Wednesday, December 31, 2014

BMW 6 Series Photo 1003


BMW 6 Series Photo




Via: http://uncrate.com/stuff/bmw-6-series-gran-coupe/. BMW 6 Series Specification Launched Price Deals Cheap



The post BMW 6 Series Photo 1003 appeared first on Cars Review and Auto Pictures.


BMW 6 Series Photo 1004


BMW 6 Series Photo




Via: http://topmotors.com/news/post/bmw-6-series-gran-coupe-2012. BMW 6 Series Specification Launched Price Deals Cheap



The post BMW 6 Series Photo 1004 appeared first on Cars Review and Auto Pictures.


Tuesday, December 30, 2014

Maserati GranCabrio Sport Photo 1009


Maserati GranCabrio Sport Photo




Via: http://www.dealers.maserati.com/dealers/tw/zh/modena-motori-taiwan/index/maserati/news-events/2011/02/Worldwide-preview-at-the-Geneva-Auto-Show-for-the-Maserati-GranCabrio-Sport.html. Maserati GranCabrio Sport Specification Launched Price Deals Cheap



The post Maserati GranCabrio Sport Photo 1009 appeared first on Cars Review and Auto Pictures.


Jaguar XFR-S Sportbrake Photo 1001


Jaguar XFR-S Sportbrake Photo




Via: http://www.motorauthority.com/news/1085743_2014-jaguar-xfr-s-sportbrake-spy-shots. Jaguar XFR-S Sportbrake Specification Launched Price Deals Cheap



The post Jaguar XFR-S Sportbrake Photo 1001 appeared first on Cars Review and Auto Pictures.


Monday, December 29, 2014

McLaren 650S Photo 1001


McLaren 650S Photo




Via: http://reviews.cnet.com/2300-31346_7-10019607.html. McLaren 650S Specification Launched Price Deals Cheap



The post McLaren 650S Photo 1001 appeared first on Cars Review and Auto Pictures.


McLaren 650S Photo 1002


McLaren 650S Photo




Via: http://www.egarage.com/current-interests/mclaren-650s/. McLaren 650S Specification Launched Price Deals Cheap



The post McLaren 650S Photo 1002 appeared first on Cars Review and Auto Pictures.


Sunday, December 28, 2014

McLaren 650S Photo 1007


McLaren 650S Photo




Via: http://www.motorauthority.com/news/1090392_mclaren-650s-2014-geneva-motor-show-preview. McLaren 650S Specification Launched Price Deals Cheap



The post McLaren 650S Photo 1007 appeared first on Cars Review and Auto Pictures.


Hyundai Intrado Photo 1001


Hyundai Intrado Photo




Via: http://thenewswheel.com/hyundai-intrado-fuel-cell-concept-debut-geneva-show/. Hyundai Intrado Specification Launched Price Deals Cheap



The post Hyundai Intrado Photo 1001 appeared first on Cars Review and Auto Pictures.


Saturday, December 27, 2014

Video: And The Motor Trend Channel’s Top Driver’s Car Of 2014 Is…

Video: And The Motor Trend Channel's Top Driver's Car Of 2014 Is... Picture #1


As the year draws to a close we put to you that very same conundrum; What is the top driver's car of 2014? This video contains The Motor Trend Channel's verdict but do you agree? Hit us up in the comments! Remember it's not about the price, power or equipment levels but rather the pure...

Video: Car Cruise In Huston Pays Tribute To The Late Fast And Furious Actor, Paul Walker

Video: Car Cruise In Huston Pays Tribute To The Late Fast And Furious Actor, Paul Walker Picture #1


The actor and car fanatic, Paul Walker was remembered by a whole fleet of fellow motoring enthusiasts at a car cruise in Houston last week. Check out the many cars that are well worthy of starring in the Fast and Furious Films...

Thursday, December 25, 2014

F1 to have new engine rules in 2016 - report

 F1 to have new engine rules in 2016 - report


FIA logo / XPB

F1 is now speeding towards yet another new set of engine regulations.




On Thursday at a Geneva meeting of the Strategy Group, Bernie Ecclestone proposed to scrap the current turbo V6 rules.




Michael Schmidt, of the respected German trade magazine Auto Motor und Sport, said that although his proposal did not produce a "definitive result", the sport is now headed towards an all-new set of regulations for 2016.




"The engines are to be louder, more powerful and cheaper," said Schmidt on Friday.




"The goal is 1000 horse power and a cost of 10 million euros per team. An expert group must deliver results (on the proposal) by the end of January," he added.




It is now too late, however, to make significant changes to the 2015 rules, which will be almost identical to the turbo V6 formula that saw Mercedes cruise dominantly to the title this year.




Geneva, however, did produce one or two rule tweaks for 2015.




Recently, when Korea was surprisingly added to the 2015 schedule, it was said Ecclestone had done it as a mere trick to give every driver an extra engine to use throughout next season.




But on Thursday, that loophole was closed and - regardless of whether 20 or 21 races are ultimately held next year - each driver will be limited to just 4 engines for the 2015 season as originally intended.




Schmdit said the tweak was made because the extra engine would have cost already struggling teams up to an extra 800,000 euros.


Alfa Romeo Giulietta Sprint pricing announced (UK)

 Alfa Romeo Giulietta Sprint pricing announced (UK)


Alfa Romeo Giulietta Sprint

Starts at 20,490


Following an early October reveal, Alfa Romeo has disclosed pricing details for the Giulietta Sprint.




It was sixty years ago when Alfa Romeo introduced the Bertone-design Giulietta Sprint and now its modern successor is available in UK. It's based on the Progression version but adds extra goodies such as 17-inch wheels, cloth & Alcantara seats, dark tinted windows with black surrounds, darkened headlight surrounds, body-colored side skirts and a rear diffuser with bigger exhaust trim.




On top of that you can add more equipment such as bi-xenon headlights with washer (£930), dual-zone climate control (£450), cruise control (£260), Bose sound system (£820), Uconnect 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment with sat-nav (£1,050) and an electric double sunroof (£1,200).




As far as the engines are concerned, the Alfa Romeo Giulietta Sprint can be had with a 150 HP & 170 HP 1.4-liter MultiAir turbo, a 120 HP 1.4-liter LPG turbo, a 105 HP 1.6-liter JTDM and a 150 HP & 175 HP 2.0-liter JTDM. Depending on engine selection, the model can be had with either a six-speed manual gearbox or a TCT twin clutch automatic transmission.




Alfa Romeo plans to kick off deliveries early next year, with prices starting at £20,490.


Wednesday, December 24, 2014

Google is reportedly working on a new Android infotainment system

 Google is reportedly working on a new Android infotainment system


Android Auto screen

Would be far more advanced than Android Auto


Google has high hopes for Android Auto but a new report is indicating the company is developing a new system which won't require users to connect their smartphones.




According to Reuters' sources, Google is working on a new version of Android that can be used to run infotainment systems. This would be a major change as Android Auto relies on a smartphone to "project" the Android experience onto the infotainment system.




Little else is known about the system but it could feature an integrated internet connection. This would presumably give Google access to a plethora of vehicle data which they could sell to advertisers and other third-parties.


Nissan Titan Truckumentary released, highlights their history of truck building [video]



Company is gearing up for the unveiling of the 2016 Titan


Following a preview last month, Nissan has released the first chapter of their "Titan Truckumentary."




Designed to promote the 2016 Titan, the truckumentary highlight's Nissan presence in the United States and several of their previous pickups including the 1960 Dasun 1200 which had a 1-liter engine that developed 37 bhp (27 kW). The video also touches on a handful of concepts and a record setting run at the Bonneville Salt Flats.




In the end, 2016 Titan Product Planner Brent Hagan says "All those customer experiences and all those customer stories, we take those back and we take them to heart because that provides the foundation for the Nissan brand in our trucks and we try to make sure that DNA is there for the next-generation Titan."


Tuesday, December 23, 2014

Brabus makes Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG 6x6 even more outlandish with red carbon

 Brabus makes Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG 6x6 even more outlandish with red carbon


Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG 6x6 with red carbon fiber by Brabus

Power increased to 700 HP


The Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG 6x6 has received the red carbon fiber treatment from Brabus.




Just when you thought the six-wheel G-Class couldn't get more vulgar, Brabus decided to slap on some red carbon fiber bits and pieces to complement the glossy black body finish. The cherry red accents can be noticed on the wheel arches, hood and roof while the interior cabin has also carried over the red & black theme.




Aside from applying these cosmetic tweaks, Brabus has also boosted the V8 5.5-liter twin-turbo engine by 156 HP (115 kW) and 200 Nm (147 lb-ft). After installing the performance kit, the motor now delivers 700 HP (515 kW) and 960 Nm (708 lb-ft) of torque. It allows the 3,850 kg (8,487 lbs) G-Class preform the 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) sprint in only 7.4 seconds before hitting an electronically-capped 100 mph (160 km/h).




We remind you the 2015 G63 AMG 6x6 costs €456,900 and only 20-30 units are built each year. Mercedes-Benz has already confirmed plans for a four-wheel version which will be launched in 2015.


2016 Cadillac CTS-V unveiled with 640 bhp [video]



Has a top speed of 200 mph (322 km/h)


Cadillac has officially unveiled the 2016 CTS-V, ahead of its debut at the North American International Auto Show.




Set to battle the BMW M5 and Mercedes E63 AMG, the redesigned CTS-V features a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine that develops 640 bhp (477 kW) and 630 lb-ft (855 Nm) of torque. It is connected to an eight-speed automatic transmission which enables the sedan to accelerate from 0-60 mph in 3.7 seconds before hitting a top speed of 200 mph (322 km/h).




On the styling front, the sedan has an aggressive front fascia with a mesh grille and larger air intakes. The car also has front splitter and a ventilated carbon fiber hood. Moving further back, we can see widened fenders, aerodynamic side skirts and a rear spoiler. Other notable highlights include a four-tailpipe exhaust system and 19-inch forged aluminum wheels with Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires.




If that's not sporty enough, the company will offer a Carbon Fiber package that includes a "more aggressive front splitter, hood vent, rear diffuser and spoiler."




The cabin largely carries over but comes nicely equipped with semi-aniline leather / sueded microfiber sport seats, matte carbon fiber trim and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. The car also has a CUE infotainment system, a Performance Data Recorder and a Bose audio system - among other things.




To keep things under control, engineers increased the structural stiffness by 25 percent. In order to achieve this, they installed a strut tower-to-tower brace, a strut tower-to-plenum brace and a strengthened rocker bulkhead. There's also V-braces, stronger cradle-to-rocker braces and upper tie bar-to-bumper braces.




The product team didn't stop there as they also added a sport-tuned suspension, an improved steering system and an electronic limited-slip rear differential. The car also has larger prop shafts, Brembo brakes and an upgraded Magnetic Ride Control system. There's also a "competition-spec" Performance Traction Management system with four different modes: Tour, Sport, Track and Snow.




The 2016 Cadillac CTS-V will go on sale late next summer and pricing will be announced closer to launch.




Check out the press release for additional information


Monday, December 22, 2014

Ford Expedition Photo 1001


Ford Expedition Photo




Via: http://www.autoevolution.com/news/new-2014-ford-expedition-rendering-53901.html. Ford Expedition Specification Launched Price Deals Cheap



The post Ford Expedition Photo 1001 appeared first on Cars Review and Auto Pictures.


Ford Expedition Photo 1003


Ford Expedition Photo




Via: http://www.conceptcarz.com/z18485/Ford-Expedition.aspx. Ford Expedition Specification Launched Price Deals Cheap



The post Ford Expedition Photo 1003 appeared first on Cars Review and Auto Pictures.


Sunday, December 21, 2014

Mercedes-Benz Ener-G-Force Photo 1002


Mercedes-Benz Ener-G-Force Photo




Via: http://silodrome.com/mercedes-benz-ener-g-force-concept/. Mercedes-Benz Ener-G-Force Specification Launched Price Deals Cheap



The post Mercedes-Benz Ener-G-Force Photo 1002 appeared first on Cars Review and Auto Pictures.


Mercedes-Benz Ener-G-Force Photo 1003


Mercedes-Benz Ener-G-Force Photo




Via: http://hypebeast.com/2012/11/mercedes-benz-ener-g-force-concept. Mercedes-Benz Ener-G-Force Specification Launched Price Deals Cheap



The post Mercedes-Benz Ener-G-Force Photo 1003 appeared first on Cars Review and Auto Pictures.


Saturday, December 20, 2014

2014 Volvo Estate Photo 1003


2014 Volvo Estate Photo




Via: http://www.whatcar.com/car-news/volvo-concept-xc-coupe-revealed/1226324. 2014 Volvo Estate Specification Launched Price Deals Cheap



The post 2014 Volvo Estate Photo 1003 appeared first on Cars Review and Auto Pictures.


2014 Volvo Estate Photo 1004


2014 Volvo Estate Photo




Via: http://www.autoweek.com/article/20140102/CARNEWS/140109997. 2014 Volvo Estate Specification Launched Price Deals Cheap



The post 2014 Volvo Estate Photo 1004 appeared first on Cars Review and Auto Pictures.


Friday, December 19, 2014

Kia K900 Photo 1004


Kia K900 Photo




Via: http://www.motorauthority.com/news/1088006_kia-k900-coming-to-los-angeles-auto-show-u-s-sales-in-2014. Kia K900 Specification Launched Price Deals Cheap



The post Kia K900 Photo 1004 appeared first on Cars Review and Auto Pictures.


Kia K900 Photo 1005


Kia K900 Photo




Via: http://www.jeanknowscars.com/car-life/events/2015-kia-k900-l-a/photo-06.html. Kia K900 Specification Launched Price Deals Cheap



The post Kia K900 Photo 1005 appeared first on Cars Review and Auto Pictures.


Thursday, December 18, 2014

Honda Accord Photo 1003


Honda Accord Photo




Via: http://www.digitaltrends.com/cars/honda-accord-hfp-coupe-and-bisimoto-concept-at-sema/. Honda Accord Specification Launched Price Deals Cheap



The post Honda Accord Photo 1003 appeared first on Cars Review and Auto Pictures.


Honda Accord Photo 1004


Honda Accord Photo




Via: http://www.olacabs.com/car-rentals/mumbai-honda-accord. Honda Accord Specification Launched Price Deals Cheap



The post Honda Accord Photo 1004 appeared first on Cars Review and Auto Pictures.


Wednesday, December 17, 2014

Volkswagen CC Photo 1005


Volkswagen CC Photo




Via: http://www.autoweek.com/article/20130505/CARREVIEWS/130509920. Volkswagen CC Specification Launched Price Deals Cheap



The post Volkswagen CC Photo 1005 appeared first on Cars Review and Auto Pictures.


Volkswagen CC Photo 1006


Volkswagen CC Photo




Via: http://www.motorauthority.com/news/1073492_volkswagen-announces-pricing-on-the-2013-cc. Volkswagen CC Specification Launched Price Deals Cheap



The post Volkswagen CC Photo 1006 appeared first on Cars Review and Auto Pictures.


Tuesday, December 16, 2014

Strasse Forged Match SM5R Alloys To Chevrolet Corvette C7 Stingray

Strasse Forged Match SM5R Alloys To Chevrolet Corvette C7 Stingray Picture #6


This red-hot Corvette C7 Stingray now sports a set of Strasse Forged's colour-matched rims! Hot on the heels of the blue Corvette Z06, Strasse Forged Wheels has sourced some very striking SM5R Deep Concave alloys for the C7. They measure 20-inches at the front and 21-inches at the rear and are finished in two-tone Gloss...

LabJapan’s Top Ten Mods For Drift Cars

LabJapan's Top Ten Mods For Drift Cars Picture #1


If you are looking to optimise your car's drifting potential then LabJapan have some top tips...

Monday, December 15, 2014

Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster for sale at 1.05M EUR

 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster for sale at 1.05M EUR


Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster for sale at 1.05M EUR

Has 34,500 km on the odometer


A rare Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster manufactured in 1958 is currently up for sale in the city of Antwerp, Belgium.




This example is one of only 1858 ever made and according to the add has been extremely well maintained. The car has covered 34,500 km (22,000 miles) and has a re-trimmed interior to “a very high quality”.




This SL Roadster features a 3.0-liter 6-cylinder petrol engine using direct fuel injection that produces 220 HP (162 kW) at 5,800 rpm. The unit is mated to a 4-speed manual gearbox.




The asking price for this classic vehicle currently is 1.05M EUR (1.3M USD).


BMW 2-Series Coupe receives 1.5-liter 3-cylinder engine, xDrive for 220d

 BMW 2-Series Coupe receives 1.5-liter 3-cylinder engine, xDrive for 220d


BMW 2-Series Coupe

Four new trim levels also added


BMW has introduced a series of improvements for the 2-Series Coupe model.




First, the company has added a 1.5-liter 3-cylinder petrol unit to the vehicle's engine lineup. Dubbed the 218i, the model has the same engine as the 2-Series Active Tourer, which means it has 136 HP (100 kW) and 220 Nm (162 lb-ft) of torque. When equipped with this power plant, the coupe averages at 5.1 – 5.6 l/100 km or (55 – 50 mpg UK), while the 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) sprint should take no more than 8.8 seconds for the manual and 8.9 for the eight-speed automatic. The top speed is rated at 212 km/h (132 mph).




Besides the new engine, the Bavarian company has revealed the 220d Coupe modification will be available with the xDrive all-wheel-drive system. Until now it was offered only for the range-topping 235i version.




Last but not least, BMW has introduced four new trim levels. The Advantage model features, in addition to the basic equipment, multifunction buttons on the steering wheel, cruise control with braking function, Park Distance Control with sensors at the rear, a storage package and fog lamps. The Sport Line and the Luxury Line levels add new 17-inch light alloy wheels, a light package and ambient light with variable color change function, as well as exclusively designed door sills, seat upholstery, interior trims and car key. The M Sport variants offer 10 mm lower suspension, unique 17-inch rims and an M aerodynamics package with larger air intakes at the front, bespoke side sills and a diffuser at the back.


Sunday, December 14, 2014

GM & Ford considering electric pickups

 GM & Ford considering electric pickups


2014 Chevrolet Silverado High Country 06.05.2013

Ford Board Member and Pacific Gas & Electric CEO Tony Earley has revealed Chevrolet and Ford are considering electric versions of the Silverado and F-150.




Speaking at a Detroit Economic Club luncheon, Earley said he has had discussions with both automakers about converting their popular full-size pickups into electric vehicles. However, he noted this would require a significant investment and the government might need to step up to help cover the development costs.




When asked for comment, GM electrification communications manager Kevin Kelly told Automotive News their discussions were "informal brainstorming sessions" and no decision has been made about an electric Silverado.


New Audi A6 coming in 2017, will feature Prologue-inspired styling

 New Audi A6 coming in 2017, will feature Prologue-inspired styling


Audi Prologue concept

Will ride on the MLB Evo platform


Audi's head of design has revealed some new details about the next-generation A6.




Speaking to Autocar, Marc Lichte confirmed the car's design has already been completed and it will feature styling inspired by the Prologue concept which debuted at the Los Angeles Auto Show earlier this year. Lichte went on to say the car was designed alongside the 2016 A8 and 2017 A7 to ensure all three models are distinctive in their own right.




Additional information is limited but the A6 is slated to ride on the MLB Evo platform that recently debuted on the Q7. This likely means the next-generation model will be lighter than its predecessor and feature similar engines to the Q7.




 


Saturday, December 13, 2014

BMW 6-Series Convertible 2015


BMW 6-Series Convertible 2015




Visit BMW 6-Series Convertible 2015 for full details.


Toyota Camry - Driven




Mark McNabb had yet another crack at the 2015 Camry, this time in its loaded-up XLE trim level.






It hadn't been long since my first drive experience with the revised 2015 Toyota Camry. I spent a couple days along the northeastern edge of Florida's sunny coastline driving every trim level the Camry had to offer. But recently a Camry showed up at my door, ready for a weeklong stint. Remembering back to my first drive experience, I knew the week would be full of pleasant, uneventful driving. This would especially be the case since the week's loaner was fitted with the swanky XLE trim with near-Lexus levels of luxury.



The car also came loaded with options, including the 3.5-liter V-6, Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, the Entune infotainment system with seven-inch touchscreen, the Technology Package, illuminated door sills, and the rear spoiler.



The Camry proved to be a great fit for the week's activities that including tooling around town, hauling kids in car seats, and taking a short two-hour road trip for a wedding. So how'd it do? Click past the jump for the rundown.



Click past the jump for more on the 2015 Toyota Camry



Toyota Camry - Driven originally appeared on topspeed.com on Friday, 5 December 2014 13:00 EST.



read more





Friday, December 12, 2014

Video: Top Gear Launched in China








width="460" height="370" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/BIm-cWRelj0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen>


If you remember back a few short weeks, we told you France was getting its own version of Great Britain's Top Gear, the automotive show that earns the country's - nigh, the world's - top ratings in its category. Now it's China's turn. Above is the teaser trailer for the recently debuted series. It contains all the stunts, laughs, scary moments, and antics you'd expect from Top Gear. According the to the BBC, the show is presented by the men who are already well-known stars in China. Richie Jen is a pop singer turned professional racer, Tian Liang is a former Olympic diver, and Cheng Lei, the host of Chinese Idol.



Though Top Gear has been formatted for other local markets before, including the U.S., China is the show's largest market to date with the reasonable expectation for viewership numbering in the hundreds of millions.



China's new show will still feature all the familiar segments, including the star in a reasonably priced car, a live studio audience, and even a Chinese Stig. It will have special guest appearances by celebrities, outlandish stunts (as evidenced by the video above), and loads of off-color comedy.



Video: Top Gear Launched in China originally appeared on topspeed.com on Sunday, 7 December 2014 06:00 EST.



read more





Paul Walker's Nissan Skyline From "Fast & Furious" up for Sale




Run, don't walk, to the bank and pull out your life savings, as Paul Walker's






A heavily modified Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 is listed at Classic Trader, the auto classifieds that sells a lot of classic exotics. So what's so special about this particular Skyline other than the fact that it's blue, has 550 horsepower under its hood, and only 6,000 km (3,728 miles) on the odometer? Well, it's a Hollywood car driven specifically by the late Paul Walker in Fast & Furious - the fourth installment in the franchise.



This Skyline is actually one of nine Skylines that were used in the making of the movie, but according to Top Gear, this one is the only real Skyline in the movie. The rest were apparently makeshift units created by using plastic bodies on Volkswagen Beetle chassis. We won't blame you if become nauseous after reading that.



This one, though, is the real deal. It's got all the bells and whistles of the GT-R R34, including a 2.6-liter, twin-turbo, straight-six engine that was fitted with a front-mounted intercooler from Turbonetics. That setup allows it to pump out an impressive 550 ponies with the power sent to all four wheels courtesy of a six-speed Getrag transmission.



It also has a loot bag of aftermarket options, which isn't at all surprising considering the nature of the movie it appeared in. It has plenty of Nismo parts, including a bumper with side skirts, lowering springs, V-Spec NUR pedals, and an NE-1 exhaust, all of which are consistent with what a full-fledged drag Skyline should have at its disposal. A Momo Alcantara steering wheel was also installed, as well as a custom roll cage, a Sony head unit, a custom heads-up display for the dash-mounted PC, and an MFD Xenarc Display unit with all gauges programmed to the Skyline's ECU.



As you can expect, this Skyline doesn't come cheap, nor should it considering that it also comes with a "40-page appraisal from a well known accredited appraisal company documenting the build and movie car history." For the privilege of owning Paul Walker's Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 from Fast & Furious, interested buyers need to have at least 600,000 at their disposal, which is about $940,740 as of 12/4/14.



We did say "at least" because given the car's history and who drove it, the price for this Skyline GT-R R34 is expected to reach more than $1 million.



Click past the jump to read more about Paul Walker's Nissan Skyline.



Paul Walker's Nissan Skyline From "Fast & Furious" up for Sale originally appeared on topspeed.com on Sunday, 7 December 2014 12:00 EST.



read more





Thursday, December 11, 2014

Audi Q7 e-tron confirmed for current-gen model, next-gen due late 2015

 Audi Q7 e-tron confirmed for current-gen model, next-gen due late 2015


2011 Audi Q7 - 08.04.2010

Next-gen Q7 due late 2015


An Audi representative has confirmed an e-tron version of the Q7 will be revealed before the next-gen model arrives towards the end of 2015.




Earlier this year in Geneva we saw the A3 e-tron which will actually go on sale, unlike the R8 e-tron which has been cancelled (due to battery tech). Now, Audi Australia managing director Andrew Doyle says a Q7 e-tron will be revealed before the next-gen model arrives late 2015.




He didn't disclose details about what will power the electrified SUV but most definitely won't be the 150 HP 1.4-liter TFSI / 102 HP (75 kW) electric motor combo in the A3 e-tron. We are expecting something with considerably more power since the weight difference between the two is huge.




Interestingly, Andrew Doyle said the Q7 e-tron will actually reach production phase after the A3 e-tron goes on sale. In regards to the canned R8 e-tron, Doyle said "I don't see it as a major thing for us. We'll launch with A3, followed by Q7…”




Although the Volkswagen Touareg and Porsche Cayenne will receive a new generation next year, Audi has decided to wait until 2015 for the new Q7 since "it is still doing quite well actually, worldwide and in Australia." The same MLB platform will also underpin the 2016 Bentley SUV and a production version of the Lamborghini Urus which will be out in 2017.


Audi reveals science fiction car for 'Ender's Game' [video]



Movie airs October 24 in Germany


Audi Design has created a virtual science fiction car for "Ender's Game" which will air on October 24, 2013 in Germany.




After several Audi models made an appearance in the first two parts of Iron Man (third part will have R8 e-tron), a new car with the four rings will reach the big screen. This time it's a virtual fleet shuttle quattro for Summit Entertainment's "Ender's Game" which promises to combine "futuristic design with groundbreaking technology."




Created by the Audi Design Team, the virtual car was developed in collaboration with the movie's director Gavin Hood and the production team. The motion picture is based on the best-selling "Ender's Game" novel and will star Harrison Ford and Asa Butterfield in their attempt to face the hostile alien race which is attacking Earth.




More details can be found in the attached press release.


Wednesday, December 10, 2014

Next-gen MINI confirmed for November 18 debut

 Next-gen MINI confirmed for November 18 debut


2014 MINI Cooper teaser photo 07.08.2013

Goes on sale Q1 2014


The all-new MINI will be officially revealed on November 18, 2013 at the company's factory in Oxford, UK.




This date was chosen as homage to Sir Alexander Arnold Constantine Issigonis (born on November 18, 1906) who was the creator of the original MINI. Within the same week the car will be almost simultaneously showcased at Tokyo Motor Show and Los Angeles Auto Show, before going on sale in the first quarter of next year.




As far as styling is concerned, the 2014 MINI will be longer and wider than the outgoing model and is expected to take some design cues from the Rocketman Concept. Changes compared to its predecessor include a longer hood, slimmer A-pillars and a smaller front grille.




It will have a more traditional interior layout as the speedometer will be on the driver's side. The central area of the dashboard will be home to a big touchscreen display, while several chrome touches for the door handles, speakers and steering wheel will spice up the cabin.




The Cooper S version is rumored to feature a new turbo 1.6-liter gasoline mill with 178 bhp (132 kW), followed by the JCW model with the same engine but tweaked to output around 217 bhp (162 kW).


2014 Honda Civic Tourer confirmed for Frankfurt Motor Show arrival

 2014 Honda Civic Tourer confirmed for Frankfurt Motor Show arrival


2014 Honda Civic Tourer camouflaged prototype 24.07.2013

On sale early next year


Honda has announced plans to reveal the 2014 Civic Tourer in September at the Frankfurt Motor Show.




The Japanese brand is creating a lot of buzz for what will essentially be the wagon version of the Civic. They say it will have a "significantly" larger boot compared to other models in this segment and that it will come with a rear adaptive damper system with three settings: comfort, normal and dynamic.




Scheduled to hit the market early next year, the Swindon-built Civic Tourer was designed and developed in Europe and was previewed in March at the Geneva Motor Show by an extremely appealing concept. Honda's senior engineer Adrian Killham previously mentioned the version fitted with the firm's 1.6-liter i-DTEC diesel will have CO2 emissions of less than 100 g/km. The Tourer variant is going to be about 88 lbs (40 kg) heavier than the regular five-door hatchback.




Also at IAA next month, Honda will showcase the revised NSX concept, its 2013 WTCC Civic and the McLaren Honda MP4/4 Heritage F1 Car which won 15 of the 16 races in the 1988 Formula 1 season.


Tuesday, December 9, 2014

2014 Land Rover Discovery facelift returns in spy photo session

 2014 Land Rover Discovery facelift returns in spy photo session


2014 Land Rover Discovery facelift spy photo 07.08.2013 / Automedia

Minor changes


A barely disguised prototype of the 2014 Land Rover Discovery facelift has been spied ahead of next month's official debut.




Land Rover will install slim LED strips on the facelifted Discovery as seen on the new Range Rover and Evoque. In addition, the shape of the front grille will also be slightly modified as it will have elliptical cut-outs for the headlights. Land Rover has tweaked the fog lights and moved the turn signals into the exterior mirrors, while at the back the only change will be in the taillight configuration.




The supercharged V6 3.0-liter from the Jaguar F-Type S will find its way under the hood of the facelifted Discovery where it should produce the same 380 HP (279 kW). This engine will be a replacement for the bigger and thirstier V8 5.0 naturally-aspirated mill and will work at first combined with a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission but later on it will be replaced by a nine-speed auto 'box.




The mildly facelifted Discovery will be presented in September at the Frankfurt Motor Show.


2014 Porsche Macan spied again with minimal disguise

 2014 Porsche Macan spied again with minimal disguise


2014 Porsche Macan spy photo 07.08.2013

Arriving at Los Angeles Auto Show


A 2014 Porsche Macan prototype wearing minimal camouflage was spotted testing before a confirmed November debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show.




This particular Macan is the regular version since it has only one row of LED daytime running lights below the headlights, as opposed to the Turbo version which will have two rows of LEDs and more vents in the front. It looks basically like a shrunken Cayenne with a sloped back and a more generous center grille.




The 2014 Porsche Macan will ride on the Audi Q5 platform and will probably be offered with at least one four-cylinder engine, something that we haven't seen in a Porsche since 1995 when the 968 was discontinued. The four banger will be a 2.0-liter turbo with 220 bhp (164 kW) followed by a naturally-aspirated 3.6-liter V6 with 295 bhp (220 kW) and a more powerful V6 3.0-liter twin-turbo rated at 370 bhp (276 kW) for the Macan Turbo. Diesel choices will include a 2.0-liter TDI developing 190 bhp (142 kW) and a V6 3.0-liter TDI outputting 250 bhp (186 kW).




There are also talks about a Macan Hybrid featuring a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine working together with an electric motor that develops 54 bhp (40 kW).




The Porsche Macan will enter production phase in December, before going on sale early 2014.




Update: Since some of our readers didn't notice, the headlights and taillights are covered by faux stickers to hide the true designs.


Monday, December 8, 2014

Dubuc Motors previews their 2017 Tomahawk



Will be a 2+2 electric sports car with all-wheel drive


Dubuc Motors has announced their intention to become the first Canadian manufacturer to offer an electric vehicle.




Describing themselves as "Tesla's cousin," the company says they will introduce a Tomahawk sports car and a taxi in 2016.




Little is known about the latter model, but Dubuc says the Tomahawk will be a 2+2 electric sports car that features two electric motors, all-wheel drive and a range-extending engine. Detailed specifications remain a mystery by the company says the car will accelerate from 0-60 mph in "just over three seconds," have a top speed of 140 mph (225 km/h) and have a range of up to 275 miles (442 km).




Dubuc also says the car will cost under $100,000 and feature a unique aluminum platform that is flexible enough to underpin everything from the aforementioned sports car to a commercial cargo van. The company also says the sports car will be very accommodating as it will fit drivers who are up to 6' 5" tall and weigh 275 lbs (125 kg).


007 to drive a Fiat 500 in upcoming Bond flick

 007 to drive a Fiat 500 in upcoming Bond flick


2013 Fiat 500 Cattiva 13.8.2013

James Bond lost his Aston Martin DB5 at the end of Skyfall but it appears he has a replacement as a new report is indicating the famous Ian Fleming character will drive a Fiat 500 in an upcoming movie which has been tentatively dubbed Bond 24.




Details are limited but Bond, played by Daniel Craig, will reportedly drive the 500 in a high-speed chase through the streets of Rome. However, it's expected to have a relatively short life as sources have said it will be destroyed somewhere near the Vatican.




The reaction to the news that Bond is driving a Fiat 500 hasn't been favorable but it's important to note that this is just one scene. Previous reports have suggested the film is using plenty of British vehicles - most notably Land Rovers - so we wouldn't be too surprised if Bond eventually takes the wheel of an Aston Martin.


Sunday, December 7, 2014

New F1 chairman to 'marginalise' Ecclestone - reports

 New F1 chairman to marginalise Ecclestone - reports


Bernie Ecclestone (GBR) / XPB

Reports indicate Bernie Ecclestone's reign over formula one is once again under threat.




This year, the sport's long-standing 'supremo' survived the Gerhard Gribkowsky corruption affair.




But reports in the Financial Times (FT), The Times and by the Sky broadcaster this week claim that Paul Walsh is being lined up as chairman of the F1 board.




It is a move that could reportedly "signal the beginning of the end of Bernie Ecclestone's control" of the sport.




"A board meeting is being scheduled for early next week to discuss Mr Walsh replacing Nestle chairman Peter Brabeck, who has been F1 board chairman for two years, according to people with knowledge of the situation," wrote FT correspondent Roger Blitz.




He added that Brabeck is currently undergoing medical treatment.




Walsh stepped down as chief executive of Diageo, the owner of McLaren sponsor Johnnie Walker, earlier this year.




FT said F1's controlling shareholder CVC wants Walsh to take on some "executive duties in addition to chairing the board", which could see "Ecclestone's role as chief executive marginalised".




Ecclestone, 84, was quoted as saying he "wouldn't have a problem" with Walsh taking up a role.




"If it was something positive, I'd be delighted," he added.




CVC chief Donald Mackenzie is thought to be behind the impending change, with Blitz saying he wants "a more professional approach to the running of" the sport.




"In particular, Mr Mackenzie was worried about F1's digital, commercial and PR strategy," the Financial Times added, saying Ecclestone could be retained "in an honorary capacity".




"Mr Ecclestone said that was not a role he envisaged," Blitz noted.


Vettel never lost respect for Ricciardo

 Vettel never lost respect for Ricciardo


Daniel Ricciardo (AUS) and team mate Sebastian Vettel (GER) sign autographs for the fans at the Fanzone / XPB

Sebastian Vettel says he never lost respect for Daniel Ricciardo throughout the 2014 season.




As it turned out, this year was the German's last campaign with Red Bull, where he earlier won four consecutive drivers' titles with Mark Webber as his teammate.




"The fact that I never had the best relationship with Mark is well known," Vettel, who has now switched to Ferrari, told the Swiss newspaper Sonntagsblick.




But for 2014, Webber was replaced with another Australian, Daniel Ricciardo, who won three races versus the number 1-wearing Vettel's zero.




"First of all," 27-year-old Vettel said, "Daniel is of a different generation. He only knows this new formula one.




"But we worked with respect. I've known him for many years and there was no problem.




"That he ended up with more points bothers me of course but that's not a reason to not like him," Vettel added.




Now, Vettel said his new goal is to become Ferrari's "tenth world champion".




But he admitted it might take some time: "We have not set any timetables, as that rarely works in formula one."


Saturday, December 6, 2014

Ferrari FXX K returns in first live images [UPDATED]

 Ferrari FXX K returns in first live images


Ferrari FXX K / Effspot Photography

Exhibited in Abu Dhabi


[update] We just heard only 32 cars will be made and all of them have already been sold for €2.2 million (excluding VAT).




Following yesterday’s online reveal, Ferrari has introduced the track-only FXX K in Abu Dhabi during the 2014 Finali Mondiali event.




An evolution of the road-going LaFerrari, the FXX K is the most extreme prancing horse ever created and follows the footsteps of previous radical Ferraris such as the FXX and 599XX. It has gained a significantly more aerodynamic body which allows the vehicle to generate 540 kg (1,190 lbs) of downforce at 124 mph (200 km/h).




While the regular LaFerrari provides a combined output of 963 HP (708 kW), its track sibling has been further tweaked to unleash a whopping 1,050 HP (772 kW) provided by an 860 HP V12 engine and a 190 HP electric motor.




There's no word about the price tag but we do know Ferrari will make only a few cars and chances are these will be sold exclusively to LaFerrari owners.