Mercedes G-Class facelift first pics

The Mercedes Benz G-Class has recently received a few more design tweaks and drivetrain updates to keep it fresh. Pictures of the facelifted vehicle can be seen in the snap shots below.

The tweaks don’t fiddle too much with the G-Class’s original form in order to maintain its original character. LED daytime running lights and new door mirrors feature on all G-classes, and AMG versions are treated to a bespoke grille and front bumper with englarged air intakes. Red brake callipers hiding behind 20-inch wheels pack even more punch into the AMG’s visual arsenal.

As for the interior, the G-Class completes its transition from military-spec transport to a full luxury vehicle.  New colour displays in the centre console and between the freshened dials provide access to the G-Class’s wealth of infotainment features, via the familiar Mercedes Comand system.


The United Kingdom will receive a two-model G-Glass range with both receiving the full interior and exterior makeover. The familiar G350 BlueTec remains, with its 208bhp/398lb ft V6 diesel motor and updated seven-speed automatic transmission that’s good for 25.2 mpg. there is also a 536bhp, 560lb ft G63 AMG, featuring the new 5.5-litre bi-turbo V8.

In addition, the vehicle offers stop/start capability to contribute towards a claimed 20.4mpg.

2013 Ferrari California in action

The latest version of the Ferrari California that was launched at the Geneva Motor Show has now been filmed taking a spin out on the hills of Maranello in Italy.

This the very place where Ferrari engineers developed and test drove the new vehicle which is an updated version of the California with a more powerful engine and “new ‘Handling Speciale’ suspension package”.

The video provides a good idea of the “sound of the car’s new V-8 engine, which still displaces 4.3 litres but now develops 490 horsepower and 373 pound-feet of torque. That’s a rise of 30 horsepower and 26 pound-feet over the previous model, courtesy of revised exhaust manifolds and ECU tuning”.
In addition the torque curve is now higher across the engine’s rev range.


In terms of speed, the new engine jumps from 0 – 60mph in just 3.8 seconds, 0.2 seconds less than the previous model’s 4.0 seconds.

Saleen S5S super car production remains a possibility

In 2008, the Saleen S5S Raptor concept car was unveiled at the new York Auto Show and despite the positive reception, there has been no production confirmations forthcoming. Hopefully, all that could be about to change if Steve Saleen gets his way. He has just reacquired the rights to use his name after a long court battle and has confirmed plans are a foot to produce a sports car similar to the S5S Raptor.

The original S5S Raptor Concept benefited from a 5.0-liter supercharged V8 engine that produced 650hp and Nm (630 lb-ft) of torque. It was reported to have a top speed in excess of 200mph (322kph) and could accelerated from 0-60mph (0-96kph) in just 3.2 seconds.

There will be no official confirmations in the near future as the project is still in its early stages but there will be a major announcement within the next 90 days to confirm a lower-level production model. The company will continue to produce models based on the Dodge Challenger and Ford Mustang and they will also be joined by the long planned Chevrolet Camaro derived versions.

Saleen's 30th anniversary is approaching after the company was founded in 1984. Perhaps we can expect something special to mark the celebration.

Shareholder calls on Mercedes to quit F1

A Daimler shareholder has called on the German car giant to pull its works Mercedes team out of formula one.

Fund manager Ingo Speich, of the Daimler shareholder Union Investment, said at Daimler's annual general meeting that he is disappointed Mercedes has lost ground to road car rivals Audi and BMW.
"Mercedes is no longer the measure of all things in the premium sector," he is quoted as saying by Die Presse.

Speich referred to "a lost decade" for Daimler, and called on the company to follow BMW's recent lead and pull out of formula one.

His speech reportedly received applause from other shareholders.
Mercedes is the biggest formula one team yet to follow the likes of Ferrari, McLaren and Red Bull in signing a new Concorde Agreement beyond 2012.

All new 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL leaked

The first pictures of the 2013 Mercedes GL have leaked to the web, ahead of a possible unveiling at the New York Auto Show.

Looking more refined than ever before, the seven-seat crossover is based on the M-Class and features a bludging hood, LED-infused headlights and a two-bar grille. Further back, the model has an evolutionary design with an upward sweeping shoulder line and wraparound taillights. This particular vehicle is also equipped with an AMG package which has aggressive bumpers, LED fog lights and unique alloy wheels.

The cabin carries over from the M-Class and has leather seats, wood trim and metallic accents.
Engine options remain unconfirmed, but choices could include a 258 PS (190 kW / 255 hp) 3.0-liter V6 diesel and a 4.7-liter V8 petrol with 408 PS (300 kW / 402 hp). Regardless of the final details, the engines will likely be connected to a seven-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel drive system.

Chrysler introducing wireless charging mat

Chrysler has announced that it will offer wireless charging in its new 2013 Dodge Dart.
Provided that mobile phones are fitted with a special case, the charger will work with MP3 players and iPhone, Android and BlackBerry devices.

The official press release explains that ”easy access, a seamlessly integrated power bin, measuring 8.27 inches by 9.5 inches by 3.25 inches, is installed just below the center stack and in front of the center console. The bin has a built-in charging grid that is activated when customers place in their battery-powered device. The unit begins to charge when the vehicle is started.”


The Pentastar claims that the new accessory, developed by Mopar, is the first of its kind although wireless charging has been offered as a third-party solution for some time now. However, this is the first such offering from an official branch of an OEM. Rather than a factory option, the new wireless charging hardware is offered as a dealer-installed accessory. This means that buyers will either have to pay for installation or do it themselves.

FA Porsche, designer of the 911, dead at 76

The honorary chairman of the Supervisory Board of Porsche AG, Professor Ferdinand Alexander Porsche, died on April 5, 2012 in Salzburg at the age of 76.

Matthias Müller, CEO of Porsche AG, paid respects by saying, "We mourn the death of Ferdinand Alexander Porsche. As creator of the Porsche 911 he founded a design company in our culture that shapes our sports cars today. His philosophy of good design is for us a legacy that we will continue to do with honor."

Ferdinand Alexander Porsche, nicknamed Butzi, was born December 11, 1935 in Stuttgart. He is the eldest son of Dorothea and Ferry Porsche and grandson of Ferdinand Porsche.

Known for his artistic talents, FA Porsche's greatest contribution to the world is the timeless design of the Porsche 901 - known today as the 911. Penned in 1963, the overall silhouette of the iconic 911 remains today, now in its sixth generation, as one of the most prolific sports cars of our time.

Other famous FA Porsche designs include the type 804 Formula 1 race car and the Porsche 904 Carrera GTS, which today is considered one of the most beautiful racing cars ever.

FA Porsche also founded the Porsche Design Studio in 1972.

2013 Subaru BRZ pricing announced

Subaru has announced the 2013 BRZ will be priced from $25,495 in the United States.

Costing $1,295 more than the Scion FR-S, the entry-level model is equipped with a six-speed manual transmission and a 2.0-liter four-cylinder boxer engine that develops 200 hp (149 kW / 203 PS) and 151 lb-ft (205 Nm) of torque. The car also features HID headlights, aluminum pedals and a navigation system with iPod/Bluetooth/USB/AUX connectivity.

The Limited variant is priced from $27,495 and includes the aforementioned equipment as well as leather / Alcantara seats, dual-zone automatic climate control and a body-color rear spoiler.
The Subaru BRZ will start arriving at dealerships this spring and a six-speed automatic transmission is optional for an additional $1,100.

Becker JetVan Mercedes-Benz Sprinter debuts in New York

 

A Mercedes-Benz Sprinter full-size van specially outfitted by Becker Automotive Design was revealed today at the New York Auto Show.

With clientele such as Jennifer Lopez, Jerry Seinfeld, Will Smith, Tiger Woods, Bruce Springsteen and Denzel Washington, just to name a few, Becker's JetVan Sprinter features Townsend leather interior finished in Golden Birdseye Maple trim, a 1,300-watt audio system with Creston 7.1 surround-sound digital processors and MacIntosh multi-channel amplifiers, 40-inch Runco high-definition LCD flat screen and a 500-gigabyte on-board computer that works with a 4G wireless system.

All the AV systems, lighting, blinds, side entry door, center dividers, seat adjustments and computer functions are controlled through dual six-inch Creston touch panels, accessible from fully reclining 1st-class airline-type seats that include electrically adjustable leg extensions, lumbar supports, seat heating and massage system and fold-out aviation-type writing tables.

2013 Audi R8 Spy Shots

Motor Authority has released some spy shots taken of the new 2013 Audi R8 coupe which reveal more never before seen details of the supercar.

The new face-lifted R8 both in a coupe and convertible version is expected to be unveiled later this year, most likely at the Paris Auto Show in September. This means it is likely to hit all showrooms at the end of 2012, making it a 2013 model.

With a completely brand new model due out in a couple of years, Audi is keeping the changes to the current R8 at a minimum. Designers have appeared to have made only minor tweaks to the exterior of the car which is expected for the interior as well.

2014 Mazda6 to debut in Paris - market launch Q1 2013

Mazda Takeri Concept in New York

Coming as no surprise, Mazda announced today at the New York Auto Show the all-new 2014 Mazda6 will be released for sale during the first quarter of 2013 following its public unveiling at the Paris Motor Show in late September.

Mazda confirms the Takeri Concept, which debuted at the Tokyo Motor Show last year, is a strong preview of the 2014 Mazda6. Following the all-new 2013 Mazda CX-5, the new Mazda6 represents the second of Mazda's next-generation vehicles to receive the full suite of SKYACTIV technologies. Mazda is targeting best-in-class fuel economy just like the CX-5.

"With SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY and the SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter gasoline engine, Mazda has showcased that improving engine and vehicle efficiencies can still produce a dynamic-performing driving machine, as evidenced by the 2012 Mazda3 and 2013 CX-5," said Jim O'Sullivan, president and CEO, MNAO. "The all-new 2014 Mazda6 will be the latest Mazda to break out of its segment's monotonous mold and be fiercely competitive versus the current sales leaders."

For North America the 2014 Mazda6 will feature a SKYACTIV-G gasoline engine with either six-speed manual or six-speed automatic. No mention if the Skyactiv-D diesel engine would be available, but it seems to be a strong possibility, especially if it makes it to the CX-5.

Fisker Atlantic hybrid sedan revealed in NYC

Fisker recently revealed its new Atlantic at the New York auto show, a plug-in hybrid sedan that with its good looks sets a new high for hybrids.

Although Fisker hasn’t been very vocal about all-electric range, cost or an estimated delivery date, for now the car speaks for itself.  It’s a ‘mid-sized sports sedan’, about the size of an Audi A5 Sportback, with a long bonnet that’s slightly uptilted in classic American style, an ultra-short rear deck and hidden rear door handles.

One thing executive chairman Henrik Fisker was very happy to talk about was that the Atlantic is a car that will be built and will go into production. It is “a promise we are going to deliver,” he said.
When it does eventually arrive, the Atlantic is likely to look very similar to the vehicle revealed with Fisker stating in his presentation that the company does not do concepts making reference to the little change seen in the Karma from auto show reveal to showroom.

BMW i8 Concept Spyder officially unveiled BMW has officially unveiled the i8 Concept Spyder.

Essentially a convertible version of last year's coupe, the spyder rides on a shortened wheelbase and has laser headlights, a semi-transparent hood and a rakish windscreen with an integrated spoiler. Out back, there's a rear diffuser, "three-dimensional air outlets" and U-shaped taillights.

The cabin is elegantly appointed with leather upholstery, carbon fiber trim and piano black accents. There's also a digital instrument cluster and a three-dimensional iDrive display.

Motivation is provided by a plug-in hybrid powertrain that features a 131 PS (96 kW / 129 hp) electric motor and a 223 PS (164 kW / 220 hp) three-cylinder petrol engine. The electric motor powers the front wheels, while the petrol engine powers the rear wheels. This setup gives the car an all-wheel drive system as well as a combined output of 354 PS (260 kW / 349 hp) and 550 Nm (406 Nm) of torque. It enables the roadster to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 5.0 seconds, before hitting a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph).

More importantly, the concept's lithium-ion batteries enable the model to travel up to 30 kilometers (19 miles) on electricity alone.  This helps to give the car a combined fuel consumption rating of 3 L/100 km (94.1 mpg UK / 78.4 mpg US).

Aston Martin opens new W-One Showroom in London

Luxury car manufacturer Aston Martin has recently opened a brand new showroom in London’s swanky Park Lane district.

Aston Martin CEO, Dr. Ulrich Bez, welcomed guests to the official opening of the showroom. The brand new experience centre, dubbed the W-One, is described as a ”high profile destination for aficionados of both design and bespoke sports cars” with the new space having been “designed to convey ambience similar to that of a luxury boutique.”

W-One will also host a number of events and functions to boost Aston Martin’s profile among London’s elite and beyond.

In addition to offering prospective buyers the luxury vehicle of their choice, the location will also promote the brand’s Q-customization service as well as offer products from other high end brands.


The website states that “Aston Martin’s Brand Partners will be invited to continue the well established tradition of high-profile collaboration working with names like Jaeger LeCoultre, Bang & Olufsen, Louis Roederer and newly announced luxury shoe makers; John Lobb.”

2013 Subaru Legacy and Outback revealed

Subaru has unveiled the 2013 Outback and Legacy, ahead of their debuts at the New York Auto Show.
Modestly updated, the cars feature new headlights, a revised grille and a modified front bumper.
Inside, the cabin has updated upholstery, an improved audio system (with Bluetooth/iPod/USB connectivity) and new wood grain trim. Limited variants also gain rear air vents as well as an electro-luminescent instrument cluster with a 3.5-inch display.

Under the hood, there's a new 2.5-liter Boxer engine with 173 hp (129 kW / 175 PS) and 174 lb-ft (236 Nm) of torque - an increase of 3 hp (2 kW / 3 PS) and 4 lb-ft (5 Nm). It can be connected to a six-speed manual or a Lineartronic continuously variable transmission. If that isn't powerful enough, the 3.6-liter Boxer engine develops 256 hp (191 kW / 260 PS).

Lastly, both models benefit from "numerous enhancements" to the body structure, suspension and steering system. That's a little vague, but the company says the changes result in a smoother ride and improved handling.

Dodge Challenger SRT8 Stretch Limo

LA Custom Coach has created the very first Dodge Challenger SRT8 stretch limousine which made its first public appearance at the 2012 Spring LX Festival dedicated to LX platform Chrysler Group models.

Philip Eiselin, President of LA Custom Coach  says he was so inspired by the Challenger’s wheel design that he immediately went to work on its design – found the vehicle, cut it in half and stretched it out.

The limo was completed four and a half months later. The interior that is completely different from the original, features black leather interior with a red SRT striped theme, 24-inch LED TV, colour changing light show and as is traditional with limousines, a full bar.

Eiselin has confirmed that this one of a kind vehicle will not be the last of its kind as a second Dodge Challenger limo is currently being built with more to follow.


When LA Custom Coach took the vehicle to Las Vegas to gauge the reaction it would get, Eiselin comments that it got more attention than the Rolls-Royce Phantom and Bentley it was parked next to at the MGM Grand Hotel.

Aston Martin V8 Vantage Promo Video

Aston Martin has released a new promo video for their 2012 facelifted Vantage V8.
Having adopted the style from the Vantage S, the entry level model features a new lower front bumper design with air splitter, redesigned side-sills and a new rear bumper equipped with an integrated diffuser.

Performance updates taken from the Vantage S include quicker steering, larger brakes and wider tyres.
Powering the 2012 V8 Vantage is a 4.7-litre V-8 engine putting out the same output of 420bhp ( 426 PS/313 kW ) compared to the Vantage S output of 430bhp (436 PS/321 kW) and 490 Nm (361 lb-ft) of torque.

Lotus signs deal with Mansory as official tuner for bespoke models

Lotus has appointed German luxury vehicle tuner Mansory as the new official tuner for bespoke models and they promise that a new collaboration will be unveiled at the 2012 Paris Motor Show in September.
Mansory will be trimming up Elises, Exiges and Evoras in the future and the new Paris car is claimed to be an ‘exciting new model variant’.

Lotus already relies on Germany-based Mansory to produce the Evora GTE which resulted in the chrome red Swizz Beatz example and also the Lotus F1 edition, finished in raw carbon fibre. Because the F1 edition became so sought after, it makes sense for the companies to collaborate further on bespoke vehicles and so according to Lotus Mansory has been anointed Lotus’s ‘Official Customisation Studio’.

High performance Lexus GS-F production still a possibility

If Lexus product planning chief Karl Schlicht gets his way, we can expect to see a high performance GS-F on the market in the not-too-distant future. He says he would love to see the Japanese premium brand offer its own rival to the Mercedes E63 AMG.

The model is more than just the dream of one man. The GS-F has been rumored for quite some time and would contribute to the Lexus product strategy to boost the image of the brand.
It would likely share the 4.8-liter V10 engine that is used in the LFA supercar. However, displacement is reported to be reduced down to 4.6-liters and power output would be rated at around 450bhp ( 336 kW / 456 PS).

Styling of the front fascia will be dominated by the spindle grille that we recently saw on the GS F-Sport model and would also preview the design for the next generation IS range.
As plans are yet to be confirmed, it would be at least two years before the Lexus GS-F could arrive in dealerships.

Aston Martin DB9 successor spied testing undisguised

Aston Marin engineers are working on the successor of the DB9, they have kept it away from prying eyes for quite some time but now a new prototype has popped up doing some winter testing.

The latest model will reportedly be unleashed on the market during 2013 and will take on the signature styling elements that make the legendary British brand's model unmistakeable. It currently carries the codename Project VH500, but it will adopt a more recognizable name upon launch with DB10 or DB11 being mentioned.

Rumors of what will power the DB9 replacement have been pretty scarce, but there has been talk of a 6.0-liter V12 that produces in excess of 470 hp (477 PS / 350 kW).

Entry-level Infiniti will be aimed at younger buyers

The entry-level luxury segment is starting to heat up and Infiniti is looking to get into the action by launching a new model that will slot below the G-Series.

Previewed by the Etherea concept, the production model will reportedly be built by Magna Steyr in Graz, Austria. Nothing is official, but sources have suggested the company has been contracted to build approximately 50,000 to 60,000 units annually.

Additional information is limited, but the car is expected to ride on the Mercedes MFA platform that currently underpins the A- and B-Class.

Ferrari committed to V12 engines, but might offer six-cylinders

Ferrari CEO Amedeo Felisa has revealed some new details about their hybrid technology.
Speaking with Autocar, Felisa said "Our hybrid system won't just be about creating power, but saving energy too. Yes, that technology is expensive today, but the road ahead is open and evolution will bring down the cost and weight disadvantages."

He declined to go into specifics, but said the technology would allow the company to continue offering V12 engines. He also revealed it could be equipped to all future models as standard equipment.
Interestingly, the executive hinted the company is considering six-cylinder engines.

A decision is several years off, but Felisa commented "Even in the US, where until a few years ago eight cylinders was the minimum, it is clear attitudes have changed. We have to think i

BMW i8 production version details spilled

BMW are busy preparing the i8 plug-in hybrid supercar which will be launched in 2014. We have already spotted an early prototype oout testing but now further technical details have surfaced from British-based Car Magazine.

According to the report, the power output of the production version will exceed the pre-production concept that was unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show last year.

While the concept's output was rated at 353 PS (260 kW / 349 hp), the production model will produce a combined figure of 393 hp ( 293kW / 399 PS ). The electric motor will be responsible for 170 hp (127 kW / 172 PS) of this figure with the rest coming from the 1.5-litre turbocharged three-cylinder unit. The combined peak torque is rated at 550Nm(406lb ft) which is identical to the figure reported on the concept.

Jaguar XJ: Black gloss limo spy shots

Jaguar has already surprised enthusiasts with two-tone black gloss D-pillars on the XJ and, more recently, on the new XF Sportbrake estate. Now Car Magazine has snapped some spy shots of Jaguar’s XJ two-tone black gloss limo prototype in Coventry, England.

It’s a metallic grey regular-wheelbase XJ, but with black gloss front bumper assembly and rear valance. The look is quite shocking for a Jaguar and looks almost as if Ian Callum’s designers went overboard with a black gloss spray gun.

Does this mean that Jaguar will now be selling two-tone XJs? Well not exactly since this is in fact a prototype and as of now there are no plans to offer a factory-approved accessories kit with more gloss scattered around the bodywork.

2013 Mercedes GLK facelift revealed

Ahead of its scheduled unveiling at the New York Auto Show next month Mercedes has released the first images and details of the new 2013 GLK-Class. The compact SUV benefits from a mid-cycle facelift and a new clean diesel engine.

The new engine will be found in the GLK250 Bluetec 4Matic in early 2013. The twin-turbocharged 2.1-liter four-cylinder unit produces 201 hp (150 kW / 204 PS) and 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) of torque and will only be available in four-wheel-drive.

The engine line-up is also complimented by an upgraded version of the naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 unit of the GLK350. Power output has been raised by 34 ponies up to 302 hp (225 kW / 306 PS) whilst torque is rated at 369 Nm (273 lb-ft).

Did Ferrari Build Eric Clapton his own 458 Italia?

Italian Supercar Manafacturer Ferrari have been known to create custom vehicles for some very exclusive clients in the past including the F430-based SP1 created for a wealthy Japanese collector in 2008 as well as the P540 Superfast Aperta created on the 599 FTB Fiorano platform in 2009.

Now, if the Ferrari afficianados over on FerrariChat.com are correct, Ferrari Special Projects program has built a third one-off vehicle for legendary musician Eric Clapton who is known as a passionate Ferrari collector.

2013 Mercedes SL 65 AMG revealed

 

Mercedes has released the first details and images of the V12-powered SL 65 AMG ahead of its scheduled unveiling at the New York Auto Show next month.

The route of its personality is generated from AMG's 6.0-litre V12 biturbo engine that generates 630 PS (463 kW / 621 hp) whilst peak torque is electronically limited to 1000Nm (737 lb-ft). It is paired with the new AMG Speedshift Plus 7G-Tronic transmission system that has been developed with fuel efficiency in mind and has a choice of four different driver selectable modes: Efficiency (C), Sport (S), Sport plus (S+) and Manual (M).

The new SL 65 AMG features what is described as an intelligent lightweight construction that has knocked 170kg off the kerb weight and a similar theme is adopted on the upgraded AMG sports suspension. Mercedes has also highlighted the new electromechanical AMG speed-sensitive sports steering which adjusts in line with the suspension mode.

Citroen DS concept spotted in Paris under cover

The Citroen DS concept was spotted under a red cover on a street in Paris recently.

Showing a sloping rear roof line and a very long front door, the model seems to be a shooting break style vehicle that has a wheelbase sized in between the GQbyCitroen and Metropolis concept cars from 2010.

It is strongly believed this concept is a prep-production DS7 or DS9 model design which will undoubtedly lose its fancy concept styling elements such as the wheels, headlights and mirrors.

Citroen released yesterday two teaser photos of the mystery model which is now strongly believed to make its debut at the Beijing Motor Show next month following this photo.

Volkswagen XL1 prototype caught completely undisguised

Volkswagen XL1 prototype spy photo

 

 

The long-awaited 1-liter car has finally been confirmed for production and here are the first shots of a prototype testing to prove it. Surprisingly it is not wearing any camouflage to hide any of its styling elements, so immediately we get to see the production model in its full glory.

Development of the model started out in concept form when it was unveiled as the L1 back in 2009, then last year the Formula XL1 concept was unveiled. It is believed the latter concept will provide the name for the production model as sources say it will become the Volkswagen XL1.

The small engine within the XL1 is expected to produce some quite astonishing fuel economy and emissions figures. The concept was reported to emit just 24g/km of CO2 gases and can go 100 km on just 0.9-liters of fuel.

The VW XL1 is expected to hit the market in 2013 for a limited production run.

Porsche Panamera Plug-in Hybrid

While Porsche‘s first plug-in hybrid will be the exclusive and expensive 918 Spyder due next year the sports car manufacturer will be introducing even more plug-ins in the future.

While a plug-on hybrid version of Porsche’s Cayenne SUV would likely make the most sense as a hybrid with the size to carry a heavy battery and electric motor setup, insiders have revealed that a plug-in hybrid Panamera could be launched in the next two years, ready for 2014.
Speaking to Automotive News, the sources commented that the production of the vehicle will commence in 2014 and is likely to then be sold in the U.S.

Lotus development delayed, sale decision coming within weeks

 

Ever since DRB-Hicom announced plans to buy a majority stake in Proton, Lotus' future has remained in doubt. Now, a new report is indicating a decision on whether to keep or sell Lotus is coming soon.

Speaking with the Financial Times Deutschland, a senior Lotus manager revealed a decision will be made "within a few weeks." While nothing is official, speculation suggests DRB-Hicom isn't too fond of Lotus' balance sheet.  However, the company's managing director, Mohd Jamil Khamil, recently said "We have to wait and see if the Lotus restructuring plan launched in 2010 bears fruit."

Regardless of the outcome, Lotus' operations have been slowed down as part of a Malaysian law which entails a 60 to 90 day change-of-ownership process. This has put the brakes on the development of the company's upcoming models.

Audi TT Coupe more details revealed

Having previously been scooped, here are a few more details about the 2014 Audi TT that reveal a car that is even more dynamic and powerful that the car it is replacing.

Although this Audi TT Mk3 version will not be encroaching on the R8, it does move further upmarket and reduces the terrain for the proposed mid-engined R5 developed by Porsche. Porsche, which could become part of VW before the end of the year has always kept a close eye on on the iconic TT which rivals that of the Boxster and Cayman models.

The new TT is based on the 20% more cost- and space-efficient MQB components set pioneered by the new A3 and VW Golf. Although Audi has in the past toyed with additional TT bodystyles like a shooting brake (Tokyo 2005) and a spyder (Wörthersee 2007), projected sales volumes don´t seem to justify anything but a status quo mix of hard and soft top and so the TT retains the character and the unmistakable proportions of the current vintage.

2013 Volkswagen Golf EV to be named the E-Golf

According to Car & Driver, the model will likely be called the E-Golf when it is launched in Europe in 2013. It is slated to ride on the MQB platform which has also been developed to accommodate a plug-in hybrid powertrain. This likely means we can expect another eco-friendly variant a few years after the E-Golf is introduced.

Additional information is limited, but the model will likely feature a powertrain that mimics the Golf blue e-motion concept. It used a lithium-ion battery and an electric motor that developed 115 PS (85 kW / 113 hp) and 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque. This enabled the car to hit a top speed of 140 km/h (87 mph) and travel up to 150 km (93 miles) on a single charge.

GMC reveals 2013 Terrain Denali

While GMC’s Denali trim is a hit, for some reason the brand’s most popular crossover still doesn’t display GMC‘s signature grille. This is all about to change with the introduction of the 2013 Terrain Denali.

In the official press release, Tony DiSalle, U.S. vice president of GMC Marketing said that ”Denali is growing fast. With seven different models, sales for this brand within a brand increased 79 percent from 2010 to 2011. With this in mind, the decision to create a more-upscale Terrain was an easy one.”

In addition to the chrome grille, the upgraded Denali will also feature 19-inch wheels (V6 model only), satin chrome accents, body colour rocker panels and front and rear fascias, new headlights and taillights and a dual exhaust.  The top terrain’s interior will also show-off some high end design with a leather-wrapped steering wheel with mahogany wood accents, a soft-touch instrument panel with French stitching, Denali-embossed leather seats and illuminated Denali sill plates.

Porsche entry-level roadster still under consideration

A few months ago, Porsche CEO Matthias Müller put the brakes on the company's highly-anticipated entry-level roadster. Now, the executive has confirmed the model is in development and has already been shown to focus groups.

The only question is timing. As the executive told Motor Authority, "When is the right time [to launch the model]? Now? Three years from now? Six or seven?" He went on to explain that if the model poses any risk to the company's image, it would be delayed until a later date.

Volvo Installs Pedestrian Airbag

Swedish car manufacturer Volvo build some of the safest cars on the roads, protecting passengers from injury or worse. Now, the company has gone even further to protect not only those in the car but pedestrians at risk as well, with a new pedestrian airbag. The additional airbag will be built in to all new V40 models.

In addition to a long list of new features designed to protect the passengers, the new V40 will ensure that the chances of a driver hitting a pedestrian are lessened, and if it does happen, their chances of survival are increased. Volvo has also equipped the hatchback with a lane keeping aid which actively assists drivers to stay on course and sensors to assess if a pedestrian steps out into the road in front of a car.

BMW 4-series Coupe & Cabriolet rendered

Development of the all-new BMW 4-Series is in top gear. We have spotted prototypes in both coupe and cabriolet body styles and now we are able to bring you artistic renderings of both models.

The 4-Series F32 Coupe and F33 Cabriolet will be replacing the outgoing 3-Series version of the same styles, further down the line they will also be joined by a four-door Gran Coupe. Dimensions will be slightly longer than their predecessors and are expected to rival the Audi A5 series.

Engines will include a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that boasts 240 bhp (179 kW / 243 PS) and a twin-turbo 3.0 liter inline six-cylinder engine producing 306 PS (225 kW / 302 hp).

We expect to see the 4-Series unveiled towards the end of this year. The Paris Show in September is a likely contender for the honor.

2013 NASCAR Sprint Cup Dodge Charger Unveiled

 

Dodge has officially unveiled the 2013 NASCAR Sprint Cup Charger that follows in the footsteps of the 2013 Ford Fusion Cup car, with styling and detailing that’s more true to the street car than the generic silhouettes being run by all teams this season.

NASCAR President Mike Helton said that ”We know NASCAR fans are passionate about cars. We’re excited about the results of the collective efforts of NASCAR, Dodge and the other manufacturers to create the 2013 Sprint Cup cars. The 2013 Dodge Charger race car design is a great example of what we look forward to seeing on the race track next season. We thank Dodge and all the manufacturers for their efforts, as we see the results here today with the 2013 NASCAR Sprint Cup Dodge Charger.”

At the ceremony, SRT CEO Ralph Gilles was upbeat about the new race car’s prospects for next season, saying that there’s already a lot of interest from different Cup outfits, and that he expects to announce which team or teams will be running the car in 2013 by mid-summer.

Citroën DS4 Racing looking muscular under the Geneva lights

Citroen is a prominent name in the world of rally, but when you think of hot hatches for the street, the Citroen name isn't the most obvious choice.

However, this perception could change if Citroen were to produce this DS4 created by the engineers at Citroen Racing.

Unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show this week, the DS4 Racing Concept features what is described as 100 percent racing attributes. The chassis is 35 mm lower than the production model whilst the dimensions are 55mm wider at the front and 75mm wider at the rear. Aerodynamics are enhanced by the air diffuser, front bumper lower spoiler, lower-body belt line and wing extensions and is complimented by a matte grey, textured-effect paint.

Under the hood lies a 1.6-liter turbo engine that pumps 260 HP (191 kW / 256 bhp) to the wheels and generates CO2 emissions of 155g/km. The concept is also fitted with a four-piston fixed caliper brakes that boast extra wide 380mm discs and are hidden behind a set of specially designed 19-inch two tone wheels.

The Story of the Pagani Huayra

Since first making its official debut at the Geneva Motor Show in 2011, one year on, the first examples of the Pagani Huayra are ready to be delivered to customers around the world.

In the U.S. however, customers will have to wait a little longer as Pagani deal with local regulatory certification, although the company is confident that the vehicles will arrive at their shores in 2013.
To get enthusiasts excited about the arrival of the new supercar, Pagani has released a short documentary film highlighting the Huayra’s development and manufacturing process.

As Pagani explains, art and science, two disciplines that must walk together, hand in hand, have helped shape the design of the Huayra. This can be seen directly in the aerodynamic body, which has been designed to mimic the pattern of flowing wind. Even the car’s name is taken from the ancient name for a South American god of wind.

Two-tone Rolls Royce Ghost hides in Geneva

AT The Geneva Motor Show this week, Rolls Royce displayed a special two-tone Ghost. It had gone pretty much unnoticed along side the new facelifted Phantom Series II so the British brand released details to garner a small amount of publicity.

It has been created following the success seen in the Phantom series. The two-toned exterior livery consists of Infinity Black with Cassiopeia Silver upper two-tone as well as an interior theme to match.
"Whether Ghost or Phantom, any Rolls-Royce is a work of art, taking its place in our clients' luxury collections alongside yachts, helicopters and fine jewellery," said Torsten Müller-Ötvös, CEO Rolls-Royce Motor Cars.

"So I am delighted that we are now able to offer two-tone options for Ghost as well as for Phantom, features that once again extend the palette upon which a Rolls-Royce masterpiece can be painted."

BMW i3 electric hatchback coming in 2013

            The production version of BMW’s i3 electric hatchback will be ready for 2013.

The team, headed by Ulrich Kranz is already well into prototyping with both i3 and i8 undergoing early on-road trials in Miramas, BMW‘s own proving ground near Marseilles, and near the Arctic Circle. First spy shots taken of the car, show a heavily camouflaged vehicle that still fails to disguise its radical proportions, large-diameter skinny wheels and the extrovert aerodynamics.

The BMW i programme has been a huge undertaking for BMW, not only because of the revolutionary engineering and design concept, but also because of the scale of the whole operation which will include the production of about 100, 000 vehicles per year.

The i3 will also be joined by the i1, i5 and i8 to round up the model range that will have a significant impact on the emerging green car market. The proposed i range features: The i3 four-door hatchback in late 2013, the i8 two-door 2+2-seater coupe in early 2014, The i5 high-roof long-wheelbase five-seater wagon/MPV hybrid potentially in 2015 and the i1 2+2-seater short-wheelbase city car potentially in 2016.


The relation between i1, i3 and i5 is said to resemble that between Polo, Golf and Golf plus/Touran.
In terms of competition, the i3 will face the even more prudent Audi A2 expected in 2014.

2012 World Car of the Year finalists announced

The finalists for the World Car of the Year have been announced at the Geneva motor show, and the top three could barely be more different.

The pint-sized Volkswagen Up! hatchback will take on the sixth-generation BMW 3-Series executive sedan and the new Porsche 911 sports coupe.

The three finalists were narrowed down from a shortlist of 10 cars that included newly launched models like the Audi Q3, Chevrolet Volt and the Ford Focus.


The winner will be announced at next month’s New York auto show after the votes of 66 automotive journalists from 25 countries – including two from Australia – are tallied.

Small cars have dominated in recent years, with past winners including the Nissan Leaf (2011), Volkswagen Polo (2010), Volkswagen Golf (2009) and the Mazda2 (2008). The previous-generation BMW 3-Series took home the award in 2006.

Bentley’s EXP 9 F Luxury SUV Revealed

 

Bentley has been hinting at the possibility of a full-size luxury SUV for a few years now and it recently became a reality at this year’s Geneva Motor Show. Of course, still in its concept form, the British auto manufacturer’s new vehicle named the EXP 9 F will bring the company a lot of attention – whether negative or positive.

The company is calling the concept car a “compelling new take on the Grand Touring Bentley”, one that could possibly give birth to a third model line joining the existing Mulsanne and Continental lines. Bentley likes to think that the car will be “equally at home at an opera gala performance, on the sand dunes and the overtaking lane of the autobahn.” However, it’ll be Bentley’s client base that determine the truth to that.

The Ferrari F12 Berlinetta’s Unveiling In Geneva Is Fastest Ever

The sheet's been lifted off the Ferrari F12 Berlinetta today at the Geneva Motor Show. Behold the most powerful Ferrari road car of all time. Gaze upon its 730 HP glory.

Like all Ferraris, you're buying an engine with some car wrapped around it. The front-mounted 6.3-liter V12 is a worthwhile investment; it is the first of a new family of V12 engines for Ferrari that will go on to power the replacement for the Enzo, as well as the dreams of car-obsessed kids all over the world.

Ferrari claims it will go from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 3.1 seconds, and if Ferrari's claims are true (is that even a possibility?), then the F12 should be able to do better than that with its special Press Performance Package. Maybe even in the 2.9 second range.

Forgoing the brand's classic open-gated manuals for a new tradition of high technology, the F12 gets a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission with only 509 lb-ft of torque to contend with.

Mercedes Benz rolls out invisible car

When it came time for Mercedes Benz to promote its new fuel cell vehicle, the German auto manufacturer decided to use it as an opportunity to create an innovative and unique marketing sketch. Rather than simply display the car for the public to view, it decided to make it invisible. Ultimately an innovative driving technology needs an innovative way to promote it.

The decision to make the car ‘invisible’ emphasizes that its F-Cell vehicle has no exhaust emissions, making it virtually invisible to the environment. That’s pretty clever. This was achieved by placing a mat of LEDs across the entire one side of the vehicle and mounting a video shooting Canon 5D Mark II digital SLR camera on the other side.

Lamborghini Aventador J at 2012 Geneva motor show

 

There maybe other Italian sports car manufacturers looking to hog the limelight at the 2012 Geneva motor show (and Ferrari and its 730bhp F12 is one of them) but Lamborghini will vie for attention with the Aventador J. A two-seat, open top speedster based on the Aventador LP700-4, it has some intriguing bits of carbonfibre tech and highly individual design.

Named 'J' after the FIA’s Appendix J that governs the tech spec of race cars in certain classes, it’s proper bedroom wall material – but little boys and girls are unlikely to ever see it on the road as it’s a one-off and will go to a lucky owner after its appearance at Geneva.

Ferrari releases Berlinetta sound track

In an effort to keep the wave of media attention going for the recently revealed F12 Berlinetta, the new 599 successor, Ferrari has recently released a few new promo vidoes.

The F12 Berlinetta is the most powerful road car ever produced by the Italians with the 6262cc V12 deploying 730bhp at 8500rpm and 509lb ft at 6000rpm. In terms of its actual speed, Maranello quotes ‘over 340kph’ reaching 0-62mph in just 3.1 seconds

New OLED lights to make future Audis glow

Audi recently demonstrated its new OLED lighting concept at the Audi Electronics Centre in Ingolstadt, Germany that will make future models light up like never before.

The R8 and Q7 both feature flat-panel OLED displays running the length of the vehicle with eight segments alone creating the flashing turn indicator strip.

According the Stephan Berlitz, Head of Lighting Technology and Electronics at Audi, OLED is a natural extension of Audi’s own pioneering efforts integrating LED lighting into its vehicles. He said that “This homogeneous visual effect would not be possible with today’s LEDs. These are individual points of light that need additional optical devices – reflectors, optical conductors or scatter optics. OLED surfaces are themselves the source of light, and the thin plates also look attractive.