Wednesday 27 December 2017

CARSCOOPS

CARSCOOPS

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New CAD Image Reveals The Mid-Engine Corvette's Twin-Turbo V8

Posted: 27 Dec 2017 04:30 AM PST


A new CAD image of the mid-engine C8 Chevrolet Corvette has just leaked online, this time revealing what's thought to be the supercar's twin-turbo V8.

First published on Twitter, the image clearly shows two large turbochargers and dual overhead cams. Apparently, the engine will be dubbed the LT7 and according to previous reports, be offered alongside at least two other powertrains, one of which was revealed in previous CAD images.

The twin-turbo LT7 V8 will most likely act as the range-topping powertrain and could conceivably deliver over 700 hp, giving the mid-engine Corvette a significant power advantage over the Ford GT, and enough to rival established European supercars.

Beyond the new range of engines set to be made available, the C8 Corvette will be underpinned by a new platform and will feature a plethora of composite materials throughout its construction. Several roof options, including fixed, targa, and a full-glass option are on the cards.

Production of the C8 Corvette should commence in January 2019 with deliveries starting shortly after. Production of the C7 may continue until 2021.



PHOTO GALLERY

Let's Take The 275PS Hyundai i30 N Out For A Spin, Shall We?

Posted: 26 Dec 2017 06:01 PM PST


Korean cars have come a (very) long way from the horrible Daewoos of the early 2000s to the modern-day Kias and Hyundais, and now include performance models as well.

One of them is the new Hyundai i30 N, a compact hot hatch that wants to lure some customers away from rivals such as the Volkswagen Golf GTI, with a few aggressive yet discreet touches on the outside and a sporty interior.

The i30 N is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter petrol four that's mated to a six-speed manual transmission. The unit is offered in two versions, with 250PS (246hp) as standard and 275PS (271hp) with the Performance Pack, allowing the car to reach 100km/h (62mph) from a standstill in 6.4sec and 6.1sec, respectively.

Additionally, Hyundai's hot hatch also features a variable exhaust valve system, adaptive suspension with five different driving modes, bigger brake discs, an electronic limited-slip differential and 19-inch alloys shod in Pirelli P-Zero rubber.

So, in theory, the Hyundai i30 N has the credentials to challenge some well established names in the segment, and make for an interesting daily driver, too. But what's it like from the driver's seat? Why, quite exciting actually, filled with lots of deep sounds, as the POV drive video posted by AutoTopNL reveals.

VIDEO

All-Electric Version Of Volvo's New V40 Will Come With Two Battery Sizes

Posted: 26 Dec 2017 05:50 PM PST


Volvo is reportedly planning a replacement for the V40, its contender in the compact hatch segment that goes against the likes of the Volkswagen Golf and Ford Focus, among others.

Expected to incorporate design elements from the 40.2 Concept that was shown last May, it will, according to AutoExpress, be underpinned by the same architecture as the new XC40 and will likely retain the same wheelbase length as well, thus making its interior more spacious than the current model's.

Adopting the Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) will give the new V40 access to a variety of engines. These include the D3 and D4 four-cylinder diesels alongside the T4 and T5 petrol units.

Moreover, since the platform has been developed with electrification in mind, the Swedish company's compact hatch will go down the electrification route as well, with plug-in hybrid and pure-electric versions of the car, similar to those of its SUV sibling.

Volvo's new hatch will also be offered with "at least two different battery sizes", Volvo's chief of R&D, Henrik Green, told the British publication, adding that "the base variant will be more cost-efficient, but with a slightly limited range", whereas the "bigger option" will have "a higher price, but more range and more power".

Although it's unclear when exactly Volvo plans to introduce the successor of the compact hatchback, we're probably looking at either 2019 or 2020.

The zero-emission variants of the XC40 and V40 won't be the brand's first fully-electric products underpinned by the CMA architecture, as this role is reserved for the Polestar 2 performance saloon, which is expected to arrive in the second half of 2019.

Note: Volvo 40.2 Concept Saloon pictured

PHOTO GALLERY

BMW M4 DTM Special Edition Puts Up A Fight Against Mercedes-AMG GT R

Posted: 26 Dec 2017 05:17 PM PST


The BMW M4 DTM Champion Edition was unveiled after Marco Wittman won the 2016 DTM driver's title, and was a limited run of only 200 units.

Mind you, it's not just an M4 with a fancy paintjob and some extras thrown in. In fact, it's also a very competent one in a straight line, as it utilizes the same water injection system as the hardcore M4 GTS, pumping out a total of 500 PS (493 HP) and 600 Nm (443 lb-ft) of torque.

According to the Bavarian automaker, the M4 DTM will get from zero to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 3.8 seconds, before topping out at 305 km/h (189 mph).

On the other side of the track is the Mercedes-AMG GT R, packing 585 PS and even more torque than the Bimmer, at 700 Nm (516 lb-ft). On paper, it should also out-sprint the M4 in the 0-100 km run by roughly 0.2 seconds, although the difference is so small that, in real world conditions, things might prove to be a bit different.

Moreover, the AMG GT R is the heavier car here, by a considerable 120 kg (265 lbs). So who do you think won this drag race? The answer lies in the video that follows right after the jump.

VIDEO

Lamborghini Centenario Is One Heck Of A Way To Celebrate Christmas

Posted: 26 Dec 2017 04:45 PM PST


London has more than its fair share of supercars, but most, if not all, were eclipsed over the past weekend by a Lamborghini Centenario.

Shipped to England's capital for the Lamborghini Christmas party, the extremely rare Centenario was parked outside a nightclub, where it caused quite a stir.

Built in just 40 examples (20 coupes and 20 roadsters) to commemorate Ferruccio Lamborghini's 100th birthday, the Centenario was sold out even before the Italian automaker pulled the cover off its body last year, in the Geneva Auto Show, despite its eye-watering €1.75 million ($2,075,000) price tag.

The limited edition Lambo is based on the same platform as the Aventador and shares its 6.5-liter naturally aspirated V12, which has been tuned to 770PS (760hp) and 690Nm (507lb-ft) of torque. Thus, it needs just 2.8sec for the 0-100km/h (0-62mph) sprint, and can reach a top speed in excess of 350km/h (217mph).

More impressively, the manufacturer claims that bringing the Centenario to a complete stop from 100km/h (62mph) takes just 30 meters (98.4ft).

Potential customers that missed their chance to buy a Centenario straight from the factory can still buy one if they're willing to pay a premium, as various examples continue to end up on the "used" exotic car market. The last one we saw is still up for grabs at $3,475,000 and has only 47 miles (76km) on the odo...

VIDEO

KBB Says 2018 Camry Is Still The Sensible Choice But With Added Flair

Posted: 26 Dec 2017 04:10 PM PST


Since redesigning the Camry and giving it a more dynamic appearance and modern feel, Toyota has received a large number of positive reviews for their mid-size saloon.

The latest comes from Kelley Blue Book, who found out that the all-new Camry is the type of car that will do its A to B job splendidly, as it always has, but now is able to satisfy those looking for some spirited driving.

While the 2018 Camry is by no means a sports sedan, it does have better steering and improved road manners compared to any of its predecessors.

At the same time, it remains a very practical car and has a well-built interior with few, if any, negatives worth pointing out, like the infotainment system not supporting Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.

On the road, the 3.5-liter V6 version will please you the most, although if you go for the standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder you'll be just fine, as it combines performance and efficiency.

Overall, it sounds like direct rivals such as the similarly priced Honda Accord, Kia Optima, Ford Fusion, Hyundai Sonata and Nissan Altima will definitely have their hands full trying to keep up with the ever popular Camry that, at last, seems to put its "competent, but boring to look at and drive" stereotype of its predecessors to rest.

VIDEO

MINI Yours Customized Service Will Allow Owners To Create Custom Components

Posted: 26 Dec 2017 03:46 PM PST


MINI offers an impressive array of customization options but the company is taking it one step further by announcing its new "MINI Yours Customized" service.

Designed to appeal to customization fanatics, the service allows owners to build unique components through a dedicated online shop. Once users customize their parts, they will be created using procedures such as 3D printing and laser etching. The parts will then be delivered to customers who can either install the components themselves or have a dealership do it.

The service will be offered in "Europe and other large markets" and it will allow owners to create custom "side scuttles" in Aspen White matte, Chili Red matte, Jet Black matte, Melting Silver matte, or White Silver matte. MINI says the customization options are nearly endless as they could include everything from the owner's name to their favorite number.

Another exterior option involves the door projectors which can be modified to include special patterns or even the owner's signature. The interior hasn't been overlooked either as the service allows users to create customized illuminated door sill plates and bespoke trim for the passenger side dashboard.

Photo Gallery

Is An Aging Population And An Uninterested Younger Generation Going Doom Classic Car Values?

Posted: 26 Dec 2017 02:58 PM PST


A number of people buy classic cars to indulge their passion or treat themselves to something they've always dreamed about owning. Sometimes their children share their love of cars and sometimes they couldn't care less.

This could be causing an interesting shift in the classic car market as Automotive News reports auction prices have declined while the number of vehicles being offered and sold has increased. This appears to be a result of an aging population which is downsizing to smaller homes, moving into retirement communities, or simply dying off.

In a report earlier this year, The New York Times noted the 2014 census showed more than 20 percent of the population in the United States will be 65 or older by 2030. While younger generations typically inherited their parent's possessions, the executive director of the National Association of Senior Move Managers told the publication "This is the first time we're seeing a kink in the chain of passing down mementos from one generation to another."

While these possessions are usually furniture and various knickknacks that have been collected over decades, a number of seniors are facing a situation where they're going to have to determine what they are going to do about their vehicles. A number of them will likely be headed to auction and this could further suppress prices as the supply of classics continues to grow.

While lower prices might attract new and younger collectors, there has been a gradational shift in the collectors market. The popularity of trucks and SUVs has spilled over to the classic market and vehicles such as the Ford Bunco and Jeep CJ-7 are seeing renewed interested. This is sharp departure from several years ago when it seemed like the market was dominated by muscle cars.

There's no telling what the future holds but trends are starting to take shape and it will be interesting to see what becomes collectible in the future.

Photo Gallery

Mazda Flair Wagon And lair Wagon Custom Style Unveiled In Japan

Posted: 26 Dec 2017 02:32 PM PST


Mazda has introduced the new Flair Wagon and Flair Wagon Custom Style in Japan.

Set to go on sale in February, the models are based on the Suzuki Spacia and feature a bolder design which makes them significantly more appealing than their predecessor. The standard model looks fairy conventional for a kei car but Mazda says it features a distinctive beltline that has been designed to "emphasize the thickness of the body."

The Flair Wagon Custom Style is the more interesting of the two models as it features a unique front fascia with a prominent grille that is flanked by LED headlights. The model also has additional chrome trim and circular fog lights.

The interior is little on the plain side but drivers will find a large speedometer and a small digital display. There is also an infotainment system, metallic accents, and a sporty steering wheel. Mazda also notes the model has a more spacious interior as well as improved entry and egress.

Despite its small size, the Flair Wagon comes loaded with technology including a collision warning system, high beam assist, and a lane departure warning system.

Under the hood, two 660cc engines are available. The entry-level unit produces 52 PS (38 kW) and 60 Nm (44 lb-ft) of torque, while the range-topping variant has a turbocharged engine developing 64 PS (47 kW) and 98 Nm (72 lb-ft) of torque. Both are paired to a hybrid powertrain that features an electric motor that produces 3 PS (2 kW) and 50 Nm (36 lb-ft) of torque.

The powertrain is connected to a new CVT transmission and it enables the Flair Wagon to travel up to 30.0 km/L (70.5 mpg US). Front-wheel drive is standard, while all-wheel drive is optional.

Pricing starts at ¥1,333,800 ($11,777) and climbs to ¥1,908,360 ($16,850) for the top of the line Flair Wagon Custom Style Hybrid XT.

Photo Gallery

Chevrolet Wants To Highlights The Camaro's Four-Cylinder Engine, Hints At Cheaper V8 Model

Posted: 26 Dec 2017 02:01 PM PST


GM's Executive Vice President of Global Product Development recently hinted the company was working on a more affordable Camaro with a V8 engine and it appears that won't be the only variant getting special attention.

In an interview with GM Authority, Chevrolet's Todd Christensen confirmed "We're trying to do more in the lower end" so the company is thinking of "ways to repackage and reprice" the Camaro. Christensen went on to say Chevrolet is looking at several different options and noted the V8 engine has seen higher demand than originally expected.

This creates a bit of a problem as the Camaro SS starts at $37,000 which is $1,905 more than the 2018 Ford Mustang GT. As a result, Christensen hinted a more affordable V8-powered model could "be one way to make the middle of the market grow a bit more."

The V8 model might not be the only one getting special attention as Christensen said the company needs to shine a spotlight on the car's turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. Unfortunately, that's another Camaro weak spot as the engine produces 275 hp (205 kW) and 295 lb-ft (400 Nm) of torque which is significantly less than the Mustang's 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder which pumps out 310 hp (231 kW) and 350 lb-ft (474 Nm) of torque.

Christensen was declined to say when we could see the changes but Chevrolet is working on a facelifted Camaro and it wouldn't be too surprising if the company waited until the car's unveiling to introduce more affordable variants.

Photo Gallery

Porsche Interior Design Boss Hints At Augmented Reality Systems For The Future

Posted: 26 Dec 2017 01:30 PM PST


Porsche is working on a handful of new models including the Mission E and the next-generation 911. We've already seen spy photos of both vehicles but the company is giving us a look at what's further on the horizon.

According to chief designer Michael Mauer, Porsche vechiles will always have a steering wheel as consumers should be able to choose whether they want to drive themselves or enjoy a "computer-assisted ride" thanks to semi-autonomous driving technology.

Porsche went on to suggest its interiors will be equipped with more touchscreens and fewer buttons. The company's head of interior design, Ivo van Hulten, also hinted augmented reality could play an important role in the future as the technology can project "virtual elements into the driver's field of vision" and this would enable drivers to keep their eyes on the road.

Speaking of the interior, Porsche plans to continue improving their user interface as new systems always start with a simple question: "What does the everyday life of a Porsche driver look like?" In order to answer this question, employees spend several days with customers and document their lives and how they interact with their vehicles. As Porsche's Director of UX/UI Design Gantimur Meissner explained, the company deliberates on how "regularly recurring situations can be resolved ideally for the customer" and their focus isn't necessarily on design but finding a "customer-friendly solution" to common problems.

Photo Gallery

2019 VW Golf Will Reportedly Have Bolder Styling And More Efficient Engines

Posted: 26 Dec 2017 12:59 PM PST


The Golf is one of Volkswagen's most important models and we're starting to learn more about the next-generation hatchback which is due in 2019.

According to Auto Motor und Sport, the next Golf will have a bolder design with slightly altered proportions. The car is also slated to feature more distinctive headlights and improved aerodynamics to help increase fuel efficiency.

Speaking of the latter, the Golf will ride on an updated version of the MQB platform and this is expected to enable the model to weigh approximately 110 lbs (50 kg) less than its predecessor. Besides the weight reduction, the Golf is expected to have a new EA 211 evo engine family that promises improved performance and reduced fuel consumption thanks to a turbocharger with a variable geometry and the use of the Miller combustion cycle.

Specifics are light at the moment but the report suggests we can expect mild hybrid variants, cleaner diesel engines, and gasoline models with particulate filters. The e-Golf will reportedly be dropped but we can expect a natural gas variant.

Besides becoming more eco-friendly, the 2019 Golf is slated to come with high-tech features such as adaptive cruise control and a head-up display. We can also expected improved infotainment systems as well as an assortment of driver assistance features.

Photo Gallery

Can The Mercedes-AMG A45 Brabus Outrun A Nissan GT-R, Audi R8?

Posted: 26 Dec 2017 12:31 PM PST


The Mercedes-AMG A45 needs no further introduction, as it's one of the hot hatch kings of our time, pushing out 381PS (376hp) and 475Nm (350lb-ft) of torque, from a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

It needs just 4.2 seconds to accelerate from naught to 100km/h (62mph), and it will keep going up to an electronically limited top speed of 250km/h (155mph), so its performance equals that of previous-gen supercars.

Speaking of supercars, how does an AMG A45 fare against some of the newer exotics? Answering this question is an overenthusiastic driver of the German hot hatch that decided to take on a Nissan GT-R and an Audi R8, during a drag racing event, trying to prove to the two that you don't need to spend a fortune on an exotic machine to have fun behind the wheel.

However, this Mercedes-AMG A45 is not completely stock, as evidenced by the custom rear diffuser, sports exhaust, and the name of the tuner responsible with the modifications that's visible on the tailgate: Brabus. It also gets a slight bump in power, delivering 400PS (394hp) and 500Nm (369lb-ft) of torque, which makes the run even more interesting.

VIDEO

A Singer Porsche 911 Is The Best Reason To Get Up Early In The Morning

Posted: 26 Dec 2017 12:02 PM PST


Singer Vehicle Design is perhaps the most famous Porsche 911 builder in the world, after Porsche of course.

It feels like an over-simplification to say that the 911 Reimagined by Singer is a restomodded Porsche 964 but it is, only one that takes the term 'resto-mod' to a whole new level.

The new bodywork is designed to make it look like the older long-hood 911s, with almost every body panel made out of carbon fiber for less weight and a lower center of gravity. Then there's the gorgeous interior, dressed with the finest materials, bucket seats and that weave-pattern trim pieces that fit perfectly with the 911 ethos.

The engine is still air cooled, of course, measuring 4.0 liters in capacity and producing close to 390hp. And because this is a Singer 911, the engine spins up to 7,200rpm and is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox.

These cars are also famous for their very steep price tags, with the average 911 Reimagined by Singer priced at $600k. This specific one is Matt Euson's Indiana car, Singer's 28th car ever built featured on Petrolicious' latest film.

Euson likes to drive his very tastefully done Singer 911 with every opportunity and who can blame him. This right here might as well be the perfect sports car.

VIDEO

Truck Smashes Through Traffic Light In Thailand, Almost Takes Out Rider

Posted: 26 Dec 2017 12:24 PM PST


Multiple cars were damaged and a motorbike rider barely escaped after a small out of control truck took out a traffic light while sliding across the tarmac.

The accident took place in Chiang Mai, the largest city in northern Thailand, and at this time, we can only speculate as to what kick-started this very unfortunate chain of events.

We won't go as far as to call it a Final Destination-type of incident, but that truck must have crashed at a very high speed, judging by how fast it was actually sliding across the road. Thankfully, that woman on the bike managed to walk away.

At first, it looks as though the traffic light pole landed directly on top of her, but she must have gotten thrown off at precisely the right angle, because moments later, towards the end of the clip, you can see her emerge from behind the Isuzu pickup, running away.

The question is, what happened to whoever was behind the wheel of the truck? The pole went right through the windshield, so all we can do is hope that they were somehow spared as well.

VIDEO

Next-Gen BMW M3 And M4 May Get Around 475 HP

Posted: 26 Dec 2017 11:02 AM PST


Both the Mercedes-AMG C63 S and Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio have over 500 hp but when it's time to introduce the next-generation M3 and M4, BMW won't engage in a horsepower war with its rivals.

BMW Blog asserts that the next M3 and M4 duo will continue to use a 3.0-liter twin-turbo six-cylinder engine but the powertrain will now be dubbed the S58. Thanks to a host of modifications, power is expected to rise from 425 hp in base specification to between 470 and 475 hp. It is thought that the S58 engine will debut in the X3 M and X4 M before being introduced in the M3 and M4.

If these rumors prove accurate, they would differ from previous claims that the next-generation M3 would use a 48-volt electrical system and a small electric motor mated between the engine and transmission.

Beyond its new and improved engine, the next M3 and M4 siblings will ride on the carmaker's CLAR platform. As such, the duo should weigh around 88 lbs (40 kg) less than their predecessors.

Of course, the next-gen 3-Series and 4-Series will be sold in a plethora of other guises. One interesting addition to the range will be the 340i M Performance, reportedly being prepped as a rival to the Mercedes-AMG C43.

PHOTO GALLERY

Attention '90s Fans, There’s A Twin Turbo…Dodge Stealth R/T On Offer Right Now

Posted: 26 Dec 2017 10:34 AM PST


Badge engineering has given us the greatest automotive weirdos out there, including the Dodge Stealth of the early '90s.

What you see here is basically a Mitsubishi 3000GT with Dodge badges on it, and more specifically the range-topping twin-turbo R/T version, complete with all-wheel drive and close to 300hp from its 3.0-liter V6.

These cars were highly advanced for their era, featuring all sorts of tricks that made the competition look almost old-fashioned at the time. In addition to the all-wheel drive and the twin turbos, the Mitsubishi 3000GT (and therefore the Dodge) also came with electronically controlled suspension and four-wheel steering as well. Both of them were built in Japan and then shipped over to the US.

The specific example is a 1992 Stealth R/T that has covered 100k miles, with the current owner, who happens to be a BMW technician, keeping it for the past 12 years. The photos show a car that looks it lived a pampered life, featuring straight panels, shiny paint and a clean interior.

A recent service that totaled $3,000 included a new water pump, timing belt, pulleys, a timing belt tensioner, new gaskets, crank pulley, drive belts, plugs, wires, coils, an ignition module, a coolant flush, and new differential fluids.

If you feel nostalgic about the '90s or just want a classic sports car that still performs well, this really nice Dodge Stealth R/T is auctioned right now over at Bring A Trailer.

PHOTO GALLERY

Ford And UAW Launch Anti-Harassment Campaign, Plays On Constant Loop At U.S. Plants

Posted: 26 Dec 2017 10:04 AM PST


Ford has released a video in relation to harassment claims recently filed against the automaker.

Last week, The New York Times published an investigative report revealing that many Ford workers, especially women, have been subject to harassment and retaliation at the firm's Chicago factories.

The same day, Ford released the video below. Ford's head of manufacturing and labor affairs, Bruce Hettle, and vice president of the United Auto Workers Union's (UAW) Ford department, Jimmy Settles, speak about the claims and reinforced statements that no such behavior will be tolerated and that each and every report of harassment is investigated.

Since the release of the video, it has been playing on a constant loop at all of Ford's 24 manufacturing plants in the United States.

Alongside the release of this clip, Ford chief executive Jim Hackett recently apologized on behalf of the company.

"I want to take this opportunity to say that I am sorry for any instance where a colleague was subjected to harassment or discriminatory conduct.

"On behalf of myself and the employees of Ford Motor Company, who condemn such behavior and regret any harassment as much as I do, I apologize. More importantly, I promise that we will learn from this and we will do better," Hackett said.

VIDEO

These Dodge Hellcats Proved Too Much Machine For Their Drivers

Posted: 26 Dec 2017 09:31 AM PST


Weighing well over 4,000 pounds with a 6.2-liter supercharged V8 sending over 700 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque to the rear wheels, the Hellcat version of either the Dodge Charger or Challenger is a whole lot of machine to handle, to say the least.

 Too much for most of us, to be sure, and evidently far too much for the unfortunate drivers of these examples.

Head over to Copart and you'll currently find no fewer than 11 Hellcats that have been written off by their insurers, their salvageable remains to be auctioned off to the highest bidder. (We didn't find a single Grand Cherokee Trackhawk, though.)

Now while Copart doesn't give the full story of what happened to each of the cars it's auctioning off, it's clear that not all 11 of these were totaled by drivers who were in over their heads. One, for example, suffered from some mechanical issue (ostensibly from having been even further modified). Another seems to have sat out in a hail storm, likely leaving its oily bits in tact but damaged the outside. And another was stripped down to its shell (maybe after an accident, maybe not).

The damage to the others appear to have resulted from crashes: damage to the front end, damage to the rear end, a complete rollover, or even having burned practically down to the ground. And while we can't say for sure it was the driver's fault, we wouldn't be surprised if that was the case with most of them.

Photo Gallery

Listen To A Subaru Boxer Engine Rev To A Dizzying 12,000 RPM

Posted: 26 Dec 2017 09:02 AM PST


While big, bustling V8 engines have their appeal, there is something especially intoxicating about small-capacity engines that howl like tiny Formula 1 engines.

Among Subaru enthusiasts, high-revving boxer engines, such as the EJ207, are adored and Australian tuning company GotitRext has decided to take the boxer engine to new heights.

The firm got their hands on a flat-four EJ-series motor and set about transforming it with new internals and a Garrett GTW3884 turbocharger. Incredibly, the engine delivers 610 hp at the wheels. However, that's not the most amazing thing.

The most remarkable element of this flat-four is its ability to rev to a barely-believable 12,000 rpm. It's unclear how GotitRext was able to make the engine rev at such extraordinary levels while still being reliable but it makes for a truly frightening powertrain.

As a matter of fact, the five-speed manual transmission mated to the engine means this 1994 Impreza LX hits 140 mph (225 km/h) in third gear alone!

Dear Santa…

VIDEO

FJ What Now? Suzuki Puts The Xbee Concept Into Production

Posted: 26 Dec 2017 08:29 AM PST


The automotive industry has a way of balancing itself out. The Dodge Viper went out of production, for example, a few months after the first Ford GTs started rolling off the line.

While Ferrari and Lamborghini were giving up on the manual transmission, Porsche was doubling down. And just a week after Toyota put the FJ Cruiser to pasture for good, Suzuki unveiled the Xbee.

Ostensibly based on the Hustler minivan, the Xbee (pronounced "cross-bee") takes the form of a retro sport-ute – albeit one that doesn't look like it'd be quite as capable as the discontinued Toyota (and much smaller to boot). But such are the times we live in when off-road stalwarts like the Ford Explorer and Nissan Pathfinder have switched from body-on-ladder-frame construction to car-based unibodies.

Capabilities and size aside, the Xbee that first appeared as a concept at the Tokyo Motor Show a few months ago is now going into production – albeit just for the Japanese market (for the time being at least).

Described as combining the "spacious cabin of a wagon and the fun of an SUV," the Xbee is being launched in Japan exclusively with a hybrid powertrain, based around a 1.0-liter turbocharged engine, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission and available with either two- or four-wheel drive.

Two trim levels are available with either drivetrains, prices ranging from ¥1,765,800 (~$16k) for the base, front-drive Xbee MX to ¥2,145,960 ($19k) for an all-wheel drive MZ. Suzuki's also packed a whole raft of active safety systems in there, and figures it can sell about 2,000 of them every month in its home market.

Photo Gallery

Adolf Hitler Used To Own This Armored 1939 Mercedes-Benz Grosser

Posted: 26 Dec 2017 08:01 AM PST


A 1939 Mercedes-Benz 770K Grosser Open Tourer once owned by Adolf Hitler will be auctioned by Worldwide Auctioneers in Scottsdale on January 17.

The auction house says that the Mercedes was originally commissioned by Hitler chauffeur and SS officer Erich Kempka and used during multiple Nazi parades between 1939 and 1941. It was also used for visiting dignitaries.

In order to protect the Führer, the car was equipped with armor plating along its sides and through the bottom. Additionally, a bullet-resistant windshield has been fitted and there's even a retractable armor plate behind the seats. Power is provided by a supercharged 7.7-liter inline-eight engine delivering 230 hp and mated to a five-speed manual transmission.

As World War II reached its conclusion, Allied Forces captured the Mercedes-Benz 770K Grosser and it has been kept in excellent condition ever since.

Worldwide Auctioneers intends on using 10 per cent of the sale price on education services related to the Holocaust to ensure no similar atrocities ever happen again.

PHOTO GALLERY

Is The New Audi RS5 Too Friendly For Its Own Good?

Posted: 26 Dec 2017 07:40 AM PST


Since its launch, the latest Audi RS5 has been criticized about its lack of an engaging character, with reviewers saying that it feels more like a faster S5 than a proper RS model.

The thing is though that Audi RS models were never praised about their handling, leaving that bit to models like the BMW M3 and Mercedes-AMG C63. Instead, fast Audis focused more on making that supercar-like performance more accessible and easier to experience, of course with the kind help of the Quattro all-wheel drive system.

Even Audi calls the new RS5 "the gran turismo model in the RS lineup", which is the biggest indicator of what to expect of the two-door sports coupe.

That's doesn't mean though that the Audi RS5 isn't capable enough; quite the opposite. The Quattro all-wheel drive features a rear-biased torque split and also comes with a torque-vectoring sport differential for the rear axle. There's also an optional RS Sport suspension with Dynamic Ride Control, ceramic brakes and a variable steering rack.

Henry Catchpole from Carfection reviews the Audi RS5 in the video linked below.

VIDEO

Mercedes EVs Might Push C-Class Production Out Of U.S.

Posted: 26 Dec 2017 06:58 AM PST


After deciding to build electric vehicles at their Alabama plant, Mercedes-Benz might find themselves having to push C-Class output out of the country.

The C-Class represents roughly 20% of the plant's production, with Mercedes building some 72,000 units in 2016 and is on track for 57,000 this year.

Mercedes global sales boss, Britta Seeger simply said "We will see", when asked whether C-Class production will move elsewhere, reports Autonews.

Back in September, Daimler said that it would invest $1 billion in the Vance, Alabama plant in order to assemble fully electric utility vehicles under its EQ sub-brand. EQ line models are expected to go into production in 2020, with an electric SUV the size of the Mercedes GLE leading the way.

Aside from the C-Class sedan, the plant also assembles the GLE and GLE Coupe, as well as the larger GLS.

"The most important point for us was to make sure we have the EQ production in the U.S.," added Seeger. "If you have electric mobility, it makes sense to go very regional because you want to avoid huge transportation."

Mercedes thinks that the EQ line could account for 15 to 25% of its global sales by the year 2025, which in turn means that other models, such as the C-Class sedan, could depart the Alabama plant.

According to IHS Markit exec, Joe Langley, the C-Class is likely to move away from Alabama during its next redesign, which is expected to arrive in 2021. Mercedes is also building the C-Class in Germany and South Africa, although at this point it is unclear where production would end up if the nameplate will indeed be moved out of the U.S.

Officially, Mercedes has yet to make a decision on this matter.

"If we would stop, then, for sure, you would need to import," added Seeger. "But it's not a decision we are taking currently."

PHOTO GALLERY

Tesla Celebrates The Holidays With Santa Mode Easter Egg

Posted: 26 Dec 2017 06:30 AM PST


To help celebrate the holiday season, Tesla has introduced a special 'Santa Mode' easter egg for the Model S and Model X.

Santa Mode can be accessed through the Easter egg section of the infotainment system which now features a reindeer button. Once engaged, Santa Mode transforms the car usually displayed on the digital gauge cluster into a Santa sleigh and surrounding vehicles into reindeers.

Additionally, Santa Mode starts playing 'Run Rudolph Run' and when a turn signal is engaged, the sound of sleigh bells fills the cockpit. Last but not least, the road displayed on the dash turns icy on those Tesla Model S and Model X vehicles with Autopilot.

Last year, Tesla introduced a different Christmas easter egg. At the press of a button, it saw the vehicle opening and closing its doors, flashing the lights, and playing Christmas tunes in a rather dazzling display.

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