Audi TT RS

New car sales QQ in China

2011-05-12T01:19:00.000-07:00

The monthly result was also a significant 15.12 percent below the previous month (March 2011).
The negative result has been blamed on a number of factors, with the effects of the Japanese earthquake and subsequent supply chain disruptions high among those.

Toyota production at all Chinese plants has been reduced to between 30 and 50 percent until the beginning of June, while Honda suspended production at a number of its plants for the first half of May.

Domestic issues also played a significant role in the softened sales.

Beijing was one of many cities to introduce a quota system this year, which dramatically decreased the number of new vehicles that could be registered, in an attempt to improve traffic gridlock and air quality.

The government has also raised taxes on small cars, and like in many countries around the world, Chinese motorists are currently faced by rising fuel prices.
China overtook the US in 2009 to become the world’s largest new vehicle market. Last year, a record 18.06 million new vehicles were sold in China, which represented a 32 percent growth over the previous 12 months.

Audi S4 Avant spy shots

2011-04-18T22:10:00.000-07:00

Our spy photographers recently spotted this S4 prototype – in delicious Avant flavor – testing on the Nürburgring, showing off a newly facelifted front end.Much like the A6 and A7, the revised S4 will wear Audi's reshaped grille with slanted upper corners – a design element that will also trickle down to the base A4 and the A5. Additionally, it appears that the front bumper has been tweaked, with larger lower air intakes that are reminiscent of what we see on the smaller TTS. Our spies also suggest that the S4's taillamps will receive a once-over, looking more akin to what's currently used on the A6/A7.Mum's the word on powertrain upgrades, but we expect that Audi has a few tricks up its sleeve to keep the S4's performance prowess in check.

Enthusiasts Bucking E15

2011-03-27T20:51:00.000-07:00

Car collectors and hobbyists are among those banding together to try to find alcohol-free gasoline—at a time when the percentage of alcohol in each gallon of typical pump gasoline is likely to increase significantly.

It's a trend we reported last year. Through forums, as well as Pure-gas.org, those with older cars are keeping tabs on stations that don't sell ethanol blends. That's because in older vehicles, rubber-containing components such as gaskets, seals, and fuel lines can harden and fail far earlier with ethanol-containing fuel, according to collectors and old-car restorers and mechanics. Higher ethanol concentration in fuel could, some have argued, shorten the life of catalytic converters in older vehicles.

Audi TT RS Confirmed For U.S

2011-01-06T00:07:00.001-08:00

hottest of Audi's TT lineup will finally be making its way to America, due here in the third quarter of 2011. The credit is due in part to a Facebook petition called "Bring it to the U.S." which saw 11,500 signatures over the course of a month. If you're not up to speed on the TT-RS, you ought to be. The 360-horsepower turbocharged 2.5-liter five-cylinder variant of the TT delivers 4.6-second 0-60 mph times in the TT's svelte package thanks in part to its quattro all-wheel drive. The mid-mounted engine is so good it won the International Engine of the Year award in its category this year. For those fearing a two-pedal dual-clutch solution, relax: the TT RS gets a traditional six-speed manual gearbox. Unlike Europe, where a convertible version of the TT RS is available, we Americans will have to make do with the tin-top only. Pricing and other details for the TT RS's American debut remain undisclosed, but you can be sure we'll bring you the latest as it breaks

2012 Audi TT RS

2011-01-05T22:28:00.000-08:00

Audi's adorable little TT has a bit of an identity crisis. It's so cute that you sort of expect it to be a Hyundai Tiburon for chic, gorgeous women with impeccable taste and generous budgets. Nothing against those kinds of customers -- in fact, any such woman gains ten points for driving a hot Audi like that -- but the TT has never really been taken seriously by the testosterone-laden enthusiast crowd.

Making matters worse was a product lineup that was a little too densely populated for such a low-volume car. Choices are a good thing, but when so many different TTs are on the lot - front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive; turbocharged four-cylinder, VR6; dual-clutch automatic, stick shift; coupe, convertible - it tends to overwhelm customers and work against forming a clear image of what a car is about.

new £1.2 million One-77 hypercar

2010-09-30T20:00:00.000-07:00

It’s official! Aston Martin has announced that another milestone has been reached in creating its new £1.2 million One-77 hypercar. As part of the engineering sign-off process, the car’s engine has been certified as developing 750bhp and 750Nm, making it the most powerful naturally aspirated road car engine in the world today.

The 7.3-litre V12 unit is being built with input from legendary engine-builders Cosworth, which also provides engines for F1 teams Lotus, Virgin, Williams and HRT.

The car is now in the latter stages of the sign-off process, which has included hot and cold extreme weather testing, as well as many punishing laps of the Nürburgring Nordschleife undertaken from the firm’s technical base located just outside the circuit.

Aston boss Dr. Ulrich Bez said, “The One-77 is approaching a production reality and of course, there is considerable excitement in the project. Now the next steps are all about details and refinement to complete the composition. I know the final car will demonstrate what the Aston Martin team is capable of.”

Deliveries of the One-77 are expected to commence in early 2011. Aston claims that around half of the cars have been sold, with the remaining cars accounted for by reliable and strong expressions of interest.

Magnaflow Exhaust System Performance

2010-07-30T16:00:00.000-07:00

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Lexus LS steering fault

2010-06-02T20:35:00.000-07:00

2010 Lexus LS steering fault – Click above to watch video after the jump

Toyota seems to have learned from its recent brushes with the law over how the company handles its recalls. While the automaker has been judged to be less than transparent in both the floor mat and unintended acceleration sagas, the company has responded to recent Lexus LS recalls with plenty of information for both owners and the public at large. Example, you ask? How about the video after the jump? Toyota has apparently released a quick flick showing exactly what happens when the design defect rears its ugly head on the range-topping sedan. Apparently, if a driver turns the steering wheel to full lock in one direction and then rapidly turns it back the opposite direction, the steering wheel won't center itself even though the vehicle is traveling straight.

Eventually, the variable gear-ratio system will allow the steering wheel to right itself, but it takes its sweet time. Only around 3,800 of the vehicles with this problem are actually roaming U.S. highways, and all of them are eligible for a free fix. Toyota has said that the problem is both mechanical and software related.

Gallery: Review: 2010 Lexus LS460 Sport

Volvo S60

2010-05-11T15:50:00.000-07:00

2011 Volvo S60 – Click above for high-res image gallery

The Volvo S60 has been priced: $37,700 plus $850 in destination charges is all you'll need. What happens when you put a comparably equipped S60 priced at $41,400 up against the BMW 335i xDrive, Mercedes-Benz C350, Lexus IS350 and Audi A4? The S60 undercut the BMW and Merc, while coming in above the the Lexus and Audi. Of course, none of those other cars include Volvo's Safe + Secure plan that offers five-year/60,000-mile warranty, maintenance wear-and-tear and roadside assistance coverage, so there's that.

The Volvo is also the most powerful of the bunch with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 325 foot-pounds of torque, albeit in front-wheel-drive, sport-tuned Dynamic chassis guise, with power getting down through a six-speed Geartronic transmission. But wait, there's more: The Volvo also has Pedestrian Detection and City Safety systems that the others don't offer. Follow the jump for a press release with all the details, and see if the Swede has what it takes to get your lux dollars.

2011 Volvo S60

Lexus IS-F with Torsen LSD and new options coming to the coasts of the United Kingdom

2010-03-24T20:14:00.000-07:00

After the introduction of last year in Frankfurt Motor Show, which subtly revised 2011 Lexus IS-F its way into dealers in the United Kingdom with an on-the-road price of £ 55,595 (approximately U.S. $ 82,900 or € 62,150) .

For 2010 the Lexus premium sports sedan, a new limited slip differential as standard and a new satellite navigation system, guided by a disk of 40 GB, also a library on-board sound "function, with 10 GB of archiving.

In addition, the tuner in the IS-F with the 14-speaker Mark Levinson 5.1 surround-sound system is upgraded to DAB broadcasts and a USB port is to get (in addition to the Aux-In) jack.

In addition, the 2011 IS-F will be ordered with a new white skin instead of the standard black finish and design of the new mesh 19-inch alloy wheels instead of the usual 10-spoke, with both functions Lexus says that the cost functions are not options.

Japanese tuning show

2010-01-17T22:30:00.000-08:00

Our Tokyo Auto Salon man Phil Alex with the help of friends Mike and Aaron put their photo cameras to exceptional use today capturing the booth sirens on film for your enjoyment. And as you will soon find out, the Japanese tuning show is only interesting in terms of car presentations but also in terms of female presences... Feast your eyes out in our high-resolution mega gallery after the break.

Photos by Phil Alex , Mike and Aaron

LEDs to provide better visibility at night while also providing a distinctly BMW look

2010-01-17T21:20:00.000-08:00

With every new model launched or redesigned, comes another photos comparison. the week revolves around the 2011 BMW 3 Series Coupe and Convertible LCI that was unveiled yesterday and which will go on sales this Spring.

Judging by the photos and information released, the general consensus is that BMW is looking to align some of its models to the current design language, and features like “angel eyes” are starting to become standard across the line-up. LED taillights are also becoming the norm at BMW and the new 3 Series LCI comes to emphasize that.

Exterior:

Regarding the exterior of the car – BMW, like they did with the pre-LCI E92, have managed to make the E92 continue to look much more expensive than it actually is. The facelifted E92 continues to give a strong balance between prestige and performance purely in appearance alone.

Additionally, at front and rear, while the revisions appear minimal, the proof is in the details. At the business end of the 3 Series Coupe, the head lamps have grown slightly with added contours to the bottom line of the head lamp assembly. A thin “eyebrow” can now be found running along the top of each assembly which is lit by LEDs – a design cue taken straight from the E90 LCI, F01 7 Series and F10 5 Series.

Dropping just below the head lamps, the lower bumper is the most heavily modified part of the E92 LCI, losing the struts that flowed with the cut lines of the nose of the car. In its place, BMW have added a slim cut straight across the center of the lower grill, only being broken up by the area just below the larger, wider double kidney grill. Overall, the appearance of the E92 LCI now looks more succinct with the rest of the now more modern BMW line-up.

Moving to the rear of the car, the lower portion of the bumper receives a larger, purposeful crease along the valence just above the exhaust. The L-shaped tail lamps also receive a mild facelift with a more opaque cover to the LEDs when compared to the pre-LCI E92.

Additionally, the pattern of the rear lamp LEDs has two stacked sets of LEDs to provide better visibility at night while also providing a distinctly BMW look. By comparison, the LCI E92 now looks much brighter and contoured over its predecessor.

The side design goes through some changes as well, the E92 LCI features longer overhangs and subtle changes to the side skirts, giving the facelift an overall more aggressive, masculine look.

Read Article

The question of whether or not General Motors will bring its diminutive Chevrolet Spark

2010-01-11T00:53:00.000-08:00

2010 Chevrolet Beat for India - Click above to enlarge

The question of whether or not General Motors will bring its diminutive Chevrolet Spark to the United States still doesn't have a definitive answer. Thanks to a GM of India press release, however, we now know that the little urban runabout will be coming to North America, although that geography obviously also includes Mexico and Canada.

In the past, GM spokespeople have suggested that it might be possible for the Spark (A.K.A. "Beat," or that unbearably irritating robot from Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen) to be imported Stateside and that the automaker had kept U.S. regulations in mind when designing the car. Regardless, with gas as cheap as it currently is and a new Aveo just around the corner, we're certainly not holding our breath for a U.S. launch any time soon, and we feel that seeing the Beat in Mexican and/or Canadian showrooms is more likely.

That said, feel free to hit the jump to read GM of India's press release on the introduction of the Beat, which made its production-ready debut earlier in the week in New Delhi.

[Source: General Motors]

Show full PR text

GM India Launches much awaited Chevrolet Beat

Sexy, Smart & Tough - New Global mini car to be key pillar of Chevrolet's growth strategy in India

New Delhi: GM India today launched the much awaited Chevrolet Beat, the next offering from the 300 series after the Cruze, at a ceremony presided over by its President & Managing Director, Mr. Karl Slym. Based on GM's global mini-vehicle architecture, the experts took 27 months to develop the Beat. Chevrolet Beat will be launched in over 150 markets around the world including those in Europe, other parts of Asia and North America in the coming days.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Slym said "with its best-in-segment design, performance and safety, the Beat is destined to become an industry benchmark and a winner among consumers in India. Aimed at meeting the highest quality and performance standards in the most sophisticated markets in a competitive environment, the global vehicle was put through over 1 million kilometers of intensive durability tests in extreme weather conditions and crash tests both in India and abroad. It has high-strength and ultra-high-strength steel over key areas of the body to ensure segment-leading occupant protection. And with a revolutionary design, advanced technology, unique features and benchmark safety, the Beat offers much more than an ordinary mini, Mr. Slym added.

The Beat comes in three trim levels of 1.2, 1.2LS and 1.2LT. In addition, an Option pack is available on the LT variant which consists of ABS, Alloy wheels, Dual Airbags and Seatbelts with Load limiters.

Sexy Beat:

Segment-Leading Size and a Dynamic Exterior

The Beat is a car that is ideal for those with a modern lifestyle. With the styling of a sporty hatchback, it showcases the new direction of Chevrolet design and a new trend in the design of mini-cars. The clear goal from the very beginning was to create a revolution in size and design despite the restrictions of the mini segment. The vehicle is destined to make a statement with an innovative design that would go far beyond a typical mini-vehicle and set new standards for the segment.

The Beat's roomy proportions and dynamic styling are courtesy of its segment-leading length of 3,595 mm, height of 1,520 mm, wheelbase of 2,375 mm, and width of 1,595 mm combined with its "body-in/wheels-out" stance. Dramatically sized headlamps that literally stretch from the front fascia to the back of the hood, with clear polycarbonate lenses and chrome-coated bezels, resemble diamonds, adding an upscale appearance and glamour.

A window line that is slanted dynamically upward, an arching roofline and sharp sidelines bring a sporty yet edgy look, a rarity in the segment. Secret vertical rear door handles located in the C-pillar are another unusual feature in this car. They give the Beat a unique, sporty three-door coupe appearance without sacrificing five-door utility.

A first-in-segment offering of an integrated rear spoiler as standard equipment essentially extends the rear roofline, for enhanced aerodynamic performance and provides a stable stance in high-speed driving as well as increased fuel efficiency. Round tail-lamps with clear polycarbonate lenses add to the Beat's strong rear impression.

A chrome-coated radiator grille and fog lamps, outside mirrors with two-tone color, and a refined-looking roof rail are other design cues that transport the Beat's styling beyond that of a conventional mini.

Beat buyers have a larger palette of exterior colours to choose from. They may select one of the seven colours - Olympic White, Linen Beige, Caviar Black, Misty Lake, Moroccan Blue, Green Cocktail and Super Red.

Unique Interior Defined By Fun, Fashion and Functionality

The design revolution continues inside the Beat. While pursuing a harmonious theme with the dynamic exterior, the interior is more about functionality. With its wider track and longer wheelbase, the Beat provides best-in-segment front legroom, rear legroom, front headroom and rear hip-room, resulting in generous space and comfortable accommodation for five adults.

The flowing interior weaves together the instrument panel, front seats and door trims, creating an environment that is harmonious, uninterrupted and inviting to the senses.

The most striking design element in the interior is a Steering Column mounted motorcycle-inspired dynamic meter cluster which is also a first-in-segment and combines analog and digital systems, contributing fun and unique styling as well as enhanced visibility and convenience. Adding to the refined look is an integrated center stack design that eliminates the traditional "picture framing" layout and results in a contemporary stylish relationship. LED-lit ice blue illumination which is a signature Chevrolet adds to the urban, edgy styling.

Pattern-printed semi-bucket seats provide a stable feeling when cornering. With high-quality materials and exceptional craftsmanship, they also enhance the luxurious interior atmosphere.

SMART Beat

Segment leading fuel efficiency with high power output engine

Newly developed for the next-generation global mini, the S-TEC II engine – a 4-cylinder, 16-valve 1199cc DOHC engine delivers a best in class mileage of 18.6 kmpl. The Beat is Smart because it does no compromise on performance as it delivers an excellent peak power of 80.5ps. The S-TEC II engine includes a series of advanced features that enhance performance. The first-in-segment application of the PDA (Port De-Activation) system ensures high exhaust gas recirculation, resulting in combustion stability at low speeds and optimal performance at high speeds together with improved fuel efficiency. In addition, the PDA system contributes to a reduction in emissions, making the Beat a truly eco-friendly vehicle.

Another first-in-segment application is an automatic temperature controller inside the engine, which helps improve fuel efficiency by reducing unnecessary heat loss. A dome-type long-skirt cylinder block narrows the space between intake valves while the application of four resonators reduces engine noise. Mated with the efficient S-TEC-II engine is a 5-speed manual transmission tuned to GM's global standards that provides enhanced shifts for an outstanding ride.

Segment first & Premium Features Go "Beyond Mini"

The Beat features an array of premium comfort and convenience amenities that one would expect in more expensive vehicles, including:

* l Automatic Climate Control
*
* Integrated Center Stack Audio with USB and Aux-in Port
* Tilt steering
* Steering Column mounted LED back-lit speedometer & LCD digital tachometer
* 60:40 Split folding seats
* Tubeless Tyres
* Satin Silver Roof rails

TOUGH Beat

Solid Structure and Advanced Chassis Ensure Pleasurable Ride and Handling

The ride and handling of the Beat also set it apart from any other vehicle in its segment. Adopting the body-frame integral (BFI) system, the upper body structure and frame are engineered as a single unit, resulting in better feel of the road along with a heightened sense of firmness and stability, and enhanced connectivity between the driver and vehicle. A McPherson strut front suspension combined with a four-point mounted long engine cradle and a width power reduction spring enhances the solidity of the entire chassis, for improved crash safety and driving performance. A rear compound crank torsion beam incorporates a tubular V-beam for more effective tuning and dynamic performance.

A first-in-segment triple acoustic absorbent structure and special underbody structure prevent noise inflow from outside for optimal quietness. Wind noise is minimized through the Beat's aerodynamic body line and detailed door sealing structure.

Class-Transcending Use of High-Strength Steel

A host of structural enhancements combined with a full offering of active and passive safety systems make the Beat a segment leader in its class.

Its body is the stiffest and toughest in the mini segment; 66.5 percent of its body is constructed of high-strength steel and over 16 percent is made of ultra-high-strength steel. This ensures the highest level of protection in the segment. The solid structure played a key role in securing EuroNCAP rating in crash tests.

In addition, ultra-high-strength steel applied to the side structure minimizes the chance of the structure deforming in the event of a crash. High-strength steel is also used in the rear body structure to protect passengers as well as the fuel tank, minimizing the possibility of fuel leakage during a collision. The four-point mounted long engine cradle protects passengers in the event of a head-on collision by optimally dispersing crash loads. The collapsible steering column helps protect driver's chest in frontal collisions

The use of H-spider type ultra-high-strength steel bars in the underbody prevents severe deformation caused by a side crash. The tailor-welded blanking method used in the B-pillar ensures maximum protection of passengers' upper bodies. High-strength steel in the rear and rear crash boxes minimize the impact of whiplash.

The roof is especially stiff, for maximum rollover protection. The Beat has been developed to withstand up to four times its weight – which goes far beyond industry regulations. Safety features include driver and front passenger air bags a 4-channel/4-sensor EBD-ABS system and seatbelt with load limiter.

The Beat comes with a high localization content and the parts have been very competitively priced in line with Chevrolet's philosophy to provide low cost of ownership experience to the owners. It also comes with a segment best warranty of 3 years or 100,000 kms (whichever is earlier).

"Clean scanning" is a deception whereby a different vehicle, one that will pass, is connected to the computer

2010-01-11T00:27:00.000-08:00

Emissions tests are often part of the registration renewal ritual for many car owners. Some appreciate being able to breathe deeply, others see it as a de facto tax, while still another group of automotive unfortunates have cars that won't pass without much expensive work. Whether for purely financial reasons, or a chafing anti-authoritarianism, some drivers elect to circumvent the system.

Federal indictments have been handed down to 10 Nevada emissions testers for falsifying emissions tests. The ten testers allegedly accepted cash stipends for "clean scanning" a car. Normally during a Nevada emissions test, vehicles are plugged in via their OBD-II port and the Vehicle Identification Number is entered into a computer. The computer then scans the car's on-board system and passes or fails the automobile. "Clean scanning" is a deception whereby a different vehicle, one that will pass, is connected to the computer, and the VIN of a failing car is entered. More than 1,000 vehicles are believed to have been falsely passed this way by the indicted.

Fooling around with the federal Environmental Protection Agency has these 10 individuals facing up to two years of incarceration and maximum fines of $250,000 per person. Is it mere coincidence that this high-stakes game of palm greasing happened in Vegas?

Under PSA design leadership of Jean-Pierre Ploué

2010-01-11T00:02:00.000-08:00

Hope for France: Left to right, Gilles Vidal, Jean-Pierre Ploué and Thierry Metroz

There was a time when "France" and "design" were nearly synonymous, at least in the automotive sphere. Delahaye, Voisin, Bugatti, Talbot-Lago (including the high-water mark Figoni et Falaschi "Tear Drop" cars), etc. Prewar, no one had anything on the French. Even Peugeot and Citroën were in on the action; the former producing the elegant 402 and the latter building the glorious Traction Avant.

However, after the Great Depression and post-WW2 auto shakeout, the scenery changed. Sure, Citroën still had a few design masterpieces left in the tank - the 2CV, the DS and SM. Peugeot made some excellent cars (205, 404) but they certainly weren't lookers. Then a few years back, Peugeot bought Citroën. Since that time, Peugeots have become wildly bizarre-looking, while Citroën has produced exactly one beauty, the C6. Point being, France's automotive designs are a far cry from their prewar glory days.

PSA Peugeot Citroën wants to change that trajectory. Under PSA design leadership of Jean-Pierre Ploué, Gilles Vidal has taken over design of Peugeot and Thierry Metroz is now in charge of how Citroëns look. Metroz might have an easy time of it, as Ploué has to some degree set Citroën on a halfway righteous path. Again, we're big fans of the big C6 and in truth, the C3 and DS3 are pretty much OK-looking as well. Monsieur Gilles, however, has his work cut out for him. Have you looked at a 3008 or an 807 lately? Not so hot.

Trs: Sunseeker Predator 108 + Caterham Se7en

2010-01-10T23:53:00.001-08:00

--- Pada Sen, 11/1/10, mufti mufti <mufti22222@yahoo.co.id> menulis:

Dari: mufti mufti <mufti22222@yahoo.co.id>
Judul: Sunseeker Predator 108 + Caterham Se7en
Kepada: mufti22222.auto1@bloger.com, mufti22222.auto2@bloger.com, mufti22222.auto3@bloger.com, mufti22222.auto4@bloger.com, mufti22222.auto5@bloger.com, mufti22222.auto6@bloger.com
Tanggal: Senin, 11 Januari, 2010, 7:51 AM

Sunseeker Predator 108 + Caterham Se7en – Click above for high-res image gallery

There really isn't too much to say here, because when you mix awesome with awesome and come up with something stupendous you needn't bother with the chatter. As a special treat for the London Boat Show, Sunseeker grabbed one of its Predator 108-foot flybridge motor yachts, then instead of putting a tender in the hold, it stowed a Caterham Se7en. The only thing we want to figure out now is whether the Sunseeker is the best garage ever, or if the Se7en is the best replacement for a Zodiac in history?

Have a look at the duo in the gallery of high-res photos below and check out the presser after the jump. We need to make a quick call about getting these in the Autoblog Garage...

Sunseeker Predator 108 + Caterham Se7en

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The Scion iQ will also come as a three-door hatch

2010-01-07T22:51:00.000-08:00

Scion iQ Concept - click above for hi-res image gallery

You know that Toyota iQ your cousin's seen running around Europe and Japan? It's making its way Stateside, first to next week's Detroit Auto Show, then to a Scion dealer near you as a hybrid. This is according to a scoop by Inside line. We've known for a while now that the iQ will be showing up as a Scion, just not for certain as a hybrid. Also, according to IL, the fate of the brand hangs in the balance. Also-also, they might (yay!) drop the name iQ.

That's right, the diminutive Toyota with the silly name is going to greet us as a youth-branded Scion. In multiple flavors, too. First will come a five-door hatchback, followed next by a four-door sedan. The latter is almost a little puzzling – who on earth wants a four-door sedan version – but then we recall all the other cars PR types tell us the American market forces into four-door guise and we're not surprised one bit. The Scion iQ will also come as a three-door hatch. Expect the five-door to show up first, towards the end of 2011.

The engine options are pretty interesting. If you so desire, a 1.3-liter four-banger will produce 93 horsepower. However, most folks will probably opt for the hybrid version. First of all, the gas and electric propulsion is so cheap that Toyota will be able to sell it for $15,000 or less. Second, expect a 1.5-liter four and some sort of electric motor to produce between 100 and 120 hp and return 60 mile per gallon. Not bad at all. Again, Inside Line ends their scoop explaining that if the iQ doesn't get youngsters buying Scions, nothing will. Er, make that nothing will have a chance to, as Toyota is likely to fold the brand.

Scion iQ Concept

BOSS Mustangs is available to order for $79,000

2010-01-03T21:17:00.000-08:00

Along with the road-going version of 2011 Mustang, Ford unveiled the new Boss racing model featuring the same 5.0 liter V8 engine. The Mustang BOSS 302R comes with a six-speed manual gearbox and a series of race equipments including a roll cage, race seats, safety harness, data acquisition and race dampers/springs, and a Brembo brake and tire package.

The 302R model which which carries the legacy of original BOSS Mustangs is available to order for $79,000.

Ford will also make 5 specially prepared versions of this car for the Grand-Am Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge series (formerly known as KONI Challenge) which come with Grand-Am Homologation Package and (M-FR500-BOSS R1). These cars will be equipped with a sealed high-output race engine with an upgraded cooling system, a close-ratio six-speed transmission with integral shifter, a seam-welded body, race suspension/KONI dampers and ABS brake tuning, race performance exhaust and a high-speed balance one-piece driveshaft. The price of each Grand-AmMustang BOSS 302R1 is $129,000.

Press Release:

Forty years after its namesake became a road racing legend, the BOSS is back on track for 2010 with a new 5.0-liter V-8 engine.In honor of the 40th anniversary of Parnelli Jones’ 1970 Trans-Am championship in aMustang BOSS 302 prepared by Bud Moore Engineering, Ford Racing is introducing the BOSS 302R, a factory-built race car ready for track days and road racing in a number of Grand-Am, SCCA and NASA classes.

“To keep pace with consumer demand, the Ford team has built modern versions of the most iconic performance Mustangs over the years,” said Jamie Allison, director, Ford North America Motorsports. “From Shelbys to Bullitt, Mach and Cobra Jet, it is now time for BOSS to join the list of America’s most covetedMustangs. The original BOSS 302 was a championship-winning legend and the new Mustang BOSS 302R will carry on the tradition. The Mustang was born to race from the start, and this new Mustang is bred to win.”

The BOSS 302R follows in the very successful footsteps of its most recent road racing predecessor – the Mustang FR500C from Ford Racing. In 2005, when the Mustang FR500C debuted at Daytona, the first car was delivered on Wednesday of that week and won the KONI Challenge race on Friday.

In five years of competition since then, the Mustang FR500C has won three Triple Crown championships of driver, team and manufacturer’s titles in KONI competition including back-to-back (2008 and 2009). The FR500C has also seen success in FIA GT4 competition winning the 2007 and 2008 driver’s championships.

“We expect the BOSS 302R to continue the successful tradition of winning with factory-built production-based race cars from Ford Racing,” said Allison. “The FR500C and FR500S road racingMustangs, and the Mustang FR500CJ (Cobra Jet) for drag racing have proven to be great cars for our customers, helping teams win races and championships. We believe that the BOSS 302R will provide that same sort of competitive product for our customers with the tradition you can only get from Ford Racing.”

Each Ford Racing factory-built production-based turnkey race car has won its competition debut.

“Racing has long served as a technical proving grounds for production engines,” said Allison. “What’s good enough for the streets is now good enough for the racetrack. The 5.0-liter block and architecture in theMustang BOSS 302R is the same as the 2011 Mustang GT.”

“We have a great team on the BOSS 302R project,” said Andy Slankard, Ford Racing engineering supervisor and the lead engineer on the BOSS 302R project. “Between our partners at AutoAlliance International, wherethe Mustang is built, Team Mustang, Multimatic and the entire Ford Racing team, we have once again proven to be a leader in turnkey production-based race cars.”

Available through Ford dealers, a total of 50 BOSS 302R Mustangs will be built by Ford Racing. Delivery is anticipated in the third quarter of 2010.

Ford rank number one on J.D. Power and Associate's 2009 navigation system survey

2009-12-08T16:33:00.000-08:00

Not only does Ford rank number one on J.D. Power and Associate's 2009 navigation system survey, it ranks number two as well. The top ranking system, according to Power's study, is the one found in the Lincoln MKS, followed by a nearly identical system (if not 100% identical) in the Ford Flex. And get this, Ford took down five of the top ten spots with the F-150 coming in fourth and the Escape and Edge taking seventh and eighth place, respectively.

To anyone that's driven a modern Sync-equipped Ford with navigation, these survey results probably won't come as any sort of shock, as FoMoCo has been making some of the best systems in the business ever since they released Sync with Sirius Travel Link. Here's what Ford user interface design engineer Jason Johnson had to tell us about why Ford got ranked tops:

"I think what really makes our system stand out is the fact it's designed with the user in mind. Yes, it has all the features you'd expect from a high-level navigation system -- the 3-D maps, the digital jukebox, the customizable home screens, and of course we pride ourselves on SYNC and SIRIUS Travel Link -- but it's more than that. This system is easy to use. It's intuitive. The buttons are where you'd expect them to be, the grouping is logical and the graphics are bright and easy to read. Everything is integrated, so it all works together, simply and easily."

Non-Ford top ten nav-system finishers include the Acura TL (third), Porsche 911 (fifth), Cadillac CTS (sixth), Hyundai Genesis (ninth) and Infiniti FX-series (tenth). Interestingly, Ford is the only non-luxury/premium brand to make it into the top ten. If you were wondering, seven of the bottom ten nav-systems were made by Toyota, with the Avalon finishing dead last. Complete results list and official press release available after the jump.

Danica Patrick to race NASCAR in 2010

2009-12-08T16:24:00.000-08:00

More Danica Patrick news and this time, it's actually racing related. Last week came a report that Ms. Patrick had inked a multi-year deal with the recently restructured Andretti Autosport, putting to rest the rumors that the sometime-swimsuit model was headed to NASCAR. Well, Sporting News is now reporting that the gun might have been jumped on that conclusion. It seems that the GoDaddy pitchwoman is about to announce a deal to drive for Dale Earnhardt Jr.'s NASCAR Nationwide Series team in 2010.

SN is reporting that Danica will run the full IndyCar calendar and a limited Nationwide schedule, with GoDaddy sponsoring her stock car. According to the GoDaddy website, the formal announcement will come at 1 PM ET Tuesday, December 8. We'll be sure to watch for that announcement and update as needed.

Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne presents 5-year business plan

2009-11-06T21:10:00.000-08:00

Chrysler LLC has concluded its 7-hour-long marathon presentation of the business plan (read our Live Blog of the event here) that will see it through the next five years, and what we're left with is a little confusing. It's almost as if the automaker's new executives, amidst apologizing for the company's past and promising to do better in the future, were hoping we'd all fall asleep or get lost in the details. Well, we didn't fall asleep or get lost, and below you'll find a breakdown of what we learned while spending the day hip deep in Chrysler's future product. You can also check out the slides from Chrysler's presentation relating to product in the gallery below.

Models On Their Way Out

Jeep Patriot (end of 2012)
Jeep Compass (end of 2012)
Jeep Commander (end of 2010, may continue being sold internationally)
Chrysler PT Cruiser (end of 2010)
Dodge Dakota (mid 2011)
Dodge Caliber (mid 2012)
Dodge Viper (mid 2011, may return in 2012)

New Models That Are Coming

Jeep compact SUV (2013, supplied by Fiat, may be Panda)
Jeep small CUV (2013, supplied by Fiat, replaces Patriot and Compass)
Jeep Liberty (2013, replaced by Fiat product but retains name)
Chrysler small car (2013, supplied by Fiat)
Chrysler compact sedan (2012, supplied by Fiat, replaces PT Cruiser)
Chrysler Sebring (2013, replaced by Fiat product but retains name)
Chrysler midsize CUV (2013, supplied by Fiat)
Ram midsize unibody pickup (under consideration for 2011)
Ram large and small commercial van (2012, supplied by Fiat)
Dodge small car (2013, supplied by Fiat)
Dodge compact sedan (2012, supplied by Fiat)
Dodge Avenger (major update 2010, replaced by Fiat product 2013)
Dodge full-size CUV (2010)
Fiat 500 (late 2010, convertible 2011, Abarth 2012)

Models Staying, Receiving Attention

Jeep Wrangler Diesel (2010/2011, not confirmed for U.S. market... yet)
Jeep Grand Cherokee (all-new 2010)
Chrysler 300C (all-new 2010)
Chrysler Town & Country (major update 2010, next-gen 2014)
Ram 1500/2500/3500 (major update 2012)
Dodge Journey (major update 2010)
Dodge Nitro (major update 2011 under consideration)
Dodge Challenger (refresh 2011)
Dodge Charger (all-new 2010)
Dodge Grand Caravan (major update 2010, next-gen 2014)

UPDATE: You can dive whole hog into the plan yourself at Chrysler's website.

570X Challenger painted in Sour Grape Green

2009-11-06T16:50:00.000-08:00

SMS Superparts - Click above for a high-res image gallery

With SMS Supercars recently launching the 570 Challenger and with a Mustang and Camaro, it was inevitable it would soon offer many of the parts individually. On the first day of SEMA Steve Saleen and his new company announced Superparts, the aftermarket sales and distribution arm of SMS Supercars. Many of the parts on the 570 Challenger are now available individually, including the SMS 296 supercharger, aerodynamic parts, and suspension, wheel and tire packages.

Also making its debut at the show is the new SMS 296 supercharger for the 2005-2010 Ford Mustang. The system uses many of the same core components from the Challenger kit, but has a few new features specific for the 4.6-liter V8. The most notable feature is the "Duo-Path" induction system that splits the incoming air starting at the throttle body, going around the supercharger housing to the back of the engine where it enters the rear intake of the compressor. Expected power will be in the 475-650 range depending on the package.

Read more on the SMS Superparts announcement after the jump, or opt for the visuals with the '90s-style 2010 Mustang and a 570X Challenger painted in Sour Grape Green in the high-res gallery below.

2009-11-06T16:43:00.000-08:00

Honda FF engine demonstrator - click above for high-res image

For 2010, Formula F is getting some fresh blood. The Sports Car Club of America's board of directors has given the thumbs up to Honda's proposal for a new engine in the class. Next year, competitors will be able to swap out their ancient Ford Kent engines for a new 1.5-liter four based on the Fit.

Honda Performance Development created the engine so that it was specifically able to bolt up to many contemporary Formula Ford chassis designs with minimal modification, all while providing comparable performance. The air restrictor and ECU calibrations can be adjusted by HPD to ensure performance parity with the series' existing engines.

The engine's electronically fuel injected engine promises significantly reduced service requirements compared to the Kent, along with better efficiency. The engines will be supplied complete with intake, exhaust and conversion kits. The kit for the Swift DB-1 including the engine and all necessary parts runs $11,750 with deliveries starting February.

Honda Fit FF engine

Win one of five Sony PSP/Gran Turismo bundles - Day 4

2009-11-06T16:19:00.000-08:00

It's Day 4 of our SEMA Sweeps! After giving away three of five limited-edition PSP/Gran Turismo bundles, we're ready to give away our fourth. Yesterday's winner has been randomly selected and contacted, so here's how you can win today.

We're doing this in honor of the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, and with it, the Seventh Annual GT Awards, so take advantage of our generosity and follow the directions below for your chance to win.

Today we're asking whether you prefer the PSP-3000 or new PSP Go. Your answer won't have any effect on your chances of winning since the sweepstakes winner is drawn at random, so pick your favorite portable Sony system, leave a comment and keep your fingers crossed!

Entering is easy. All you have to do is:

Leave a comment in this post telling us whether you prefer the PSP-3000 or PSP Go.
You must be 18 years or older and a resident of the U.S. or Canada (excluding Quebec, désolé!)
Limit 1 entry per person per day
This entry period ends at 3:00PM EST on Friday, November 6
At that time, we'll randomly select one winner to receive one PSP/GT bundle (ARV $199.99) that includes a Mystic Silver PSP-3000 system, Gran Turismo PSP game on UMD, a PlayStation Network downloadable voucher for a white Chevrolet Corvette ZR1, 2GB Memory Stick PRO Duo, PlayStation Network downloadable movie voucher (title TBD) and Sony MusicPass voucher good for 10 downloadable songs.
For a list of complete rules, click here

2009-10-10T09:05:00.000-07:00

General Motors has reached an agreement to offload Hummer onto China's Sichuan Tengzhong Heavy Industrial Machinery, with Tengzhong taking an 80 percent stake and a private investor consuming the rest.

Details on the deal (available in the press release after the jump) include Hummer contacting vehicle manufacturing from GM, with the General's Shrevport and Mishawaka plants continuing to produce vehicles through June of 2011, with a possible extension until 2012. A recent report says the sale will net GM around $150 million, although the transaction still has to be approved by both U.S. and Chinese regulatory agencies, which could come later this year or in early 2010.

Tengzhong, which only produces commercial trucks and industrial equipment, has never entered into consumer vehicles before, but according to Yang Yi, chief executive officer of Tengzhong. "We are excited about some of the initiatives already underway at HUMMER that we believe our investment will be able to accelerate, particularly related to the creation of the next generation of more fuel-efficient vehicles to meet not only future regulations but also customer expectations."

340bhp AudiTT RS waiting in the wings

2009-07-01T18:28:00.000-07:00

The new Audi TT RS should be simply awesome to drive...

Audi is working on a new variant of its two-door coupe/convertible, the TT. Called the Audi TT RS, the car will be powered by a 2.5-litre turbocharged five-cylinder petrol engine that produces 340 horsepower and 450Nm of torque. The TT RS will also get Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive and an extremely lightweight body made of aluminium, constructed as per the ‘Audi Space Frame’ principle.

The TT RS Coupé will be able to go from zero to 100km/h in 4.6 seconds and hit a top speed of 250km/h. And if you aren’t happy with that (and if you’re also not worried about being jailed for speeding…), Audi can also officially de-restrict the car for a top speed of 280km/h.

Audi is likely to launch the TT RS in India by mid-2010, so be prepared to trade in your Porsche, Mercedes-Benz or BMW by that time…

MTM tunes up the KTM X-Bow and Audi TTS

2009-06-30T18:29:00.000-07:00

Click either image for a high-res gallery of MTM's creations

MTM tunes all things Audi, so it didn't take long for the firm to tweak the KTM X-Bow (with its VAG-sourced inline-four) and the all-new Audi TTS. Of the two, the X-Bow gets the milder tuning (if that's possible), with the 2.0-liter TFSI four-pot getting a boost in output from 240 to 318 horsepower. Torque rises accordingly, with 310 lb-ft on tap, sent through a modified six-speed manual transmission to the rear wheels. Four-piston Brembos with 305 mm discs are nestled within 18-inch wheels coated in Nokain Hakkapeliita-4 rubber sized 245/40. Although MTM doesn't cite a revised 0-60 mph time, it claims a top speed of 156 mph (one mph more than stock).

For those who are looking for a more friendly daily driver but aren't willing to wait around for the TTRS, the MTM-tuned TTS boasts 380 hp and 364 lb-ft of torque from an upgraded turbocharger that huffs 22.5 psi of boost into the 2.0-liter's four cylinders. A new intake and exhaust manifold is fitted, along with eight-piston Brembos clamping onto 380mm discs, with 20-inch wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 (245/30) tires. A 330 hp version is also available, starting at €63,103 ($85k USD), while the full-bore 380 hp package will set you back €73,715 (a cool $99k USD).

Gallery: KTM XBow by MTM

Gallery: Audi TT-S by MTM

MTM tunes up the KTM X-Bow and Audi TTS originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 03 Apr 2009 19:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Audi TT RS Roadster Spy Photos

2009-06-28T18:27:00.000-07:00

The Audi TT RS Roadster was caught by the spy photographers during some winter tests, and it looks hot! It should go on sale starting from 2009, with a 2.5L petrol engine.

Tags: AudiTT,2009 New Audi TT VS, 2000 2001 2002 Audi TT - TTS, 2003 2004 2005 Audi TT, 2006 2007 2008 Audi TT, Audi TT Quattro, Audi TT Turbo, AudiTTRoadster, AudiTTRS, AudiRS

Audi TT-S

2009-06-25T18:26:00.000-07:00

The first generation TT offered two choices: coupe and convertible. And while that technically counts as two different versions, an enthusiast who actually plans on driving the car knows that that’s really just one choice of car. Audi has loosed the variation machine on this second generation TT, however, doubling the possible selections, with coupe and convertible joined by TT-S and TT-RS flavors.

The TT-S is next on the catwalk, and shots have surfaced showing off the grille and goods, mainly in the form of a more brutish face boasting a serious chin spoiler, quad pipes out the rear, and the inclusion of LEDs under the headlamps. The 2-seater will get a 270-hp heart, with 258 lb-ft ready to churn. It will hold the road with — and hopefully turn in better because of — a stiffer suspension.

The RS-badged TT is claimed to get a 5-cylinder turbo with 308 horsepower. Make no mistake, we are card carrying fans of souped up Audi. But the TT 3.2 quattro with S-tronic has a base MSRP of $42,900, with the Roadster another $3,000 skyward. By the time Audi adds the premiums for the S and RS, the car will be playing around in Boxster/Cayman territory. We just hope the driving experience proves that’s where the car belongs.

Audi TT RS debuts

2009-06-23T18:25:00.000-07:00

With the R8 supercar, German automaker Audi demonstrated to the world that it is capable of producing the most capable performance sportscars on the road. But the gap between the R8 and its kid brother, the TT, remained as wide as the supercar's track. At this year's Geneva Motor Show, however, Audi closed that gap considerably with the new TT RS.

Packing a turbocharged, direct-injection inline-five with 340 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque, the TT RS is capable of hitting 60 in a scant 4.6 seconds, and will be available in both coupe and convertible body styles. Unfortunately the hot TT won't be making it to the North American market, so those on the Western shore of the Atlantic will just have to admire from afar, like with the images in the gallery below.

Gallery: Geneva 2009: Audi TT RS

2010 Audi TT RS is ready for its closeup

2009-06-21T18:24:00.000-07:00

Audi TT RS Coupe and Roadster - Click above for a high-res gallery

Audi has released a plethora of new beautiful photographs of the Audi TT RS Coupe and Roadster, and it just makes us want them to change their mind about bringing the car to the United States even more. After all, what's not to love? The 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder puts out 340 horsepower and 332 lb-ft torque running through a six-speed manual transmission and Audi's quattro all-wheel drive system.

It also comes with other goodies like a stiffer suspension, five-spoke 18-inch wheels, more aggressive exterior styling, Alcantara /leather sports seats, and more. Why wouldn't we want a TT that has all that? More details on the car can be found in the press release after the jump, and dozens of new high-res images are available in the gallery below.

Gallery: Audi TT RS and Roadster

GM marketing boss Mark LaNeve apparently unaware that diesel is now cheaper than gas 2009

2009-06-05T23:55:00.000-07:00

Over the last several years, we've heard a lot of excuses from many auto executives as to why their companies aren't offering diesel engines in their American market cars. Yesterday, General Motors' Mark LaNeve, the company's vice president of sales and marketing, made an appearance on C-SPAN's Washington Journal. The final question of the segment came from a viewer wondering why GM has failed to offer U.S. consumers the chance to buy some of the high-mileage diesel cars it offers in Europe.

It would appear that LaNeve might have done better to take a pass on the question. Instead of talking about the cost of making those diesels meet U.S. emissions regulations or the difficulty in helping Americans overcome the misconceptions about the fuel, he claimed that no one has successfully cracked the diesel passenger nut in the U.S. (which based on VW's May sales appears to be wrong). More startlingly, LaNeve went on to claim that diesel is $1.25 a gallon more expensive than gasoline. According to the Energy Information Agency, the national average for diesel this week is $2.35 / gallon while regular gas is $2.52 or $0.17 more than diesel. Admittedly, the fact that diesel is now cheaper than 87 octane gas is a recent development (a trend that nobody is sure how long it will last), but – going on national television and quoting outdated fuel prices as a reason for your bankrupt company's business decisions... well, that doesn't strike us as a terribly hot idea.

You can hear the question and response at 20:30 into the video replay over at C-SPAN.

Audi TT RS | Spy Shots | News | Auto Express

2009-03-26T04:06:00.002-07:00

Audi is developing an even hotter version of its TT coupe which is set to take on the performance flagship RS designation.

Spotted here at the Nurburgring, the Audi TT-RS promises to be a real alternative to the Porsche Cayman.

The TT-RS will use the 2.5-litre inline five-cylinder petrol unit from the VW Group - its first five-pot engine in ten years.

Early speculation suggests performance will be in excess of 260kW from the addition of twin sequential turbochargers.

Naturally all this power will be transferred to the asphalt using Audi’s permanent quattro all-wheel drive system through a 6-speed manual transmission or option DSG.

This model will go on sale in the UK by the end of 2008, with local sales likely to begin by early 2009.

At the same time, Audi also plans to replace its current 3.6-litre V6 engine with the more refined 3.2-litre unit from the Volkswagen Passat.

Audi TT-RS spied at ‘Ring » Australian Car Advice | News Blog

2009-03-26T04:06:00.001-07:00

The Audi TT is considered to be one of the most beautiful cars in the world. The only thing this car lacks is an outrageous level of performance. Apparently that is about to change as Audi are currently working at a high-performance TT version that will wear the famous RS appellative. With an anticipated power output of 365 bhp, the new beast will give serious headaches to all those Porche Caymans and BMW Z4s out there starting with 2008.

There have been many rumors all over the media regarding a future TT RS high performance compact coupe from Audi. Some claimed that such a model would not be necessary due to the introduction of a larger coupe (following the Nuvolari concept coordinates). The Volkswagen Group (owner of Audi) follows an exhaustive model line-up for quite a while; in their opinion throwing several fishing rods in the pond guarantees that at least a couple of customers will get “angled”. Therefore, we think that a TT RS will be released, especially if you consider that they already have all the necessary ingredients.

And, what ingredients would be necessary for a mean “Porsche-rear-kicking’” TT? First of all, a brand new 2007 TT, which is already available on the market? Second of all, a bored out version of the 3.2 liter V6 power with a 3.6-liter displacement slightly revved until able to produce 365 bhp. Match that with a high end DSG double clutch 7-speed transmission and make all Cayman owners get a knot in their throats. Spice all that with RS4-like racing bucket seats a flat bottom wheel and some carbon fiber.

Such a spicy treat could not be properly enjoyed without an appropriate garnish. As part of that will be featured large cooling intakes with honey-comb grilles, side spoiler air exhausts, a lower mean looking lip spoiler, indecently widened wheel arches able to host the widened tires sitting on 19” wheels and silver side mirrors.

Audi official sketch

Updated suspension, steering and brakes (optional in ceramic) will ensure a top level of performance, able to match the Audi RS heritage. As any high-performance Audi, the TT RS will feature four-wheel drive. Unfortunately, even though the 4WD system featured on the TT is marketed as a “Quattro”, in fact it is the less potent 4-Motion system regularly used on Volkswagen vehicles. That is because the regular Audi “Quattro” system featuring a Torsen-diff can only be used with longitudinally mounted engines. The compact sizes of the TT force for a transverse mounted engine that can only be equipped with a Haldex 4WD from Volkswagen. This is another detail that will keep the TT apart from the larger coupe (Nuvolari) with longitudinal engines and a veritable Quattro.

The 0-60mph sprint time of the new Audi TT RS will probably take less than five seconds, but the top speed will be electronically limited to 155mph, speeds higher than that remaining an exclusive for the R8 supercar.

The TT RS is expected to be launched in late 2008 in Europe and base price will start at about $75,000.

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2006 Audi TT Special Edition

History

The next best thing to a RS model for the Audi TT Mk1 was the 2006 Special Edition. Available in both coupe and roadster versions, and will arrive in showrooms this spring. Audi will produce 99 Special Edition coupes and 99 Special Edition roadsters to mark the 99th anniversary of the first Tourist Trophy race on the Isle of Man in 1907. The TT got its moniker from the legendary Tourist Trophy race.

Both cars come standard with a 3.2-liter, narrow angle V6 engine producing 250 hp and 236 ft.-lbs. of torque. Mated to the engine is Audi’s famed six-speed Direct Shift Gearbox and Quattro all-wheel drive. Helping to put the power to the pavement are unique Special Edition bi-color nine-spoke 18” wheels with performance tires.

Other Audi TT Special Edition exclusive features include unique paint and interior trim. The coupe is available in Misano Red, Ocean Blue, and Light Silver paint, all combined with a black roof and premium black leather interior. The roadster is available only in Quartz Gray with a black power roof and an Amber Red baseball-optic leather interior. Both models will feature an engraved badge on the glove box acknowledging these TTs as “1 of 99” Special Editions.

Standard equipment on the TT Special Edition include heated front seats, Homelink, and a premium Bose audio system with six-disc CD changer. The only option available is satellite radio with a choice of XM or Sirius. The 2006 TT Special Edition coupe starts at $43,539; roadster models start at $46,539. A destination charge of $720 for both vehicles is not included in the base price.

More information on the 2006 Audi TT Special Edition can be found here.

2005 Audi TT 3.2 Quattro

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2006 Porsche Cayman S

Competition

One of the bad boys of the entry level high-performance coupes is the Porsche Cayman S. The Boxster-based 2006 Porsche Cayman S is distinguished from its roadster brother by a new front clip with larger air intakes and prominent round fog lamps below the headlights. The Cayman’s hatchback design allows rear storage capacity to increase from 4.6 cu ft in the Boxster to 9.2 cu ft in the Cayman S. Total capacity including the front trunk is 14.5 cu ft—that is more than in the BMW 330i sedan. The rear fenders are more prominent than the Boxster’s, and they culminate in a speed-activated baby ducktail spoiler atop a more aggressively designed rear clip that houses dual tailpipes in a unique, squared-off rounded design.

Cayman S – this is the name of Porsche’s new Sports Coupe based on the Boxster model series. Ranking between the Boxster S and the 911 Carrera, this truly unique mid-engined two-seater sports car is powered by a 3.4-litre 295 bhp horizontally-opposed six-cylinder accelerating the Cayman S to 100 km/h in 5.4 seconds and providing a top speed of 275 km/h or 183 mph.

Benefiting from its supreme body stiffness and superb balance of weight with the power unit upfront of the rear axle, the Cayman S is a genuine driving machine able to lap the Nordschleife, the Northern Circuit of Nürburgring, in just 8:20 minutes – faster than the Boxster S and only a bit slower than the 911 Carrera.

The six-cylinder horizontally-opposed power unit featured in the Cayman S is based on the 3.2-litre carried over from the Boxster S. The cylinder heads, together with VarioCam Plus camshaft and valve lift adjustment, come in their entirety from the 911 Carrera, VarioCam Plus thus making its debut for the first time outside of the 911 model series.

This elaborate valve management not only ensures supreme output of 295 bhp (217 kW) at 6250 rpm and powerful torque of 340 Newton-metres (251 lb-ft) between 4400 rpm and 6000 rpm, but also provides superior fuel economy of just 10.6 litres/100km equal to 26.6 mpg Imp.

Click here to read more on the 2006 Porsche Cayman S.

2007 BMW Z4 M Coupe

Another competitor for the future Audi TT RS is the BMW Z4 M Coupe, a sports car for very special moments in life. Uncompromising, purist and exceptionally powerful, this two-seater offers undiluted dynamism both in everyday traffic and on the race track. Its 3.2-litre M straight-six power

unit developing maximum output of 252 kW/343 hp ensures driving performance of the highest caliber.

The Geneva Motor Show is certainly the right place to celebrate the world debut of a very special car: This is where the BMW Z4 Coupe is being presented to the public for the first time.

Right from the start the BMW Z4 Coupe Concept Car presented at the 2005 Frankfurt Motor Show was able to arouse powerful emotions, a great feeling of desirability, and great expectations. And now the production model is making all theses wishes come true, the BMW Z4 Coupe being conceived from the start for sports motoring in its purest form – with a weight-optimized body shell, a chassis and suspension superior in every situation, and the 195 kW/265 hp straight-six power unit setting the standard worldwide in its class.

Apart from its supreme power also expressed by peak torque of 365 Newton-metres or 269 lb-ft, the BMW Z4 M Coupe stands out in particular by the unique qualities of the chassis and suspension in conveying the enormous power of the engine to the road. Indeed, the high standard of agility and spontaneity expressed by this unique sports car in responding to all commands from the driver characterizes the car’s truly unique character.

Audi TT RS

2009-03-25T23:54:00.000-07:00