2015 Ford Mustang GT Coupe Concept

As the current life-cycle of arguably America's most iconic automotive nameplates draws to an end, all eyes are looking towards the near future and locking on to the next Ford Mustang that will arrive in 2014 as a 2015 model, right in time to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the pony car.

Now in writing this I must confess to admiring the styling of the current Mustang, with its chiseled bodywork and retro throwbacks it does get my heart pumping – almost bordering towards cardiac arrest in GT500 form.

So where to from here for Ford and the global design studios that have a hand in penning the next Mustang; should they look to the past for inspiration or should they follow a clean slate approach that throws all previous retro elements into the shredder?

In protecting its loyal customer base, Ford will want this to be a home run, so expect some familiar cues combined with a more futuristic look incorporating the company's Post-Kinetic design language.

To give a speculative insight on how the next Mustang might look, I've created a render that incorporates Ford's latest design language from current production and concept models.

The word on the street is that the new pony car will borrow heavily from last year’s Evos concept, so bearing this in mind, I have softened some of lines as well as making them more expressive and sleeker. For example, the scollops in the doors are deeper and rear haunches are more curvaceous to exude a subtle hint of the GT40.

The front keeps that classic Mustang look combined with an exaggerated border that leads down from the headlights and onto the lower bumper. Not forgetting the grille, it gains an imposing variation of the staple trapezoidal outline, now found on most of Ford's current passenger car lineup.

So this is just one designer’s crystal ball gaze. Is it far too evolutionary or just on the mark, what do you think?

One thing is for sure; whatever Ford lets out of its stables next will have to be good enough to take on the world.

More Pictures of Ford Mustang GT Coupe

The 2013 Scion tC Release Series 8.0

Scion has released the pricing for the 2013 Scion tC Release Series 8.0, which starts at $21,815 and $22,865 when equipped with a six-speed manual and six-speed automatic transmission respectively.

The tC Release Series 8.0 comes exclusively in Absolutely Red exterior paint with contrasting gloss black side view mirrors and matching black 18-inch alloy wheels. It also gets a unique five-piece body kit that was inspired by Troy Sumitomo of Five Axis that includes front and rear lower valences, side skirts and a rear spoiler. The special tC also gets TRD lowering springs and an exhaust system that is integrated into the center of the rear lower valence.

The interior of the tC features seats that are wrapped in texturized black fabric with red stitching. The red stitching continues on the leather wrapped steering wheel. Each car comes with an individually numbered badge commemorating the unique model. When equipped with a six-speed automatic, the tC RS 8.0 also gets steering wheel mounted paddle shifters.

Only 2,000 of the 2013 Scion tC Release Series 8.0 coupes will be made and they will be available at dealer showrooms later this month.

More Pictures of 2013 Scion tC

2014 BMW X4 returns to the Nurburgring [video]

Could be launched early next year

The 2014 BMW X4 has been spied undergoing  testing on the Nürburgring.

Set to go on sale early next year, the model was previewed by the X4 concept and follows in the footsteps of the larger X6. As a result, it eschews the X3's traditional styling for a sportier shape that has a more aggressive front bumper and a coupe-like profile.

Engine options will likely be shared with the X3, so choices could include a 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo four-cylinder with 240 bhp (179 kW) and a 3.0-liter TwinPower Turbo inline-six with 300 bhp (224 kW) and 300 lb-ft (406 Nm) of torque. There could also be a 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo four-cylinder diesel engine with 181 bhp (135 kW) and 280 lb-ft (380 Nm) of torque.

 

Chevrolet previews their high-performance lineup for SEMA [video]

Bowtie brand to get top billing

Chevrolet has announced plans to introduce a variety of concepts at the SEMA Motor Show.

First up, the Performance Sonic RS concept features a turbocharged 1.4-liter engine that has been equipped with a cold-air intake, a sports exhaust system and a "Stage Kit." The car also has a bespoke exterior, a sport-tuned suspension, high-performance brakes and 18-inch alloy wheels.

The Ricky Carmichael All-Activity Sonic concept features a variety of Chevrolet Performance parts including everything from the Performance Sonic RS concept. Despite the similarities, the model is distinguished by an aerodynamic body kit, a revised grille and a THULE roof rack. The car also has board short-inspired seats, a leather-wrapped dashboard, an aluminum gear knob and an upgraded audio system.

Next up, the Personalization Sonic concept has a Victory Red exterior with body-color door handles, chrome accents and an exterior graphics package. Other highlights include a Borla exhaust, a sport-tuned suspension, high-performance brakes and 18-inch alloy wheels. The car has also been equipped with a Kicker audio system, all-weather floor mats and pedal covers.

The Spark EV Tech Performance concept has a unique exterior with an illuminated bowtie emblem and billet aluminum wheels. The car also has body-color trim, special floor mats and "lightweight features that enhance performance."

The Urban Cool Impala concept is based on the Impala LTZ and features a ground effects package, a revised grille and 20-inch alloy wheels. There's also Sky Cool Gray leather seats, piano black / anodized black trim and a Bose audio system.

Moving on, the Malibu LTZ concept has a Sterling Silver exterior with an aerodynamic body kit and 19-inch alloy wheels. Power is provided by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine which has been outfitted with a cold-air intake, a "Stage Kit" and a Borla exhaust system.

Last but not least, the Personalization Cruze Diesel concept has a 3dCarbon body kit, a Kicker audio system and ambient interior lighting.

Check out the press release for additional information

Alonso would do more with Vettel's car - Hamilton

Fernando Alonso 26.10.2013 Indian Grand Prix / XPB At the wheel of a Red Bull, Fernando Alonso's feats would be "far beyond" what Sebastian Vettel has achieved.

That is the claim of Lewis Hamilton, despite having recently clarified his views about Vettel's dominance following suggestions he lacked respect for the German.

"Feel the need to clarify my thoughts," he wrote on Twitter earlier this month. "Seb is great champion!"

However, when asked by the Spanish sports daily AS if he would have won four titles at the wheel of Vettel's Red Bull, Briton Hamilton answered: "I can't really say.

"It would be foolish of me to say that.

"But what is clear to me is that if Fernando (Alonso) had been in that car ... he would be far beyond where Vettel is now. He would have won even more easily," added Hamilton.

When asked about the general lack of respect for Vettel's achievements, Adrian Newey - who pens the dominant Red Bull - put it down to "jealousy".

Niki Lauda, however, is full of praise for the German, who will stroll to his fourth title in India on Sunday if he simply finishes fifth.

"If the good lord had mixed a cocktail with all the best features of a racing driver," Mercedes' Lauda told Auto Bild, "Sebastian Vettel is the result."

BMW 2-Series Coupe 2014

BMW announced the introduction of an entirely new model series, the all-new BMW 2-Series Coupe, designed to replace the 1-Series Coupe. The BMW 2-Series Coupe raises the bar in the premium sub-compact segment in terms of dynamic ability, aesthetic appeal and emotional allure.

The sporty and luxurious Coupe has a distinctive front fascia with a unique grille, bespoke headlights and large air intakes. The two-door model is 2.8 inches (72 mm) longer, 32mm wider and has a wheelbase that has been stretched by 30mm than its predecessor. The result is an increase in interior space and 0.7 cu.ft. (20 liters) of additional luggage capacity (now 13.8 cu.ft./390 liters, based on EU measures).

The interior comes with driver- focused design of the cockpit, contemporary functionality and high-quality materials. It is equipped with cloth seats and satin silver trim. Options include Dakota leather upholstery, brushed aluminum or fineline stream wood trim and a 6.5- or 8.8-inch iDrive display.

Engines with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology deliver segment-leading figures in terms of both sporting ability and efficiency. The BMW 228i Coupe is the first sub-compact BMW model to be powered by the 240 hp version of the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine.

The range-topping, the BMW M235i is powered by M Performance 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder with TwinPower technology delivering 322 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque.

Alpha-N VW Golf 6 R 2014

ALPHA-N Performance from Bad Neuenahr has released an upgrade package for the Volkswagen Golf 6 R.

Alpha-N and hlins tamed up for a custom Road & Track chassis which finds its perfect partners in the extremely light-weight OZ Racing Ultraleggera HL T-wheel rims in the Race Gold finish. Other changes include EVOMS sports air filter system and a (customised) stainless steel exhaust system.

As a result of these modifications, the Volkswagen Golf 6 R's 2.0-liter turbocharged engine produces 330 HP (243 kW). Power is sent to all four wheels through a DSG transmission enabling the car to be faster than the stock model.

New Toyota GT 86 Sports Coupe

Toyota GT86, without a shadow of doubt, is one of the most important cars of 2012. The car is still making headlines, so forgive us for talking so much about it. Toyota just released a bunch of new videos detailing the car's technical stuff. We know the GT86 feels pretty awesome to drive, now let's find out what exactly makes it so good. The 86 is one of those car whose mechanical bits are actually more beautiful than the way it looks!

The horizontally-opposed 2.0 liter four-cylinder engine in this car is one of the things contributing to its greatness. But it's also one of its major flaws. You see, it's very low-slung, which brings the center of gravity for the whole car down, making it better to drive. But it's also weak at only 200 hp. Hopefully a more powerful version in near future would cure that.

More Pictures of Toyota GT 86

2013 Ferrari F12 Berlinetta First Look

With 740 hp, a phenomenally flat torque curve, compact form, agile handling, optimum weight distribution and a distinctive, aerodynamically honed shape, the all new Ferrari F12 Berlinetta marks a major step forward in the history of 12 cylinders Ferraris.

With the F12 Berlinetta, Pininfarina designed a most pleasing interpretation of style for a light, compact Berlinetta with a front engine: the car shape immediately communicates its high performance while bringing together functionality and beauty.

The two goals Ferrari sets for the creation of the new Ferrari F12 Berlinetta were particularly challenging because, in a certain sense, were opposed to each other: to exceed the qualities and the performance of a car designed for the track while maintaining a level of comfort and ease of driving of a GT.

In developing the F12 Berlinetta, Ferrari has taken the best from two of the company’s highly successful models, the GTO and the 458 Italia which boasts driving dynamics that are unique. The main points were to reduce the car’s dimensions: the front-mounted engine now leads to greater inertia on bends, which has to be limited in order to provide an easy and dynamic driving experience. The F12 Berlinetta is shorter, narrower and lower than the 599 while still offering a better driving position and superior comfort. Ferrari engineers carried out the work in such a way as to utilize every space and channel, exactly as they do with Formula One cars, to then performed careful work on the car’s weight, with excellent results similar to those of the GTO, but with the comfort of a road car. All this guarantees handling very similar to that of an eight-cylinder like the 458 because the inertia factor disappears in driving, even on particularly winding routes.

What is striking when you look at the car is its streamlined and innovative shape, betraying the hand of a very special designer: the wind. The lines are modeled on designs suggested by the air, with an incredibly low drag factor for a car like the F12 Berlinetta which is capable of such high down-force.

Inertia, mass and dimensions are the physical basis of this new model, one that promises to be spectacular in terms of performance as well as style. In terms of engine and electronics, the car has an engine of over 740 hp at 8,700 rpm, with torque rising almost in a straight line from 4,000, with emissions and consumption reduced by 20 percent.

More Pictures of Ferrari F12 Berlinetta

2013 Fiat 500L

According to Brazilian enthusiast site bestcars.com.br, Fiat will start selling the 500 L in Europe this month. Deliveries will begin in October. The good news is that the minivan will be available in 100 countries, including the good old USA. Fiat took the opportunity to supply more info on the first stem off its iconic Cinquecento that will spawn a slew of cars including the 500 X. Read on to find out the details.

The minivan will be available with three engines. The smallest is a turbo twin cylinder with MultiAir technology that displaces just 900 cm and is good for an astonishing 105 hp and 14.7 m.kgf (3.01 pounds per in ) of torque. Fiat will also offer a more traditional 1.4L 16v gasoline engine producing 95 hp and 12.7 m.kgf (2.6 pounds per in ) of torque. The diesel will be a turbo 1.3L MultiJet with just 85 hp, but 20.4 m.kgf (4.18 pounds per in ). They will be mated to 5 and 6-speed manuals. At least initially. Of course, once in America, an auto will be available.

On the safety side the car comes with frontal and side curtain bags. Knee bags and side torso bags will be optional. Stability control, air conditioning et al are all included. As far as I know, in a first for Fiat, the 500 L will feature a gizmo called City Brake Control. It consists of auto brakes which will brake the car independently of the driver's reaction at low speeds.

In terms of decoration, the 500 L will follow the 500 s lead and offer two-tone body paint (black or white roof), 3 color combos for the wheels and a variety of internal colors. The minivan will come with Fiat's UConnect system that lets the drives navigate, control the audio, Bluetooth among other functions via its 5 in. touchscreen display. The back seat can be adjusted in 12 different positions.

Size-wise, Americans will be forgiven if they think of this minivan as a microvan. It stretches out 4.14 m (4.53 yd.), it is 1.78 m (1.95 yd.) wide and 1.66 m (5.45 ft.) tall. It seats 5 and the trunk is largish and holds 400 L (14.13 ft. ) of bags.

So, what do you say, on paper at least, does this car have what it takes to make it in America's big, open, flat spaces, or will it be forever condemned to eke out a living in America's congested, coastal, urban centers?

To my Brazilian readers, the word is no, we can't have it! Fiat prefers to force-feed us the Idea that is produced locally. The 500 X however, might make it to our shores. If this holds true, it lends credence to the production and eventual sale of the 500 X in America and Canada as it will likely be produced in Mexico.

More Pictures of Fiat 500L

2013 McLaren MP4-12C Spyder

After months and months of spy shots, and a very special teaser, McLaren Automotive has finally unveiled the MP4-12C Spider and boy, was it worth the wait!

Featuring all of the updates recently found on the updated MP4-12C coupe, the Spider promises to take the fight to the Ferrari 458 Italia Spyder and help reinvigorate life into the high-performance sports car market.

As you would expect, the MP4-12C Spider is essentially identical to its coupe sibling, meaning it's also made good use out of the advanced carbon fiber monocoque, tipping the scales at just 165 lbs. Despite the added weight of the electronic systems required to open and close the hardtop, the Spider has only gained 40kg/88 lbs over the coupe, meaning no modifications to the monocoque were needed.

The new MP4-12C Spider is offered with the same engine as the updated version of the MP4-12C Coupe: a 616 HP 3.8-liter V8 twin turbo engine combined with a 7 Speed SSG dual-clutch transmission. The Spider version will sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.1 seconds and will hit a top speed of 204 mph (3 mph less than the coupe).

One of the most innovative features of the new 12C Spider is its unique RHT (Retractable Hard Top) folding roof system that may be operated while on the move at speed of up to 19 mph.

Confirmed back in 2009, the new MP4-12C Spyder will be available for sale in 22 countries worldwide.

On the British market, it is priced at 195,500, about $300K at the current exchange rates. On the US market, it will be priced at $268,250, which is about $37,250 more than its coupe sibling priced at $231,000.

More Pictures of 2013 McLaren MP4-12C Spyder

BTCC Media Day 2013 Pictures

BTCC Media Day 2013 Pictures

Vegas Drift ProAm Round 2 2013 Pictures

Vegas Drift ProAm Round 2 2013 Pictures

Mini follows the trend – Brings Frozen Black variants

By Ossamah Shabbir on Sunday, October 20th, 2013

Frozen color options have been both controversial and popular at the same time depending upon who you speak to. BMW has been the champion for a while in marketing frozen color options. Now Mini is following the path of the big brother and to start things off offers Countryman and Paceman in Frozen Black Metallic.

This new paint option will be offered on all S, Diesel and John Cooper Works versions of the Paceman and Countryman. We are still not sure if us poor folks on the stateside will be able to order these. Take a look at high resolution pictures and an official press release from Mini.

Gallery 2014 Frozen Black Mini Paceman Pictures

Source: Mini

“Highlight in matt: MINI now with exclusive Frozen Black metallic paint finish.

MINI John Cooper Works Paceman with Frozen Black metallic paint finish. (10/2013)
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Note: This press release was originally issued by MINI Global Communications and has not been adapted for the UK market.

MINI is extending its program of exterior paint finishes for current models to include an exclusive new variant. Frozen Black metallic paint is now available as a limited edition colour for the top of the range MINI Countryman and MINI Paceman models. This innovative paint which has a textured, shimmering matt finish, gives the car a striking and expressive appearance. The new colour and finish is available for the MINI Cooper S Countryman, MINI Cooper SD Countryman, MINI Cooper S Paceman, MINI Cooper SD Paceman, MINI John Cooper Works Countryman and MINI John Cooper Works Paceman.

The Frozen Black metallic paint finish is created using a complex manufacturing process exclusive to the BMW Group. This special painting procedure, which involves not just innovative technology but also a high level of manual craftsmanship, is now being applied for the first time by Austrian production partner Magna Steyr in Graz where the MINI Paceman and MINI Countryman are produced. The special surface treatment encompasses the base layer for grip and corrosion protection, the colour layer as well as the clear lacquer finish which has added silicates to create the matted impression as well as the velvet effect which can be seen and felt.

Attached exterior parts such as the model-specific front and rear aprons and the exterior mirror caps are finished separately in the paint finish Frozen Black metallic. Due to the labour intensive process used to apply this exclusive body colour during production it is limited to a restricted number of cars.

Frozen Black metallic is of the same high quality as the other paint finishes available for MINI in terms of abrasion resistance and colour fidelity. The finish is completely weather resistant and car wash resistant, however hand washing does require special care as spot cleaning of the surface using wax or polish can leave an unwanted gloss effect. For this reason the BMW Group offers care products developed specially for treating the Frozen Black metallic paint finish.

The BMW Group
The BMW Group is the leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles in the world with its BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce brands. As a global company, the BMW Group operates 28 production and assembly facilities in 13 countries and has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2012, the BMW Group sold about 1.85 million cars and more than 117,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax for the financial year 2012 was euro 7.82 billion on revenues amounting to euro 76.85 billion. At 31 December 2012, the BMW Group had a workforce of 105,876 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been built on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company has therefore established ecological and social sustainability throughout the value chain, comprehensive product responsibility and a clear commitment to conserving resources as an integral part of its strategy.”

Bring out the Checkbooks – Lamborghini Veneno Roadster is here!

By Ossamah Shabbir on Sunday, October 20th, 2013

Lamborghini is known for creating cars that defy normality where ever they go and Veneno was no different when it was revealed at Geneva Motor Show in March 2013. Radical design, limited production numbers and expensive price tag is the theme on most of these cars.

Now Lamborghini has revealed the Veneno Roadster for folks who were not able to order the coupe. As far as the specs, it should still have the mighty V12 pushing 700+ horsepower that should be plenty to provide music to anyone’s ears. Take a look at the press release and some high resolution images.

Gallery 2014 Lamborghini Veneno Roadster Pictures

Source: Lamborghini

“Lamborghini Veneno Roadster - a collector’s Masterpiece of Engineering and Design

As a further highlight of its 50th anniversary year, Automobili Lamborghini is presenting one of the most exceptional super sports cars of all time. The Lamborghini Veneno Roadster is an open racing prototype with an extreme design and breathtaking performance. And it is one of the world’s most exclusive automobiles - not more than nine units will be built during the course of 2014 and sold at a price of 3.3 million Euros (excl. tax).

The Veneno Roadster is extreme and guarantees an intense driving experience - because open means truly open. There is no roof, just a strong rollover bar for optimum safety. The design is focused on optimum aerodynamics and stability through fast corners - with handling akin to that of a racing prototype. Yet it is fully road legal.

With a maximum output of 552 kW / 750 hp, the Veneno Roadster accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.9 seconds and top speed stands at 355 km/h. The Lamborghini Veneno Roadster is driven by a twelve-cylinder engine with a displacement of 6.5 liters and is equipped with the extremely fast-shifting ISR transmission with five modes, permanent all-wheel drive and a racing chassis with pushrod suspension and horizontal spring/damper units.

The Lamborghini Veneno Roadster brings the aerodynamic efficiency of a racing prototype to the road. Every detail of its form pursues a clear function - exceptional dynamics, optimum downforce with minimal drag and perfect cooling of the high-performance engine. Therfore the Veneno Roadster is unmistakably a Lamborghini; it sticks firmly to the consistent design philosophy of all the super sports cars from Sant’Agata Bolognese. That includes the extreme proportions, as well as the powerfully arrow-shaped front end and the interplay between razor-sharp lines and precise surfaces.

The entire design of the Lamborghini Veneno Roadster has been laid out for perfect airflow and downforce. The front end works as a large aerodynamic wing. The visual division of the rear fenders from the car body is a reference to the world of racing cars and optimizes the aerodynamic flow. The smooth underbody transitions into a substantial diffuser framing the four sizable exhaust pipes divided by a splitter. Large openings serve to ventilate the engine bay and direct airflow to the rear wing. The design of the adjustable rear wing is the product of motorsport experience and extensive aerodynamic simulation to ensure optimum airflow in the interaction of the rear wing with the rear diffuser.

The design of the exclusive alloy wheels is also determined by aerodynamic functionality - a carbon-fiber ring around the wheel rim works like a turbine to deliver additional cooling air to the carbon-ceramic brake discs. The intense paint color “Rosso Veneno” was developed exclusively for the Veneno Roadster, although each single customer will be able to individualize his own vehicle to suit his personal preferences.

The Veneno Roadster is further proof of Automobili Lamborghini’s unique competence in CFRP-based lightweight design. A monocoque made from carbon-fiber reinforced polymer forms the basis of the Roadster. All exterior parts are made from CFRP. The Veneno Roadster meets all safety and registration requirements worldwide, and naturally also incorporates a full complement of safety systems from airbags through to the adapted ESP handling system.

Carbon fiber dominates also the interior of the Veneno Roadster. The carbon fiber monocoque is visible inside the car around the central tunnel and the sills. The two lightweight bucket seats are made from Lamborghini’s patented Forged Composite. The woven carbon-fiber CarbonSkin is used to clad the entire cockpit, part of the seats and the headliner. Like a hi-tech fabric, this extremely fine-looking carbon-fiber matting fits perfectly to any form and reduces the weight of the vehicle.

The systematic, carbon-fiber, lightweight design of the Veneno Roadster is not only visible, it is also evident on the scales: with a dry weight of just 1,490 kilograms (3,278 pounds), the Veneno Roadster benefits from a power-to-weight ratio of just 1.99 kg/hp (4.38 lbs/hp) which guarantees a performance that is nothing short of mind-blowing. Even the stunning acceleration figure of 2.9 seconds cannot adequately describe it. Despite an aerodynamic setup configured for extreme downforce, the Veneno Roadster possesses exceptionally low wind resistance which allows it to reach a top speed of 355 km/h (221 mph).”

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2014 Hyundai Genesis confirmed with HTRAC all-wheel drive system

2014 Hyundai Genesis Sedan spy photo 14.08.2013 / S. Baldauf/SB-Medien

To be unveiled later this year

Hyundai has announced the next generation of the Genesis will be offered with an optional all-wheel drive arrangement.

Hyundai Traction (HTRAC) is an advanced all-wheel drive system which can electronically control torque split between the two axles depending on driving and road conditions. The new Genesis will be revealed at home in South Korea before the end of the year and it will represent the first model to be offered with this AWD setup.

Hyundai says HTRAC will allow the person behind the wheel to choose between several available driving modes "for a sophisticated and tailored driving experience." The system has gone through durability and driving performance tests at the Nürburgring in Germany and also at the Yeongam Formula 1 circuit in South Korea. HTRAC was also involved in severe winter tests in Europe to make sure it will work as advertised.