carmodelcar

wiesmann mf4-s

2011-08-01T22:46:00.000-07:00

Coinciding with the 20th anniversary of its factory opening, German boutique automaker Wiesmann will offer a special edition of its MF4. The MF4-S, as it's called, utilizes the same M3-sourced V-8, but now with 420 hp -- some 53 hp over the base model.
Wait, what's a Wiesmann anyways? The automaker was founded in 1985 by brothers Martin and Friedhelm Wiesmann. Their factory resides in Dulmen, Germany, and produces a smattering of specialty, handmade rear-wheel-drive vehicles every year. Each car receives power from BMW drivetrains; the MF4 with the aforementioned M3 engine (available with either manual or DCT transmissions), and the MF5 with the 5.0L V-10 from the M5.
Wiesmann outfits the special edition MF4-S with a center console engraved with the owner's name and production number, exclusive embroidery and unique instrumentation. Wiesmann will produce only 30 examples of the MF4-S.

wiesmann mf4-s

wiesmann mf4-s

volkswagen polo

2011-08-01T22:44:00.000-07:00

Volkswagen took the cover off its fifth generation Polo at the Geneva Motor Show. Although the new compact is larger and more powerful than its predecessor, the Polo weighs 7.5% less, offers strong fuel economy, and even lower emissions.
The new styling bears a strong resemblance to the striking Scirocco and sixth-generation Golf. The design team at VW has stretched the track to 57.6-in. front and 57.3-in. rear to give a wider stance. The Polo also grows in length by 1.4-in. and in width by 1.2-in., but drops in height by 0.5-in. These changes have increased head, shoulder and legroom as a result, but at an undisclosed amount. The interior also receives white backlit dials and aluminum highlights. Customers can opt for an air conditioned glove box, MP3 capability and a touchscreen satellite navigation system.
New to the Polo lineup are a 105-hp 1.2-liter turbocharged gasoline engine and a 1.6-liter BlueMotion diesel engine, the latter supplanting the 1.4-liter TDI. Volkswagen claims the new 90-hp diesel will return 74 mpg UK (62 mpg) combined and emit 96 g/km of CO2. Even further, VW will unveil its second generation of BlueMotion diesels in 2010, which will raise the mileage envelope even further through automatic stop-start systems and regenerative braking. All engine options come equipped with five- or six-speed manual transmissions, with an optional seven-speed dual-clutch transmission available on the 80-hp 1.4-liter engine.
Production of the new Polo begins this summer and customers can expect to receive theirs by October. We're likely to see the refreshed Polo cross the pond in the not-too-distant future.

volkswagen polo

volkswagen polo

toyota verso

2011-08-01T22:42:00.000-07:00

One of Toyota's Geneva debuts is the redesigned Verso, Europe's bigger version of the Matrix. It seats seven thanks to a third row of seats in the back and Toyota has improved its Easy Flat-7 system to allow both the second- and third-row seats to fold flat more easily, creating more room for cargo. Toyota has also stretched the wheelbase and widened the front and rear tracks to make more space for second- and third-row passengers and redesigned the suspension geometry to compensate for the new dimensions.
The Verso will be one of the first platforms to receive Toyota's new Optimal Drive technology, which incorporates several technologies to reduce engine weight and mechanical losses and to maximize efficiency and minimize emissions. In the Verso, Toyota says the technology has improved fuel economy by up to 20% and emissions up to 12% over the outgoing model.
The Verso will receive 1.6L and 1.8L Valvetronic gas engines mated to a six-speed manual transmission. Toyota's Multidrive S Continuously Variable Transmission will be available on the 1.8L engine. An updated 2.0L diesel and a carried-over 2.2L diesel will also be offered, and a new six-speed automatic transmission will be come optional for those engines in July.

toyota verso

toyota verso

toyota verso

toyota verso

spyker c8 aileron

2011-08-01T22:41:00.000-07:00

The Spyker C8 Aileron is poised as a true performance car, and if all goes as planned, it will help boost the brand's dwindling image and profits.
True to tradition, the C8 Aileron is a mid-engine sports car built upon an all-aluminum frame that utilizes aluminum body panels (the concept version is shown). Aeronautics and motorsport are two major inspirations, and the new car wears numerous jet-like turbine bits, scoops, louvers and spoilers. LED lights are positioned fore and aft, while "Rotorblade" 19-in. wheels set before AP Racing carbon ceramic stoppers culminate the exterior theme.
In the belly of the Dutch car resides an Audi-sourced 400-hp 4.2L V-8 connected to either a six-speed Getrag manual or six-speed ZF automatic transmission. The auto option is a first ever in a Spyker.
It takes around six leather hides to completely line the interior of the Aileron that's available in 14 colors. Incorporated in the aluminum and leather clad cabin is a seven-speaker multimedia system from famed audio company Kharma. As an option, owners can also place Chronoswiss dials on the dash.
No MSRP has been set, but a price tag of no less than $300,000 is expected

spyker c8 aileron

spyker c8 aileron

rolls-royce 200ex

2011-08-01T22:38:00.000-07:00

Rolls-Royce coyly calls this the 200EX, saying it's merely a concept that shows the design direction for an as yet unnamed smaller, less expensive sedan designed to sell alongside the stately Phantom. But the production version of this car, code-named RR4, will look virtually identical.
The RR4 will feature the third evolution of Rolls-Royce's now familiar headlight graphic, first seen on the BMW-designed Phantom, and a variation on the laid-back grille treatment that debuted on the Phantom coupe and convertible. With a 'faster' backlight and C-pillar, and convex bodyside, it's a much more rakish looking sedan than the Phantom, though at 212.6 in long and 61 in tall, it's still an imposing car.
Despite rumors the RR4 would be heavily based on the new BMW 7-series, Rolls-Royce says the car has a unique unibody "which is not shared with any other vehicle". The RR4's proportions, cowl height, and door apertures are totally different to those of the new 7-series; if the two cars share any metal, it's buried very deep in the structure. The body will be built at BMW's Dingolfing plant in Germany, then shipped to the purpose-built Rolls-Royce plant in Goodwood, England, for painting, trimming, and final assembly. BMW has added a mezzanine floor to the plant for the trim and wood shops, to create extra room for the RR4 line

rolls-royce 200ex

rolls-royce 200ex

rinspeed ichange concept

2011-08-01T22:36:00.000-07:00

Swiss Porsche tuner and prototype car builder Rinspeed has been concocting outlandish concepts at Geneva for some time now and the iChange is one of its most innovative yet. The three-passenger car does just as its name suggests: changes from a sleek one-person speedster into a three-person people mover at the press of a button.
As the efficiency of cars becomes their centerpiece, Rinspeed designed the shape-shifting concept to be energy conserving in all forms. It achieves its best fuel economy and least environmental impact while carrying only the driver. With two more on board, the energy consumption increases, but only for the time they are onboard and strapped in, Rinspeed is quick to point out. The iChange features an aerodynamic optimized exterior and is powered by a zero-emission 150 kW lithium ion charged motor.
At the heart and soul of the iChange is a lithium battery supply capable of being stacked in two different configurations depending on drive distance. The batteries allow for a 220 km/h (137 mph) top speed and can propel the 1050 kg (2310 lbs) concept to 62 mph in just above 4 sec., the coachbuilder claims. A six-speed transmission borrowed from Subaru sends the power to the forged 17-in. front and 18-in. rear wheels.
Take a tour of its exterior and the iChange's uniqueness truly makes its mark. Not only does it appear futuristic, but it actually features a slew of next-generation technologies poised to make it in the mass-produced automotive scene. Solar panels on its roof and flanks provide power to the climate control fans, while at the same time charge the essential battery packs.
No need for clumsy door handles here, the iChange's roof lifts to let in passengers looking for an eco-friendly ride. Keys are a thing of the past too, with everything in this concept controlled via the driver's Apple iPhone. Once inside, occupants will be treated to a Harmon Kardon GreenEdge infotainment experience that's been built to be just as clear, crisp and encompassing as standard audio systems, but of course, at a smaller cost to the environment. Its Intel processor uses less energy and its intelligent navigation directs drivers on a less impactful route. Wool and leather comfort all in this designer cabin space of the future.

rinspeed ichange concept

rinspeed ichange concept

rinspeed

2011-08-01T22:33:00.000-07:00

The Rinspeed E2 concept represents an "answer to the fast changing requirements of the market and sociopolitical perception about the tuning industry," according to the press release.
The company starts with an Abarth-tuned 160-hp Fiat 500, and outfits the car with an energy management system which the driver can control with a button. In "Commuting" mode, the E2 generates just enough power for city-driving: 60 hp. In this mode, Rinspeed estimates the hatchback will return above 55 mpg. For a bit more enthusiasm, the driver can select "Highway" mode, which provides an additional 100 hp to the near 2000 lb hatch. Here fuel economy falls to a still-respectable 33 mpg, Rinspeed claims.

rinspeed

rinspeed

porsche cayenne diesel

2011-08-01T22:31:00.000-07:00

The Porsche Cayenne Diesel uses a 3.0-liter V-6 -- sourced from the upcoming Audi Q7 TDI -- that produces 240 hp and over 405 lb-ft of torque. Even more impressive than the torque figure is the average fuel economy: Porsche cites consumption at 9.3 liters per 100 kilometers, which should translate to 25 mpg, and a 0-62 time of 8.3 seconds. Pricing for the European model begins at 47,250 euro (equal to $60,000 at today's exchange rates), with plans still underway for its introduction to other markets outside of the EU, which, of course, could mean the U.S.

porsche cayenne diesel

porsche cayenne diesel

porsche 911 gt3

2011-08-01T22:29:00.000-07:00

Porsche has one-upped itself again with the latest 911 GT3. This car is about more: more go, more stop, more control, and of course, more money. The new Porsche 911 GT3 will start at $112,200 when it goes on sale in the U.S. in October.
Go increased by a total of 20 hp to 435 hp. This is fed through a six-speed manual gearbox. To pick up those extra ponies, Porsche bumped displacement by 200cc's from 3.6L to 3.8L and added its VarioCam adjustable cam timing technology to the exhaust cams as well as the intake cams. In addition to the horsepower boost, Porsche says the GT3 also gets a nice bump in mid-range torque. The extra power is good for a 0-62 mph time of 4.1 seconds, 0-100 mph time of just 8.2 seconds and a top speed of 194 mph.
All that extra thrust has been paired with some extra stopping power. The brakes are bigger, better ventilated and feature an aluminum cover to reduce weight. Optional are Porsche's PCCB ceramic brakes made specifically for the GT3. Riding over them are lighter wheels that feature a race-inspired center-locking hub rather than lug nuts and Ultra High Performance tires with tire pressure control.
Those who plan to track their GT3 will be happy to know that Porsche did more than add extra oomph to the engines and brakes. Porsche also played with its PASM active suspension and stiffened up the springs and anti-roll bars a bit for even better handling in Sport Mode. Porsche also has set up its PSM stability control system to allow you turn off the Traction Control and Stability Control separately and keep them off, unlike some cars that will still activate the electronic nannies if things get too out of hand. To take things a step further, Porsche is fitting the GT3 with its new Active Drivetrain Mounts. Just as the suspension stiffens up when you put the car in Sport Mode, so too will the drivetrain mounts.
Helping the stiffer suspension hang on to the track are retuned aerodynamics that Porsche says have doubled the downforce the car creates. Air intakes and outlets have been modified, as has the big wing on the back to produce more downforce on the front and rear of the car. Along with the aerodynamic improvements, the GT3 also gets a styling update to match the latest 911s, including Bi-Xenon headlights, LED driving lights and LED tail lights.

porsche 911 gt3

porsche 911 gt3

peugeot 3008

2011-08-01T22:27:00.000-07:00

The Peugeot 3008 is essentially a production version of the Peugeot Prologue HYmotion4 Concept -- touted as the French automaker's first hybrid and first crossover -- shown last fall at the 2008 Paris Motor Show. Based on the 308 (hence the extra 0 in the name), the 3008 will go on sale starting this summer in gasoline form, with diesel models arriving in the fall. The hybrid variant will be arriving at a later date, sometime before 2011.
Opting for petrol provides a choice of three 1.6L four-cylinder engines rated at 118-hp and 118-lb-ft, 148-hp and 177-lb-ft, or 154-hp and 177-lb-ft. The 118-hp engine is mated to a five-speed manual gearbox while the other two use a six-speed. Fuel mileage is expected to range from 31 mpg combined to 33 mpg combined.
Three four-cylinder diesel options will be offered as well: a 1.6L mill rated at 107 hp and 177-lb-ft and two 2.0L mills rated at 148-hp and 251 lb-ft or 161 hp and 251-lb-ft. The 1.6L engine can be mated to either a six-speed manual gearbox or an electronically-controlled six-speed manual transmission. The less-powerful 2.0L engine will come with a six-speed manual gearbox only while the more-powerful unit will come with a six-speed automatic. Fuel mileage for diesel engines should start around 41 mpg combined and top out around 48 mpg combined for the 107 hp engine.
As for the hybrid, not much is known save for that it will feature a diesel engine up front and an electric motor in the rear. Should the concept's specs carry over, the 3008 would use the 161-hp 2.0L diesel engine and with a 36-hp electric motor, the entire hybrid system producing about 197 hp with 221 lb-ft of torque at the front wheels and 148 lb-ft at the rear wheels and return 57 mpg combined while reducing CO2 emissions by as much as 35%.

peugeot 3008

peugeot 3008

opel ampera

2011-08-01T22:25:00.000-07:00

Built on the same Voltec platform as the Chevrolet Volt, the Ampera is an Extended-Range Electric Vehicle that will travel up to 60 km (37 mi) on electricity from its battery pack before a gasoline engine kicks on to generate electricity to power the wheels. The battery pack will recharge from a standard 230-volt outlet and is expected to provide more than enough power to allow most European drivers to make their daily commute without the gasoline engine ever starting up. According to GM's research, 80% of German drivers travel less than 50 km per day.

opel ampera

opel ampera

nissan qazana concept

2011-08-01T22:23:00.000-07:00

The Qazana will be a crossover that slots beneath the European-market Nissan Quashqai, a close cousin of the U.S.-market Rogue. It will have the design of a five-door hatch albeit with rear-hinged read doors. The product version is expected to arrive sometime in 2010, possibly replacing the Nissan Micra on the assembly line at the Japanese automaker's plant in Sunderland, England.

nissan qazana concept

nissan qazana concept

nissan qazana concept

mitsubishi i miev

2011-08-01T22:18:00.000-07:00

Mitsubishi brought to new versions of its long-hyped iMiev electric car to Geneva, though neither is ready for primetime. One of the two iMievs shown is a prototype of the European-market version, which is slated to go on sale next summer. The diminutive four-seat hatch is 135.8 in. long, 59.8 in. wide, 63.0 in. tall and has a 100.5 in. wheelbase. It is powered by a rear-mounted 63-hp, 113-lb-ft electric motor that feeds off lithium-ion batteries. The main difference between the European version and the Japanese version - which arrives this summer -- is the European iMiev's wider track and extended front and rear overhangs, the latter to meet European pedestrian impact standards and provide better protection in a rear-impact collision.
The second iMiev shown is the iMiev Sport Air. A sportier version of the electric car, this futuristic-looking coupe comes with a lower curb weight (2150 lb vs 2400 lb), 50/50 weight distribution thanks to lighter-weight rear panels, more conventional proportions (it is 143.7 in. long, 63.0 in. wide, and 59.8 in. tall), and a more powerful 81-hp, 170-lb-ft electric motor. It features a clear roof with a solar inlay, a wrap-around cockpit, and a dial-type shifter. Purely a concept car, the iMiev Sport Air is not expected to reach production.

mitsubishi i miev

mitsubishi i miev

mini one clubman

2011-08-01T22:14:00.000-07:00

Like the Mini One, the Mini One Clubman is powered by a 1.4L four producing 95 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque mated to either a standard short shift six-speed manual or the available six-speed automatic with paddle shifters.
When combined with what Mini calls its Minimalism technologies (how clever), including brake regeneration, auto start stop and a shift point display, Mini says the Mini One Clubman can achieve an average fuel economy of 52.3 mpg combined in the European cycle -- which equates to about 43.5 mpg in the U.S. -- with CO2 emissions of 130g/km. Impressive stuff.
Of course, with that kind of engine, the Mini One Clubman isn't exactly going to be a screamer, with Mini estimating a 0-62 mph time of 11.6 seconds.

mini one clubman

mini one clubman

maybach zeppelin

2011-08-01T22:12:00.000-07:00

Daimler's Maybach luxury brand is debuting a new model called the Zeppelin. Touted as the "absolute zenith in high-end luxury" sedans, the Zeppelin lineup -- based on the 57 S and 62 S -- uses nothing but the best interior materials and employs a more powerful AMG-built V-12 engine.
With the exception of 28 more horses under the hood (for a grand total of 640 hp), the current Maybachs are essentially the same thing -- both varieties offer customers with near endless interior and exterior options for the full customization of their "land yachts" -- but to stay true to the exclusive Zeppelin moniker, designers implemented a few subtle changes. For instance, new are the set of 20-in. alloys finished in a Chrome Shadow Finish, darker red tinted tail lights out back, sleeker side mirrors and the unmistakable "Maybach Zeppelin" badges plastered on the hood, trunk, door sills, partition and standard issue silver champagne flutes.
However, the Zeppelin's most highly regarded feature is a world-first plexiglass sphere perfume atomizer ($5104). The Maybach-patented atomizer dispenses a "delicate scent" of the customer's choice throughout the rear cabin for a refreshing aroma while cruising.
Only 100 editions will be produced for worldwide sale beginning March 3, so those with the funds better act quick. Deliveries are slated for September of this year. Let's not forget price: An easy 406,000 euro ($523,465) for the 57 Zeppelin and 473,000 euro ($609,850) for its bigger brother, the 62 Zeppelin.

maybach zeppelin

maybach zeppelin

magna steyr mila ev

2011-08-01T22:10:00.000-07:00

Austrian parts supplier and automobile manufacturer Magna Steyr doesn't plan to sell its Mila EV as shown but intends to use the it as a sales piece for its technology expertise.
Magna, which produces the BMW X3 and European-market Chrysler 300C, designed the Mila with flexibility in mind. As a result, the chassis allows for multiple powertrains and drive configurations. In Geneva trim, a 67-hp electric motor powers the four-door hatchback to a range of just below 100 miles. Its lithium-ion battery recharges in just 2.5 hours.

magna steyr mila ev

magna steyr mila ev

koenigsegg quant

2011-08-01T22:07:00.000-07:00

The Quant is an all-new platform Koenigsegg says will expand its range beyond the CCX and CCXR. Rumor has it that the Quant is in fact a four-seater and if the company sticks to what it knows best, the car will likely be faster and more expensive than its German, Italian and British rivals.
Along with the Quant, Koenigsegg also announced a few changes for the CCX line. Most exciting is a new double-clutch gearbox that can handle up to 811 lb-ft of torque and deliver shifts in about 30 milliseconds. The new, paddle-shifted box is nearly a foot shorter than the current transmission for better weight balance and features a new electronic differential to improve performance and handling.
Also new for the CCX line is an all-in-one touchscreen infotainment system. The new system will control the navigation, stereo, iPod interface, climate controls and Bluetooth connectivity. Even better, it will also display engine power and torque, lap times and other performance metrics, similar to the system in the Nissan GT-R. The system will also allow the driver to change traction control, chassis and paddle-shift systems and will be easy to upgrade.

koenigsegg quant

koenigsegg quant

koenigsegg quant

koenigsegg quant

kia no 3 concept

2011-08-01T22:05:00.000-07:00

The No. 3 concept is an MPV vehicle that Kia promises is "fun to drive." We'll have to take a spin before we can take their word.
The styling is interesting; the windshield extends to the back of the car, split only by a diagonal support bar. The nose displays the new "face of Kia," which includes the grille, headlights and badge. We can expect future Kias to have a similar front fascia.

kia no 3 concept

kia no 3 concept

italdesign hybrid concept

2011-08-01T22:02:00.000-07:00

The fastest hybrid concept car in the world" Italdesign's press release boasts. Italdesign says the unnamed car, co-developed with Brit Frazer Nash, will hit 62 mph in under four seconds on its way to a top speed of 186 mph. And remember how the Quaranta concept got 37.5 mpg? That's kid's stuff. This car will travel 31 miles on a quarter of a gallon of gas. Do the math and that works out to 124 mpg. To top it all off, it emits just 0.18 lbs of CO2 per mile. To put that in perspective, the current generation Toyota Prius emits twice as much CO2, 0.37 lb per mile.
The question, of course, is: how do they do it? Careful management of weight appears to be the key here. The body is made of aluminum and carbon, while the chassis itself is made of carbon-fiber. No specific figures have been given, but it will likely weigh in under the Quaranta's 3100-lb curb weight. As for the power source, Italdesign will only say that the car uses an electric-drive system mated to a "medium-powered" engine. In the Quaranta, it was Toyota's 3.3L V-6 and Hybrid Synergy Drive lifted from the Lexus RX 400h, so another Toyota-derived powertrain is a possibility.
In the cockpit, Italdesign promises you'll find "exquisitely tailored upholstery" and some very comfy seats. In fact, Italdesign boasts that the seat ergonomics were specially researched and engineered by their in-house Italdesign Design Center. On the outside, the provided sketch shows a car reminiscent of contemporary Lamborghinis, some of which designer Fabrizio Giugiaro had a hand in designing

italdesign hybrid concept

italdesign hybrid concept

infiniti essence concept

2011-08-01T21:59:00.000-07:00

Infinti's Essence, created to celebrate the Japanese marque's 20th anniversary is also a concept car designed specifically to show off Infinti's next-generation design language and advanced powertrain and safety technology. In the case of the Essence's hybrid powertrain -- a 434-hp 3.7-liter twin-turbo V-6 mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission and a 158-hp electric motor powered by lithium-ion batteries -- it should be seen in some form in upcoming production models.
Surrounding the mechanical bits is sheetmetal that is an attractive evolution of the current G37, but shown off on a larger vehicle that comes in at 185.8 in. long, 77.2 in. wide, 51.6 in. tall and rides on a 110.2-in. wheelbase. Characterized by a large grille, bulging fenders and quarter panels, and 20-in. wheels, the Essence possesses an aggressive and menacing stance.
Inside is a driver-centric cockpit and room for two, with each occupant receiving a different interior color scheme -- the driver's side of the cabin is black and the passenger's is red. Both sides of the cabin are upholstered with Alcantara, leather, and hand-painted wood. In the back is a set of Louis Vuitton luggage designed specifically for the Essence.
Lastly, the Essence features two new safety technologies that will undoubtedly be offered in its production cars before long: Side Collision Prevention and Back-Up Collision Prevention. The first system aims to prevent a side-impact collision that can occur during merging by applying force to individual brakes to create a yaw in the opposite direction if it senses a vehicle in the next lane while the second will first warn the driver and then apply the brakes by itself if it detects an object behind the car during backing up.

infiniti essence concept

infiniti essence concept

hyundai ix-onic concept

2011-08-01T21:51:00.000-07:00

Initially called HED-6, the Hyundai ix-onic concept is being billed by Hyundai as having a 'dramatic new look for compact SUVs' and says it serves an indication of the new direction for Hyundai utes. Judging by the sketch, we're not so sure it's all that dramatic, but we'll see for ourselves shortly. Powering the ix-onic is 1.6L direct-injected and turbocharged gasoline engine producing 168 hp. Mated to a six-speed dual-clutch gearbox that is expected to emit just 0.53 lb. of CO2 per mile.
Fuel economy hasn't been announced, but it should be impressive thanks to the use of Hyundai's new Idle, Stop & Go technology that shuts down the engine when the vehicle isn't moving. At 173.2 in tall, 72.8 in wide and 65 in tall, the ix-onic is two to three inches bigger in every direction than the current Hyundai Tucson, which it's rumored to replace sometime in the future

hyundai ix-onic concept

hyundai ix-onic concept

hyundai i20 3 door

2011-08-01T21:48:00.000-07:00

When the Hyundai i20 three-door hits the road some time in the second quarter of 2009, Hyundai says it will be the best value in its class and targeted at young professionals that don't have kids. Slotted between the i10 and i30, the i20 will come with several gas and diesel engines for a total of seven, all of them Euro-IV emissions compliant. Hyundai expects that the volume sellers will be then new Kappa 1.2L gas engine and the 1.4L diesel engine. The Kappa engine is the latest in Hyundai's new Greek-named engine series, following the Tau V-8, and will pump 77 hp and 88 lb-ft of torque out of its four cylinders. At 182 lbs, Hyundai says it will be the lightest engine in its class and will help the i20 achieve 45 mpg combined while emitting only 0.44 lbs of CO2 per mile. The 1.4L diesel, meanwhile, will churn out 74 hp and pull off 53 mpg combined while emitting only 0.41 lbs of CO2 per mile.
Cosmetically, the i20 three-door is little changed from the five-door. In fact, Hyundai really just took out the rear doors, lengthened the front doors and reshaped the back windows. The front and rear are completely unchanged. Despite the minor design changes, Hyundai did manage to shave 22 lbs off the curb weight, likely thanks to the removal of the extra doors. The i20 three-door will also be mostly the same inside and will come in the same three trim levels -- Classic, Comfort and Style -- as the five-door.

hyundai i20 3 door

hyundai i20 3 door

hyundai i20 3 door

gumpert apollo speed

2011-08-01T21:46:00.000-07:00

German boutique supercar builder Gumpert will expand its Apollo lineup by one more model called the Apollo Speed. It joins its siblings the Apollo, Apollo Sport and Apollo Race, and is built especially for all-out, white-knuckle inducing high-velocity road and track travel.
Like the other varieties, the speed is powered by a twin-turbo 4.2L Audi V-8 making 650, 700 or 800 hp, depending on trim and customer requests. Torque is equally astounding: 627, 645, or 664 lb-ft to be exact. It only weighs 2640 lbs, is made out of lightweight composites and aluminum, and can hit a claimed top speed of over 224 mph (gear and power dependant). If that's not impressive enough, Gumpert says it can accelerate to 62 mph in 3 sec flat and arrive at 124 mph in only 8.9 sec. Power is improved largely by a reengineered less restrictive induction system that feeds the giant snails.
Its exterior still bears the same extra-low slung, lane-filling Gumpert traits, but in speed trim, will flaunt redesigned front fenders, rear taillights and adjustable wing. The mods aid in ultra-high speed runs, so says the automaker. Step -- more like flop gracefully --into the bucket seats (which themselves are molded into the composite monocoque) and joyriders will find full air conditioning, removable steering wheel and DVD multimedia system

gumpert apollo speed

gumpert apollo speed

ford ranger

2011-08-01T21:44:00.000-07:00

The redesigned, wind-tunnel tested Ford Ranger pickup receives a complete revamping both inside and out, and safe to say, it looks pretty well done. Built in Thailand and shipped to Europe for sale, the Ranger can be had in three body styles with two diesel engines -- 2.5L Turbo (141-hp/ 243 lb-ft) or 3.0L (154-hp/280 lb-ft) -- mated to five-speed automatic or manual transmissions. It can also come in 4x2 or 4x4 configurations for those looking for off-road capability and touts a claimed towing capacity of 3000 kg (6614 lbs). Europeans will get all the new Ranger fun beginning this April.

ford ranger

ford ranger

fiat 500c

2011-08-01T21:42:00.000-07:00

According to Fiat, the 500C is a nod of sorts to a Cinquecento from the past, specifically the 1957 cabriolet. But other than the top, which slides down using a parallelogram hinge system, the convertible 500 sports the exact same dimensions as the 500. Fiat claims luggage space is not compromised and cargo loading is still possible when the top is down -- thanks in part to its built-in centrally mounted brake light and clever stowage of the rear glass window. In addition, since the car's greenhouse sheetmetal remains the same with the top up or down, the 500C offers more wind and element protection than a traditional soft top setup.
Like the hatch, the convertible will be offered with a 68-hp, 75-lb-ft 1.2L I-4, a 99-hp, 97-lb-ft 1.4L I-4, and a 74-hp, 107-lb-ft 1.3L four-cylinder turbodiesel mated to either a five-speed manual or Fiat's "robotized" Dualogic transmission. The 500C will also be available with Fiat's new Start&Stop system in an effort to further improve the 500C's already impressive fuel economy and low emissions.
The top itself will be available in three colors (ivory, red and black) and can be matched with multiple body color combinations, two of which -- Pearl Red and a special Warm Grey -- were added just for the 500C. No word yet on whether an Abarth edition is planned, but we wouldn't be surprised to see one later this year. Oh, and if the 500 ever makes it here, Fiat would be well advised to ship a bunch of 500Cs along with it.

fiat 500c

fiat 500c