2015 Nissan Quest pricing announced (US)

2015 Nissan Quest (US-spec)

Already on sale

Nissan has disclosed pricing details for the 2015MY Quest commercialized in United States.

The people carrier described as being "boldly styled" by Nissan has reached 2015 model year and carries a starting price of $26,530 (excluding $885 destination & handling). Nissan implemented some minor updates such as the revised D-Step Shift logic of the Xtronic transmission and the LE trim transformed into Platinum trim which now comes with Moving Object Detection for the standard Around View Monitor.

Moreover, the previous 4.3-inch display of the audio system has been replaced with a 5.0-inch unit while fuel economy has been boosted by 1 mpg city, 2 mpg highway and 1 mpg combined which means the 2015 Nissan Quest returns 20 / 27 / 22. All versions are powered by a V6 3.5-liter engine developing 260 bhp (194 kW) and 240 lb-ft (325 Nm) delivered through the aforementioned Xtronic 'box.

On top of the S, SV ($30,280), SL ($34,060) and Platinum ($43,180) grades, clients can configure their 2015 Nissan Quest with optional packages such as Bose Package, DVD Entertainment System, Leather Package, Roof Rails and Dual Opening Glass Moonroof. Regardless of selected trim, all versions come with four-wheel independent suspension, four-wheel disc brakes and speed-sensitive power steering.

Check out the press release for additional information.

Nissan March Rio 2016 Edition goes official with visual tweaks

Nissan March Rio 2016 Edition

Celebrates the 2016 Olympics

Nissan has taken the wraps off the March Rio 2016 Edition ahead of the car's debut at the Sao Paulo Motor Show later this week.

Set to be an automotive sponsor of the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Nissan is presenting the March Rio 2016 Edition which is merely a design exercise as for the moment there aren't any plans to put the car into production. It adopts a white & gold exterior paint scheme, with the latter being used on the lower section of the bumpers, side skirts, mirrors, roof spoiler and alloy wheels.

As you might have guessed, the vehicle is based on the locally produced Nissan March (Micra) and is motivated by a 16V 1.6-liter FlexFuel engine working on either gasoline or ethanol and producing 111 bhp (83 kW). It's enough for a 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) run in 9.5 seconds and a 119 mph (191 km/h) top speed.

Developed by the newly established Nissan Design America Rio studio, the March Rio 2016 Edition will be showcased at the auto show alongside the Kicks concept.

Austin says Vettel qualifying absence 'unfortunate'

Sebastian Vettel (GER) / XPB

Organisers of the US grand prix say world champion Sebastian Vettel's absence from qualifying this weekend is "unfortunate".

The Red Bull driver will sit out Saturday's decisive session and start the Austin race from the pitlane, as he takes a penalty for using an unscheduled sixth engine of the 2014 season.

German Vettel has slammed the long-life engine rule in F1, resulting in his situation, as "completely stupid".

"The people turn on the television and see a driver who just stands around and has nothing to do," he said.

Already reeling from the sudden loss of F1's two backmarker teams just ahead of the race weekend, the Austin circuit's co-founder Bobby Epstein is also upset that one of F1's biggest names will not be qualifying on Saturday.

"It's just too bad," he is quoted by the Guardian. "I would like to see him (Vettel) start on the grid on Sunday.

"It won't affect our ticket sales because most of the people come here for the overall experience but it's nevertheless unfortunate," Epstein added.

F1's loss of Marussia and Caterham, amid the risk other struggling teams could also collapse, has triggered the next round of soul-searching for the sport.

Epstein thinks formula one could learn from America's top motor racing category, Nascar.

"F1 has got to make the sport about personalities. That's what Nascar does very well," he said.

"People connect with people. They don't connect with metal."

Sainz must wait another month for Toro Rosso news

Carlos Sainz Jr / Official Facebook page

An increasingly impatient Carlos Sainz jr says he will have to wait another month for Red Bull to decide his future in formula one.

"After what we have achieved this year," the new Formula Renault 3.5 champion told Spain's Marca, "there is no alternative choice for me other than formula one."

20-year-old Sainz was openly disappointed when Red Bull picked the 17-year-old F3 sensation Max Verstappen for his Toro Rosso debut in 2015.

Now, the son of world rally legend Carlos Sainz is hoping Red Bull selects him over Jean-Eric Vergne for the second seat at Faenza, after Daniil Kvyat was called up to replace the suddenly-departing Sebastian Vettel.

"Unfortunately we are still waiting," said Sainz jr. "It will be within a month or so, when the F1 season ends.

"But I would prefer to have the news as soon as possible, whether good or bad, because it is a difficult situation," he added.

The young Spaniard is referring to the fact that, when the Verstappen news first emerged, he began to wonder if he should be looking around for an alternative seat for his F1 debut, despite the energy drink Red Bull's long support.

"Honestly, two months ago I had that option, but now as the Toro Rosso decision is closer, other options are increasingly distant, because they (other teams) are closing doors, closing contracts," Sainz added.

He said Dr Helmut Marko - Red Bull's ultimate F1 decision-maker - phoned recently to congratulate him on his 2014 title.

"He gave congratulations," said Sainz, "but he said they had not decided everything yet and they would tell me something later."

Porsche BTR-II 600 EVO Ultra Edition by SpeedART

Posted on 08.5.2013 13:00 by Simona

Do you remember the 997 Turbo BTR-II 650 EVO SpeedArt unveiled back n 2010? Today the same tuner turned its attention to the BTR-II package one more time and came up with a new version. This time around, the kit is called BTR-II 600 EVO Ultra Edition and unfortunately, it is a little bit less powerful than the first edition, but one benefit it that the tuner applied the kit to a convertible model.

This tuning kit pushes the Porsche's engine to 600 horsepower - 50 horsepower less than the BTR-II 650 EVO model. To achieve this output level, the tuner installed its Powerkit III system, a sports exhaust system with a sound switch, 200-cell sports catalytic converter and 84 mm tailpipes. Peak torque was also increased to 590 pound-feet. This represents a significant increase over the base 500 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque delivered by the 997 Turbo.

Next to the extra power, the BTR-II 600 EVO Ultra Edition received an adjustable sport suspension with PASM and air lift for more ground clearance and a meaner appearance.

Click past the jump to read more about the Porsche BTR-II 600 EVO Ultra Edition by SpeedART.

Porsche BTR-II 600 EVO Ultra Edition by SpeedART originally appeared on topspeed.com on Monday, 5 August 2013 13:00 EST.

read more

---

Nissan X-Trail 2015

Visit Nissan X-Trail 2015 for full details.

Porsche Claims There is No 911 or Macan Hybrid in the Works

There's been a lot of talk about Porsche's rumored plans to develop a hybrid version of the 911. The rumor surfaced in early 2014 and brought the prospect of a sports car that could deliver around 700 ponies while being able to run on electric power for a limited amount of time. Better fuel efficiency was also on the table for a scenario that sounded exciting to say the least. However, it seems Porsche is in no hurry to build a 911 hybrid, at least not during the current generation's lifetime.

According to Top Gear, which spoke to an unnamed Porsche spokesman, the Germans aren't planning to bring plug-in technology to the 991-gen 911. With the current model having been introduced less than three years ago, a hybrid iteration is out of the question for at least three to four more years. What's more, the company official added it's unlikely for the generation that replaces the 991 to get it as well, which means another six to seven years without a plug-in 911. That's not to say Porsche is ruling out a 911 hybrid, but it could be a possibility "within the next 15 years." If you're still excited about that 911 hybrid, then you're a very patient gearhead.

The 911 isn't the only Porsche that's not getting a hybrid drivetrain anytime soon. It seems a hybrid version of the Macan is out of the question as well, mainly because the hybrid powertrain motivating the Cayenne S E-Hybrid is too big for the crossover. The company is considering a more compact hybrid system, Porsche hybrid powertrain manager Manfred Shurmann told Top Gear, but "no development is taking place at the moment."

All told, Porsche's hybrid lineup is set to continue with its three-car range, which includes the 918, Cayenne and Panamera, for the foreseeable future.

Click past the jump to read more about Porsche's hybrid plans.

Porsche Claims There is No 911 or Macan Hybrid in the Works originally appeared on topspeed.com on Thursday, 23 October 2014 10:00 EST.

read more

---

Join Us For the TopSpeed Podcast Episode 033 LIVE

width="560" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/OXW3BNhimFY" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen>

Well that wraps up another episode of the TopSpeed Podcast. We hope everyone enjoyed listening to us for another hour.

For Episode 033 we start things out with a band by giving a shout-out and congratulations to the Mercedes AMG Petronas Formula One team on their first ever Constructors' Championship. We immediately jump into our Weekly Wheels which is full of three cars that are actually fun and exciting. Mark has been driving the Lexus GS350 F Sport, Justin had the only crossover worth buying, the Mazda CX-5, and I was bombing around in the Porsche 911 Carrera 2.

For news we have a full collection of exciting stories. There is video evidence of the new Porsche 911 GT3 RS on U.S. soil, the new Aston Martin Vantage has been spied on the Nurburgring, and we discuss our super cool new renders of the upcoming Corvette Zora ZR1. On top of that, we spend some time speculating about a new Acura ILX, the new Ferrari 458 turbo, and the potential for a Hyundai sports car. We can't forget about Mark, who spent time in basically every SUV and truck you can buy in the States today, as well as his recent drive of the new Toyota Yaris, Camry and Sienna.

Our Questions & Answer section is full of some great stuff from you guys. We get to talk about the potential for Ford to put a diesel in the F-150, the sports car we would buy for under $100,000, what car we would make with the Lamborghini Asterion's drivetrain and we finish with a quick question about video games.

In traditional TopSpeed Podcast fashion, we wrap the show up with an Own, Drive, Burn. This week's choices are a trio of super sedans from Aston Martin, Mercedes and Dodge. We hope everyone had a great time watching, and we can't wait to see you next week. Don't forget to leave comments, questions and Own, Drive, Burn suggestions for us to use over the next few shows.

If you want to reach any of us directly, you can find us all on Twitter. The podcast account is @TopSpeedPodcast, I am @Moeferd, Justin is @TheCarJunkie and Mark is @MarkMcNabb.

Have a safe weekend, and we will be back next week. Same TopSpeed time, same TopSpeed channel.

Join Us For the TopSpeed Podcast Episode 033 LIVE originally appeared on topspeed.com on Thursday, 23 October 2014 11:00 EST.

read more

---

Dodge Journey

Posted on 08.5.2013 14:00 by Kirby Garlitos

Dodge's attempt to re-inject some life to the Journey looks to have paid off with the 2013 model. Although that's not much of a stretch, given the mediocrity that plagued its past iterations, you have to give credit to Dodge for giving the Journey all the necessary tools - and then some - to be able to properly compete against a competitive market segment.

So, yeah, the 2013 Journey is a lot better than its past namesakes and while it still can't be considered a "class-leader," it's made huge enough strides to be treated with respect and attention.

The 2013 Journey's reasonably sporty feel, combined with impressive looks and refined interior makes it an SUV worth your time and money. And, oh by the way, it now comes with a 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine that produces arguably one of the highest outputs of any SUV in its class.

For those looking to have a family-friendly SUV with a hidden thirst for power lurking underneath, the 2013 Journey is as good a choice as any.

Click past the jump to read more about the 2013 Dodge Journey

Dodge Journey originally appeared on topspeed.com on Monday, 5 August 2013 14:00 EST.

read more

---

Video: Chris Harris Puts the Fiesta ST Against the G63 AMG in a Weird Way

Posted on 08.5.2013 15:00 by Simona

In the latest episode of Drive, Chris Harris performed a rather interesting head-to-head comparison, putting a Mercedes G63 AMG against a Ford Fiesta ST. That may sound insane, given the ST hits 60 mph in around 7 seconds and the G63 AMG does the same in 5.3 seconds, but there is a twist. The twist is that Harris wanted to see if the G63 AMG could beat the Fiesta ST to 60 mph while towing, well... the Fiesta ST...

That's right, Chris strapped 4 tons of trailer and car to the G63 AMG and put the pedal to the metal to see if monstrous Benz SUV can get to 60 mph in under 7 seconds. Quite an interesting and original comparison.

As a reminder, the G63 AMG is powered by a 5.5-liter V-8 biturbo engine that delivers a total of 544 horsepower and 560 pound-feet of torque. The Fiesta ST's 1.6-liter turbocharged engine produces 197 horsepower and 214 pound of torque.

So, is the Fiesta ST faster under its own power or while strapped to the back of the Mercedes?

Video: Chris Harris Puts the Fiesta ST Against the G63 AMG in a Weird Way originally appeared on topspeed.com on Monday, 5 August 2013 15:00 EST.

read more

---

Crunch, Crash, Bash – Let’s Hope You Never Encounter Any Of These Idiot Drivers

Next time you shake your fist at someone who cuts you up at the roundabout, count yourself lucky that it wasn't as bad as these incidents!

BMW M4 Coupe Likely To Get The Vorsteiner Wide body Treatment As This Teaser Image Suggests

Vorsteiner has been tuning cars for ten years now and to celebrate this milestone it is bringing a special line-up of models to the SEMA aftermarket and tuning show; this teaser image pictures one such model. The tuner has not confirmed which model they will apply this GTRS4 wide body kit to but we have...

Video: Look No Pedals! Network A Guys Enter Drifting Competition With 600hp Hand-Controlled Only Race Car!

This piece of drifting genius was built by Rob 'Chairslayer' Parsons who decided to ditch the pedals and place hand controls in the place of them. Wondering how effective this method is? Check it out in the video below.

Porsche Carrera GT Orange

Volvo planning Polestar high-performance versions for XC90 and XC60

Volvo XC90 R-Design

First will be the smaller model

According to a recent report, Volvo is considering range-topping Polestar variants for the new XC90 and the XC60.

Speaking to Drive, Polestar boss Christian Dahl has revealed the company is eyeing both the current XC60 and the all-new XC90 SUVs as performance offerings. The first step will be the XC60 Polestar, while the bigger model will be second.

“Now we have the credibility from motorsport and the sedan models then I think we can expand the brand into the SUV segment,” Dahl commented. “And maybe to start with we can do a small one, with the XC60 and then we can do the XC90. I can definitely see that happening in the future”.

Two weeks ago, Volvo presented a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine which develops an impressive 450 bhp (335.5 kW). The Drive-E motor is equipped with two parallel turbochargers that are fed by an electronically-powered turbo compressor and could be a possible engine for the XC90 Polestar.

Currently the most powerful version of the SUV is the T8 plug-in hybrid derivative that features a 2.0-liter turbocharged and supercharged four-cylinder unit and an 80 bhp (60 kW) electric motor. The system has a combined output of 400 bhp (298 kW) and 640 Nm (472 lb-ft).

Audi RS7 piloted driving concept demonstrated at Hockenheim [video]

Completed full lap without driver

Audi has showcased the RS7 piloted driving concept last weekend during the DTM season finale, following an announcement made a few days ago.

Sooner or later we will all be passengers in our own cars and Audi is providing a taste of what's to come with the RS7 piloted driving concept which managed to lap the Hockenheim without a driver. It did it at "racing speed" and managed to complete the lap in a little over two minutes, with orientation on track provided by specially corrected GPS signals transmitted to the car through a WiFi connection.

The RS7 piloted driving concept also had 3D cameras filming the circuit and working with an on-board computer program which compared the image information provided by the camera with a pre-loaded data set.

Audi says this latest test is just an episode of a series of successful developments that started ten years ago and for this project they are working together with Stanford University and Electronics Research Laboratory.

Rolls-Royce crossover design proposals are making progress, still not quite there yet

Rolls Royce Ghost

Company still isn't convinced they should build a crossover

Bentley is charging ahead with the development of their upcoming crossover but it appears Rolls-Royce is content to watch from the sidelines.

In an interview with Autocar, BMW board member Peter Schwarzenbauer reiterated claims the company is seriously considering a crossover but admitted they're "not totally convinced" they should build one. The executive went on to say the model would have to look like a proper Rolls-Royce and the design proposals are getting closer to achieving that goal but they're not quite there yet.

While Rolls-Royce is still non-committal, previous reports have suggested a production model could be based on the BMW X7 and launched in late 2018.

Heavily camouflaged 2016 Opel Astra spied up close

2016 Opel Astra spy photo / Automedia

Could lose 100 kg

A prototype of the 2016 Opel Astra wearing extensive camouflage was spotted testing showing similar proportions.

Despite the heavy disguise, it's easy to see the Astra K won't be a major departure in terms of styling compared to the current generation although it is believed some design cues will be borrowed from the Monza concept. The changes will be skin deep as the model is expected to lose as much as 220 lbs (100 kg) and there are also talks of a rear independent suspension, although Opel has not confirmed plans to drop the Watts link configuration.

Opel has launched a series of powerful turbocharged gasoline and diesel engines lately and many of them will be seen in the new Astra, topped by a four-cylinder 1.6-liter with approximately 284 HP (209 kW) in the OPC version already confirmed for a 2017 debut. Other candidates for the engine lineup include a 1.6 CDTI diesel with 110 HP (81 kW) and 136 HP (100 kW) along with a punchier 1.6 SIDI Turbo rated at 200 HP (147 kW).

The next-gen Opel Astra hatchback will be introduced in the second half of next year and will be followed by the wagon, coupe and sedan body styles. Production will take place in Ellesmere Port, UK and Gliwice, Poland, representing the first time when the Astra is entirely produced outside homeland Germany.

Audi wins the DTM manufacturers championship with a 1-2-3 finish

Audi at the 2014 DTM finale

Company came back from a 21 point deficit

BMW might be singing the praises of DTM Champion Marco Wittmann but that hasn't stopped Audi from pointing out they won the manufacturers’ championship with an impressive one-two-three victory in the DTM finale at the Hockenheim.

The impressive showing helped propel the four-ringed brand from a 21 point deficit to a 30 point lead. As a result, Audi finished the season with 409 points while BMW and Mercedes brought up the rear with 379 and 222 points, respectively.

In a statement, Audi Sport DTM Head Dieter Gass said “Today Audi showed ‘Vorsprung durch Technik’: before the start of the race with the driverless RS 7 and in the DTM finale with a one-two-three victory." He added, "Our aim this weekend was to win the manufacturers’ championship. And in the end we clearly decided it in Audi’s favor – not least thanks to a brilliant team performance. That drivers from all three Audi Sport Teams mounted the podium today speaks a clear language."

Heico Sportiv teases their tuning program for the Volvo XC90

Volvo XC90 by Heico Sportiv

Company is promising a "comprehensive portfolio" of accessories

Heico Sportiv has confirmed they are working on a new tuning program for the 2015 Volvo XC90.

The company is keeping details under wraps but they're promising to provide a "comprehensive portfolio" of accessories. That's not much to go on but the rendering suggests we can expect a lowered suspension and a variety of alloy wheels.

Heico Sportiv will be releasing additional information in the "coming months" so stay tuned for full details.

Nissan Pulsar NISMO Concept 2014

Visit Nissan Pulsar NISMO Concept 2014 for full details.

MINI Superleggera Vision Concept 2014

Visit MINI Superleggera Vision Concept 2014 for full details.

Land Rover Considers More Powerful Discovery Sport

You can never have too much of a good thing, and I think we would all agree that faster and sportier cars fall into that category. Hot off the unveil of the all-new Land Rover Discovery Sport, we have news that JLR is looking to maybe make an even more aggressive model. In a piece posted up by the fine folks at CarAdvice, Land Rover's director of programs Murray Dietsch is being quoted as saying the Disco Sport is not an "outwardly sporty vehicle," and that he would "like to [do] one."

That is a promising statement indeed, but things get even wackier. Rather than dumping a massive V-8 under the hood like it did for the Range Rover Sport SVR, Land Rover may opt for a high-power diesel engine like Audi uses in the SQ5. Dietsch chimed in again with "We've got sporty derivatives of other vehicles in Europe that have got higher output engines that are diesel, so it would be horses for courses I think."

To round out this pile of awesome news, it seems the Range Rover and Disco Sport models won't be the only machines getting the "go-faster" treatment. There are plans in the works to make a high-end version of every model in the family portfolio. Think about how Mercedes uses its AMG division.

I think this sounds like a great plan.

Click past the jump to read more about the Land Rover Discovery Sport.

Land Rover Considers More Powerful Discovery Sport originally appeared on topspeed.com on Wednesday, 15 October 2014 08:00 EST.

read more

---

Lamborghini Aventador Roadster by Novitec Torado

The Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 Roadster is arguably one of the most powerful drop-top supercars in the world. Needless to say, it's also a popular aftermarket project for some of the best tuning firms in the world. Novitec Torado can lay claim to that distinction, thanks to its affiliation with Novitec Rosso and Novitec Tridente, all of which are part of the Novitec Group. It's only fitting that Novitec Torado's latest program is for the Aventador Roadster and not surprisingly, it's an incredible kit that features comprehensive aerodynamic and performance upgrades.

This isn't the first time Novitec Torado has worked on the Aventador. Back in July 2013, the Novitec tuning division dedicated to Lamborghinis worked on the Aventador coupe and the result was a 750-horsepower powerhouse, photos of which still have a dedicated spot on my desktop.

It's hard to top that kit, but Novitec Torado comes really close with its kit for the Aventador Roadster. At the very least, you don't expect anything less from a tuning group that has built some of the most unique and most powerful programs for Ferraris, Maseratis, and now, Lamborghinis.

Click past the jump to read more about the Lamborghini Aventador Roadster By Novitec Torado.

Lamborghini Aventador Roadster by Novitec Torado originally appeared on topspeed.com on Wednesday, 15 October 2014 10:00 EST.

read more

---

Subaru BRZ STI

Posted on 08.5.2013 10:00 by Simona

Ever since Subaru dropped the new BRZ onto the market, we knew that an even hotter STI version was sure to follow. Now, British magazine AutoExpress is offering a few details on this new model, set to arrive sometime next year.

The future BRZ STI will feature a more powerful version of the current 2.0-liter flat-four cylinder 'boxer' engine. The output will be raised up to somewhere in the 250-horsepower area (an addition of about 50 horsepower), thanks to the modifications made to the engine's variable valve control system. That will also allow for an even higher rev limit of around 7,500rpm with the help of a new freer-flowing exhaust.

Next to the extra power, the new STI will also be even lighter than the standard BRZ. It will also be distinguished by a dramatic bodykit, a stiffened and lowered suspension, lighter but larger 18-inch alloy wheels, and upgraded brakes.

One downside to the BRZ STI is that there will be no turbocharged version offered. Subaru says there is no space for it in the engine bay and they are reserving these version for models like the WRX STI.

When the BRZ STI does debut, Subaru would have taken the next step in their playful game of one-ups-man-ship. What say you, Toyota?

UPDATE 10/23/2012: Just a few days ago, Subaru unveiled a Subaru BRZ equipped with STI upgrades at the 2012 Australian Motor Show in Sydney. We knew this wasn't this wasn't the real Subaru BRZ STI deal, but it confirmed the fact that great things were going to be coming from Subaru in the near future.

Now we hear that Subaru is preparing a turbocharged direct-injection version of the horizontally opposed, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine used in the standard BRZ. This engine will feature a single twin-scroll turbocharger and straight direct-injection developed in-house and not the DI/port-injection system developed in cooperation with Toyota.

This engine could deliver up to 280 horsepower and 250 pound-feet of torque, transforming the upcoming BRZ STI into a real competitor in the sports car market. (AutoNews)

UPDATE 08/05/2013: Subaru unveiled today the first teaser image for the upcoming BRZ STI, which will make its world debut later this fall, either at the Frankfurt Motor Show or in Tokyo.

Click past the jump to read more about the upcoming Subaru BRZ STI.

BMW X1 M Sport sDrive28i

Posted on 08.5.2013 16:00 by Tom Burkart

The BMW X1 is a fantastic addition to the Bimmer range, as well as to the TopSpeed Garage. During our week testing the M Sport X1 sDrive28i, the car won many friends with its driving environment, striking new-BMW styling crispness and a truly sports-car-like agility versus the larger X3.

The X1 is offered stateside in three trim levels across the turbo four-cylinder 28i and turbo six-cylinder 35i powerplants, with xDrive available across the range. The test car's X1 sDrive28i pairs the base engine with the top M Sport trim level at the top, bringing a beautiful body-color bumper treatment absent from the cheaper 'Sport' and 'X-line' trim packs. The M Sport option also includes a variety of other tasty upgrades, including sports leather seats and handsome special paint and wheel options.

The X1 fills such a successful gap in the entry-level BMW offering that it even caught Audi and Mercedes-Benz flatfooted, with their GLA250 and Audi Q3 competitors still at least a year from reaching American buyers.

The X1 certainly doesn't have the small premium crossover market to itself, but does carve a unique niche with few pretend off-road aspirations and a decidedly performance focus to its V-rated, 18-inch Pirelli's.

This road-going bias helps the X1 to be an agile and playful companion on any stretch of pavement, with a 60 mph sprint just above 6 seconds for both rear- and all-wheel-drive 28i four-cylinders and down to the low 5's for the potent X1 xDrive35i.

All this with a base price just above $30,000 means the X1 is the first affordable BMW entry for crossover shoppers, considering the Acura RDX or the Mini Cooper Countryman.

The full TopSpeed Garage drive review is past the jump, and takes a close look at the coolest performance options and features of the practical but sporty X1 sDrive28i M Sport.

BMW X1 M Sport sDrive28i originally appeared on topspeed.com on Monday, 5 August 2013 16:00 EST.

read more

---

For Sale: Manchester United Branded Tyres

Park your Manchester United-branded car near the Old Trafford stadium and you are likely to get courteous fans waving you into a convenient spot. Try and get a space near the Emirates Stadium near Arsenal however and you may risk getting your tyres slashed! Don't let that deter you though as Event Tyres have some...

Video: Would You Pay $1.1m For This Youabian Puma?

YouTuber Shmee150 takes a walk around this outlandish supercar which was built by a cosmetic surgeon and uses a bespoke body, crazy-big tyres and a 505hp LS7 V8 block engine.

Video: That’s One Way Of Escaping The Cops

If the getaway car fails there's always this option but unless he's got a speed boat waiting at the bottom then this crazy jumper is not going to get very far!

Matte Gray Wrapped Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG Coupe by Re-Styling

Re-styling Tuner From Russia Offers Matte Grey Wra For Mercedes S63 AMG Coupe This latest cosmetic option from tuner, Re-styling provides a matte-finished coat in a classy grey shade. Mercedes customers can also opt to upgrade their S63 AMG Coupe with a 'Night' or 'Carbon' package from AMG which provides a lightweight front lip spoiler,...

Fiat designer hints at a 500X Abarth

Fiat 500X Abarth render / X-Tomi Design

Fiat's Vice President of Design has revealed the company could offer a 500X Abarth.

Speaking to CarAdvice, Roberto Giolito said “The 500X is a good body for Abarth." He added, "It’s absolutely perfect in terms of drivability, control. The driving seat is perfectly measured to control the car. So the Abarth [variant] would be perfect.”

He stopped short of confirming plans for a production model but hinted there would be plenty of styling tweaks and the model would be instantly recognizable as an Abarth.

There's no word on what would power the 500X Abarth but the standard model offers a variety of engines including a 2.4-liter Tigershark engine that develops 184 PS (137 kW).

Note: Rendering by X-Tomi Design

Volvo exec hints at new coupes & convertibles

Volvo Concept Coupe 28.8.2013

S90 coming in 2015

Volvo's Senior Vice President of Research and Development has revealed the company will eventually return to building coupes and convertibles.

Speaking to Motoring, Peter Mertens said the company is currently focused on redesigning their existing lineup but once that's complete "we are going to think about beautiful and sporty cars" such as coupes and convertibles. The executive declined to elaborate but previous reports have suggested the company is considering a production version of the stunning Concept Coupe.

In related news, Mertens confirmed we will see the range-topping S90 sometime next year. He declined to go into specifics but said the model will be built on the SPA platform and be "stunningly beautiful."

Mercedes-Benz's SUV renaming plan detailed, sports car range to follow

2016 Mercedes-Benz M-Class facelift / GLE spy photo / S. Baldauf / SB-Medien

GLK to become GLC

New details are emerging about Mercedes-Benz's plan to overhaul the naming structure of its SUV lineup.

Lately we have been hearing rumors about Mercedes-Benz's decision to rename their crossover & SUV offerings in order to better reflect their size. All high-riding models will use the "GL" designation followed by a third letter which will represent the position of the model. This has already happened with the "GLA" which is related to the A-Class and will be followed by the "GLK" that will be renamed "GLC" in relation to the C-Class.

Using the same method, the M-Class is set to become "GLE" as a connection to the E-Class. There's also going to be a "GLE Coupe" (previously known as ML Coupe) which will target the BMW X6. Lastly, the bigger "GL" will be renamed "GLS" as a reference to the S-Class.

It is believed Mercedes-Benz will also apply this new nomenclature strategy on their sports car range and as a consequence the next-gen "SLK" will be sold with the "SLC" designation.

Alonso eyes Williams as sabbatical 'risk' grows

Fernando Alonso (ESP) / XPB

Williams is the latest team sensationally linked with Fernando Alonso's uncertain future.

The growing feeling in the F1 paddock is that, as Ferrari reportedly prepares to welcome Sebastian Vettel, Spaniard Alonso is facing the prospect of a year on the sidelines.

Dominant Mercedes - his obvious target - is not interested in accommodating Alonso in 2015, team chairman Niki Lauda repeated at Sochi.

"We have a contract with Lewis (Hamilton) for 2015," the F1 legend told Auto Motor und Sport, "so there is no place for Alonso.

"Toto Wolff and I want to continue working with Lewis, and we are in constructive discussions with him if he wants to stay with us after 2015," Lauda added.

Alonso is in talks with McLaren-Honda, but supremo Ron Dennis is reportedly pushing back against the Spaniard's salary demands, and reluctant to agree a mere one-year deal.

Asked if there is a risk he will have to take a sabbatical next season, Alonso told reporters in Russia on Saturday: "Probably not a big risk."

Auto Motor und Sport claims that is because Alonso is lining up his alternatives should his talks with McLaren fail.

"He is also knocking at Lotus and Williams," said correspondent Michael Schmidt.

Schmidt said a move to Lotus is however unlikely for Alonso, even after the Enstone team announced its switch to field-leading Mercedes power for 2015.

When asked if Alonso is a possibility for Lotus, Romain Grosjean said in Russia: "Maybe, but I don't think so."

That could be because the Total and PDVSA sponsorships linked with existing drivers Grosjean and Pastor Maldonado respectively brings a whopping $80 million to the team.

And the impressive Mercedes-powered Williams team has already announced that it will field an unchanged driver lineup of Valtteri Bottas alongside Felipe Massa in 2015.

A week ago in Japan, a mischievous Massa sauntered up to Alonso during the Spaniard's media round and asked him: "You go to Marussia? To Caterham?"

Alonso replied to Massa: "Come to Ferrari."

Matte gray wrapped Mercedes S63 AMG Coupe looks sexy

Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG Coupe wrapped in matte gray by Re-Styling

Powered by a standard twin-turbo V8 5.5-liter engine

Russian tuners from Re-Styling have presented a full wrap for the Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG Coupe.

According to the company, the sports vehicle is the first of its kind in the Russian capital of Moscow. Looking even more stylish and appealing than in original form, it has received a matte gray wrap that replaces the original blue color. Judging by the pictures, the car is not equipped with the Night or Carbon optional packages developed by AMG Performance Studio.

The S63 AMG Coupe is powered by a twin-turbo V8 5.5-liter engine with 577 bhp (430 kW) and 900 Nm (664 lb-ft) of torque. With a power-to-weight ratio of 3.41 kg / bhp, the rear-wheel drive model needs only 4.3 seconds to get from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) and has an electronically-limited top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h). The optional 4MATIC variant sprints to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.9 seconds.

2015 Honda CR-Z priced from $20,935, up by $150 compared to 2014MY

2015 Honda CR-Z (US-spec)

Supercharger kit costs an extra $5,495

Honda has published pricing details for the US-spec 2015MY CR-Z which kicks off at $20,935 (including $790 destination charges).

The $150 price bump doesn't bring any updates and comes as a surprise taking into account the CR-Z is far from being a popular model, especially if we consider that Honda will retire the model from Europe this year. Power of the vehicle comes from a four-cylinder 1.5-liter i-VTEC engine working with an electric motor and a six-speed manual or CVT gearbox.

This hardware combo puts out 130 bhp (97 kW) at 6,000 rpm and 140 lb-ft (127 lb-ft with CVT) between 1,000 and 3,000 rpm. When equipped with the manual gearbox, the 2015 Honda CR-Z returns 31 / 38 / 34 mpg US (city / highway / combined) and 36 / 39 / 37 mpg US with the optional CVT.

Standard equipment includes rearview camera, Bluetooth, automatic climate control, six-speaker sound system with support for AM/FM/CD/USB, remote entry, power windows & locks and cruise control. Upgrade to the EX trim (from $22,780) and you also get fog lights, LED daytime running lights, heated mirrors, leather steering wheel, seven-speaker 360-watt sound system and aluminum pedals. The range-topping EX with Navi (from $24,280) adds touchscreen navigation.

We remind you earlier this year Honda Performance Development launched a supercharger kit for the CR-Z priced at $5,495 which bumps output by 67 bhp (50 kW) to 197 bhp (147 kW). It's available for the manual model and can be installed at Honda dealerships without voiding the warranty. For more money, customers can customize their CR-Z with a sport clutch, limited slip differential and other goodies.

Full pricing details available in the attached press release.

Hyundai Genesis AR550 By ARK Performance

Every day we inch closer to the SEMA Auto Show we see more tuning companies coming out of the woodwork to present their SEMA-bound vehicles. Hyundai has been a staple at SEMA over the past few years, and this year, the Korean automaker is coming back with a couple of tie-ins with some aftermarket companies, including ARK Performance.

The two companies have collaborated to present the Genesis AR550, a comprehensive aftermarket program for the Hyundai Genesis. The kit covers the gamut of modifications that includes exterior and interior enhancements, performance upgrades, and suspension improvements. All together, the program turns the Genesis into a bonafide sports sedan.

The looks are standard affair for any SEMA machine. The body kit is outrageous and dynamic, creating a love-it or hate-it visual presence. If nothing else, ARK Performance has made sure that this sedan will stand out in a crowd.

Click past the jump to read more about the Hyundai Genesis AR550 By ARK Performance.

Hyundai Genesis AR550 By ARK Performance originally appeared on topspeed.com on Friday, 10 October 2014 09:00 EST.

read more

---

Video: Ferrari LaFerrari XX Makes Some Noise On The Track

width="460" height="370" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/MgMrJ72kkTA" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen>

Ferrari's new LaFerrari. is already the most powerful road Ferrari ever built, thanks to a hybrid engine that combines to produce an incredible 963 horsepower. With so much power, many people have wondered how Ferrari could ever top it.

But over the past few months, spy photos and spy videos of a "LaFerrari XX" have been captured, showing a track-focused supercar undergoing some serious test runs. One video even captured the LaFerrari XX in a test run that went a little too hard, breaking its suspensiosn and nearly losing a wheel.

Recently, a new video of the LaFerrari XX was spotted, and while it lacked the drama of suspension damage, this one perfectly captures the piercing sound of that engine.

The acoustics are downright incredible and borderline insane. Even when the LaFerrari XX was at a distance far removed from the camera, you could still hear it's engine unleash the fury of Ferrari engineering at its finest.

Here's a tip: watch this video with the volume turned up. You'll appreciate it a whole lot more.

Video: Ferrari LaFerrari XX Makes Some Noise On The Track originally appeared on topspeed.com on Friday, 10 October 2014 10:00 EST.

read more

---

Video: 2016 Chevrolet Camaro Testing At Nurburgring

width="460" height="370" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/rW23KpJcvjg" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen>

If you haven't been living under a rock lately, you already know Chevrolet is working on the sixth-generation Camaro, due to arrive in 2015. Testing is already underway, with a camouflaged prototype being spotted near and on the Nurburgring track in September 2014. We received a bevy of spy shots as soon as the pony car hit the German pavement and although that was enough to make out some of details and speculate upon its new styling, we have yet to see the new Camaro in action. Thankfully, the wait ends right now, as the first video footage featuring the muscle car on the Nurburgring has hit the Interwebz.

Of course, the video doesn't add to what we already know so far about the new Camaro, but it does reveal the exhaust note of the V-8 fitted under the hood. There's no trace of supercharger whine in the soundtrack, so it's safe to assume we're looking at the naturally aspirated Camaro SS. Chevy has yet to spill the details on the greasy bits, but we expect it to drop a detuned version of the Corvette Stingray's 6.2-liter, LT1 V-8 under the Camaro's hood. It is also likely the manufacturer will offer a dual-mode exhaust system on the SS. Output figures should sit in the 430-horsepower range, right above the 2015 Mustang GT.

Naturally, the 2016 Camaro range will be completed by a V-6 unit, likely to return with the same 3.6-liter displacement, but word has it Chevy is also pondering a turbocharged four-cylinder as an answer to the Mustang's 2.3-liter EcoBoost unit. We should find out more about that soon enough. Meanwhile, click play to watch the 2016 Camaro SS lap the "Green Hell."

Video: 2016 Chevrolet Camaro Testing At Nurburgring originally appeared on topspeed.com on Friday, 10 October 2014 18:00 EST.

read more

---

Ford Mustang by Vortech Superchargers

Now that the 2015 Ford Mustang is ready to hit the streets, America's aftermarket specialists are introducing one upgrade after another. We've already seen what Saleen and Hennessey can do to the muscle car and now it's time to take a look at what Vortech is offering for the brand-new, sixth-generation pony. Naturally, everything coming from Vortech's shop is supercharged, so we are looking at a handful of updates that will take the 2015 Mustang to ludicrous heights. Forget about the GT's 425 ponies, that's nothing compared to what Vortech can inject into the Mustang thanks to its latest supercharging technology.

Jointly developed with Paxton, Vortech's new Centrifugal Supercharging System for the 2015 Mustang comes in four sizes and can take the pony's output beyond the 1,000-horsepower mark. That's right, you can now buy a brand-new Mustang and turn it into road-legal dragster simply by taking delivery of one of Vortech's new tuner kits. Read on for more details and actual output figures.

Click past the jump to read more about the Ford Mustang by Vortech Superchargers.

Ford Mustang by Vortech Superchargers originally appeared on topspeed.com on Friday, 10 October 2014 19:00 EST.

read more

---

Indian Chieftain

Posted on 08.5.2013 16:11 by Serafim

After many teasers, Indian has finally revealed its ultra secret 2014 Chieftain. The motorcycle is completely new and represents the company's declaration of war against all its rivals.

Although, Indian launched other two 2014 models next to the Chieftain, the latter was the most impressive. It comes with a massive fairing that features an aerodynamic design with swept back lights and three imposing headlights with the center one fully surrounded by chrome. The motorcycle also comes with a big protective windshield and the signature Indian valanced fenders.

Unlike the previous motorcycles built by Indian, the 2014 Chieftain features a cast aluminum chassis that offers a perfect balance between rigidity and low weight.

In terms of power, the 2014 Indian Chieftain is propelled by an all-new Thunder Stroke 111 engine. The unit is a technological masterpiece and its crankcase is comprised of two castings. It cranks out a peak torque of 161.6 Nm at 3000 rpm and its power is kept in leash by a smooth-shifting, six speed transmission.

You also get a spacious seat with quick release passenger backrest, a pair of big saddlebags mounted on quick-release anchors and a modern instrument panel. The stopping power is assured by front and rear disc brakes assisted an ABS.

As far as prices are concerned the 2014 Indian Chieftain can be yours for no less than $22,999.

Hit the jump for more information on the 2014 Indian Chieftain.

Indian Chieftain originally appeared on topspeed.com on Monday, 5 August 2013 16:11 EST.

read more

---

Ford to Auction the Last 2014 Shelby GT500 Convertible at Hot August Nights

Posted on 08.5.2013 17:00 by Simona

Ford announced today that the last retail 2014 Shelby GT500 Convertible will be auctioned on August 9, 2013 at the Hot August Nights Auction presented by Barrett-Jackson. All the proceeds will go to the Brain Injury Association of America.

The winner of the auction will have the possibility to customize the GT500 Convertible according to his or her personal desire. Ford offers the opportunity to choose between any imaginable interior, exterior and striping package that will offer a buyer to create a one-off GT500. The car will also be signed by Indy 500 winner, Parnelli Jones, who will attend the auction as well.

At the auction, Ford will also offer both Ride-and-Drive and hot lap experiences in the parking lot of the Atlantis Casino Resort. Visitors will have the chance to experience models like Shelby GT500, 2014 Focus ST and 2014 Fiesta ST.

Click past the jump to read more about the Shelby GT500 Convertible.

Ford to Auction the Last 2014 Shelby GT500 Convertible at Hot August Nights originally appeared on topspeed.com on Monday, 5 August 2013 17:00 EST.

read more

---

Mercedes GLK 350 4MATIC Schwarz Edition

Posted on 08.5.2013 18:00 by Simona

The Japanese market has received lots of special attention from tuners in the past few months. After BMW launched a bunch of special-edition models, like the BMW M5 Nighthawk Edition, Mercedes decided it was its turn to develop some special models for Japan.

The first model it released was a rather boring B180 Northern Lights Black Special Edition, but now the maker wanted to make up for this lackluster model and came up with something pretty cool: this GLK 350 4MATIC Schwarz Edition.

The special model got its name from the German word for black, so it is pretty easy to imagine what the the dominant color is. The Schwarz Edition is painted in Obsidian Black, and features stainless-steel running boards and 20-inch wheels. AMG also tossed in a pretty cool styling package a new new sports suspension.

For the interior, the new GLK 350 4MATIC Schwarz Edition adds seats wrapped in a combination of Artico and Dinamica leather, a sport steering wheel, black ash wood trim and alloy pedals.

The new Mercedes GLK 350 4MATIC Schwarz Edition is limited to only 100 units and is priced at 6,840,000 or a little under $70k.

Click past the jump to read more about the standard Mercedes GLK 350.

Mercedes GLK 350 4MATIC Schwarz Edition originally appeared on topspeed.com on Monday, 5 August 2013 18:00 EST.

read more

---

Spy Shots: Lamborghini Cabrera Out Testing

Posted on 08.5.2013 19:00 by Simona

Lamborghini Gallardo's successor is rumored to arrive in a concept version at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show, but it looks like the company is already testing the production version of the supercar. The car was recently caught testing in hot conditions and it's getting pretty clear that it will get an Aventador-inspired look. From the spy shots, we gather that the prototype will have dimensions similar to the Gallardo.

The successor to the Gallardo is rumored to carry the Cabrera name, which is, of course, the name of a famed Spanish bull. The new Cabrera will bring a series of new features and will be built on the same lightweight, carbon-fiber monocoque as the Aventador, which will make it about 60 pounds lighter than the current Gallardo.

Expect the production version of the Lamborghini Cabrera to be unveiled at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show. The coupe version will be followed by a a number of variants in the years thereafter, including Spyder and the Superleggera models.

Click past the jump to read more about the Lamborghini Cabrera.

Spy Shots: Lamborghini Cabrera Out Testing originally appeared on topspeed.com on Monday, 5 August 2013 19:00 EST.

read more

---