Lexus LF-A Roadster

The LF-A is a 2-door exotic concept car built as a prospective halo car for the Lexus division. Integrating the simple elegance of the new Lexus design initiative with racing–inspired style, sculpted curves and fluid lines make a dynamic statement.

Mazda Nagare

Mazda Nagare concept was revealed at this year’s Greater Los Angeles International Auto Show and is the first of a series of design concepts that Mazda will showcase this global auto show season, including Los Angeles, Detroit, Geneva and Tokyo.

VW Scirocco Tuned by ABT

ABT, is one of the first tuners to get their hands on the new VW Scirocco, which has already begun to sell in European dealerships. This German tuner has made an aggressive looking bodykit for VW’s sport coupe that includes a new front bumper with a lip spoiler, side skirts with air inlets, a larger roof spooler, a rear skirt that incorporates a diagonally attached set of four tail pipes and a boot wing. For just a little more they have also added the feature of the option of 18" or 20" alloy rims.

The suspension brings the car 30 mm closer to the ground. This package will be available in Germany on January at the price of €5,990 or $8,300 USD.

For recreational purpose customers can also upgrade the engine's performance with ABT’s engine kits which raise the 1.4-liter TSI’s output from 160 to 200HP, the 2.0 TSI’s from 200 to 240HP and the 2.0 TDI’s from 140 to 170HP. The engine modifications can be combined with a set of larger and better disk brakes.

2009 Renault Megane Trophy Concept

The 2009 Renault Megane Trophy has been unveiled today at the Paris Auto Show and is on track for the 2009 World Series by Renault. The 2009 Renault Megane Trophy is powered by a mid-rear V6 3.5 24V engine developing 360 hp and 390 Nm of torque. The 2009 Renault Megane Trophy comes equipped with a six-speed sequential gearbox, a semi-automatic with steering wheel-mounted paddle shift gearshift and a limited slip differential.

The company claims the new 2009 Renault Megane Trophy will be able to pull similar lap times to those of the Porsche GT3.

Visually, the 2009 Renault Megane Trophy features a new body design inspired by the new coupe.

2008 GeigerCars: Dodge Viper

The true elemental force of the New World, the very essence of power, the snake with the sharpest bite, are just some of the headlines attempting to sum up the unmatchable strength of the Dodge Viper. The crew at Karl Geiger’s Munich headquarters for US Car Imports has opened a new chapter in the history of Dodge Viper. The 2008 Version of this impressive seller has been newly granted the TÜV seal of approval. This snake has all the attributes needed to leave all others behind in the dust.

2008 Wolf Ford Kuga

With the Ford Kuga, the Cologne-based automobile manufacturer once again presents a car from a still booming vehicle class: a compact SUV. The Ford Kuga is an emotionally and technically perfected vehicle which can now even be further enhanced by the exclusive Wolf styling programme. The Ford specialist already devised a power enhancement which improves the serial performance from a standard 136 hp with 320 Nm to 158 hp with 375 Nm. The (German) retail price is 795 euros. The Wolf Race rims measuring 9 x 20“ ET40 in a silver design with high-grade steel lining of the outer rim are not only elegant, but also sportive. The set comes with 275/30 R20 Pirelli tyres. The overall price for the light alloy rim set by Wolf is 2,850 euros (Germany). The Wolf sport springs which lower the car by 40 mm render optimal road holding and can be obtained at any Ford dealer or directly at the company Wolf Racing Neuenstein GmbH & Co. KG for 199 euros (Germany).

The light alloy rim programme for the Ford Kuga is also available in the measures 8,5 x 18“ and 8,5 x 19“. The light alloy rims which were exclusively developed by Wolf stand out by their lower weight compared to the serial rims. This does not only reduce the unsprung masses and renders more comfort, it also minimises the fuel consumption, as every additional and unnecessary load leads to a higher total weight and therefore also to a higher fuel consumption. The light alloy rim programme by Wolf is available in various surface finishes. The complete Wolf styling programme can be directly ordered from Wolf Racing, Neuenstein or from your local Ford dealer.

2009 Hyundai Genesis Sedan

If it doesn't impress you that Hyundai is about to bring its first rear-drive sedan to the U.S., starting under $30,000 and rising to $36,000 to $40,000-plus with the optional all-aluminum V-8, think of General Motors and Ford. Think of what GM is going through to bring sub-Cadillac rear-drive sedans back to the market. Of how Ford Motor Company doesn't have the cash to develop one.

H&R Dodge Challenger: Suspension for a thoroughbred

The new Dodge Challenger has the looks and power to capture the enthusiasm of any seasoned sports-car driver. To drive this impression home, H&R now introduces the matching suspension components. The result does not only look good; you will also feel the difference in handling of the V8. The 35 mm spring kit makes a noticeable improvement to the Challenger's behaviour in curves - virtually without any loss in ride quality. The 50 mm version may be more interesting for those who prefer a more extravagant look.

H&R's adjustable suspension can be set to increase steering accuracy while minimising pitching and rolling, giving the car a noticeable improvement in road performance; the adjustment options allow you to set the wheel loads according to the circumstances.

Naturally, all of the suspension components developed for the Dodge Challenger can be combined with optional H&R sport stabilizers/ anti roll bars. Ultra-sturdy aluminium alloy H&R TRAK+ spacers in 50 and 60 mm widening per axle also add character on either standard or custom tyres, in putting an end to the unsightly visual appearance left by the gap between the edge of the tyre and wheel arch.

The whole H&R programme is available for more than 1,200 vehicle types and is available at good specialist dealers; apart from the high quality we have come to know from the brand that H&R products always come with general permission for road use (ABE) or a TÜV part certificate for German residents. In Germany the Dodge Challenger suspension components are only available at a special distribution partner.

NEW SKODA FABIA

Life now get really special with new skoda Fabia. With a strong European lineage that has driven royalty,heads of state and men of power is now in India to show its numerous first -in-it class features. The car will be available in the petrol and diesel versions. The car, which was launched abroad six years ago, went in for a facelift in 2005. .Earlier, Skoda has Octavia, Superb, Laura and lauren & Klement among its India offerings.
Fabia has four variants. Fabia Hatchback - with nearly four metres of length, is considered the most spacious in its class.
Engines--
Fabia will be in a 1.4 TDI diesel engine and a 1.4MPI petrol engine.
The petrol engine linup is a mixture of newer engines from the Volkswagen Group and some carry overs from the outgoing model.

Features
The second generation Fabia will feature side air bags, which may be fitted as standard in some markets with stringent safety regulations. Also available as an option will be head airbags.
The new Skoda Fabia :
• Above-average legroom for all passengers
• The best headroom for rear passengers in the small car class
• CD/MP3 PLAYER
• Choice of different engines
• Audio/mobile phone operation via new remote control module on the steering wheel (option)
• Large tilting sun roof (option)
• Electronically regulated “Climatronic” air conditioning (option)
• Integrated six-CD autochanger (option)
• Two-tier boot cover-which can be installed at two different heights increasing the flexibility and functionality of the boot.
• Electro-hydraulic power steering
• alloy wheel
• Attractive rear lights in Skoda’s trademark C-shape
• Higher seat positions for driver and front passenger that afford a better view and more comfortable
•keyless entry and intelligent storage solution.
Price:
Fabia may be priced at around in the price band of 6-7lakh . What you will get for the premium will be quality levels previously unheard of in this segment, plenty of interior space and solid European build and safety. The Fabia is sure to give Hyundai getz and Maruti swift a few sleepless nights at the very least. It is certainly ahead of the game when it comes to interior space, quality and choice of engines

ROLLS ROYCE COLLECTION

Opel Insignia: Sculptural artistry meets German precision

With the Insignia, we have redefined our design vocabulary. The Insignia is athletic and powerful, yet very elegant. It has movement; surfaces flow harmoniously, with crisp intersecting lines that define the dynamic form, so that you never tire of looking at it. Our aim was to develop a confident look which reinforced the car’s superb driving dynamics but also one that made it clear that this was a beautiful vehicle with premium appeal.

Mark Adams, Vice President of Design for GM Europe

The Exterior Design

The overall goal for the design team was to create a simply beautiful car that would herald the next generation for Opel. The exterior’s hallmark is its flowing graceful silhouette. The body’s sculpted shape is accented by sweeping front and rear light designs and enhanced by a bold radiator grille. A distinctive “blade” feature runs through the body side from behind the front wheel, further emphasizing its taut and rakish lines.

The Interior Design

The same design cues are expressed inside the car as well. On opening the doors, the first impression is of the bold wrap around interior. This is dominated by the signature “wing” theme that flows from the front of the instrument panel and dives into the door panels in a downward dynamic curve. The bold surfaces from the exteriors “blade” feature are echoed in the shape of the interior door grab handle, where the bright accent material sweeps dramatically into the door armrest. This sweeping accent is repeated in chrome shapes on the steering wheel and at the front of the center console. All of the materials work together, to create a harmonious, classy feel to the interior. The overall interior has taken a light, spacious approach that is both sporty and welcoming.

Opel Astra OPC Nirbungring Edition

Russelsheim. Opel unveils the Astra OPC “Nirburgring Edition”, a limited special edition version of the successful three-door model. The “Nirburgring Edition” emphasizes the connection between the racetrack steeped in tradition and the Opel brand. The Nirburgring, and in particular the legendary Nordschleife, are rightfully known as Opel territory, as this is where Opel production cars are extensively tested during their development stage. Manuel Reuter first highlighted the OPC models’ performance power in 2005, when he set a circuit record with the Astra OPC in this vehicle class. With the special Astra OPC “Nirburgring Edition”, Opel now raises the connection to the Nordschleife to a new level.

The “Nirburgring Edition” is particularly eye-catching thanks to the sporty white lacquer, large rear spoiler, as well as exterior mirrors and B-pillars in carbon look. The racing circuit’s red signet also adorns the B-pillars. The second-generation IDS^Plus2 chassis is familiar from the Vectra and Zafira OPC models and ensures even greater driving dynamics in the Astra OPC “Nirburgring Edition”. Weight optimized white rims, a two-millimeter wider track and ultra high performance tires complete the high-performance package. The interior features special full leather trim, carbon-look decor and a badge on the glove compartment with engraved serial number. An image of the race track is also engraved in the head rests. The special edition’s 177 kW/240 hp 2.0-liter turbo gasoline engine takes it from zero to 100 km/h in 6.4 seconds and to a top speed of 244 km/h. The front-wheel drive model comes with a sportily tuned six-speed manual transmission.

“The special edition model is a tribute to the Nirburgring and our customers, who have made the Astra OPC the best-selling OPC model of the current generation,” says Alain Visser, Executive Director Sales, Marketing and Aftersales, Adam Opel GmbH. The special edition Astra OPC “Nirburgring Edition” goes on sale in the first quarter of 2008

The new BMW 7 Series

The launch of the fifth generation of the BMW 7 Series sets a new benchmark in automotive luxury, technical innovation and class-leading driving dynamics, combined with emissions reducing and fuel saving technology.

The flagship of the BMW model range debuts in November with a host of world firsts and will initially be offered with a choice of three powerplants, one diesel and two petrol engines. The two petrol-powered cars will be offered with a long-wheelbase body too. All three engines produce more power yet use less fuel and produce less emissions than the models they replace.

Model	Power (Hp)	Torque (Nm)	0-62mph (sec)	Top Speed (Mph)	Combined (Mpg)	CO2 Emissions (g/km)
BMW 730d	245	540	7.2	153	39.2	192
BMW 740i	326	450	5.9	155*	28.5	232
BMW 740Li	326	450	6.0	155*	28.2	235
BMW 750i	407	600	5.2	155*	24.8	266
BMW 750Li	407	600	5.3	155*	24.8	266

* Electronically-limited.

The BMW 730d sets a new benchmark in terms of drivetrain performance. The new all-aluminium 3.0-litre straight-six cylinder diesel engine produces 245hp at 4,000rpm. Its effortless real world driving smoothness comes courtesy of a peak torque figure of 540Nm attained from 1,750rpm through to 3,000rpm.

The 2,993cc powerplant posts the lowest ever CO2 figure of any previous BMW 7 Series and it is also the most economical 7 Series ever. Its 192g/km emission figure is class-leading for conventionally powered luxury cars, while no other competitor comes close to its 39.2mpg combined consumption figure. It can accelerate from zero to 62mph in 7.2 seconds and has a 153mph top speed.

The Bold And Beautiful : Chrysler ME 412

This car was introduced at Detroit Auto Show in 2004. Chrysler ME 412 has a bold design and equipped with 12 cylinder engine. This sport car also has carbon fiber and aluminum body and chassis which make this car more bold and beautiful..

Specifications :

General :

Engine Location : Mid
Body / Chassis : Carbon Fibre & Aluminum
Weight : 2880 lbs | 1306.4 kg
Combined MPG : 0.00

Performance :

0-60 mph : 2.9 s
¼ Mile : 10.6 ONDS AT 142.0 MPH seconds.
Top Speed : 248 mph | 399 km/h

Engine :
Engine Configuration : V
Cylinders : 12
Aspiration/Induction : Quad Turbo
Displacement : 6.00 L | 366.1 cu in. | 6000.4 cc.
Horsepower : 850.00 BHP (625.6 KW) @ 5750.00 RPM
Torque : 850.00 Ft-Lbs (1152.6 NM) @ 2500.00 RPM
HP to Weight Ratio : 3.4 LB / HP
HP / Liter : 141.7 BHP / Liter
Compression Ratio : 9.0:1
Transmission : Manual
Gears : 7
Standard Payload : 0.00
Seating Capacity : 2

Dimensions :

Length : 178.801 in | 4541.5 mm.
Width : 78.701 in | 1999 mm.
Height : 44.901 in | 1140.5 mm.

Brakes :

Front Brake Size : 15.001 in | 381 mm.
Rear Brake Size : 15.001 in | 381 mm.

Tires / Wheels :

Front : 265/35ZR19
Rear : 335/30ZR20

2009 BMW 7-Series: High Res Images & Official Details

Finally got a hold of high resolution images of the new BMW 7-Series and the initial technical details on the Bavarian carmaker’s flagship saloon. From a design standpoint there are few things worth mentioning: the absence of the horrid Bungle booty; the transmission selector has been transferred from the steering column to the center console; the high waistline and the return of both the driver orientated centre console and the classic instrument cluster with four circular instruments, all of which are more than welcome.

Overall, and despite being a tad larger in both height and length than its predecessor, the new 7-Series hides its size well enough and if anything else, the styling is no where near as controversial as the previous 7-Series.

Technically speaking, as one would anticipate, the new 7-Series boasts an array of features and systems, including Active Blind Spot Detection, Night Vision with new Pedestrian Detection, Side View and Back-up Cameras, Active Cruise Control with new stop-and-go capability and a new Integral Active Steering, which adds speed-sensitive rear-wheel steering to BMW’s front Active Steering system.

In terms of power, unfortunately the North American press release refers only to the 750i which is equipped with the recently introduced in the X6, 4.4-liter, twin-turbocharged V8 delivering 400 hp and 450lbs-ft of torque. That’s compared to the outgoing 750i’s naturally aspirated 360hp 4.8-liter V8 engine. The twin turbocharged V8 is matted to revised 6-speed automatic transmission. According to BMW, the 750i can go from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 5.2 seconds – not bad for a limo…

We could go on and on about the 7-Series, but we gather it’s better to let those interested to check out the full press release after the image gallery. However we would like to comment on something. BMW says that it now delivers the owner’s manual electronically, via the revised iDrive. According to the Bavarian carmaker’s own words “in just seconds, the user can access information on virtually any detail of the vehicle’s equipment, systems, operation, etc…like a traditional owner’s manual, only better”.

If there was one thing that we could rely on getting us out of trouble with the iDrive, that was the manual….

The 2009 7-Series will make its global debut at the Paris Show in October with the North American premiere following in November at the Los Angeles International Autoshow. U.S. sales are expected to begin by spring 2009.

2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart

2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart: One Less Reason to Look at the WRX

Filling a performance hole left between the ho-hum 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer and the scorching 2009 Lancer Evolution, the Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart offers desirable specs in the performance department at a price that fills the sweet spot in Mitsubishi’s lineup and poses the AWD small sports sedan as a direct competitor to the new 2009 Subaru WRX.

The Lancer Ralliart’s engine has quite a pedigree, being the same basic 2.0 liter block and head used in the Lancer Evolution, though detuned, with less boost, for application in the Ralliart. An interesting inclusion at this price point is Mitsubishi’s TC-SST transmission, a paddle shifted, dual clutch sequential manual.

The styling is more Lancer Evolution than Lancer throwaway econobox, and manages to maintain the snarling look of the Evo while staying subdued enough to appeal to compact sports car fans who may be turned off by oversize hood scoops and picnic table rear spoilers.

This is not to say that the Lancer Ralliart is conservative in any way. Think of it as the Lancer Evolution on a diet: plenty of performance, chiseled and eye-catching design, and a price and driving dynamics that anyone can appreciate.

Engine
Power bhp: 237

Torque lb-ft: 253
Type: Turbocharged Inline 4 Cylinder

Performance
Acceleration 0-60 mph: 5.5 Seconds
Fuel Consumption : 17 city /25 highway mpg

The Black Ops: Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG Black Series

This is the Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG Black Series.
MB describes it as the 'exclusive high-performance coupe for the discerning motorist'. By 'discerning' we presume they mean 'totally and utterly crazy in the heed'.
The SL Black - the third Black series car after the SLK and sensational CLK - is based on the latest SL 65.

The 6.0-litre V12 biturbo engine has been tweaked by AMG to 670bhp and 1000 Nm of torques - that's 737lb/ft in old money or 152lb/ft more than an SLR...
The standard SL 65 AMG has a measly 612bhp.

The SL Black also gets a chunky wide-arch bodykit, modified intake system, two trapezoidal tail pipes and a carbon roof. The SL's trick vario roof folding hardtop has been junked in favour of an integral roll cage.

Composite brakes are fitted, as are 20-inch alloys and a retractable boot spoiler. The Black is 250kg lighter than the SL 65 AMG.

0-62mph comes up in 3.9seconds and top speed is limited to 199mph - figures near identical to the SLR and all for $90,000 less than the bigger Mercedes.

Which begs the question, why spend the extra?

BMW 335i Coupe & Cabriolet Get M3’s 7-Speed Double-Clutch Gearbox

Parallel to the market launch of the facelifted 3 Series sedan and touring models, BMW announced the availability of its new 7-speed semi-automatic gearbox with double-clutch for the 335i Coupe and 335i Convertible models. Named DKG, the new double-clutch transmission was introduced for the first time on the M3 Sedan. It offers the driver the choice of controlling the gearbox changes through a shift lever on the centere console or via paddles on the steering wheel.
Equipped with this gearbox, the 335i Coupe with the 306Hp twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter straight six completes the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62mph) in 5.4 sec or 0.1 sec faster than the model fitted with the 6-speed manual transmission and 0.3 seconds faster than the 335i Coupe with the previously available 6-speed automatic.

Furthermore, the double-clutch gearbox helps drop consumption in both the 335i Coupe and Cabriolet by up to 5% compared to the equivalent models with 6-speed manual or automatic transmissions. In particular, the 335i Coupe & Convertible models with the DKG achieve an average fuel consumption in the combined EU test cycle of 8.8lt /100km (26.7 mpg) and 9.1lt/100km (25.9 mpg) respectively.

2010 Honda S2000 Roadster Rendering

While I still haven’t got any official word on the S2000 replacement, Japanese car magazines are at it again drawing up their own renderings of Honda’s next generation rear-wheel-drive roadster. According to T.L. who sent us this latest scan, the unnamed Japanese magazines says that new S2000 is expected to be unveiled in 2010 with worldwide sales starting in 2011. It is stated that Honda’s S2000 will offer buyers more options in terms of powertrains, including two new engines, a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder V-TEC unit delivering approximately 250Hp and a 3.5-litre V6 V-TEC unit with about 350Hp.

SPECIAL SHAPED CARS