1963 Corvette with a Mid Mounted V8 Pushing out 1,000-Horses up for Grabs at Barrett-Jackson

While rumors of a mid-engine Corvette have and will no doubt continue to swirl for the years to come even after the imminent presentation of the C7, GM has no immediate plans to make such a dramatic change to its flagship model.
However, the custom industry is a different story. Enter the world of the V7 Prototype, a custom made 1963 Chevrolet Corvette C2 that's heading to the auction block at the 2012 Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction in Palm Beach, Florida, which runs from April 5 to 7.

Renault Confirms Pricing for Refreshed 2012 Megane Range in Britain

Renault today announced that its subtly updated Megane 2012 compact model is available for order now in the UK ahead of its official launch on April 1. On-the-road prices start from £16,275 for the 3-door Hatch, £16,775 for the 5-door Coupé and £17,075 for the estate Sport Tourer.
For 2012, the Megane series gains some minor styling tweaks up front that include the addition of LED daytime running lights from the Dynamique TomTom trim level and above, and a revised bumper with a gloss black finish and chrome highlights, plus a new selection of alloy wheel designs.

Offers New Personalization Options to Customers Debuts in Geneva

After lending its name to several fictional characters including the scientific and engineering genius in the James Bond films as well the omnipotent god-like being in the Star Trek television series, the letter Q has now found a place in Aston Martin's range.

"Q by Aston Martin" is the British firm's new service that is said to bring the automaker's designers together with its engineers and craftspeople allowing customers to personalize their vehicles.

While the sample pictures of the customized Vantage Roadster and Cygnet hatchback released by Aston Martin suggest that this is the stuff we'd make fun of in our Offbeat section, it also shows the amount of personalization the company offers. 

 

The service is for both the exterior and interior styling.

Hyundai to Debut European Spec Veloster Turbo at the Geneva Auto Salon

After its world premiere at the Detroit Motor Show in January, the new Hyundai Veloster Turbo is heading to Switzerland and the 82nd Geneva International Auto Salon for its European debut. 

 

Like the North American (N.A.) model, the European specification Veloster Turbo is equipped with the Hyundai Group's new 1.6-liter T-GDI four-cylinder engine featuring a high-compression, twin-scroll turbocharger and direct-injection technology. 

 

However, whereas the N.A. version's T-GDI delivers 201-horsepower and 264Nm (195 lb-ft) of peak torque, the European model's engine has been slightly wringed down to 183-horses (186PS) while providing a little more torque at 270Nm (199.1 lb-ft).

Pagani the Development and the Birth of the New Huayra

Among the very few new supercar brands that have successfully managed to challenge the establishment and the likes of traditional sports car builders such as Ferrari, Lamborghini and Bugatti, is Pagani Automobile.
The company that was founded in San Cesario sul Panaro, near Modena in Italy, in 1992 by Horacio Pagani, launched its first model, the V12-powered Zonda, to critical acclaim in 1999.
The Zonda remained in production until 2011 when Pagani presented it's second model, the Huayra at last year's Geneva Motor Show.
In the video documentary that follows after the jump, you can watch how the Huayra came to be and what it takes to build one.

Hyundai Releases First Official Renderings of the 2013 Santa Fe

With the Geneva motor show now behind us (at least for the press as it will be open for the public until March 18), automakers are gearing up for the next event which is none other than the 2012 New York International Auto Show in April. 

 

Over the weekend, Hyundai published the first teaser images of the all-new 2013 Santa Fe revealing the exterior design of its mid-size crossover.

Formula 1: Australian GP Qualifying Results

At the inaugural race of every Formula 1 season you never really know where each team stands in terms of performance. Sure, there are the favorites, the also-runs, the back markers and oftentimes, the wild cards.
Well, the qualifying race of the Australian Grand Prix that kicked off this year's F1 season certainly had all of the above. But not necessarily in the way most seasoned F1 fans might have expected.
Lewis Hamilton claimed the 20th pole position of his career and Jenson Button lined up right beside him, making it an all-McLaren front row. Not too surprising, as despite the fact that Sebastian Vettel took most pole positions last year, the McLarens had proved to be very fast during testing.

2013 Porsche Boxster

2013 Porsche Boxster: Lighter, More Muscular, More Distinctive and More Fuel-Efficient

Never before in the history of the Porsche Boxster has a change of generation been so comprehensive. The open-top two-seat car receives an entirely new lightweight body and a completely revamped chassis. The new Boxster weighs less than the previous generation and rides on a longer wheelbase and a wider track. These new dimensions are coupled with larger wheels and a new electromechanical power steering system to significantly enhance the mid-engine sports car's driving dynamics. The new Boxster boasts superior performance and is also up to 15 percent more fuel-efficient than previous models on the European cycle.
The new Boxster benefits not only from an increased wheelbase but also shorter overhangs, while the windscreen has been shifted forward. The passengers are enclosed by the completely redesigned, fully electric top, which now dispenses with a convertible top compartment lid. The interior concept offers the occupants more space and reflects the new Porsche outline with a raked center console, which, originating with the Carrera GT ensures improved ergonomics in all models.

Porsche 911 GT3 Does Away with Most of its Camouflage

Porsche is occasionally getting some flak for sticking with the same layout in the 911 for the past five decades. That’s not entirely true: while the engine has always been placed behind the rear axle, Zuffenhausen can boast that it rolls out more variations of its quintessential model than any other manufacturer.
 
One of them, considered the hardcore driver’s choice, is the GT3. Introduced in the 996 model in 1999, it has always come with a naturally aspirated flat-six based on the racing GT1 unit, a manual gearbox, sportier suspension and chassis setup and less amenities inside. 
 
And one more thing, the GT3 would not tolerate fools behind its responsive steering wheel.

Formula 1: Australian GP Race Results

Every year FIA, the sport’s governing body, changes Formula 1’s technical regulations with the purpose of leveling out the playing field. This forces designers to work within a very strict set of parameters that make gaining an advantage a great challenge.

Despite FIA’s efforts to increase competition even more, F1 is far from becoming something akin to a one-make series. Some teams always make a better job than others do, but we have to wait until each year’s first race before drawing any conclusions.

At the 2012 Australian Grand Prix, the Saturday qualifying session showed us certain things like that the McLaren is currently the fastest car out there, while Red Bull Racing seems to have lost some of its pace due to the rule changes that affected the design of the RB8.

2012 Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette Z06

Engine 7 liter V8, Aspiration natural, HP 505 hp, HP/Liter 72.1 hp per liter.

2012 Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette Celebrates Racing Heritage

Z06 Centennial Edition to be auctioned at Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach sale
Chevrolet, founded by a racing pioneer 100 years ago, celebrates its performance heritage with the 2012 Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette, which features a sleek black color scheme, unique design elements and Corvette’s trademark sports car technology.

The 2012 Centennial Edition package will be available on all Corvette models – including Grand Sport, Z06 and ZR1 – starting this summer.

The special package was inspired by Chevrolet’s racing-bred foundation, which continues with Corvette’s international racing excellence and production sports car prominence.

“Racing and performance are the roots of Chevrolet, a tradition carried forward today by Corvette,” said Rick Scheidt, vice president of Chevrolet marketing. “The Centennial Edition not only celebrates our 100 years, it once again pushes Corvette forward for a new generation of sports car fans.”

Chevrolet will auction a Corvette Z06 Centennial Edition at the Barrett-Jackson collector car auction in West Palm Beach, Fla., on April 9, with the proceeds to benefit the Austin Hatcher Foundation for Pediatric Cancer. It will be the 100th 2012 Corvette off the assembly line, with a vehicle identification number ending in “00100.”
The Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette expresses racing heritage, but does so with a sleek, modern, even sinister-looking appearance. The Centennial Edition package comes exclusively in Carbon Flash Metallic, with satin-black graphics and unique Centennial Satin Black wheels and red brake calipers. The wheels are constructed of lightweight cast-spun aluminum and include a thin red outline around the perimeter of its surface on the Z06. The wheels are specific to the respective Corvette models, including 18-inch/19-inch for Coupe, Convertible and Grand Sport; and 19-inch/20-inch for Z06 and ZR1.

Magnetic Selective Ride Control, the world’s fastest-reacting suspension and a technology advance initiated by Corvette, is included on all Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette models.
The Centennial Edition also features special badges that signify Chevrolet’s racing history. A graphic logo featuring an iconic image of Louis Chevrolet appears on the B-pillars, the center caps of the wheels, and the center of the steering wheel. The seat headrests also carry an embossed centennial logo.

Aficionados will note one other small detail: The historic crossed flags badge contains a small adaptation, with “100” in place of the traditional fleur-de-lis symbol, only for the Centennial Edition.

The exterior color scheme is reinforced inside the car, with the Ebony leather-wrapped instrument panel and doors complimented by red stitching on the steering wheel, seats, console and shifter. Microfiber suede accents on Centennial Edition seats, steering wheel, shifter and armrests were first used on the 2011 Z06 Carbon Limited Edition.
The Chevrolet Centennial Edition will be available on all Corvette models via order code ZLC. Pricing will be released this summer prior to the start of availability.

“Louis Chevrolet was a fearless racing pioneer who also designed our first car,” Scheidt said. “Corvette is a natural fit to honor that legacy, while creating a compelling new package for sports car drivers.”

2012 Kicherer Mercedes-Benz C63 White Edition

Engine 6.3 liter V8, Aspiration natural, Torque 457 lb-ft, HP 520 hp, HP/Liter 82.5 hp per liter

Mercedes-Benz C63 Exclusive White Edition!
Special editions have been a tradition at Mercedes-Benz specialist KICHERER in Stockach, Germany for many years. Just in time for winter 2011-12, a new limited edition WHITE SERIES is available - limited to just ten vehicles and developed exclusively for the sporting driver, it places pure exhilaration and driving pleasure at the forefront of the driving experience, without foregoing the usual comforts.
Serving as the basis for the special edition is the C63 AMG, a real race machine that is a serious rival for the BMW M3 and others in class. When it comes to performance, KICHERER has treated this powerful saloon to a software optimisation, including the removal of the V-max limit, so that now around 520bhp and a maximum torque of around 457lb ft are tearing at the power train. To make sure all of this performance can be turned into propulsion without losing any of it, a high-performance limited slip differential with variable slip provides for optimal traction. Next to that there’s also high-performance coilovers which are individually adjustable for hardness and which push the limit up significantly. In the wheel-arches of the KICHERER C63 White Edition are a set of in-house 20-inch large RS 1 forged wheels, up front with 245 tyres and at back with 275 tyres. Behind the rims is hiding a high-performance braking system with steel braided hoses from Brembo.
In terms of aerodynamics, KICHERER has treated the front end of the C63 to a new apron with integrated flaps and LED daytime running lights as well as a carbon front grill with piano lacquer finish. A set of side skirts with built in supports in piano black gives the look of a lowering of the vehicle. The back offers, apart from a rear diffusor, also in piano lacquer finish, two giant exhaust tailpipes with a flap-controlled sports exhaust, made of stainless steel.
For the interior, the designers at KICHERER thought of something special for the WHITE EDITION. The seats in the front and in the back are fitted out with exclusive Napa leathers in black and white. In addition to that, the tuners covered the door panels and the upper and lower parts of the dash panel, the centre console and also the ergonomically-moulded sports steering wheel with leather. It’s worth taking a closer look at the perfect white stitching, which effuses elegance as it contrasts with the black leather.

With the WHITE EDITION KICHERER Fahrzeugtechnik has again created a limited special edition, which, even when it’s parked in the yard, simply bristles with exclusivity and race readiness.
All further details, as well as price and delivery information are available directly with:
KICHERER Fahrzeugtechnik GmbH & Co. KG
Im Eschle 6
78333 Stockach
Germany
Tel.: +49 (0) 77 71 / 93 70 0
Fax: +49 (0) 77 71 / 93 70 22
www.kicherer.net
E-Mail: info@kicherer.net

2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek

2013 Chevrolet Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition

Engine 7 liter V8, Weight 3,355 lbs, Torque 470 lb-ft, HP 505 hp, HP/Liter 72.1 hp per liter.

Corvette Marks 60 Years of Performance with 427 Convertible

DETROIT – Chevrolet today unveiled the 2013 Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition – the fastest, most capable convertible in Corvette’s history – as well as a 60th Anniversary Package that will be available on all 2013 Corvette models.

“The 2013 model year will be historic for Corvette, marking its 60th Anniversary and the final year for the current ‘C6’ generation,” said Chris Perry, vice president, Global Marketing and Strategy for Chevrolet. “We couldn’t think of a more fitting way to celebrate these milestones than bringing back one of the most-coveted combinations in the brand’s history – the Corvette convertible and a 427 cubic-inch engine.”

The 60th Anniversary Package and 427 Convertible will make their public debut at the Barrett Jackson collector car auction in Scottsdale, Ariz., on Jan 21, and will arrive at U.S. Chevrolet dealers early this summer.
Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition
The Corvette 427 Convertible blends elements of the Z06 and ZR1 models to create the fastest and most-capable convertible in Corvette’s history.

Its heart is the 427-cubic-inch (7.0L) LS7 engine from the Corvette Z06. Rated at 505 horsepower (377 kW) and 470 lb.-ft. of torque (637 Nm), it is the most powerful engine ever installed in a production Corvette convertible – and, like the Z06, the 427 Convertible is only available with a six-speed manual transmission.

The LS7 was co-developed with the Corvette Le Mans-winning GT1 engine and features lightweight titanium connecting rods and intake valves, as well as racing-inspired high-flow cylinder heads and a dry-sump oiling system. It is assembled by hand at GM’s Performance Build Center, where customers who purchase the 427 Convertible Collector Edition can purchase the Corvette Build Experience option and assemble the engine that will power their new car.

Supporting performance elements in the Corvette 427 Convertible include the driveline and rear axle system from the Corvette Z06, a rear-mounted battery and standard Magnetic Selective Ride Control. The standard 19-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels are wrapped in ZR1-style Michelin PS2 tires. Lightweight machine-face Cup wheels – introduced on the 2012 Corvette Z06 with Z07 and Corvette ZR1 with PDE performance packages – come standard and include unique gray-painted pockets. Black Cup wheels or chrome ZR1-style wheels are also available.
The 427 Convertible also features several carbon-fiber components that help reduce weight, including:
• Carbon fiber raised hood (introduced on the 2011 Z06 Carbon Edition)
• Carbon fiber Z06-style fenders
• Carbon fiber floor panels
• The “CFZ” carbon fiber front splitter and rocker panels are optional on the 427 Convertible, and included with the 60th Anniversary package

The weight reduction brings the 427 Convertible’s curb weight to 3,355 pounds (1,522 kg). Combined with its 505-horsepower LS7 engine, it gives the 427 Convertible a power-to-weight ratio of 6.64 – or one horsepower for every 6.64 pounds of vehicle mass. That’s better than:

• Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet – 6.90
• Audi R8 5.2 RSI Spyder – 7.58
• Aston Martin DBS Volante Convertible – 7.82
• Ferrari California Convertible – 8.31
The combination of low mass and high output will make the 427 Convertible one of the fastest convertibles in the world, delivering estimated 0-60 performance of 3.8 seconds, quarter-mile performance of 11.8 seconds, lateral acceleration of 1.04 g and a top speed of more than 190 mph.

The 427 Convertible is available in 2LT, 3LT and 4LT trim levels and will carry a unique vehicle identification number sequence, similar to the Corvette ZR1.

2012 Toyota NS4 Plug-In Hybrid Concept

Toyota Reveals NS4 Advanced Plug-In Hybrid Concept

'Vision of the Future' Concept Vehicle Features Advanced Powertrain, Human-Machine Interface and Safety Features

Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. (TMS), today revealed the NS4 advanced plug-in hybrid concept vehicle at the 2012 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. The NS4 signifies Toyota’s vision for future mobility with a focus on connectivity and the human interface.

Toyota engineers were challenged to design a new mid-sized concept for potential global market introduction by 2015. The NS4 concept is a dedicated plug-in hybrid, separate from the Prius family, designed with future mobility requirements in mind.

“In this digital age, cars are becoming another spoke in the wheel of our electronic connectivity,” said Jim Lentz, TMS president and chief operating officer. “NS4 demonstrates Toyota’s take on the human connection to the car with technology that considers both emotional and rational relationships, person-to-car and car-to-society.”

NS4’s advanced powertrain targets a next-generation Hybrid Synergy Drive plug-in system featuring reductions in component size and weight with improved overall fuel economy, better acceleration and longer all-electric range, while maintaining a short charge time.
Sleek, Futuristic Styling
The NS4 concept signals a new styling direction for the Toyota brand aimed at creating an emotional connection with consumers. NS4 styling lines reflect a new take on the aerodynamics of the modified triangle, with a low height and cabin-forward tilt. The distinctive open trapezoid grille is accented by a floating lower spoiler and wing-like daytime running lights wrapping around to a sculpted fender. Rear lamps wrap around the sides of the vehicle to quarter sections layered into blistered fenders, while the rear lamp wings create a sharp edge and the effect of a rear spoiler.

The A-pillars are ultra thin for improved driver visibility while maintaining roof
crush integrity. The roof line profile, lift back design and powered swan-wing doors create greater accessibility and efficient functionality.
Increased Connectivity
Traditional vehicle development cycles average four years, but this is rapidly changing in the digital age. Vehicles have become another communication hub in the connected-consumers lifestyle and automakers must integrate the latest technologies into their product offerings. In fact, connected vehicles are the third-fastest growing technological device, behind smartphones and tablets.

Toyota has formed special alliances with technology leaders such as Microsoft, Intel and Salesforce to explore the creation of seamless vehicle interfaces with emerging technologies. These alliances will help ensure Toyota is at the forefront of this emerging sector of the automotive market.

The NS4 concept’s Human-Machine Interface (HMI) provides a user interface built around a multi-touch screen with the look and feel of a smartphone. The simple, intuitive operation conveys information quickly while minimizing distractions and maximizing driver awareness. The multimedia and vehicle-controls enhancement also will direct air conditioning, audio, battery-charge and navigation functions. The HMI system is even capable of “learning” driver preferences and habits to anticipate driver responses in specific environments and situations. This concept represents a truly connected vehicle, offering the latest technology in a responsible and convenient package.
State-of-the-Art Safety Features
The NS4 introduces a next generation Pre-Collision System (PCS) with lane departure, rear-end and pedestrian collision avoidance technologies designed to predict collisions under certain circumstances and help avoid them. This PCS uses millimeter-wave radar and stereo cameras mounted on the front of the vehicle to detect and react to lane departure, pedestrians and other vehicles. In addition, the system emits near-infrared beams to enhance PCS recognition at night. This driver assistance feature helps to avoid collisions with other vehicles, road-side obstructions, and pedestrians by applying the brakes and manipulating steering.

The current generation PCS, available in certain Lexus and Toyota vehicles, is designed to identify certain objects directly in the road ahead. If PCS determines that a collision is imminent, the brake assist system is placed in standby mode, a warning is displayed and a buzzer sounds. If PCS determines that a collision is unavoidable, the system still will alert the driver via a warning light, warning display and buzzer, apply the brakes and automatically retract the driver and front passenger seatbelts.
Adaptive Driving Beam (ADB) headlights help prevent vision-impairing glare to oncoming drivers and pedestrians. Using a camera mounted behind the front grille and partial shielding inside the headlights, this feature allows drivers to maintain near-high beam illumination to improve nighttime visibility.

The pop-up hood structure automatically raises the rear of the hood to increase the space underneath, helping to reduce pedestrian head injuries caused by a collision with the front of the vehicle, within certain speed ranges. This innovation is the result of testing and verification using both conventional crash-test dummies and Toyota’s Total Human Model for Safety (THUMS) virtual model.

Using sub-millimeter wave radar, the Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) is designed to detect a vehicle in the adjacent lane and visually alerts the driver using visual indicators placed in the upper dash.
Four new glass technologies are integrated into the windshield and front triangle, door, and rear windows to improve driver visibility, gas mileage and electric driving mode mileage efficiency:
• Hydrophobic coating – Fluorine coated glass causes rain drops to form into semispherical shapes for improved visibility and rain drop elimination (also used on the roof solar panel)
• Anti-fog film – High performance resin material with anti-fogging characteristics and increased durability
• High ultraviolet (UV) absorbing inner-layer – Removes 99 percent of harmful UVA and UVB rays
• Anti-solar film with radio-wave transparency – Reduces the internal vehicle temperature and improves electronic device functionality

Inner and outer rear view mirrors have been replaced with cameras that provide the driver with a panoramic rearward view. The rearward image is displayed on a dedicated dashboard mounted screen above the navigation screen and provides a wider view than conventional rear view mirrors. The rearward panoramic camera view working in combination with the Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) system enhances driving visibility.

“The continued success of our conventional hybrid vehicles has laid strong groundwork for market acceptance of future advanced technologies,” said Lentz. “NS4 demonstrates Toyota’s ongoing commitment to enhancing the safety, efficiency, and convenience of future mobility for people everywhere."

Lexus RX Facelift Parades New Spindle Grille in Geneva

The mildly refreshed Lexus RX made its world premiere at this week's 2012 Geneva Motor Show. To be sold as a 2012 model in Europe and as a 2013 in North America, the Japanese firm's luxury crossover model receives some select styling tweaks while it also debuts a new F Sport Edition.

The facelift introduces Lexus' new corporate 'spindle grille' together with new headlamps underscored by integral LED daytime running lights, a resculptured bumper, new tail lamp graphics and a fresh assortment of 18-inch or 19-inch alloy wheel designs.

SCOOP: New BMW 3- or 4-Series Hardtop Convertible Nabbed Playing in the Cold

The convertible edition of the BMW 3-Series may be the least popular body style in the range, but it's one that is widely considering to be leader in its segment while also returning higher profits per unit compared to the regular models.
And whereas most manufacturers prefer to offer either a coupe and a soft top cabriolet or a single hardtop convertible model, with the presentation of the fifth generation 3-Series Convertible in 2006, BMW decided to do both.

2012 Chevrolet Tru 140S Concept

Engine 1.4 liter Ecotec 4-cylinder, Aspiration turbocharged, Torque 148 lb-ft, HP 150 hp, HP/Liter 107.1 hp per liter.

Here’s a Concept: Chevrolet Puts Next-Gen Buyers in Charge
Two concept coupes designed to inspire ideas and create discussion
  
Chevrolet today introduced two concept coupes at the 2012 North American International Auto Show aimed at inspiring next-generation buyers to take the wheel and suggest ideas for a car they can co-create.

“Chevrolet has always stood for making the aspirational attainable for all generations” said General Motors North America President Mark Reuss. “These two concepts interpret that vision for a new generation. We’re seeking out our newest customers’ opinions, listening to their advice, and engaging them in new ways.”

According to U.S. Census data, there are 80 million American consumers approaching 30. They represent 40 percent of today’s potential car-buying public and a combined $1 trillion in purchasing power.
Over the past year, Chevrolet has conversed with young consumers across the United States. Based on their feedback, the Chevrolet concepts explore the styling and functionality this group of new buyers says they are looking for in a car.

Tru 140S, the second Chevrolet concept is a front-wheel-drive, “affordable exotic” four-seat sporty coupe. The three-door hatchback was designed to be an attractive-yet-affordable sports car. Shown in an all-new matte white with Chevy performance chrome wheels featuring crossflag emblems, Tru 140S is designed to look confident, exotic, expensive and fast. Tru 140S is based off the same platform as the Chevrolet Cruze and the groundbreaking Chevrolet Volt electric vehicle with extended range.

Tru 140S designers want to demonstrate technologies typically found in more expensive cars, including direct injection and a starter-based stop-start technology, balancing internal combustion and electrification to deliver high value and improved fuel economy.
The concepts share attributes younger buyers say they value:
• Sedan-sized functionality in performance coupe form that seats four passengers
• Interior connectivity and convenience featuring innovative storage, WiFi, smart phone integration with Chevrolet MyLink and heads-up display
• 40 MPG with a 1.4L Turbo Ecotec engine with approximately 150 horsepower
• Possible production price range in the low $20,000s

“Young customers tell us they want functionality with coupe-like aesthetics. Both the Code and Tru body styles resonated with this audience,” said Frank Saucedo, director of the GM North America Advanced Design studio in Los Angeles where the two concepts were developed.

2012 Chevrolet Code 130R Concept

Engine 1.4 liter Ecotec 4-cylinder, Aspiration turbocharged, Torque 148 lb-ft, HP 150 hp, HP/Liter 107.1 hp per liter.

Here’s a Concept: Chevrolet Puts Next-Gen Buyers in Charge Two concept coupes designed to inspire ideas and create discussion

Chevrolet today introduced two concept coupes at the 2012 North American International Auto Show aimed at inspiring next-generation buyers to take the wheel and suggest ideas for a car they can co-create.

“Chevrolet has always stood for making the aspirational attainable for all generations” said General Motors North America President Mark Reuss. “These two concepts interpret that vision for a new generation. We’re seeking out our newest customers’ opinions, listening to their advice, and engaging them in new ways.”

According to U.S. Census data, there are 80 million American consumers approaching 30. They represent 40 percent of today’s potential car-buying public and a combined $1 trillion in purchasing power.
Over the past year, Chevrolet has conversed with young consumers across the United States. Based on their feedback, the Chevrolet concepts explore the styling and functionality this group of new buyers says they are looking for in a car.

Code 130R, the first Chevrolet concept, is a four-seat coupe with a simple upright profile. Painted in an all-new red metallic paint with matte anodized gold wheels, Code 130R features heritage performance-inspired styling and rear-wheel drive. With an aggressive front fascia, Chevrolet fender flares, straight body side and Chevy crossflag emblem, Code 130R makes a link to Chevrolet’s performance heritage.

Code 130R’s designers conceived the turbocharged engine to be tuned to work in tandem with eAssist technology. By shutting off the engine at stops, recapturing braking energy, and smoothing torque during acceleration, this concept takes automotive electrification to the next level and balances turbocharged performance with fuel economy.
The concepts share attributes younger buyers say they value:
• Sedan-sized functionality in performance coupe form that seats four passengers
• Interior connectivity and convenience featuring innovative storage, WiFi, smart phone integration with Chevrolet MyLink and heads-up display
• 40 MPG with a 1.4L Turbo Ecotec engine with approximately 150 horsepower
• Possible production price range in the low $20,000s

“Young customers tell us they want functionality with coupe-like aesthetics. Both the Code and Tru body styles resonated with this audience,” said Frank Saucedo, director of the GM North America Advanced Design studio in Los Angeles where the two concepts were developed.

Inside the concepts, connectivity and personalization enable the individualization that the generation says is essential.

2013 Cadillac ATS

Engine 3.6 liter V6, Weight under 3400 lbs, HP 320 hp, HP/Weight under 10.625 lbs per hp, HP/Liter 88.9 hp per liter.

2013 Cadillac ATS Challenges the Status Quo
• All-new, lightweight, rear-wheel-drive architecture with one of the lowest curb weights in the segment – less than 3,400 pounds (1,542 kg)
• Broad lineup of engines, including two four-cylinders and a V-6 for North America, capitalizes on lightweight structure for performance with efficiency
• Cadillac CUE, a comprehensive, in-vehicle experience that merges intuitive design with auto industry-first controls and commands for information and entertainment data

DETROIT – Cadillac today introduced the 2013 ATS, an all-new compact luxury sports sedan intended to challenge the world’s best premium cars. Developed on an all-new, lightweight vehicle architecture, Cadillac’s entry into the world’s most significant luxury car segment goes on sale this summer.

The rear-drive ATS brings Cadillac’s blend of technologically driven performance, elegance and design to a new audience of spirited drivers. Its sophisticated driving experience is enhanced with Cadillac CUE, a comprehensive, in-vehicle user experience that merges intuitive design with industry-first controls and commands for information and media data.

“Designed with quick, nimble and fun-to-drive dynamics, ATS expands Cadillac’s portfolio into a crucial global segment,” said Don Butler, vice president of marketing for Cadillac. “For a new group of luxury consumers, this is a car that will fit their lifestyle and challenge the segment’s status quo.”

The Cadillac ATS is a new expression of Cadillac’s Art & Science execution philosophy, built on a foundation of driving dynamics and mass efficiency. It is the most agile and lightweight Cadillac, with one of the lowest curb weights in the segment – less than 3,400 pounds (1,542 kg).
Germany’s famed Nürburgring served as one of the key testing grounds, along with additional roads, racetracks and laboratories around the globe, ATS engineers balanced performance with Cadillac’s trademark refinement. Contributing components and features include:
• Nearly 50/50 weight balance
• Cadillac’s first five-link independent rear suspension using lightweight, high-strength steel and efficient straight link designs
• A multi-link double-pivot MacPherson-strut front suspension with direct-acting stabilizer bar
• Driver-adjustable FE3 sport suspension with Magnetic Ride Control real-time damping
• Underbody aerodynamic shields
• Premium (belt driven) electric variable-effort steering gear from ZF Steering Systems
• Four-channel ABS with available Brembo performance brakes
• Available all-wheel drive

“More than just another new entry, the ATS aims to change the status quo of the European-dominated segment,” said Butler. “That is why our approach in all elements of its development is so extensive and focused.”

A broad lineup of engines – including two four-cylinders and a V-6 for North America – delivers strong power to the ATS and capitalizes on the car’s lightweight structure to complement its performance with efficiency. The optional engines include an all-new 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder rated at 270 horsepower (201 kW) and Cadillac’s award-winning 3.6L V-6, estimated at 320 horsepower (238 kW).

At 135hp/L, the new 2.0T is one of the most power-dense engines in the industry, topping engines from European competitors. ATS will offer both manual and automatic transmission options, along with rear-wheel and all-wheel-drive configurations.

The ATS will deliver peak highway fuel economy of more than 30 mpg.

Nissan Silvia S14 Looks Ready to Pick a Dog Fight

While not the first World War II fighter jet-themed automobile we've shown you, we can't remember seeing the motif applied to a Nissan Silvia S14 (sold as the 240SX in North America as the 200SX in Europe).

This one in particular is said to be inspired from German jet fighters and is distinguished by the attention to details, right up to a certain sign of an equilateral cross that appears on the rear bumper and front fenders – more commonly known as the Swastika, the most hated and prominent symbol of Nazi Germany.

Something tells us the owner of the car won't be making a lot of friends…

Read more »

Cadillac CTS-V Wagon gets Strapped to the Dyno, Results Compared with CLS 63 AMG

The Corvette may be the quintessential American sports car, but it's not the only one to challenge established European brands.

Over the past few years, GM's Cadillac division has also churned out some pretty interesting proposals targeting Germany's finest, namely the products made by Audi Quattro GmbH, BMW M and Mercedes-Benz AMG.

The CTS-V in all three body styles is one them. A 6.2-liter V8 engine aided by an Eaton supercharger helps the CTS-V produce 556-horses and 551 lb-ft (746.2 Nm) of torque, matching or even beating its German opponents.

Read more »