010-06-25T19:39:00.000-07:00

This unique Audi A1 has been designed by British artist Damien Hirst for Elton John. That explains why it’s pink! But Hirst has actually done a great job creating an art car by splashing some paint on it. The car has been auctioned for the benefit of Elton’s AIDS Foundation White Tie & Tiara Ball and fetched £350,000.

2011 Porsche Panamera Picture Gallery Latest

2010-06-20T05:37:00.000-07:00

The eight-cylinder Panamera models are entering the next model year as of August 2010 with an even higher standard of all-round efficiency and new options. Particularly the new brake energy recuperation system featured as standard, together with optional 19-inch all-season tyres offering reduced roll resistance, give the Panamera Turbo a further improvement of fuel consumption by 0.9 litres/100 km. As a result, the 500-horsepower top model now consumes just 11.3 litres instead of formerly 12.2 litres/100 km in the New European Driving Cycle, equal to 25.0 mpg imp (formerly 23.2 mpg imp) and a reduction of CO2 emissions by 21 grams per kilometre. The Panamera S and Panamera 4S now making do with just 10.3 ltr/100 km and, respectively, 10.6 ltr/100 km (equal to 27.4 and, respectively, 26.7 mpg imp in the NEDC), are likewise up to half a litre more efficient per 100 kilometres (equal to minus 11 grams CO2/km).

2011 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite

2010-06-20T05:30:00.000-07:00

The all-new 2011 Honda Odyssey seeks to redefine the concept of the minivan with its aggressive stance and sporty "lightning-bolt" beltline. The lightning bolt not only provides an exclusive appearance, but also adds increased visibility for third-row passengers. New interior features add more convenience for families, while available entertainment technology introduces high-definition connectivity and split-screen viewing. Currently the best-selling minivan in the U.S., the all-new 2011 Honda Odyssey is set to go on sale this fall. Compared to the current Odyssey, the 2011 model's lower roofline (-1.6 inches versus 2010 Odyssey EX) and wider track (+1.4 inches) contribute to a sleeker, stronger and more dynamic presence with improved aerodynamics that help increase fuel economy and also translate into more interior width.

2010 Jaguar XK 75th Anniversary

2010-06-09T10:45:00.001-07:00

Jaguar announces the XK Coupe 75th Anniversary Edition

Jaguar Australia is excited to announce the new limited edition XK Coupe 75th Anniversary Edition.

This builds on the recent announcement of the XKR Special Edition as a combined XK/XKR celebration of Jaguar's 75th Anniversary, as well as celebrating Jaguar's historic return to Le Mans next weekend.

The XK Coupe 75th Anniversary Edition delivers detailed enhancements to an already outstanding Grand Touring Coupe. The normally aspirated 5.0 Litre AJ-V8 Gen III engine produces 283kW of power, 515Nm of torque and 0-100km/h acceleration in 5.5 seconds.

To celebrate Jaguar's 75th Anniversary and the return to Le Mans, Jaguar Australia is making available ten (10) only of the exciting XK Coupe 75th Anniversary Edition, with cars being available for delivery from late June.

The XK Coupe 75th Anniversary Edition is available in three (3) colours only - Indigo Blue, Ultimate Black and Liquid Silver. Each car features dramatic 20-inch Kalimnos alloy wheels, chrome finish to the side Power Vents and chrome Tailpipe Finishers.

Inside, the XK Coupe 75th Anniversary Edition features Bright Finish Pedals and an exclusive "75 Years" badge in addition to all the usual XK features - soft grain leather Interior with contrast stitch, 16-way heated and cooled seats with memory, and the superb Bowers & Wilkins 525-watt system with Dolby® ProLogic®II Surround Sound, three-channel stereo with unique amplifier, Kevlar mid-range speakers with high output and low distortion, and specially designed aluminium tweeters.

2011 Mercedes ML 63 AMG Facelift

2010-06-09T10:42:00.000-07:00

A best-seller unveils its updated exterior: the ML 63 AMG, featuring a powerful 375 kW (510 hp) AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine, takes on a more attractive appearance thanks to some subtle but effective changes.

From the front, the eye is immediately drawn to the new bonnet with power domes, and the darkened bi-xenon headlamps with active light function. The rear, meanwhile, also contributes appropriately to the new look: the performance SUV now features darkened tail lamps incorporating a clear-lens design and LED technology. The subtle changes to the exterior coordinate perfectly with the high-gloss, chromed front and rear underguard, and afford the ML 63 AMG an even more powerful and distinctive appearance.

Powerful and torque-laden AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine

Still boasting a power output of 375 kW (510 hp) at 6800/rpm as well as 630 Nm of torque, the ML 63 AMG is capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.0 seconds, and achieves a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited). At the renowned International Engine of the Year Awards in 2009, the AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine took the top places in both the "Best Performance Engine" and "Above 4 litres" categories.

As before, power transfer is taken care of via the AMG SPEEDSHIFT 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission with three drive modes. The permanent all-wheel drive is decidedly sporty: the power is split asymmetrically 40:60 between the front and rear wheels to provide optimum agility. The AMG sports suspension, based on the AIRMATIC package with air suspension, adaptive damping system ADS and automatic level control all-round, provides dynamic performance combined with the hallmark Mercedes long-distance comfort. The generously dimensioned AMG high-performance braking system, which features internally ventilated and perforated brake discs all-round, ensures short braking distances and optimum resistance to fading.

2010 Peugeot 308 Millesim

2010-06-05T18:13:00.000-07:00

Peugeot celebrates its 200th anniversary with the launch of a range of special edition 308 models called Millesim 200.

There will be four models available powered by Peugeot’s highly efficient VTi petrol and HDi diesel engines. All models are based on the five-door S hatchback version but with extra standard specification of: fully body colored exterior, 16” alloy wheels, Sports front grille, Sports rear bumper, Peugeot Connect USB & Bluetooth and unique Millesim 200 badging.

Model Range

On-the-road Price Combined MPG CO2 Emissions
308 Millesim 1.4 VTi 98 £16,245.00 43.46 149
308 Millesim 1.6 VTi 120 £16,745.00 43.46 155
308 Millesim HDi 90 £17,495.00 62.70 120
308 Millesim HDi 110 £18,245.00 62.70 120

2011 Chevrolet Cruze Price

2010-06-05T18:10:00.000-07:00

The all-new 2011 Chevrolet Cruze will begin arriving in U.S. dealerships this September, starting at $16,995, including destination. Priced to compete in the compact-car segment, the Cruze offers more interior room, more miles per gallon in the Eco model, and more standard safety features than any of its competitors.

"We believe the Cruze can redefine the expectations for compact-car owners and shoppers who are new to the segment," said Jim Campbell, U.S. Vice President of Chevrolet Marketing. "For the price of a compact car, Cruze offers the styling, safety features, roominess, amenities, and refinement of a much more expensive car."
The 2011 Cruze will be offered for retail sale in four models:

Cruze LS starting at $16,995, including:
-Standard 1.8L Ecotec engine and six-speed manual transmission
-The most standard safety features in the segment, with 10 air bags, StabiliTrak electronic stability control with rollover sensing, traction control, anti-lock brakes, collapsible pedal system, power rear-door child safety locks
-Standard OnStar, with a six-month subscription including Turn-by-Turn navigation
-Standard convenience features including air conditioning, power windows, power door locks with remote keyless entry, driver information center, and XM Radio with three month trial subscription

Cruze LT starting at $18,895, including:
-Standard 1.4L Ecotec turbo and six-speed automatic transmission
-16-inch wheels

Cruze Eco starting at $18,895, including:

-Standard 1.4L Ecotec turbo and six-speed manual transmission
-Segment-leading expected 40 miles per gallon highway
-Standard 17-inch alloy wheels with ultra low-rolling resistance tires, and enhanced aerodynamic performance package

Cruze LTZ starting at $22,695, including:

-Standard 1.4L Ecotec turbo and six-speed automatic transmission
-Standard six-way power driver seat, leather seating surfaces, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob
-Standard cruise control, Bluetooth phone connectivity, USB port with audio interface, steering-wheel mounted audio controls, and remote vehicle start
-Standard automatic climate control, auto-dimming inside rearview mirror, and ultrasonic rear-parking assist
-18-inch alloy wheels

2010 Toyota Auris Hybrid Price

2010-05-25T05:05:00.000-07:00

Toyota again takes the lead in delivering advanced and efficient user-friendly low emissions technology with the launch of its new Auris Hybrid, the first full hybrid vehicle in the European C-segment.

Its arrival makes the Auris range a unique proposition in its class, with customers offered a choice of petrol, diesel or full hybrid powertrains.

Auris Hybrid has been designed specifically for the European market and is built exclusively by Toyota Motor Manufacturing UK at its Burnaston factory. The 1.8-litre VVT-i petrol engine that forms part of the powertrain is sourced from TMUK’s plant at Deeside in North Wales.

The benefits of Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive powertrain used in the new model go beyond exceptional fuel economy and low CO2 emissions: it is user-friendly and delivers a quiet, comfortable and stress-free drive unlike anything else in the segment.
Key features of the standard T4 include: -

Climate control air conditioning
Six-speaker audio with CD, radio, MP3 file player
USB and Aux-in connection
Front and rear electric windows
Electric, heated door mirrors
Front fog lights
LED running lights
Colour-matched door handles and mirrors
Push-button start
Seven airbags, including driver’s knee airbag
Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRC)
Hill-start Assist Control (HAC)
T Spirit grade adds the following items: -

Leather and Alcantara upholstery
Cruise control
Bluetooth
Dusk-sensing headlamps
Rain-sensing windscreen wipers
Smart Entry and Start
Auto-dimming electrochromatic rear view mirror
Rear view camera display in rear view mirror
A Navigation Pack is available, providing satellite navigation, rear camera and rear parking sensors. Bluetooth, with steering wheel controls, is also offered as an option for the T4.

2010 Toyota Auris Hybrid Prices

The new Auris Hybrid T4 model costs £18,950 on-the-road and the T Spirit model costs £20,700.

An optional Navigation Pack, providing satellite navigation, rear camera and rear parking sensors, costs £1,200, and Bluetooth can be specified for the T4 version for £285.

2011 Alfa Romeo 159 Sportwagon and Sedan

2010-05-25T05:04:00.000-07:00

Alfa Romeo released the first detail and image for the 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 Sportwagon and Sedan.

Both the Alfa Romeo 159 and the Alfa Romeo 159 Sportwagon will get a number of improvements, including four new equipment packages which are very similar to those which are also available on the Alfa Romeo MiTo and the Alfa Romeo Giulietta hatchbacks. The names of the four packages available for the 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 are the TI Plus Pack, the Comfort Plus Pack, the Sport Pack and the Comfort Pack. Other improvements include new upholstery and trim options.

2010 Hurst Chevrolet Camaro Series 5

2010-05-10T08:08:00.001-07:00

Hurst Performance Vehicles, a company known for its highly collectible muscle cars, introduced its first-ever Supercharged PERFORMANCE SERIES HURST/Camaro during a press conference at the 46th annual SEMA Trade Show in Las Vegas.

The new HURST/Camaro SERIES 5 is finished Hurst’s iconic colors of white and gold with a twist; a light dusting of gold mica in the white and painted gloss black graphics with gold stripe detailing. Huge 20” X 9” and 20” X 11” black-chrome Hurst forged alloy wheels are unique to Hurst cars and are absolute dazzlers. The Hurst exclusive AIR-SPEED™ rear deck spoiler finishes off the exterior with a faster profile that can live up to the power under the hood..

Big horsepower is courtesy of the Hurst/Magnuson Supercharger and the Magnaflow polished exhaust system. The power is channeled through a Hurst Competition/Plus shifter and put to the ground through the Eibach suspension to the massive BFG KDW performance rubber. Just as you would expect, the interior is the standard of cool with HURST/Katzkin graphite leather with gold stitching and embroidered HURST logos, a real metal sequentially numbered interior dash plaque and logo-embroidered floor mats. These cars are available as both automatics and manual shift with both versions featuring a HURST gold anodized HARD-DRIVE™ pistol-grip shift handle.

2010 Skoda Fabia and Octavia RS+

2010-05-10T08:04:00.000-07:00

Škoda Auto is going to appear at the GTI tuning event at the Austrian lake Wörthersee over 12 - 15 May, 2010 with tuned Fabia RS+ & Octavia RS+ vehicles plus two Fabia Super 2000 race cars.

Designed by Škoda Auto designers, the display cars will be used to present special optical packets and colour adaptations based on self-adhesive foils. The Fabia RS+ concept is based on the Fabia RS. "The adapted version of the series-production car shows the potential and the characteristically pure and clear build of the Fabia's body, such as the separation of the roof by arranging the windows in a continuous line. The two-colour combination underlines the car's unique architecture - the green colour bears reference to our rally achievements and the unique connection with the S2000, the grey colour represents the vehicle's sporty expression and simplicity combined with design details", says Jozef Kaba?, Head of Design at Škoda Auto.

The Fabia RS+ has been designed specially for the Wörthersee event. Its clearly defined shape highlights the optical width of the Fabia RS+, its strong character and the high quality of the respective details. Special features include the headlamps and the radiator grille that give the car a sharp look. The front and the tail are fitted with black spoilers and diffusers, and the bonnet is decorated, for the first time in this model, with visible air exhausts. The interior, including sports seats, comes with new materials in the colours of this concept car.

"The Octavia RS+ has its roots in the successful series-production model. The objective of this concept car is to stress the attractiveness and unique character of the RS model line. While the two-colour paint and the adhesive foils underline the car's elegance, the spoiler kit highlights the sporty expression of this vehicle. The features that give the Octavia RS+ a striking look include black-tinted headlamps & integrated LED-based taillights, as well as new materials and colours used in the interior ", adds Kaba?.

Furthermore, Škoda Auto is going to present two Fabia Super 2000 race cars - the guides through this presentation will be two racers, Mattias Kahle who is supported by Škoda Auto Deutschland and Raimund Baumschlager of BRR (private team). The Škoda Fabia Super 2000 made its racing debut at the 2009 Monte Carlo Rally, representing Škoda Motorsport (factory team). The car became fully competitive already in its first year and celebrated several achievements as part of the factory team, as well as in the colours of private teams. Škoda Motorsport currently dominates the IRC series in both driver and brand standings.

2010 Porsche Tequipment Aerokit Cup Package

2010-05-10T08:02:00.000-07:00

Four new retrofit highlights from Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, are dedicated entirely to the spirit of sporting performance. Particularly the 19-inch Sport Classic wheels in the unmistakable look of Porsche's legendary Fuchs rims developed especially for the 911 Sport Classic built in a production run of just 250 units are an outstanding example of Porsche's history and a striking design feature of the 911 Carrera.

Re-interpreted in individual style, the wheels in five-spoke design with the rim star painted black, the wheel hump in gloss-lathed finish, and the Porsche logo in colour on the wheel hub, are a genuine eye-catcher. Introduced by Porsche for the first time in 1966, these unique wheels are now making an outstanding come-back. The new wheels measure 8.5 J x 19 ET 55 and come together with tyres in 235/35 ZR 19 (front) and, respectively, 11.5 J x 19 ET 50 with tyres in 305/30 ZR 19 (rear) on all current all-wheel-drive models of the 911 Carrera and Targa as well as the 911 Turbo at an all-in price per set of Euro 5,569.20 including VAT (cars with tyre pressure control Euro 5,866.70).

Another particularly sporting feature is the three-spoke sports steering wheel with gearshift paddles for the PDK transmission already well known from the new 911 Turbo. Starting immediately, this unique leather steering wheel with gearshift paddles behind the right and left steering wheel spokes carried over from motorsport is available at a price of Euro 940.10 including VAT also for individual retrofitting on all versions of the 911, Boxster, Cayman, and Panamera with PDK and, starting in August 2010, on the new Cayenne with Tiptronic S.a

2010 Audi R8 GT Picture Gallery

2010-05-05T05:23:00.001-07:00

Performance is even more acutely of the essence in the new Audi R8 GT, a distillation of the celebrated R8 V10 formula into an even more concentrated and potent form. Through an engine upgrade to 560PS, and the use of even more intensively weight optimized alternatives to many body and mechanical components, the 100kg lighter Audi R8 GT is able to deliver even more breathtaking pace and handling poise. A total of 33 examples of the most extreme road-going R8 to date will become available to order in the summer at an OTR price of £142,585.

2010 APS Audi R8

2010-05-05T05:22:00.000-07:00

2010 APS Audi R8

APS of Brackley, the award winning independent Audi specialist, is pleased to announce its appointment by VF Engineering of Anaheim, California, to act as UK sales concession for a new range of APS Audi R8 V8 supercharger conversions.

Designed to appeal to V8 APS Audi R8 owners desiring additional performance without the expense of the larger engined 5.2-litre variant, the VF Engineering upgrade is such an effective conversion that it out muscles the V10 version by a healthy margin.

2010 Chevrolet Captiva Price

2010-05-05T04:55:00.000-07:00

2010 Chevrolet Captiva

Large, luxury SUVs aren’t normally synonymous with value for money – spacious, sumptuous and stylish, they’re often the preserve of the seriously well-heeled. But for those who can’t run to the cost of a prestige-badged model, there’s now an extremely tempting alternative.
the Captiva LTZ becomes the flagship of the superb value Chevrolet range, alongside the new Spark city car and the high quality, stylish Cruze saloon – other new models that clearly highlight the direction of Chevrolet in the UK.

The new Captiva LTZ combines great looks, fabulous levels of equipment and Chevrolet’s iconic 100-year old heritage (it was, after all, the company that invented the SUV) with a price tag that’s most definitely not premium – at £27,305 for the manual (£28,630 for the auto), the LTZ is almost £20,000 cheaper than an entry-level BMW X5 or Range Rover Sport, yet wants for nothing in the standard equipment lists.

New Porsche 918 Spyder Sports Plug-in Hybrid Concept Revealed in Geneva

2010-04-21T07:14:00.000-07:00

Porsche has unveiled a striking concept car, the new 918 Spyder, at the special pre-show event in Geneva. The mid-engined sports car has introduced as the new “ecology vs. performance” issue.

The 918 Spyder “Super-Sports” concept is powered by both a 500-horsepower V8 and a pair of electric motors (one for each axle) producing an additional 218 hp or 160kW. On the ecological surface it is talented of 3.0 litres/100 kilometers (94 mpg imp / 78 mpg US) with just 70 grams of CO2 emissions per kilometer. That gives a combined power output of 528 kW (718 PS / 708 hp) resulting in a 0 to 100 km/h tear in just 3.2 seconds, top zoom of 320 km/h (198 mph), and a lap time on the Nurburgring Nordschleife in excluding than 7:30 record, which is closer than the Porsche Carrera GT.

Audi A8 Revealed at 2010 Geneva Motor Show

2010-04-21T07:13:00.000-07:00

Audi A8

ABT Sportsline tuner has unveiled a modified 2011 Audi A8 at the Geneva Motor Show. Project called as AS8 and features a new front spoiler, aggressive face skirts, a revised rear apron, and classy 20-creep wheels (21-inchers are also available).

What’s about performance, Abt tweaked the 4.2-liter TDI engine to products 385 PS (283 kW / 380 hp) and 880 Nm (649 lb-ft) of torque. This represents a modest fuel of 35 PS (26 kW) and 80 Nm (59 lb-ft), compared to the customary car.

2011 Volkswagen Sharan Introduced in Geneva

2010-04-21T07:12:00.001-07:00

2011 Volkswagen Sharan

The all-new Volkswagen Sharan MPV has introduced at the Geneva Motor Show. This is the third-generation model has become better than before. The car can be ordered from this month in European markets.

The 2011 VW Sharan measures 4.85 metres long, 1.9m broad but 1.72m lower. The wheelbase is 2.92m long. The car front end features styling such as the gloss black bars across the radiator grille, integrated chrome clips and a chrome VW logo. Optional bi-xenon light can be planned and they come with LED daytime operation lights.

Kia Sorento Review

2010-04-21T07:11:00.001-07:00

Kia Sorento Review

The new Kia Sorento went on sale in January 2010, but curiously, the all-new car was designed far from UK shores - but not where you might.

It started life at the Kia Design Studios in California far away from the gloomy winter we've just experienced. The Chief Designer Officer, Peter Schreyer was in charge of proceedings and his brief was to take into account the way that SUVs and their users have changed in recent years.

A little more urban and a lot less agricultural is what was required; not that the previous Kia Sorento resembled a tractor but did have more off-road capabilities the new version. So the new Kia Sorento has been re-designed from the ground up in order to appeal mainly to the 'Yummy Mummies'of this world while still retaining, to some degree, the towing and off-road capabilities, should they be needed.

The easiest way to please both groups was for Kia to offer the new Kia Sorento in both 2- and 4WD and with a choice of five or seven seats so it crosses over into MPV territory. And, in keeping it simple, Kia is offering an engine choice of just two; a 2.4 petrol unit and a 2.2 diesel, more of which later.

Ford Focus Mountune MP350 RS upgrade

2010-04-21T07:10:00.000-07:00

Ford Focus MP350 RS upgrade

With all 101 Ford Focus RS500 models snapped up by UK fast Ford fans within days of launch, Ford is responding to the intense customer demand with an officially-approved Focus RS performance upgrade kit.

Ford Focus RS owners can now give their ‘regular’ 305PS superhatch an extra 45PS and 20Nm of torque.

This allows those who could not secure one of Ford’s ultra-limited-edition, matt black RS500s to upgrade any latest-generation RS to match the power – if not the exclusivity – of Ford’s fastest-ever Focus road car.

Developed by Ford Team RS, in partnership with Mountune Performance (MP) and offering similar performance to the RS500, the MP350 RS upgrade will be launched through selected Ford dealers across the UK.

New Seat IBE Concept Revealed in Geneva

2010-04-21T07:09:00.000-07:00

The Seat IBE Concept has unveiled at 2010 Geneva Motor Show. The car has an impressive and freshly design, it also powered by an electric drive system with zero-emissions capabilities.

SEAT says the IBE Concept is expected at urban users which is very like the coupe shape. It’s 3.78 metres long, 1.8 metres wide and is 1.2 metres high. A set of four 19-creep wheels with low rolling resistance tyres are fixed. Full LED headlights characterise the front end while the two air intakes in the decrease bumper help with cooling the car.

Renault Laguna Coupe Monaco GP Limited Edition

2010-04-21T07:07:00.000-07:00

Renault Laguna Coupe Monaco GP Limited Edition

The Monaco GP limited edition version of Renault Laguna Coupé in pearlescent white metallic with black roof is available to order now for delivery in July 2010.

Beijing Auto Show Preview: Mercedes-Benz Shooting Brake

2010-04-21T07:06:00.000-07:00

Mercedes-Benz shooting brake.

Dating to the 2008 Paris debut of its ConceptFascination show car, whose styling presaged the current E-Class, Mercedes-Benz has demonstrated a keen interest in the brake body style, which in strictest terms is a coupe with a squared-off back.

At the Beijing auto show, which opens to the news media later this week, Mercedes will unveil its Concept Shooting Break, a car that owes little to its Paris predecessor and even less to its nominal inspiration.

Aside from the spelling tweak, which is consistent with French convention versus the more common, British “brake,” the Beijing car did not start life as a traditional two-door coupe, as is typical of the body style. Instead the Concept Shooting Break expands on the Mercedes CLS, a 4-door whose signature swept roofline has flaunted facile sedan/coupe labeling since 2004. That car’s D.N.A. is readily apparent in the Concept Shooting Break’s dramatic greenhouse arc and wraparound taillight array. The chopped greenhouse makes the beltline below the passenger windows appear remarkably high, creating a sinister if somewhat beefy profile stance.

What will likely inspire more debate, however, are the concept’s nose and tail, which also pick liberally from the Daimler family tree. The grille references the $200,000 2011 SLS AMG supercar, which in turn payed homage to the legendary SL gullwing racers of the early 1950s. The ample rear’s pedigree is less evocative, harking back to the R-Class crossover conceived under Daimler’s star-crossed partnership with Chrysler.

Motivating the concept is a forerunner of Mercedes-Benz’s new line of BlueEfficiency engines. The show car has a 3.5-liter, gas-burning V-6 rated at 308 horsepower.

2010 Ford Figo Best in Style

2010-04-09T23:51:00.000-07:00

2010 Ford Figo

Overview - Ford Figo - "Made For India" Hatchback

Ford unveiled its new small car "Figo" in September, 2009 in New Delhi with Alan Roger Mulally, Ford's president and chief executive, making a lightening visit to the country for the unveiling. And now Figo has been launched and will compete with the likes of Maruti Ritz, Hyundai i20, Honda Jazz & Skoda Fabia. The Ford Figo, a new nameplate and a fresh face on the Indian market, signals Ford's intention to compete in India's largest and most important small car market segment. Ford Figo is the result of a significant Ford investment commitment to expand its plant near Chennai for volume production as a small-car centre of excellence regionally.

Ford's $500 million investment has doubled the plant's production capacity to 200,000 units per year and introduces major advances in high-quality automation and innovative, eco-friendly production techniques. Ford Figo is designed and engineered to compete in India's small car segment, which accounts for more than 70 percent of the new vehicle market. It leverages Ford's small-car platform architecture, sharing underlying technology with the Ford Fiesta, already familiar to Indian drivers.

Design & Style Of Ford Figo

Design-conscious Italy inspired the new Ford Figo's name is colloquial Italian for "cool." From the front it is typical ford design - like we have seen in Ford Fiesta and Ikon in India - A big front air dam below the grille which gives Figo a very distinct & aggressive look. At the rear Figo it resembles "Fusion" a lot with high mounted vertical tail lamps in D-pillar. Ford Figo features a fresh, contemporary shape that will be a distinctive alternative to traditional brands in this segment. The design language conveys a dynamic spirit of energy in motion.

Quality, substance and generous proportions are clearly evident in the design of the Ford Figo, which features a solid stance, an invitingly large interior and a vibrant, youthful character. Its package is right-sized for the market, which is predominated by congested urban driving conditions. From its modern headlamps, grille shapes and sculpted bonnet of its distinctive face to the subtle integrated spoiler and chamfered window shape at the rear, Ford Figo is filled with kinetic design touches. These also include sculpted shapes to the body side - chiseled front fenders, a "comet tail" undercut in the doors and additional light-catching sculpting in the lower body side - which combine to communicate the solidity, substance and protective safety of its design.

The bold graphic of Ford Figo's large side window shape is another key kinetic design feature hinting at the comfort and spaciousness awaiting occupants' front and rear. The side window graphic is executed with a blacked-out B-pillar, an elegant design touch that unifies the side windows into one shape visually. With its wheels positioned at the four corners of the vehicle with minimal overhang, Ford Figo's bold wheel arches self-assuredly signal its agility and solidity. All in all Figo looks very muscular and much better that Honda Jazz, Skoda Fabia and Maruti Ritz. But Hyundai i20 still leads the B+ hatchback segment due to its awesome styling, three engine options, spacious interiors and loads of features to play with which makes it a value for money deal. Let's see if Ford India manages to replace the segment leader with all new Figo.

Interiors Of Ford Figo

Figo gets completely fresh interior package which means a brand new instrument panel, seats and trim. According to Ford insiders, the interiors will set new standards for small hatchbacks combining class-leading aesthetics and functionality. Built on the same 2498mm wheelbase as the Indian Fiesta and Ikon, the Figo has a similar amount of passenger space as its saloon siblings. Ford's Fusion has never been able to sell in good numbers even it was available in diesel. Ford bets very high with Figo and want to change the complete scenario in luxury small car market. Figo's interiors are very funky and colorful which looks very good and up to date in comparison to other cars in its segment.

All models feature a black-themed interior highlighted with red or blue accents. Door panels on the up-level models include cloth inserts with distinctive blue striping matching the seat pattern. On Zxi and Titanium models, consumers also will be able to choose a coral red coloured instrument panel option. The bold colour themes are inspired by India’s colourful traditions and taste. Black finish looks much better in comparison to red and also red shade reflects in the front windscreen in sunlight. The centre console of Ford Figo is silver in matte finish and EXi, ZXi and Titanium variants comes with factory fiited dahs integrated music system with four speakers. The top of the line variant "Titanium" also comes with Remote central locking, driver seat height adjustment, Bluetooth phone interface, ABS, EBD and Dual SRS Airbags.

New Chevrolet Captiva

2010-04-09T23:50:00.000-07:00

chevrolet captiva seat cover

new chevy captiva back view

chevrolet captiva front view

cool chevrolet captiva

chevrolet captiva sporty

General Motors AutoWorld fulfill their promise to issue a special edition of the Chevrolet Captiva which they named Captiva Prime.

2011 Ruf 911 RGT-8

2010-04-01T07:44:00.000-07:00

2011 Ruf 911 RGT-8

2012 Mercedes-Benz S-class / S550 / S600 Spy Shots

2010-04-01T07:41:00.000-07:00

2012 Ford Police Interceptor complete information with pictures

2010-04-01T07:39:00.000-07:00

The Blue Oval has released the first images of the 2012 Ford Police Interceptor as it was previewed in Las Vegas. The 2012 Ford Police Interceptor is based on the Taurus and will replace the current Crown Victoria.

The 2012 Ford Police Interceptor will be in service in two versions, a basic version and a high performance model for the highway patrol. The less powerful version of the 2012 Ford Police Interceptor will have front wheel drive and a 3.5-liter V6 engine while the performance model will have the 3.5-liter Ecoboost V6 engine and probably all-wheel drive. The highway patrol 2012 Ford Police Interceptor will probably have the same powertrain as the SHO.

2011 Kia Optima Full information and biggest photo gallery

2010-04-01T07:37:00.000-07:00

Kia is busy at this year’s New York auto show, debuting the redesigned Sportage, the new Forte hatchback, and the all-new Optima sedan detailed here.

While preliminary sketches suggested an Optima with a hot-rod chop to the roof, the production version has less-severe proportions and windows out of which people can actually see. Longer (by 1.7 inches), lower (by an inch), and wider (by 0.9 inch) than the outgoing car, the Optima forms a much more dramatic shape than the model it replaces, yet its shape is not as commanding as that of its platform-mate, Hyundai’s suddenly smokin’ Sonata.

If the shape of the Optima isn’t quite as sultry as the Sonata’s, the powertrains will be precisely as stimulating, because they’ll be shared. A direct-injection, 2.4-liter inline-four is the standard engine, available in the base LX trim with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic. A direct-injection, turbocharged four is the hot mill, with a whopping 274 horses from just 2.0 liters. Sadly, that engine will only be available with the automatic. And like the Sonata, the Optima will yield a hybrid option early in 2011. The suspension, too, is shared with the Sonata, with MacPherson struts, coil springs, and an anti-roll bar up front and a multilink setup with coils in back.

2012 Nissan Quest

2010-04-01T07:28:00.000-07:00

2011 Toyota Sienna and forthcoming redesigned Honda Odyssey, Nissan is working on the next iteration of its Quest minivan. Details are still sparse, but we do know that the next Quest will be on sale in early 2011. Until more info arrives, we have this teaser image which suggests a larger grille and narrower headlights than the current model.

The current Quest was too quirky for many buyers when first introduced in 2004; by 2007, Nissan engineers had redesigned it with a more conventional interior. Even so, the Quest was never a strong seller. It finished fourth out of five entries in our most recent minivan comparo, struggling in part due to its still-awkward interior ergonomics.

Porsche plans four-door Panamera convertible

2010-03-19T11:27:00.000-07:00

A series of European and U.S. patent applications obtained by AutoWeek show that Porsche remains committed to building a four-door convertible version of its flagship Panamera, despite recent comments from Zuffenhausen insiders indicating the car had been canceled.

The new car, depicted in official drawings that accompany the latest Porsche patent applications filed in February, eschews the two-door route taken by all of its upmarket rivals for a four-door body. The layout, without a traditional B-pillar, will require substantial stiffening to the Panamera's floorpan and bulkheads to ensure sufficient structural rigidity and integrity.

Although rumors have long hinted at an open-top version of the Panamera, it was thought Porsche had abandoned its original plans for a four-door in favor of a less expensive two-door variant with a shortened wheelbase. However, it appears those original plans are back on track at the behest of new parent company Volkswagen. VW boss Martin Winterkorn is said to be a big supporter of the new car.

2011 Ford F-Series

2010-03-19T11:12:00.000-07:00

Aside from being applauded for being the best-in-class diesel, the 2011 F-Series Super Duty is also getting raves for being powered by the 6.
7-liter Power Stroke V-8 turbocharged diesel engine that is B20 biodiesel compatible.

Ford said that customers appreciate the additional fueling option that uses blends of up to 20% biodiesel and 80% petroleum diesel. While the Super Duty was being developed, engineers put more than 10.3 million equivalent test miles on the new diesel engine, including extreme road and weather conditions.

2012 Honda Odyssey Concept

2010-03-13T01:36:00.000-08:00

The next-generation Odyssey adds sleek styling, new functionality and higher fuel economy to best-selling minivan

The Honda Odyssey Concept, on display at the Chicago Auto Show, introduces a sleek and distinctive exterior styling direction for the next generation of the industry's best-selling minivan, set to debut this fall, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced today.

The Odyssey Concept dramatically departs from conventional minivan styling with its low and wide stance, highlighted by a "lightning-bolt" beltline that further distinguishes the vehicle's profile. Compared to the current Odyssey, the Concept's slightly lower roofline (-1.0 inch) and wider stance (+1.4 inch) contribute to a sleeker, stronger and more dynamic presence with improved aerodynamics that help increase fuel economy. Forthcoming improvements to the production Odyssey's interior are designed to further enhance the current model's accommodating space for people and cargo.

Hyundai iflow Concept

2010-03-13T01:35:00.000-08:00

Hyundai iflow Concept

Hyundai has today revealed the first photo of the all-new concept car i-flow (HED-7), ahead of its international debut at the Geneva Motor Show next week. The i-flow, which advances the ‘fluidic sculpture' form language of Hyundai, will be joined on stage by other newcomers, including the facelifted i30 - to be launched as i30U - and a number of new, production-ready derivatives with CO2 emissions below 100g/km.

Previewing a future D-segment contender from Hyundai, i-flow boasts sleek, elegant lines which not only create a bionic, futuristic shape, but also contribute to exceptional aerodynamics. The drag coefficient of 0.25Cd helps to reduce the car's CO2 output to just 85g/km and fuel consumption to only 3l/100km.

Porsche 918 Spyder offers 718 horsepower, zero to 62 in 3.2 seconds, and 78 mpg

2010-03-12T00:52:00.000-08:00

A plug-in hybrid sports car with more than 700 horsepower that also gets 78 mpg? It’s real enough, though there is some smoke and mirrors in the performance figures. And not only did Porsche build it in just seven months, but it’s quite likely to put it on the market.

The car is the 918 Spyder, which debuted at the Geneva Auto Show last week, and it can travel 15.5 miles on its lithium-ion battery pack before a mighty 500-horsepower V-8 (sourced from the RS Spyder race car) kicks in. But didn’t I just say it had more than 700 horsepower? Yes, a pair of big electric motors produce an additional 218 horses. Porsche's Geneva theme was decidedly green, and here's a look at the cars on the company's stand, including the 918 Spyder:

Porsche uncovered the 918 Spyder concept at the Geneva Auto Show

2010-03-12T00:50:00.000-08:00

Porsche uncovered the 918 Spyder concept at the Geneva Auto Show last week, the automaker undoubtedly bear hopes of a positive response, leading to a potential production car. And that's exactly what seems to have happened.

"Frankly, we were pleased that we were able to keep it quiet, and a lot went into that," said Dave Engelman, a Porsche spokesman.

Mr. Engelman posted that his boss, Bernd Harling, Publicity Chief for Porsche in the United States, had undergo a nondisclosure waiver before having a glance at the 918.

In concept form, the 918 Spyder is revealed to be a plug-in hybrid that make use of two electric motors, a lithium-ion battery pack and one ofPorsche's RS Spyder 3.4-liter V8 ALMS race car engines to produce a total of 718-hp.

Keeping it a secret was another matter. "It's easier with in-house concept cars because you can tell only the few engineers who really need to know," Mr. Engelman said.

Lamborghini Gallardo LP 670 4SV

2010-03-06T19:50:00.000-08:00

Visitors admire a Lamborghini Gallardo LP 670 4SV at the public opening of the Geneva Motor Show in Geneva, Switzerland

Mercedes E-class cabrio automatic roof

2010-03-06T19:49:00.002-08:00

A visitor tests the automatic roof of the world premiere Mercedes E-class cabrio at public opening of the Geneva Motor Show in Geneva, Switzerland

BMW series 5 world premiere

2010-03-06T19:49:00.001-08:00

new BMW series 5 world premiere at the public opening of the Geneva Motor Show in Geneva, Switzerland,

Geneva Motor Show in Geneva

2010-03-06T19:48:00.001-08:00

Visitors enter the fair halls at the public opening of the Geneva Motor Show in Geneva, Switzerland, Thursday, March 4, 2010. About 250 exhibitors from 30 countries, showing 100 car premieres at the Auto Show until March 14.

Citroen world premiere DS3 at Geneva Motor Show

2010-03-06T19:47:00.000-08:00

A visitor inspects the Citroen world premiere DS3 at public opening of the Geneva Motor Show in Geneva, Switzerland, Thursday, March 4, 2010. About 250 exhibitors from 30 countries, showing 100 car premieres at the Auto Show until March 14.

Peugot BB1 e-car concept Geneva Motor Show

2010-03-06T19:46:00.000-08:00

Peugot BB1 e-car concept
Visitors look at the futuristic Peugot BB1 e-car concept at the public opening of the Geneva Motor Show in Geneva, Switzerland, Thursday, March 4, 2010. About 250 exhibitors from 30 countries, showing 100 car premieres at the Auto Show

Hispano Suiza Geneva Motor Show

2010-03-06T19:45:00.001-08:00

The new Hispano Suiza shows the trunk in the front at the public opening of the Geneva Motor Show in Geneva, Switzerland, Thursday, March 4, 2010. About 250 exhibitors from 30 countries, showing 100 car premieres at the Auto Show until March 14.

Geneva auto show

2010-03-06T19:43:00.000-08:00

The 80th Geneva Motor Show opened its doors to the public Thursday, offering a note of optimism and fun after two difficult years for the industry.

The hybrid revolution, however, remains elusive.

Among the stars of the show are Nissan's Juke crossover, Alfa Romeo's Giulietta hatchback and the Volvo S60 sedan.

German automakers Audi and BMW went head-to-head in the hot hatch segment, a European term for amped up subcompacts popular with younger style-conscious buyers.

Audi presented its A1, available in three and five door versions, as a direct challenger to BMW's Mini series and a big departure from its larger, more mature models. BMW, in turn, raised the stakes by building its biggest ever Mini, the Countryman, a four-door, all-wheel-drive version of the successful 1960s revival.

Show visitor Kevin Leutwiler from Switzerland said he admired the A1's aggressive, sporty style but added "it's not a car for a tight budget." The A1 retails from about euro15,000 ($20,460), which is still cheaper than the basic Mini Countryman starting at euro21,000 ($28,650).

The economic downturn in recent years has deterred many potential buyers from purchasing new cars, though scrappage incentives have helped ease the pain somewhat for automakers.

Most manufacturers are expecting a dip in European sales this year despite the economic upswing, due to the sudden end of cash-for-clunkers programs. The Italian and German markets, which were buoyed by schemes that saw the government pay incentives to drivers who traded in older, polluting cars for more efficient new models, are forecast to be especially hard hit. Some experts expect sales to drop by as much as 1 million in Germany, where 3.8 million cars were sold last year.

Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne told reporters at the show that the Italian market would be 1.7 million vehicles without the incentives, compared with 2.15 million in 2009. Incentives in Italy kept sales from plummeting last year, dropping just 0.2 percent from a year earlier.

5 by Peugeot Concept Unveiled Ahead : 2010 Geneva Auto Show

2010-02-25T00:28:00.000-08:00

The diesel/electric hybrid 5 by Peugeot concept, which was teased on Monday ahead of its public debut at the 2010 Geneva Auto Show, previews the upcoming Peugeot 508 sedan that is set to go on sale in 2011.

"The 5 by Peugeot concept car is another indication of the changing face of Peugeot and provides an insight into the marque's future ambitions in the large-luxury-vehicle segment," said Peugeot in a statement. It noted that the concept incorporates Peugeot's Hybrid 4 technology, which will be launched in 2011 in the Peugeot 3008. It is expected that the technology will also be used on the 508 sedan.

The 197-horsepower 5 by Peugeot gets a 2.0-liter HDi diesel engine coupled with an electric motor.

If the concept hints at Peugeot's future styling, it seems to emphasize jellybean-like lines. The grille is said to be influenced by the Peugeot SR1 concept car. The concept rides on 19-inch wheels.

Proton Hybrid Concept at 2010 Geneva Auto Show

2010-02-25T00:24:00.000-08:00

Malaysian automaker Proton will unveil a hybrid concept vehicle at the 2010 Geneva Auto Show that was created in cooperation with its British subsidiary, Lotus Engineering, and Italdesign Giugiaro. The car will be displayed on the Italdesign stand.

Lotus is providing the hybrid drivetrain technology, while Giugiaro handled the styling on the four-passenger five-door hatchback, which aims to create the interior space of a large family sedan with the exterior dimensions of a city car.

The Lotus series hybrid system is built around the company's 1.2-liter three-cylinder "range extender" engine that was unveiled at the 2009 Frankfurt Auto Show last fall. The engine does not drive the wheels but is used exclusively to recharge the battery and provide power for the electric drive motors.

Italdesign said the aim of its vehicle design was to "optimize the available onboard space and ergonomics."

Chairman Giorgetto Giugiaro said, "You could say that it is a brand-new type of car, a new automotive concept where looks are as important as function, ergonomics and comfort, not to mention environmental impact."

2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG test on ice

2010-02-17T22:25:00.000-08:00

2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Picture

Driving a 563-horsepower supercar like the 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG in the ice and snow should be easy, don't you think? No one else up here under the Northern Lights seems to be having any problems. It won't be like driving that Ferrari F430 Spider across Italy like I did a few years ago, or even like whipping that Ferrari 612 Scaglietti across India (with a roll of toilet paper in hand almost all the way), but it should be doable, right?
Our 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS rolls out of the truck dressed in bright red. The Mercedes engineers brought it to Kiruna for a final cold-weather systems check before production begins in March and now they're done. I've been tasked with driving the car 250 miles south across the Arctic Circle to the town of Arvidsjaur, which, in terms of latitude, is on a par with northern Alaska.

When I first saw the SLS on its stand at the auto show, I wasn't sure about it. The macho nose looked slightly at odds with the curvaceous rump, which itself seemed an awkward pastiche of the iconic Mercedes-Benz SL300 of the 1950s. But here in the wild, smeared in ice and snow, the Gullwing looks much more effective. The SLS might not have the flamboyance of the cartoonlike Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren — a car I've driven many times — but it still has plenty of impact and those gullwing doors are pure theatre.

Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, Turbo confirmed

2010-02-17T22:23:00.000-08:00

The 2010 New York Auto Show is just around the corner and Korean automaker has something special planned for the Big Apple. Delivering the news through Twiter, Head of Product Planning Scott Margason said to look out for the “2011 Sonata Turbo and Hybrid at the 2010 New York Auto Show.”

The 2011 Hyundai Sonata is currently on sale with prices starting at $19,195 for the base GLS model. Power for the 2011 Sonata GLS comes from a 2.4L direct-injected 4-cylinder making 198-hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. The 2011 Hyundai Sonata SE starts at $22,595 and is powered by a 2.4L 4-cylinder uprated to 200-hp.

2011 Toyota Sienna

2010-02-14T23:15:00.002-08:00

2011 Toyota Sienna – First Drive

Unique to the 2011 Toyota Sienna SE are a mesh grille, 19-inch Super Chrome wheels, aggressive front and rear fascias, lower side skirting, smoked taillights and lower-than-normal ride height.

2011 Toyota Sienna – First Drive

2010-02-14T23:15:00.001-08:00

Can a minivan be cool? Toyota seems to think so. By adding a sporty SE trim with unique interior and exterior design cues to the 2011 Sienna lineup, Toyota believes it can raise the minivan's admittedly geeky profile to something more hip.

Along the way, Toyota is also making the van more frugal, with an optional 4-cylinder engine, and more luxurious, with reclining second-row seats in the top version.

Now in its third generation, the new Sienna is certainly comfortable and convenient, but cool? That's in the eye of the beholder.

Model Lineup
For 2011 the Toyota Sienna will come in five trims: base, LE, SE, XLE and Limited. Front-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is available with the V6 engine on LE, XLE and Limited. Standard equipment on the base and LE grades includes tri-zone air conditioning, a 4-speaker AM/FM/CD stereo, an auxiliary input jack and 17-inch alloy wheels.

2011 Porsche Cayenne teased in Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid picture

2010-02-14T23:14:00.000-08:00

At the 2010 Geneva Motor Show, Porsche will show the new 2010 911 GT3 R Hybrid. Joining the new hybrid Porsche racer will be the 2011 Cayenne SUV, which is being teased through this new image of the 911 GT3 R Hybrid.

We’ve adjusted the picture’s contrast level so you can get a better look. Click on the thumbnail below to check it out.

2011 BMW 5 Series Diesel First Drive

2010-02-14T23:13:00.000-08:00

2011 BMW 530d Picture

2011 BMW 530d Picture

BMW hybrid boosts performance

2010-02-14T23:11:00.000-08:00

BMW's second gasoline-electric vehicle line, the 2011 ActiveHybrid 7 sedans, will go on sale this spring with starting prices of $103,125 (including freight) for the regular-length 7 model, and $107,025 for the long-wheelbase version, the 7L, the German luxury automaker says.

As with the $100,000-plus Lexus LS 600h, against which the ActiveHybrid 7 models will compete, the hybrid system in the BMW models is designed to enhance performance more than to boost fuel economy.

These sedans follow the introduction in December of BMW's first hybrid, the 2010 ActiveHybrid X6. It's a version of BMW's X6 “sports activity coupe,” which actually is a five-door sport utility vehicle with the low profile of a coupe.

The ActiveHybrid X6, which begins at $89,725 (with freight), features a 4.4-liter, 400-horsepower twin-turbocharged V-8 gasoline engine and a pair of electric motors, giving it a combined 480 horsepower rating. It comes with a seven-speed automatic transmission. BMW bills it as the most powerful hybrid vehicle on the market.

ActiveHybrid 7 sedans come with an upgraded version of the 4.4-liter twin-turbo V-8, rated at 440 horsepower by itself. It's combined with a single electric motor that boosts total horsepower to 455. An eight-speed automatic transmission is used in the sedans.

Read more: http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/topdown/detail?entry_id=57201#ixzz0faPw3xtm

Toyota Prius Review

2010-02-07T21:26:00.000-08:00

Two more weeks and the Toyota Prius long-term loan goes back home and already there is a sense of sadness building up. I’ve always been under the impression that in order to love a car, it must have a soul, character, flare and make you feel alive. Frankly, it doesn’t.

I’ve spent the last two weeks driving the Prius to and from Brisbane CBD morning and afternoon and I think I’ve finally realised that perhaps, I am actually attached to this car on more levels than one.

When I drove a Bentley Supersports a few weeks ago, I had that immediate sense of falling madly in love with a machine that made me feel like I was 12 again. It was a treat, everyone needs to feel like that every once in a while. Then I came back to Brisbane and jumped back in the Prius and to my surprise there wasn’t that sense of disappointment.

It’s a bit like this, you know how women say there are two types of men, the one type which is like a caveman, big, built and generally mostly used for a short romantic encounter, then there are the humble family men, you know the type, practical, loving, caring, etc etc. I think cars such as the Bentley fulfil the first criteria, they are Sunday cars, only because you love them more that way. The Prius, on the other hand, is the epitome of an everyday car. You can’t fault the bloody thing.

If I had all the money in the world I can assure you there would be a Prius i-Tech sitting in my garage (along side other cars such a Bugatti Veyron, Aston Martin V12 Vantage and an ABT tuned Audi R8).

So far the only things that have annoyed me with the Prius are the somewhat limited rear-vision due to the cars oddly shaped backside, the lack of native iPod support and the resulting distortion experienced through the auxiliary port and most importantly, the high pitch beeping noise it makes when you’re reversing (I know I am reversing, there is no need to remind me every half a second).

All minor issues to say the least. On the other hand, it’s one of the most comfortable cars I’ve travelled long distances in, it’s incredibly quite to the point that pedestrians don’t hear you behind them when you want to get past. It’s packed full technology that you absolutely cannot find in any car for a similar price.

I think Toyota should attempt to market the Prius to the gadget lovers as well as the environmentally conscious as it has enormous appeal from a technological point of view. You can read more about its technological features in my previous updates.

Toyota Prius Stained with Brake Problems Too

2010-02-04T02:47:00.000-08:00

Toyota admitted design problems with the brakes in its prized Prius, adding to the catalog of woes for the world's No. 1 automaker still reeling from a massive U.S. recall involving faulty gas pedals.

Toyota Motor Corp. spokeswoman Ririko Takeuchi said Thursday that Toyota discovered there were design problems with the antilock brake system and corrected them for Prius models sold since late January, including those being shipped overseas, The Associated Press reports.

According MarketWatch, Toyota Motor Corp. said Thursday it was aware of concerns about the safety of its Prius hybrid and that it has modified the braking system to address the issue, according to reports.

The statement was made by quality general manager, Hiroyuki Yokoyama, following the release of Toyota's fiscal third-quarter earnings, which showed an above-forecast return to profit against the year earlier period.

Dow Jones Newswires cited the executive as saying Toyota first heard about complaints involving Prius brakes from dealers last autumn. He said the braking system was revamped in January and denied the company had tried to cover up the problem, according to the Dow Jones report.

Japanese stocks fell, led by record- high trading in Toyota Motor Corp. as the world’s biggest carmaker faces its worst recall crisis.

Toyota, Japan’s largest company by market value, lost 3.5 percent with 56.5 million shares changing hands, five times the daily average of the past year. After the market closed, the company raised its profit forecast. Honda Motor Co., Toyota’s nearest domestic rival, rose 2.6 percent after boosting its forecast. Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group Inc., Japan’s largest listed bank, sank 2.7 percent after saying bad-debt charges rose, Bloomberg reports.

2010 Toyota Prius Best Hibrid Car

2010-02-04T02:44:00.000-08:00

2010 Toyota Prius Hibrid Car Show

2010 Toyota Prius Best Hibrid Car

2010 Toyota Prius Concept

Alfa Romeo Pininfarina Spider Concept

2010-02-01T08:57:00.000-08:00

A 2-seater spider on Alfa Romeo basis, which will be unveiled on March 2nd at the Pininfarina stand, thus starting the celebrations for the 80th anniversary

Pininfarina discloses the first official image of its new concept car, world debut on March 2nd at the Geneva Motor Show.

2011 BMW M3 Competition

2010-02-01T08:54:00.000-08:00

The M3 Coupe, Sedan, and Convertible models become 2011 models this spring . BMW ups the ante on the M3 Coupe and Sedan by offering a new "Competition Package" for MY2011. The package further enhances the highly responsive chassis by installing a 10mm lower suspension and 19" wheels with greater offset for a wider track. Combined with remapped Electronic Damping Control and Dynamic Stability Control systems, the M3 with Competition Package is the best handling production M car ever built.

The MSRP of MY2011 M3 Sedan, Coupe, and Convertible remain unchanged at $56,275, $59,275, and $67,925, respectively. All prices include $875 Destination & Handling. The Competition Package is available on the Coupe and Sedan models for $2,500.

BMW Sauber unveil C29

2010-02-01T08:53:00.000-08:00

The BMW Sauber team unveiled their new C29 chassis at Valencia on Sunday ahead of Formula One's first pre-season test.

Having taken back control of the team following BMW's withdrawal and yet, for now, retaining the German manufacturer's name, founder Peter Sauber was on hand as the Ferrari-powered car was launched.

"The last few months have been very intense for us," said Sauber. "First we had to battle to secure the survival of the team and then we focused on putting a strong set-up in place for the future.

"The technical preparation of the 2010 car has continued uninterrupted and according to plan since the spring of 2009, despite all the turmoil."

Owing to the ban on refuelling, the new car features a bigger fuel tank than before and also incorporates a 'double-decker' diffuser, which is set to become standard for F1 cars this season.

Like McLaren's new MP4-25, it sports a dorsal fin engine cover and is liveried in white and dark blue - albeit without major sponsor logos.

Chevy Volt to hit the roads

2010-02-01T08:51:00.000-08:00

The Chevy Volt on display at the Washington Auto Show. Chevy says it is gearing up to begin production this spring with mass production by November.
The company began manufacturing battery packs to go into the cars in recent weeks. The rest of the manufacturing supply chain is coming together so the factory will start assembling cars within a few months, he said. It will begin slowly, making preproduction models that will be evaluated for their quality and provided as test models for journalists and fleet customers through the Summer and Fall.

By November, GM will be ready to switch to high gear and begin mass production of cars for retail sale to regular consumers. Those early cars will be offered only in limited markets which the company feels are prepared to support the special requirements of an electric car, Posawatz said.

So far, California, Michigan and the Washington D.C., area are the only announced markets where the car will be sold, but Volt sales will open up to the rest of the country next year.

The Coolest Cars Detroit Never Built

2010-01-16T08:41:00.001-08:00

Photo: Michael Graham Richard

To Compete Against the Nissan LEAF, Tesla Model S, Ford Focus Electric, Etc..?
GM Vice Chairman Bob Lutz (yes, he's still around) said that GM would make a 100% battery-electric version of the Chevy Volt by removing the gas engine and expanding the battery pack. He wouldn't say when that will happen, but it's apparently "trivial" to do from a technical point of view (after all, the Volt is already a battery electric car for the first 40 miles).

Hottest cars from the 2010 Detroit Auto Show

2010-01-16T08:36:00.000-08:00

The Audi E-Tron Concept made its debut at the 2010 North American International Auto Show. It uses "two electric motors (versus four driving all four wheels on the previous concept), making a total of 204-hp and 1,954 ft-lbs of torque. The new design gives the vehicle a front/rear weight distribution of 40/60. Audi has also used its Space Frame technology to keep the E-Tron’s total weight down to 2,976 lbs," NAIAS.com reports.

2010 Renault Clio S Photos

2010-01-15T05:55:00.000-08:00

2010 Renault Clio S Photos

2010 Opel Corsa Color Race Edition

2010-01-15T05:52:00.000-08:00

Remember the glory days of racy-looking, muscular car outfits affordable for young drivers? Opel hasn’t forgotten them and spices up the new Corsa with an exclusive Color Race edition that features a winning checkered motif, along with a traditional, vibrant motor sport Sunny Melon Yellow color – as well as with Casablanca White and Magma Red. Corsa Color Race is available immediately in Germany starting at 15,560 Euros.

To keep its performance as exhilarating as its exterior, the Corsa Color Race boast significant chassis and steering improvements that start in the full Corsa range with the Model Year 10.5 and that improve comfort, handling and steering and keep the Corsa fun to drive.

The Corsa Color Race can be powered by a range of new engines that are at the same time powerful and fuel efficient – like the new 1.4 gasoline engine with 64 kW87 hp (only 5.3 l/100 km for the wide range version; 5.5 l/100 km when equipped with the close range gearbox) or 74kW100 hp (which only requires 5.5 l/100 km). The powerful 96 kW/130 hp 1.7 CDTI combines 300 Nm torque with a fuel consumption of 4.5 liter/100 km. All in all, the re-worked powertrains – the latest example of Opel’s pledge to focus on environmentally compatible solutions – offer higher torque while boasting up to 13 percent lower fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

The Color Race line fits the 3-door models particularly well, with its sporty contour and exciting, coupéish design. It comes with a standard black hood as well as side and tailgate appliqués with a checkered flag motif, black painted roof and black 17-inch alloy wheels. These racing accents coupled with the yellow, white, or red exterior lacquer turn every model into a winning combination. Especially in yellow, this bi-color look is reminiscent of such legendary sporty Opel models as the Rallye Kadett B Sprint from the early 70s.

The Color Race interior features special matching color highlights, like special seat stitching and vent bezels, a Panorama sunroof and a leather-clad steering wheel.

The Opel Corsa Color Race is also available with innovative technologies like halogen AFL curve and cornering lights and heated steering wheel.

2010 Tata Indica Vista Sport Concept

2010-01-07T10:32:00.000-08:00

The Tata Motors Group has unfolded the full scale of its product portfolio and the breadth of its technology capability with a display of 37 vehicles, from the Tata, Jaguar and Land Rover brands, at the Auto Expo 2010, which opened here today. Among them are three new Tata vehicles - the Tata Aria, the Tata Venture, the Tata Magic Iris - and the all new Jaguar XJ, which were unveiled by the Chairman of Tata Sons and Tata Motors, Mr. Ratan N. Tata.

In passenger vehicles, the Group's displays range from Jaguar luxury saloons and Land Rover SUVs to Tata Indigo Manza sedans, Tata Indica Vista hatchbacks, the Tata Safari, the Sumo Grande MK II, the Xenon XT, and two specially conceived Tata Nano cars. The Nano has been declared as the 2010 Indian Car of the Year (ICOTY). The Tata commercial vehicles range displays include a brand new Starbus platform, the Prima range of world standard trucks, CNG-fuelled truck pick-up vehicles, and a Winger-based special application.

Tata Indica Vista Sport: The Tata Indica Vista Sport, a concept, reiterates the versatility of the Vista platform. The flared wheel arch trims and accentuated fog lamp slots exude power. The carefully contoured bonnet flares and the black treatment on the Vista's distinctive petal-shaped headlamps assert its feline poise, made complete with a trendy aerofoil rear roof spoiler. The youthful Alphanso Orange body colour, contrasted with a dark shaded roof, highlights the car's sportiness, matched with ebony black interiors and black leather seats. Tata Nano for her, and for him: Demonstrating the Tata Nano's adaptability to customer desired look and personality, two specially conceived LX cars are on display. The Cocktail Red Nano, with attractive floral patterns on the door and the bonnet, is dressed for women. The theme has been replicated in the interiors too - on the seats, door pads and the centre console. It is also fitted with a stop-start feature. The second specially conceived Nano, in Wild Lime colour, will appeal to male sensibilities with interiors of leather seats and leather door pads. Being derivatives of the Nano LX, both are air-conditioned and equipped with electronic trip meter, music system, mobile charger point, central locking, tinted glasses, front power windows and fog lamps.

2010 Tata Magic Iris

2010-01-07T10:30:00.000-08:00

The Tata Magic Iris is a four-wheel small passenger carrier in the public transportation space. In keeping with the company's objective to offer safe and comfortable mobility, the Tata Magic Iris aims at upgrading the quality of travel for those who depend on three-wheelers.

Its spacious car-like cabin can comfortably seat four passengers - three at the back and one in the front beside the driver. The four wheels - either in options of 12-inch radials or 10-inch cross-ply - controlled by a steering provide car-like on-road stability, while the hard roof, made of sheet metal, provides car-like safety. In addition, car-like clear lens headlamps and tail lights also enhance safety.

The steering and the cable shift transmission offer car-like driving ease. The 611-cc water cooled diesel engine, backed by a 10-litre fuel tank, is capable of running larger distances with a top speed of about 55 kmph and yet higher engine life. With a power of 11.3 PS (higher than small three-wheelers), the engine provides higher pulling power, gradeability and faster trips, resulting in higher earnings for the operator. The aggregates ensure lower maintenance cost. With its bouquet of features, the Tata Magic Iris will be the ideal small passenger carrier which will upgrade both the quality of public transportation and also the income of their owners.

The Tata Magic Iris will be commercially launched during 2010.

The Ford Boss 302R Mustang

2009-12-27T23:04:00.000-08:00

Ford Racing introduces the BOSS 302R

That’s right, Ford Mustang fans–the BOSS is back! Many aftermarket players have sought to capitalize upon the classic Ford moniker with tributes paying homage to the original. Somehow, some way, the attempts at achieving the magic have been all but completely satisfying. To quote Mr. Clarkson…”Until now.”

Ford Racing just took us forward with a glance back at the magical past that was the BOSS 302 Mustang. The Mustang BOSS 302R is a complete factory-built race car, prepped for time trials in any imaginable circuit. Boy Racers beware; your wallets are about to take a trip down a path often feared taken. The BOSS 302R brings back 5.0 liters of American V-8 muscle and crams all those ponies into a tightly-knit, track-capable Ford Mustang. Keep reading to get the full scoop in the Ford Press Release.

2011 Ford Mustang GT 5.0 First Look

2009-12-27T23:03:00.000-08:00

2011 Ford Mustang GT Picture

For all the changes to the 2011 Ford Mustang GT, it sure doesn't look much different from last year's model.