World Automotive Collection

Acura rsx

2011-08-03T22:16:00.000-07:00

Acura rsx

Acura rsx

Acura rsx

Acura rsx

Acura rsx

Acura rsx

Acura rsx

The RSX is rather familiar as a redesigned Integra. The present version has either a 160 or a 200 hp four-cylinder power plant, with the latter coming standard in the Type S. The more influential engine makes its horses partly through an advanced valve timing technology, which shifts into high performance mode at 6,000 rpm. The result is a kick in the pants similar to that of a turbocharger suddenly spooling up.
The excellent news is that the RSX has superb handling and strong acceleration, particularly if you are already running the engine fast, but it is easier to shift and to manage than many other sports cars. The bad news is that the engine is loud and raucous, not unlike the early Neon engines, and that makes you want to avoid going up to the speeds where the RSX really does its stuff. In everyday traffic, sprints that run up to 6,000 rpm are too comparatively rare.
Because of the way the engine scales up to power, and also because of the ease of shifting, we recommend the manual over the automatic, though both get similar gas mileage. The Type S has a six-speed manual, but that’s not a good enough reason to buy one over a base RSX.
At high speeds, even the top gear lets the engine run fast, bringing a huge deal of noise into the cabin. At lower speeds, the engine is quieter. The six-speed is closely spaced, which can occasionally make choosing a gear more difficult
Handling is outstanding, with the RSX whipping around turns with almost no body roll, responsive steering, and completely no sense of uncertainty. The tight steering helps drivers to get the most out of the RSX’s turning ability. It can deal with bumps and rain, as well, unlike some other suspensions we could mention
The only drawback is almost inevitable in front wheel drive – while the wheel doesn’t leap to one side when you hit the gas, you do lose some steering ability as the front tires are asked to do two things at once. This usually is not a problem.

Acura rsx

Acura tsx 2012

2011-08-03T22:13:00.000-07:00

Acura tsx 2012

Acura tsx 2012

Acura tsx 2012

Acura tsx 2012

Acura tsx 2012

Acura tsx 2012

Acura tsx 2012

2011 Ford Taurus Expert Review

2011-07-25T20:01:00.000-07:00

2011 Ford Taurus Expert Review

2011 Ford Taurus Expert Review

2011 Ford Taurus Expert Review

through Tennessee and North Carolina's Smoky Mountain roads, this new bull shows promise and takes the marque upscale like never before. But be under no illusions – this is a risky move. The Taurus name has never been extended upmarket like this before (let alone in such a waterlogged economy), and it isn't immediately clear who the model's competitors are – a detail that could prove problematic when trying to target customers.

The Chicago-built Taurus is no longer a logical Toyota Camry, Honda Accord and Chevrolet Malibu cross-shop – that's the Fusion's turf now. In size, technology, and aspirations, Ford is pushing its new sedan several of rungs up the ladder. Is it the right product for the right time? Perhaps of more immediate concern, is it carrying the right name and will Ford be able to overcome the Taurus brand's baggage and sell America on its virtues?

Click through to see if the Blue Oval has a fighting chance.

Photos Copyright ©2009 Chris Paukert / Weblogs, Inc.

A big suit to fill?

As we tried to come to terms with the Taurus during our drive, we couldn't escape a few bars of a Talking Heads song. Specifically: "And you may find yourself behind the wheel of a large automobile... and you may ask yourself – well, how did I get here?" Similarly, in order to appreciate just how radical a departure this 2010 Taurus is, one has to appreciate where the model has been. This is not "same as it ever was" – not by a long shot. Allow us to recap:

Back when it was introduced in 1985 as a 1986 model, the original Taurus was nothing less than a watershed family car. Forward-thinking with advanced aerodynamics and a vehicle platform to match, it was a car the likes of which Detroit had never produced and mainstream America had never had the opportunity to buy. The surging Japanese imports sat up and took notice, as did U.S. consumers and the automotive press, both of which fell in love with the distinctive "jelly bean" sedan. Taurus was a smash hit both critically and in terms of sales, but unfortunately, America's warm cockles didn't last.

While the second-generation model (introduced for 1992) didn't do much to alter the love affair, subsequent models clouded the Taurus' brand identity and found Ford floundering about trying to determine what consumers wanted out of a mid-sized sedan. In the case of the guppy-mouthed 1996 model, that floundering bordered on literal, as the Jack Telnack designed third-generation Taurus drew ire for its fish-like avant-garde styling and form-over-function utility. The long-serving 2000-2007 model year updo that followed corrected some of the third-generation Taurus' oversights (i.e. limited trunk space and rear seat headroom), but by then, the Japanese had plus-sized their own offerings and turned up the wicks on their powertrains, all but confining the Taurus to also-ran status. That model would wither away and retreat into fleet-only status in the U.S. in 2006, at which point, the Blue Oval decided to supplant the Taurus with two distinct models – the smaller Fusion and the full-size Five Hundred. The latter was high riding and particularly capacious, yet the ultimately milquetoast sedan didn't connect with consumers or pundits. Thinking that the model's lackluster market response might have had something to do with the unfamiliar name, Ford would in turn exhume the Taurus moniker and slap it on the rump of a tweaked Five Hundred for 2007. It was an expedient fix, and the market recognized this move for what it was.

To sum up how Taurus went from America's hope to America's rental lots, the Blue Oval took it from an ahead-of-its-time, streamlined mid-size flagship to an oddly ovoid and unloved design statement, to a behind-the-curve, emergency badge-engineered full-size car. Along the way, there have been an array of wagons, a couple of notable high-performance SHO variants (and one forgettable one), but there has never been a Taurus quite like this new model.

Impressive new duds

One thing becomes immediately clear from the moment you clap eyes on the new variant – despite being based on the same D3 platform as the outgoing Five Hundred/Taurus sleeping pill, this is a radically different and altogether more confident and cohesive design. Oh, some might take issue with the mildly fussy three-bar grille treatment, but to put it simply, this new Taurus is ripped. Check out the bold sheet metal creases at the beltline and in the rocker panels; the strong U-form chamfering in the hood that's echoed in the trunk lid; the piercing, assertive headlamps and the 427 Concept-like rump. This is a big car with a sizeable rear overhang (at 202.9 inches overall – it's exactly seven inches larger than a Hyundai Genesis), and it could very easily have looked lumpen or slab-sided and larded-upon like its predecessor. Instead, the Taurus' appearance is crisp and assertive, very much the proverbial linebacker in a tailored suit. Even the door mirrors are compellingly and purposefully sculpted. While the new design looks handsome in every color we've seen, it truly stands out in shades like Ingot Silver and Gold Leaf; colors that yield greater definition than darker shades (Like our Tuxedo Black tester) that cover up some of the more inspired surface details.

Inside, the Taurus' modernization story continues, with a T-shaped double-hooded instrument panel that features a dramatic swept-back waterfall center console bisecting driver and passenger. All controls fall readily and logically to hand, the switchgear looks and feels good to the touch, and the ice blue backlit gauges are easy-to-read. Every 2010 Taurus steering wheel is wrapped in leather regardless of model trim, and the dashboard and door cap materials are well grained and have more give to the touch than anything in recent memory. We could have done without the fake wood inlays, but as far as trim goes, they're a reasonable facsimile of dead tree and they don't detract from the cabin's premium ambience. The gear selector is gratuitously outsized for smaller hands, but its aesthetic keeps with the designers' wish to move the Taurus away from rental-car wallflower to broad-shouldered leading man. Whether you've stepped into an SE, SEL, or top-shelf Limited model, this is a solid, mature environment that's light years ahead of the 2009 model. Indeed, this Taurus possesses a better-executed cabin than we've seen in some luxury cars costing in excess of $10,000 more.

We can't leave our discussion of the interior without talking about some of the available niceties on this new Taurus. Judging by the presentations we sat through at the car's launch event, the Dearborn team is justifiably proud of the bumper crop of available technologies that they've crammed into their new baby. In light of its modest price point, the Taurus should be a shoo-in "Tech Car of the Year" candidate for the boys and gals over at CNET.

Not only can you get Ford's voice-activated navigation system with Sirius Travel Link (in our estimation, probably the best such system in the business – irrespective of price), but you can also get such luxury features as a gangbusters Sony Dolby 5.1 surround system with the usual connectivity options (aux, USB) plus Sirius satellite radio, Bluetooth and DVD audio, as well as a ten gig hard drive for music and image storage. There are available heated and cooled "Multi-Contoured" seats with "Active Motion" massaging, an optional power rear sunshade like on your neighbor's BMW, switchable ambient lighting, power memory pedals, and so on. And even if you don't plump for the nav system, if you opt for Sync, you can still get audible turn-by-turn directions using a paired Bluetooth phone. We tried this system and found it to be less satisfying to use than the full-on nav interface, but it's a welcome low-cost alternative and a nice safety net if you get lost.

Safety First

While the Taurus has plenty of creature comforts, there's also a raft of safety features available, including adaptive cruise control, a collision warning system that pre-charges the brakes, a blind spot information system and even cross-traffic alert to make sure the path is clear when backing out of parking spots. Our SEL tester wasn't equipped with these features, so we'll have to wait to pass judgment on their utility.
One noteworthy safety feature is Ford's new MyKey system that allows parents to alter the vehicle's performance parameters and set warnings to effectively mandate safer driving for the youngins. For instance, adults can use the system to lock out the traction-control defeat button (no smoky burnouts for Junior), impose a top speed of 80 mph (no street racing for Junior), lower the maximum volume of the stereo (no stoplight concerts for Junior), and it can even be programmed to activate the belt-minder chime incessantly and keep the stereo muted until the front seat occupants are buckled (no crash ejection seat for Junior). Kids may not like these features, but we're betting that a host of parents will. Aside from the big-mother safety features, the Taurus can also be fitted with conveniences like rain-sensing wipers, auto-high beam headlamps, and capless fuel filling.

A seriously refined and comfy cruiser

If you've noticed that we have yet to touch on our actual driving impressions, that's because any thoughts of them almost get lost in the sea of options and tech that Taurus has on offer. It isn't because the car's dynamic behavior is unpleasant or disappointing, mind you – this Ford is, in fact, overwhelmingly competent. It's just that the car's actual performance abilities seem almost incidental to what is, for all intents and purposes, a luxury cruiser – an epic road-trip sedan. Like most of its potential competition, the Taurus is a machine that coddles occupants with vast equipment levels and a luxurious ride, not a sports sedan that goads one into clipping apexes en-route to the grocery store. On our test run from Knoxville, Tennessee to Asheville, North Carolina, we drove what's anticipated to be the company's volume seller – a front-drive SEL. Although Ford's much talked-about 3.5-liter EcoBoost twin-turbo V6 is available on the all-wheel drive SHO, "normal" Taurus models are equipped with the Blue Oval's tried-and-true 3.5-liter normally aspirated V6, tuned here to dish out 263 horsepower (at 6,250 rpm) and 249 pound-feet of torque (at 4,500 rpm) on good ol' 87 octane. That motivation is channeled exclusively through a new six-speed automatic with manual gear selection available via a pair of wheel-mounted push-pull rockers (which look suspiciously like those of a BMW). No manual transmission is available.

Paired to our Taurus' porky 4,015-pound frame (optional all-wheel drive adds a further 200+ pounds), we found off-the-line and mid-range acceleration to be perfectly adequate and drama-free, with crisp, well-timed shifts. The manual rockers (pull to upshift, push to downshift) work quite well, but it was annoying that they are not enabled unless you first select the "M" (manual) detent on the gearshift selector. This is particularly inconvenient when a quick downshift-to-pass is called for. Leave the paddles alone and the EPA says you'll achieve 18 mpg city and 28 out on the freeway, figures that are par for the course for this size automobile.

Aural feedback of any sort is kept to a bare minimum – triple door seals, laminated side glass and all manner of sound deadeners conspire to suffocate all noises before they enter the cabin, delivering honest-to-goodness luxury car hush with hardly any drivetrain, wind, rain, and road noise. We prefer our rides with a bit more mechanical character in evidence, but we figure like-minded folks are in the minority when it comes to this class of vehicle, so the silence is just as well. Further aiding to the Taurus' luxury car ride and quiet is a new rear suspension cradle to which the independent multi-link setup is mounted. Up front is a traditional MacPherson strut assembly with a stabilizer bar, and the result is a serene ride that is neither floaty nor overtly sporting. That crush-n-hush feeling was furthered by our test car's optional 255/45 19-inch Goodyear Eagle RS-A tires, which behaved predictably and went about their business with a minimum of fuss. Steering accuracy through the hydraulic rack-and-pinion setup was good, with appropriate weighting, solid on-center feel, but little in the way of actual feedback.

Admittedly, we encountered some pretty wretched weather on our evaluation drive, with strong rain and serious crosswinds that kept us from pushing our SEL hard on the challenging, unfamiliar roads for much of our drive. Under these inhospitable conditions, the Taurus tracked well, understeered safely and predictably when the radius of a corner tightened up on us a bit more than expected, and the four-wheel disc brakes with traction and stability control reigned everything in agreeably without terribly spongy pedal feel. Ford representatives did much to tout the Taurus' sporty handling, but while our tester never felt unwieldy, it didn't really shrink around us and "drive small," either. We'll have to wait for a second crack at the car in better weather to really put it through its paces, but for now, file this one under "wholly adept, but uninspiring."

Tallying it up:

Base Taurus SE models start at $25,995 ($25,170 plus $825 destination), while the mid-level SEL spec commands $27,170 + D&D. Our example stickered for a tidy $33,380 thanks to a power moonroof, heated "multi-contoured" leather seats and 19-inch alloys. That may strike some shoppers as a big pile of ducats, but one has to remember that this no longer an Accord or Malibu-sized family sedan. More natural comparisons can be drawn with the Toyota Avalon, Buick LaCrosse, and the rear- or all-wheel drive Chrysler 300, The Taurus betters all of them on price, content, interior quality and space (including a mafia-spec 20.1 cubic-foot trunk – just 0.5 cubes shy of a Crown Victoria's), and we'd argue that it's a more complete driver than all of them. But there's one last competitor that has us a bit worried. To us, the Taurus drives like a better looking and significantly less costly Lincoln MKS, leaving us to wonder why anyone would pay Ford for a set of crosshair badges. As internecine combat is perhaps the most serious kind of showroom warfare, Ford may have to fear some sales cannibalization.

A Final Bit of Perspective

Depending on how you look at it, this is either an ideal moment or a disastrous occasion for Ford's Taurus to make such a concerted move upmarket. On one hand, in this economy, it would be logical for car buyers to focus on more practical, less costly new automobiles – like the smaller, more basic Taurus generations of yore. On the flip side, the Blue Oval reckons that in a time where conspicuous consumption is shunned, the Taurus could draw customers away from upmarket brands like Lexus and Audi, in much the same way that Hyundai has targeted its Genesis sedan. We can see this idea having merit.

But Ford's biggest challenge will be to educate people that this Taurus is an altogether different animal than its forbearers. If anything, the 2010 model's rigorous effort to democratize many comfort and safety technologies arguably means that it has more in common with the original Taurus – a car very much worth celebrating. Back in '86, that car stood as an accidental beacon of sorts – an example of what America was capable of against the auspicious Japanese and Europeans who were challenging the U.S. in virtually every sector of the economy The new Taurus may not ignite the marrow in our enthusiast bones, but make no mistake – it is a very, very good car, and we can see its considerable attributes fitting the bill for a wide swath of consumers. The re-education process for Ford's ad agencies and media men will be a tough thing to get a handle on, and weak out-of-the-box sales results for Ford's similarly excellent Flex crossover point out why the company cannot rest on its laurels when it comes to getting the word out.

While Ford is far from out of the woods financially, it certainly enjoys a comparatively better image in the court of public opinion than its fellow Detroit automakers. Whether the Blue Oval can successfully capitalize on whatever latent goodwill exists for it and parlay that into a revitalized old favorite will be interesting to watch. Is America ready embrace the Taurus again, or was 1986 a Once In A Lifetime thing? Only time will tell.

GM dares to compare Chevy Cruze to... the old Hyundai Elantra?

2011-07-25T19:49:00.000-07:00

GM dares to compare Chevy Cruze to... the old Hyundai Elantra?

General Motors is using the phrase "Dare to Compare" as part of a campaign pitting its vehicles directly against competitors. In a new video you'll find after the break, the Chevrolet Cruze lines up against the Hyundai Elantra ... the now-outdated 2010 Hyundai Elantra.

GM dares to compare Chevy Cruze to... the old Hyundai Elantra?

While the Cruze 1LT (why not the base LS?) indeed performs quite well against the previous-generation, base-model Hyundai sedan, we would prefer to see it go wheel-to-wheel with the 2011 Elantra. Apples to apples and all that, right? As it stands, Chevrolet has dared to compare itself to an older version of a car that has since improved greatly. Hardly seems like a fair fight...
GM dares to compare Chevy Cruze to... the old Hyundai Elantra?
For those wondering about the dollars and cents, the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze 1LT starts at $18,175 (the base Cruze LS starts at $16,275). By way of comparison, the base 2011 Hyundai Elantra GLS starts at $14,830 and the 2010 model started at $14,145.

GM dares to compare Chevy Cruze to... the old Hyundai Elantra?

It's not that the Cruze isn't a fine car... but ya know, the new 2011 Cruze is quite a bit better than a lot of older cars... including the Cobalt this Elantra once competed with. Click past the jump for the clip.

Chevrolet unleashes Bumblebee Cruze in China

2011-07-25T19:42:00.000-07:00

Chevrolet unleashes Bumblebee Cruze in China

Chevrolet unleashes Bumblebee Cruze in China

Let's take a stroll into a parallel universe for a spell; one where Michael Bay doesn't soak his Transformers films in vats of teenage testosterone for a fortnight. What would that realm look like? Chances are the mighty Bumblebee wouldn't be a pre-production Chevrolet Camaro. After all, here in real-life, the average teenager is stuck driving something a little more pedestrian, even if he is saddled with saving the world. We're thinking something along the lines of the Chevrolet Cruze. Apparently, China is where this alternate universe manifests itself, because General Motors has just released a Bumblebee Edition Cruze in the People's Republic.
Chevrolet unleashes Bumblebee Cruze in China
The car comes with a suitably yellow paint scheme with black accent stripes, as well as an Autobot insignia on the fenders, wheel caps and spread around the interior. Speaking of the insides, illuminated Transformers sill plates are standard fare as well. The standard 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine is the only available powerplant.
Chevrolet unleashes Bumblebee Cruze in China
For what it's worth, this isn't the world's first Bumblebee Cruze, though it is the first to use the proper yellow and black color scheme. Check out this somewhat less successful example for all the details.

Jay Leno puts Jaguar XKR-S through its paces around the Nurburgring

2011-07-25T19:31:00.000-07:00

Jay Leno puts Jaguar XKR-S through its paces around the Nurburgring

Jay Leno puts Jaguar XKR-S through its paces around the Nurburgring

Jaguar put Jay Leno behind the wheel of the company's newest heathen – the XKR-S – for a handful of quick laps around the fabled Nurburgring, and Leno, thankfully, brought along a production staff to record the occasion.

Jay Leno puts Jaguar XKR-S through its paces around the Nurburgring

The comedian was able to squeeze in a few lead-follow laps with Sascha Bert on point and eventually worked his speed up to a best time of 8:41. Not too shabby for a guy who's used to putting along under steam power. It's clear from the clip that Leno holds the Nurburgring to be sacred ground.

Jay Leno puts Jaguar XKR-S through its paces around the Nurburgring

Leno doesn't spend too much time pontificating on the merits of the XKR-S. While we're treated to plenty of great shots of the car dancing around the track and the sound of its vicious dual-exhaust, the clip is absent any real driving impressions. Still, that's just fine by us. We already know all about how the XKR-S performs. Click past the jump to check out the latest episode of Jay Leno's Garage.

Top Gear host Hammond to get own car show in America

2011-07-25T19:27:00.000-07:00

Top Gear host Hammond to get own car show in America

Top Gear host Hammond to get own car show in America

Whether you love Top Gear USA or think it an affront to comedic decency, one thing's certain: the show seems to have helped spawn a new wave of car-themed programming. Adam Carolla's The Car Show has taken to the air as a result of The History Channel's move into fuel-soaked entertainment, and now The BBC is striking back. The Beeb has announced that Richard Hammond will be getting his own show on BBC America soon. Called Hard Drive with Richard Hammond, the program uses a similar format as the UK's World's Toughest Driving Tests.

Top Gear host Hammond to get own car show in America

Hammond will travel around the United States, driving and competing in some of the toughest vehicles our country has to offer. We're sure he'll meet some genuine characters along the way as well.

Hammond isn't the only Top Gear presenter being awarded an American show. James May will also take to BBC America with James May's Man Lab U.S. based on the UK version of his program. Hit the jump for the full press release Top Gear host Hammond to get own car show in America

Ryan Gosling turns from stuntman to race car shoe in Drive

2011-07-25T19:25:00.000-07:00

Ryan Gosling turns from stuntman to race car shoe in Drive

Ryan Gosling turns from stuntman to race car shoe in Drive

The only thing the car crowd loves more than a good heist movie is a good flick about getaway drivers. It's a simple formula that mixes one troubled soul running from his past to try and live the straight and narrow with a damsel in distress and one last job. It's what made BMW 's The Hire series so compelling and the Fast and the Furious franchise so addicting. Now Ryan Gosling, along with the beautiful Christina Hendricks and Carey Mulligan have teamed up with director Nicholas Winding Refn for their own spin on the Hollywood staple: Drive.

Ryan Gosling turns from stuntman to race car shoe in Drive

The movie casts Gosling as a wheel-man by night, race car driver by day who opts to help his neighbors settle some old debts. A double-cross ensues and before you know it, there's a Ford Mustang GT being chased down a freeway backwards by a Chrysler 300, Gosling threatening to shove a bullet in some guys head via a carpenter's hammer and Hendricks looking, well, like only she can look.

We're sold, even if it means having to watch a Chevrolet Nova meet its untimely end. Hit the jump for the Drive red-band trailer.Ryan Gosling turns from stuntman to race car shoe in Drive

2012 Honda CR-V previewed with new concep

2011-07-25T19:18:00.000-07:00

2012 Honda CR-V previewed with new concep

2012 Honda CR-V previewed with new concep

With spy shots popping up on our radar at least twice in the past few months, we've been anticipating the arrival of a new Honda CR-V. And now the solitary image above has been circulating around these interwebs, reportedly giving us an advance look at the show car that will preview the new production model.

In typical Honda fashion, the purported concept vehicle pictured above appears to be a slightly jazzed-up version of the production CR-V expected to debut shortly. When it does enter production in Ohio and Ontario, it will likely lose the showy jumbo wheels, smoked headlamps, tinted windows and high-gloss lower body cladding, but otherwise, what you see is likely what you'll get.

Mechanically, the new crossover is expected to pick up largely where the outgoing model leaves off, but with a few important changes. Though the 2.4-liter engine – driving either the front wheels or optionally all four – could get a slight adjustment in output and efficiency, it is tipped to ditch its five-speed mate for a new six-speed automatic. The longer form also looks ready to adopt an extra pair of jump-seats in the back for seven-person capacity, but thus far, that's just a rumor.

We'll have to wait for further information from Honda to know for sure, but if the shot above turns out to be legit, we could be looking at a very stylish new CR-V indeed.

UPDATE: Honda has confirmed the image above is the real deal, and it's even confirmed that the CR-V will debut at the Orange County International Auto Show in Anaheim this September. Check out the official press release after the jump for more information.

FIRST IMAGE OF NEXT GENERATION HONDA CR-V CONCEPT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 25 Jul 2011

Honda has released an image of the new CR-V Concept, providing the first official glimpse of styling direction. The all-new, fourth-generation CR-V is set to go on sale in the United States by the end of 2011, and in Europe in Autumn 2012.

The new CR-V Concept embraces a distinctive and bold styling direction. Compared to the previous generation, the concept model takes on a more aggressive stance with deeper sculpting of the body lines and a bolder front fascia. The lower front bumper wraps smartly upward to convey SUV capability, while the overall lower front bumper design now integrates more smoothly into the fascia for improved aerodynamics.

The CR-V's vertical taillights remain for the next model with a more three-dimensional style that wraps further into the design of the vehicle.

Equipped with more efficient engines compared to the current model, the new CR-V is expected to deliver improved fuel economy.

2012 Honda CR-V previewed with new concep

The CR-V is one of the top-selling SUVs, sold in more than 160 countries throughout Europe, Asia, North America, South America and Africa.

The new CR-V Concept will be on first public display at the Orange County International Auto Show in Anaheim, California, in September 2011.

ENDS

honda city 2012

2011-07-25T04:46:00.000-07:00

honda city 2012

honda city 2012

honda city 2012

honda city 2012

honda city 2012

The 2012 Honda civic will be release soon. Its face looks more elegant with headlights sharp following the body. While the front grille looks like the Honda City. At the stern also got a new touch to the rear lights with sharp corners, such as the Honda City, as well. 2012 Civic body lines able to show the curve of the body which blends with each other. So that makes her body looked intact, solid and strong. This model shows the style of modern design.

Honda announced on Monday that a concept version of its 2012 Civic will be making an appearance at next month’s Detroit Auto Show. Originally, the 9th gen Civic was set to debut in the Summer of 2010 as a 2011 model, but once CAFE regulations changed and the auto industry hit hard times in 2009, Honda had to rethink things. Rumors stated Honda originally wanted to make the Civic larger, but as you can see from our earlier spy photos, the overall size of the 2012 Civic will remain largely unchanged. Judging from the teaser, the 2012 Civic is in for a new grille and headlights. The current Civic has a 1.8L 4-cylinder, however, rumors are floating around that the base motor may get bumped to 2.0L. Following its Detroit Auto Show debut, the 2012 Civic will hit Honda dealers during spring 2011.

“In this newly released sketch, the feeling of the new Civic is captured as energetic, sleek and aerodynamic. It’s a preview for this upcoming concept vehicle, which will be shown at the 2011 North American International Auto Show in January. The production version of the ninth-generation Civic based on the revealed concept will go on sale in spring 2011

honda city 2012

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audi rs6

2011-07-24T22:07:00.000-07:00

2012 audi rs6

The Audi RS6, available in both sedan and Avant wagon bodystyles, is one of the most sought-after models for Audiphiles all around the world but sadly it's not currently offered in the U.S., its monster twin-turbo V-10 proving too expensive to comply with strict U.S. emissions regulations. However, that’s all set to change with the introduction of the next-gen model, based on the all-new 2012 Audi A6, as this one is thought to be set for a U.S. debut.

The RS6 is often described as a wolf in sheep’s clothing or the car supercar-owners use as their daily drivers. That’s because the RS6 packs a powerplant worthy of any model from the likes of Ferrari or Lamborghini, a twin-turbo V-10 with 580 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque, but has the body of a stately sedan or an even tamer wagon.

Traditionally, the high-performance RS models are introduced only in the latter model years of the more mundane cars on which they’re based. But with rival models from BMW M and Mercedes AMG being launched soon after the debut of their standard versions--the E63 AMG is already on sale and the new BMW M5 is just around the corner--Audi is tired of losing out on hundreds, maybe even thousands, of potential sales.

According to a new report from Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf, Audi is set to introduce its new RS6 next year and possibly only as an Avant wagon.

Power will likely come from a downsized 4.0-liter V-8, the same unit that will be shared with Bentley, and thanks to the addition of a pair of turbochargers will rate at around 550 horsepower. The lighter aluminum-hybrid body of the new 2012 Audi A6 on which it’s based means performance should eclipse that of the current RS6.

2012 audi rs6

2012 audi rs6

2012 audi rs6

2012 audi rs6

2012 audi rs6

2012 audi rs6

2012 audi rs6

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zagato perana z-one

2011-07-05T05:52:00.000-07:00

Italian automotive design and engineering group Zagato is showing its Perana Z-One at Geneva, and its Alfa-8C-Aston-DBS-lovechild styling is gorgeous. From the exaggerated aggression in the front to the artful lines in the rear, the implicit Italian design isn't likely to find many detractors. It even holds true to Zagato's history, with a nose and headlights that harks back to the Lamborghini-powered Raptor of 1996.

A Corvette-sourced 6.2L V-8 will provide somewhere north of 430 hp and propel the coupe to 62 mph in around four seconds, and that just 999 units will be available. Pricing is not known at this point but speculation is ranging anywhere from $64,000 and $115,000 -- we're betting on a price closer to the six-figure estimate.

zagato perana z-one

zagato perana z-one

wiesmann mf4-s

2011-07-05T05:49:00.000-07:00

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

toyota verso

2011-07-05T05:44:00.000-07:00

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

spyker c8 aileron

2011-07-05T05:43:00.000-07:00

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

2011-07-05T05:40:00.000-07:00

rolls-royce 200ex

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

rolls-royce 200ex

rinspeed ichange concept

2011-07-05T05:36:00.000-07:00

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

2011-07-05T05:30:00.000-07:00

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

rinspeed

rinspeed

porsche cayenne diesel

2011-07-05T05:25:00.000-07:00

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

2011-07-05T05:21:00.000-07:00

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

peugeot 3008

2011-07-05T05:17:00.000-07:00

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

2011-07-05T05:13:00.000-07:00

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

2011-07-05T05:00:00.000-07:00

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

mitsubishi i miev

2011-07-05T04:56:00.000-07:00

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

2011-07-05T04:48:00.000-07:00

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

mini one clubman