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Spied: 2010 Audi A7

Pedrocas — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 18:54:15 GMT

:cool: :cool: :cool:

Jalopnik: Hardcore Ferrari 599

Psirus — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 17:30:46 GMT

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Is the Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano HGTE too tame for you? Ferrari is reportedly prepping a Ferrari 599 GTO combining 599xx-inspired looks, 700 HP and one classic name.

The Ferrari 250 GTO is revered amongst the Maranello faithful, meaning any 599 carrying the name needs power, style, and at least the illusion of exclusivity. Power should come in the form of the stock V12, which puts out a raucous 611 HP already, tuned to 700 HP. Style is said to be inspired by the wild 599xx Concept. And exclusivity? The GTO will probably be limited to just 500 units approaching $400K a piece.

Of course, all this is based on a report from autogespot saying Ferrari is taking pre-orders for a car named "Ferrari 599 GTO Limited Edition."

Considering mint GTOs go for over $5 million at auction, this is as close as your average millionaire may get.

Ferrari becoming interesting, me like.

Autoblog: REPORT: Citroen Revolte concept to enter production as DS2

argatoga — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 17:20:25 GMT

http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/r...uction-as-ds2/

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Sometimes we're happy when a concept car gets approved for production. This time around... not so much. According to reports from across the pond, the Citroen Revolte concept has been approved for production and will carry the DS2 badge when it arrives.

The concept car was unveiled a couple of months ago at the Frankfurt show, and suffice it to say, it wasn't exactly the best looking debut at the expo. Supposedly reviving the iconic 2CV, the Revolte concept certainly lived up to its name. The production version, meanwhile, is tipped to take on the DS2 nameplate as part of the French automaker's new premium line-up that started with the DS3 and is slated to grow with the inclusion of the DS4 (based on the upcoming new C4) and DS5 (based on – you guessed it – the new C5). Power for the DS2 is expected to come in the form of a range of three-cylinder gasoline and diesel engines when it hits the streets sometime around 2011.

The best we can say is this: At least it will remain far away from the States, as Citroen stays out of the North American market.

Fuck you Peugeot.

Autoblog: Fiat 500: Rally Car, Mini Ferrari, Touring Car Racer, and now...

MadCat360 — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 09:59:56 GMT

Endurance GT racer.

Via Autoblog

Quote:

Think you've seen the most hardcore 500 already? Sure, Abarth has churned out some pretty wicked versions of the retro-hatch, but even the 695 Tributo Ferrari and R3T rally machine can't hold a candle to the beast above.

Given the name, you might think this latest Cinquecento was the result of another collaboration between Abarth and its big sister companies. But this 500 is actually a product of independent racing garage Romeo Ferraris, which has rebodied the 500 in carbon fiber and fitted it with a wing that looks big enough to sustain a jumbo jet's flight path. If that's not bonkers enough, Ferraris has squeezed out an insane output of 360 horsepower from the Abarth's 1.4-liter turbo four. That's more than 257 horsepower per liter, and rivals even the similarly insane 427 Cinquecento from SEMA for pure lunacy.

Drivers Aldo Cerruti, Michela Cerruti and Mario Ferraris will be taking turns behind the wheel at the upcoming 6 Hours of Vallelunga endurance race on November 22. We'd suggest everyone else get the hell out of the way.

What's next? Dragster? Boat? Plane? Space ship? A Fiat 500 tank?

Rumour Mill: Is an upgraded Veyron actually coming for real this time?

CrazyRussian540 — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 09:54:28 GMT

I'm really sorry to bring this topic up again, but there actually is substance behind the claim this time.

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We’ve been speculating for a while about an up-rated Bugatti Veyron. We thought this might come this year, Bugatti’s centenary year, however this now looks unlikely. It seems that these dreams are not quite extinguished yet though. A LamboPower reader recently posted these pictures showing what looks to be a Bugatti Veyron attached to monitoring devices as well as a few choice details.

Bearing in mind that all info is purely rumours, were not 100% sure what this car may have been testing (or for that matter whether the pictures are current).

The rumours suggest that this car is to be called the Veyron GT or the Veyron Grand Prix. As the Veyron’s final variant it’ll be the most extreme packing an uprated power figure as well as an increased rev-limit and a lighter weight.

The figures touted for the engine are close to 1200bhp. As we’ve said, the increased rev-limit may account for a lot of this as Bugatti may hope to push the car to a top speed to a staggering 260mph (420kph). With the weight loss also rumoured to be around 150kg, the Bugatti could potentially shave some time from it’s 0-62mph (100kph) time as well.

We’re told that the bodywork will be completely carbon fiber, a mixture of the ‘Royal Blue’ bare carbon fibre seen on the Sang Bleu and a matt black exposed weave making up the second colour. Upgraded brakes and aerodynamics will make the car Bugatti’s finest hour.

As you can see from the photos, this Veyron is missing the engine casing which exposes two sensors which appear to be monitoring the engine. Inside the car there’s clearly a laptop and the hole in the front grille suggests another hidden sensor.

Our source suggests that the car may be released at next years Paris Motorshow. If this all sounds familiar your probably thinking of the rumours that were present before the Geneva Motorshow 2009. Hopefully these rumours hold more truth!

Something is going on over at Bugatti, whether its the Veyron GT or not.
Could be just testing for the 16C Galibier, although it seems unlikely that they'd use a Veyron mule for that.

Unveiled: 5 series revealed ahead of official unvieling

the 5tig — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 07:11:52 GMT

Auto express has received exclusive images of the new 5 series..and .... its not gone well..at least in my opinion. take a look

http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/news/au...h_5series.html

Rumour Mill: Peugeot's new baby coupé

Pedrocas — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 21:12:06 GMT

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Take a look at Peugeot’s new baby coupé! Auto Express has learned that the Lion is getting ready to roar into the small sports car market with this sensational 2+2, which boasts Ferrari style at an affordable price tag.

The newcomer will sit below the eagerly awaited 308 RC Z, which is due in the spring, and is part of a plan for the firm to place its sporting focus on coupés, following its decision to step out of the hot hatch arena. And this baby coupé is set to be an even bigger hit than the 205 GTi, going into battle with a head-turning line-up of forthcoming stylish-but-affordable models from Ford, Honda and MINI.

As you can see from our pictures – which give you the best idea of how the newcomer will look – it’s every bit as stunning as its RC Z bigger brother. What’s more, it marks a new design direction for Peugeot.

The front-engine, 2+2 layout creates a rakish bonnet and muscular rear haunches, while the swept back headlights and ‘double-bubble’ roof , which also appears on the futuristic BB1 concept, are both borrowed from the RC Z. But it’s the updated nose that will really get people talking.

Sources have revealed that Jean-Pierre Ploue, head of design at PSA Peugeot Citroen, has some radical styling ideas on the drawing board, and the dramatic one-piece front grille with a floating badge – much like the current crop of Ferraris – is a big part of it. Expect to see this new look, which takes over from the current split grille arrangement, introduced across the range over the coming years.

The new coupé sits on a front-wheel-drive platform from the next-generation Peugeot 207, which is due in 2011. It will be a more practical and driver-focused alternative to the coupé-cabrio variant, thanks to its larger rear seats and bigger boot. Expect a flagship model to boast the same 208bhp 1.6-litre turbo engine as the MINI JCW.

At the moment, Peugeot bosses are tight-lipped about the coupé, although a company spokesman told us: “We are looking at niche markets in which we are not currently represented.

“These will have sales volumes that allow us to make a profit. That’s where the RC Z and the 5008 people came from. We’ll certainly be replacing the 407 Coupé in time, and a new version is likely to be much more sporty.”

The competitors

Small coupés are big news! You don’t need big engines and a huge price tag to have fun, which is why pint-sized sports cars are making a comeback.

Take a look at this rash of new talent being readied by major manufacturers. Sporty hybrids, roadsters and more traditional small coupés are all on their way, offering customers low running costs with the thrills of models higher up in the range.

* MINI Coupe

The exciting Coupé concept manages to blend styling cues from the past, present and future. And with a 208bhp engine from the JCW, the two-seater should be quick, too.

With that neat floating roof and a stunning but practical cabin that offers 250 litres of boot space, the Coupé is set to be a big hit when it arrives in 2011.

* Prius Coupe

Inspired by the much-missed MR2, Toyota’s new hybrid coupé ticks all the right boxes; 0-60mph in seven seconds, 60mpg and emissions below 100g/km thanks to a specially developed version of the Prius’s Hybrid Synergy Drive powertrain.

Add in rear-wheel drive and a paddleshift gearbox, and it’s a recipe for a fun yet frugal experience.

* Honda CR-Z

It’s no stranger to hybrids, but this is the first time Honda has packed the technology into a desirable bodystyle. The CR-Z’s petrol-electric drivetrain features a 1.5-litre engine working with an electric motor to produce 130bhp and a top speed of 120mph.

Affordable, good looking and fast, the CR-Z is the sports car hybrid fans have been waiting for – and it arrives next summer.

* Nissan 200SX

Mazda’s MX-5 is squarely in Nissan’s sights, with this baby brother to the 370Z due in 2011.

The two-seater promises exhilarating pace from its 200bhp 1.6-litre turbo engine and is set to be a spiritual successor to the legendary 200SX – the definitive model for cheap rear-wheel-drive thrills, which left the line-up in 1998.

* Ford Puma

Production of the original Puma ended in 2001, and we’ve been crying out for a replacement ever since. With its superb handling and affordable price tag, it built a loyal fanbase.

Borrowing styling cues from the Fiesta and featuring powerful but frugal EcoBoost turbo engines, the new Puma should be ready to pounce by 2012.

AutoExpress

The front reminds me of the new Citroen DS3 and the back looks like something out of Hyundai Genesis Coupé.

:?

2010 Porsche 911 GT3 R for the FIA GT3 series

marcos_eirik — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 18:32:03 GMT

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2010 Porsche 911 GT3 R - New Racing car for the FIA GT3 Championship

Porsche has unveiled the successor to the 911 GT3 Cup S, the 911 GT3 R.

Designed to meet international FIA GT3 regulations, the GT3 R features a 4.0-liter six-cylinder boxer engine with 480 bhp (353 kW). Connected to a six-speed sequential ‘dog' gearbox, power flows to the rear wheels without interruption.

According to Porsche, engineers worked tirelessly to give the GT3 R better drivability and easier handling than the GT3 Cup S. In order to do this, they cut the car's weight to 1,200 kg (2,646 lbs) and increased the engine size by 0.2 liters (which adds 30 bhp). The company also improved the anti-lock brakes (ABS), revised the traction control system, and added an ‘e-gas' function with throttle-blipping.

Besides the performance tweaks, Porsche updated the exterior with wider wheel arches, a revised front end, and LED taillights.

Priced at €279,000 (plus local sales tax/VAT), the 911 GT3 R will go on sale in spring 2010.

Sauce....

Rolls Royce Mini?

Jacobfox — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 16:26:29 GMT

From Pistonheads:

Quote:

Rolls-Royce and BMW execs have confirmed the existence of a project to develop a bespoke luxury version of the BMW Mini, which will potentially be offered as the 'ultimate' option through Mini dealers.

One car - based on a JCW Mini - has already been prepared by the Rolls-Royce wood and leather workshops, and was shown confidentially to Mini dealers at their annual gathering earlier this year.

Unlike Aston Martin's Cygnet - a project to rebrand the Toyota iQ and thus help reduce the company's CO2 footprint, the Rolls-Royce trimmed Minis are not designed to be offered for sale via the R-R network. Indeed it has not even been decided whether the cars will carry any Rolls-Royce badging.
The project was instigated by Mini brand marketeers looking for ways to emulate some of the luxury kudos associated with the original Mini through the work of coachbuilders like Wood and Pickett and Radford.

No time-scale has been announced for the project, and Rolls-Royce says there's no imminent production plan - but that 'concept work' is ongoing.

Some images too:

Really, guys? Another faux luxury supermini? First the stupid little Aston Cygnet runaround. Then the ferrari fiat 500. Now this? Please, Rolls Royce, do NOT put your badge on this. It's fine if it's a mini-centric endeavor but the instant they slap a roller badge on this thing, my positive image of that company is going to be gone.

Autoblog: Billionaire buys $53 Million in Ford stock that you should have bought last year.

Blind_Io — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:44:58 GMT

http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/r...=Google+Reader

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About a year ago, when Ford's stock dropped to just above $1 per share, we had a total Ralph Kramden-style get rich quick epiphany. Take all our money and buy Ford stock. Why? Having driven Ford's new, excellent products (like, say, the 2010 Ford Fusion), we knew that barring some weird disaster, that its stock could only, would only rise. Talk about easy money – we'd just sit back and get rich(ish). Trouble was A) we didn't have very much money B) we... forgot to buy any Ford stock.

Now, billionaire with a B investor and philanthropist George Soros has lots of money. Tons, quite literally. So much, in fact, that his holding group bought 7.3 million shares of Ford stock yesterday. All in, those shares are valued at about $53 million. Because of Mr. Soros' confidence in Ford, the price of the company's stock shot up briefly over $9.00, before ending the day valued at $8.98 a share. All in all, it's up 3.1% since Soros said "go." Imagine if we would have sunk $1,000 or so into Ford back when the share price was $1.26 last November. Nearly $8,000 smackeroos of cold, hard, profit! Maybe next recession.

Things just keep getting better and better for Ford.

5,555,555th BMW 5 Series Production Milestone Reached

Kowalski — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 11:46:15 GMT

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BMW marked a milestone by building the 5,555,555th 5 Series car since the series launch in 1972. The particular 525d xDrive Touring in question will be donated to the Bavarian Forest National Park, the oldest such reserve in Germany. The 24,000-acre nature reserve was created in 1970 as a haven for nature. It hosts about 800,000 visitors per year and boasts such attractions as wild animal enclosures and more than 300km of hiking trails.

More:worldcarfans

This is Ford?

Paul_The_Aussie — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 04:24:16 GMT

Found this on another forum, very interesting info.

Quote:

Some interesting points from news about Ford's latest quarter and year to date....

While the hybrid car industry has declined in sales 14% this year in the US, Ford has increased hybrid sales by 73%. Sixty percent of Ford Fusion Hybrid buyers were not previously Ford car owners.

In September Taurus sales were up 60% from a year ago.

In the third quarter of 2009, Ford had the lowest TGW (Things Gone Wrong/1,000 vehicles) among all full line auto makers inculding Honda, Toyota, Hyundai, Kia, Nissan, Chrysler, and GM (highest initial quality).

Ford improved "Customer Satisfaction" 3% to 80%, trailing only Honda (82%), and Toyota (81%). This 3% year over year improvement is unrivaled by any full line manufacturer.

Ford's TGW's have dropped for 5 consecutive years from 1,960/1,000 in 2004 to 1,206/1,000 in 2009.

Milan, Sable, Taurus X, Super Duty, and Mountaineer are all segment leaders for TGW's. (You may remember in another thread I pointed out how a journalist singled out the Fusion as being a "best" car but is built in Mexico rather than in the US by the UAW. Well, all these vehicles, except for the Milan, are built in UAW plants in the US. I told you that journalist cleverly left them out.)

Ford Taurus, Lincoln MKT earned "Top Safety Pick" from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and Ford continues to have more "Top Safety Pick" ratings than any other auto maker.

As of the end of September, Ford reduced Automotive Structural Costs by $4.6 billion, exceding the calendar year goal of $4 billion and is expected to total $5 billion by year's end.

Here's a good video with spokesman Mike Rowe, of the TV show "Dirty Jobs" (where he goes and performs someone's "dirty job" for a day getting filthy, like regular hard working people do), touring the Chicago Assembly plant where the Taurus is built. It highlights one particular aspect of assembly I've been wanting to tell you about that REALLY is responsible for a lot of the improvement in quality, yet it is only ONE of the many many changes. It is technology and thinking.....and making quality happen.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=52Vy...player_embedded

Unveiled: Great news, everyone! It's the new Dacia Duster Trophee Andros!

Pedrocas — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 20:11:07 GMT

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Dacia Duster Trophee Andros

Dacia has chosen to base its challenge in the 2009/2010 Trophée Andros ice-racing season on the so-called 'Silhouette' category. All the circuits visited by the Trophée Andros put reliability to the ultimate test, and this will give Dacia a chance to showcase the fact that robustness forms an integral part of the brand's DNA. The discipline also places a cap on excessively complex and costly technical solutions, while the chassis, gearbox and tyres, for example, are all carefully governed by the regulations, forcing teams to explore simple, ingenious solutions, an approach which totally fits the Dacia spirit.

Dacia's newcomer will get its first taste of ice racing in the hands of Alain Prost, with the brand seeking to spring a surprise by using the campaign to premiere Dacia Duster, the lines of which preview the 4x4 model that is due to go on sale in 2010. Dacia Duster's high body line and prominent wheel arches are clear pointers to its 4x4 credentials, while the bodywork of the competition version is perfectly suited to the specific demands of the Trophée Andros. The extensive front glazed surface area and the positioning of the windscreen pillars ensure outstanding forward and lateral visibility.

The Dacia brand has forged a reputation for challenging established thinking in the automotive world, delivering all the essentials… at just the right price.

The Trophée Andros stands out as one of motor sport's most exacting disciplines. In ice racing, the track conditions can change very quickly as a result of prevailing weather conditions, and driving calls for precision, rigour and race-craft, three qualities which all come naturally to a champion of Alain Prost's calibre. Speaking about his latest challenge, Alain Prost said, "I am delighted to be driving the Dacia Duster. It is a brand new vehicle, and I am proud to be able to play a part in its promotion to the unusual backdrop of the Trophée Andros. Thanks to the work put in by Renault Sport Technologies, I have every confidence in Dacia Duster's potential and reliability, which together point to an extremely exciting season."
Dacia Duster Trophee Andros

DACIA DUSTER PREPARED BY RENAULT SPORT TECHNOLOGIES

Over and above driver talent, the cars that contest the Trophée Andros undergo specific preparation.

The competition version of Dacia Duster has benefited extensively from the motorsport expertise of Renault Sport Technologies. Its glass-fibre body conceals a tubular chassis which houses a three-litre, 24-valve V6 engine from the Renault-Nissan Alliance range. This powerplant has been carefully tuned in order to optimise its performance potential at the high altitudes at which the races will be held. It delivers peak power of 350hp at 7,500rpm and maximum torque of 360Nm at 5,500rpm. The six-speed sequential gearbox ensures fast, precise gearshifts, even when drifting through corners at full speed. The mid-engined layout offers perfect weight distribution, whilst the low centre of gravity ensures enhanced control.

The double wishbone suspension and long-travel dampers have been specifically engineered to allow Dacia Duster to take in its stride the different conditions it will encounter during the Trophée Andros campaign. The competition version of Dacia Duster is equipped with limited slip differentials which are indispensable for the extreme conditions. This feature, which is also seen on other Renault Sport Technologies-developed competition and road cars, ensures efficient traction irrespective of the road surface, driving style or type of corner. The competition version of Dacia Duster also incorporates a four-wheel steering system for complete cornering control. This mechanical system links the front and rear wheels, and can be rapidly adjusted to meet the demands of each circuit.

DACIA DUSTER COMPETITION CAR - TECHNICAL DATA

* CHASSIS
o Tubular steel chassis
o Double wishbone suspension, front and rear
* ENGINE
o Renault-Nissan Alliance VQ 30
o Position: mid-engined
o Six cylinders (V6)
o Number of valves: 24
o Cubic capacity: 2,987cc
o Bore x stroke: 93mm x 73.3mm
o Maximum power: 350hp at 7,500rpm
o Maximum torque: 360Nm at 5,500rpm
* TRANSMISSION
o Six-speed SADEV sequential gearbox
* BRAKES
o Front: 260mm-diameter ventilated steel discs
o Rear: 265mm-diameter steel discs
* WHEELS
o 5.5" x 16" (magnesium)
o Tyres: Continental Racing Contact 3
* DIMENSIONS / WEIGHT
o Length: 4,001mm
o Width: 1,900mm
o Front/rear track: 1,690mm
o Wheelbase: 2,500mm
o Weight: 950kg
o Fuel tank capacity: 25 litres

http://www.netcarshow.com/dacia/2010...rophee_andros/

:cool: :cool: :cool:

Autoblog: The Pantera to return in 2011

Blind_Io — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 16:16:09 GMT

http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/r...=Google+Reader

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We're working off a machine-translated web page, so bear with us, but it looks like legendary Seventies marquee De Tomaso is being resurrected once again. This time by a wealthy Italian industrialist named Gian Mario Rossingnolo. Looks like Signor Rossingnolo has already purchased a Pininfarina factory in which to build the new De Tamasos, and tried (unsuccessfully) to rescue Bertone earlier this year.

The big question is what are they going to build. Well, the ambitious-sounding-to-our-ears plan is to build 8,000 aluminum-bodied cars per year. And they are to be prestige cars, to better take advantage of the De Tomaso brand. As for specifics, Rossingnolo is planning on a luxury sedan, a coupe and an SUV. The cars should make an appearance at the Geneva Motor Show the year after next. Here's hoping one named Pantera shows up with Ford's supercharged 5.4-liter V8 mounted behind the driver.

No, Lincoln, No.

FleeceLINER — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 08:39:57 GMT

http://www.6versus8.com/showdown/int...N3016.Primedia

Lincoln and their fuckin' gimmicks. Tested at altitude? The 550i, E550, Quattroporte, and the XF are all NA, while the MKS is FI.

This speaks for itself...

Note how they didn't test the new Turbo A6 (and I'm guessing the S6 with upwards of 400 hp would have destroyed the MKS.) The XF wasn't supercharged, either.

Also, they never clearly show the V8's taking the corners - it's just choppy cinematography/an attempt to disguise how fast they're really going. And why does only the Lincoln MKS evoke tire squeal when compared against the likes of the XF?

1. To make the car seem faster?
2. Shit tires?
3. Biased driving?

Now, the MKS is a great car and all, but a V6... Speaks economical. V8 speaks castration. Also, these videos made me remember why BMW is the shit.

EDIT: You can't even tell if the MKS is running on slicks, for all we know.

Unveiled: 2010 FIAT Doblo

Pedrocas — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 22:07:42 GMT

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Fiat Doblo

A space to be shared with family and friends: a liveable space for people who travel and love to be in company; for people who choose the Fiat Doblò as a partner for leisure or work.

A vehicle designed to meet a need for functionality and comfort that makes the most of interior space and can accommodate up to seven people. An authentic 'family space' that can rely on top-class safety, economy and respect for the environment.

Compared to the previous version that sold approximately one million units, the new model has been completely revamped in terms of style, engines and technical specifications. These aspects make the new Fiat Doblò the "best in class" both in terms of space and in terms of reduced emissions.

All this has been achieved through the use of a new platform, more passenger space (with a wheelbase of 2755 mm, the biggest in its segment), a roomy 790 litre luggage compartment, reduced CO2 emissions (129 g/km with the 1.3 Multijet 90 HP engine, the lowest in its category), standard safety features and highly modular interiors with seats that can be folded and tilted.

Style and comfort

The look is very cutting-edge. With a central shield and side bumpers that are perfectly integrated with the body, the front end blends protection and sophistication while the pronounced wheel arch and sloping shoulder contribute to the vehicle's strong and agile look. The tailgate's essential lines emphasise the accessibility and size of the generous load compartment; clear, sparkling light clusters and expanses of glass give the new Fiat Doblò a touch of elegance.
Fiat Doblo

The interiors have also been designed to offer functionality and create attractive, welcoming environments through combination of colours, materials and trims.

Smart solutions for the best use of on-board space, such as a range of storage compartments and flexible interiors, offering up to 7 places, will satisfy the needs of those who make the Fiat Doblò a car to be enjoyed with family or friends.

Environment and economy

The Fiat Doblò will offer 4 power units at its launch: a 95 HP petrol engine and three diesel Multijet engines, 90, 105 and 135 HP, which will later be joined by a Natural Power engine with dual fuel system (petrol and methane) and an additional diesel engine with Dualogic robotized gearbox.

All units are lively and offer smooth torque delivery. They are remarkable for driving satisfaction, excellent performance, low noise levels, low operating costs (fuel consumption and maintenance) and also for their reliability and eco-friendliness.

The range is available with Euro 4 and Euro 5 versions and offers a Start&Stop device as standard, which cuts off the engine temporarily when the car is stopped to guarantee reduced fuel consumption and emissions.

Safety

To ensure optimum dynamic behaviour, comfort and active safety in all road surface and load conditions, the vehicle has been equipped with innovative mechanical features including a bi-link rear suspension system available with various component calibrations depending on vehicle application. The Fiat Doblò's consistent and predictable road-holding is also guaranteed by the use of state-of-the-art electronic devices for stability control, namely ABS with electronic brake force distribution EBD and, above all, ESP complemented by a hill-holder system that helps the driver during Hill starts and comes as standard on this model.

The vehicle has been designed and built to achieve the highest levels of passive safety, due to a body with crumple zones, front air bags and innovative front side bags. The latter offer protection for both head and chest.

The vehicle also offers technical solutions and equipment that create optimum comfort conditions and help keep attention on the road: these include an automatic climate control system with distribution to rear seats, cruise control, parking sensors, a built-in Blue&Me hands-free system and a "Blue&Me TomTom" navigator.

http://www.netcarshow.com/fiat/2010-doblo/

Also, the cargo version:

Quote:

Fiat Doblo Cargo

The new Fiat Doblò is joined by the new Fiat Doblò Cargo which has been designed to take its place at the top of its category in terms of performance and functional characteristics. It offers a more roomy load compartment than the previous model: square, regular, fully exploitable and equipped with sliding side doors and generously-sized rear doors to make light work of loading and unloading operations. Record-breaking statistics (interior length up to 2.2 metres, width between wheel arches of 1.23 metres, volume from 3.4 to 4.2 cubic metres, payload from 750 to 1000 Kg, combined fuel consumption of 4.8 litres/100 km and range of 1250 Km with the 1.3 Multijet engine) ensure that the new vehicle can offer substantial benefits in terms of optimisation and reduction of running costs.

The range finds expression in 7 different body types: short and long wheelbase van, high top van, short and long wheelbase 5-seater combi; a particularly appealing and brand-new short and long drop-framed version can be easily and cheaply converted for specific trades (refrigeration chambers, fixed and tilting flatbed trucks).

http://www.netcarshow.com/fiat/2010-doblo_cargo/

:cool:

General Toyota lawsuit/recall/problem thread.

Blind_Io — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 21:07:09 GMT

With everything going on with Toyota these days, I thought it would be a good idea to have a catch-all thread for it (similar to the American Leyland thread).

Toyota: "There's nothing structurally wrong with our cars, it's floormats! But we are fixing the gas pedal anyway."

http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/15/t...=Google+Reader

Quote:

While Toyota maintains its position that recent accelerator issues have only to do with floor mats, the company has reportedly agreed to "make changes to gas pedals in certain U.S. models under an agreement with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration." That means that 3.8 million Toyota products – among which are the Camry, Avalon, Prius, Tacoma, Tundra, and Lexus IS250, IS350, ES350 – will be recalled to address the accelerators.

With negotiations said to be ongoing between the NHTSA and Toyota, the automaker hasn't said what those changes will be, nor has it stated exactly when the recall will begin. According to Reuters, Toyota has a $5.6 billion slush fund to pay for recalls so the repair costs, while sure to be intergalactic, shouldn't affect earnings. The company can only hope now that the rumors, current lawsuits, other current lawsuits, yet-to-be-filed lawsuits, and the 24-hour news cycle don't do the kind of damage that is much worse than merely financial.

Rumour Mill: Ford Shelby Mustang with an EcoBoost V8.

CrazyRussian540 — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 00:49:41 GMT

Quote:

Here's one we've been hearing rumors about for quite a while – an EcoBoosted V8 Mustang. Put another way, a twin-turbo, direct-injected, V8 Shelby GT500. The first rumor we heard was about a twin-turbo 50th Anniversary Edition 2014 1/2 Mustang, which would be the very definition of the word "Sweet!" We asked about this mythical car point blank to several fairly high-ranking Ford execs, only to be stared back at in silence. Although one dude – who shall remain nameless – did crack a knowing smile and asked, "Who told you that?"

Regardless of our shoddy scooping, The Detroit Bureau's Paul Eisenstein is now claiming that according to several unnamed sources, Ford is considering such a beast of an engine. Good idea? We think so. Not that there's much wrong with the GT500's current supercharged 5.4-liter monster, especially as it's pretty underrated at 540 hp. But it is a little long in the tooth being essentially a ten-year-old Ford GT power plant with a couple of changes. Not that current GT500 owners care, but at full clip, the Shelby gets... how to put this kindly... abso-fricking-lutely abysmal mileage.

We also know that while the current Taurus SHO's EcoBoost V6 makes an impressive 365 ponies, 600 horsepower is there for the asking (a little tuning, sure, but the engine can do it). With that in mind, can you even imagine the levels of sound and fury a twin-turbo V8 could unleash? Eisenstein doesn't mention it, but Ford wouldn't be slapping turbos on the old 5.4-liter or the older 4.6-liter modular engine. The EcoBoosting would be applied to the new 5.0-liter Coyote V8. When General Motors introduced LS3 V8 a few years back, it was noted by many that the intake manifold looked suspiciously like it was designed with forced induction in mind. We've heard similar rumors about the Coyote.

http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/r...-the-pipeline/

According to wikipedia, engines equipped with EcoBoost technology are designed to deliver power and torque consistent with larger displacement, naturally aspirated engines..... so, an EcoBoost V8 :drool:!!

Koenigsegg reportedly rejects 81 out of 218 U.S. Saab dealers and we survive

British_Rover — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 00:46:55 GMT

Quote:

According to Automotive News, Federal Express letters arrived at 81 of Saab's 218 dealers on Thursday stating that their franchises had not been selected to move forward and become a dealer for the post-sale entity, Saab Cars North America. The package from General Motors said that Swedish supercar maker Koenigsegg, Saab's buyer, had selected only certain stores based on its business plan requiring strong, well-located dealers showing profits and high volume.

All Saab dealers signed termination agreements in June when GM entered bankruptcy. The dealers who received reject letters today will follow the terms of those agreements. Meanwhile, the remaining 137 U.S. Saab dealers will have to wait patiently until the end of November when the sale is scheduled to close (although those close to the deal say it may take longer). Current Saab dealer contracts with GM will not expire until October 2010, at which point the remaining dealers will sign new franchise agreements with Saab Cars North America.

http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/k...-saab-dealers/

We got our letter yesterday that we were one of the surviving dealers along with our closest competitor across the river.

We have been in the top 10 nationwide in new car SAAB sales for the past few months and it finally paid off.

News: Shanghai 2009: Roewe MG6 may bring Rover back to UK in big way

Pedrocas — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 23:19:06 GMT

Quote:

Nevermind the sordid tale that led us to the point where a Chinese automaker debuts a new model for a storied British brand. Instead, just look at the Roewe MG6 and know that things seem to be working out. Based on the unassuming Roewe 550 sedan, which itself is based on a shortened version of the old Rover 75, the MG6 Turbo is a four-door fastback that will likely make its way to England as the first new model from the Chinese-owned automaker. The styling is reminiscent of the Lexus GS with an angular front end that highlights the big MG badge. Its sharp, attractive and more Euro-looking that in its Asian design roots might suggest.

While Rovers will never be called Rovers again thanks to SAIC failing to secure the naming rights when it purchased England's most famous failed automaker, the MG6 proves they aren't wasting the platforms.

http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/20/s...uk-in-big-way/

:|

Rumour Mill: Volvo V60

Pedrocas — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 23:17:11 GMT

Quote:

Yesterday we heard news that Ford’s preferred bidder for Volvo, China’s Geely, has ambitious plans to boost the Swedish automaker’s sales to the one million mark within five years and is planning up to three new models in order to do so.

This same week we also saw the new 2010 Volvo S60 sedan in production trim for the first time, which brings us to our latest tidbit of Volvo news--a computer generated rendering of a possible (and likely) V60 wagon.

Based on the same platform as the S60, the new V60 wagon is expected to debut late next year as a 2011 model and follow in the footsteps of previous Volvo wagons like the V40, V50 and V70 lines. It would also serve as a more stylish rival to other premium wagons like the BMW 3-Series Touring, Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate, Audi A4 Avant and the upcoming Acura TSX Sport Wagon.

Powertrain options will almost certainly be shared with the S60. One option is likely to be a new 1.6-liter gasoline unit with turbocharging and direct-injection technologies--a spinoff of a Ford EcoBoost mill.

Previewed in concept form, the tiny engine develops a peak output of 180 horsepower and a fuel economy rating of 47 mpg. Drive will be sent to the front wheels via Volvo's PowerShift 6-speed dual-clutch transmission, and an all-wheel drive variant should also be available.

motorauthority

:cool:

News: Mitsubishi's 2010 Model Year Outlander

Pedrocas — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 21:00:15 GMT

Quote:

Mitsubishi's 2010 Model Year Outlander Reveals Aggressive Styling and Upgraded Features

Mitsubishi Motors Australia Limited (MMAL) is pleased to announce the arrival of the 2010 model year Outlander featuring a distinctive and aggressive styling make-over which includes the company's trademark "jet fighter" grille, and a host of new comfort, convenience and safety appointments. Improvements to the Outlander's engineering include the addition of Hill Start Control to automatic transmission models and Super All Wheel Control to V6 models.

MMAL's president and CEO, Robert McEniry, said the 2010 Outlander's flexibility and versatility is perfectly suited to an active lifestyle.

"The new Mitsubishi Outlander is squarely targeted at couples and young families who are on-the-go people who are focused on wringing every last second of enjoyment out of life.

"You can throw your surfboard or mountain bike in the back, plug your iPod into the USB port, and you - and up to six of your friends - can go places you've never been in comfort, style and safety," McEniry said.

The big story for the 2010 Outlander is the thoroughly "next generation" styling, inspired by the outstanding Mitsubishi Outlander GT Prototype displayed at the 2009 New York International Auto Show. The front grille design is taken from the Lancer Evolution's "jet fighter" look and is complemented by contemporary design elements, such as a reshaped front bumper, side mirrors, fenders and bonnet. Reshaped headlamps, a new rear bumper and side sills complete the slick sports styling.

Complementing the exterior changes, the Outlander interior design has been freshened with the addition of new seat, door and dash trims, grained leather to premium models, double-stitching, chrome accents and a brilliant new instrument cluster. Additional Lancer-Evolution-inspired design cues include available aluminium racing style pedals and a sport-type steering wheel.

Technological upgrades for the new Outlander include the addition of Mitsubishi's acclaimed Super-All Wheel Control system (S-AWC) to V6 models, improvements to power delivery and fuel economy, the addition of Hill Start Control (HAC) for all CVT and automatic models and USB inputs for audio (where Mitsubishi's Multi Communication System or MMCS is not fitted).

Merging Mitsubishi's experience in off-road and rally racing with production car development, the V6 Outlander features the revolutionary Super-All Wheel Control (S-AWC) system. Beyond simple four-wheel drive, S-AWC is a comprehensive system that improves handling, traction and stability. Using a first-in-class active front limited-slip differential and an electronically controlled four-wheel drive coupling, S-AWC can prevent wheel slip between front to rear and side-to-side, providing greater traction through all types of terrain and inclement weather, including ice, snow and rain.

The 2010 model year Outlander continues with two tried and trusted engine choices. First, the 2.4-litre DOHC 16 valve MPI MIVEC engine provides peppy, yet frugal motoring for drivers with a keen eye for economy and generates 125 kW of power @ 6,000 rpm and 226 NM of torque @4,100rpm. The 2.4-litre engine is mated to a five-speed manual transmission or an optional continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) with Sports Mode sequential style shift changes and INVECS Smart Logic.

Drivers with a need for speed will choose the powerful V6 3.0-litre SOHC 24 valve MPI MIVEC engine which generates 169 KW of power @ 6,250 rpm and 291 Nm of torque @ 3,750 rpm. The V6 benefits from improvements to the all-aluminium engine, including a reduction in intake restriction plus optimised camshaft timing and compression ratio. These changes raise the maximum output by a modest 7 kW, but, importantly, also contribute to an improved torque curve for more responsive city driving and improved fuel economy and emissions.

The 3.0-litre V6 engine is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with Sports Mode sequential style shift change and INVECS Smart Logic.

The 2010 model year Outlander offers a comprehensive line-up of variants, with the 2.4-litre version available in three specification levels, the LS (manual or CVT), XLS and the XLS Luxury option (these last two with CVT only). The 3.0-litre V6 version offers two specification levels, the VR and the VRX (V6 versions with six-speed automatic transmission only). All variants carry over relevant braking and suspension technology from the previous model.

Socially active Outlander owners will appreciate the inclusion of an optional third row of seats with one-touch roll-away function, available on LS CVT versions only.

Safety is a focus of the 2010 model year Outlander, with all models featuring driver and front passenger dual stage SRS airbags, active stability control, ABS with EBD and RISE body protection and three-point ELR seatbelts. Side and curtain airbags are available on all models – optional on the LS and standard on all other variants.

Other safety features available on XLS, XLS Luxury and VRX variants include HID headlamps with Adaptive Front Lighting System which includes automatic levelling, and reverse parking sensors, while the XLS Luxury and VRX variants add a rear view camera.

Specification levels for the 2010 model year Outlander underline Mitsubishi's commitment to providing exciting, highly appointed vehicles at exceptional prices.

Entry level LS (2.4-litre engine) variants come with all the standard appointments carried over from the previous model, including air-conditioning, electric windows, remote-control locking, and add Hill Start Assist, two-speed variable and intermittent wipers, USB ports, new instrument panel, new interior finishes, welcome and coming home lighting and new synchronised washers. Options for the LS variants include side and passenger airbags and seven seats.

XLS (2.4-litre engine) variants add 18-inch alloy wheels, Smart Key remote entry, new premium cloth trim, automatic air-conditioning, aluminium pedals, cool/warm box and Bluetooth 2.0 functionality, while XLS Luxury variants include unique 18-inch alloy wheels, leather seats, dusk sensing headlamps, rain sensing wipers, sunroof, reverse camera and a 710 watt Rockford Fosgate sound system. MMCS is also available on the XLS Luxury and includes satellite navigation, voice activation, iPod functionality, Bluetooth and vehicle maintenance data.

The 3.0-litre VR variants include all the appointments of the LS model and add the security of Mitsubishi's acclaimed S-AWC system, fog lamps, reverse sensors, alloy pedals and enhanced interior trim. The top of the range VRX variant includes the premium appointments of the XLS Luxury model - unique 18-inch alloy wheels, leather seats, dusk sensing headlamps, rain sensing wipers, sunroof, reversing camera, Rockford Fosgate sound system and MMCS - along with the S-AWC system.

All Outlanders are available in a variety of paint colours including the new shades of Ironbark and Sapphire, as well as Red, Cool Silver, Black, Effect Grey and White.

Mitsubishi provides its industry leading warranty on all Outlander vehicles, including a comprehensive five year/130,000 km whole vehicle warranty, backed up by its 10 year/160,000 km powertrain warranty and a five year/unlimited kilometre roadside assistance package.

Launching the new Outlander, Robert McEniry said he couldn't imagine a vehicle that was better placed to meet the demands of today's lifestyle oriented go-getters.

"This vehicle has got the lot – style, safety and flexibility," McEniry said. "If you're the sort of person who likes to get up and go – anywhere - then the Outlander has all the technology and versatility to get you there."

http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/24/e...up-down-under/

:cool:

Rumour Mill: 20?? Jaguar C-Type

Pedrocas — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 20:51:47 GMT

Quote:

A famous Big Cat is about to roar into view again. This silver dream machine is the all-new C-Type – and it’s set to turn the spotlight on Jaguar.

We previously revealed the Coventry firm’s plans for an exciting new roadster. Now, Auto Express has learned Jaguar is planning to take the stunning sports car further upmarket.

Sitting below the XK, the C-Type line-up will cost between £45,000-£50,000, targeting top-end performance cars such as Audi’s TT RS, the Mercedes SLK 55 AMG and Porsche’s Cayman with a blend of pace, luxury and practicality.

Following the radical but well received XF and XJ, the newcomer is another exciting departure for the brand. It is likely to be available as a fixed-head coupé or, as shown by our illustrations, a roadster.

As you can see from our images, the C-Type will be a forward-looking design with an XJ-style grille and distinctive headlight arrangement.

With a lots of chrome mesh, sporty air intakes and a bold bonnet bulge, it has plenty of road presence. That continues in the sculpted edges along the flanks, vast chrome alloys and pert but muscular tail complete with twin exhaust pipes. An electrically operated folding canvas roof, to be stowed behind the occupants’ heads, completes the look.

The C-Type will be also be practical. Similar in size to Audi’s A5, it will have a useful boot and while our images show only two seats, the finished article is likely to have four.

As with the XK, the new C-Type’s chassis will be an aluminium monocoque with extruded body panels, an arrangement that is lightweight but highly strong and stiff, benefitting handling response and also refinement.

Power will come from Jaguar’s latest 5.0-litre V8, producing 380bhp. There’s also the possibility of a twin-turbo diesel and even an R version powered by the company’s supercharged 500bhp V8.

All models will get Jaguar’s super-slick six-speed automatic transmission, complete with paddle shifters. Expect the C-Type to arrive in concept form in 2011, with the production version following a year later.

autoexpress

:cool:

Autoblog: BREAKING: Ford announces it will build all-new Police Interceptor for 2011

argatoga — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 17:13:09 GMT

http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/b...ce-intercepto/

Quote:

In a surprise move, Ford has announced that it will pursue the development of an all-new Police Interceptor model. The move comes on the heels of General Motors' announcement that it plans to challenge the Crown Victoria's law enforcement dominance with its own heavy-duty Chevrolet Caprice sedan.

Details are slim, but Ford says the forthcoming PI will arrive in 2011 and it will sport durability, safety, and performance parameters that are superior to that of the Jurassic Panther-platform Crown Vic. Given the relatively tight timeframe and durability targets, we have to assume that the replacement cop car will be based on the rear-drive Australian-market Ford Falcon shown above. In an official release posted after the jump, Ford says it will disclose full vehicle specs in the first quarter of 2010, which should give enough time for both law enforcement and police vehicle equipment manufacturers to prepare for the changeover.

Ford says it presently shifts about 45,000 of the 60,000 police cars sold in the States each year, so it makes sense that Dearborn would not be willing to cede this market to Chevy's Caprice and the already established Dodge Charger.

If it is Falcon based, a consumer version wouldn't be out of the question later down the line.

Veyron also useful as submarine?

CraigB — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 16:57:19 GMT

http://www.galvnews.com/story.lasso?...2e1da427373dfb

What a spanner...

Edit: More info...

http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/12/v...-veyron-hydro/

Edit: Updated title, thanks Blind_IO.

Rumour Mill: 2011 SEAT Leon Coupé

Pedrocas — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 11:39:18 GMT

Quote:

A Seat Leon coupe could go on sale as soon as winter 2011, Autocar has learned.
The car is designed to build the brand’s sporting credentials, and Seat hopes it wil provide a Scirocco style boost to its brand.

“A design proposal already exists for this car,” said Seat sales and marketing boss Jan Lafrentz.
“We see Leon and Ibiza as the two main pillars of our product line-up, and it makes sense for us to expand them as much as possible. A C-segment coupe is much more easy to package than a B-segment coupe, and would be more profitable for us.

“The Scirocco has done great things for Volkswagen, and I believe this car could do even greater things for us."

autocar.co.uk

:cool:

Porsche Cayman vs. Crocs Cayman

speedmeist3r — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 07:05:56 GMT

http://money.cnn.com/2009/11/10/auto...rocs/index.htm

Quote:

NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) -- Can you tell the difference between a plastic shoe and a luxury sports car?

Porsche, the famed German car company, is entangled in a legal spat with Crocs, the maker of rubber shoes. At issue: The shoe company's use of the name Cayman for a line of footwear.

Porsche also has a product called the Cayman, and it claims that Crocs' (CROX) use of the name infringes on Porsche's trademark.

In Porsche's case, the Cayman is a two-seat hard-top sports car with a starting price of about $51,000. Crocs' Cayman is the familiar rubber clog with thick soles, holes covering its upper surfaces and a starting price of about $30 a pair.

The blog Footnoted.org spotlighted the quirky legal fight this week after finding it disclosed in the fine print of Crocs' most recent quarterly report, which Crocs filed last week.

Crocs Europe, a division of the Niwot, Colo.-based shoe company, received a letter from Porsche on May 11 claiming that the Crocs' use of the Cayman name violated Porsche's trademark rights. Porsche demanded that Crocs immediately stop using the name, and also requested payment for the legal costs incurred in writing the cease-and-desist notice.

That was followed on July 30 by an injunction against Crocs Europe's use of the Cayman name in Germany.

"The company intends to vigorously defend itself against these claims," Crocs said in its quarterly filing.

Neither Crocs nor Porsche was immediately available to respond to a request for comment on the legal spat.

Porsche 911 Sport Classic

Jacobfox — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 03:55:06 GMT

Seeing that this managed to make it past the notice of the forums despite coming from Frankfurt 2009, I present to you the Porsche 911 Sport Classic. It's based on the Carrera S, but has flared arches, a slightly widened rear track, Fuchs-style wheels, a ducktail spoiler and a healthy 23 hp bump over the standard car. It's a Europe only special model and 250 will be built. Just as important, however, is that this car marks Porsche's return to making special editions and bespoke machines.

From Autoguide.com

Quote:

Looking more like something that might roll out of one of the many Porsche tuner shops in Germany, than off the production line, the new 911 Sport Classic marks Porsche’s return to building limited edition models. And while these ultra rare cars will make for excellent collectors items, as Porsches they are also incredible driving machines for the genuine enthusiasts.

The 911 Sports Classic is based on the rear-drive Carrera S platform, but gets a wider rear track by 1.73-inches. Power comes from a 3.8-liter flat-six motor with direct-injection, but thanks to a new intake manifold with six vacuum-controlled switching flaps, power has been increased 23 hp for a total of 408hp.

Built by Porsche Exclusive, a department dedicated to creating the company’s most highly customized vehicles, the Sport Classic unmistakable sets itself apart from the rest of the 911 lineup. Included in the long list of custom features are the Sport Classic Grey paint, custom 19-inch wheels, Espresso Nature natural leather and plenty of soft Alcantara, a custom front lip and the classically Porsche ducktail spoiler reminiscent of the 1973 Carrera RS 2.7.

Other standard features include PCCB Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes, a mechanical rear differential and Porsche’s PASM suspension system which lowers the car by 20 mm (0.79 inches).

Just 250 versions of the 911 Sport Classic will be made.

And here are the pics, courtesy of Jalopnik.

I like it. :cool:

No 56k: Bike News: BMW defies logic with six-cylinder Concept 6 motorcycle

A7XFan22 — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 21:20:04 GMT

Sauce [with videos]

Quote:

BMW is known the world over for its excellent brand of inline-six cylinder powerplants. In most cases, those supremely smooth and powerful engines power the German company's cars and trucks. Apparently, that won't always be the case, though, as BMW has just revealed its new Concept 6 motorcycle at the EICMA Show in Milan.

As the name implies, the Concept 6 boasts an engine with six cylinders, and the best news is that the mill is destined for a new production model in the near future. Expect to see a replacement for the long-running LT series of touring bikes, bringing BMW more in line with the standard-setting Goldwing from Honda.

Looking at the actual concept itself, the chassis appears to be heavily based on the current production K-Series unit, and the powerplant is tilted at the same 55-degree angle as the current four-cylinder. Bodywork is suitable for concept duty, with a futuristic take on the old-school Cafe Racer look.

Power? BMW's being a bit coy at the moment, suggesting that it makes as much horsepower as the current 1.3-liter four (over 150, to be sure) and as much torque as any other motorcycle engine in production with a stout 96 lb-ft at 2,000 RPM. With a redline of nearly 9,000... you can imagine that there's plenty of power on tap. Check out our high-res photo gallery below and hit the jump for a video and the press release.

PRESS RELEASE

BMW Motorrad Concept 6. Fascination, Supremacy and Riding Comfort with Six Cylinders.

Fascination, Supremacy and Riding Comfort with Six Cylinders

Munich. Six-cylinder power units have always had particular appeal, offering not only supreme smoothness and refinement, but also superior power and performance as well as a truly emotional driving – or, in this case, riding – experience. A further point is that the typical sound of a straight-six almost like a turbine is absolutely incomparable, with straight-six power units at BMW having stood for fascinating engine technology in BMW cars for more than seven decades.

Looking at motorcycles, inventive engineers have also tried time and again to offer the enthusiast the thrilling concept of a straight-six power unit. But while a few engines in straight-six configuration have indeed been fitted in motorcycles both lengthwise and crosswise, the straight-six has never really made a genuine breakthrough neither on production models nor in motorcycle racing.

Depending on the way the engine was fitted, six cylinders in-line inevitably made the engine either very long or very wide, creating disadvantages in terms of the running gear, weight distribution, and the centre of gravity. A further drawback was much higher engine weight usually setting off the benefits of extra engine power.

The BMW Concept 6 now proves that a straight-six, benefiting from the most advanced construction and production technology, may offer not only unique prestige, but also a supreme standard of riding dynamics.

The new BMW straight-six will further expand the K-Series in the foreseeable future. The first model to be introduced will be an innovative and luxurious BMW touring machine. Reflecting the tradition of the BMW K-Series, this will of course be a genuine top-of-the-line product.

Highly compact and dynamic six-cylinder.

The starting point for this dynamic introduction of the straight-six in the new Concept 6 from BMW Motorrad is of course the extremely compact form and configuration of the engine. The power unit is approximately 100 mm or 4" slimmer than all former straight-six production engines and only a bit wider than a large-capacity straight-four with conventional technology.

The reduction in width is achieved in particular by the slightly over-square bore: stroke ratio with relatively long stroke and very small gaps between cylinders. To achieve this very compact configuration with minimum width, the electrical ancillaries and their drive components are positioned behind the crankshaft in the open space above the transmission.

High-tech lightweight construction in all areas serves to make the power unit relatively light from the outset, important components in this context being the two hollow-drilled camshafts and the very light connecting rods. The perfect compensation of masses ensured by the configuration and layout of the engine avoids the need for a balance shaft and its drive elements on the new straight-six, which again means lower weight and enhanced running smoothness.

In its layout, the straight-six featured in the Concept 6 follows the well-known straight-four in the K 1300 model series, again coming with cylinders tilted to the front by 55o. This ensures not only a low centre of gravity, but also very good weight balance as an element essential above all under sporting conditions for precise feeling and clear feedback from the front. A further advantage is that the tilted engine provides extra space for the aerodynamically positioned intake manifold directly above the engine and allows ideal configuration of the frame profiles following the flow of power.

The straight-six featured in the BMW Motorrad Concept 6 comes with dry sump lubrication. Apart from greater reliability even under extreme conditions, dry sump technology serves to keep the crankcase particularly low and flat, with the engine being fitted lower down and masses concentrated around the centre of gravity. Doing without an oil sump, the engine may be positioned far lower than on a conventional layout.

The oil reservoir is provided by an oil tank integrated at the rear of the engine block. This avoids the need for a separate tank, again helping to make the entire power unit more compact and reduce weight to a minimum.

Maximum supremacy in running refinement and performance.

Designed and laid out as a straight-six, the engine also opens up new dimensions in motorcycling in terms of supremacy, power reserves, performance and running refinement.

Output of the new six-cylinder will be in approximately the same range as on BMW's 1.3-litre straight-four power units. Torque, on the other hand, will be right at the top of the range, even in comparison with the largest motorcycle engines, such superior power and muscle coming inter alia from engine capacity of no less than 1.6 litres.

The engine's power and performance characteristics are equally impressive, offering 130 Nm or 96 lb-ft of torque from just 2,000 rpm and at the same time revving up almost to 9,000 rpm – a dynamic potential quite unparalleled in the tourer segment. This alone qualifies the engine of the Concept 6 as the ideal power unit for a wide range of different motorcycles.

Environmental compatibility and all-round economy re-defined.

The Concept 6 shows the absolute supremacy of its six-cylinder drive system also in ecological and economic terms. Fuel consumption of this six-cylinder naturally equipped with a fully controlled catalytic converter is lower than on a comparable four-cylinder under normal touring conditions. The use of E-gas technology (ride-by-wire) then offers further potentials for enhanced fuel economy and riding dynamics throughout a wide range of different riding modes and conditions. And last but not least in this context, the straight-six power unit featured in the Concept 6 offers long inspection intervals through the use of cup tappets controlling the engine valves.

Dynamic and powerful design in Café Racer style.

Supremacy and dynamism are also borne out clearly by the thrilling design of the Concept 6 and, as usual, this project from BMW Motorrad is more than "just" the attempt to develop a motorcycle of a kind never seen before.

Working on Concept 6, the designers at BMW Motorrad have therefore focused yet again on technical function and quality and, in particular, the emotional element bringing together man and machine. Their rule, quite simply, is that a motorcycle must not only follow the laws of functionality, but also arouse emotion in all its facets. In a nutshell, therefore, the machine must be simply thrilling.

Precisely this is why the design of the Concept 6 focuses in particular on the powerful straight-six engine as the heart of the machine. Conceived as a mixture of classic and modern styling elements in motorcycle construction, the Concept 6, with its long front end and short rear, takes up the design language of the legendary Café Racer. Powerful and muscular, the body elements extend around the power unit finished in a special platinum colour, presenting the engine almost adoringly from every angle.

Smooth and soft lines ensure fully organic integration of the power unit within the machine, while at the same time they create a powerful, exciting and dynamic contrast to the sharply contoured front and rear ends.

The so-called Split Face, a well-known design element of the latest models from BMW Motorrad, extends smoothly from the front of the fairing all along the top of the fuel tank made of carbon-fibre, again confirming the high technological standard of the Concept 6 and forming an exciting contrast to the outer shell in aluminium with its white layers. The division into three sections created by the Split Face is further accentuated at the front by the LED headlight integrated longitudinally in the machine in its rod shape and by the slender LED rear light extending far up into the seat hump.

The powerful and supreme character of the Concept 6 is also underscored by the six-chamber exhaust system complete with sidepipes and the strong presence of the intake ducts again finished in platinum look. Aerodynamic components such as the twin-tipped engine spoiler and the air guide elements derived from the design of the new S 1000 RR Supersports, on the other hand, bridge the gap between functional and clearly visible technology, on the one hand, and the soft and smooth design of other body elements, on the other.

Innovative suspension technology and equipment

The suspension of the BMW Motorrad Concept 6 is built around a light-alloy bridge frame as well as Duolever and lightweight Paralever arms holding and guiding the wheels front and rear. Seventeen-inch HP forged wheels as well as the extra-large brake system with its six-piston fixed callipers emphasise the sporting look of the new machine and its high level of technology.

The outstanding supremacy of the Concept 6 and its drivetrain is also reflected by details such as the instrument panel intentionally kept in minimalist design but nevertheless completely equipped with all the instruments and gauges required. While a digital display performs its usual function of clearly presenting road speed, there is intentionally no rev counter on account of the supreme flow of power at all speeds. So instead of a conventional rev counter, a LED display shows the rider at all times how much torque is readily available whenever required.

Autoblog: Toyota being sued today for shakes magic 8-ball "Sudden acceleration"

Blind_Io — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 16:23:09 GMT

http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/09/c...-acceleration/

Quote:

Following a statement from the DOT and NHTSA asserting that the unintended acceleration issue potentially involving millions of Toyota vehicles is "not closed," McCuneWright, LLP, a law firm in Southern California, has filed a national class action lawsuit on behalf of all Toyota and Lexus owners that claim to have experienced this phenomenon. Representing the class will be Los Angeles County residents Seong Bae Choi (owner of a 2004 Camry) and Chris Chan Park (owner of a 2008 FJ Cruiser).

According to the suit, Toyota has known about reports of unintended acceleration for years and has received over 2,000 such complaints. Citing statistics from Safety Research & Strategies, Inc., the lawsuit alleges that there have been 16 fatalities and 243 injuries from Toyota and Lexus crashes attributed to runaway vehicles. Toyota attributes these accidents to improperly installed or incorrect floormats that prevent the accelerator pedal from returning to its idle position.

Wright, though, said in a statement, "[N]either driver error nor floormats can explain away many other frightening instances of runaway Toyotas. Until the company acknowledges the real problem and fixes it, we worry that other preventable injuries and deaths will occur." Hit the jump for the official press release from McCuneWright.

[Source: McCuneWright, LLP]

Quote:

PRESS RELEASE

Class Action Lawsuit Filed Against Toyota to Correct Sudden Acceleration

REDLANDS, Calif., Nov. 6 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The law firm of McCuneWright, LLP, filed a national class action lawsuit yesterday against Toyota Motor Corporation on behalf of Toyota and Lexus owners who have experienced incidents of sudden unintended acceleration.

Los Angeles County residents Seong Bae Choi, the owner of a 2004 Camry and Chris Chan Park, who owns a 2008 FJ Cruiser, will represent the class. Both have experienced multiple instances of sudden unintended acceleration in their respective vehicles, Choi and Park are also among the thousands of Toyota and Lexus owners who have experienced incidents of sudden unintended acceleration while driving their vehicles, and among the millions who are potentially affected by this dangerous defect.

The crash in Santee that claimed four lives in August raised the profile of the issue with the public, Toyota, and federal regulators. California Highway Patrol Officer Mark Saylor was at the wheel of a Lexus ES 350 sedan on Highway 125, when the vehicle inexplicably accelerated to speeds exceeding 100 mph. According to a 911 call of the incident, Saylor was unable to stop the Lexus before it crashed and burst into flames, killing him, his wife, daughter and brother-in-law.

This, however, is not the only fatal crash resulting from sudden unintended acceleration in Toyota and Lexus models. Sean Kane, president of Safety Research & Strategies, Inc., has reported at least 16 fatalities and 243 injuries in crashes involving Toyotas that have been attributed to sudden unintended acceleration. In total, there have been more than 2,000 complaints of sudden unintended acceleration in these vehicles, culled from litigation and consumer-reported complaints to the automaker and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Toyota has tried to lay all the blame on floor mats, launching a recall last month affecting approximately four million Toyota and Lexus vehicles. But the evidence suggests that the causes of these uncontrolled acceleration events are likely more complex, involving computer, electronic, and mechanical systems.

"For years, Toyota Motor Corporation has dismissed complaints of sudden acceleration as being the driver's fault," said McCuneWright attorney, David Wright. "But neither driver error nor floor mats can explain away many other frightening instances of runaway Toyotas. Until the company acknowledges the real problem and fixes it, we worry that other preventable injuries and deaths will occur."

Toyota's first response should be immediate changes to their control systems, so drivers can safely stop a sudden unintended acceleration event, Wright said. Toyota's current design does not allow drivers to easily put the vehicle in neutral, apply the brakes, or just turn off the ignition. NHTSA recently highlighted this problem in a Vehicle Research & Test Center report. It noted that Toyota and Lexus drivers could be stymied in an emergency situation because:

* the ignition button on vehicles with a keyless ignition system must be depressed continuously for three seconds when the vehicle is moving before it will turn off the engine;
* the neutral gear position is difficult to find because it requires the driver to move the shifter both laterally and vertically; and
* when the throttle is in the open position it requires a brake pedal force of 150 pounds to stop the vehicle, five times more than the 30 pounds required when the vehicle is operating normally.

In addition, Toyota vehicles are not equipped with a brake-to-idle failsafe, which many other manufacturers already incorporate in their designs. This failsafe brings the engine to idle when both the throttle is in the open position at the same time the brake pedal is being depressed.

"We think this lawsuit is necessary to save lives," Wright said. "Along with other individual lawsuits, the press, consumer groups, and the government, it is our goal to force Toyota to make these changes."

The shit just never stops for Toyota. It would not surprise me to find out they have been covering up something like this, especially given their recent history of destroying information.

Unveiled: 50 Spectacular Shots of the New Aston Martin Rapide

Pug — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 15:27:26 GMT

http://www.luxist.com/gallery/aston-.../2434404/full/

Skelta - the fastest car you've never heard of

MadCat360 — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 20:35:19 GMT

Quote:

Whether you want to compete in sprints and hillclimbs, clean up in GT racing, participate in track days, or simply motor through the summer sun to your local pub, the Skelta could be just the car for you.

Most road-going competition cars require a myriad of costly upgrades to make them fully competitive. The super-light, ultra-tough Skeltas on the other hand leave the factory with all the power, handling and braking they require to win out of the box.

The chrome molybdenum steel spaceframe is reinforced with a centre tunnel and sidepods made of carbonfibre/aluminium sandwich, while the body is crafted entirely from carbonfibre composite. This extensive use of strong but lightweight materials results in a dry weight of a mere 720kg.

Power comes from either a supercharged 2.0-litre 4-cylinder Honda unit of 340bhp or the 3.0-litre V8 Hartley engine of 460bhp - both engines drive through a Honda six-speed transmission. The suspension comprises rose-jointed double wishbones front and rear, linked to inboard MCA Proflex spring and damper units - the set-up is fully adjustable for track, camber, caster and toe. Powerful braking emanates from ventilated discs and four-pot callipers front and rear.

The heavily finned front air intakes, sizeable rear wing and diffuser are a clue to the aerodynamic package, which exerts 200kg of downforce at 90mph. Coupled to a 50/50 weight distribution this results in phenomenal cornering power - small wonder then that the car is so competitive, whatever its environment. The Skelta is available in two styles:

* Spyder - a wide-bodied, open-topped two-seater
* G-Force - a two-seater with detachable gull-wing targa top

The Skelta was born out of one man's obsession to win the incomparable 2000km Targa Tasmania road rally. A former Australian rally champion, Ray Vandersee began his determined assault on the Targa with a re-engineered Westfield. His ingenious modifications brought it closer to the Porsches, Nissan GTRs etc that were dominating such events, but it was clear that something fresh was needed to ensure him of outright victory. Starting with a clean sheet of paper, and incorporating all the attributes his extensive competition career told him were required, he designed his own creation from scratch - the Skelta.

Thanks to Skelta, Vandersee and his customers have now won countless events throughout Australia and New Zealand and Vandersee himself has come agonisingly close to realising his dream of wining Targa Tasmania outright. With a string of class wins and quickest stage times to his credit, plus the fastest Skelta yet under constant development, 2010 can't come soon enough for him. Skelta Racecars Europe has been formed to give UK and European drivers the chance of similar success and enjoyment.

Skelta Race Cars

Spied: 2011 Porsche 998

Pedrocas — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 10:16:22 GMT

Quote:

The next Porsche 911, due in summer 2012, will be an all-new model. Porsche is not prepared to take any revolutionary steps with the styling, so while it might look similar to the current 911 don’t be fooled; nearly every panel on this 911 coupé and cabrio will be new. The car will be slightly longer (almost 4500mm across the range) and wider (around 1860mm on the base Carrera and 25mm extra on the Turbo). These alterations are down to a modified steel floorpan, which has a wheelbase extended by 50mm to 2400mm, and new suspension.

http://www.autogespot.com/item/4382/...e-998-carrera/

http://spyshots.nl/SpyShots/Betere_f..._Großglockner

http://www.diablomotor.com/2009/08/1...2-fotos-espia/

http://www.cochespias.net/foro/index.php?topic=5452.160

:cool:

Spied: Audi A8 spied

Pedrocas — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 11:42:06 GMT

The upcoming Audi A8 was caught on video:

+ YouTube Video
ERROR: If you can see this, then YouTube is down or you don't have Flash installed.

:?

Looks exactly like the current model.

Concept: Chevrolet Silverado ZR2 Concept

Mr. Nice — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 05:48:49 GMT

Quote:

GM assembles a Raptor-ish off-roader.
BY JAKE HOLMES
November 2009

Debuting suspiciously soon after Ford’s desert-pounding F-150 SVT Raptor went on sale, the Chevrolet ZR2 concept shows that GM likes to play in the dirt, too.

The ZR2 started life as an extended-cab/short-box Silverado, gaining a gratuitous helping of carbon fiber for the fender flares, hood, tailgate, and side skirts. Carbon-fiber components are clearcoated to show off the material’s weave pattern, while the rest of the body gets rather subdued Dune Metallic paint. The truck’s bed features a lockable storage compartment, cargo management rails, and a sprayed-on bed liner. A new grille and hood vents aid the breathing of a 550-hp, 6.2-liter supercharged crate engine that comes courtesy of GM Performance Parts. Carbon-fiber accents also highlight the truck’s dashboard, and black leather and suede seats get contrast stitching.

Full article

New No. 1 car maker in the world is... Volkswagen!

MacGuffin — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 18:19:52 GMT

Yes, it's true.

They wanted to achieve that goal by 2018 but obviously the economical crisis with its upheavels has helped them to already achieve it now.

In the first 9 months of 2009 Vokswagen AG (including Porsche) sold 4.4 million cars and utilitiy vehicles.

Toyota only sold 4 million.

3rd place goes to Ford with 3.7 sold cars and GM is cut down to 4th place, having sold 3.6 million cars this year so far.

Source: http://www.spiegel.de/wirtschaft/unt...659611,00.html

Autoblog: Chrysler's 5-Year Business Plan: The Product Breakdown

argatoga — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 16:15:03 GMT

http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/04/c...uct-breakdown/

Quote:

Chrysler LLC has concluded its 7-hour-long marathon presentation of the business plan (read our Live Blog of the event here) that will see it through the next five years, and what we're left with is a little confusing. It's almost as if the automaker's new executives, amidst apologizing for the company's past and promising to do better in the future, were hoping we'd all fall asleep or get lost in the details. Well, we didn't fall asleep or get lost, and below you'll find a breakdown of what we learned while spending the day hip deep in Chrysler's future product. You can also check out the slides from Chrysler's presentation relating to product in the gallery below.

Models On Their Way Out
Jeep Patriot (end of 2012)
Jeep Compass (end of 2012)
Jeep Commander (end of 2010, may continue being sold internationally)
Chrysler PT Cruiser (end of 2010)
Dodge Dakota (mid 2011)
Dodge Caliber (mid 2012)
Dodge Viper (mid 2011, may return in 2012)

New Models That Are Coming
Jeep compact SUV (2013, supplied by Fiat, may be Panda)
Jeep small CUV (2013, supplied by Fiat, replaces Patriot and Compass)
Jeep Liberty (2013, replaced by Fiat product but retains name)
Chrysler small car (2013, supplied by Fiat)
Chrysler compact sedan (2012, supplied by Fiat, replaces PT Cruiser)
Chrysler Sebring (2013, replaced by Fiat product but retains name)
Chrysler midsize CUV (2013, supplied by Fiat)
Ram midsize unibody pickup (under consideration for 2011)
Ram large and small commercial van (2012, supplied by Fiat)
Dodge small car (2013, supplied by Fiat)
Dodge compact sedan (2012, supplied by Fiat)
Dodge Avenger (major update 2010, replaced by Fiat product 2013)
Dodge full-size CUV (2010)
Fiat 500 (late 2010, convertible 2011, Abarth 2012)

Models Staying, Receiving Attention
Jeep Wrangler Diesel (2010/2011, not confirmed for U.S. market... yet)
Jeep Grand Cherokee (all-new 2010)
Chrysler 300C (all-new 2010)
Chrysler Town & Country (major update 2010, next-gen 2014)
Ram 1500/2500/3500 (major update 2012)
Dodge Journey (major update 2010)
Dodge Nitro (major update 2011 under consideration)
Dodge Challenger (refresh 2011)
Dodge Charger (all-new 2010)
Dodge Grand Caravan (major update 2010, next-gen 2014)
UPDATE: You can dive whole hog into the plan yourself at Chrysler's website.

View Poll

New chopped top Boxster Spyder

Kimo_SpeedSix — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 14:46:19 GMT

We thought it was going to be the Porsche Boxster Speedster when we reported that Porsche were out testing a disguised Boxster at the Nurburgring back in September. Or maybe it was going to be the Boxster R. But it’s actually called the Porsche Boxster Spyder.

It’s going to end up being known as the Speedster, with its double humps behind the driver, but this is Porsche’s new, lightweight Boxster suitably sprinkled with a bit of ‘history dust’ from the cupboard. It’s actually 80kg (175lbs) lighter that the Boxster S on which its based and it gets an extra 10bhp – up to 316bhp – from the 3.4 litre flat six engine. Which should mean a decent improvement in the 0-60mph – around 4.6 seconds. Porsche has also sharpened up the suspension to give the Spyder an edge over its siblings.

The Boxster Spyder does come with a roof, but it’s a token roof – much in the mould of the LP640. This car is designed to be an open-air car and the roof seems almost an afterthought. What’s the point of having the Spyder and driving round in an enclosed cabin? But this isn’t a limited edition Boxster just to move some sales, it’s a new model in the range.

The Boxster Spyder is due to be unveiled at the Los Angeles Motor Show next month (California will be a big marketplace, no doubt) before going on sale early in 2010. Expect a UK price around £45,000.

source: www.carsuk.net

http://img.motorpasion.com/galleries...0Spyder-01.jpg

BMW M3 GTS unveiled!

Aiolos — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 22:26:51 GMT

So those earlier spy shots were true!

Looks cool! 8-)

Way too much money though...

BMW M3 GTS unveiled!

Source: Autoblog

Quote:

Well that was fast. As well it should be. Because what you're looking at is the most hardcore roadgoing M3 to date. It's called the GTS – not, as had been previously speculated, the CSL, GT or GT4 Street – and after seeing a few spy shots and some speculated details, BMW has just released its first official information on the most extreme machine in its stable.

The eye-catching orange paintjob is a throwback to extreme Bimmers of yore. But after you look past the timely Halloween color scheme, you'll notice a set of exclusive 19-inch competition alloys – coated with 225/35 rubber up front and 285/30 in the rear – protruding out of the bulging bodywork, housing six-piston calipers up front and four in the rear and mounted to yellow springs and an adjustable suspension. You can hardly miss the giant front splitter and rear wing protruding from either end, and the interior's been stripped down with contoured racing buckets, an emergency cut-off switch and a fire extinguisher taking the place of the air-con, nav and radio, along with mounting points for a roll cage and six-point harnesses and a Macrolon rear windscreen to replace the stock glass, helping the M3 GTS tip the scales at just 1490 kg (3285 lbs), some 419 lbs less than the stock M3 coupe's 3704-lb curb weight.

First deliveries are scheduled to begin in Germany next May, carrying a sticker price of 115,000 euros (about $170k) before taxes. Official engine specs haven't been released, but we're still looking at somewhere in the neighborhood of 450 horsepower from an enlarged 4.4-liter V8, driving through the Bavarian automaker's 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox. That's about all Munich has given us so far, but we've got a gallery of photos and a video after the jump for your viewing pleasure.

+ YouTube Video
ERROR: If you can see this, then YouTube is down or you don't have Flash installed.

Autoblog: Chrysler to outfit Fiat 500-approved dealers with specific showroom "salons"

argatoga — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 22:12:26 GMT

http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/04/c...pecific-showr/

Quote:

Listening to Chrysler's long and rambling 2010-2014 Business Plan, it was clear that the company and its dealerships are very much looking forward to finally getting the Fiat 500 in North America. Much like what happened when BMW launched the Mini brand eight-odd years ago, it's hoped that the cute little 500 will attract a whole new customer to the Chrysler fold.

In order to properly court those new wallets buyers, Chrysler plans to open "specific interior showroom branded salons" in select dealerships, mostly in metropolitan areas. A dedicated set of salespeople will be assigned to sell the Fiat 500 in the States... ya know, since they otherwise wouldn't know how to sell the important car to American consumers.

There will also be a full line of accessories made available to customize the new car, which we would expect will include unique color and stripe packages both inside and out along with a slew of optional wheel designs. Whatever, make ours an Abarth and we're good. Expect all of this to take place before the end of 2010 as the Fiat 500 finally starts to show up in those selected dealerships.

Autoblog: Jeep Patriot and Compass being replaced by models from Fiat... Panda, here we come!

argatoga — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 21:45:29 GMT

http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/04/j...s-from-fiat-p/

Quote:

It comes as little surprise that Jeep is looking beyond its current Patriot and Compass models, which have, to put it mildly, underperformed in the burgeoning compact CUV market. While the two concepts had lots of potential, the actual production ComPatriot twins were deemed uncompetitive with class leaders right when they were launched.

As such, the two models are both destined to meet their makers after the 2012 model, to be replaced by a single model sourced from Fiat. Can you say Panda (the image above is just a possible rendering, not a production car)? It's also worth noting that the iconic Wranger will get mild makeovers for both the 2010 and 2011 model years along with what seems likely to be a special 70th Anniversary Wranger for 2011.

Across the line, all Jeeps will reportedly come with an optional Trail Rated package, which means no more on-road only models like the Compass are likely to dilute the Jeep brand. That edict includes the new Grand Cherokee, and Jeep says the Trail Rated Grand Cherokee has already successfully tackled the legendary Rubicon Trail and Moab.

Autoblog: BREAKING: Dodge to end Viper production in July '10, new car in 2012

argatoga — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 17:39:25 GMT

http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/04/b...10-new-car-in/

Quote:

At the Chrysler business plan meeting this morning, Ralph Gilles, CEO of the Dodge car brand, dropped big news on the Viper. After going back and forth for the past 18 months on what to do with Viper, Chrysler has decided that production of the current Viper will end in July 2010. Before that happens, 500 final cars will be built that, according to Gilles, will be the most special Vipers ever. Gilles explained that the company wanted to preserve the value of existing Vipers by not continuing the current generation indefinitely. He didn't give any details on what would be special with the final 500 cars.

However, Viper fans need not mourn yet. Gilles revealed that an all new car is being developed with a launch targeted in 2012! Even better the Viper will be getting some help from Chrysler's new Italian colleagues... and lets not forget about a certain Fiat outpost that uses a yellow Prancing Horse for its logo that's based in Maranello. Let's just hope they keep the Viper's elemental nature in the new generation.

No 56k: The general SEMA 2009 thread.

CrazyRussian540 — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 00:41:49 GMT

A place to discuss this years SEMA show, since there are too many random cars to have their own threads.

Heres a quick summary of select cars on display.

1. Return of the Screaming Chicken

Quote:

Last year in Las Vegas, graphic designer Kevin Morgan showed off the first Trans Am rebody of the new Camaro at SEMA 2008. This year he is back with T/A version 2.0 for SEMA 2009. While the original "Phoenix" T/A 1.0 had the Bandit color combo we know and love, a few of the details were off in making it a true '77-'78 Trans Am redo.

For this year's show he's rectified that situation with a new quad-headlight front fascia and a few other changes that bring it more in line with the uber Firebirds we remember from our misspent youths. Slip into one of these black and gold Trans Ams and before you know it you'll be East Bound and Down, calling for the Snowman on your CB to help you stay one step ahead of Smokey. Built in conjunction with fabricator Todd Otto, one-off versions can be ordered to spec, and a kit version will also be made available through Trans Am Depot starting in early 2010.

2. Chevy Silverado ZR2

Quote:

That rumored Ford Raptor fighter from General Motors? Not quite. The Chevrolet Silverado ZR2 Concept (it's only a concept, but some of the components could be available on future pickups) is a reasonable attempt to bring the off-road fight back to Ford, with a four-inch lift, 20-inch BBS RD wheels, BDS shocks and a 550-hp supercharged version of GM's LS crate V8. But the real work is hidden beneath the clear coat, with carbon fiber body panels replacing the steel hood and fenders. And that new fascia? Don't be surpised to see a modified version affixed to future Silverados

3. Ford Mustang Cobra Jet

Quote:

When Ford built a 50-unit run of the 2008 Mustang Cobra Jet last year, the program was a huge success with all the cars selling out well before production started. With the factory-built drag racing cars easily proving their worth at the nation's 1/4 mile tracks this year, doing a follow-up was a no brainer. After teasing the new car with testing photos and videos for the last several months, the 2010 FR500CJ is having its coming out party in Las Vegas for the 2009 SEMA Show.

The next 50-unit run will again be built on the regular Mustang assembly line at the Auto Alliance plant in Flat Rock, MI with the engines being bolted together at the Romeo engine plant. The 2010 model is more than just bolting the same hardware into an updated body shell. A year's worth of experience with the '08 Cobra Jet has allowed current owners to share feedback with Ford Racing that has been fed into the updated car.

4. Chevy Camaro Concepts

Quote:

While GM didn't bring a production Chevrolet Camaro convertible to SEMA, it did bring a handful of Camaro Coupe Concepts that offer a preview of things to come for the recently resurrected pony car. Besides the twin-turbo V6 Jay Leno Camaro we profiled earlier, we got to see Snergy, Chroma, Dusk and Graphics.

Those are the names given to the show cars, each highlighting a different element that should make it to production Camaros in the near future. There's a full presser after the jump and some galleries below, but basically, each has a different set of genuine GM accessories bolted on.

Synergy shows off a new limited-production exterior color (and we thought "Chroma" would be the color car) that has us thinking of a bottle of Scope and a slew of currently available boy-racer accessories.

Chroma kicks the SS Camaro up a notch with genuine Bowtie accessories like a body kit and graphics pack, plus some future products like 21-inch wheels, rear Blade spoiler and new grille. The whiteout monochrome paint scheme makes it look race-ready, just waiting for someone to slap on NASCAR decals.

The Dusk is the car that departs most from the typical Camaro mold. Chevy describes it as being "Inspired by the style of young, urban professionals... It is a very tailored look that is stylish and sophisticated, but with a distinct American accent." The Dusk shows a number of possible future options and features, like BBS wheels, a unique ground effects package, new bezels for the lamps front and rear, Brembo brakes and a tech package that includes a Boston Acoustics sound system, WiFi connectivity and an iPhone dock. Done up in a dark Berlin Blue, it makes the Camaro look sophisticated and, dare we say, almost European.

The Graphics Camaro is actually a series of four looks for the Camaro that will rotate through the GM booth each of the show days. After displaying each on a Silver Ice Metallic Camaro, attendees can vote for their favorite look, with the winner possibly going into production. You can vote for your favorite on the Camaro's Facebook page.

There are seemingly thousands of other custom Camaros here at SEMA 2009, but this handful shows where Chevy envisions the Camaro heading in the future.

5. Dodge Challenger 1320

Quote:

It's always somewhat dark and murky down at the Mopar booth at SEMA, but this year Chrysler managed to bring out some pretty cool concepts. One of our favorites is this Dodge Challenger 1320 (if you don't know the reference, channel you inner Vin Diesel), which started as a Drag Pak Challenger and even has a cool Christmas tree lights logo on the front fender.

The heart of the Challenger 1320 is an all-aluminum Gen III 426ci crate engine putting out 556 horsepower and 540 lb-ft torque. The folks at Mopar gave the engine bay a few unique touches including custom valve covers, intake manifold, fuel rails, and long tube headers. The body, although it looks relatively stock, has been upgraded too and features a carbon fiber hood, front spoiler, and headlight surround. If you look closely you can see that the inside headlights have been removed and ducted to the cold air intake system. Other upgrades include a Dynatrac rear end, ARB locking differential, Mopar police wheels, adjustable coilover suspension system and Mickey Thompson street-legal drag radials on all four corners.

6. Lingenfelter T/A Concept

Quote:

We can't come to a consensus about the Lingenfelter T/A Concept. Half of us are bathing in the warm glow of the '70s when the Trans-Am was the car to have, while the rest of us see a mix-and-mash of different cars of different generations and an overall design disconnect. Either way, the car is an attention-grabber at the Nitto tire booth.

The transformation from 2010 Camaro to Trans-Am began with an all-new front fascia and custom headlights, grille and turn signals. The front fenders were modified to include functional heat extractors, and the rear of the car has been extended four inches. Completing the look is a new hood with a shaker hood scoop and blue striping.

The Lingenfelter T/A isn't just about looks though. Underneath the hood is genuine 455ci V8 with CNC ported and polished LS7 heads good for 655 horsepower and 610 lb-ft torque.

7. Jeep Lower Forty

Quote:

Our SEMA coverage generally doesn't include too much from the off-road segment, but the Jeep Lower Forty concept in the Mopar booth was too good to pass up. Sporting 40-inch Mickey Thompson tires, this Jeep can pretty much go wherever it wants without the help of a suspension lift. Granted, plenty of bodywork was removed to make the new rubber fit, but impressive nonetheless. A 5.7-liter Hemi V8 sends grunt to a six-speed manual transmission before hitting all four wheels via a Dana 44 front axle and a Dana 60 rear axle fitted with 5.38 gears.

Additional features include a carbon fiber hood, custom bikini top, a chopped windshield, and a color-matched interior with Katzkin leather seating

8. Subaru Legacy GTk

Quote:

While Block's STI TRAX is an entertaining diversion for a clothing mogul/extreme sports personality/rampant gearhead, the Subaru Legacy GTk is far-and-away our favorite concept at the Subie booth.

Based on the 2010 Legacy 2.5GT Wagon, the GTk has been designed to strike a balance between family shlepper and SCCA Solo autocross competitor, beginning with a tuned and tweaked turbocharged 2.5-liter boxer putting out 300 hp and 350 lb.-ft. of torque. A six-speed manual transmission with a short shifter sends power to Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel drive system, while track-tuned Bilstein struts and STI "pink" springs suspend six-piston (front) and four piston (rear) Brembo calipers squeezing cross-drilled discs at all four corners. If all that and a set of custom HRE 19-inch wheels isn't enough, Subaru's partner in the project -- Specialized Vehicles, Inc. -- sourced a Formula Junior A class-spec kart that can fit into the cargo area -- no trailer required. We think we've found our next project, but the 1969 360 SPT Delivery Van needs to find a home in our garage

9. Ford EcoBoost '34 Hot Rod

Quote:

Putting modern engines into old cars isn't anything new, but this '34 3-window coupe in the Ford display isn't like anything we've ever seen before. Detroit Street Rods has wedged the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 underneath the hood, making it the first rear-drive application for the twin-turbocharged engine. Packing 400 horsepower and 400 lb-ft torque, this little coupe has the potential to surprise quite a few people at stoplights.

Perhaps the most impressive aspect of the car is how the engine is packaged. The dual Honeywell turbochargers have been moved to the front of the motor among various aluminum tubing routing air and exhaust gases, and a single, large exhaust cone exits above the front fender on each side of the car. It's not a rumbling V8, but it looks just as good and is just as fast too.

10. Dunkel Industries Luxury 4x4

Quote:

The SEMA Show is smaller this year than in years past, but the trucks keep on growing. Check out Dunkel Industries’ Luxury 4x4 – the largest pickup truck we’ve ever seen at SEMA. It’s 8.5 feet wide, 32 feet long and almost 12 feet tall!

The Dunkel 4x4 is an RV and pickup fused together. It’s built on a Ford F-650/F-750 chassis with a bed that’s big enough to fit a full-size car with room on the top for dirtbikes. There’s no need to tow a trailer!

11. Ford Mustang RTR-C

Quote:

Drift-master Vaughn Gittin Jr. has build an all carbon fiber-body, 550 HP monster called the Mustang RTR-C, debuting at SEMA. Since it turned out so well, he's decided to sell ten to the public — for $135,000 each.

The car was built by Autosport Dynamics (ASD) in Charlotte, NC and aside from the crazy dry carbon fiber body, it also features goodies like in-car adjustable shocks, and carbon fiber HRE wheels. If you're interested in some serious weight savings in a Mustang, get your wallet ready cause the ten available for public consumption will cost $135,000. These are just teaser images now, but we'll try to take a look when it debuts this week at SEMA.

12. RMR Hyundai Genesis Coupe

Quote:

Just when you thought the Hyundai Genesis Coupe had reached its tuning potential, Rhys Millen pulls out this monster — a sexy mid-engined genesis Coupe packing a 500HP, mid-mounted, Tau V8. Yes SEMA, there is a Santa Claus.

The Rhys Millen Racing Hyundai Genesis RMR460 isn't just a hack-job to get the Genesis Sedan engine into the Genesis coupe. The engine gets upgraded internals including JE pistons and eight individual throttle bodies to push out 500 HP, it's got a fully re-engineered suspension, a five-speed sequential transmission form Mendeola, carbon rear hatch and spoiler, 20" wheels and Toyo tires, and a top speed of 182 mph! Since Millen is kinda known as a drift racer, we suspect it'll be no time before we see this thing dancing an automotive ballet around a wicked gymkhana course.

Thats all I got for now. (Pretty much these are the cars I think should win the GT award and be featured in GT5. Not some riced out Infiniti)
Soooo many Camaros. Also, is it just me, or is there less carbage this year and more awesomeness? Or is it just that no ones bothered to report on the carbage yet?

GM: Neener Neener we keep Opel, fuck you European governments!

D-Fence — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 23:03:55 GMT

Quote:

GM Board Decides to Retain Opel

* New GM supports restructuring of Opel
* GM restructuring plan involves lower investment compared to investor proposals
* Discussions with stakeholders on restructuring to begin in earnest

DETROIT – Given an improving business environment for GM over the past few months, and the importance of Opel//Vauxhall to GM's global strategy, the GM Board of Directors has decided to retain Opel and will initiate a restructuring of its European operations in earnest.

"GM will soon present its restructuring plan to Germany and other governments and hopes for its favorable consideration," said Fritz Henderson, president and CEO. "We understand the complexity and length of this issue has been draining for all involved. However, from the outset, our goal has been to secure the best long term solution for our customers, employee, suppliers, and dealers, which is reflected in the decision reached today. This was deemed to be the most stable and least costly approach for securing Opel/Vauxhall's long-term future."

On a preliminary basis, the GM plan entails total restructuring expenses of about €3 billion, significantly lower than all bids submitted as part of the investor solicitation. GM will work with all European labor unions to develop a plan for meaningful contributions to Opel's restructuring. While Opel continues to outperform against its viability plan assumptions and immediate liquidity is stable, time is of the essence.

"While strained, the business environment in Europe has improved." Henderson said. "At the same time, GM's overall financial health and stability have improved significantly over the past few months, giving us confidence that the European business can be successfully restructured. We are grateful for the hard work of the German and other EU governments in navigating this difficult economic period. We're also appreciative of the effort put forward by Magna and its partners in Russia in trying to reach an equitable agreement."

Henderson added that GM also hopes to build on its already significant business in Russia and to resume work directly with GAZ to contribute to both the modernization of its operations and the joint development of the Russian vehicle market on a mutually attractive basis. More details on the next steps in the restructuring will be provided as the plans and developments warrant.

###

About General Motors: General Motors, one of the world's largest automakers, traces its roots back to 1908. With its global headquarters in Detroit, GM employs 209,000 people in every major region of the world and does business in some 140 countries. GM and its strategic partners produce cars and trucks in 34 countries, and sell and service these vehicles through the following brands: Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, GM Daewoo, Holden, Opel, Vauxhall and Wuling. GM's largest national market is the United States, followed by China, Brazil, the United Kingdom, Canada, Russia and Germany. GM's OnStar subsidiary is the industry leader in vehicle safety, security and information services. General Motors acquired operations from General Motors Corporation on July 10, 2009, and references to prior periods in this and other press materials refer to operations of the old General Motors Corporation. More information on the new General Motors can be found at www.gm.com.

###

Well, I saw it coming all along. They used the sale talks and bancrupcy talks to keep Opel alive until GM partly recovered and keep it now.

This is the time to freeze all government financing for them in Europe imho.

Autoblog: SEMA 2009: Jay Leno Camaro a pre-emptive strike against EcoBoost 'Stang

A7XFan22 — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 21:10:49 GMT

Sauce

Quote:

What do you get the guy who has everything? For SEMA 2009, GM decided to go with the less-is-more approach and built Jay Leno his own special Camaro... with less. Less cylinders at any rate, as this V6 special more than makes up for its lack of firing pots by adding a pair of turbochargers.

The 3.6-liter direct-injected V6 is otherwise similar to the unit that resides in run-of-the-mill Camaro LS and LT models, but with the dual huffers helping it, it produces the same 425 horsepower as its V8-propelled SS brother. And in a playful EcoBoasting slap, Chevy points out that they get the extra performance with virtually no penalty in fuel economy. Take that, rumored EcoBoost Mustang!

Besides the power upgrades, the Leno Camaro also gets a beefed up clutch for its six-speed transmission, an upgraded radiator, Brembo brakes, a Pedders coil-over kit, and a bodykit that includes a new rear diffuser as well as a revised front fascia and hood with additional venting for brakes and engine. It's one of a handful of Camaros in the GM booth, but it's the only one sticking its chin out, egging on the Ford boys. Press release after the jump and full gallery below.

Hi Res Photo Gallery

Quote:

PRESS RELEASE

The Jay Leno Camaro

Powered by a twin-turbocharged version of the 3.6L direct injected V-6 that is standard in Camaro LS and LT models, Leno's Camaro blends high performance with surprising efficiency in a racing-ready package. A pair of Turbonetics T-3 turbochargers blows through a custom air-to-air intercooler, force-feeding the engine about seven pounds of boost and lifting its horsepower level to about 425. That's about 40 percent greater than stock and in normal driving (when the turbochargers aren't making boost), there's virtually no penalty in fuel economy over the non-turbocharged 3.6L engine.

"Jay's Camaro offers style, performance and efficiency in a big way," said Dewar. "It delivers the power of a Camaro SS on demand, but with the fuel economy of a V-6."

Supporting upgrades for the turbo system include a larger-capacity Be-Kool radiator and a custom exhaust system, as well as a Centerforce-supplied clutch and pressure plate for the six-speed manual transmission. The tubing for the turbo system is powder-coated blue. The powertrain was designed to deliver consistent, controllable power for both the street and race track. In fact, road racing was a primary mission for the car during its development.

Additional vehicle also support its racing intent:

Brembo six-piston brake package

Pedders coil-over lowering kit

New front fascia with custom fog lamps and integral brake cooling vents

Air extractor-style hood

The exterior styling of Leno's car is the most radical of all the Camaro concepts at SEMA. The front fascia and hood are one-off creations, as are the unique upper and lower grilles and the ground effects package (including a rear diffuser). The heritage-inspired vent styling in front of the rear wheels has been replaced with functional brake cooling ducts.

The VW Rabbit/Golf Mk1 is dead, no really

AudiV6 — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 19:36:46 GMT

http://www.germanyandafrica.diplo.de...x=2004826.html

Quote:

Yesterday (November 2) Volkswagen South Africa (VWSA) announced the official end of the Citi Golf era. For 31 years, the iconic car was built in the Uitenhage plant near Port Elizabeth.

Since 1978, workers in Uitenhage produced 517,384 VW Golfs, a car that seems to belong to South Africa like the traditional dried meat biltong. In 1984 the Citi range was introduced with slight changes to the original Golf 1. Still thousands of Citi Golfs are seen, not only in South Africa, but in the whole of Africa.

“Today we are announcing the end of this legend called A1 or Citi Golf,” said David Powels, Managing Director of VWSA, at a press conference.

The Golf 1 was first produced in Germany in 1974, as a successor to the VW Beetle and became a huge success with nearly a million cars sold in the first two years of production.

The VW plant in Uitenhage was upgraded in recent years to make space for the production of new models.

“We are in the final phases of completely rebuilding and re-engineering our plant for new products to be introduced to SA in 2010,” Powels added.

At the moment, only the VW Polo is built in the Eastern Cape, thus Powel assured that the stoppage of the Citi Golf production will not result in any job losses.

Although the last Citi Golf came off the production line in August, VW will continue to sell the car until early 2010.

Not as dramatic as the demise of the mexican Beetle in 2004, but the Golf mk1 (especially the GTi Pirelli) was the only Golf I quite liked. :eek:

(I wonder if they start to produce the mk II again. :lol: )
I guess they will do some sort of VW Gol, as an replacement.

Nevermind, R.I.P, Senior-Golf.

Ford F-150 SVT Raptor not enough - try these options.

CrazyRussian540 — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 16:38:11 GMT

1. Ford F-150 SVT Raptor 6.2

Quote:

When Ford first revealed the new F-150 SVT Raptor a year ago, the initial powerplant was the same 5.4-liter V8 found in more pedestrian F-series trucks. At the launch, however, Ford officials promised that an all-new 6.2-liter V8 would become available right about ... now!. Well a month from now. The order books for the Raptor 6.2 officially open on December 1. Ford has already taken 3,000 orders for the 5.4-liter Raptor and 700 have gone to customers.

Last year, Ford told us the 6.2 would crank out at least 400 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of twist. Now that the engine has been certified and the final numbers are in, the targets have been exceeded. The 6.2-liter for the Raptor has been officially rated at 411 hp at 5,500 rpm and 434 pound-feet at 4,500 rpm.

According to F-150 Marketing Manager Mark Grueber, the Raptor 6.2 will get to 60 mph 1.5 seconds faster than the 5.4 while matching its fuel economy (as though anyone buying a Raptor will car about MPGs). That should put the 6.2 somewhere in the upper six- to low seven-range for a 0-60 mph run (Mike Levine at PickupTrucks.com clocked a Raptor at 8.8 seconds with a brake torque). But take heed, with more power comes a higher MSRP: the new engine will cost $3,000 more than the carryover 5.4, starting at $41,995 delivered.

2. Ford F-150 SVT Raptor XT

Quote:

Does the idea of a $100,000 pickup truck give you heart palpitations? If so, you might want to skip over the rest of this text. For the past year Ford has been using off-road races like the Baja 500 and 1000 as real world test tracks to prove out the performance and durability of the new F-150 SVT Raptor pickup. The Raptor R that Ford has been racing is actually pretty close to the production truck, although it does have more power and suspension travel.

Now the Ford Racing crew is following in the footsteps of the various FR500 Mustangs of the last five years and offering a factory-built race truck. Called the Raptor XT, it features the same 500-hp 6.2-liter V8 found in the latest edition of the Raptor R. The Raptor XT also gets all the interior amenities of a standard road going Raptor while adding the chrome-moly roll cage and tubular bumpers of the R. The XT even gets the 15-inch front and 18-inch rear wheel travel of the race truck.

Only 50 units of the Raptor XT will be built for the 2011 model year and only the most extreme off-roaders will be willing to pay the $99,950 price tag. Like the FR500 race Mustangs, the Raptor XT is off-road only, but in this case it's really off the road.

Quote:

PRESS RELEASE

F-150 SVT RAPTOR MOST POWERFUL HALF-TON AVAILABLE, NOW EVEN MORE CAPABLE OFF-ROAD

The 2010 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor with an available all-new 6.2-liter V-8 engine produces 411 horsepower and 434 ft.-lb. of torque, making it the most powerful half-ton truck on the market today

Building on the success of Ford Racing's vehicle programs and Raptor's success in the 2008 Baja 1000, Ford Racing will offer the FR Raptor XT

The FR Raptor XT offers the capability of the Baja race truck, with the comfort of the production Raptor

The FR Raptor XT off-road-only truck will have a production run of 50 units, priced at $99,950

LAS VEGAS – Just one year after Ford unveiled the 2010 F-150 SVT Raptor at the SEMA show, Ford today is announcing the long-anticipated power figures for the all-new 6.2-liter premium V-8 engine now available in this ultimate high-speed off-road performance truck.

When this optional powertrain in the Raptor arrives in showrooms in early 2010, the 6.2-liter V-8 will produce 411 hp and 434 ft.-lb. of torque, making Raptor the most powerful half-ton pickup available. Customers will now have the choice of two V-8 engines in the Raptor, Ford's proven 5.4-liter Triton V-8 or the new 6.2-liter V-8, which can be ordered beginning Dec. 1, with an MSRP of $41,995 including destination and delivery.

The F-150 SVT Raptor, launched in August with Ford's proven 320-hp 5.4-liter Triton V-8, is off to a strong start. Orders for the Raptor equipped with the standard 5.4-liter stand at more than 3,000, and the plant is at maximum capacity producing the ultimate high-speed off-road truck. In addition, Ford Racing will soon offer the 2011 FR Raptor XT, making Raptor even more capable in the rough stuff, but without giving up the control and comfort found in the production Raptor.

Considered an off-road-only pre-runner, the FR Raptor XT from Ford Racing builds upon the production Raptor's already impressive capabilities. The FR Raptor XT is nearly the same truck that finished the 2008 Tecate SCORE Baja 1000, but with all the comfort and convenience you'd find in a production Raptor. Essentially, FR Raptor XT is a turnkey professional pre-runner.

Key specifications of the FR Raptor XT include:

* 500-hp (est.) 6.2-liter naturally aspirated engine
* Six-speed automatic transmission
* Electronically selectable 4x4; 4.56 gear sets; front and rear e-lockers
* A-arm with uni-ball front; four-link RR suspension
* 15-inch front/18-inch rear wheel travel
* Coil-over with bypass shocks front and rear
* Chromoly "4130" rollcage; extensive skid plating
* Full featured interior, including power windows/windshield and air conditioning
* Factory seating with five-point restraints
* Off-road beadlock wheel/tires
* Unique appearance package including tubular front and rear bumper and integral lighting

I'll have an orange 6.2 please. Thanks.

Rumour Mill: 2011 Renault Clio IV

Pedrocas — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 15:28:26 GMT

Rumour Mill: 2010 Mitsubishi Compact Crossover

Pedrocas — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 13:46:49 GMT

Quote:

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation announces all-new Compact Crossover

- Game Changer -

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) announces today the forthcoming introduction of its all-new on-road Compact Crossover, to be retailed first in Japan from February 2010 onwards.

Derived from the much-acclaimed 2007 Concept-cX show car, it is the latest development of MMC's mid-size global platform ("Project Global").

This most important product will further support Mitsubishi Motors' strategic shift from being an SUV-focused nameplate to a manufacturer of environment-friendly passenger cars & crossovers*, with a presence in the "authentic off-roader" segment** - itself pre-empting structural changes in market demand.

As such - and after i-MiEV - this on-road Compact Crossover will be the Corporation's next game changer towards lower impact vehicles, in their format and/or in the innovative MMC proprietary technologies they will feature.

The European premiere is scheduled for the 2010 Geneva Motor Show.

http://www.worldcarfans.com/10910292...pact-crossover

Quote:

Mitsubishi confirmed more than a year ago that its Concept-cX crossover that starred at the 2007 Frankfurt Auto Show would eventually enter production and today we have the first spy shots of a prototype for the new model. The compact crossover will be aimed at European markets and be positioned below the current Outlander.

As previewed by the original Concept-cX, the production model, which is going by the name of CX, will likely feature a constant all-wheel drive system. The vehicle will be important for Mitsubishi’s European arm as it will also be a showcase for the company’s environmental awareness by debuting a family of Euro-5 clean diesel engines.

The new engine is planned to have class-leading power output courtesy of a high-efficiency turbocharger and high-efficiency combustion characteristics. Some of the technologies include a variable geometry turbocharger, a diesel particulate filter and a diesel oxidation catalyst.

The base engine will be a 136-horsepower 1.8-liter four-cylinder unit churning out 206-pound-feet of torque. It will be mated to Mitsubishi’s Twin Clutch SST gearbox and a custom AWD system.

If the CX proves popular, re-skinned versions of the compact crossover could also be sold by French automakers Peugeot and Citroen--just as they did with the current 4007 and C7 SUVs based on the larger Outlander.

:cool:

The Boss is Back:

starfox07 — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 01:06:36 GMT

New information is coming in on the 6.2 liter modular that will be appearing in some Fords next year. I believe it is debuting in the Raptor, but I imagine it will sneak into a mustang at some point.

"The Boss is Back" cast directly into the block

Twin spark heads

sohc

From what I have read, this engine has a tall enough deck height to be brought out to nearly 8 liters! One has already made 700+bhp on the stock bottom end with stock heads and a mild cam....naturally aspirated.

This particular engine was in a 3800lbs drag car running 8.50's in the 1/4 mile, again on the stock bottom end. Can't wait to see some more info.

edit: to clear up any possible confusion, its anticipated to be rated around 400bhp stock.

FinalGear.com Forums - Automotive News / Spy Shots / Concepts / Rumor Mill

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No 56k: The general SEMA 2009 thread.

GM: Neener Neener we keep Opel, fuck you European governments!

Autoblog: SEMA 2009: Jay Leno Camaro a pre-emptive strike against EcoBoost 'Stang

The VW Rabbit/Golf Mk1 is dead, no really

Ford F-150 SVT Raptor not enough - try these options.

Rumour Mill: 2011 Renault Clio IV

Rumour Mill: 2010 Mitsubishi Compact Crossover

The Boss is Back:

Autoblog: Toyota being sued today for shakes magic 8-ball "Sudden acceleration"