Scion tC Release Series 6.0 2010

 Scion 2010 tC Release Series 6.0  Scion Announces Pricing for tC Release Series 6.0, Will Debut at the 2010 Chicago Auto Show
[Source: Toyota]

TORRANCE, Calif., Feb. 8, 2010 -- Scion announced today that its latest limited-production vehicle, the 2010 tC Release Series 6.0 (tC RS 6.0), will begin arriving in dealerships in March. The tC RS 6.0 will be on display in the Scion booth at the Chicago Auto Show, February 10-21, 2010.

The tC RS 6.0 comes painted in a vivid Speedway Blue that is currently not offered on any other Scion model. The eye-catching exterior is complemented with a unique matte-black vinyl graphic that flows along the beltline and features the RS 6.0 logo on the rear quarter panel.

Adding to the coupe’s sporty character, the bright blue motif is carried over to the RS 6.0’s seats and steering wheel. Front and rear seats boast color-tuned surfaces – black fabric with blue highlights – and the leather-wrapped steering wheel comes finished with blue stitching.

The tC RS 6.0 features an Alpine Premium Audio system with navigation that is flashed with a sound curve unique for the RS 6.0’s acoustics and includes a 4.3-inch touch screen, iPod®/USB connectivity, 200 watts of output, RCA output connections, and HD RadioTM technology. The navigation system consists of flash-based global positioning satellite (GPS) navigation, turn-by-turn voice guidance, a three-dimensional map view option, and a tC RS 6.0 route-guidance icon.

Only 1,100 units of the tC RS 6.0 will be built, and each vehicle comes with a unique, individually numbered stainless-steel badge. The tC RS 6.0 model will carry a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $18,620 with a manual transmission, and $19,420 with an automatic transmission.


The delivery, processing and handling (DPH) fee for all Scion models is $670 and is not included in the MSRP. DPH fee for vehicles distributed by Southeast Toyota (SET) and Gulf States Toyota (GST) may vary.

On February 16, visit the official Scion Release Series Facebook page at facebook.com/scionreleaseseries and “Get Inside the tC Release Series.” Using Facebook Connect, visitors will be treated to a personalized virtual ride culminating into a 360-degree experience at Scion's most recent dubstep event.

 

2010 Scion tC Release Series 6.0 Specifications
Body
Wheelbase    106.3 in.
Drivetrain
Transmission    162 lb.-ft. @ 4,000 rpm
Engine
Compression Ratio    9.8:1
Bore X Stroke    3.48 x 3.78 in.
Valvetrain    4-valve per cylinder with VVT-i
Fuel Type    87-octane unleaded
Engine & Transmission
Displacement cu in (cc):    2.362 cc
Torque lb-ft (Nm) at RPM:    162 lb.-ft. @ 4,000 rpm
Exterior
Length    174.0 in.
Width    69.1 in.
Height    55.7 in.
Wheel Size    17 x 7.0 in.
Tires    P215/45Z R17
Base Price: [$19,420]

Tesla Model S 2013

The Tesla Motors Model S 4-door sedan has long been in the likely rumor category, but that all changed this week with a surprise official Tesla Model S introduction. Tesla has made big news with its Roadster model, which with over 250 deliveries has been the first real sport standalone electric car model to see mass production.

If the spec sheet put out in an official Tesla press release was from any other car company, it would be unlikely to be taken seriously. Tesla makes some bold claims for the Model S, which has an early estimate on-road date of mid-2011.

The Roadster has done well on the open market for a pure start-up car company, but at $100,000 and with less utility than a Mazda Miata, its hip factor and novelty value have been big selling points. At double the size and half the price, with a more-powerful engine and battery technology that benefits from the many roadbumps in the Roadster program, the Model S will compete well in the emerging electric vehicle segment if it can stay true to early form.

Certain Tesla Model S show car details, like the rather ridiculous 20-inch wheels, probably will not make it onto a car that is supposed to be all about efficiency. Still, the Model S electric sedan has all the goods where it counts, and new technologies may allow the first affordable all-electric family sedan to see the light of day to be a big hit for fledgling Tesla Motors.

-RSportsCars

Official Tesla Motors Press Release

Just moments ago, we took the wraps off the Model S, an all electric family sedan that carries  seven people and travels 300 miles per charge. We also launched a web site and began taking orders for this historic vehicle, which will likely be world's first mass-produced, highway-capable EV.

The Model S, which carries its charger onboard, can be recharged from any 120V, 240V or 480V outlet, with the latter taking only 45 minutes. By recharging their car while they stop for a meal, drivers can go from LA to New York in approximately the same time as a gasoline car.  Moreover, the floor-mounted battery pack is designed to be changed out in less time than it takes to fill a gas tank, allowing for the possibility of battery-pack swap stations.

The floor-mounted powertrain also results in unparalleled cargo room and versatility, as the volume under the front hood becomes a second trunk. Combining that with a four-bar linkage hatchback rear trunk and flat folding rear seats, the Model S can accommodate a 50-inch television, mountain bike *and* surfboard simultaneously.  This packaging efficiency gives the Model S more trunk space than any other sedan on the market and more than most SUVs.

"Model S doesn't compromise on performance, efficiency or utility -- it's truly the only car you need," said Tesla CEO, Chairman and Product Architect Elon Musk. "Tesla is relentlessly driving down the cost of electric vehicle technology, and this is just the first of many mainstream cars we're developing."

Tesla expects to start Model S production in late 2011. The company believes it is close to receiving $350 million in federal loans to build the Model S assembly plant in California from the Dept of Energy's Advanced Technology Vehicle Manufacturing Program.

Building on Proven Technology

Tesla is the only production automaker already selling highway-capable EVs in North America or Europe. With 0-60 mph in 3.9 seconds, the Roadster outperforms almost all sports cars in its class yet is six times as energy efficient as gas guzzlers and delivers 244 miles per charge. Tesla has delivered nearly 300 Roadsters, and nearly 1,000 more customers are on the waitlist.

Teslas do not require routine oil changes, and they have far fewer moving (and breakable) parts than internal combustion engine vehicles. They qualify for federal and state tax credits, rebates, sales tax exemptions, free parking, commuter-lane passes and other perks. Model S costs roughly $5 to drive 230 miles – a bargain even if gasoline were $1 per gallon.

The anticipated base price of the Model S is $49,900 after a federal tax credit of $7,500. The company has not released options pricing. Three battery pack choices will offer a range of 160, 230 or 300 miles per charge.

But the anticipated sticker price doesn't tell the full story. Model S costs half as much as a Roadster, and it's a better value than much cheaper cars. The ownership cost of Model S, if you were to lease and then account for the much lower cost of electricity vs. gasoline at a likely future cost of $4 per gallon, is similar to a gasoline car with a sticker price of about $35,000. That's why we're positive this car will be the preferred choice of savvy consumers.

The standard Model S does 0-60 mph in under six seconds and will have an electronically limited top speed of 130 mph, with sport versions expected to achieve 0-60 mph acceleration well below five seconds. A single-speed gearbox delivers effortless acceleration and responsive handling. A 17-inch touchscreen with in-car 3G connectivity allows passengers to listen to Pandora Radio or consult Google Maps, or check their state of charge remotely from their iPhone or laptop.

Tesla is taking reservations online and at showrooms in California. Tesla will open a store in Chicago this spring and plans to open stores in London, New York, Miami, Seattle, Washington DC and Munich later this year.
With a 300-mile range and 45-minute QuickCharge, the $49,900 Model S can carry five adults and two children in quiet comfort – and you can charge it from any outlet, without ever stopping for gas. World's first mass-produced electric vehicle offers performance, efficiency and unrivaled utility with twice the energy-efficiency of hybrids, making Model S the only car you'll ever need.

Convenience and utility bullet points:

• Up to 300-mile range
• 45-minute QuickCharge
• 5-minute battery swap
• Charges from 110V, 220V or 440V
• Seating for 5 adults + 2 child seats
• Unique hatch for oversized items
• 60/40 flat-folding rear seat
• 2nd trunk under hood
• EPA Roominess Index 121.6
• More room than station wagons
• 17-inch infotainment touchscreen
• 3G wireless connectivity

Model S powertrain includes a liquid-cooled 9-inch motor, floor-mounted battery pack and a single-speed gearbox, delivering effortless acceleration, responsive handling and quiet simplicity -- no fancy clutchwork or gear-shifting required. Model S costs as little as $4 to fully charge – a bargain even if gasoline dropped to $1 per gallon. You can have affordable fun while being socially responsible.

Technical specs:

• 0-60 mph in 5.6 seconds
• ¼ mile in 14 seconds
• 120 mph top speed
• Braking 60-0 mph 135 feet
• 42 kWh battery storage system standard
• 70 kWh and greater battery storage systems optional
• 9- inch liquid cooled electric motor
• Single-speed transaxle gearbox
• Curb Weight 3825 lbs
• Overall Length 196"
• Wheelbase 116.5"
• All-wheel-drive available (option available in future production models)
• Right hand drive available

2013 Tesla Model S Specifications
Drivetrain
Layout    Front Engine, Available AWD
Transmission    Single-speed
Engine
Type:    All electric, 70 kW battery storage system
Exterior
Body Type    4 door, 5+2 seat sedan
Length    196 in
Curb Weight    3825 lbs
Wheelbase    116.5 in
Performance
Acceleration 0-60 mph s:    5.6 seconds
1/4 mile time    14 seconds
Emissions    0 g/km
Range    300 miles
Top Speed    120 mph
Base Price: 2013 Tesla Model S: $49,990

Jeep Renegade 2010

Jeep Renegade Concept  BLUETEC Diesel Range Extended Electric Vehicle in Fun, Open-air, Sustainable Design Package

Detroit, Jan 14, 2008  -  A B-segment Jeep® concept vehicle, the Renegade is a sporty, “minimized” two-seater ideally suited for the all-weather fun of dune-surfing or rock-crawling. “With an electric motor powering each axle, the Jeep Renegade concept is designed for a ‘hang on and have fun experience,’” said Tony Shamenkov, Jeep Renegade concept principal exterior designer. Constructed of environmentally responsible materials, sustainability is a key theme of the Jeep Renegade concept. Renegade is targeted at customers in the “Stylish Green” segment of the marketplace – those who are extremely environmentally oriented, appreciate high-tech and innovation, and enjoy performance combined with style in keeping with their “green” attitude. Jeep Renegade Concept Technology The advanced propulsion system in the Jeep Renegade concept starts with a 40-mile lithium-ion battery pack. A range extender – in Renegade’s case, a small-displacement (1.5-liter, 3-cylinder) BLUETEC diesel engine – allows for journeys beyond 40 miles. In fact, the Jeep Renegade concept boasts a 400-mile range. Renegade’s BLUETEC diesel engine generates an additional 115 horsepower when needed, while greatly reducing exhaust emissions when compared to standard gasoline engines. Renegade is capable of achieving an equivalent petroleum fuel economy of 110 miles per gallon, which is four-to-five times greater than an equivalent gasoline-only vehicle. The all-new Jeep Renegade concept’s lightweight aluminum architecture and regen-braking system help to improve overall efficiency, while dual electric 200 kilowatt (268 horsepower) motors propel a very capable 4x4 system – complete with low range and locking differentials -- worthy of carrying the Jeep name. Jeep Renegade Concept Exterior The Jeep Renegade concept’s “one-with-nature” personality is emphasized by its large, flaring wheel openings, oversized wheels and tires, and cut-down speedster windshield -- all of which combine to deliver on the Renegade’s promise of cross-country fun and agility. Among the unique exterior details are “deconstructed” rubber-clad headlamps and taillamps, as well as just-for-fun elongated triangular openings in each of the two sculpted doors. While the Renegade features a roll bar, it has no top. Instead, the cargo deck just behind the cockpit can be fitted with a variety of “lids.” Options include a plain lid, or lids configured to accommodate the gear of a particular outdoor day-trip activity, such as mountain biking or kayaking. Or it can come “as built” -- with formations designed to accommodate two matching water scooters with open storage underneath. Fluid-fill caps, a plug-in port and a first-aid kit are also included. Jeep Renegade Concept Interior Sustainability – a ratio between the energy needed to build and ship the vehicle as compared with the impact these processes have on the environment – is a key focus of the Jeep Renegade concept’s interior design. Materials used in constructing the Jeep Renegade concept were deliberately selected to be environmentally responsible, both in manufacture and end-of-vehicle-life recyclability. Innovative construction includes one-piece molded soy-based foam seats and doors, a one-piece co-molded instrument panel with a urethane skin, a co-molded aluminum/silicone steering wheel, a one-piece molded chassis created without using environmentally-harmful resins, and a one-piece molded interior compartment “tub.” This environmental care in designing the Renegade’s interior is aligned with Jeep’s “harmony with nature” philosophy. “The Jeep Renegade concept’s interior — actually the entire vehicle — is designed to minimize the number of parts necessary for assembly and function,” said Scott Anderson, principal interior designer of the Renegade concept. “We designed the Renegade with an eye toward simplification of systems, both in parts and processes.” The HVAC system, for example, is not coolant-based, while the color, grain and gloss of the interior parts are molded in one piece. Even the no-gloss exterior color of the Renegade’s lightweight composite body is molded in to avoid the use of solvents present in automotive paints. The dual-cockpit instrument panel is symmetrically balanced for easy “plug and play” left-hand drive and right-hand drive applications. There is no conventional wiring. Instead, the instrument panel features wireless electronics in sealed, self-contained units, removable by the customer. The panel is built about an exposed cross-car beam containing an integrated power strip, and on the passenger side, yaw, pitch and roll indicators (also built into the fluid-fill gauges). The instrument panel itself is hollow, allowing ample open storage below the beam. Separately-configured impact-absorbing vinyl-wrapped knee-blockers “float” beneath the cross-car beam. The thin multi-plane acrylic instrument cluster mounts to the steering column, while the similar but separate center control screen mounts on a swivel base -- providing easy access to both occupants. Located at the intersection of the steering wheel’s T-shaped spokes, the circular LED screen rotates, allowing the driver to select the drive mode, while a flattened rim provides roomier thigh clearance. A driver air bag is concealed beneath the screen. Red or green translucent shift buttons allow Park, Reverse or Drive selections. The Jeep Renegade concept’s sporty doors incorporate unique canvas-pull remote “handles,” while the rush of the moving landscape visible through the door’s elongated openings enhance the feeling of carefree, open-air mobility. The Renegade’s contoured, figure-form seats -- covered in scuba-like waterproof materials that are both soft-touch and flexible -- feature in-seat belts and unusual, hollow, lightweight upside-down “U-shaped” headrests. The seats feature a urethane skin with soy-based foam co-molded with a composite substructure. The integral seatbelts, along with slender accent strips on the seats and instrument panel, repeat the Palm Metallic exterior color. A “thermal unit” in the center console plugs into the electrical battery pack, permitting food to be either heated or cooled. "Inspired by the simplicity and functionality of scuba diving gear, we wanted the interior of the Jeep Renegade concept to be weather-tight and durable,” Anderson said. The Renegade’s wireless interior is designed to be hosed down. It features a drain in the floor, while the formations built into the floor mat are designed to channel water to the opening. Hollow-section billet-formed pedals float above the tub floor. Fun, functional and fabricated from recyclable materials, the Jeep Renegade concept offers agile, capable performance without sacrificing the environment its drivers seek to explore. Keeping with Jeep owners’ desire to use their vehicles as an extension of their active lives, the Jeep Renegade concept promotes enjoyment of the good things of the earth while taking care of its future.   2010 Jeep Renegade Concept Specifications Body Wheelbase 101.6 Wheelbase 101.6 Chassis Front Suspension Front - SLA Rear Suspension Rear - Multi-Link Front Suspension Front - SLA Rear Suspension Rear - Multi-Link Engine Type: Dual electric Type: Dual electric Engine & Transmission Power bhp (kW) at RPM: Power: 200 kW (268 hp) x 2 Power bhp (kW) at RPM: Power: 200 kW (268 hp) x 2 Exterior Tires F-R 235/65R20x7.5 inches Length 153 Width 62.9 Height 53.6 Curb Weight 3150 Tires F-R 235/65R20x7.5 inches Length 153 Width 62.9 Height 53.6 Curb Weight 3150 Performance Acceleration (0-100 km/h) 8.5 seconds Fuel Economy EPA city/highway mpg (l/100 km): 110 mpg (combined, est.) 1/4 mile time 13.6 seconds Acceleration (0-100 km/h) 8.5 seconds Fuel Economy EPA city/highway mpg (l/100 km): 110 mpg (combined, est.) 1/4 mile time 13.6 seconds

Peugeot RC Hybrid Electric 2009

2009 Peugeot RC Hybrid Electric Concept Peugeot has just announced an exciting new concept electric/gas hybrid sports sedan, which they are only calling the "Peugeot RC..." until its more complete introduction at the Paris International Motor Show very soon.
The new 2009 Peugeot RC concept continues the design language set out by the Peugeot RC ♠ and RC ♦ concepts released in 2006, striking cars that ended up showing bits and pieces of Peugeot's actual new design language.

Information is sparse on the new Peugeot electric sports sedan concept, possibly because as what Peugeot calls a "working laboratory," it hasn't completely been... finished yet.

The new Peugeot RC... whatever it ends up being called... concept is part of a growing trend among automakers toward developing and offering performance electric or hybrid electric sports cars. While every driver on the road would love the fuel economy of a Toyota Prius, many drivers will not settle for 10 second 0-60 times.

It is an exciting time in the automotive industry, as electric, hydrogen-burning and fuel cell technologies have left the stage of vaporware and are now beginning to become available in consumer cars. These fuel efficient performance cars have moved past the stage of dreams to realities, and the next step is to bring them to the stage of profitability and marketability.

Similar to the drivetrain model used in the upcoming Chevy Volt, the 2009 Peugeot RC concept promises the ability to run solely off electric power for extended periods, with a hybrid electric powertrain filling in the gaps when extra range is needed.

While it is clear from the wishful-thinking design that the Peugeot RC concept is a good distance from being built, the fact that another large player in the car business is actively developing this technology is a cause for excitement among tree huggers and autocrossers alike.

At least we can all agree on something.


PEUGEOT SHOWCASES NEW HYBRID CONCEPT CAR AT THE PARIS MOTOR SHOW
Official Peugeot News Release...
The 'RC...' whose full name will be revealed at the Paris Motor Show, is a hybrid concept car created from the passion and expertise of Peugeot's stylists and engineers.

It is a 'GT' coupé which provides the missing link between the RC ♠ and RC ♦ concept cars revealed in 2002 and the 908 RC, one of the stars of the 2006 Paris Motor Show. It's a working laboratory of many future ideas and brings together numerous stylistic, engineering and technological ideas all in a single vehicle.

The 'RC...' is also an accessible and versatile car, with four doors, four seats and highly innovative hybrid architecture.

Its aim: a very high level of efficiency both in terms of performance (with its potential maximum power output of 313 bhp) and minimal impact on the environment (CO2 emissions of 109 g/km in the combined cycle or ZERO in electric mode).

It is an exciting, eco-efficient vehicle which has all the characteristics that also ensure great driving enjoyment; a synthesis of ideas which demonstrates that respect for the environment and driving pleasure can be compatible.

2009 Peugeot RC Hybrid Electric Concept Specifications

Drivetrain
Layout	Front Engine
Engine
Horsepower	313 hp
Engine Type	Low Emissions Hybrid Electric Powertrain
Exterior
Body Type	4 Door, 4 Seat GT Sedan
Performance
Emissions	Less than 109 g/km, Zero Emissions in Full-Electric Mode

Cadillac XTS

Cadillac Unveils The XTS Platinum Concept

- A new study re-imagining the luxury sedan, showcasing the progression of the Cadillac Art and Science philosophy
- Designed from the inside out, featuring a new concept for the interface between the driver and the auto electronics
- Plug-in hybrid system is matched with a 3.6L V-6 and all-wheel drive for dynamic and efficient performance

DETROIT – Cadillac unveiled the XTS Platinum Concept at the 2010 North American International Auto Show, suggesting a new paradigm for the luxury sedan of the future. The concept showcases Cadillac’s emerging top-of-the-line Platinum series of models, emphasizing new expressions of luxury and technological features, including a plug-in hybrid propulsion system.

The XTS Platinum Concept was designed from the inside out, re-imagining the luxury sedan as a personal headquarters, built for efficiency, luxury and connectivity. The concept introduces a new approach to in-car electronics that improves the form and function of the car’s entertainment, navigation and information systems.

“The XTS Platinum concept is the next expression of Cadillac’s Art and Science execution philosophy, reflecting our drive to deliver the latest innovations in the most artful manner,” said Bryan Nesbitt, Cadillac general manager. “We envisioned this concept as an automotive personal headquarters, using advanced technology to enable new levels of connectivity and luxury.”

The XTS Platinum Concept uses Cadillac’s 3.6L V-6 Direct Injection gas engine, paired with a plug-in hybrid system. The plug-in technology enables the battery to fully charge from a standard electrical outlet, enabling pure electric propulsion in many driving situations, especially urban commutes in which fuel efficiency may double that of a conventional hybrid.

Traditional luxury sedans were defined by elegant interiors and Cadillac’s XTS Platinum Concept propels that formula into the future. It delivers new approaches to luxury within a design that combines fine craftsmanship with customer-driven innovation. Like the current Platinum Edition products, such as Escalade Platinum and the STS and DTS Platinum sedans, the interior is based on hand cut-and-sewn materials. The XTS Platinum Concept injects more contemporary forms and themes into the interior design, including the use of Organic Light-Emitting Diode (O-LED) displays in place of traditional gauges and screens.

The concept previews a new integration philosophy guiding the development of future models with respect to in-car electronics. The intent is to progress Cadillac’s intuitive in-car electronics systems, typified by the deployable touch-screen navigation system that has been highly acclaimed in the brand’s CTS and SRX product lines. The XTS Platinum Concept previews this strategy via the minimization of traditional buttons and switches. Designers blended the display screens into a flowing instrument panel. They call it a “dead front” design, because the panels appear black until the car is turned on and the screens illuminate. The instrument panel itself reflects the XTS Platinum’s other focus – uncompromising luxury and attention to detail on the interior.

“The Platinum distinction in Cadillac means the fullest extent of luxury and technology and we’ve tried to reach even further with this concept,” said Clay Dean, Cadillac design director. “Just as the technology pushes the boundaries of what a Cadillac can offer, so do the details that make the XTS Platinum Concept an uncompromising experience.”

The interior takes inspiration from nature, specifically the intricate layers of petals that combine to form an orchid. Cadillac designers translated that into a layered and detailed interior. Light cream is the cabin’s primary color and is contrasted with darker elements, such as the steering wheel and an overhead console motif that runs the length of interior’s roof. The console is made of a richly finished wood and houses lighting features.

Premium leather seats include a new style of automotive suede, with a laser-etched pattern. The patterned material adorns the center sections of the seats and accents the door trim. Thoughtfully detailed stitching is used throughout the interior, including the seats, instrument panel and door panels. Passengers in the spacious rear compartment of the XTS Platinum Concept also have access to the car’s connectivity feature, along with a range of infotainment choices.

“We never lost sight of the fact that a large luxury sedan needs to be spacious and accommodating,” said Dean. “Passengers will find generous headroom, legroom and knee space, along with the technology elements that make the drive more productive.”

A new proportion

The XTS Platinum Concept has a distinctive proportion that transcends the traditional aesthetic of luxury sedans and carries the brand’s Art and Science design in a more progressive manner. The unique proportion supports the “inside out” design priority, while creating a sleek profile that complements the car’s advanced technology elements and necessary aerodynamics.

“The XTS Platinum Concept design artfully conveys its focus on functionality through technology,” said Dean. “It is the antithesis of the conventional three-box sedan, suggesting the active evolution of Cadillac’s design language.”

A sweeping profile culminates in a short, high deck lid that meets the XTS Platinum Concept’s aerodynamic needs – including a rear spoiler mounted on the deck lid, incorporating the center high-mounted stop lamp. A high, sloping beltline gestures the vehicle forward, suggesting motion, while the fenders flare outward wrapping tightly around 20-inch wheels and tires. The wheel-to-body proportion was carefully tailored to visually communicate the car’s all-wheel-drive chassis.

Like the interior, the exterior elements are precisely tailored and elegantly detailed. Brushed billet aluminum trim is used selectively and the 20-inch, 11-spoke wheels feature a brushed aluminum face accented with bright inserts within the spokes. The wheels are wrapped with special Bridgestone tires that were created specifically for the XTS Platinum Concept.

Signature elements essential to Cadillac’s Art and Science design language include vertical headlamp and taillamps, with integrated light pipes and richly detailed lighting components. The headlamps feature light-emitting diode technology for bright illumination that requires less energy, as well as Cadillac’s Adaptive Forward Lighting technology, which turns the headlamps with the direction of the front wheels for greater visibility in turns.

Purposeful and efficient performance

The XTS Platinum concept’s plug-in hybrid electric propulsion system (PHEV) builds on the experience Cadillac has gained with the Escalade Hybrid and Escalade Platinum Hybrid flagship models. The plug-in capability boosts the car’s electric-only driving capability, offering additional battery energy capacity and enabling it to recharge from a standard external electrical outlet. The key benefit of external plug-in recharging is that in many situations – such as overnight parking – the battery can fully recharge in roughly five hours while the car is not in use. The plug-in system operates at maximum efficiency when operating on power the battery has drawn from the electric grid. In some conditions, such as urban commutes, drivers can experience efficiency that doubles that of conventional hybrids.

At higher speeds or when conditions demand it, such as brisk acceleration, a combination of engine power and electric power or engine power only, propels the vehicle. The combination of the Direct Injection V-6 engine and the PHEV system featuring fully electric variable drive provides a spirited driving experience. The system provides an estimated 350 horsepower (260 kW) and 295 lb.-ft. of torque (400 Nm).

Magnetic Ride Control (MRC) enables the XTS Platinum Concept to deliver superior road-holding performance while maintaining luxury car composure in “regular” driving conditions. It uses shocks controlled by advanced magneto-rheological technology, rather than mechanical valves, to greatly accelerate response time and precision.

MRC uses electronic sensors at all four wheels to literally “read the road” every millisecond, making constant adjustments to damping to create virtually instantaneous and extremely precise control of body motions.

An advanced, specially calibrated all-wheel-drive system ensures optimal traction in wet and slippery conditions, and helps deliver maximum traction while cornering. Four-wheel disc brakes, with four-channel ABS, StabiliTrak stability control and full-function traction control complete the drivetrain details.

“The XTS Platinum Concept was designed to deliver an engaging driving experience without compromising the functional features, space and comfort customers seek in a luxury car,” said Nesbitt. “It is a new vision of luxury that uses advanced technology to deliver functionality efficiently and rewardingly.

Cadillac XTS Platinum Concept Specifications

Body
Wheelbase	111.7 in
Chassis
Brakes	four-wheel disc with electric park brake system
Wheels (F)	20-in
Wheels (R)	20-in
Front Suspension	four-wheel independent with Magnetic Ride Control
Engine & Transmission
Power bhp (kW) at RPM:	350 hp (260 kW)
Exterior
Length	203.5 in
Width	74.8 in
Height	59.1 in
Track (in., front/rear)	62.6 / 1589 (front); 62.8 / 1594 (rear)

Porsche 918 Spyder

Porsche Presents 918 Spyder High-Performance Concept Sports Car in Geneva

Stuttgart. Presenting a high-performance mid-engined concept sports car with ultra-efficient, low-emission drive technology, Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, is further increasing the Company’s competence in hybrid technology.

The 918 Spyder prototype combines high-tech racing features and electro-mobility to offer a fascinating range of qualities: An emission level of just 70 grams CO2 per kilometre on fuel consumption of three litres/100 kilometres (equal to 94 mpg imp) truly outstanding even for an ultra-compact city car, on the one hand, combined with the performance of a super sports car and acceleration from a standstill to 100 km/h in just under 3.2 seconds, top speed of 320 km/h (198 mph) plus, and a lap time on the Nordschleife of Nürburgring in less than 7:30 minutes, faster than even the Porsche Carrera GT, on the other.

The 918 Spyder is one of three Porsche models with hybrid drive making their world debut at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show. This trio – made up of Porsche’s new Cayenne S Hybrid SUV with parallel full-hybrid drive, the 911 GT3 R Hybrid racing car with electric drive on the front axle and a flywheel mass battery, and the two-seater high-performance 918 Spyder mid-engined sports car with plug-in hybrid – clearly demonstrates not only the great bandwidth of this new drive technology, but also the innovative power of Porsche as a genuine pioneer in hybrid drive. The highly innovative 918 Spyder concept car combines Porsche’s Intelligent Performance technology, high-tech in motorsport, and classic but modern design to make a truly convincing statement.

The Porsche 918 Spyder with plug-in hybrid provides the performance of a thoroughbred super sports car on fuel consumption of just three litres/100 kilometres in the New European Driving Cycle, equal to a CO2 emission rating of 70 g/km.

This open two-seater is powered by a high-speed V8 developing more than 500 bhp and running at maximum speed engine of 9,200 rpm as well as electric motors on the front and rear axle with overall mechanical output of 218 bhp (160 kW).

The V8 combustion engine is a further development of the highly successful 3.4-litre power unit already featured in the RS Spyder racing car and positioned midship in front of the rear axle, giving the car the right set-up for supreme performance on the race track through its good balance.

Power is transmitted to the wheels by a seven-speed Porsche-Doppelkupplungs-getriebe also feeding the power of the electric drive system to the rear axle. The front-wheel electric drive powers the wheels through a firm transmission ratio.

The energy reservoir is a fluid-cooled lithium-ion battery positioned behind the passenger cell. The big advantage of a plug-in hybrid is that the battery can be charged on the regular electrical network. A further point is that the car’s kinetic energy is converted into electrical energy fed into the battery when applying the brakes, thus providing additional energy for fast and dynamic acceleration.

A button on the steering wheel allows the driver to choose among four different running modes: The E-Drive mode is for running the car under electric power alone, with a range of up to 25 km or 16 miles. In the Hybrid mode the 918 Spyder uses both the electric motors and the combustion engine as a function of driving conditions and requirements, offering a range from particularly fuel-efficient all the way to extra-powerful.

The Sport Hybrid mode uses both drive systems, but with the focus on performance. Most of the drive power goes to the rear wheels, with Torque Vectoring serving to additionally improve the car’s driving dynamics.

In the Race Hybrid mode the drive systems are focused on pure performance with the highest standard of driving dynamics on the track, running at the limit to their power and dynamic output. With the battery sufficiently charged, a push-to-pass button feeds in additional electrical power (E-Boost), for example when overtaking or for even better performance.

With the hybrid drive system offering this wide range of individual modes and applications, the 918 Spyder is able either to achieve lap times comparable to those of a thoroughbred racing car – such as less than 7:30 minutes on the Nordschleife of Nürburgring – or, focusing on a more economical style of motoring, with a reduction in emissions to just 70 grams of CO2 per kilometre.

Like the drivetrain, the lightweight body structure of the 918 Spyder also bears out the car’s DNA carried over directly from motorsport: The modular structure with its monocoque bodyshell made of carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFP) and the appropriate use of magnesium and aluminium not only reduce weight to less than 1,490 kg or 3,285 lb, but also ensure supreme driving precision thanks to the very high level of torsional stiffness.

Reminiscent of highly successful, legendary racing cars such as the Porsche 917 Le Mans and the current Porsche RS Spyder, the 918 Spyder with its design concept so typical of Porsche arouses powerful emotions. The combination of racing car dimensions, clearly structured design with perfectly balanced surfaces, and innovative details all round creates an overall pattern of aesthetic, perfectly balanced harmony in design full of power and dynamics. This indeed is the ideal synthesis of form and function following Porsche’s design DNA.

The smooth balance of tradition and progress gives the car a powerful stance on the road in its combination of dimensions. Variable aerodynamics typical of Porsche ensure both visionary and traditional highlights especially around the rear spoiler. The striking rear hoods extending out of the headrests, in turn, not only fulfil an aerodynamic function on the 918 Spyder, but also accommodate retractable air intakes with a ram air function.

The driver and passenger are not only perfectly embedded in contoured sports bucket seats, but also form part of the cockpit with its synthesis of efficient function and ergonomic high-tech operation offering an outlook at the interior architecture we may possibly see in super sports cars of the future. The three free-standing circular dials for road speed (left), engine speed (middle) and energy management (right) would appear to come directly from a racing car in the ‘60s, bearing out that unique philosophy of driver orientation so characteristic of Porsche.

The centre console rising up towards the front in the 918 Spyder houses a touch-sensitive surface for intuitive control of the car’s functions, serving consistently to reduce the number of visible controls and maintain the principle of direct operation.

The control units relevant to the driver are concentrated in particular on the three-spoke multifunction sports steering wheel, while the variable driving modes, again so typical of Porsche, are supplemented by a map switch enabling the driver to call up various drive programs and serving as the push-to-pass button for E-boosting, for example when overtaking. Instrument illumination, finally, varies from green for the consumption-oriented running modes to red for the performance-oriented driving programs.

The 918 Spyder also comes with further innovative functions such as the Range Manager. After being activated in the Center Display, the Range Manager uses the map in the navigation system to present the remaining range the car is able to cover, naturally allowing the driver to influence that range through the appropriate choice of power and performance. In cities with environmental alert areas the Range Manager also states whether the driver is able to reach a certain destination on electric power alone.

Applying this information and using further info on the availability and location of special energy filling stations, the driver is then able to choose his personal style of driving as well as the right battery charge and filling strategy.

Offering a unique combination of extremely low fuel consumption, supreme performance and long electric range, the Porsche 918 Spyder represents an essential milestone in Porsche’s strategy on the way to genuine electro-mobility.

 Porsche 918 Spyder High-Performance Concept Specifications

Body
Wheelbase	104.3-inch
Engine
Type:	V8 combustion engine
Horsepower	more than 700 horsepower
Fuel	holds 18.5 gallons
Exterior
Length	177 inches
Width	76 inches
Height	43 inches
Performance
Acceleration (0-100 km/h)	3.2 seconds
Top Speed	320 km/h (198 mph)

Acura TSX Sport Wagon 2011

2012 Acura TSX Sport Wagon “The TSX Sport Wagon represents a smart choice for those seeking a vehicle with utility,” said John Mendel, executive vice president, sales. “It’s practical, fun to drive, luxurious and technically advanced, all while achieving an outstanding estimated highway fuel economy rating of 30 miles per gallon.”

The all-new 2011 Acura TSX Sport Wagon made its world debut at the New York International Auto Show today. The TSX Sport Wagon offers a smart solution to modern utility needs with its balanced and efficient driving performance coupled with bold styling and versatile cargo capabilities.

The TSX Sport Wagon delivers flexible utility and generous interior space- perfect for those with a growing family or an active lifestyle. The TSX Sport Wagon boasts an innovative and highly functional rear cargo space that includes a removable side panel to accommodate wider items such as golf clubs and integrated under-floor bins for hidden storage. Along with this sizeable cargo space, the TSX Sport Wagon features a comfortable and spacious cabin with seating for up to five adults.

The TSX Sport Wagon’s practical utility is cleverly masked behind crisp lines and a sleek, European-inspired exterior. Bold wheel arches frame the 17-inch, 5-spoke aluminum wheels, giving the Sport Wagon an aggressive stance. The chiseled, muscular body and sloping roofline emphasize its performance capabilities while making it more aerodynamic. Powering the TSX Sport Wagon is a 2.4-liter, DOHC i-VTEC®, inline four-cylinder engine paired with a Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic transmission fit with steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters. The TSX Sport Wagon delivers brisk performance while achieving an EPA-estimated 30 mpg* on the highway. Drawing from its sports sedan roots, the TSX Sport Wagon features agile handling and quick off the line acceleration, allowing it to easily tackle a twisty mountain road or swiftly navigate through city streets.

To enhance the driving experience, the TSX Sport Wagon features the latest in advanced technologies including an available hard disk drive-based Acura Navigation System™ with an all-new 8-inch full VGA high-resolution color display and AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic and Weather™ featuring radar image mapping. For the audiophile, the TSX Sport Wagon will be available with an Acura/ELS Surround® Premium Audio System and a hard disk drive (HDD) for media storage. Additionally, the TSX Sport Wagon is equipped with an impressive list of standard features, including a power glass moonroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather seats, a premium sound system, Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®, and USB port and AUX jack music interface. Like all Acura vehicles, the TSX Sport Wagon will come with a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including Acura’s acclaimed Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure.

The 2011 TSX Sport Wagon will be an entry luxury utility offering when it arrives at Acura dealerships in the late fall. The Sport Wagon will join the TSX lineup, which already includes the popular 4-cylinder and sporty V-6 powered sports sedans.

For media information and high-resolution photos of all Acura vehicles, please visit www.acuranews.com. For consumer information, please visit www.acura.com.

TSX Sport Wagon Specifications:

Length: 189.4 inches
Width: 72.4 inches
Height: 57.9 inches
Wheelbase: 106.5 inches
Wheel: 17×7.5- inch 5-spoke aluminum alloy wheels
Seating capacity: 5-passenger

*Preliminary EPA mileage estimates determined by Honda. Final EPA mileage estimates not available at the time of printing. Use for comparison purposes only. Do not compare to models before 2008.

Buick Verano Revealed 2012

Buick Verano Revealed , which targets smaller offerings from Lexus and Audi, will be officially unveiled at the 2011 Detroit Auto Show. Buick Verano goes on sale in the fourth quarter of 2011, the latest model in a product renaissance that began with the Enclave and continued with the LaCrosse and Regal. Like them, Buick Verano is distinguished by luxury and technology, including 10 standard air bags, an available heated steering wheel and a next-generation radio system with OnStar-powered connectivity that enables seamless communication between the Buick Verano and the driver’s smart phone.

Buick Verano 2012

Exterior design cues on the Verano include a black chrome waterfall grille, blue translucent projector-beam headlamps, chrome accents and portholes. Portholes have resurfaced recently as a Buick styling cue. They date back to 1949 and such cars as the 1949 Buick Super Model 56C convertible coupe. More recently, the GM brand salvaged the portholes to appear on the 2006 Buick Lucerne.

2012 Buick Verano

An Ecotec 2.4L and six-speed automatic powertrain combination is standard and delivers an estimated 177 horsepower (132 kW) and 170 lb.-ft. torque (230 Nm), 0-60 mph performance of 8.0 seconds and an estimated 31 mpg on the highway. A 2.0L turbo engine will be offered in the future.

Pricing has not yet been announced on Verano, but GM said earlier that the car will be priced between $21,000 and $26,000.

Alfa Romeo Mito M430 Marangoni

Marangoni Alfa Romeo Mito M430

M430 is a striking new 2009 demo car for the Marangoni Car Tyre, Marangoni Group division that makes and markets tires, all truly “made in Italy”. It will be exhibited for the first time in the world at the upcoming Essen Motor Show, which will be held in Germany from November 27 to December 7, 2008, in room 5, stand 128, held by Oxigin Wheels.

Following the success of the 2008 Marangoni TRC Fiat 500, another Italian show car will be used to confirm Marangoni’s ongoing tuning interests.

Once again Marangoni is the first show and look forward to a unique designed Italian example of a newly released car. This project was completed within a period that seemed impossible, coming soon after the release of Italy from the Alfa Mito on September 12.

Starting from a 1.4 litre turbo petrol model, the M430 is a complete reworking of the car, with considerable changes to the bodywork, engine, interior, braking system and trim. The tuning project was again handled by the Florence-based TRC Italia, and for this truly sporting interpretation, Marangoni decided to develop a limited series of its ultra high performance Mythos tyres, using a special red compound, in perfect symbiosis with the new look of the vehicle.

Throughout 2008 and 2009 the M430 will be on display at many leading European tuning shows, with a schedule of more than 10 events.

Body and design

It’s not hard to guess the origin of the M430 design, as the name itself explains its source of inspiration.

The front bumper has two wide air grills, designed to direct air flow to the uprated braking system. On the sides are wide vents that highlight the extremely sporting design of the vehicle. At the rear, the original bumper has been removed and replaced with a stunning new carbon fibre diffuser made by MB, featuring evident air extractors, again in 430 style.Carbon fibre was also used to make the rings around the lights and the spoiler on the rear window. Racy skirting completes the vehicle’s body kit, perfectly unifying the two axles. In addition, special LSD hinges have been adopted, with added modifications, meaning the doors now open wing-style, just like on the most prestigious supercars.

The extensively tuned engine now delivers 220 HP, a good 65 HP more than the original version, with powerful delivery even at low revs. The power kit designed by Mariani also includes a new bearing-mounted rotary turbine, downpipe complete with metal catalyst, rear stainless steel exhaust with four pipes, and air filtering with special carbon air box.

Interior
The new look of the interior stands out immediately. The seats, roof lining, carpets and uprights have been covered with special open-work fabrics, enhanced by Luna supercar with a tricolore motif that accentuates the Italianness of the design. The gear knob, pedals, footrest and handbrake lever have been made by Isotta with Swarovski stone inserts to create a “regal” yet at the same time sporty feel.

Other features
The M430 has been lowered by around 4 cm using KW threaded strut housings that allow height adjustment. Standard braking system has been strong has been replaced by innovative caliber B33 Tarox 10-pot and 330 × 26 composite brake disc diameter, for the braking power is not absolute control.

Wheels
The spectacular red Marangoni Mythos tyres, in the 225/35R18 Y size, developed by adding special coloured pigments to the compound, are fitted on Oxigin Crystal black 8×18 wheels. The result is a captivating red-black combination that makes the already stunning M430 look even sportier.

GMC Sierra All Terrain HD Concept 2011

2011 GMC Sierra All Terrain HD Concept

GMC Sierra All Terrain HD Concept.The new 2011 Sierra HD underpins the All Terrain HD concept, with a modified, production-based 4WD chassis and the Duramax diesel/Allison 1000 six-speed powertrain. The enhanced suspension and unique body dimensions, including increased ground clearance and wider track, as well as greater approach/departure angles, deliver off-road capability while maintaining HD levels of payload and trailering capacity.

The GMC Sierra All Terrain HD concept is an exploration of heavy-duty truck capability combined with greater off-road versatility. It is highlighted by a bold exterior design, enhanced all-terrain suspension and premium details expected of a GMC – all designed to enable greater access to off-road destinations.

“The Sierra All Terrain HD concept takes GMC’s outstanding new HD platform to the next level, marries it to the legendary Duramax diesel/Allison transmission, and provides a heavy-duty expression of GMC’s premium All Terrain package,” said Lisa Hutchinson, GMC product marketing director. “It delivers the exceptional capabilities of the Sierra HD – hauling, towing and performance – and applies them to the toughest driving environments. It’s the ultimate professional-grade tool for construction crews, ranchers and adventurers whose activities aren’t limited by where the pavement ends.”

2011 GMC Sierra All Terrain HD Concept

The GMC Sierra All Terrain HD features a unique five-foot, eight-inch Crew Cab/short box body configuration that supports a wheels-at-the-corners proportion. Shorter in overall length than production Sierra HD models, the concept’s dimensions contribute to greater approach/departure angles. Additional off-road elements include:

2011 GMC Sierra All Terrain HD Concept

    * Wider, 73-inch (1,853 mm) track for greater stability
    * Approximately 3 inches (76 mm) greater ground clearance
    * Custom front upper and lower control arms
    * Specially constructed Fox off-road shocks with remote fluid reservoirs (integrated in the wheel house liners)
    * Front and rear jounce shocks
    * Electronic front stabilizer bar disconnection
    * 35-inch-tall BFGoodrich KM2 “mud terrain” tires mounted on 20-inch machined aluminum wheels
    * Full composite underbody protection.

Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradale Car 2012

The new Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradale goes on sale in the first quarter of 2011.Present at the Paris Motor Show Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradale high-performance model and will be on sale next spring, with £ 105,000 prize. The car is the fastest, easiest and most powerful model from Maserati.Inspired by the Trofeo GranTurismo MC and the race-winning GT4 motorsport models, the Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradale will have more power, less weight, razor-sharp handling and a top speed of over 300 km/h.

In this configuration, the Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradale will be on sale in February 2011 in all major markets, with the exceptions of the USA, Canada and Korea.

 The Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradale responds to demands for a GranTurismo which can balance on-road driving needs with race-driving desires and it incorporates the handling and aerodynamic lessons from Maserati’s three racing programs. It produces more aerodynamic down force without producing more aerodynamic drag, it produces more power without using more fuel and it is more agile without sacrificing the GranTurismo S‘s highly praised ride quality.

With 330kW (450 horsepower), the Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradale generates more power (7 kW, 10hp) from the 4.7-litre V8 engine than the GranTurismo S, while its 510Nm of torque is a further 20Nm improvement. Its race-bred heritage is highlighted by a 110kg weight reduction from the GranTurismo S, down to 1770kg. It mirrors Maserati’s racing advantages by retaining an optimal 48 : 52 weight distribution, ensuring balanced handling and even tyre wear.

The Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradale uses advanced electronics to cut gear-shift times from the upgraded MC Race Shift electro-actuated transaxle gearbox to just 60 milliseconds. This all helps to slash the 0-100km/h sprint time, which the Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradale covers in just 4.6 seconds.

The Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradale is also the first Maserati in history to have a dedicated Race mode alongside the upgraded Auto and Sport modes in its simplified dashboard layout.

With the removal of the rear seats, the Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradale becomes the first two-seat Maserati since the MC12. The GranTurismo MC Stradale has also benefited from new Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes, custom-developed Pirelli tyres, a unique suspension layout and rigid, light-weight, carbon-fibre race seats.

The push for the Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradale came from existing Maserati customers who wanted a road-legal super sports car that looked and felt like the GT4 and Trofeo race cars. The Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradale also provides the latest step in the well-trodden path between Maserati’s racing programs and its production road cars and, often, back again. In the 1990s, the Ghibli Open Cup race car gave birth to the Ghibli Cup and a decade later the Trofeo GranSport gave birth to the GranSport MC Victory. At the pinnacle of recent Maserati’s road-to race story, the FIA GT-winning MC12 was developed directly from the MC12 Stradale.

With a unique body design that is based around the requirements of the track, the Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradale has borrowed heavily from its racing car stablemates, the Maserati GranTurismo MC, both in the Trofeo and GT4 configurations. It has a new front splitter, bumper, bonnet, front guard panels, sills, exhausts and even a new rear bumper. To emphasize the harder-edged nature of the Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradale, Maserati even offers the car with an optional roll cage and a four-point racing harness.

Yet it was also designed to be easy to drive, so it retains all the inherent ride, handling and stability benefits of the GranTurismo S’s long wheelbase. It has the speed to be a road-legal racing car, yet it has the progressive handling to be considered an extremely usable super-sports car.

Suzuki Swift S-Concept - 2012

New Car Suzuki Swift S-Concept - 2012

Behold the Suzuki Swift S-Concept, the Japanese company’s big news from the 2011 Geneva auto show. It's not so much a concept as a look at the form a high-performance Swift could take. The diminutive Swift, about the size of a Mini Cooper, has been a success in Europe, and Suzuki has said the newest version of the car was engineered to meet U.S. regulations. That doesn't mean, of course, that we actually will get it, let alone a sportier version like this show car.

Based on the latest Swift, which debuted last year at the Paris auto show, the S-Concept gets an appearance package that will delight rally-car enthusiasts and make the rest of the world think, "Damn punk."

The car is lowered on stiffer springs, and its wider fenders accommodate a 2.4-inch stretch in width. Front and rear bumpers adorned with slats and a Ferrari-like exhaust and diffuser add to the pint-sized hatch’s menace. Oh, and it's yellow. A yellow that, along with the grey highlights, Suzuki says was inspired by "an athlete's running shoes.”

Inside the S-Concept is a race-car-inspired steering wheel with an "up" marker band in yellow. Behind the wheel are two sport seats that look like they were pulled from a Lotus Evora or Porsche 911 GT3.

The engine is derived from the previous generation Swift Sport’s. In that application, the 1.6-liter four-cylinder made 123 hp and 109 lb-ft of torque, but Suzuki is mum on the concept’s output. Doesn't sound like it will be too Swift until it gets a bit more horsepower.

Kia Rio / Rio5 2012

Kia Rio / Rio5 2012 Car news

Kia's compact Rio model is a little like RC Cola: while there's nothing wrong with the soda, most people have forgotten that it exists. That may very well change—for the Kia, at least—if these images of the next-gen Rio, which were released in advance of the European car's debut at next month's Geneva auto show, are any indication.

While the car looks a ton better, we were surprised to learn that Kia has made no changes to the European Rio’s chassis; the “new” Rio is simply a reskin. That said, stylistically, the Rio hatchback (called Rio5 in the U.S.) should be well situated to challenge the likes of the Ford Fiesta, Mazda 2, and Honda Fit if buyers are judging books by their cover alone. At the very least, the new Rio’s duds may help lure traffic to Kia showrooms, but the car probably won’t be contending for top honors in the suddenly crowded small-car arena.

Kia is planning a range of small gas and diesel engines for the Euro Rio; the only mill in the group that's even a contender for a U.S. appearance is the carry-over 110-hp, 1.6-liter four-cylinder already found in Stateside Rio sedans and Rio5s. But it’s possible we may get a different engine (or engines) altogether, which would be one way to make the Rio a bit more competitive.

While the Kia Soul hums along racking up sales, the current Rio has taken a beating in the charts, as the no-frills hatch and four-door are likely proving less appealing to customers than their well-equipped competitors. We’ll soon discover how the refresh plays out for this market; a Kia spokesman has confirmed we will see this Rio on our shores as a 2012 model. U.S.-specific details will be released later this year, but if you need something to do while you wait, perhaps it's a good time to give RC another try.

Infiniti IPL G Coupe 2011 - Car News

News  2011 Infiniti IPL G Coupe 2011 - Car News

Following in the footsteps of nearly every other luxury automaker, Infiniti is introducing a sub-brand of sportier, factory-tuned vehicles. Its version of BMW’s M or Mercedes-Benz’s AMG is called Infiniti Performance Line, or IPL. The first vehicle to get the IPL treatment will be the G coupe, but Infiniti promises that eventually IPL will spread to a number of cars in the lineup. Likely IPL candidates are the M and G sedans, and maybe even the FX. We’d call chances slim that there will ever be an IPL version of the QX56 full-size SUV.

To merit the IPL badge, the G gets a number of modifications. Under the hood of the IPL G Coupe is a 348-hp version of Infiniti’s high-revving 3.7-liter V-6. Regular G37 coupes get by with 330. In terms of output, the IPL engine is nearly identical to the 350-hp V-6 from Nissan’s NISMO 370Z—both engines make an identical 276 pound-feet of torque at 5200 rpm. A true dual exhaust is fitted (each cylinder bank gets its own exhaust path) that Infiniti claims reduces back pressure some 30 percent over the normal Y-pipe configuration. As in the regular G coupe, buyers can choose a six-speed manual—with a short-throw shifter in the IPL—or a seven-speed automatic with paddle shifters mounted to the steering column.

The Way She Moves

Chassis tweaks involve 20-percent stiffer springs in front, 10-percent firmer springs in back, new shocks, and a sportier steering rack. A mechanical-type limited-slip differential is also included in the deal, as are what Infiniti calls “sport brakes” consisting of four-piston calipers in the front and two-piston binders in back. The brakes appear to be identical to those of the current G37 Sport.

Letting the world know that this is no ordinary G Coupe is an aggressive new body kit, a unique rear spoiler, IPL badges, and fourteen-spoke 19-inch wheels painted dark grey. Two exterior colors will be offered, Graphite Shadow and Malbec Black, which will pair with either a grey or red interior accented by aluminum trim and pedals. Red stitching on the steering wheel and grey leather seats gives a sporty and unique feel to the interior.

Other standard interior equipment includes a Bose stereo, satellite navigation, rear-view camera, and a sunroof. No pricing information has been released for the IPL G Coupe, but we’ve got a pretty good idea what it will cost. The closest G to the IPL in today’s lineup is the G37 Sport, which comes similarly equipped to the new IPL G Coupe and starts at $41,275 with a manual transmission. The IPL has more standard features and the more powerful engine, which leads us to believe that it will wear a price tag just north of $46,000 when it goes on sale in December.

Lexus LFA Nürburgring Package - 2012 Car News

Lexus LFA Nürburgring Package Car News - 2012
If you’re one of the 500 lucky customers chosen by Lexus to get your hands on the 2012 LFA, you can now vie to own one of just 50 LFAs equipped with the Nürburgring package. The special edition celebrates the LFA’s entry into the Nürburgring 24 Hours race this May—it also competed in the 2008 and 2009 races—and offers even more performance than the regular car.

The Nürburgring package promises additional downforce courtesy of a bigger front splitter; a taller, fixed rear spoiler; and small side fins—all made from carbon fiber. The suspension receives a sportier calibration, and new multispoke wheels are shod in extra-sticky tires. It all should add up to pretty epic levels of grip, given that we already recorded 1.00 g on the skidpad in a stock LFA.

The 4.8-liter V-10 also earns 10 extra hp, for a total of 562. The six-speed sequential transmission is revised, Lexus says, for quicker shifts requiring just 0.15 second.

The special-edition LFA is said to top out at 202 mph and manage the 0–62 mph sprint in just 3.7 seconds, identical to the claims for the base car. We recorded a 3.7-second run to 60 mph in our testing of the regular LFA.

Buyers can take advantage of driving lessons on the Nordschleife at the Nürburgring, as well as a free one-year pass to drive the track. For serious ’Ring heads, that alone may justify the cost of the Nürburgring package, although we don’t yet know what that cost is—no pricing has been released.