Speed Vs Luxurious 4 Wheelers

2011 Nissan GT-R Receives Mechanical and Equipment Upgrades [Mega Gallery with 110 High-Res Photos]

2009-10-27T14:03:00.000-07:00

2011 Nissan GT-R Receives Mechanical and Equipment Upgrades [Mega Gallery with 110 High-Res Photos]

We know it sounds bizarre as the GT-R was only launched in late 2007, and in spite of the fact that the sports coupe received several model year upgrades including engine and suspension revisions in December 2008, Nissan has yet again announced the release of a 'facelift' model that will go on sale in Japan on December 7 and the rest of the world in spring of 2010.

For the 2011 model year, the updated GT-R receives a number of enhancements, including a revised navigation system, recalibrated suspension settings and an improved-flow catalyst system.

More specifically, equipment improvements comprise of a new HDD-based CARWINGS navigation system with enhanced entertainment functions and USB port with iPod connectivity.

According to Nissan, the 2011MY GT-R's suspension has been retuned to offer "enhanced, premium quality ride comfort, while still providing the driver with a feeling of direct contact with the road surface".

Suspension changes include the increased accuracy of the front shock absorbers and springs and the strengthening of the stiffness of the rear suspension radius rod bushings has been strengthened.

In addition, Nissan said that the rear diffusers with cooling ducts that improve cooling performance around the rear floor area which were previously available only on the more hardcore GT-R SpecV, are now offered on the base model.

As for the GT-R SpecV, the 2011 model year brings revised rear shock absorber settings, with Nissan claiming that they enhance "the characteristic combination of supple ride comfort and flat, predictable handling".

Furthermore, the 2011 GT-R SpecV now ride on Dunlop tires while the previously standard Bridgestone tires are available as a factory-installed option.

Finally, both the Nissan GT-R and GT-R SpecV get new hexagonal meshed catalyst cells that are said to reduce ventilation/airflow resistance resulting in improved low- and mid-range response of the 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine.

2011 Nissan GT-R

______________________________________________________________

2011 Nissan GT-R SpecV

Tokyo '09: Subaru Hybrid Tourer Concept 2.0 Turbo in the Flesh

2009-10-26T13:59:00.000-07:00

Tokyo '09: Subaru Hybrid Tourer Concept 2.0 Turbo in the Flesh

We won't take the rumors about the Hybrid Tourer Concept spawning a spiritual successor to the SVX for granted, but we will say that the gullwing-door prototype may hint at the design language of future Subaru models. Beneath the skin, the all-wheel-drive Hybrid Tourer concept uses a direct-injection 2.0-liter turbocharged flat-four engine mated to a continuously variable transmission. This is combined with a pair of electric motors, one for each axle and a high-performance lithium battery.

Depending on the driving situation, the four-seater Hybrid Tourer can be moved by the 27HP electric motor at the rear, the boxer engine or a combination of the gasoline and electric motors.

Inside, the Subaru model gets four individual seats and flat floor along with the usual futuristic and far-from production dashboard design that is common on concept cars of this sort.

Veritas RS III: Insane BMW V10-Powered Supercar goes into Production

2009-10-24T15:28:00.000-07:00

Veritas RS III: Insane BMW V10-Powered Supercar goes into Production

Remember the Veritas RS III, the open-cockpit purebred supercar with the M5-sourced V10 engine that pays homage to the 1940's era BMW racing team? Well, it's finally going into a limited series production with the first of a total of 30 hand-made examples set to be delivers to customers in January 2010. Veritas says that even before the actual start of production, five of the 30 luxury cars have already been sold while another eight have been reserved. But before you start day-dreaming, learn that prices start at a whopping €345,00 or about $517,000 at today's exchange rates.

The German company said that a staff of 15 people install the chassis, bodywork and interior at three workstations, with production of a completed model taking about eight weeks.

The RSIII is a 1+1 seater with a covered passenger seat that can be opened if required. The vehicle's body that is made out of ultra-light carbon fiber is built atop of a tube frame developed by Vermot AG.

The 4.68 meter long and 2.02 meter wide supercar is powered by a 5.0-liter V10 from the BMW M5/M6 that makes 507HP and is coupled to either a 7-speed SMG transmission or a manual 6-speed gearbox that send all those ponies to the rear-wheels.

Weighing in at just 1080kg or 2,380 lbs, it is capable of accelerating from standstill to 100km/h (62mph) in under 3.2 seconds and reach a top speed of 347 km/h or 216 mph.

The RS III rides on 22-inch alloy wheels shod in high-performance Dunlop tires size 255/30 at the front and 325/25 at the rear while other highlights include a new braking system from Brabham Racing with 380 mm rotors and six piston calipers at the front and 355 mm rotors and four piston calipers at the back as well as a height-adjustable sport suspension.

2011 Nissan GT-R Receives Mechanical and Equipment Upgrades [Mega Gallery with 110 High-Res Photos]

2009-10-23T15:25:00.000-07:00

2011 Nissan GT-R Receives Mechanical and Equipment Upgrades [Mega Gallery with 110 High-Res Photos]

For the 2011 model year, the updated GT-R receives a number of enhancements, including a revised navigation system, recalibrated suspension settings and an improved-flow catalyst system.

More specifically, equipment improvements comprise of a new HDD-based CARWINGS navigation system with enhanced entertainment functions and USB port with iPod connectivity.

According to Nissan, the 2011MY GT-R's suspension has been retuned to offer "enhanced, premium quality ride comfort, while still providing the driver with a feeling of direct contact with the road surface".

Suspension changes include the increased accuracy of the front shock absorbers and springs and the strengthening of the stiffness of the rear suspension radius rod bushings has been strengthened.

Obviously we'll have to wait and see what how these changes have affected the Japanese sport coupe's handling.

As for the GT-R SpecV, the 2011 model year brings revised rear shock absorber settings, with Nissan claiming that they enhance "the characteristic combination of supple ride comfort and flat, predictable handling".

Furthermore, the 2011 GT-R SpecV now ride on Dunlop tires while the previously standard Bridgestone tires are available as a factory-installed option.

Finally, both the Nissan GT-R and GT-R SpecV get new hexagonal meshed catalyst cells that are said to reduce ventilation/airflow resistance resulting in improved low- and mid-range response of the 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine.

2011 Nissan GT-R

______________________________________________________________

2011 Nissan GT-R SpecV

Honda Europe Confirms Production of Civic Type R Mugen 240HP, 20 Examples Priced at £38,599 - $64,000

2009-10-22T15:19:00.000-07:00

Honda Europe Confirms Production of Civic Type R Mugen 240HP, 20 Examples Priced at £38,599 - $64,000

As anticipated, Honda has given the green light for a limited production run of the Civic Type R Mugen hot hatch that was first revealed as a prototype model earlier this summer. Only 20 cars will be hand-built in the UK by Mugen's European division with prices set at £38,599 OTR, which comes to about $64,000 or €42,900 at the current exchange rates. Honda did not say whether all examples will be right-hand drive or if it will produce some left hand drive vehicles.

"Each Type R MUGEN will be an exclusive, hand-built race car for the road," said Hiroki Toyoda, Vice President of MUGEN EURO. "When we launched the Civic Type RR saloon in Japan, we sold out of all 300 units in just six minutes. Given the interest we have already had from car enthusiasts in the UK and abroad, we hope to repeat that achievement."

The hottest Type R hatch is based on the series production model but benefits from an array of upgrades. Mugen has thoroughly reworked the Type R's 2.0-liter i-VTEC four-cylinder engine with a modified intake system, new pistons, a reprogrammed ECU and a custom stainless steel exhaust system and airbox.

The result is a 20 percent power increase from 200HP to 240HP at a screaming 8,300 rpm (300 revolutions more than the stock engine) and a 10 percent boost in torque throughout the rev range. The four-cylinder engine's peak torque is up, from 142 lb-ft at 5,600rpm to 157 lb-ft at 6,250rpm.

Honda estimates that the Mugen Civic Type R will accelerate from zero to 62mph (100km/h) in 6.0 seconds and reach a top speed of 150mph or 241 km/h.

The extra grunt of the tuned engine is transferred to road through a six-speed manual gearbox and a limited slip differential, while grip and handling are claimed to be significantly improved through a completely revised suspension set-up, with custom-made springs and dampers.

Stopping power comes courtesy of bespoke four-piston mono-block racing brake callipers that sit under high-density, lightweight forged alloy wheels. According to the maker, these weigh just 7.85kg (17.3 lbs) each or 32 per cent less than the production wheel.

The Mugen-prepped hardcore Civic Type R also features an aerodynamic kit comprising of a large wing at the back of the car that promises to increase downforce at high-speeds, new front and rear skirts made out of composite materials. A new grille and the large twin tail pipes complete the exterior package while all cars will be painted in Honda's Championship White – the traditional racing colour of the brand.

Furthermore, buyers can opt for a 'Track Pack' that includes front Recaro bucket seats, removal of the rear seat bench with a composite blanking panel fitted to reduce weight, water and oil temperature/pressure gauges, data recording equipment, and a set of track-ready road-legal tires.

SEMA '09: Mopar Jeep Wrangler Lower Forty "BigFoot" with Massive 40-inch Tires and HEMI V8

2009-10-19T12:12:00.000-07:00

SEMA '09: Mopar Jeep Wrangler Lower Forty "BigFoot" with Massive 40-inch Tires and HEMI V8

Taking the latest generation Jeep Wrangler to a new extreme, Mopar has designed the uber-impressive "Lower Forty" concept for this year's SEMA Show in Las Vegas. The crazy Wrangler Lower Forty rides on massive 40 x 13.5-inch tires mounted on Mopar's 20-inch forged-aluminum wheels while power comes from a 5.7-liter HEMI V8 engine coupled to a Getrag 238 six-speed manual gearbox. The Mopar-supplied Dana 44 front axle and a Dana 60 rear axle, fitted with 5.38 gears and ARB air lockers complete the mechanical upgrades.

In order to fit the massive wheels on the Wrangler Rubicon without using a suspension air lift, Mopar's team created custom front and rear fender flares that are 1-inch wider and are located 4 inches higher than on the stock model.

Other exterior modifications include the chopped windshield frame that gets a 10-degree rake, a one-piece carbon-fiber hood with a Jeep CJ-like power dome and an all-new drop-down tailgate stamped with the "Jeep" logo.

The Lower Forty also gets a roll cage that is tied directly into the frame rails, a color-matched center console and instrument panel and two-tone Katzkin leather seats while the carpet has been replaced with spray-in truck-bed liner.

McLaren LM5 Concept with BMW V10: Design Study for a Spiritual Successor to the F1

2009-10-19T12:09:00.000-07:00

McLaren LM5 Concept with BMW V10: Design Study for a Spiritual Successor to the F1

Only time will tell if the styling of the new McLaren MP4-12C will age well and look relevant years later, as the firm's chief designer Frank Stephenson hopes it will, but for now, most seem to agree that the British supercar's looks are unexciting - maybe even generic, especially when compared to the likes of the Ferrari 458 Italia. That doesn't seem to be the case though with this conceptual proposal for a flagship McLaren supercar from Matt Williams, a graduate of Coventry University's Transportation Design degree program.

William's, who created the LM5 as part of his final year project, designed the mid-engined supercar to sit atop the MP4-12C essentially playing the role of the F1's spiritual successor.

Not surprisingly, the F1 inspired the design of the LM5 which retains the same three-seat layout as the original model with the driver in the middle and two passengers on either side. However, the LM5 has its own distinct and rather aggressive styling personality (unlike the MP4-12C...)

In theory, the LM5 was designed to be powered by a massaged version of the BMW M5 / M6 5.0-liter V10 - apparently paying homage to the original F1 that sported a BMW M Division sourced and developed V12 engine.

Via: Diseno-art

Tokyo '09: Lotus to Unveil Limited Production Exige Scura with 260HP

2009-10-19T12:06:00.000-07:00

Tokyo '09: Lotus to Unveil Limited Production Exige Scura with 260HP

*UPDATED GALLERY WITH 24 HIGH-RES PHOTOS*

Another show, another special edition model for Lotus that has announced the world premiere of the Exige Scura at the Tokyo International Motorshow on 21st of October 2009. Translated as "dark" from Italian, the name "Scura" is supposed to reflect the stealth character of the special Exige that boasts a menacing matt black paint finish with contrasting 'Phantom Black' triple stripes that run the length of the car.

The sports car also features carbon fiber front splitter, oil cooler inlet vanes, side air-scoops and rear spoiler plus unique matt black lightweight forged wheels shod in high-performance Yokohama A048 LTS tires.

Continuing the dark theme into the interior, the Scura's seats and centre console are crafted from carbon fibre and the handbrake and gear knob have a special anodized treatment which leaves the metal with an anthracite color finish. All carbon fibre components inside are finished in high-gloss clear lacquer.

The Exige Scura makes use of the Toyota-sourced 1.8-liter supercharged four-cylinder engine from the range topping Exige Cup 260. It produces a maximum power output of 260 horsepower at 8,000 rpm and a peak torque figure of 236 Nm (174 lb-ft) at 6,000 rpm. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a lightweight C64 six-speed gearbox.

Lotus said that the extensive use of lightweight carbon fibre components, including sports seats, interior centre console and the exterior bodykit help to keep the weight to 10kg or 22 pounds less than the 220HP Exige S at just 925 kg or 2,039 lbs.

The company claims a 0 to 100km/h sprint time of 4.1 seconds (0-60mph in 4.0 sec), a zero to 160 km/h (100 mph) in circa 9.9 seconds a top speed of around 245 km/h (152mph). Combined cycle fuel consumption is said to be 8.5 lt/100km (27.6 mpg US or 33.2mpg UK) with CO2 emissions of 199 g/km.

Other features include a launch control system, a variable slip traction control that enables drivers to tune the car to track surface conditions and their own driving style, two-way adjustable dampers from Ohlins that have 60 compression and 22 rebound settings and ride height adjustment to reduce the ride height from 130 mm to 120 mm.

Production of the Exige Scura that will be offered in Japan as the 'Exige Stealth' will be limited to 35 units globally.

Lotus said that orders will be accepted from 21 October 2009 in Europe, South Korea, Australia, South Africa, Thailand, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore, New Zealand, Indonesia and Malaysia with prices set at £45,950 in the UK, €61,820 in Belgium, €61,200 in France, €61,885 in Italy, €60,000 in Germany and CHF90,225 in Switzerland.

Nissan USA Marks Z's 40th Anniversary with Special Edition 370Z

2009-10-19T12:00:00.000-07:00

Nissan USA Marks Z's 40th Anniversary with Special Edition 370Z

Forty years ago, on October 22, 1969, the 240Z made its way to North America offering Datsun (now know as Nissan) its first true sports car on this part of the world. The 240Z debuted in the U.S. as a 1970 model our photo tribute on the first Z Coupe) featuring a 150HP 2.4-liter inline 6-cylinder engine linked to either a 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic, and a base price of $3,626. To commemorate the occasion, Datsun's successor, Nissan, today announced the release of a 40th Anniversary Edition of the 370Z that will go on sale in the States in Spring of 2010.

The special edition model is based on the 370Z Coupe Touring fitted with a manual transmission and the Sport Package. The latter adds a rev-matching system for the gearbox, front and rear spoilers, sport brakes, 19-inch Rays forged alloy wheels and viscous limited-slip differential.

To that, the 40th Anniversary Edition adds a unique "40th Quartz" exterior finish, smoked alloy wheels, red brake calipers and special badges on the rear hatch and front strut tower brace.

Nissan also modded the 370Z's interior with red leather seats and door panels, 40th Anniversary seatback and floor mat embroidery, red stitching on the center stack, shift boot and kneepads, smooth leather steering wheel with red stitching and of course, a special plaque of authenticity. Finally, all 40th Anniversary Z's comes with a commemorative premium satin car cover.

According to the Japanese automaker, pricing of the special edition 370Z that keeps the stock 332HP 3.7-liter V6 engine will be revealed closer to its on-sale date in the U.S. next spring.

Watercar Python: A Corvette Powered Amphibious Hot Rod that Hits 60mph in 4.5 Sec [WITH VIDEO]

2009-10-06T06:54:00.000-07:00

Watercar Python: A Corvette Powered Amphibious Hot Rod that Hits 60mph in 4.5 Sec [WITH VIDEO]

The same folks that brought you the Subaru-powered, Chevrolet Camaro-bodied amphibian are at it again. WaterCar's latest land-to-sea-and-back creation is the Python. Hailed by the California-based company as the world's fugliest fastest amphibious vehicle, the Python is offered with a choice of Corvette V8 engines ranging from a base LS1 all the way up to GM's latest 6.2-liter supercharged LS9 that makes 640HP in the Corvette ZR1. Marine propulsion comes courtesy of a Dominator Jet drive.

Weighing in at 3,800 lbs or 1,725 kg, the Python is said to be able to reach top speeds in excess of 60mph (97km/h) on the water and 100mph (160 km/h) on land. The maker also claims that the amphibious vehicle can accelerate from zero to 60mph (96km/h) in 4.5 seconds and hit the quarter mile mark in around 12.5 seconds.

For the record, WaterCar does not clarify with which GM LS V8 engine the Python achieves these performance figures on land, though we suspect that it's the LS9.

WaterCar trumpets that the transition from car-to-boat is immediate as the only thing that the driver has to do is put the transmission in neutral then engage the jet, and push a button to raise the wheels. When coming out of the water, the d(r)iver has to reverse the process.

The company says that the Python is hand built to order and can be customized right up to the exact placement of the seats and pedals with buyers offered a choice of more than 60,000 exterior shades and 4,000 interior colors. However, bear in mind that neither a soft/hard top or air-condition is offered at this time.

If you plan on buying one, be warned that prices for fully customized and completed examples start off from a hefty $200,000 or about €137,000 at the current exchange rates.

Link: WaterCar - Hat tip to Fred!

Swede Creates Amazing Batmobile Replica, Cost Over $1 Million and Took 20,000 Man-Hours to Build!

2009-10-06T06:51:00.000-07:00

Swede Creates Amazing Batmobile Replica, Cost Over $1 Million and Took 20,000 Man-Hours to Build!

A diligent Swede with more money to spend than Bruce Wayne himself and more free time to spare than a death row inmate has reportedly invested around $1 million US (we've no idea how this number came up) and about 20,000 man-hours to create this amazing real-life replica of the Batmobile that was featured in the 1989 and 1992 Batman films directed by Tim Burton.

The matte black Batmobile is said to be based on a 1973 Lincoln Continental chassis and is equipped with numerous gadgets and features including rear-view video cameras, a plasma screen TV, voice recognition controls, a height-adjustable suspension, satellite navigation system and a DVD player.

To be completely honest, a million dollars even for a working replica sounds a wee too much. But if true, we reckon that the Joke(er) is on the Swede as original Batmobiles such as an example from the 1989 Batman Movie, the 1995 Batman Forever film and even the most sought after Batmobile from the 1960s TV series (click the respective links for details) have changed hands over the past few years for a fraction of that price...

Via: Jalopnik & Bilfeber

UK Police Forces to Employ Mitsubishi i-MiEV, Speed Criminals Rejoice...

2009-10-06T06:46:00.000-07:00

UK Police Forces to Employ Mitsubishi i-MiEV, Speed Criminals Rejoice...

While police officers in the States are getting ready to welcome the 2011 Chevrolet Caprice, in the UK the boys in blue -well, at least some of them- will soon be cracking down crime with the help (?) of Mitsubishi's all-electric i MiEV. The five-door micro car was showcased in full police livery at the National Police Show in September and according to the Japanese automaker, since then the company has been swamped with requests from UK Police Forces to trial the i MiEV.

Mitsubishi said that the first production versions of the i-MiEV are set to arrive in the UK in November 2009 and will be on the road in December 2009, with West Midlands Police being the first department to run the all-electric micro car in full operational use.

The four-seat, bubble-shaped i-MiEV gets an electric motor that makes 47kW / 64HP and 180Nm (132.8 lb-ft) of peak torque. Power is delivered to the rear-wheels with Mitsubishi claiming a range of 100 miles and a top speed of 81mph (130km/h).

Certainly not the best choice if you're trying to pursue someone but we gather that the i-MiEV will most likely be used by urban cops for light tasks.

McLaren MP4-12C Revealed: First Photos and Details of 600HP British Supercar

2009-10-03T11:45:00.000-07:00

McLaren MP4-12C Revealed: First Photos and Details of 600HP British Supercar

Having recently formed its own independent automotive division, the British maker of the iconic F1 (1993-1998) and the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (2003-2008) has finally revealed its first supercar, the McLaren MP4-12C. The two-seater mid-engine model has been developed in-house, meaning that it features no carryover parts from any other car, and will be produced by McLaren in the UK with sales expected to begin in early 2011.

At the heart of the bespoke McLaren is a 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine that delivers "around 600 horsepower and 600Nm or 443 lb-ft", with 80 per cent of torque available below 2,000rpm. The engine drives the rear wheels through two wet clutches and a McLaren-developed seven speed Seamless Shift dual clutch gearbox (SSG).

Performance figures haven't been released yet but expect a zero to 60mph - 100km/h sprint time under 4,0 seconds and a top speed of around 200 mph - 320km/h.

McLaren's engineers did their best to keep the MP4-12C's weight as low as possible and even though the company did not issue a kerbweight figure, it did say that the supercar features a one-piece carbon fibre chassis structure called Carbon MonoCell that weighs in at a mere 80kg or 176 pounds and is dressed in lightweight aluminum and plastic body panels.

The suspension is based on double wishbones with coil springs while the four adjustable dampers are interconnected hydraulically. There are three suspension modes - normal, sport and high performance, which adjust numerous parameters in the system.

The MP4-12C gets the usual suite of electronic aids that include ABS, ESP, ASR traction control, Electronic Brake Distribution, Hill Hold and Brake Steer that applies the inside rear brake as the car corners.

As with the F1 supercar and the SLR, McLarens's supercar model gets a rear-deck mounted airbrake that deploys hydraulically under braking, or when the driver wants to trim the car for increased downforce by using a switch on the Active Dynamics Panel.

In terms of styling, the MP4-12C is no stunner and is definitely far less extravagant that many of its rivals like the recently introduced Ferrari F458 Italia. But if we are to believe the firm's design director Frank Stephenson, the man responsible for the Mini Cooper, Fiat 500 and Alfa Romeo Mi.To, the design of the 12C was clearly led by aerodynamics.

"All the fins, vents and the flat underbody are there for a reason. No styling addenda have been incorporated for appeal or style alone," said Stephenson. "This aerodynamic purity explains why this car can hit top speed with great stability without resorting to tea tray wings or deep front air dams. I really feel that the styling communicates the 12C's engineering integrity and technical benefits and it is this purity that makes the design timeless."

The same, straightforward design philosophy is also evident in the car's cabin. McLaren claims that the interior is "extremely space efficient" and is designed to accommodate "98th percentile adults in comfort".

"With the interior, we have created a real step forward in the packaging of a sports car," says Stephenson. "Moving the driver and passenger closer together improves driving control and moving the pedals improves the problem of wheel well intrusion. We also repackaged many of the major components that normally sit under the dashboard to allow for more space and a unique form. Packaging is one of the 12C's really strong points."

According to McLaren, early planning indicates that half of the MP4-12C's sales will be evenly split between the UK and the USA with the remainder to the rest of the world, notably Germany and mainland Europe, the Middle East and some Far Eastern countries.

Via: Worldcarfans

Honda CR-Z Hybrid Sports Coupe: First Official Photos of Pre-Production Model Released Ahead of Tokyo Show

2009-10-03T11:41:00.000-07:00

Honda CR-Z Hybrid Sports Coupe: First Official Photos of Pre-Production Model Released Ahead of Tokyo Show

The CR-X lives on to tell another tale, or at least sort of. The spiritual successor to Honda's much missed small coupe, the gasoline-electric hybrid CR-Z, will be unveiled in near production form at next month's Tokyo Motor Show. Despite the fact that CR-Z carries a concept moniker, it's obvious that only a few changes will be made to the production model that is scheduled to be launched in Japan in February 2010 and the rest of the world sometime after.

At a first glance, the so-called "CR-Z Concept 2009" doesn't appear to be that different from the original CR-Z concept car that was displayed at the 2007 Tokyo show.

However, as you can see for yourselves in the photos that we've attached below, a closer look reveals that Honda's designers thoroughly reworked the sport coupe's front and rear ends as well as the profile.

Not surprisingly, the pre-production CR-Z's interior has nothing in common with the 2007 concept model, but sans the sportier trim, the dashboard's styling does bring to mind the Insight...

As of yet, there's nothing official on the CR-Z's hybrid powertrain, but recent reports suggest that Honda will ditch the Insight's 1.3-liter petrol engine for a more powerful 1.5-liter unit combined with a more potent electric motor.

HONDA CR-Z CONCEPT 2009

________________________________________________________________

HONDA CR-Z CONCEPT 2007

Lumma Design Strikes Again with Uber-Aggressive Porsche Panamera CLR 700GT

2009-10-03T11:37:00.000-07:00

Lumma Design Strikes Again with Uber-Aggressive Porsche Panamera CLR 700GT

If there's one tuning firm you that you can trust with your eyes closed that it will create a wild proposal out of any kind of vehicle it gets its hands on, that has to be Lumma Design. And sure enough, the German company doesn't disappoint its fans with its new, Porsche Panamera-based CLR 700GT sports saloon.

These first photos - or computer enhanced pictures, we're not entirely sure, show that Lumma Design has gifted the Panamera sports sedan with an ultra-aggressive wide body kit that includes a modified hood with air outlets, restyled bumpers, a rear diffuser that incorporates quad tail pipes and a large rear wing.

The chunky fender extensions that house the 22-inch alloy wheels finished in black with silver rims along with the new side skirts round off the cosmetic upgrades. Furthermore, the sport sedan's ride height has been lowered by a significant 35mm.

We're not aware of the mechanical upgrades yet, but if the tuning company's work on other Porsche models is any indication, the CLR 700GT will boast more than enough power under the bonnet.

Via: Autoblog.nl , Source: Lumma Design

Tokyo '09: Honda Skydeck Concept for a Six-Passenger Hybrid MPV

2009-10-03T11:17:00.000-07:00

Tokyo '09: Honda Skydeck Concept for a Six-Passenger Hybrid MPV

Joining the near-production CR-Z hybrid sports coupe and the EV-N electric mini car at Honda's Tokyo Motor Show stand will be the Skydeck, a futuristic-looking hybrid minivan that could be pointing to a production MPV in the near future. While Honda provided us with plenty of pictures of the Skydeck concept, the Japanese company did not disclose many details on the vehicle.

What we do know is that the Skydeck can seat six passengers in three rows of seats and that it makes use of Lamborghini-style scissor doors up front and more conventional sliding doors at the rear. Power is provided by a hybrid drivetrain while the system's batteries are mounted underneath the center console that runs along the two front seat rows.

Infiniti FX50 S Dressed Up in Styling Package by Brabus' CRD Division

2009-09-29T09:03:00.000-07:00

Infiniti FX50 S Dressed Up in Styling Package by Brabus' CRD Division

Here's a proposal from this year's Frankfurt Show that somehow managed to escape our radar. Supposedly a concept study, the Infiniti FX50 S Limited Edition was created by Car Research and Development or CRD for short, a subsidiary of the Brabus Group that works directly with automakers and their national importers. Among other cars, CRD was responsible (...) for the creation of the Dodge Avenger-based Startech Starster that appeared at the 2007 Frankfurt Show.

The Infiniti FX50 S Limited Edition show car gets a set of bespoke 21-inch turbine-design light-alloy wheels in a grey finish, while the front grille, side air inlets in the front fenders and the roof bars are also painted grey.

The luxury SUV's cabin is upholstered in high-quality leather with contrasting light brown stitching while the carbon-fiber trim in a dark brown finish and the alcantara trim on the headliner and pillars round off the interior upgrades.

And yes, we too are wondering why Brabus / CRD even bothered to call this creation a concept study...

Lamborghini Reventon Roadster: Details and High-Res Gallery of €1.1 Million Special

2009-09-29T09:01:00.000-07:00

Lamborghini Reventon Roadster: Details and High-Res Gallery of €1.1 Million Special

Two years after the Reventon coupe was presented at the 2007 Frankfurt show, the Italian automaker is making a comeback at this year's IAA with the unveiling of a roadster model. As with the coupe, less than 20 examples of the jet-fighter inspired supercar will be built for sale, each priced at a whopping 1.1 million euros or 1.6 million USD at today's exchange rates, and mind you, that's not including taxes. Deliveries of the V12-powered Italian special will begin as early as October 2009.

"The Reventón is the most extreme car in the history of the brand," said Stephan Winkelmann, President and CEO of Lamborghini. "The new Roadster adds an extra emotional component to our combined technological expertise – it unites superior performance with the sensual fascination of open-top driving."

Like the coupe, the Reventon Roadster measures 4700 mm (185 in.) in length, has a wheelbase of 2665 mm (105 in.) and is 2058 mm (81 in.) wide and 1132 mm (45 in.) high.

Besides the targa roof, the only other styling differences between the two bodystyles concern the addition of two hidden pop-up bars that deploy upwards in just a few hundredths of a second in the event of a rollover, the new engine bonnet that is virtually horizontal and comes with four glass windows providing a full view of the V12 and finally, a new shade of matt grey.

Lamborghini says that the Reventon's base bodyshell, which is made almost exclusively from carbon fiber elements, with sheet steel used only for the outer door skins, was already so stiff that the Roadster model required only minimal reinforcement. This translates to an extra 25kg (55 lbs) bringing the Roadster model's total dry weight to 1690 Kg (3,725 lbs.).

Inside, the jet-fighter theme is continued with the "two transreflective and one transmissive" liquid-crystal displays replacing the classic analogue instrumentation while the two bucket seats are separated by a large central tunnel covered in carbon fiber and Alcantara.

Heavily based on the Murcielago, the Reventon Roadster is powered by a 6.5-liter naturally-aspirated V12 engine that cranks out 670 ponies at 8,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 660 Nm (487 lb-ft) at 6,000 rpm. That's 20HP more than the coupe's V12 while the peak torque figure is the same. The engine is coupled to a six speed automated-manual transmission that sends power to all four wheels.

According to Lamborghini, the Reventon Roadster can accelerate from 0 to 100 Km/h (62 mph) in 3.4 seconds and reach to a top speed of 330 Km/h (205 mph).

Son of AMC Designer Creates AMX/4 Prototype Sports Coupe

2009-09-29T08:55:00.000-07:00

Son of AMC Designer Creates AMX/4 Prototype Sports Coupe

American Motors Company or AMC for short, may be long gone as the firm was absorbed by Chrysler in the late 1980's, but the brand lives on in the hearts of people like Jeff Teague, a designer who happens to be the son of AMC's design vice president for 26 years, Dick Teague. The latter was responsible for an array of Jeep and AMC designs such as the Gremlin, Pacer, Matador coupe, Jeep Cherokee, Rambler American, Javelin and Hornet.

Having penned many sketches for a modern-day AMC in the past, Jeff decided to proceed to the next phase by creating a 1/4 scale clay prototype for a coupe model that he calls AMX/4 and which is a logical successor to his father's AMX/3.

Teague will present his AMX/4 concept to the public for the first time at this weekend's So Cal AMC Classic Car Show and Beach Cruise at the Automobile Driving Museum in El Segundo, California.

We don't know what the odds are for a full-scale, drivable version of Teague's conceptual proposal, but nonetheless, we salute his efforts and hope that he manages to bring the car to life.

Source: SoCalamc , Via: Hemmings

Audi Blinds the Frankfurt Crowds with Mirror Finish R8 5.2 FSI V10

2009-09-20T03:24:00.000-07:00

Audi Blinds the Frankfurt Crowds with Mirror Finish R8 5.2 FSI V10

Together with the supercharged S5 Sportback, the stunning R8 Spyder, the A3 1.2 TSI, the A4 3.0 TDI and the futuristic e-Tron Electric sports car concept, Audi also showcased a blindingly shiny R8 5.2 FSI V10 coupe in a chrome finish - you know, of the same sort that we make fun of when we see parked outside ritzy hotels in Dubai... There's nothing official on the car by Audi but we gather that it will probably provide the inspiration for a custom made job.

Audi, Audi R8, Frankfurt Motor Show, Galleries, New Cars

2009-09-20T03:19:00.000-07:00

Audi, Audi R8, Frankfurt Motor Show, Galleries, New Cars

We know that many of you weren't exactly thrilled about the cocoa bean color of the R8 Spyder in the press shots, but in Frankfurt, Audi displayed two examples of its stunning topless sports car finished in white and red respectively. We wouldn't mind either color, though to be honest, what we'd really like to see it in is a deep metallic black finish. At launch, the R8 Spyder will be available exclusively with the Lambo-sourced 5.2-liter V10 engine that cranks out 525 horsepower and can be combined with either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission.

Audi says that acceleration from zero to 100km/h (62mph) comes after 4,1 seconds instead of the coupe's 3,9 seconds while the two-seater can reach a maximum speed of 313 km/h (195 mph). First deliveries are expected sometime in the first quarter of 2010. For the 'Full Monty' on the R8 Spyder

Volkswagen's L1 Diesel-Electric Hybrid Concept Returns 170mpg!

2009-09-20T03:12:00.000-07:00

Volkswagen's L1 Diesel-Electric Hybrid Concept Returns 170mpg!

The Frankfurt Motor Show marked the world debut of the new Volkswagen L1 Concept, a cigar-shaped diesel-electric hybrid that draws inspiration from Wolfsburg's original 1-litre concept car that was unveiled back in April 2002. Despite its name, the L1 actually burns a little over 1 lt at 1,38 liter of diesel for every 100 kilometers or about 170mpg US / 204.7mpg UK, while emitting just 39 g/km of CO2.

It may look weird, but the L1 is extremely aerodynamic featuring a co-efficient of drag figure of just 0.195 while the use of aluminium and carbon fibre materials in its construction results to a kerb weight of only 380kg or 830 pounds.

Measuring 3,813 mm in length, the L1 is about as long as a Polo, however at just 1,143 mm in height, it's as low as a Lamborghini Murcielago while its width, at just 1,200 mm, is narrower than any conventional car in the market today.

The concept model can seat two passengers in tandem, with the driver of course sitting up front. Both occupants enter the car through a side-hinging, electrically operated canopy.

Power is provided from a 0.8-liter diesel engine derived from the 1.6-litre TDI unit found in the new Golf BlueMotion and a 14-horsepower electric motor that engages either to take over from the diesel for short distances or to offer extra grunt when additional acceleration is required.

Volkswagen says that the L1 accelerates to 100km/h (62 mph) from rest in 14.3 seconds before reaching a maximum speed of 160km/h or 99 mph. Even though the L1 has a small 10-litre fuel tank, thanks to its extremely low fuel consumption, the driver can cover a distance (in theory always) of 725 kilometers or 450 miles between stops.

VW 1-Liter Concept - 2002

VW L1 Concept - 2009

Frankfurt Welcomes All-New 2010 Saab 9-5 Sedan: Live Shots Plus Updated High-Res Gallery with 60 Pics

2009-09-20T03:10:00.000-07:00

Frankfurt Welcomes All-New 2010 Saab 9-5 Sedan: Live Shots Plus Updated High-Res Gallery with 60 Pics

The undisputable star of Saab's Frankfurt Motor Show stand is the all-new 9-5 Sedan that will go on sale worldwide in the beginning of next year. While Saab's proposal in the BMW 5-Series and Audi A6 premium segment shares GM's Epsilon 2 platform with the Opel/Vauxhall Insignia and Buick LaCrosse, the 9-5 features a longer wheelbase and has its own unique exterior and a interior styling that's influenced by the Aero X concept car as well as by the classic 900.

The new 9-5 Sedan, which will be followed by a load-loving Estate version within the next year or so, will be available at launch with a choice of two turbocharged petrol engines, a 2.0-liter unit with 220HP and a range-topping 300HP 2.8-liter V6 that's offered exclusively with Saab's XWD four-wheel drive system, and a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo diesel that makes 160HP.

Shortly after the market launch, Saab plans to enhance the 9-5 engine range with a small displacement, 1.6-liter gasoline turbo generating 180 horsepower, together with a 2.0-liter BioPower E85-capable engine. All transmissions will be six-speed

Technological highlights include the adaptive chassis control with driver settings selection through Saab's DriveSense, Bi-Xenon Smart Beam adaptive headlights and intelligent cruise control. The 9-5 will be offered with two different suspension layouts according to engine power while buyers can also opt for sport chassis setting.

Citroen's Aggressively-Chic REVOLTe Concept brings the 2CV to the 21st Century

2009-09-20T03:05:00.000-07:00

Citroen's Aggressively-Chic REVOLTe Concept brings the 2CV to the 21st Century

Citroen has given the 2CV a modern twist with the all-new REVOLTe concept mini that broke cover at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show. In the French carmaker's own words, whereas the classic 2CV was "plain and neutral, basic and simple, and slow and bouncy," the REVOLTe is correspondingly, "luxurious and colorful, intelligent and technologically advanced, and lively and spirited." We know that many of you are split over the REVOLTe's appearance (let's not repeat the 'ing' jokes...), but if you must know, we like Citroen's aggressive, almost hot-rodish take on the classic 2CV theme.

The REVOLTe, which bears the logo of Citroen's newly launched DS premium line-up on the bonnet, measures just 3.68m long and is 1.73m wide and 1.35m tall, meaning that it is shorter than the C2 supermini with a wider footprint and a lower height offering the car a sporty stance.

Whereas the exterior of the REVOLTe borrows key styling attributes of Citroen's classic mini, there's nothing 2CV-ish about the car's overly futuristic interior that can be accessed through a pair of conventional doors up front and two rear-hinged 'suicide' doors at the back.

The colorful interior features a 3+1 seat layout, with a driver's seat on one side, a removable rear-facing child-seat in the front passenger space and two passenger seats behind designed to resemble a lounge.

As you've probably figured out already, the 'e' in the concept's name has to do with the hybrid-electric powertrain that combines a small-capacity conventional combustion engine with an electric motor and a battery re-charging function.

Citroen says that the REVOLTe is not meant to enter production and that it's a pure crowd-pleasing conceptual proposal. However, depending on the reactions at the Frankfurt Show, we wouldn't put it by Citroen to use the REVOLTe as a base for a future production model.

McLaren MP4-12C Revealed: First Photos and Details of 600HP British Supercar

2009-09-16T22:04:00.000-07:00

McLaren MP4-12C Revealed: First Photos and Details of 600HP British Supercar

Performance figures haven't been released yet but expect a zero to 60mph - 100km/h sprint time under 4,0 seconds and a top speed of around 200 mph - 320km/h.

Via: Worldcarfans