Baltlogistik

2014 Subaru WRX caught hot-weather testing in the States

2012-09-17T07:04:00.002-07:00

Posted Aug 24th 2012 7:20PM

Comments104

Few mainstream hot hatches have tugged as many heartstrings in the last decade or so than the Subaru WRX. From its turbocharged four-cylinder heart to the traction of its all-wheel-drive footprint, Rex has been the benchmark by which others are judged since its debut in the States as a 2002 model. Suffice it to say that the next WRX, due in 2014, has mighty big shoes to fill.

Judging by the spy photos you see above, those shoes will be planted under bodywork that's not particularly different from that of the standard Impreza. We'd be lying if we said we weren't hoping for a bit more pizazz from this fourth-gen WRX, but most of its tepid styling – assuming these images are indeed indicative of the 2014 WRX – would be forgiven if the machine boasts more turbocharged performance than ever before.

As you can see, Subaru's engineering team brought along a current third-gen WRX hatchback for testing alongside the new model, and a brief comparison shows how much more restrained the styling of the latest Impreza is when compared to its forebear. We also note what appears to be an intercooler sticking further up into the hood scoop than the third-gen model, which could mean a turbocharged version of Subie's new FA engine is underhood. We'll have to wait and see. In the meantime, peruse the images above and carry on speculating.

SRT unveils 2013 Viper GTS Launch Edition

2012-09-17T07:03:00.002-07:00

By John NeffRSS feed

Posted Aug 16th 2012 5:08PM

Comments88

SRT has just surprised us with news that it will be making an appearance in Monterey this week with a special vehicle in tow. Taking its place among historic automobiles on the Concept Lawn at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance this weekend will be the 2013 SRT Viper GTS Launch Edition model, wearing the iconic GTS Blue paint and dual white stripes of prior Viper coupe launches from both 1996 and 2006.

The Viper GTS Launch Edition also features exclusive five-spoke polished forged-aluminum wheels that evoke, but also evolve, the wheel designs of those prior launch models. These special Vipers also get a serialized dash plaque placed inside their cabins to increase collectibility, and their interiors will be swathed in Black Laguna leather with contrast stitching. Production will be limited, but Chrysler has refrained from saying how many Launch Editions will be built.

Check out official images of the 2013 SRT Viper GTS Launch Edition in the gallery above, and stay tuned for our own live images of the car when we encounter it out in person at Pebble Beach.

2013 Smart ForTwo gets three bite-size new ads

2012-09-17T07:02:00.002-07:00

By Jonathon RamseyRSS feed

Posted Sep 13th 2012 3:30PM

Comments58

For such a Lilliputian car, the Smart ForTwo has giant staying power. The hatch that still gets wary glances is not only still kicking here in the U.S., it's done ten-straight months of year-on-year sales increases. That kind of sales trend calls for an ad campaign, and we have it in three new 15-second – bite-sized in Smart-speak – commercials.

Two of them, "Tough" and "Joy Ride" have begun running now, the third, "Custom Made," will start airing later this month. They'll be rolled out absolutely everywhere a commercial can be shown, and they'll be joined by banner ads and Facebook activity. We could tell you what the new Smart ads are about, but remember, they're only bite-sized, and you'll find all three just below.

Consumer Reports cuts loose, compares Scion FR-S against Subaru BRZ

2012-09-17T07:01:00.002-07:00

By George KennedyRSS feed

Posted Aug 21st 2012 2:58PM

Comments125

The folks at Consumer Reports are a lot like the Ben Steins of the automotive world. At first glance, they are the dry-as-saltines, facts-only crew that can't be bothered by anything but the empirical data with which they distill to arrive at their coveted "Recommended" accolades. It isn't always this way with CR, though, as we found out when they hopped behind the wheel of the Toyobaru coupes of our collective dreams, the Scion FR-S and Subaru BRZ.

Automotive engineer Jake Fisher hosts this test and speaks for the CR team explaining that, though both coupes are very much the same animal, they have subtle differences. The BRZ comes with a bit more available kit, like a rear spoiler, HID headlights and navigation, while the FR-S carries a lower price. All seems like what we've heard before, right? Well, CR ends up favoring the FR-S, claiming it has a more balanced ride and handles better.

This decision stands in contrast to a recent Motor Trend comparison test, in which the print publication favored the driving characteristics of the Subaru over the Scion.

More than anything, this highlights just how close the two cars are, and as CR's Fisher put it, "You're not gonna go wrong with either one of these." We agree, but click below to see the video and find out exactly what made CR err on the side of the Scion, then weigh in with your thoughts in Comments.

Remember the electric Rolls-Royce Phantom? Forget it

2012-09-17T06:49:00.002-07:00

By Zach BowmanRSS feed

Posted May 21st 2012 3:51PM

Comments16

Motor Trend reports Rolls-Royce has pulled the plug (literally) on its electric Phantom. Word has it none of the ultra-luxury automaker's current clients have any interest in an electrified land yacht due to niggling factors like range anxiety and a perceived loss of premiumness. Apparently the world's super wealthy only feel content when their transportation runs on the tears of crushed ecosystems. That's a bit odd considering the 102 EX Concept bowed at the Geneva Motor Show with more torque than the buttery-smooth V12 in the standard Phantom. Still, all the torque in the world is no balm for a range of under 100 miles.

While it's true Rolls-Royce officially quoted a total range of around 120 miles from the 1,452-pound battery pack in the machine's nose, we're more than a little skeptical of that figure. Then there's the issue of keeping the electric Phantom charged. We can imagine the typical Phantom owner isn't accustomed to waiting for anything, let alone twiddling their thumbs for eight hours while their cripplingly expensive sedan charges. With all that compromise, Rolls-Royce says it just doesn't make sense to produce the 102 EX.

2013 Ram 1500 unveiled with eight-speed auto, start/stop, air suspension [w/videos]

2012-09-17T06:48:00.002-07:00

By Chris ShunkRSS feed

Posted Apr 5th 2012 12:01AM

Comments148

The Ram 1500 will receive a significant refresh for the 2013 model year, and the majority of the changes are indeed more than skin-deep. That's because the 2013 Ram will hit the showroom floor with a host of powertrain upgrades, including features that have never been offered on American pickup trucks until now.

Chrysler promises that the new 3.6 will improve fuel efficiency by "at least 20 percent."

Many of the Ram's new technologies speak to its fuel-saving nature, including an eight-speed automatic transmission for both six- and eight-cylinder models, stop-start, improved aerodynamics, electric power steering, grille shutters and an auto-adjusting air suspension. The air suspension is essentially a version of the setup used in the Jeep Grand Cherokee and features an Aero Mode, lowering the ride height by 1.2 inches to help cut through the wind more efficiently. Ram will also offer the Chrysler Group's 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 as the base powerplant, delivering 305 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque. For reference, Ford rates the 2012 F-150 pickup's naturally aspirated 3.7-liter V6 at 302 hp and 278 lb-ft.

Chrysler promises that the new 3.6 will improve fuel efficiency by "at least 20 percent" compared to the old 3.7-liter unit. Another 20 percent added to 20 miles per gallon on the highway and 14 mpg in the city equates to a class-leading 24 mpg highway and 17 mpg city.

Of course, V8 power is available, courtesy of Chrysler's tried-and-true 5.7-liter Hemi, which now delivers 395 hp and 407 lb-ft of torque. That's five more horsepower compared to the 2012 model, and that improvement comes courtesy of the new electronic power steering system. The most impressive part is that the Hemi-equipped model will also boast 20 percent better fuel economy, thanks largely to the fact that the eight-speed automatic is also fitted to this eight-pot mill. Chrysler will announce official fuel economy numbers closer to the Ram's on-sale date.

The Ram 1500 can achieve these substantial efficiency gains because of the aforementioned fuel-sipping technologies, but engineers have also cut considerable weight. The V6 powertrain is an amazing 76 pounds lighter than the outgoing 3.7-liter, and the TorqueFlite eight-speed and Hemi combine for a 30-pound reduction in the 5.7-liter model. Other weight savings come from an aluminum hood (26 pounds), chassis with more high-strength steel (up to 30 pounds), new floor cross-members in the bed (seven pounds), new front bumper (four pounds) and the electronic steering system (four pounds).

Additional improvements include upgraded exterior styling, a richer-looking cabin and a stiffer chassis that promises decreased noise, vibration and harshness. The Ram will also feature improved available infotainment tech, including an 8.4-inch navigation screen and a configurable seven-inch thin-film transistor screen that is standard on Sport, Laramie and Laramie Longhorn models.

Stick And Move: Porsche reveals all-wheel-drive 911 Carrera 4 lineup

2012-09-17T06:47:00.002-07:00

By Jonathon RamseyRSS feed

Posted Aug 27th 2012 3:00AM

Comments53

Now that the rear-wheel drive Porsche 911 has clapped its thunder, it's time for the 991-generation all-wheel drive Carrera 4 and Carrera 4S to roll forth in coupe and cabriolet forms. The meat of the transformation is the Porsche Traction Management system, and it's as much as 143 pounds lighter than the previous 997 C4S, despite being about 1.7 inches wider in back with rear tires that are a third of an inch broader. Detail changes include the cross-light connecting the taillamps moving up a bit and going what appears to be all LED illumination.

The new model has also brought less obvious benefits like better gas mileage than its predecessor, even with more power and speed. The 400-horsepower C4S Coupe, the quickest of the bunch, can dash from zero to 62 mph in 4.1 seconds, max out a whisper beyond 185 mph and return almost 26 mpg combined if fitted with the optional seven-speed PDK dual clutch gearbox (the seven-speed manual comes standard).

Ushering in new tech that will become available for the entire 911 range, the C4S receives adaptive cruise control, a sliding glass sunroof and, on manual-equipped cars with the Sport Chrono pack, automatic double-declutching during downshifts in Sport Plus mode.

We'll see them on the Porsche stand at next month's Paris Motor Show and they'll go on sale in Germany later this year, finally arriving in U.S. showrooms next February. Not including $950 for destination, it will take take $91,030 to get in the all-wheel-drive 911 C4 Coupe. The C4 Cabriolet breaks the six-figure barrier at $102,930, trumped by the C4S Coupe at $105,630 and the C4S Cabriolet another high-jump away at $117,530. Have a look below at the press release with more information, get a preview of the lust on the way in our high-res gallery.

2014 Nissan GT-R spied testing at Nürburgring

2012-09-17T06:46:00.003-07:00

By Jeffrey N. RossRSS feed

Posted Sep 12th 2012 4:32PM

Comments64

Every year since the Nissan GT-R was released it has either gotten more powerful or more expensive (or both), and the 2014 model year looks to be more of the same. Some new spy photos have surfaced showing the 2014 GT-R testing around the Nürburgring. While details on the new Nissan are a bit scarce, we can't help but wonder whether this will be the GT-R to break the 600-horsepower mark and the six-figure price tag.

According to the Godzilla fans at the North American GT-R Owners Club forum, this car is performing tire tests. The site also makes mention of numerous interior upgrades for the GT-R, including a two-tone steering wheel and red leather seats.

Based on the black tape found on this tester's front and rear fascias, we see that Nissan may be planning some mild styling and/or aerodynamic changes for the car as well.

Report: Mitsubishi official says Evo franchise is dead

2012-09-17T06:46:00.000-07:00

By Aaron RichardsonRSS feed

Posted Mar 2nd 2011 12:40PM

Comments155

2011 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR – Click above for high-res image gallery

According to Gayu Eusegi, head of global product development for Mitsubishi, the Lancer Evolution X will be the last Evo the Japanese automaker ever builds. Eusegi says the move is part of a shift in strategy to put the company's product focus and ethos on leadership in EV technology.

To that end, Autocar indicates that Mitsubishi will release eight fully-electric or hybrid-electric cars by the time 2015 rolls around, and make a grab for a big portion of the CO2-reduction market share. It goes without saying that the fun-yet-fuel-swilling Evo just doesn't fit that mindset, particularly since it apes a rally car that no longer exists.

Despite the Evo's huge popularity, Mitsubishi apparently isn't scared of the step and says it's confident that consumers will glom on to the idea and rally behind the brand. By killing the Evo, they're making their intentions plain to an increasingly environmentally-conscious car-buying public.

Eusegi killed dead any notion that the brand would roll out a performance-oriented hybrid as well. "Maybe the world can change, and maybe someday we can do a motor race by electric vehicles. Maybe then we can enter the market agian," he said.

This report of the Evo's death would seem to stand in contrast to multiple reports that an Evo XI is in the works with a hybrid drivetrain. We're taking this latest Autocar missive with a few grains of salt, as we can see how Eusegi may have simply meant that an Evo that relies exclusively on internal combustion is dead – a hybrid Evo would seem to offer a nice technological bridge to Mitsubishi's more electrically minded future.Hat tip to Dennis!

Pics Aplenty: 2013 Mini JCW Countryman hits the road

2012-09-17T06:45:00.001-07:00

By Steven J. EwingRSS feed

Posted Sep 10th 2012 3:30PM

Comments6

If the 2013 Mini John Cooper Works Countryman gets you all hot and bothered, you're in luck. Mini has just released 191 high-resolution images of its largest JCW offering, sporting its signature black paint job complete with contrasting red stripes, mirrors and roof. We're sure it'll be a total hoot to drive.

And why wouldn't it be? After all, this hotted-up Countryman is powered by a boosted version of Mini's 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four good for 218 horsepower and a 207 pound-feet of torque, even capable of pumping out 221 lb-ft during momentary stints of overboost. That grunt runs to all four wheels (Mini's All4 all-wheel-drive system is in action here) via either a standard six-speed manual or optional six-speed automatic transmission. Sprinting to 62 miles per hour will take just seven seconds.

There are plenty of upgrades on tap that make this Countryman fitting of the JCW badge, including a sport suspension with MacPherson struts up front and a model-specific central-arm rear axle, upgraded brakes, strengthened anti-roll bars, a 10-millimeter drop in ride height and lightweight 18-inch alloy wheels (19s are optional).

A unique aero kit has been added to ensure that the JCW Countryman looks the part, and inside, the same red-and-black motif has been carried over. Customers will be able to spec optional lounge leather sport seats, and just like the standard Countryman, both the two- and three-passenger rear seating arrangements (read: two chairs or a proper bench) will be offered.

Scroll through the gallery above to see the full smattering of high-res images, and click below for the nitty-gritty details in Mini's press release.

These are the best-selling cars in wealthy zip codes

2012-09-17T06:44:00.002-07:00

By Jeff SabatiniRSS feed

Posted Aug 9th 2012 10:45AM

Comments172

Perhaps the most frustrating thing about being mired in the 99% is that due to the prevalence of reality-distorting TV and the booming personal security business, we really have no idea what it's like to be Mitt Romney, Donald Trump or one of the Koch brothers. At least in the olden days, we plebs could point and stare, mouths agape as the robber barons rode through city streets in their jewel-encrusted carriages. But today? Good luck catching a glimpse of Trump's platinum-dipped Maybach or the plutonium-burning hovercrafts that the Koch's use to fly to their secret Tea Party Illuminati meetings.

What's that? Rich people buy their cars at dealerships just like we do?

Yep, and according to a new study from TrueCar, Mr. and Mrs. Moneybags don't go in for luxury models nearly as completely as you'd think. TrueCar has released a list of the top 10 most popular cars in the wealthiest zip codes in the U.S. and, shockingly enough, half the vehicles on it are mainstream models fromToyota, Honda and Volkswagen.

As you would expect, a Mercedes-Benz is indeed at the top of the list, but note that it's the E-Class rather than the S-Class. Runner-up was the BMW 3 Series, just ahead of the C-Class. Fourth place went to theLexus RX, and fifth to the Toyota Prius. Then the real commonplace models take over, with the Volkswagen Jetta in sixth, the Honda CR-V and Accord in seventh and eighth, and the Toyota Camry taking ninth. TheBMW X5 wraps up the list in 10th place.

What this tells us is that the rich are clearly not stupid, choosing to buy the same sorts of vehicles that the rest of us do, models with good reputations for quality and value. Either that or they're paying their servants in cars.

2010 Mazda CX-7 debuts with refreshed look and new four-cylinder in... Toronto?

2012-09-17T06:43:00.002-07:00

By Chris PaukertRSS feed

Posted Feb 11th 2009 6:41PM

Comments47

Click above for a gallery of the 2010 Mazda CX-7

While we were gathered here in rainy Chicago for the Auto Show, we received word that the 2010 refresh for the Mazda CX-7 has in fact debuted some 500 miles away in Toronto, Canada. This switcheroo had us searching the floor here in McCormick for a 2010 model lazing away in the corner of Mazda's stand, but instead we only found the 2009 model. After the press conference, we stopped to chat with James O'Sullivan, Mazda's North American president and CEO, and he confirmed the Canadian debut was in fact the global premier.

The big news coming out of the Canadian International Auto Show for 2010 is that the CX-7 is getting a new 2.5-liter normally-aspirated four-cylinder model (the same engine is employed in the 2010 Mazda6 and Mazda3). So-equipped, the CX-7 generates 161 horsepower (at 6000 rpm) and maximum torque of 161 pound-feet of torque (at 3500 rpm). The turbocharged, 244-horsepower 2.3-liter engine remains unchanged. Further details like fuel-economy, price, and trim specification for this model will be revealed "at a later date," and in fact there is no official confirmation that the normally-aspirated inline-four will come to America, although it would be hard to imagine Mazda not doing so.

Beyond powertrains, Mazda has refined the CX-7 inside-and-out, including a redesigned front end with a larger five-point grille and different front and rear fascias. Inside, new gauge faces have taken up residence, along with a 4.1-inch color TFT information display, an available blind-spot monitoring system, three-position seat memory for the driver's seat (and a power backrest for the passenger seat), and Bluetooth for both phones and audio.

Maybach officially discontinues all models for 2013

2012-09-17T06:42:00.005-07:00

By Jonathon RamseyRSS feed

Posted Aug 14th 2012 11:01AM

Comments83

The word "Maybach" has joined the long list of synonyms for the word "kaput." Mercedes-Benz released the price list for the 2013 models of its super-luxury sedans, with the price column simply stating "Discontinued" for each one of them.

The 2012 models, should there be any left for 11th-hour buyers, maintain the increased MSRPs that Daimler slapped on them late last year after it was known the brand would be terminated next year. But you might still be able to wrangle that $100,000 rebate if you ask nicely, or in Russian, or have Rick Ross ask for you.

It shouldn't be too long before we see the ultimate version of the next generation S-Class, the S600 Pullman,that will replace Maybach. Intriguingly, it's said the Pullman will be offered with every S-Class engine, even the four-cylinder diesel.

2013 Maserati GranTurismo Sport

2012-09-17T06:42:00.002-07:00

By Matt DavisRSS feed

Posted Jul 11th 2012 11:57AM

Comments63

Vital Stats

Engine:: 4.7L V8
Power:: 453 HP / 384 LB-FT
Transmission:: 6-Speed Auto
0-60 Time:: 4.8 Seconds (62 mph)
Top Speed:: 185 MPH
Drivetrain:: Rear-Wheel Drive
Curb Weight:: 4,100 LBS
Seating:: 2+2
Cargo:: 9.18 CU-FT
MPG:: 16.45 MPG (est.)
MSRP:: $130,000 (est.)

Isn't Maserati one of those brands we're always rooting for despite the odds? It's a whole lot like Alfa Romeo in this regard; we root and root for them to turn some magic corner that will signal a huge breakthrough with buyers and trigger a sweet reconnection with a glorious past of which we are so frequently reminded.

But the return to any true and powerful worldwide Ferrari-like glory just lingers out there, seemingly always a couple of years off. That the company is owned by Fiat is mostly a blessing, but it also engenders a set of sensitive political hurdles given the awkward banter between the Trident, the Biscione (the snake in Alfa's logo) and the Prancing Horse.

And then this Sport update to one of the two models built in Maserati's Modena precincts quietly emerges, we drive it as it really ought to be driven, and it's enough to have us cheering again. How can all the world not get behind a car so sexy as the Maserati GranTurismo and command people in that price bracket to buy the damned thing? It just seems wrong – and downright un-Italian – that such coercion isn't allowed. Yet surely the ongoing Maserati situation is the result of other things not going quite right beneath its corporate skin.

But we didn't want to think about all of that on our drive day. We wanted to drive the bells and whistles out of this 2013 Maserati GranTurismo Sport and have something approaching an irresponsible 1960s-style great time at the wheel. And we pretty much got it.

Now there is just this Sport model in between the base GranTurismo and the heated GranTurismo MC.

We were driving in and around Modena during the recent flurry of nasty earthquakes, too, so there was significant added drama in the air, and our thoughts go out to the locals. Our nearly 200-mile loop took us from the civilization surrounding Modena, Bologna and the straight-as-an-arrow A1 Autostrada, due south into what is a sports car wonderland of Apennine foothill driving. It is in precisely these sorts of off-the-radar areas where every great racecar driver of the 1950s and 1960s came for their truest form of over-the-road driving pleasure. All of history's great Maseratis were tested here in between exquisite coffee breaks.

This GranTurismo Sport is the model that replaces both the GranTurismo S and GranTurismo S Automatic in the lineup, so now there is just this Sport model in between the base GranTurismo and the heatedGranTurismo MC. The GranTurismo Sport arrives in North American showrooms soon after the European launch in July, most likely in September for us. (It's important to get these production launches started prior to the Italian August holiday when things essentially shut down for the entire month.) That the GranTurismo Sport is now more powerful than the GranTurismo MC and quicker to 60 miles per hour in acceleration runs gives us reason to scratch our heads over the MC's higher price tag. While the more rigid 444-horsepower MC currently sits at just a few cents below $140,000, the much-improved 453-hp Sport should start at a little above $130,000.

The entire driver's zone in the cabin is close to ideal for a GT experience in a vehicle this size.

On the outside, the GranTurismo Sport adopts an approximation of the look introduced on the MC. Headlights and front airflow are the two big items addressed with full-LED daytime running lights and adaptive light control to illuminate curves with up to 15 degrees of steering angle at the wheel. And there is a new front splitter to increase aerodynamic efficiencies and guide more air to the compound metal brake discs for cooling. Other exterior touches include more pronounced side skirts and 20-percent darker tint on the taillamp lenses. This blue you see is the new color dedicated to the GT Sport, called in Italian "blu sofisticato," and the Brembo brake calipers can be ordered in the same color as well. The telltale Trident in the grille gets red highlights now, a Maserati tradition for marking its most powerful cars.

The new power front seats with integrated headrests and more sporting side bolsters are a thoroughly welcome upgrade, the previous thrones never seeming to us to be quite up to the mark. And, despite pooh-poohing comments from jaded journalists, the new flat-bottom steering wheel does help grip strategy and aids leg/knee room while dancing through the regions' hundreds of storybook curves. The entire driver's zone in the cabin is close to ideal for a GT experience in a vehicle this size. Meanwhile, rear knee room is nicely increased thanks to new concave front passenger seatbacks.

This naturally aspirated V8 built by Ferrari is an icon of power and sound.

Regarding the existing 4.7-liter V8 engine now milked for 453 hp and 384 pound-feet of torque peaking at 4,750 rpm (increases of 20 and 22 units of measure, respectively), this widely shared multi-point injected engine has reached its peak and is wonderful throughout. This, despite teetering on the edge of being replaced by an all-new direct-injection turbocharged V8 beginning in all new Maserati models starting as early as mid-2013 with the newQuattroporte.

But this will not be a good-riddance goodbye; this naturally aspirated V8 built by Ferrari and employed by Maserati and in Alfa's 8C Competizione is an icon of power and sound. We will miss the Sport exhaust roar engineered by the Italians in partnership with Faurecia of Germany. In this latest guise, the roar is best in Sport with gearshifts in the manual MC Auto Shift mode, and we found ourselves leaving the windows open a lot just to hear the song and the five-percent quicker gear changes that waited for our command at the 7,200-rpm redline.

The long carbon fiber shift paddles attached to the column remain the very best solution in the fingertip-shifting business.

Those shifts from the six-speed ZF automatic gearbox are also as good as they'll likely ever get with such a setup, though things should improve when a ZF eight-speed comes online within the next couple of years. Regardless, we ceased whining about that as we hammered harder and harder over the hills. Keeping in mind that this isn't an all-out performance Ferrari, this six-speed torque-converter-equipped box is extremely well matched to this V8. We expect more in the future from the GranTurismo calibration allowed for North Americans, but it's damned fine right now. We still remember our first drive in the GranTurismo S back in 2008, it had those perfect long carbon fiber shift paddles attached to the column. They continue on here and remain the very best solution in the fingertip-shifting business.

We once again tried the six-speed automated manual Graziano gearbox, called MC Shift, and were once again reminded why the setup was a flop in North America. As it stands, less than 30-percent of buyers in world markets opt to have their GranTurismo thus equipped. The thrill is still there at high revs or on track days, but on public roads and in daily stop-and-go, this transaxle setup is simply too full of the yips and shunts to blend smoothly with Maserati's chassis and gentleman-GT image. North America stopped getting the gearbox imported after a brief test run in 2008, and we'll have to wait and see if there is a new, more sophisticated automated manual solution in store for next-generation Maseratis.

We're looking forward to ever more inspired driving experiences in the next-generation GranTurismo.

Most important for this 4,100-pound plus GT sex bomb is its improved cornering dynamics thanks in part to a two-millimeter-thicker rear stabilizer bar that matches up with the latest generation Sport Skyhook adaptive suspension and the double wishbone structures at all four corners. We still recall the side-to-side dynamic looseness and excessive roll of the first GranTurismo units in 2007 and 2008. This new GranTurismo Sport is far beyond all of that. The uprated suspension allowed us to do exactly what we envisioned in our mind's eye through every demanding section of road, the standard 20-inch Pirelli P Zero treads sitting pretty all day long, hooking up as required.

We still root hard for Maser, and our latest driving chapter has helped a lot. Now that they've made the absolute best of what they have been handed by the mother company, we're looking forward to ever more inspired driving experiences in the next-generation GranTurismo. News of Fiat wanting upwards of 50,000 Maseratis sales per year by the start of 2016, plus the inclusion of an Alfa 4C-sharing Maserati with new Ferrari-built biturbo V6, is enough to get our hopes up. Much of that volume figures to be the new Kubang crossover model, but hopefully that will generate fat profits to pump back into Maserati's slinkier sports cars. After all, the Trident marque's storied history – and today's luxury buyer – demands nothing less.

Lotus Evora S IPS automatic transmission option arrives in October [w/video]

2012-09-17T06:41:00.002-07:00

By Jonathon RamseyRSS feed

Posted Jul 28th 2012 11:01AM

Comments20

The Lotus Evora S IPS that the company showed drifting all around its test track earlier this year will be available in October, says Car and Driver. The kinder, gentler Lotus is fitted with the six-speed Intelligent Precision Shift transmission, an Aisin unit swiped from the Toyota Camry and retuned with Lotus electronics and actuators.

There are two 'regular' modes and two 'sport' modes on the IPS gearbox. The former include a traditional hands-off automatic and an auto mode with shifts handled by wheel-mounted paddles. The latter are a sport automatic setting that sharpens the car's responses and a manual sport mode for total driver control. The Evora S IPS hits showrooms in October. For now, you can take a look at Lotus' test driver giving it the beans in the video below.

Lincoln MKT Town Car to get 2.0-liter EcoBoost

2012-09-17T06:40:00.003-07:00

Livery operators can thank Ford for shaving a few extra bucks from their fuel budgets, courtesy of a new four-cylinder engine option for the Lincoln MKT Town Car. Lincoln is offering its professional version of the MKT, the replacement for the venerable Town Car, with a 2.0-liter EcoBoost in front-drive configuration for 2013, though the powertrain won't be available to the general public.

The four-cylinder in the MKT Town Car makes 235 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque and garners an EPA rating of 20 miles per gallon city, 28 on the highway, and 23 combined. That's considerably better than the 17/24/19 rating of the other option, a 3.7-liter V6 making 300 hp and 275 lb-ft of torque. The bigger engine's inferior fuel economy isn't just a matter of its larger displacement, however, as it is only offered in all-wheel-drive guise.

We imagine livery operators in warm weather states would just as soon do without the added weight and mechanical complexity, especially if it means getting an extra four miles out of every gallon of gas. They'll be saving some dollars up front, as well, with the base price of the 2.0-liter EcoBoost MKT Town Car coming in at $49,845, some $1,100 less than the V6 model.

Lexus previews LF-CC Concept ahead of Paris debut

2012-09-17T06:40:00.000-07:00

By Drew PhillipsRSS feed

Posted Sep 17th 2012 9:14AM

Comments8

The Lexus LF-CC, a new two-door hybrid coupe concept, will make its debut at the Paris Motor Show later this month. Featuring the L-finesse design language seen on the LF-LC Concept that debuted in Detroit back in January, the LF-CC Concept is likely a preview of the next-generation Lexus IS that will be introduced in the near future.

While its still unclear how much of the styling will make it to a future production vehicle, particularly the bold iteration of the spindle grille, triple LED headlights and intricate taillights, the overall design of the LF-CC looks to be easily transferred over to a road-going Lexus.

Hybrid models have become commonplace throughout the Lexus lineup over the past few years, most recently with the ES, and now it appears the IS will be getting a fuel-sipping variation as well. Under the hood, the LF-CC features a new 2.5-liter hybrid powertrain, one that Lexus says will be used throughout its model lineup in the future, with various technologies to further reduce fuel consumption.

Scroll down for the press release from Lexus and check back next week for more details and photos as part of our live coverage of the Paris Motor Show.

Deep Dive: 2013 Range Rover bows in London, diesel hybrid confirmed

2012-09-17T06:39:00.002-07:00

By Chris PaukertRSS feed

Posted Sep 6th 2012 4:45PM

Comments8

This all-new 2013 model might just be the SUV archetype of the future.

It's been said that if you want to see what an ordinary sedan will be like in 10 or 20 years' time, you should look at an S-Class fromMercedes-Benz. The thought is that as a leader in innovation, safety, and comfort, the executive sedan's features will eventually trickle down to more mundane iron like your average family four door. The same hasn't always been true of its closest off-road equivalent, the Land Rover Range Rover, but this all-new 2013 model might just be the SUV archetype of the future with its major leaps forward in weight, efficiency, capability and luxury.

For starters, as has been previously publicized, the 2013 Range Rover has gone on a massive diet. Thanks largely to its all-aluminum chassis, some 700 pounds has been snipped from the Daddy Rover (some trims save as much as 926 pounds!). Perspective? The vehicle's bodyshell is over 60 pounds lighter than a BMW 3 Series. That's about as sizable a diet as we can remember hearing of a production car from one generation to the next, and this ambitious lightweighting regime shows the way that other SUVs and crossovers will almost certainly have to go in order to meet increasingly stringent fuel economy and emissions targets the world over. Despite being much lighter, the bonded and riveted chassis and bodyframe are significantly stiffer than the third generation Landie, which wasn't exactly a creaking hollow. Even the chassis assembly process uses a lot less energy, and with no need for welding stations, the factory is said to be oddly quiet, too.

Land Rover confirmed what we've all suspected for some time – a hybrid variant.

Lighter structures will only get automakers part of the way to their goals; powertrains play a big part in meeting efficiency targets, too. To that end, the Range Rover's engines have gone on diets – not just in displacement, but in weight as well. And for the first time at its London launch today, Land Rover confirmed what we've all suspected for some time – a hybrid variant.

The parallel hybrid is actually based on the company's new 3.0-liter diesel V6 powertrain. Like all other 2013 Range Rovers, the diesel-electric relies on a ZF eight-speed automatic, but its transmission integrates an electric motor. Special care has been taken to keep the 1.7-kWh battery pack low in the chassis, but it's protected by a boron steel cradle, so officials say you can high-center the entire vehicle on a rock without fear of gashing its costly lithium-ion cells. Even more impressively, wading depth is also unaffected by the hybrid powertrain. Land Rover claims the system is good for 333 horsepower and 0-60 miles per hour in under seven seconds. More importantly, buyers are advised to expect 45 miles per imperial gallon on the combined European cycle (LR offers no U.S. equivalent guidance).

The force-fed V8 rings up 510 hp and 461 lb-ft – enough motive force for a 5.1-second 0-60 dash.

Sadly, Land Rover says this diesel-electric powertrain isn't coming to the U.S. – at least not for the moment. Instead, we'll get updated versions of the 5.0-liter V8 in both naturally aspirated and supercharged forms. The 32-valve V8 will be routed to the ground through a permanent four-wheel-drive system (a rear differential is optional). For 2013, the standard U.S. Rover V8 produces 375 horsepower and matching pound-feet of torque, good enough for a 0-60 time of 6.5 seconds and a top speed of 130 mph. The force-fed V8 rings up 510 hp and 461 lb-ft – enough motive force for a 5.1-second 0-60 dash (0.8 seconds quicker than last year and about 0.2 seconds quicker than a BMW X5 xDrive50i).

That's rapid enough to momentarily forget our disappointment in learning that there's no diesel model yet for the U.S. – a bummer considering rivals BMW and Mercedes-Benz are enjoying growing interest in their diesel models. We understand the reluctance to bring over the diesel hybrid to the States (cost and consumer acceptance issues), but we'd like to see the new 3.0-liter V6 diesel on sale (254 hp/442 lb-ft), or even the larger 4.4-liter with 334 hp and 516 lb-ft. When we asked Nick Rogers, Range Rover Vehicle Line Director about such possibilities, he could only wryly say that "there is clearly an opportunity" for an alt-fuel powertrain in North America, suggesting that one may eventually be made available. We wouldn't rule out a 3.0-liter gas V6 or even a gasoline hybrid in this generation, either.

We've just seen the new Range Rover here at its London reveal, and it continues to exude that elusive "Lord and Master of All I Survey" presence that has long been its stock in trade. That said, we're still not sure how we feel about the new design. It definitely looks cutting-edge and more rakish (a faster windscreen angle and a longer wheelbase and lower roofline will do that for a design), but some of the profile detailing strikes us as fussy – namely the trio of 'slats' on the leading edge of the front doors, which echo the vertical fender vents of this vehicle's predecessor without actually being functional. It also doesn't help that the L-shaped taillamps remind us of the Ford Explorer. We'll need to see it on the street (or covered in mud) to properly judge the whole aesthetic.

The 2013's cabin has 50-percent less switchgear.

The outgoing Range Rover had a visually stunning interior with a commanding driving position marred by occasionally befuddling controls and a glitchy navigation system. We'll have to wait until our first drive to see how the new hardware shakes out, but we like what we see – and what we don't see – the 2013's cabin has 50-percent less switchgear, along with new options like the largest panoramic sunroof ever fitted to an SUV and a more sybaritic two-place rear seat with a wood-laden center console. It helps, too, that said rear seat's legroom has been embiggened by over four inches. The new cabin also claims to be much quieter, with less road and wind noise than an Audi A8. Did we mention the availability of a 29-speaker, 1,700-watt Meridian sound system? Twenty Nine.

Land Rover hasn't forgotten about its off-road heritage, and despite having a longer wheelbase that ought to erode capability, a more capable air suspension and a next-generation Terrain Response system (with a new automatic mode) suggests that the Rover should continue to be Camel-Trophy ready. In fact, it ought to be better than ever. The vehicle's wading depth is up 20 percent to over 35 inches thanks to specially conceived "labyrinth" breather vents hidden under the clamshell hood, and the aforementioned suspension system now has even greater range than before with nearly five inches of additional clearance when called for – off-road ride height is now listed at 11.9 inches. And despite offering additional wheel sizes – from 18 to 22 inches – Land Rover has gone against the grain by fitting tires with taller sidewalls, part of an effort to minimize wheel and tire damage when off roading (as well as increase ride comfort).

Most Land Rovers will live out the majority of their days on pavement, of course, and those 700 fewer pounds should help improve handling greatly. Range Rovers have always had a bit more lean in the corners than their more tarmac-oriented rivals, but a new two-channel active lean control system (read: active anti-roll bars) on supercharged models should help flatten corning response. And a new aluminum double-wishbone front and rear multi-link suspension setup backed by adjustable air springs promises to deliver a suppler ride and better wheel control. Direction changes are now affected by electric power steering to help curb fuel consumption, and officials tell Autoblog that the company has worked particularly hard to preserve feedback and on-center feel, though the proof will be in the driving.

Its dramatic weight loss, diesel-hybrid tech and array of electronics point the way for the genre.

On the safety front, the Range Rover gains all of the usual safety anagrams, along with available active cruise control with auto brake and driver warning, blind spot monitoring and cross-traffic alert, self park and a panoply of airbags.

All in, the 2013 Range Rover looks to be loaded to the headliner (available in three different colors, natch) with equipment to help it conquer every conceivable scenario, from the Gobi Desert to Beverly Hills' notoriously fickle valet stands. And while we don't expect every SUV or crossover 20 years hence to boast the Range Rover's fording depth or its semi-aniline leather, its dramatic weight loss, diesel-hybrid tech and array of electronics point the way for the genre.

Lamborghini Gallardo recalled for possible power steering fluid leak

2012-09-17T06:38:00.002-07:00

By Jonathon RamseyRSS feed

Posted Sep 15th 2012 12:02PM

Comments30

Up to 1,491 examples of the 2004-2006 Lamborghini Gallardo coupe and Spyder are being recalled due to potential power steering system leaks. Fluid can escape from high-pressure pipes located near the hydraulic pump, and if the fluid comes into contact with an ignition source a fire could result.

Lamborghini is notifying the affected owners, who can take their Gallardos to their dealers for repairs free of charge. For more information, read the bulletin from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration below

Lamborghini Gallardo successor earmarked for 2014, simplified lineup expected

2012-09-17T06:37:00.002-07:00

By Jonathon RamseyRSS feed

Posted Aug 30th 2012 8:30AM

Comments23

Unless you've kept running tabs on a white board or you have a mind like Rain Man, we'll bet you don't know how many different versions and special editions of the Lamborghini Gallardo are on offer or have been offered. There have been Bicolores and Tricolores, dictionary strainers like the Gallardo Super Trofeo Stradaleand Gallardo LP570-4 Spyder Performante, and plain-old rear-wheel-drive coupes and convertibles to name very few of them, with a mix-and-match approach to how many axles are driven, how much horsepower is available and whether the top comes down.

Lamborghini America COO Michael Lock has told Car and Driver that the end is nigh for all that jelly bean variety. When the Gallardo's replacement comes next year – ~~tipped to be called the Cabrera~~ as yet unnamed and launched in all-wheel-drive form with 600 horsepower and no manual transmission option – the line will be rationalized to help customers and the bottom line by putting more space between variants. Lock didn't say exactly how that would transpire, but C/D guesses this means the end of all-wheel-drive convertibles and a convertible Superleggera.

News Source: Car and Driver

Kia to offer limited edition 2013 Rio 5-Door SX with manual gearbox

2012-09-17T06:36:00.005-07:00

By George KennedyRSS feed

Posted Sep 11th 2012 10:59AM

Comments36

Up until now, if you wanted the top-of-the-line version of the Kia Rio 5-Door, you could only get it with the six-speed automatic transmission. But now, Kia has now announced a limited run of six-speed manual-equipped hatchbacks.

That means that Rio 5-Door buyers no longer have to decide between a row-your-own gearbox and features like the UVO infotainment system, backup camera and Bluetooth hands-free calling. You can have all these features, plus the manual gearbox for an MSRP of $17,900.

According to Kia, the combination of range-topping trim and manual transmission provides a "more engaging drive experience without sacrificing the comfort and convenience offered by the subcompact model's highest trim level."

The idea for the Rio SX M/T (manual transmission) was apparently inspired by Kia's B-Spec race car, which has been competing in the Grand-Am race series. Only 500 examples of the SX M/T will be sold for the 2013 model year.

Chrysler 200 successor to boast 38 mpg, 9-speed automatic

2012-09-17T06:36:00.002-07:00

By Zach BowmanRSS feed

Posted Sep 11th 2012 10:29AM

Comments85

The Wall Street Journal is reporting that the next-generation Chrysler 200 will show off a host of improvements, including a fuel economy rating of 38 miles per gallon on the highway. That's a jump of seven mpg over the current model, and much of that efficiency can be chalked up to a new nine-speed automatic transmission. Expect to see the revised 200 show up on dealer lots in the first quarter of 2014. The news came courtesy of a dealer meeting in Las Vegas, where Chrysler unveiled upwards of six new vehicles set to arrive within the next year and a half.

Chrysler reportedly also showed off its subcompact 100, said to be based on the Dodge Dart. Other vehicles shown at the dealer sit-down included a four-door version of the Fiat 500, the replacement for the Jeep Libertyand a new small Jeep as well. Both dealers and the manufacturer are keeping the rest of their secrets to themselves at the moment. Stay tuned.

2012 Jaguar XKR-S Convertible

2012-09-17T06:35:00.002-07:00

By Steven J. EwingRSS feed

Posted Sep 7th 2012 2:57PM

Comments21

Vital Stats

Engine:: SC 5.0L V8
Power:: 550 HP / 502 LB-FT
Transmission:: 6-Speed Auto
0-60 Time:: 4.2 Seconds
Top Speed:: 186 MPH
Drivetrain:: Rear-Wheel Drive
Curb Weight:: 4,079 LBS
Seating:: 2+2
Cargo:: 11.1 CU-FT (max)
MPG:: 15 City / 22 HWY
MSRP:: $140,825 (as tested)

Not long after executive editor Chris Paukert drove the Jaguar XKR-S Coupe, I found myself holding the keys to the gorgeous British Racing Green XKR-S Convertible you see here. Mechanically, it's exactly the same as the coupe, save an additional 111 pounds of weight and a slightly less-usable boot. And from behind the wheel, the Convertible's on-road manners don't differ too much from its hardtop kin.

Thanks to a revised chassis setup versus the standard XKconvertible, the XKR-S isn't plagued with cowl shake or general wobbliness, though there's a still a bit of safe, predictable understeer dialed in to the suspension geometry. Around back, the big cat will happily swing its butt out around a turn when provoked, even with the traction control nannies in full effect. The XKR-S Convertible takes to the road more like a muscle car than a proper sportster, ditching scalpel-like precise handling for pure stabbing force.

The most impressive part of the XKR-S formula is the menacing growl that shoots out of what we can only assume are the polished quad exhaust tips of Satan's own vocal cords.

But the XKR-S Convertible's pièce de résistance is best seen – or rather, heard – when you drop the top. Nevermind the brute force of the 550-horsepower supercharged V8 underhood, able to slap the 4,079-pound Jaguar to 60 miles per hour in just 4.2 seconds, the most impressive part of the XKR-S formula is the menacing growl that shoots out of what we can only assume are the polished quad exhaust tips of Satan's own vocal cords. During my week with the car, I couldn't resist purposely mashing the throttle as I drove out onto Woodward Avenue in downtown Detroit, simply so I could hear that heart-fluttering roar bounce off the tall concrete buildings, slamming pedestrians with eight-cylinder aural delight whether they liked it or not.

Thing is, though, you get this same sort of experience in the coupe. And while the hardtop XKR-S doesn't come with the wind-in-your-hair experience, it does everything the droptop can do for a full $6,000 less. The same well-appointed, beautifully trimmed interior is there, complete with two excellent sport chairs up front, completely useless rear buckets that are better suited for packages than people, and the same infuriatingly slow infotainment/navigation system we've grown to, well, deal with. In any case, the XKR-S package is very sweet, but unless you're hellbent on the full open-air experience, just stick with the coupe.

Infiniti sets 2014 due date for all-electric LE with wireless charging

2012-09-17T06:32:00.000-07:00

By Sebastian BlancoRSS feed

Posted Aug 20th 2012 12:07PM

Comments23

Infiniti has re-confirmed it will sell the production version of the LE, and it has now given us a year: 2014. This makes it likely that Nissan's upscale arm will be the first OEM to sell a production inductive charging vehicle.

USAToday reports that Infiniti officials made the announcement in California alongside the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance this past weekend. The high-end event is a good place to discuss launching a beefier, prettier luxury cousin to the Nissan Leaf, especially one that could have the cachet of being able to offer completely hassle-free electric miles (one you install the pads in your garage, of course). Infiniti's Ben Poore told USAToday that, "It's a new technology. We're being a little bit bold on this." The LE – which stands for Luxury, Electric – also allows standard, wired charging.

While we don't know what the specs will be for the production version, the LE Concept has a Leaf-like 24kWh lithium-ion battery pack and a 100-kw electric motor that offers 134 horsepower and 240 pound-feet of torque. That's 24 hp and 30 lb-ft more than the Leaf. The LE will be most likely be built at Nissan's factory in Smyrna, TN, the one that will start making the Leaf later this year.

The race is on to bring wireless charging to the masses, with companies like Mitsubishi and Audi working privately and the U.S. government dabbling as well.

These cars are headed to the Great Crusher In The Sky

2012-09-17T06:31:00.002-07:00

By Jeffrey N. RossRSS feed

Posted Aug 24th 2012 2:58PM

Comments68

It happens every year. We bid adieu to some cars and trucks that will be missed, and say good riddance to others wondering how they stayed around so long. Whether they're being killed off for slow sales or due to a new product coming along to replace them, the list of vehicles being discontinued after 2012 is surprisingly long and diverse.

CNN Money has compiled a list of departing vehicles, to which we've added a few more of our own. In the slow sales column, cars like the Lexus HS 250h, Mercedes-Benz R-Class and the full Maybach lineup appear, while the Ford Escape Hybrid, Mazda CX-7 and Hyundai Veracruz are all having their gaps filled with more modern and more fuel-efficient alternatives. Obvious exceptions to the rule include models that still sell in decent numbers like the Jeep Liberty and the Chrysler Town & Country (which will eventually be replaced by a crossover-like vehicle).