Hyundai Genesis Coupe by Hennessey

New Hyundai Genesis Coupe appears to be the main attraction for participants in this year’s SEMA. A reason for Hennessey to display its “clothes”. So they’ve taken a piece of original Genesis, had taken precise measures and take a cut carbon fiber clothes.

Hyundai Genesis Coupe by Hennessey
Hyundai Genesis Coupe by Hennessey

Clothes could be another color than black matte to match the image and reputation of “bad boy”, considering that the tuner has operated a few modifications and under the hood.
Hyundai Genesis Coupe now produces 500 hp and 618 Nm torque, because the turbine which has made room in the engine compartment.
Tuner estimates about 3.9 seconds needed to propel from 0 to 100 km, and 12.5 seconds for 402 meters distance.

Mazda 3 – Overview

Mazda 3 is the model in the compact class with the most pronounced sporting character.
The new generation is presented in two body variants, hatchback and sedan. New forms, new drawing for all tastes. Those who prefer hatchbacks are customers in Western Europe because, in the East, is still looking sedan sites with boxes for all people. Important is that the Japanese were drafted with talent both versions, which is not bad at all for those of Mazda. Design accents in the current sport trends.

mazda3
Mazda 3

The new Japanese model comes with the engine for all customers, with performance, but less fuel consume. Start with 1.6 and ending with the powerful 2.2-liter turbodiesel, which was first on Mazda 6. Two versions of power – 150 and 185 hp. Motor sports rounds very quickly. Among them, 2.0-liter gasoline version, 150 hp generates a torque of 187 Nm and is moving well on the road. It sits securely on the road due to suspension.

Hyundai withdraw from the Japanese market

If on European market Hyundai is doing very well, just as most markets in the world, in Japan the Korean manufacturer has sales so low that he decided to leave this market, announces Automotive News. Failure is explained by the negative image of Korean cars in Japan.

hyundai-i30
Hyundai withdraw from the Japanese market

In the eight years in Japan, Hyundai has sold only 15,095 units. Very little, if we think that Volkswagen’s most successful foreign trade in the Rising Sun Country has sold just 61,996 cars in 2008! Hyundai announced today that all 46 dealers will withdraw from Japan.

Hyundai will continue with the sale of commercial vehicles in this country, even if no sales in this segment are not at the desired level. Worldwide, Hyundai sales rose 7.2% this year (through October).

First Drive: 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution

Listen here, sonny, that ex-rally racer known as Evo is all grown up. It goes by MR Touring now, but you'll know that the minute you see it. That ridiculous wing? Gone. A subtle, age-appropriate lip spoiler takes its place so there's no more guessing about the cop pacing behind. Inside, the Recaro racing seats are now lined in leather -- and heated to boot. A full color LCD now rests between the gauges and not only delivers more information (because of higher resolution), it's easier on the eyes. They've even put a powered sunroof in the thing -- a first for an aluminum-roofed Evo.

So this MR Touring definitely looks more mellow and certainly has additional creature comforts, but does this mean the mighty Evolution has gone soft? Limp even?

Not one bit.

2010 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR Touring Rear Three Quarters Driver Static
Click to view Gallery
Bilstein dampers and Eibach springs still suspend the MR Touring, so the crisp handling clarity has diminished not one iota -- even with the 30 extra pounds the Touring package adds. And that glass sunroof? Though it puts weight up high, you can't feel the Touring roll any more than a regular Evo -- which ain't much. Steering feel and ride quality have not changed either; the MR Touring still rides on rails without feeling like it's snorted a few too.

It's not as fast though -- it's faster. Running upgrades to the TC-SST six-speed dual-clutch transmission mean all new MR Evos are apparently the fastest of the 10th generation. Mitsubishi claims the MR and Touring will consistently hit 60 mph in under five seconds. A bold claim (and one we'll have to test) since the last dual-clutch Evo we tested (2008 MR) managed only a 5.2-second blast.

What we do know is that, in Sport and Super Sport modes, the Touring we drove still drops rev-matched downshifts like a mechanized Makinen. Even better, TC-SST trans served up quick, yet velvety smooth shifts around town, at low speeds -- something few of these fancy dual-clutches seem to be able to manage. At this price point, the Evo has arguably the best dual clutch on the market.

Read more: http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/sedans/112_0911_2010_mitsubishi_lancer_evo_mr_touring_review/index.html#ixzz0YupUcpMc

2010 Porsche Boxster Spyder

Tossed out the window -- no, out the open cockpit, actually -- are the radio, the air con, conventional door pulls, and more. Porsche says the result is a weight savings of 176 pounds over the Boxster S, making the new Boxster Spyder, at a claimed 2800 pounds, the lightest model in the maker's production-car lineup.

Porsche Boxster Spyder Rear Motion View
Click to view Gallery
Perhaps stung by criticisms of "diluting the brand" (i.e., Porsche sport/utes and the new Panamera four-door), the iconic German speed factory has countered with a sporting piece nearly as pure and purposeful as James Dean's 1955 550 Spyder. As such, this newest, fastest Boxster also qualifies as the most toy-like model in the range, a pricey plaything for perfect days and writhing roads -- and almost exclusively so. How long would the Spyder's charms last, I wonder, without refrigerated air and the diversion of a radio during a long stop-and-go commute on a blistering summer day? (Not to worry: If you're feeling "unpure," you can pile on A/C, radio, nav, and whatever other options you like.)

Porsche Boxster Spyder Rear View
Click to view Gallery
So, no, in basic "stripped" form the Boxster Spyder isn't an ideal daily driver; you'll want to be rich enough to own one as your second or third car. Ah, but for those days that call for a leather jacket and driving gloves...

In addition to the jettisoned A/C and radio, the Spyder features aluminum doors (saving 33 pounds), lightweight sport bucket seats (saving 26 pounds), an aluminum rear deck (saving 6.5 pounds), and the lightest 19-inch alloy wheels in the Porsche catalog. Also changed over conventional Boxsters are the side windows -- they're lighter and lower -- and the soft top, which for Spyder duty is a manually erected affair that's little more than a handkerchief for blocking the sun (the lid, which stows away above the engine, isn't even waterproof; indeed, Porsche admits it won't stand up to a car wash).

Read more: http://www.motortrend.com/auto_shows/los_angeles/2009/porsche_boxster_spyder/index.html#ixzz0YuoUzXLp

Volkswagen Golf GTI by Wimmer RS

Wimmer RS was pretty busy lately with preparing customized cars. First a Ferrari F430 and the Porsche GT2 Speed, and now the Golf GTI. For the German hatchback, the tuner has worked on both the exterior and the car’s performance.

While a stock Golf GTI delivers 210 hp, Wimmer RS has added an optimized turbo, a sports CAT, a modified intake system and fuel pump as well as a reprogrammed ECU and managed to increase the output to a total of 386 hp and 455 Nm (332 lb-ft). The top speed is also increased to 166mph.

The tuner also added a sports clutch and a height-adjustable HR sports coilover suspension system. The car sits on either 18-, 19- or 20-inch alloy wheels.

Honda Accord Crosstour

The Crosstour is based on the same platform as the Acura ZDX that we covered at the New York Auto Show when it debuted in near production form earlier this year. Whilst the Acura has a coupe-meets-crossover identity, the Honda has more of a tall fastback identity; it is clearly closely related in name and design to the Accord sedan, just as the BMW 5 GT is clearly related to the 5 Series sedan. This identity is underpinned by quite conservative form language consistent with the Accord sedan and coupe and lacking the assertive quality of the Acura.

But look closely and there are some interesting, if not very exciting, design details. The doors run all the way to the bottom of the car, hiding the rocker, and have small linear indentations that resemble robust separate rocker protectors of some SUVs. The grille is also unique for Honda: it had chrome finish horizontal vanes that fade out beyond the core graphic, more plan shape that corresponds to the creases on the hood, and is far deeper than on other Accord variants. Along with shallower headlamps than on the sedan it makes for a quite imposing DRG. Another unusual feature is an additional lower glazed panel in the tailgate - a Honda design signature we first saw on the ‘80s CRX as well as on the current European Civic and the Insight.

The Crosstour is an innovative package that may appeal to those downsizing from an SUV but for whom a sedan is too serious or business-like in its image. Regrettably, bar the strong DRG this innovative package is cloaked in a conservative design that makes for an ambiguous and not very enticing proposition.

Hyundai Sonata

The international debut of the new Hyundai Sonata coincided with the North American market introduction of the Tuscan and of the expression ‘fluidic sculpture', which the company is using to describe the new design language of these and forthcoming vehicles from the Korean brand.

The new Sonata follows its predecessor in targeting the Toyota Camry and US market Honda Accord, but differs markedly in having ‘fluidic sculpture': a far more expressive and curvaceous aesthetic. Central to this are the two single sweeping lines that define the top of the DLO and run from the headlamp through the shallow upper shoulder to the rear, a theme reminiscent but distinct from the Mercedes Benz CLS. The lower line innovates in having a chrome seam running from the headlamp through the hood shut line and along the base of the DLO. This sits above an unusually shallow shoulder which itself is defined by a sharp bone line that fades out in the C-pillar. Below this is a similarly sharp bone line that sweeps up from behind the front wheel and takes over from the upper bone line to form a broader shoulder as it runs into the rear. Between these bone lines is a mix of concave and convex surfaces that were impressively well resolved and continued around the front and rear of the car also.

The interior also has some of the ‘fluidic sculpture' of the exterior, notably in the center stack. The use of more matt finish wood appliqué and vertical vanes to air vents are also nice elegant touches, but otherwise the design is quite orthodox.

This new Sonata is a very attractive and distinctive, and a design that despite its complex surfacing has impressive levels of surface refinement. But what we think is most significant is that it shows Hyundai's new found conviction in taking its own route. Whilst its predecessor was a handsomely conservative and quite derivative design, here is a handsomely expressive design with will not be mistaken for any other car on the road.

Honda P-NUT concept

This design is dominated by its mono-space theme that tapers in plan forwards to reflect its arrow-head three seat configuration. Look inside and the rational for the seating layout is the same as the McLaren F1 that pioneered it: to allow seating for more than two in a short length by putting the passengers' legs and feet to the sides of the driver, while the driver's legs and feet sit between the front wheels. But what you also see when you look inside the P-NUT is a very crude model and a design that appears little developed: there was scant detailing and negligible use of color or materials.

The exterior perhaps also suffers from an apparently rushed and/or under-resourced design process, but there is an appealing uniqueness to the concept, some great details and some impressive resolution also.

The front face is perhaps the least comfortable aspect with an overly literal ‘mean face'. This is made of a low set mouth/grille glazing element (that augments forward visibility) connected to the lamps. Just above the DRG is a visually weak point where the tapering A-pillars form two sharp corners with no supporting ‘mass'. But the dramatic tapering A-pillars is unique and also creates a broad front shoulder that tapers rearwards, which lends an appealing robustness to this small car. The shoulder surface is near horizontal with a sharp crease delineating the sheer body-side that on closer inspection has some subtle surfacing and plan shape. The body side's relationship with the shoulder is complemented by a similar relationship with the rocker that also borrows thinking from last year's Honda FC Sport show car in tapering under the car. At the rear there are hints of the fantastic Honda Bulldog concept from 2001 with an upright narrow rear aspect flanked by deep section shoulders.

The P-NUT is a fun little concept, but like previous Honda concepts from the Southern California studio, we can't help but wish it was a little less superficial in its thinking and execution.

World premiere in Geneva: The legendary Scirocco is back

Wolfsburg, Geneva, March 2008. It is back: 34 years after the world premiere of the first Scirocco at the Geneva Motor Show, Volkswagen is now presenting the Scirocco of the new era in the same venue. Now as before, the coupé embodies the fascinating strategy of putting a sports car on wheels that is fit for use every day of the year at absolutely affordable prices. That is precisely what the new Scirocco does: high-class technologies merge with low costs of ownership, dynamic driving characteristics merge with a high level of comfort, and a surprisingly spacious interior merges with an uncompromisingly sporty design.

Volkswagen Chief Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn: “In the Scirocco we will be bringing the kind of sports car into the showroom that people dream of. Yet it is a dream that an exceptionally large number of car drivers will be able to afford – despite all of the high-end technologies we have implemented.” The Scirocco will already be entering the market across Europe in late summer, and other countries will follow over the course of the next year.

Avant garde design of the Scirocco
A calling card of the ambitious global concept is the new sports car’s avant-garde design. The fact being that the lines of the Scirocco study presented in August 2006 have been transferred to the production car nearly unchanged. This includes the long wagon/coupé roof whose form here is unique, and which pays tribute to the C-pillar design of the first Scirocco, the car’s athletic side profile, its distinctive engine hood and the entire rear end with its extremely broad shoulder sections. Only the design of the radiator grille has been changed for a more stylish and timeless solution.

With a length of 4.26 meters, the Scirocco is on par with the Golf. However, it is built significantly lower to the ground (1.40 meter) and is nearly as wide as the Passat (1.81 meter). Four adults can be seated with plenty of space inside. Once they are all aboard, the Scirocco provides 292 liters of cargo capacity; when the two seatbacks of the rear individual sport seats are folded down, capacity increases to a considerable 755 liters. This contemporary Scirocco demonstrates unfettered everyday utility, and it can be clearly recommended as a sports car for every day of the year.

Avant-garde technology of the Scirocco
Providing for ample power on the Scirocco – which comes with ESP and sport chassis as standard equipment – are four TDI and TSI engines, all of them charged and therefore just
as torque-strong as they are economical and low in emissions. The three TSIs (gasoline direct-injection) output 90 kW / 122 PS, 118 kW / 160 PS and 147 kW / 200 PS. The Scirocco’s common rail engine (TDI) develops a power of 103 kW / 140 PS.

Further high-tech elements of the Scirocco: a 7-speed DSG and an “adaptive chassis control system”. Meanwhile, a large panorama vent sunroof – extending from the A pillars to the B pillars – provides for plenty of light in the interior. At the press of a button the transparent panorama roof is raised up to 39 millimeters. When the sun is too intense, a sunshade may be moved into place. But that is seldom likely to be necessary, since the glass of the panorama vent roof reflects 99 percent of UV radiation, 97 percent of infrared radiation (heat) and 80 percent of visible light.

The new Scirocco is one of the most attractive sports cars in the world when it comes to pricing. Nonetheless, the standard equipment package is super. Always there, for example, are 17-inch alloy wheels, height adjustable driver and front passenger seats and steering wheel, leather parking brake grip, sport seats, split folding rear seats, power windows, air conditioning, ESP, braking assistant, six airbags, speed-dependent power steering, and of course a sport chassis.

TECHART wins sport auto Tuner Grand Prix 2008

The sport auto Tuner Grand Prix in Hockenheim is the world’s biggest performance competition in the car tuning industry. With driver Jörg Hardt at the wheel, TECHART won the 2008 competition with its 700 PS / 515 kW TECHART GTstreet RS, produced in small series based on the Porsche GT2.

With a lap time of 1.06,811 minutes for the short course of the Hockenheim circuit, the TECHART driver Jörg Hardt won the GT class . TECHART’s overall victory at the sport auto Tuner Grand Prix 2008 again demonstrated the company’s unique positioning on the car enhancement market.

The specialists from Leonberg-Höfingen were able to draw on more than 20 years of experience when preparing the vehicle and modifying the Porsche vehicles from Zuffenhausen. In order to participate in the sport auto Tuner Grand Prix 2008, the black/white TECHART GTstreet RS was required to obtain certification to prove the vehicle’s road-worthiness. It was also required to meet the specific requirements set by editors of the sport auto magazine.

In addition to its powerful TECHART biturbo engine, with an output of 700 hp / 515 kW at 7,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 860 Nm at 4,500 revs, the height-adjustable sports suspension and tires were crucial to securing success in this competition.

The TECHART sports suspension was developed in combination with the TECHART engineers and with vehicle experts from Bilstein so as to be specially adapted to the short course at the Hockenheim circuit. Jörg Hardt, who is one of the most successful drivers in the Porsche Carrera Cup, was very enthusiastic about the vehicle: “The car was prepared to perfection”.

In addition to its overall victory, TECHART Automobildesign also clocked up an additional success in the Cabrio category: Jörg Hardt drove the 580 PS / 441 kW TECHART GTstreet Cabriolet to success in the Cabriolet class with a lap time of 1:10,382 minutes.

Given the tropical temperatures of the Whitsun weekend at the Hockenheim motodrome, it was crucial to use the perfect kind of tire. TECHART’s technology partner, Michelin, contributed its high performance tires Michelin Sport Cup Plus to it.
The light single-component TECHART formula III light metal wheel rims, sized 8.5Jx20 at the front and 12Jx20 at the back, were fitted with Michelin tires in the size 245/30 ZR 20 for the front axle and 315/25 ZR 20 for the back.

Subtle but Significant: Nissan Updates its 2010 Sedan Lineup Read more: http://www.motortrend.com/auto_news/112_0910_2010_nissan_sedan_updates/index.

If you have a really keen eye, then you'll probably notice the subtle exterior updates to Nissan's line of 2010 sedans -- the Altima, Maxima, Sentra, and Versa. For the average bystander, though, these four-doors will scoot past with little reaction. Perhaps a, "Hmm, there's something different about that Nissan," but not much more. Ditto for the freshened interiors, all of which get minor tweaks, mostly with the electronics (audio and nav) and gauge clusters. Not that these changes aren't welcome and noteworthy, mind you; they've all been implemented to improve aesthetics and functionality, and to that end, they all succeed. Below is a rundown of the subtle but significant updates to Nissan's 2010 sedans.

ALTIMA
Nissan's cash cow -- the Altima is the brand's global sales leader - receives the most prominent exterior modifications, notably a new hood with a "power bulge," a restyled grille and front bumper, and fresh 16- and 17-inch wheel designs. The coupe gets similar updates but also adds projector beam headlights to the mix. For shift-it-yourself enthusiasts, the coupe is now the only Altima available with a manual transmission; all sedans come with exclusively with a CVT. Engines -- a 2.5-liter 175-horsepower four-cylinder, a 3.5-liter 270-horse V-6, and a 2.5-liter 158-horse four-cylinder plus 40-horsepower electric motor (198 horsepower combined) -- are carryover. For added safety, VDC is standard across the board.

Inside, both sedan and coupe receive updated gauges, a standard 4.3-inch color audio display, and a USB port with iPod connectivity. Nissan's next-gen navigation system, with a 6.5-inch monitor, Zagat restaurant guide, XM NavTraffic and NavWeather, and Bluetooth streaming audio, is available as an option. A la the Europeans, Nissan is even offering a handsome dark-red leather interior for the coupe. Pricing: Sedan -- 2.5 ($21,620), 2.5 S ($22,560), 3.5 SR ($25,240); Coupe -- 2.5 S 6M ($23,160), 2.5 S CVT ($23,660), 3.5 SR 6M ($30,320), 3.5 SR CVT ($27,990); Hybrid -- $27,500.

MAXIMA
Given that it's only a year old the 3.5-liter 290-horse V-6 Maxima enters 2010 with the fewest changes, the most significant of which is an optional next-gen nav system with a seven-inch screen, back-up camera, and 2GB hard drive. Bluetooth and USB/iPod connectivity are now standard, and there are new wheel finishes. Pricing: 3.5 S ($31,180), 3.5 SV ($33,900).

Read more: http://www.motortrend.com/auto_news/112_0910_2010_nissan_sedan_updates/index.html#ixzz0XNomxdRh

2010 Honda Civic: Overview

The 2010 Honda Civic sees no major changes after a modest freshening for 2009. These compact cars come in 4-door sedan and 2-door coupe body styles. A gas/electric Hybrid sedan is also offered, along with a sedan that runs on compressed natural gas (CNG). Sedans and coupes come in DX, LX, EX, EX-L, and sporty Si trims. Sedans also come in DX-VP and LX-S trims. DX, DX-VP, LX, LX-S, EX, and EX-L have a 140-hp 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine. Si versions have a 197-hp 2.0-liter four. The Hybrid combines a gas engine and an electric motor for 110 hp. The gas engine shuts off at a stop and restarts again when the driver releases his or her foot from the brake pedal. Hybrids require no plug-in charging. Available for sale in California and New York and to fleets is the Civic GX, which uses a 113-hp 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine that runs on CNG. All 140-hp Civics come with a 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission. GX models are automatic only. Si has a mandatory 6-speed manual. Hybrids use a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. Leather upholstery with heated front seats are standard on the EX-L and available on the Hybrid. A navigation system with voice activation and wireless cell-phone link are available on EX, EX-L, Si, and Hybrid.

Tips for Safe Driving in Winter Conditions

BEND, Ore.--This week's cold weather streak in the Northwest reminds drivers to prepare for the challenges of driving in snow and ice. For 55+ years, Les Schwab Tire Centers has helped consumers learn the rules of the road for safe winter driving.

Greg L'Hommedieu, Area Manager for Les Schwab Tire Centers in Northwest Washington, offers readers answers to the important questions he receives each winter. This information helps customers to drive safely when low temperatures produce ice, freezing rain and snow. According to Greg, “Failing to prepare for winter driving is like preparing for failure.”

How do I choose the right tires?

There are pros and cons to all tire selections and drivers need to decide based on weather, the condition of your tires and your vehicle. In the Northwest, driver requirements usually fall into one of three types: all-season, winter or studded.

All-season tires work well in most instances and are a favorite among budget-conscious customers. Their rubber compound fits most driving environments and they don’t have to be changed when winter ends.

Winter tires are designed to perform in cold, snow or icy weather. These tires have siping, which are small cuts made across the tire tread, providing better grip onto the road surface. The tread on winter tires also pushes snow away, adding more control than you would have with regular tires on snow pack.

Studded tires have staggered studs designed to wear with the tire. They provide additional traction on snow and ice. In Montana and Idaho studded tires are allowed beginning in October and in Washington beginning November 1.

Should snow tires stay on my car year round?

No. A snow tire is designed for winter conditions only. These tires are made from a soft rubber compound to grip the road better in colder temperatures and driving conditions. Driving in the heat of summer quickly wears out snow tires, and they will perform poorly.

Do I need a matched set of snow tires on my car?

Yes, this is recommended. Having more than one type of tread design can cause handling issues because mismatched tires react differently in wet or icy driving conditions.

Even though I own snow tires, should I own a set of tire chains?

Yes, tire chains are like a good spare tire. You may never need them, but if you do, you’ll be glad to have them. Check your car owner’s manual to see if chains can be installed on your car before purchase. Also practice putting on chains before you actually have to use them. If you need help, Les Schwab Tire Centers provides demonstrations at more than 420 retail stores throughout the Northwest.

Do you have any other advice for safe driving in winter?

Yes. Winter driving requires different road safety tactics. Take it slow — slower braking, slower steering and slower acceleration. Allow additional room between your vehicle and others. And, most importantly, allow plenty of extra time to reach your destination safely.

2009 Mercedes-Benz SL Class Review

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL grand-touring roadster gets more flamboyant front and rear styling for 2009 and gains some design cues from the classic 1950s "Gullwing" SL. There’s an edgier, more chiseled look in front, with composite lamp fixtures that flank the new grille design and sweep around into the fenders, and in back, the styling is a little neater. It’s similar to what’s being phased in throughout the Mercedes-Benz lineup, while much of the rest of the SL’s softer lines are carried over. Meanwhile, functional side-fender air gills behind the front wheels serve as nods to the past, and (on non-AMG models) the hood has been redesigned to gain two prominent "power domes." Other changes, as described by Car and Driver, include “larger side mirrors with curious arrow-shaped turn signals and, in the case of the SL550 and SL600, a faux air ‘diffuser’ and trapezoidal exhaust tips at the rear.”

These changes didn’t sit so well with some reviewers, who lingered on the idea that the 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL has gone many years now since a complete redesign. Car and Driver emphasized that the hood bulges do not correspond to “anything that gives the car more power,” and regarding the new front end, while Leftlanenews.com said that the rear styling looks dated, Britain’s Top Gear said that styling continuity was lacking: “Trouble is...they’ve grafted a square face onto rounded flanks, and it sits uneasily.”

The changes to the already elegant and sporty interior have been limited to a redesigned instrument cluster and steering wheel, and few reviewers had much to say about it. Leftlanenews.com pointed out the ability to “customize the interior with up to twelve single-tone and ten two-tone combinations of leather and wood trim.”

Meanwhile, the AMG versions get enough styling for spotters to easily differentiate them from standard SLs. Differences include a lower air intake in front, a bolder grille design with reshaped headlights, twin power bulges for the hood, special side skirts, and a different rear fascia. “That you're in the AMG version won't go unnoticed by the impoverished who can only afford Porsche Boxsters,” said Road & Track.
Conclusion

Mercedes added a little more flair to the 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL’s conservative appearance with these midcycle styling changes, but even in AMG trim, it won’t turn heads like a Porsche 911 or Audi R8.

BMW resurrects the C1

BMW has resurrected the C1 as an electrically powered concept. It is part of a broad-based safety project conducted in cooperation with the European Union under the working title eSUM (European Safer Urban Motoring).

The roofed scooter, which originally went on sale across Europe with a gasoline engine in 2000, was once touted by BMW as the future of urban mobility. It has a sturdy steel frame and an integrated seat belt, which allowed the rider the freedom of going without a helmet under strict European Union road-safety regulations. But after early quality problems and a lackluster 12,614 sales, the C1 was pulled from production in 2002 just as scooter sales across Europe began to boom.

Although not planned for production in its current form, the C1 E--as BMW has christened its latest single-track concept--is among a group of new urban vehicles that BMW is considering for the showroom as part of its MegaCityVehicle project. That project aims to take on Daimler’s struggling Smart division with a range of affordable city-oriented vehicles in both two- and four-wheeled forms.

Powering the C1 E is a 27-hp brushless electric motor that uses energy supplied by a plug-in 125-volt lithium-ion battery pack capable of generating 3.67 kilowatt-hours of electricity. The system is supplied by U.S.-based company Vectrix and has been enhanced by various components from BMW’s EfficientDynamics program.

No performance claims for the C1 E have been made public. BMW officials contacted by AutoWeek suggest it will hit 50 mph in less than seven seconds and reach a top speed of 62 mph. Maximum range between recharging is estimated at about 55 miles.

Read more: http://www.autoweek.com/article/20091006/CARNEWS/910069996#ixzz0TmsOtpOR

Lean machine

If you've been wondering what Nissan has up its sleeve for the upcoming Tokyo show, your wait is over. All is revealed.

We've already seen the Leaf all-electric vehicle - the first electro-car for normal people who like normal cars with four doors and a hatchback. That will be there looking all glittery under the spotlights ahead of its launch next year.

Next to that is something called a Land Glider - an ultra-slim, electric, tilting thing that looks like cross between the VW L1 concept and that crazy Dutch Carver - designed to solve all our urban mobility problems. We find that ‘walking' is also pretty effective.

We're also expecting some more news on the new Micra that we showed you last week. Then there's the Qazana, which we saw at Geneva earlier this year. It's a jacked-up five-door hatch, designed to slot somewhere between the ‘B' and ‘C' segment, so that's in between a Mini and a Qashqai (it could steal sales from both). It will be made in Britain from early next year, at the firm's Sunderland plant, where the tea and biscuits are being restocked as we speak.

New Volvo C30 And C70 Prices Announced

MARLOW, UNITED KINGDOM – October 5, 2009: Volvo Car UK has announced prices for the new C30 SportCoupe and C70 coupe/convertible. The Volvo C30 starts from only £14,495 OTR for the 1.6 S, while customers can purchase a new Volvo C70 2.0D S for £25,995 OTR.

The new Volvo C30 and C70 were unveiled at the IAA Frankfurt Motor Show in September 2009 showcasing extensive facelifts to give the cars distinct new styling. Both models will arrive in dealer showrooms and be available for customer test drives this December, with first customer deliveries in January 2010.

Volvo C30 specification and pricing
Starting at £14,495 OTR, the Volvo C30 will be available in four trim levels S, SE, SE Lux and R-DESIGN and will have the choice of six engines including the 99 g/km CO2-emitting 1.6D 109 PS DRIVe with Start/Stop right up to the turbocharged T5 producing 230 PS.
The S model offers a high level of specification with features such as ECC (Electronic Climate Control), Information Centre, power windows, a leather steering wheel and gear knob, floor mats, CD player and an Aux input and 16" Convector alloy wheels (Libra alloys on DRIVe S), as well as all the advanced safety systems you'd expect from a Volvo including DSTC (Dynamic Stability and Traction Control).

The SE trim level adds Cruise Control, steering wheel remote controls and Leksand Textile/T-Tec upholstery on the inside. Exterior additions include front fog lights, 17" Styx White alloy wheels and auto-folding power door mirrors with ground lights.

The SE Lux enhances the SE specification with luxury features such as leather upholstery, power drivers seat with memory, 17" Spartacus alloy wheels and active bending lights with headlamp cleaning system.

Based on the S specification, R-DESIGN models benefit from steering wheel remote audio controls, embossed R-DESIGN leather/T-Tec upholstery available in two colour combinations, aluminium deco centre stack and door inserts, blue instrument dials and sports floor mats with contrast piping on the inside. External features include a bodykit with front and rear spoilers and colour matched side skirts, tailgate spoiler, front fog lights, chrome plated sports tailpipe, grille and door mirror housings in silver matt finish and five spoke 17" Cratus Alloy wheels. The new Sports Chassis has also been introduced as standard to R-DESIGN to give a dynamic driving experience to match its sporty appearance. The Sports Chassis is also available as an option on non-R-DESIGN models.

Volvo offers a range of options so customers can personalise their C30 including 18" alloy wheels (£500), rear park assist (£350), keyless drive (£350), Oyster burst trim (no cost option on SE and SE Lux and £250 on S), the new Sport Chassis (£400), a choice of exterior contrast colours (£175) and a range of interior and exterior accessory styling kits.

Volvo C70 specification and pricing
Along with a more refined appearance, the Volvo C70 also features a number of specification changes. Available in three trim levels – S, SE and SE Lux – and a choice four engines, including two diesels – 2.0D, D5 and two petrol derivatives – 2.4i, T5, the C70 range starts from £25,995 for the 2.0D S.

The S model comes complete with Volvo's familiar suite of safety features including WHIPS (Whiplash Protection System) as well as comprehensive standard specification including ECC (Electronic Climate Control), 16" Castula alloy wheels, front fog lights, power windows, information centre, cruise control, floor mats and Performance Sound Audio System.

The SE builds on the S specification by adding 17" Sirona alloy wheels, auto-folding power door mirrors with ground lights and rear park assist. Additions inside the car include Aluminium trim, Bluetooth® hands-free system, auto-dimming rear view mirror and High Performance Sound Audio System.

The luxurious SE Lux trim includes Leather-faced upholstery, power driver's seat and active bending lights with headlamp cleaning system.

For an additional touch of luxury, a Premium upgrade is available on the majority of trim levels by adding leather-faced upholstery and Satellite Navigation System (RTI) to the already high standard of specification.

Triple Success for the BMW Group

MUNICH – October 5, 2009: Triple success for the BMW Group in the 2009 Internet Auto Award competition. This year the new BMW Z4 Roadster, the Sports Activity Coupe BMW X6 and the MINI E received the CAROLINA trophy awarded by the online portal Autoscout24. The Internet Auto Award competition was held for the eighth time as a European-wide online voting. The award ceremony took place on 1 October 2009 during a gala event held at the Kesselhaus in Munich.

With its fascinating design, which is a modern interpretation of classic proportions authentically reflecting typical BMW Roadster driving pleasure, the new BMW Z4 has been enthusiastically received by experts and the public alike. Only a few weeks ago the Roadster seized the International Design Excellence Award 2009 in the USA, having already won the red dot award 2009 in Germany shortly before that. The new BMW Roadster now succeeded in the category “Convertibles” in the European Internet Auto Award competition conferred by AutoScout24. Just a few months after its market launch in May 2009, the new Z4 has taken a distinctive lead in its vehicle class, achieving a higher number of sales than both of its main premium segment competitors together
The BMW X6 has also already collected a number of renowned awards since its market launch last year. The CAROLINA trophy in the category “All-terrain Vehicles” is now being added to the series of successes. As a new vehicle concept within the competitive environment of the BMW X models, the Sports Activity Coupe is characterised by an elegant design and superior, sporty handling characteristics. Dynamic Performance Control, which in addition to the intelligent all-wheel drive technology xDrive ensures variable power distribution between the rear wheels and is featured by the BMW X6 for the first time, had already earned a CAROLINA statue last year for the “best innovation of the year”.

The prize for the “best environmental initiative of the year 2009” goes to the MINI E. The first purely electrically powered model of this brand is currently undergoing tests in everyday traffic conditions within the framework of a pilot project. The MINI E, which was produced as a small series of around 600 cars, is being driven by private users in the USA and can in the meantime also be seen on roads in Munich and Berlin. From these field tests the BMW Group expects to gain knowledge for the development of a purely electrically powered Megacity Vehicle. The MINI E is also scheduled to be tested in the UK, where it is produced, and in France. The MINI E is powered by a 150kW/204 bhp electric motor that guarantees brand-typical driving pleasure with zero CO2 emissions. Its high-performance lithium ion battery offers a cruising range of up to 250 kilometres. The field testing of the MINI E is currently the world’s largest pilot project for the research of electrical mobility. Only a few weeks ago the BMW Group was awarded the EcoGlobe environment prize of the University of Duisburg-Essen for its commitment in this field.

Triple Success for the BMW Group

MUNICH – October 5, 2009: Triple success for the BMW Group in the 2009 Internet Auto Award competition. This year the new BMW Z4 Roadster, the Sports Activity Coupe BMW X6 and the MINI E received the CAROLINA trophy awarded by the online portal Autoscout24. The Internet Auto Award competition was held for the eighth time as a European-wide online voting. The award ceremony took place on 1 October 2009 during a gala event held at the Kesselhaus in Munich.

With its fascinating design, which is a modern interpretation of classic proportions authentically reflecting typical BMW Roadster driving pleasure, the new BMW Z4 has been enthusiastically received by experts and the public alike. Only a few weeks ago the Roadster seized the International Design Excellence Award 2009 in the USA, having already won the red dot award 2009 in Germany shortly before that. The new BMW Roadster now succeeded in the category “Convertibles” in the European Internet Auto Award competition conferred by AutoScout24. Just a few months after its market launch in May 2009, the new Z4 has taken a distinctive lead in its vehicle class, achieving a higher number of sales than both of its main premium segment competitors together
The BMW X6 has also already collected a number of renowned awards since its market launch last year. The CAROLINA trophy in the category “All-terrain Vehicles” is now being added to the series of successes. As a new vehicle concept within the competitive environment of the BMW X models, the Sports Activity Coupe is characterised by an elegant design and superior, sporty handling characteristics. Dynamic Performance Control, which in addition to the intelligent all-wheel drive technology xDrive ensures variable power distribution between the rear wheels and is featured by the BMW X6 for the first time, had already earned a CAROLINA statue last year for the “best innovation of the year”.

The prize for the “best environmental initiative of the year 2009” goes to the MINI E. The first purely electrically powered model of this brand is currently undergoing tests in everyday traffic conditions within the framework of a pilot project. The MINI E, which was produced as a small series of around 600 cars, is being driven by private users in the USA and can in the meantime also be seen on roads in Munich and Berlin. From these field tests the BMW Group expects to gain knowledge for the development of a purely electrically powered Megacity Vehicle. The MINI E is also scheduled to be tested in the UK, where it is produced, and in France. The MINI E is powered by a 150kW/204 bhp electric motor that guarantees brand-typical driving pleasure with zero CO2 emissions. Its high-performance lithium ion battery offers a cruising range of up to 250 kilometres. The field testing of the MINI E is currently the world’s largest pilot project for the research of electrical mobility. Only a few weeks ago the BMW Group was awarded the EcoGlobe environment prize of the University of Duisburg-Essen for its commitment in this field.

Mazda Sets Sales Record in Scotland

DARTFORD, UNITED KINGDOM – October 5, 2009: Mazda's sales in Scotland soared to new heights in September with a record-breaking 1,556 units.

This beat the previous best September two years ago and was also a record for a single month, set in March 2007 when Mazda's Scottish dealer network sold almost 1,520 units.

Even more impressive is that fact that September's record was set without relying too heavily on the Government's scrappage scheme; just 16 per cent of Mazda cars bought in September were sold with the help of the trade-in scheme. This is well below the 25 per cent average for Mazda's UK network.

Sales to retail customers, a true measure of how well a brand is doing, were up 50 per cent and while Mazda2 was the best-seller with sales of more than 600, the newly-launched Mazda3 helped maintain Mazda's momentum recording 400 sales while Mazda6 sales reached the 300 mark.

Machargs, part of the Arnold Clark group which has dealers across Scotland, proved yet again to be Mazda's strongest retail dealer in the UK, selling more than 220 cars in September. The group was also Mazda's top selling retail group with sales of 550.

This exceptional performance ensures that Mazda's share of Scotland's retail market continues to be significantly above its national position at around a healthy 5 per cent.

For one Mazda dealer it was a hectic welcome to the brand. Ayr-based Glen Henderson sold more than 60 Mazdas in its first month of trading. "It's been fantastic, way above my expectations," said operations director Callum Watson.

Even more impressive was the fact that the sales came across the range, including MX-5, and not just from Mazda2 and Mazda3.

Glen Henderson's is a long-established Mercedes-Benz franchise in Scotland and has also sold Porsche and Maserati north of the border.

"Glen saw an opportunity with Mazda and we operate out of a former purpose-built Mercedes showroom.

"Mazda is a fantastic company to do business with and we've had a staggering first month. To get to 60 sales from a standing start was beyond our expectations," said Watson.

This strong performance in Scotland helped Mazda set a new UK sales record for the brand of more than 11,350 - the best single month since the marque arrived in the UK in the 1960s.

"Throughout this economic downturn we have sought to ensure our dealers remain profitable, motivated and they have the tools to do the job effectively. We have also continued to build our brand awareness and give the dealers the product mix they require to hit their sales objectives," said Jeremy Thomson, Mazda UK managing director. "These actions are now beginning to pay off as we see increasing traffic in the showrooms, greater awareness of the Mazda brand and more customers abandoning other manufacturers to buy Mazda vehicles."

2009 Frankfurt Auto Show: 2010 Ferrari 458 Italia

September of 2009 will be the time to go to Frankfurt for one of the greatest German Auto Shows. The manufacturers are getting ready and start showing the teasers of new projects to the impatient audience.

Ferrari has developed the successor of the popular F430 which will go to the show named 2010 Ferrari 458 Italia. The pictures of the beautiful red coupe are already wandering on the Internet with the first details about the car. The main purpose of the project is to show that high performance can go together with fuel efficiency in one auto.

The Italian manufacturer has developed an absolutely new mid-engine for 458 Italia. The numbers in the name of the coupe speak about the size of the motor: 4.5-liter V8 helps the car to be absolutely aggressive and at the same time greenish-modern on the road. The 2010 Italia is absolutely faster than any Ferrari vehicle running as fast as 203 mph. It is also claimed to start and brake quicker than any Italian auto. The coupe is equipped with F1 Trac stability control and E-Diff which allow making even sharpest turns.

The engine sits under glass as a precious stone in a jewelry shop. It produces 570 horsepower and 398 pound-feet of torque. The 2010 Italia is controlled by dual-clutch automated manual transmission which provides quick shifting and seven ratios for speed acceleration.

High fuel-efficiency was achieved by direct fuel injection and low-friction engine components. However, the manufacturer has not named the actual numbers of fuel usage yet.

Felipe Massa Is Recovering from an Injury

During the Hungarian Grand Prix race Formula 1 driver was seriously injured. As the media reports Felipe Massa was hit by a two-pound spring that came lose from Brawn driver Rubens Barrichello’s car. The spring went right into his helmet which reduced the effect of the injury.

Felipe had to undergo an emergency surgery for skull fractures in a military hospital in Budapest. At this moment the driver has already left Hungary and went to São Paulo, Brazil where he began the rehabilitation process. Michael Schumacher, the most famous Formula 1 driver, is going to finish Massa’s job in the remaining races of the season.

Felipe feels good and he hopes to be back on the track as soon as possible, however, he thinks that the company could not make a better choice than Schumacher. “He knows how to win, he knows how to drive and he’s great. I’m sure that everybody will be happy to see him back on the track again,” Massa exclaims. As for himself, Felipe says he feels well, but he does not remember exactly what happened and he actually did not feel anything either. On the video issued by Formula 1 in several laugauges, the driver looks energetic and healthy except for a swollen eye and stitches on the left temple which he tries to cover with a baseball cap.

Mercedes-Benz BlueZero Trio

At the 2009 Frankfurt Auto Show Mercedes-Benz is presenting a trio of Concept BlueZero models which do not use gasoline at all. The cars are absolutely different from any other vehicles in the world.

The manufacturer offers three variants of BlueZero model: all of them have same front-wheel-drive, rear-engine platform and similar body style; but they have different drive systems built around the compact electric motor.

E-Cell is a basic model which does not have a gas engine and operates on electric power only. E-Cell Plus adds a small extended-range gas motor. The third model is F-Cell with hydrogen fuel cell.

The small turbocharged 1.0-liter gas motor in E-Cell Plus is not going to move the car; it is aimed to generate additional electricity which goes to the auto’s lithium-electric batteries. This is a really important investment, because BlueZero runs up to 62 miles on batteries, but thanks to the gas engine the running range extends to 375 miles.

It takes six hours to recharge the battery pack completely from a standard household outlet. A quick-charging station can do it for less than an hour.

F-Cell is an incredible idea and it seems to work perfectly. Mercedes-Benz is going to launch the production version of the model in the end of this year. Around 200 cars will be made and sold for customers in the U.S. and Europe.

The Fuel Economy of Fisker Karma

Fisker has finished the testing and ran a public debut of Karma at the Laguna Seca Raceway in Monterey, California in the end of August. Now the hybrid is going to the 2009 Frankfurt Auto Show for an official big presentation.

Karma runs on two electric motors which output 403 horsepower and 959 pound-feet of torque. It is safe to drive up to 50 miles on electric power alone. If the charge is out the four-cylinder gasoline engine with 260 hp turns on to run the car and recharge the 200-kilowatt lithium-ion batteries.

According to the standards set by the Society of Automotive Engineers or SAE Karma uses 67.2 mpg and emits 83 grams of carbon dioxide per kilometer. The CEO, Henrik Fisker said that cars of this category cannot be judged by EPA standards because their fuel economy will show more than 100 mpg. This would really be a fulfillment of American government’s dream: sales of 15,000 Karmas a year could save 248 million gallons of gasoline and 2.5 million tons of CO2 emissions.

Cape Town Car Hire

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Ford Focus

EPA city/highway mileage: 24/35 (manual), 24/33 (automatic)

Though most of the cars on this list are imports, that doesn't mean the domestics don't built fuel-efficient cars -- though it's no coincidence that the fuel-efficient Focus was largely designed by Ford's European division. The Focus' fuel economy trails a bit compared to Japanese compacts, but it's cheap to buy, brimming with personality and enjoyable to drive.

Dodge Edition

We now have complete information on 2010 changes for Chrysler and Dodge. Now, before you read about the changes and get all bent out of shape about how your taxpayer bailout loan money is being used, bear in mind that the product cycle for new cars is usually 2-5 years, so we won't see any big changes until at least the 2011 model year. Now that you've been warned and your expectations lowered, go forth and read:

Test drive: 2009 Audi A6 3.0T

The Audi A6 is one of those cars I'd dismissed as being perpetually just-OK. It's not like it's a bad car; it's an Audi, which means it's safe, fairly well thought out, and a great set of wheels to have under you when the weather turns to crud. Good, but not my cup of tea.

But wait -- wait, wait, wait. Seems Audi knows what's up with the A6. For 2009, they gave it a new engine, plus they retuned the suspension and the Quattro all-wheel-drive system to make the car more entertaining. What -- what? Did a German car company actually admit a need for improvement? And more importantly -- did it work? Find out in my

Terminator's return will spice up F1

First up, I would like to send my commiserations out to Felipe Massa and hope he recovers enough to get back to racing F1.

His unfortunate situation of being in the wrong place at the wrong time and attacked by a rogue piece of Rubens Barrichello's car has though, opened the door for the return of the F1 terminator.

I never took to Michael Schumacher as either a person or a driver, because watching a machine, in a machine, was a little tedious. But only he, and he alone, could have taken that dog of a Ferrari (which should have been put down) and turn it into a championship winning car.

And for that feat alone he should be admired. Also, I have a lot begrudging respect for someone who has the emotionally detached ability to deliberately punt another driver off the racetrack in order to win. And he got away with it.

Is Schumacher the greatest driver so far in 60-odd years of F1? Who knows. From my point of view you can't compare Fangio, Hawthorn and Clarke etc with today's drivers - it's pointless. The Schumachers and Sennas of the modern era could no better drive a 1960's car than Fangio etc could drive the video cars of today.

Who I admire the most is definitely Juan Manuel Fangio, the five-time world champion who only Schumacher has more titles than.

For those who are wringing their hands saying Schumacher's return to the Prancing Horse is a media stunt and he's not fit enough - who cares. Fangio won his last title at 46, Nigel Mansell won his title at 39 and Alain Prost won his last title at 38. Schumacher is only 40 and has been actively testing F1 cars and racing motorcycles. If Fangio could muscle an ill handling car (by today's standards) around the bastard grandfather of all tracks, the Nurburgring, in 1957, Schumacher isn't going to have any problem jumping back into a paper dart that's akin to driving a video game.

In what is regarded as one of finest F1 races of all time, after a botched pit stop, Fangio grabbed his Maserati by the scruff of the neck and hurled it around the daunting German track. He had lost a minute to the Ferraris of Mike Hawthorn and Peter Collins and after comprehensively destroying the lap record, caught and past the two Englishmen to win.

Schumacher and Fangio have one big thing in common, they both wanted to win at all costs and in my mind that makes you a great driver. Neither wanted to be liked or loved by the media or fans, they just wanted the best car.

When Schumacher left Ferrari Raikkonen won in 2007 and Massa finished second one point back from Hamilton last year, so the car is still no slouch. If I was some of these youngsters who have spent more time in a simulator than at coal face banging wheels and side pods, I'd be nervously looking over my shoulder wondering which side of me Schumacher's going to be thrusting his red nose cone.

As for Button, he'd better up his game as Hamilton has always wanted to know how he'd compare to Schumacher, also, Alonso will rise to the challenge of having Schumie back in the game and finally, Raikkonen might wake up and start racing now the man he replaced at Ferrari is back as his teammate.

I can't wait - it's going to be bloody marvellous. I'm going to put my marker out and say Schumacher will win a race this year - talk about putting the cat among the pigeons.

Michael Schumacher

Michael Schumacher sees F1 return as
nothing more than an experiment,
says Niki Lauda

Aug 8 2009

NIKI LAUDA is convinced that Michael Schumacher will look on his return to Formula One as nothing more than just an interesting experiment.

The Austrian knows what it takes to make a comeback because he spent three years in retirement before hitting the track again in 1982.

He won the third grand prix of that season and went on to claim the third of his world titles in 1984.

Yet while Lauda returned for the long haul, he is confident that is not Schumacher's aim.

The German, who replaces the injured Felipe Massa at Ferrari, starts his comeback at the European Grand Prix in Valencia on August 23.

Lauda said: "He was never able to detox himself of the racing bug, as we have seen with his motorcycle activities.

"In my opinion he retired at the end of the 2006 season because he couldn't see a real challenge - and probably he regretted his decision.

"Now he's got the chance to step in for the injured Massa and find out for himself how competitive he still is.

"This is something that would interest me too, because this hunger for competition - for the adrenalin rush - never dies. It's in our DNA. And the situation as it is now at Ferrari gives him the chance to explore how far he is off the top.

"That is a question that always puzzles a top driver like he was. To Michael it's nothing more than an interesting experiment."

The only concern for the 40-year-old seven-times world champion is whether his neck, injured in a bike accident in February, can take the rigours of a full grand prix weekend.

That will be determined next week when Schumacher undergoes tests, with 60-yearold Lauda adding: "Forget about the age. He is fit, he's undergoing rigorous training, and mentally he is taking up the challenge."

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