Hyundai Genesis Coupe 2010

Dartz Prombron Nagel design

2011-05-12T00:30:00.000-07:00

2012 Dartz Prombron' Nagel - an armored sportback made for hauling yachts.

The Nagel comes with enough armored plating to hold off...well, anyone trying to steal your boat. And it has the wherewithall to carry it while also pulling a yacht - 2000 horsepower (1471 kW). The Nagel sportback can tow a yacht weighing up to five tonnes and measuring 15 meters in length. The car also boasts a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) - though you should refrain from trying to hit that mark while still hooked up to the trailer.

The model is named after Andrey Nagel who, along with co-driver Vadim Mikhailoff, won the Monte Carlo Rally back in 1911 in a C24/55 Monaco RussoBalt - RussoBalt being the company from which Dartz Prombron' derives from.

Hyundai Santa Fe

2011-03-29T23:33:00.000-07:00

Hyundai Santa Fe Not too many years ago, it was the company's SUV Only Child, the recipient of Hyundai's undivided attention. Well, it's alone no more. Today, it finds itself squeezed between the smaller Tucson and the bigger Veracruz, as well as having to contend with that Kia clan of half-brothers, including the Sorento and Sportage. Many of which are quite good, too. What's a Hyundai Santa Fe Fe to do?

For 2010, it's been updated, but unfortunately not enough to evade our criticism. The Hyundai Santa Fe feels like it's from the old Hyundai, not the new, perception-changing automaker behind the Genesis, Sonata, and Equus. Frankly, that's not surprising, as this basic vehicle bowed back in 2007. At times we found it a bit wallowy at speed, though it handles as competently as most SUVs. Moreover, one of its two new engines, the 276-horse, 3.5-liter V-6 (which replaces the previous 242-horse, 3.3-liter), didn't evade our furrowed brow, as we found the engine to be rough at idle.

Hyundai Sonata 2.0T

2011-03-29T23:21:00.000-07:00

Hyundai Sonata 2.0TAnd if I may keep the pun rolling, the company shows no signs of stopping now.

Take the 2011 Hyundai Sonata 2.0T. This is Hyundai's fresh, aggressive challenger to one of America's most competitive segments -- the V-6-powered family sedan. No longer content to follow Honda, Nissan, or Toyota, Hyundai is ceding the V-6 territory in favor of a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with class leading output (274 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque) and fuel economy (23/34 city/highway mpg) on regular unleaded. Sound too good to be true? Just wait, there's more.

As it did with the regular 2.4-liter, normally aspirated Hyundai Sonata 2.0T. , Hyundai has created the ultimate box checker in the Sonata turbo.

Citroën C4 e-HDi 110

2010-10-14T20:39:00.000-07:00

Citroen C4 1.6 HDi 110 and the first record

The micro-hybrid powertrain with an HDi clever start-stop

What is it?

It is cleaner, greener on the model of the new Citroen C4 range: E-HDi.

The micro-hybrid powertrain with an intelligent start / stop HDi, which is driven by the alternator. This reduces the need for increased engine start-up are launched as new smoother and faster.

In addition, all the usual eco-style add-ons, including regenerative braking and low rolling resistance, and you have combined in a C4 67.3mpg (rated 15 percent better than a standard 1.6 HDi) and 109 g / km CO2.

See first photo unit of the Citroen C4 HDi 110 E-
How do you feel?

In practice, the start-stop system is fast and fairly do in its activities to the point where, after some time, not even "notice it's there. Even with the box, dull usually manual six-speed automatic transmission is the progress the line smooth.

The gearbox is a difference when combined with THP engine 154bhp 1.6 petrol engine, but it is much better suited for the less urgent the 110bhp HDi stable 1.6. The rate of change of velocity is still frustrated, but they are smoother and faster and help you make eco-driving spirit.
Should I buy?

If you are sold on the search and proposal of new properties of C4, we can also consider this model as the retreat away from the beach. Citroën hopes Sun

It is expected that this version of the bestselling C4 in the UK, accounting for more than a third of sales.

The good and efficient transmission HDi is a game for the rest of the functions of the car is never satisfied, but he runs his business quietly. In the case of low fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are also factors in the decision, then he will respond.
Mark Tisshaw

E-Citroen C4 HDI 110

Price: € 19 700, maximum speed: 118 mph, 0-62 kmh: 11.2sec; economy: 67.3mpg, CO2: 109 g / km Kerb weight: 1290 kg Engine: 1560cc, 4cyl, Turbo Diesel, Power: 110 hp at 3600 rpm / min, torque: £ 199 m to 2000 rpm Transmission: 6-SPD automated manual transmission

Honda Insight EX

2010-09-06T18:45:00.000-07:00

Conventional wisdom is that hybrid vehicles reduce our dependence on foreign oil and emit fewer environment hurting CO2 emissions. When comparing a hybrid to a conventional gasoline-powered model on a mile-by-mile basis, there's some logic to this argument provided the pricing disparity between the two models isn't too broad. However, a new study by Quality Planning shows that hybrid owners drive much more than non-hybrid owners, potentially negating the benefits of the added battery pack and electric motor.

Quality Planning studied nearly 360,000 vehicles throughout 2007 and 2008 to analyze driving habits, and some of the study's findings are pretty surprising. According to the survey, hybrid and non-hybrid drivers have statistically similar commutes, but hybrid owners drive their vehicles 25% more (2,000 miles) in non-commuting scenarios.

Dr. Raj Bhat, president of Quality Planning, thinks part of the reason for these findings has something to do with the fact that high mileage drivers are typically more interested in hybrids than infrequent drivers.

"What we don't know is whether owning a hybrid vehicle encourages people to drive more miles each day or take more pleasure trips. High-mileage drivers appear to be attracted to these vehicles, so insurers should take steps to verify the intended use of hybrids and validate actual miles driven wherever possible."

The study also shows that hybrid owners are significantly more likely to receive traffic tickets. According to the survey, Toyota Prius owners received .38 tickets per 100,000 miles driven, versus a non-hybrid average of .23 tickets per 100,000 miles. That's a 65% differential. One possible explanation for the ticket disparity has to do with where hybrid owners live. Quality Planning found that hybrid owners are more likely to live in an urban setting, where tickets are more frequently issued.

If you really want a hybrid and you don't want to hear any more bad news, you should stop reading. QP also found that repair costs are significantly higher for hybrid owners. The Ford Escape Hybrid, for example, costs 31% more to repair than the gasoline-only model, while repairing the Toyota Highlander Hybrid will reportedly add 45% more cost. A recent report by IntelliChoice that found that, in the long-term, hybrids and diesels are actually cheaper than gasoline-only vehicles.

The text below illustrates how much on a per dollar basis hybrid repair costs for collision and comprehensive coverage versus one dollar for a non-hybrid. The disparity is shrinking every year, but according to QP, hybrids still cost more to fix. Hit the jump to view the Quality Planning press release.

Collision Comprehensive
Coverage Coverage
2006 Hybrid Models $1.16 $1.75
2007 Hybrid Models $1.09 $1.35
2008 Hybrid Models $1.13 $1.17

PRESS RELEASE:

SAN FRANCISCO, CA--(Marketwire - July 15, 2009) - With gas prices on the rise again, energy-conscious consumers are looking to save on fuel costs, and hybrid vehicles are a popular choice when gas mileage is a primary concern. However, an analysis of the driving habits of about 360,000 vehicle owners by insurance services company Quality Planning has concluded that many owners of hybrid vehicles drive as much as 25 percent more miles than owners of non-hybrids, and that hybrid vehicles are often more expensive to repair.

Numerous studies have compared the cost of ownership of hybrid vehicles versus conventionally powered vehicles, but driving behaviors of the owners of hybrids and vehicle repair costs are generally not part of the analyses. To understand driving behaviors of hybrid vehicle owners, Quality Planning looked at classes of vehicles for which both hybrid and conventional engines are available and examined annual mileage for both vehicle types. Also considered were two common auto insurance rating variables: everyday driving (normally termed "pleasure use" by auto insurers) and "high-commute" driving (defined as commuting more than 15 miles per day).

Do hybrid vehicles encourage owners to drive more?

Quality Planning found that while the mileage for high-commute drivers was roughly the same for both types of vehicles, those drivers who use their hybrid vehicles for non-commuting purposes drove an average of 10,500 miles per year -- 2,000 miles (or roughly 25 percent) more than non-commuting drivers of non-hybrid vehicles.

"The additional miles driven by hybrid vehicle owners would seem to offset the net ecological benefit of owning a fuel-efficient vehicle. After all, a gallon of gas is a gallon of gas, no matter which type of engine is burning it," said Dr. Raj Bhat, president of Quality Planning. "What we don't know is whether owning a hybrid vehicle encourages people to drive more miles each day or take more pleasure trips. High-mileage drivers appear to be attracted to these vehicles, so insurers should take steps to verify the intended use of hybrids and validate actual miles driven wherever possible."

To further assess the risk represented by hybrid vehicles, Quality Planning looked at the demographic profile of their owners and found that they are frequently women, typically older, more affluent, and often live in cities. Quality Planning also looked at the number of moving violations issued to Toyota Prius drivers and found that those drivers tend to get more than their fair share of traffic tickets (0.38 violations per 100,000 miles driven, compared with an overall average of 0.23). However, this 65 percent difference may be because urban drivers generally receive more traffic citations.

Will a damaged hybrid cost more to repair?

Quality Planning also looked at the loss experience of conventional vehicles versus hybrids by comparing the collision and comprehensive loss costs of both kinds of vehicles. Loss costs include impact of both frequency (the number of claims per 100 insured vehicle years) and severity (the dollar impact of a claim). For all 2008 model-year hybrids, collision coverage loss dollars were 13 percent higher, and comprehensive coverage loss dollars were almost 17 percent higher. The 2006 and 2007 models had substantially higher comprehensive losses.

When comparing specific 2006-2008 models, the highest collision loss costs were associated with the Toyota Highlander hybrid (45 percent higher) and the Ford Escape hybrid (31 percent higher). In general, there were increases in both frequency of claims and severity of claims for hybrid vehicles. When compared with a baseline loss cost of $1 for the equivalent non-hybrid model, the hybrid models had the following loss costs:

Collision Comprehensive
Coverage Coverage
2006 Hybrid Models $1.16 $1.75
2007 Hybrid Models $1.09 $1.35
2008 Hybrid Models $1.13 $1.17

"These findings should be of particular interest to auto insurers. Some currently offer policy discounts on hybrid vehicles. A 25 percent increase in miles driven or a 30 percent differential in loss costs is very significant," added Dr. Bhat.

Study methodology

Quality Planning sampled 359,309 vehicles from multiple carriers across the country over a two-year period from January 2007 to December 2008. The vehicles were re-underwritten using Quality Planning's proprietary program for correcting rating errors, Precision Re-Underwriting™. The vehicles analyzed were hybrid vehicles that had equivalent non-hybrid counterparts. The annual mileage estimates were obtained from Quality Planning's proprietary RISK:check® process, which uses statistical estimates and odometer readings when available; the estimates were confirmed by policyholders through mail and phone contact.

About ISO

A leading source of information about risk, ISO provides data, analytics, and decision-support services to professionals in many fields, including insurance, finance, real estate, health services, government, human resources, and risk management. Using advanced technologies to collect, analyze, develop, and deliver information, ISO helps customers evaluate and manage risk. The company draws on vast expertise in actuarial science, insurance coverages, fire protection, fraud prevention, catastrophe and weather risk, predictive modeling, data management, economic forecasting, social and technological trends, and many other fields. To meet the needs of diverse clients, ISO employs an experienced staff of business and technical specialists, analysts, and certified professionals. In the United States and around the world, ISO helps customers protect people, property, and financial assets. For more information, visit www.iso.com.

About Quality Planning

An ISO business, Quality Planning is focused exclusively on providing rating integrity solutions to auto insurers. Quality Planning works with insurance companies to identify areas of significant rating errors using sophisticated database management, statistical analysis and modeling, customized survey design, and highly targeted customer interaction. Quality Planning helps clients work within their existing rating plans and charge fair prices to policyholders based on a true representation of risk. The company was founded in 1985 and is headquartered in San Francisco. For more information,

Replacement Front Pipe NATURAL FINISH -- 31 in. L x 6 in. W x 6 in. H; Header pipe from exhaust manifold

2010-07-30T15:27:00.000-07:00

Replacement Front Pipe - Steel, Direct OE replacement
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FRONT PIPE, ALUMINIZED STEEL, NATURAL FINISH -- 31 in. L x 6 in. W x 6 in. H; Header pipe from exhaust manifold to catalytic converter; A high quality, direct fit OE replacement front pipe; Features one-piece design that eliminates labor-intensive pipe bending, welding, and cutting; Engineered to provide excellent exhaust performance; Easy installation.

Cadillac to get seven-seat Lambda variant

2010-06-02T15:43:00.000-07:00

Brace yourself, Cadillac fans. Word has just come down the pike that The Crest will "absolutely" be getting a new model based on none other than the Lambda architecture. That means that a variant of the Chevrolet Traverse will be sold under all four of The General's brands. So far, drivetrain options are still up in the air and vague at best, but we'd be willing to bet our lucky penny that both front- and all-wheel drive models will be available. Chances are that power will come from the same 3.6-liter V6 found under the hood of every other Lambda out there, too.

It's hard not to approach this with a cynical eye. Right after the company's 2009 bankruptcy blitzkrieg, GM promised the world that it was through with badge engineering for good. Swapping nameplates and fenders had done much to lead the company to the brink of collapse, and the waves of fresh new models hitting our shores had us thinking that maybe the company had turned over a new leaf.

By all accounts, the Chevrolet Traverse and Buick Enclave are selling well, so is this a case of Detroit getting greedy or is the company simply trying to spread development costs as thin as possible? Either way, it will take something really special to convince us that this is a smart move.

Ferrari CEO

2010-05-11T15:26:00.000-07:00

What goes around comes around. Ferrari broke ground in the supercar sphere with the 288 GTO and F40, which both used twin-turbo V8 powertrains. The subsequent F50 and Enzo went with V12s, and the 599's mill was based off the Enzo's. But the next model in Ferrari's range-topping mid-engine exotic line will go back to the twin-spool eight-pot.

This directly from the company's chief executive Amedeo Felisa (pictured above with the new 458 Italia), speaking with Autocar magazine. Although a high-output, direct-injection, twin-turbo V6 bounced around the rumor mill, Felisa says no such plans are in place, as customers still look to cylinder count as an indicator of a car's capabilities. The CEO added that the implementation of hybrid technologies – as previewed in the 599 HY-KERS concept – will allow Maranello to continue offering high cylinder counts, including V8, V10 and V12 engines. This is especially interesting because, F1 cars aside, Ferrari has never made a road-going V10. Could be an indicator of things to come, or perhaps just a typo.

Felisa also spoke on the use of carbon fiber, saying that its implementation will, for the time being at least, remain limited to the Enzo stratosphere and not used in its production models. According to Felisa, "nobody today has a real understanding of what happens if you damage a carbonfibre structure." Given its decades of experience with the material in F1 and the hundreds of on-track crashes that it surely accumulated over the years, if Ferrari doesn't understand it, we struggle to imagine who does.

Saab Restarts Production at Trollhättan, First Cars Under Spyker Ownership Roll Off the Line

2010-03-24T20:15:00.000-07:00

Production begins in Trollhättan Saab, Spyker Cars first comes from the production line Line Between Owner

Announced a new era for Saab as an independent company from the bonds of General Motors, the first car of the Swedish company in the arms of loving Spyker Cars CEO Victor Muller, free, and rolled the production line today in the company's factory in Trollhättan. During the talks between General Motors and the Dutch supercar manufacturer, the system is idle for a period of two months.

The first Saab to build the production line today was a new 9-5 Sedan, a test fleet before the official opening of the power of premium sedan is determined by the end of the year. Connected shortly after the 9-5 with a Saab 9-3 Convertible.

Jan Åke Jonsson, Saab Automobile's CEO, CEO Victor Muller Spyker Cars and Trollhättan Plant Director Gunnar Brunius this occasion, was built from a position of prominence in the next production line assemblers and the first batch of cars.

"Today is the resumption of production is a milestone in the history of our company," said Jan Åke Jonsson. "We are up and running as an independent producer and I look forward to the next line of our employees to share their experiences. They have a great commitment to the company and we are now ramp production to meet all the needs of targeted customers.

Victor Muller, CEO Spyker Cars, added: "Every Saab has worked hard to achieve this important point. Today, the production has a new 9.5 first across the line - a perfect symbol for a new era has begun.

Nummi and UAW seeking closure through cash

2010-03-17T19:49:00.000-07:00

Thanks to the hard work and solidarity of the United Auto Workers union, Detroit automakers have known for years that it is extremely expensive to offer early retirements, entice workers to walk away from their jobs or permanently close the doors at a plant. And even though Nummi is an independent company, Toyota, too, is now fully aware of the financial pain involved in mothballing a factory for good. The Freemont, California Nummi plant became expendable after General Motors cut ties with the company during its bankruptcy proceedings, leaving Toyota with more capacity than it needed.

A report from the Silicon Valley Mercury News indicates that the UAW and Nummi have reached a tentative agreement on a separation package valued at $ 281 million, or about $ 60,000 for each and every member of the 4.700 worker plant. The original proposal was valued at $ 253 million, with $ 168 million for hourly workers and $ 85 million for salaried employees.

While $ 60,000 sounds like a king's ransom to simply walk away from a job, the number is not as impressive when considering national unemployment at close to 10 percent. After all, it's not exactly as though there are plenty of quality manufacturing jobs out there - even when times are good.

With Nummi scheduled to shutter on April 1, we can see why some workers are anxious to close the deal. Nummi employee Scott MacMillan reportedly told the SVMN that workers are dissatisfied with the amount of information the UAW is giving workers, adding "that has caused a lot of frustration for the employees." Nummi UAW workers are scheduled to vote later today on the separation package.

Lexus Announces IS 350C F-Sport Special Edition, Priced from $58,375

2010-03-09T20:21:00.000-08:00

First of all, before you run down to the comments section to... run us down, what you see pictured above is NOT the special edition F-Sport model but an F-Sport equipped IS350C as Lexus did not accompany the announcement on its new model with pictures.

Not that we've cleared that up, let's see what the IS 350C F-Sport special is all about. To put it briefly, it's a limited run version of the coupe-convertible IS packed with performance and styling accessories from Lexus' F-Sport accessories line as well as additional equipment that will be available only in two colors, Tungsten Pearl or Obsidian.

On the outside, the special edition IS 350C will be distinguished by a set of newly designed 19-inch forged alloy wheels, exterior badging and a unique F-Sport grille not previously available.

To improve handling, Lexus upgraded the suspension with a sway bar, a new set of shocks from Bilstein and new springs that reduce the ride height by approximately one-inch while it also wrapped the new rims in Michelin Pilot Sport rubber size 225/35ZR19 in the front and 255/35ZR19 in the rear.

An upgraded brake kit that is said to offer a firmer pedal feel and enhanced fade resistance is also part of the package.

There are no changes under the hood with the F-Sport model featuring the same 306HP 3.5-liter V6 as the standard IS 350C.

Inside, the IS 350C F-Sport comes with black leather-trimmed seats with contrasting blue stitching and leather-wrapped shift knob and embroidered floor mats with the F-Sport logo.

Other 'Special Edition' standard features include heated and ventilated front seats with wood trim; Bi-Xenon HID headlamps with Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS); headlamp washers; and Lexus Navigation.

Lexus plans to keep production limited to 100 units with the first examples of the F-Sport model scheduled to arrive at dealerships later this month with an MSRP of $57,500 (not including a delivery, processing and handling fee of $875), or roughly the same price as an Audi S5 soft-top convertible that gets a 333HP 3.0-liter V6 TSI.

GM of India's press release on the introduction of the Beat

2010-01-11T00:51:00.000-08:00

2010 Chevrolet Beat for India - Click above to enlarge

The question of whether or not General Motors will bring its diminutive Chevrolet Spark to the United States still doesn't have a definitive answer. Thanks to a GM of India press release, however, we now know that the little urban runabout will be coming to North America, although that geography obviously also includes Mexico and Canada.

In the past, GM spokespeople have suggested that it might be possible for the Spark (A.K.A. "Beat," or that unbearably irritating robot from Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen) to be imported Stateside and that the automaker had kept U.S. regulations in mind when designing the car. Regardless, with gas as cheap as it currently is and a new Aveo just around the corner, we're certainly not holding our breath for a U.S. launch any time soon, and we feel that seeing the Beat in Mexican and/or Canadian showrooms is more likely.

That said, feel free to hit the jump to read GM of India's press release on the introduction of the Beat, which made its production-ready debut earlier in the week in New Delhi.

[Source: General Motors]

Show full PR text

GM India Launches much awaited Chevrolet Beat

Sexy, Smart & Tough - New Global mini car to be key pillar of Chevrolet's growth strategy in India

New Delhi: GM India today launched the much awaited Chevrolet Beat, the next offering from the 300 series after the Cruze, at a ceremony presided over by its President & Managing Director, Mr. Karl Slym. Based on GM's global mini-vehicle architecture, the experts took 27 months to develop the Beat. Chevrolet Beat will be launched in over 150 markets around the world including those in Europe, other parts of Asia and North America in the coming days.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Slym said "with its best-in-segment design, performance and safety, the Beat is destined to become an industry benchmark and a winner among consumers in India. Aimed at meeting the highest quality and performance standards in the most sophisticated markets in a competitive environment, the global vehicle was put through over 1 million kilometers of intensive durability tests in extreme weather conditions and crash tests both in India and abroad. It has high-strength and ultra-high-strength steel over key areas of the body to ensure segment-leading occupant protection. And with a revolutionary design, advanced technology, unique features and benchmark safety, the Beat offers much more than an ordinary mini, Mr. Slym added.

The Beat comes in three trim levels of 1.2, 1.2LS and 1.2LT. In addition, an Option pack is available on the LT variant which consists of ABS, Alloy wheels, Dual Airbags and Seatbelts with Load limiters.

Sexy Beat:

Segment-Leading Size and a Dynamic Exterior

The Beat is a car that is ideal for those with a modern lifestyle. With the styling of a sporty hatchback, it showcases the new direction of Chevrolet design and a new trend in the design of mini-cars. The clear goal from the very beginning was to create a revolution in size and design despite the restrictions of the mini segment. The vehicle is destined to make a statement with an innovative design that would go far beyond a typical mini-vehicle and set new standards for the segment.

The Beat's roomy proportions and dynamic styling are courtesy of its segment-leading length of 3,595 mm, height of 1,520 mm, wheelbase of 2,375 mm, and width of 1,595 mm combined with its "body-in/wheels-out" stance. Dramatically sized headlamps that literally stretch from the front fascia to the back of the hood, with clear polycarbonate lenses and chrome-coated bezels, resemble diamonds, adding an upscale appearance and glamour.

A window line that is slanted dynamically upward, an arching roofline and sharp sidelines bring a sporty yet edgy look, a rarity in the segment. Secret vertical rear door handles located in the C-pillar are another unusual feature in this car. They give the Beat a unique, sporty three-door coupe appearance without sacrificing five-door utility.

A first-in-segment offering of an integrated rear spoiler as standard equipment essentially extends the rear roofline, for enhanced aerodynamic performance and provides a stable stance in high-speed driving as well as increased fuel efficiency. Round tail-lamps with clear polycarbonate lenses add to the Beat's strong rear impression.

A chrome-coated radiator grille and fog lamps, outside mirrors with two-tone color, and a refined-looking roof rail are other design cues that transport the Beat's styling beyond that of a conventional mini.

Beat buyers have a larger palette of exterior colours to choose from. They may select one of the seven colours - Olympic White, Linen Beige, Caviar Black, Misty Lake, Moroccan Blue, Green Cocktail and Super Red.

Unique Interior Defined By Fun, Fashion and Functionality

The design revolution continues inside the Beat. While pursuing a harmonious theme with the dynamic exterior, the interior is more about functionality. With its wider track and longer wheelbase, the Beat provides best-in-segment front legroom, rear legroom, front headroom and rear hip-room, resulting in generous space and comfortable accommodation for five adults.

The flowing interior weaves together the instrument panel, front seats and door trims, creating an environment that is harmonious, uninterrupted and inviting to the senses.

The most striking design element in the interior is a Steering Column mounted motorcycle-inspired dynamic meter cluster which is also a first-in-segment and combines analog and digital systems, contributing fun and unique styling as well as enhanced visibility and convenience. Adding to the refined look is an integrated center stack design that eliminates the traditional "picture framing" layout and results in a contemporary stylish relationship. LED-lit ice blue illumination which is a signature Chevrolet adds to the urban, edgy styling.

Pattern-printed semi-bucket seats provide a stable feeling when cornering. With high-quality materials and exceptional craftsmanship, they also enhance the luxurious interior atmosphere.

SMART Beat

Segment leading fuel efficiency with high power output engine

Newly developed for the next-generation global mini, the S-TEC II engine – a 4-cylinder, 16-valve 1199cc DOHC engine delivers a best in class mileage of 18.6 kmpl. The Beat is Smart because it does no compromise on performance as it delivers an excellent peak power of 80.5ps. The S-TEC II engine includes a series of advanced features that enhance performance. The first-in-segment application of the PDA (Port De-Activation) system ensures high exhaust gas recirculation, resulting in combustion stability at low speeds and optimal performance at high speeds together with improved fuel efficiency. In addition, the PDA system contributes to a reduction in emissions, making the Beat a truly eco-friendly vehicle.

Another first-in-segment application is an automatic temperature controller inside the engine, which helps improve fuel efficiency by reducing unnecessary heat loss. A dome-type long-skirt cylinder block narrows the space between intake valves while the application of four resonators reduces engine noise. Mated with the efficient S-TEC-II engine is a 5-speed manual transmission tuned to GM's global standards that provides enhanced shifts for an outstanding ride.

Segment first & Premium Features Go "Beyond Mini"

The Beat features an array of premium comfort and convenience amenities that one would expect in more expensive vehicles, including:

* l Automatic Climate Control
*
* Integrated Center Stack Audio with USB and Aux-in Port
* Tilt steering
* Steering Column mounted LED back-lit speedometer & LCD digital tachometer
* 60:40 Split folding seats
* Tubeless Tyres
* Satin Silver Roof rails

TOUGH Beat

Solid Structure and Advanced Chassis Ensure Pleasurable Ride and Handling

The ride and handling of the Beat also set it apart from any other vehicle in its segment. Adopting the body-frame integral (BFI) system, the upper body structure and frame are engineered as a single unit, resulting in better feel of the road along with a heightened sense of firmness and stability, and enhanced connectivity between the driver and vehicle. A McPherson strut front suspension combined with a four-point mounted long engine cradle and a width power reduction spring enhances the solidity of the entire chassis, for improved crash safety and driving performance. A rear compound crank torsion beam incorporates a tubular V-beam for more effective tuning and dynamic performance.

A first-in-segment triple acoustic absorbent structure and special underbody structure prevent noise inflow from outside for optimal quietness. Wind noise is minimized through the Beat's aerodynamic body line and detailed door sealing structure.

Class-Transcending Use of High-Strength Steel

A host of structural enhancements combined with a full offering of active and passive safety systems make the Beat a segment leader in its class.

Its body is the stiffest and toughest in the mini segment; 66.5 percent of its body is constructed of high-strength steel and over 16 percent is made of ultra-high-strength steel. This ensures the highest level of protection in the segment. The solid structure played a key role in securing EuroNCAP rating in crash tests.

In addition, ultra-high-strength steel applied to the side structure minimizes the chance of the structure deforming in the event of a crash. High-strength steel is also used in the rear body structure to protect passengers as well as the fuel tank, minimizing the possibility of fuel leakage during a collision. The four-point mounted long engine cradle protects passengers in the event of a head-on collision by optimally dispersing crash loads. The collapsible steering column helps protect driver's chest in frontal collisions

The use of H-spider type ultra-high-strength steel bars in the underbody prevents severe deformation caused by a side crash. The tailor-welded blanking method used in the B-pillar ensures maximum protection of passengers' upper bodies. High-strength steel in the rear and rear crash boxes minimize the impact of whiplash.

The roof is especially stiff, for maximum rollover protection. The Beat has been developed to withstand up to four times its weight – which goes far beyond industry regulations. Safety features include driver and front passenger air bags a 4-channel/4-sensor EBD-ABS system and seatbelt with load limiter.

The Beat comes with a high localization content and the parts have been very competitively priced in line with Chevrolet's philosophy to provide low cost of ownership experience to the owners. It also comes with a segment best warranty of 3 years or 100,000 kms (whichever is earlier).

Available on the Logan, Logan MCV and Sandero – though not,

2010-01-11T00:28:00.000-08:00

Dacia Logan, Logan MCV and Sandero Black Line – Click above for high-res image gallery

These days it seems like every color is being claimed for one cause or another. Medical research has laid claim to a few (pink and yellow come to mind), but so has the automotive industry: red for performance, green for hybrids, blue for clean diesels... Mercedes adopted black as the label for its most extreme AMG models, but now the shade is being used for something decidedly more low-rent: Renault's budget brand and Romanian subsidiary, Dacia.

Available on the Logan, Logan MCV and Sandero – though not, apparently, on the Logan pick-up or the upcoming new Duster crossover – the Black Line adds a touch of class to the budget cars. The package, based on the Laureate trim level, adds such "special" touches as metallic paint, visible top-stitching on the black fabric upholstery, MP3-capable CD player and a leather-trimmed steering wheel. Nothing ground-breaking here, and it's not going to outshine an SL63 by any means, but finally a car Top Gear's James May can drive to the symphony. Details in the press release after the jump and photos in the gallery below.

Dacia Black Line

At the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas this week

2010-01-11T00:03:00.000-08:00

Every carmaker has seen Ford's success in promoting its Sync technology, and they want a piece of that pie - as do many suppliers. Sync is built on top of a Microsoft-developed software platform and after a couple of years of Ford exclusivity, Kia just announced a similar system called Uvo. At the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas this week, Continental announced its own competing platform for in-car connectivity called Autolinq.

While Microsoft's in-car operating system is completely proprietary, Continental's system is based on the Google's open-source Android OS. Android's popularity is on the rise thanks to cell phones like the new Nexus One and the Motorola Droid. Continental hopes to leverage that community of software developers to create applications that can be downloaded directly to the car. This roughly mirrors Ford's recent announcement that developers will be able to create apps for Sync.

Continental plans to release a software development kit for Autolinq by the end of March, and have applications to demonstrate in the second half of this year. So far, there's no word on any automakers adopting Autolinq for their vehicles.

MyFord Touch-equipped mockup vehicle

2010-01-07T22:26:00.000-08:00

Hands on with MyFord Touch and SYNC App Ecosystem – Click above for high-res image gallery

You've read the PR, seen the press shots and probably snickered a little at the quote from Ford's Derrick Kuzak indicating that his company's latest tech "will cause people to fall in love with their vehicles again." After getting a chance to play with a few entrants into the company's so-called SYNC App Ecosystem, and getting behind the wheel of a MyFord Touch-equipped mockup vehicle, we're not laughing – but we are smiling. It's impressive tech, so follow the jump to see some videos and check our impressions.

Ford Sync App Ecosystem and MyFord

The Wall Street Journal that the extended-range electric vehicle

2010-01-07T19:30:00.000-08:00

2011 Chevrolet Volt – Click above for high-res image gallery

We seem to know nearly everything there is to know about the 2011 Chevrolet Volt. Well, everything but one of the most important pieces of its environmentally friendly puzzle, that is: How much will it cost? Predictions vary widely, with the $40,000 mark widely bandied about as a likely target – though whether or not that figure arrives before or after a federal $7,500 tax credit is complete speculation. For its part, General Motors has said it won't set final pricing until late 2010.

Throwing a wrench into the Volt-price-guessing works is none other than GM's own head of global program management, Jon Lauckner, who has reportedly told The Wall Street Journal that the extended-range electric vehicle could hit the market for well under that preconceived $40K level. Fortunately, "We have until this summer to figure that out," he said. Perhaps we can create ourselves a Price is Right-style contest?

The notion that GM may launch the Volt earlier than initially planned – possibly as early as this upcoming summer or fall, well before the expected launch in November – is also reportedly being discussed by GM's top brass. Regardless of when the first few units hit the market, don't expect to see a national launch outside of a few carefully selected regions until well into 2011. Thanks for the tip, Berto!

2011 Chevy Volt

The North American International Auto Show

2010-01-03T22:42:00.000-08:00

2011 Cadillac CTS Coupe – Click above for high-res image gallery

The North American International Auto Show is typically the big show for Detroit-based automakers and 2010 appears to be no different for General Motors. Chris Preuss, GM's vice president of communications, has hit Twitter confirming that each of the General's four brands will have at least one vehicle to display at the Detroit Auto Show next month. As expected, Cadillac will unveil the 2011 CTS-V coupe along with a concept version of its XTS sedan, a model slated to replace the aging DTS in the next year or two. GMC will unleash the Granite, which, according to earlier reports, will be based on the Delta platform and the forthcoming Chevrolet Orlando.

Chevrolet figures to have a somewhat quieter show, with its big reveal being the Aveo RS, which we hear is all-new and very little like the narrow and unattractive B-Segment hatch GM is selling now. Buick will be chasing the ghosts of Grand Nationals and T-Types past with a performance variant of the 2011 Regal that may share a lot of parts with the 325-horsepower Opel Insignia OPC. We can hardly wait for January 11.

2011 Cadillac CTS Coupe

like the Range Rover.

2010-01-03T22:14:00.000-08:00

Land Rover is not going to make a full blooded Sport model of the Freelander with big V8 engine, like the Range Rover. That’d be too expensive and no one would buy it. Instead, from 2010 they offer a Sport Edition, which comes with unique styling, more luxury, efficient engine and great value for money.

Going on sale form January next year, the Freelander 2 Sport has a distinctive appearance to set it apart form the regular models. It comes in two colors: Santorini Black and Lago Grey and features 19″ limited edition diamond-turned alloy-wheels, rear spoiler and two-tone interior trim.

The interior of Freelander can be had in cloth/leather as standard or exclusive fine leather in contrasting Ebony and Storm with the sport styling pack. It also has an Ebony-coloured centre-console and lower fascia complemented with two-tone door casings. There is also embossed Sport emblem on the front and outer rear seat head restraints.

Freelander 2 Sport is powered by 2.2-liter TD4 diesel engine which is mated to a manual gearbox and features start/stop system. At 42 MPG and 179g/km CO₂ emissions, it is one of the most economical and green cars in this segment.

2010 Land Rover Freelander 2 Sport pricing starts from £26,695 on-the-road.

small and sports cars in 201

2010-01-03T21:18:00.000-08:00

Audi had quite a good 2009 so they are confident enough to announce that they are expanding business and will introduce eight new models in the new year. One of their main projects is to add a new hybrid variant to the Q5 range which is being made in Spain, to be launched in late 2010 as a 2011 model.

So the Q5 Hybrid will be the first fully fledged hybrid vehicle by the the Inglostadt-based company in the market before they implement the system on other models. The Q7 full size SUV will also get a hybrid powertrain which will be very similar to the one that Porsche is developing for the Cayenne Hybrid.

Apart from the SUVs, Audi will unveil a bunch of luxury, small and sports cars in 2010, increasing their range of 34 models to 42. The list contains the recently introduced A8, the A1 city car and the A7 Sportback. Audi e-Tron, which is a full-electric supercar is also set for limited production for 2012.

GM shows the U.S.-bound Regal to the public

2009-12-08T14:38:00.000-08:00

Skeptics will say, “Here we go, again,” as General Motors Co. taps its German subsidiary Adam Opel GmbH for product to rebuild one of its brand’s showrooms in the U.S.

Clearly, it didn’t work for Saturn or Cadillac a decade earlier. But with the new-for-’11 Buick Regal, GM finally may have found the right home and, more importantly, the right strategy for injecting some Germanic soul into its American cars.

The new sports sedan arrives stateside in second-quarter 2010 after highly successful launches late last year in China and in Germany as the Opel Insignia.

The Insignia is drawing rave reviews on its home turf, where it ranks as the best-selling sedan in its class and since last November has racked up more than 30 awards, including European Car of the Year.

In China, the locally built Regal launched in December and has sold some 64,000 units. Young Chinese particularly are captivated by the Regal, keeping the average age of its buyers around 35 years – astonishingly low for Buick.

GM shows the U.S.-bound Regal to the public at the Los Angeles auto show this week after unwrapping the car earlier to journalists in Detroit and to Buick enthusiasts in L.A.

But before the Regal hits the full show circuit and ahead of formal testing next year, GM offered a handful of media several hours behind the wheel and, for comparison, its sister the Insignia. The Regal’s principle target in the U.S. is the Acura TSX.

Waterfall grille one of few Buick cues on new Regal.

Photo Gallery

Driving pre-production Regals along rural roadways outside of Detroit here makes it easier to understand why GM backed out of a deal to sell a majority stake in Opel to Canadian parts maker and contract vehicle-assembler Magna International Inc. In short, Opel makes a fine car.

The U.S.-spec Regal leverages the same Epsilon II platform, which also underpins the new-for-’11 Buick LaCrosse that launched in North America in September, but with subtle mechanical and design differences between its Chinese and German iterations.

For example, the engine is federalized to meet U.S. regulations, as are items such as the mirror glass and the guts of the headlights. But little differs in styling between the Insignia and Regal. Aside from the Buick grille and 3-shield badges, sheet metal is exactly the same.

In fact, Buick’s signature port holes will not get stamped into the Regal’s hood until production begins in North America in 2011. GM also installs an insert to the front bumper to fill the elongated European license plate basin until U.S. production begins.

The Regal’s design proves more striking out on the roadway with some morning rain splattered along its haunches than in GM’s advanced design studio, where Ward’s first glimpsed the car a few weeks ago.

Standard motivation comes via GM’s new 2.4L 4 cyl. engine with gasoline direct-injection technology, making 182 hp and 172 lb.-ft. (233 Nm) of torque. GM pegs its fuel economy at 20-30 mpg (11.8-7.8 L/100 km) city/highway on regular gasoline.

’11 Buick Regal
Pros	Cons
Vehicle type	front-engine, 2WD 5-passenger sedan
Engine	2.0L turbocharged 4 cyl. w/gasoline direct injection
Power (SAE net)	(SAE net) 220 hp @ 5,300 rpm
Torque	258 lb. ft. (349 Nm) @ 2,000 rpm
Compression ratio	9.2:1
Transmission	6-speed automatic w/manual mode
Wheelbase	107.8 ins. (273.8 cm)
Overall length	190.2 ins. (483.1 cm)
Overall width	73.1 ins. (185.7 cm)
Overall height	54.4 ins. (138.2 cm)
Curb weight	3,314 lbs. (1,503 kg)
Base price	N/A
Fuel economy	18-29 mpg (13-8 L/100 km)
Competition	Acura TSX
Lively 4-cyl. turbo	Best motor a late arrival
European styling	Short on Buick styling
Yes! A U.S.-spec Opel	Uh-oh! A U.S.-spec Opel

However, we test drove models with the optional 2.0L turbocharged GDI 4-cyl., which does not arrive until the third quarter of next year.

Our verdict is overwhelmingly positive. Making 220 hp and 258 lb.-ft. (349 Nm) of torque, the 2.0L mill is the kind of engine that will turn Buick skeptics into believers faster than three shots of Jagermeister.

Responsive and well-behaved, the car slings its 3,600-lb. (1,633-kg) weight through the corners and over pitches in the roadway with enthusiasm.

Yes, the suspension in the Buick is dialed down from the drum-tight setup of the Insignia. But this is not your granddad’s floaty-boaty Buick; the well-sprung suspension works together with a quick, precise steering system like no other vehicle to wear the three shields.

And one test model even included a 6-speed manual transmission. GM declines to offer a timetable for the Regal’s manual transmission. But if the gearbox makes it to the U.S., it will be the first since a 5-speed manual on the ’89 Buick Skyhawk.

Another first: no volume V-6 engine for this Buick.

Both transmissions match up well. The 6-speed automatic seems content to sit in the logical gear and not hunt for something higher, while the manual shifts quickly with a hint of the “click-click” ease of its European competitors.

GM estimates fuel economy with the 2.0L at 18-29 mpg (13-8 L/100 km) city/highway. Premium fuel is recommended but not required.

Base pricing is expected to slot just below the new LaCrosse that starts at roughly $28,000, which makes the Regal slightly less expensive than its Acura TSX rival.

Related Stories

Buick Regal Among First to Get GM’s Updated Mild-Hybrid System

GM to Source Initial U.S. Buick Regals From Germany

Regal Called Next Step in Buick’s Revival

GM also provides drive time here in an Insignia OPC model to demonstrate the possibilities for the Regal. The vehicle is outfitted with a 325-hp 2.8L V-6 engine, high-performance tires blacked out in NASCAR fashion, racing seats and a super-tight suspension.

It’s hardly surprising the Regal is such an impressive car, given that it is an exact duplicate of the smash-hit Insignia. In fact, not watering down the Buick to fit U.S. tastes easily ranks as its greatest attribute.

But it will take more products of the Regal’s ilk to erase Buick’s longstanding reputation for pillowy-riding large sedans with sloppy steering.

So it should hardly be surprising GM will go back to Germany for another small Buick sedan, this one based on the redesigned Delta compact car architecture shouldering the recently launched Opel Astra.

Have we seen this approach before? Sure, but this time it’s hard to argue with the results.

Car sales in Western Europe grew by 29.2% year-on-year in November

2009-12-08T14:30:00.000-08:00

view image

Car sales in Western Europe grew by 29.2% year-on-year in November according to data released by JD Power Automotive Forecasting, but the firm cautioned on the market outlook for 2010.

JD Power warned that the strong-looking November result needs to be seen in the context of weak sales last year and the continuing distortions to the market caused by government scrappage incentives.

JD Power analyst Pete Kelly told just-auto that the the seasonally adjusted annualised rate of sales (SAAR) for November 2009 stood at 14.8m units - a more 'normal' market level - but that he viewed it as 'brief reprieve' rather than marking an end to depressed market levels.

Car sales in Germany were up by 19.7% year-on-year in the month of November and a whopping 25.4% in the year to date.

"The scrapping incentive in Germany is no longer on offer and so we expect German sales to drop off relatively sharply over coming months," Kelly said.

JD Power said that the end to government support schemes will result in the West European car market declining by around 10% in 2010 to 12.15m units.

JD Power also noted that the French car market was 'decidedly strong' in November, with the selling rate climbing to 2.8m units with French car buyers thinking they had to register their cars by year-end to take advantage of a scrappage scheme there. However, the scheme has been amended so that, as long as an order comes in by the end of 2009, it will benefit. JD Power says this will mean that the French market will start off 2010 relatively strongly as related registrations spill over into 2010.

The Spanish car market also posted a strong month in November (SAAR over 1.1m units) while the UK car market gain of 57.6% reflected a scrappage effect (plus some buyers avoiding a January VAT increase) and exceptionally weak sales last year.

Car Sales - Click to enlarge

Mid-engined Ghepardo is one part Corvette, one part Camaro

2009-11-06T16:05:00.000-08:00

Caccia Custom Cars Ghepardo - click above image for high-res gallery

Here's what we know: Caccia Custom Cars took a 2002 Chevy Camaro and a 2002 Chevy Corvette and created the Ghepardo. The car uses the Camaro's frame and the Corvette's motor and suspension. The motor is mounted amidships, albeit backwards (note the throttle body). And the House of Kolor paint is called Pagan Gold. Also, you should not confuse this SEMA all-star Ghepardo with the 2006 Bizzarrini Ghepardo concept.

As for this Ghepadro... it's not that bad looking. In fact, the longer we stare at the exterior, the more we like what we see. Obviously we can't get past the gaudy chainmail armor covering up every single vent and opening. And we'd prefer if the five-slot wheels weren't chromed. That said, in profile, it's a nice looking mid-engine coupe and the rear is quite muscular. The front even has a touch of new Lexus, which while sacriligious for a Chevy-on-Chevy mashup like this, ain't bad at all.

The interior, on the other hand, is a house of horrors. Everything is covered over in prison-grade Alcantara or carbon fiber-look fiberglass. Even the fire extinguisher!! Also, we're pretty sure a 15/16" cutting tool isn't the smartest Dremel attachment to use for a show car. In fact, in this Autoblogger's mind, the Ghepardo is now in the running neck-and-neck with the Masonry Vitesse Rose for having the worst interior ever – quite a distinction! Additionally, the Ghepardo fills our minds with the delightful image of Corvette and Camaro fans/owners beating each other to pulps with giant oversized cartoon hammers. Perhaps that's just the food around here talking...

Ghepardo by Caccia Custom Cars

Remember Toyota's massive 3.8 million unit unintended

2009-11-06T15:58:00.000-08:00

Remember Toyota's massive 3.8 million unit unintended acceleration recall that was attributed to pesky floor mats? It appears defective floor mats doesn't tell the whole story, as the Department of Transportation and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration declared in a statement that "this (unintended acceleration) matter is not closed," adding "removal of the floor mats is simply an interim measure, not a remedy of the underlying defect in the vehicles."

Up to 2,000 Toyota customers claim to have experienced a sudden surge of acceleration, and some reportedly told ABC News that they didn't even have the recalled floor mats in their vehicles. Even more disturbing are the results of an ABC News investigation that reportedly found "hundreds" of accidents and up to 16 deaths as a result of unintended acceleration.

Four of those deaths occurred in August when an off-duty California Highway Patrol Officer, traveling with his wife, daughter and brother in-law, were killed after their Lexus accelerated uncontrollably. The driver's brother in-law called 911 and said that the brakes didn't work before the vehicle reached an intersection, struck another car, went into a ditch and caught fire. Some Toyota owners feel there is an electronic glitch in the system that controls the throttle and the ABC report shows that there is some anecdotal evidence which illustrates that incidents rose after the system was put into place in 2002, but so far, NHTSA has found no evidence to support those claims after six investigations.

ABC News caught up with Toyota Vice President Yukitoshi Funo (pictured second from left) and asked him if Toyota was covering anything up. Funo replied "It is not part of the Toyota culture and Toyota way to cover up anything," adding that the Japanese automaker is working with NHTSA to come up with an agreement on how to proceed going forward.

If you own a Toyota or Lexus and you are concerned about this issue, it appears that there is little that will be done in the short term other than tie down or remove the floor mats. If you do experience the acceleration issue, Consumer Reports suggests shifting your vehicle into neutral, pressing the brake and holding it down in an effort to bring your vehicle to a stop. This post and video from CR demonstrates how to effectively resolve the situation, and the risks of pumping the brakes. Turning off your vehicle could be a bad idea, as turning off the engine will also result in the loss of power steering and power brakes.

Rev for iPhone reaches 2.0, includes data-logging [w/ VIDEO]

2009-11-06T15:35:00.000-08:00

Since there are approximately one trillion iPhones in the world and about ten-times as many apps, it's not hard to find a program to suit your needs. But in the automotive sphere, there aren't nearly as many quality applications and even fewer that can deliver the information most gearheads crave. Thankfully, DevToaster has answered the call with Rev, and putting out the 2.0 release of its popular diagnostic and performance program.

In addition to offering code-reading and clearing features, along with OBD metrics for everything from coolant temp to throttle position (full features here), Rev includes built-in metrics for lateral and forward acceleration to calculate horsepower and torque, saved vehicles, GPS tracking and data-logging. In a bid to make the program more user friendly on the fly, it's reworked its interface to make it easier to edit the visual representations for the virtual (and customizable) gauges and graphs.

Although it's $39.99 App Store price seems like a deal considering its capabilities, the steep price of the company's wireless OBD-II controller ($149.99, pictured at right) is slightly harder to swallow. However, DevToaster is working on bringing the cost of the unit down in the near future and hopes to bring out both a series of "fun," "green" utilities and has talked with Google about developing a version for Android phones. Look for a full review of the 2.0 software soon.

Champion's Champions Crowned at 2009 Race of Champions

2009-11-06T15:26:00.000-08:00

2009 Race of Champions – Click above for high-res image gallery

Every year, around the world, drivers compete wheel to wheel in all manner of racing series, from rally to F1, touring cars to Le Mans and everything in between. It gives racing fans plenty of varied action to follow, but it leaves one question ultimately unanswered: who is the world's best driver? That's where the Race of Champions comes in.

The event has been held every year since 1988 at the end of the regular racing season, giving the world's best from all manner of racing series the world over a chance to compete against one another on equal footing and common ground. And this year's Race of Champions was no less decisive. Follow the jump to read who claimed victory as the champion of champions.

Race of Champions 2009

Ferrari just announced that injured driver Felipe Massa

2009-10-10T08:00:00.000-07:00

Ferrari just announced that injured driver Felipe Massa could be back in the saddle as early as Monday. Massa hasn't been in an F1 car since July's Hungarian Grand Prix, when a spring from another car flew up and hit him above his eye, fracturing his skull.

The first time he has even been back on track was last week when he took the wheel of a kart. Because of testing bans in place this season in F1, Massa can't drive the current car he was running until Hungary. As he gets back up to speed, the FIA has granted him permission to drive a 2007-spec car fitted with GP2 tires.

Massa has also spent time on Ferrari's racing simulator. Word has it he's already mastered Barcelona and is working hard at beating the Interlagos circuit now. Before taking the wheel of the 2007 car, he still needs to pass an examination, but once he's cleared, he could be on track in Italy by Monday. This will be testing only as the driver isn't expected to compete for Ferrari any more this season.

Introduction to Karting - Part 2 2009

2009-10-10T07:15:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the second installment of our Introduction to Karting series. Hopefully the first piece piqued your interest with tales of tiny machines pulling 3 g in the corners then hitting 60 in under three seconds on their way up to over 140 MPH. (Well over, as it turns out; one commenter indicated he hit an indicated 156 this season.) That kind of performance is unequaled outside of top-level formula motorsport, yet is available to anyone with some disposable income and a passion for going quick.

However, karting isn't for everyone so suitably endowed. The physical demands placed on a kart racer are hard to comprehend until you're in a fast turn, holding your breath because you can't inhale, feeling like your head is going to fly off and land somewhere in the pits. Chances are it won't, but whether or not you can withstand that while maintaining a good racing line and keeping an eye on a swarm of opponents is an important thing to find out before breaking out the charge card. The best way is, of course, to try it, and given the big up-front cost to buy a kart, a rental is the way to go.

To get our first real experience we signed up for an afternoon's racing school. We walked the track, worked with multiple instructors, got a lot of advice, had an impromptu race, and stuck it out for way more seat time than was probably advisable for a newbie. How'd we do? Read on to find out, and see some videos of our on (and, occasionally, off) track antics.

GM marketing boss Mark LaNeve apparently unaware that diesel is now cheaper than gas 2009

2009-06-05T23:58:00.000-07:00

Over the last several years, we've heard a lot of excuses from many auto executives as to why their companies aren't offering diesel engines in their American market cars. Yesterday, General Motors' Mark LaNeve, the company's vice president of sales and marketing, made an appearance on C-SPAN's Washington Journal. The final question of the segment came from a viewer wondering why GM has failed to offer U.S. consumers the chance to buy some of the high-mileage diesel cars it offers in Europe.

It would appear that LaNeve might have done better to take a pass on the question. Instead of talking about the cost of making those diesels meet U.S. emissions regulations or the difficulty in helping Americans overcome the misconceptions about the fuel, he claimed that no one has successfully cracked the diesel passenger nut in the U.S. (which based on VW's May sales appears to be wrong). More startlingly, LaNeve went on to claim that diesel is $1.25 a gallon more expensive than gasoline. According to the Energy Information Agency, the national average for diesel this week is $2.35 / gallon while regular gas is $2.52 or $0.17 more than diesel. Admittedly, the fact that diesel is now cheaper than 87 octane gas is a recent development (a trend that nobody is sure how long it will last), but – going on national television and quoting outdated fuel prices as a reason for your bankrupt company's business decisions... well, that doesn't strike us as a terribly hot idea.

You can hear the question and response at 20:30 into the video replay over at C-SPAN.

2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe - Specs, Photos, Pricing

2009-03-28T03:45:00.000-07:00

A sort of phosphorus avocado green flash screeches out of the dark hanger at Hunter Valley Airport.

We lucky hacks get a passenger’s insight into the agility and chuckability of this instantly desirable rear-wheel-driveIt’s a car that’s not supposed to be in this country.

Yet only days after its sibling appeared at the Melbourne Motor Show, here’s another Hyundai Genesis, with a guttural 231kW/361Nm 3.8-litre V6 aboard. This one isn’t pristine and stationary on a podium.

No, this one’s laying a gust of burning rubber. A black-clad, impenetrably visored driver Hyundai are cheekily calling ”The Stag” peels what is by leagues of magnitude the most exciting car to emerge from Korea through a course of orange cones set up on the runway’s apron.

We lucky hacks get a passenger’s insight into the agility and chuckability of this instantly desirable rear-wheel-drive coupe.

With production underway in left-hand-drive only the Genesis is available in cack-hand territories. In the US - where’s it’s very much a competitor for the Infiniti G37 coupe that Nissan Australia will not bring here (it’s a grey import favourite) - the Hyundai is winning raves and awards.

So it seems an act of unusual cruelty to torture poor fellows with a tantalising taste of a toy we won’t have the chance to play with it.

Or will we?

“One thing I’ve learned in four-and-a-half years at Hyundai is never say never,” senior communications manager Ben Hershman told Carsguide.

“This is why we bought them here. They’re our cars. We’re going to do a series of promotions like this to gauge reaction.”

As to Australia’s realistic expectations of getting the Genesis, Hershman says: “We weren’t going to get the i20 (city car) either and now we’re launching it here later this year.”

Frankly, we must have this car. Not only does it look and sound stirring to a disturbing degree, no-one’s bringing anything quite like it to our part of the world.

And if Hyundai could price it at WRX or Ralliart money, or even not to the distant north of that, they would surely sell each and every one they could source.

Hyundai Genesis Coupe: Affordable Performance 300+hp Sport Coupe

2009-03-28T03:44:00.001-07:00

stuck to its promise of aggressive pricing, making the V6 model of the car the least expensive 300 horsepower coupe in the world.

The four-cylinder model has a starting price of just $22,000. That will buy you the most basic configuration, equipped with a 210-horsepower, 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. If you're looking for some more power, you'll have to pony up $25,000 for the the 306-horsepower, 3.8-liter, V6 engine model.

The basic $22,000 version comes standard with a six-speed manual. For customers looking for added comfort or ease of operation, a five-speed Siftronic automatic with manual mode is $23,250. The 2.0T model comes standard with 18-inch alloy wheels, 12.6-inch disc brakes, a front strut brace, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, steering wheel audio controls, power windows, AM/FM/XM/CD/MP3, air conditioning, projector beam headlamps, trip computer, cruise control, Bluetooth, iPod connectivity, active head restraints, front/side/curtain airbags, ABS, and electronic stability control.

A "Premium" variant of the 2.0T model is also available, coming in at $24,250 for the manual variant and $25,500 for the Siftronic automatic. The Premium edition gains a power driver's seat, 360-watt Infinity audio with 10 speakers, push-button start, auto-dimming mirrors, a tilt-and-slide power sunroof, and navigation system.

Available for $26,750, with a six-speed manual only, is the 2.0T "Track" model. It includes 19-inch gunmetal-finish alloy wheels, Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tires, Brembo brakes with 13.4-inch discs and four-piston red calipers, a Torsen-type limited-slip differential, blacl leather bolster seats with high-friction cloth insert, aluminum pedals, a rear spoiler, Xenon HID headlights, fog lamps, a lightweight aluminum spare, and navigation system.

Unique to the Coupe lineup is the R-Spec model, which Hyundai considers a clean slate for tuners. Priced at $23,750, it is $3,000 less than the 2.0T Track model, leaving tuners with extra cash for their own choice of aftermarket performance upgrades. It has all the same mechanical upgrades as the Track model, but lacks the premium leather seats, Xenon lights, and navigation.

The V6 model comes standard with a leather interior -- a unique selling point for a $25,000 vehicle. Other highlights of the base model include fog lights, chrome fascia accents, and premium door sill plates. A six-speed manual is standard, while upgrading to the Siftronic pushes the price to $26,500.

A "Grand Touring" V6 package is available for $27,500 with the manual transmission, or $29,000 with the Siftronic. This trim level adds a 360-watt Infinity premium audio system with 10 speakers and a subwoofer, Xenon HID lamps, auto-dimming mirrors, navigation system, reverse warning system, heated side mirrors, push-button start, a tilt-and-slide power sunroof, and heated seats.

Lastly, the "Track" V6 model comes with 19-inch gunmetal finish alloy wheels, Brembo brakes with 13.4-inch rotors and four-piston brakes, track-tuned suspension, and Torsen-type limited-slip differential. Unlike the 2.0T, the Track model is available with a Shiftronic automatic, in addition to a regular manual. Pricing is $29,500 for the manual, and $31,000 for the automatic.

Hyundai Genesis Coupe Concept

2009-03-28T03:44:00.000-07:00

Hyundai kembali meluncurkan desain terbaru untuk yang akan diluncurkan pada musim semi 2009, mobil yang bernama Genesis Coupe ini terlihat sangat elegan dengan desain yang sportif. Mobil ini sendiri akan diproduksi bekerja sama dengan beberapa pabrik besar untuk bisa mendapatkan bahan baku yang berkualitas.

Genesis Coupe, sudah menjadi berita beberapa tahun belakangan ini, menilik dari tidak suksesnya produk Hyundai seri couperont- untuk jenis mobil sport. Hyundai sendiri akan menggunakan mesin standar untuk sebuah mobil sport dengan menggunakan mesin 4 silinder dengan persamaan mobil akan lebih bertenaga karena mobil ini berbahan alumunium dengan mesin V-6 3.8 dapat menghasilkan tenaga 300-bhp, dan daya kerja mesin dengan kekuatan lebih 250 lb-ft.

Desain mobil ini sendiri terinspirasi dari mobil balap LeMans, dari setir dan segala macam aksesoris yang didapatkan dari Jada Toys Dub City. Bahan baku mobil ini sendiri akan menggunakanfiber karbon yang digunakan pada tutup atap dan beberapa panel yang ada didalam mobil ini dengan berbagai fungsi dan aneka ragam keunggulan. Untuk membuat mobil ini sendiri membutuhkan biaya yang sangat mahal dengan biaya sekitar 30,000 US dollar untuk sebuah mobil yang ramah lingkungan ini.

Hyundai Genesis Coupe 2010

2009-03-23T07:48:00.000-07:00