9/29/2009

2010 Subaru Outback

Last year, the Forester SUV was completely retooled, and it has sold briskly. For 2010, the long-running Outback gets its overhaul, and it's a doozy.

The Outback has gone from a car-like station wagon to an SUV-like crossover, just like that. It's bigger in nearly every exterior and interior dimension, which resolves the issues past owners had with interior space and gives it a much more comfortable ride. It may not be as fun to drive as before, but it's a better family vehicle that still exudes ruggedness and foul-weather capability.

 2010 Subaru Outback

At first glance, the 2010 Outback — with its beefy dimensions, large grille and sharp-edged design — looks nothing like the previous model.

Sixteen-inch wheels are standard on the base 2.5i, with 17-inch alloys becoming standard on all other trim levels.

 2010 Subaru Outback

The layout of the dash has changed quite a bit, with the clock and trip computer raised to the top of the dash. They're still easy to read in direct sunlight. Below them rests a new stereo unit or optional navigation system. There are also convenient cubbies for cell phones, CDs or other items.

Overall, the materials are a step up from the previous model and stand up to most of the competition, but they still lag behind the relatively upscale Toyota Venza.

The most extreme alteration for the 2010 models is the interior's overall spaciousness. Anyone who sat in the old model knows it can be cramped, especially in the backseat. Subaru stretched the wheelbase of the 2010, adding nearly 4 inches of rear legroom.
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2010 Audi S4

2010 Audi S4

Audi lost the plot with the last generation S4. Unlike the twin-turbocharged V6-equipped B5, its B6 and B7 brethren did little to stoke the flames in our collective hearts. The "S" simply stood for, "I paid more for a bigger engine and some additional trim." Needless to say, that sort of behavior doesn't cut it when you're battling it out with one of the most competent sports sedan of the last decade: the BMW 335i.

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9/27/2009

Hyundai Genesis Coupe

Hyundai Genesis Coupe

The Hyundai Genesis Coupe has a strong presence - its lines are flowing, its stance promises power and a no-nonsense attitude. Large cut-outs in the front fascia facilitate engine breathing and dual exhaust tips are integrated into the rear fascia, giving it a finished look.

Hyundai Genesis Coupe Summary:

Year/Make/Model: 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe
Price as tested: $36,495
Trim level: 3.8 GT
Price range: $24,495 - $38,295
Freight: $1,565
Options: none
EnerGuide fuel economy ratings:12.0 L/100km city; 7.6 L/100km hwy
Observed fuel economy: 8.2 L/100 km combined over 978 km
Warranty: (basic)5 years/100,000 km
Warranty (powertrain): 5 years/100,000 km
Competitors: BMW 335i; Chevrolet Camaro; Dodge Challenger; Ford Mustang; Infiniti G37.
Strong Points - Weak Points - Outstanding performance
- great looks
- great price
- Harsh ride
- almost too-touchy steering

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2010 Fiat Panda Mini

2010 Fiat Panda Mini

Fiat Panda Mini receives subtle upgrades for the 2010 model year. On the outside, all 2010 model year Pandas adopt the more contemporary body colored grille found on the 4x2 and 4x4 Dynamic variants, new alloy wheel options, larger exterior mirrors and silver trim finish for the roof bars. Fiat has also added four new exterior colors to the lineup.

Inside, the instrument panel gets fresh graphics while there's also a new selection of upholstery colors.

Mechanical improvements are limited to the introduction of a new 69 horsepower 1.2-liter gasoline engine that emits 113g/km of CO2. In Europe, Panda buyers have a wide choice of gasoline, diesel, natural gas and LPG engines with outputs ranging from 54 to 100 horsepower.
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Hyundai To Skip Tokyo Motor Show

Hyundai Motor Co. has decided not to participate in the Tokyo Motor Show next month, apparently as part of its cost reduction strategy, it has been learned.

Hyundai has already notified the organizer about its withdrawal from the auto show, which will start on Oct. 24 at the Makuhari Messe convention hall in Chiba, organizers said.

This year, the American "Big Three" and other major foreign automakers have also announced their absence from the event. With only two overseas companies -- German carmaker Alpina and British sports car manufacturer Lotus -- taking part in the upcoming show, organizers fear that it will lack excitement.

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VW to Buy SsangYong Motor?

It appears Volkswagen isn’t busy enough with getting Porsche and being its sole owner. VW is now bent on taking over the South Korean automaker SsangYong Motor, which is operating under bankruptcy protection.

Months ago, SsangYong suffered a vicious strike when hundreds of workers decided to occupy a factory and shut down production entirely. Volkswagen has neither confirmed nor refuted the reports so far but it is believed that SAIC, the former SsangYong owner, collaborated with VW through the Shanghai VW joint venture.

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9/24/2009

2010 Alfa Romeo Mito MultiAir

The Mito is the first car in the Fiat Group to feature MultiAir engines and three variants of the 1.4-litre unit will be available. The only non-turbo option is a 104bhp model, while the turbocharged versions boast power outputs of 133- and 168bhp. The latter engine will power the new Mito Cloverleaf model - a likely rival for the Mini Cooper S.

2010 Alfa Romeo Mito MultiAir

Alfa's supermini has been on the market since 2008 and has been instrumental in the company's increase in sales at a time when most are nursing their economic wounds.

The 2010 model year updates are minor with tweaks to the gear lever and interior finish along with the steering, suspension and brakes. There's a new paint colour too. The big news, however, is the debut of an engine technology called MultiAir and with prices range: £10,995 to £14,995

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White 2010 TechArt Porsche 911 Carrera 4S

The TechArt Porsche 911 Carrera 4S comes with a striking exterior design, enhanced aerodynamics and performance characteristics in addition to a stylish and exclusive interior.

White 2010 TechArt Porsche 911 Carrera 4S

For the Porsche 911 Carrera 4S, TECHART has developed two versions of a new exhaust system, The Sport and Racing version. The “Sport” version, for instance, features two rear mufflers with an exhaust flap, an exhaust flap control unit in addition to double-oval tailpipes in a polished or black chromium finish.

White 2010 TechArt Porsche 911 Carrera 4S

The “Racing” version is also equipped with two stainless steel high-performance headers and a sports catalyst.

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2010 Nissan Versa Named 2009 Top Safety Picks

Congrat to 2010 Nissan Versa



The 2010 Nissan Versa and 2010 Buick LaCrosse have both been named 2009 Top Safety Picks by the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety.
To win the award, a vehicle must earn a “Good” rating, which is the highest, in all three of IIHS’ crash tests, which include frontal-offset, side-impact and rear crash tests. The vehicles also must have electronic stability control.

Stability control is optional in the Versa, so only models equipped with the option received the top rating. It’s standard on the LaCrosse.
Source

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2009 Nissan Cube

2009 Nissan Cube Exterior

2009 Nissan Cube

2009 Nissan Cube

MSRP: $13,990 (base)
Engine: 1.8L, 16-valve DOHC I-4
Power Rating: 122 hp, 127 lb-ft of torque
Configuration: front engine, front-wheel drive
Transmission: 6-speed manual; available CVT automatic
Curb Weight: 2,762 lbs (base)
Suspension: independent strut, anti-roll bar (front), torsion beam, anti-roll bar (rear)
Wheels: 15x6 steel wheels (base)
Tires: Toyo A20 (195/60hr15)
Brakes: 11-inch ventilated disc (front); 11-inch drum (rear)
EPA Fuel Economy (mpg): (mpg): 24 city, 29 highway (manual); 28 city, 30 highway (CVT)
Driving Impressions: Smooth and easy. Not particularly fast, but then again, that's not why you'd buy a Cube. If you're looking for speed, pray for another $10k in financing and get something else. If you're looking for something practical with a lot of cool, the Cube is for you.
Tunability: It shares the Versa platform so there ought to be some suspension carryover. But then again, how many fixed up Versas have you seen? The Cube's out in Japan so there's hope yet.

2009 Nissan Cube Interior
2009 Nissan Cube

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2010 Mazda CX-7



Mazda has a talent for making the most mundane car fun to drive, without sacrificing practicality or value. Nowhere is this more apparent than in the CX-7: the smaller of the automaker’s two crossover vehicles.

This year, the five-passenger CX-7 gets a new four-cylinder engine, available on the front-wheel drive models. While it lacks the power of the 2.3-liter turbo, the new engine delivers exceptional highway fuel economy, while maintaining enough low-end torque to satisfy the average commuter. During the test drive, my highway fuel economy exceeded the 28 mpg EPA estimate.

Drivers will immediately find value in convenience features such as the rear backup camera, digital information display, multiple power points and Bluetooth interface. But greater value lies beneath the car’s surface.



Quick facts:

Make: Mazda
Model: CX-7 i Sport
Year: 2010
Base price: $22,340
As tested: $25,990
Horsepower: 161 Hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque: 161 lbs.-ft. @ 3500 rpm
Zero-to-sixty: N/A
Antilock brakes: Standard
Side curtain airbags: Standard
First aid kit: Standard
Bicycle friendly: Yes
Off-road: No
Towing: No
Fuel economy: 20/28 mpg city/highway.
Source

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BMW's X1 Crossover Arrives in the U.S. in late 2010

BMW's X1 Crossover

Starting late next year, BMW Group will launch three crossovers within months of one another in the United States.

In the United States, the X1 will be powered by a six-cylinder gasoline engine and will be available in both front- and all-wheel drive. The X1 is 175.2 inches long--slightly longer than the 1 series--and can carry up to five passengers.

The X1 will be followed in early 2011 by a Mini crossover that debuted as a concept at last year's Paris auto show. That vehicle has not yet been named.

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Jaguar XJ Will Come Equipped With HD Radio

Jaguar XJ

The new Jaguar XJ will come equipped with HD Radio, one of a growing list of models to get the stereo system choice.

The feature is popular because it offers lots of channels like satellite without a subscription fee. Bit by bit, iBiquity, the developer of HD Radio Technology for AM and FM, has been picking off mostly luxury-car makers. It says besides Jag, its list of automakers offering factory-installed HD Radio either standard or as an option now includes BMW, Hyundai, Mercedes and Volvo. It also includes a couple of youth-oriented brands which are bought by customers who demand really good sound systems, BMW's Mini and Toyota's Scion.

In addition to the new XJ, the Jaguar XKR sports car and XFR sports sedan will also have HD Radio, just like the XK and XF, which have it now.
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BMW Green Supercar

BMW Green Supercar

BMW is reportedly studying the viability to built a true supercar for 30 years since its original, limited-edition M1 model, a "high ranking insider" at the firm insists management is trying to reinvent its performance image with a new 'green' supercar, with the ultimate goal to create a two-seater sports car that showcases all of firm’s most sophisticated environmental technology. A limited production run would be timed for release at the end of 2012.

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Chrysler Plans Facelifts

Chrysler

Chrysler and Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne is preparing to present his so-called Five Year Plan to the company's board on Friday. Part of the plan is to revamp five current Chrysler models by 2011, including the Chrysler Town & Country, Dodge Grand Caravan, Dodge Caliber, Jeep Compass, and Jeep Patriot. Products currently in the pipeline include the new Chrysler 300 and Jeep Grand Cherokee. The Fiat 500 minicar will bow in the U.S. in 2011.

A facelift usually takes two to three years to complete, but Marchionne is set on having the projects done within 18 months. To hurry the redesigns, engineers and designers are expected to put in as much overtime as needed to complete the task on schedule.

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9/23/2009

Frankfurt Motor Show

Mainstream debuts
Among the mainstream debuts, which totalled 82 world premieres on the first day, this year have been the brand new Vauxhall Astra, Ford's second generation C-Max, Kia's latest Ceed and all-new B-segment Venga. Mini also unveiled its Coupe Convertible and Raodster concepts which it confirmed will go into production at its plant in Cowley, Oxfordshire.

This year's main emphasis, however, has been on new generation electric and hybrid vehicles.

Electric warriors
Amost every manufacturer unveiled an electric car, from the intriguing Peugeot BB1 and Citroën REVOLTe, to the sporty Audi e-tron, while Renault promised that all four of its zero emission concepts were "in the production pipeline."

If they weren't unveiling electric cars, companies were unveiling hybrids or green sub-brands such as Kia's EcoDynamics - the name which will be applied to the most eco-friendly cars within each Kia model range, all around the world.

With so many cars announced before the show, there were few major surprises. Audi just about managed to keep the lid on the e-tron.

Audi says the e-tron is a clear indication that it will develop an electric car and it's likely to be a sports car. VW's L1 was also closely guarded and highly radical.

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Daihatsu Boon Luminas 2009 White Color Bodykit

Daihatsu Boon Luminas 2009 White Color Bodykit



Such a pretty car

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9/17/2009

Nissan Rogue Crossover's Price

Nissan North America, Inc. has announced pricing for the 2010 Nissan Rogue Crossover SUV, which is on sale at Nissan retailers nationwide. The 2010 Nissan Rogue is offered in four high-mileage models, each equipped with a standard 170-horsepower 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine, Nissan's advanced Xtronic Continuously Variable Transmission, Vehicle Dynamic Control, 4-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock braking system and six air bags.

The manufacturer's suggested retail prices (MSRP) are $20,340 for the S four-wheel drive model, $21,930 for the SL four-wheel drive model, $21,540 for the Rogue S all-wheel drive, and $23,130 for the SL all-wheel drive.

For 2010, Rogue S models are available with a new 360 Value Package that includes 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, privacy glass, integrated rearview mirror-rearview monitor, auto-dimming rearview mirror, rear spoiler and chrome grille. The 360 Value Package is priced at $1,040, a $1,000 savings compared to purchasing items separately.

Source

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Mazda B: The Truck


Mazda B-Series, Like the Ford Ranger.

Since the Mazda merged with the Ford Ranger platform in 1994, the B-Series has steadily declined in both sales and public interest as the compact truck coped with threats to its segment. As the 1990s roared on and the full-size truck segment emerged as a hot area for automakers, small trucks became increasingly marginalized as Ford, GM, and Dodge offered larger variations with room for the whole family, for not much more money. With the B-Series now built on the rapidly-aging Ranger platform, the little truck struggled on an uneven playing field, even as the rest of world enjoyed a burgeoning small truck market.
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Welcome To USA Mazda 2

Mazda 2

Mazda said it would begin selling its redesigned 2 hatchback in the US and Canada by the end of 2010, the latest of several European and Japanese subcompacts finally taking a stake in the American market.

The Mazda 2, based off the Ford Fiesta which is also coming to the US next year as a 2011 model, has been on sale in Europe since 2007 (and has a longer history in Japan, where it's known as the Demio). The latest version, which debuted next to the Fiesta 3- and 5-door models at the 2008 Geneva Auto Show, offers a choice of 1.3 and 1.5 liter four-cylinder engines, plus a 1.4 liter turbodiesel. We'll see the US version at the 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show in December, and expect the US to get the 1.5 liter, which is good for 102 horsepower.

Small cars have typically bombed with the American public during long waves of cheaper gas prices, but the market is growing fast.

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2011 Hyundai Sonata



After many leaked images and speculations, we now have the real deal. Hyundai has officially unwrapped the all new 2011 Sonata in its home country.

True to previous images we've seen, the new Sonata features styling that features plenty of four-door-coupe-style styling touches, which should distinguish it from more conventional sedans. With what Hyundai refers to as "fluidic sculpture" styling, the car is immediately more eye-catching than its predecessor, and the new Sonata is said to extend that appeal to the interior with the use of premium materials. Hyundai hopes the upmarket changes will make the Sonata a strong competitor in the mid-size sedan class against segment leaders Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, as well as further a shift in brand image started by the full-size Genesis sedan, introduced last year.


Base Price: $19,420 - $27,270

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Audi R8 Spyder



2009 Frankfurt Automotive Show: Audi R8 Spyder looks hot in Red

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9/16/2009

2010 Audi A5 Sportback 2.0T Quattro S-line



Arguably the most beautiful models in Audi’s lineup, the A5 and S5 serve up refinement and luxury. New engines are the big news for 2010. A fuel-efficient and punchy turbo-four from the A4 is now available in the A5 and the S5 gains the blown 3.0-liter V-6 from the A6 sedan.

2010 Audi A5 Sportback 2.0T Quattro S-line


Base Price: $53,225 - $54,425

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Hyundai iX Metro

Hyundai iX Metro

Hyundai will begin trials of a zero-emissions (electric car) city car next year.

The Korean car maker, which recently launched the world's only LPG hybrid vehicle, confirmed it would begin a limited production run of the Hyundai i10 Electric in 2010.

The i10 Electric is powered by lithium ion batteries and has a driving range of 160km on a single charge.

It weighs just 1000kg, courtesy of extensive use of drive-by-wire technology and electrically operated pumps and pulleys in the engine.

Owners will be able to recharge the car in five hours by household power point or use a quicker industrial strength current, which can charge the battery to 85 per cent capacity within 15 minutes.

Hyundai iX Metro

Source

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2009 Frankfurt: 2010 Volvo C70

2009 Frankfurt: 2010 Volvo C70

2010 Volvo C70, one of the safest convertibles on the market.

Volvo has unveiled the new C70 convertible here in Frankfurt and the 2010 model looks much sportier than the outgoing model.

2009 Frankfurt: 2010 Volvo C70

- Key Competitors: Mercedes-Benz CLK, Audi A5, BMW 3-Series Convertible.
- Engines and Fuel-Economy: 3 gasoline engines and 2 diesel engines.
- Gasoline engines: T5 230 hp – 26 mpg; 2.4i 170 hp – 26 mpg; 2.4 140 hp – 26 mpg.
- Diesel engines: D5 180 hp – 37 mpg; 2.0D 136 hp – 39 mpg.
- Performance: TBA
- Pricing: TBA

The current model is priced at $40,000

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Volvo C30 and C30 R-Design

Volvo's New 2011 C30 R-Design to Debut at 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show

Volvo C30 and C30 R-Design

Volvo C30 and C30 R-Design

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9/13/2009

2010 Honda CR-V

2010 Honda CR-V

Enjoy Otopictures 2010 Honda CR-V photo gallery

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2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid's LCD Display

2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid's LCD Display

2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid and its duel LCD displays are on display during a Ford event highlighting the company's latest technologies. (

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Volvo's C30 Hatchback

Volvo's C30  Hatchback

Volvo's C30 gets a facelift, enjoy this pictures

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2009 Frankfurt Auto Show Cars List

Here is all the cars that will be at the 2009 Frankfurt Auto Show
Alfa Romeo MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde
2010 Aston Martin Rapide
2010 Audi A5 Sportback
2010 Audi R8 Spyder
Audi e-tron concept [9]
2010 Bentley Mulsanne
2010 BMW X1
2010 BMW X6 ActiveHybrid
2010 BMW 7 Series ActiveHybrid
2010 BMW 3 Series Coupe and Convertible facelift
2010 BMW 5 Series
2011 BMW 6 Series facelift
BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept
Bugatti Bordeaux
Citroën C3
Citroën DS3
2010 Ferrari 458 Italia
Fiat Punto Evo
2011 Ford C-Max
2010 Honda CR-V
2010 Hyundai i10 Electric
2010 Hyundai i30
2010 Hyundai ix35
Hyundai ix Metro Concept
2010 Jaguar XJ
2010 Koenigsegg CCXR Trevita
2010 Kia cee'd facelift
2010 Kia Venga
2010 Kia Sorento
Kia Forte LPI Hybrid
Kia cee'd Hybrid
Kia Sorento Hybrid
2010 Lamborghini Reventón Roadster
Lexus LF-Ch full hybrid premium compact concept
Lotus Elise Club Racer [10]
2011 Maserati GranCabrio
Mazda MX-5 Superlight concept
2010 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG
Mini Coupe Concept [11]
2010 Opel Astra
2010 Peugeot RCZ
2010 Peugeot 5008
2010 Porsche 911 Sport Classic
2010 Porsche 911 Turbo
2010 Porsche 911 GT3 Cup
2010 Porsche 911 GT3 RS
2010 Porsche Panamera (European debut)
Rolls-Royce Ghost
2010 Saab 9-5
2010 Subaru Legacy (European debut)
2010 Subaru Outback (European debut)
Toyota Auris HSD Full Hybrid Concept
Toyota Prius Plug-In Hybrid Concept
2010 Toyota Land Cruiser
2010 Volkswagen California
2010 Volkswagen Caravelle
2010 Volkswagen Golf BlueMotion
2010 Volkswagen Passat BlueMotion
2010 Volkswagen Polo 3dr
2010 Volkswagen Polo BlueMotion
2010 Volkswagen Polo GTI
2010 Volkswagen R20 Golf
2010 Volkswagen Transporter
2011 Volvo C30
2011 Volvo C70
2010 Volvo XC60 R-Design
Source

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2010 Land Rover Range Rover Sport

2010 Land Rover Range Rover Sport

2010 Land Rover Range Rover Sport

- The LED lights are sure to impress the staff and the six front grille looks a little cleaner than the previous design.

- New taillights as well as a redesigned balance of changes to the front. The wheel arches have been revised to improve its aerodynamics and the 19 – and 20-inch wheels highlight.

- High-beam assistant automatically allows the vehicle to permit between mainline and low-switches, since traffic. The HDD navigation is much faster than the elderly technique and iPod integration is lovely.

- A fancy 5.0-inch TFT screen is located between the speedometer and tachometer, but currently can only display basic information about the vehicle

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Mazda MX-5 Superlight Concept

Mazda MX-5 Superlight Concept

Set to debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show on Tuesday, the Mazda MX-5 Superlight is guaranteed to impress the crowds, thanks to its stunning, windowless design, impressive fuel economy and emissions, and excellent handling and performance.

Based off the recently facelifted roadster, the most obvious point-of-difference to the Superlight is its speedster profile, which involved discarding the windshield, retractable roof and its frame. From there, Mazda's European team extended the aluminum hood towards the cabin and mounted an aluminum rear-view mirror, along with a set of roll-over hoops fitted with LED brake lights.

The passenger compartment has been stripped out, with the removal of the sound insulation, carpeting and air conditioning unit. What's been put back in? Carbon fibre racing bucket seats coated in the same brown leather as the steering wheel, armrests and aluminum shifter and hand brake. The dash is a custom fiberglass and plastic unit, which makes use of the stock MX-5's gauges.

The 1.8-litre four-cylinder engine puts out 126 hp and 123 lb-ft of torque and comes equipped with a Mazdaspeed cold-air intake and exhaust.

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BMW X5 xDrive35d 10 Year Edition

BMW X5 xDrive35d 10 Year Edition

BMW is to offer a special edition of its popular X5 to mark the range’s 10-year production milestone. The new xDrive35d 10-Year Edition comes as standard in Sophisto Grey metallic paint with unique 20-inch Y-spoke light alloy wheels, aluminium exterior trim, aluminium roof rails, and a panoramic glass sunroof.

First shown at the North American International Auto Show in 1999, the BMW X5 was an instant hit and has since gone on to spawn a second-generation model.

As for the latest X5 xDrive35d, BMW will be limiting availability of the model to only 2,000 units worldwide

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Kia is The 2010 UK Automotive Company

Kia has been named the UK Automotive Company for 2010 by the Institute of Transport Management.

The ITM, which was founded in 1977, highlighted the company’s “innovative and dynamic efforts to lead the way towards a healthier industry, in both financial and environmental terms.”

The award comes as Kia prepares to unveil a host of new products at the Frankfurt Motor Show, including several diesel hybrids, which have impressed the institute.

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Mercedes-Benz Vision S 500

Mercedes-Benz Vision S 500

Mercedes-Benz Vision S 500 PRESS RELEASE:

Mercedes-Benz Vision S 500 Plug-in HYBRID: The luxury class on the road to the three-litre car

Near series-production S‑Class technology vehicle with plug-in hybrid
10 September 2009

Shortly after the successful market launch of the S 400 HYBRID, currently the most fuel-efficient luxury-segment saloon with a petrol engine, Mercedes-Benz will be presenting the first "three-litre car" in the premium class - the Vision S 500 Plug-in HYBRID - at the 63rd IAA in Frankfurt. The technology vehicle will display the future of Mercedes-Benz' modular set of hybrid systems. The Vision S 500 Plug-in HYBRID can drive for up to 30 kilometres solely on electricity and therefore without producing any local emissions. The efficient drive system combined with the CO2 bonus for the battery-electric driving mode enables the vehicle to achieve a certified consumption of only 3.2 litres of petrol per 100 kilometers. With CO2 emissions of only 74 grams per kilometre in the NEDC (New European Driving Cycle), the experimental vehicle developed in Sindelfingen demonstrates the long-term viability of future S‑Class generations. The outstanding values are made possible by the combination of a plug-in hybrid with the efficiency-boosting BlueEFFICIENCY measures. At the same time, the Vision S 500 Plug-in HYBRID has all of the strengths that are typical of the S‑Class: top comfort, outstanding safety and masterful performance. The drive system in the concept car consists of three main components: a powerful V6 petrol engine with a next-generation direct injection system, a 44 kW/60 hp hybrid module and a lithium-ion battery with more than 10 kWh of storage capacity that can be recharged at charging stations. The Vision S 500 Plug-in HYBRID accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.5 seconds.

"The Vision 500 Plug-in HYBRID is a new milestone on our path toward zero-emission mobility," says Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars. "It is a luxurious and safe S‑Class that offers superior driving performance while at the same time consuming less fuel than current compacts. All of this shows that our top models will also be able to combine automotive fascination with responsibility for the environment."

"Although it will take some time before this model can go into series production, our engineers will be working full steam to carry out the necessary integration measures and ensure that all components can meet the tough everyday demands required of a luxury long-distance saloon," says Dr. Thomas Weber, member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG with responsibility for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development. "We've already got all the key technology we need for such a dream car, which is why I see it being included in the next generation of the S‑Class. The important thing now is that our development work be accompanied by the establishment of a full-coverage infrastructure that will allow the potential of this innovative drive system to be fully exploited."

The electrical drive components of the Vision S 500 Plug-in HYBRID demonstrate the versatility of Mercedes-Benz' intelligently organised set of hybrid systems, which has a widely scalable range of performance. The hybrid module's design does not differ much from the compact, disc-shaped 15-kW electric motor of the S 400 HYBRID, even though it is three times as powerful. As a result, the hybrid module can be elegantly incorporated into the housing of the 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission, allowing this model variant as well as the S 400 HYBRID to retain the S‑Class' spacious interior. Future model generations will orient themselves on this system architecture.

Vision S 500 Plug-in HYBRID: Compact full hybrid system architecture


Whereas the extremely compact lithium-ion battery in the S 400 HYBRID (0.9 kWh) can be housed in the vehicle's engine compartment, the significantly higher-performing lithium-ion unit in the Vision S 500 Plug-in HYBRID (over 10 kWh) requires more installation space. The battery is located behind the rear seats in the boot. The lithium-ion battery's location above the rear axle provides crucial benefits, since it ensures that the vehicle has a balanced weight distribution and that the petrol tank remains adequate for long-distance cruising. In addition, the protected position of the tank ensures it is as safe as possible during crashes.

Additional clutch decouples the hybrid module and combustion engine

In accordance with the modular concept, the powertrain design for the Vision S 500 Plug-in HYBRID is basically the same as that for the S 400 HYBRID. One system-specific attribute is the presence of an additional clutch integrated between the combustion engine and the electric motor. This device decouples the two components in the pure electric drive mode, thereby ensuring the highest level of efficiency in the latter. Moreover, because it is fully integrated into the vehicle's converter housing, the clutch does not take up any additional space.

Electrical outlet as a filling station: Powerful plug-in battery

Another key difference between the S 500 Plug-in HYBRID and conventional hybrids involves the plug-in battery, which can be charged at charging stations, thereby enabling the S 500 Plug-in HYBRID to travel up to 30 kilometres on electric power. The rapid charge cycle takes less than 60 minutes with a charging capactiy of 20 kW. A standard charge cycle at a conventional household socket with 3,3 kW takes about four-and-a-half hours to recharge a completely discharged battery.

The model is also equipped with a compact onboard charger: Housed behind the side boot wall, this unit controls the recharging process and is protected against short circuits, voltage reversal, and voltage surges. The charging system also protects the battery by monitoring voltage, the charging level and charging time. The total weight of the electrical components in the current experimental vehicle is 215 kilograms, whereby the lithium-ion battery weighs approximately 130 kg. That's much less than a conventional NiMH battery with the same capacity, as the weight of such batteries ranges from 180 - 200 kg.

The vehicle's hybrid module also provides additional energy when the car is in motion through regenerative braking - the recovery of energy when braking. Here, the clutch enhances efficiency as well, as it enables complete energy regeneration without engine drag losses.

Range of up to 30 kilometres with all-electric driving

The high-performance battery and the 44 kW/60 hp hybrid module enable the vehicle to drive up to 30 kilometres purely on electricity. That is completely sufficient for many trips within cities, where the Vision S 500 Plug-in HYBRID is quick and very comfortable without producing any local emissions. The petrol engine automatically adds its power to that of the electric motor when travelling at high speeds or driving up steep inclines. Before closing the clutch in such cases, the vehicle electronics synchronises the engine speed with the hybrid module's rotational speed so that the engine is activated extremely smoothly without the driver noticing.

What's more, the hybrid module's sophisticated interplay with the combustion engine enables numerous additional functions that positively impact fuel consumption, emissions and vehicle agility. Like the system employed in the S 400 HYBRID, the hybrid module in the Vision S 500 Plug-in HYBRID also comes with the ECO start/stop function. This feature also enhances safety and driving pleasure because of its boost effect, which has the electric motor providing powerful support to the combustion engine during the high-consumption acceleration phase. This system has already proved its practical viability in a slightly different configuration in the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter.

Extensive electronic safety and control components

The lithium-ion battery not only serves as an energy storage device for the electric motor in the S 500 Plug-in HYBRID; it is also linked via a DC-DC converter to the 12-volt on-board network, which provides power to standard consumers such as the headlamps and various comfort devices. To ensure a consistently high level of electrical efficiency, the voltage transformers are water-cooled via an additional low-temperature circuit.

Special power electronics are required for operating the three-phase AC electric motor in the high-voltage direct current grid, and the inverter for this task is housed in the engine compartment. Because the power electronics system itself is heated by the electric current thus created, it too is integrated into the low-temperature cooling circuit. Mercedes-Benz employs standardised components for the power electronics system as well, enabling them to be efficiently combined with different electric motors and battery types across all model series.

On the road to plug-in hybrids: Diesel-hybrid concepts

An important milestone on the road to plug-in hybrids is the recently unveiled Vision E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID diesel hybrid. Like the S 400 HYBRID and the Vision S 500 Plug-in HYBRID, it is based on the Mercedes-Benz modular hybrid concept. This near-series vehicle study combines a new 2.2-litre, four-cylinder diesel engine with the 15 kW/20 hp hybrid module that is also used in the S 400 HYBRID, but which here also enables pure electric driving. This drive system configuration enables the Vision E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID to travel 100 km on only 4.5 litres of fuel (preliminary value). This corresponds to CO2 emissions of 119 grams per kilometre with an output of 165 kW/224 hp and superior torque of 580 - 600 newtonmetres (combined in both cases), more or less the same performance as today's six-cylinder diesel engines. Exhaust gas treatment is handled by the combination of an oxidizing catalytic converter, a diesel particulate filter and BlueTEC mit AdBlue® injection. The Vision E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID thus also has the potential to meet the world's most stringent emission standards.

Vision S 500 Plug-in HYBRID - Technical data

Combustion engine (petrol)
No. of cylinders/arrangement: V6, 4 valves per cylinder
Displacement: 3.5 l

Hybrid module
Type: Permanently excited synchronous machine
Rated output: approx. 44 kW/60 PS
Rated torque: 250 Nm

Performance and fuel consumption
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: 5.5 s*
Top speed: 250 km/h
Fuel consumption: 3.2 l/100 km (combined)*
CO2 emissions: 74 g/km (combined):

*preliminary values

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Audi Is Celebrating 100 Years

At Centenary, Audi has developed a new logo to make the brand image even more modern and cutting edge.

The brand incorporates the classic four rings, proposed for the first time in 1932, symbolizing the union of Wanderer, DKW, Horch and Audi Auto Union group.

The main stages in the evolution of the Audi logo
1909 – The logo is the Latin translation of surname of the founder August Horch:
“Horch (which in German means listen) = audi”
1923 – The number 1 above a globe. The new emblem, the result of a competition, boasts the grille patterns at 4, 6 and 8 cylinders
1932 – Born Auto Union AG. The four rings recall the merger of the four brands
1978 – The oval is the symbol of rebirth for the Audi. In the wake of the sporting successes of the ’80s, the color red since then accompanies the commitment from Audi in motorsport
1995 – The four rings back to join the Audi name. A single symbol as the logo of the company and product
2009 – The new logo

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2010 Hyundai Santa Fe Facelift

2010 Hyundai Santa Fe Facelift

Korean auto maker Hyundai has announced the facelift version of the Santa Fe that will be introduced into the European market at the end of next year. The refreshed Santa Fe which is already available in South Korea will make its European debut at the next week’s Frankfurt Motor Show. Exterior wise, it gets new bumpers, reworked front grille, restyled head and taillights, front fog lamps as well as twin exhaust pipes.

The interior controls are new, such as a steering wheel remote control for your CD-radio, but also fresh upholstery and upholstery fabrics and a USB-/AUX-Anschluss. The winner is the Hyundai Santa Fe and in the appearance of: material selection and processing exude feel-good atmosphere on board.

2010 Hyundai Santa Fe Facelift

Hyundai Santa Fe was first introduced in 2001 and started the entry of Hyundai into the SUV segment. Ever since, in Germany alone it sold about 46,000 vehicles. Now, the modified model of the second generation (which debuted in spring 2006),

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