Shelby Cobra GT500 Returns

Ford Motor Company and legendary car builder Carroll Shelby team up once again to create this striking high-performance Mustang.

With more than 450 horsepower, the new Shelby Cobra GT500 is the most powerful production Mustang—ever.

Ford debuted another modern interpretation of an automotive classic, the all-new Shelby Cobra GT500, at the New York International Auto Show.

The new GT500 possesses classic Shelby design cues including dual stripes, aerodynamic body parts, and 19-inch wheels. In the performance department, the Shelby Cobra GT500 is the most powerful production Mustang ever built, with a supercharged 5.4-liter V8 that produces more than 450 horsepower, a 6-speed manual transmission and suspension tuned by Ford's Special Vehicle Team (SVT).

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Posted at 06:04 AM in Ford | Permalink

March 30, 2005

What's in a Name?

Meet the next generation Miata. But don't call it a Miata. With a decidedly more masculine name, the new Mazda MX-5 handles and drives better than its predecessor.

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Posted at 06:09 AM in Mazda | Permalink

March 29, 2005

2006 Lexus GS300

Chief engineer Shigetoshi Miyoshi invoked the "p" word—"passion"—frequently in his preview presentation for the third-generation Lexus GS series, but after a short day of mountain-road driving around Palm Springs, we're not convinced it's the word that really captures the essence of these new sedans.

How about "sophisticated"? Hard to dispute that as a descriptor. The inventory of electromechanical enhancements—VVT-i, AVS, EPS, VGRS, EBD, TPM, AFS, VDIM—rivals the alphabetical agencies of the Roosevelt administration. These babies—the GS300 and the GS430—are nothing if not trick. Particularly the GS430.

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Posted at 06:20 AM in Lexus | Permalink

March 28, 2005

Renault chief sees 4m car sales by 2010

BOMBAY (Reuters) - Renault aims to sell 4 million cars globally by 2010, up from 2.5 million now, its chief executive Louis Schweitzer has said, as the French car maker expands its operations to newer countries such as India.

Sales will be boosted by its no-frills Logan cars, Schweitzer said on Monday in Bombay, where the company signed a joint venture with Indian utility vehicle and tractor maker Mahindra & Mahindra to make the sedan.

"India is a major growth country and could become the most populated country in the world in this century, which means a huge opportunity for us," Schweitzer told a news conference.

Renault is also in discussions with China's Dongfeng Automobile, which already collaborates with its Japanese partner Nissan in China.

"We are still discussing with them. It's moving ahead but there is no specific deadline," Schweitzer said.

China and India are the world's fastest expanding major economies, and offer huge potential for growth.

Renault said earlier this month the company could "decisively" beat its target of selling 1 million Logan cars by 2010 through expansion outside western European market.

The French car maker has already raised its sales target for Logan from an original 700,000 to 1 million by 2010 after a strong debut and deals to manufacture the car in a number of other countries, including Iran and Russia.

Renault will build a new 50,000 unit per year manufacturing plant in partnership with Mahindra in India, which is expected to go on stream by the middle of 2007.

The French firm will hold 49 percent in Mahindra Renault, with Mahindra holding 51 percent.

The Logan will be launched in a number of new markets in 2005, including Syria, Slovenia, Poland and western Europe, with production slated to start in Russia, Morocco and Colombia.

The new markets are becoming increasingly important to Renault, as demand in its traditional western European base shows no sign of recovery with cut-throat pricing putting pressure on margins.

Renault will also look at India to make some of the components for its joint venture with Nissan and set up a technical centre for its global operations.

Posted at 06:17 AM in News | Permalink

March 25, 2005

BMW Z4 3.0I

The word “strange” comes instantly to mind when you look at the BMW Z4. What else could anyone think of the odd collection of lines, bumps, and creases woven throughout the body of this roadster? It’s not pretty, nor is it ugly.

BMW did a complete redo of its simple Z3 roadster in 2003. Along with the sheetmetal changes came a new multilink rear suspension from the 3-series that made the sports car a much nimbler handler in the corners than the skittish Z3 it replaced. We decided a long-term test would be a good way to see if the Z4, unlike the retro Z3, was a true premium sports car, and if we might grow fonder of its unconventionally designed exterior.

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Posted at 06:06 AM in BMW | Permalink

March 24, 2005

Bricklin’s spin dizzying

He’s armed with pictures, stats, lofty claims and six potential dealers. The Chinese cars Malcolm Bricklin showed photos of are aimed at Lexus and BMW with a 40 percent price cut. Six dealers viewed his $15 million dealership plan and according to him, all want to sell the cars. One-third of 3,000 people surveyed said that they would consider a Chinese car for their next purchase even if quality was below average. With quality ratings front-page news, we can hardly believe that one. Bricklin did have the best quote about the Chery QQ, a direct copy of the Daewoo Matiz. He said that the two cars were “similar” or “they copied the damn thing 100 percent.” At least he’s shooting from the hip on that one. Oh, and Nissan might have something to say about this sedan design.

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Posted at 06:02 AM in Malcolm Bricklin | Permalink

March 23, 2005

2006 Chevrolet Corvette Z06

GM took the wraps off of the highly-anticipated Corvette Z06 at this year's North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

The Corvette Z06 is powered by the largest displacement small-block V8 engine ever from GM, a 7.0-liter V8 that produces 500 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque, with a redline of 7000 rpm.

It’s no coincidence that the 7.0-liter designation translates to a 427 cubic inch displacement—the same engine size as one of the most famous engines from Corvette history. The new engine is sure to make its own history as the powerplant for the fastest, most powerful production Corvette ever produced which is also the fastest production car ever from GM.

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Posted at 06:09 AM in Chevrolet | Permalink

March 22, 2005

How Motorsports Affect Our Cars

You don't have to be a rabid race fan to appreciate the features, designs and components that are making their way from racetracks to today's new cars.

It doesn't matter if you love car racing or hate it. Chances are, many parts of your new car have been influenced or even engineered with the help of racing.

From the aerodynamic details in the 2006 Dodge Charger to an intake valve in the V8 of the 2005 Chevrolet Corvette and the Tiptronic transmission in the 2005 Audi TT Coupe, automotive design, development and components are pushed along, in part, by the competitive spirit of racing.

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- 2006 Dodge Charger
- 2005 Chevrolet Corvette
- 2005 Audi TT Coupe
- Chrysler
- Cadillac

Posted at 06:06 AM in Audi, Cadillac, Chevrolet, News | Permalink

March 21, 2005

2006 Honda Ridgeline

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For its next swipe at market share, Honda reinvents the pickup truck.
BY DAVE VANDERWERP
March 2005

In the past four years, Honda has become well equipped on the SUV front, redesigning the small CR-V and introducing the full-size Pilot, boxy Element, and upscale Acura MDX. But strangely enough, until now the company has never tried its hand at a pickup truck. For 2006, Honda is introducing the first H-badged alternative, the Ridgeline, which represents a new generation of truck with a unibody chassis, a four-wheel independent suspension, and even a trunk.

Honda’s truck is targeted at a narrow portion of the small-pickup market. There is no two-wheel drive, two-door model; and neither a manual transmission nor a low-range transfer case is available. This makes Ridgeline options typical Honda-simple. All trucks have the same spacious four-full-doors cabin, 3.5-liter V-6, five-speed automatic, four-wheel drive (Honda’s on-demand VTM-4 system), and five-foot-long bed.

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Posted at 06:05 AM in Honda | Permalink

Ford GT

Introduction:

Although clearly inspired by the original 1960s Ford GT40, the latter-day GT is, underneath its retro styling, a thoroughly modern supercar. The original concept appeared at the 2002 Detroit motor show and was not intended for production. Widespread popular acclaim, and the neat coincidence of the company's approaching centenary celebrations, saw a production car commissioned shortly afterwards. It features a mid-mounted supercharged V8 engine that gives 500 bhp and 500 lb-ft of torque, ensuring massive performance is available at almost any speed. The entire project was developed from show concept to production car in just 16 months, the first examples going to customers late in 2004.

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Thursday, Mar 17, 2005

Spied: New Astra Cabriolet

Astra Coupe Cabriolet

Vauxhall’s Astra has already impressed in the style stakes in three and five-door forms, but its desirability is certain to be raised even further with the introduction of the Coupe Cabriolet models. On sale in 2006 the Coupe Cabriolet follows the market trend for folding hardtops, competing against models like the Peugeot 307 CC, Renault Megane Coupe-Cabriolet and the forthcoming Ford Focus version.
With three roof sections compared to its French rival’s two the Astra’s roof should fold faster and take up less bootspace when stowed. It also allows the Astra to offer seating for four, at a squeeze. Engines are likely to be offered from 1.8-litres upwards, with turbocharged models offering pace to go with its obvious style.

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Wednesday, Mar 16, 2005

Spied: Next Jaguar XK8

Design and development of new car models is a highly secretive process, but inevitably these future models need to be tested in the real world. Manufacturers use ‘mules’ and disguises to try and hide their future models, to some success, but combined with insider knowledge we can bring you information on the cars that the manufacturers don’t want you to hear about - At least not for a few years.

Jaguar XK8
Confirming that Jaguar’s concept at Detroit is more than a flight of fancy these heavily disguised test cars have been snapped around Jaguar’s research facility at Whitley, Coventry. Built on a modified version of the XJ’s lightweight aluminium platform the new XK will be powered by the same 4.2-litre V8 that features in the rest of the Jaguar range. It’ll be offered in either normally aspirated or supercharged forms - developing either 300bhp or 400bhp.A heavily-disguised Jaguar coupe Talk of a 3.0-litre version, using the XJ6’s V6 have been denied, though such a car would undoubtedly increase sales by being able to be sold for less than V8 versions. Due to be officially unveiled in production form at the Frankfurt Motor Show the XK8 will go on sale in Spring 2006. If you want one early, get down to your Jaguar dealer and get your name on the waiting list.

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Tuesday, Mar 15, 2005

Spy Shots: 2006 Audi RS4

Developing a maximum output of 420 bhp, the V8 revs up to a speed of 8250 rpm. With its displacement of 4163 cc, this outstanding engine exceeds the magical barrier of 100 bhp per litre truly outstanding in a production saloon. Maximum torque of 430 Nm comes at 5500 rpm in this very compact engine, with 90 percent of the engine's torque consistently available between 2250 and 7600 rpm.

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Monday, Mar 14, 2005

Spy Shots: Ferrari Superamerica

The Ferrari Superamerica is a convertible based on the 575M Maranello. Ferrari claims that with a top speed of 199 mph, it will be the fastest drop-top production car on sale.

2005 Audi A8

Introduction The A8 debuted as Audi's flagship sedan for the 1997 model year, replacing the Audi V8, which was discontinued in North America after the 1994 model year. The A8 3.7 was dropped after the '99 model year, and in 2000 Audi added the extended-length A8 L to the lineup. The second-generation A8 debuted in the 2004 model year. New for 2005The A8, intially only available in the L extended-length version, is available in a standard wheelbase for 2005. The 4.2-liter V8 receives a slight horsepower increase for the new model year, and the A8 is available with a 450-horsepower W12. Specifications Engines 4.2L 335 hp V8 6.0L 450 hp W12 Transmissions 6-Speed Automatic Overdrive

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Thursday, Mar 10, 2005

2005 BMW X5

Introduction
The X5 represents BMW's first foray into the popular sport-utility-vehicle marketplace. Billed as a "Sports Activity Vehicle" by its maker, the X5 is designed to handle like a true BMW. The X5 was unveiled in Detroit at the 1999 North American International Auto Show. By the end of its second model year, the X5 became BMW's second best selling series.
New for 2005
Automatic climate control and Dark Poplar wood trim are both now standard on the X5 3.0i, with Light Poplar and Maple Anthracite optional at no additional cost. Park Distance Control is now standard on the X5 4.4i.
Specifications
Engines 3.0L 225 hp I6
4.4L 315 hp V8
4.8L 355 hp V8
Transmissions 5-Speed Automatic Overdrive
6-Speed Manual Overdrive

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Wednesday, Mar 9, 2005

Insane vans

In Japan, it's not always wise to specify a bodykit...

...in case you end up looking like a twat

Apparently reverse parking assist puts three grand on the used value

Clearly this guy couldn't afford the paint job too

Tuesday, Mar 8, 2005

Gibbs Aquada

Gibbs Technologies has developed High Speed Amphibian (HSA) technology that could transform cars into amphibians. To showcase this new technology, Gibbs built the Aquada, an amphibian vehicle that
debuted in late 2003. While the British company eventually hopes to license the HSA technology to large automotive manufacturers, they are currently focused on selling the Aquada at a cost of £150,000 ($271,318.90).

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Monday, Mar 7, 2005

Importing Your Car into the U.S.

This page provides information for importing a vehicle into the U.S., including requirements of the U.S. Customs Service and those of other agencies. Since requirements are subject to frequent changes, contact information has been provided for the agencies mentioned. Be sure to contact these agencies (particularly EPA and DOT) before importing your vehicle.

Imported motor vehicles are subject to U.S. safety standards, bumper standards, and air pollution control (emission) standards. Most vehicles manufactured abroad that conform with U.S. safety, bumper, and emission standards are exported expressly for sale in the United States; therefore, it is unlikely that a vehicle obtained abroad meets all relevant standards. Be skeptical of claims by a foreign dealer or other seller that a vehicle meets these standards or can readily be brought into compliance. Nonconforming vehicles entering the United States must be brought into compliance, exported, or destroyed.

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Did You Know That....

The Chevrolet 490, launched in 1915, owes its name to its price?
It was pitched directly against the Ford T model and - like its
competitor - could be bought for just 490 US dollars. It was built
at various factories linked to the Chevrolet Motor Company through
a franchising system.

The first subcompact car manufactured in the U.S. was a
Chevrolet? It was the Vega, launched in 1971. It was followed by
the Chevette in 1976, the smallest Chevrolet ever at that time.
This model, a representative of General Motors' T-Car world car,
was initially sold with 1.4 and 1.6-litre engines.

The Powerglide transmission of 1950 was the first automatic
transmission to be offered in a vehicle below the full-size category?
Chevrolet built more than 300,000 of these transmission units in
the first year alone.

Louis Chevrolet left the company in 1914 because he had
an argument with his partner Billy Durant about the positioning
of the company? Chevrolet wanted to build exclusive vehicles, Durant
was in favour of popular cars. Who actually won the dispute is no
secret because the name Chevrolet has since become synonymous with
good-quality but inexpensive cars and trucks.

Chevrolet became part of the General Motors Group in 1918?

The value-brand strategy was featured as early as 1929 in
the advertising slogan "A Six for the Price of a Four"?
In the then new "Stovebolt Six", the customer really got
the smoothness and acceleration of a six-cylinder engine for the
price of a four-cylinder unit.

The first GM plant outside of North America was built in
Denmark in 1923? The then head of production of GM, William Knudsen,
(1879-1948), emigrated from Denmark to the US in 1899…

Chevrolet planned to change from water to copper cooled
engines (an air cooled engine using copper fins) in 1921? The revolution
failed due to durability problems, and only about 800 copper cooled
cars were built in total.

The failure of the copper cooled engine led to the first
dedicated proving ground for testing automobiles? To this day, GM’s
Milford Proving Ground opened in 1924 is the biggest of its kind
in the world.

The founder of both Chevrolet and General Motors, „Billy"
Durant (1861-1947) had to leave the company after financial quarries
three times in all. Durant, who at one time amassed a fortune of
$ 120 million died as a manager of a bowling alley.

And Today

• 1 car in 16 sold in the world is a Chevrolet
  
• A Chevrolet is built every 7 seconds
  
• Over 175 million Chevrolets have been sold to date
  
• Chevrolet will sell in 90 countries in 2005
  
• The Chevrolet Aveo (Kalos in the UK) is the best selling small
  car in North America

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Thursday, Mar 3, 2005

Citroen C4 - Now Available With Automatic Transmission

Citroen is opening up the recently launched C4 range to a whole new set of UK customers with the addition of two five-speed automatic models - a 1.6i SX Auto and a 2.0i Exclusive Auto - both of which offer high levels of driver convenience and comfort at prices that start at just over £13,000*.

The new C4 offers a mould-breaking blend of eye-catching styling, innovative new technologies, class-leading aerodynamics and impressive levels of equipment, including ABS with EBD and EBA, cruise control, speed limiter, CD player and six airbags as standard across the entire range.

The two new 5-door models also represent great value for money, with the £1,100 cashback offer* further lowering the already competitive recommended retail prices of £14,195 for the 1.6i SX Auto and £17,495 for the 2.0i Exclusive Auto. Insurance ratings of 5E for the SX and 10E for the Exclusive, together with 20,000 mile service intervals, also help to keep ownership costs right down.

Powered by a 110hp 1.6 litre petrol engine, the C4 SX Auto returns 37.2 mpg fuel economy on the government combined cycle and offers a top speed of 118 mph. With 143hp and 148 lb.ft of torque, the 2.0 litre Exclusive Auto boasts a top speed of 128 mph, can sprint from 0 to 62 mph in just 10.1 seconds, yet still returns 34.9 mpg on the combined cycle.

Both models offer high levels of practicality and refinement with cruise control, speed limiter, the C4’s revolutionary fixed-centred controls steering wheel, air conditioning and an in-built air freshener all standard. Laminated side windows for improved security and reduced noise intrusion, dual function directional Xenon headlamps, rear parking sensors and a 5-cd autochanger add to the top-of-the-range feel of the Exclusive Auto.

Both C4 Automatic models come with six airbags and ABS with EBD and EBA, while ESP with traction control is standard on the 2.0i Exclusive Auto. In fact, in the latest Euro NCAP awards, the C4 was named one of the safest cars around - with five stars for occupant safety and a remarkable three out of four stars for pedestrian safety, it outscored the new Ford Focus.

"The Citroen C4 has already enjoyed a winning start to its life, with Top Gear naming it Best Hatch of 2005 and Auto Express readers voting it their Car of the Year. These two new automatic models will help build on this success and broaden C4’s appeal still further," said Alain Favey, Managing Director, Citroen UK Ltd.

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Wednesday, Mar 2, 2005

Spy Shots: '07 Volvo S80

Volvo is preparing an all-new replacement for the company's top-of-the-line S80, for release sometime in 2006. The current S80 underwent a restyling in 2003. These photos show for the first time a prototype during cold-weather testing on a frozen lake in Scandinavia. The car is still disguised, yet the new styling is clearly visible. The next S80 is again a four-door sedan but with a much rounder and more V-shaped body than its predecessor. It is again front-wheel drive and is expected to get power from a variety of four- and six-cylinder engines, as before. According to rumors from Sweden, it could also be available with Volvo's new eight-cylinder engine.

Tuesday, Mar 1, 2005

Saab Future Debated

General Motors is close to deciding what to do with Saab, its perennially loss-making Swedish subsidiary.

Bob Lutz, GM Vice President and so-called "product czar" of GM has said in an interview, "We like the brand and we want to retain it [but] you cannot make a business case under 200,000 to 250,000 annual volume - that is almost impossible," Saab production is now around 120,000 cars per year.

It seems likely that Saab will no longer design unique models. Instead, it will have to take GM models and modify them to inject some Swedish character. The Saab factory, if it is to survive, may become a GM assembly plant making both Saabs and other GM brands. Already, a small Cadillac, called BLS, is planned to go into production at the Saab factory.

Monday, Feb 28, 2005

Kia Launches Diesel Sportage

Kia has announced prices for the diesel versions of its new Sportage off-roader.

Prices range from £15,695 for the XE manual to £18,195 for the XS Auto. Paul Williams, MD of Kia UK said, "Although we do not see the existing 4x4 competitors as our primary targets, the motorists who will choose to buy Sportage have told us it is the cost of these vehicles that keeps them out of SUV ownership."

Kia was the fastest growing car company in Britain last year and the competitively-priced Sportage diesel will help to maintain momentum this year.