Pininfarina Cambiano Concept Leaked

Named for the city that Pininfarina calls home, its Cambiano concept may just be the sexiest plug-in diesel hybrid ever created. While the vehicle will make its official debut at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show, Pininfarina chose to release some of its concept shots in advance.

The Cambiano is powered by batteries, a diesel-fueled turbine or both and propelled by an electric motor at each wheel. The car gives a maximum output equivalent to 816 horsepower and can sprint from 0-100 km/h in just 4.2 seconds, on its way to a top speed of 155 mph.

While showing-off a supercar performance, the Cambiano was primarily designed to be environmentally friendly and so emits just 45 grams of CO2 per km which should be clean enough for the car to be compliant with future Euro 7 emissions standards.

VW Golf GTI Cabriolet First Pics

This is the new 2012 VW Golf GTI Cabriolet that Volkswagen will unveil at the upcoming Geneva motor show in March. The new model, shown in pictures above and below, is a 208bhp hot hatch-cum-convertible and is essentially what you get when you mix a Golf GTI and a Golf Cabriolet.

VW first unveiled the latest Golf Cabriolet at the Geneva motor show last year and now, a year on, the German car company is revealing its quickest ever open-top Golf with a turbocharged and direct injection 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 208bhp and 206lb ft. It drives the front wheels via either a six-speed manual or six-speed dual-clutch DSG gearbox and Volkswagen’s locking differential-aping electronic XDS.

Ferrari F12 Berlinetta

The new 2012 Ferrari F12 Berlinetta, the new 599 successor, will be unveiled at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show. The new front-engined V12 supercar from Maranello will be revealed in a glitzy three-layer Rosso Berlinetta paint colour.

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 but Ferrari is making great claims over the dynamics too calling it a ‘mid-front-engined sports car’, with the V12 mounted far back under the bonnet for more neutral handling.

Land Rover Evoque Convertible

Land Rover is exploring a convertible version of the Evoque and will make a production decision ‘within six months’. Design director Gerry McGovern unveiled the concept, that will make its debut at the Geneva Motor Show next month, at Pinewood Studios.

McGovern said that “Land Rover has a history of creating new segments; with the convertible, we believe we have an opportunity to do it again. It’s another twist on the Evoque story.”

The Evoque convertible concept has a powered soft-top roof with a glass rear screen, which is stowed  in a recess below the rear deck. The boot is re-engineered to fold down like the original Mini’s tailgate, while pop up rollover protection would be packaged behind the rear seats.

Infiniti Emerg-E EV Supercar First Official Pictures

Images of Infiniti’s new electric supercar called the Emerg-E have surfaced ahead of its official debut at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show. The images appear to be the official renderings for the Emerg-E showcasing a vehicle that is both sleek and sporty.

While the technical specs on the Emerg-E have yet to be revealed, the Emerg-E is expected to be a range-extended electric car similar to the Chevrolet Volt. This means that it will be a plug-in hybrid that has a gas engine that acts as a backup generator.

Ferrari F620 GT: First Photo!

Ferrari F620 GT: First Photo!

A reader over at GTSpirit has snagged the first live photo of the Ferrari F620 GT ahead of its public debut at next month's Geneva Motor Show.

As you can see, the Ferrari F620 GT has some seriously aggressive body styling — sort of like if the 599 GTB made love to both the FF and the 458 Italia at the same time. And then that child was given a nose job by the same plastic surgeon who helped the Aston Martin One-77 deal with its paralyzing deviated septum.

Mazda CX-5 targets Subaru Forester and Toyota RAV4

The new Mazda CX-5 will challenge the likes of the Subaru Forester, Toyota RAV4 and Nissan X-Trail to become one of Australia’s best-selling SUVs, says the Japanese car maker.
Mazda has this week launched the all-new CX-5, a vehicle that replaces the CX-7 and a model it says will achieve about 12,000 annual sales.

The CX-7 ironically had its best sales month in January, placing second to the RAV4, but Mazda believes the CX-5 – slightly smaller but still a five-seater – will be a consistently stronger performer.
“[Our sales forecast] should have us challenging for a top three spot in the segment,” Mazda Australia’s marketing boss Alistair Doak said. “When you look at it, the CX-5 is more in the [market] sweet spot [compared to CX-7].

Honda CR-V - the European crossover is unveiled

Honda will show this European-spec CR-V crossover at the 2012 Geneva motor show. Until now, we've only seen the US CR-V.



There's still a bit of a wait for the new CR-V, however. It won't be in UK showrooms until autumn 2012, despite being unveiled in July 2011  ahead of its world debut at the glitzily named Orange County International Auto Show in Anaheim, California.

What's new on the 2012 Honda CR-V?



Honda remains tightlipped at this stage, saying only: ' Compared to the previous generation, this Prototype adopts a more aggressive stance with deeper sculpting of the body lines and a bolder front fascia. The lower front bumper wraps smartly upward to convey SUV capability, while the lower front bumper design now integrates more smoothly into the fascia for improved aerodynamics.'

Land Rover Defender to star in 2012's new James Bond film Skyfall

Land Rover’s Defender will be one of the star vehicles of the new James Bond film Skyfall, due in cinemas this winter. The venerable 4x4 will be driven in a chase sequence by Naomi Harris’s character, Eve. And the assignment is shaping up to be one of the toughest in the Defender’s 64-year history, says Skyfall co-producer Andrew Noakes. 

‘We are really going to test that car,’ says Noakes, ‘do things to it it’s not normally designed for. Some of the stuff is so hairy and dangerous, we have to use a stuntman in a pod on the roof to do the driving. We’ve had to crank up the suspension, and the Defender is going to work very, very hard.’

It’s not the first time the Defender has appeared in a Bond chase: the 4x4 ended up plummeting from the rock of Gibraltar in the 1987 film The Living Daylights.
 

Citroen DS4 Racing concept first picture

What's new on the Citroen DS4 Racing?


The race team takes a regular DS4 hatchback and goes about turning it into a proper hot hatch.
First, the visuals. There's a smattering of carbonfibre for ancillaries such as the diffuser, front splitter and wheelarch extensions, all wrapped up in a two-tone paint job. No weight losses have been mentioned yet, so it's difficult to say if they're cosmetic or functional.

Next up, the race team has fettled the DS4's chassis. The ride height is lowered by 35mm, the track stretched out - by 55mm at the front, a fulsome 75mm at the rear haunches - and it now rides on chunky, two-tone 19in wheels.

Next Focus RS will Reportedly get a Turbocharged Four with 350HP that Might also be Used on the Mustang

The new Ford Focus ST with its 250HP 2.0-liter turbo'd four might be nice and dandy, but the Blue Oval has another surprise for hot-hatch aficionados under its sleeves: a replacement to the much acclaimed Focus RS. 
 
Last summer, Ford green-lighted the third generation of the RS, though details remained sketchy. Now, CAR magazine has more information on the hottest production Focus yet, which is scheduled for production in 2014. 

2013 Merc SL63 AMG Unveiled

Ahead of its official debut at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show next month, Mercedes Benz has unleashed its new SL63 AMG. With less weight, more power, and an advanced multi-clutch transmission onboard, the new model offers prospective buyers and car enthusiasts an impressive package.

One of the major issues that plagued the last generation model was its weight, which saw the two-seat convertible weigh in at about the same as some full-size SUVs. To remedy this, the new model, which benefits from the same lightweight aluminium construction underpinning the regular 2013 SL Class on which it’s based, weighs in at 4,059 pounds. While this is still considerably heavy for a two-seater it’s now 275 pounds lighter than the model it replaces. This improves performance across the board including faster acceleration, shorter stopping distances, better handling and increased mileage.

2013 Infiniti JX goes into production, US pricing announced

Infiniti has announced the first JX crossover has rolled off the assembly line in Smyrna, Tennessee.
While that isn't ground breaking news, the company confirmed the model will be priced from $40,450 for the JX35 FWD and $41,550 for the JX35 AWD. Deliveries are scheduled to begin early next month and consumers can place reservations through the company's website.

As we have previously reported, the seven-seat crossover features a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 265 hp (198 kW / 269 PS) and 248 lb-ft (336 Nm) of torque. It comes nicely equipped with leather seats, Kasane Washi trim and an infotainment system with a seven-inch display. There's also tri-zone automatic climate control, power windows / locks and a six-speaker audio system.

Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse revealed with 1,200 HP

Bugatti has announced the world premiere of the Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse will take place at the Geneva Motor Show on March 6.


The Grand Sport Vitesse features the body structure of the Grand Sport while the visual appearance and performance of the Super Sport, which holds the current world speed record of 431km/h (268mph), is wrapped into one.

The Veyron Grand Sport roadster normally outputs 1,001HP (736kW / 987hp) and 1,250Nm (922lb-ft) torque, but in Vitesse dress it boasts the Super Sports muscle with 1,200HP (883kW / 1,184hp) and 1,500Nm (1,106lb-ft) of torque.
Just like the Super Sport, the increased power of the new roadster's 16-cylinder engine is accomplished with four enlarged turbos and intercoolers. The chassis has also been modified to support the extra power.

New Maserati GT Sport to make its Geneva Debut

Maserati is planning to replace its aging GranTurismo S in the form of a new Gran Turismo Sport that will make its debut at this year’s Geneva Motor Show next month.

The car is essentially the coupe version of the GranTurismo Convertible Sport that was launched last year and offers the same 450 horsepower and 376 pound-feet of torque 4.7-litre V8. Drive is sent strictly to the rear wheels via a ZF six-speed automatic transmission or an optional sequential manual unit with the same number of gears as the automatic. Both units also come with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters, though on the automatic they’re an option.

While final numbers will be confirmed closer to its Geneva debut, the Sport’s drivetrain package provides a 0-60 mph acceleration in under 5.0 seconds and a top speed in excess of 177 mph.
Differentiating the new Sport from the current GranTurismo are new, aerodynamically-enhanced bumpers, revised headlights with LED detailing and darkened tail-lamp elements. The interior cabin also receives a new pair of seats and a sports steering wheel.

While Maserati has issued no price or performance details for the GranTurismo Sport it is expected to hit UK showrooms before the end of the year.

Aston Martin V8 Vantage 2012 upgrade inspired by the Vantage S

Aston Martin has a new V8 Vantage with a new gearbox, styling tweaks and chassis upgrades, which Aston Martin claims amounts to the  ‘most comprehensive programme of enhancements’ since the 4.7-litre version of the V8 Vantage was launched in 2008.

The new Vantage will be unveiled at the upcoming Geneva motor show next month, just in time to distract potential buyers from the new Porsche 911.

Essentially the standard V8 Vantage is being upgraded with parts first seen on the more focused V8 Vantage S which means that the (optional) clunky six-speed Sportshift automated manual gearbox will be replaced by the less clunky but still not perfect at low speeds seven-speed Sportshift II transmission with a six-speed manual gearbox as standard. There are 10mm wider tyres from the Vantage S as well, which Aston claims not only increase grip levels, but improve steering responses and allow the larger brakes to be fully exploited.

Analyst predicts Fisker's demise; spokesman says that's premature

That's what watchers of California-based automaker Fisker Automotive are trying to figure out after the maker of the Karma plug-in luxury sedan laid off about 65 workers and contractors in Delaware and California while renegotiating loan details with the U.S. Department of Energy. Fisker, which was to receive a $529 million loan from the DOE, has received less than $200 million of that, with the fate of the balance in question because Fisker has not met certain loan conditions due to production delays.

Here's the death knell perspective: With the Obama Administration under political pressure to reduce spending, Fisker is unlikely to receive the remaining $336 million, Wunderlich Securities analyst Theodore O'Neill said in an interview with the Boston Globe. Without that funding, Fisker will go out of business, O'Neill said, adding that A123 Systems, which makes lithium-ion batteries for Fisker, will also likely go under.

Interior design of the 2013 SL Class explained

As the sponsor of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week currently taking place in New York City, Mercedes decided to shoot a video, discussing the the interior design details of the brand new 2013 Mercedes SL Class.

In the video, Nicola Ehrenberg-Uhlig, the manager of colour and trim for Mercedes-Benz explains that the design team wanted to highlight the personality of the new SL Class by using special types of materials. Both the interior and exterior design reflect the speed of the vehicle and the inspiration of aviation, a symbol of clear design, functionality and power. The vehicle’s air vents are inspired by aeroplane turbines and the dashboard by its wings.

The attention to detail and excellent execution of the car’s interior and exterior design reflects the luxurious style associated with Mercedes-Benz.

Mercedes-Benz says fashion gives inspiration and insight for their design. Trying to align what they feel the owners of the vehicles are looking for along with the tradition thatmakes a Mercedes-Benz what it is.

More images of Volvo V40 surface ahead of Geneva debut

When the curtains rise on the Geneva Motor Show in a couple of weeks, so will Volvo lift the veil on a vital new product: the V40. Replacing the C30, S40 and V50, the new V40 is the Swedish automaker's assault on the Audi A3, BMW 1 Series, et al.

We've had our glimpses at what to expect with a series of spy shots, a couple of teasers and a solitary rear three-quarter shot leaked yesterday, but with the V40's debut rapidly approaching, the Scandinavian motor press has hardly been able to contain itself, leaking a series of shots from the Swedish edition of Auto Motor und Sport.

The images are small and grainy, but from what we can see the new V40 looks rather shapely. The nose follows closely on the formula set down by the larger S60, the windshield looks steeply raked and the hindquarters rather tapered, so don't expect a lot of cargo space back there. We'll wait to see the real thing when we get to Geneva, but for now you can check out the leaked images in the gallery for a closer look.

Audi RS4 Avant Details Revealed

Ahead of its official debut at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show, Audi has revealed the images and details of its new RS4 Avant which may be as a result of images having been leaked to the public yesterday.
The RS4 Avant generates its personality from a hand built 4.2-litre V8 engine that produces 450PS ( 331kW / 444 hp ) and 430 Nm (317.15 lb-ft) of torque. This enables the vehicle to accelerate from 0-100kph in 4.7 seconds before reaching an electronically limited top speed of 250kph.

For those unsatisfied with the limit, drivers can request to have the speed limiter removed to raise the top speed up to 280kph. The performance figures are even more impressive when you consider that the fuel economy stats reflect that the vehicle consumers 11 litres per 100km.

BMW 2012 M6 Coupe Pictures Revealed

BMW has unveiled the new 2012 M6 in Munich this past weekend. In essence, a two-door M5, the new super coupe will be one of the latest models to feature at this year’s Geneva Motor Show.

The M6 takes the same bi-turbo 4.4-litre V8, blown to produce a stout 552bhp at 5750rpm and 502lb ft at just 1500rpm. This means no more of the high-revving shriek of the old V10, but this isn’t necessarily a bad thing as the V8 is high on performance, if lacking in some of the fizz of the old V10. As far as speed goes, the coupe passes 62mph in just 4.2 seconds and 124mph (200kph) in 12.6 seconds. Top speed is to 155mph, although the M Driver’s Package will increase that to 189mph.

2013 Lexus RX Redesign Images Leaked

The leader in the luxury crossover, the Lexus RX is getting a facelift with the images of what the refreshed vehicle will look like having been leaked from what appears to be a legitimate Lexus brochure.

While powertrain changes are not expected,  it’s clear that the new spindle grille seen on the 2013 Lexus GS is making its way across the line-up, bringing its appearance in line with the brand’s latest designs. While the brochure doesn’t seem to show the vehicle with North American specifications, the U.S. version will almost certainly have the Nike-Swoosh like LED daytime running lights, updated fog light surrounds, plus the Lexus spindle grille that’s far bolder than the trim it replaces.

Bentley Continental V8 Flies over Munich

In a daring stunt for the promotion of its new V8 powered Continental, Bentley made its dramatic debut by flying one of the latest of its 2013 Coupes over the city of Munich.

Motor Authority reported that anyone stuck in the midst of the city’s rush hour traffic last week would have seen the bright red Bentley suspended beneath a helicopter to arrive at a specially-designed podium situated on top of a high rise complex close to Munich’s city centre. Next to his, was the fashionable ‘SkyLounge,’ a special venue positioned in a glazed bridge between two skyscrapers where the exclusive launch party for the vehicle was being held, for more than 300 VIP guests.


Bentley’s new V8 Continental range, that will be available in both GT coupe and GTC convertible bodystyles, debuts the British brand’s latest twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8. The vehicle’s engine produces 500 horsepower and 487 pound-feet of torque but thanks to fuel saving technologies including cylinder deactivation, direct injection technology, low friction bearings, thermal management and brake energy regeneration the engine produces 40 percent less CO2 emissions than Bentley’s existing 6.0-litre W-12.

Tesla Unveils Model X Electric SUV

Tesla Motors has recently unveiled its third electric car, an all electric vehicle, the Model X. Built on the same chassis as the four-door Model S, the Model X is a hybrid, a cross between an SUV and minivan.

In terms of the exterior the model has  “falcon wing” doors that are similar to the gullwing doors often seen on concept cars but rarely on actual production vehicles. Tesla Motors CEO, Elon Musk, says that the advantage of the doors that lift upward make it easier to get in and out of the car especially in tight parking spots.

Aston Martin Debuts V12 Zagato

Aston Martin has just unveiled the production version of its V12 Zagato which is headed for its official debut at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show. The vehicle is being built to mark the 50th anniversary of the lovely DB4 GT Zagato, first shown in 1961 but entering showrooms half a century ago.

The Zagato was previously seen as a racer at the 2011 Villa d’Este concours and at the 24-hour Nurburgring race last year. Not much has changed in transitioning the vehicle from a prototype racer to the road-going production version with Aston Martin taking the V23 Vantage running gear and redressing it in a sharp exterior created by CPP in Coventry.

Following in the tradition of the exclusive One-77, the V12 Zagato will take more than 2,000 man-hours to manufacture thanks to hand-hewn body panels, including the hood, roof and doors and in line with its exclusivity, Aston Martin will only be building 150 of them. Aston Martin has created four new colours especially for the V12 Zagato, and paint alone takes 100 hours to complete. Inside, it takes a full seven hides to cover the cabin in hand-stitched, quilted leather.

2012 Prius c pricing starts at $18,950 [US]

When the Toyota Prius c debuted at the Detroit Auto Show last month they promised to keep pricing below $19K. They have proved they can keep to their word, the pricing has been announced and confirmed to start at $18,950, although this does not include the delivery and handling fee of at least $760.

The Prius c is available in four grade levels, the price stated accounts for the base level One. Those wanting additional trimmings such as improved audio and connectivity, 15-inch, 8-spoke alloy wheels or cruise control will need to upgrade to levels Two, Three or Four which start at $19,900, $21,635 and $23,230 respectively. Full details of what is included in each package can be found from the press release below.

Sales for the 2012 Prius c will begin in March 2012.

Mercedes to introduce glow in the dark seat belt buckles

In addition to improving safety, Mercedes Benz‘s new active seatbelt buckle also eliminates the annoying practice of trying to buckle up when the connecting clips have fallen between or been pushed down the cars seats.

The seat belt buckle doesn’t only come with bright glowing LEDs to easily secure yourself, particularly in the dark, but also comes equipped with a motorized system that extends the buckles upwards as much as 2.8-inches, so they’re hard to miss and easier to use. For enhanced safety in the event of a crash, the active seat belt buckle also works in reverse, slightly retracting after impact so it holds the passenger more securely.

The new system will be implemented in Mercedes Benz’s more luxury models in the near future but will hopefully be available for Daimler’s more affordable models so the general public can also benefit from this great innovation.

2013 Hyundai Elantra Coupe unveiled in Chicago

 

Today at the Chicago Auto Show, Hyundai introduces the 2013 Elantra Coupe to the world.

It features the Asian auto maker's "Fluidic Sculture" design language which intends to create a perception of fluid in motion, but results in a bit too much finesse and not enough aggression.

Power is provided by the 1.8-liter Nu four-cylinder engine that also lends its expertise to the sedan variant. Early estimated figures that have been released state it generates 148 hp ( 110 kW / 150 PS ) and 177Nm (131 lb-ft) of torque.

The Honda Civic Coupe and the Kia Koup have been identified as its chief rivals and the two-door coupe will hit dealerships in the spring, pricing is yet to be announced.

BMW Unveils 2012 Olympic Pavilion

Just months before the 2012 Olympic Games kicks off in London, BMW has unveiled its new pavilion that will be constructed in the host city.

The winning design came from the British architectural firm Serie after bids from six different companies. As the sole automotive sponsor of the international event, BMW has been given permission to build its pavilion at the Olympic Park where it will remain for the duration of the Paralympic Games as well. It is expected to attract about 8000 visitors per day.

Built for the purposes of entertaining VIPs, the pavilion is also available for anyone who enters into the Olympic Park. The top floor of the double-story constructions will showcase the latest models and the lower floor will have future mobility exhibitions and events with BMW-sponsored athletes.

Skoda up!grades with five-door Citigo

On this side of the Atlantic, one Volkswagen division's new product may not have a significant impact on those of another. That's because the German auto giant's brands are kept quite separate in North America. Less so, however, back in Europe, where a new VW is likely to reappear in due time as a Seat or Skoda.

Case in point: the new Up! city car, which is also sold overseas as the Seat Mii and Skoda Citigo. And, true to form, with the Volkswagen brand having enlarged its city car to a five-door, its Czech cousin has followed suit.

And so, starting in May (after its debut at the Geneva Motor Show), European buyers will be able to get their hands on a five-door Citigo, offering the same 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine (in either 60- or 75-horsepower guise) as the Up, Mii and three-door Citigo. Details in the press release after the jump.

The Best Supercar Dealership in the World

Abdullah Al Ketbi is the owner of Dubai’s Alain Class Motors and what could very well be the best supercar dealership in the world. Abdullah gave Top Gear access to this extraordinary showroom filled with the world’s most rarified supercars where a Ferrai FF is tucked against a F430 Scuderia, which is nuzzling into a Versace edition Murciélago. Turn around and you’re staring at a Reventon – Lamborghini’s most expensive road car ever – Ferrari 458 Italia, Maybach 57S and Mercedes C63 AMG Black.

Abdullah says that Alain Class Motors has “five people full-time to wash and wax as the cars get very dirty outside and the cheaper ones need cleaning two or three times a day.”

Nissan Invitation concept car (2012) first pictures

Nissan will unveil the new Invitation concept car at the 2012 Geneva motor show. It's a vision of what the company's B-segment tallboy could become. Yes, it's a snapshot of a future Nissan Note.

 

The Japanese say 'the Invitation concept underlines Nissan's commitment to the compact car segment,' indicating that they aren't going to abandon every conventional bodystyle for another crossover.
The Invitation will join the Micra hatch and Juke compact SUV in the B-segment. Effectively, this will replace the Note.

Saab vs Volvo: a tale of two Swedes

So, the Swedish car industry has been cut in half by the death of Saab, has it? That’s what I’ve been reading in various places. And it’s easy to see why: Saab and Volvo are globally iconic brands, and the only two Swedish car makers anybody’s really heard of.

Not only that, they do have some stirring similarities. They are headquartered just 50 miles apart (Saab in Trollhättan, Volvo in Gothenburg), and they were both part of giant Swedish truck makers – with strong aeronautical interests – before being sold to American multinationals (Volvo to Ford, Saab to GM). Neither of them, of course, prospered under American rule.

Fiat 500L (2012) first official pictures

Fiat will show its new addition to the 500 range at the 2012 Geneva motor show: the new 500L mini MPV.
It's designed to squeeze MPV practicality into the footprint of a B-segment city car – with a sprinkling of SUV style raised ride height.

Turin says the 'L' badge stands for large. So, you guessed it, this is a larger, more practical version of the chic 500 city car. Do they look similar enough to warrant the same badge? The jury's out on that one…

This is a five-seater stretching the tape measure out to 4140mm long, 1780mm wide and 1660mm tall. That makes it a similar footprint to a Skoda Yeti.
Fiat says the cab-forward stance is reminiscent of the original Fiat 600 Multipla, 'a precursor to the concept of the compact people carrier.'

Expect it on sale in Europe in the final quarter of 2012. Engine choices will mirror those in the 500 city car.
Pick from a pair of petrol engines: the 875cc Twinair two-cylinder and a 1.4, or a 1.3 Multijet turbodiesel.
The 500L is built in Fiat's Kragujevac, Serbia factory.

Chevrolet Launches Camaro ZL1 Production

General Motors has recently launched the production model of the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 in the next chapter of the re-introduction of the Camaro. The spiritual seccessor to the Z28, the production model was launched at the company’s assembly plant in Ontario.

Under the hood, the vehicle is powered by a supercharged 6.2 litre engine that produces 580 hp (432 kW/588 PS) and 556 lb-ft (754 Nm) of torque. It is mated to either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. When equipped with an automatic transmission, the model can accelerate from 0 to 96km/h in 3.9 seconds before reaching a top speed of 296km/h. With the six-speed manual, acceleration time is 0.1 seconds slower and top speed is 290 km/h.


Kevin Williams, president and managing director of GM of Canada, commented that ”This is an exciting new chapter in the ongoing revival of the tremendously popular Chevrolet Camaro. The new 2012 Camaro ZL1 further demonstrates the flexible capabilities of the award-winning Oshawa Assembly Plant.”
The Camaro ZL1 has a price tag of $54, 995 which includes destination charges.

BMW set to terminate Prodrive contract to run the Mini WRC team

The BMW Group is expected to terminate its contract with Prodrive tomorrow, ending the Banbury firm's involvement in the Mini World Rally Team - and casting doubt over the future of the programme.

Sources have confirmed the decision to end the Anglo-German alliance.

Sources within the firm have confirmed the end is imminent for what has been a short and unhappy partnership.

"There was a chance this might have happened last year," said the source, "but in the end it was decided to wait until after Monte Carlo. The decision has now been taken at board level and will be communicated in due course."

Prodrive's Richard Taylor denied the partnership would be ended

Dog Spotted Sitting Shotgun in Bugatti Veyron

Autogespot takes the saying ‘Dog is man’s best friend’ to a while new level when the picture above was snapped in the US of a dog sitting in the front seat of a Bugatti Veyron.

The supercar with a $2 million price tag was parked on the curb on a street in West Hollywood, California. Not an unusual sight in Hollywood after all, what was spotted was the driver’s large Golden Retriever, sitting upright, left alone inside the vehicle. It is likely that the driver who must have taken a few minutes to run an errand unexpectedly with his fury friend in tow felt he could leave him chilling in the front passenger seat. Unless of course this is a common ocurrance.

Let’s hope the dog showed some appreciation for being transported in such a supreme car and didn’t get bored and start chewing on or scratching the expensive interior.

Mopar Celebrates 75 Years with Special Edition Vehicles

This year Mopar will be celebrating 75 years since its name was first trademarked (a combination of ‘Motor’ and ‘Parts’) with the unveiling of four new vehicles at the Chicago Auto Show next month. Mopar has evolved to become synonymous with performance parts for Chrysler and Dodge as well as amp’d-up specialty package vehicles, vehicle service and maintenance.
The first, and only one that will be sold turn-key, is the ’12 Mopar 300 with only 500 being built and sold for $49, 700 each.  While offering no more power than a standard 5.7-litre V8-equipped 300, the ’12 Mopar does benefit from a new final-drive ratio of 3.91:1 that drops its 0-60 time in the low five-second range, as well as a significantly stiffer suspension, more grip on the tyres and brake system upgrades.

The exterior is painted black with striping that appears across the ’12 Mopar’s sides and around its rims. The wheels are 20-inch, 8-spoke forged aluminum rollers painted Gloss Black with Mopar center caps. Mopar says that interior is equally dark save for accents of Mopar Blue.

Each vehicle sold will  come with a special box of goodies that includes Mopar-branded key fobs and merchandise; proof of the vehicle’s exact manufacture date and number built; and a sketch of the car signed by its designer.

The remaining three anniversary special editions include the 2013 Dodge Dart ‘GTS 210 Tribute’, 2012 Fiat 500 Stinger and 2012 Mopar Jeep Compass ‘True North’.
The Dodge Dart serves to pay homage to the quintessential muscle car while showcasing how Mopar’s extensive range of appearance and performance parts will be for the new Dart when it goes on sale.