Mercedes-Benz will continue its long tradition of producing legendary sports cars when it launches the new-generation SL-Class in spring 2008. The world's most successful premium roadster in its class features a new design with the emphasis firmly on sportiness and effortless assurance.
1/30/2008
2008 BMW 128i Convertible Road Test
Base price: $33,875
Engine: 3.0-liter in-line six with Valvetronic, 230-horsepower, 200 lb-ft
Transmission: Six-speed automatic
Length x width x height: 171.7 x 68.8 x 55.6 in
Wheelbase: 104.7 in
Curb weight: 3494 lb
Fuel economy (EPA city/hwy): 18/28 mpg
Safety features: ABS, traction control, Electronic Stability Control, front and side airbags, tire pressure monitoring system
Major standard features: Power windows, doors, and mirrors, AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system, keyless entry with alarm, alloy wheels, auto climate control, tilt/telescope wheel, power leather seats, power cloth convertible, rain-sensing wipers
Warranty: Four years/50,000 miles
How small is too small? That's the question American automakers and auto buyers alike are asking these days. The bigger the better, or so goes the traditional way of reasoning, and nowhere is that more true than in the luxury market, where a driver's personal success was long measured by the sheetmetal inch.
Rising fuel prices, concerns about global warming, and general social trends have begun to shift our way of thinking, as they already have our motoring cousins abroad. The original Baby Benz, and later the Mini and Audi A3, have begun to reshape our perceptions of luxury. And now comes BMW's redefining 1-Series coupe and cabriolet.
Of all the major luxury brands, perhaps no nameplate is more suited to downsizing than the Bavarian marque. True, BMW's big 7-Series rivals the best of the breed, but the heart and soul of the brand is its compact 3-Series. And the 3-er itself is heir to the legendary 2002, upon which the new 1-Series is modeled.
Pulling power
Since it's not that much smaller and not a lot lighter, the 1-Series really needs some pulling power. The European version we got to drive was equipped with a 3.0-liter in-line six with Valvetronic variable valve timing that makes 218-horsepower and 199 pound-feet of torque. It's a peppy package that delivers plenty of acceleration, right off the line, launching from 0-100 km/h (62 mph) in 6.8 seconds.
Our 125i felt very well connected to the road. Steering was precise and predictable. But as much as we liked the enhanced EPS technology, it was not quite BMW. There's a subtle, seat-of-the-pants difference that remains unmistakably obvious, even if only in the most aggressive turns. So, we're glad to see the maker stay with hydraulic power assist for the U.S. versions of the 1-Series.
© Source: thecarconnection
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Red Bugatti Veyron is decked up for the love season
Your thought as a Bugatti in Ferrari’s skin is justified! Although it is officially considered as the Italian red color, I’m sure none of us can stop from comparing it with the trade mark Ferrari red. But that doesn’t dampen its status as the car looks outstanding in all red with a black leather interior.
The idea was to design a car that would uncompromisingly unite the passion of the designer, the skill of the engineer, absolute luxury and racing technology.Sillicon Valey Auto Group is having this beautiful Veyron for sale with full warranty.
© Source: luxurylaunches
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1/29/2008
2008 Honda Accord EX-L V-6
(from Honda Press Release) The all-new 2008 Honda Accord moves the world of mainstream transportation in a refined, dynamic and sophisticated direction with an expanded range of innovative technologies designed for more power, greater efficiency and enhanced safety across the entire lineup of sedans and coupes.
Completely redesigned for 2008 with increased dimensions for a more spacious interior, the sedan styling theme expresses a powerful presence with sharp and strong character lines. The coupe is further individualized with an aggressive stance and unique proportions that create a muscular, sporty demeanor.
An available 3.5-liter i-VTEC V-6 engine produces 268-horsepower – the most ever for any Accord – while introducing a new generation of fuel-saving Variable Cylinder Management™ (VCM®) technology and achieving a Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (PZEV1) rating. The VCM system operates in six-cylinder mode for power and 4- and 3-cylinder modes for efficiency, resulting in an EPA city/highway fuel economy rating of 19/292 miles per gallon (Accord Sedan V-6).
Also new for Accord, an Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure enhances frontal collision compatibility with vehicles of different sizes and bumper heights. Additional safety equipment standard to all Accord models includes Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®), also known as Electronic Stability Control; sidecurtain airbags; dual-chamber front side airbags with passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS), active front seat head restraints, anti-lock brakes and more.
The Accord is available in sedan and coupe body styles with 2.4-liter 4-cylinder and 3.5-liter V-6 engine choices. Available transmissions include a 5-speed manual (standard with all 4-cylinder engines), a 5-speed automatic (standard on sedan V-6 models, available with all 4-cylinder engines and V-6-powered Accord Coupes,) and a 6-speed manual transmission (exclusive to the Accord Coupe EX-L V-6 6MT).
Sedan trim levels range from the well-equipped Accord Sedan LX and plus featured LX-P (177-horsepower 4-cylinder engine), to the nicely-equipped Accord Sedan EX (190-horsepower 4-cylinder engine or 268-horsepower V-6 engine), to the premium and upscale Accord Sedan EX-L (190-horsepower 4-cylinder engine or 268-horsepower V-6 engine). Coupe trim levels range from the well-equipped Accord Coupe LX-S (190 horsepower 4-cylinder engine), to the nicely-equipped Accord Coupe EX (190-horsepower 4-cylinder engine) to the premium and upscale Accord Coupe EX-L (190-horsepower 4-cylinder engine or 268-horsepower V-6 engine).
© Source: seriouswheels
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Big Sensation in China: Opel Astra GTC
The Opel Astra GTC with panorama windshield has been recognized as the most fashionable trendsetter among imported vehicles 2007 in China. The “Most Fashionable Vehicle” award was presented by the Chinese Trading Center for Automobile Imports and Sina.com, the largest Chinese-language infotainment web portal.
1/28/2008
2008 speedART BTR-XL 600 Cabriolet based on Porsche 911 Turbo
(from speedART Press Release) 2008 speed ART BTR-XL 600 based on Porsche 997 Turbo convertible.
• BTR-XL 600: his kryptical shortening stands for "Bi-Turbo Racer - Extra Large" with 600 hp
• Power: 600 hp / 800 nm - modified VTG-Turbo-charger
• Exhaust-system: Sport – exhaust with sound switch and black tail pipes, sport-catalysts and headers
• Aerodynamic: Aerodynamic–Kit BTR-XL includes frontbumper and front chin spoiler with carbon-grill for better cooling and aerodynamic, side skirts, rear diffusor, adjustable rear-spoiler and carbon covered mirrors in zinnober-red (speedART special color)
• Suspension: adjustable sport-suspension
• Brake: Sport-brake-system FA: 380 x 32 mm 6 piston, RA: 380 x 28 mm 4 piston
• Interior: different carbon parts, 340mm speedART airbag-sport steering wheel, short shifter, speedART floor mats set and speedART entrance blends.
• Wheels right: RSC II Elegance BE, 3-piece. FA: 8,5 x 20“ with 245/30 ZR20; RA: 12 x 20“ with 325/25 ZR20 inner wheel center in black
• Wheels left: Cross Racing 3-tlg. FA: 8,5 x 20” with 245/30 ZR20; RA: 12 x 20” with 325/25 ZR20 inner wheel center in white
• Performance data: 0 – 100 km/h: 3,4s
0 – 200 km/h: 10,8s
V-max: 325 km/h (without modified gearbox)
© Source: seriouswheels
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1/27/2008
Toyota releases prices on 2009 Corolla and Matrix
Toyota has finally announced pricing for the 2009 Matrix and Corolla that made their unceremonious debut back in November at the SEMA show in Las Vegas. Both models get a bump in their sticker, with the Corolla costing $845 more than the outgoing 2008 model, while the Matrix increases by $680.
The base Corolla, whose nomenclature has been changed from CE to "Standard", starts at $15,250 sporting a five-speed manual, while an automatic model will set you back another $800. The LE and XLE models start at $16,650 and $17,550, respectively, both equipped with an automatic tranny and the 132-hp, 1.8-liter four. Care to upgrade a bit? You can now get the new 2.4-liter four producing 158 hp and 162 lb.-ft. of torque in the XRS version starting at $18,760 with a manual or $19,950 with an automatic that Toyota notes can be "shift sequentially."
The Matrix, which Toyota claims redesigned the crossover segment, but in reality is just a five-door Corolla, comes in three flavors: Standard, S and XRS. You can equip the warmed-over hatch with either the same 1.8-liter or 2.4-liter four found in the Corolla, mated to either a five-speed manual or a four- or five-speed automatic. All-wheel-drive will be an option on S-trim models that will come standard with the 2.4-liter four-pot and "Super ECT" four-speed gearbox. Pricing for the standard matrix starts at $16,190 if you row the gears yourself, while the max'd out XRS models shoots up to $21,850 with an auto 'box. None of the prices listed above include the $650 destination fee.
Toyota Announces Prices For All-New 2009 Corolla And Matrix And 2008 FJ Cruiser Trail Teams Special Edition
The Corolla base MSRP will range from $15,250 to $19,950 while the Matrix will range from $16,190 to $21,850. MSRPs do not include a delivery, processing and handling fee of $660. Both models will begin arriving at dealerships next month.
Following the extremely successful launch of the FJ Cruiser TRD limited edition, Toyota is introducing the FJ Cruiser Trail Teams Edition. The special edition offers a new level of customization to the base FJ Cruiser 4WD models.
2009 COROLLA
Nearly 40 years after the Corolla was introduced to American drivers, an all-new, 10th generation 2009 Corolla will continue to offer the quality and value for which the brand has long been known. The new Corolla with an all-new body that delivers increased interior and luggage room, more power, more economical engines and an all-new chassis and suspension.
The Corolla will come in five grades – Standard, LE, XLE, the sporty S, and the performance-driven XRS. A standard body kit on S and XRS models helps to modify aerodynamics and enhance the Corolla's sporty look – these include a front spoiler, rocker moldings, upper and lower rear spoilers, and for improved air management under the car, engine undercovers.
The 2009 Corolla is offered with a pair of efficient new engines, each of which can be combined with a five-speed manual transmission. The four-speed automatic transmission is combined with a 1.8-liter engine and the five-speed automatic is combined with a 2.4-liter engine.
The Standard, LE and XLE will be equipped with one of the all-new engines. The 1.8-liter 16-valve, DOHC four-cylinder engine, will produce 132 hp at 6,000 rpm and 128 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,400 rpm. One of the engine's most important features is its use of Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) on both the intake and exhaust camshafts that helps it achieve outstanding performance and economy.
Airbags are installed in the steering wheel, instrument panel, front seats and side-roof. Side curtain airbags that help protect passengers in the front and rear seats in the event of a side impact are standard. Front seats employ active headrests as standard equipment. Toyota's Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard on all grades of the Corolla. Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with Traction Control (TRAC) and cut-off switch available is available as an option.
The all-new Corolla is equipped with an array of standard performance and convenience features. Among the many features on the Standard grade are P195/65 R15 tires, a heavy duty rear window defogger, AM/FM/CD audio with four speakers that is also XM® satellite capable, air conditioning with air filter, intermittent windshield wipers, two 12-volt power outlets, daytime running lights, black manual folding power mirrors, power steering, tilt and telescopic steering wheel, 60/40 split folding rear seats, and much more.
In addition to standard features on the Standard grade, the LE grade adds power windows with driver-side one-touch-down, shift-activated power doorlocks and color-keyed manual-folding power mirrors.
As well as the features on the LE grade, the XLE grade adds P205/55 R16 tires with full wheel covers, variable intermittent wipers, remote keyless entry, Optitron gauges, center console with sliding armrests, wood grain trim, and driver and passenger rear-seat pockets.
In addition to S grade features, the XRS grade adds rear deck spoiler, P215/45 R17 tires with alloy wheels, sport strut tower brace, VSC with TRAC and cut-off switch, XRS scuff plate, leather-trimmed shift lever and knob, cruise control and interior chrome accent.
Additional standard equipment on the XLS grade includes VSC with TRAC and cut-off switch, P205/55 R16 tires with 16-inch alloy wheels, a JBL audio system with AM/FM/six-disc CD changer with MP3/WMA playback capability, XM® satellite and eight speakers in six locations and navigation system with AM/FM CD with MP3/WMA playback capability.
The Corolla Standard grade will carry a base MSRP of $15,250 for models with a manual transmission and $16,050 for models with an automatic. The LE grade with automatic has a base MSRP of $16,650 and the XLE grade with an automatic a base MSRP of $17,550. The S grade will carry a base price of $16,320 for a manual transmission model and $17,150 for models with an automatic. The MSRP for the premium XRS grade will be $18,760 for a manual transmission and $19,950 for models with an automatic.
2009 MATRIX
The Toyota Matrix helped redefine the concept of a crossover vehicle, and has been redesigned for the 2009 model year.
Development of the 2009 Matrix focused on greater exterior coupe-like styling with enhanced interior utility and improved dynamic performance. The result is a sporty shape that has a wider, lower stance than the current model, but contains room for five people to ride in comfort. The Matrix has rounded rear windows and continuous character lines that run from the front grille to the A-pillar.
The Matrix features three distinct grades, Standard, S and XRS. The S and XRS models integrate a front underbody spoiler with a large mesh fog lamp bezel and rear underbody spoiler, while a rear deck spoiler is standard for all XRS models.
The 2009 Matrix offers the choice of two different engines, a five-speed manual transmission, and either four- or five-speed automatic transmission.
For those who crave horsepower and torque, the Matrix offers a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine which produces 158 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 162 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm. Estimated EPA fuel economy ratings are 21/29 city/highway mpg for the automatic transmission models and 21/28 with the five-speed manual transmission models.
In addition, Matrix once again offers the option of all-wheel drive (AWD) with the S grade. The AWD Matrix S is equipped with the 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and the Super ECT 4-speed transmission.
The AWD system uses active torque control to distribute the appropriate amount of torque to each wheel. The system is front-wheel-drive-based and distributes torque to the rear wheels through an electromagnetic coupler only when needed.
The Matrix interior is completely redesigned to enhance driving enjoyment, comfort and utility. The instrument panel and center cluster were designed to create the sensation of a cockpit. The option gauges in the instrument panel feature bright white lighting and red needles. A new three-spoke steering wheel enhances the rest of the new Matrix interior.
The driver and front passenger are treated to comfortable new sport seats, with standard seat-mounted side airbags. A fold-down seatback table is available for the front passenger's seat, enhancing interior utility on S and XRS. For rear-seat passengers, a folding seat with a 60/40 split includes a middle-seat headrest for the fifth passenger.
Throughout the interior, designers supplied multiple storage spaces. A folding tonneau cover is standard and helps keep items placed in the cargo area out of sight.
All systems are equipped with a universal mini-jack port that allows users to listen to their portable music collection through the Matrix's speakers.
Form, fun and functionality are in abundance with an array of standard convenience features across all three grades. Base equipment on the Standard Matrix includes P205/55 R16 tires with full wheel covers, power color-keyed outside rearview mirrors, power steering, tilt and telescopic steering wheel, daytime running lights, heavy duty rear window defogger, intermittent windshield wipers, 12-volt power outlet, four cupholders, front center console box and an engine immobilizer.
The S grade adds standard power door locks and windows with one-touch down driver-side, 115-volt power outlet, cruise control, intermittent rear window wiper, fold-flat front passenger seat, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD with MP3 capability and six speakers, front and rear underbody spoilers and fog lamps.
In addition to these features, the XRS grade includes standard P215/45 R18 tires on 18-inch alloy wheels, sport strut tower brace, VSC with TRAC and cut-off switch, and a three-spoke leather-trimmed steering wheel with audio steering wheel controls.
The Standard Matrix with a five-speed manual transmission will carry a base MSRP of $16,190, while the four-speed automatic begins at $17,000. The Matrix S front-wheel drive with a five-speed manual transmission has a MSRP of $18,260, while the five-speed automatic will begin at $19,450. The Matrix S AWD with a four-speed automatic has a base MSRP starting at $20,400. The Matrix XRS with a five-speed manual transmission has a MSRP starting at $20,660, while the five-speed automatic will begin at $21,850.
2008 FJ CRUISER TRAIL TEAMS SPECIAL EDITION
The special FJ Cruiser will feature the first-ever monotone white roof and body with black trim pieces, which set the FJ Trail Teams edition apart from the rest. Additional exterior features include black front and rear bumper end caps and front grille surround, and black exterior mirrors and door handles. Trail Teams badges have been added to the rear door and glove box.
Inside, the FJ Cruiser Trail Teams Edition will include a leather-trimmed steering wheel with audio controls, white color-keyed door trim and instrument panel trim, AM/FM six CD/nine-speaker audio system with MP3 player and 12-volt and 115-volt auxiliary power outlets.
Additional standard features on the FJ Cruiser Trail Teams Edition include trail-tuned Bilstein shock absorbers, BF Goodrich Rugged Trail Tires with custom 16-inch TRD alloy wheels, Cyclone air cleaner, rear differential lock and A-TRAC, TRD exhaust system, rock rails, all-weather floor mats, front bumper-mounted auxiliary lights, and front and rear skid plates.
The FJ Cruiser Trail Teams Special Edition will carry an MSRP of $4,755 over the $23,725 base price of the FJ Cruiser with a six-speed manual transmission with a 4.0-liter V6 engine and $5,110 over the $24,135 base price of the automatic transmission model with a 4.0-liter V6. . MSRPs do not include a delivery, processing and handling fee of $685.
The 3,200 units of the FJ Cruiser Trail Teams Special Edition package will be produced in 2008 model year and will go on sale in late January and early February.
2008 Obsidian SG-One Ford Mustang
(from Obsidian Press Information) What would you build if you had finances without limitations, a love for classic Mustangs and a passion for hot rodding? Forget everything you know and believe about classic Mustangs because were talking about something that's never existed before. Something that says, You've achieved the highest levels success and perfectly reflects who you are. It must exceed the wildest dreams of even the most discerning enthusiast without disappointment or delay. It must redefine the standards by which all others are judged. It must be the absolute pinnacle of achievement. All of this requires the finest coach level craftsmanship, ingenious engineering, seamless integration of only the best components and several years to complete. So, we proudly introduce you to the Obsidian SG-One Mustang.
Classic styling meticulously blended with sophisticated technology. A Twin supercharged and intercooled EFI engine with more horsepower than any factory Shelby Mustang , a new Corvette ZR-1 or a new Dodge Viper. They'll know you're coming with the beautiful but subtle supercharger whine, a camshaft idle you'll love and a muscular exhaust sound thats not too loud on the inside yet intimidating on the outside. A fully integrated tube chassis with roll bar easily handles the power while a NASCAR style belly pan provides high speed aerodynamics.
The body has been extended 7 over stock to comfortably sit virtually anyone up to 7 feet tall. Formula One style paddle shifters enable lightning fast and consistent gear changes. Enormous Brembo four wheel disc brakes with hydro boost provide fade-free stopping power in a hurry. A fully adjustable coil over suspension system is tuned for carving out corners while providing excellent ride characteristics. A performance rack and pinion steering system gives the utmost in road feel and goes precisely where you point it. Custom 18 front and 20 rear aluminum wheels and BF Goodrich KDW tires provide a nose down appearance with superior dry and wet weather traction and razor sharp handling and braking.
Powerful, graceful and elegant, she's one of a kind. In fact, there's only one available and it will never be reproduced. That should come as no surprise though. After all, its just like you are: in a class all by itself. We suggest acquiring the Obsidian SG-One now before its gone!
© Source: seriouswheels
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Living the high life in Citroën’s C4 Picasso Lounge
Citroën is taking the Compact MPV to new levels of luxury with the introduction of the Lounge, a very special edition of the Company’s multi-award winning C4 Picasso, created uniquely for the UK market. The marque’s popular family car has been given a prestigious upgrade to create a stylish and distinctive vehicle that combines a sleek and dynamic exterior with a spacious and luxurious interior.
1/23/2008
2008 Cragar Ford F150 by Performance West Group
(from Performance West Group) Introducing the Cragar F150. A modern muscle truck with the kind of clean, yet aggressive appearance that are the hallmarks of Cragar’s muscle car and drag racing heritage.
The compelling, heady muscle car beat can be heard in the Cragar F150’s anthem. From the menacing scoop mounted atop the matte black hood, to the Fire Red paint that covers its boldly accented body, the Cragar F150 is clearly the next step in the evolution of authentic American Muscle. Fender flares, Sport Louvers, custom rocker panels and an Extang Tri-Fecta Soft Tonneau Cover further enhance the theme.
Under the hood, the Cragar F150 offers enhanced performance, starting with its tire smoking 330 horsepower 5.4 V8 engine. A Blackwing Dual Snorkel Cold Air Intake, matched with a Cragar Custom Tuned Stainless Steel cat back exhaust system provides free breathing for the big bore V8. Cragar Ford F150 is also equipped with an advanced engine management system that even includes a Hand Held Programmer, enabling the enthusiast to dial up the performance of the Cragar F150 whenever the occasion warrants it The combination of 22 inch Cragar Classic S/S Wheels, Pirelli Scorpion Zero Asimmetrico tires and a lowered suspension provide sports car like cornering, while the Cragar Big Blue brake package with its 6 Piston Calipers and 16” Cross Drilled Rotors insure that the Cragar F150 can stop as effectively as it can accelerate.
© Source: seriouswheels
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No. 43 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 Up for Bid on eBay
Dodge and the Victory Junction Gang Camp have partnered to auction the 43rd 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8(R) on eBay beginning Feb. 12, 2008. The auction timing coincides with Petty Enterprises celebrating 50 years of racing at Daytona International Speedway.
100th volvo truck goes into service with ed weetman haulage
Ed Weetman (Haulage and Storage) Ltd. based in Great Haywood, near Stafford has taken delivery of a top of the range Euro 5 Volvo FH-480 4x2 tractor - the 100th Volvo truck to go into service with the fleet.
First Production 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 Sells for $400,000
Dodge and notMYkid partnered to auction the first production 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8(R) at the 37th annual Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction on January 19, in Scottsdale, Ariz. The winning bid was placed by Craig Jackson, Chairman/CEO of the Barrett-Jackson Auction Company.
1/22/2008
Suzuki’s Exhibits for the 78th Geneva International Motor Show
At the 78th Geneva International Motor Show, to be held from 4–16 March 2008, Suzuki Motor Corporation will be exhibiting the following models: Concept A-Star (concept car), Splash, Concept Kizashi and Concept Kizashi 2 (concept cars) and SX4 WRC (2008 model).
Concept A-Star (concept car)
Visitors to the Suzuki booth will see the European debut of the Suzuki Concept A-Star, which had its world premiere at Auto Expo 2008 in New Delhi.
The Concept A-Star shows the ideas behind Suzuki’s fifth world strategic model, which is under development. The production car will be the smallest model in the Suzuki world strategic model lineup. It will reflect an emphasis on environmental compatibility through Euro 5-compliant emissions, class-leading CO2 emissions pursuing 109g/km or less, and low fuel consumption. It will also have a superior combination of comfort and performance.
Suzuki Splash
The Splash follows the Swift, Grand Vitara, and SX4 as Suzuki’s fourth world strategic model. It made its world debut at the 2007 International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt and is going on sale this spring.
Developed to make transportation fun for every member of the family, the Splash combines ample roominess and colourful, attractive looks with a comprehensive safety package and performance that makes day-to-day urban driving a pleasure. Plus, it delivers environmental compatibility through low fuel consumption and CO2 emissions of just 120g/km.
© Source: automotoportal
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2008 Nissan 350Z Review
Introduction
This year, there's been a considerable amount of attention focused on Nissan's new GT-R sports car; 473 horsepower has a habit of doing that. However, unless you've got $70,000 (assuming -- ahem -- no dealer markup) and have your name on a waiting list, this Skyline successor will likely remain out of reach. Thankfully, Nissan has another legendary sports car for the rest of us: the Z.
Available as a coupe or convertible, the 2008 Nissan 350Z is a proper sports car priced for the everyman. Its fairly compact dimensions, sharp handling, potent V6 and rear-wheel drive make it fun to drive in almost any situation. Plus, the car's styling still looks fresh, even though the current-generation Z debuted for 2003.
For 2008 the 350Z stands pat, though it does mark the first full year of availability for the limited-production Nismo 350Z. The Nismo has effectively taken the place of the now-discontinued Track trim. This racetrack-oriented model comes with a specially tuned suspension, additional body reinforcements, a full aerodynamic package, Brembo brakes, and unique wheels and exhaust.
In testing, we've found the Nismo to be the best-handling 350Z to date, though this enhanced performance does come at the expense of fairly punishing ride comfort and noise. The remaining trim levels are more suited for everyday use, although the clutch can be too stiff in traffic. No matter which trim you choose, you'll still get one of the best values out there for a rear-drive performance car. Of course, the Z isn't perfect. Compared to models like the BMW Z4 and Mazda RX-8, the Z lacks handling finesse and cockpit refinement, and against the various permutations of the Ford Mustang GT, it lacks personality. But for an affordable sports car that delivers all-around performance and style, the 2008 Nissan 350Z is an ideal choice.
© Source: edmunds
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Škoda named ‘Best Buy’ at What Car? awards
Škoda’s practical Octavia estate has been voted ‘Best Buy Estate Under £15,000’ by What Car? magazine. The publication’s award ceremony was again held at London’s famous Grosvenor House hotel. Representatives from every car firm were in attendance along with many of the country’s top motoring journalists.
1/21/2008
2008 Detroit Auto Show: Mitsubishi Ra live reveal
Along with the new Ralliart, Mitsubishi unveiled their eco-image Concept-RA yesterday at the Detroit Auto Show. Strangely, RA doesn't stand for an ancient Egyptian god nor is it some sort of shorthand for Ralliart, but the two cars do share a few design cues and were without a doubt part of an image package that Mitsubishi is trying to present at NAIAS. As previewed, the two-seater's powerplant is a 2.2-liter in-line four cylinder 16-valve Clean Diesel with MIVEC. The Concept-RA meets Tier 2 Bin 5 emission regulations in the United States thanks to a new catalytic converter system uses a diesel oxidation catalyst, a NOx trap catalyst and a diesel particulate filter. It also has butterfly doors, which are pretty cool (we'll have a video of them in action in the near future). For now, check out the press release after the jump and the photos below.
The MITSUBISHI Concept-RA offers a unique interpretation of the sporty coupe. This two-seat pure coupe concept explores the transversely mounted, front engine packaging theme. Generous helpings of technology create a vehicle that combines exotic appeal, outstanding, fun-to-drive dynamics and heightened sensitivity for the environment
Developed as a technological showcase for Mitsubishi Motors, the Concept-RA displays athletic sport coupe proportions wrapped in dynamic flowing lines that provide a powerful and compelling showpiece for the car's advanced, high technology features. Broad, muscular wheel arches house 21-inch wheels and lend graphic expression to the high degree of road control and tenacious grip afforded by the next generation S-AWC system. Meanwhile, an exposed engine cover highlights the presence of the car's high output, efficient, clean diesel engine design. The Concept-RA's inverted-slant nose and trapezoidal grille fascia reinforce Mitsubishi Motors' new design identity, albeit suitably revised to reflect the concept's sporty coupe attributes.
Concept-RA's deep red exterior hue graphically accentuates the coupe's fluid, muscular body lines, and offsets a matte black engine hood that helps impart the vehicle's strong mechanical flavor. The interior has been developed to show a fusion of tradition with leading-edge touches. The cockpit's wraparound control layout uses minimal visual instrumentation and optimizes the switch and control layout. This reduces the driver's physical and mental workload, allowing full concentration on driving. The interior also makes extensive use of fine-quality natural materials in a design that delivers the utmost control, confidence, and vehicle involvement to the driver.
The MITSUBISHI Concept-RA's Super-All Wheel Control driveline is a next generation all-wheel-drive system that adds Active Steering and Active Suspension control to the ACD¹, AYC², ASC³, and Sport ABS components that comprise the highly capable system used on the 2008 Lancer Evolution. Concept RA's S-AWC system integrally manages these components to realize advanced levels of control over drive torque, steering input, vehicle roll, and braking at each wheel, thereby raising traction, cornering and vehicle stability levels. Such capability affords Concept-RA intuitive, on-demand vehicle behavior that faithfully reflects driver intent by reacting instantly, under a variety of driving conditions, from everyday use to emergency avoidance situations.
MITSUBISHI Concept-RA is powered by a new, high output, high-efficiency 2.2-liter 4-cylinder DOHC 16-valve turbo diesel engine with MIVEC4. This clean diesel's MIVEC system incorporates valve lift control with low and high-speed cam profiles actuating the intake valves. A Piezoelectric injector, common-rail direct fuel injection system allows the engine to use of a lower static compression ratio. The new diesel showcases a VD/VG (Variable Diffuser / Variable Geometry) turbocharger whose internal vanes can control airflow over the turbine and compressor surfaces to produce optimum boost characteristics at all times. The efficient, low emissions diesel unit delivers a maximum output of 201 hp (150 kW) and maximum torque of 310 ft. lbs. (42.8 kg-m). For compliance with Tier 2 Bin 5 emission regulations in the United States, the clean diesel powerplant relies on a new catalytic converter system that combines a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC), NOx trap catalyst (NTC) and diesel particulate filter (DPF) technologies.
In an effort to reduce vehicle weight to improve fuel economy, vehicle performance and safety, MITSUBISHI Concept-RA features a new, rigid body structure using an aluminum space frame made from extruded aluminum sections and die-cast aluminum components. In addition, the engine hood, fenders and other outer panels made from lightweight, impact-resistant and easily recyclable plastic resin.
[source:AutoGreen]
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