Friday 15 December 2017

CARSCOOPS

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2019 Chevrolet Corvette Pricing To Start At $56,590

Posted: 15 Dec 2017 04:30 AM PST


There's a mid-engined Corvette coming our way, but until it arrives, Chevrolet will keep selling the current models throughout the 2019MY.

And while the car marque remains tight-lipped when it comes to pricing, CorvetteActionCenter have gotten their hands on some figures, thanks to MacMulkin Chevrolet, revealing that the cheapest variant will start from $56,590, delivery fee included.

The shipping charge has increased by $100, compared to the 2018MY, but that's pretty much the only novelty when it comes to the base and mid-range models, as these will continue to soldier on, carrying identical prices, as per the list that can be downloaded from here.

The highly desirable Corvette ZR1 Coupe and ZR1 Convertible will become available from $119,995 and $123,995, respectively, once they go on sale next spring. Both numbers include the delivery fee, but not the gas-guzzler tax, whose price has yet to be determined.

Equipping your new ZR1 with the 3ZR Package will set you back another $10,000, whereas the ZTK Performance Package comes in at a cool $2,995. The ZLZ Sebring Orange Design Package costs a further $6,995, and for the wheel finish alone, which can be either Carbon Flash, Satin Graphite or Chrome Aluminum, Chevy's asking $495, $595 and $1,995, respectively.



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Here's What Seat's Leon Cupra R Can Do In The Hands Of A Racing Driver

Posted: 15 Dec 2017 04:01 AM PST


No chit-chat, no reference whatsoever about details such as the rear bench or storage spaces - just 4min and 11sec of Seat Leon Cupra R pure driving pleasure.

The clip posted by L'argus shows the Spanish hot hatch being pushed hard on a closed course with professional racing driver Jordi Gene behind the wheel.

The Cupra R is limited to just 799 units and is the brand's most powerful road-legal vehicle ever. It is powered by a 2.0-liter TSI engine that's shared with the Volkswagen Golf R, with an output of 310PS (306hp) in the manual transmission versions and 10PS (10hp) less in the six-speed DSG-equipped ones.

In both case, power is transmitted solely to the front wheels and Seat's hot hatch will hit 100km/h (62mph) in 5.8 seconds, while top speed is electronically limited at 250km/h (155mph).

Exclusive carbon fiber details and some special colors set it apart from its lesser siblings on the outside, whereas its interior is covered in Alcantara and sports some copper and carbon fiber accents as well.

VIDEO

All-New Audi RS7 Sportback Test Mule Can't Escape The Camera Lens

Posted: 15 Dec 2017 03:30 AM PST


With Audi's new-generation A7 Sportback already unveiled, the next logical step for Ingolstadt is to roll out the range-topping RS7.

The new RS7 is tipped to hit Audi's showroom doors sometime in late 2018 and will most likely powered by a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 with over 600 HP.

Rumor has it that a hybrid version using a similar drivetrain as the Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid sporting as much as 700 HP could also join the range, but that remains to be seen.

Visually, this mule is a dead giveaway for the RS7 Sportback. Despite it saying 'A7' and 'TFSI quattro' on the hatch, you can see the wheel arch extensions as well as the large oval exhaust tips that show this is no ordinary A7.

Since this is a test mule and not a true prototype that's hiding its styling under heavy camo, we can expect to see more styling changes to the production car, such as a sportier rear diffuser and chunkier front bumper, for example.

With Mercedes dropping the CLS 63 nameplate on their latest generation car, the all-new RS7 will find itself in a fight against the Mercedes-AMG GT 4 come 2019.

Photo Credits: CarPix for CarScoops

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Nissan To Test Self-Driving Taxi Service In Japan Next Year

Posted: 15 Dec 2017 03:00 AM PST


Nissan has announced that it will start public tests of its self-driving ride-sharing service in Japan next year alongside Japanese gaming software maker DeNA.

Reuters reports that the two companies will conduct a two-week test in Yokohama next March. Riders will use an app developed by DeNA that can summon an autonomous Nissan Leaf that'll take passengers to pre-mapped destinations.

According to Nissan and DeNA, if the test proves successful, we could see a self-driving, ride-sharing service launched in Japan in the early 2020s.

While most of DeNA's experience isn't with cars, it has been collaborating on this project with Nissan since last year and has already worked on various self-driving services throughout Japan, including a fleet of shuttle buses that transport elderly residents in rural communities.

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Thor Trucks Wants To Take On The Tesla Semi With Its ET-One

Posted: 15 Dec 2017 01:33 AM PST


Tesla isn't the only company pursuing the electric semi-truck industry with limited experience, a Californian startup called Thor Trucks also wants to get in on the action.

The company is the brainchild of entrepreneur Dakota Semler and his truck is dubbed the ET-One. Found within Thor Trucks are 18 employees, including the likes of a former Navistar and BYD employee, a senior mechanical engineer with stints at Boeing and Faraday Future, and an engineer from green vehicle developer US Hybrid.

Thor claims that the ET-One uses battery packs with LG Chem cells that are mounted to both sides of the chassis. The truck will reportedly travel up to 300 miles on a single charge and like the Tesla Semi, have an 80,000 lbs capacity. A cheaper variant with a 100-mile range is also in the works.

The design of the ET-One is intriguing to say the least. Dominating the front-end is a semi-circular grille and a pair of LED headlights. Inside, there is a rather traditional layout but in the place of dozens of buttons is a digital gauge cluster and a large central infotainment screen.

Testing of the Thor ET-One is still underway but the company wants to make the truck available for demonstration drives in 2018 before commencing production in 2019.

Prices for the 100-mile version will start at roughly $150,000 while the 300-mile version will cost a minimum of $250,000, a full $100,000 more than the entry-level Tesla Semi with its 300-mile range.

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Volkswagen Working On A Selection Of Atlas Variants

Posted: 15 Dec 2017 12:13 AM PST


Volkswagen has confirmed that it is working on a selection of variants for the Atlas, evidently keen to make the most of the ongoing SUV and crossover boom.

According to VW Vortex, VW's chief executive of the North American Region, Hinrich Woebcken, recently said the company isn't happy leaving the Atlas as is and intends on creating a family of models.

Woebcken failed to specify what variants the Atlas expansion could involve but the carmaker has recently filed trademark applications for names including Atlas Allsport and Cross Sport.

As it stands, the VW starts at a very reasonable $30,500 for the entry-level TSI S model, fitted with a four-cylinder 2.0-liter turbo engine delivering 235 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. Elsewhere in the range, VW offers a 3.6-liter V6 with 276 hp and 266 lb-ft and a plethora of optional, and luxury features. The range-topping Atlas SEL Premium with this V6 and all-wheel drive is priced from $48,490.

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Samson Switchblade Flying Car Wants To Be The Future Of Transport

Posted: 14 Dec 2017 08:44 PM PST


A small company based in Oregon dubbed Samson Motors has just previewed the upcoming flying sports car it intends on launching in 2018.

The Samson Switchblade features three-wheels and is powered by a liquid-cooled 1.6-liter V4 engine with 190 hp, driving a large propeller at the rear. The company claims that the Switchblade will be capable of reaching 200 mph in the air and have a cruising altitude of 13,000 feet.

When used in flight mode, the Switchblade measures 6.2m long and has a wingspan of 8.2m. It also weighs a mere 794 kg, can reportedly take off in roughly 335m, and will have a range of 450 miles. To use the Switchblade on the road, the wings can be folded away and the tail can be detracted, shrinking the vehicle's length to 5.1m. Road speeds of up to 100 mph (160 km/h) are allegedly achievable.

Curiously, the vehicle has been given an experimental/homebuilt classification meaning at least 51 per cent of the Switchblade needs to be built by the owner. Yes, you are reading that right. In essence, the Switchblade is a flying kit car. Thankfully, Samson will help customers build the vehicle at a Samson Build Assist Center.

In the event that something goes wrong during a flight, Samson has fitted a large parachute.

The company intends on selling the Switchblade to customers for roughly $120,000. An additional $20,000 will be added to that sum if owners want the help of Samson to build the flying car.

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VIDEO

Continental Heading To CES 2018 With Advanced Battery Technologies

Posted: 14 Dec 2017 08:03 PM PST


Technology supplier Continental has detailed its plans for CES 2018 in early January. Unsurprisingly, the company is focusing heavily on battery technologies.

One development that's set to debut at the technology event will be Continental's latest wireless charging system. This system allows an electric vehicle to simply park above a ground-based charging pad before receiving charge through microcharges. Continental says its solution also has micronavigation which utilizes a magnetic location system that can position the vehicle over a charging pad up to ten times more accurately than a conventional parking assistant.

In addition to this charging system, Continental has envisioned a wireless charging network. In theory, this network would see small wireless chargers installed in everyday places, allowing EVs to receive small bursts of charge throughout the day, effectively eliminating the need to ever plug in an EV.

Despite its investments in wireless charging, Continental is also well aware that cable-based charging will continue to play an important role in future EVs. As such, it has developed the AllCharge system which can utilize any charging point whatever the charging rate, type or current or voltage level. Additionally, AllCharge can double as a mobile power bank capable of supplying AC power.

"Continental offers an unrivaled range of charging technologies, developed on the basis of our extensive cross-divisional know-how," director of Powertrain Technology & Innovation Continental North America, Brian McKay said.

"The innovative technologies we are showcasing at CES will make charging an electric vehicle simpler, more convenient and more efficient. This means that the widely discussed issue of range anxiety will soon become largely irrelevant. Additionally, to bring additional features to the consumer, our AllCharge system gives electric vehicles the added utility to serve as a mobile energy source."

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Hyundai Is Making A 2018 Super Bowl Ad

Posted: 14 Dec 2017 07:41 PM PST


Shortly after Kia confirmed that it will be airing an advertisement during the 2018 Super Bowl, Hyundai has done the same

The South Korean carmaker had a post-game Super Bowl spot at this year's Super Bowl and while Hyundai has yet to say how many commercials it will produce for 2018, the company's chief marketing officer said it will be the perfect way to spread awareness of the brand.

"We welcome the creative challenge and the opportunity to test and hone our Super Bowl formula, which has found success the past several years.

"Being an NFL sponsor gives us the ability to truly integrate our program across TV, digital, social and on the ground in Minnesota, and immerse Super Bowl fans in the latest vehicles and technologies Hyundai has to offer," Dean Evans said.

Alongside the commercial, Autonews reports that Hyundai will bring along 275 of its vehicles to the Super Bowl site to provide transport for various teams, staff, and volunteers.

Super Bowl LII will take place on February 4 at the U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis.

Note: Hyundai's 2016 Super Bowl 'First Date' Ad featured.

VIDEO

$7,500 EV Tax Credit Survives New House Tax Bill

Posted: 14 Dec 2017 07:04 PM PST


The electric vehicle tax credit has received a reprieve and won't be scrapped as part a new tax bill in the U.S.

The $1.5 trillion House tax bill initially involved eliminating the $7500 electric vehicle tax credit and curtailing a wind production tax credit. However, House and Senate negotiators have agreed to spare both of these tax credits.

Legislators are currently working on a compromise bill that's set to be sent back to both chambers for a vote, Bloomberg reports.

Analysts from Congress suggested eliminating the tax credit could save roughly $200 million over the next decade.

As it stands, the full $7500 tax credit is available for the first 200,000 electrified vehicles sold by a manufacturer. When that 200,000 mark is surpassed, the tax credit is reduced to $3750 and six months later, cut in half again. The credit is then phased out after a further six months.

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Volvo Delays Autonomous Vehicle Plans To Perfect Technology

Posted: 14 Dec 2017 06:32 PM PST


Volvo has decided to delay its Drive Me autonomous driving project in a bid to ensure that the technology is totally safe when it is made available to the public.

Rather than adopting an approach like Tesla where self-driving features are offered to customers in beta form and later updated over-the-air, Volvo won't launch its first Level 4 autonomous vehicle until 2021.

As part of the Drive Me program first announced four years ago, the Swedish manufacturer said it would have 100 self-driving cars on the roads around its home city of Gothenburg. However, Automotive News Europe reports that Volvo will instead have 100 people involved in the program within the next four years, handing them the keys to Volvo models with Level 2 semi-autonomous assistance systems.

Volvo's goal is to have those families involved in the project provide customer feedback about the technology.

"On the journey, some of the questions that we thought were really difficult to answer have been answered much faster than we expected. And in some areas, we are finding that there were more issues to dig into and solve than we expected," Volvo's autonomous driving program director Marcus Rothoff said.

Volvo says one of the key reasons why it's taking its time with the technology is that sensors and processors are developing so quickly that it doesn't want to pick the hardware too early.

"The development in sensor performance and processor capabilities is going so much faster than we expected in 2013. Because advancements are being made at such a rapid pace, we want to make this decision as late as possible," Rothoff said.

The carmaker believes that by early next decade, adding Level 4 autonomous functionality to a vehicle will add roughly $10,000 to the price.

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Lamborghini Celebrates Asian Premiere Of Urus In Singapore

Posted: 15 Dec 2017 03:59 AM PST


Lamborghini has celebrated the Asian premiere of the Urus by unveiling the super SUV in Singapore, one week after the vehicle's global premiere in Italy.

The event was hosted by the ArtScience Museum in Marina Bay Sands and given the region's love for Lamborghini, it's no surprise that enthusiasts and fans turned up to the event in force.

In fact, no less than 122 Lamborghinis took to the streets of Singapore on December 10 to celebrate the launch of the Urus, setting a new Asian record for the largest number of Lamborghinis driven in a convoy.

Lamborghini believes the Urus will double the brand's annual sales and Asia is being targeted as one of the SUV's most important markets. In China, prices start at 3,130,000 CNY (roughly $473,000 USD).

Sitting at the heart of the Urus is a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 engine delivering a satisfying 641 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque. This allows for a 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time of 3.6 seconds, and a top speed of 190 mph (305 km/h). Beyond its straight-line performance, the Urus promises to also be exceptionally potent at a racetrack with the Italian marque targeting a new Nurburgring lap record for an SUV.

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Watch The Mercedes-AMG E63 S Hit 307Km/h On The Autobahn

Posted: 14 Dec 2017 05:49 PM PST


The new Mercedes-AMG E63 S has already proved its mind-blowing performance by going against some very fast machines on the drag strip, thanks to its staggering output of 612PS (604hp) and 850Nm (627lb-ft) of torque that's good enough for a 0-100km/h (62mph) sprint in just 3.5sec.

That kind of performance has rightfully granted the range-topping E-Class the super saloon title. Heck, it's so fast that the Estate version has become the fastest station wagon to lap the Nurburgring, with a time of 7 minutes and 45:19 seconds and reaching speeds of up to 270km/h (168mph).

The following video takes us not on the 'Ring but the Autobahn for a very fast drive. After a few attempts, the E63 S eventually passed the 300 km/h mark, hitting 307km/h (191mph).

Now, we're awaiting to see who'll come up first with the Mercedes-AMG E63 S pinned against the all-new BMW M5, its natural rival and the new challenger to the throne.

VIDEO

BMW X6 M By 3D Design Brings Some Extra Bling In The Middle East

Posted: 14 Dec 2017 05:00 PM PST


This tuned X6 M is the latest Bimmer to arrive at Abu Dhabi Motors, and it's equipped with a variety of aftermarket bits.

3D Design is responsible for the exterior mods, thanks to its carbon fiber body kit that includes front and rear spoilers, plus new side skirts and diffuser, whereas Manhart's carbon hood replaced the factory item.

It also sports a new Akrapovic exhaust system, 23-inch alloy wheels from Manhart and BMW's own M Performance parts such as black accents on the kidney grille, front fenders and roof, and carbon fiber mirror caps.

Things have become a tad sportier inside as well, where this X6 M features red leather with red stitching on the sports seats, armrests, doors, and dashboard, along with black gloss and carbon fiber trim.

The 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine has remained untouched, but then again it's already powerful enough in stock form, making 575PS (567hp) and 750Nm (553lb-ft) of torque, which are enough for a 4.2-second 0-100km/h (62mph) acceleration and a 250km/h (155mph) top speed.

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Audi Preparing 300HP SQ2 For Next Year, Hotter RS Might Be On The Cards

Posted: 14 Dec 2017 04:30 PM PST


Audi's smallest crossover, the Q2, is reportedly set to receive a performance version. Coming as early as next year with the SQ2 moniker, according to Autocar, it's expected to use the 306hp 2.0-liter four-banger of the S3 Sportback, albeit with slightly less power that'll probably sit below the 300hp mark.

Its size and performance will place it against the likes of its cousin in the VW Group, the Volkswagen T-Roc R, which will most likely be powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine sourced from the Golf R and making 306hp, channeled to the AWD system through a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox.

Bystanders will get to tell the SQ2 from lesser versions thanks to a more aggressive body kit with redesigned front and rear bumpers, larger wheels and a quad-tailpipe exhaust system.

Nevertheless, the SQ2 might not be the range-topping model of the family, as it's said to be joined, at some point, by an even hotter version that'll be named the RSQ2. We have no solid info yet, but if it materializes then it should rock the crossover segment, especially if, as the British publication suggests, it gets the 2.5-liter turbocharged five of the RS3 Sportback, in which it pumps out 362hp.

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Chevrolet Aveo/Sonic Fails Latin NCAP Tests Despite The Addition Of Airbags

Posted: 14 Dec 2017 04:00 PM PST


Latin NCAP continue to express their concerns with vehicles sold at South American markets after the Chevrolet Aveo became the latest in a string of cars to fail their tests.

Otherwise known as Chevrolet Sonic north of the border, the Aveo is one of the best selling cars in Mexico, and it scored zero stars in Latin NCAP's latest crash test session, despite being equipped with 2 standard front airbags, unlike the model tested in 2015.

In the frontal impact test, the subcompact car "recorded poor protection to the chest of the driver, even with airbags", Latin NCAP notes, adding that "the structural performance was rated as unstable, which explains also the movement of the steering column and pedals, increasing the risk of injuries to the driver".

The Aveo's side impact protection was rated as 'adequate' to 'good', thanks to "good energy absorption features", whereas the child occupant protection "showed improvements" from the model tested two years ago.

"Latin NCAP showed, once again, that just adding airbags will not make a car safe when the structure is unstable", said the organization's Secretary General Alejandro Furas. "We call for GM to bring the same safety levels offered as standard by them in other markets to Latin America very soon."

The safety specialists also tested the Nissan Kicks during their latest session, which failed to achieve the maximum 5-star safety rating. The subcompact SUV, which will launch in the USA next spring, scored 4 stars for both adult occupant and child occupant protection, after it "showed an unstable structural and footwell area performance in the frontal crash test".

Finally, the Nissan Murano was subjected to the frontal and pole side impact tests as well and was awarded with a 5-star safety rating.

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VIDEOS

Restored Mazda Miatas Bound For Tokyo Auto Salon

Posted: 14 Dec 2017 03:34 PM PST


Mazda will show off the fruits of its labor at January's Tokyo Auto Salon by premiering three original-generation MX-5 Miatas which have been restored through the recently-established NA Roadster Restore program.

The three Miatas bound for Tokyo come painted in red, white, and blue and will reveal to MX-5 enthusiasts how the automaker can breathe new life into the timeless sports car. Mazda says it will start accepting commissions from Miata owners on December 13 for restoration projects.

Beyond offering its own restoration services, the NA Roadster Restore program has put numerous parts from the NA-generation Miata back into production, namely the fabric roof, Bridgestone tires, Nardi steering wheel, and shift knob of the car.

To ensure the highest quality restoration service possible, Mazda has received certification from the Japanese division of German standards organization TÜV Rheinland on every aspect of the restoration.

The NA Roadster Restore program will initially be offered exclusively to Japanese MX-5 owners.

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2018 Nissan Terra Looks Like A Worthy Successor To The Xterra

Posted: 14 Dec 2017 05:50 PM PST


We first got a glimpse at the Nissan Terra last month and now we're a better look at the model thanks to several new imagines that were reportedly taken in China.

Essentially a passenger-friendly version of the NP300 Navara, the Terra is a stylish and rugged body-on-frame SUV that features a prominent V-Motion grille. We can also see angular headlights, bulging fender flares, and plenty of chrome trim.

Moving further back, the Terra features curvaceous bodywork and a distinctive greenhouse with a small kick up on the rear doors. The rear of the model is pretty plain as there's a large tailgate with chrome trim and wraparound taillights.

Little is known about the model but Autocentre says the SUV will be offered with a 2.5-liter petrol engine which produces 184 hp (137 kW). In other countries, the Terra is expected to be equipped with a 2.3-liter dCi turbodiesel engine that has outputs of 158 hp (118 kW) and 187 hp (140 kW).

The Terra is expected to be unveiled at the 2018 Beijing Motor Show and it will be launched in China. The model will likely be offered in additional markets but there's no word on specifics.

H/T to CarAdvice

Photo Gallery

Honey, I Shrunk The Crossover: Next Mitsubishi Outlander Sport To Shrink

Posted: 14 Dec 2017 02:30 PM PST


Mitsubishi recently became the latest member of the Renault–Nissan Alliance and that means big changes are on the horizon.

Mitsubishi Motors North American product manager, Melvyn Bautista, confirmed as much as he told Wards Auto "The next-generation Outlander will be kind of the first ideas of implementing and using common platforms and sharing technologies." While the model is still a couple of years away, changes could be coming even sooner as Bautista says Nissan and Mitsubishi are discussing adding common components to updated models instead of waiting for a full redesign.

The discussions are apparently at an early stage but Bautista said "We're still trying to see ... what we can fit in and how can we do it and does it make sense?" This suggests the first changes could be relatively minor as future Mitsubishi models may begin to adopt components and technologies which can be easily transferred to existing vehicles.

Besides talking about the Renault–Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance, Bautista revealed the next-generation Outlander Sport will shrink in size to help distance itself from the new Eclipse Cross. It's too early to talk specifics but Bautista said the model would likely be about the same size as the Nissan Kicks. While that seems to suggest the next-generation model could be based on the same platform that underpins the Kicks, that's not official at this point.

Photo Gallery

The Last Oldsmobile Is Being Auctioned Off In New York Tomorrow

Posted: 14 Dec 2017 02:02 PM PST


General Motors phased out Oldsmobile over a decade ago but one lucky person has the chance to purchase the last Oldsmobile ever made.

Fox News is reporting the company's final model, a 2004 Alero GLS, will go under the hammer at the State Line Auto Auction in Waverly, New York on December 15th.

The final car was built at the Lansing Car Assembly plant in Michigan on April 29th, 2004 and workers marked the occasion by signing their names on the vehicle. GM kept the car in its possession for a number of years and it was most recently displayed at the GM Heritage Center.

However, it appears nostalgia has an expiration date as GM has finally decided to part ways with the car. Unfortunately fans hoping to bid on the Alero are out of luck as auction is only open to dealers.

There's no word on how much the car is expected to sell for but the model features a 3.4-liter V6 engine that produces 170 hp (126 kW) and 200 lb-ft (270 Nm) of torque. It is connected to a four-speed automatic transmission which sends power to the front wheels.

If the Alero isn't your kind of thing, bidders will also have the chance to buy the last Oldsmobile Cierra and Cutlass.

Photo Gallery

Subaru BRZ tS And WRX STI Type RA Pricing Announced For U.S.

Posted: 14 Dec 2017 05:50 PM PST


Subaru has released pricing information for the limited edition BRZ tS and WRX STI Type RA.

Starting in alphabetical order, the BRZ tS will cost $33,495 when it arrives at U.S. dealerships next spring. That's a hefty premium over the standard model but the tS has been tuned by STI and it features an aerodynamic body kit, an adjustable carbon fiber rear spoiler, and 18-inch wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport tires.

The sporty styling continues in the cabin as drivers with find leather and Alcantara upholstery as well as red contrast stitching. Other highlights include red seat belts, a frameless rearview mirror, and a 7-inch infotainment system with GPS navigation.

While the model eschews a turbocharged engine, it has been equipped with new draw stiffeners, a V-brace, and a returned suspension that features SACHS dampers and coil springs. There's also a high-performance braking system with Brembo rotors.

The WRX STI Type RA, on the other hand, will cost a whopping $48,995. It features a modestly revised exterior with a carbon fiber roof, a carbon fiber rear wing, and 19-inch BBS forged alloy wheels.

Interior revisions are minor but include Recaro front seats and an ultrasuede steering wheel. Elsewhere, there's red contrast stitching and an individually numbered plaque on the center console.

Motivation is provided by a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine which has been equipped with a cold air intake, a high-performance exhaust system, an optimized ECU, and new pistons. Thanks to these changes, the car produces 310 hp (231 kW) which is a minor an increase of 5 hp (3 kW). The engine is connected to an upgraded six-speed manual transmission with a short-throw shifter.

Speaking of performance, the WRX STI Type RA has Bilstein dampers, an active torque vectoring system, and a unique Multi-Mode Vehicle Dynamics Control system. Drivers will also appreciate the car's high-performance Brembo braking system with cross-drilled rotors and 6-piston monoblock front calipers.

Photo Gallery

New CAD Drawings Appear To Show The Corvette C8 And Its Engine

Posted: 14 Dec 2017 05:50 PM PST


Chevrolet recently unveiled the Corvette ZR1 and although it features a supercharged 6.2-liter LT5 V8 engine and a top speed in excess of 210 mph (337 km/h), everyone's anxiously awaiting the 2020 Corvette C8.

The mid-engine model promises to change everything we know about the Corvette and we might be learning more about the car thanks to several CAD drawings that recently surfaced on Corvette Forum. The original poster quickly deleted the images but not before Firebirdfan was able to save them for posterity's sake.

While the images might not look that exciting to an untrained eye, Firebirdfan notes they show the car has coil springs and several components which appear to be an evolution of parts used on the Corvette C7. We can also see massive brake discs and a glimpse of the car's powertrain which reportedly features an LT1 engine.

While it would be hard to confirm the authenticity of these images, someone put a lot of time and effort into creating them so it seems possible that these could be the real deal. However, we shouldn't expect confirmation from General Motors anytime soon.

H/T to Jalopnik

Photo Gallery

Honda Freed Modulo X Gives The Little Minivan A Sportier Edge

Posted: 14 Dec 2017 12:34 PM PST


It's been over a year since Honda rolled out the new Freed in Japan, and now it's following up with a sporty Modulo X version.

The Freed, for those unfamiliar, is a JDM minivan based on the same platform as the Fit/Jazz, to say nothing of the Shuttle wagon and HR-V crossover.

Similar to the transformation applied to the N-Box, N-One, and STEP WGN, the Freed Modulo X features an upgraded suspension, new wheels, and aerodynamic enhancements to give imbue the miniest of minivans with a sportier look and feel.

The front grille and bumpers are new, incorporating a diffuser style at the back, along with new side skirts and tailgate spoiler. It also has LED fog lights, 15-inch alloys, and an interior done up with piano-black trim, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a 9-inch infotainment display.

Japanese buyers will be able to select between six- and seven-seat versions, with either a conventional or hybrid 1.5-liter i-VTEC engine.

Photo Gallery

Someone Is Selling A McLaren 720S For 25 Bitcoins On Craigslist

Posted: 14 Dec 2017 12:04 PM PST


The McLaren 720S has been stunning car enthusiasts ever since its Geneva Motor Show premiere but it seems one owner in the United States is more interested in making the most of the Bitcoin boom.

This 720S has been listed for sale on Craigslist in Atlanta and the owner is asking for 25 Bitcoins, roughly $418,523 at current prices, well over $100,000 more than a brand new 720S will cost you.

The seller claims that the British supercar has just 750 miles under its belt and has been outfitted with a plethora of options, including the 10-spoke lightweight wheels, vehicle lift system, electric and heated seats, stealth pack, sports exhaust, gorilla glass roof panels, and the McLaren track telemetry system.

As the price of Bitcoin continues to increase, the 25 Bitcoin asking price becomes more and more unrealistic. At the time of writing, a price of 20 Bitcoin would be more appropriate and in a couple of weeks, that figure could drop to 15.

Either way, the owner is clearly not interested in holding on to the McLaren, which is a very expensive depreciating asset. However, we suspect they may have some difficulty selling it.

PHOTO GALLERY

Tesla Model X vs Toyota Land Cruiser Tug Of War: Who Wins?

Posted: 14 Dec 2017 05:50 PM PST


Now that it's not about 0-60 or 1/4 mile times, let's see if the Tesla Model X is so smart when it comes to showing some old fashioned toughness.

Its opponent here is the iconic Toyota Land Cruiser, which won't be setting any speed records any time soon, yet carries with it a very rich heritage as an extremely capable off-roader.

To make matters worse for the Tesla, the Land Cruiser is actually the lighter car here and the road surface is slippery - perhaps too slippery for the Model X to put down all that power and instant torque.

Speaking of slippery, according to the video's description, the entire thing started when the owner of the Toyota claimed that his studless tires were better for these conditions. Granted, it would have been more exciting if they just wanted to see which car was "tougher", but we'll take any excuse to watch a Land Cruiser prove its mettle against what certain people in the off-roading community consider to be an iPad on wheels.

Jokes aside, the Toyota entered this fight as an underdog, so, how well do you figure it did?

VIDEO

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