Thursday, October 30, 2014

UK's 'nightmare' car has the engine of BMW M5 and the suspension of Audi RS6

 UKs nightmare car has the engine of BMW M5 and the suspension of Audi RS6


UK nightmare car according to Warranty Direct

Costs 550 GBP for repairs every time


UK-based company Warranty Direct has revealed which is the UK’ “nightmare” car.




The automotive specialist have analyzed their data to “concoct the monstrosity”, dubbed the Horrific 40RR0R, by combining the worst-performing cars from different categories. The Frankenstein machine has “the suspension of an Audi, the gearbox of a Jeep and the electrics of a Mercedes” and costs around 550 GBP (698 EUR) to repair it every time it breaks.




The company explains that almost two fifths of Audi RS6s “require a trip to the workshop to repair axle and suspension components each year”, while three in every 10 Mercedes-Benz R-Class vehicles report electrical faults. Gearbox problems seem to be rarer, but still more than one in ten Jeep Grand Cherokees will report gearbox problems annually. A quarter of BMW M5s require repairs to their engines, while the same proportion of Fiat Multiplas will experience braking system faults.




Warranty Direct managing director, David Gerrans, commented that "this large variety of vehicles that goes into the concoction proves how typically reliable cars can be dragged down by one poorly-performing part".




Visit the press release section for additional details.


Opel reportedly transforming next-gen Zafira and Meriva into crossovers for 2016 launch

 Opel reportedly transforming next-gen Zafira and Meriva into crossovers for 2016 launch


Opel Zafira Tourer 1.6 CDTI ecoFLEX

High-end SUV also planned


British media is reporting Opel/Vauxhall will transform the next generation Zafira and Meriva into crossovers.




Renault did a very good job at converting the new Espace into more of a crossover and it seems Opel and Vauxhall are taking the same route with their new Zafira and Meriva. Opel CEO Karl-Thomas Neumann already announced back in August that customers now want "the SUV look" which is why the Zafira and Meriva will "go into this direction" and now Auto Express says both of them will indeed get a high-riding crossover look for what is believed to be a late 2016 launch.




Both cars will be jointly developed with PSA Peugeot Citroën who will be getting their own two versions but all four of them will feature differentiated styling. Engine lineup is expected to include economical turbocharged three- and four-cylinder motors as part of the downsizing trend.




According to the same report, Opel and Vauxhall are also working on a high-end SUV with styling cues borrowed from the stunning Monza concept but it's not known at this point whether the French will be getting their own versions. Chances are the vehicle will be out after the overhauled Zafira and Meriva so look for a debut sometime in 2017 or 2018.


Wednesday, October 29, 2014

Mazda6 Coupe reportedly coming in 2016

 Mazda6 Coupe reportedly coming in 2016


Mazda Shinari Concept, 07.09.2010

We haven't heard much about the Mazda6 Coupe but a new report is indicating it will be launched in 2016.




Citing company insiders, Auto Express is reporting the car will have a familiar front fascia but adopt a sportier front bumper and possibly a lower hood. The model is also slated to have a stylish roofline and a "stubby" rear end.




Engine options will likely be shared with the standard model so expect choices to include a 2.0-liter SKYACTIV-G with 150 PS (110 kW / 148 hp) and 210 Nm (155 lb-ft) of torque as well as a 2.5-liter SKYACTIV-G 2.5 with 192 PS (141 kW / 189 hp) and 256 Nm (189 lb-ft) of torque.


Dacia Duster Oroch concept unveiled [video]



Debuts at the Sao Paulo Motor Show


Dacia has unveiled the Duster Oroch concept at the Sao Paulo Motor Show in Brazil.




Described as a "styling exercise for a recreational pick-up truck," the Oroch concept has a satin white exterior with orange accents and plastic body cladding. The truck also has a panoramic glass sunroof, skid plates and 18-inch alloy wheels.




The five-seat interior is heavily based on the standard model but features unique dark charcoal and fluorescent orange upholstery which resembles the material used on neoprene wetsuits. The truck also has two rear-mounted cameras which can be controlled by a rotary knob on the center console.


Tuesday, October 28, 2014

Total CEO Dies in Plane-on-Plow Crash In Moscow









Christophe de Margerie, the chief executive officer of French oil company Total, died in a plane crash in Moscow when his private jet collided with a snow plow at the Vnukovo International Airport on Monday night. He was the only passenger on the plane, although the plane also carried three crew members. All four died when the plane caught fire after the collision.



Russia's Investigative Committee has opened a criminal investigation on the incident and has confirmed that the driver of the snow plow, identified as Vladimir Martynenko, was intoxicated at the time of the accident. Martynenko, through his lawyer, has denied the accusations.



De Margerie was reportedly in Moscow to attend a Russian government meeting on foreign investment in Gorki, near Moscow, on Monday. The Total CEO even met Russian prime minister, Dmitry Medvedev, at the latter's country residence outside Moscow to discuss foreign investment in Russia.



The loss of de Margerie is a big blow to the French oil company. He was widely regarded as the driving force that turned Total into a heavyweight in the oil industry, steering the company to levels of success it had never reached before he took over as CEO.



Understandably, his untimely death came as a shock to a lot of people, including French prime minister Manuel Valls, who hailed de Margerie as an "extraordinary business leader who turned Total into a world giant."



Even the company's competitors voiced their shock over his unexpected passing. Lord John Browne, the former CEO of British Petroleum (BP), sent a tweet to express his sadness over de Margerie's death, calling the Total chief a "creative, inspiring, breath of fresh air" that will be missed by the entire oil industry.



Our sincerest condolences go out to the families of Christophe de Margerie and the three crew members that lost their lives over this horrific accident.



Click past the jump to read more about Christophe de Margerie



Total CEO Dies in Plane-on-Plow Crash In Moscow originally appeared on topspeed.com on Wednesday, 22 October 2014 16:00 EST.



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Toyota GT 86 Primo




Hey look, a new GT 86... Still the same old 2.0-liter engine though. At least this one's cheaper though.






Although it has yet to introduce a much-needed engine upgrade for the GT 86, you have to give Toyota some credit for rolling out new models and trim levels, and even a rally car for the 2015 model year. The most enticing iteration so far seems to be the 14R60, a lighter and aerodynamically enhanced version of the GT 86, but Toyota is also interested in expanding the coupe's popularity by adding more affordable models to the lineup. As a result, the GT 86 Primo was created; a more accessible sports car that will sit at the bottom of the range. That's good news for sports car enthusiasts all over the world, but somewhat of a letdown for anyone not living in the United Kingdom.



You guessed it, the GT 86 Primo is exclusive to the British market and there's no word on whether or not the Scion FR-S will get a similar version in the United States anytime soon. Keep your fingers crossed for that to happen sooner than later and read on to find out more about the new base model of the GT 86 lineup.



Click past the jump to read more about the Toyota GT 86 Primo.



Toyota GT 86 Primo originally appeared on topspeed.com on Wednesday, 22 October 2014 17:00 EST.



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Monday, October 27, 2014

BMW i8 Sophisto Grey




Yet another BMW Abu Dhabi special edition. This time the i8 is the recepient of this stunning work.






I'm beginning to wonder if BMW's Abu Dhabi dealership has too much time on its hands. In the past week, the dealership has unveiled three personalized BMW vehicles. First we saw the stunning BMW M235i. That was followed by the equally alluring BMW M3 with M Performance Parts. Now, it has a BMW i8, or to be more specific, the i8 Sophisto Grey.



This i8 gets its name from its Sophisto Grey paint finish, which is one of four color finishes BMW developed exclusively for the i8. Fans of the i8 clearly have a level of affinity for this particular shade, largely because it's been dubbed the "Batman i8." If only it came with Batman's utility belt and the Batwing, but I guess this will do for now.



Click past the jump to read more about the BMW i8 Sophisto Grey.



BMW i8 Sophisto Grey originally appeared on topspeed.com on Thursday, 23 October 2014 16:00 EST.



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Video: 2016 BMW M4 GTS Testing on the Nurburgring




The M4 GTS diguised as a MotoGP Safety car was caught lapping the Nurburgring at un-pace-car-like speeds.





width="460" height="370" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/8VphoCmic_g" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen>


The BMW M4 is arguably one of the most enticing sports coupe you can buy nowadays, but Munich seems determined to take its new compact up a notch. The Germans are doing so by reviving the GTS nameplate, which was introduced on the 2010 model year M3 Coupe. Only 250 units were built that year, and the entire series sold like hotcakes. Although BMW has yet to confirm the return of the GTS with the M4 Coupe, testing is already underway, albeit with a prototype disguised as a MotoGP Safety Car.



First tested on German streets back in September 2014, the M4 GTS was again spotted by the automotive paparazzi, this time while being put through its paces on the Nurburgring. BMW is still pretending the beefed-up coupe is a safety car, but we're not buying its trickery, especially with so many aerodynamic features attached to the M4's body. The pronounced splitter, The fixed rear wing and the Recaro seats are strong indications this M4 is more than just a vehicle designed to set a pace during yellow flags. More importantly, it's being tested at speeds that exceed the velocity of regular pace cars.



A pace car's purpose is to lead a pack of race cars at speed that don't exceed 60 mph, but this M4 has a different mission. A mission to become a fast and skillful track car, a feat BMW last offered in 2010 with the initial GTS. Details are obviously being kept under wraps as of October 2014, but stay tuned to TopSpeed for more info by the end of the year. Meanwhile, watch the M4 GTS take some fast turns on the "Green Hell".



Video: 2016 BMW M4 GTS Testing on the Nurburgring originally appeared on topspeed.com on Thursday, 23 October 2014 17:00 EST.



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Sunday, October 26, 2014

Toyota GRMN Sports Hybrid Concept II


Toyota GRMN Sports Hybrid Concept II


Looks like Toyota and Gazoo Racing will be bringing more than just the Lexus LF-A to the Nurburgring 24-hour endurance race this week. In a surprising announcement, the Japanese automaker will also bring their new mid-engine convertible hybrid concept to Nurburgring, which they've christened as the Toyota GRMN Sports Hybrid Concept II.



An updated version of the first concept that was introduced at the 2010 Tokyo Auto Salon, the GRMN Sports Hybrid Concept II is an MR2-based hybrid concept that features plenty of styling cues from the fabled MR2 sports car. It was also designed in a far more aggressive detail befitting of its status as a new-age hybrid concept car.



In addition to the advanced convertible design language of the car, Toyota and GRMN (Gazoo Racing tuned by MN2) also improved on the car's mid-engine sports-hybrid AWD system that now carries a 3.5-liter Type 2GR-FXE V6 engine that produces 249 horsepower to go with a front electric motor that bumps up the output to 299 horsepower.



So far, these are the only details we have of the new Toyota GRMN Sports Hybrid Concept II, but rest assured, we'll have more details when the car makes its official debut at the 24 Hours of Nurburgring this weekend.



More Pictures of Toyota GRMN Sports Hybrid Concept II


New Toyota GRMN Sports Hybrid Concept II


Toyota Sports Hybrid Wallpapers


Toyota Supra Sports Hybrid


The latest Arrinera Supercar official pictures released


Arrinera Supercar


Arrinera is a British-Polish supercar, which in terms of driving parameters, quality of workmanship and performance can compete with other cars from the same market segment.



The management of Arrinera Automotive has signed an exclusive deal for negotiations to buy a 50% stake in Fenix Automotive Ltd from Great Britain, which is involved in the construction project of the Fenix sports car. Arrinera plans to complete the transaction by the end of the third quarter of 2011. This investment will enable Arrinera to carry out the strategy for building a group of companies with a very strong position in the world market of low-volume production of supercars and sports cars, gaining access to foreign markets and technology/know-how while operating in a prestigious
and elite market. Fenix Automotive is controlled by Lee Noble.



Arrinera Automotive plans to commence production of cars in Poland. Instead of creating its own manufacturing facilities, the company is concentrating on finding suitable subcontractors in our country and talks with
potential partners having necessary expertise in car manufacturing are well advanced.



Arrinera Automotive expects the target volume of production will be from 600-700 cars a year. Arrinera Automotive S.A. is preparing for its first quotation of shares at the New Connect market. The majority shareholder of Arrinera Automotive is the VENO S.A. venture capital fund, listed on the New Connect market for 3 years.



An 8-cylinder 6.2-litre engine with a maximum power of 650HP and 820 Nm torque. 19-inch wheels create
additional space for an expanded braking system. Light-alloy wheels with 255/35 R19 tyres (front) and 335/30 R19 (rear). Front wheels are equipped with 6-piston callipers and 350 mm brake discs. Rear wheels with 4-piston callipers and 330 mm brake discs.



More Pictures of Arrinera Supercar


Arrinera supercar front photo


Arrinera Supercar Images


New Arrinera


Saturday, October 25, 2014

Video: Three Lambos Slaughtered by AMS Nissan GT-R!

Video: Three Lambos Slaughtered by AMS Nissan GT-R! Picture #1


This Japanese track legend takes on not one but three of Italy's finest thoroughbreds.

Aerodynamic Favours For Novitec’s Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 Roadster

Aerodynamic Favours For Novitec's Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 Roadster Picture #2


Novitec has armed this beauty with a custom front bumper which incorporates a two-piece front spoiler and new integrated air intakes. A control unit operates the new rear wing which can be operated below speeds of 112mph (180 km/h). You also get some three-piece 20- and 21-inch alloy wheels thrown in with the package. The...

Friday, October 24, 2014

Infiniti Employs Injured Paratroopers To Engineer A Pair Of Q50s In 2015 BTCC

Infiniti Employs Injured Paratroopers To Engineer A Pair Of Q50s In 2015 BTCC Picture #2


The first photos of next season's 'Support Our Paras' Infiniti Q50 BTCC race cars were revealed this week. Team Principal Derek Palmer will head up the manufacturer-backed team and the engineering expertise will be provided by a number of injured paratroopers. A full racing programme has also been set up to train injured members to...

Video: Take Back The Supercar; It Turns Out Abbey Clancy Likes Vauxhalls!

Video: Take Back The Supercar; It Turns Out Abbey Clancy Likes Vauxhalls! Picture #2


Vauxhall will have us believe that Abbey Clancy would rather drive around in a Vauxhall ADAM than a bespoke supercar. Nah, we weren't convinced either but we took a look at the video anyway. The short film by James Brown and Vauxhall motors is pretty watchable and the 'ADAM ROCKS AIR' does feature some nifty...

Thursday, October 23, 2014

Ford prepares for Halloween with car wash prank [video]



Obviously staged


Ford is getting into the Halloween spirit with a prank organized at a car wash.




We are less than two weeks away from this year's Halloween so it shouldn't come as a surprise that automakers are already coming out with various pranks to scare their victims. At the end of last month thirty strangers who were on their way to a filmed test drive were asked by Ford to take a detour to a car wash.




This is where the prank took place as the car wash employees were dressed up in scary Halloween costumes and some of them had axes to enhance the effect. Obviously staged, Ford's car wash prank is likely one of the many clips to follow until this year's Halloween celebrated on Friday, October 31.


Chrysler 200 Coupe render shows great potential

 Chrysler 200 Coupe render shows great potential


Chrysler 200 Coupe render / Theophilus Chin

No word about such a version


After rendering the 2015 Chrysler 200 as a convertible, Theophilus Chin is back with a digital interpretation of a 200 coupe.




Chrysler hasn't said anything about building a coupe version of the new 200 but maybe they should give it some thought after looking at this render. We know for sure there won't be a convertible based on the new 200 because the old model was axed after slow demand so it doesn't make sense launching another one.




While a 200 convertible would be unsuccessful, the situation might be different with a coupe as seen in this render which depicts a stylish compact two-door body style with a sloping roofline and a sleek silhouette making it look more elegant than the sedan.


Wednesday, October 22, 2014

Land Rover confirms final special edition Defender by SVO

 Land Rover confirms final special edition Defender by SVO


2013 Land Rover Defender 03.9.2012

More SVR models on the way


Land Rover has confirmed more SVO models are on the way and the first of the series will be based on the Defender.




Although set to be replaced very soon, the aging Defender is about to receive the Special Vehicle Operations treatment as one last special edition has been confirmed for next year's launch. Without going too much into details, SVO boss John Edwards said the vehicle will be a mixture between the race-spec Camel Trophy and Paris-Dakar variants.




Other SVO-branded products will follow as Edward mentions the 500-employee division is focusing on four areas of expertise: special vehicles, personalization, heritage and branded goods. Besides performance versions like the Range Rover Sport SVR and all-terrain vehicles like the upcoming Defender, Edwards says SVO will also tweak luxury models within the JLR group.




It's still up for debate whether the division will come up with hot diesel-powered models while the implementation of SVO in Jaguar models is still being analyzed.


Volkswagen Golf R Variant spied in production trim at the Nurburgring

 Volkswagen Golf R Variant spied in production trim at the Nurburgring


Volkswagen Golf R Variant spy photo / Automedia

Debuts in December at Essen Motor Show


A prototype of the Volkswagen Golf R Variant has been spotted undergoing last minute testing around the Nürburgring.




Our sources have confirmed Volkswagen has green-lighted the Golf R Variant for production and the hot wagon will make its official debut in December at the Essen Motor Show. Just like the hatchback, the more practical Variant adopts an aggressive body matched with a stiffer suspension, enlarged brakes and beefier wheels.




Borrowed from the Golf R is the four-cylinder 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine generating 300 HP (221 kW) and a maximum torque of 380 Nm (280 lb-ft) channeled to a 4MOTION all-wheel drive system through a standard six-speed manual or optional six-speed DSG. The Golf R hatch needs 4.9 seconds to reach 62 mph (100 km/h) when equipped with the DSG and 5.1 seconds with the manual but the wagon will be a few ticks of a second slower because it's a bit heavier.




We remind you the Volkswagen Golf R hatchback costs €38,325 in Germany so expect the wagon to be a tad more expensive.


Tuesday, October 21, 2014

Honda to show US-spec HR-V in Los Angeles

 Honda to show US-spec HR-V in Los Angeles


2016 Honda HR-V (US-spec)

Honda has announced plans to stage the North American debut of the 2016 HR-V at the 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show.




Designed to slot below the CR-V, the HR-V is based on the Fit and promises to offer "surprising levels of sophistication and versatility inside and out." Honda was coy on U.S. specifications but confirmed the model will feature the Magic Seat system which allows for multiple seating configurations and the ability to fold the second row seat completely flat.




Like the Fit, the HR-V will likely be powered by a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that develops 130 bhp (97 kW) and 114 lb-ft (154 Nm) of torque. It should be connected to a continuously variable transmission which can be paired to an optional all-wheel drive system.




The US-spec HR-V will be unveiled on November 19th, so stay tuned for full details.


Jeep Renegade Trailhawk tackles the Silver Lake sand dunes [video]




The Jeep Renegade won't be tackling the Rubicon anytime soon but that hasn't stopped the company from trying to prove its off-road prowess by releasing a video of the model on the Silver Lake sand dunes in Michigan.




In the clip, Jeep vehicle integration engineer Heather Scott highlights the Renegade's four-wheel drive system and says "It's going to give you the traction you need, where you need it." She goes on to say "The Renegade's doing great. I've got good control, it's handling wonderfully."




As a refresher, the Renegade Trailhawk has an increased ride height, skid plates and unique bumpers that improve the approach and departure angles. The model also has hill decent control, a Jeep Active Drive Low four-wheel drive system, a Rock mode and exclusive 17-inch alloy wheels with "aggressive on-road and off-road tires."


Monday, October 20, 2014

Acura Looking Into Offering Standard AWD on All Models









Acura remains a brand trying to find its way, as many luxury buyers simply don't see it as a premium enough brand to warrant a high entry fee. With Acura's sales falling well behind Lexus, BMW and Mercedes as of September 2014, Honda's luxury arm needs to do something to boost sales. Acura is working on solutions to this issue, and one answer is to do what many other brands are doing these days, steal a page from a successful brand's book.



Specifically, Acura is considering offering all of its models with standard all-wheel drive, according to Automotive News. The hope in moving to standard all-wheel drive is to develop a brand image that keeps buyers coming back for more. Acura head, Koichi Fukuo, says he looks to the recent success of Subaru and Audi, in building their brands around selling almost exclusively AWD vehicles. Fukuo feels Acura may be able to tap into the same market and build more customer loyalty.



Currently, Acura offers at least one form of all-wheel drive on all of its models, sans the Civic-based ILX, and roughly 50 percent of its sales include all-wheel-drive. Additionally, with Acura's two next-generation all-wheel drive systems - a revised SH-AWD and the new Sport Hybrid SH-AWD - this take rate will likely increase. Despite this trending toward all four wheels getting power, all Acura models, including its crossovers, come standard with front-wheel drive.



According to Fukuo, this idea is currently under consideration and a final decision isn't ready to be made. While I love the idea of standard AWD in every Acura model, the brand also needs to continue separating itself from Honda like other luxury brands have in recent years. Sure, the all-new TLX is a nice step in the right direction, but it is still easily identifiable as a redone, albeit a very well-redone, Accord.



Click past the jump to read more about Acura's future move to AWD.



Acura Looking Into Offering Standard AWD on All Models originally appeared on topspeed.com on Tuesday, 14 October 2014 15:00 EST.



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Video: Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Tackles the ‘Loops'








width="460" height="370" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/qXBDr6uNprg" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen>


The Dodge Challenger Hellcat is a hellacious muscle car. Even saying that sounds like an understatement. But if you really want to see what this 707-horsepower monster is capable of, you need to watch this video prepared by Top Gear Magazine where the folks put the Challenger Hellcat on one of America's coolest slabs of asphalt, Maryhill Loops Road.



The results are nothing short of spectacular. The muscle car not only showed off its unbridled power, but it also showed some surprising agility, maneuvering around some twisties like nobody's business. In the process, we were also treated to a lot of smoking tires, and if not for that music, we probably would've heard its powerful, supercharged V-8 disrupting that peaceful mountain road.



In case you've forgotten, the Challenger Hellcat is powered by a massive 6.2-liter, supercharged, V-8 that produces an incredible 707 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque. Those numbers are good enough to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds to go with a quarter-mile time of 10.8 seconds and a top speed of 199 mph.



The Challenger Hellcat isn't all about muscles either. Dodge engineers also devoted some time improving its suspension setup, allowing it to handle well despite its heft.



Check out the video of the Challenger Hellcat tackling Washington state's first-ever asphalt road in front of Top Gear Magazine's cameras. If this doesn't get you jacked up, I don't know what will.



Video: Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Tackles the 'Loops' originally appeared on topspeed.com on Tuesday, 14 October 2014 16:00 EST.



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Sunday, October 19, 2014

Fiat 500X Opening Edition









The Fiat 500X represents a lot of milestones for Fiat. It's the largest Fiat 500-based model and it's the first compact crossover Fiat has built, which is remarkable considering that the car it's based on isn't exactly known for its spacious design. To commemorate the arrival of the 500X, Fiat's taking a page from Mercedes-Benz's handbook by releasing a limited number of 500X Opening Edition models that will hit a selected number of European markets.



The 500X Opening Edition will actually come in three different versions, giving potential customers the chance to pick which one suits them best. Two front-wheel-drive options come with either a 1.4-liter Turbo MultiAir II engine that produces 140 horsepower or a 1.6-liter MultiJet II that pumps out 120 horsepower. If those don't suit you, you can opt for the all-wheel-drive model with a 2.0-liter MultiJet II that also develops 140 ponies.



It's unlikely that the 500X Opening Edition will find its way to U.S. shores anytime soon, but if you happen to live in Europe, specifically Germany, France, Italy, Spain or Switzerland, you have an opportunity to avail this special-edition 500X. For a first time model, the 500X Opening Edition could turn a lot of heads.



Fiat's price for the 500X Opening Edition models begins at 21,900 ($27,700 as of 10/14/2014) and goes all the way up to 30,650 ($38,800) for the top-of-the-range 4x4 model.



Click past the jump to read more about the Fiat 500X Opening Edition.



Fiat 500X Opening Edition originally appeared on topspeed.com on Tuesday, 14 October 2014 19:00 EST.



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The TopSpeed Podcast is Taking a Week Off









33 weeks ago, I convinced my boss to let me sit in front of a microphone with two other hooligans and yell at each other for an hour or so about cars. We called it the TopSpeed Podcast and it was good. It was so good in-fact that 225 days later we are still doing it. We are glad that you guys keep listening, commenting and allowing us to continue doing this thing every week.



With that out of the way, I do have to apologize because there will be no show this week. Mark is out driving some cool new cars, Justin is trying to catch up from his vacation time, and I am taking a little bit of time to sit on the beach and relax. That means that Episode 033 of the TopSpeed Podcast will have to wait until next week. I know a lot of you guys have become regulars and can't wait for the show every week, but occasionally we just won't be able to make a show or two. I do apologize, but I promise to make it up to you.



It will be a week late, but the next show should be incredible. I have been driving the Porsche 911, Justin had one of the sportiest crossovers you can buy, and Mark spent a few days beating on basically every single truck and SUV you can buy in the USA. Plus Ferrari announced a brand new car, we have renders of the upcoming Zora ZR1 Corvette, and there have been a whole collection of exciting spy shots to come out over the last week.



Thanks for sticking it out with us for the last seven months. Now take a week off and enjoy yourselves. We will see you next Thursday.



The TopSpeed Podcast is Taking a Week Off originally appeared on topspeed.com on Wednesday, 15 October 2014 07:00 EST.



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Saturday, October 18, 2014

Chrysler 300 Ruyi Design at Beijing Motor Show


Chrysler 300 Ruyi Images


Chrysler 300 Ruyi Design was one of the concept cars the American car maker unveiled at the 2012 Beijing Auto Show to celebrate its return to the Chinese market. The Ruyi 300 is quite a remarkable car because of its exquisite details. Normally, a special car to the Americans is one that's bigger, has more chrome than others, and big wheels. But this one is inspired by culture. It pays homage to the Chinese symbol of Ruyi.



The side sills were lowered, and the rear fascia for a more aggressive and sporty look. Dual exhaust tip was added to complement. Special 22-inch concept wheels ensure that the concept's kicks. The interiors also get some new treatment, and that black chrome trim, brushed pattern trim in center console, unique light-tone leather with French seams, and more.



On the outside, ready-made designer Bill Zheng mid-size since the maximum steel shade and added to the dark chrome exterior door handles, grille surround and lower grille element.



Other highlights include 22-inch wheels concept alloy wheels, a custom grille with dark chrome stems, bluish steel-gray tinted windows, a Ruyi Chinese character mark on the tailgate and a translucent velocity stripe running along the sides. Inside the interior Wolwod Wen chose to mix light tone leather seating surfaces with suede inserts and center side support and contrasted with black tubes.



The vents and navigation screen, ring gauges, steering wheel and door handles are finished in black chrome, while the machined metal accent trim is around the shift gate, both the center console storage areas, on the door and on the steering wheel spokes.



More Pictures of Chrysler 300 Ruyi


Chrysler 300 Ruyi


2012 Chrysler 300 Ruyi


New Chrysler 300 Ruyi


Suzuki Refreshes Splash City Car

2013 Suzuki Splash


Some four years after the presentation of the Splash, Suzuki has posted photos of the facelifted version of its tall city car on its Japanese website noting that full details on the model will be released during its official launch in June.

The revised model that appeared on Suzuki's website sports some mild visual tweaks, mainly up front with the redesigned bumper featuring a new grille and stretched fog lamp housings, and to a lesser extent, the rear-end with the refreshed tail lamp graphics and the new bumper that gains a pair of faux air outlets.



Interior revisions appear to be limited to new decorative trim and upholstery options.



It is expected that the same exterior and interior updates will be applied to the European model.



Based on a 30mm shorter wheelbase version of the Swift platform, the Splash was jointly developed between Suzuki and Opel, which also offers its own version of the car called the Agila. Both European market models are produced at the Japanese automaker's plant in Hungary.



In Europe, the Splash is offered with two engine choices, a 1.0-liter three-cylinder petrol delivering 67hp (68PS) and a 1.2-liter four-cylinder petrol rated at 93hp (94PS).



More Pictures of Suzuki Splash City Car


New Suzuki Splash


2013 Suzuki Splash Images


2013 Suzuki Splash design


Friday, October 17, 2014

Video: Flame Throwing Lamborghini Aventador LP720 4 With Armytrix Exhaust

Video: Flame Throwing Lamborghini Aventador LP720 4 With Armytrix Exhaust Picture #2


Liberty Walk produced the widebody look while Armytrix fixed-up the new exhaust system to be loud and fiery! LB-Performance assembled the mods for this monster which is a perfect blend of German and Japanese engineering.

2014 Lamborghini Huracán wrapped in Centurion Black Chrome by Print-Tech

2014 Lamborghini Hurac  n wrapped in Centurion Black Chrome by Print-Tech Picture #5


Thursday, October 16, 2014

Video: RC Drifting – The Next Best Thing!

Video: RC Drifting - The Next Best Thing! Picture #1


If you haven't been able to nail the sideways sport in a life-size car then maybe it's time to turn your hand to RC drifting?

Video: When These Kangaroos Have Stopped Scraping In The Road You May Be Able To Move Your Car

Video: When These Kangaroos Have Stopped Scraping In The Road You May Be Able To Move Your Car Picture #1


These wild roaming boxers look quite well-matched. So which One Is Your Money On?!

Wednesday, October 15, 2014

Cadillac approves ultra-luxury flagship, could be called the CT8 or CT9

 Cadillac approves ultra-luxury flagship, could be called the CT8 or CT9


Cadillac Elmiraj concept

Will go head-to-head with long-wheelbase versions of the BMW 7-Series & Mercedes S-Class


We've been hearing about the Cadillac CT6 for years but it appears the company has just approved an even more luxurious flagship sedan.




According to Reuters, Cadillac President Johan de Nysschen has confirmed a new range-topping model will be launched by 2020 and go head-to-head with long-wheelbase versions of the Audi A8, BMW 7-Series and Mercedes S-Class. Little is known about the model but de Nysschen hinted it could be called either the CT8 or CT9.




Besides talking about the new flagship, de Nysschen said the company is considering a pure electric vehicle. He also reiterated the company is working on an ELR successor but it might not be a two door coupe.




Sources have also told the publication that the company's Audi A3 / Mercedes CLA competitor could go into production in 2018 and be based on the Chevrolet Cruze. That model's platform is also rumored to underpin the company's entry-level crossover which is slated to arrive 2017.




 


2015 Mazda2 Euro-spec specifications released

 2015 Mazda2 Euro-spec specifications released


2015 Mazda 2 / Demio

Mazda has released performance specifications for the Euro-spec Mazda2, ahead of its launch early next year.




First up, the entry-level 1.5-liter SKYACTIV-G petrol engine produces 75 PS (55 kW) and 135 Nm (99 lb-ft) of torque. When connected to a five-speed manual, the model will consume 4.7 L/100km (50 mpg US / 60.1 mpg UK) and have CO2 emissions of 110 g/km.




If that's not powerful enough, there's a 1.5-liter SKYACTIV-G petrol engine with 90 PS (66 kW) and 148 Nm (109 lb-ft) of torque. The engine can be connected to either a five-speed manual or an optional six-speed automatic transmission. The manual returns 4.5 L/100km (52.2 mpg US / 62.7 mpg UK), while the automatic averages 4.8 L/100km (49 mpg US / 58.8 mpg UK).




Next up, the 1.5-liter SKYACTIV-G with i-ELOOP produces 115 PS (85 kW) and 148 Nm (109 lb-ft) of torque. It is connected to a six-speed manual transmission which enables the model to return 4.9 L/100km (48 mpg US / 57.6 mpg UK) with CO2 emissions of 115 g/km.




Last but not least, there's a 1.5-liter SKYACTIV-D that churns out 105 PS (77 kW) and 220 Nm (162 lb-ft) of torque. When paired to a six-speed manual, it consumes 3.4 L/100km (69.1 mpg US / 83 mpg UK) with CO2 emissions of 89 g/km.


Tuesday, October 14, 2014

LaFerrari XX spied testing rear wing at Paul Ricard track [video]



Could have 1,050 bhp


A prototype of the track-only LaFerrari XX has been spotted recently undergoing testing in France at Paul Ricard circuit.




McLaren isn't the only one working on a race-spec version of its flagship model as Ferrari is doing the same with the LaFerrari which has been spied flexing its muscles at Paul Ricard dressed in full body camouflage and carrying a huge rear wing. It is believed only 30 units will be built and you can imagine it will be massively expensive.




Based on a previous report, the LaFerrari XX is going to feature an uprated V12 6.3-liter engine from the road-going car working together with a tweaked electric motor. In the regular version the conventional engine puts out 800 HP (588 kW) while the electric motor delivers an additional 163 HP (120 kW) to provide a combined output of 963 HP (708 kW) while the XX variant is expected to unleash as much as 1,050 HP (772 kW).




The extremely loud LaFerrari XX will likely be unveiled in the first half of 2015.


Vettel as Ferrari teammate would be 'nice' - Raikkonen

 Vettel as Ferrari teammate would be nice - Raikkonen


Sebastian Vettel (GER) / XPB

Kimi Raikkonen has admitted it would be "nice" if he is paired at Ferrari with Sebastian Vettel next year.




The Finn said in Russia that he has heard the same rumours as the rest of the F1 paddock - that outgoing world champion Vettel's Red Bull exit means he is replacing Fernando Alonso at Maranello in 2015.




Although he has underperformed this season, Raikkonen has a contract to stay at Ferrari next year.




"I don't know if he (Vettel) is coming to the team," the 34-year-old told Russia's Championat.




"There are a lot of rumours, people expect it to happen, but I don't know yet," said Raikkonen.




"He is my closest friend among the drivers, a very honest and straightforward guy.




"I've never worked with him, but he's four-time world champion, he is certainly good in every area. We'll see how everything goes," the 2007 world champion added.




"It would be nice if he would come," said Raikkonen. "I think it will bring a good atmosphere to the team.




"I hope that together, if he does come, we can achieve good results. But I don't know anything.




"Like you, I just read about it in the news," he insisted.