At first, this prototype for the next-generation Porsche 911 didn't look like much. In fact, it didn't even look like a new test mule given all the 997-series bodywork. But look closer and it's clear there are a few changes to this prototype that aren't on the current model.
Most notable is the "double bubble" roof, although in this case it's less like individual bubbles and more like a dent in the middle. Also note the covered tail section and revised rear bumper. Hard to tell what's going on back there, but clearly some changes are in store as nearly every prototype we've seen has featured similar camouflage.
After this morning's leak of the official photos, the BMW X1 didn't seem like much of a secret anymore. With than in mind, an official press release was sent out this afternoon with a few details on the upcoming crossover.
It's definitely headed to the U.S., but not until 2011. The X1 will offer both rear- and all-wheel drive and a variety of engines. Although BMW said the X1 will offer one gas and three diesel powerplants in Europe, it said the specific engine configuration of the U.S. model has not been decided yet. Sounds like BMW is waiting to see if diesels catch on, so far it hasn't been promising.
You probably don't remember much about the Jaguar S-Type R. It was Jag's answer to the BMW M5 and Mercedes-Benz E55/63 AMG. It was fast and surprisingly nimble, but few took it seriously because, well, it didn't really look all that serious. It wasn't quite fast enough either.
This time around Jaguar has a much better chance of converting some BMW buyers into believers. Engineering Editor Jay Kavanagh is already convniced as he calls this new XF "one of the best sport sedans in the world today." A new 5.0-liter supercharged V8 is a big reason why, but there's more to it than just raw power. See what made Mr. Kavanagh such a fan in our latest full test of Jaguar latest XF. Full Test: 2010 Jaguar XFR
Audi has released its latest Multi-Media Interface (MMI), which is set to debut in the 2010 A3, TT and R8. The updated system gets an improved screen resolution and an "unmatched" route calculation thanks to a new processor clocked at 600MHz. The radio-navigation system, version E, will be able to read 32 gig SD memory cards.
Operation-wise, the driver and passenger can scroll vertically, horizontally and now even along the route. The "optical parking assistant" feature is also new, which displays the distance the front and rear is from an object on top of the standard Audi-o bleeps.
The system is estimated to start at $3,200, and you can check out the full release here.
BMW has improved its navigation "Search" feature to provide online access to up-to-date fuel prices, weather forecasts and, for those looking for a constant reminder of how much money they're losing, the major stock indices as well.
New and existing nav subscribers will have to purchase the optional BMW Assist Convenience Plan on BMW Assist and BMW Navigation system-equipped 2009 and 2010 models to get the service.
This is one of the dyno rooms at the AMG's headquarters in Affalterbach, Germany. Strapped to the stand on this particular occasion was the 6.3-liter V8 headed for duty in the upcoming SLS gullwing coupe. It's expected to generate 571-horsepower and 507 pound-feet of torque when it goes into production early next year.
According to our editor on the scene, AMG puts all of its engines through a test procedure that includes 800 hours of wide-open throttle operation, pausing only to sample the oil and change dynamometer operators every 20 hours. Yes, that's over a month of full throttle operation before the engine is signed off. That should make anyone who drives an AMG vehicle a little less squeamish about hitting the redline every once in awhile.
With the 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class coupe already on the way, a convertible version was all but inevitable. Although it's not that hard to imagine what that convertible will look like, these latest spy shots spell it all out for you.
Most of the design cues revealed here are fairly conventional with a soft top, hard cover and a small wind deflector between the rear seats. As the test car got underway, however, our photographers noticed an additional feature that the current CLK cabriolet lacks.
As you can see, what looks to be an auxiliary wind deflector has been placed at the top of the windshield. We assume it bumps the airflow that much higher to keep it off precious bouffants behind the wheel. We assume it works too, as the Germans wouldn't dare use all their technical know how to develop a mere toy, right? First Drive: 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe
Like most automakers, BMW maintains a design studio in Southern California. It's tucked away in the Los Angeles suburb of Newbury Park, so few in the area know it even exists. It's cranked out numerous car designs over the years and its former head, Adrian Van Hooydonk is now the head of BMW design in Germany.
Unlike most satellite design studios, however, BMW Designworks also does contract work for companies outside the automotive industry. Boats, planes, coffee makers, you name a consumer product and Designworks probably has a drawing of it on the walls somewhere. Most of those drawing are rarely seen, but BMW has just posted an in-depth tour of the facility that gives a pretty detailed look at how the studio functions.
There's some good insight into the world of design and how BMW sees its place within that world. If anything, the series might give you a little background on some of the company's more controversial designs and how they made it through the design process.
What? This seems odd to you? A British luxury sports car builder embarking on a program to develop a small, awkward looking city car?
Well, welcome to the world of corporate average fuel economy (CAFE), a U.S. regulation that now says cars and trucks must meet a combined average of 35.5mpg by 2016. Given that the most fuel efficient model in Aston's lineup doesn't even get 20mpg on the highway, the company is clearly going to need some help to prop up its average.
Enter the Toyota iQ citycar, a pint-sized two-seater (there are rear "seats", but few humans could use them as such) that boasts mileage in the 55-60mpg range. Aston Martin intends to use the iQ as the basis for what it will call the Cygnet. Aston Martin CEO Ulrich Bez says now is the time for Aston to embark on such a project.
"Much work is still required, but I am confident that this project could become reality in the not too distant future. This concept - akin to an exclusive tender to a luxury yacht - will allow us to apply Aston Martin design language, craftsmanship and brand values to a completely new segment of the market," said Bez.
According to a Aston Martin spokesperson, the Cygnet won't be sold on the open market. Instead, only those who already own an Aston Martin will be able to purchase the vehicle, sort of like an errand car to use when you want to downplay your conspicuous consumption.
Guess it's only a matter of time until we see a Porsche version of the Volkwagen Up! too.
Following on the heels of yesterday's leaked photos of the new M Sport package for the BMW 7 Series comes an official announcement from BMW. In addition to the new M Sport package, the 2010 7 Series will add two new diesel options (in Europe, of course) as well as optional all-wheel drive.
As we predicted, the M Sport package is essentially a cosmetic upgrade that includes revised front and rear fascias, shadowline trim and new double-spoke wheels. There's also an exclusive new Carbon Black Metallic color available with the package along with a few interior upgrades.
The 740d and 730d models are for Europe only at this point, but given the 730d's low-emissions profile, it could theoretically make it to the U.S. Such a move would have been unheard of before, but new fuel economy rules may force BMW to start offering the big 7 with smaller, more efficient power plants.
And finally, there's the addition of BMW's xDrive all-wheel drive system. It will be available on both long- and short-wheelbase versions of the 750i and is essentially the same system already found in the 3 and 5 Series sedans.
The ever elusive BMW M7 has yet to surface, so for now you'll have to be satisfied with a Motorsport appearance package. We have yet to see any official mention of the upcoming option, but these recently unearthed photos appear to show what such a sedan might look like.
Unlike the real M-cars, the M Sport package isn't expected to add much in the way of performance. A slightly more aggressive set of tires and wheels may help a little, but we would be surprised to see any actual horsepower upgrades. If anything, the new package will reinstate BMW's reputation as a designer of interesting factory wheels. Looking at the current 7 Series sport wheels, we weren't sure the company had it in it anymore.
Mercedes-Benz has officially announced a U.S.-based version of its AMG Driving Academy. Originally developed at AMG's Alfalterbach home base in Germany, the school is designed to teach driving enthusiasts how to get the most out of AMG's ridiculously powerful cars.
The U.S. version will be held at three different venues:Lime Rock Park, Palm Beach International Raceway and Laguna Seca Raceway. There are two levels, an entry-level Stage I program that lasts one day ($1,895) and a more advanced two-day Stage II program for experienced drivers ($3,495). There's also a special Stage I program at Laguna Seca that will include a drive of the upcoming SLS coupe ($2,295).
It's taken Porsche a long time to get to this point, but we all knew it was coming. The Panamera sedan is finally here and our Senior Road Test Editor Josh Jacquot just returned from Germany where he drove all three versions.
Not surprisingly, he found them all plenty fast and surprisingly nimble. A four-door 911 it is not, but it will more than hold its own against any other sedan in its class. And it's comfortable too, up front and in back.
The only question left now is whether or not luxury sedan buyers will accept this new sedan as a true Porsche. Given their response to the Cayenne SUV, we're betting they won't have a problem with the Panamera sedan. Video after the jump.
Inside Line has confirmed that the upcoming Audi R8 Convertible will appear in the sequel to Iron Man due out next May. Spotted on the Nurburgring almost a year ago, the soft-top version of the Audi R8 is expected to make its official world debut at the 2009 Frankfurt Auto Show in September.
The Audi A6 needs a little help. It's still trying to escape from the shadow of the BMW 5 Series and now it has the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class to contend with too.
A full redesign is still a few years away, so for 2009 Audi served up a mild facelift and a new supercharged V6 engine to give it a lift. The upgrades made an already competent car that much better, but as Managing Editor Donna Derosa explains, the A6 is still a car caught in the middle. Get the rest of the story in our follow-up test of Audi's midsize sedan.
Cinema Vehicles states in that ad that it has built cars for many movies including the Eleanor Mustangs for Gone in 60 Seconds, the Torinos for Starsky and Hutch and the Bugs for Herbie Fully Loaded. The company also states that this Benz was a coupe before they hit it with a sawzall.
Elon Musk's foot-in-mouth disease appears to be progressing. In an interview at the Disruptive by Design conference in Manhattan, he told Wired magazine Editor in Chief Chris Anderson that he would like a crack at running Detroit.
"When the mess gets sorted out, I'd like to have a conversation with whoever's in charge at the time -- the car czar or whoever -- and say 'I'd like to run your plants, if you don't mind,'" Musk said
Musk probably thinks he can bring all sorts of "Silicon Valley efficiencies" to big auto plants, but he's about two decades behind in that regard. And let's face it, Musk has yet to build a single car on his own yet, so his ability to run even one auto plant is questionable.
Speaking of which, it's been nearly three months since Tesla announced that it was close to securing a site for the production of its Model S Concept car. It's been radio silence on that front since. Not a good sign given that Tesla is still telling people that the Model S will begin production in late 2011.
And for the record, despite the Wired headline, Elon Musk had nothing to do with the founding of Tesla Motors.
Since Lexus hasn't bothered to build an IS-F convertible yet, we went ahead and did it for them. Doesn't look bad, although we'll admit it chances of arriving at dealers soon is pretty slim. Would you be interested?
Sources in Japan have unearthed a few new details on the production version of the upcoming Lexus LF-A supercar. Yeah, you know the car that seems to only exist on autoshow stands and the Nurburgring?
Well, it's back on again and should make yet another auto show appearance in its finalized form at this year's Tokyo auto show in October. The attached rendering is based on both the recent Nurburgring prototype and additional details from an inside source at Holiday Auto, a prominent Japanese car magazine.
Our own insider also adds that of the 500 units destined for production, 350 of them will be left-hand drive. All LF-As will get 6-piston calipers with carbon ceramic brake rotors, titanium mufflers, run flat Bridgestone tires and a six-speed automatic sequential gearbox.
Bentley has released this teaser image of its new flagship due this summer. A replacement for the ancient Arnage, this vehicle will slot above the Continental series in Bentley's lineup.
That's about all those crafty Brits were willing to say at this point, so we'll have to wait another month or so to get full details.
Wedged between the high-volume entry-level cars and the big-dollar flagships, these midsize sedans are the often overlooked middle children of the luxury sedan world. But as Chief Road Test Editor Chris Walton explains in our latest comparison test, they deserve more attention.
They're too fast, to comfortable and too good looking to ignore and choosing a winner wasn't easy. Their performance figures were all close and when it came to features and price, each car had its own strengths. In the end, there was clear winner though. It was fast in a straight line and solid through turns, and it just so happened to have been the least expensive of the three.
The Aston Martin One-77 has finally come together in production form after showing up at several auto shows in bits and pieces. This video from Autocar in the U.K. features Aston CEO Ulrich Bez explaining the idea behind the $2.1M supercar. Even better, he gets in and fires it up so you can hear the 7.3-liter V12 roar to life. It's worth a listen.
According to Auto Express, Jaguar is currently working on a mid-price roadster that will be known as the C-Type when it arrives in 2012. Designed to go head-to-head with the Audi TT, BMW Z4 and Porsche Boxster, the C-Type will most likely offer both V6 and V8 engines. Inside Line News: Jaguar C-Type in the Pipeline for 2012
Yes, that's its official name: Z4 sDrive 35i. Makes no sense, but the Germans often don't. Get past that, however, and the new Z4 isn't so hard to understand. Test Director Dan Edmunds discovered that this Z4 is about more than just its new retractable hardtop, it's a real performance roadster. It's also a real expensive roadster too, but Dan seems to think it's worth it.
The 2009 Audi AS5-R by Abt Sportsline bolts up a twin-screw supercharger that helps to deliver a much healthier 503-horsepower. There's also 457 pound-feet of torque available, so the stock S5's softness off the line should is cured. At least that's what contributor Matt Davis says after a drive in the German countryside. We hope Audi has something similar in mind for the RS5.
No, there is not a word missing in the title. They're called the BMW M3 Edition models. Maybe it's a bad translation, or there really isn't a good translation, either way it's an odd name for what looks like a pretty cool, although mildly upgraded, set of M3s.
Available in four colors -- Alpine White, Black, Dakar Yellow and Monte Carlo Blue -- all cars features dark chrome grill insets, side gills and exhaust tips along with black hood scoops and side mirror caps. The interiors get contrasting stitching on the seats and door panels in varying colors depending on the exterior.
A lowered suspension (-0.4") and unique 19-inch wheels are also standard. The light alloy, double-spoke wheels come in a variety of finishes including polished with white accents. Thankfully, that option is limited to black, white and blue versions only.
BMW says the M3 Edition models will be available worldwide starting in July. Strangely enough, that doesn't always include the U.S., but given the fact that these cars are nothing more than a minor cosmetic trim package, there's a good chance we'll get them too.
Will we ever get this hopped up TT in the U.S.? The jury is still out, but as contributor Alistair Weaver points out, as good as it looks on paper, the Audi TT-RS doesn't always feel like the Boxster-killer that its spec sheet suggests. See why in our exclusive test drive from Europe.
A report in the German press of an all-electric Audi R8 appears to be a little optimistic. Auto Motor und Sport claimed that the alt-power R8 would appear alongside the R8 convertible at the 2009 Frankfurt Auto Show.
When we contacted Audi to confirm the story, a spokesman gave us a much different and very precise answer: "Nope, not true."
So at this point, it depends on who you believe, but we won't be expecting anything more than the convertible in Frankfurt at this point.
A source has told Inside Line news that the latest version of the Lexus LF-A production car is now capable of hitting 220mph. Toyota engineers has previously expressed disappointment with the top speed of the earlier LF-A prototypes.
Changes to the car's aerodynamics and a few engine upgrades were largely responsible for the increased speeds. The same source also said that the final production car is expected to arrive at the Tokyo auto show in October with a price tag between $220,000 and $250,000.
It's been the king of the large luxo sedan segment for a long time now, so the introduction of the 2010 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is nothing more than a little insurance that it will remain the class leader. All the changes are minor, but as contributor Matt Davis notes, they come together in a way that adds polish to what is already the standard in the segment.
We showed you a few pictures of the 2010 BMW 5 Series GT earlier, and now we have the full release on BMW's oddly-shaped people mover. Most of the details were expected, but there are a few surprises.
Most notable is the introduction of an all-new eight-speed automatic transmission. With a direct drive sixth gear and two overdrive gears, it should give the 550i GT decent mileage even with its 4.4-liter, twin turbo V8.
Another first, at least on a U.S. model, is a regenerative braking system. It allows the alternator to cycle on and off which reduces load on the engine and theoretically saves gas. The 5 Series GT is still a huge vehicle though, so don't expect impressive mileage numbers.
Although it's labeled as a 5 Series, the GT borrows heavily from the 7 Series when it comes to its suspension setup. The GT adopts essentially the same three-link setup up front and the 7's multilink configuration in back. BMW's integral Active Steering is also featured on the GT so the rear wheels are capable of turning up to 3 degrees to improve steering response.
BMW says it expects to have the 5 Series Gran Turismo in U.S. dealers by the end of this year with a price between $65,000 and $70,000.
You may have seen various reports earlier this week concerning the underpinnings of the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class coupe. The thrust of the story was the claim that the new midsize coupe was actually built on the smaller C-Class platform instead of the larger, more expensive E-Class sedan architecture.
According to Mercedes-Benz that's not entirely accurate. In a carefully worded statement sent to the media yesterday, Mercedes says that the E-Class coupe shares "more than 60% of its components and technology with the E-Class sedan." It goes on to state that like all luxury manufacturers, Mercedes-Benz "harvests the best of our engineering and technology from across the product portfolio to ensure new models deliver a unique Mercedes-Benz customer driving experience."
So there you have it. The E-Class coupe isn't built on the C-Class platform, but there's a good chance that it shares various technologies with the smaller sedan. At least according to Mercedes-Benz.
Given that the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe is now on sale in Europe, the appearance of various upgrades by Brabus should come as no surprise. In typical Brabus fashion, the available options include everything from power increases to new wheel and tires.
For added power, Brabus punches out the standard 5.5-liter V8 to 6.1-liters, New camshafts, reworked heads and a revised exhaust deliver up to 456 horsepower and 453 pound-feet of torque. A height-adjustable coil over suspension system is also available along with six-piston front brakes and up to 20-inch wheels. There's a body kit too, of course.
A bit overkill? Sure, yeah, whatever. that's what the 2010 Aston Martin V12 Vantage is all about.
It's the classic American muscle car formula -- stuff the biggest engine available into the smallest car in the lineup. It rarely fails.
In this case, the results are predictable. The car is an absolute missile and Aston even saw fit to make it look like one. But as European Editor Alistair Weaver points out, it comes with a price. A big, huge price that make you wonder if it's all worth it. That's a muscle car for ya.
Early 2009 Hyundai Genesis sedans earned just an Acceptable rating from the IIHS for frontal-impact safety -- after the crash dummy's head hit the steering wheel through the airbag and then rebounded into the B-pillar. There was also a significant risk of lower leg injury. Genesis sedans built after November 2008 received modifications to correct for these deficiencies.
You'll find the 2009 Genesis sedan's IIHS side-impact crash test video after the jump.
Cadillac officially launched its V-Series line in China this week. John Heinricy was there to run a fast lap in the Cadillac CTS-V on the the Shanghai F1 circuit.
But, apparently, Cadillac decided that alone wouldn't be enough to impress Chinese buyers, as the company hired stunt drivers to do all sorts of wow-worthy acrobatics in the regular CTS sedans (Editor's note: No, these are not CTS-Vs as originally reported) on hand for the launch. Spiderman even made an appearance (3rd thumbnail). Why Cadillac couldn't spare a few more V-Series cars for these tricks, we'll never know, but then maybe we just answered our own question.
It's a shame Cadillac didn't get any high-quality video of the, um, stunts. However, a spectator at V-Day, as the event was called, did shoot video, evidently from his seat way up in the stands. Then, he set it to a delightful soundtrack. Watch the magic after the jump.
In his first drive, our executive editor Michael Jordan tells you about how the 2010 Lexus IS 350C is a nice refined, relaxing car to drive. He compares it to a coastal mega-resort hotel styled like a Tuscan villa. No doubt, then, that this is exactly the sort of car you'll want to kit up with Lexus' F-Sport performance accessories.
That's right, you can put an F-Sport track-day brake kit and extra-large, dual-tip catback exhaust on your IS 350 convertible. If you're among the 0.0001 percent of 2010 Lexus IS 250C buyers who specify the six-speed manual gearbox, you'll want the short-throw shifter and high-performance clutch, won't you?
The thing is, we really liked the look of the F-Sport wheels and lowered suspension on the Lexus IS 250 F-Sport sedan we tested. But on a retractable hard-top convertible? Um, well, pass.
Follow the jump to see the full F-Sport accessory line for the 2010 Lexus IS 250C and IS 350C.
We've already written about how Benz's CLK successor, the 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe, drives. Now watch it crash. We wonder if the dummies were using the Drive Dynamic seats' massage feature at the time of impact. Then again, Pre-Safe probably cut off the fun a few nanoseconds prior.
A discount Mercedes-Benz? Hardly. More competitive is probably a better description of the this more affordable E-Class. As Senior Editor Erin Riches notes, the new E550 shows no signs of cost cutting despite a sizable drop in its base price. It's still feels over-engineered, and in all the right ways. Will greater affordability make this E-Class a more popular luxury sedan? Or does it stand to lose customers because it's not as exclusive anymore?
It lives. Yes, the Lexus LF-A still exists and it has returned to the Nurburgring, We assume it's moving closer to production, but that's what we thought the last time it showed up.
There are some minor bodywork changes this time around. The C-pillar treatment has obviously been altered and the front end looks a little different. Thankfully, the unique exhaust arrangement is still intact. If this on-again, off-again project ever gets finished up, expect to see it debut at this year's Tokyo auto show in the fall.
From the "wait...who?" files comes this curious tale.
This morning, Autoblog, a blog apparently about auto, posted an item entitled "Reader Spy: Hyundai Equus Takes to U.S. Streets." Okay, no biggie. Not sure why anyone would get too excited about a really big Hyundai luxury sedan not yet sold in the U.S., but okay.
The first line of the story read: "This is the new Hyundai Equus in the steel and on U.S. roads, courtesy of Autoblog reader Alex Krafcik." Oh, okay...no, wait, Krafcik? Isnt' t that the name of the CEO of the U.S. arm of Hyundai? Yes, it is. John Krafcik. So, "Spy" might be slightly overstating the case, no?
So they're not really spy photos, but the fact that Krafcik is running around Southern California in one of Hyundai's home market flagships is still noteworthy. The car was displayed at the New York Auto Show last month "to get public reaction", so it's pretty clear that Hyundai is still considering the idea of a luxury brand. Even if that doesn't happen, a Hyundai-badged model above the current Genesis is certainly a possibility.
Get used to the level of camouflage you see on this 2010 Jaguar XJ. It's a growing trend among manufacturers who are hellbent on keeping their designs hidden.
Still, it's pretty obvious that this XJ will be a drastic departure from the current model. Jaguar has apparently given up on its traditional "long and lean" look in favor of a wider, more substantial design. It won't be long until we find out for sure as the 2010 Jaguar XJ is scheduled for an official debut in early July.
F1 star Kimi Raikkonen walked out of a Ferrari dealer on Thursday to find a parking ticket on his Ferrari 612, and the video cameras were there to capture the drama. Only there was none. The Ferrari factory driver climbed into his high dollar ride without a word and drove off.
And so the question is, which would you rather: Kimi's 612 or that awesome old school California?
Fresh off a mid-cycle update for 2009, the Porsche Boxster is already well into the development phase of the fully redesigned 2011 model. Seen here lapping the Nurburgring and ripping through the German countryside, this Boxster looks and sounds much like the current model.
There was a rumor circulating late last year that Porsche might be considering a turbocharged, four-cylinder powerplant as the base engine for the next Boxster. This prototype certainly doesn't sound like it's a four-cylinder, but that doesn't rule out the possibility in the future. After all, Porsche has to meet the same fuel economy regulations that everybody else does.
They should have named it k-Drive or something, because BMW's new iDrive is a big departure from previous iterations of this navigation controller. BMW has transformed iDrive from the butt of automotive jokes into a useful tool to access in-vehicle navigation, entertainment, and vehicle settings.
Preliminary reports suggested that the new iDrive's major improvement was the addition of switches on the periphery of the rotary controller, in a similar fashion as Audi's MMI. But these switches are the least of its accomplishments. The new iDrive's excellent usability and screen flow are the big stories.
Our shooters in Germany finally caught a glimpse of the 2011 BMW 6 Series. Sporting a soft convertible top and BMW's now trademark camouflage swirls, the big coupe looks as though it's sticking with its current shape and size.
A good thing? We'll reserve judgment on the styling at this point. For now, we'll be content just listening to this early prototype running the Nurburgring as it sounds quite healthy. And let's face it, the 6 Series needs a healthy motor to move that much weight around.
The 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class sedans will cost substantially less than their 2009 counterparts according to a report in Automotive News. In order to bring the new sedans closer to its traditional transaction prices, Mercedes-Benz reduced the base price of the E350 sedan by $4,600 to $49,475. The base E550 sedan gets a $5,400 price cut to $57,175.
The new 2010 E-Class Coupes, which replace the current CLK Coupes, get only minor reductions in price. The base E350 coupe will start at $48,925 while the E550 coupe will start at $55,525.
A diesel-powered E350 sedan is slated to arrive next March followed by a wagon in June and a convertible around the same time.
With the 2009 Q5, Audi has introduced its next-generation MMI (Multi-media Interface).
Although it has always been a good system, MMI now features some improvements that improve the setup's user friendliness. We take an in-depth look at the new features to see just how far Audi has come.
We've been skeptical of the Tesla Model S sedan since day one. It promises the world, but the engineering behind it is still very much a work in progress.
You wouldn't know it from listening to Tesla CEO Elon Musk, however, as he's touted the car as if it's a finished product. He got a nice plug on Letterman recently, and is once again taking the Model S on tour to drum up business.
Not everyone is convinced. Dan Neil from the Los Angeles Times recently got some seat time in the Model S and was hardly overwhelmed.
Our crack team of engineers put our long-term 2009 BMW 750i on a dynomometer recently to see just how much power the big Bimmer's twin turbo V8 produces. It's rated from the factory at 400-horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque, but as several dyno runs confirmed, it's probably makes a bit more than that at the crank.
The upcoming 2010 BMW X1 was spotted recently during filming of a commercial. Not surprisingly, it looks much like the X1 concept that was shown at the 2008 Paris Auto Show last fall.
We were hoping for some measure of improvement in the styling department. As is, the BMW X1 isn't really giving us to much to get excited about. We'll see how it looks when it shows up in the States this fall.
Inside Line tests hundreds of vehicles a year, but not every vehicle gets a full write-up. The numbers still tell a story, though, so we're running a feature on Straightline called "IL Track Tested." It's a quick rundown of all the data we collected at the track, along with comments direct from the test drivers. Enjoy.
Don't get bent out of shape just yet. We know this isn't exactly a fair fight. The BMW M3 sedan requires a whole G6-worth of extra cash to bring it home, but hear us out. This is less of heads-up battle than it is a look at how much the extra $25K gets you when it comes to performance sedans.
With the soon-to-be-defunct G8 GXP, spending $42,000 puts you in one of the best Pontiac muscle cars ever. It's a missile in a straight line and surprising capable when you throw it around a little. Doesn't look half bad either.
The BMW M3 is a legend, and for good reason. It takes what is arguably the best sports sedan ever and turns it up three or four notches. That includes the price, however, and now that it's well into the $60s, we can't help but wonder if it's really worth the cash.
Disregard the number on their stickers and these cars aren't so far apart. Both have V8s up front and six-speed transmissions that send over 400 horsepower to their rear wheels. The bigger Pontiac weighs a little more, but its V8 levels the playing field with an extra 120 pound-feet of torque.
So is the BMW $25k faster? Or is the Pontiac the smart buy here? Check out the numbers and decide for yourself.
Now anybody can sit around agonizing over which wheels to order on their new Porsche Panamera Turbo. A well-built configurator is now live on Porsche's Web site and it provides a good look at all the various options available for the new Porsche sedan.
You want your Panamera in purple (that's Amethyst Metallic) or maybe a nice sea foam green? Check out the two-tone interior colors, too, they're a much better idea than the "special" exterior colors.
Tesla will continue its public relations blitz for its proposed sedan with an appearance on The Late Show with David Letterman tomorrow night. A noted car enthusiast, Letterman has never had any vehicles on the show because regulations don't allow internal combustion engines inside the studio.
Tesla has been showing off a concept version of the Model S sedan in hopes of spurring interest that might help the company secure government funding to complete the project. Just last month, company CEO Elon Musk said he was close to finding a plant to build the Model S in Southern California.
Yesterday, the District blog posted information that suggests Tesla may be angling for some space at the former Boeing assembly plant in Long Beach, California. Tesla wouldn't confirm the report.
BMW announced pricing for the 2010 X5 M and X6 M today, and as we expected they are sickenly expensive. As in, we'll never be able to afford them expensive.
The 2010 BMW X5 M will run you a cool $86,255 while the X6 M will command a slight premium of $89,725 for its oddness.
After far too many "teasers" of its upcoming supercar, Aston Martin will finally unveil a complete One-77 Concept at the Concorso d'Eleganza on the shores of Lake Como, Italy.
The all-aluminum sports car most recently appeared at the 2009 Geneva Auto Show, but only its stripped-down chassis and an exterior styling buck were on display. Aston Martin promises a complete interior and running drivetrain this time around.
Power will come from a 7.3-liter V12 with at least 700 horsepower, says Aston Martin. A paddle-shifted sequential transmission will handle the shifting. Aston expects a 0-60-mph time of around 3.5 seconds and a top speed over 200 mph.
Porsche engineers told Inside Line that an RS version of the latest GT3 is definitely in the works. It will arrive in Europe later this year as a 2010 model. The U.S. version will take a bit longer, more like early next year as a 2011.
The talkative engineers also gave us one more bit of interesting information. Remember that 911 prototype that was spotted on the Nurburgring with the huge fixed wing stuck to its rear end?
Well, turns out that was just another 998 prototype. The engineers thought it would be amusing to see what kind of speculation it generated. See, those Germans aren't so stuffy after all.
At this point we've seen the upcoming Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG in the flesh, but never completely uncovered. These latest shots reveal more exterior detail than ever before and it's looking quite promising.
The shapes of the greenhouse and nose section are clearly visible now and they both show clear signs of the SLS's retro-inspired design. Smaller details like the headlights, drilled brake rotors and vents holes in the front quarter panels add a few more clues to the look of the final design.
This is an occasional series on vehicles that don't get the credit they deserve. Whether it's poor advertising, no advertising or the simple fact that it's hard to appreciate them until you're behind the wheel, these vehicles often fly under the radar of many enthusiasts.
Not very had to figure out why this vehicle doesn't get much attention. The ML is the Mercedes-Benz you buy for your wife. It was born of the SUV boom of the late '90s and is your basic family truckster dressed in Mercedes leather and chrome.
When it receives the AMG treatment, however, it becomes something else entirely. It gets a more muscular stance, bitchin' wheels, a tasteful body kit and of course, the big honking 6.2-liter V8 up front.
Such upgrades aren't always a recipe for success, but in the ML63 they work. Whatever domestication it had before is wiped away by the burbling exhaust, instant torque and tight suspension. It rips corners and pops off full-throttle upshifts that snap your head back.
It'll hit 60 mph in less than 5 seconds and pull low 13s in the quarter-mile. In other words, it can hang with all those fancy new American muscle cars hitting the streets these days.
All that and this ML is still big enough and comfortable enough to drive the kids to school everyday. If we could afford to drop $90K on an SUV, the ML63 AMG would be high on our list.
U.S. Attorneys have charged the owners of a New York Bentley and Aston Martin dealership with corporate espionage after discovering they had tapped into the email network of a rival Ferrari and Maserati dealership.
According to Bloomberg, Giacomo Ciaccia and Leka Vuksanaj, the co-owners of Universal Autosports LLC,were former employees of the Ferrari dealership. A third man, Michael Lussos, listed as the Creative Director of Universal Autosports, helped to set up the email system for the Ferrari dealership.
Investigators discovered that the Ferrari dealership's email were being forwarded to an outside account. In some instances, Universal Auto sport attempted to use the information to thwart potential sales by contacting customers directly. The three men each face up to five years in jail and a fine of $250,000.
Audi of America will drop use of the Volkswagen-derived, narrow-angle VR6 six-cylinder engine for the 2010 model year.
The engine, which dates back to the '90s VW Corrado/Passat days, has grown to 3.2-liters over the years and produced 250 horsepower in the 2009 TT and A3. But the VR6 doesn't use direct-injection like Audi's newer engines (2.0T and 3.2 V6). The company will also drop the front-drive 2.0-liter turbo TT.
The company will also limit use of its more conventionally arranged 3.2-liter V6. The 265-hp V6 will no longer be available in the A4 sedan. Almost all A4s will be powered by the 2.0 turbo. The S4, that arrives later this year, will be the step up engine in the line. It will use the supercharged 3.0-liter that's just gone into the A6. It will be available in the A5 coupe, but only with the automatic transmission. In other A5 news, the ubiquitous 2.0T will be offered as the base engine in the two-door.
And you better get your order in for your V-10-powered S8 super-sedan soon because that model will be discontinued for the 2010 model year. The S6 carries on with the Lambo-sourced V10 and so does the R8 5.2 V10 which also arrives in the U.S. as a 2010 vehicle. And the range-topping, black-tie-wearing A8 W12 is dead too. Not a big surprise given that the car sold only about 100 units last year (no, we didn't forget a zero in that number).
So how did Porsche get its new Panamera up to the 94th floor of the Shanghai World Financial Center for the sedan's world debut? By the collective will of the Communist people of course. Oh, and one particularly large freight elevator helped too.
Oh come on, you weren't expecting anything else from the next-generation 2011 Porsche 911 were you? It has looked this way for decades, so no matter how extensive the mechanical changes are to the 998-series of this classic sportscar, it's always going to look familiar on the outside.
More info and video of this prototype on the Nurburgring after the jump.
Prior to today's announcement at the Shanghai Auto Show, the Rolls-Royce Ghost was called everything from the "baby Phantom" to RR4 to 200EX. Now it has a proper name from the Rolls-Royce history books, one that makes it sound all wispy and athletic.
Don't be fooled, though, this sedan still measures 212-inches nose-to-tail, a good 7-inches longer than a Mercedes-Benz S Class, and it will use a 6.6-liter, turbocharged V12 under its hood. Production is expected to start at Goodwood later this year.
Jaguar used the 2009 Shanghai auto show to announce details on the upcoming 2010 XJ sedan. It will debut this summer in London on July 9th and go on sale in some markets by the end of this year.
A second-generation of Jaguar's aluminum chassis will underpin the new flagship and both standard and long-wheelbase models will be offered. Engines will range from a V6 diesel to the 510-horsepower supercharged V8 already shown in the XFR sedan.
Does this vehicle make any sense? In one way, yes it does. Escalades drink considerable amounts of gas, so even knocking a mere 10% off that amount results in some real world fuel savings.
Is it enough to make a difference to your bottom line? Not really. Then again, Escalades have never really been about value. This is an SUV that's all about image, and when it comes to that category, combining a luxury vehicle with a hybrid drivetrain could be a stoke of genius.
BMW has come up with a new scheme to make even more money, and it is quite brilliant.
Currently, new BMW's are covered for 4 years or 50,000 miles when it comes to maintenance. That includes everything from brake pads and wiper blades to oil changes, but not fuel or tires.
Naturally, customers get used to this kind of carefree ownership, so why not offer them the chance to continue such a privileged existence? For a fee naturally.
Yes, for a mere $1,395 to $2,995 depending on the model, owners can extend the covered maintenance period to 6 years or 100,000 miles from the car's original in-service date. It's transferable and offered to any BMW still in the first five years or 60,000 miles of its service life.
A good deal? Probably not, at least in terms of money saved, but there is some undeniable satisfaction in knowing that you won't have to pay anything additional for the first six years of ownership, if you're into that kind of thing.
You may have seen the findings of an IIHS report released earlier this week. It showed the shocking truth behind collisions between vehicles of different sizes. The conclusion? The bigger one wins. To see for yourself, watch the video below.
Poor Bernie. It's bad enough they sent him to jail and took his Manhattan penthouse away, but now trustees are going after a vintage Aston Martin purchased last year. According to the New York Times, the car in question is a 1964 Aston Martin DB2/4 (stock photo above).
Of course, if you ask anybody who knows Astons, such a car does not exist as the DB2/4 was built between October of 1953 and October of 1955. We suspect the folks liquidating Mr. Madoff's assets incorrectly labeled it a '64 instead of say, a '54.
Remember the Ferrari 599GTB that D-list celebrity Fabio smashed up over the weekend. Well, it turns out that the owners of the car, World Class Driving, were not too happy with Mr. Fabio's assertion that the car's "brakes gave out" causing the crash.
It has now issued an official statement, "After preliminary investigation, World Class Driving found the car was in excellent working condition prior to the incident and that brake failure was not an issue. The car in question also has computer data logging that is in the process of being checked to determine what caused the incident."
Checking the black box? We predict healthy amounts of throttle and steering input prior to the crash.
Maybe you've seen pictures of the 2010 Audi RS5 before. The prototypes were caught roaming around the California desert in varying degrees of camouflage last summer. But other than indicating that the program was indeed proceeding, the cobbled-together test mules didn't expose any details.
Now the RS5 is undergoing high-speed testing on the Nurburgring, and the prototypes look a little more finished. Our spy video also gives us our first chance to hear the high-performance coupe, and it delivers a good hint at what's under the hood.
Lexus has introduced a new navigation controller in the 2010 RX crossover, and it might be the most advanced human machine interface (HMI) controller yet. Called Lexus Remote Touch, it's the first controller to deviate from the rotary-type paradigm that we've seen in Audi MMI and BMW iDrive. Remote Touch instead mimics the computer mouse, and it's the first controller both to have user-adjustable haptic feedback and the first to have this feedback on two spatial axes.
If you're a numbers guy the 2009 Bentley Continental GTC Speed can impress with many of spec. Six-hundred horsepower W12 engine, 200 mph top speed (195 if you leave the top down), zero-to-60 in 4.6 seconds and 60-to-zero braking in 104 feet (possibly the most impressive number when you consider its 5,600-pound curb weight). Finally, for those boorish types who require such data, it's hard to ignore the GTC Speed's $240,000 price tag.
Used by permission of the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. All rights reserved
First it was the addition of the LeMons class to Pebble Beach, and now comes the first ever motorcycle class at the Pebble Beach Concours.
"International interest in collecting classic motorcycles is on the rise, and we want to celebrate them and do all we can to support their preservation and restoration," said Sandra Kasky Button, Chairman of the Pebble Beach Concours.
This year's class will focus on British-built motorcycles built before 1959. Two legendary Vincent HRD V-Twins are expected to show up -- the famed 1947 works racing machine known as "Gunga Din" and a 1948 bike built for US sportsman John Edgar and often nicknamed the "Bathing Suit Bike" due to the scant attire of its primary rider, Roland "Rollie" Free.
The Pebble Beach Concours is scheduled to run Aug. 16th at the Pebble Pebble Beach golf course on the Monterey Peninsula.
Inside Line tests hundreds of vehicles a year, but not every vehicle gets a full write-up. The numbers still tell a story, though, so we're running a feature on Straightline called "IL Track Tested." It's a quick rundown of all the data we collected at the track, along with comments direct from the test drivers. Enjoy.
These are the big guns from BMW and Mercedes-Benz. Well, not the biggest guns, but with prices near or above the $100,000 range, they're big enough. The BMW 750Li is all-new for 2009 and looking better than ever. Its 400-horsepower twin-turbo V8 makes it the closest thing to a "Motorsport" 7 Series we have ever seen. The Mercedes-Benz S550 is getting a face-lift next year, but the current model has held up well. And with a 382-horsepower V8 of its own, it doesn't give up much to the new BMW.
One look at the track numbers and you'll be amazed what these 2.25-ton sedans can do. From 13-second quarter-mile sprints to 110-foot stops from 60 mph, these two sedans are perfect examples of what can be accomplished when money is no object. Full details after the jump.
The 2009 Mercedes-Benz C300 Luxury 4Matic ($47,430 as tested) is a rolling example of this recent quandary. While the sedan's smooth ride and sumptuous interior definitely let you know you're not driving, say, a Kia Spectra, aspects of the in-cabin tech at times made me wish I was in a Kia Soul.
Does the 2010 Cadillac SRX even have a chance here? That's the question Senior Editor Dan Pund attempts to answer after noting that the new SRX was designed to go heads up with the segment -leading Lexus RX.
He was impressed by the ride quality of the base model, but found that the optional 20-inch wheels made the ride a little more jarring than necessary. The base V6 is a little short on torque, but solid on mileage. And if you like the interior styling of the current CTS, the SRX will suit you just fine.
This is the first official image of the 2010 Aston Martin Rapide. Now set for a debut at the 2009 Frankfurt Auto Show in September, the four-door Aston Martin is expected to go on sale early next year.
The Rapide will be powered by Aston's 6.0-liter V12, delivering 470 horsepower and 443 pound-feet of torque and mated to a Touchtronic automatic gearbox.
Actually, he called Randall Stross "a huge douche bag" first, then called him an idiot. Why?
Turns out Mr. Stross, a business professor at San Jose State University, wrote a column in the New York Times that was critical of the idea that Tesla should receive government loans. He likens it to a bail out for millionaire investors while taxpayers get nothing in return.
Whether you agree with him or not, it's a legitimate topic of discussion. Musk's response seems oddly harsh and a bit shortsighted. After all, he's the one taking deposits for the Model S, a car that is nothing but a concept at this point. Should its development get delayed of even canceled for lack of money, Mr. Musk is going to be the one looking like an idiot - or worse.
Sales of BMW's 335d sedan and xDrive 35d are off to a slow start. According to Edmunds.com data, the 335d comprises about 1% of current 3 Series sales while the xDrive 35d is only slightly better at roughly 7-8% of X5 sales.
According to a report in Automotive News, BMW only expects to sell about 3,000 diesel models total this year. BMW of North America CEO Jim O'Donnell told the industry trade paper that sales "haven't taken off" largely because the brand hasn't advertised them much.
Volkswagen is having much better luck with its Jetta TDI model. The diesel models currently make up 30% of sedan sales and 50% of Jetta wagon sales. The company is expecting similar results for its upcoming sixth-generation Golf TDI that will go on sale later this year.
Looks like Fabio's driving skills are as keenly honed as his taste in hairstyles. According to TMZ, he put this Ferrari 599 into a guardrail on Mulholland Highway, just above the Rock Store judging by the photo.
Luckily for Mr. Fabio, the car wasn't his. He was just borrowing it from World Class Driving, an exotic car club that rents out supercars by the day. A representative for World Class Driving told TMZ, "We are not very proud of the fact that Fabio wrecked our car." If it were Tom Cruise would they be "proud"?
Is the 2009 Audi Q5 a useful utility vehicle, or nothing more than a shrunken Q7? Executive Editor Michael Jordan takes a closer look at this new luxury SUV in our first full test of Audi's newest midsize crossover.
#NYIAS Mercedes gave a quick introduction to the Vision E250 Bluetec sedan yesterday in New York. We took a quick photo. By today, the diesel Benz concept was gone, already whisked off for the Shanghai auto show.
"Vision" is somewhat of a misnomer, because the E250 isn't really a concept. A version of this car, the E250 CDI, is already part of the 2010 E-Class lineup in Europe. But the "Bluetec" indicates the car now has an AdBlue urea tank in back, allowing it to meet Europe's more stringent EU 6 emission standard that goes into effect in 2014. Compared to the current EU 5 standard, this requires a significant cut in NOx emissions.The urea injections would also allow the Mercedes-Benz E250 to get 50-state certification here.
Who's going to buy a four-cylinder diesel E-Class? You are. Consider that the Vision E250 Bluetec has a 2.1-liter turbodiesel four (or 2.2 liters, according to Benz, but displacement is only 2,143cc) good for 204 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque from 1,600-1,800 rpm. That's not much less than the 210 hp and 400 lb-ft in our current E320 Bluetec, and the E250 would be cheaper, Mercedes officials tell us.
Estimated fuel economy ratings on the U.S. test cycle are an incredible 28 mpg city/39 mpg highway -- vastly better than the E320 Bluetec, rated at 23/32.
Mercedes has not yet made a decision about whether to import a production E250 Bluetec, but if it came here, it would replace the diesel E320. This diesel is also under consideration for the GLK. -- Erin Riches, Senior Editor
#NYIAS We have always thought that the standard GMC Yukon Hybrid was a little down market. Sure it carries a base price of nearly $51,000, but for that price you only get so much chrome for your dollar.
Thankfully, this year's New York auto show saw the introduction of the 2009 GMC Yukon Denali Hybrid. For a mere $59,185, you can ride high on chrome 22s and in ventilated leather seats while showing your commitment to conserving our natural resources. Now that's professional grade. -- Ed Hellwig, Lead Senior Editor, Inside Line
#NYIAS Can you tell this is the 2010 Land Rover Range Rover? If so, congratulations. You know way too much about Land Rovers.
Most of the changes are underneath the hood, as this refreshed Rover gets the same 5.0-liter V8 first shown in Jaguar's XF sedan and XK coupe. It's a modest upgrade for a vehicle that didn't really need it.
The interior gets a new digital gauge cluster, along with even more optional leather trim. For full details on this year's refresh of Land Rover's flagship, see our full story on the 2010 Land Rover Range Rover. -- Ed Hellwig, Lead Senior Editor
And it turns out that the X5 M has the same 20-inch wheels as the X6 M. Similarly, the front seating areas are indistinguishable. So as on the non-Motorsport versions, the differences come down to sheet metal, seat count and cargo capacity. You already know our preference.
#NYIAS For more than a year, there have been unending rumors of an Infiniti-badged, Nissan GT-R-powered sedan. The car was said to be an all-wheel-drive flagship for the luxury brand, powered by the same twin-turbo V6 used in Nissan's supercar.
Then Infiniti showed the GT-R-powered Essence concept at the Geneva show, and the rumors fired up again. Word was that the sedan plan was dead and the new flagship was to be an Essense-like coupe with GT-R power.
Well, today Inside Line has learned that both plans have hit the trash can. Infiniti has decided that a high-powered flagship is just not what it needs right now. Not at a time when S-Class and 7 Series sales are way down.
"It's fair to say that there's nothing in the product plan for an Infiniti flagship right now," Brian Carolin, Nissan's Senior VP of Sales and Marketing, told IL. "It's just not a priority in today's climate."
"Our dealers would rather have something with more volume," he continued. Twelve months ago they would have said yes; now it's way down on their wish list." -- Scott Oldham, Inside Line Editor in Chief
#NYAIS I just spent a couple of hours crawling in and around a Mercedes SLS AMG prototype. The interior was finished, but the outside wore much of the same camouflage as the cars we've seen running around the Nurburgring for months (notice the black tape on the red car above). Photos were not allowed, nor could we open the hood or trunk, but everything else was fair game.
Now we've already published a number of stories on this car, so learning new info with such restrictions wasn't easy. Here's the new stuff we walked away with:
At $273,295, the Supersports is the most expensive Continental coupe by a wide margin. For the extra cash, you get unique bodywork, a 621-hp version of the standard twin-turbo W12 and carbon-fiber brake rotors.
Oh, and starting in 2010, the Supersports will be capable of running on ethanol. We hear it's finally going to catch on big next year. -- Ed Hellwig, Lead Senior Editor, Inside Line
It might be a little premature to be looking past the Mercedes SLS AMG since it won't even hit the road for another year, but today, more than one AMG insider confirmed that a convertible version of the gullwinged supercar will follow it to the market. Of course, it won't have the dramatic gullwing doors of the coupe, but it will get a power-retracting soft top like the one Mercedes used on the SLR.
Cost? We're almost afraid to ask, but it'll make the expected $250,000 price of the coupe look like Tic Tac money.
Look for it to top the Mercedes range in about two years. -- Scott Oldham, Inside Line Editor in Chief
Lexus finally has some competition in the luxury hybrid game, or will starting this summer. The 2010 Mercedes-Benz S400 joins the refreshed S-Class lineup as the company's first production hybrid vehicle. Its drivetrain consists of a V6 gas engine coupled with a 20-hp electric motor powered by lithium-ion batteries. Mercedes-Benz claims 29 mpg in combined driving.
#NYIAS For a vehicle that many thought was completely unnecessary, the Range Rover Sport has done quite well for Land Rover. And there's no reason that success won't continue with the 2010 Land Rover Range Rover Sport as it gets a new set of engines and enough minor upgrades to keep it fresh against new competition. Most importantly, Land Rover didn't fuss with the Sport's distinctive styling. For more details, see our full story on this hot rod Range Rover.
#NYIAS The name change says "all-new," but this is really a heavily revised version of the current LR3. An all-new 5.0-liter V8 is the big news for the 2010 Land Rover LR4. First introduced in Jaguar's latest sedans, the new V8 produces 375 horsepower and 375 pound-feet of torque. A revised suspension, new brakes and minor styling upgrades are also part of the 2010 LR4. For a more detailed description, see our full story.
#NYIAS Don't feel left out if you don't notice the changes to the 2010 Land Rover Range Rover. Like the Range Rover itself, the upgrades are subtle. In fact, the biggest news is under the hood, so even Land Rover purists would have a tough time spotting the differences.
Like the rest of Land Rover's 2010 lineup, this new Range Rover gets the same 5.0-liter V8s first introduced in the latest Jaguar coupes and sedans. Available in both standard and supercharged versions, the newly modernized eight-cylinder provides Land Rover's top-range model with the kind of horsepower and refinement you expect for the big money it commands. See our full story for the rest of the details.
Why muck up your GranTurismo daily driver when you can have a dedicated track car like the GranTurismo MC? Designed to compete in the GT4 European Cup class, the GranTurismo MC uses the same 4.7-liter V8 as the production GranTurismo S. Revised engine mapping bumps output to 450-horsepower while the chassis has been stiffened and race-grade brakes installed. A full roll cage and racing slicks are also part of the package.
And the cost? A mere 135,000 Euros. Just call Maserati Corse and they'll arrange pickup of the money. We're sure you'll get a car eventually.
Audi officials have told Inside Line that the much anticipated R8 convertible is on the way, but not until next year. Prototypes caught testing last summer showed R8s with a full convertible top, a feature that product planners in the U.S. preferred over a less complicated targa setup. "We fought for a full convertible instead of smaller targa roof," an official from Audi USA told Inside Line.
The extended time frame will allow for more time between the launch of the convertible and the V10-powered R8 5.2 FSI Quattro. There was some initial hesitation from Audi USA regarding Stateside sales of that model, but it has now been confirmed for arrival later this year. And will the V10 fit with the convertible top? "Yes, it all fits," the Audi official told us.
#NYIAS This is it, the most powerful SUV BMW has ever built. Actually, the 2010 BMW X6 M is officially called a Sport Activity Coupe, but we know better than to fall for that nomenclature.
We also know that it has a ton of motor thanks to a more powerful version of the twin turbo 4.4-liter V8 offered in the standard X6. Does 555-horsepower interest you? Check out our full story for the rest of the specs on this rival to the Porsche Cayenne Turbo S.
The car is a lot more complicated electronic device than any iPod you can imagine. When you're behind the steering wheel, there's a lot of stuff on the menu: ventilation controls, audio entertainment options, navigation system, calibrations for the powertrain and chassis. It's no wonder that car designers have been trying to figure out what to do about operating all this stuff.
Designers have long recognized that a simple touch-panel display possesses superior Human Machine Interface (HMI) qualities, yet they continue to seek a more elegant solution than the customary computer screen jammed in the middle of the dashboard. This is what led BMW to bring us iDrive in 2001, followed subsequently by Audi's MMI and Mercedes-Benz's COMAND. Now even Lexus is headed down this route to the remote-control device, replacing its widely admired touch-panel display with its Remote Touch interface for the 2010 Lexus RX.
After dropping teaser shots a couple of weeks ago, Acura has now confirmed the name for the new crossover it will unveil at the 2009 New York Auto Show: ZDX. Acura is still calling it a prototype, but given that it goes on sale this fall there won't be too many changes.
"The ZDX prototype is unlike anything you have ever seen before from Acura," said Jeff Conrad, vice president, Acura sales. "The prototype showcases a new level of luxury, style and refinement for Acura and speaks volumes towards our commitment to advancing the brand."
Long rumored and somewhat grudgingly anticipated, the 2010 BMW X6 M will finally make its world debut at the 2009 New York Auto Show in April.
No BMW SUV has ever officially carried a Motorsport badge and many of the engineers within the company thought that was a good thing. "The Motorsport badge is reserved for our sportiest vehicles, and that doesn't include SUVs," they would say.
Apparently those guys got fired because BMW officially announced the imminent debut of the high-performance X6. Other than noting that the X6 M "will utilize several new engine, drivetrain, and suspension technologies," BMW didn't disclose any details. Look for more info April 4.
The Tesla Model S sedan made its world debut today at Elon Musk's Space X facility in Hawthorne, CA.
In addition to announcing various details on the car, Musk reiterated his confidence in the eventual success of the program. "I have zero doubt that this car will be manufactured," Musk told the assembled press.
Here's a basic rundown of the details that Musk divulged during his questions and answer sessions with reporters:
- Range: approximately 300 miles - Fast charge capability: 45 minutes - Battery pack can be swapped out in less time that it takes to fill a typical gas tank - 0-to-60mph in less than 6.0-seconds. Top speed: 135mph - Approximate weight: 4,000 pounds - Aluminum body panels - Single speed transmission - 7-passenger capacity via two rear-facing seats in the cargo area - Cost: $49,900 after federal tax credit
Digg founder Kevin Rose posted these images of what look like the Tesla Model S sedan on his Flickr account this morning. An official reveal is scheduled for later today in Hawthorne, CA.
We'll have full coverage from the event, but until then this is all we know.
Since 3,000 square feet of living space isn't enough of a draw these days, the building under construction at 200 Eleventh Ave in New York City is offering Sky Garages as an added enticement.
As the video after the jump shows, the Sky Garage is nothing more than an apartment-level garage space accessed by a glorified freight elevator. Still, it sure beats an underground lot, provided you don't drive an F-350 dually.
Not only is the Tokyo show still on, but Toyota is gearing up to make it worthwhile with a couple big debuts. Sources have told Inside Line that a final production version of the LF-A supercar will finally make an appearance along with the long-rumored collaboration with Subaru.
With rumors flying that the Estoque was DOA, Lamborghini issued a press release to clarify the situation.
Turns out, no official decision has been made as the car is still being studied for production. Inside Line correspondent Matt Davis was with Lamborghini officials at the launch of LP560-4 Gallardo Spyder and got the inside scoop on the story behind the Estoque.
Teased at the 2009 Geneva Auto Show in the Essence concept, Infiniti's hybrid drivetrain will make its production debut in the M sedan next year. The system will combine a V6 and an electric motor powered by lithium-ion batteries.
After showing the 200EX concept in Geneva, Rolls-Royce is now trickling out details on the production version of its upcoming sedan.
Power will come from an all-new turbocharged 6.6-liter V12 with over 500-horsepower. The engine is unique to Rolls-Royce and will use an eight-speed automatic transmission from ZF.
According to Rolls-Royce CEO Tom Purves, "RR4 will deliver an authentic Rolls-Royce experience to owners, so expect peerless comfort and build quality. However, we have consciously engineered this car to be more involving and dynamic for those owners around the world that will wish to drive it themselves."
Porsche recently invited journalists to see its new Panamera sedan first hand at its Weissach research facility. No one was able to get behind the wheel, but Porsche did offer rides in the back seat. Our own Director of Testing Dan Edmunds pulled out his camera to get a shaky video of the experience. See for yourself after the jump.
Leave it to BMW to come up with a naming convention as nonsensical as sDrive35i. Clearly it means a rear-wheel drive roadster with a 3.0-liter turbocharged engine, but it doesn't really roll off the tongue now does it?
Beyond the new name, the 2009 Z4 has also been given a much more serious look, one that BMW hopes will put it in the same league as the Porsche Boxster. Does it stand a chance of getting the attention of serious enthusiast buyers looking for something with a hardtop? That's the question Chief Road Test Editor Chris Walton set out to answer in our latest first drive.
J.D. Power's latest dependability study, which surveys the first three years of ownership, says Buick and Jaguar owners experience the fewest problems. Lexus, Toyota and Mercury rounded out the top five.
The single most dependable model was the Lexus LS 430. Toyota had the most segment winners with five (Highlander, Prius, Sequoia, Solara and Tundra).
There were a few other interesting pieces of information contained in the report. The average age of a used vehicle trade-in has risen from 65 to 73 months in the last three years. J.D. Power also said that overall problems have decreased at a rate of 10% a year since the beginning of the study.
You probably already have WiFi in your house and at work, so why not complete the circle and get your car "connected", too? That's what Cadillac plans to offer on its CTS sedan starting in April.
The system is a $500 option and requires a $29-per-month subscription to maintain. It effectively turns the CTS into a wireless hotspot that delivers speeds up to 800Kbps according to Autonet Mobile which is supplying the system.
After our drive in the Infiniti G37 Convertible yesterday, we got the full download on its various specifications and features. Most of it was stuff we already knew, things like it gets unique sheetmetal from the A-pillars back, a steel retractable hardtop that closes in less than 30 seconds and a pop-up roll bars for safety.
One number we didn't know was the all important curb weight. Convertibles are always on the chunky side and the G37 is no exception. It tips the scales at 4,095 pounds, a 453 pound increase over the standard coupe. For comparison, a BMW 335i Convertible weighs in at 3,946 pounds.
Other notable changes: the rear suspension has been completely reworked to make room for the top. The result is a lower decklid and shorter overhang that helps to retain the same profile as the coupe. Because of the added complexity and weight, there will be no all-wheel drive version. The top itself is installed on a separate line at Nissan's Tochigi assembly plant, the same facility that assembles the GT-R.
Infiniti sources have told Inside Line that the next-generation QX56 will be built in Japan and will most likely switch to unibody construction.
The current suspension setup will be redesigned in favor of improved ride quality and handling instead of towing and hauling. Expect to see official information surface this fall.
Does this car look familiar? Grainy photos of it appeared prior to the Geneva Auto Show, but these are the first official pics of the Lamborghini Mucielago LP 650-4 Roadster.
Like virtually every Lamborghini these days, this is a limited edition (50) model. Only 50 will be built, and given its questionable grey and orange paintjob, 50 suddenly seems excessive.
Its 6.5-liter V12 produces 650-horsepower and 486 pound-feet of torque, enough to propel it from 0-to-62mph in 3.4 seconds according to Lamborghini.
Why bother discussing GT-R vs. ZR1 lap times with your buddies when you can brag about your own personal best lap time?
Because it's expensive you say?
Well, yes it is, but for those who can afford a trip to the AMG Driving Academy, it will be well worth the expense.
At least that's what our Director of Vehicle Testing Dan Edmunds says. He spent the better part of three days mastering Schwedenkreuz, Aremberg, Adenauer-Forst in an SL63 AMG. In the end, he was able to pull off a lap of 8:48.9, fast enough to secure bragging rights at track-side bench racing sessions for some time to come.
Think you're going to save money on gas with the 2010 Lexus RX 450h? Well, you are, technically, but the up-front cost will render it null and void for the first decade or so of ownership.
So what else is there to like about this new Lexus hybrid SUV? It's more engaging to drive than its predecessor and gets better mileage too. Engineering editor Jay Kavanagh also found the new Remote Touch driver interface quite useful. Then again, he was disappointed with the rear seat accommodations and Toyota parts-bin interior, so not all is perfect in the world of Lexus.
Land Rover hasn't come out and said it just yet, but a recent press release all but confirms a production version of the LRX concept shown in Detroit last year. The release was issued on account of the British government offering up help in the way of a roughly $32M grant for production of a new vehicle.
"We welcome the Government's support for this project, which would form a key part of our future product plans and which we very much want to put into production," said Phil Popham, Managing Director of Land Rover.
Don't have to read between the lines on that one very hard. The only confusion left now is how the vehicle will be positioned in the lineup. "It would be the smallest, lightest and most efficient Range Rover that we've ever built," Phil added. "The compact size, lighter weight and sustainability-focused technologies of the LRX Concept showed how Land Rover is planning to respond to the needs of a changing world."
Not sure what "smallest Range Rover" means, hopefully more than just a really expensive LR2.
Like so many luxury cars today, the 2010 Mercedes-Benz E550 is a technological powerhouse. Adaptive Highbeam Assist, Nightview Assist Plus, Attention Assist, PreSafe Braking -it's a long list of features that can easily overwhelm the fact that is fundamentally just a sedan, not a space station.
Senior Editor Dan Pund not only played with all the electronics recently, he actually drove the car too. And once he had sorted through all the buttons and assistants, he came to the conclusion that the 2010 E550 is still quite a nice car to drive, even if you do it all by yourself.
Apparently, the budget crisis in California isn't nearly as dire as we'd feared. Or, maybe it's a lot worse than anyone realizes and Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has fled to Switzerland.
Either way, we can't begrudge his taste: The 2010 Audi A5 and S5 Cabriolet are beautiful cars, and today at Geneva's Palexpo, Gov. Schwarzenegger sat in an S5 Cab. You can, too, come late 2009.
Is the Infiniti Essence concept the Nissan GT-R twin we've been hearing about for the last year or so? Hard to tell at this point.
Consider this statement from the product planner in charge of its development. "It isn't a teaser for a new model. It is solely dedicated to Infiniti brand promotion, to demonstrate and advocate the Infiniti unique values," said Francois Bancon.
Sounds pretty straightforward, right? Well, maybe, but according to the press kit this Infiniti concept also has a twin-turbocharged V6 under its hood that produces 434 horsepower. Not quite the size engine or horsepower as the GT-R, but close.
Oh, and as an added twist, the Essence is also a hybrid thanks to an electric motor sandwiched between the engine and transmission. It's powered by a lithium-ion battery pack in the trunk and is capable of delivering an additional 158 hp -- all of it going to the rear wheels.
So the Essence may not have all-wheel drive or a 3.8-liter V6, but with a combined 592 hp and rear-wheel drive, it would be quite the halo car for the Infiniti brand, not to mention one of the fastest cars ever to leave a Japanese assembly line.
So what do you think? Just a promotion for the Infiniti brand, or an early look at an Infiniti flagship? -- Ed Hellwig, Lead Senior Editor, Inside Line
As promised, Ferrari displayed a 599 GTB with its newly available Handling Gran Turismo Evoluzione (HGTE) package. That would be in addition to the roughly $300,000 base price of Ferrari's already capable GT.
Spending the extra cash will get you a stiffer rear antiroll bar, a lower ride height and revised calibrations when the magnetorheological dampers are set to their firmest settings. Stickier tires are also part of the package, along with a less restrictive exhaust.
There are a few electronic changes as well. Ferrari claims quicker shifts from the transmission and improved throttle response.
To make sure everybody around you knows that you didn't cheap out on a base model, the HGTE package also includes new 20-inch split-rim wheels, a matte-black rear diffuser and chrome exhaust tips. Interior upgrades are limited to carbon-fiber trim and Alcantara seat inserts. And like, say, a Corvette Z06, the seats are emblazoned with "Handling GTE" stitching. Nice. -- Ed Hellwig, Lead Senior Editor, Inside Line
We were hoping that the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo concept would be better-looking in person. It is not. Instead of growing on us, it kind of creeped us out the closer we looked. Not since the 7 Series from 2002 have we stared so long and appreciated so little.
Those proportions don't get any better when you're standing there in person and the interior is an odd mix of fabrics and colors that defy explanation. It doesn't even appear all that roomy in back either.
The unique dual hatch in back could be useful if the ceiling in your garage is less than 6 feet high. Otherwise, we don't see why you would use the smaller opening over the larger one.
It looks like there's a good chunk of space available, although according to BMW it's only 20.1 cubic feet with the rear seats slid forward. So yeah, it's barely bigger than the trunk of a large sedan, How innovative. -- Ed Hellwig, Lead Senior Editor, Inside Line
