New Car: 2010 Mercedes E63 AMG

Mercedes has taken the wraps off the new range-topping E-class: the E63 AMG.
Despite talk from within AMG about ending the horsepower war between German car makers, this new model has more power than the car it replaces — although at 11bhp, it’s a modest gain.
But thanks to a number of efficiency-enhancing measures, the 518bhp Mercedes E63 AMG drinks 12 per cent less fuel than its predecessor. It now returns 22.4mpg.
The 6208cc V8 produces the same power and 465lb ft of torque as the SL63’s unit. Performance is practically the same as the old E63, but still impressive, with a 0-62mph time of 4.5sec and a top speed limited to 155mph.
The new car gains the SL63’s Speedshift MCT seven-speed ’box with a wet start-up clutch. The unit is lighter and more efficient than the old torque converter, as well as giving better response.
The transmission has four driving modes: Controlled Efficiency, Sport, Sport Plus and Manual. In Manual the system will switch cogs in 100 milliseconds, while in Controlled Efficiency there are early upshifts to keep revs low and optimise efficiency.
To improve handling, the E63 AMG has been fitted with a newly developed front axle with more negative camber, a 56mm wider track, new control arms, a tubular stabiliser and revised wheel bearings. The rear axle also has extra negative camber and a new subframe mounting for greater stability on the limit.
New front spring struts improve responsiveness, while the rear air struts have automatic level control to keep the rear at the same height irrespective of the load.
Mercedes claims that its ‘AMG Ride Control’ system, which automatically varies the damping characteristics, ensures that the car is equally at home on a race track or the autobahn.
Visually, the car gains 18in AMG alloys with 255/40 front and 285/35 rear tyres, while 19-inch items feature on the options list. The front wings are 17mm wider than a regular E-class’s and feature ‘6.3 AMG’ lettering.
The car also gets LED daytime running lights and a more aggressive front spoiler, while a rear diffuser and quad tailpipes feature at the back.
The E63 will be on sale in September, although UK prices and specs are yet to be confirmed.

Thanks to: Autocar

Spied: 2011 Volkswagen Golf R20

The MkVI Golf GTI has only just hit the road, but already its crown is under threat! These are the best pictures yet of an even hotter variant, likely to be badged the Golf R20. We broke the story here in February, and these photos help to confirm the car’s existence. Gone is the V6 engine from the last-generation R32, instead a tweaked version of VW’s 2.0-litre turbocharged unit, also used in the Audi S3, producing in the region of 270bhp will be used. And with a similar kerbweight to the less powerful GTI, plus four-wheel drive to help traction off the line, 0-60mph should take little more than five seconds.Expect similar styling cues to the GTI, but with a deeper and more aggressive bodykit and chunkier wheels. As this test mule, disguised with a 2.0 TDI badge, demonstrates, trademark centrally mounted twin exhausts will also distinguish the ‘R’ car from the GTI.If rumours are to be believed the finished article will make its debut at the Nurburgring 24hr race in May – hosted on the same track that these photos were taken.Prices should start from around £25,00 for the three-door when the R20 goes on sale early next year. For more details click here.

Thanks to: Auto Express

Spied: 2010 Audi RS5

Meet the performance coupe that’s got BMW’s M3 worried. These are the best shots yet of Audi’s upcoming RS5 flagship, which we’ve spied testing at high speed on the Nurburgring circuit in Germany. Powered by a 450bhp 4.2-litre twin-turbo V8, it’s more powerful than the 414bhp 4.0-litre V8-engined M3 and boasts a Quattro four-wheel drive system too, available with a choice of both six-speed manual and seven-speed twin-clutch gearboxes. Performance will be epic with 0-60mph in 4.5 seconds and a top speed electronically limited to 155mph. The RS5 will be a match for the M3 in the corners too with stiffened and lowered suspension, a wider track and stickier rubber. In addition to four-wheel drive, it will also boast Audi’s new active rear differential – as used by the latest S4 – which helps distribute torque to different wheels, aiding agility and traction. Expect to the see the new RS5 at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September, with UK sales starting before the end of the year. A price tag of £48,000 is mooted. For more details click here.

Thanks to: Auto Express

Spied: 2010 Opel/Vauxhall Insignia OPC/VXR

Take a look at the best pictures yet of Vauxhall's hottest ever Insignia! This is the high performance VXR version, which goes on sale before the end of the year packing a 300bhp 2.8-litre V6 turbocharged engine. This prototype was caught testing just outside of the Nurburgring circuit in Germany where General Motors engineers have been putting the newcomer through its paces. With the gutsy engine driving all four wheels, straight line pace will be very strong – expect 0-60mph in six seconds and a top speed limited to 155mph. Completing the dynamic changes are adaptive dampers hooked up to stiffened suspension and uprated brakes with wide, sticky tyres. And, as you can see, the VXR has got the show to match its go too, with a muscular bodykit, 19-inch alloy wheels and, of course, bright blue VXR paint. Inside, expect the range-topping model to be loaded with standard equipment including leather upholstery and satnav. In addition to the saloon shown here, there will be a Sports Tourer estate version too. Prices will start at around £25,000. For more details click here.

Thanks to: Auto Express

Hot News: Infiniti's Plan for Next 3 Years Revealed

The Nissan GT-R may be stealing much of the industry limelight these days, but sister brand Infiniti is no wallflower itself. Recently, Infiniti's short-term plans have come to light that could gain the premium automaker a little more stage presence.
U.K.-based Autocar has gotten word of Infiniti's plans for the next three years and they have revealed plans for new powertrains and new models to wage war against competing luxury brands from Japan, Europe and the U.S.Infiniti's most immediate plans call for a new M-series midsize model to debut next year at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show carrying Infiniti's 3.7L V-6. The car will also be engineered to accept the company's upcoming 3.0L V-6 turbodiesel, which will make its debut in the EX and FX SUVs before it climbs under the hood of the new M. A gasoline-electric hybrid is also planned, but there is no V-8 option. The hybrid has not been confirmed for Europe, nor have the diesels been confirmed for the U.S.After Nissan announced it would switch production at its Mississippi plant to its new light commercial vehicle line, we worried that the Infiniti QX56 was a goner. That doesn't appear to be the case, though, as Infiniti's plans call for a new model in 2011. Plans also suggest that a smaller, sportier seven-seat vehicle is in the pipeline and could hit the road by 2015 if it's approved.In 2006, Infiniti's Q45 luxury sedan quietly retired, taking the flagship Q-line with it. Future plans see it revived, though, with a new model debuting in 2012. That year will also reportedly see the debut of the next G-model, which could carry the aforementioned 3.0L diesel V-6. The diesel will not find its way into the G-series before then and may not come to the U.S.Beyond 2012, Infiniti's plans get a bit more vague. At the moment, they call for a compact battery-powered electric car, but little is known about the model. For now, it appears to be more of an idea than an actual product plan, but more information will inevitably come to light in the future.

New Concept Car: Kia KND-5

According to Kia-World.net, the Kia has lifted the curtain on the latest concept car coming out of Seoul called the KND-5 just ahead of the city's anticipated motor show. A few shots of the model's highly camo'd preproduction variant -- codenamed VG sedan -- have been around for a bit (check out our shots HERE), but no other images have given us such a clear indication of what to expect on the upcoming production sedan.

Few details are known as of yet, but the KND-5 show car rolls on 20-in. wheels and sports advanced LED head and taillight clusters. The exterior mirrors too feature the advance lighting. Inside, passengers are coddled in a luxury cabin never really before seen from the likes of Kia. Adding more exclusivity is a panorama roof. No word on if any of these features will make it into the VG production plans.
Highly likely to be powering the sedan is a 3.5L Lambda series V-6 powerplant. It's expected to share its front-wheel drive platform with the next generation Azera and serve as the replacement to the long-in-tooth Amanti. An all-wheel drive edition is rumored to be included in the range, with Haldex supplying the drive system. Kia-World.net reports the KND-5's dimensions as being 195-in. long, 73-in. wide, 58-in. high and with a wheelbase of 112-in. In essence, its about the same size as the current Amanti.Expect more info and images of the KND-5 next week as it makes its debut. Production VG models are said to debut in September -- possibly at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

New Car: 2010 Subaru Legacy

Subaru has a new strategy: going mainstream. Company officials are convinced that if its vehicles are competitive on price, size, and fuel economy (i.e. if there’s no penalty for the extra weight and friction of Subaru’s standard all-wheel drive), customers will cross-shop Subarus against big guns Honda and Toyota. The recently redesigned Forester is a perfect example. It’s slightly larger and significantly taller than the previous model with a much more spacious back seat, and the latest Forester now has a distinct SUV-like look and competes directly with big sellers in its category such as the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 The payoff? Sales of the new model have nearly doubled despite a nationwide collapse of car buying.

The next model that gets a mainstream overhaul is the fifth-generation 2010 Legacy sedan, which debuts at the New York auto show and goes on sale in August. Looks wise, the Legacy isn’t all that different; the new front end is slightly more aggressive with Infiniti G37–like headlights that extend further up the hood. More pronounced fender flares are meant to hint at the Legacy’s all-wheel drive, while the rear end is much flatter than before.
But the biggest changes are inside, including a redesigned interior that looks like an edgier version of the layout in the Tribeca. The look is upscale, although many of the materials are hard plastics, which is par for the segment. Overall length is increased by 1.4 inches and curb weight is up just 50 pounds, while the wheelbase has been extended by 3.2 inches creating a vastly larger interior. Front-seat space is up by four cubic feet to 56, and the back seat, at 46 cubic feet, is 21 percent larger with a gain of 3.9 inches of legroom. We sampled the Legacy’s back seat—a weak point on the previous car—and impressively, six-foot, five-inch males will now fit comfortably, even sitting behind themselves, putting the Legacy squarely in Honda Accord territory. A revised multilink rear suspension—now similar to the rest of Subaru’s lineup—helps to free up four cubic feet of additional trunk space, and Subaru says it will now hold four full-size golf bags. For more details click here.

Acura X6-fighter officially named ZDX

After a series of spy shots and a handful of teasers, Acura has finally given a name to its BMW X6-fighting crossover: the ZDX. Due to arrive in concept form at next week's New York Auto Show, the all-new ZDX is described by Acura as a luxury four-door sports coupe "with the added benefit of a commanding presence and flexible utility." Jeff Conrad, vice president of Acura sales, says the "ZDX prototype is unlike anything you have ever seen from Acura." From Acura, yes. From BMW...

The Acura ZDX evolve from a lightly-veiled "concept" into a production model slated to go on sale this fall. Powertrains haven't been revealed yet, but we'd suspect either a naturally aspirated or turbocharged V6 to be available at launch.

PRESS RELEASE

All-New Acura ZDX to Debut at New York International Auto Show

Acura announced it will debut a prototype of the all-new ZDX luxury four-door sport coupe at the New York International Auto Show. The prototype features striking coupe-like styling with the added benefit of a commanding presence and flexible utility to define a new luxury category.

"The ZDX prototype is unlike anything you have ever seen before from Acura," said Jeff Conrad, vice president, Acura sales. "The prototype showcases a new level of luxury, style and refinement for Acura and speaks volumes towards our commitment to advancing the brand."

The production version of the ZDX prototype will bring a new level of prestige to the Acura lineup when it arrives at dealerships this fall and offer the latest advancements in performance, technology and safety.

The ZDX prototype will be introduced at the New York International Auto Show on April 8, 2009 at 11:00 am in the Acura booth.

Dodge Challenger SRT-8 vs planes and trains

The guys over at Garage 419 are shamelessly ripping off Top Gear, but they not only admit it, they also added a third element. While Top Gear challenges usually pit a car against one form of mass transportation, these guys are putting a Dodge Challenger SRT8 up against a plane and a train.

Gov't rejects automaker restructuring plans, new deadlines set

President Obama has just finished his press conference on the government's determination of the viability of General Motors and Chrysler, and the gist is that both automakers have failed to convince the feds that their business plans deserve further investment. Obama and his task force will give GM enough working capital to survive another 60 days and prove its viability, though no dollar amount was given. Chrysler, meanwhile, is being given another 30 days and working capital up to $6 billion to finalize a partnership deal with Fiat. If a deal can't be made and another partner is not found, Chrysler will get no more federal aid. Also, Fiat won't be allowed to take a majority stake in Chrysler until the automaker repays all the money it has borrowed from the government so far.

Perhaps the biggest news from the press conference is that the U.S. government will now fully back the warranties on vehicles sold by General Motors and Chrysler in the hopes that buyers will continue to consider their products amidst these tumultuous restructuring efforts. Also, the President has pledged to work with Congress to find funds to pay for a U.S.-version of the Cash for Clunkers program that has been so successful in Germany.

GM RESPONSE

GM Statement on Auto Industry Restructuring

Today's announcement by President Obama begins a new era for the U.S. auto industry. It also marks a defining moment in the history of General Motors.

The U.S. Treasury will provide working financing capital for GM for 60 days while GM completes a more accelerated and aggressive restructuring to put the company on sound long-term financial footing. We understand the historic opportunity this presents, and we are fully committed to successfully completing the reinvention of GM.

As President Obama said today, the success of this reinvention is vital for GM, for the U.S. and global economies, and for the millions of employees, suppliers, dealers, retirees and others who depend on the company.

During the next 60 days, GM will address the tough issues to improve the long-term viability of the company, including the restructuring of the financial obligations to the bond holders, unions and other stakeholders. Our strong preference is to complete this restructuring out of court. However, GM will take whatever steps are necessary to successfully restructure the company, which could include a court-supervised process.

The men and women of GM, including our dealers, suppliers and other key partners, know what we must do to accomplish this task. We are fully committed to making this successful. We owe that to the GM community, to our customers, and to the U.S. taxpayers, who are providing support during this exceptionally challenging time.

Quotes attributable to Fritz Henderson, GM CEO

"The U.S. Treasury has said that it strongly believes that a substantial restructuring will lead to a viable GM. Over the next 60 days, we will work around the clock, with all parties, to meet the aggressive requirements that have been set by the Task Force, and to make the fundamental and lasting changes necessary to reinvent GM for the long-term."

"We have significant challenges ahead of us, and a very tight timeline. I am confident that the GM team will succeed, and that a stronger, healthier GM will play an important role in revitalizing America's economy and re-establishing its technology leadership and energy independence."

"The administration has made it clear that it expects GM to expand and accelerate its restructuring efforts. I want the American people to know that we understand and accept this guidance. The road is tough, but the ultimate goal – a leaner, stronger, viable GM – is one we share."

General Motors Corp. (NYSE: GM), one of the world's largest automakers, was founded in 1908, and today manufactures cars and trucks in 34 countries. With its global headquarters in Detroit, GM employs 243,000 people in every major region of the world, and sells and services vehicles in some 140 countries. In 2008, GM sold 8.35 million cars and trucks globally under the following brands: Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, GM Daewoo, Holden, Hummer, Opel, Pontiac, Saab, Saturn, Vauxhall and Wuling. GM's largest national market is the United States, followed by China, Brazil, the United Kingdom, Canada, Russia and Germany. GM's OnStar subsidiary is the industry leader in vehicle safety, security and information services. More information on GM can be found at www.gm.com.

GM is the majority shareholder in GM Daewoo Auto & Technology Co. of South Korea, and has product, powertrain and purchasing collaborations with Suzuki Motor Corp. and Isuzu Motors Ltd. of Japan. GM also has advanced technology collaborations with Chrysler LLC, Daimler AG, BMW AG and Toyota Motor Corp. and vehicle manufacturing ventures with several automakers around the world, including Toyota, Suzuki, Shanghai Automotive Industry Corp. of China, AVTOVAZ of Russia and Renault SA of France.

Genuine GM Parts and accessories are sold under the GM, GM Performance Parts, GM Goodwrench and ACDelco brands through GM Service and Parts Operations, which supplies GM dealerships and distributors worldwide. GM engines and transmissions are marketed through GM Powertrain.


CHRYSLER RESPONSE

Nardelli responds to president's plans

Dear Employees,

Today's announcement by the Administration represents an important step forward on our path to viability. The Administration, U.S. Treasury and the President's Auto Task Force have recognized Chrysler's viability as an important part of the U.S. auto industry and overall economy, and have provided a critical vote of confidence in our alliance with Fiat S.p.A.

We are appreciative that the government has supported a global alliance with Fiat. By providing Chrysler with product and platforms, technology cooperation and global distribution, the alliance with Fiat strengthens our ability to create and preserve U.S. jobs; to give U.S. consumers more choices of environmentally advanced vehicles; to give our dealers more of the products they need to succeed; to help stabilize the supplier base; and to pay back government loans sooner.

While the Administration's findings released today recognize our progress in reducing structural costs and improving quality, the report also cites the challenges that continue to face Chrysler in the areas of scale, quality, product mix, manufacturing and geographic concentration. However, the important point is that the task force concludes that the Fiat alliance will go a long way toward addressing these concerns. Going forward, the Administration has committed to provide working capital for the next 30 days as we achieve the necessary stakeholder concessions, and further our restructuring efforts.

So while today's news is a step in the right direction, we need to continue to manage our business through the current downturn. We need everyone to focus on controlling costs while improving quality and customer satisfaction. There also is much work remaining to achieve required concessions from important constituents to reach the restructuring targets that the government has established.

In addition, as we add more exciting, fuel-efficient vehicles to our showrooms it will be important that our customers have access to credit. That's why we continue to advocate further government support for Chrysler Financial in order to make reasonable loans available to many more consumers.

I want to thank you for the hard work and dedication that you have given to Chrysler during the past 18 months. While we know our quality is not yet where it needs to be, our improvement is clearly evident in the 30 percent reduction in warranty claims over the last 12 months, and the fact that Chrysler reported the fewest safety recalls of any major manufacturer in 2008. We also have continued to advance important new vehicle programs such as the all-new Dodge Ram, the electric-drive vehicles under development by our ENVI organization and the all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee that we will showcase next week at the New York Auto Show. We have continued to improve the fuel economy of our lineup, with 73 percent of our 2009 models offering improved fuel efficiency compared with the previous year's models, and we are well positioned to meet the more stringent fuel economy requirements coming in 2011.

I want to personally assure you that Chrysler will operate "business as usual" over the next 30 days. While we recognize that we still have substantial hurdles to resolve, Chrysler is committed to working closely with Fiat, the Administration, U.S. Treasury and the Task Force over the next 30 days to secure the support of necessary stakeholders. If successful, the government will consider investing up to the additional $6 billion requested by Chrysler to help this partnership succeed.

BMW 135i Coupe to Race V8 Supercar and BMW Sauber Formula 1 car

Formula 1 weekend in Australia starts with an interesting race between a half-compartment of BMW 135i with parts of execution on top, a monopost and V8 Supercar from BMW Sauber F1.

Yes, we know, it is not a race right nor one it forever supposed being, but these comparisons are always more recreation. And NOT, the tii of the half-compartment 135i marked, will not gain this, but it gives us the other chance to see the car in the action.

It is equipped with the aerodynamic package of execution of BMW, brakes 18 of execution that it. wheels light-allow. The mirrors on carbon fibre side, lid of boot and other elements, achieve the image of car on the subject of which many ventilators of BMW had phantasm.

Here full the official statement and photographs with press of BMW

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BMW 135i Coup� takes the large guns at Australian large Prix

BMW announced 135i Coup� is placed to take the muscle of the park of Albert with 2009 of this Australian large Prix year.

A 135i particularly equipped Cut, supporting the famous stable of tii and comprising the speed of execution of BMW, will take part in the final comparison speed.

A race between V8 Supercar, car and road entirely prepared BMW going 135i Cut formula 1 of BMW Sauber, the final comparison speed is a favourite of crowd which wells three forms of high efficiency to circulate in the car ones against the others in a race of one covering to the finishing line.

The final comparison speed is held with five occasions separated during the weekend from race. The event is run with a synchronized handicap, giving to each car a chance to take the line honors.

BMW 135i Coup� is equipped with a certain number of levellings of execution and beauty product of the stable of execution of BMW, which are re-elected for a range of the exclusive and dynamic accessories of sports.

An aerodynamic package of full execution of BMW, installation of suspension of possession of road, cross drilled and of the light-alloy wheels of. of package of brake of saving of weight and execution 18 of BMW are adapted to the car.

The covers of carbon fibre mirror and the carbon fibre look at the cap with the integrated roof and initialize lines of sports, others accentuate the sporting character of this single vehicle.

The 135i Coup� supports transfers of tii of `before and back accentuating the fascination of the motorsport and the heritage of the mark of BMW.

Inspired by the famous model of BMW 02 presented in 1966, which in its time was recognized as �pitom� of the supreme agility and the enthralling drive, BMW 135i is also distinguished by its compact dimensions, low weight and before-back perfect balance.

A powerful twin engine the turbo one of 6 cylinders, producing of 225 kilowatts makes sure that the car can reach 100km/h as Juste 5.3 seconds. High speed is electronically limited to 250km/h.

The pilot for BMW 135i with the final comparison of this year speed will circulate in the car the journalist Paul Gover, who took BMW Mr. Coup� by his steps with the event of last year.

Christian Klien will be with the bar of the racing racing car of BMW Sauber F1, whereas Greg Murphy takes two BMW in its V8 Supercar.

BMW took part in the final comparison speed since its beginning.

BMW is happy to support this fantastic spectacle,� known as the noble one of Tom, sale managing director, BMW group Australia.

The final comparison speed proved to be a particularly popular segment on the large program of Price and incarnates perfectly the `the final driving complaint of Machine,� it says.

With its short duration on the market, BMW 135i Coup� claimed a certain number of coveted rewards, such as the car of 2008 drives of the year (the best sport scar more than $60.000) and cars of Australia of best, the best sport scar 2008 taking the tastes of many vehicles exotic of sports of high efficiency.

With the difference of the F1 car or V8 Supercar, the Australian ones can buy BMW 135i including/understanding the parts of execution of BMW adapted.

A complete chain of the components of execution of BMW is available exclusively by the network of merchant of BMW.

All the components of execution of BMW reflect the mark of BMW in their technology, design, quality and safety.

Final times of comparison speed:
11.40am on Thursday March 26
4.25pm on Thursday March 26
2.15pm on Friday March 27
1.00pm on Saturday March 28
1.10pm on Sunday March 29

Volkswagen GTI refined for 2010

When Volkswagen hopped up a Golf back in 1976, it invented a niche that came to be known as the Hot Hatchback segment. With just 100 horsepower, it’s difficult now to think that was hot…but it was. Hey, it was 1976 and polyester, John Travolta and the BeeGees were cool, too.

With leisure suits now just a bad dream, the new sixth-generation VW Golf GTI that hits our shores in October as a 2010 model, is just as hot. That makes it pretty cool.

The new GTI , which will make its formal U.S. debut at the New York Auto Show in a couple of weeks, is no longer the power player in the segment if all you’re counting is horsepower. No, the MazdaSpeed3 cranks out 273 hp, while the new GTI makes 200 hp from its 2.0-liter turbocharged four cylinder.

You’re correct if you say that this car has the same power as the outgoing model. What makes this new GTI worth talking about is the refinement VW engineers have worked into the car’s handling, not to mention the updates to the interior and exterior.

Unfortunately, U.S. buyers will not be able to get several features available on European-spec cars, like Dynamic Chassis Control that allows for three settings– comfort, normal and sport–of the car’s shock absorbers. Other items like dynamic cruise control will also not make it to the States. HID headlights, standard on the outgoing model, will be optional on the new car.

The U.S. VW folks say they kept the standard equipment list limited in order to keep down the cost of the three- or five-door hatch (the five-door is a $500 option). But the standard feature list is quite high, so don’t think all the models we get will be strippers. Official prices were not released at our initial test drive, but expect the car to start around $24,000, making it relative bargain in the front-drive sporty market.

So while this new GTI looks much like the fifth-generation car, every body panel (save for the roof) is different. The interior, likewise, is further refined with a better-looking center stack and chrome-trimmed gauge cluster. And yes, the plaid cloth seats are still part of the package. Some things from the ’70s just never go out of fashion.

The base transmission is a six-speed automatic with a six-speed dual-clutch tranny as an option. VW says a seventh gear, available on other VW models, is not necessary here because of the engine’s 207 lb-ft of torque. We sampled them and like both for different reasons. But if we’re headed to our garage, we’d save the $1,200 (approximately) on the DSG and spend it elsewhere…the six-speed manual is damn good.

On our initial test drive of the car, we found it to be quick and fun to drive, which has long been the GTI’s trademark. A decent rumble is emitted from the twin tailpipes, and while 200 horsepower may seem anemic amidst all the 500-horsepower ground beaters available today–the car doesn’t lack for oomph.

The sixth-generation car features subtle changes from its immediate predecessor but can easily trace its lineage back several decades, and is a worthy successor to the hallowed GTI badge.

Audi postponed the launch of its CUV for 2009

The German manufacturer Audi has said that the sale will take its new CUV the end of Audi 2009. This resolution has been given because Audi says that the marketing of all models at once, has become somewhat complicated. However, only 3 new models to join the range: the compact Audi Q5 and Audi 2 versions for the Audi Q7, and a hybrid diesel.

Another reason that has delayed the launch of these new models, Audi is not to promote the next version to the end of the year, usually known a significant drop in prices. The Audi Q5 and the two versions of the Audi Q7 will be sold as Audi 2010 models.

The Audi Q5 has for a long time under development, intended to indicate that everything will be built on the platform of the VW Tigua. It will be the direct competitor to the BMW X3 and upcoming Mercedes-Benz GLK.

Moreover, the Audi diesel version of the Audi Q7 which will be marketed around the same time, take a Audi V6 engine with 230hp and 400 lb-ft of torque. The powertrain will meet the environmental requirements of 50 states in the USA. According to the director of Audi in this country, Johan de Nysschen, "there will be only to adjust certain details so that the diesel engine is offered in future models Audi A4, Audi A6 and Audi A8.

The three models including the Audi Q7 Hybrid V6 280hp will be revealed at the Audi Detroit Auto Show 2009.

from: http://articles-audi.blogspot.com/2009/03/audi-suv.html

Mercedes-Benz Parts Online

Traditionally, finding a source for OEM and aftermarket Mercedes Benz parts meant having to live in or close to a large city. Now the power of the internet allows for the luxury of finding Mercedes Benz parts and accessories from the comfort of your own home. Whether you are shopping for Mercedes Benz parts & accessories to upgrade your interior or exterior, or repair parts to replace your Mercedes wheels or those squeaky brakes, finding your Mercedes Benz parts is no longer like pulling teeth! Online Mercedes Benz parts distributors tend to carry an impressive line of quality manufacturers, including Genuine Mercedes-Benz, Bosch, MP Design, Bilstein, GAP, Schatz, and H&R to name a few, so finding quality Mercedes accessories is never difficult.

Mercedes interior accessories come from a number of high quality designers. MP Design is known for its classy Mercedes interior accessories such as front seat adjustment covers, pillar covers and front door speaker covers. Genuine Mercedes-Benz, Lloyd, and Husky, each carry a line of high quality Mercedes floor mats.

Genuine Mercedes-Benz and Coverking both carry a line of high quality Mercedes Car Covers. Finding replacement Mercedes-Benz parts can seem effortless thanks to the numerous Mercedes Benz parts manufacturers like Bilstein, Bosch, and Hella. Likewise, Genuine Mercedes-Benz manufactures a number of OEM Mercedes-Benz parts. AMG, Lorinser, and Genuine Mercedes-Benz parts each carry a line of quality Mercedes-Benz wheels and wheel spacers.

While shopping for Mercedes Benz parts online is often confusing given the lack of visual application of the product, companies like Performance Products have online animated Mercedes Benz parts diagrams that make choosing replacement parts a much less daunting task. With parts diagrams you can see how your chosen Mercedes engine part fits into your Mercedes engine, or how your chosen Mercedes brake pad fits up against your rotor.

copy from : http://www.covercarworld.com/mercedes-benz-parts

Something You Should Know About Aftermarket Accessories

Aftermarket Auto Accessories

Counterfeit Aftermarket Accessories and parts are as prevalent as a street vendor selling a fake Rolex on the corner. Aftermarket accessories are not any different, and consumers should be on the lookout when shopping for discount car accessories.

Since the 1980’s, criminals have been selling fraudulent high performance aftermarket accessories at a cheaper price. The lower price may save a few bucks in your pocketbook in an automotive world where gas prices are ballooning out of control. It’s understandable but dwell on this: most of these discount aftermarket accessories and parts sacrifice quality and safety with more inexpensive and less strong materials.

Sometimes what you see is not what you get. Several years ago, CBS Evening News featured a report about counterfeit aftermarket accessories. Brake pads that contained compressed grass or wood chips instead of the usual material were sold to consumers. Having faulty brake pad material could be costly in more ways than one. To be on the safe side with performance aftermarket accessories, you might do better to pay the extra money and go with a brand name you can trust.
How can the average consumer protect against aftermarket accessories fraud?

Seeing a popular brand of an auto body kit you’ve been eyeing for half price may not be for real. Shop around to see what the average price is for the aftermarket accessories and make an educated decision based on what you’ve observed.

At first glance, the aftermarket accessories package may look legitimate but closer inspection may reveal some flaws that could be signs of the part being fraudulent.

Visit trusted stores or well-recommended aftermarket accessories shops. Stick to places you or someone you know trusts. Going to distributors you’ve had good service with reduces risk as distributors often buy aftermarket accessories from the same manufacturer that has never steered them wrong.

Contact the aftermarket accessories manufacturer directly. If you’re still unsure, the manufacturer can often verify if the performance aftermarket accessories is real. Most major companies have anti-fraudulent protocols to prove the authenticity of aftermarket accessories.

It would be foolish to settle on purchasing discount aftermarket accessories just to save a few bucks. Most manufacturers have phone lines or websites devoted to reporting fraudulent aftermarket automotive accessories and parts. Protect yourself, and report these crimes if you feel you’ve been a victim.

Top Tips for Classic Car Restoration

Car Restoration

Classic car restoration is one of the most rewarding activities a car enthusiast can perform. Transforming a “seemingly old car” back into a classic vehicle in all of its glory is nothing less than art.

Car owner must know how to properly evaluate the condition of a car and then establish the level of car restoration to be performed to such vehicle. There are 4 levels of classic car restoration. These are the top tips for classic car restoration who want to reverse the effects of ‘the sands of time’ on their vehicles:

1. Inspect your car very carefully, top to bottom, inside and out; use strong flashlights to inspect the trunk, the engine area, etc. If possible take it to a car shop where it could be lifted to take a good look at the condition from beneath. Here you will determine if the car restoration process is worth the time and money.

2. After inspecting the vehicle, it is also important to decide whether you have a ’solid’ car which can be restored without replacing the entire frame, floor, axles, etc. By ’solid car’ we are inferring that the car structure should be strong, as well as the floor; a little rust can be repaired but a completely rusty car which has the entire frame compromised will eventually crumble.

3. Decide whether you want to work with a “friend who knows how to repair cars” or a professional. Cars restoration did by people other than professionals tend to run well for a couple of years and in some cases start to breakdown thereafter.

4. Decide the level of car restoration:

a. Driver car restoration: is often performed to get a car back to a fully functional and operational condition, they often include part replacement and minor cosmetic adjustments.

b. Street Show: this car restoration level involves getting a car into a fully working condition and repairing all major cosmetic problems (body work is required).

c. Show Car: restoring a classic car back to this form often requires professional work, if judged by a professional, there restorations and labor quality will fall within the 90-95 point range.

d. Concours: this is the highest level of car restoration possible. All the work should be done by professionals, from part replacement to body work.

5. Start the car restoration process, if possible follow a 2 step procedure (part replacement and chassis adjustments). Visit the car shop as often as possible to make sure the right work is being done.

6. Take it for a ride and see if it works correctly.

copy from : http://www.covercarworld.com/car-restoration

Useful BMW Accessories for Your Stylish BMW

BMW Accessories not only represent style, they are also high quality and totally reliable. These BMW accessories are designed to make your ride more pleasurable and long-term maintenance benefits. If you are looking for state-of-the-art BMW accessories, do check out this online site that provided BMW Accessories to worldwide customers. You will find tons of beautiful and long-lasting BMW accessories at very competitive prices.

Interior BMW accessories include floor mats, steering wheel covers, cargo storage, seat covers, heaters, interior lights, air fresheners and many more. For exterior BMW accessories there are wiper blades, exterior lighting, mirrors, bumper protection, wind deflectors, etc. Performance BMW accessories are also very useful and popular, such as racing seats, steering wheels, shift knobs, pedal pads and gauges.

Aluminum BMW accessories are durable and long-lasting. They are also very light weight and easy to install. Some BMW accessories are very simple and can be installed without any difficulty. To find excellent quality BMW accessories, the best way is to search online. Since these BMW accessories are custom-made, they are totally reliable and of high quality. Shopping online also gives you the advantage of making use of special deals and discount offers.

Performance BMW accessories are preferred by a lot of people since they provide many performance gains in the context of horsepower and better fuel utilization. BMW accessories like Car lighting kits are also very popular among car lovers. Burglar alarms and door protection accessories can also be used to make your BMW more secure and protected. BMW accessories can be installed to improve the appearance of your car and also for security reasons.

copy from : http://www.covercarworld.com/bmw-accessories

Volkswagen Accessories: a Legacy of Greatness

Quality has never been stressed by German automobile manufacturer Volkswagen. Volkswagen is responsible for the sale and service of Audi, Bentley and Lamborghini. Known throughout the entire world for its blue Volkswagen logo, the company redefined innovation and efficiency in every vehicle that they have released in the market.

One of the many Volkswagen accessories that can supplement the automobile is the Volkswagen grille Accessories. Aside from being a remarkable aesthetic add-on, the Volkswagen Accessories like grille significantly provides an effective optimization of the vehicle’s engine performance. Cool outside air is systematically absorbed by the vehicle by the use of the Volkswagen grille accessories. Volkswagen accessories grilles are made out of high-durable plastic or metal.
Volkswagen Accessories Hubcab - Decorative Disk That Protects

Volkswagen accessories Hubcaps, in automotive terminology, are the decorative disks placed on the center of the Volkswagen wheel. Volkswagen hubcap basically provides aesthetic boost to an otherwise dull set of wheels. It also provides a performance value to the car wheels as hubcaps also prevent dirt and water from seeping into the vehicle’s brakes and wheel structure.

Conversely, in reverting to its main function as styling Volkswagen accessories, the Volkswagen hubcap accessories evolves into a variety of forms, shades, patterns, and materials offering Volkswagen owners the freedom of molding their own cars into a preferred image. With particular Volkswagen accessories hubcaps playing a major role, an owner could project the car’s personal with a sporty vibe, an aggressive stance, a luxurious aura, and a list of other impressions. Specific kinds of Volkswagen accessories hubcaps available in the market include the classic hubcaps, hot rod hubcaps, hubcap jacks, spinning hubcaps, antique spinning hubcaps, spinner hubcaps, diamond cut spinner hubcaps, baby moon hubcaps, bolt on hubcaps, custom hubcaps, and the list goes on. In terms of material, a Volkswagen hubcap can be made from aluminum, steel, or even plastic. Durability is also guaranteed as these hubcaps are designed to withstand the everyday road grind. Volkswagen has well taken note of this fact, thus upholding its commitment in providing Volkswagen auto parts and Volkswagen accessories that are infused with the trademark Volkswagen elegance and sophistication.

copy from : http://www.covercarworld.com/volkswagen-accessories

Range and cost information of fuel cells (FC EXPO 2009)

An important issue for fuel cell vehicle at the moment, “range”, “sub-zero start”, “FC improving the durability of the stack” and “cost reduction” in the fourth.The range is as was mentioned earlier, on par with gasoline vehicles already achieved more than 500km. Loss and loss of electrical energy and heat loss of the inverter stack 15 percent reduction by increasing the amount of regenerative energy of the vehicle, model year 2005 about 25 percent more fuel economy improvement. The addition of hydrogen filling pressure from 35MPa and 70MPa, about the amount of hydrogen can be used to expand the volume of the 1.9-fold improvement.

“Between 2008 - Tokyo, Osaka (560km), was able to finish filling in the actual use conditions and no air conditioning. After the fuel has been left to finish, and later were able to estimate the road about 250km I “(Mr. Masuda)
“Starting below zero” for the problem is almost solved. The fuel cells produce energy to produce water with Originally, the system starts to freeze it in below freezing water was a major challenge. The supercooled state of water - the frozen state before solidification of water - sustainable technology, and the matter settled. Today, Toyota and other manufacturers, minus minus 25 ℃ and 30 ℃ of the system can start. “We went to the testing of the Canadian Arctic. Minus 30 ℃ following morning, it was minus 25 ℃ day following a cold place, I could start without any problems no” (Mr. Masuda)


“FC Stack Durability improvement” in reducing the degradation by chemical and physical endurance has improved steadily. The current challenge is to curb further deterioration catalyst and electrode.

The challenge is the most popular, and “cost reduction”.

Of the possible measures, the larger two. First, in the field of design, and simplification of the FC system to smaller and lighter stack. Then, in the materials sector, in cooperation with materials manufacturers, FCHV promote low-cost construction material of the car. This ultimately cost Mr. Masuda’s tenth goal of the talks. Particular challenges, FC, and reduce the amount of platinum and other precious metals used in the stack, both increasing efficiency and compact, complete with cheap how to enable the high-pressure carbon fiber tanks to take a driving range.

And resolve issues, and Masuda 2015, aims to spread to the general public will begin to speak, concluded as follows.

Posted under Fuel Cells

High-speed Detroit-Lansing rail line envisioned

A company called Worldwide Hydrogen Super Highways says it has designed a magnetic-levitation rail line to run near existing highways between Detroit, Lansing and Ann Arbor.

The elevated rail line would use cars “built by Detroit Three automakers” that would use solar energy to power hydrogen batteries, said Justin Sutton of Whitmore Lake, founder of Worldwide Hydrogen Super Highways, which has designed the rail system. The proposed speeds for the maglev train is up to 200mph (322km/h) although the Shanghai maglev easily reaches 268 mph (431 km/h) but hardly its full potential.

The magnetic rail cars would carry passengers, vehicles (like a ferry) and freight. Sutton said the rail line could be used by many private operators that own the cars, similar to railroads that are shared by railroad companies.

http://www.hydrogen-motors.com/hydrogen/2009/03/high-speed-detroit-lansing-rail-line-envisioned/

Daimler Mercedes-Benz F-CELL Roadster

This car, equipped with modern technologies and futuristic, a source of inspiration for the first history of benz (of 1886)! The keyword: of point combined with the tradition!

The roadster of F-Cell of Mercedes-Benz is with electrical motor by a combustible battery located at the back of a power of 1.2 kilowatt (1.63 power in horses). Its high speed is low, they is 25 km/h and carries out an operating range of 350 kilometers. It has large wheels. Found inside the vehicle the following elements: a handle replacing the conventional seats of wheel and bucket in carbon fibre.
According to the member of the council of human resources and the director G�nther Fleig of social relations: This project shows impressive that the matter of mobility became an integral part of our professional training. I am magic to see how much initiative and of creativity the young people put in this

Mazda Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid

Mazda5 hydrogen About the hybrid is the second model available in the trade of the manufacturer with the rotatory hydrogen engine. Since 2006, the RE of hydrogen RX-8 for the businesses of leasing released, contrary to Mazda5 hydrogen About the hybrid, but of him is only by its rotatory engine and any additional electrical motor on board.

The hydrogen of Premacy About the hybrid comprises a hybrid gear box series-type, which combines the rotatory engine of the hydrogen of Mazda with an electrical motor. The output of engine is converted into electricity, which then actuates the engine which leads the wheels. This hybrid system amplifies the range of hydrogen fuel of the hydrogen of Premacy About the hybrid with 200 kilometers, twice the range of hydrogen RX-8 About, and increases the best performance of roughly 40 percent, with 110 kilowatts.

The alternative of the hybrid ordering of series of Mazda combines the rotatory familiar hydrogen engine, the push of a button on or the gasoline or hydrogen (duelle installation containing hydrocarbon) functions with an electrical motor. The system converts energy derived from the engine of combustion into electric current, then the electrical motor and to drive of this fact the vehicle.

bodykit BMW E46

orange body kit  BMW E46

silver body kit BMW E 46

black body kit BMW E 46

Bodykit Headlight Taillight CRV2004

Bodykit, Headlight Taillight buat CRV2004

The second-generation CR-V was all-new for the 2002 model year and remains one of the most popular compact sport-utility vehicles on the road, offering a unique blend of SUV versatility, top level safety performance, car-like handling and Honda quality. The Honda CR-V is powered by a 2.0-litre, 16-valve, DOHC 4-cylinder i-VTEC engine producing 150 hp and 190 Nm of torque. Fuel economy is pretty good for 4x4, especially with the 5-speed manual. A 4-speed auto is optional.

The CR-V utilizes a 4-wheel independent suspension system that employs a Toe Control Link MacPherson strut front suspension for exceptional handling, ride quality and packaging efficiency. In the rear, the CR-V is equipped with a reactive compact double wishbone suspension that helps provide additional cargo space.

Agile is the ideal description of the CR-V's suspension tuning. There is body roll on turn-in, but not too disconcerting. In twisty roads, it stuck well in the corners. With a decent amount of body roll, the Honda gently transfers weight without flopping over, as other 4WDs tend to do. Heading off into the desert is possible in the CR-V, but with only 8.25 inches of ground clearance, it's best to stay off the big dunes.

Safety features on the CR-V include advance dual-stage driver and front passenger airbags and seatbelt pre-tensioners.

For added safety, the lower front side frame and lower bumper beam have been specially engineered to engage the structural elements of cars, trucks and SUVs in the event of a crash. These advanced features helped the CR-V earn the highest rating of five stars in USA from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for both front and side impacts.

The front seats are excellent. In most measures of interior room, the CR-V beats its competition. More surprising than the front-passenger accommodations is the space and comfort provided by the CR-V's rear seats. The rear bench is neither too soft nor too hard, and allows passengers to travel for more than a few minutes without getting numb-reared or fidgety. All three rear positions have three-point belts and head restraints, something not all SUVs offer.

The cargo area of the CR-V measures a generous 72.0 cu. ft. With the fold-and-tumble rear seats stowed, the CR-V can accommodate two full-size mountain bikes with no difficulty. The 60/40 split rear seats offer six inches of fore and aft travel to maximize either cargo or passenger space. The large rear cargo floor also doubles as a portable picnic table with folding legs. In front, the center console mounted storage area is now large enough to accommodate music CDs.

The CR-V is offered in well-appointed 4WD trim levels. All models include dual mirrors, intermittent front and rear window wipers and washers, air conditioning with Micron Air-Filtration, power windows with auto down and auto up driver's window, power door locks, floormats, engine immobilizer and anti-theft system, cruise control, two-texture seating surfaces, sunglass holder and rear coat hooks.

The basic RVi trim level incorporates an AM/FM/cassette player with four speakers. The top RVSi trim includes an AM/FM/cassette player with six speakers, a power moonroof, foglights and keyless entry. Honda's Real Time' 4WD is standard on all models.

The CR-V is a practical alternative to a full-size 4WD, being easy to maneuver in traffic and offering good fuel economy. But passing on the highway is an annoyance due to its low power output. It is offered with the Accord's 2.4-litre engine in some markets, but has to make do with the 2.0L over here. Plus it's not a true offroader. However, it has proven to be as reliable as any other Honda, with strong resale prices, and would be a good buy for a small urban family. 

Body kit new Honda FIT/JAZZ 2008

Body kit new Honda FIT/JAZZ 2008

Body kit new Honda FIT/JAZZ 2008

Body kit new Honda FIT/JAZZ 2008

Scissor Door - Bolt On (Engsel Pintu Gunting)

Scissor Door - Bolt On car modification conceps

modifications to the car with the door trim and this trend is being target modification of the young nowadays

Osram H1 12V 55W 64150NBR Night Breaker +90 More Light And +10 White

Osram H1 12V 55W 64150NBR Night Breaker +90 More Light And +10 White

H1 - 64150 NBR 12 V 55 W  Test voltage: 13.2 V  Base: P14.5s  ECE approval: E1 The ideal lamp for drivers who want to drive with more light for greater safety. Thanks to a newly-developed high output coil and the blue ring coating, the headlight lamps of the NIGHT BREAKER product family. latest high-power technology  shine up to 90% more light on the street*  put out up to 10% whiter light*  exclusive design with silver cap and two blue strips  Suitable for all front lighting  Fully ECE approved with category "E1"  *compared to standard lamps on the market The lengthened light cone illuminates dangers and obstacles significantly earlier – for additional reaction time that can save lives! The whiter light of NIGHT BREAKER also improves driving comfort by reducing dangerous eyestrain. In addition, the patented blue ring coating leads to less glare for the driver: the clearly focused light beam concentrates the light exactly where you need it. NIGHT BREAKER’s unique design improves the looks of your headlights. The typical silver cap (H4, H7, H11) and the blue ring coating make a striking impression. Of course the NIGHT BREAKER family of lamps can be easily exchanged for any corresponding halogen lamps and are 100% street legal across all of Europe. The strong luminance and the light color are the crucial differences to standard lamps.  Always change NIGHT BREAKER lamps in pairs! Probably the brightest halogen light in the world. OSRAM NIGHT BREAKER®. Bright light has a new name: OSRAM NIGHT BREAKER®. The lamp produces more light and creates a longer beam than any other halogen lamp. In the fight against the dark, this concept simply has the most powerful arguments. Optimum light for faster reactions. NIGHT BREAKER® is the ideal lamp for drivers who want to drive more safely with more light and stay relaxed. This halogen lamp produces up to 90 % more light 1) on the road, has a beam that is up to 35 meters longer and provides light that is up to 10 % whiter 1). The longer beam means that drivers can see obstacles and dangerous situations much sooner. The extra reaction time can be the difference between life and death! The patented blue ring coating also means less reflected glare for the driver. The clearly focused beam concentrates the light 75 to 100 meters in front of the vehicle - precisely where the driver needs it. Fighting the dark forces - day and night. * Up to 90 % more light on the road for better visibility, more time to react and maximum safety. * Up to 35 m longer beam. * Easier on the eye with up to 10 % whiter light for comfortable, fatigue-free driving. * Eye-catching design with partial blue coating and silver cap (H4/H7/H11). * For the performance-minded driver. The unique design of NIGHT BREAKER® improves the looks of headlights. The typical silver cap (H4, H7, H11) and the blue ring coating add up to stunning good looks. The lamps in the NIGHT BREAKER® family can of course be used as simple direct replacements for halogen lamps and are approved for use without restriction on public roads throughout Europe.

Cuting Sticker modification car

Cuting Sticker modification car ceper

suzuki apv cuting sticker modification

honda jazz with cuting sticker style

Cuting Sticker modification car

people who have cars, especially young people like certain modifications in the car, and this is being now trend with cuting sticker so stylis car more elegant and beautiful in perspective. cuting the sticker is being guest sekrang this modification in the car. This is an example of modifications to the car body sticker cuting

Hot News: No Star for Brilliance

The Brilliance BS4, a Chinese saloon, has been given a zero-star rating in a recent crash test.
ADAC, Germany’s largest automobile club, tested the car under the new EuroNCAP’s stricter rules, which require a car to have electronic stability control (ESC) to gain five stars and take into account the presence of a speed limiter on the car.
Under the old rules it is reported that the car would have received three stars for adult protection, but under the new system it failed to gain even one.
Some of the criticisms from the test were that the driver’s airbag was incorrectly placed, that sharp metal parts were not covered or padded, and that the clutch and brake pedals could damage the driver’s feet.
The ADAC said the car was not on a par with those produced by European manufacturers and insisted that the safety cell be improved.

Thanks to: Autocar

Hot News: MG Confirms Two New Models

Shanghai Automotive Industry Corp (SAIC) has confirmed it will release two new MG models in the UK based on its Roewe 550 platform.
Both models will be based on a cut down version of the Rover 75 platform.
An MG spokesman confirmed that a four-door saloon and fiver-door hatchback were being developed, but declined to name a launch date.
The five-door hatchback will be badged as an MG6 and will be powered by a 1.6-litre petrol engine, available with automatic and manual gearboxes..
Both cars will first be sold by SAIC in China, with UK and Ireland set to follow. The spokesman said that both models may also be sold in other European markets.
MG currently has one model on sale in the UK, the TF. The company revealed that 129 TFs were sold last year.

Thanks to: Autocar

GM CEO Wagoner out at Obama's request

Tom Krisher of the Associated Press reports that General Motors CEO Rick Wagoner will step down from his post immediately, based on information given to him from an unnamed source. The news comes on the eve of President Obama's expected announcement of a deadline for General Motors and Chrysler to finalize their restructuring terms or enter government-backed, pre-packaged Chapter 11 bankruptcy. There's no official confirmation from GM at this time. The only announcement the automaker made today was a brief, two-sentence statement in response to the anticipated Obama announcement, saying that they continue to work with the President's automotive Task Force.

The Detroit Free Press reports that the move was specifically requested by the Obama administration as part of the rescue plan that will be announced tomorrow. Wagoner reportedly agreed, and COO Fritz Henderson would appear to be in line to be the new top guy at the RenCen. No official word on that so far, either.

[Source: Associated Press, Freep]

Kia VG concept leaked

So, what happens when you build a Kia based on the Azera's architecture? You get Kia's upcoming flagship sedan. The Kia VG concept has leaked onto the web and will debut at the Seoul Motor Show later this week. It's one of these concept-in-name-only deals, so look for the production version to hit South Korean showrooms in September, with a North American arrival in Spring, 2010. Power for the front-driver will range from the 2.4-liter four we'll be seeing a lot of in the coming months, to the 3.8-liter Lambda V6 in what's likely to be the range-topping torque-steer special. Looks nice, too. Kia's increasingly-formidable, value-priced lineup gets better with each new announcement. We've gone from the likes of the Sephia to this? Impressive. We'll have more on the VG concept once it makes its debut this week.

[Source: The Car Blogger]

BMW Z4 priced from $46,575

The BMW Z4 is all new for 2010, and the updated roadster will be ready for production later this spring. BMW gave the Z4 sleeker sheet metal, a folding hard top, and upgraded powertrains, but the biggest change could be to its price tag. Buyers looking for a new Z4 can expect to plunk down $46,575. That's a big jump from the base $36,700 of the 2008 Z4, which packed less power and less road presence. The 46 large is also exactly the same price as the Z4's nemesis; the Porsche Boxster. The 2010 model will net you a 258-horsepower inline six capable of hitting 60 mph in 5.8 seconds. The base Bimmer will also come standard with leatherette seating surfaces (upgrading to Kansas leather tacks on another $1,250).

The 306-horsepower, twin-turbo Z4 sDrive35i will cost a whole lot more, with a starting price of $52,475, including destination and handling. The 2008 Z4 M was a bit cheaper at $50,400 and carried more power, but the 2010 car's higher torque numbers make for an equally-quick droptop, as evidenced by its 5.1 second 0-60 time with the dual-clutch gear box.

Options abound for the Z4, and they're both expensive and confusing. Bundles include a Premium package at $3,900, or $2,800 when also ordering the $2,300 Sport package, which is $1,900 when also going premium. You can also get a performance 19-inch tire and wheel package for $1,200, but only if you purchase the sDrive35i and the Sport package. A seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox can be had on the 35i for $1,525. For complete pricing options
check out BMW's Z4 pricing sheet.

[Source: BMW Blog]

UK pilot breaks wind-powered car speed record

Britain's Richard Jenkins has just broken the world land speed record for a wind-powered vehicle. The high-tech contraption he used is called the Greenbird, which is the fifth wind-powered ride Jenkins has built. The resourceful Brit designed Greenbird himself over the course of a decade and built the machine almost completely from carbon fiber. Interestingly, Greenbird was sponsored by Ecotricity, the company currently working to build an electric Lotus that will be charged using wind-generated juice.

On a dry lake bed in Nevada, Jenkins managed to get Greenbird up to an amazing 126.1 miles per hour, handily breaking the old record of 116 mph, which was set in 1999 by Bob Schumacher, an American. According to Jenkins, the feat itself was rather uneventful, saying, "things couldn't have gone better."

Now that Jenkins has successfully broken the elusive record on land, he's reportedly turning his attention to the ice, where he plans to break the record for that surface using a second, different Greenbird. The ice vehicle exchanges wheels for blades and has a symmetric layout, with outriggers extending from each side of the fuselage, unlike the land car's asymmetric design, "There's still some debate as to whether traveling on ice or land will be faster," he said. Should be interesting to find out, no?

[Source: BBC]

2009 Brawn BGP 001 : F1 Pictures

Almost all the 2009 F1 cars have been unveiled, we just have to wait for the Toro Rosso—which I presume will look very similar to the Red Bull RB5, and the newly named Brawn Racing.

Today though, I bring you the very first pictures of the new Brawn Grand Prix BGP 001 F1 car, formally the Honda F1 team.

The car currently supports a white livery, with fluorescent yellow lines running from the nose to the rear. This will obviously change when the car reaches Melbourne later this month, and will hopefully feature some sponsors.

The car is running a Mercedes engine, currently being used by Force India and of course McLaren

Brawn GP Fantastic Team Debut in Formula One First Season

Brawn GP take dramatic one-two victory in Melbourne :

Not since the French Grand Prix in 1954 has a team new to Formula One racing finished one-two on their debut. That day it was Juan Manuel Fangio and Karl Kling for Mercedes-Benz. This afternoon it was Jenson Button and Rubens Barrichello for Brawn-Mercedes after an extraordinary ‘race of two halves’ in Australia.

Button led from pole as Barrichello bogged down when his car activated its anti-stall device, and the Brazilian was then embroiled in a first-corner clash with BMW Sauber’s Nick Heidfeld, Red Bull’s Mark Webber, Force India's Adrian Sutil and McLaren’s Heikki Kovalainen.

Button streaked away from Sebastian Vettel’s Red Bull, Robert Kubica’s BMW Sauber, Nico Rosberg’s Williams and the Ferraris of Felipe Massa and Kimi Raikkonen. But the face of the race changed on Lap 19 when Kazuki Nakajima crashed his Williams heavily, bringing out the safety car until the end of the 24th lap.

By then Button had watched a 47.7s lead reduced to nothing, and began to struggle to generate heat in his tyres. But he got his head down and opened a gap to Vettel again. As the Ferraris faded, Kubica found his BMW Sauber getting better and better on the harder Bridgestone tyre and gradually began to put Vettel, on the softer option tyre, under serious pressure in the closing stages.

Going into Turn Three on the 55th lap - with three left to run under a setting sun which made driving conditions very difficult - Kubica got alongside Vettel but they touched. Both spun, but continued. But not for long. Vettel had lost his front wing and crashed heavily just as Kubica, further down the road, did the same thing. Out came the safety car again.

Incredibly, that melee had promoted Barrichello back to the second place, despite his first-lap incident and a later touch with Raikkonen which damaged his Brawn’s front wing. It was changed during his first pit stop on the 18th lap. As the race finished under the safety car, he admitted that he had never expected a one-two after all his dramas.

Jarno Trulli started from the pit lane after Toyota’s rear wing infringement yesterday, but hauled through to take the final podium finish, while a very determined drive brought a hugely valuable fourth place for McLaren's Lewis Hamilton. The world champion was briefly third in the dying stages after Trulli ran off track behind the safety car, before the Italian subsequently retook the place - an infringement which prompted stewards to subsequently add 25s to his race time, later dropping him to 12th.

In the second Toyota Timo Glock came home fifth. The German survived a spin while battling from his own pit lane start, when he and Fernando Alonso tangled.

The Spaniard brought his Renault home sixth, while seventh place came as a bitter disappointment to Rosberg. The German was running fourth with six laps to go and had set fastest lap, but had used up his Bridgestone option tyres and was simply in no position to defend the place. By the finish he had rookie Sebastien Buemi thirsting after him as Toro Rosso’s Swiss driver scored a point for eighth place on his debut.

Neither of the Ferraris finished. Both struggled with tyre wear, and as Massa suffered a mechanical problem late in the race, Raikkonen spun and subsequently retired.

Sebastien Bourdais was ninth in the second Toro Rosso, ahead of Adrian Sutil, who survived a brush with Force India team mate Giancarlo Fisichella. They were separated by Heidfeld, who was consigned to a recovery race after the first corner fracas, while Fisichella further delayed himself by missing his pit marks in his first stop.

Webber, another in recovery mode, was the final classified finisher, ahead of Vettel, Kubica, and Raikkonen. The retirements were Massa, Nelson Piquet who spun his Renault after the first safety car restart, Nakajima and Kovalainen.

Button’s great victory marked the 200th for a British driver.

"It's not just for me but for the whole team,” he said, “a fairy tale ending really to the first race of our career together and I hope we can continue this way. We are going to fight every way we can to keep this car competitive and at the front. This has got to continue and this is where we want to be. Bring on Malaysia!”
Source : http://www.formula1.com/

New Car: 2010 Volkswagen Golf GTD

Say helllo to the Volkswagen Golf GTD - the first high-performance diesel version of the all new MkVI hatch.
Aiming to earn a reputation as the GTI of diesels – and this car's unveiling follows closely behind the launch of the brand-new petrol-powered GTI, which we got behind the wheel of here.
Power is delivered from VW’s familiar 2.0-litre turbodiesel unit - but here it’s tweaked to produce 168bhp and a substantial 350Nm of torque. Not headline figures by any means, compared to the GTI’s 207bhp and 280Nm, but when you consider peak torque is available between 1,750rpm and 2,500rpm the in-gear acceleration should feel just as fast.
And that’s reflected in the performance figures. The 0-62mph dash is dispatched in just 8.1 seconds – less than a second behind the GTI - while the top speed is 138mph. Power is transmitted to the front wheels through VW’s optional six-speed DSG gearbox - a six-speed manual is standard kit.
But this car’s fuel-sipping nature is the real talking point. Claimed fuel economy on the combined cycle is a heady 44.4mpg - a significant difference when compared to the GTI’s more thirsty 31mpg. CO2 emissions are just as impressive at 139g/km, putting it in the £120-a-year tax band C.
VW is also looking to lay the myth that diesel engines can't offer a sporty soundtrack to rest with the GTD. Engineers have fine tuned the car’s acoustics using an innovative solution.
An electromagnetic sound generator evaluates engine speed, throttle input and vehicle speed and helps to filter a pleasing engine note into the cabin, especially at lower engine speeds. A noise damping film on the windshield also helps to reduce wind and road noise – improving refinement.
The car will go into production next month and should go on sale in the UK by the end of June - prices are yet to be announced. For more details click here.

Thanks to: Auto Express

Spied: 2010 Ferrari F450

Some manufacturers play spy shooters like fiddles (Chevy comes to mind, with its Camaro striptease). But Ferraris are tough to find, even for the best. But we’ll take what we can get when it comes to prancing horses, so thank you, Brenda, for nabbing this prototype of the upcoming Ferrari F430 replacement (likely dubbed F450, but F500 could be a possibility), even if it’s missing a few pieces.
Seen here as a coupe, this newest Ferrari looks promising, with sleek, windswept bodysides and a Lotus Evora–like tapering greenhouse, imparting a look that resembles the back half of an Enzo merged with the front of an F430, only with more elegance than both. What we can’t see are the fascias, which we hope will be more attractive than those of the new, bubble-butted Ferrari California and with more sensuous curvature than even the F430. The rear lights shoot off the deck even higher than before, and the vertical headlamps are longer and sexier than ever. In any case, it is pretty clear that Ferrari’s newest bread-butterer will take on a very exotic, more low-slung posture than even the F430, making us salivate at the prospect of tossing it around a track.
As for what is under the (likely Plexiglas-covered) rear deck? We don’t know the details, but it will almost assuredly be a slightly enlarged V-8, displacing perhaps 4.5 liters and making well over 500 horsepower. The engine will definitely be direct-injected, and a small turbo is a possibility, but a force-fed version of this V-8 will in all likelihood be reserved for the Millechili supercar. With Ferrari promising greater efficiency from its future models, some green technology is likely. Whether it takes the form of bio-fuel compatibility or something like a roadgoing version of the F1-developed KERS (Kinetic Energy Recovery Systems) technology, we’re not sure.
Look for the Italian stallion to make its formal debut this fall at the Frankfurt auto show. A Spider convertible variant should make its debut a few months afterwards. And when Brenda—or anyone else—catches that, you can bet we’ll bring it to you.