2007 Kleemann GTK Concept based on Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG

(from Kleemann Press Release) In 2004, KLEEMANN made ambitious plans for creating unique and exclusive KLEEMANN sportscars. Now, after 3 years of design and development, KLEEMANN bring their vast technology know-how and experience to the next level by introducing the GTK concept car.

The design project
KLEEMANN, best known for their long experience in Kompressor technology and exclusive styling products for Mercedes-Benz cars, now enters the battlefield of the exclusive sportscar manufacturers. This was made possible when KLEEMANN employed the internationally experienced car designer Christian Brandt. Christian has headed the top secret GTK design project, which was not only a sportscar project, but also a design and technology development platform for future KLEEMANN performance and styling solutions for Mercedes-Benz cars.

Unique performance
The raw performance data for the GTK places it at the very front of the competition: The 0-100 km/h acceleration is done in only 3,7 seconds and the GTK continues the brutal acceleration right up to the electronically limited top speed of 300 km/h. The high performance KLEEMANN brake system featuring 380 mm. vented discs with 8 piston fixed aluminium callipers front and 345 mm. vented discs with 4 piston fixed aluminium callipers rear ensure fast and secure stopping power from any speed.

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Nissan GT-R racer

This is our first look at the new Nissan GT-R racer, which will debut in next year's Japanese Super GT series.

Unfortunately for Nissan and its racing/tuning arm, NISMO, this is not a series in which the production car's amazing four-wheel-drive traction will give it an advantage, like the Skyline GT-Rs of old: the cars are built to very specific regulations which outlaw four-wheel-drive and allow bespoke silhouette designs.

This year, the championship was won by a Honda NSX, which beat Nissan's 350Z racer. Whether or not the new GT-R will be more successful remains to be seen, but it shares little with the road-going car. Nissan GT-R Still, it doesn't rob the Super GT car of its visual impact. It's quite something, and it's a shame they'll have to run it with sponsors - this black colour is perfect.

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Caparo: police issue

Caparo have joined forces with the Metropolitan Police to come up with this T1 showpiece.

It's obviously never going to become a real world patrol vehicle, but the very idea is enough to fuel a good few minutes of school boy like day dreams.

Imagine how quickly you could get through town in this with the sirens blaring?

It is however real enough to be making an appearance at this week's MPH show, that's on from November 1-4 at Earls Court, London and next week on the 8-11 at Birmingham's NEC. Get tickets here.

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2007 Mazda Taiki Concept

(from Mazda Press Release) Mazda Taiki reflects one possible direction for a future generation of Mazda sports cars aimed at helping create a sustainable society. The fourth concept car in the Nagare design series, Mazda Taiki further evolves the “flow” theme to establish a breathtaking presence that clearly distinguishes it as the next in the series, and which visually expresses the atmosphere – called taiki in Japanese – that wraps the Earth in its protective mantle.

The basic proportions begin with the stretched coupe form of a front-engine rear-wheel-drive layout, the short overhangs, and the liberating feel of an all-glass canopy. The challenge to create “a design that visually expresses the flow of air” was inspired by the image of a pair of Hagoromo – the flowing robes that enable a celestial maiden to fly in Japanese legend – floating down from the sky. Inspired by Japanese koinobori – the decorative “climbing carp streamers”– the notion of creating an Air-tube became the concept word for the interior design. In accordance, from the dashboard and seats down to the door trim, the interior space creates the dynamic sensation that the flow of the wind is being visually depicted. Centering around the performance rotary engine sports packaging that is synonymous with the Mazda name, technologies introduced for the Mazda Taiki include the next-generation RENESIS (rotary engine 16X), which sets new standards for environmental and driving performance, a front-engine rear-drive layout, a unique 2-seat configuration, and Mazda’s rotary sports package, which conveys an image of lightness. The effect integrates the design theme perfectly to realize outstanding aerodynamic performance.

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1934 Chevrolet Coupe E85

(from General Motors Press Release) FLEXFUEL CHEVY HOT ROD DEMONSTRATES VINTAGE STYLE AND MODERN ALTERNATIVE-FUEL PERFORMANCE

With a 500-horsepower engine, a channeled body and a chopped top, GM’s custom street rod looks right at home on the salt flats of Bonneville.

But instead of a traditional gasoline V-8, this ’34 Chevy replica rod sports a turbocharged 2.0L Ecotec engine that runs on E85 ethanol. Appropriately, it has been dubbed the FlexFuel Chevy Hot Rod.

“Since the 1930's, hot rods have embodied American ingenuity, aesthetic flair and the quest for performance," said Bryan Nesbitt, vice-president of General Motors North American Design. "The ethanol Hot Rod is a modern statement that today's hot rodder can address energy concerns about the consumption of petroleum without sacrificing performance or style.”

The car’s low-slung stance and stripped-down essence suggests track cars and speed racers of the late 1940s and early 1950s. Open hood sides reveal the high-powered Ecotec engine, which has been pumped up with the help of GM Performance Parts’ Stage III performance kit and a larger turbo. The higher octane of E85 enabled engineers to tune the engine for more power. It is backed by a GM Powertrain 5L40 five-speed automatic transmission.

A sturdy 8-3/8-inch Winters Quick-change rearend is suspended by a parallel four-link suspension. It is filled with 5.20 gears, which are used to generate brisk acceleration with 35-inch-tall, racing-type Excelsior rear tires and 29-inch-tall front tires. The tires are mounted on custom 18-inch front and 20-inch rear “kidney bean”-style wheels from Budnik.

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New Car: 2009 Toyota Matrix

Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., unveiled the all-new second-generation Corolla Matrix at a press conference today at the 2007 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show. The Toyota Matrix, the sporty five-door vehicle that helped redefine the concept of a crossover utility vehicle, has been redesigned for the 2009 model year to offer performance that matters for driver enjoyment.

"The Matrix concept was based on blending the functionality of an SUV, the style, image and performance of a sports car with the affordability of a subcompact sedan," said Tim Morrison, Toyota Division corporate marketing manager. "For 2009, it’s all that, and more. It may have the body of a five-door hatch, but it comes with the soul of a two-door sports car." Development of the 2009 Matrix focused on greater exterior coupe-like styling with enhanced interior utility and improved dynamic performance. It was made wider with a lower stance than the current model while maintaining its interior space. The result is a sporty, dynamic shape that contains room for five people to ride in comfort. As a result of significant changes to the Matrix’s profile, the theme is flowing and dynamic. The design expresses a low center of gravity, and coupe-like style with a fun-to-drive image. From the rear, the Matrix has rounded rear windows and continuous character lines that run from the front grille to the A-pillar. Matrix will be available in three grades – Standard S and the XRS. And Matrix will offer the option of all-wheel drive (AWD) with the S grade. The S and XRS models integrate a front underbody spoiler with a large mesh fog lamp bezel and rear underbody spoiler. A rear deck spoiler will be standard for all XRS models.The Matrix interior is completely redesigned to enhance driving enjoyment, comfort and utility. Seats have been redesigned to accommodate the vehicle’s new lower profile while maintaining the expected high comfort levels, and seat positions were lowered slightly to maintain appropriate headroom. As a result, cabin space remains equal to that of the previous Matrix. A new three-spoke steering wheel enhances the rest of the new Matrix interior. XRS models come standard with a leather-trimmed steering wheel that also includes spoke-mounted audio controls and hands-free Bluetooth® capability when equipped.

The driver and front passenger are treated to comfortable new sport seats, with seat-mounted side airbags. A fold-down seatback table will be available for the front passenger’s seat, enhancing interior utility on S and XRS. A movable and removable cup support element for the front center console helps provide versatile storage area and convenience. The cup holder area can be used as a tray when the divider is removed. For rear-seat passengers, expanded front-to-back couple distance helps to provide additional room and comfort. A folding seat with a 60/40 split includes a middle-seat headrest for the fifth passenger. The Matrix is equipped with a new, high-efficiency air-conditioning system with larger vents for directional accuracy and offers reduced power consumption and improved heating and cooling. The 2009 Matrix offers the choice of two different engines, a five-speed manual transmission, and either four- or five-speed automatic transmissions. A 16-valve, 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine will produce 132 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 128 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,400 rpm. The engine will feature Dual VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing with intelligence) on both the intake and exhaust camshafts that helps it achieve outstanding performance and economy.

Estimated EPA fuel economy ratings are 26/32 city/highway mpg for manual transmission models and 25/31 for the automatic transmission model powered by a 1.8-litre engine. For those who crave just a bit more horsepower and torque, the Matrix offers a 16-valve DOHC 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with VVT-i that will produce 158 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 162 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm. Matrix models powered by the 2.4-litre engine with five-speed automatic transmission will have an estimated EPA fuel economy of 21/29 city/highway mpg.The Matrix’s base wheel is a 16-inch steel unit with a six-spoke full wheel cover. A distinctive 17-inch five-spoke aluminum wheel will be available for the S grade, and an 18-inch aluminum alloy wheel with a twin five-spoke design will come standard on the XRS grade. Dual-stage SRS airbags will be standard for the driver and front passenger. Front seat-mounted side airbags, two-row side curtain airbags and front active headrests are also standard. Brake performance will be improved with standard front and rear disc brakes on all Matrix grades. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) are also standard. Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with TRAC and off switch will be standard on XRS and available as an option on all other models. VSC automatically adjusts engine output and the vehicle’s braking force at each wheel when the vehicle experiences a loss of traction during cornering. Form, fun and functionality will be in abundance with an array of standard convenience features across all three grades. Base equipment on all Matrix models include power color-keyed outside rearview mirrors, power steering, tilt and telescopic steering wheel, daytime running lights, heavy duty rear window defogger, intermittent windshield wipers, 12-volt power outlet, four cupholders, auxiliary audio input jack, front center console box and an engine immobiliser.

The S grade adds standard power door locks and windows with one-touch down driver-side, 115-volt power outlet, cruise control, intermittent rear window wiper, fold-flat front passenger seat, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD with MP3 capability and six speakers, front and rear underbody spoilers and fog lamps.In addition to these features, the XRS grade features standard P215/45 R18 tires on 18-inch alloy wheels, sport strut tower brace, VSC with TRAC and off switch, and a three-spoke leather-trimmed steering wheel with audio steering wheel controls. In addition to the array of standard equipment, an impressive list of optional comfort and utility features are available to further enhance the Matrix driving experience. Available options will include an AM/FM/CD with six-speaker system with DVD navigation with XM NavTraffic® capability, alloy wheels, power heated outside rearview mirror, intermittent rear window wiper, cruise control, power door locks, power windows, and remote keyless entry.

The all-new Matrix will hit Toyota dealerships in February 2008.

New Car: 2008 Hyundai i10

Sticking with Hyundai, you’re looking at their brand new answer to the Citroen C1, Toyota Aygo, Fiat Panda and Peugeot 107; the Hyundai i10 which launches next March,with a starting price of less than £6500.

If you’re noticing a passing resemblance to the Kia Picanto, you’re not mistaken. Just as the Hyundai i30 hatch and the Kia Cee’d share a platform, this new i10 shares many mechanicals with the Kia Picanto city car. However, the new Hyundai is 10mm longer between the wheels than the Kia, and 70mm longer overall.

The i10 will be built in Hyundai’s assembly plant in Chenni, India, where its predecessor, the Amica, was made. It shares its 1.1-litre, 65bhp engine with the Picanto, but for this application, emissions of CO2 have been trimmed to 119g/km in order to qualify for the second-lowest VED car tax rate.

The Hyundai i10 will stand out from the class with its impressive cabin quality and generous levels of standard equipment. It’ll be the first car in the A-segment to get air conditioning as standard, electric front windows, central locking, electric power steering, tinted glass, 14in alloy wheels, body-coloured bumpers and a six-speaker CD player also come on every car.

Concept Car: Hyundai Genesis Coupé

The name is perhaps a giveaway as to the mechanicals underneath the sexy skin: Hyundai Genesis Coupe.

The new two-door is being publicly unveiled as a concept in mid-November at the Los Angeles auto show.

Hyundai has released almost no details on the concept, other than to say it "hints at a design direction for a future rear-wheel-drive sport coupe." However, the use of the name Genesis, which first appeared earlier this year on a concept sedan suggests the sedan and the coupe will share major mechanical components, including a new rear-wheel-drive chassis.

The production version of the Genesis sedan is expected to hit U.S. showrooms in the first half of next year. The production Genesis coupe should follow in late 2008 as a successor to but not a direct replacement for, the current front-drive Tiburon.

Hyundai Genesis bigger brother; i70/VI

Codenamed BHL, Hyundai has begun testing a long-wheel-base luxury sedan based on the upcoming and much anticipated rear-wheel-drive Genesis. Sources are referring to this luxury sedan as the i70, but the name is not yet confirmed.

It's unclear if the car will be marketed as a distinct model from the Genesis or if it will be sold as a LWB (long-wheel-base) variant. The size of the car is also a bit of a mystery. The Genesis is thought to be the size of a BMW 5-Series or Mercedes E-Class, so it's fair to assume this model will lie somewhere between those dimensions and the BMW 7-Series or Mercedes S-Class.

Sources also say it will be offered as a V8 model only and will be even more prestigious than the Genesis. As Hyundai is using Cadillac and Lexus as benchmarks, expect high-tech gizmos as well as many other luxury amenities.

The i70/VI should arrive in dealerships about a year after the Genesis but that’s not all: the BH rear-drive platform will also spawn a coupe/cabriolet for the 2010 model year.

Although the i70/VI (codenamed BHL) is testing in Germany, its unlikely that the sedan will be marketed on the European market due to the slow-selling Grandeur (Azera in U.S) which sold less than 500 units last year.

Nissan Murano spied!

It’s set for an official debut in about two weeks at the L.A. auto show, but here’s an early peek at the 2009 Nissan Murano. We weren’t expecting big changes from Nissan’s midsize crossover and this prototype doesn’t appear that far removed from the current model. The overall shape and size is the same as the current model and even the wheels look familiar. Expect to see bigger changes on the inside as the Murano’s interior has been one of its weak points for years now.

5 door Volvo C30?

Volvo is considering expanding the C30 range by adding a five-door hatchback variant to join the current three-door. The C30 is based on the same P1 platform that underlies the larger S40 and V50 models so building an extended version of the C30 hatch would be straight forward.

Such a vehicle would give Volvo’s sales a much needed boost but officials are yet to confirm it for production. Volvo senior vice president of R&D Magnus Jonsson told Automotive News that a “five-door would be less exciting from a design perspective” but would be crucial in helping Volvo expand sales.

Current sales of the three-door C30 has been exceeding initial expectations in most markets and if the cars outsell their allocations then management would have very little reason not to proceed with the launch of another variant.

Volvo’s senior vice president of brand, business and product strategy, Lex Kerssemakers, also acknowledged that a five-door model is under consideration but wasn’t willing to give a time frame for its release.

2008 Infiniti QX56 Review

Summary
If its styling agrees with you, then the rest of the 2008 Infiniti QX56 should, too, thanks to an improved interior and plenty of high-tech goodies.
Pros
High-tech electronic features, powerful and refined V8, impressive balance of ride and handling, massive towing capacity, roomy second- and third-row seats.

What's New for 2008
The Infiniti QX56 undergoes its first major freshening since its debut. The 2008 QX56 has subtle styling changes, a significant redesign of its interior and the addition of new standard and optional equipment that brings it more in line with other top, large luxury SUVs.

Powertrains and Performance
The 2008 QX56 is offered with either 2WD or 4WD with low-range gearing. Power comes from a 5.6-liter V8 that produces a healthy 320 horsepower and 393 pound-feet of torque. The V8 is matched to a standard five-speed automatic transmission. The QX56 is quick for a full-size SUV, going from zero to 60 mph in 7.3 seconds. Towing capacity is 9,000 pounds on rear-wheel-drive models when properly equipped. As is typical for this class of vehicle, gas mileage is poor, with 12 mpg city and 17/18 mpg highway using the EPA's revised 2008 testing regimen.

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Volkswagen Tiguan pricing (UK)

VW has released prices for its new entry-level Tiguan SUV. The 1.4-litre TSI will cost £19,450 when it arrives in Feburary next year. Buyers also get the option of a 138bhp 2.0 TDI diesel and, later next year, a 167bhp 2.0 TDI. Three levels of trim will be available - S, SE, and Sport - all featuring a choice of 6 speed manual or automatic Tiptronic gearboxes.

At the top of the range is the £23,750 2.0TDI Sport. This will be available with the hi-tech Park Assist system first showcased on the Touran MPV. Complex electrononics mean the car will steer itself into a space, while the driver simply operates the brake and throttle.

Buyers wanting to tackle more than the urban jungle can choose the rugged Escape trim. With a shorter nose, hill decent control and a sump guard it promised to be tougher in the rough stuff.

Prices for this hardcore model start at £22,050.

2008 Ford Edge Review

Summary
Strong acceleration, agile handling, a smooth ride and a roomy passenger compartment give the 2008 Ford Edge major points in the midsize crossover segment. Unfortunately, mediocre braking performance sullies its otherwise impressive credentials.

Pros
Quiet and comfortable ride, agile handling, potent V6, all major safety features are standard, roomy cabin.
Cons
Questionable brakes, lackluster interior design and materials, low maximum cargo capacity.
What's New for 2008
The 2008 Ford Edge gets more luxury and convenience features. Highlights include Ford's "Sync" system (which allows voice operation of cell phones, PDAs, MP3 players and USB storage devices), an optional power liftgate and a voice-activated navigation system. This year also sees a new Limited trim level, which replaces last year's SEL Plus.

Powertrains and Performance
The Edge comes with a 3.5-liter V6 rated for 265 hp and 250 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission is standard. All trim levels offer a choice of either front-wheel or all-wheel drive. On AWD models, power flows primarily to the front wheels until wheel slippage occurs, in which case nearly all the power can be redirected to the rear.

The Edge is quick, with a 0-60-mph time of just 7.4 seconds (front-driver version). Shifts from the six-speed automatic are smooth and well-timed, though we wish there was better manual access to gears. (You're limited to "D," "O/D off" and "L.") Properly equipped, the Ford Edge can tow up to 3,500 pounds, which is average for the segment.

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2007 SEMA Show: Aims for Drama With 550-HP Escalade Sport Concept

LAS VEGAS — Urban hipsters should find their heads swiveling at the Cadillac Escalade Sport concept, one of the luxury marque's 2007 SEMA Show offerings.

The Escalade concept boasts a sport-tuned suspension with a 2-inch-lower ride height, a high-performance brake package and unique air induction and exhaust systems. The underhood cover protects a small-block V8 with approximately 550 horsepower linked to a 6L80 six-speed automatic transmission.

The exterior gets a modified front and rear fascia with new upper and lower grilles, a new roof rack, new hood and retractable side steps with aero rockers. Eye-popping 24-inch forged alloy wheels add to the sense of drama with this concept.

The cabin is outfitted with Recaro sport bucket seats in the first and second rows with the third row deleted. The rear hatch gets an aluminum cargo floor. The driver gets a modified center console with new shifter and shift knob, along with billet aluminum pedals.

Cadillac brags that the concept "showcases even more of the dramatic presence and power" that has made Escalade an "image leader."

What this means to you: The already impressive Escalade takes on even more stature at the SEMA show.

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2007 SEMA Show: Motocross Is Springboard for Dodge Dakota MX Warrior Concept

LAS VEGAS — The over-the-top graphics on the Dodge Dakota MX Warrior concept at the 2007 SEMA Show make more sense when you understand how one of its co-creators spends his spare time.

Scott Waraniak, a design student at Detroit's College for Creative Studies, is also a motocrosser who races KTM bikes and is no stranger to flying dirt, rocks, adrenaline and horsepower. Hence the orange-and-battleship-gray vinyl wrap on the Dakota MX Warrior laid on top of the "surf blue" exterior. By the way, that's Waraniak's bike in the back of the Dakota, which Dodge likes to promote as more of a personal leisure vehicle instead of a workhorse like its bigger sibling.

The Dakota MX Warrior gets a suspension that's raised 4 inches, 20-inch Mopar chrome wheels and 31-inch tires. Other touches include a custom hood with one-off intake scoopers to feed air into the 4.7-liter Magnum V8. Custom steel bumpers and an integrated winch mounted on the front bumper round out the package.

What this means to you: A must-see if you're into motocross and Detroit muscle.

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2007 SEMA Show: Cadillac CTS Sport

LAS VEGAS — The public unveiling of the 2009 CTS-V is still more than two months away. Meanwhile, at the 2007 SEMA Show, Cadillac aims to fill the void with the CTS Sport concept.

This one looks like mostly a cosmetic package, with few of the high-performance mods expected on the next CTS-V, which is being unwrapped at the upcoming Detroit show and goes on sale next fall.

The CTS Sport gets a variety of exterior add-ons, including new front and rear fascias with carbon-fiber and wire-mesh inserts, a modified hood with wire-mesh inserts and carbon-fiber front fender extractors and rear deck lid spoiler. You'll also spot the forged and polished 20-inch wheels, the painted calipers and drilled/slotted rotors on the high-performance brakes, and the rectangular exhaust tips with wire-mesh inserts.

Inside, the CTS Sport features Recaro leather sport seats and carbon-fiber trim.

Under the hood is a production-based, direct-injection 3.6-liter V6 — a far cry from the supercharged big-bore V8 that's rumored for the new CTS-V.

What this means to you: Look for the real deal in January at the Detroit show.

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2007 SEMA Show: Jay Leno Shows off Green 600-HP Modified Corvette Z06

LAS VEGAS — If Al Gore were to make an appearance at the 2007 SEMA Show, there's no doubt that he would find an excellent photo op in front of Jay Leno's E85 Z06-inspired C6RS Corvette. The car's 600 horses aren't an issue, since Leno's rocket runs on ethanol.

"The C6RS is the result of an idea we hatched to prove that high-performance cars and alternative fuel technology weren't diametrically opposed concepts," said Leno, who increasingly sounds like the voice of reason when it comes to automotive trends. "I love the idea of having 600 horsepower at my disposal, but using a homegrown alternative to gasoline."

The C6RS Corvette's fuel system and engine control computer were modified to use E85, with the spent gases exiting through a Corsa exhaust system. The custom 8.2-liter all-aluminum small-block V8 is linked to a strengthened T-56 six-speed transmission and a high-performance Centerforce dual-friction clutch.

The comic did not choose green paint for this SEMA offering. Instead, it is clad in C6.R-inspired black paint. Other design cues include wider front and rear fenders and a wider rear fascia with an integrated spoiler on top and a racing-style diffuser at the bottom. The cabin deliberately veers away from a spartan look, with premium features that include a two-tone shift knob and boot, leather-covered console armrest and racing-style pedal covers.

What this means to you: Leno appears to be committed to giving us the best of both worlds.

© Source: edmunds
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2008 Ferrari FXX Evolution

(from Ferrari Press Release) FXX programme extended for further two years thanks to new evolution kit developed with assistance of Client Test-Drivers

The innovative FXX programme, based on the eponymous prototype car and launched by Ferrari in June 2005, is being extended to 2008/2009. The FXX, which is the most advanced GT ever created at Maranello, has been updated with an evolution package aimed at further improving its handling and performance. The package was developed as a result of Ferrari's collaboration with its Client Test Drivers and with the invaluable support of Michael Schumacher. The FXXs equipped with this package will also sport a new livery in addition to new rear wing profiles.

The FXX is not homologated for road use and there are no plans to compete with it either. In fact, the FXX prototype is designed exclusively for track driving as part of a specific R&D programme agreed with a selected group of just over 20 clients involving 14 group test sessions and 14 private ones in the last two years. Thanks to readings taken over the 16,500 kilometres of tests carried out in 2006 and the 18,500 kilometres covered in 2007, the modifications made to the car have focused on honing its aerodynamics, running gear and electronics. Seven-times Formula 1 World Champion Michael Schumacher also joined the ranks of the client test drivers and gave the programme the benefit of his vast experience on several occasions.

Maranello's engineers studied the wealth of information gained to develop a kit which will cut the FXX's Fiorano lap time to under 1'16'' (previously it was 1'18''). The FXX's 6262 cc V12 engine can now punch out a massive 860 hp at 9500 rpm. Gearshifting takes just 60 ms, a drop of 20 ms on the previous time, and the gear ratios have been adapted to make use of the extra 1000 rpm now delivered by the engine.

The FXX evolution package includes participation in a series of track events that Ferrari is organising at international circuits for 2008/2009. Six events are planned for each year (two in North America, two in Europe and two in Asia). In addition to these, the FXXs will also be participating, as per tradition, in the prestigious end-of-season Ferrari World Finals.

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2007 SEMA Show: Chevrolet Takes the Wraps off 2008 Cobalt SS Coupe

LAS VEGAS — General Motors used the 2007 SEMA Show to reveal the details about the upcoming 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt SS, which promises to have more kick than the previous Cobalt SS Supercharged.

GM says the '08 Cobalt SS will churn out 55 more horses than the Cobalt SS Supercharged. The new model uses the 2.0-liter Ecotec turbocharged and intercooled engine with 260 horses linked to a GM Powertrain Sweden five-speed transmission with a short-throw shifter. It sprints from zero to 60 mph in about 5.7 seconds, according to Chevrolet. The coupe was developed by GM Performance Division, which put it through its paces at the Nürburgring circuit.

Chevy noted that the Cobalt SS coupe has powertrain and chassis enhancements that are similar to the new Chevrolet HHR SS, "but with larger Brembo brakes, a slightly taller final-drive ratio and other variances." The Cobalt SS coupe gets a new FE5 Sport suspension with specific stabilizer bars, spring rates and damper tuning. A "no-lift shift" feature on manual-transmission models is said to "achieve the best acceleration time via an algorithm in the engine controller."

What this means to you: The most powerful Cobalt yet.

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2008 Ford Sport Trac Adrenaline

(from Ford Press Release) FORD ADDS ‘ADRENALIN’ TO SPORT TRAC FOR 2008

The 2008 Sport Trac Adrenalin is a sport utility truck that combines the utility and functionality of a pickup with a bold new attitude and genuine sense of street style.

“The new Sport Trac Adrenalin is designed to appeal to the urban adventurer,” said Ryan Mitton, Sport Trac marketing manager. “It still offers up the functionality and capability that Sport Trac is known for, while boosting the style factor.”

Adrenalin retains the Sport Trac’s distinctive profile, blending SUV and pickup, but the similarities end there. Every exterior panel from the beltline down has been redesigned or styled to deliver the Explorer Sport Trac Adrenalin’s cool, aftermarket look. New front and rear fascias sit 3.5-inches lower than the units on the standard truck. Full running boards are seamlessly integrated into the body design and function to visually tie the front and rear of the truck together. The rubber step pads provide traction and add a striking graphic stripe that accents the lower portion of the truck.

“The new body panels give the Sport Trac the appearance of being lower – without actually lowering the vehicle,” said Betancourt. “You get a street cruiser look without compromising any of the functionality or capability.” Adrenalin looks hot, bathed in special Colorado Red paint. Colorado Red, a true red without metal flake, is new to the Sport Trac lineup and will be launched with the Adrenalin. Additional color choices are White Suede, Black and Silver Birch Metallic.

The 10-spoke, 20-inch wheels are the same units found on the Sport Trac Adrenalin concept. The polished aluminum wheels are shod with P255/50R20 Pirelli rubber.Adrenalin will be in dealer showrooms in early January. Base Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Pricing (MSRP) for Sport Trac Adrenalin begins at $30,495 (including $720 for destination and delivery charges).

© Source: seriouswheels

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2007 SEMA Show: Hummer H3 Is Crossed With Corvette Z06

LAS VEGAS — The Hummer H3R Off-Road Concept unites the H3 SUV and the 7.0-liter V8 from a Chevrolet Corvette Z06, with some intriguing results, at the 2007 SEMA Show. But don't get too excited. Hummer hustles to say, "No, a production H3 equipped with an LS7 engine isn't in the cards."

"The H3R pays homage to the racing SUV while pushing the envelope on what could be considered 'stock' — supposing the factory decided to drop in the 505-horsepower 7.0-liter V8 from the Corvette Z06," Hummer said in reference to Team Hummer, led by Rod Hall.

One smart bit of detail here includes a forward-tilting hood with a Lexan see-through insert, as well as power-operated hood hinges. The H3R has a racing-inspired paint job with custom badging, 20-inch wheels and Mickey Thompson Bear Claw 35-inch off-road tires.

A washable rubber floor replaces the carpeting, and there's a navigation radio system and auxiliary performance gauges.

What this means to you: Unlike some of GM's other SEMA show offerings, this one won't see the light of day outside of the concept.

© Source: edmunds

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2007 SEMA Show: Saturn Astra Tuner Concept Aims for a "Racier Look"

LAS VEGAS — The Saturn Astra makes its maiden appearance at the 2007 SEMA Show in the form of the Astra Tuner Concept, sporting a lowered ride height, high-performance Recaro seats and 20 more horsepower than the production car.

The Saturn Astra Tuner Concept is based on a production Astra XR three-door. Modifications to the 1.8-liter Ecotec DOHC inline-4 include an exhaust header, a cold-air intake and a modified throttle body. External touches include new front and rear fascia extensions, a new grille surround finish and tinted headlamps, taillamps and windows. Study it with a keen eye and you'll notice that the production side moldings have been deleted and a rear center-outlet exhaust has been added. The concept also gets OPC 19-inch wheels and an OPC rear spoiler.

The cabin is tweaked with a Blaupunkt sound system, GMA pedals and unique interior trim.

Saturn describes its SEMA show concept as one that "applies some of the latest bolt-on performance and appearance components to show what's possible with this all-new compact."

What this means to you: Expect the Saturn Astra to become one of the darlings of the tuner crowd.

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2008 Maserati GranTurismo Review

What We Know
The 2008 Maserati GranTurismo, a two-door coupe to complement the Quattroporte sedan, is yet another Italian beauty, this one penned by Pininfarina's Jason Castriota.

Successor to Maserati's Guigiaro-designed coupe and spyder, the upcoming GT is built on a shortened version of the Quattroporte's chassis. The GranTurismo is powered by a 405-horsepower version of the same Ferrari-sourced 4.2-liter V8 found across the Maserati range. In a nod toward the crucially important American market, where Maserati hopes to achieve significant sales gains with the GT, power is sent to the rear wheels through the ZF-built six-speed automatic transmission that just became available in the Quattroporte. With a platform converted from the rear-transaxle configuration necessary for the automated manual gearbox to the front-mounted automatic transmission, the GranTurismo should provide enough rear-seat space to make it something more than a cramped 2+2. Nevertheless, we expect a weight distribution of 49 percent front/51 percent rear, which should ensure excellent maneuverability. Meanwhile the GranTurismo's suspension will be similar in configuration to the Quattroporte's double-wishbone setup, but it'll be supplemented by Maserati's Skyhook active damping system. Throughout the rest of the car, extensive use of carbon composites and aluminum should provide the GT with an exhilarating power-to-weight ratio. Maserati hopes the GT will help alter the misperception that its cars are prohibitively expensive. Prices should begin somewhere around $110,000, putting the GT Coupe in good position to steal business from Porsche's 911 and the Mercedes-Benz SL. A hardtop convertible version of the GT, powered by a larger-bore version of the 4.2 and delivering around 470 hp, should arrive later in the year, and a Competizione model is sure to follow.
What Edmunds.com says
A gorgeous coupe with a Ferrari engine and a reasonable price. What more do you need?

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