Cars, Photos, Videos, Galleries, News And Scoops

Ford Focus EV ,Nissan Leaf

2012-03-04T07:59:00.001-08:00

According to the EPA certification, the Focus Electric has a slightly longer driving range as well at 76 miles (122 km), or 3 miles (4.5 km) more than Nissan’s EV. The Blue Oval claims that, thanks to its new charging system, the batteries can be topped up in half the time needed by its Japanese rival.

Ford says that the EPA-approved label will say that Focus Electric buyers can save up to US$9,700 in fuel costs over five years compared to an average, non-electric vehicle.

Lotus Goes Rallying with the Exige R-GTPHOTO GALLERY

2012-03-04T07:58:00.000-08:00

PHOTO GALLERY

2012 i20 gaining slimmer headlamps

2012-03-03T08:39:00.000-08:00

The styling revisions continue at the back with new headlamps and a reprofiled bumper, while Hyundai also added new alloy wheel designs.

For more information on the other upgrades that Hyundai may or may not have done on the 2012 i20, we'll have to wait for the Geneva Motor Show.

Kudos to Bruno for the find!

PHOTO GALLERY

Brabus “Monoblock VII” alloys, a front spoiler and a rear apron insert.

2012-03-03T08:38:00.001-08:00

Inside, you'll find that the instrument panel, gearlever surround, door handles and speaker surrounds are painted in electric green color, while Brabus Xclusive accessories, like the black leather seats, stainless steel sports pedals and handbrake lever complete the sporty look.

The new Smart Brabus electric drive will be available from the end of the year in select markets.

PHOTO GALLERY

GM Chevy Volt

2012-03-03T08:36:00.000-08:00

Last year, GM sold 7,671 Volts, which was a far cry from the 10,000 units it hoped to deliver. This year, Volt sales dropped to a five-month low of 1,023 units in January but picked up to 1,626 deliveries in February. Still, that's not even close to the 45,000 Volts GM aims to deliver in the States this year.

Aventador J uses the same 691bhp PHOTO GALLERY

2012-03-03T08:35:00.000-08:00

Lamborghini has further reduced the car's weight by stripping out the interior of any luxury amenities.

We still don't know of the Aventador J uses the same 691bhp (700PS) 6.5-liter V12 as the regular model or if Lamborghini's engineers have further honed the engine, but we guess it won't be long before we find out.

PHOTO GALLERY

VIDEO

LEAKED BROCHURE SHOTS

2012-03-02T07:50:00.002-08:00

RX will go on sale in the summer.

Joining the RX at Lexus' Geneva Motor Show stand will be the LF-LC hybrid sports coupe concept and the new GS 450h and GS 450h F Sport.

LEAKED BROCHURE SHOTS

Seat Concepts, PHOTO GALLERY

2012-03-02T07:50:00.001-08:00

And unlike the Volkswagen model, it gets a large rear hatch that opens together with the rear window revealing a roomy luggage compartment with more than 500 liters of space.

Seat's boss, James Muir, had this to say about the Toledo Concept:

"The SEAT Toledo Concept illustrates our idea of the perfect mid-range car. It is an excellent combination of emotional design, top-level usability and dynamic driving characteristics. The subsequent production model, our new Toledo, will write a whole new success story with its clear SEAT identity, its excellent quality standard and exceptional value-for-money."

"Following the Mii family and the new Ibiza, the new Toledo marks the next wave in our model offensive and growth strategy," he added.

Seat did not say with which engines the Toledo will be offered, possibly because we all know that it will get the same type of TSI and TDI units available on the rest of the Group's similarly-sized models.

PHOTO GALLERY

Concepts, Geneva Motor Show, Hyundai, Hyundai Concepts

2012-03-02T07:49:00.002-08:00

The Korean company says that the i-oniq study previews the styling of the firm's next generation of models while also providing a glimpse at future technologies especially in the powertrain and connectivity departments.

The rear-wheel drive i-oniq is said to measure 4,400mm or 173.3 inches long with power being provided by a small displacement 1.0-litre 3-cylinder gasoline engine linked through a generator to a lithium ion electric motor, which produces an output of 109PS or 108bhp.

Hyundai's new concept model will make its first public outing at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, which runs from March 6 to 18.

PHOTO GALLERY

Which is the Better Looking Supercar? LAMBORGHINI AVENTADOR LP700-4 FERRARI F12BERLINETTA

2012-03-02T07:49:00.001-08:00

Which is the Better Looking Supercar?

FERRARI F12BERLINETTA

LAMBORGHINI AVENTADOR LP700-4

AC Schnitzer, BMW, BMW 3 Series, Geneva Motor Show, Tuning

2012-03-02T07:48:00.000-08:00

AC Schnitzer then adds a sports suspension kit while offering buyers a selection of alloy wheel designs in sizes from 18- to 20-inches.

Other available options include an AC Schnitzer front spoiler, chromed front grille, rear roof spoiler, rear spoiler and rear skirt extension, complemented by designer stripes, while the interior of the car can be upgraded with an aluminum trim kit for the dashboard, pedals, foot rest and the "i-Drive" controller.

The entire contents of the package will be available for order this summer.

PHOTO GALLERY

BMW UK-Only M3 Coupe

2012-03-01T07:06:00.003-08:00

Apart from the Piano Black interior trim, owners of the Limited Edition 500 M3s will be reminded of the fact that they own a special edition by the “One of 500” designation laser-cut on the left-hand side of the dashboard.

The Limited Edition 500 M3s will be available in the UK starting this month, priced at £55,690 for the coupe and £59,785 for the convertible.

BMW UK points out that, despite the £1,000 price hike over the standard M3, the specification included as standard in those 500 cars costs “well over £4,000”.

Magna Steyr Previews "Three-in-One" MILA Coupic

2012-03-01T07:06:00.001-08:00

Magna Steyr president Guenther Apfalter, the concept is all about displaying the newly-developed roof and folding seat arrangement to potential customers from the auto industry: "The MILA Coupic multifunctional concept showcases vehicle functionality through flexible seating systems, roof modules and materials."

PHOTO GALLERY

Redesigned 2013 Buick Enclave

2012-03-01T07:05:00.001-08:00

The company said it would release "full information" on the updated crossover model in the coming weeks before the show.

PHOTO GALLERY

RWD Electric Coupe

2012-03-01T07:04:00.000-08:00

Albeit not a coupe in the traditional sense as it sports a rear hatch, the i-oniq is a sporty looking model featuring a low roofline and sleek body work that represents the next evolution of the Korean brand’s ‘fluidic sculpture’ styling language.

Maybe it's just us, but from this angle, the front-end design brings to mind the Nissan 350Z.

The concept model measures 4,400mm long and is powered by an electric motor linked to a small displacement range extending petrol engine driving the rear wheels.

That's all we have for now, but as always, we'll keep you informed for any updates.

Hat tip to Bruno!

Photo via The Korean Blog

PHOTO GALLERY

Windows 8 The .iso files range in size from 2.5GB for the 32-bit edition to 3.3GB

2012-02-29T08:45:00.000-08:00

Microsoft ships Windows 8 Consumer Preview
Microsoft: Windows 8 beta should be compelling for enterprises
No webcast for Wednesday's Windows 8 launch event, Microsoft confirms
Analyst: Microsoft won't copy Apple's online-only sales for Windows 8
QuickPoll: Will Windows on ARM be as successful as iOS and Android?
FAQ: Windows on ARM explained
Windows 8 on ARM, dubbed WOA, to include Office apps for tablets
Microsoft fixes Windows 8 Consumer Preview launch event for Feb. 29
Microsoft drops Start button from Windows 8, reports say
13 Windows 8 features worth knowing about

Continuing coverage: Windows 8

The .iso files range in size from 2.5GB for the 32-bit edition to 3.3GB for the 64-bit version. Microsoft has made disk images available for English, Chinese, French, German and Japanese languages.

Windows 8 Consumer Preview can be installed as an upgrade for the developer's preview that Microsoft shipped last September, and for Windows 7, Vista and even the decade-old Windows XP. While an upgrade from Windows 7 keeps all programs, settings, data files and user accounts intact, only the latter two are preserved from the earlier Windows 8 preview or XP.

When users run Windows 8 Consumer Preview setup, it verifies that the PC is capable of running the build, then begins downloading the actual upgrade: The time necessary for the second step depends on the speed of the connection to the Internet.

Those download packages are considerably smaller than the disk images, weighing in at 1.5GB for the 32-bit edition and 1.9GB for the 64-bit.

Microsoft has not set a ship date for Windows 8, but most analysts expect that it will be ready in time for computer makers to prepare systems for sale during the 2012 holiday season.

iPad 3 vs. Android Tablets at Mobile World Congress

2012-02-29T08:44:00.002-08:00

After the 2012 Mobile World Congress wraps up in Barcelona, Spain, this week, the mobile world’s attention will turn to San Francisco, where Apple is likely to announce the iPad 3 March 7. While the iPad 3 isn’t really a product yet, at least in theory, it’s clear that the rest of the tablet industry is already trying to scramble out of the way so that their devices don’t get crushed in the onslaught.

Although Apple isn’t even at MWC, it’s still the 1,000-pound gorilla in the room.

This means that tablet manufacturers have been looking desperately for some way to appear to be different from the iPad.

F12berlinetta will make its public debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

2012-02-29T08:44:00.001-08:00

The Italian automaker’s latest supercar is also its most powerful. The front-engine coupe featuring a naturally-aspirated 7.3-liter V12 with what’s sure to be a screaming redline of 8,700 rpm.

Review: 2012 Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4

Ferrari says the rear-wheel-drive car is capable of accelerating to 124 mph in 8.5 seconds, about as long as an average car takes to get to 60 mph. The top speed is 211 mph.

The compact two-seater is smaller, lighter and more aerodynamic than the Ferrari 599 it replaces, helping it achieve a 30 percent increase in fuel efficiency despite the performance gains.

Combined with the power, a 76 percent increase in downforce and a magnetorheological suspension system allow the F12berlinetta to lap Ferrari’s Fiorano test track in 1:23, faster than the company’s legendary $659,330 Enzo of 2002.

Pricing for the F12berlinetta has not been announced, but the 599 currently lists for $410,000.

The F12berlinetta will make its public debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

Pakistan to curb Internet freedom ahead of elections in the country

2012-02-27T06:03:00.000-08:00

The proposed National URL Filtering and Blocking System should be capable of URL (uniform resource locator) filtering and blocking, from domain level to sub-folder, file levels and file types, and each hardware box in the modular architecture should be able to handle a block list of up to 50 million URLs with processing delay of not more than 1 milliseconds, according to the RFP posted on its website by the National ICT R&D Fund of the country's ministry of information technology.

The government of Pakistan has repeatedly exhibited an obsession to lock up the country's cyberspace at every given chance, Bytes for All said in a statement Friday. The government's reasons for putting curbs on the Internet usually revolve around excuses such as upholding national security, the war on terror, and religious morality, it added.

In November, Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) instructed telecommunications operators in the country to filter SMS messages that included words that it considered objectionable. A PTA spokesman defended the move at the time, claiming PTA is protecting moral values, and is doing this under an existing law that prohibits the transmission of information that is false, obscene, fabricated, or indecent.

But after an outcry from civil rights and other groups, the government has delayed the implementation of the SMS filters, Ahmad said. "However Internet filtering is continuing rampantly," he added.

Some global Internet companies, including social networking sites like Facebook, have previously heeded government and court orders in Pakistan to block content that was considered to be blasphemous.

Pakistan has increasingly used the country's Telecommunications (Re-organization) Act to justify a series of decrees that have been expressly in violation of freedom of expression and other human rights, according to Article 19, an anti-censorship group in London.

Pininfarina Cambiano PHOTO GALLERY

2012-02-27T06:01:00.001-08:00

The sleek design of the exterior, which was inspired by Pininfarina's 1957 Lancia Florida II, is matched by a minimalistic interior with seating for four, while other highlights include the glass roof and wood trimmed floors.

The GT model measures a little over five meters in length (196.9-in.) and 2 meters in width (78.7-in.), while it tips the scales at 1,700kg (3,748 pounds). It is a range extended electric vehicle with power coming from four 60kw (80hp) electric motors, one for each wheel. A diesel turbine engine located up front works like a generator to recharge the batteries.

According to Pininfarina, the Cambiano accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in 4.2 seconds and can reach a top speed of 275km/h (186mph). It's batteries offer a driving range in excess of 200km.

Kudos to Bruno for the tip!

PHOTO GALLERY

40 Nissan GT-Rs

2012-02-27T05:59:00.000-08:00

Drive through the break to watch both videos.

A big hat tip to Eric Lim for the find!

VIDEOS

Black Melkus Presents New RS2000 PHOTO GALLERY

2012-02-26T09:37:00.003-08:00

Story References: Melkus via Worldcarfans

PHOTO GALLERY

Infiniti's Emerg-E Supercar PHOTO GALLERY

2012-02-26T09:37:00.002-08:00

Another hat tip to Bruno!

PHOTO GALLERY

New Photos of 2013 Volvo V40

2012-02-26T09:37:00.001-08:00

DNA with a shape that brings to mind Volvo's crossover models like the XC60 and XC90.

The latest batch of images includes the very first pictures of the new V40's interior. While you still get the feeling that it's a Volvo from details like the shape of the center console and the air-conditioning and audio system controls, the Swedish brand's designers added a rather futuristic looking instrument panel into the mix.

According to a leaked document that was posted online last week, Volvo's premium hatchback measures 4,500 mm or about 177-inches in length, making it only 20 mm or 0.77-inches shorter than the V50 station wagon, and considerably longer than its rivals like the BMW 1-Series 5-door model (4,324 mm or 170.2-in.)

The new V40 will be offered with a choice of four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines, details of which have not yet been released.

We'll have the opportunity to see the new Volvo V40 in the flesh during its world premiere at the 82nd Geneva International Geneva Show in March before it goes on sale later in the year.

Hat tip to Lloyd!

Story References: Worldcarfans

PHOTO GALLERY

Alfa Romeo, Chrysler, Fiat, Jeep, Lancia, Reports

2012-02-26T09:36:00.001-08:00

Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera, it’s a perfect opportunity for Fiat’s Italian plants to increase their production and make up for the drop in local demand by exporting models to the States.

On the other hand, failure to do so will have dire consequences: “All the plants will remain were they are”, Marchionne said. “But if exporting to the U.S. were not to happen, we would have to withdraw from two of the five operating sites.”

Even though he did not name which sites he had in mind, Automotive News Europe reported that according to sources, the facilities most likely to be axed are the Mirafiori plant in Turin and the Cassino in Central Italy.

Mirafiori has an annual capacity of 200,000 units. It is currently manufacturing the Fiat Punto, Alfa Romeo MiTo and Lancia Musa, and according to the group’s plan, it will also build a new compact Jeep SUV that will be available in Europe, the U.S. and other markets.

The Cassino plant, which has a capacity of 300,000 units a year, manufactures the Fiat Bravo, Alfa Giulietta and Lancia Delta C-segment models. Since the next-gen Giulietta will be exported to the U.S., Cassino needs to produce more vehicles in order to increase its chances of survival.

In the end, it all comes down to productivity as Marchionne is confident that the new agreement with the unions will enable Fiat’s Italian operations to succeed in their mission to export to the U.S.

He has made it clear, though, that he won't hesitate to shut down 40 percent of them if they fail to meet their targets.

Range Rover Evoque Convertible Concept

2012-02-26T09:35:00.000-08:00

The study is based on the three-door Evoque and can seat four passengers. It features an electrically operated cloth top with the roof mechanism stowed neatly below the belt-line and also comes equipped with a Roll Over Protection System [ROPS].

Photo credits: Simon Truscott via Jalopnik

PHOTO GALLERY

Ford's New 2013 Fusion

2012-02-22T11:22:00.002-08:00

2013 Fusion sedan at last month's Detroit Motor Show, Ford lifted the wraps off the NASCAR version that will compete in the next season starting from the Daytona 500 in February 2013.

Like all NASCAR racers, the resemblance between the production 2013 Fusion and its competition sibling is only skin deep as the two models are worlds apart when it comes to the inner workings.

If you follow the break, you'll find a fresh set of photos of Ford's new and old Fusion NASCAR race cars, some of which were shot during the presentation at the Daytona International Speedway.

New Bentley Mulsanne Mulliner PHOTO GALLERY

2012-02-22T11:22:00.001-08:00

On the outside, there are newly designed 21-inch lightweight alloy rims with race-derived titanium fasteners and bright-finished rims wrapped around beefy 265/40 ZR21 tires. The wheels are available in both painted and polished finishes as well as with Bentley’s optional self-leveling badges.

The vents on the lower part of the front fenders are engraved with the Mulliner script, and that's about it as far the exterior changes are concerned.

Inside, the extra opulence comes mainly from the new upholstery that keeps with the tradition of sportier Bentley's as the leather hide on the front and rear seats and door casings features a bespoke Diamond Quilting pattern, complemented by an indented leather headlining.

Other upgrades include the drilled alloy accelerator and brake pedals and the new Mulliner treadplate plaques applied on the passenger door sills.

To account for the driving claim in the car’s name, the Drive Dynamics Control system that allows suspension and steering systems to be tuned to a preferred driving style, now features a bespoke ‘Sport’ setting, which Bentley says provides "enhanced grip, body control and steering accuracy, without compromising ride comfort".

PHOTO GALLERY

2013 Audi A3 PHOTO GALLERY

2012-02-22T11:21:00.000-08:00

VW Group to use the company's brand-new Modular Transverse Matrix (MQB) vehicle architecture, which will underpin most new VW Group cars including the Golf Mk7.

We expect the A3 to get a fresh line of engines that should include the VW Group's new 1.4-liter TSI with cylinder deactivation technology straight from launch.

As for the interior, the A3 sports a very clean and stylish layout with minimal use of buttons.

PHOTO GALLERY

GM and PSA Peugeot-Citroen

2012-02-22T11:20:00.000-08:00

GM would offer the French group access to countries where it already has a strong presence, like China, helping reduce its dependence on the faltering European market. French newspaper La Tribune has also said that GM could facilitate PSA’s return to the U.S., from which it has been absent since 1992.

Frankfurt-based Commerzbank analyst Sascha Gommel said that such an alliance would prove beneficial for both parties: “A partnership with GM would make sense, because Peugeot and Opel both lack scale. Peugeot is in a difficult situation because companies like VW and Renault-Nissan can produce much higher volumes and so have a scale advantage.”

Mind you, PSA is already cooperating with Mitsubishi on the Outlander/4007/C-Aircross and ASX/4008/C4 Aircross crossovers and with Toyota on the Aygo/107/C1 city cars.

Both GM and PSA would neither confirm nor deny the report.

PSA’s statement reads as follows: "In the context of its globalization strategy and improving its operational performance, PSA Peugeot Citroen looks at potential cooperations and alliances. There can be no certainty at this stage that these discussions will result in any agreement."

On GM’s behalf, spokesman Johan Willems was even more brief: “We routinely talk with others in the industry, but have no comment beyond that.”

Story References: Autonews

2014 Volkswagen Passat PHOTO GALLERY

2012-02-21T07:06:00.001-08:00

The vehicle seen in these pictures is a test mule, meaning that VW's engineers have placed the body of a current Passat Estate on top of the new MQB platform, which features wider front and rear tracks.

Another key feature of the new platform is the uniform mounting position of all engines, which VW says, will reduce the Group’s engine and gearbox variants in the MQB system by approximately 90 per cent.

While the German company has not yet provided specific details about the next Passat's lineup, it did reveal that the MQB models would be offered with two new four–cylinder engine lineups.

These include the smaller displacement EA211 petrol series (with outputs from 60PS / 59bhp to 150PS / 148bhp) that will encompass the world’s first four-cylinder engine (a 1.4-liter TSI) with cylinder deactivation, and the EA288 diesel series (90PS / 89bhp to 190PS / 187bhp). Evidently, the Passat will get the more powerful iterations of both engine ranges

At the top end of the range, we'll find the larger EA888 petrol engines in 1.8-liter and 2.0-liter displacements. Furthermore, the Passat will also be offered with one or more mild hybrid versions along with a more sophisticated plug-in hybrid variant.

We still don’t know what the 2014 Passat will look like, but the upcoming Mk7 Golf should hint at the design direction VW plans to follow for its entire portfolio.

PHOTO GALLERY

VW New Passat Alltrack PHOTO GALLERY

2012-02-21T07:04:00.002-08:00

a 2.0-liter TDI diesel with either 140PS (138bhp) or 170PS (168bhp), a 1.8-liter TSI petrol pushing out 160PS (158bhp) and a 2.0-liter TSI delivering 210PS (208bhp).

PHOTO GALLERY

Chevrolet Cruze sedan. PHOTO GALLERY

2012-02-21T07:04:00.001-08:00

The Cruze Diesel will go on sale in the U.S. next year.

PHOTO GALLERY

2013 Viper PHOTO GALLERY

2012-02-21T07:03:00.002-08:00

PHOTO GALLERY

Peugeot 3008, Peugeot 5008, Peugeot RCZ, PHOTO GALLERY

2012-02-21T07:03:00.001-08:00

PHOTO GALLERY

McLaren MP4-12C PHOTO GALLERY

2012-02-20T07:27:00.002-08:00

new set of lightweight forged alloy wheels finished in black with an orange rim (20-inches with 245/30 Continental Sport Contact 5P tires up front and 21-inches shod in 325/25 rubber at the back), with matching color racing stripes.

PHOTO GALLERY

Aston Martin Vantage V8 PHOTO GALLERY

2012-02-20T07:27:00.001-08:00

Aston Martin Vantage V8 Mildly 2012

PHOTO GALLERY

New Maserati GranTurismo Sport PHOTO GALLERY

2012-02-20T07:26:00.000-08:00

Maserati GranTurismo Sport that has been revealed ahead of its world premiere at the 2012 Geneva Auto Show in the beginning of March.

PHOTO GALLERY

J.D. POWER 2012 RANKINGS

2012-02-16T06:25:00.000-08:00

J.D. POWER 2012 RANKINGS

Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4

2012-02-16T06:24:00.001-08:00

ASMA seems to have prepared a comparatively more down to earth styling kit with modified fenders, a rear wing, side skirts and alloy wheels. At least that's what we can see from the single rendering released by the German tuner.

The company said it will release photos and details at a later date.

Story References: Worldcarfans

pictures of the Euro and North American Camaros

2012-02-16T06:23:00.001-08:00

First and foremost, the Euro Camaro gets a redesigned pair of LED tail lamps. It's not only the addition of LED units that make them look different but also their shape, which kind of reminds us of sunglasses.

Those of you with flawless memory will remember seeing the revised tail lamps in our Nürburgring spy shots of the Camaro back in 2010.

Other differences include the diffuser-mounted reflectors at the back; the noticeably larger mirrors that look like someone pasted Dumbo's ears on the Camaro's doors (apparently, so you can detect those miniature ForTwos creeping up on you on the highway) and the more modern fonts on the instrument panel gauges that are placed outwards.

Take your time to compare the pictures of the Euro and North American Camaros and tell us what you think in the comments below.

New Chrysler Ypsilon Black&Red Special Edition PHOTO GALLERY

2012-02-16T06:20:00.000-08:00

Both on the outside and inside, the new edition of the Chrysler Ypsilon subcompact hatchback sports a two-tone black and red color theme.

Additional exterior appointments include 16-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels, fog lamps, tinted windows and body-colored side skirts, while Chrysler has also equipped the Ypsilon Black&Red with standard air conditioning, Blue&Me Bluetooth, and a 360-degree hi-fi system.

“We’re delighted to be launching this new addition to the popular Ypsilon line-up,” says Nigel Land, brand director, Jeep Chrysler UK. “With additional equipment worth more than £3000 packed into a car that starts from just £12,750, we believe Black&Red will become a valuable member of the Ypsilon family.”

In the UK, the special edition Ypsilon is available with a choice of three engines including the 0.9-litre TwinAir and 1.2-litre petrol units, and the 1.3-litre MultiJet diesel.

On the road prices are set at £12,750 for the 1.2L, £13,950 for the 0.9 TwinAir and £14,950 for the 1.3 Multijet.

Chrysler added that it is also running a special finance deal for the Ypsilon Black&Red, which includes a zero deposit and £199 per month on the 1.2-litre version (£219 0.9-litre TwinAir, £239 1.3-litre).

PHOTO GALLERY

Audi RS4 Avant PHOTO GALLERY

2012-02-15T03:31:00.000-08:00

Audi, Audi RS4, Geneva Motor Show, New Cars
Audi, Audi RS4, Geneva Motor Show, New Cars
Audi, Audi RS4, Geneva Motor Show, New Cars

PHOTO GALLERY

2013 Lexus RX PHOTO GALLERY

2012-02-15T03:30:00.000-08:00

Perhaps even more importantly, Lexus is also introducing a new F Sport variant on the RX 350 and RX 450h Hybrid (Japan also gets an RX 270 model).

The scanned pictures reveal that the F Sport trim adds a unique front fascia with a honeycomb-style insert, a spoiler kit, tinted lights and larger alloy wheels on

PHOTO GALLERY

Ford B-MAX PHOTO GALLERY

2012-02-14T06:46:00.001-08:00

Diesel, Ford, Ford B-MAX, Geneva Motor Show, New Cars, Reports

PHOTO GALLERY

Chevrolet Camaro Coupe and Convertible PHOTO GALLERY

2012-02-14T06:45:00.001-08:00

On-the-road prices for the Camaro SS Coupe start at £34,995 (US$55,100 or €42,300), which brings it in the same price range as the BMW 330i Coupe (£35,045) and fairly close to the Nissan 370Z coupe that costs £29,950 (US$47,200 or €36,200).

The soft-top Convertible model carries a base price of £39,995 (US$63,000 or €48,300).

In addition to the standard models, Chevrolet is also offering the 2012 45th anniversary Camaro, but only for a limited time. The special edition features a Carbon Flash Black paint with red and silver stripes, dark silver 20-inch alloys, a unique 45th anniversary leather interior with red, white and blue stitching and a one-off white-backed instrument panel.

Prices for the 45th anniversary edition are set at £36,495 (US$57,500 or €44,100) for the Coupe and £41,495 (US$65,400 or €50,100) for the Convertible.

All models are powered by a 6.2-litre V8 engine producing 432PS (426bhp) when linked to the standard 6-speed manual gearbox and 405PS (399bhp) with the £1,500 optional six-speed automatic.

The Camaro completes the 0-62mph (100km/h) acceleration between 5.2 seconds (manual Coupe) and 5.6 seconds (auto Convertible), while all models have an electronically limited top speed of 155mph.

PHOTO GALLERY

Mazda's CX-5 PHOTO GALLERY

2012-02-14T06:44:00.000-08:00

The compact crossover model, which is Mazda's first production model embody its SKYACTIV technology, will be offered with a choice of three engines including a 2.0-liter petrol producing 165PS (163bhp), and a 2.2-liter turbo diesel with either 150PS (148bhp) or 175PS (173bhp).

The CX-5 is also available with a choice of 6-speed manual or automatic transmissions, front- or all-wheel drive and four equipment levels (SE-L, SE-L Nav, Sport and Sport Nav).

Prices for 2.0-litre petrol versions start from £21,395 (OTR) for the CX-5 SE-L and rise to £23,995 for the CX-5 Sport NAV.

The 2.2-litre 150PS models begin at £22,995 for the SE-L and £24,295 for the SE-L Auto, to £25,595 for the Sport Nav and £24,695 for the entry-level AWD model. Finally, pricing for 2.2-litre 175PS diesel versions start at £27,195 for the CX-5 AWD Sport.

According to Mazda, depending on the model, the CX-5 return will a combined fuel consumption figure of 61.4 to 47.0mpg UK (4.6lt/100km to 6.0lt/100km) with CO2 emissions ranging from 119 to 144g/km.

The base SE-L models will come equipped as standard with 17-inch alloys, front fog lights, dual‑zone climate control air-conditioning, Smart City Brake Support and privacy glass, plus front and rear parking sensors.

The Sport grade models add 19-inch alloy wheels, Bi-Xenon headlights with Active Front Lighting System, full leather trim, heated front seats, powered driver’s seat and a reversing camera.

PHOTO GALLERY

Feb 14 (Reuters) - ThyssenKrupp, Germany's biggest steel maker, swung to a surprise 357 million euro ($471.8 million)

2012-02-14T06:42:00.000-08:00

The group, which last month agreed to sell its struggling stainless steel unit, said on Tuesday it was unable to give a reliable forecast for its financial year that ends in September due to the uncertain economic outlook.

Its comments echoed those made by rivals such as world No. 1 Arcelor Mittal, No. 3 Posco and Tata Steel . All three have struggled with profitability, missed quarterly forecasts and cited Europe as a concern.

ThyssenKrupp said it saw "encouraging signs on the price and volume side," for its materials division, which includes its key flat carbon steel business in Europe and America that sells to the construction, automotive and machine engineering sectors.

The German Steel Federation said last week that steelmakers might see new orders picking up in coming months because demand from Germany remained intact while distributors would likely re-stock to replenish low inventories.

SsangYong XIV-2 ConvertiblePHOTO GALLERY

2012-02-13T10:57:00.001-08:00

Frankfurt Motor Show, SsangYong displayed the XIV-1 Concept for a compact crossover in the likes of the Range Rover Evoque.

Now, the South Korean automaker has announced plans to showcase a second body style of the study called the XIV-2 ‘convertible’ concept at the 82nd Geneva International Auto Salon in March.

Whereas the XIV-1 was a five-door model with "suicide style" rear doors, the XIV-2, (which stands for eXciting User Interface Vehicle 2), is a three-door crossover featuring a one-touch automatic opening soft-top roof that incorporates the rear window and rolls back in a similar way to Fiat's 500C.

The Korean automaker says that the second concept was designed to appeal to the younger generation.

The XIV-2 measures 4,166mm (190.9-in.) long, 1,820mm (71.6-in.) wide, 1,566mm (61.6-in.) tall and rides on a 2,600mm (102.3-in.) wheelbase. SsangYong says the concept has been designed to be equipped with 1.6-liter diesel and petrol engines.

PHOTO GALLERY

2012-02-13T10:56:00.001-08:00

Vauxhall Ampera patrol car would look like if the UK police were to use the Chevrolet Volt's European cousin for its daily services.

Vauxhall displayed the Ampera in Police livery featuring the latest policing equipment on the Home Office’s Centre of Applied Science & Technology (CAST) stand at the Police & Security Conference after it won a competition run by the Association of Chief Police Officers Intelligent Transport Systems (ACPO ITS).

The competition's goal is to bring an electric vehicle into active Police service by 2015.

The plug-in model is equipped with high-tech gear including an internal camera for facial recognition linked to the Police National Database, two special screens providing all sorts of information such as the license plate recognition data, and new software that is loaded with previous incidents and historic data that is run through algorithms to predict potential crime hotspots.

“We are delighted to have won the ACPO ITS competition and are excited to have displayed the fittingly ground-breaking Ampera featuring this array of cutting-edge equipment," said Dick Ellam, Vauxhall Special Vehicles Manager.

New Mazda MX-5 Special Edition SpringPHOTO GALLERY

2012-02-13T10:53:00.001-08:00

Chicago Auto Show.

However, in Mazda's books, there's always a niche to fill with the MX-5. Today, the Japanese automaker announced another special edition designed exclusively for the European market that will make its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show in early March.

Named the 'MX-5 Special Edition Spring 2012', it will be offered in Europe with either a soft top or retractable hardtop and a choice of four body colors including the Radiant Ebony (seen in these pictures) that is exclusive to this model, along with Crystal White Pearl, Metropolitan Grey and Brilliant Black.

Other features include chrome headlamp inserts, grille surrounds and fog lamp bezels on the outside, and a “Havana Brown” leather upholstery for the interior.

In addition, Mazda says that the Special Edition Spring 2012 will be the first MX-5 to come with an integrated navigation system. More details are to be released at the Geneva Salon.

PHOTO GALLERY

BMW New X3 Drive28iPHOTO GALLERY

2012-02-13T10:53:00.000-08:00

BMW has introduced these new models: 320i Turbo plus the 316d and 318d; the 125i Turbo, 125d, 116d ED and 1-Series M Sport Packages; the M550d, X5 M50d and X6 M50d; the X6 and X6M Facelift, the market launch of the ActiveHybrid 5; and of course, the M6 Coupe and Convertible.

And today, the Bavarian automaker has more news in store for us starting with the presentation of the new X3 xDrive28i that's powered by the firm's new 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine with 245PS (180kW or 242HP) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of peak torque, matched to an 8sp automatic.

It replaces the current X3 xDrive28i's 3.0-liter naturally aspirated straight-six with 240-horsepower.

The new inline-four accelerates the X3 from 0 to 100 km/h (62mph) in 6.7 seconds or 0.2 seconds faster than the outgoing model, while its average fuel consumption on the EU test cycle is 7.5lt/100km (equal to 31.3mpg US or 37.8mpg UK) with CO2 emissions of 175g/km, an improvement of around 17 percent.

In addition, all 2013 model year X3s arriving this spring (sold as a 2012 model year in Europe) will be quipped as standard with BMW's Driving Experience Control feature that varies the vehicle settings and is controlled by a button located on the center console next to the gearshift lever.

The system offers drivers four choices including “COMFORT”, “SPORT” and “SPORT+” as well as the ECO PRO mode, which change the settings of the stability control function (DSC), the accelerator pedal and Servotronic power steering and, depending on the equipment, the automatic transmission and Dynamic Damper Control system.

BMW has also added the Speed Limit Info System with the No Overtaking Display as a new option on the ConnectedDrive driver assistance systems, plus an updated Lane Departure Warning function with rear collision warning for the X3.

Moving on to the X5, in the spring of 2012, BMW will complement the crossover model's range with a new M Sport Edition that will be offered on all regular variants (sans the X5 M50d and X5M).

We don't have the official photos in our hands yet, but BMW says the M Sport Edition models get a new aero kit with bespoke front and rear bumpers, 20-inch allos, Individual High Gloss Shadow Line, new tailpipes, a sports suspension for all models aside from the X5 xDrive50i that gets a pneumatic rear wheel suspension with an automatic leveling feature. Moreover, the X5 xDrive50i and X5 xDrive40d also receive Xenon lights.

Inside, the M Sport Edition package dresses up the X5's cabin with M leather-clad steering wheel with shift paddles, anthracite roof lining, black piano lacquer trim strips, M-badge doorsills, stainless steel pedals and an M footrest plus sports seats.

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$3 Million Fine on BMW

2012-02-12T09:51:00.001-08:00

(NHTSA) within five business days of identifying a safety defect or noncompliance and to promptly conduct a recall.

The NHTSA said it launched an investigation on the matter back in December of 2010 examining 16 BMW recalls from that year. The safety agency said it found evidence of a number of instances where BMW did not report a known safety defect within five days while the filings were also missing important details.

"BMW appears to maintain a practice, by design or habit, in which it provides little information in its initial filings," said the NHTSA.

"For example, of the 16 Part 573 reports BMW filed this year [2010], in only 6 was it able to tell the agency the number of vehicles affected by the defect or noncompliance and expected to be recalled. In only 5 recalls reports was BMW able to supply any chronology of principal events, and only 1 of these 5 chronologies met the bare minimum for such a chronology," the agency said in its report.

The NHTSA added that it took BMW over 30 days, on average, to supply required information, "including such fundamental information as population figures."

As part of the settlement, BMW North America also agreed to make internal changes to its recall decision-making process.

“It’s critical to the safety of the driving public that defects and recalls are reported in short order,” said NHTSA Administrator David Strickland. “NHTSA expects all manufacturers to address automotive safety issues quickly and in a forthright manner.”

BMW 2013 M6 CoupePHOTO GALLERY

2012-02-12T09:50:00.000-08:00

In terms of performance, the 0-100km/h (62mph) sprint comes in 4.2 seconds for the M6 Coupe and 4.2 seconds for the Convertible, while the 200km/h (124mph) mark is reach in 12.6 seconds for the Coupe and 13.1 seconds for the Convertible. The top speed of both models is electronically limited to 155 mph (250 km/h), or 189mph (305km/h) with the extra M Driver's package.

Despite the improved performance over the previous V10 models (+10% power, +30% torque), BMW says the new V8-powered M6 models consume roughly 30% less fuel at 9.9 lt/100km (28.5 mpg UK / 23.8mpg US) for the Coupe, and 10.3lt/100km (27.4 mpg UK / 22.8mpg US) for the Convertible in the combined EU driving cycle.

BMW says it has applied several weight saving measures to compensate for the new M6's larger exterior dimensions. These include the Coupe's roof that's made from carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP), while the doors and bonnet of both modelss are made from aluminium, and the front side panels from thermoplastic. In addition, their boot lids, and in the case of the Convertible, the roof cover as well, are made from the glass-fibre composite material SMC (Sheet Moulding Compound).

Nonetheless, the M6 Coupe tips the scales at a hefty 1,850 kg (4,078lbs) and the Convertible, at an even worse 1,980kg (4,365 pounds).

BMW M engineers have honed the standard 6-Series chassis that gets a specially tuned suspension, an M-specific Servotronic speed-sensitive power steering with three settings and a more powerful braking system with 15.7 inches (400 mm) rotors and six piston calipers at the front and 15.6 inches (396 mm) at the rear.

For the first time ever, BMW will offer optional M Carbon-Ceramic brakes available exclusively with 20-inch wheels, which are said to be 42.8 lb (19.4 kg) lighter than the standard brakes.

The M6 models are fitted as standard with 19 inch M specific light alloy wheels shod in 265/40 R19 "ultra-high performance" summer tires in the front and 295/35 R 19 tires at the rear. 20-inch wheels are offered as an option.

On the outside, the M6 get a rather subtle aero package comprising new front and rear bumpers, side skirts, and a rear diffuser housing four chromed tailpipes. Up front, there's also a newly designed M kidney grille, which bears an “M6” badge as a homage to the first generation M6, while the 30 millimeter (1.2 inch) increase in track width is complemented by flared wheel arches.

Inside the cabin, BMW has equipped the flagship models of the 6-Series with M-specific sports seats, steering wheel, instrument panel gauges, gearbox lever and trim.

In the U.S., the Convertible will arrive first in June followed a couple of months later by the Coupe.

BMW M6 Coupe:
Acceleration [0 – 100 km/h (62 mph)]: 4.2 seconds,
acceleration [0 – 200 km/h (124 mph)]: 12.6 seconds,
top speed: 250 km/h (155 mph), 305 km/h (189 mph) with
M Driver’s Package,
average fuel consumption: 9.9 lt/100 kilometres (28.5 mpg UK / 23.8mpg US),
CO2 emissions: 232 g/km, exhaust standard: EU5.
BMW M6 Convertible:
Acceleration [0 – 100 km/h (62 mph)]: 4.3 seconds,
acceleration [0 – 200 km/h (mph)]: 13.1 seconds,
top speed: 250 km/h (155 mph), 305 km/h (189 mph) with M Driver’s Package),
average fuel consumption: 10.3 lt/100 kilometres (27.4 mpg UK / 22.8mpg US),
CO2 emissions: 239 g/km, exhaust standard: EU5.

PHOTO GALLERY

2013 BMW M6 is such a stunner. Based on the current 6 Series,

2012-02-12T09:45:00.001-08:00

2012 Geneva Motor Show, the new 2013 BMW M6 is such a stunner. Based on the current 6 Series, which is one of the best looking coupes in the market, the M6 gets the usual M treatment of added power and style, but you have to say, it is the most tastefully done M car possibly ever.

It is a very perfect car and really hard to fault. The new M6 makes Mercedes job harder with the new SL63 AMG. It has to be something unbelievably good to match this M6, and even if it is, we’re not sure it’ll look just as good as the Bimmer.

Audi New TT RS Plus Coupe and Roadster PHOTO GALLERY

2012-02-11T13:34:00.000-08:00

Like the model it is based upon, customers can choose between a six-speed manual gearbox and a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission that comes with a launch control function to optimize acceleration from a standing start. Power is channeled to all four wheels through Audi's quattro permanent all-wheel drive system.

According to Audi, the TT RS Plus Coupe with a manual transmission tips the scales at 1,450 kilograms (3,196.70 lb).

The increase in performance allows the Coupe with the S tronic to accelerate from zero to 100 km/h (62mph) in 4.1 seconds (manual gearbox: 4.3 seconds), and the Roadster in 4.2 seconds (manual gearbox: 4.4 seconds). All four versions of the car have a limited top speed of 280km/h (174mph).

In a less interesting note for your average TT RS Plus buyer, the Coupe with S tronic consumes 8.5lt/100 km (27.7mpg US), while the Roadster makes do with 8.6 liters per 100 km (27.4mpg US).

Stopping power is provide by the same braking system found on the base RS model and which includes four-piston fixed calipers in conjunction with perforated brake disks up front. Audi offers the magnetic ride adaptive damping system as an option.

Visually, the TT RS Plus stands out thanks to the new front grille with matte aluminum-look frame and a diamond-pattern mesh in polished anthracite, new 19-inch wheels with contrasting red rim flanges shod in 255/35 tires all around and the exterior mirror caps that are made out of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer.

A carbon cover for the engine compartment and the new aluminum knob on the gear or S tronic selector lever complete the upgrades.

In Germany, the TT RS Plus Coupe with a manual gearbox costs €60,650 or €62,800 with the seven-speed S tronic, while the TT RS plus Roadster has a list price of €63,500 or €65,650 respectively.

Audi did not say if or when it will offer the TT RS Plus in North America.

PHOTO GALLERY

USW Says New Record U.S.

2012-02-11T13:33:00.000-08:00

That’s the good news. The bad news is that imports also set an all-time high record of US$2.7 trillion, a 13.8 percent increase over 2010. It's really not that hard to realize that the result is a deficit of 0.6 trillion – or US$558 billion, to be exact.

More than half of this trade deficit is with China, a startling US$295.4 billion. Even though U.S. exports to world's most populated country rose by 13.1 percent to US$103.9 billion, it was offset by a 9.4 percent increase to a record US$399.3 billion in imports from China.

The auto industry was amongst those sectors that set new deficit records: last December alone marked an increase of US$1.8 billion in imported vehicles, parts and engines.

Leo W. Gerard, president of United Steetworkers (USW), criticized President Obama’s trade policy and claimed that is has led to the loss of more than 400,000 jobs in the U.S. automotive sector since 2000.

“Albert Einstein is credited with saying that ‘insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results’”, said Gerard. “It’s time to update and reform our nation’s trade policies and be more aggressive about enforcing our trade laws. Following the same old approach is insane.”

Gerard cited a series of reports released in January by the USW, the UAW and a coalition of manufacturing companies, which shows that in 2011 alone the trade deficit in auto parts with China was US$9.95 billion – and no less than US$62 billion in the last decade.

“Next week, Chinese Vice President Xi, who is widely expected to be his country’s next leader, will be coming to Washington, D.C.”, said Gerard. “Press reports indicate that he wants to address the ‘trust deficit’ between our countries. But America’s workers are more interested in addressing the trade deficit.”

The USW president said that other countries, such as Japan and Brazil, were also part of the problem, but he stressed that the biggest threat the American automotive industry is facing, comes from China. "1.6 million U.S. jobs are at risk unless China's illegal trading practices are curtailed," said Gerard.

BMW North America $3 Million Fine on BMW

2012-02-11T13:32:00.000-08:00

NHTSA said it launched an investigation on the matter back in December of 2010 examining 16 BMW recalls from that year. The safety agency said it found evidence of a number of instances where BMW did not report a known safety defect within five days while the filings were also missing important details.

"BMW appears to maintain a practice, by design or habit, in which it provides little information in its initial filings," said the NHTSA.

The NHTSA added that it took BMW over 30 days, on average, to supply required information, "including such fundamental information as population figures."

As part of the settlement, BMW North America also agreed to make internal changes to its recall decision-making process.

bill for lying to courts and end-running the law came to less than $2,000 per loan file.

2012-02-11T13:31:00.001-08:00

After months of talks, Ally Financial, Bank of America, Citibank, JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo agreed to pay a total of $5 billion in cash to try to remedy this fiasco. They will also help homeowners who are underwater on their mortgages by reducing the principal on their loans by a combined $17 billion over the next three years.

Borrowers who qualify will get $3 billion in refinancing arrangements. Those who were improperly foreclosed on will get a combined $1.5 billion. That probably nets out to less than $2,000 a person.

The banks crowed that this settlement would help the economy and the reputation of the mortgage industry. Michael J. Heid, president of Wells Fargo Home Mortgage, characterized the deal as “a very important step toward restoring confidence in mortgage servicing and stability in the housing market.”

But it’s hard to imagine that this one settlement will be enough to restore trust in loan servicers. Given what we know about their questionable practices — how they larded improper fees on struggling homeowners, for example, and forced people to buy home insurance at three times market rates — restoring confidence in these firms will take some doing.

There’s no doubt that the banks are happy with this deal. You would be, too, if your bill for lying to courts and end-running the law came to less than $2,000 per loan file.

As for the supposed benefits to the economy, skeptics abound. One of them is Paul Diggle, property economist at Capital Economics in London. In a report last week, he rejected the notion — espoused by both banks and government authorities — that this deal would help turn around the American housing market.

Ultimate 370Z Coupe ZCON 2012 and the 2012 SEMA show. PHOTO GALLERY

2012-02-09T10:54:00.000-08:00

The finished product is set to debut in late May during the annual “ZDayZ” event in the Great Smoky Mountains of North Carolina and Tennessee, while Nissan added that the Project 370Z will also be shown at other enthusiast events including ZCON 2012 and the 2012 SEMA show.

If any of you have any ideas how to upgrade the 370Z, the comments section is all yours (keep in mind, you can add pictures as well as videos in the comments).

PHOTO GALLERY

TMMI, where the Sequoia full-size SUV and Sienna minivan are also assembled.

2012-02-09T10:53:00.000-08:00

From that point on, the Highlander will stop being manufactured in Japan. Instead, it will be made at the Toyota Motor Manufacturing plant in Indiana (TMMI), not only for the U.S. market, but also for exports to Russia and Australia where it is also sold. The exception is China, where it is built locally.

Toyota will invest US$400 million to increase annual production of the Highlander by 50,000 units, creating an additional 400 jobs to the existing 4,800 in the process. The hybrid version of its SUV will also be manufactured at TMMI, where the Sequoia full-size SUV and Sienna minivan are also assembled.

“This project allows for better utilization of the Indiana plant and will help Toyota capitalize on the improving North American and global auto market”, said executive vice president of Toyota Engineering & Manufacturing North America Steve St. Angelo.

“Adding a second shift is a significant milestone for us”, said David Copenhaver, TMMMS’ vice president of administration. “Our team members’ strong work ethic and focus on quality and safety has begun to pay dividends for Corolla customers across North America as we continue production ramp up through spring.”

New Smart Fortwo Edition Sharpred PHOTO GALLERY

2012-02-09T10:52:00.003-08:00

New Smart Fortwo Edition Sharpred PHOTO GALLERY

PHOTO GALLERY

Nissan SUV Slams Stationary Honda Civic

2012-02-09T10:52:00.000-08:00

Too bad these drivers had to find out the hard way when an unrelated Nissan SUV slammed into a Honda Civic hatchback that was standing still revving its engine as the owner was preparing to race another Civic on an unnamed road in Tampa, Florida.

The person who uploaded the video said that despite the severity of the crash, -fortunately- no one was hurt. You can watch the accident as it happened in the clip that follows after the break (beware; foul language).

New 2012 Kia Optima SX PHOTO GALLERY

2012-02-09T10:51:00.000-08:00

The SX Limited, which as you may recall was teased through Kia's Super Bowl XLVI commercial this past Sunday, is based on the 274-horsepower turbocharged Optima SX adding a little bling to the mix with new 18-inch chromed alloy wheels, a chrome-accented rear spoiler, LED daytime running lights and red front-brake calipers.

It is available exclusively in three exterior colors including Ebony Black, Snow White Pearl and Titanium Metallic.

Inside, the Limited treatment brings black or white Nappa leather for the seats, door panels, center console armrest and center fascia trim along with wooden accents, on the steering wheel, interior door trim and shift knob. In addition, the headliner, sun visors, and all pillars are dressed in a black tricot fabric.

Standard amenities include unique steering wheel paddle shifters, metal pedals, illuminated door scuff plates, a panoramic sunroof, four-way power front passenger's seat, heated/cooled front seats, heated rear seats, a navigation system with back-up camera and a higher end audio system.

Sales of the new Optima SX Limited will start in March with pricing to be announced soon.

PHOTO GALLERY

Chrysler Group LLC product portfolio

2012-02-06T06:26:00.001-08:00

"To build one million of anything, and in an impressively short amount of time, is a significant achievement. But to do it with such a high degree of quality is a testament to our skilled and dedicated workforce at both Trenton South and Saltillo engine plants," said Brian Harlow, head of Chrysler's Powertrain Manufacturing division.

Over the past year and a half, the 3.6-liter unit has replaced six legacy V6 engines ranging from 2.7-liter up to 4.0-liters in the Chrysler Group LLC product portfolio. It is offered with the Chrysler Group's new 8-speed automatic transmission.

Compared to its predecessors, it’s not only more powerful and fuel efficient but also less complicated in its construction as the engine components were reduced from 189 parts to just 32.

PHOTO GALLERY

(US$1.3 million) Aston Martin One-77 that's capable of reaching a top speed of about 220mph (355 km/h).

2012-02-06T06:25:00.001-08:00

It's never a pleasant experience should your vehicle stall on a heavily trafficked public road with a lot of people watching, but we can't help but think that it has to be worse when it occurs to a €1.1+ million (US$1.3 million) Aston Martin One-77 that's capable of reaching a top speed of about 220mph (355 km/h).

And that is exactly what happened to one of the 77 owners of the exclusive Aston Martin model, not once, but more than a couple of times somewhere in France.

For the record, the One-77's 750bhp 7.3-liter V12 powerplant is linked to a six-speed automated manual gearbox with column-mounted paddles. Hop over the jump to check out the video.

Via Motofilm!a

Carscoop.blogspot.com is down open this one

2012-02-06T06:23:00.002-08:00

Carscoop.blogspot.com is down open this one www.automobilesplus.blogspot.com

McLaren , Replica , Tuning PHOTO GALLERY

2012-02-06T06:23:00.001-08:00

"Just in case if you wanna buy the cheapest McLaren F1 on the planet", Carscoop reader Marek tells us in his email and points us to this replica of the famed supercar designed by Gordon Murray that has been listed for sale by a used-car dealer in Poland.

We'll leave it to you to decide if it's a convincing clone of the original McLaren F1, but we will tell you that it ain't got a 618-horsepower BMW M-prepped 6.1-liter V12 residing behind the passenger compartment.

Instead, this creation sports an Audi-sourced V6 30v engine with an unspecified displacement, which could deliver anywhere from 190 to 250-horses, depending on the version.

The seller did not disclose any further information on the McLaren F1 replica, which carries a price of 150,000 Polish Zlotych or about €35,000 / US$45,000.

This is not the first time we've shown you a McLaren F1 clone. Coincidentally (or not), the previous replica was also from Poland, though that one was powered by a BMW-sourced V12 engine.

Kudos to Marek for the find!

PHOTO GALLERY

Kia Adriana Lima-infused Super Bowl

2012-02-06T06:22:00.001-08:00

Super Bowl advertising for a few years now, but its commercials have been hit or miss. Its ad for the big game in 2010 entitled "Joyride" was a hit for bringing toys from our childhood to life behind the wheel of a Sorento, but last year's "One Epic Ride" was a definite miss. Kia's ad for this year's Super Bowl, called "A Dream Car. For Real Life," will likely be a hit.

The premise is simple: A fairy who visits bedsides with magic dust that guarantees good dreams accidentally trips over a slipper and spills his whole bucket of sprinkles on an unsuspecting, demographically targeted and non-threateningly handsome 30-something man. The resulting indulgent dream stars Victoria's Secret model Adriana Lima, 80's hair band Mötley Crüe (looking a little worse for wear, we might add) and UFC fighter Chuck Liddell. There's also a school bus-sized sub sandwich being cut in half by lumberjacks and a roaring crowd of thousands of bikini-wearing beauties.

In the midst of all this REM-induced revelry is the Kia Optima, because what other car would your subconscious pick to impress Ms. Lima?

Kia has also published a five-hour-long video of Adriana Lima waving a checkered flag in slow motion on YouTube, because hey, if you've got her on set for the day, why not? Follow the jump to watch them both.

TDI, TDI with Sunroof, and TDI with Sunroof, Sound, and Navigation.

2012-02-05T10:30:00.001-08:00

The diesel engine can be mated to either a six-speed manual gearbox or VW’s dual-clutch DSG six-speed automatic, with the German automaker predicting a fuel economy of 29 mpg city and 39 mpg highway.

That's a significant improvement over the base 170HP 2.5-liter gasoline engine that returns an estimated 22 mpg city and 31 mpg highway with a five-speed manual, and 22 mpg city and 29 mpg highway with the optional six-speed auto.

It’s worth noting that the previous Beetle was offered in the States with a 1.9-liter diesel engine from 1998 until 2006.

The new Beetle TDI meets current tailpipe emissions standards in all 50 states and will go on sale in the U.S. this summer as a 2013 model, with prices to be announced at a later date.

Customers can choose from three trim levels, TDI, TDI with Sunroof, and TDI with Sunroof, Sound, and Navigation.

The base model comes equipped with power windows, 17-inch rims, audio system, cruise control, V-Tex Leatherette seating, the kaeferfach secondary glovebox, Bluetooth, a leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel with audio controls, three auxiliary gauges, keyless entry with push-button start and a Media Device Interface with iPod cable, as standard.

The equipment upgrades on the other two models are pretty much self-explanatory.

PHOTO GALLERY