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We humans may ooh and aah over every explosion, but our pets are very often frightened out of their wits. They'll spend the holiday hiding under the bed or in the basement, cowering, shaking, drooling and seeking safety and comfort. Scared pets have been known to jump out of apartment windows, leap over or dig under fences, or chew their skin until it's raw. They may also bolt out an open door and become lost. Not all dogs are afraid of fireworks. Our Golden Retriever, Shakira, wouldn't flinch if a keg of gunpowder exploded next to her. Shop vacs, lawn mowers, grass trimmers, motorcycles, thunderstorms and fireworks elicit but a yawn. On the other hand, Quixote, our Yorkie/Pomeranian/Chihuahua mix, treats loud sounds as if the grim reaper were calling and there's no way he's going to answer. When it comes to big noises, this dog is a scaredy-cat. Make fireworks a treat The best defense against Fourth of July problems is a good offense. While comforting your scared pet may seem like the right thing to do, it's not. Don't reward the fear. If you remain calm and don't baby your dog or cat, he will be closer to learning how to handle loud noises. Instead, turn a potentially negative experience such as fireworks into something rewarding. When a negative experience comes with tasty treats, your pet may be more likely to tolerate it or maybe even welcome it. This works best when started as a puppy, but don't give up hope if your dog is already an adult: New behaviors can be learned. Ideally, you would prepare your pet for the noise of the Fourth by exposing him to recordings of fireworks (search YouTube for fireworks shows). Start by playing videos or recordings at a low volume recognizing how acute a pet's hearing is and give praise and treats while you and your pet listen to the noise. It's a party! Start by playing the recording for five minutes; increase the volume and duration during subsequent sessions. Give your dog or cat really tasty treats while you listen to the fireworks. This teaches him that the loud noises come with yummy snacks and hopefully makes them more tolerable. If you're short on time, skip right to the treats. Have a supply of tasty snacks ready when the fireworks start; use them to reward your cat or dog for staying calm and cool during the show. Help them manage their fear If you're not able to be with your pet during the fireworks display or if he's too scared to stay in the room with you be sure to provide a safe hiding space inside your home. Dogs and cats who are comfortable in crates often find them a good place to ride out the noise, especially if the crate is put in a quiet, darkened part of the house. Of course, if you find that treating your pet and exposing your animal to the sounds of fireworks doesn't ease his anxiety, begin planning in advance for the next explosive holiday. Some pets are so unhinged by noise that veterinarian-prescribed tranquilizers are needed to help keep them calm. Also talk to your veterinarian about other calming techniques. Some alternative-care veterinarians may recommend herbal products, while others can show you acupressure and massage techniques to help keep pets more calm Follow us on Twitter. | 4 | 1,100 | lifestyle |
More from Woman's Day 8 Ways To Be A Happier Mom 12 Surprising Facts About Cheating Get Trim And Tone In 10 Minutes 10 Ways To Reinvent Your Look 10 Secrets Of Healthy Relationships 9 Tips For Younger-Looking Eyes Marriages come and go, but divorce is forever , to quote the late, great Nora Ephron. While you may be able to move on to another man , your children will always be tied to you and your ex and any drama from that relationship. With this in mind, adult children of divorce share what bothered them as kids and still irks them today about their parents' post-split behavior. Plus, experts weigh in on what divorced parents should do instead. Video: How to handle divorced parents at your wedding 1. Badmouthing the other parent. Stacey's parents divorced when she was 18, and they disparaged each other for years. "The destruction of the family is painful enough without being involved in the parents' marital strife," she says. Negative talk damages children's self-esteem, adds Susan Saper Galamba, a divorce and family attorney in Overland Park, KS. " Whether it's genetics or environment, a child's bound to have attributes of both parents. When one parent repeatedly speaks negatively about the other, and then tells a child that she 'sounds just like' the other parent, the child receives the message that she's bad, too." Bing: Tips for divorced parents 2. Discouraging kids from talking about their other parent. "Kids want to talk about their lives, including their other parent, without feeling guilty," says Dominique*, whose parents divorced when she was younger. Psychologist Terri Orbuch, PhD, a relationship expert for OurTime.com , adds, "Even if an adult child speaks negatively about the other parent, she doesn't want the parent who's listening to add to that negativity." Instead, help her identify solutions to the problem at hand. 3. Divulging the dirty details of the divorce. Stacey began to resent her father after her mother offered uncomfortable info about the split. Sparing kids details makes divorce easier on them, says Allison Pescosolido, founder of the Divorce Detox program . "When you need consoling about how horribly their dad treated you, get actionable advice from a pro; don't look to your kids," she adds. Also avoid mentioning particulars like child support, says Sheila Blagg, CEO of Divorce2Dating.com , an online network for separated and divorced individuals. "A child should never know if a parent isn't paying," she says. "It may make her feel that her dad or mom doesn't love her enough to support her." 4. Keeping kids completely in the dark. Still, some key information is worth sharing, depending on the situation and your children's ages, says Pescosolido. For instance, Anna felt deceived after her parents kept the reason for their divorce secret from her for a year. "My parents split because my dad's gay," she says. "It's better to be open than trying to ignore an issue because you're embarrassed." 5. Skipping family events because your ex will be there. Unless there are extenuating circumstances, like abuse, you'll likely need to attend some of the same events. Galamba says that adult children of divorce often dread coordinating special occasions with their parents. " Blending families when someone remarries is hard enough, but dealing with one or both parents refusing to attend gatherings can be near impossible," she says. "If parents aren't careful, they may not get invited at all." 6. Making the situation all about you. If you agree to go somewhere your ex will be, handle the encounter gracefully. Frankee, whose parents have been divorced since she was eight, says her mother's anguish over being near her father ruined big moments. "When I graduated from college, my mom wouldn't hug me until I'd said goodbye to my dad," she says. Blagg recommends ex-spouses ignore each other, rather than cause a scene, which only mortifies children. "Choose your seats wisely," she advises. "You don't have to greet one another, but remember that you're going to be dealing with this individual for years to come." 7. Making kids feel guilty for spending time with their other parent. If you and your ex have joint custody, then your kids inevitably will be spending time with their other parent on a regular basis, as well as during some holidays. Galamba says that parents need to remember that although they divorced their spouses, their children didn't. "Don't tell the kids how lonely you'll be when they're with the other parent, or that you're sorry they have to spend time with him," she says. "Instead, tell them to have fun, and consider their time away as 'court-ordered' relaxation." 8. Justifying your bad behavior. P.J., whose parents divorced when she was a kid, says that her dad's defense of his affair made the split harder on her and her sister. "I asked him years later if he was sorry for what he did and he defiantly said, 'No, and I'd do it again,'" she says. "Where was the father who taught me right from wrong? He damaged his credibility with me." Pescosolido says that affairs are strictly parents' business knowing the truth can damage your relationship with your children and cause them to have trust issues within their future relationships, she says. 9. Putting your kids in the middle. Jessa* recalls delivering child support checks from her father to her mother until she was 20 years old, which she says was humiliating. Kids simply shouldn't be a go-between, Dr. Orbuch says. "If their mother or father wants a message relayed to the other parent, or they need to make a decision together, they should talk to each other," she says. And, this should go without saying, but never grill your child for details on the other parent's life. 10. Making everyone feel your unhappiness. The pain of divorce can last a long time, but don't transfer it onto your children. Lindsay's mother still vocalizes her bitterness about her split. "It hurts me when she says, 'The past 30 years have been a waste,'" she admits. "I feel like I've been a hassle." Galamba says that no child constantly wants to hear how her parent was wronged. "The 'woe is me' game can be a self-fulfilling prophecy. Many adult children start showing a preference for the parent who was portrayed as 'blameworthy.'" *Names have been changed | 4 | 1,101 | lifestyle |
Wonder what's bugging your teen? It's hard to be certain when all your son does is grunt and your daughter won't stop rolling her eyes. So rather than pressing our own kids to talk not going to happen! we asked teenagers from around the country what messages they wish they could share with their moms and dads. Sure, every child is different, but it may do you and your teen some good if you took these truthful kids' concerns to heart. 1. She needs privacy. "I hate that my parents don't give me any personal space," says Eleanor, 14. "And I hate that they don't think I need it." Even if your children share a room, give each child an area that's off-limits to everyone else in the family (including you), such as a desk or a spare closet. To show that you respect your teen's privacy, don't rummage through her personal space unless you have a concrete reason to believe that she's lying to you or hiding something serious. And remember: "All kids today are doing drugs" isn't a concrete reason. Love this? Follow us on Facebook. 2. Sometimes he just needs you to listen. "I want to tell my mom and dad everything," says Keegan, 13, "but I don't want to listen to them nag." Understand that sometimes your kids just want a sounding board they're not looking for you to solve all their problems. When your son complains that his science teacher is being unfair or his soccer coach has been extra-hard on him, encourage him to talk by asking open-ended questions. ("Well, how does that make you feel?") Don't jump in with advice or threaten to intervene. 3. She may be dating even if you've explicitly said she can't. "I didn't tell my parents about a guy I dated for a year, because they didn't allow me to have boyfriends," says Marla, 15. "They knew we hung out, but I'd say, 'Oh, we're just friends.'" Try to be relaxed when it comes to dating even if it's killing you. Instead of forcing your daughter to sneak around, let her start with group dates, where at least four other kids are with her and her date at all times. Love this? Follow us on Facebook. 4. He may not be getting great grades on every assignment. "I don't tell my parents when I get a bad grade because I don't want to listen to them tell me how I've let them down," says Sam, 16, who says he occasionally fails a quiz but usually makes up for it with better exam scores. "There are nights I just don't feel like studying!" Sometimes one bad grade is just that: one bad grade. If your son feels like he can vent to you about bombing a quiz or a book report, you won't have to wait until the end of a semester to find out he's struggling in school. 5. She doesn't want to talk to you about sex. "My mom knows I've kissed a boy," says Sonia, 15, "but I don't want to tell her anything else. It's my life, not hers." The good news is, in a 2005 government survey, less than half of high school students (47 percent) said they'd had sex. Still, it's safest to assume your teen is in that 47 percent and educate her about birth control or preventing STDs. Don't press her for personal details, but do offer advice; use third-person examples if it helps. Love this? Follow us on Facebook. 6. He hates when you don't hold his siblings accountable. "I hate that my parents don't care how my youngest brother acts," says Henry, 13. "When he swears or picks a fight with me or my older brother, they say, 'He's 7. He doesn't know any better.' But when I was his age I would have been in big trouble for swearing." While it's natural to become more lax as you have more children, it's important to consider each unique situation, not just your children's ages. Remember, all of your kids will respect you more if they think you're a fair and reasonable parent. 7. She wishes you'd cut her some slack. "It makes me sad when my mom screams at me when I'm already down," says Erin, 17. Even if your daughter seems to screw up every time you turn around, it's important that she doesn't feel like you're constantly coming down on her. When you're upset, take some deep breaths; a few minutes might give you perspective (is it really worth it to lose your cool over dirty laundry?) and a chance to evaluate your daughter's mood. Perhaps she's ignored the laundry because she's stressed about school or antsy about a boy who hasn't called her back. Love this? Follow us on Facebook. 8. He lies to stay out of trouble. "Sometimes I don't come home because I'm too drunk to drive," says Aaron, 19. "If I told my parents that, they'd flip out, so I lie." While it would be irresponsible to give underage drinking the green light, you don't want your child to be in an unsafe situation because he's rushing to be home on time. If your son calls just before curfew and says he needs a ride, save your questions (and lectures) for the morning. 9. She gets frustrated when you use her age to your advantage. "I can't stand it when my parents say, 'You're 17. Act like a grownup,' one day, and then turn around and say, 'You're not old enough to do that. You're only 17,' the next," says Izzy. "Which is it? Make up your mind!" Since "age-appropriate" is subjective, try to give your child hard-and-fast rules that aren't dependent on a number. ("Every member of this family attends church on Sunday," or "Visiting friends at college isn't allowed until you're in college yourself.") 10. He wishes you would trust him. "My parents don't trust that I don't do drugs," says Steven, 15. "And I really hate that they believe what other people tell them instead of what I tell them." Constantly accusing your kids of this or that especially if your accusations are unfounded breeds mistrust. Eventually they'll do something dishonest just because they're sick of being wrongly accused. Trust your kids until they give you a real reason not to. Love this? Follow us on Facebook. | 4 | 1,102 | lifestyle |
We'll have to wait another two weeks to know for sure, but one of the prettiest concepts of the Frankfurt auto show is sure to be this Volvo Concept Coupé. Yes, you read "pretty" and "Volvo," snuggled right up together in the same sentence. "It is the prettiest Volvo ever," proclaimed MT sister publication Automobile Mag's design guru Robert Cumberford, and nobody disagreed. Borrowing some subtle cues from the P1800 (which "The Saint" drove, if you'll recall) -- the last car to hold those bragging rights -- the P1800, the Concept Coupé's appears as the first of three concepts that will, over the coming show season, funnel customer expectations in the direction of the company's new Scalable Product Architecture. SPA will manifest first in the 2015 XC90, followed shortly by the S90 and V90 (for other markets). The idea here is to demonstrate Volvo's long-term plan for independent survival, which is based on platform and powertrain consolidation. The breadth of vehicle types this SPA architecture can accommodate spans everything Volvo currently sells in the U.S. (The Europe-only V40 and variants will utilize a smaller platform.) The sacrosanct dimension is the "ball-of-foot-to-front axle." If that dimension is long enough, you're virtually assured of an upscale, rear-drive-look "dash-to-axle" dimension, with improved front-seat foot room thrown in for free. You can vary the wheelbase, length, overhangs, height, track, and overall widths, but you can't wedge anything bigger than a four-banger under the hood. And by running the transmission output shaft ahead of the engine, instead of behind it, most of the drivetrain is packaged between the front tires, delivering front drive traction and packaging efficiency with rear-drive (read "premium price") short-overhang proportions. Speaking of transmissions, Volvo will use just four: two eight-speed Aisin Warner automatics sized for various torque outputs, a six-speed Getrag manual, and a forthcoming seven-speed twin-clutch automatic. Exterior cues on the Concept Coupé that will define the future look of Volvo include the windshield-to-axle proportion, T-graphic DRL headlamp feature, possibly the "floating" P1800-like grille, the basic taillamp graphic (which will adapt to a vertical element on SUVs), and the general look of "calm, confident beauty that is the hallmark of Scandinavian design," as new VP of Design Thomas Ingenlath (late of VW) said of his first major Volvo design. He also described it as displaying "the powerful calmness of a lion. He doesn't have to prowl to radiate respect. Even lying down he shows very clearly what he is capable of." Unlike some designs, this one looks fabulous in pictures, in the flesh, while driving, or while standing still. The surface detailing is exquisite. Check out the way the shoulder line from the front fender resolves under the rear of the door handle, while the rear shoulder line begins atop the front of the same door handle. Very P1800. Also note the crisp indentation accenting each wheel arch. Study the car and you'll find hundreds of such details. The interior is just as exquisite, designed to reflect the aesthetic of the west coast of Sweden. There's dark blue seawater coloring for the tight-loop carpeting woven in the north of Sweden, driftwood-look wood veneers, thick saddle leather covering the dash with its waxed edges clearly visible, and supple Bridge of Weir seat leather (made in Scotland from Swedish cowhides). The crystal shift lever is produced by Sweden's Orrefors (and is production feasible). The design centers around a portrait-oriented touch-screen tablet, controlled by a twist knob and six buttons. It is not an iPad, but rather was developed by a new in-house department dedicated to human-machine interface design. Interesting touches: The seats -- which were sort of inspired by the Scandinavian Egg chair -- move fore-aft via buttons located on the top surface of the seats between the legs; when not in use, the +2 rear seats accommodate matching attaché cases designed to look like the ignition fob. The inboard shoulder belts ease rear-seat access and feature "Since 1959" engraved on their scabbards to commemorate Volvo's introduction of the three-point belt. Some will protest that the slightly blingy look is too American, but it was inspired by the P1800, which indeed took major inspiration from the New World. What will it drive like? Well, this one doesn't drive, but as the "Plug-In Hybrid" fender badges suggest, it is supposedly powered by a 2.0-liter high-output Drive-E supercharged/turbocharged four, assisted by a rear-axle-mounted electric motor energized by tunnel and rear-floor mounted batteries good for a V-8-like 400 hp and 443 lb-ft combined. Keep it tuned right here for all the latest news on the Frankfurt show, and please let us know which concept you think is the fairest of them all. Four-Cylinders Only? Yep, Volvo is consolidating its eight legacy engines into a single engine architecture that will include turbocharged direct-injected I-3 and I-4 gasoline engines ranging from 1-2 liters and a twin-turbodiesel 2.0-liter I-4 engine. The latter is said to make 230 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque running 15.8:1 compression. To match the old T6-level performance, top 2.0-liter gas variants will use a large turbo that builds big boost above 2300 rpm, with a belt-driven three-lobe Eaton supercharger filling in the low-rpm torque hole to deliver an impressive 306 hp. Balance shafts will ensure smooth running in top-performing variants. Electrifying the rear wheels will provide V-8 performance and 442 lb-ft of combine torque, as envisioned in the Concept Coupé. Friction-reduction measures such as ball bearings on the camshafts of the gas engines (a unique feature in the market today) and new i-Art diesel injectors individually monitor and adjust the typical 2600-bar common-rail fuel pressure to tailor it to each cylinder's needs -- a feature good for a 2 percent drop in fuel consumption. Both 2.0-liter variants are expected to deliver 30 percent better fuel consumption than their closest equivalent current production T6 and I-5 diesel variants. | 9 | 1,103 | autos |
This is Audi's second go at a successor to the original Sport Quattro, and this time around there are big changes under the hood. Debuting at the 2013 Frankfurt auto show is the Audi Sport Quattro Concept, highlighted by a powertrain that includes a twin-turbo V-8 plug-in hybrid, a significant departure from what powered the original Sport Quattro about three decades ago. That rally-bred car featured a turbocharged inline-five that was linked to Audi's then-new and revolutionary Quattro all-wheel-drive system. Audi first teased us with a possible Sport Quattro successor at the 2010 Paris Motor Show when it released a concept powered by a straight-five pulled from the TT-RS coupe. It was the perfect homage to the original. Better yet, it was mated to a six-speed manual. Version two of the Sport Quattro Concept is much different. Now we have a plug-in hybrid system with a 4.0-liter, twin-turbo V-8 that's been making its way into much of Audi's lineup, including the S8 and the RS 7. In fact, the concept's V-8 matches the RS 7's output at 560 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. In between the engine and eight-speed auto is an electric motor that brings total output to about 700 hp. A 14.1 kWh liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery is mounted toward the rear of the coupe and provides enough power for 31 miles of range in pure EV mode. A Hybrid mode is available for maximum efficiency, but Sport mode will squeeze the most performance out of the powertrain. Audi claims a 0-62 mph time of 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 190 mph. On paper, the two-seat Sport Quattro Concept appears sophisticated and fast, though we wonder how it'll perform on the road. Sure, it has a sophisticated sport differential at the rear axle that should provide loads of grip, but the hybrid hardware adds weight. The original Sport Quattro tipped the scales at a svelte 2838 pounds. The first concept from 2010 was impressively light, weighing in at just 2866 pounds. Now, concept version two is nearly double the weight, at 4079 pounds. This is despite the lightweight construction that relies on aluminum, carbon fiber-reinforced plastics (used for the hood and rear hatch), and carbon fiber-ceramic brake discs. Styling is similar to the previous concept, but three years has given Audi plenty of time to improve the look. Up front, the hood no longer features the center-mounted air scoop, though the passenger-side air vents remain. The grille pattern switches to a honeycomb pattern and is now framed with brushed-metallic trim. The lower air dams have been widened and the headlight units feature the new Matrix LED system that will debut on the updated A8 flagship sedan later this year. From the side, the 21-inch rims feature a more intricate design, the front fenders now include vertical air vents, and the rocker panel features a deeper crease. The front fenders and haunches appear wider and now include a crease that provides a bit more definition. The short wheelbase of 109.6 inches (and overall length of 181.1 inches) makes it shorter than the RS 5 and helps mimic the unmistakable proportions of the original Sport Quattro. Out back, the bolt-on spoiler used in the first concept gives way to an integrated version and the taillights are now tilted inward. Changes for the carbon-fiber-heavy interior include a flat-bottom steering wheel, revised HVAC and MMI infotainment controls, and a new digital instrument panel that is highlighted by a center-mounted tachometer. While some may lament the loss of the inline-five, producing a Sport Quattro successor is a no-brainer for many reasons. For starters, Audi has already spent many years and cash developing the car (the first concept alone was said to be worth more than $5 million), and there's the number of new products coming from its competitors to consider. That said, it's still unknown if this will be a low-quantity car or something we'll spot just as often as an R8. Speaking of which, the Sport Quattro should, assuming it becomes a reality, sit between the R8 and RS 5 in Audi's hierarchy. You could also expect a launch date of 2015, which would be right in time for the 35th anniversary of the Quattro system itself. | 9 | 1,104 | autos |
With the surprise unveiling of the rally-inspired Nanuk Quattro Concept, Audi stunned the crowd at the Volkswagen Group Night event held ahead of the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. Nanuk is an Eskimo word that means "polar bear" and Audi says that the name was inspired by one of their old commercials . The ad in question features an old Eskimo teaching a young one tracks in the snow and quickly identifying a set of car tracks as belonging to an Audi quattro. Designed by Italdesign Giugiaro, the Nanuk Quattro is half sports car and half rally car. With inspiration from the Audi Quattro Concept as well as the R8, it's powered by a mid-mounted twin-turbodiesel V-10 good for 550 hp and 738 lb-ft of torque that's sent to all four wheels via a beefed-up seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. The V-10 is reportedly from a new modular Diesel engine family that supports multiple cylinder counts. Though made mostly of aluminum and carbon fiber, the Audi Nanuk Quattro Concept weighs in at around 4200 pounds you can thank the twin-turbodiesel V-10, air suspension, and four-wheel steering for the weight (more on that in a sec). Nevertheless, Audi says the Nanuk Quattro will do 0-62 mph in 3.8 seconds and hit a top speed of 190 mph. Even more impressive is its fuel economy, a claimed 30 mpg combined on the EPA cycle. Enabling the duality of a sports-rally car is the Nanuk Quattro's adaptive air suspension and four-wheel steering. The electronically-controlled air suspension has three modes: normal, low (1.18 inches lower), and high (1.57 inches higher). The system is predictive, automatically lowering the car on paved roads and raising it on gravel ones. Like most four-wheel steering systems, the Nanuk Quattro's turns the rear wheels opposite at low to moderate speed and with the front wheels at high speeds. The rear wheels can turn up to nine degrees opposite the front wheels at low speeds and as much as 2.5 degrees at high speeds. Visually, the Audi Nanuk Quattro Concept shares much with the Italdesign Giugiaro Parcour Concept . Exaggerated and angular, the Nanuk Quattro sports signature Audi touches like its hexagonal grille, the (other) Audi Quattro Concept's large air inlets, and the R8's side-blade air intake. The four-ringed headlights mimic Audi's logo, while its doors, which open up like those of the McLaren 12C, give it extra pizzazz. Even cooler, the engine sits under a piece of glass in the middle and is accessed by flipping the clamshell-style rear bodywork as if you're working on a Lancia Stratos. Though not particularly likely to see production, the Audi Nanuk Quattro Concept's interior is pretty feasible aside from the camera-based side- and rear-view "mirrors." The interior is designed to minimally distract the driver, so there's no infotainment system. All of the car's navigation and controls, like the air suspension, are controlled by a touch wheel on the carbon fiber center tunnel and steering wheel, with information displayed on a programmable instrument panel screen. Audi says the Nanuk Quattro is purely a concept that is designed to gauge reaction toward a sports car with greater ground clearance. Well Audi, you have our attention. Now, when can we drive it? | 9 | 1,105 | autos |
The BMW i3 won't be the only electrified vehicle wearing the roundel at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show, as the automaker will also show off its Concept X5 eDrive plug-in hybrid SUV. The hybrid version of the 2014 BMW X5 receives the brand's xDrive all-wheel drive system and is powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and an electric motor developed in-house. BMW doesn't specify displacement or the power output of the gasoline engine, but the mill could be derived from the turbocharged 2.0-liter N20 found in many BMWs. The electric motor draws power from a high-voltage lithium-ion battery pack located beneath the SUV's cargo area, which BMW says offers only slightly reduced space compared with the standard X5. The electric drive system is capable of moving the sport 'ute at speeds up to 75 mph, and can propel the car for 19 miles by itself. In addition, power from both gasoline and electric sources can be distributed to the wheels in varying combinations through the all-wheel-drive system, which BMW says makes its first appearance in an electrified vehicle with the Concept X5 eDrive. BMW estimates a 0-60 time of 7 seconds. To complement the i3 with which the concept shares a stage, the X5 eDrive features exterior details finished in the same blue developed for the "i" line. Exterior pieces such as the kidney grille slats, front valance and intake trim, bumper inlays, and charging port surround all get a touch of the somewhat metallic light blue seen on BMW i models. The rest of the concept is finished in Silverflake metallic paint, while specially designed roof rails and aerodynamic 21-inch alloy wheels round out the design. Inside, a dynamic range display provides drivers with info on range-affecting factors including traffic, route, and driving style. The hybrid-specific Proactive Driving Assistant uses the navigation system to suggest alternate routes to optimize range. Three driving modes are selectable, including intelligent hybrid drive, which offers the best balance of sportiness and efficiency; pure electric mode for all-electric power; and safe-battery mode to keep the battery fully charged. The Concept X5 eDrive can be charged via a standard electrical outlet, a wall-mounted charger, or at public charging stations. A charging cable is stored below the cargo area, and lights up when the vehicle is charging. Drivers can view charge time and range on their smartphone through a BMW ConnectedDrive app that also allows them to remotely set the climate control. BMW refers to the Concept X5 eDrive as a "study vehicle," and hasn't announced plans for a production version. But given the concept's showroom-ready appearance, we may soon see BMW's lineup become a little greener. | 9 | 1,106 | autos |
Ford Motor Co. will debut an S-Max Concept at the IFA Consumer Electronics Unlimited Show in Berlin next week, proving that intelligent design and evolution can live together. The concept was created to further Ford's future design language, said top designer J Mays, and closely follows a number of influential concept vehicles first seen in Europe. Auto fans will get to see the S-Max for the first time at the Frankfurt auto show in two weeks. While designed in Europe, there's no reason this vehicle couldn't make its way around the world, as it seems the "One Ford" slogan has taken on new meaning with the advent of social media and worldwide instant access to information. "Whether they are viewing it in Memphis or Milan, people just want the best design," Mays said. It has a lot of desirable features. Its sleek roofline and exterior lines and Ford's familiar front end demonstrate the evolutionary maturity of Ford's exteriors. Vehicles including the Focus and new Fusion have been criticized by critics including myself for too much exterior styling, as if the designer left the pencil on the paper just a moment too long, but the S-Max Concept addresses that. Mays pointed to previous European concepts such as the Iosis, Evos, and SAV that helped form the design theme Ford has followed for nearly a decade. That theme has helped Ford's car business continue to grow well beyond Europe. More important, the 2005 SAV concept was the basis for the original S-Max that arrived less than a year later. "This was a true white space vehicle," Mays said of the vehicle, which fills a market niche with little competition. "And in eight years, we've had more than 350,000 customers." The high-tech interior looks impressive, though reporters were only shown photos of the final product. It features Ford's Thin Seat Technology to create a fold-down center seat in the second row and a disappearing fold-flat third row. The ultra-thin center stack, which has a pass-through behind it, includes a dual, dash-mounted screen so the driver can see one image, such as the navigation map, while the passenger watches a movie on the same screen. The multipurpose activity vehicle arrives in a 5 + 2 configuration, and the interior includes a lot of technology that will make its way into production vehicles, said Jim Buczkowski, director of electrical and electrical systems at Ford. "We want to add technologies that make people's lives easier," said Buczkowski. Indeed, the S-Max Concept will include tablet computer placeholders in the second row, and everyone in the vehicle will have the ability to connect to Wi-Fi inside the vehicle, making the S-Max Concept a true mobile hot hatch. Ford's SYNC AppLink adds more apps that are downloaded onto a smartphone but are operated on Ford's dash screen or through Ford's voice recognition system. New apps include Spotify, Kaliki, Glympse, and Aha. Another piece of technology Ford will showcase in the S-MAX Concept is its ECG Heart Rate Monitoring Seat, which records a driver's heart rate. If the system detects something irregular in the driver's heart, it can notify local medical personnel. If it detects something even more serious, it can allow active safety systems to take over.The medical driver's seat can also now monitor a driver's glucose level, or if operating on a passenger, the system, through SYNC, could notify a parent that a child in the rear seat is suffering a diabetic episode. (This system does not require an insurance deductible before working.) Ford has been working on some of these ideas for years. Also featured in the S-Max Concept is the next generation of safety equipment, such as car-to-car communication technology that could help cars on the go avoid each other and prevent accidents. Ford will show off its Active Park Assist feature, which will allow for perpendicular parking and parallel parking without ever requiring the driver to touch anything. The car will control the steering, gears, and forward and rearward movement. The first time anyone tests this, it will be kind of freaky. The system can also pull the vehicle out of a very tight parking spot. The S-Max Concept will be powered by Ford's 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine, which currently produces 177 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque. These are the pieces of intelligent design that keep vehicles relevant in the quickly changing auto industry. Sophisticated, smart, and evolutionary, the S-Max Concept draws all of the right lines. | 9 | 1,107 | autos |
Among the premium brands, few have as wide a bandwidth of products as Audi. From the Golf-based A3 all the way up to the exotic R8 sharing Lamborghini DNA, the brand offers a model for nearly every budget and taste. With the debut of the 2015 Audi A3 Cabriolet at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show, the company's lineup is about to expand again. Yes, an A3 Cabriolet has been offered in Europe offered since 2008, but the new model introduces features and technology formerly the exclusive domain of higher-end models. Based on the Volkswagen Group's new MQB modular transverse architecture, the 2015 A3 Cabriolet is slightly larger than its predecessor, but also 110 pounds lighter, coming in at just above 3000 pounds for the base model, Audi claims. The biggest dimensional change is length, with an increase from 166.9 to 174.0 inches, or just over two inches longer than the current-generation BMW 1 Series convertible. The wheelbase increases just under an inch from its predecessor from 101.5 inches to 102.4 in. Width also increases slightly from 69.7 inches to 70.4 inches, making it wider than the 68.8-inch wide 1 Series convertible. Height decreases by just over a half-inch to give it a more aggressive look. But that added length was not just for aesthetic purposes. Cargo capacity increases by 2.12 cubic feet. Following the pattern of other recent Audi models, the A3 Cabriolet's front end employs Audi's so-called "Singleframe" modified hexagonal grille opening, flanked by two tapered headlight clusters giving the front end a sharp, purposeful appearance. The taillights echo the theme, tapering to a pointed edge toward the middle of the trunklid's vertical plane. Naturally for an Audi, the A3 Cabriolet offers optional full-LED headlights, with segment-exclusive variable headlight leveling control. Three trim levels will be offered in Europe, Attraction, Ambition and Ambiente. The Ambition trim also offers an available S line sport package with an all-black interior. The generously sized wheel wells can house up to 19-inch wheels and tires, with the largest size being the 235/35-19s offered on the top-of-the-line S3 performance model. Like the exterior, the A3 Cabriolet's interior is characterized by Audi's simplicity and attention to detail. The dashboard has a center power-retractable seven-inch flat-screen display that punctuates the minimalist dashboard. But just because the interior is clutter-free doesn't mean it's devoid of features. In addition to the MMI display, the center console houses the MMI controller that can sense character input by fingertip on the top of the knob, a technology first used in the Audi A8 flagship sedan. Lending legitimacy to Audi's high-tech reputation is an available built-in LTE hotspot, and Google Earth and Street View functions in the navigation system, as well as Facebook and Twitter updates. European customers will also get parking space availability information, a key feature in Europe's densely populated urban centers. For audiophiles, a Bang & Olufsen sound system is optional. Other driver safety and convenience features available on the A3 Cabriolet include adaptive cruise control, active lane assist, traffic sign recognition, park assist, and Audi's pre sense safety system. As with the larger A5 Cabriolet, the A3 is a soft-top. The standard color is black, but black, gray, or brown top colors will also be available on the optional acoustic top featuring additional sound-deadening insulation. Even with the top fully retracted -- a process that takes 18 seconds and can be done at speeds up to 31 mph -- the A3 Cabriolet still offers a relatively generous 10 cubic feet of cargo volume, which can be further extended by the folding rear seats. Performance levels in the A3 Cabriolet range from mild to habañero hot, but all engines have stop-start technology. The base engine is Audi's 140-hp 1.4-liter gasoline turbo, with a 180-hp 1.8-liter TFSI available. A 2.0-liter TDI turbodiesel balances economy and performance with 163 hp. For those looking for maximum excitement, the S3 model will have a 300-hp, 280-lb-ft turbocharged 2.0-liter I-4, with a projected 0-62 time of 5.4 seconds. The base 1.4-liter TFSI should complete the task in a respectable, if not scorching 9.1 seconds. The 1.4-liter and TDI will both be offered exclusively with a six-speed manual. The 1.8-liter TFSI gets a seven-speed dual-clutch, while the S3 gets a beefier six-speed dual-clutch transmission. For the first time, the A3 Cabriolet will be offered with optional all-wheel-drive. The A3 Cabriolet will be built in Audi's Gyor, Hungary plant, and will be available for order in Germany in fall 2013, with sales starting in the first quarter of 2014. While the 2015 Audi A3 will be introduced in the U.S. in the new sedan body style , it's not clear whether we'll ever see the A3 Cabriolet in this market. | 9 | 1,108 | autos |
Infiniti's new naming scheme was only one part of the brand's rebirth under new president Johan de Nysschen. Another key aspect of Infiniti's global strategy is new product, and the company is giving us a sneak peek at the next Q-badged model with the compact Infiniti Q30 concept at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. Not surprisingly, the Q30 shares many design cues with the Q50 sedan, beneath which the entry-lux compact will be positioned when it arrives. The large double-arch front grille and slender headlights are present on the concept, as is the kinked C-pillar also shared with the crossover formerly known as the JX. But where the Q30 deviates from those models is in its body style, which Infiniti says "deliberately challenges categorization." Designers sought to integrate styling traits of a crossover, coupe, and hatchback into one "design mash-up." The result looks like a lowered crossover with a raked profile, and resembles the Etherea concept of 2011 with its wheels pushed out to the corners, short overhangs, and large 20-inch alloy wheels. Infiniti says the production Q30 will be the first model overseen from start to finish by the brand's director of performance and three-time Formula 1 world champion Sebastian Vettel. Hopefully this means the upcoming compact will provide a sporty driving experience. Infiniti conveys this promise of sportiness through the concept's stance, use of carbon fiber and other lightweight materials, and color palette. Genuine carbon fiber is used in the grille and side skirts, which also get violet highlights that Infiniti says communicates "lightweight performance character" and an "edgy attitude." The color also extends to the wheels, where the inner spokes gradually darken toward the edges to a violet hue matching the exterior. Inside, the violet theme continues in the instrument and ambient lighting, as well as in the stitching used in the leather-upholstered dash and seats. Ceramic covers the front seatbacks, which house speakers for the audio system. Genuine metal is used in the center console, door panels, seats, HVAC vent trim, and controls, finished in contrasting matte and gloss bronze. Infiniti says its designers followed the brand's "dual wave" interior design language and avoided symmetry, orienting features like vents and armrests in unconventional ways for a "more sculpted visual appeal." Infiniti's InTouch system will be available on the Q30, making use of the cabin's recessed central screen. Infiniti announced late last year that it would begin production of its new premium compact at Nissan's Sunderland assembly plant in the U.K. by 2015. Given Infiniti's global alliance with Daimler, the upcoming concept is all but confirmed to ride on Mercedes-Benz' MFA platform, which also underpins the European A- and B-Class hatchbacks, new CLA-Class sedan, and upcoming GLA crossover. The Infiniti Q30 will likely also receive a Mercedes-derived four-cylinder powerplant. Until the production Q30 arrives in 2015, Infiniti will sell the previous-generation G37 sedan as its entry-level offering, alongside its Q50 replacement. Infiniti hopes the Q30 will draw in younger buyers in global markets including China and Europe where the brand isn't well-known, while also strengthening its foothold in the U.S. Infiniti has previously had minor success in the luxury compact segment, with the Sentra-related G20 sedan of the 1990s and early 2000s. However, the brand has also had an entry-lux flop in the short-lived G25 variant of the G Sedan. With the Q30, Infiniti believes it finally has its target market of affluent, different-thinking Gen-X and Gen-Y buyers figured out. Whether younger customers take to the brand's half-car, half-crossover compact remains to be seen. | 9 | 1,109 | autos |
Purists take note: "Jaguar SUV" and "Land Rover" are no longer the same thing. At the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show, Jaguar is previewing its future in the form of the C-X17 concept -- a Jaguar-branded crossover. Along with a new crossover, Jaguar will also be bringing to the U.S. a sedan that, unlike the XF, may be available with options below the $50,000 mark. The Jaguar C-X17 concept uses an aluminum unibody architecture, and has the styling you'd expect from the automaker. Slim headlights appear production-ready and are just like the ones on the XF and XJ, with a similar front grille, too. A silver panel on the lower front fascia gives the C-X17 a crossover-like appeal, as do the huge, chunky 23-inch wheels and LED accent lights. A side vent stretches from the front quarter panel onto the front doors. The profile of the Jaguar crossover -- and yes, we're still getting used to saying that -- is dominated by a well-defined shoulder line that leads the eye to a rear view that takes after the new F-Type. Understated taillights are mounted high on the liftgate that, since this is a concept, is impractically small like the rear windshield size. Speaking of size, the four-seat Jaguar C-X17 concept's dimensions are not a carbon copy for those of the Range Rover Evoque. The Jaguar concept's 185.7-inch length is closer to the 183-inch BMW X3, though the Jaguar's 114.4-inch wheelbase is longer than the X3's 110.5-inch wheelbase. Jaguar notes the C-X17 has a ground clearance of 8.3 inches, a figure that will mean absolutely nothing to nearly 100 percent of the people who will consider the production version of this all-wheel-drive concept. Since the Jaguar crossover will be positioned as a driver's car among crossovers, the C-X17 actually has a low seating position. In the cargo area, Jaguar has included two seats made from aluminum and finished in Connolly saddle leather for use when the car is parked. Other interior highlights include a panoramic roof with a set of sculpted vanes stretching from the front to the rear, a head-up display, and a multi-screen infotainment system that allows rear-seat passengers to share photos, videos, or sound files with front-seat passengers and on various social media channels. On the new Jaguar sedan and crossover, expect in the U.S. the 240-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter I-4 mated to a nine-speed automatic, with the 340- or 380-hp version of the supercharged 3.0-liter V-6 available. Some markets will get a four-cylinder diesel engine, though we wouldn't count on it for our shores. When the new Jaguar sedan arrives in the 2016 calendar year (in 2015 for other markets), however, the four-door along with the crossover will allow the brand to survive to produce new variants of the lower-volume F-Type. The Cayenne is Porsche's best-selling vehicle and is about to be followed up by a smaller crossover. Other brands have taken notice, and the C-X17 concept is our first glimpse at what will become the fullest Jaguar lineup in recent memory. | 9 | 1,110 | autos |
What do rock formations, whales and haute-couture have in common? The Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe concept, apparently. While we thought we knew what to expect from a two-door S-Class, the sexy coupe actually has way more going on than we thought, which we found out after the car's worldwide debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Mercedes frequently uses the phrase "sensual clarity" to describe the concept's take on modern luxury and there's no doubt that the S-Class Coupe concept is both modern and luxurious. This is first demonstrated by the exterior, which is defined by smooth surfaces and a razor-sharp contour similar to what we've seen on the CLA. Further validating this claim is the concept's three-dimensional diamond grille, which also taken from the much smaller four-door. That's not the only model the concept takes after. In fact, the concept draws from the entire Benz gene pool for other styling details, such as the one-strake grille found on the CL AMG, CLS, and E-Class coupe. While the full LED headlights aren't anything different from what we've seen before, the shape of the integrated light strips are a tad different; on other models, they're angled off, but on this concept, they have a circular shape. From the side, the concept looks stunning. Its sleek roofline appears almost flat as it fades into the rear and the chrome trim outlines of the side windows and frameless doors provide the appearance of one large sheet of glass, hiding the B-pillars. Many of the S-Class Coupe Concept's 198.8 inches of length are found up front thanks to the long and distinctive hood that reminds us of the SLS AMG GT. More similarities with the exotic appear around back, as the license plate surround was moved to the lower bumper section so the three-pointed star can sit right smack in the middle of the trunklid -- again, just like the SLS. Above the badge is a chrome strip that connects and extends over two slim taillights, which Mercedes says is a throw back to earlier models. Compared to the S-Class Sedan, the concept is 7.7 inches shorter in length and 3.2 inches shorter in height. Inside, it's a white out. Keeping in line with the "sensual clarity" theme, the instrument panel has a curved shape "reminiscent of a whale's fins just before it re-enters the water." We don't quite understand what the automaker means by that, but if anything inside the cabin looks even remotely close to a cetacean, it'd be the white calfskin front seats since they have vertical piping resembling the mammal's throat grooves. Aside from that, seats are super-sculpted, inspired by the haute-couture fashion, which is all about exclusive custom-fitting clothing. Back to the instrument panel (also made from calfskin), new air bag packaging allowed designers to create a wavelike effect. This makes it look as though the panel fades into the side door panels, which are also something entirely different. Inspired by rock formations in Utah, panels have slim topographic lines milled into the metal, while lots of tiny perforations surround the loudspeakers. Sandwiched between the instrument panel and dashboard are the S-Class sedan's 12.3 inch touchscreens, though in this application, they're slimmer. And while analog clocks are usually a nice old school touch in luxury cars, Mercedes puts a new school spin on them with a touch screen display that shows four world clocks so you'll always know what time it is in Tokyo, Moscow, or whichever time zones you choose. The center console is made of a "black diamond" surface that is highly scratch resistant, while black leather floor mats have the same piping as the seats. To top it off, the headliner is made out of hand-woven silk. The concept is equipped with all the S-Class goodies, which includes all the radar, sensors and cameras that make up Intelligent Drive. Although you get to treat your nose to the Active Perfuming System, the concept is equipped with MoodGrid software, which selects music based on the driver's mood. Underneath the hood, the S-Class Coupe houses a twin-turbo V-8 engine that produces 449 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque, which sounds like the same mill found in the S500. Now that you've gotten a little more familiar with the S-Class Coupe concept, are you sensually clarified? | 9 | 1,111 | autos |
The Porsche 918 Spyder makes its world debut at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show, and what you see here is what you'll get. We've gone on multiple ride-and-drives in Porsche's super-advanced hybrid supercar, but the automaker has made a number of tweaks and changes since then. Now, everything is pretty much set in stone including the hybrid powertrain, which Porsche says still produced a combined 887 hp. Technical director Frank Markus provided an extensive write-up detailing almost everything there is to know about what makes the 918 go. The naturally aspirated 4.6-liter, mid-mounted V-8 provides 608 hp and will spin to race car-like redline of 9150 rpm. It'll sound great doing it, too, thanks to its unique exhaust system with pipes exiting out through the valley of the vee, just a few inches away from the ears of passengers. Markus described the exhaust note as "intoxicating." Better yet, the exhaust's location at the top of the powertrain helps keep things cool. And as we reported, a 127-hp electric motor sits at the front axles and another (154 hp) slots between the engine and seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. In all, Porsche says the 918 will go from 0-62 mph in just 2.8 seconds. Additionally, the supercar will make that same run in zero emissions electric mode in under seven seconds. Porsche also confirmed the hybrid's five drive modes. "E-Power" pure EV mode provides 10-20 miles of range and speeds of up to 93 mph and a "Hybrid" mode makes efficient use of both the gas and electric motors. The V-8 will continuously run in "Sport Hybrid" mode with the electric motors providing boost when needed while a "Race Hybrid" mode will get the most out of the electric motors at shorter periods of times. Finally, a "Hot Lap" mode is essentially a battery and gas drainer, squeezing the most out of the hybrid powertrain. Selecting the modes is as easy as pushing a button on the steering wheel. And as expected, the 918 Spyder will be available with some pricey options. A Weissach package, for example, is priced at almost the same MSRP as a base 911 and shaves off 77 pounds from the hybrid's curb weight thanks to items like magnesium wheels and titanium brake pad backing plates. Production will begin shortly after the show on September 18 (9/18, as Markus pointed out) and at this point more than half should already be spoken for. And based on our few encounters with the 918 Spyder, this has a good chance at claiming hybrid supercar supremacy compared to its upcoming rivals. | 9 | 1,112 | autos |
Not two days after I'd taken the helm of the Deep Cherry Red Crystal Pearl Coat (whew!) Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk that arrived in our parking garage, I couldn't take it anymore. The urge to run over objects large enough to cause at least minor damage to lesser vehicles had become too much to restrain. I turned towards the nearest empty parking lot and began climbing parking curbs and concrete medians to get my fix. I'm fairly sure any onlookers assumed I was blind. Is urban off-roading a thing? It might be soon, depending on how many Cherokee Trailhawks fall into consumer hands. The Trailhawk designation is an important one: It takes the Alfa Giulietta/Dodge Dart-based Cherokee from two-wheel-drive crossover to four-wheel-drive off-roader. Not only do Trailhawks get off-road-ready Firestone tires, a 1-inch suspension lift, skidplates, and unique front and rear fascias to improve ground clearance, they also get a two-speed transfer case with a low gear along with a locking differential. And check out those red tow hooks front and rear -- I hope I won't have to rely on them. Underhood sits the optional 3.2-liter Pentastar V-6 engine ($1495), which is paired to Chrysler's new nine-speed automatic. Though you could refer to the exterior as somewhat rugged-looking, the interior is anything but. Supportive seats, sleek design, and good ergonomics are all hallmarks of the Cherokee's cabin. A few option packages round out the Jeep. The Comfort/Convenience Group ($1495) includes a power liftgate, rearview camera, remote start, auto headlights, and a power driver's seat, among other things. The Technology Group ($2195) brings active safety tech including blind-spot and cross-path detection, forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and rain-sensing wipers. The full suite of UConnect infotainment options costs another $795 and includes satellite radio capability, navigation, and the like. The premium nine-speaker stereo and subwoofer package ($395) rounded out the options list to bring the Jeep's total cost to $37,265. My LT Cherokee Trailhawk is hitting the dirt at the earliest opportunity, rest assured. The Cherokee's sheetmetal is polarizing to say the least. I've had as many people tell me they like the pointy front end as those who feel the opposite. Love it or hate it, it's an eye-catching face. I only wish the somewhat bland sides showed a little more creativity. So far, in a couple thousand miles on the road, the Jeep has been averaging just over 21 mpg. That's actually a pretty good figure, considering that the EPA combined rating is 20 mpg. Still, prospective Cherokee owners who want to squeeze out as much efficiency as possible would be well-advised to stick with the front-wheel-drive, four-cylinder version, which is EPA rated at 25 mpg combined. How's the driving experience otherwise? With the off-road suspension, the Jeep rides a little choppier on the freeway than the standard Cherokee, but it's not a big enough difference that I regret opting for the Trailhawk package. In fact, the seats are some of most comfortable I've experienced recently (passengers have told me the same) and the interior ergonomics are also good, with virtually all controls within easy reach. Dual-zone climate control is effective for the current Southern California summer, though cooled seats would have been the icing on the cake. Sometimes you can't have everything. The big question is whether the Jeep will be equally adept at the weekday commute as it is weekends on the trails. I've already seen a few sideways glances from a neighbor who owns a Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon that often returns home caked in evidence of trail use. Owners of "Real Jeeps" (you know the sort) will, no doubt, look down their noses at even the Trailhawk variant, but I'm hoping the Cherokee will be able to surprise the doubters out on the trails. Our Car Base price $30,490 Price As-tested $37,265 Service life 2601 mi Average fuel economy 21.1 mpg CO2 emissions 0.92 lb/mi EPA City/Hwy/Comb Fuel Econ 18/25/20 mpg Energy consumption 160 kW-hrs/100mi Unresolved problems None Maintenance cost $0 Normal-wear cost $0 | 9 | 1,113 | autos |
Step Right Up Ready to lose the baby weight? Find the nearest staircase, park that stroller nearby, and follow this plan designed by Erica Ziel, a trainer in Newport Beach, Calif. and creator of Knocked-Up Fitness. You may have used stairs for cardio, but it turns out they're great for toning, too. "Doing an exercise on an incline like a staircase intensifies it, making it even more effective," Ziel says. This sequence burns up to 300 calories in one 30-minute sesh. That's next-level awesome! The Plan HOW IT WORKS: 2 or 3 times a week, warm up by walking up and down the stairs for 5 minutes, then do 3 circuits of the strength moves with 1 cardio interval before each circuit and 1 minute of rest after. For your cardio interval, go up and down the stairs for three minutes before each strength circuit. When climbing up, step your entire foot (not just the toes) on the stair and press through the heel to engage your glutes and protect your knees. Running Lunge RUNNING LUNGE Works legs and glutes Start in lunge stance facing staircase, with left leg on bottom stair and right leg bent behind you on landing ( A ). Shifting weight to left leg, exhale as you press up to straighten left leg, bringing right thigh forward, parallel to ground ( B ). Return to start and do 10 to 15 reps; repeat on right foot to complete set. Step-Up Rotation STEP-UP ROTATION Works outer thighs, back and obliques Start in lunge stance with left side toward staircase, left foot on bottom stair and right foot behind you on landing. With palms together, twist upper body toward stairs ( A ). Shifting weight to left foot, exhale as you push to straighten left leg, bringing right thigh parallel to ground and twisting upper body away from staircase ( B ). Lower to start and do 10 to 15 reps; switch sides to complete set. Side Plank Twist SIDE PLANK TWIST Works core and back Start in side plank with left hand on third stair and feet on landing, right arm raised, engaging abs and squeezing glutes ( A ). Exhale as you bring right arm around the front of your body, twisting it toward left knee as you send hips back over heels and shift weight into feet with toes pointing toward stairs ( B ). Move back to start and do 5 to 10 reps; switch sides to complete set. Reverse-Plank Dips REVERSE-PLANK DIPS Works triceps and back Start in an upside-down plank (facing up!) with hands on second stair, shoulders pulled together and drawn away from ears, and body in straight line, parallel to stairs ( A ). Inhale as you lower hips and bend elbows ( B ). Exhale as you press up, squeezing triceps. Do 10 to 15 reps. Swivel Kick SWIVEL KICK Works glutes, arms and abs Start in plank position on the stairs, hands 3 steps up from landing. Inhale as you bring right leg in and across the front of your body, rotating to the left ( A ). Exhale as you kick right leg back and away from body, allowing upper body to twist toward right ( B ). Return to start and do 20 reps. On last rep, hold right leg out and do 10 small pulses up, reaching leg even higher. Switch legs and perform 20 reps and 10 pulses on opposite side to complete set. | 7 | 1,114 | health |
When I hop into a new long-termer, the first things I do are adjust the driver's seat settings to fit my pathetically short legs, and, if it comes turned on, turn off the honk that sounds when the door is locked via the key fob. That honk always startles me, even though I know it's coming, and when parking late at night in my densely populated neighborhood, I'd rather not disrupt the quiet. So first, the seat. Driver's seat comfort is really important to me, because in some cars (hello, Mazda3) I can't get ideally situated. So far I'm 95 percent happy with the driver's seat in our long-term VW Passat. (I haven't taken a long road trip yet.) The two-toned leatherette seat is attractive and has just the right amount of padding and support. Like in pretty much all cars, I had to move the seat way forward and raise it way up by tiny increments until I could reach the pedals with ease and see out with a full field of vision. I adjusted the side and rear mirrors, then turned the lumbar support knob a couple ticks, and I was good to go. The 5 percent I don't like about the seat is there's no button to save my customized setting -- my former Kia Optima long-termer was able to save two driver's settings. After I've been out of town and someone else has been driving, I have to go through the whole rigmarole again to get the position exactly right. Next, disabling the honk. That was easy: I opened the manual, which told me to go to the Convenience menu using the steering wheel menu control button, choose the ATA confirm, and un-check it. Done. While I was reading about that I came across instructions for the valet key, a pretty cool feature I've never had in a car. It's a plastic key that looks fake but feels substantial, and it lives in a little niche in the glove compartment. Its purpose: to prevent the valet from accessing and perhaps wandering off with whatever you've got in the glove box or trunk. First, remove the key from its little perch in the glove box. It's hard to spot -- I used the flashlight function on my phone. Push the Valet Parking button in the glove box, then lock it with the same key. Hand the key to the valet and keep the fob with you. The valet can use the key to drive the car, but it won't open the glove box or trunk. Only the fob will do that. As L.A. is the land of valet parking, and I take my iPad everywhere and would like to be able to leave it in the car, I'm going to use this quite a bit. More on our long-term 2014 Volkswagen Passat Sport: Arrival Our Car Service life 3690 mi Average fuel economy 28.5 mpg CO2 emissions 0.68 lb/mi EPA City/Hwy/Comb Fuel Econ 24/34/28 mpg Energy consumption 118 kW-hr/100mi Unresolved problems None Maintenance cost $0 Normal-wear cost $0 | 9 | 1,115 | autos |
Volvo has been teasing the all-new XC90 little by little, and this week, the Swedish automaker is revealing a photo of the SUV's headlights in addition to details regarding the new suspension set-up that comes as part of the new SPA platform. Thanks to the photo showing the XC90's left headlight, we finally get a glimpse of what the SUV's face will look like before its grand reveal in Stockholm later this month. Although the XC90 is completely new, the headlights look like familiar since several of Volvo's most recent and stunning-looking concepts including the Coupe Concept, Concept Estate, and the XC Coupe all featured the same horizontal "T" headlight design. Called "Thor's Hammer" running lights, Volvo says "anyone who looks in their rear-view mirror is going to know immediately that there is a new XC90 behind them." The headlight design is the new face of Volvo, so we can expect to see the design appear on future Volvo models. Based on Volvo's new SPA platform, the XC90 will offer increased passenger room in the second and third rows for a total of seven people. The SUV will also utilize a double wishbone suspension up front and a rear axle with a new transverse leaf spring setup. Additionally, a five-mode electronically adjustable air suspension will be available. As far as engine choices go, the XC90 will be offered with a family of 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinders, as well as a turbo supercharged T6 engine that makes 316 hp. A T8 plug-in hybrid version with about 400 hp is also in the books, making it the only plug-in seven-seat SUV available in the U.S. The 2016 Volvo XC90 will make its official debut later this month. Source: Volvo | 9 | 1,116 | autos |
I'm all for properly breaking in a fresh engine, but this time it was pure torture. Because when said engine propels a limited-run, all-wheel-drive performance sedan rolling atop forged aluminum footwear, with four-piston Brembos and a ginormous wing in its quiver of canyon-slaying weaponry, my automatic inkling is to blaze up and down every mountain pass known to man. I had to quash any such urges once the keys to our WRX STI Launch Edition hit my desk, for its odometer showed a mere 000052 miles. See? Torture. There was procedure to follow. Per the owner's manual, I was to keep "my" turbocharged 305-horse, 2.5-liter four-cylinder boxer under 4000 rpm for 1000 miles. That meant short-shifting its six closely gated gears, gently easing onto the 13-inch four-piston brakes, and never, not once, was I to stab the throttle. I was forbidden to drive at "one constant engine or vehicle speed for a long time, either fast or slow." I had no desire to diverge from these rules -- only 1000 of these cars will ever be built. I took chaperoning seriously. So, for 1000 miles, I drove our $38,000 rally racing missile like an 89-year-old man. Some amazing things happened while in Grandpa Mode. Almost immediately, Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution and Subaru WRX STI drivers stared me down, watching my every move, likely wondering why I was jockeying my unique WR Blue Pearl steed at such an embarrassing pace. On the highway, many matched my speed, only to jet off seconds later in some lousy attempt to egg me on. One Evo driver shifted for the sake of building turbo pressure so that I would admire the totally awesome WHOOOOOSSSH of his $10 blow-off valve. I was unamused. That happened five minutes into my first highway cruise. Such is the plight brought on by our Launch Edition's exuberant wardrobe. I'll have to contend with such unfortunate attention for the next year. Don't worry. I'll manage. I decided that after adhering meticulously to the manual's tenets, I would release my pent-up anxiousness by climbing one of my favorite Southern California roads, the S6, on Palomar Mountain in San Diego County. The game plan was simple: Once at 1000 miles, I'd set every electronic nanny in the most athletic setting. (On the street, I keep traction control on.) The Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) to a more lenient "Traction"; Subaru Intelligent Drive (SI-Drive) to "Sport Sharp"; and the Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD) to "Auto -", so as to direct more torque to the rear Dunlop Sport Maxx RT rubber (245/40R18) via the Torsen limited-slip differential. I'd aim, shift, and hold on. Ahead of that highly anticipated ascent, I spent considerable time reacquainting myself with the Launch Edition's intricacies. Inside, its rare nature is indicated by blue leather bolsters on the Alcantara-wrapped sport seats; blue stitching accenting the doors, carpets, and shift boot; and a center console swathed in black Alcantara. The bucket seats are marvelous adjustable furniture from which all sorts of driving can be thoroughly enjoyed. They're supportive, comfortable, and stylish. The structure's glass and insulation hardly muffle the distinct baritone rumbles and growls produced by the familiar boxer. I'm not complaining -- noise is an integral piece of the STI's charm. In fact, for 2015, engineers pump more sound into the passenger compartment. Its ride, though on the firmer end of the spectrum, is more civilized than that of any predecessor. The golden 18-by-8.5-inch forged wheels are only attainable with a Launch Edition. Its mechanicals are identical to those of its STI siblings, but it does get the otherwise optional STI Short-Shift. As it is based on the entry-level trim, there is no navigation or Harman/Kardon audio system, yet product planners purposefully cherry-picked amenities perfectly suited for a staunch performance variant. Brilliant LED headlamps (halogen high-beams), keyless entry and start, rearview camera, auto dual climate control, Bluetooth connectivity, and six speakers matched to an AM/FM/satellite radio (with AUX and USB inputs) come standard. For me, that's all I need. For those expecting the works (navigation, moonroof, sound system, etc.), you'd best choose a Limited. Two weeks and many 240-mile LA-to-San Diego-to-LA trips later, I reached my mileage milestone. Grandpa Mode was six feet under. And just as I planned, I rolled slowly at bottom of Palomar Mountain when the odometer ticked past 000999, center differential settings engaged, Dunlops sufficiently filled, and fluids toasty. One hairpin was all it took to know: The STI I had been driving for the past two weeks was not the same STI I began hustling up my favorite tree-lined peak. I had to recalibrate my senses. When not in fuel-saving "Intelligent" mode (the SI-Drive mode I chose for break-in), the STI became an even more vociferous turbocharged terrorist, whose sole intent was to ceaselessly run. It was always "on", eager to rev to its limit, as if perturbed by some trespasser who dared test its territorial boundaries. There is no perceivable middle ground to this fantastic fury. The turbo's 14.7 psi of maximum boost shove it to 60 mph from nil in just 4.6 seconds and a quarter-mile in 13.1 seconds at 104.4 mph. But it dances as well as it dashes. It averages 0.97g on the skidpad and stops from 60 mph in 108 feet. On the mountain, its grip never weakened and its Brembos feverishly clamped. It took one sharp left-hander to realize that my STI driving technique needed major tweaking. And it took 15 miles of Palomar Mountain's tangled roadways to realize that for the next year, I may have some serious trouble keeping my California driving record free of points. 2015 Subaru WRX STI Launch Edition BASE PRICE $37,395 PRICE AS TESTED $38,190 VEHICLE LAYOUT Front-engine, AWD, 5-pass, 4-door sedan ENGINE 2.5L/305-hp/290-lb-ft turbo DOHC 16-valve flat-4 TRANSMISSION 6-sp manual CURB WEIGHT (F/R DIST) 3367 lb (59/41%) WHEELBASE 104.3 in LENGTH x WIDTH x HEIGHT 180.9 x 70.7 x 58.1 in 0-60 MPH 4.6 sec QUARTER MILE 13.1 sec @ 104.4 mph BRAKING, 60-0 MPH 108 ft LATERAL ACCELERATION 0.97 g (avg) MT FIGURE EIGHT 24.9 sec @ 0.79 g (avg) EPA CITY/HWY/COMB FUEL ECON 17/23/19 mpg ENERGY CONS., CITY/HWY 198/147 kW-hrs/100 miles CO2 EMISSIONS, COMBINED 1.01 lb/mile | 9 | 1,117 | autos |
We've now moved into the third portion of our unique three-model long-term test of the Lexus IS line, and we've saved the best for last. Batting cleanup (albeit third instead of fourth, as there is no fourth model) is the IS 350 F Sport. Before we get into the numbers, I'll explain what the F Sport package is and isn't. This is not the new IS F. It's got the same 306-hp V-6 as the standard IS 350, making the same 277 lb-ft of torque. As this one is rear-wheel drive, it's paired with an eight-speed automatic rather than the all-wheel-drive car's six-speed auto. What the F Sport package does, performance-wise, is add a Sport S+ mode to the drive mode selector (in addition to regular old Sport), adaptive damping, and exclusive 18-inch wheels on Bridgestone Turanza summer touring tires. Cosmetically, the F Sport package does a lot more, adding a new front bumper, LED headlights, leather steering wheel, leather shift knob, heated leather seats, aluminum pedals, black headliner, and a very cool reconfigurable digital instrument cluster lifted from the LFA supercar. Not listed on the window sticker is a valve in the air intake that lets a nice growl of induction noise into the cabin when you're hard on the gas. That's what F Sport is. Here's what it does: Our long-term F Sport needed 5.6 seconds to hit 60 mph and 14.0 seconds flat to run the quarter-mile, trapping at 99.8 mph. You'll note, though, that this is slower than the IS 350 AWD it replaced in the long-term fleet. That car, with its all-wheel-drive grip, got a much better launch and hit 60 mph in 5.3 seconds on the way to a 13.9-second quarter mile at 99.4 mph. The rear-wheel-drive F Sport had some trouble putting the power down, something I think better tires would've helped, perhaps Potenzas instead of Turanzas. Better tires might've put a little more daylight between the 350 AWD and the F Sport on the handling track as well. The F Sport recorded an average lateral acceleration of 0.86 g on the skidpad to the 350 AWD's 0.85. The F Sport was a bigger standout on our figure eight, where it put down a time of 26.1 seconds at 0.72 average g to the 350 AWD's 26.4 seconds at 0.69 average g. The F Sport also braked better, stopping from 60 mph in 111 feet to the 118-pound-heavier 350 AWD's 117 feet. In objective terms, then, the $3620 F Sport package doesn't buy a ton of performance. The good news is that it feels like you're getting a lot more than the numbers say, and unless you drive around with a data logger all the time, that's what matters more. The throttle tuning is more aggressive in Comfort and Sport modes, and even more so in Sport S+. This makes the car feel quicker than it is as you don't have to push it as hard to access the performance. There's less body roll and the ride is firmer, all lending a sportier feel. The induction growl noted earlier also lends that impression, though I wish there were more to it. The valve doesn't open up until you're halfway up the tachometer and hard on the gas. Otherwise, you don't hear anything but moderate transmission whine. I wish it would open earlier, or stay open when you put it in Sport or Sport S+. Some exhaust note wouldn't hurt, either. While the F Sport doesn't put down blistering numbers at the track, it's a very capable machine on a canyon road. I've been saying all along that the new IS has a fantastic chassis, and this one's the top of the heap. The car feels rock solid on the road and isn't upset at all by mid-corner bumps. The chassis is very neutral and those summer touring tires hang on plenty well at sane speeds without so much as a squeal. I know from the track testing that this rear-wheel-drive car can hang the tail out, but can also understeer when pushed too hard at corner exit, but neither trait presents itself when driving hard on the road. The steering still doesn't have much feel, but the variable ratio rack is quick and loads up naturally. It's easy to have a lot of confidence in this car's handling. It's even easier to be confident in its braking. The brake pedal is firm and its travel linear, with a natural progression in braking the farther you get into it. Moreover, the brakes are impressively fade-resistant. Coming down a steep mountain pass, I worked the brakes hard at every corner for mile after mile and never felt them fade. They take the punishment without flinching, daring you to give them more. If I could have one improvement, though, it would be more aggressive shift programming. Even in Sport S+, the transmission isn't what I would call aggressive with downshifts under braking. It will drop a gear or two, but that's not much in an eight-speed gearbox. The computer, probably for fuel economy reasons, likes to keep the car in higher gears and let the torque do the work. I would prefer it drop an extra gear or two and get the revs up high, where this engine's real power is. For my canyon driving, I went with the paddles, which responded almost instantly to my commands. One thing I wouldn't touch is the LFA-derived digital instrument cluster. Standard, the bronze plastic bezel overlaying the screen sits in the center, framing the digital tachometer and flanked by other digital gauges, such as the fuel gauge and the water temperature gauge. Press a button on the steering wheel, though, and the bezel slides (somewhat noisily) to the right, the graphics of the tachometer sliding perfectly along the screen with it. This reveals a new screen on the left side of the display where you can run through menus including driving data, navigation instructions, radio/media information, and vehicle settings. The outer edge of the digital tachometer also shifts from a black background with white numbers to a white background with black numbers when you switch from Eco or Comfort modes to Sport or Sport S+. I'd love it if this black-and-white motif with spots of vibrant color (like the tachometer redline) were carried over to the navigation and entertainment screen. The blue-on-blue motif over there looks positively dull in comparison. More on our long-term 2014 Lexus IS: Arrival IS Update 1: IS 250 - Confirming the Verdict IS Update 2: IS 250 - Life on the Inside IS Update 3: IS 350 AWD - More Engine, More Wheels Driven IS Update 4: IS 350 AWD - It's the Little Things Our Car Base price $43,995 Price As-tested $48,389 Service life 4675 mi Average fuel economy 22.1 mpg CO2 emissions 0.88 lb/mi EPA City/Hwy/Comb Fuel Econ 19/28/22 mpg Energy consumption 152 kW-hr/100mi Unresolved problems None Maintenance cost $0 Normal-wear cost $0 2014 Lexus IS 350 F Sport BASE PRICE $40,375 PRICE AS TESTED $48,389 VEHICLE LAYOUT Front-engine, RWD, 5-pass, 4-door sedan ENGINE 3.5L/306-hp/277-lb-ft DOHC 24-valve V-6 TRANSMISSION 8-speed automatic CURB WEIGHT (F/R DIST) 3704 lb (53/47%) WHEELBASE 110.2 in LENGTH x WIDTH x HEIGHT 183.7 x 71.3 x 56.3 in 0-60 MPH 5.6 sec QUARTER MILE 14.0 sec @ 99.8 mph BRAKING, 60-0 MPH 111 ft LATERAL ACCELERATION 0.86 g (avg) MT FIGURE EIGHT 26.1 sec @ 0.72 g (avg) EPA CITY/HWY/COMB FUEL ECON 19/28/22 mpg ENERGY CONS., CITY/HWY 177/120 kW-hrs/100 miles CO2 EMISSIONS 0.87 lb/mile | 9 | 1,118 | autos |
The original Caparo T1 walked a fine line between road car and full-blown race car, and the next iteration looks like it will offer more of the same. A sketch of the Caparo T1 Evolution was teased today, revealing the profile of the extreme F1-inspired sports car. Caparo says the T1 Evolution retains all of its predecessor's racing-bred DNA, but also features modern aerodynamics and improved performance. The Caparo T1 Evolution boasts 700 hp, according to the sports car maker. No other powertrain details were given, but the original T1 was powered by an all-aluminum, Indycar-derived 3.5-liter V-8 . The chassis has also been updated to meet the "strictest safety criteria," while the suspension has been made stiffer for increased performance. ABS, traction and stability control, telemetry, and communications systems have been enhanced, as have driver information systems inside the cockpit. It's difficult to tell exactly what has changed from this sketch, but we can see the closed-cockpit design of the most recent version remains. The partially open-wheel front end will likely also carry over, with full fenders returning in the rear. Caparo says it's now accepting orders for the T1 Evolution, though an expected delivery date wasn't given. Images of previous Caparo T1 models shown below. Source: Caparo | 9 | 1,119 | autos |
Actor, father and full time car enthusiast, Eric Bana has harboured a lifelong passion for life on the race track. At home in Melbourne his A-to-B drive is "just a practical car" but it serves its purpose. "It's something I can attach the trailer to and take the wife, the children and the dog out on road trips," he shrugs. Instead, Bana's heart lies with his prize drive: a 1974 Ford Falcon XB coupe, fondly known as 'The Beast,' which recently took a battering during one of the actor's most intense racing experiences. Photo of Bana's Ford Falcon XB courtesy of Hot Rod. Read the full 2007 story on Bana's Ford at HotRod.com , HERE . Bana, who currently appears in "Deliver Us From Evil," about a New York cop confronted with, um, the paranormal, is a man who can put together and pull apart an engine just as easily as he can jump into the guise of Trojan, Henry VIII, or whatever a role may demand in his acting career (photos in this article are from "Deliver Us From Evil" and courtesy of Sony Pictures). He's made use of his high profile status and love of cars to help others, too. Since 1995, Bana has participated in the Motorcycle Riders Association Toy Run in Melbourne, which raises money and provides toys for needy children at Christmas. Though a mainstay Hollywood actor ("Hulk," "Lone Survivor," "Hanna," and "Blackhawk Down" are among his credits), he chose to stay in Australia rather than make the move to Los Angeles, because his home time is precious to him. "I love my life with my wife and kids in Melbourne; I still have to travel anyway to the U.S. or other countries when I'm shooting movies so it doesn't make any difference". Bana also stays Down Under for his nation's racing history. He was just eight-years-old when he first experienced the thrill of the race and became fixated with the sport. "I'd wanted a Falcon Coupe ever since I saw the car win Bathurst, one of our big motor races here in Australia, in 1977. That race sparked a love of the Coupe for most Australian petrol heads." Today, with his work commitments, the 45-year-old admits he doesn't spend as much time behind the wheel as he'd like, but still takes to the track as often as possible. "If I hadn't become an actor, I'm pretty sure I would have become a race car driver or at least tried to make it," he says. Even his plan B career path has its own plan B: "If I wouldn't have made the grade as a driver, I would have tried to become an engineer." The world of Hollywood may have put an end to his engineering dreams, but Bana's skills under the bonnet have come in handy in the past. Driving his beloved 'Beast' at the Targa professional road rally in 2007, the car -- and Bana -- were "nearly destroyed" when they rammed into a tree. Bana admits that it was only by chance that fate was on his side that day. "My navigator and I were lucky to come out of that crash alive because a lot of people have been badly hurt or killed in those kinds of crashes," he says. "It's just about the worst thing that can happen to you." Bana's near-miss is featured in his self-directed documentary about the race, Love the Beast. The film is a labour of love, detailing his personal relationship with his first car and his own progression as a motor lover. Despite the very close shave and the damage to his Falcon -- Bana still calls the race "one of the best experiences I've ever had - except for the final result which is a very unpleasant memory." But the ever-pragmatic Bana stressed that "crashes are part of racing." He admits that the slick-wheeled motors of Targa and his old Falcon Coup weren't an ideal mix, but the crash hasn't dampened his enthusiasm in the slightest. "I got to step out of that one and you just can't wait until the next race. You never get that out of your system!" Bana explains there are two ways of doing Targa -- "as a racer, or as an enthusiast" and after years of being the latter, he has big hopes for his racing future, planning to "team up with Mark Webber for the Bathurst endurance race next year. It would be great to do the race with Mark." While the Targa crash hasn't put him off driving -- "not remotely" -- he's a little reluctant to put his beloved 'Beast' back in the fast lane. | 9 | 1,120 | autos |
Tax deadline day April 15, 2014, is just about to hit American taxpayers. If you haven't filed yet, try not to rush (too much) through the process. That's where you can make mistakes or lose money to the federal government that otherwise belongs in your bank account. One potential stumbling block: preconceived notions of where to put your focus. Over-emphasizing what professionals call "tax myths" can leave big money on the table. Here are five myths cited by accountants, tax preparers and other tax professionals who reached out to Investopedia. 1. Getting a refund means you're a savvy tax filer. Many people enjoy receiving a big tax refund from the IRS every year. That's a big mistake, says Brian Vnak, director of integrated advice strategies at Minneapolis-based Wealth Enhancement Group. "If you like loaning money and not earning interest, then big tax refunds are your best friend," explains Vnak. "A wiser approach is to implement tax-saving strategies to minimize the amount of tax you pay. Once this plan is established, reducing withholding and estimated payment amounts should be your best friend." There is another downside to refunds: The IRS is authorized - and in some cases required - to offset federal income-tax refunds against certain other taxpayer liabilities. "These include federal and state taxes due for prior years, past due child-support payments and student loans that are in default," says Christine Reuther, a tax attorney at Radnor, Pa.-based McCausland Keen & Buckman. "If you owe any of those types of debts, you would be better off using the extra withholding to pay down the obligations as soon as possible instead of having it taken at the end of the year when the past-due liabilities have already accumulated penalties and interest." 2. I'll be tax-free when I retire . Some retirees have so little income that they don't pay any tax, says Randi L. Jowers, a Wilmington, Del,-based certified public accountant. But it's unwise to base what you do now on that assumption. If you do at all well during your working years, you will have to pay taxes after you retire. "In most cases, people are withdrawing money from retirement plans, such as a 401(k), to support their retirement," she explains. "Contributions to a 401(k) plan are tax free when made, so the amounts withdrawn from the accounts are taxable when received." In some cases, retiring could even make your taxes worse. "When a person retires, his or her income is typically replaced with Social Security, pensions, investment income and eventually required minimum distributions from IRAs," notes Vnak. "This means that taxable income after age 70 is often higher than before retirement. In that case, not only is the person not tax free, he or she may pay even more in taxes." One way to cut future taxes now, is to open a Roth IRA before April 15. According to IRS rules, withdrawals from a Roth IRA are tax free if you are 59-and-a-half or older or your IRA account is five or more years old. That's one way to guarantee that at least some of your post-career income really is tax free. 3. You can "audit-proof" your tax return. No, actually, you can't. "Nobody can audit-proof their tax return," says John C. Brandy, a Washington state-based financial advisor. "We don't get to know what the guidelines are for those who get chosen, but it is reasonable to assume that a pattern of questionable deductions or unusually high income, or typically high-income professions all have a greater chance of being selected for audit. The good news? Your overall chances of being audited are not great, says Mark Luscombe, a principal analyst at Wolters Kluwer Tax & Accounting, in Riverwoods, Ill. And even if you do get audited, it's usually not that intimidating. Most "audits" are "correspondence audits," conducted by mail only. Even face-to-face audits generally involve individuals coming to the IRS office, not the IRS coming to their home. "The IRS is more likely to visit business locations when auditing business tax returns," he says. Still, that doesn't mean those not in these categories should feel safe and take risks in how they file that could expose them to penalties. "Some audits are triggered strictly by chance so whatever you file may have no bearing on whether you get hit with an audit or not," Luscombe explains. 4. Small businesses can expand without tax consequences. Small-business owners who think they can expand the size of their business, especially by moving to a new location, should prepare to pay for the privilege. "Creating or expanding the footprint of a business can trigger unexpected tax liabilities," says Reuther. "Before venturing into a new location or expanding your online venture, research the state and local (or international) tax obligations," she explains. "In some cases you can minimize or avoid the local taxes through careful planning. But failing to address the issue in a timely manner can create liability for back taxes, interest and penalties years down the road that dwarfs the cost of compliance in the first instance." 5. Your child works, so that means you can't use him/her as a deduction. Again, that's just not so. If you provide more than 50% of your child's support, your working teenage son or daughter can still qualify as your dependent. And that's worth a $1,000 tax deduction per child, so don't miss out. The Bottom Line If you've been operating on any of these tax myths, talk to your accountant or financial adviser, if you have one, to see how it could affect you. And don't file your taxes until you've thought through the best strategy to limit your bill and your exposure if you're considering something potentially risky. | 3 | 1,121 | finance |
The coupe has been with us since the dawn of the automobile and shows no sign of going anywhere just yet. Whether a coupe was penned with two doors straight from the get-go, or designers lopped off the rear doors of a sedan to expand a lineup, automakers today have a number of stunning coupes for sale. Here is our list of some of the hottest coupes available for the 2014 and 2015 model years. Ford Mustang All-new for the 2015 model year, the 2015 Mustang ditches the familiar retro-focused styling in favor of a design more in line with Ford's global car initiative. Three trim levels for all manner of performance and budget are available, with a base V-6, optional 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder, and a 5.0-liter V-8 found in the GT. With the musclecar finally adopting an independent rear suspension, this new generation of Mustang should prove to be quite the contender. Audi R8 As we wait for the next-gen Audi R8 to arrive in a couple years, it's hard to deny the current R8's supercar looks and performance. The German supercar provides blistering performance with the amenities and appointments expected of an Audi. Buyers can spring for the base 4.2-liter, 430-horsepower V-8, but when that's not enough, there's always the R8 V10 and R8 V10 Plus, with 525 and 550 horsepower, respectively. Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Debuting with a much-needed inside-and-out refresh for the 2015 model year, the Challenger now offers the SRT Hellcat model, a flagship musclecar to compete with the Mustang GT500 and the Camaro ZL1. Powered by a 707-horsepower, 6.2-liter supercharged V-8, the Hellcat Challenger should give rivals from Ford and Chevrolet a real challenge on the track. Subaru BRZ and Scion FR-S The Subaru BRZ and Scion FR-S have been media darlings since their debut. Heralding an industry return to inexpensive, lightweight, rear-drive sports cars, the Toyobaru twins can be counted on to put smiles on drivers' faces. The canyon-carving duo has endless modifications available in a thriving aftermarket crowd, providing a relatively inexpensive entry ticket into the tuner-scene. Cadillac ATS Coupe The ATS sedan has already impressed reviewers with its fun-to-drive dynamics and sharp styling, so it only made sense to release a coupe version of Cadillac's 3 Series competitor. New for 2015, the ATS Coupe loses the wreath around the Cadillac crest, the first revision of the crest in years. The ATS looks handsome in two-door guise, ready to do battle with the BMW 2 Series and 4 Series. Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Coupe The Corvette has always been the sports coupe to beat and, for 2014, the C7 Corvette continues this legacy. With the base price in the mid-$50,000s, the C7 provides the style and performance to match cars that command astronomically higher prices. The options list is nearly endless, enough to satisfy buyers looking to make their Corvette unique. If the base Stingray's performance is not enough, look for the supercharged Z06 Corvette going on sale for 2015. BMW 4 Series BMW's replacement for the 3 Series coupe has seen a salesroom success. With a base 240-horsepower four-cylinder engine, an optional 300-horsepower turbocharged inline-six, and available all-wheel drive, the 4 Series can be had in a variety of different flavors. If buyers enjoy the look of the 4 Series but are not sold on a two-door configuration, BMW offers the more practical four-door 4 Series Gran Coupe with coupe-like proportions. Jaguar F-Type When Jaguar released the stunning F-Type roadster in 2013, we knew a fixed-roof F-Type coupe was not far behind. The F-Type Coupe is available in the same engine options as the convertible, with the addition of a range-topping 550-horsepower supercharged R Coupe. With a uniquely British attitude, the F-Type has been winning over hearts with its impeccable styling and evocative soundtrack. Mini Coupe After experiencing the Mini Coupe for a full year, we came away praising its funky interior and goofy attitude. The Mini Coupe is a car that does not take itself seriously, something quite refreshing in 2014. Its polarizing style, racy attitude, and nearly infinite factory customization options make this a popular car for drivers of all ages, though it's not clear whether it will ever see a second-generation model. Hyundai Genesis Coupe The Genesis Coupe is a solid alternative to the V-6 Mustang/Camaro/Challenger group. Sporting a 3.8-liter V-6 under the hood, the Genesis Coupe can be specced out as a hardcore speed-focused apex-carver or a leather-lined pseudo-grand tourer. Kia Forte Koup Based on the compact Forte sedan, the Koup gets an available 1.6-liter turbocharged I-4 in addition to the standard, naturally aspirated 2.0-liter I-4. Though the Forte Koup might not have the sporting credentials of its rivals, its base price seriously undercuts the competition. McLaren 650S The McLaren 650S is the evolution of the McLaren 12C, with an updated engine, brakes, suspension, front fascia, aerodynamics, and transmission. Taking visual cues from the seven-figure McLaren P1 hypercar, the 650S provides well-heeled buyers a quality alternative to offerings from Ferrari and Lamborghini. With 641 horsepower on tap from the twin-turbo 3.8-liter V-8, the 650S can hit 60 mph from a standstill in 3 seconds flat, on its way to a claimed 207 mph. Audi A5 Beginning at just over $40,000, the A5 is priced to compete directly with the BMW 4 Series. This elegant coupe perfectly plays the role of grand tourer, blending strong performance with a luxurious interior. An engine is available for every taste, beginning with the base 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder and ending at the 450-horsepower, 4.2-liter V-8 standard in the high-performance RS 5. Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe By far the most luxurious coupe on this list, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe is an exercise in excess. Prices begin near $120,000 and climb well beyond the $200,000 mark for the top-of-the-line S65 AMG Coupe. For uncompromising luxury and refinement, the S-Class Coupe is a good choice, and a worthy competitor of vehicles in the super-luxury segment. Porsche 911 As the evergreen sports car, the Porsche 911 has cemented itself as one of the greatest sports cars of all time. With a mind-boggling number of available models for all tastes, you can't go wrong with a 911. There's a reason it has been around for 50 years, and it shows no signs of slowing down just yet. Nissan GT-R To the delight of GT-R fans everywhere, Nissan's supercoupe is now available in awe-inspiring Nismo trim. With 600 horsepower on tap, and an improvement in overall aerodynamics from the added rear-wing and front air-dam, the GT-R Nismo is a serious track-ready weapon. We have been fortunate enough to drive the GT-R in its many forms, and it impressed us so much that it was our 2009 Motor Trend Car of the Year. With the next-generation GT-R slated to arrive as early as the 2016 model year, the GT-R faithful can expect to see the reveal next year. | 9 | 1,122 | autos |
Toyota is very familiar with the SCORE Baja 1000 race, so it's no surprise that it will enter the 2015 Tundra TRD Pro Series truck in the grueling desert event. The truck will run in the Full Size Stock Class, backed by a team that includes top engineers and veteran racers. Among the group headed to the Mexican race will be team coach Ivan "Ironman" Stewart, who had a successful, decades-long career as a Toyota off-road racer and is a 22-time SCORE Baja 500 and 1000 champion. The team navigator will be Mike Sweers, who is the Chief Engineer of Toyota Trucks. Sweers said in a release that the race, which covers over 1000 miles, will also double as an important research and development study for future trucks. The team of drivers includes TRD design engineer Ted Moncure, Toyota Athlete and Baja 500 Champion Andy Bell, Toyota Athlete and professional BMX rider Jamie Bestwick, and Baja 1000 and 500 competitor Ryan Millen, son of off-roader Rod Millen. Associate online editor Benson Kong recently met with the team for a brief chat and to check on the status of the race truck: Much work still needs to be done in the three months leading up to the 2014 Baja 1000 (although it wouldn't be a racing vehicle if preparation wasn't taken down to the wire) but Toyota is off to a good start. We took a closer look in person at the race-ready Tundra TRD Pro and learned one of the objectives was to retain a relatively stock exterior so it wouldn't appear too far removed from a Toyota truck you'd see on the street. That meant making sure the rear Bilstein 9300 Series Black Hawk shock absorbers protruding through the truck bed wouldn't be visible from a side profile view (or through the cab windows). No, the 4.5-inch shocks aren't found on a factory Tundra TRD Pro, but this truck is actually going to compete in a real race. The exhaust system, roll cage, and airbox are among the components that still need to be finished. Packaging the hefty shocks into the front suspension has proven to be difficult, where OEM control arms and uprights (as mandated by SCORE Stock Full class rules) make fitment a bit tight. Mike Sweers, chief engineer of Toyota trucks, is particularly interested in learning how the race truck deals with the Baja 1000's unpredictable course conditions . We'll learn more technical specifications about the truck as it nears its test and tune dates, when the suspension will be dialed in. Ted Moncure, TRD, F-Sport & functional accessory design engineering manager and TRD Pro Desert Race Team driver, tells us: "I think the Baja 1000 will be a great durability test for the TRD Pro Tundra. I'm looking forward to experiencing how the TRD Pro suspension tuning will smooth out the whoops and ruts, and get us 1100+ miles down the Baja peninsula. I'm sure it will be an adventure!" The race starts in Ensenada, Mexico and runs from November 12-16. Source: Toyota | 9 | 1,123 | autos |
Now past the 10,000-mile mark with our 2014 Infiniti Q50S, we're enjoying the luxury touches and the car's performance. What really stands out is the array of technology, especially the safety and self-driving tech that we talked about in our last update . But at the edges of the user experience, we've found some frustrations and things you might even call silly. Infiniti wouldn't be alone in including superfluous programming -- we hammered on BMW for years for the seemingly jillions of combinations of drive settings possible in some of its cars, let alone the complexity of the company's launch control, and Hyundai has its steering settings with difficult-to-feel effects. The waiting game For the most part, people no longer start their cars, then wait around for a minute before taking off. We want to get in and go. And by "go," we also mean find a radio station, program the nav, or call up an appropriate commuting song on Bluetooth. Not gonna happen in the Q50S. It's as if the software that runs the head unit is being loaded from a data cassette (kids, they were really slow) to a TI-99/4A (also really slow). To gain complete control of all the functions consistently takes between 30 and 40 seconds. If you've got somewhere to be, that can feel like an eternity. It's not a secret. Internet forums are littered with people mentioning the wait. The InTouch manual itself says that due to the number of apps, the system can take "up to a minute" to fully load. The question is, why? If it's that the CPU or data transfer is so slow, surely faster options exist for a 2014 car. The good news is that all relevant safety functions boot up first and quickly. So if you're the sort who starts the car and immediately throws it in reverse, it's only a very minor delay before the rearview camera takes over the 8-inch top display screen. Fuel-economy fun? Hardly. My plan was to drive an entire week, or tank of gas (whichever came first), in Eco Mode, one of five drive modes on the Q50S (Snow, Eco, Normal, Sport, Personal) Again, not gonna happen. Though the previous section may have reduced my credentials as a patient man, I tried. Eco mode basically kills the throttle response to encourage you to drive more economically. Additionally, a small green "eco" indicator is illuminated when the computer judges you to be appropriately frugal. It flashes at you, then turns off completely if you're not saving anything. About that throttle response: It's painful. Even in stop-and-go Los Angeles traffic, there's sort of a minimum standard of "go." And Eco mode prevents it, unless you really stomp on the gas. It basically provides the opposite performance from what you expect from the Q50S sports sedan. The setting can save between 5 and 10 percent. If we end up averaging about 20 mpg, that would save maybe between $150 and $200 per year. I'm doubting somebody who forks over $50,000-plus for a car is going to sweat $200. A better approach to gas savings on luxury sports sedans is the engine stop-start technology employed by Mercedes, BMW, Acura (on the TLX V-6 AWD), and others. It saves without creating a driving experience only a milquetoast would mind. Note: Infiniti recently modified pricing and packaging for the Q50. The beautiful performance wheel package that adorns our long-termer is still available as a factory-installed option, only on the Q50S, for $1800. More on our long-term 2014 Infiniti Q50S 3.7: Arrival Update 1: Glorious Options in Dispatching Traffic Annoyances Update 2: Cruise Control is so 1950. Welcome to the True Autopilot Era Our Car Service life 9356 mi Average fuel economy 19.3 mpg CO2 emissions 1.01 lb/mi EPA City/Hwy/Comb Fuel Econ 20/29/23 mpg Energy consumption 175 kW-hr/100mi Unresolved problems None Maintenance cost $0 Normal-wear cost $0 | 9 | 1,124 | autos |
Ahhh, gardening. It's a relaxing hobby that has been shown to lower blood pressure, burn calories, and even improve sex lives . However, there are some potential hazards, if you're not careful. 1. Accidental cuts and scrapes If you regularly handle thorny plants and sharp tools, make sure you're up to date on your tetanus vaccine. ( The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that adults have one every 10 years.) Tetanus bacteria can live in soil and enter your body through wounds on your hands. Tetanus symptoms include mild spasms in the jaw muscles (that's why it's often referred to as lockjaw), which can become more painful and move down the body. It can also cause breathing problems. Your best protection? Always wear thick, sturdy gloves. 2. Disease-carrying bugs Lyme disease is the most well-known of the diseases that an infected tick passes on (they can carry at least 11 different infections), and it causes fever, chills, headache, and muscle aches. Long-term Lyme effects include fatigue, achy muscles, and cognitive defects. Make sure you thoroughly check yourself before coming inside, and consider tucking your pants into your socks and wearing a hat while you're tending your plants. RELATED: 4 Ways to Avoid Ticks » 3. Harsh chemicals According to Environment and Human Health, Inc. (EHHI), the Environmental Protection Agency has approved more than 200 different pesticides for lawn care, but these are often mixed together and sold with other toxic chemicals. "Some chemicals commonly used on lawns and gardens have been associated with birth defects, mutations, adverse reproductive effects, and cancer in laboratory animals," the EHHI reports. These harmful combos can also have a negative ecological effect, including contaminating area water sources. If you aren't sure what to buy, stick with organic mulches or speak with an expert at your local gardening center. 4. Long, hot afternoons When gardening during the day, take regular breaks in the shade and drinking plenty of water. If you start to feel dizzy, lethargic, or get a headache, you may be dehydrated. To quickly replenish your body's electrolytes, grab a sports drink or water with added salt. RELATED: 3 Signs of Heat Stroke You Might Be Overlooking » 5. Extended sun exposure It's not the beach, but you're still exposing your skin to the sun for a long period of time and that can quickly lead to a sunburn. Reapply plenty of sunscreen throughout the day, and don't forget your neck and the backs of your hands (if you're not wearing gloves) they need extra protection. 6. Poisonous plants Even the prettiest flowers (think poinsettias, hydrangeas, and rhododendrons) can pose a risk if accidentally ingested. Always monitor young children and pets closely if they're with you in the garden. RELATED: 8 Deadly Plants You Might Have at Home » 7. Overexerting yourself Improper lifting and lowering techniques (darn that heavy bag of mulch) can lead to tendonitis, sprains, or breaks . Also avoid doing chores, like raking , that require a repetitive motion for extended periods of time to cut down on aches in the arms and back. Another thing to look out for is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, which comes from straining the hands and wrists over and over. You may find gardening relaxing, but think of it like going to the gym: You have to limber up. Lisa McKeown, OT, OTR/L, an occupational therapist at Harvard, suggests warm-up wrist exercises to help prevent injury. 8. Loud noises Power tools like mowers, gas-powered string trimmers, chippers and shredders, rotary tillers, and chain saws all operate in the 80 to 105 decibel range. Anything above 80 dB can cause permanent hearing damage , so ear protection is highly recommended for heavy duty yard work. Photo credit: Blend Images/Getty Images Via GoodHousekeeping.com NEXT: The Hidden Dangers of the Hot Tub » | 4 | 1,125 | lifestyle |
Ford's SVT may be celebrating its 20 th anniversary, but Chrysler's Mopar is celebrating its 75 th that's three quarters of a century of parts and performance. To celebrate, they created four custom vehicles based on the Dodge Dart, Fiat 500, Chrysler 300, and Jeep Compass, and bought them to Chicago. Customization is a big part of the plan for the Dodge Dart, with 150 accessories of various kinds being offered by Mopar for the new compact. The Dart GTS 210 is one idea of how that catalog could be used. In addition to the wide array of cosmetic treatments, it has cross-drilled brake rotors, a lowered suspension, and 18-inch wheels. More importantly, the engine has a new tune plus a performance intake and exhaust that bring the output of its 2.4-liter I-4 up to 210 horsepower. For its next creation, the Mopar 12, Mopar started with a black Chrysler 300 S and then added blue pinstriping throughout the exterior, a black chrome grille surround, and a couple of Mopar badges. Inside, there's blue stitching and seat trim. More importantly, it has a 3.91:1 rear axle and upgraded brakes. A limited production run is planned for the summer. Third is an orange Jeep Compass dubbed "True North" that's received a two-inch lift, rock rails, tow hooks, 16-inch wheels, luggage rack, and a Kicker audio system. The result is a surprisingly butch look for this soft roader. The fourth Mopar creation is imported from Italy rather than Detroit. Dubbed the Fiat 500 Stinger, this bumblebee looking hatch splits the difference between the 500 Sport and 500 Abarth and features performance upgrades similar to those found on the Dart GTS performance intake and exhaust, cross-drilled brakes, and a strut brace in addition to a host of cosmetic tweaks like the body kit. For everything on the 2012 Chicago Auto Show, CLICK HERE for our complete coverage , featuring all the new debuts direct from the Chicago auto show floor. Read more: http://wot.motortrend.com/2012-chicago-2013-acura-ilx-and-rdx-sleek-beaks-in-the-windy-city-167783.html#ixzz1luLErgFU | 9 | 1,126 | autos |
It's official: The glorious excess of the 707-hp Challenger SRT Hellcat is spreading across the showroom floor to the 2015 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat. Producing 707 hp and 650 lb-ft of torque from a supercharged 6.2-liter V-8, the 2015 Charger SRT Hellcat is a monstrous sedan that makes abundantly clear that a couple of Dodge's brand values are power and loads of visual attitude. The 2015 Charger SRT Hellcat, Dodge claims, is the quickest, fastest, and most powerful sedan in the world. Already, we've not only driven but also track-tested the 2015 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat's sibling, the Challenger SRT Hellcat . With that 4449-pound coupe's 707-hp monster under the hood and an eight-speed automatic, 0-60 mph came and went in 3.7 seconds, onto a quarter mile time of 11.7 seconds at 125.4 mph. That time reflects launching the Challenger SRT Hellcat on asphalt, and without the help of all-wheel drive -- the optional six-speed manual might help produce quicker times. That manual gearbox, by the way, won't be available with the Charger SRT Hellcat. With the 2015 Charger SRT Hellcat sedan, just like the Challenger SRT Hellcat, moving rapidly is just part of the picture. The Charger SRT Hellcat is Dodge's rolling burnout machine, and now with additional space thanks to the extra two rear doors. The last high-performance Chargers we tested were 2012 SRT8 models (a regular and Super Bee model) with a five-speed automatic and the 470-hp 6.4-liter V-8 engine. That combination led to 4.3-4.4-second 0-60 mph times, with identical 12.8-second quarter mile times, at 111.5 mph for the regular Charger SRT8 and 112.6 mph for the Super Bee. Dodge claims the Charger SRT Hellcat will hit 60 mph in 3.7 seconds, onto the quarter mile in 11.0 seconds, though we're curious to see how it performs with our test team. Oh, and the top speed on the Charger SRT Hellcat is an astounding 204 mph. "This is a car that doesn't have a business case for it," joked Dodge brand president and CEO Tim Kuniskis, at the car's Woodward Dream Cruise launch event. " No customer has ever asked us to build [this car]. But sometimes you need to disregard the data." A 2014 Dodge Charger SRT8 carried a base price of $48,380, including the $1000 gas guzzler tax and destination -- cut $3000 for the Super Bee model. Expect a base price of around $63,000 for the 2015 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat, which comes with 15.4-inch Brembo two-piece rotors with six-piston calipers in front and 20 x 9.5-inch wide forged wheels and Pirelli P Zero tires. A three-mode adaptive suspension joins a great feature also on the Challenger version -- the so-called SRT Performance Pages with customizable settings for the suspension, transmission shift speeds, paddle shifters, and even horsepower. As with the Challenger SRT Hellcat, the Charger SRT Hellcat will be offered with black and red key fobs -- the red one will unleash all 707 horses. In Valet Mode, the car limits horsepower and torque to 4000 rpm, disable the paddle shifters, and treats the manual shifter position the same as the drive position. The Launch Control feature isn't made available and, as you'd expect, the stability control is enalbed to full-on. To deactivate Valet Mode, the driver enters a four-digit PIN code they create. Visually, the car has plenty of get-outta-my-way appeal. The 20-inch wheels are offered in two finishes, and it's tough not to notice the power-bulge aluminum hood with dual air extractors. Four-inch round exhaust tips are part of the package, as is a deck spoiler and the center high-mounted stop lamp relocated from the bottom to the top of the rear windshield. Inside, the mood is as upscale as it gets for the Charger, with a three-spoke flat-bottom steering wheel, the 7-inch digital gauge cluster spreading its way through Chrysler brands, an 8.4-inch touch screen, Nappa leather with Alcantara suede inserts, and your choice of four trim/color combinations. The seats have been redesigned, and feature heated and cooled functions, while the rear seats are heated as well. The 2015 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat goes on sale in the first quarter of 2015. For more than 70 additional 2015 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat photos, head to the second page of this First Look story. | 9 | 1,127 | autos |
Quality vs. quantity? Lexus has dismissed the old adage and proven that both can, in fact, coexist. The automaker managed to procure four LFA supercars to show off at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show and it's arguably one of the most jaw-dropping displays on the floor. All together, the quartet is worth about $1.5 million and flexes 2208 hp. According to a Lexus rep, the LFAs were provided by four generous owners who live in the Chicago area. Aside from that, the Lexus booth was pretty tame. If we were in charge, we'd have those booth babes get in the driver's seat, fire up those engines, and let the quartet fill the halls with the wonderful V-10 wail. | 9 | 1,128 | autos |
Caterham is all about bringing tradition into the hands of the modern car enthusiast, and the new Caterham Seven 480 and Seven 360 honor Caterham's heritage of light weight, simplicity, and customization. The two new Seven variants will bear the duty of bridging the gap between the milder Seven 280 and its sensational 310-hp Seven 620R. But wait, there's more--U.S. customers are invited to join the party. Although both the Caterham Seven 480 and Caterham Seven 360 use Ford's 2.0-liter Duratec four-cylinder, they exist in two different states of tune. The milder Caterham Seven 360 gets a slight power bump compared to the smaller 1.6-liter Caterham Seven 280, up 40 hp for a total of 180 hp. The 0-60 mph sprint can be completed 0.1 seconds faster as well, now down to 4.8 seconds, with a top speed of 130 mph. The car includes a five-speed manual gearbox, 13-inch wheels, a limited-slip differential, as well as front and rear "race" suspension dampers. Customers can also opt for a six-speed gearbox and 15-inch wheels as part of the Sport Pack, or a dry sump oil system and aerofoil wishbone suspension as part of the additional Race Pack. If you pony up for the Caterham Seven 480, horsepower leaps to 237 from the same 2.0-liter four-cylinder. A six-speed manual gearbox is standing, ensuring maximum enjoyment during 3.4-second 0-60-mph sprints and 140 mph top speed runs. The Seven 480 comes standard with adjustable dampers, front wishbone suspension, 15-inch wheels, and ventilated front disc brakes with quad-piston calipers. A limited-slip differential and carbon vinyl trimming is included in the Sport Pack, while the Race Pack adds 13-inch wheels, a race damper kit, and aerodynamically shaped suspension control arms. As with all Caterham Seven models, the cars are shipped to the U.S. in unassembled form. Part of the car's visceral experience is building it and exactly how it is put together, but buyers can opt for a factory build in which case the car will be shipped as a rolling chassis, or can elect to build it themselves in a garage. In either case, the engine and gearbox are shipped separately, and Caterham says self-assembly for novices takes 60-70 hours. The cars will be sold in the U.S. through California-based Superformance. There's sure to be an exceptional amount of fun on tap with either Caterham Seven model, and special paint options and a comprehensive equipment list mean you can personalize your 480 or 360 to your liking. Pricing for the Caterham Seven 360 begins at $45,400 including delivery, while the more powerful 480 totals $53,400. | 9 | 1,129 | autos |
At this year's Chicago Auto Show, Ford has dutifully amped up its war with the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 by unleashing its 650-horsepower 2013 Ford Mustang GT500 convertible. But Chicago holds far more significance to the SVT performance division than just this year's show. Twenty years ago, Ford used the Chicago Auto Show to launch its Special Vehicles Team skunkwerks division. It was a move that helped reignite a pony car war after Chevrolet's LT1-powered Camaros hit the scene, stealing much of its bowtie-badged rival's thunder. Alongside the Mustang GT500 at this year's show is the first car to come from SVT: the 1993 Ford Mustang Cobra. With 235 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque coming from its 302-cubic-inch V-8, it made 30 more ponies than its contemporary Mustang 5.0 LX. But it still lagged well behind the Camaro Z28's 285 horsepower. That proved of little consequence, however, as Ford's Fox-body Mustang weighed around 2800 pounds, 600 less than the Camaro. If that weight disparity weren't enough, SVT also made 107 cars with its Cobra R package, as seen on the car in Chicago, that stripped the Mustang of power windows, a stereo option, air conditioning, and its rear seat. It also featured larger brakes, Koni shocks, an oil cooler, and only came in Vibrant Red. In a world Mustang GT500s and track-ready Mustang Boss 302s available in mass, the 1993 SVT Ford Mustang may not seem too impressive anymore. It's important to remember, however, that without the first SVT Mustang, we likely would never have today's ultrafast muscle cars. - Jacob Brown For everything on the 2012 Chicago Auto Show, CLICK HERE for our complete coverage , featuring all the new debuts direct from the Chicago auto show floor. | 9 | 1,130 | autos |
Land Rover has issued a recall for a couple of its off-roaders for an issue having to do with the passenger airbag. 2010-2015 Land Rover LR2; 2012-2013 Range Rover Evoque The Problem: Certain Land Rover LR2s and Evoques may be equipped with a faulty component within the Occupant Classification System ECU that may cause the airbag to be partially or fully disabled. In certain Range Rover Evoque crossovers, a good indicator at the defect could be a continuously lit SRS (Supplementary Restraint System) warning lamp. The fact that the airbag may not deploy increases the risk of injury in the event of a crash. The Fix: Dealers will update the Restraint Control Module software for free, and owners will begin receiving notifications starting August 30. Number of Vehicles Potentially Affected: Approximately 17,066 2010-2015 Land Rover LR2s and 23,485 2012-2013 Range Rover Evoques built at the Halewood assembly plant between January 27, 2009 and July 1, 2014 affected by this recall. Source: NHTSA | 9 | 1,131 | autos |
Pioneer recently offered to install an AVIC 5000-NEX head unit in our long-term Forester, specifically to test out its integration with Apple's new CarPlay technology. Since our Subaru has the stock head unit without GPS, I was looking forward to the new setup. Pioneer partnered with Best Buy's Geek Squad to install the head unit, so the dirty work was handled for us. CarPlay is compatible with the iPhone5, which is hooked up to the head unit via a dedicated plug installed through the center armrest, where the Forester already had a USB port installed. Once the iPhone is plugged in, the screen on the 5000-NEX brings up a select number of icons, like an enlarged version of the iPhone screen. The icons that pop up are: Phone, Messages, Maps, Music, Now Playing, and Pioneer (to return to Pioneer's default menu system). The AVIC 5000-NEX is equipped to carry an XM signal, but since our Forester didn't come with satellite radio, it doesn't have the correct antenna to receive that signal. The Pioneer head unit comes with its own dedicated GPS, but I have found it much easier to use Apple Maps through the CarPlay connection (the Pioneer setup is shown above; the stock setup is shown below). Honestly, I would much prefer if every car out there simply came with Google Maps, but for the sake of convenience, Apple Maps does the trick. Using CarPlay is quite intuitive, and does provide a lot of convenience. The voice control button on the Subaru's steering wheel can be used as if it were the home button on an iPhone. Simply hold the voice control key down until you hear the familiar Siri beep indicating she's listening. State your command for navigating to a destination, making a phone call, playing a song from your phone's music library, or having Siri read or transcribe a text. The only issue I've had is with Siri not pulling up the right artist or song when I have asked her to play something in particular. Phone calls have become a breeze without the need for of a Bluetooth earpiece or wired earbuds. The sound quality has been great coming through the stock Forester speakers. Feedback from callers on the other end of the line has been good, as they've said the installed microphone clearly transmits my voice. Fearing that I would become one of those drivers who is inadvertently sharing my private conversation with everyone within a 20-foot radius of my vehicle, I stepped outside the parked Forester while the person on the other end of the call continued talking. With the windows up, I could barely tell there was a voice being projected through the speakers at all, let alone decipher the content of the conversation. Major points for that, Subaru! For more on our long-term 2014 Subaru Forester 2.0XT: Arrival Update 1: First Service Visit, and an Interior Niggle | 9 | 1,132 | autos |
The configurator for the 2015 Audi S3 Sedan is now live on the automaker's consumer website. Starting at $41,995 (including $895 destination fee), the Audi S3 sedan can top out at around $52,000 with the right combination of options. A base 2015 Audi S3 Premium Plus sedan starts at $41,995 and includes automatic HID headlights with LED daytime running lights and LED taillights, S model exterior appearance package, panoramic sunroof, flat-bottom steering wheel, leather seating with eight-way power front seats plus four-way lumbar adjustment, a 10-speaker audio system with Bluetooth, push-button start, and automatic wipers. Available features include a $750 Convenience Package (heated, power folding exterior mirrors with anti-glare on driver's side, lighting package, storage compartment and luggage compartment package, digital compass integrated into the inside rearview mirror), $2600 MMI Navigation Plus (navigation, Audi connect, driver information system with color display), $1400 Driver Assistance Package (parking system with selective display, Audi side assist, rearview camera), $650 Audi Active Lane Assist , $1050 Full LED Headlights (fixed bending and all-weather light, adaptive light, LED headlamps), $1500 19" Performance Package (19-inch five-double-spoke "Star" alloy wheels with 235/35 summer performance tires, Audi magnetic ride), $850 Bang & Olufsen Sound System (14-speakers, 705 watts), and $350 rear side airbags . The $47,895 2015 Audi S3 Prestige sedan adds the components from the Convenience Package, MMI Navigation Plus, Driver Assistance Package, Full LED Headlights, and Bang & Olufsen Sound System as standard. Options include a $1400 Advanced Technology Package (Audi active lane assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, Front Assist with city automatic emergency braking for ACC low, driver assistance system with camera and/or distance sensor), the $1500 19" Performance Package , and $350 rear side airbags . Paint choices include Brilliant Black, Misano Red Pearl ( $550 ), Mythos Black Pearl ( $550 ), Panther Black Crystal ( $1075 ), Glacier White Metallic ( $550 ), Forest Silver Metallic ( $550 ), Monsoon Gray Metallic ( $550 ), Sepang Blue Pearl ( $550 ), and Beluga Brown Metallic ( $500 ). Interior colors include Black with Magma Red trim, Black with Dark Silver trim, and Titanium with Black Silver trim. All 2015 Audi S3 sedans are powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4 with 292 hp (5400-6200 rpm) and 280 lb-ft of torque (1900-5300 rpm) mated to a six-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission and Audi's quattro all-wheel drive system. Source: Audi | 9 | 1,133 | autos |
Toyota now has another set of eyes to oversee its safety procedures. The Detroit News reports that the Justice Department and Toyota have selected former U.S. Attorney David Kelley to act as the automaker's independent monitor, ensuring the company avoids any safety mishaps. The arrangement is part of the settlement Toyota and the Justice Department reached back in March following an investigation into how the automaker handled its unintended acceleration recalls. While Toyota admitted to misleading consumers and government officials, it also pleaded not guilty during the settlement hearings. As part of the agreement, Toyota paid a $1.2 billion fine and agreed to add the independent safety monitor position. The automaker voluntarily took additional steps to prevent and deal with recalls, including the appointment of new rapid-response teams and extending vehicle development cycles. "We intend to have a cooperative and constructive working relationship with Mr. Kelley," Toyota spokeswoman Julie Hamp told The Detroit News. "In our view, this is an opportunity to build on the important changes we have made over the past four years to serve our customers better." Kelley, who is currently a partner at the New York-based Cahill Gordon & Reindel LLP law firm, will provide reports to the U.S. Attorney's Office in New York. His appointment comes after General Motors and Chrysler added similar positions to bolster their safety cred. Source: The Detroit News | 9 | 1,134 | autos |
With the 2015 Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon now in the picture, it was only a matter of time before the Toyota Tacoma receives a refresh, and spy photographers have gotten a peek at some of the changes to come. A 2016 Tacoma mule was snapped in the desert while it was taking a break from testing, revealing a hint of what Toyota has in store for its midsize pickup. Looks-wise, the test mule is essentially a mock-up of the current Tacoma. Camouflage is covering a few key items like the center stack, while test computers and wiring are strapped throughout the truck. Although the mule shown appears to be equipped with the six-speed manual transmission, there's talk the automaker may drop the four- and five-speed automatics in favor of a six-speed automatic like the one in the 2014 Toyota Tundra. Toyota hasn't revealed anything about the new pickup, but more rumors suggest the regular cab model will be scrapped from the lineup so that the automaker can focus on further improving the double cab model , which is the model that spy photographers caught testing out in the desert. As far as size goes, the tester doesn't look any bigger or smaller, hinting that it'll keep the same bones as the current model. Word is that the Tacoma will use a tweaked version of the current truck's frame.The same can't be said for its underbody, though. Spy photographers were able to see underneath the truck, revealing a rerouted exhaust snaking around certain modified parts.The 2016 Toyota Tacoma will likely be revealed sometime next year. Until then, take a close look at the photos to see if you can spot certain differences. Photo Source: KGP Photography | 9 | 1,135 | autos |
Life in a college town Remember when you went off to college for the first time? You were eager for challenges and psyched to try something new. Retire to a college town, and you can re-create that horizon-broadening experience and sense of adventure. In these 10 towns, a university generates intellectual and cultural sizzle for local residents and opens the door for retirees to take free or low-cost classes. College sports unite the entire community (and sometimes impel retired alums to move back). On-campus attractions, such as concerts, lecture series and games, are open to all comers, not just undergraduates. College life isn t the only reason these towns are great places to retire. Most are in states that are tax-friendly to retirees. Most have home prices close to the national median (some far below), active restaurant scenes, and access to good health care. As for size, they range from tiny Oxford, Miss. (population 20,865) to Lexington, Ky., a midsized city (308,428). A few are below the national average for the cost of living index (100). Take a look. Oxford, Mississippi College : University of Mississippi Population : 20,865 Median home price : $210,000 (natl. median: $213,400) Cost of living index : Not available (natl. avg.: 100) Here s Oxford in three words: football, Faulkner and food. Football: Conversations sooner or later turn to the Ole Miss Rebels and the elaborate tailgating ritual at each home game. Faulkner: William Faulkner wrote his most famous novels and stories while living here, and his influence and the presence of other writers, including John Grisham, as well as Square Books, the famous independent bookstore has inspired an active arts scene. Food: The Square the heart of Oxford, anchored by the old Lafayette County courthouse hums with activity when diners visit its dozen or so restaurants. Mississippi is tax-friendly toward retirees: Property taxes are low (as are insurance and utilities), and retirement income is exempt from state taxes. More than 100 health care specialists are associated with the 217-bed Baptist Memorial Hospital North Mississippi. The university is a hub of culture as well as spectator sports. One university course per semester is free to retirees. The town is actively recruiting tech companies and other businesses, but retirees who want to work part-time have to compete for scarce jobs. Some retirees share their experience through the incubator business network or do other volunteer work. Others apply for the program at Ole Miss that allows retirees to fill in for absent professors. Oxford sits among rolling hills, unlike the flat terrain of the Delta or Gulf area. Summers are hot, but Oxford has four seasons and no coast-bashing hurricanes. Ann Arbor, Michigan Population : 117,025 Median home price : $226,500 Cost of living index : 102.4 College : University of Michigan What makes this college town so attractive that retirees will endure Michigan s fierce winter to live there? Intellectual engagement is one big draw. The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute one of a number of university-based noncredit educational programs for adults 50 and older offers lectures, classes and study groups on philosophy, religion, history and the arts. The institute is located in the University of Michigan s Turner Senior Resource Center, which offers a variety of wellness and fitness programs. Ann Arbor s health care facilities attract people from across the U.S. and around the world. The University of Michigan Health System is one of the largest hospitals in Michigan and offers a broad range of specialties, including geriatrics. All those assets help make Ann Arbor one of the more expensive communities in Michigan. Retirees can find more affordable options if they re willing to live at least five miles outside the popular downtown area, says Frank Moore, a certified financial planner who has lived in Ann Arbor for 35 years and plans to retire there. Michigan has a mixed tax picture: Social Security benefits aren t taxed, but residents born after 1945 may have to pay state taxes on some of their pension income. Asheville, North Carolina Population : 87,236 Median home price : $215,000 Cost of living : 105.7 College : University of North Carolina Asheville UNC-Asheville is a small campus of about 3,700 students, but it has an outsize influence on retirees. The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute offers more than 300 courses a year, usually in six- to eight-week terms. One of the institute s most popular programs, says director Catherine Frank, is its Creative Retirement Exploration Weekend, designed for working people who are considering relocating when they retire. Many of those who attend the weekend end up moving to Asheville, Frank says. It s not hard to see why. In addition to the extensive educational offerings through the Osher Institute, Asheville has a world-class symphony, a vibrant local arts scene, and lots of breweries and restaurants. There are quirky pleasures, too. Every Friday during the warm-weather months, locals bring their drums to Pritchard Park to participate in a drum circle, an Asheville tradition since 2001. The event attracts a surprisingly large number of seniors, Frank says. In North Carolina, Social Security benefits are exempt from state taxes, but some other types of retirement income are taxable. Homeowners age 65 and older may qualify for a homestead exemption of $25,000 or 50 percent of the home s appraised value, whichever is greater. Athens, Georgia Population : 119,980 Median home price : $137,000 Cost of living : Not available College : University of Georgia Athens is the center of a lively and diverse music scene. Locals hoping to catch the next R.E.M. which, along with the B-52s and Widespread Panic, got its start in Athens can check out up-and-coming bands at the 40 Watt Club or the Georgia Theatre. Retirees keep their minds sharp at the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute program at UGA, which offers classes and lectures on everything from tai chi to Civil War history. Residents have access to health care through the Athens Regional Medical Center or St. Mary s Health Care System. Atlanta, 70 miles away, offers a more extensive hospital network (along with an international airport). Athens offers a variety of housing, from older homes in historic neighborhoods to new condos downtown. Georgia is one of the most tax-friendly states for retirees: Social Security benefits, along with up to $35,000 in most other types of retirement income, are exempt from state taxes. Boise, Idaho Population : 214,237 Median home price : $209,450 Cost of living : 95.3 College : Boise State University Boise has four distinct seasons, but its location on a high desert plain keeps winters mild and humidity low. Boise s 25-mile bicycle and pedestrian pathway and proximity to scenic hiking trails make this city a magnet for active adults, including retirees. But the intellectual challenges keep residents on their toes as well. At Boise State, the Velma V. Morrison Center for the Performing Arts features symphony concerts, dance and Broadway musicals. The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute offers college-level classes on everything from Photoshop to philosophy. Reflecting a large Basque population, whose ancestors (from the region encompassing north-central Spain and southwestern France) came to Idaho as sheep herders, Boise has a number of restaurants that serve traditional Basque food. It s also the home of the only Basque museum in the U.S. Boise State s football and basketball teams attract the kind of community support that larger cities reserve for professional sports. The city is also home to the Boise Hawks, a farm team for the Chicago Cubs. Idaho is one of the most tax-friendly states for retirees: Social Security benefits aren t taxed, and residents age 65 and older are eligible for a deduction of up to $45,234 for other retirement benefits. The city is served by two major medical centers and several smaller hospitals. Charlottesville, Virginia Population : 44,349 Median home price : $244,250 Cost of living : 102.4 College : University of Virginia Residents 60 and older can take noncredit classes tuition-free at UVa and other area schools, including Piedmont Community College. For cultural stimulation, music lovers can catch free Fridays After Five concerts at the Downtown Mall from April to September. Oenophiles won t have to venture far to sniff, swirl and sip worthy vintages. Try Trump Winery (yes, that Trump) or Barboursville Vineyards, which is located 18 miles northeast of Charlottesville. Charlottesville is situated in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, so options for hiking, biking and paddling abound. Housing in Charlottesville can be pricey. Retirees with a budget under $500,000 might like Lake Monticello, 25 minutes southeast of town. Homes in upscale country-club communities such as Glenmore can easily top $1 million. Homeowners 65 and older can apply for relief from real estate taxes. Overall, Virginia s tax-friendliness toward retirees is mixed. Virginia doesn t tax Social Security benefits. Other retirement income is taxable, but seniors 65 and older can deduct up to $12,000, subject to certain income limits. The state doesn t levy an estate tax. Fort Collins, Colorado College : Colorado State University Population : 152,061 Median home price : $280,000 Cost of living : Not available With more than 30,000 Colorado State students, Fort Collins is a city teeming with young adults. But the characteristics that make it attractive to twentysomethings are luring retirees, too. The city is blessed with more than 300 days of sunshine a year, offering plenty of opportunities for residents to enjoy its more than 600 acres of parks and 20 miles of walking and biking trails. For more adventurous outings, residents can hike in the nearby Rocky Mountain National Park. Retirees who enjoy urban pursuits head to Fort Collins s lively downtown, home to coffee shops, outdoor cafés, brew pubs and live-performance venues. On the third Friday of every month, the city hosts a Foodie Walk in its historic pedestrian center so residents can sample local culinary specialties. The median home price of $280,000 is above the national median ($201,700) but lower than the price of homes in other parts of Colorado (in nearby Boulder, the median home price is $418,700). Colorado is one of the most tax-friendly state for retirees: Residents 55 and older get a generous retirement-income exclusion from state taxes and may qualify for a homestead exemption of up to 50% of property value. Poudre Valley Hospital, a 270-bed community regional medical center, is located in Fort Collins. Denver, which offers a broader range of medical options, is about an hour s drive away. Gainesville, Florida Population : 35,533 Median home price : $169,287 Cost of living : 99.1 College : University of Florida Gainesville is smack in the middle of the state, which means it s 75 miles from the ocean. But during hurricane season, that s not such a bad place to be. And the home of the University of Florida offers many benefits for retirees looking to escape the cold and the high cost of living up north. In addition to Florida Gators football and basketball, the city offers 13 museums and galleries and a thriving downtown. Residents age 60 and older can enroll in courses at the University of Florida at no cost on a space-available basis. In addition, the Institute for Learning in Retirement at Oak Hammock, a retirement community affiliated with the University of Florida, offers an extensive roster of courses, many of them taught by university professors. (Seniors don t have to live in the community to participate.) Florida is one of the most tax-friendly states in the country for retirees. There is no state income tax, and permanent residents are eligible for a homestead exemption of up to $50,000. Seniors may qualify for an additional exemption. Gainesville was founded as a health care resort. Now, medical care is available through the university s Shands Hospital and the North Florida Regional Medical Center. Lexington, Kentucky Population : 308,428 Median home price : $145,000 Cost of living : 89.6 College : University of Kentucky There s more to the Bluegrass State than bourbon, basketball and beautiful horses, although all three play a major role in the Lexington region. The city is home to the University of Kentucky, which offers two free programs for older adults: the Donovan Fellowship and the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute. The horse industry plays a major role in bringing people from around the world to Lexington, giving the city an international flavor. Surrounded by horse farms on rolling countryside, the city has more than 100 parks, six public golf courses and a 734-acre nature preserve with more than ten miles of hiking trails. With two ballet companies, an orchestra, a minor-league baseball team, a performing arts center, weekly big band and jazz concerts in the summer, and gallery hops throughout the year, there s no shortage of things to do. Health care is easily accessible: The area has 13 hospitals and 249 physicians offices. Although Lexington offers many of the amenities of a large city, the cost of living is below the national average, as is the median home price. Kentucky is one of the most tax-friendly states for retirees: It exempts Social Security benefits from income taxes and offers homeowners 65 and older a tax exemption for part of the value of their property. State College, Pennsylvania Population : 41,757 Median home price : $270,250 Cost of living : Not available College : Pennsylvania State University This town may not be close to any major cities or the beach, but it s popular with retirees who like the lively downtown, the cultural activities and, of course, Penn State football. But rural doesn t mean dull here. The Center for the Performing Arts at Penn State features chamber music concerts, ballet and Broadway shows. The Palmer Museum of Art, part of the College of Arts and Architecture at Penn State, is home to 11 art galleries and an outdoor sculpture garden; admission is free. Residents age 60 and older can take undergraduate courses at Penn State free on a space-available basis. At $270,250, the median home price is above the median for the U.S. and Pennsylvania. There are several retirement communities in the area, including The Village at Penn State, which provides free transportation to football games and other university events. Pennsylvania is one of the most tax-friendly states for retirees. Social Security benefits, public and private pensions, and distributions from retirement accounts are tax-free. Health care is available through the well-regarded Mount Nittany Medical Center. The Penn State University Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is located about an hour and 45 minutes away, in Hershey, Pa. | 3 | 1,136 | finance |
Noticeably absent from the 2013 Frankfurt Auto Show was Fiat/Chrysler boss Sergio Marchionne, one of the most respected and outspoken executives in the business. His appearances were cancelled at the last minute, driving speculation as to what was so important? The official line is that he needed to attend to "unforeseen business commitments" and is back in the office in Italy. Reports speculate it has something to do with a pending lawsuit by the UAW's Retiree Benefits Trust on behalf of Chrysler retirees. The dispute is over what price Fiat is willing to pay for the 16-percent share of Chrysler the trust owns and Fiat has a right to buy. Fiat offered $139.7 million for 3.3 percent of the shares, but the trust thinks they're worth $343 million and has sued to force Fiat to up the offer. A judge ruled in Fiat's favor on several points in the case in July, but did not rule on the share price. Fiat wants a ruling by spring, while the trust doesn't want one until early 2015. The trust is buying time, hoping to force Chrysler into an initial public offering, which they hope will validate their valuation of the shares, or at least exceed Fiat's. Fiat is opposed to the idea, partially for that same reason and partially because then the company would be listed and traded on two different exchanges under two different names, rather than as one, unified company. The latter is Marchionne's ultimate goal. Those markets apparently found this speculation about the reason for Marchionne's absence compelling, because Fiat's share price rose six percent after the cancellation of appearances was announced. Or perhaps the markets were concerned he might've otherwise said something off-the-cuff to the assembled journalists, driving the price down, and figure silence is golden. Either way, I hope the traders are right, because things don't look as rosy from the show floor. Fiat/Chrysler had a poor showing across the board in Frankfurt with virtually no new product to announce. Jeep, Lancia, Alfa Romeo and Maserati didn't even bother to hold press conferences. Ferrari, which operates fairly independently of its parent company, showed a (rather cool) variant of an existing car . The Fiat brand, meanwhile, showed-off the not-new 500L. Brand president Olivier Francois extolled the virtues of the 500L himself before turning to the matter of Fiat brand's stability in the market. In what came across as more browbeating than presenting, Francois laid out an elaborate, five-pronged argument about why Fiat brand is actually strong and growing despite media reports to the contrary. After citing Fiat's foray into America as a triumph despite a botched launch and dealers clamoring for more product, he closed by explaining that Fiat's image as a cheap and practical brand and anything but premium is all wrong and that we all just needed to realize this. All in all, the lecture reeked of desperation and frustration. Perhaps it was best for business for Mr. Marchionne, head of a major automotive industry group and of a major global automaker, to skip one of the largest auto shows in the world. I hope so, because the impression from here on the ground is the exact opposite. Fiat/Chrysler needed Marchionne here if nothing more than to put a good face on things in his trademark cool, collected manner. Maybe in the long run business will be better because be was in the office and not at the show. In the short run, the company is suffering for his absence, at least in the public eye. | 9 | 1,137 | autos |
My biggest takeaway from the 2012 Mondial de l'Automobile is that the Brits rocked the house. Yes, sure, the French and the Germans showed some cars but they hardly raised your blood pressure. Porsche brought a big station wagon (the Sport Tourismo Concept), Audi showed a small station wagon (the A3 Sportback), BMW presented a small hatchback (the Active Tourer PHEV Concenpt), Volkswagen presented the new seventh generation Golf that looks more or less like the sixth generation Golf and Mercedes-Benz offered up a wheels-off digital sculpture of the new S-Class along with this very odd quote from their design chief Gordon Wagener, "We're not reinventing the wheel here. The next S-Class will refer to previous versions, because we don't want our existing cars to look old-fashioned and be worthless." Of course, Mercedes did show a glow-in-the-center-of-a-black hole electric SLS Gullwing, but I drove a day-glo yellow prototype version two years ago. As for the French, the Renault Clio was pretty good. Down in little Italy, Lamborghini slapped some new exterior bits on the Gallardo (again) and Ferrari brought a frame. But it was the British that really uncorked the car show Champagne, and I'm not just talking about the lovely glass of bubbly that Rolls-Royce was kind enough to share with me in honor of their art deco cars. Created to honor the 1925 Paris Exposition (aka the Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes ), that legendary show is supposedly where the phrase "art deco" was coined. While the three cars weren't new models (a Ghost, a Phantom and a Drophead Coupe), the workmanship and attention to detail were extraordinary. I wish you all could have seen the stunning powder blue Drophead Coupe, as it was breathtaking. Seems as if Rolls's Bespoke group is really coming into their own under new design boss Giles Taylor. Interestingly, I was informed that Rolls-Royce has managed to sell 35 examples (and I should note, all 35 examples) of the Phantom Coupe Aviator that debuted at Pebble Beach's Quail Motorsports Gathering just last month. Speaking of big, British luxury cars, Bentley debuted a car they should have been building for the last several decades, the Continental GT3 Concept Racer. If you missed it, the quite excellent looking Continental GT3 is based off the new 205 mph, 616 horsepower Continental Speed but with a "Miata" taken out of it. I should say with the weight equivalent of a Mazda Miata removed. Bentley's director of Motorsport Brian Gush told me that the finalized version of the rear-wheel drive GT3 will weigh "Less than 1300 kilos." In plain ('Merican) English, that's about 2800 pounds. To give you an idea of the scale of the liposuction Gush and his team will have to pull off, the last Continental GT we tested weighed 5059 pounds. And that's the (relatively) light V-8 version. The GT3 will most likely have the heavier twin-turbo W12, for packaging reasons. Where'd the weight go? Well, ripping out all the AWD hardware is a big step, as is getting rid the copious amounts of handcrafted leather and wood. Additionally, the flared fenders are all carbon fiber. The Continental GT3 will be able to race in any 2014 GT3 race. This car makes so damn much sense because Bentley's history basically goes like this: W.O. Bentley made some engines with four valves per cylinder in 1919 and stuck then into very sturdy frames. Some rich guys noticed his cars were reliable enough to win races. One of these rich guys (Captain Wolfe Barnato) bought the company, slapped on some superchargers and won the 24 Hours of Le Mans three years in a row. Next, Bentley was about to go belly up in he wake of the Great Depression, but Rolls-Royce bought them in 1930 and for 70 years not much happened until Volkswagen bought W.O.'s company in 1998. In other words, almost Bentley's entire heritage is racing. They absolutely simply must be running a car on a track that looks like a car a customer can buy. It's that simple. Plus, again, this GT3 is just glorious looking. I wish I could take credit for the line, but as my colleague Mike Febbo said, "If only it had a blower sticking out the front." I felt a little bit of a British let down when it came to the new Range Rover sitting in a reflecting pool on the Land Rover stand. Why? Well, I'm sorry but the thing looks like a Ford Explorer. Here's the interesting part: no one at Land Rover will say so on the record, but behind the scenes they are miffed that Ford "appropriated" the new, much lighter (thanks to lots of aluminum) Range Rover's headlights and stuck 'em on the Explorer. OK, fine, but I still don't think the new Range Rover looks nearly as chiseled and handsome as the one it's replacing. Sorry. It's a bit of a surprise really, as the Evoque is so well penned. Anyhow, Ford has now paid Jaguar/Land Rover back in for the latter's theft of the 1996 Ford Taurus's grille for use on the current XK. All's fair in love and the car biz. Speaking of Jaguar, how about that F-Type? Hello my lovely! According to every car designer I've ever spoken with, it's a once in a career opportunity to style a front-engine, rear-wheel drive production sports car. I should add, an opportunity that very few get. Meet Ian Callum. Depending on exactly how you count his cars (the Aston Martin DB9 was maybe his, maybe Henrik Fisker's), Callum's previously done four, and the new F-Type is his fifth tidy sports car. Discounting the historically disputed (and historically great looking) Aston, the new Jag's his best yet. It's just severely nice to look at. In particular, I love the gentle curve of the "boot" very reminiscent of a BMW Z8. With a name like F-Type this car is very much intended to be taken as the successor to the bite-your-fist good looking E-type. Of course, the E-type may just be the very best looking car of all time, especially the hard top. So… I'm reserving judgment until they show us the F-type Coupe. Which, I'm 90% certain, they will. I also really like the breadth of the engines 340 hp supercharged V-6, 380 hp supercharged V-6 and a big boy 495 pony supercharged V-8. Hot tip: you can tell what engine is in the F-Type by looking at the tailpipes. Two centered pipes in the middle means V-6, four pipes indicates a V-8. Ah, but which V-6 are you looking at? The more potent V-6 will have an S badge, front and rear. But the show's biggest Brit, and judging by the fact that I couldn't even see it being revealed because of how many cameras, cell phones and iPads were being held up in front of me, is McLaren's new supercar, the P1. I've already written a bunch of my thoughts down about the P1 , but please trust me, you've got to see it in the carbon fiber, orange-sparkle paint flesh before you pass judgment. It is absolutely wild, in a very avant-garde , very British, TVR sort of way. Viva la Britannia! | 9 | 1,138 | autos |
It has been said that more car deals are killed by words than by numbers. What does that mean? Contrary to popular belief, people seldom leave a dealership without buying a car because the numbers were too high. Instead, people leave without buying a car because a salesperson or a manager said something that rubbed the customer the wrong way and caused them to not want to buy from that particular salesperson or dealership. (Again, remember the adage: People buy from people .) The words we use in the car business when dealing with customers have tremendous power to either help us make a deal, or completely blow one, depending on what we say and how we say it. The same is true of you, the customer, and what you say. The words you use when talking to your salesman can help you or hurt you. So in this week's blog I'm going to talk about the Power of Words. 1. The Power of "Buy Today." All of the magazines out there tell you when you go to a dealership you're supposed to tell your salesperson: "I'm not buying today." Instead you're supposed to say, "This is the first place we've looked," or "I'm just starting my research," etc., etc. Conventional wisdom says you should never buy on your first visit to a dealership. You should always leave, no matter what kind of deal you're offered, or how much you like the car, or what kind of pressure the salesperson puts on you. This is some of the most moronic advice I have ever heard. If you go out looking for a car -- or a pair of shoes, a printer, a new dress, a boat -- and you find exactly what you're looking for in the first place you look, and you're able to negotiate a price that's exactly what you're willing to pay, or better, why wouldn't you go ahead and buy? Why continue to search? Just to prolong the agony? It makes no sense. Now, it's true that we rarely find exactly what we're looking for in the first place we look. But it does happen. In fact, in car sales, it happens all the time. As a buyer, you should always leave yourself open to the possibility of buying the same day you visit the dealership -- if all your criteria are met. So instead of shutting us down at "Hello," I would suggest saying to your salesman something along the lines of: "We're not planning on buying today, but we have an open mind. If we come across the right car at the right price, who knows? Maybe." (And, of course, you must mean it.) Here's how this helps you. When a salesman hear the words "I'm not buying today," their enthusiasm level drops to zero. Instantly. Whenever I hear the words "not buying," I lose all interest in helping that customer. Why? Because I'm paid on commission. And you've just told me that you're going to take up several hours of my time, and I 'll never be compensated for that time. Well, maybe I will, but it may not be for days, weeks, or even months. Not only that, but while I'm fooling around with you, I might miss a "real" customer, a customer who is willing to buy today. So I am not a happy camper. And the presentation I give you will be less than award-winning. So always keep an open mind to the possibility of buying today, and give your salesman the hope that he may be able to sell you. That will motivate him or her to do their best to help you. Also, if a dealership believes it may have a sale today, it will often cut the price far deeper than it would if it feels you're going to leave and visit 16 other dealerships. Why? Because studies have shown that approximately 85% of people who leave a car dealership never come back to that dealership again. Our best chance to sell you is today. When you tell me you won't buy today, under any circumstances, you may think you're protecting yourself against high-pressure tactics, but what you're actually doing is giving up your leverage to get a good deal. 2. If I Could, Would You . . . ? Suppose you've been trying to close Mr. and Mrs. Ontiveros for the last hour and a half. You think you've finally gotten them to tell you why they won't take home your last Bloatmobile BelchMaster, the one with the $500 bonus on it. It's the trade-in value. Mr. Ontiveros has just said: "Well, I like the car, you understand, but I was kinda hoping to get $16,000 for my trade." And you, the salesman, say: "So what you're telling me, Mr. Ontiveros, is that if I could get you $16,000 for your trade, you would buy right now?" And Mr. Ontiveros thinks about it and says "Yeah, if you could do that, I'd buy right now." At that point, you know what you need to do to make the deal: get Mr. Ontiveros $16,000 for his trade. "If I could, would you?" is a very powerful tool. And it's one that you, the buyer, can turn around and use to your advantage. If you think you're ready to buy, but they're just not coming off the price enough, or that interest rate is too high, or you really want a tow hitch added, don't get mad. Don't threaten. Don't say you're going to Down the Road Motors. Ask your salesperson: "Well, if I ______, could you ______?" And fill in the blanks. "If I were to finance with you, could you take off another grand?" "If I didn't go home to think about it, but bought today , could you guys throw in a tow hitch and a set of mats?" "Or get me 1.65% at 72 months?" "Or a tonneau cover?" Or whatever. The point is, you're holding up the prospect of a sale if your conditions are met. You can always back out if they aren't. Very few dealerships will turn away a sale as long as what you're asking for is fairly reasonable. "If I could, would you" can work just as well for you, the customer, as it does for the salesman. These are just two examples of the Power of Words. In future blogs I will be bringing you more. Thanks for reading! | 9 | 1,139 | autos |
Did you know there's a daily limit on Twitpics? I didn't until I hit the limit just as Audi introduced its hint at the Q3 subcompact CUV, the… sorry, it's got one of those generic names. I have to look it up. It's called the Crossline. The Audi Crossline concept. I hereby propose we automatically give a Sport/Utility of the Year award to the first new crossover that doesn't use the word "cross" in its concept's name. Anyway, the Crossline is a BMW X1-size crossover with an advanced aluminum and carbon-fiber spaceframe, two doors, and a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder/plug-in hybrid powerplant. Of that, while the aluminum space frame sounds plausible, the carbon fiber sounds a bit costly. The 1.5-liter turbo three/plug-in already is in the works for a plug-in A1 Audi is developing. The two-door body is eye candy only. The Range Rover Evoque two-door hasn't sold in the kind of numbers that will get competitors to copy it. The Crossline's single-cell grille design is a preview of the new look of Audi CUVs, separating it from Audi car design language. We'll see it appear on the next-gen Q7 probably within a year, and on the next Q5 and the Q3 shortly after. Audi also showed its new RS5 convertible and confirmed the North American arm will import the car to the U.S. beginning in the first quarter of 2013. Get your orders in early. The new 300-horsepower version of Audi's all-new A3 Sportback, the RS3 Sportback, is more of a long shot. Audi in North America is going to concentrate on the coming A3 sedan, though the company hints it might continue to import some version of the four-door hatchback either TDI or hybrid, or both after the sedan launches. So that covers the Audi news I was unable to tweet with pictures. Here's a quick look at other new models I saw at the first press day at Paris: Citroen Tubik: The local industry always is a highlight of Paris, what with otherworldly designs from Citroen, Peugeot and Renault. If the '12 Paris show seems a bit subdued, it could be worse given the state of the European Union economy and its plummeting auto sales. The Tubik features the modern update of the old Citroen panel van nose and base-industrial sheetmetal that has been used in several concepts in recent years. The Tubik has small light openings in its side panels, and a lounge-like interior with a large flat-screen TV. It's the van the EU's middle-class could be living in next year. Renault Clio: This French compact hatchback's bold redesign has a nicely finished, premium look to it. Makes you wonder why Nissan still can't do a decent Sentra. Citroen Numero 9: Hey, let's make a station wagon out of a large sport sedan! It works pretty well when there are no minimum rear headroom requirements, doesn't it? Peugeot Onyx: Okay, so I'll easily give the Jaguar F-Type Best in Show, but this mid-engine sportscar concept may be the most beautiful car at this show. Note the French flag colors on the driver's-side sideview mirror. Mazda6: One of the best-looking cars in the vanilla sedan segment, though I take back whatever I've said about it looking better than the new Ford Fusion/Mondeo. On the other hand, the Mazda's look is all its own. Honda EV-Ster: Yes, this car first appeared at Tokyo last year, but it proves a point, that it's easier and more effective to do a modern take on a mediocre car (Del Sol) than it is to do one on a good car (CRX-to-CR-Z). Volkswagen GTI: I kind of get that Volkswagen doesn't need to import the Golf Mark VII in the U.S. until early 2014, but is that the way to treat core GTI enthusiasts? Note the grille redline that continues through the headlamps. Infiniti Emerg-E: Shiro Nakamura's latest green sports car makes a striking pose not unlike the stance of the Peugeot Onyx. Opel/Vauxhall Adam: I'm a bit on the fence after seeing this car in the sheetmetal. Its cheeky style works in combo with a Mini-level of paint/stripe/trim detail combinations. It certainly won't remind you of your grandfather's Senator, but that's not necessarily a good thing. Overall, it looks like a winner, though the youth-oriented marketing tries to hard and falls just short of convincing. Volvo S40: Seems to be trying too hard not to break new ground. It'll appeal to European hatchback devotees and to the American Volvo wagon contrarians. Ferrari F12 Berlinetta: Since the '70s, Ferrari very often has gone for function over form. This is one of those instances. That's it for Day 1. Back again with more cars on Day 2 of the Paris auto show. | 9 | 1,140 | autos |
CHICAGO Try as hard as the Midwest Automotive Media Association does, the 2012 Chicago Auto Show can't rise to the status of the shows in Detroit, Los Angeles or even New York. It's mostly a consumer-friendly show, with the nation's largest public day attendance, and capacious halls able to handle large crowds. For the press, it's a show full of new model variants, mid-cycle refreshes … that sort of thing. Press complain Chicago doesn't offer enough news. [caption id="attachment_21173" align="alignright" width="300" caption="2013 Hyundai Elantra GT"] [/caption] I find it a nice respite between the tightly scheduled Detroit and Geneva shows. You don't have to sprint between automakers' press conferences, which this year finished by 2 p.m. on the first day. You have time to speak with execs and engineers and designers, for the back story on new models or even the occasional news item. It gives us time to see cars and trucks we didn't get to examine in Los Angeles or Detroit, although some cars are left behind. Sadly, Lincoln didn't bring its MKZ concept to Chicago. I'm still scratching my head about Ford's decision to unveil the Fusion and Lincoln MKZ concept at the same show. Anyway, this year's 2012 Chicago show has a few notable debuts. Hyundai's 2013 Elantra Coupe and Elantra GT stand out as the most notable new cars here, because the coupe shows off some new sheetmetal. It's clear Hyundai studied the Honda Civic coupe closely, though probably more the 2006-11 model than the 2012. The Hyundai looks like what the '12 Civic coupe would have been before Honda took a good deal of cost out of its car. Hyundai says the Elantra Coupe won't just look sporty ; it'll be sportier than the sedan, with retuned steering and suspension. We'll see. Chassis tuning remains Hyundai's Achilles heel, so we'll have to wait for a first drive sometime before it goes on sale this spring to judge the progress of Hyundai's chassis engineers. [caption id="attachment_21169" align="alignright" width="300" caption="2013 Hyundai Elantra Coupe"] [/caption] The slightly smaller, slightly thirstier (39 mpg highway) GT, based on the European i30 hatchback, promises to be the driver's Elantra. It goes on sale this summer. Why not pick the 2013 Ford Shelby GT 500 convertible as the car of the show? No question, it's the Chicago debut car I most want to drive. Even before Ford unveiled it, it was pretty easy to imagine what a ragtop GT 500 would look like. Since you can't drive anything, save for some 2 mph "test tracks" within Chicago's McCormick Place, car shows are all about the visuals. That's what makes the 2013 GMC Acadia and 2013 Acura ILX Chicago's most pleasant surprises (tie). When it was first under development in the mid-'00s, GM was designing the Acadia to be a Pontiac. Imagine the outgoing model's canted grille with a G6-like split. The new, Terrain/Sierra-esque grille makes it look more like a GMC model, and the updated, improved interior ought to make it more competitive in a crowded, competitive segment. The Buick Enclave should be next to get a mid-cycle refresh. We saw the Acura ILX "concept" at Detroit, but Chicago gives us finished models with full interiors. It will come with the 1.5-liter four/hybrid powerplant, or the 2.0-liter and 2.4-liter four-cylinder engines, the latter available with six-speed manual. The exterior sheetmetal is the kind of thing Honda should have done with the new Civic, in order to better distinguish it from the '06-'11 model. The interior is sufficiently premium to make the ILX a plausible Acura instead of a Honda, though it will be interesting to see how much of the ILX's interior design goes into Honda's rushed mid-cycle update of the Civic, now scheduled for next year. [caption id="attachment_21165" align="alignright" width="300" caption="2013 GMC Acadia"] [/caption] On the opposite end of the spectrum from these mild "surprises" is the Mazda MX-5 Miata Special Edition. It's no surprise because Mazda has made Chicago the auto show of choice to unveil the Miata SE for more than 20 years now. The special edition consists of some special interior and exterior trim pieces and special paint jobs. This year, it's a black retractable hardtop contrasting with red or white exterior paint. It's comforting that I can count on Mazda to show off these special editions every year, always at Chicago. Light as this show often is, I'd hate to miss one. -Todd Lassa The Public Has It Good at Auto Shows Not long ago, some folks wondered whether there was still room in the world for a "traditional" auto show, citing the growing prevalence of Web dispersion methods as the quick and dirty way to obtain all the latest news and and info on the show star cars. If this year's 2012 Chicago auto show -- though light on the sheer number of new model debuts -- is any indication, there's still plenty of purpose for sprawling convention centers everywhere. Why would you bother going to a show, dealing with crowds and paying good money for tickets and parking when all you're doing is meandering about with other people? It's not like you can test drive whatever you want. Here's why: Seeing metal in the flesh is infinitely more valuable than clicking on a carefully prepped photo, any car guy will tell you that. And as the recent Chicago auto show has revealed, there's more reason to produce an experience that stands a better chance at etching a mark into possible future customers. The public is in for a good show. [caption id="attachment_21157" align="alignright" width="300" caption="2013 Acura ILX"] [/caption] To start, Ford flipped a Boss Mustang Laguna Seca on its side in order to show off the undercarriage of its most track-worthy ponycar. You can see the most elementary parts of a RWD car at your leisure and gain some helpful insight for bar talk via callout points. If the underbody parts, layout, and arrangement mean absolutely nothing to you, you probably haven't spent enough time underneath a car but will be intrigued anyway. Elsewhere on the Ford floor, a racing simulator -- decked out with a seat on a hydraulically supported platform and three video screens -- offers the chance to drive really fast (virtually). Freestanding engine blocks are liberally scattered to poke and prod. While Ford put the Boss on its side, Chevrolet shows a Volt stripped down to its powertrain. The Volt can still astound and confuse those who don't understand it, but revealing where the lithium-ion battery sits and how the car's mechanicals are oriented can do wonders for an open mind. Test track demonstration sites from Fiat, Jeep, Ram, and Toyota litter the premises and bring a brief glimpse of behind-the-wheel perspective into frame. And of course, if all you're interested in doing is molesting the dashboard or pretending to drive while making imaginary car noises in your head, you can always do that too. Other random Chicago auto show observations I bumped into Kia Motors America design chief Tom Kearns as he was examining the new 911 Carrera S, and had to ask him for his opinion. We began inside, where Kearns felt the luxurious cabin had begun to encroach on the level of driver-car intimacy he felt was customary of 911s past, semi-attributed to the windshield being pushed farther away from the occupants. Overall, his designer's take was positive on the exterior, regarding the back end as Aston Martin-esque. Two necessary Kearns touches: a seven-speed manual and the SportDesign steering wheel. This is a driver's car after all. Acura won't be putting any "Acura" badges on the new ILX and RDX trunklids , as it felt it has the brand presence to forgo plastering the word "Acura" on the product. Of course, the "A" emblem will remain, and whether this trend will apply to future Acuras is currently unknown (we'll have our eyes on the impending RL successor to be shown at the New York show in two months). Additionally, the naming convention for the ILX will stay simple - ILX 2.0, ILX 2.4, and ILX 1.5 Hybrid is the current means of trim differentiation. When asked about appropriating the Type S designation for the ILX 2.4, we were told the car didn't meet the criteria for a Type S badge. -Benson Kong | 9 | 1,141 | autos |
Greenpeace's guerilla protest at the Volkswagen press conference backfired the other day. It barely got covered, especially in the U.S. As VW's product chief, Ulrich Hackenberg, introduced the Mark VII Golf before a huge crowd of international press, three Greenpeacers unrolled a smallish yellow banner from the rafters above the stage. "Volkswagen: Nous Enfume," or "Volkswagen: We Smoke," it read. This happened as VW used smoke machines for its glitzy presentation. Hackenberg is said to have looked confused as he continued his speech in German. I couldn't see him from where I stood, but when his PR guy returned to the stage, he spoke his lines quickly, nervously. Like everybody else, I already had the download on the car, and so I didn't wear translator headphones. No one around me seemed to notice or care. Before the presentation ended the banner was lifted, and the three members of the environmental/political group were reportedly arrested. The takeaway from two press days of Mondial de L'Automobile 2012, though, is as much about politics and the European Union economy as about new cars. The British Invasion of irresponsible sports and luxury model s Jaguar F-Type, Range Rover, McLaren P1, Bentley's rear-wheel-drive Continental GTC racecar, Mini John Cooper Works GP are proof. They're from a part of Europe that doesn't use the euro and has avoided much of the economic turmoil hurting the Continent. Most everything else at Paris this year was more soberly presented, including the austerely redesigned MQB-platform VW Golf Mark VII. Excepting the stunning Peugeot Onyx supercar, bicycle and three-wheel scooter, a facelifted Lamborghini Gallardo and an Audi RS5 cabrio, highlights even at premium brands consisted of bread-and-butter models on the lower end of their ranges, like the new Audi A3 Sportback and the BMW Active Tourer concept, the latter a practical people mover in the Lexus RX mold. Renault featured its new Clio and its Zoe EV. Citroen's DS3 convertible, which is a two-door hatchback with a large rollback canvas sunroof, made its debut. Late Thursday, the EU economic crisis reached a low in the auto industry, as Chrysler-Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne, who's also chief of the ACEA, Europe's auto industry trade union, called for a meeting with VW AG chief Martin Winterkorn. Both Fiat and VW have threatened to quit the ACEA at various times as Marchionne has called for a rationalization cutting factories of Europe's bloated automaking capacity. Though Marchionne says he and Winterkorn are longtime friends, I'm sure that VW's attempts in recent years to purchase Alfa Romeo play into the public acrimony. Marchionne and Winterkorn met at 7 a.m. Friday at Mondial de L'Automobile and emerged with official word they had buried the hatchet, and that Marchionne would remain ACEA president for the rest of his two-year term. A major sore point seems to be VW's dominance of the EU market. Its sales numbers look good compared with all the competition, though word is that it makes money on Skoda (produced in relatively low-cost ex-Soviet Bloc countries) and on Audi, with its higher profit margins, while cars like the bestselling VW Golf struggle to break even. The week of the auto show, VW has been silent on the pitfalls of the EU market, while other major players have not. Sales here have reached a 17-year low, and analysts say the auto market won't recover until 2014 at the earliest. Meanwhile, managers like Marchionne and GM Europe's Steve Girsky fight individual countries and unions to shutter redundant assembly plants. In the past few days, Bloomberg has reported the following: Ford's European dealers have used "self-registration," selling cars to themselves, to overstate sales. Ford's European veep for sales, marketing and service, Roelant de Waard, told Bloomberg that this practice has accounted for 30 percent of new car registrations in Germany, among all car brands, for the first eight months of '12. Talk about incentives. GM Europe's Susan Docherty says that dealers are discounting up to 30 percent off of sticker to move the metal. GM has lost $16.8 billion in Europe since 1999. Peugeot has lost an average of 350 euros per car sold (about US$450) for the first half of the year. Obviously, the big kind of restructuring in the EU of the kind that sent the U.S. industry on the road to slow recovery after the Lehman Brothers collapse won't happen here easily. Even Mercedes-Benz has lowered its sales expectations for the rest of the year. When luxury car brands hurt like the commodity brands, you know there's long-term trouble. Perhaps that's why I've been so over-enthused with the Skoda Rapid's ice scraper-in-the-fuel-filler door innovation. When you offer innovation that costs fractions of a penny while your competition rushes to offer the latest in-car connectivity and lane-sensor warnings, it's a sign you're tuned into the needs of the remaining middle class who still purchase brand-new cars. | 9 | 1,142 | autos |
Over the past few months I've read some interesting definitions of "fair price" in the comments. Some folks define it as paying a fixed or non-negotiable price, and point to chains like Carmax as an example. Some define fair as not paying more than someone else paid. If their neighbor down the street paid X amount for a car similar to the one they're buying, they define fair as paying X, or X minus Y, preferably. But anything above X is unfair. And some define fair in terms of invoice or cost to the dealer. For some, if you pay a penny more for a car than the dealer paid, you "overpaid." Others aren't content with invoice and want to get some, or all, of the dealer's holdback plus any dealer incentives. Unless they drain the dealer's piggybank they feel they're getting "taken." Here's what I say to this last group: What the dealership paid is irrelevant. Yes, that's what I said. It doesn't matter what the dealership paid for a vehicle, and thoughts of that should never enter your mind when negotiating price. Let's say a dealer got a truckload of new vehicles one morning, and through some extraordinary stroke of luck, it wasn't charged for one of them. It was an oversight. So the dealer didn't pay a dime for the car. The dealership owns it for nothing. Is it worth nothing? Or, let's imagine the reverse. Let's say a dealer got a truckload of new vehicles in one morning, and through some terrible accounting error, it was overcharged $50,000 for a $15,000 car. Is that vehicle worth $65,000? No. Whether the vehicle cost the dealership zero dollars or 65,000 dollars, it's still only worth what the market says it's worth. Now before everyone gets upset and accuses me of trying to brainwash consumers to pay more and cancels their subscription to Motor Trend , let me point out that allowing the market to determine value can be both good and bad for car dealers. Most used-car managers know exactly what I mean. Market-based pricing is becoming the new standard at more and more dealerships around the country, and most of the time it works in the consumer's favor. In the old days, a used-car manager would appraise a car and put a hard number on it, called an Actual Cash Value or ACV. That's what the car is worth to the dealership in terms of real money. Then the used-car manager runs the vehicle through the shop, where it's inspected for mechanical problems and fixed. Then detailers clean the car up. By the time this process of repair and reconditioning is finished, the dealer might have an additional $500 to $1000 invested in the car. At that point, the accounting department looks at the ACV and the reconditioning costs, and adds a fixed amount on top of that say $4000, which represents the total potential profit to the dealership. To use a real-world example, let's say Joey trades in his 2005 Jupiter 8 with the Dual Supercharged Wankel engines and gullwing doors, and the used-car manager ACVs it at $10,000. There's a shop bill of $400 and it costs $100 to detail the car. By the time they're done, the dealer has $10,500 in the Jupiter 8. The accounting department adds roughly $4000, and a pretty sticker is printed up for the window that lists the price at $14,499. The idea is, a buyer comes in, sees your price of $14,499, offers you $12,000, you haggle, you finally agree on $13,200, and the dealership makes a hefty profit of $2700. Simple, huh? But...what if there are 14 Jupiter 8s in similar condition with similar miles on them within an easy driving distance of your dealership that are all priced around $11,000? If your buyer doesn't check the Internet or do any driving around, you're OK. But chances are, your buyer already went online before he came to see you, he already knows about the 14 other Jupiter 8s within easy driving distance, and he's offering you $9000, not $12,000. What're you gonna do then, Mr. Used Car Manager? The answer is, you're going to sell that car for a lot less that $13,200 or face the prospect of letting it sit on your lot for the next 3 months. You may even have to take a loss on it. The fact is, you were "in it too deep." The ACV should have been closer to $8000 or $9000, based on the market value. But if you don't have a reliable method of checking the market value, you wouldn't have known that. This is one effect of the Internet, folks. It's forcing car dealerships to do business in a different way. In the old days, you could ask for more than a vehicle was worth because there was no way for a customer to find out otherwise unless he had access to newspapers from several different cities. Today, when you can plug in whatever search parameters you want and pull up two dozen similar vehicles within 50 miles, there's no way for a dealer to avoid market forces. Dealerships who don't consider this when appraising cars, or simply follow the old method of slapping 3 to 4 grand on top of the ACV, can get themselves into a lot of trouble these days. But when they do make mistakes, most dealerships are starting to realize it's better to go ahead, cut their losses, and sell that white elephant for what the market says it's worth not what they have in it. Market-based pricing is nothing to fear. It's not the consumer's enemy. In a few cases, yes, you may end up paying a little more for a hot car in high demand, but in many other cases it will only help you. Use the Internet. That's what it's there for. (And don't cancel your subscription to Motor Trend !) | 9 | 1,143 | autos |
It didn't take long for the 2012 Lexus LFA Nürburgring Edition's record 7:14.464 'Ring run to be beaten by a bone stock 2010 Dodge Viper ACR . And one can imagine Toyota's engineers were none too happy about that. Our automotive paparazzo on Europe recently caught this modified teal blue Lexus LFA lapping the Green Hell wearing manufacturer plates. Could this be a preview of Toyota's attempt to retake its Nurburgring record? This Lexus LFA looks to be based on the Nürburgring Edition, with the same wheels, and same front splitter found on the high-performance model. Up front, this tester has its carbon fiber hood left unpainted, and gains an extra air intake. The new air intake is located toward the center of the hood, just forward of the smaller kidney-shaped intakes found on previous versions of the LFA. This LFA tester's profile is also virtually identical to the Nürburgring Edition. The changes seem to be mainly cosmetic -- this LFA tester has an exposed carbon fiber roof, and a black side sill stripe emblazoned with "AD-A." Out back is where this LFA tester sports the most dramatic changes. Gone is the distinctive tri-tip center-mounted exhaust. Instead, the exhaust from this tester's 4.8-liter V-10 exits through four tail pipes, with two tips located just below the taillights on either side of the car. The grilles that previously occupied that space are now gone, with what looks to be a stop-gap cover screwed on in its place. A look at the rear also reveals a new rear foglight, a massive new rear diffuser, and a slightly modified rear-wing. Though signs do seem to point to a TMG-led run at the Nürburgring record , there is another possibility for this LFA tester. It could be the long-rumored LFA Tokyo Edition . The Tokyo Edition was said to focus more on style than performance, and would feature both an unpainted carbon fiber roof, and rear wing -- two things that this tester has. Nürburgring Edition or Tokyo Edition -- whatever it is, this Lexus LFA will likely make its debut at this year's Tokyo Motor Show in November. | 9 | 1,144 | autos |
While roaming the Paris Motor Show last week we ran in Bentley's design chief David Hilton , a recent addition to the company. Hilton has been on the job only about eight months, but it's been enough time for him to make his mark with the Continental GT3 race car that our Jonny Lieberman picked as one of the "British Invasion" best cars of the show . Hilton has spent over 20 years in automotive design, and got his start with Ford in Detroit and Germany. After a stint in Japan with Mazda, Hilton headed Ford Racing's design studio in Britain where he helped craft the image of the company's race teams, including the Ford Focus WRC team (piloted by the late Colin McRae), Jaguar F1, and even a Mondeo racecar for Germany's DTM-series that never made it to production. While in Britain, Hilton helped style the European-market Ford Focus RS, Focus ST, and S-Max. He left the company in early 2000 to start his own company, Motorcity Europe, a private design consultancy that has worked with auto companies including Fiat, Jaguar, McLaren, and Peugeot. So it was this hat we asked him to put back on when we saw him evaluating the striking, copper-sided Peugeot Onyx . We got a lot more than we bargained for… MT : So what do you think? DH : It's French! [laughs] MT : Is that a good thing or a bad thing? DH : I mean, OK - it's a radical departure for Peugeot. Peugeot recently have done very voluptuous, very soft things, now they've gone and done something completely different that is brutal and edgy. Which is interesting. To be honest, with their brand I think it works. We were just ripping on the quality of the show car, to be honest. MT : Oh really. What were you looking at specifically that the average car fan might not see? DH : Oh, the bubbly glass…mucky finish… MT : What do you think about the wild door? DH : It's thick! "It's about a meter thick. I'm mixed on the interior, it's a very simplistic interior. In photos it looks like it's made out of cement, doesn't it? It's velour or a velvety fabric… MT : Looks like sweat-pants material jersey cotton or something… DH : [laughs] "Yeah-the kind of thing you see at a shopping mall with this lady who shouldn't be wearing them because they're super tight…yeah it does look like sweat pants doesn't it… "I mean I think the car is interesting. What I love about Citroen and Peugeot is that they're adventurous. They are one of the few brands that can get away with this, just doing really crazy things. "And Renault…when the DeZir came out [Paris Motor Show 2010] I thought "Wow! What a fat little pill, what a fat little pill." And it has this really '80s sort of style with the Coke bottle form like in the Corvette Indy [concept car from the 1986 Detroit Auto Show]. But then I stared at it. And looked at it and looked at it when it first came out. And then it grew on me and grew on me and I thought, 'Well that's neat - hmm. Still kinda fat, kinda strange.' "But then I turned around and all the other cars in the entire show looked like a bunch of angry toasters in comparison. So I think that the DeZir, for example, set a benchmark a precedence - that voluptuous surfacing can come back. So I think they were quite clever in doing that. "What I'm happy about automotive design right now is that we're coming out of the Bauhaus phase. The Bauhaus phase was started a decade ago - and everybody was doing it. It was a cleanup sort of thing, Audi/VW started it and everyone followed it was all boring and very Teutonic and now we're starting to see the brands get more adventurous - which is nice. "And the French, of course, being the most [waves his hand] at trying. But then they are all over the place. Peugeot for instance; one day they are fat, the next day they are edgy…" "But yeah, we were just talking about the quality of the cars more than anything…but I think it's adventurous, I think it's neat. Long wheelbase it's really odd because it's got quite such a long body for a cab forward car. To me it would be a hell of lot a better if they brought the rear wheels forward a couple of hundred millimeters. It gives it that sort of hot dog effect. And you can see a lot of influence on the BMW on the front nose definitely… and in the lighting. "It's neat. Supercars are easy in that you can do a lot and get away with murder on them. If you put that style on a smart-[car]-sized thing, it would totally be different." Want more Designers on Design? Find out what the Tesla Model S designer thinks about the McLaren P1 design . | 9 | 1,145 | autos |
We had a feeling Ferrari was going to show off its upcoming supercar in some form at the 2012 Paris Motor Show and here it is: the F1-derived carbon-fiber chassis that will be responsible for handling an expected 920 hp from a V-12 hybrid powertrain. Ferrari provided a few tidbits about the lightweight and strong chassis, stating that it's 20 percent lighter than the Enzo, with a 27-percent increase in torsional rigidity and a 22-percent improvement in beam stiffness. Ferrari skipped widely used applications including Carbon-Fiber Reinforced Plastic "normally adopted in the automotive sector, as they did not meet the quality and functional standards Ferrari set itself," the automaker states in a press release. The chassis uses four different types of carbon fiber and the upcoming supercar will even have a mix of carbon fiber and Kevlar on the undertray to minimize damage from road debris. As previously reported, the new supercar -- which will likely be called F70 -- will be Ferrari's first ever hybrid powerplant. Much of the grunt will come from an 800-hp, 6.3-liter V-12, paired with an F1-inspired Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS) that will include a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic and a 120-hp electric motor coupled to the transaxle. Should these power figures carry over to the production version, the new Ferrari will easily overpower the upcoming Porsche 918 Spyder, which is expected to produce a combined 770 hp from its hybrid powertrain. Current rumors suggest that Ferrari is preparing to unveil the car by the end of this year. Surrounding the carbon-fiber chassis on the show floor is Ferrari's new and updated lineup, including the 2013 California, which features a tweaked 4.3-liter V-8 producing 483 hp and 372 lb-ft of torque, an increase of 30 hp and 15 lb-ft from the outgoing model. Next is the all-wheel-drive FF, which now sports a new panoramic roof. Also present is the new 731-hp 2013 F12 Berlinetta, which we recently had a chance to to test out on Ferrari's track in Fiorano. For all the latest news, photos, videos, and much more direct from the 2012 Paris Motor Show floor, head to our 2012 Paris show coverage page here. | 9 | 1,146 | autos |
The Peugeot Onyx supercar concept debuted at the Paris Motor Show this week, and it took the stage with nothing to hide - the natural beauty is about as real as it gets. If the supercar wasn't enough eye candy, Peugeot also showed an Onyx-inspired trike and bike. Made with materials processed as little as possible, the Onyx supercar's doors are made from a pure copper sheet, while the rest of the matte black body is made from carbon fiber. As the Onyx ages, the polished metal mirror will develop a patina. If the supercar's daring silhouette looks familiar, that's because it has the RCZ's "double-bubble roof." Meanwhile, the Onyx's interior is inspired by an egg box, with the dashboard using wood produced from used newspapers. A one-piece pod made from felt makes up the passenger compartment. The rear-drive concept is powered by a diesel hybrid with a 3.7-liter V-8. The engine apparently makes about 600 hp, and Peugeot says that the hybrid system temporarily boosts total horsepower to about 680 by recovering the energy usually lost during braking. If you like the Onyx but are more interested in something smaller, the automaker also produced a Supertrike and Superbike inspired by the supercar. The two both have the same copper and matte black theme, with the bike made from a black lacquered aluminum frame. Source: Peugeot Get more from the Paris Motor Show at our coverage page right here . | 9 | 1,147 | autos |
After showing several PX-MiEV concepts over the years, Mitsubishi finally revealed the production Outlander PHEV at the 2012 Paris Motor Show this week. The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is powered by a 2.0-liter I-4 paired with two electric motors powered by a 12-kWh lithium-ion battery pack. The permanent magnet synchronous motors are mated to each axle. Both electric motors make 80 hp, but the rear motor develops 43 lb-ft of torque more than the front motor for a total of 144 lb-ft. Mitsubishi's Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) works with a Twin Motor 4WD system to route power to the four wheels depending on traction needs. In EV Drive Mode the battery pack provides enough juice for the Outlander PHEV to travel up to 34 miles. Total vehicle range is estimated to be about 547 miles . Other modes include combined gasoline and electric power as well as using the combustion engine as a generator to power the electric motors. A full charge with a 200-volt AC charger requires about 4.5 hours, according to Mitsubishi. A CHAdeMO-spec DC quick-charger can charge the Outlander PHEV to 80 percent in roughly 30 minutes. Drivers can also select Battery Charge Mode to switch the gas engine to a generator on demand. For all the latest news, photos, videos, and much more direct from the 2012 Paris Motor Show floor, head to our 2012 Paris show coverage page here . | 9 | 1,148 | autos |
The most noticeable change to the 2014 Ford Fiesta is a new grille that makes it look like an Aston Martin and the 2013 Fusion midsize sedan . A revised hood is also new. While Europeans can spec out a two-door Fiesta hatchback, U.S.-market cars will likely remain four-door hatchbacks or sedans. As we've previously reported, the Ford's EcoBoost 1.0-liter I-3 cylinder engine is likely to join the 2014 Fiesta's option list. The three-banger is currently available under the hood of the Euro-spec Focus . We expect the EcoBoost 1.0-liter to arrive here first in the Focus and later the Fiesta, but not until the new front styling debuts. While the interior is said to use higher-quality materials, the design remains the same. The 2014 Fiesta gains a few new features such as Active City Stop, which applies brakes and emergency flashers if a collision is imminent and Emergency Assistance, which sends for help in case of a crash. For all the latest news, photos, videos, and much more direct from the 2012 Paris Motor Show floor, head to our 2012 Paris show coverage page here . | 9 | 1,149 | autos |
Toyota unveiled its 2013 Auris hatchback at the 2012 Paris Motor Show, as well as showing off a new variant, the extended-length Touring Sports hybrid model. An updated Verso seven-passenger compact people-hauler was also shown in Paris. If that still isn't enough five-doors for you, consider Toyota also sells the Prius+ in Europe, sold in the U.S. as the Prius V, although the Prius+ can carry up to seven passengers, whereas the U.S.-spec V only seats five. The new Auris is 1.2 inches longer overall than its predecessor, for a still-trim overall length of 168.3, a few inches shorter than the U.S.-market Matrix. And because everyone knows how much the Europeans love wagons, Toyota also introduced the Auris Touring Sports model, which rides on the same 102.4-inch wheelbase as the regular Auris, which coincidentally, is the same wheelbase as the U.S.-spec Matrix hatch, but stretches 11 inches longer, for a 179.5-inch overall length. That puts it roughly within 2 inches of the overall length of the Prius V, which rides on a much longer 109.4-inch wheelbase. The Auris Touring Sports and the Prius V share the same 1.8-liter, 134 net hp hybrid powertrain. The hybrid powertrain is also available on the regular Auris, in addition to a 1.4-liter diesel, and 1.3-liter and 1.6-liter gasoline four-cylinder engines. Toyota claims improved fuel economy for all models across-the-board, facilitated by a lower ride height, improved aerodynamics, and auto stop-start on the 1.3-liter gas and 1.4-liter diesel engines. The seven-passenger Verso offers buyers a choice of two diesel engines, a 2.0-liter and 2.2-liter, as well as 1.6 and 1.8-liter gasoline engines. The Verso will be built exclusively in Turkey. Both the Auris and Verso offer LED running lights on all trim levels, with the Auris Hybrid featuring rear LED lights as well. The Auris and Auris Hybrid are built at Toyota's Burnaston plant in Derbyshire, England. Source: Toyota | 9 | 1,150 | autos |
A lost fawn stumbles into a suburban home after being separated from its mother. Cameron Harrington, 11, captured the moment the baby deer ran frantically through his home in Nova Scotia, Canada. He was filming the deer that was hiding behind a bush outside when it took a detour inside The baby deer slid across the hardwood floors in the home, and eventually stopped and hid under a desk. Camerons father, Colin Harrington, 43, scooped up the deer and returned it safely outside. The family spotted the fawn the next day, reunited with its mother. Footage: Julie Harrington Producer: Jack McKay Editor: Sonia Estal | 4 | 1,151 | lifestyle |
The Paris Motor Show may be French but it's the British who've taken it by storm with the exotic McLaren P1 Concept and stunning drop-top 2014 Jaguar F-Type . It's the latter we're interested in here. The new Jaguar F-Type is gunning straight for the Porsche 911 with an ultra-lightweight aluminum chassis, a near 50:50 weight balance, an assortment of supercharged V-6 and V-8 engines, and styling that pays homage to the legendary Jaguar E-Type without going retro. Up front the 2014 Jaguar F-Type pays homage to the old E-Type (shown at right) with a similarly shaped grille, and to its XK big brother with similar hood lines, but otherwise the 2014 F-Type is its own thing. The F-Type has sleek headlights with the requisite LED light pipes, an aggressive front lip, and distinctive air intakes flanking the grille that give the F-Type an almost menacing look. Along the sides the F-Type again shares very little with other Jags, past or present. Like the XK, the F-Type has a decorative air intake on the front quarter panel, while like the E-Type the F-Type has pronounced and rounded flares over the rear wheels, giving the F-Type cat-like haunches. As Jaguar's global brand director Adrian Hallmark told us in our First Look , "We're not worshiping the ashes of the past; we're reigniting the sports car flame." The F-Type's rear end is clearly influenced by the legendary E-Type. It has thin yet modern taillights, a flat rear deck, and a chiseled yet still rounded rear fascia. The new Jaguar also pays tribute to the original by changing the exhaust configuration based on which engine is found under the hood; opt for the V-6 and you get a twin center-exit exhaust that pays tribute to the E-Type. Go for the V-8 though, and you get more conventionally placed quad exhaust pipes, similar to those found on the current XKR-S. Inside, the 2014 Jaguar F-Type has to any predecessors is the fact that it's got seats and a steering wheel. The new Jag roadster gets supportive-looking sport seats, an abundance of leather, and an asymmetrical center stack complete with a flying buttress grab-handle on the passenger side. The F-Type also has door handles that features the Jaguar name embossed in brushed aluminum. What do you think of the new 2014 Jaguar F-Type's design? Is it refreshing or revolting? Sound off in the comments below. Last week's Refreshing or Revolting featured the 2013 Honda Accord coupe . Holee-Driver said of the Accord Coupe, "It's definitely refreshing. Could Honda have done more to update the looks? Sure! Do they need to? Not necessarily." 340AAR was less impressed, "It might be better but it's about as refreshing as a lukewarm cup of joe." The 2014 Jaguar F-Type is shown at left, the 2012 Jaguar XKR-S is shown in the center, and the Jaguar E-Type is shown at right. | 9 | 1,152 | autos |
Kia unveiled the new Carens compact MPV this week, and although it's been completely redesigned, it looks similar to something we've seen before. Kia sold the Carens in the U.S. as the Rondo from 2007 to 2010, but the car never caught on in the U.S. More popular in Europe, the third-gen Carens premiered alongside the new Pro_cee'd hatchback. The Carens is built on a new platform, which is reportedly the one that debuted under the new C'eed hatchback earlier this year. Its styling appears to be influenced by the Optima , with sleek, swept-back headlights that flank the familiar Kia grille. Kia says the roofline is lower compared to the previous generation, and that the wheels on the new Carens are larger. The interior also gets an upgrade with piano-black trim, bright gauges, and newly available technology like Bluetooth and navigation. The seven seats stay in place, and powertrain specifics have not yet been released. Although it hasn't been confirmed, the Carens could replace the slightly larger Sedona minivan in Europe. That's not all: the Pro-cee'd hatchback brightened up the stand in a bright orange color. It now looks like the rest of the family, with the same dramatic styling on the four-door hatchback and wagon on which it's based. The Carens and Pro_cee'd will go on sale in the U.K. early spring 2013. As for the U.S. market, the new Carens could hint at a new Rondo. For all the latest news, photos, videos, and much more direct from the 2012 Paris Motor Show floor, head to our 2012 Paris show coverage page here. Source: Kia | 9 | 1,153 | autos |
After a few teaser videos leading up to the Paris Motor Show, Suzuki just revealed the S-Cross compact crossover concept, which is designed to tackle the urban lifestyle as well as poor weather conditions. Suzuki claims the four-wheel-drive S-Cross concept has one of the largest cargo areas in its class , but hasn't released any powertrain details. Suzuki says the S-Cross concept will sip fuel and be fun to drive like the Swift and Kizashi . As for that Crystal Green Metallic color, Suzuki says the hue helps evoke "nature in the city and the city in nature." A bold character line just below the greenhouse contributes to the S-Cross concept's bold look. LED headlights flank a mesh front grille up front while LED taillights and the rearward swooping roofline provide a muscular feel. The tough look is enhanced by a front skidplate, flared wheel wells, and 20-inch wheels. At just under 170 inches long with a 102.4-inch wheelbase the Suzuki S-Cross concept is smaller than the Mazda CX-5 SUV , but larger than the Mini Countryman and Nissan Juke . For all the latest news, photos, videos, and much more direct from the 2012 Paris Motor Show floor, head to our 2012 Paris show coverage page here . | 9 | 1,154 | autos |
For the past 365 days, I have been completely content with the vehicle at my disposal for one uncomplicated -- and very American -- reason: freedom. I have had the uncommon ability to do just about anything I wanted, for the Forester 2.5i Touring's multifaceted character easily coped with everything I and the MT staff demanded. My admiration for Subaru's smallest wagon began almost instantly. I had been given stewardship of a rolling Leatherman. In fact, you could say it came equipped like one. Everything I wanted, it had. Things such as dual automatic climate control, a panoramic roof, cruise control, Bluetooth connectivity, power windows and locks, alloy wheels, roof racks, four bottle holders, a rearview camera, power tailgate, and a massive center console with storage galore came standard on the Touring, the most opulent trim powered by the naturally aspirated, 2.5-liter four-cylinder boxer. Harman/Kardon's eight-speaker, 440-watt audio system blew me away with its clear, robust sound, though the infotainment's digitized menus aren't simple and weren't always responsive. The optional Keyless Access & Start, EyeSight system, HID package ($2400) is a must for those, like me, who want extra-luminescent xenon lights (blame my pesky astigmatism). As I began to rack up miles, I took issue with EyeSight driver-assist system, the brand's first attempt at adaptive cruise control and crash avoidance. It uses two windshield-mounted cameras to scan the road ahead for obstructions and vehicles. It often flashed warnings and errors of malfunction or deactivation due to heavy fog or direct sunlight. Granted, in this vintage of Forester, EyeSight was in its first generation. It's now in its second in the 2015 Legacy and it works amazingly well, I might add. Even with the occasional bouts of unconsciousness, EyeSight's intuitive distance control did allow me to cruise unperturbed. It was responsible for preemptively pressurizing the brakes during a few close calls in stop-and-go traffic. It also warned me when the car ahead had proceeded from a stop and flashed alerts when I touched the outskirts of a painted lane. Inside, friends admired the reclining bench seat's supple padding and were pleased with the generous 41.7 inches of rear legroom. The panoramic moonroof enhanced the sense of spaciousness when it was opened completely about half of the roof is missing at that point. It got its most use when warm Santa Ana evening winds blew through. Such breezes were the impetus for the addition of optional side window deflectors ($100). I also added a Yakima bike carrier ($170) and a darkened sport grille ($430). A few colleagues poked fun at the Forester's "dorky" appearance, but I didn't care. The Forester became mine, personalized by factory-sourced add-ons I used every day. Unfortunately, the cargo cover wasn't included as standard. Fed up with having my things unprotected from the sun's rays and peering eyes, I shelled out $170 for the accessory. It was a better concealer than my blanket and it could be easily taken out when folding the 60/40 seats. I hid any pricey goodies in the cubby storage under the cargo bay's floor, an excellent feature I often forgot was even there. I have no kiddos. Furry four-legged critters aren't (yet) in my picture. One beautiful lady calls me hers. So usually just the two of us rode aboard the cushy, heated front leather seats, hauling shopping bags filled with groceries or her newly acquired designer goods, my gym duffel, her quad-fin fish surfboard, or the occasional disassembled bike. The capacious 31.5-cubic-foot cargo area (it grows to 68.5 cubic feet with rear seats folded) happily gobbled it all, and the gray leather-wrapped surfaces -- to my pleasant surprise -- remained mostly unblemished during its stay in our garage. The Forester provided effortless ruggedness. Traversing nearby snow-covered mountain passes was like asking a fish to swim in water. The Forester did what came naturally. Its Active Torque Split all-wheel drive and X-Mode traction assist (which optimizes throttle, transmission, and braking responses to aid grip) maximized its hold on the trickiest of surfaces time and time again. For all of its functionality and ruggedness, the Forester still delivered comfort, reliability, and efficiency. Trade shows and car launches had me trekking 500 miles to Las Vegas and back a handful of times. After each trip, I had a stronger admiration for the cabin's lack of noise and the chassis' dutiful absorption of the rough asphalt. The upright and elevated position of the driver's seat -- a Subaru staple -- was a great vantage point from which to navigate my 170-horsepower multi-tool. Those trips, as well as my 240-mile traffic-clogged journeys to San Diego every weekend, were the perfect miles-per-gallon tests. Like clockwork, the onboard data display informed me of combined fuel consumption averages of 27, 28, 30 mpg, easily yielding tank ranges of over 400 miles. I visited my local dealer three times during the year, each at scheduled 7500-mile intervals. At every stop, six quarts of 0W-20 synthetic oil and the associated filter were swapped, tire pressures checked, and multi-point inspections completed. The second service called for the rotation of the 225/60R17 Yokohama Geolander M+S all-seasons, while the last mandated that a new cabin air filter be installed. The best part? Subaru Care picks up the tab. Owners don't pay a cent. The maintenance program comes with each new vehicle and varies in length and scope depending on region. The sole exception to that generous Subaru rule were the Falken ZIEX ZE950 A/S tires we purchased ($100 each) at 24,000 miles. The new Japanese rubber provided an even quieter ride than the Yokohamas and paralleled them in comfort. They should also outlast the stock rubber, given their 600 UTQGS (versus 320) tread-wear rating. As for the overall driving experience, I had but two gripes. The first was an annoyance with an overeager throttle. I learned very quickly to ease my toe-in to barely there levels. Still, every day I'd dart from stoplights as if I had my pink slip on the line.The second, and less significant, dealt with the lack of paddle shifters. I regularly wondered, if the more powerful 2.0-liter turbo had paddles, how difficult could it be to give a set to the 2.5-liter? It would add an entertaining aspect to the Lineartronic CVT's boring, yet highly capable, demeanor. Don't get me wrong; this CVT, matched with the potent and fuel-conscious boxer, is one of the best on the market. It's smooth and quiet. That's exactly what you want. For a solid 12 months, our 2014 Sport Utility of the Year had me abandoning all worries of where to go and what to do. I simply went anywhere, and brought everything and everyone I needed along. It withstood the rambunctiousness of a staff that is particularly demanding of vehicles. To which I say: Awesome. The toughness it possessed and the freedom it permitted were special traits that my previous long-termers, a thirsty 2011 Nissan Juke and a front-wheel-drive 2013 Mazda CX-5, could never really offer. Taking into account the Forester's significant degrees of comfort, style, fuel efficiency, and safety (it's an IIHS Top Safety Pick Plus), I would say it's worthy of our coveted SUOTY title. But, we already did that. Twice. In other words, the Forester did its job. And it did it extraordinarily well. More on our long-term 2014 Subaru Forester 2.5i Touring: Arrival Update 1: Touchy Throttle Update 2: Subaru Care Service Update 3: Abundant Versatility Update 4: You're Quite Alright, Lineartronic Update 5: Adventures in Bike Hauling Our Car SERVICE LIFE 24,962 mi BASE PRICE $30,820 OPTIONS Option Package 30 ($2400: EyeSight driver-assist system, keyless access, HID headlights) PRICE AS TESTED $33,220 AVG ECON/CO2 25.6 mpg / 0.76 lb/mi PROBLEM AREAS None MAINTENANCE COST $0 (3-oil change; 2-rotate tires, inspection; 1-engine-air filter) NORMAL-WEAR COST $0 3-YEAR RESIDUAL VALUE* $17,721 RECALLS Carpeted floor mats *Automotive Lease Guide data 2014 Subaru Forester 2.5i Touring POWERTRAIN/CHASSIS DRIVETRAIN LAYOUT Front-engine, AWD ENGINE TYPE Flat-4, aluminum block/heads VALVETRAIN DOHC, 4 valves/cyl DISPLACEMENT 152.4 cu in/2498 cc COMPRESSION RATIO 10.0:1 POWER (SAE NET) 170 hp @ 5800 rpm TORQUE (SAE NET) 174 lb-ft @ 4100 rpm REDLINE 6000 rpm WEIGHT TO POWER 20.3 lb/hp TRANSMISSION Cont. variable auto AXLE/FINAL-DRIVE RATIO 3.70:1/2.11:1 SUSPENSION, FRONT; REAR Struts, coil springs, anti-roll bar; multilink, coil springs, anti-roll bar STEERING RATIO 15.5:1 TURNS LOCK-TO-LOCK 3.5 BRAKES, F;R 11.6-in vented disc; 10.8-in disc, ABS WHEELS 7.0 x 17-in, cast aluminum TIRES 225/60R17 98H M+S Yokohama Geolandar G91 DIMENSIONS WHEELBASE 103.9 in TRACK, F/R 60.9/61.1 in LENGTH x WIDTH x HEIGHT 180.9 x 70.7 x 66.4 in GROUND CLEARANCE 8.7 in APPRCH/DEPART ANGLE 23.0/25.0 deg TURNING CIRCLE 34.8 ft CURB WEIGHT 3444 lb WEIGHT DIST., F/R 57/43% TOWING CAPACITY 1500 lb SEATING CAPACITY 5 HEADROOM, F/R 40.0/37.5 in LEGROOM, F/R 43.0/41.7 in SHOULDER ROOM, F/R 57.0/56.5 in CARGO VOLUME BEH F/R 68.5/31.5 cu ft TEST DATA ACCELERATION TO MPH 0-30 3.3 sec 0-40 4.8 0-50 6.7 0-60 9.0 0-70 11.7 0-80 15.3 0-90 19.6 PASSING, 45-65 MPH 4.5 QUARTER MILE 16.9 sec @ 83.9 mph BRAKING, 60-0 MPH 120 ft LATERAL ACCELERATION 0.78 g (avg) MT FIGURE EIGHT 28.6 sec @ 0.55 g (avg) TOP-GEAR REVS @ 60 MPH 1700 rpm CONSUMER INFO STABILITY/TRACTION CONTROL Yes/yes AIRBAGS Dual front, front side, f/r curtain, driver knee BASIC WARRANTY 3 yrs/36,000 miles POWERTRAIN WARRANTY 5 yrs/60,000 miles ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE 3 yrs/36,000 miles FUEL CAPACITY 15.9 gal EPA CITY/HWY/COMB ECON 24/32/27 mpg ENERGY CONS., CITY/HWY 140/105 kW-hrs/100 miles CO2 EMISSIONS, COMB 0.72 lb/mile RECOMMENDED FUEL Unleaded regular | 9 | 1,155 | autos |
The Fiat 500 Abarth Fuori coming to the Paris Motor Show introduces the automaker's Fuori Serie, a customization program that allows Fiat 500 Abarth owners to work with Abarth designers and engineers to customize every detail of their new car. Also making appearances in Paris are the Fiat 500 Abarth 595 turismo, Abarth 595 competizione, and Abarth 695 Edizione Maserati. Fiat 500 Abarth 695 Fuori Serie Abarth Fuori Serie cars will be based on the 180-hp Fiat 500 Abarth and each will come with a certificate of authenticity. Owners will be able to specify interior and exterior colors and add carbon fiber and personalization plates. An upgraded JBL audio system will also be available. On the performance side, the turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine inhales through an Abarth-specific air filter and exhales through a Record Monza dual-mode exhaust system. The engine is mated to an Abarth Competizione manual transmission with steering wheel controls. The suspension will feature Koni dampers, while the electric power steering system features a sport mode accessible by the sport/overboost button that also engages the engine's sport mode. The special Fiat 500 gets unique 17-inch alloy wheels and fixed Brembo front brake calipers. Other upgrades include HID headlights, black Abarth Corse seats with yellow stitching (from Sabelt), carbon-look body parts, and racing pedals. From here, customers who choose to customize their Fiat 500s can go with parts from the Heritage collection, which celebrates Abarth's past and New Wave, which looks to today's supercars for its inspiration. What do you think of the Fiat 500 Abarth Fuori's design? Source: Fiat | 9 | 1,156 | autos |
Despite offering just three models, Maserati has been able to spin upwards of half a dozen different variants to sate its buyers. Next up, is the more performance-oriented GranCabrio MC convertible. The Italian automaker has yet to reveal much detail about the new GranCabrio MC, but expect to see most of its content copied over from the coupe . Compared with the base GranCabrio and GranCabrio Sport, the MC is 1.9 inches longer and wears the more-aggressive front and rear fascias and more prominent rear spoiler from the GranTurismo MC. Maserati has yet to detail any of the powertrain upgrades for the GranCabrio MC, but the coupe version gains an extra 11 hp and 15 lb-ft of torque from the 4.7-liter Ferrari-derived V-8 engine for a total of 444 hp and 376 lb-ft. European models will likely utilize a nifty six-speed sequential manual gearbox, but if the car is exported to North America, expect it to adopt a more conventional six-speed automatic much like the U.S.-spec GranTurismo MC . Presently there's no word yet if the GranCabrio MC will make its way stateside, though we think it's a virtual no-brainer for Maserati's lineup. In the meantime, European customers can check out the new GranCabrio MC on Maserati's stand at the Paris Motor Show , which opens its doors later this week. Source: Maserati | 9 | 1,157 | autos |
With only minor changes every year since its last redesign in 2010, the Hyundai Tucson gained more subtle updates for 2014 as well as a pair of new direct-injected engines. All-wheel drive also became available with the base 2.0-liter engine. Those new engines are said to be more powerful than the engines they replace. We hadn't been behind the wheel of the current generation Tucson since we gave our 2010 long-termer back to Hyundai -- until now. The base engine in the 2014 Hyundai Tucson is the new 2.0-liter Nu GDI (gasoline direct injection) I-4 engine. With direct injection, the new engine makes 164 hp at 6200 rpm and 151 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. Although peak horsepower is down slightly compared to the previous MPI (multi-point injected) 2.0-liter (165 hp at 6200 rpm), low-end torque has improved (146 lb-ft at 4600 rpm). The manual transmission has been dropped and all variants feature a six-speed automatic. Fuel economy has also improved slightly from 22/29 mpg city/highway to 23/29 mpg. With the now-available all-wheel drive, the 2.0-liter engine is rated 21/25 mpg. Our 2014 Hyundai Tucson Limited FWD tester was equipped with the larger 2.4-liter Theta II GDI I-4. The new engine makes 182 hp at 6000 rpm and 177 lb-ft at 4000 rpm compared to the previous engine's 176 hp and 168 lb-ft at the same revs. Front-drive versions are rated 21/28 mpg, while all-wheel-drive models are rated 20/25 mpg. Those highway numbers are down compared to the old engine, which was rated 30 mpg and 27 mpg, respectively. Although our 2014 Hyundai Tucson Limited tester posted quicker acceleration times at the drag strip than our 2010 all-wheel-drive long-termer, the new model was front-drive only, so the times aren't directly comparable. The front-drive 2014 Tucson with the 182-hp 2.4-liter reached 60 mph in 8.2 seconds and finished the quarter-mile in 16.4 seconds at 84.3 mph. In comparison, the all-wheel-drive 2010 Tucson with the 176-hp 2.4-liter took 9.0 seconds to reach 60 mph and did the quarter-mile in 16.9 seconds at 81.4 mph. Both SUVs were equipped with a six-speed automatic. Standard for 2014 is Hyundai's new Sachs ASD (Amplitude Selective Damping) suspension system. According to the automaker, the new suspension system improves ride, increases driving comfort without compromising handling, and optimizes surface contact. Despite the new suspension dampers, the front-drive 2014 Tucson pulled a lower lateral g around the skidpad (0.75 g vs. 0.79 g) compared to the all-wheel-drive 2010 model. The story was the same around the figure eight (28.8 seconds at 0.60 g vs. 28.5 seconds at 0.58 g). At 116 feet, the 2014 Tucson stopped 6 feet shorter than the 2010 model. The Tucson's acceleration times are similar to those of the front-drive 2014 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring (0-60 mph: 8.1 mph; quarter-mile: 16.3 seconds at 84.5 mph). Although not mind-bending (few models in this segment are), the acceleration felt strong enough to pull out into traffic or merge at the top of an on-ramp. Handling was also similar to the Mazda CX-5 (skidpad: 0.75 g; figure eight: 28.3 seconds at 0.56 g). While the Tucson posted slightly better handling figures than the Mazda, the CX-5 feels more confident in extreme driving conditions such as highway interchanges or dodging other traffic. In normal driving, the Tucson felt solid and rode comfortably. Being a Limited trim level, our Winter White Tucson ($27,075 including $875 destination) came nicely equipped with a two-tone Black Saddle leather interior and the Technology Package ($2650) and carpeted floor mats ($125). Tucson Limited standard features include four-wheel discs with ABS, downhill brake control with hill-start assist control, 18-inch alloy wheels, chrome grille and door handles, automatic headlights and foglights, and power heated side mirrors with integrated turn signals. Interior features include proximity key with push-button start, heated front seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, dual climate control with air ionizer, and a tilt and telescoping steering wheel with audio controls. The standard infotainment system features HD radio and Sirius satellite radio, iPad, USB and auxiliary inputs, Bluetooth phone, and Hyundai's Blue Link telematics system. The Technology Package adds navigation with a 7-inch touch screen (up from 4.3 inches), 360-watt audio system with subwoofer and amplifier, XM NavTraffic, LED taillights, and a panoramic moonroof. In total, the 2014 Hyundai Tucson Limited FWD with Technology Package (and carpeted floormats) came to $29,850. The infotainment and technology bits are familiar Hyundai units and are user-friendly. Like other top-trim Hyundai models, the Tucson Limited features the technology that consumers want in a stylish vehicle. The interior is well laid out and comfortable with plenty of room for a pair of 6-foot occupants to sit in tandem. The black interior with saddle (brown) seats and door inserts give the Tucson a premium look and feel. The 2014 Hyundai Tucson Limited FWD with Technology Package is comparably equipped and priced for the segment and did everything we wanted it to during our week behind the wheel. While the numbers match or beat the sportiest model (CX-5) in the segment, those seeking the most communicative feel might want to look at the Mazda dealer. For everyone else, the Tucson is a competitive choice. With its last overhaul in 2010, we expect the next-generation Hyundai Tucson to be just around the corner. Until then, the current model offers all the modern features demanded of customers in a stylish -- if dated -- wrapper. Look for the next Tucson to flaunt the automaker's latest Fluidic Design 2.0 as seen on the 2015 Genesis and Sonata sedans. 2014 Hyundai Tucson Limited BASE PRICE $27,075 PRICE AS TESTED $29,850 VEHICLE LAYOUT Front-engine, FWD, 5-pass, 4-door SUV ENGINE 2.4L/182-hp/177-lb-ft DOHC 16-valve I-4 TRANSMISSION 6-speed automatic CURB WEIGHT (F/R DIST) 3381 lb (59/41%) WHEELBASE 103.9 in LENGTH x WIDTH x HEIGHT 173.2 x 71.7 x 65.2 in 0-60 MPH 8.2 sec QUARTER MILE 16.4 sec @ 84.3 mph BRAKING, 60-0 MPH 116 ft LATERAL ACCELERATION 0.75 g (avg) MT FIGURE EIGHT 28.8 sec @ 0.60 g (avg) EPA CITY/HWY/COMB FUEL ECON 21/28/24 mpg ENERGY CONS., CITY/HWY 160/120 kW-hrs/100 miles CO2 EMISSIONS 0.82 lb/mile | 9 | 1,158 | autos |
This year's Paris Motor Show was full of exotic concept car sheetmetal and new car debuts, bringing us everything from bread-and-butter models like the seventh-generation Volkswagen Golf to radical hybrid supercars like the Peugeot Onyx concept. We've polled a few of our editors on the show floor to see which 2012 Paris Motor Show vehicles deserve best-in-show status. Jaguar F-Type Without a doubt, Jaguar's E-Type successor was one of the most hyped new model reveal of the show, with the automaker first teasing it in full camo at the New York show in April. And the upcoming roadster delivered, wowing our editors. Detroit editor Todd Lassa called the F-Type "a credible, modern non-retro successor…for the car Enzo Ferrari called the most beautiful in the world." Associate editor Michael Febbo said, "It makes you want to get in and drive it. I can imagine blasting over cobblestone streets and scaring the baguettes out of pedestrians and motor scooter-riders while listening to the V-8 shake the inside of tunnels." Peugeot Onyx Concept The Onyx takes the two-tone color scheme to new heights, with its distinctive matte-black and polished copper exterior look. In addition to having a seductive supercar body, the concept also sports a diesel hybrid V-8 drivetrain. Lassa called the Onyx concept a "curvy, sexy, brutal-looking mid-engine GT with a body of polished black carbon fiber and copper (!), and the French flag on the driver's-side sideview mirror." McLaren P1 As McLaren's successor to the legendary F1 supercar, how could the P1 not make the list? With a top speed of at least 240 mph and a body design achieving roughly five times the downforce of the MP4-12C , the P1 is being engineered as the fastest production car ever to lap a race track. Just looking at it, you can see the car's aerodynamic credentials are in order, and though final powertrain specs have yet to be announced, the P1 is rumored to boast a 799-hp 5.0-liter V-8. Bentley Continental GT3 There's something about seeing a car in its racing digs that makes us swoon. The Bentley Continental GT3 race car is one example. The Continental GT3 signifies the British marque's return to motorsports, and transforms the elegant yet powerful lines of the road-going car into a tuxedo-wearing brute ready for the Le Mans grid. Febbo had this to say about Bentley's latest race car creation: "I can't imagine the 'iron fist in a velvet glove' cliché ever being more appropriate than with this racecar. It looks savagely fast, but in such a gentlemanly way. If only it had a blower sticking out the front." Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo concept The Porsche Panamera has polarized critics with its unorthodox body shape, but the Stuttgart-based automaker may have fixed the car's profile with the Sport Turismo concept. Receiving a more wagon-like rear end, the concept hints at the next-gen Panamera's design, and could spawn a production version of the shooting brake model if the Paris show response is strong enough. Febbo had this to say of Porsche's revamped four-door: "As a true wagon fan, the roof extension on the Sport Turismo is like gold-plated icing on an already delicious cake. The fact that it also operates as a plug in hybrid means I can feel better about my commute while tearing up canyons on the weekend." Lexus LF-CC Concept This Lexus concept takes the spindle grille design theme to another level, and likely previews the next-gen IS. The car's curvaceous body work and athletic rear-drive proportions give us hope for Lexus' next 3 Series fighter, which in concept form boasts a 2.5-liter I-4 and Toyota hybrid system. Volkswagen GTI Concept VW's latest iteration of the popular hatchback improved in key areas like interior space and curb weight. The GTI concept gets all of those upgrades plus a bump in power over the current model, which is probably a good indication that VW's hot hatch is about to get even hotter. Of the GTI concept, Febbo said: "I am a big fan of the current mk6 GTI, and I think it is probably the best mix of driving fun and utility you can get for under 30 grand. The mk7, however, does feel like a step up. The interior is surprisingly even better than the current car, feeling a little roomier with improved material quality, especially on the seats. The horsepower bump is a nice extra, and the new MQB platform will certainly take the sharpness of the handling to the next level." Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Electric Drive Twinkling like a Christmas tree ornament with its metallic blue finish, the SLS AMG Electric Drive stole the show at the Mercedes booth. Even without its shiny paint scheme, the SLS Electric Drive would still impress with its 740-hp, 738-lb-ft electric drivetrain a fact that makes it the most powerful car to come out of Mercedes' in-house tuner. Mercedes says those specs are good enough to accelerate the SLS to 62 mph in 3.9 seconds. Opel Adam With subcompacts making up a big part of the European car market, the Opel/Vauxhall Adam may be the next big (small) thing. With quirky styling and a loud exterior color palette, the Adam is GM Europe's answer to the Fiat 500. Lassa said of the Adam: "It transcends GM's semi-clumsy attempt to be hip, with bright, interesting color combinations, interior textures, and accessories that work nearly as seamlessly as in the Mini Cooper. The car needs only more modern, fuel-efficient engines." Volvo V40 R-Design It's no secret we love wagons, and when Volvo unveiled its not-for-U.S.-consumption V40 R-Design in Paris, we were more than a little bit jealous. It's punishment enough that the standard V40 isn't available stateside, and Volvo dangling this sportier-looking model in our faces is like pouring salt on a fresh wound. The R-Design package includes larger wheels, unique bodywork, and an optional Polestar-tuned suspension. The package is offered on all V40 models, including the 250-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter I-5. What was your favorite Paris Motor Show production or concept car? Take another look at our Paris show coverage here and tell us what you think below. | 9 | 1,159 | autos |
I ran into Tesla Model S design chief Franz von Holzhausen at the Paris Motor Show as we were both on the way to the unveiling of the McLaren P1 supercar. After graduating from Art Center College of Design with a bachelor's degree in Transportation Design, Von Holzhausen began his career with Volkswagen under J Mays and worked on such seminal projects as the Concept One (which became the new Beetle). He then moved to GM, and drew critical acclaim for his Pontiac Solstice/Saturn Sky roadster. In 2005, Mazda hired von Holzhausen as its North American design chief. Under his watch, the company developed the Nagare design language, revised the style of the RX-8 and Mazda5, and launched the 2009 Mazda6 and Mazda3. One of my favorite concept cars of all time was executed by Franz and his team; the rotary-powered, LMP1-based Mazda Furai. Why do I still love it so? Because unlike most concept cars, it wasn't just a pretty face, but a full runner that I got to experience around Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca . Franz obviously knows something about fast cars and great designs, so just after McLaren boss Ron Dennis and Managing Director Antony Sheriff raised the sheet on McLaren's all-new P1 supercar, I asked him for his first impressions: FvH : Makes the 12C kind of old and tired. It's got a great stance, it sits well, reminds of the F1 [McLaren's first street legal sports car]. Yeah, I like it. It's definitely got a menacing feel to it a pissed-off face. It has a BIG greenhouse and I'm wondering about that proportion but it's hard to tell from here. I love the sculpture on the body side. Reminds of stuff that we were doing in the past. Apparently it's very functional as well, with the intakes going right from the door into the engine. So I can appreciate that, the form and the function kinda working together. It's awesome. Yeah, but it makes the 12C dated for sure. MT : Have you ever worked with [McLaren head of design] Frank Stephenson before? FvH : No, I haven't. I was looking for him on the stage, but I just know of him from, you know, the designer crowd, and but I think he did a pretty solid job. In general I think the car is cool. Way better than in pictures, sits way better on its wheels, from here. I'll have to come back later, tomorrow, when there is less people to get a better view. But you know it's awesome, Ron Dennis is up there -- you don't see that every day. Seeing Ron in person is very cool. And I appreciate them continuing to just go for it. MT : What do you think about the orange color? FvH : I'm wondering about it. There must something about it I'm just not aware of. Is it the brand color…? I love the simplicity of the stand with the orange and white, it's super cool. But is it the right color for the car? MT : Well, everyone knows you designer types only like light gray or silver for your concepts so you can show off the lines… FvH : [Laughs] Actually, orange is one of my more favorite colors, but this shade seems a bit, um, overly mature. I think a car like this, if you could get some screaming colors on it, it would be all that more impressive. I do see a lot of reference from the F1 in the side feature. Hard to tell about the silhouette but from what I've seen, the silhouette is pretty similar. MT : I noticed that the McLaren logo seems to be used as a throughout the car in the headlights, hood scoops, etc. You know, the upside-down swoosh, punctuation mark…too much repetition? What do you think? FvH : Oh as an element on the car front, rear, everywhere the "boomerang." It reminds me of the Kumho tire logo. But you know it's subtle enough that you know it's not too overt. It doesn't punch you in the face…and you know the car does look fantastic. MT : Thanks Franz! | 9 | 1,160 | autos |
Right after the unveil of 911 Carrera 4S and Panamera Sport Turismo concept at the 2012 Paris Motor Show I sat down with Porsche's head of design Michael Mauer, who has been with the company for eight years. Although Porsche remains noncommittal on the future of the wagon version of the Panamera, Mauer did give us some insight into how Porsche's heritage plays into current and future design language. Motor Trend : The Sport Turismo version of the Panamera was just unveiled and seems to have been very well received. The original Panamera had more mixed reviews -- was that a product of the design or just a fact that it was something so new? Michael Mauer : The biggest challenge with the Panamera was in fact that there was no predecessor. It was a new segment for Porsche and we wanted to create something different from the traditional three-box concept. We had to use design language to communicate that it was obviously a Porsche but overall the shape had to be new and determined by the functionality of the vehicle. MT : The 911 is obviously quite different from the Panamera in terms of heritage; the basic design will soon be 50 years old. Does all the history make it more challenging to design a car that looks new and fresh but still is a 911? MM : On one hand, if you have that long history it gives you the orientation for the direction of the design. On the other, it also gives you a set of restrictions you must work with. The 911 is the core of the brand and knowing what you do with it will influence the entire portfolio of design. Sometimes, I really have to think twice about introducing a new element on the 911. It is obviously very special, but I believe that part of the success of the 911 is that we let it grow and it is very mature. We let it evolve well, keeping the proportions. MT : The 991 may look more like a 911 than any 911 in the past two decades. What are the design elements that evoke the heritage? MM : If you look at the history, there are landmarks where things change dramatically. The 993 was first model that really had big changes in the basic shape. This was the first time this convex and concave treatment was born. Then you have the 996, which again, not so many people like it but it is a milestone in that it was the first time the package changed. The designers did a good job in visualizing this new roof and having to package new technology. The 997 is built on the same proportions of the 996, but went back to the old roots, being tighter and having more muscle. With the 991, we had the opportunity again to change the proportions. We changed the visual impact of the car dramatically by going a little bit lower and a little bit wider. We continued and amplified the tightness of the 997. We always used to say that you have the impression of the muscle being just under the skin. We made a very definite decision that we had to have the round headlights, but at the back we tried new elements. The slim taillights and a character line running across the back. Again it is tighter, but still has the traditional shape. MT : What is the design department's relationship like with engineering? Is it a collaboration with the aerodynamicists or does one refine the other? MM : [Laughs] Perhaps you should ask the guys in the wind tunnel what our relationship is like. We are now in an age when it has to be done working together. It is not possible to do something and then throw it over the fence. The car is now such a complex thing that it is always a compromise. More now than ever, the form has to follow the function. We have to assume everything we do will see at least 300 kph [186 mph], so it must have downforce. So we are always pushing each other to get what we want. This is probably best seen in the integrated moving and articulating spoiler on the back of the Panamera turbo. We have to solve things in innovative ways, even if it may be painful. MT : Where is the 911 heading in design? MM : The next 911 and the next 911 and even the next 911 will always be recognizable as being a 911. It isn't just design language and details. The layout of the car is unique with the engine in the back and being a 2+2 with luggage in the front. As long as we stick to this technical layout it will look as it does now. If we ever change that technical layout, we will no longer be building a 911. MT : The Boxster just went through its biggest change ever. What were the goals, what is the new language communicating? MM : We started with the headlamps; we wanted something that looked as though it was from pure racing cars. We wanted to give the car more identity, more character. The older Boxsters were true sports cars but were always taken as the little Porsche or the softer Porsche. We needed to visualize with the shape that this car is a true sports car, an aggressive car. MT : As far as the future goes, what will influence the next cars? MM : If you look at the Boxster and you look at the 918, you can see the front end and the hard lines on the fenders are the same. We are always developing our design language and it is always the next model that moves it along. We give every car its own identity; I don't want the whole family to look like 911 or to build all Boxsters. Everything is based on he design DNA, but we are always adding new elements or taking away elements. They are all a part of the design, but they aren't all the design. Inspiration is everywhere. We know Porsche has more cars coming in the near future. The redesigned Cayman is right around the corner. The new GT3 will likely be seen in Geneva. The Macan, a Q5-sized SUV is coming shortly. The corporate answer for whether we will see a production version of the Panamera Sport Turismo seems to be, "anything is in the realm of possibility and we will see what happens." So far, the opinions at the show ranged from, "what it should have looked like the first time" to "if they have so many versions of the 911, why can't they have another Panamera." With Audi, BMW, and Mercedes all having stands full of high-performance wagon variants, it certainly looks like there is a market in the rest of the world. Although they may give new cars their own identities, at least we know the 911 will always look like a 911. Read about Porsche's plug-in future, the styling influence of the Sport Turismo concept on the rest of Porsche's lineup, and more right here in Ed Loh's blog based on an exclusive interview with Matthias Muller, president and CEO of Porsche AG and Detlef von Platen, president and CEO of Porsche Cars North America. | 9 | 1,161 | autos |
Jaguar has canceled its C-X75 hybrid supercar project, less than two years after announcing that the concept car was destined for production. According to Car Magazine , Jaguar global brand director Adrian Hallmark told journalists in the U.K. that concerns over the project's cost and the small number of expected sales forced the company to shelve the C-X75 permanently. The Jaguar C-X75 concept first bowed at the 2010 Paris Motor Show. The low and wide show car used a pair of diesel turbine engines that acted as range extenders to charge a battery, which in turned powered the motors that propelled the car. It was something of an engineering exercise that, at the time, didn't have much chance of seeing production. Then in May 2011, Jaguar surprised the auto industry by announcing that it would build the C-X75 in partnership with Williams F1 . Jaguar reportedly built five prototypes of the C-X75, which used two four-cylinder engines instead of the promised turbines, but the turbo- and supercharged 1.6-liter units were expected to produce 500-550 hp. Jaguar previously promised the production model would hit 62 mph in less than three seconds, exceed 200 mph, yet emit a Toyota Prius-like 99 grams of CO2 per kilometer. "After a thorough reassessment of the market conditions, the company's view is that the global economic landscape does not currently support the introduction of a supercar such as C-X75," Hallmark told Car . He told reporters that making the decision "broke his heart," but that Jaguar probably couldn't have sold the planned 200 to 250 copies of its £1 million (around $1.6 million) supercar. The development process hasn't been for nothing, though, as Jaguar plans to use lessons learned from the C-X75 project on future vehicles. The company also plans to finish its five prototypes, which should be completed by May 2013. Jaguar will reportedly keep three of them for its museum, and will put the other two up for auction. Fret not: Jaguar still has plenty of new products up its sleeve . The F-Type sports car goes on sale next year, and Jaguar is working on building two highly profitable models: a BMW 3-Series fighter, due 2015, as well as an Audi Q5-rivalling compact crossover due in 2016. Source: Car Magazine | 9 | 1,162 | autos |
Most of Honda's show cars for this year's Tokyo Auto Salon are fairly typical a gussied-up Kei car here, a tricked-out N-ONE there , and so one. One, however, stands out from the crowd of decked-out microcars, and for good reason: it's an S2000. Meet the new S2000 Modulo Climax. We're not exactly sure how Honda arrived at that particular name (and we're not sure we want to know), but Honda has used the Modulo name on several ranges of body kits and exterior dress-up accessories and this particular S2000 sports both. Undoubtedly, the new front clip is the biggest change from a stock S2000 roadster. The new nose is longer than before, giving way to a hexagonal grille opening that's bisected by a large chrome crossbar, which sweeps into the corners of the fascia. A new tonneau cover provides enclosed fairings for the rollbar hoops, while a pair of canard-like winglets are placed on the corners of the rear decklid. The rear bumper fascia is revised to incorporate two large air outlets, while the diffuser is whittled away to make room for two large exhaust tips. Modulo also appears to have contributed a set of chromed 10-spoke alloy wheels, although Honda makes no mention of their size or construction. Interior amendments aren't quite as extensive as those applied to the S2000's exterior. The stock seats are replaced by new leather-clad, Modulo-branded bucket seats, which boast inserts and contrast stitching color keyed to the car's exterior paint. The shift boot and steering wheel are privy to similar stitching, as are the floor mats, which appear to be made from a woven, mesh-like material that resembles carbon fiber. What can we make of this? Some Honda faithful are proclaiming the S2000 Modulo Climax as the second coming of the S2000 or, for that matter, a good hint at what the company's forthcoming sports roadster will look like. An interesting theory, perhaps, but that doesn't appear to be the case. Although the S2000 Modulo Climax is but a concept at this point in time, Honda says the car simply previews a new range of accessories it has in store for its discontinued roadster. Is it unusual for an automaker to offer these sorts of parts three years after a vehicle was dropped from the lineup? Perhaps, but it's not unprecedented in fact, Modulo recently offered a range of add-ons for the Beat and NSX, which ended production in 1996 and 2005, respectively. But what say you? Does Honda's new range of Modulo parts only improve upon the S2000's looks, or do they make it look a little like a Daihatsu Storia? Send your thoughts in the comments section below. Source: Honda | 9 | 1,163 | autos |
The new production-ready Suzuki SX4 Crossover debuting at the Geneva auto show is bigger than its predecessor , a car that until recently served drivers seeking all-wheel drive in an affordable package. The new SX4 Crossover, which will be the first to offer a double-sliding sunroof, traces its roots to the Suzuki S-Cross concept from the 2012 Paris Motor Show, and the automaker has retained the SX4 name that stands for Suzuki (S) Crossover (X) Four-Wheel-Drive (4). The SX4 Crossover fuses the current SX4 SportBack 's square styling with the S-Cross concept's flowing design, while adding unique features such as the world's first double-sliding panoramic moonroof, which the automaker claims is among the largest opening in the segment. The SX4 Crossover's new shape with improved aerodynamics and lighter high-strength steel contribute to lower emissions and increased fuel economy. LED running lights integrated into the headlight assembly and a bold grille form the SX4 Crossover's front end, while a body line below the greenhouse runs down the side from the headlights to the taillights. The 4.0-inch longer wheelbase is now at 102.4 inches, while the 169.3-inch overall length has grown 6.5 inches. Width is up 0.4 inches (69.5 inches) and height is up 0.2 to 0.4 inches (61.8 to 62.0 inches) depending on whether the car rides on 16- or 17-inch wheels. Larger exterior dimensions improve interior space including the cargo area, which has grown by just over 50 percent. Motivation comes from a choice of 1.6-liter I-4 engines. Based on the current naturally aspirated gas engine, the base engine features lower friction and lower weight for improved efficiency. The optional turbodiesel uses a variable geometry turbocharger for more torque throughout the powerband. While no power figures have been released for either engine, an engine stop-start system helps save fuel. A five-speed manual backs the gas engine, while the turbodiesel is mated to a six-speed manual. The CVT available on the gas engine features a seven-speed manual mode with paddle shifters. Suzuki's next generation all-wheel-drive system is available with either engine. Skip ahead to 2:14 in the video below to see the big sunroof in action. Would you consider the new Suzuki SX4 Crossover if the automaker still offered new cars in the U.S.? For all the latest news, photos, videos, and much more direct from the 2013 Geneva Motor Show floor, don't forget to CLICK OVER to our 2013 Geneva show coverage page. | 9 | 1,164 | autos |
The Aston Martin Rapide has been in the spotlight lately, with a new, restyled S model unveiled earlier this year and now a one-off shooting brake variant from specialty coachbuilder Bertone, which debuted at this week's Geneva motor show. The special Rapide-based model is called the Bertone Jet 2+2, and is the latest creation to come from the 60-year relationship between Aston Martin and the Italian design studio. As the name states, the Jet 2+2 seats four passengers, who are cocooned in a four-door hatch body based on the Rapide sedan. The Jet 2+2 reportedly provides more headroom than the Rapide, and also boasts bespoke materials. In addition to its unique silhouette and rear end, the Jet 2+2 showcases a few styling differences compared to the Rapide. The front bumper, for example, features air vents at the outer edges. Out back, Bertone has added thin vertical air slits to the bumpers and boomerang-style taillights connected by a red strip, similar to the One-77 supercar. The Jet 2+2 is powered by the Rapide's 6.0-liter V-12 engine, tuned to produce 470 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque. For now, it remains a one-off vehicle for a private collector who approached the companies with the project. That said, should it spawn a production version to take on the Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo? Tell us in the poll and comments below. [polldaddy poll=6945851] | 9 | 1,165 | autos |
CoverHound is unveiling a new metric here on WOT called Insurance Over Sticker (IOS) -- the number represents the average cost of insuring a new model or make for a year, divided by its sticker price. The cost of insurance is often an afterthought when considering the financials of a new car purchase or lease but with this metric it doesn't need to be that way anymore. So which vehicle makes have the lowest IOS ratios? Here are the top 10 vehicle makes, focusing on vehicles with average MSRPs under $30,000; the average IOS ratio for all vehicles in this dataset (2011-2013 makes only) was 5.8 percent. 10. Hyundai 6.6%9. Honda 6.6%8. Kia 6.3%7. Nissan 6.2%6. Mazda 5.8%5. Ford 5.5%4. Volkswagen 5.5%3. Toyota 5.0%2. Chevrolet 4.9%1. Mini 4.1% In the past, car insurance insights and prognostications regarding the cost to insure certain vehicle have depended on four variables: safety ratings , rates of theft , cost to replace parts and damage susceptibility . Given that, It shouldn't be too much of surprise that Mini ranks at the top with the lowest IOS ratio; last year, we matched insurance costs of the Cooper against those of the Prius and found the Mini had lower insurance costs . The Toyota brand is also a winner here. Our friends at Intellichoice love Toyota too, naming it the Best Overall Brand in its class for 2012 . Instead of piecing together all the different facts and figures swirling around thefts and safety, the list above shows the exact average amounts each make costs to cover, relative to its sticker price and in juxtaposition to other makes. Yes, Ford and Chevrolet each offer cars with parts that cost a similar amount to replace, but now we can say definitively that, according to our data, on average, Chevrolets cost less to cover. These differences can be dozens of dollars each month, totalling hundreds each year -- a significant amount that can certainly help a family's bottom line. Methodology Insurance Over Sticker (IOS) is a proprietary metric created by CoverHound, which recently announced that the company has raised $4.5 million in series A financing from investors including RRE Ventures and Bullpen Capital. With help from existing investor Blumberg Capital, funding totals $6.5 million. CoverHound insurance pricing data is stated on an annual basis and is generated using real customer data using segments with similar profiles (single car and currently insured); Vehicles include 2011-2013 models; The MSRP figures are provided by DataOne Software. | 9 | 1,166 | autos |
Swedish supercar automaker Koenigsegg is still building cars 10 years after its first production car was delivered, and the company is celebrating with Hundra -- a one-off Agera S supercar with details you won't see on any other Agera S. Called "Hundra," Swedish for 100, the car is is the automaker's 100th production car, and debuts at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. The right-hand-drive Agera S has "artisan hand-laid and swirled, 24-carat gold leaf inlays," Koenigsegg notes, and we're looking forward to seeing the complete car. Thanks to a carbon chassis and carbon body, the Agera is very light weight. Combined with the car's V-8 engine making upwards of 1000 hp and you have a supercar that can run to nearly 250 mph, with a 0-62 mph time of 3.1 seconds. The 1150-hp Agera R is said to reach 62 mph in 2.9 seconds, using a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. Read about our experiences driving an Agera R here . The name Agera means to "act" in Swedish and "ageless" in Greek. The Koenigsegg Hundra will be joined in Geneva by supercar debuts including one from Ferrari, the Lamborghini Veneno, the Porsche 911 GT3, and the McLaren P1. Get all the latest Geneva Motor Show updates on our comprehensive show page here . Source: Koenigsegg The Koenigsegg Agera S Hundra detail shots are shown below with photos of the Agera and Agera R. | 9 | 1,167 | autos |
Meet the Roding Roadster 23. Roding is a Bavarian firm specializing in low-cost, higher-volume carbon fiber construction and engineering services, and this car is presented as a showcase of the company's capabilities. The intriguing roadster was displayed at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show and looked like an LFA nose on a sharpened MR2. The price? 205,000 euros, or about $266,000 U.S., and 10 have been sold so far! Powered by a transverse-mounted turbocharged 315-hp BMW I-6 , the Roding is said to be good for a 3.9-second sprint from 0-62 mph. It will allegedly keep up with a Porsche 911 GT3 around Germany's Sachsenring race course. And even though the front end is empty of engine, it's so long that a racer could drive the car to the track with his helmets and gear in the trunk. There's also room for skis, and the two-panel targa roof comes off and stows in a panel under the trunk lid. Because it's all carbon fiber, it's pretty light. The Roding 23 Roadster uses a six-speed manual transmission, and the lightweight sports car has customizable suspension settings. The car we saw in Geneva was the 23-car special-edition model, with many unpainted exterior panels unpainted, showing off the carbon fiber parts underneath. And instead of the yellow paint on the car pictured here, Roding will paint the rest of the Roadster in any color the customer wants. For all the latest news, photos, videos, and much more direct from the 2013 Geneva Motor Show floor, don't forget to CLICK OVER to our 2013 Geneva show coverage page. | 9 | 1,168 | autos |
The latest speculation from Toyota City about the Toyota Supra successor suggests that the flagship car may be powered by a turbocharged 2.5-liter I-4 hybrid producing at least 400 hp. Toyota may reveal the Supra production car late in 2017, though we could see a concept version as soon as this year's Tokyo Motor Show. The recently signed agreement between BMW and Toyota will form the backbone to the development of the Supra successor, a coupe that will be based on the Toyota GT86 platform. One insider informs that the BMW Z4 successor will use a revised version of this platform, as well. While the Supra successor will incorporate a reinforced version of the GT86's platform to cope with the extra horses, our source tells us that the body will be bigger than the GT86 and feature a design inspired by the FT-HS hybrid concept car that debuted at the 2007 Detroit auto show. A rendering of what a future Toyota Supra successor is shown above; the Toyota FT-HS concept hybrid is pictured at right and below. Unlike the Scion FR-S ' Subaru-derived boxer 2.0-liter I-4, our source indicates that the most likely engine that will end up propelling the new sports car will be a Toyota-built turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid generating upwards of 400 hp. Even so, a mid-mounted 3.5-liter V-6 hybrid remains a possibility. GT86 chief engineer Tetsuya Tada who also happens to be the head of the Supra successor project is working to create a concept car for this year's Tokyo Motor Show, a car with a planned debut of late 2017. As we noted in late November, Tada has admitted that Akio Toyoda has asked him to develop the car " as soon as possible ." We are told that BMW will help with the suspension settings and handling of the new Toyota. Meanwhile, our source also tells us that BMW, which will also use a beefed up version of the GT86 platform for its Z4 update, is testing a BMW-built V-6 hybrid unit that delivers similar power to the Supra successor. | 9 | 1,169 | autos |
Iron Man is getting another Audi. Disney, Marvel, and Audi today announced that Tony Stark, the man behind Iron Man, will drive an Audi R8 E-Tron in "Iron Man 3," which is due in theaters May 3. While Audi in America was announcing its partnership with the man behind the iron mask, over in Europe Audi was introducing the new RS 5 DTM race car to crowds at the Geneva Motor Show. Iron Man is no stranger to Audis. Since the first Iron Man movie back in 2008, Stark, played by Robert Downey Jr., has driven an Audi. In the first movie, he was behind the wheel of the then-new R8 before trading it in for a R8 Spyder in "Iron Man 2." The third installment of the Iron Man franchise will see Stark behind the wheel of an all-electric Audi R8 E-Tron prototype, despite rumors that Audi has shelved the electric supercar project due to weight and cost concerns. If the R8 E-Tron does make it into production, it'd be powered by two electric motors making 376 hp and 605 lb-ft of torque. The Audi S7 will also be featured prominently in "Iron Man 3," at the hands of Gwyneth Paltrow, who plays Stark's girlfriend Virginia "Pepper" Potts. In other Audi news, the automaker unveiled its newest DTM racecar in Geneva. The mean-looking new Audi RS 5 DTM will be fielded by three teams during the 2013 race season. The new RS 5 DTM will debut April in Barcelona for DTM testing, and have its first race on April 9 at the Hockenheimring. Source: Audi | 9 | 1,170 | autos |
Show floor update: Looking sinister in Jet Black at the Nissan show stand, the Track Edition GT-R showed off all its extra carbon fiber and front seats highlighted with bright blue trim. Instead of the impractical rear seats, there are two lightweight quilted cloth mats. Pricing information will be revealed closer to the launch date, but expect it to be north of the Black Edition's $110,330 base price (including destination charge). Joining the Premium and Black Edition models in the 2014 Nissan GT-R lineup is the Track Edition, and it's thrice as nice. Revealed at the 2013 Chicago Auto Show, the third variant of the GT-R is more of a track monster than the garden-variety GT-R thanks to a tweaked suspension, upgraded brakes, and a new seating arrangement. Visually, the track-ready GT-R features a front spoiler with carbon fiber air ducts, and more carbon fiber on the rear spoiler for increased downforce. Nitrogen-filled high performance Dunlop SP Sport Maxx GT 600 DSST CTT run-flat tires are shod in black six-spoke Rays wheels. Inside, the Track Edition treatment outfits the GT-R's cabin with blue-trimmed high-grip front seats that use special leather and fabrics. Like all 2014 GT-R variants, the Track Edition is equipped with a video-game inspired display screen, red engine-start button, and carbon fiber appointments. Unlike other GT-Rs though, the Track Edition goes without rear seats for a racier feel and, we're guessing, a slight drop in curb weight. Performance-wise, the GT-R's four-wheel independent suspension has been stiffened up with Bilstein DampTronic gas pressure shock absorbers and higher spring rates. Developed on the Nurburgring, GT-R driver Toshio Suzuki provided input on the suspension tweaks. Available in five colors, the GT-R track edition goes on sale in May, and will have a limited production run of 150 cars for the U.S. market. For all the latest news, photos, videos, and much more direct from the 2013 Chicago auto show floor, don't forget to CLICK OVER to our 2013 Chicago show coverage page . | 9 | 1,171 | autos |
From the show floor update: "[The Gloria is] a student design project from Turin's Istituto di Design, sponsored by Alfa Romeo. The sleek, almost mono space form is adorned with bold graphics and historic touches like the leather hood straps. Based on Maserati Quattroporte underpinnings, there are no plans to produce the IED's Gloria, but the student reps claim Alfa has vowed to incorporate elements of its design." Frank Markus As a collaborative styling exercise between the European Design Institute (IED) of Turin and the Alfa Romeo Style Center, the Alfa Romeo Gloria concept probably won't be heading to production anytime soon. The swoopy four-door's styling is a modern interpretation of classic Alfa Romeo design elements, including the prominent front grille and pronounced front fenders. Narrow, full-width taillights complement the sleek headlights that flank the front grille. Door handles suggest rear-hinged doors in back. While the swoopy four-door sedan's underpinnings stem from the larger Maserati Quattroporte, it rides on a shorter 114-inch wheelbase and measures 185 inches overall similar dimensions to the current Infiniti G37 sedan. The Maserati connection suggests the Gloria could be powered by the brand's new 404-hp, 406-lb-ft twin turbo 3.0-liter V-6 or 523-hp, 479-lb-ft 3.8-liter V-8. Check out images of the Alfa Romeo Gloria below and tell us your thoughts on the concept in the comments. For all the latest news, photos, videos, and much more direct from the 2013 Geneva Motor Show floor, don't forget to CLICK OVER to our 2013 Geneva show coverage page . | 9 | 1,172 | autos |
Although crowds gathered around new reveals such as the 2014 Toyota Tundra , or not-so-new-anymore cars like the 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray, oddball cars parked in the nooks and crannies of the show-floor drew in smaller crowds with their weird appeal. Below are a few weird cars we saw up in Chi Town. Based off a character in a new DreamWorks movie coming out this summer, the 2013 Turbo Camaro Coupe is pure exaggeration. Outfitted with lower rockers, fender flares, front splitter, and rear diffuser, the black Camaro coupe wears a vinyl chrome wrap that's tinted dark to look like black chrome. Custom front LED lights illuminate in different colors, and huge black wheels add even more impact, with the fronts measuring 24 by 10 inches, and the rear wheels 24 by 15 inches. Powering the beast is a supercharged V-8 that puts out north of a claimed 700 hp. Other features include a custom intake assembly for supercharger housing and a custom COPO hood assembly. Around back, rear exhaust pipes are five inches in diameter, while a huge GT concept rear wing spoiler blocks any type of rear visibility (we suppose). The Camaros didn't stop there, as the 2013 Camaro Hot Wheels Special Edition that first appeared at SEMA gleamed in a vibrant metallic blue paint and red-lined wheels. Available early this year, consumers pick their poison between 2LT V-6 and 2SS V-8 Camaro coupes and convertibles. The special-edition car includes a ZL1 rear spoiler on coupes, ZL1 front upper grille on both body styles, a ground effects package, black 21-inch wheels, fender flame graphics, Hot Wheels grille, and decklid logos. Inside, red-and-black seat stitching and the Hot Wheels logo are embroidered on the leather-trimmed front seat, and Hot Wheels Edition flame decals are affixed to the doors. Promoting a new show called "Defiance" on the Syfy channel was a weathered Dodge Charger that has seen better days. Equipped with a grille guard, window bars, and big truck tires, the sedan screams "wash me." There weren't many details on the Charger, but you can see more when the series premieres on SyFy in April. Trampling over dead zombies, the 2013 Hyundai Elantra Coupe Zombie Survival Machine also blew into the Windy City from Comic-Con. Modifications include a spiked, zombie plow cow catcher up front, slatted armored window coverings, and a sunroof hatch cage to shoot at zombies. An electric rear trunk allows easy access to weapons, while a CB radio/PA system is used to communicate with others. Chunky offroad tires allow for go-anywhere access. Don't miss our 2013 Chicago Auto Show Top 10 list here . | 9 | 1,173 | autos |
German tuner Brabus has a long history of adding serious horsepower and outlandish body parts to Mercedes-Benz AMG cars, and the Geneva show proved no exception. There, the tuning company introduced no fewer than five tweaked AMG products -- with as much as 788 hp. 800 Roadster The first tuned model is the Brabus 800 Roadster, based on the Mercedes SL65 AMG. By virtue of new turbochargers, new intercoolers, a new stainless-steel exhaust, and a reprogrammed engine computer, the car's 6.0-liter V-12 engine now cranks 788 hp and 1047 lb-ft of torque. Brabus says that's enough for a 3.7-second 0-to-62-mph sprint and an electronically limited top speed of 217 mph. Other upgrades include a new carbon-fiber bodykit designed to reduce lift at speed, a locking rear differential, 20-inch forged wheels, unique leather and Alcantara upholstery, and a reprogrammed computer that makes the air suspension ride 1.0 inch lower than stock. B63S-730 Brabus also worked its magic on the CLS63 AMG, modifying the 5.5-liter twin-turbo V-8 to produce 720 hp and 785 lb-ft. That power boost is courtesy of new turbochargers, an additional intercooler, gold-plated intake tubes to reduce heat, larger catalytic converters, and a larger exhaust. The upgrade is offered for both the standard CLS63 AMG four-door and its shooting brake variant . Brabus claims cars so equipped can hit 62 mph in 3.8 seconds and top speed is, again, limited to 217 mph. As with the 800 Roadster, Brabus also endows the CLS63 with a carbon-fiber bodykit, 20-inch wheels, new leather and Alcantara interior bits, and a 250-mph speedometer. 800 Widestar Just in case the off-road-capable G65 AMG didn't already seem excessive enough, Brabus has also tweaked it. New turbochargers, intercoolers, air boxes, and exhausts, plus a retuned computer, permit the 6.0-liter V-12 engine to offer the same 788 hp and 1047 lb-ft as the 800 Roadster. The four-wheel-drive SUV can reportedly hit 62 mph in 4.2 seconds and its top speed is limited to 155 mph -- although Brabus claims the Widestar is powerful enough to reach 168 mph. The Widestar name means the G65 AMG's body has been stretched, by virtue of big fender flares that add 4.7 inches of width. The running boards now have LED illumination, and 23-inch wheels come standard. Also included is an updated suspension with Bilstein components and a two-way adaptive setting. Leather, Alcantara, wood, and carbon-fiber interior trim round out the changes. B63-620 This kit can be applied to either the GL63 AMG or ML63 AMG SUVs, with identical results. A new sports exhaust and an add-on engine computer boost the 5.5-liter twin-turbo V-8 engine to 611 hp and 604 lb-ft, enough to allow the ML63 hit 62 mph in 4.5 seconds and the GL63 reach the benchmark in 4.7 seconds. Both cars get the Widestar treatment, increasing the width of the ML63 AMG by 2.5 inches and the GL63 AMG by 3.1 inches. The former has 22-inch wheels and latter 23-inch wheels Source: Brabus | 9 | 1,174 | autos |
Nearly every Volvo on sale in the U.S. has been refreshed for the 2014 model year, and we got our first in-the-flesh look at the new sheetmetal at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. Though a light-blue 2014 Volvo S60 and a copper-colored 2014 Volvo XC60 scored starring roles at Volvo's display, the brand's floor space also included a revised XC70 and S80. The Volvo XC60 has always been a good-looker, but the car really pops with the color on the show floor car pictured above. Like the refreshed 2014 S60 sedan, the 2014 XC60 has revised headlights that use the space formerly occupied by the independently housed LED daytime running lights. Along with a revised grille and lower front fascia, the XC60 offers a customizable digital instrument cluster display. Also offered on the S60, the system can even notify the driver how much power is being used at any given time. As for the 2014 S60, with the Geneva show car's big two-tone wheels and revised headlights, the car looks more like its S80 big brother from the front than it ever has before. Throw in the S80's newly available exhaust tips that are integrated into the rear fascia, and overall, you've got a more refined design. Take a close look at the 2014 Volvo XC70 and you may notice a surprisingly intricate six-spoke wheel design. The SUV may be a bit overshadowed in sales by the XC60, but is the last remaining wagon-like vehicle Volvo sells in the U.S. Get your fill of from-the-auto-show-floor photos of refreshed Volvos in the gallery below. For all the latest news, photos, videos, and much more direct from the 2013 Geneva Motor Show floor, don't forget to CLICK OVER to our 2013 Geneva show coverage page. | 9 | 1,175 | autos |
The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) has released a new report that looks at SUV and crossover thefts between January 1, 2008 and June 30, 2012, and ranks the top 10 most stolen of the group. The study's criteria were further refined to only consider 2009, 2010, and 2011 model-year vehicles, which revealed 19,961 total SUVs and crossovers reported stolen during that period. At the top of the list is the Ford Escape, followed by the Chevrolet Tahoe and Toyota RAV4. With crossovers rapidly overtaking traditional SUVs on the market, it makes sense that CUVs dominated the top 10. In total, seven crossovers found their way onto the list. Crossovers also dominated when thefts were broken down by class, with entry-level, mid-range, and premium CUV classes comprising three of the top five when sorting by overall volume and not percentage. The study uses Automotive News' standards for vehicle classification, and found entry-level CUVs to have the most thefts at 6357 vehicles stolen . That trend can be seen in the top 10, as the Ford Escape occupies the number-one spot at 1014 thefts, followed by the Toyota RAV4 in third with 801 thefts; Honda CR-V in sixth with 643 thefts (tied with Jeep Wrangler); and Nissan Rogue in ninth with 547 thefts. At 856 thefts, the Chevrolet Tahoe was the second-most-stolen SUV/crossover in the study period, not its platform-mate Cadillac Escalade as many might think. Still, when looking at percentage of unrecovered thefts , vehicles in the premium large SUV segment like the Escalade were least likely to be recovered. When looking at thefts by state, California had the highest number at 3003, followed by Texas with a distant 1826. Florida and New York weren't far behind with 1784 and 1754 thefts, respectively. Michigan rounds out the top five with 1367 thefts. The tables turn, however, when breaking results down by core based statistical area (CBSA), with New York-Northern New Jersey-Long Island, NY-NJ-PA boasting the most thefts at 2438 SUVs and crossovers stolen. In second place with barely more than half that number is Los Angeles-Long Beach-Santa Ana, CA with 1229 thefts. Below are the top 10 SUVs and crossovers stolen between 2008 and the first half of 2012, according to the NICB. Source: NICB Model Thefts Ford Escape 1,014 Chevrolet Tahoe 856 Toyota Rav4 801 Ford Edge 739 Dodge Journey 721 Honda CR-V 643 Jeep Wrangler 643 Jeep Grand Cherokee 641 Nissan Rogue 547 Nissan Murano 473 | 9 | 1,176 | autos |
If the debut of the 2014 Alfa Romeo 4C at the Geneva Motor Show this week wasn't already special enough since it marks the return of the brand to the U.S., the Italian automaker has also rolled out a limited Launch Edition, too. Just 1000 copies of the 4C Launch Edition will be produced, with half that volume heading to the U.S. (Europe, Africa, and the Middle East get 400 to fight over, while the rest of the world gets just 100 copies.) In Europe, the car will cost €60,000 ($78,258), although U.S. pricing has yet to be released. Related link: Research the Alfa Romeo 4C The Launch Edition is differentiated from other 4C coupes by a number of aesthetic upgrades. Lucky buyers will be able to choose from two exterior colors Carrar White or Alfa Red which accent a carbon fiber aero kit, a dark silver aluminum diffuser, and 18-inch front and 19-inch rear graphite alloy wheels. There is also unique Launch Edition badging that includes the edition number of the car. Inside, the cabin has been decked out in leather-and-fabric sport seats with Alcantara accents. Those who opt for red paint will also gain red stitching on the steering wheel, e-brake lever, floormats, door handles, and seats. There are two performance upgrades: a racing exhaust with BMC air cleaner and a sport suspension kit. Also part of the 4C Launch Edition's price tag is an exclusive driving course that will teach owners "how to make the most of its potential in complete safety," according to Alfa Romeo. In case you've already forgotten, the 2014 Alfa Romeo 4C is powered by a direct-injected 1.8-liter turbo-four good for 240 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. Power is routed to the rear wheels through a six-speed dual-clutch transmission, which has four different settings normal, dynamic, race, and all-weather. Expect to see pricing for both the regular 4C and the Launch Edition later this year, before the car's expected on-sale date at the end of 2013. Source: Alfa Romeo The non-Launch Edition Alfa Romeo 4C is shown below in red. | 9 | 1,177 | autos |
The Justice League onslaught continues! The Superman-inspired Kia Optima Hybrid was unmasked today at the Metropolis Chicago Auto Show, making the Optima Hybrid the sixth Kia to get the superhero treatment. Built in collaboration with our sister magazine Super Street , this one-off Optima Hybrid gets customized to help it live up to the Man of Steel's legendary name. The Superman Optima Hybrid sports widened fender, an adjustable air suspension, red wheels and a custom grille designed to resemble Superman's belt. As expected, the Optima Hybrid wears a Superman-inspired blue paint job with red trim, including a red roof and trunk meant to resemble Superman's cape. Inside, the Superman Optima gets Superman shields on the seats and steering wheel, and custom materials designed to resemble Superman's armor. The Superman Optima Hybrid is the sixth Justice League-themed vehicle from Kia, joining the Batman Optima , the Green Lantern Soul , the Aquaman Rio, the Cyborg Forte, and The Flash Forte Koup . Kia is planning a Wonder Woman-themed vehicle to round out the Justice League, as well as an eighth and final vehicle inspired by all seven super heroes. All eight Justice League vehicles were built for the "We Can Be Heroes" giving campaign, in partnership with DC Entertainment. For all the latest news, photos, videos, and much more direct from the 2013 Chicago auto show floor, don't forget to CLICK OVER to our 2013 Chicago show coverage page . Source: Kia | 9 | 1,178 | autos |
Show floor update: Though it bears a golden hue in the official photos, the 2014 Volkswagen Beetle GSR is actually canary yellow in person. This is unfortunate because the car looks far better in the darker shade. Not coincidentally, the new GSR was announced 40 years after the original GSR came out. To help sustain interest in the boldly styled two-door, Volkswagen is revealing two special-edition Beetles at the 2013 Chicago auto show: the 2014 Volkswagen Beetle GSR and 2014 Beetle Convertible R-Line. The 2014 Volkswagen Beetle GSR pays homage to the 1970s Beetle GSR ( Gelb Schwarzer Renner or "Yellow Black Racer"). Like the original GSR, the 2014 model will feature a black and yellow theme and will be limited to just 3500 examples worldwide. The original Beetle GSR had a yellow body shell with a matte black hood, trunklid, and bumpers as well as black trim strips beneath the side windows and on the black rocker panels. For the 2014 model, yellow body and R-Line bumpers are contrasted with a mostly black hood and black trunklid, roof, and side mirrors. Rocker panels feature black and yellow striping with GSR graphics. A large rear wing and new 19-inch "Tornado" alloy wheels complete the look. Inside, the GSR features black leather seats and leather steering wheel with yellow stitching. An R-Line dash pad, GSR shifter, leather handbrake, and black floormats with yellow embroidery are among the upgrades, and the GSR includes a boost gauge and stopwatch, too. On the steering wheel, a special-edition number badge displays the build number. While the original Beetle GSR got by with just 50 hp, the 2014 Beetle GSR's turbocharged 2.0-liter gets a 10-hp bump over other Beetle Turbos to 210. The 207 lb-ft of torque rating is unchanged, and peaks at 1700 rpm. Volkswagen claims the new Beetle GSR will accelerate to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds and considering we've tested the Beetle Turbo in coupe and convertible form accelerating from 0-60 mph in 6.3 seconds with a dual-clutch transmission, that 6.6-second estimate is likely conservative. The 210-hp turbocharged mill continues to be mated to either the six-speed manual or dual-clutch transmissions and will be fitted to the 2013 Beetle Turbo and Jetta GLI . Based on the Beetle Turbo with Sunroof and Sound model, the GSR features a Fender audio system, push-button start, HID headlights with LED daytime running lights, and heated front seats. Expect about half of the allotment to come to the U.S. when it goes on sale in the fall as a 2014 model. Volkswagen also announced the 2014 Beetle Convertible R-Line for the U.S. market, which joins the CC R-Line , Beetle R-Line coupe, and the recently introduced Tiguan R-Line and Touareg R-Line. Beetle Convertible R-Line models feature 19-inch alloy wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, an R-Line badge on the grille, HID headlights, and LED daytime running lights. Inside, the R-Line model gets aluminum pedals, Fender audio, navigation, and leather seating as well as a flat-bottom leather steering wheel and stainless scuff plates with R-Line badging. For all the latest news, photos, videos, and much more direct from the 2013 Chicago auto show floor, don't forget to CLICK OVER to our 2013 Chicago show coverage page . | 9 | 1,179 | autos |
You've read the Motor Trend comparison test about the Ford Focus ST, Mazdaspeed3, and Subaru Impreza WRX Special Edition, but how do the sporty four-doors compete when it comes to insurance costs? CoverHound has taken a look at the insurance considerations of the three cars to find out. As it relates to vehicles, insurers factor in the following four characteristics to calculate their pricing: safety ratings, rates of theft, cost to replace parts, and damage susceptibility. So which 2013 model came up on top in this comparison ? The CoverHound data below controls for driver variables such as education, age, accident history, credit, and geography. The WRX Special Edition is significantly more costly to insure -- 16 percent higher than the Mazda, and a whopping 28 percent higher than the Focus ST. It is hard to pin down with certainty that any one of these models is safer, more likely to be stolen, or more likely to be damaged, but we think what might be driving the bulk of the insurance cost difference is the special-edition WRX's lower-volume replacement parts. In the comparison, the WRX Special Edition sedan had a higher base price and as-tested price as compared to the Focus ST and Mazdaspeed3. The Focus ST makes a strong debut in this comparison , and we look forward to seeing whether the insurance premiums remain comparatively low as more enthusiasts get their hands on the cars. About the data: Data uses nationwide average across CoverHound carriers for each vehicle with following driver profile: average credit, currently insured, age 30, no accidents or violations, single, male, renter. The rates generated assume full coverage on vehicle and 100/300 bodily injury limits. | 9 | 1,180 | autos |
The 2013 Range Rover has only been out a few months, but that hasn't stopped German tuner Hamann from putting its own touches on the new off-roader. Dubbed "Mystere," Hamann's creation just might be the brightest set of wheels at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. There's nothing subtle about the Mystere , which the tuner says "exhibits nothing more but self-confidence." And apparently the tuner is confident it will find customers who will be attracted to a large SUV with a pink paint job and a mirror-like finish on most of its sheetmetal (the roof and side-view mirror caps have a matte finish). The show car is riding on "Edition Race" 23-inch forged three-piece rims, though a single-piece rim is also available. Hamann has also tweaked the Rover's suspension system, lowering the stock ride height by about 1.6 inches. The Mystere also features a custom exhaust system and the tuner says it plans to tweak the Range Rover's 5.0-liter supercharged V-8, which puts out 510 hp and 461 lb-ft of torque in stock form. In addition to the Range Rover Mystere, Hamann is displaying a custom " Mirr6r " BMW 6 Series , also sporting a mirror-like finish, though in a tamer dark gray color. Joining the 6 Series is an F10 M5 (renamed as Mi5Sion ) with a white paint job and partially covered-up headlights. The tuner has fitted both BMWs with body kits, new rims, sport exhaust, and a lowered suspension system. Finally, a Hamann-tuned Mercedes-Benz G65 AMG " Spyridon " is finished in a special paint the tuner claims will glow with a small application of voltage. Hamann also tweaked the G65's twin-turbo V-12 with a new ECU and exhaust system, boosting output to 693 hp and 819 lb-ft of torque, up from 603 hp and 737 lb-ft. The powertrain mods are also available for the G63 AMG, which increases the twin-turbo 5.5-liter V-8's power from 536 hp and 516 lb-ft to 632 hp and 645 lb-ft. Visual modifications include 24-inch rims, carbon-fiber mirror housings and hood, and triple exhaust tips. Source: Hamann | 9 | 1,181 | autos |
The 2013 Chicago Auto Show may not have been terribly exciting from a new product standpoint, but there's still plenty of sheetmetal to see, especially if you weren't at Los Angeles or Detroit. Here's our list of the top 10 things you should check out if you visit the show during the public days: 1. 2014 Chevrolet Corvette and Ford Atlas Concept The two Detroit auto show stars are here and both are worth checking out in the flesh, particularly the sharp-looking Vette. 2. Chrysler's Stand Once again, Chrysler has taken up a huge chunk of the South Hall and is providing brief drives in some of its freshest metal along with the obligatory short off-road course for Jeep. You can also get your retina slightly seared by the ultra-purple Dodge Challenger SRT8 Core. 3. Ram ProMaster While you're at Chrysler, check out the new Ram ProMaster. It may not be pretty and it certainly isn't a sports car, but, presuming they're unlocked for the public, you can spend a few minutes messing around with its trick rear doors (anyone with an engineering background will appreciate the hinge design) and pre-teen boys will enjoy sitting in the driver's seat pretending to be bus drivers. 4. Kia Forte Hatchback and Cross GT Concept Kia's two show debuts are both are cool in their own way. Unfortunately, the automaker only has one Forte Hatchback on display and you can't get in and mess around with it just yet, but the car is still worth checking out. While you're there, you can also take a gander at the Superman Kia Optima and the cut-out Hamstars. 5. Ford's Stand Though Ford didn't have anything particularly significant to show -- limiting its new hardware to the Fiesta ST RallyCross Car and the Focus TrackSTer -- there's still some fun to be had at the Blue Oval's large stand. Two highlights include the ST Simulator and the truck display. The ST Simulator, predictably, simulates the experience of driving a Focus ST or Fiesta ST while the truck display has some police and fire vehicles that'll certainly appeal to the future cops and firefighters, and there's even an F-Series rigged up as a cherry picker. 6. Nissan's Stand There are four Nissans in particularly to look at, and you can easily swing by on your way from Ford and Chrysler. The four are the Nismo Juke (which, by virtue of being more sporty, is less ugly), the Nismo 370Z , 2014 GT-R Track that dispenses with the rear seats, and the diminutive Nissan NV200 commercial van . 7. Corvettes and Camaros Aside from all the examples you'll find at the Chevrolet stand, there's a copious amount of Bowtie sports cars of all eras to be found in the back of the South Hall behind the Toyota Test Track. Local show-goers will particularly appreciate the red-and-black Blackhawks Camaro, though fans of other Original Six NHL teams will have to resist the urge to engage in vandalism. 8. Supercar Garage Nestled in the back of the North Hall, near the Chevrolet stand, is what the show calls the "Supercar Garage," sponsored, curiously enough, by Comcast Business Class. Contents, include all sorts of exotica including a black Lamborghini Aventador, Rolls-Royce Ghost and several Aston Martins. 9. Classic Car Club Also nestled behind the Toyota Test Track is the Classic Car Club, which houses about a half-dozen oddball classics, the most notable of which is the tragically short lived mid-engine AMC AMX/3. Right next to this display, in a pen shared with Camaros and Corvettes, is a handful of pre-war cars, including a 1930 Model 733 Packard Roadster and a 1932 Chrysler Imperial. 10. Miscellaneous Automobilia Sprinkled throughout the convention center are a number of unique cars like the Mad Max-looking "Defiance" Dodge Charger, Turbo Chevrolet Camaro, "Walking Dead" Elantra Coupe , and others. You can read about all of them here in our related WOT post . | 9 | 1,182 | autos |
When the Volkswagen XL1 prototype was first shown at the Qatar Motor Show two years ago, it was painted in a futuristic silver paint. With plans for the diesel plug-in hybrid still in the works , the German automaker brought a pair of XL1 prototypes to Geneva this week: one painted red and one in white. The XL1 is motivated by a 47-hp, 0.8-liter turbo-diesel two-cylinder engine essentially half of the Euro-market 1.6-liter turbodiesel four-cylinder used in the Golf and Passat paired with a 27-hp electric motor. Power is routed to the rear wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. With a full charge on the lithium-ion battery pack, the XL1 can travel up to 50 miles in pure EV mode. A 220-volt outlet can recharge the battery in just over an hour. A small footprint (153 inches long, 65.6 inches wide, and 45.3 inches tall) and an extensive use of carbon fiber keeps weight to just 1795 pounds, according to VW. The XL1's slippery shape achieves a drag coefficient of just 0.189. The combination of the frugal drivetrain, small size, and aerodynamic shape add up to an impressive estimated 261 mpg rating and a range of nearly 700 miles. Just 8.3 hp is needed to cruise at 62 mph. The tradeoff for fuel economy comes at the expense of acceleration, with 0-62 mph taking 12.7 seconds and top speed limited to just 100 mph. Production of the Volkswagen XL1 is expected to begin soon at the former Karmann plant in Onsabruck, Germany, where Golf cabriolets and Porsche Boxsters are currently built. Volkswagen has kept mum on pricing, on-sale date, and annual production numbers, but we expect pricing to land around the $60,000 price point when it does go on sale. See photos of the red-hot hybrid from the 2013 Geneva Motor Show floor below. | 9 | 1,183 | autos |
High-end tuner Mansory will again exhibit its questionable taste at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show, bringing five customized models to the Swiss auto show. Among those cars is the Lamborghini Aventador-based Carbonado , which has been turbocharged to a whopping 1250 hp. Other Mansory vehicles at the show will include two versions of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class including the bright-yellow Mercedes shown above, an over-the-top Bentley Continental GT, and a modified Ferrari F12 Berlinetta making 775 hp. Carbonado Though we've seen Mansory's mostly-carbon fiber Lamborghini Aventador before, the tuner has squeezed even more power out of the supercar's V-12, bumping output to 1250 hp with help from an aftermarket twin-turbo setup. Other than that, the stealth-looking Carbonado appears mostly the same, still sporting carbon fiber body panels and forged alloy wheels with carbon fiber inlays. Gronos and Speranza They say you shouldn't mess with success, but Mansory thought it necessary to add its signature touch to the Mercedes-Benz G-Class' classic lines . The firm's vision resulted in two uniquely styled vehicles, including one bright yellow SUV and a custom G-Class cabrio (which happens to resemble a bloated Suzuki Sidekick convertible, even unmodified). The Mercedes SUV with its roof still intact is called the Gronos, which Mansory says derives its name from the Greek god of gods Kronos. The standard 5.5-liter twin-turbo V-8 of the G63 AMG has been tuned to 840 hp, up nearly 300 ponies from the stock 544 hp. Mansory says a performance-tuned version of the G65 AMG's twin-turbo 6.0-liter V-12 is in development. The car comes finished only in "Magic Yellow," and sports custom bodywork, unique headlights, and 23-inch alloy wheels. The Speranza cabrio takes a G500 Cabrio, and adds fender flare "wings" that extend the SUV's width by 20 mm. Mansory says the stock 385-hp 5.5-liter V-8 has been bumped up to 700 hp and 664 lb-ft of torque. The roofless sport ute also gets 24-inch alloy wheels, carbon fiber components, and a bespoke front grille. Stallone Not inspired by Rocky or Rambo, Mansory's Stallone is a modified Ferrari F12 Berlinetta . The tuner's last Stallone was based on the Ferrari 599, which like the Berlinetta was also front-engine. Mansory began by replacing some of the F12's exterior components with carbon fiber pieces, including a rear wing, front intake trim pieces, and rear diffuser. The biggest difference you'll notice between the Stallone and standard F12, however, is the revised front end, which is decidedly Enzo-like. Whether those design features fit on the F12 is a matter of personal taste. The 6.0-liter V-12 has been massaged to 775 hp, up 35 horses from stock. Sanguis Mansory applied its usual bag of tricks to the Bentley Continental GT to create the Sanguis. The coupe's most notable features are its contrasting carbon fiber hood, unique bodywork, and 22-inch multi-spoke wheels. Apart from the exterior modifications, Mansory also raised output of the Bentley's W-12 engine to 672 hp and 575 lb-ft, which the firm says is good enough for 0-62 mph in 4.5 seconds and a top speed of 200 mph. Stay tuned for more over-the-top Mansory action from the show floor at Geneva later this week. Source: Mansory | 9 | 1,184 | autos |
Honda has revealed the latest prototype of its Micro Commuter electric vehicle. We first saw the tiny EV at last year's Tokyo auto show when it was named the Small Sports EV Concept. This latest version, however, has shed some of the concept car's funky styling and appears more production ready. Honda says the Micro Commuter Prototype rides on a new Variable Design Platform, in which big items like the lithium-ion battery and motor are stuffed below and at the rear end of the car to maximize passenger and cargo room. The initial specs include a power rating of 20 hp and a maximum speed of about 50 mph. Range is limited to 37 miles, and the battery will need three hours of charge time to reach maximum capacity. Exterior dimensions are 98.4 x 49.2 x 56.9 inches. For comparison, the 2013 Honda Fit's entire wheelbase is 98.4 inches long. The 2013 Fit is 66.7 inches wide and 60.0 inches tall. Those numbers only emphasize the micro EV's purpose as a city car. Honda says the cabin will accommodate one driver up front and the back can either fit two children or one adult thanks to a reconfigurable seating system. The Micro Commuter Prototype will also be packed with technology including a tablet device that acts as an energy monitor, back-up camera display, audio, and navigation system. The prototype has roof-mounted solar cells to recharge the tablet's battery. No word if the head-up display from last year's concept has made it to this latest prototype. It's too soon to say if Honda will push this to production. We should know more after the automaker tests vehicles like the prototype pictured above, starting in 2013. Source: Honda | 9 | 1,185 | autos |
At the upcoming Tokyo Auto Salon, Toyota will show a variety of modified cars ranging from tweaked hybrids to full-on race cars. The first of the modified cars is a two-door Toyota Yaris hatchback (known as the Vitz in other markets) that Gazoo Racing has tweaked for race duty. Beneath the short hood, a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine sends 148 hp and 151 lb-ft of torque to the front wheels. Black aluminum wheels shod with race tires, stronger brakes, stiffer suspension, and chassis bracing is all meant to prepare the car for high-performance driving. The Yaris (as pictured at right) has a unique rear bumper, bucket seats, plus tweaked headlights and taillights to finish the new look. Gazoo also will show off its Sports FR Concept Platinum , a modified Toyota 86 with a tall rear wing and new wide-mouth front fascia. The result is that the car looks remarkably like Toyota's old Supra sports coupe. Beneath the new sheetmetal, Gazoo has upgraded the 2.0-liter flat-four engine with a supercharger and a turbocharger. Speaking of the 86 coupe, four other tuners will show off their takes on the new two-door. The 86 x Style Cb wears an odd, rounded nose; new bulbous headlights; and a two-tone cream-on-black paint job. The 86 Modellista simply wears a new body kit and larger wheels; a giant lower fascia now sports L-shaped blue running lights and is finished by a pavement-skimming lip. The 86 TRD Griffon is designed for racing, with an aggressive front splitter, larger rear wing, race tires mounted on black six-spoke wheels, and plastic windows. Finally, the TOM'S N086V is dressed up with curious wheels with spokes at 90-degree angles, new side skirts, and a different front fascia with a larger lower grille and more angular foglight surrounds. In addition, Toyota plans to show the Aqua G Sports, a modified version of the small hybrid we know here in the U.S. as the Prius C . Promising that "hybrid technology is no barrier to creating eye-popping custom concepts," tuner G Sports has installed sportier suspension pieces, chassis bracing, as well as aesthetic upgrades like black wheels and an enormous black front grille with L-shaped LED running lights. G Sports also has modified Toyota's Japanese-market Mark X sedan by adding a carbon-fiber roof panel. After all those road-going models, Toyota's stand at the Tokyo Auto Salon will also feature two racing cars from longtime partner Gazoo Racing. Both a Lexus LFA and Toyota GT86 will enter this year's 24 Hours of Nürburgring endurance race -- marking the seventh consecutive year that Gazoo has competed in the grueling event. Source: Toyota | 9 | 1,186 | autos |
Show floor update: "We're taking a holistic approach with the Nismo Juke, " said Simon Sproule, Nissan's Corporate Vice President, Global Marketing Communications at the 2013 Chicago Auto Show. That means the Nismo-fied Juke's 100 revised components account for 37 percent more downforce than the garden-variety Juke. On sale in March, enthusiasts can also look forward to a higher-spec Nismo Juke RS in the near future, though Nissan execs were mum on more details. Meanwhile, the 370Z Nismo also looked sharp, and will go on sale this summer. Nissan's performance wing Nismo ( Nis san Mo torsports) is expanding its lineup, launching a performance-oriented version of the Juke crossover at this year's Chicago Auto Show along with the 2014 Nissan 370Z Nismo. Offering more power and even more radical styling, the Juke Nismo is intended to expand the Nismo brand in major markets around the world. Nismo has been in the U.S. for a few years now , so we wondered what kind of expansion Nissan had in mind. "Nismo is a brand that will be applied to multiple vehicles," Nissan spokesman Dan Passe told us. "Sort of an integral brand…comparable to [Ford's] SVT." Passe went on to say Nismo vehicles won't necessarily be about all-out power, but more of a well-rounded performance package, scoring such upgrades as larger brakes, aero kits, and tuned suspension and steering systems. "While Nismo means something to a lot of us, [whether it's] motorsports, parts, or accessories , it's going to mean even more [soon]." Nismo's tuning philosophy is apparent in the 2013 Juke Nismo, which receives a horsepower bump, steering and suspension tweaks, and a sportier exterior look. A turbocharged 1.6-liter I-4 still powers the Juke, but is tuned to 197 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque (up from the standard model's 188 hp and 177 lb-ft). The Juke Nismo is offered in front- or all-wheel drive, with the six-speed manual transmission again only offered on front-drive models. Opt for all-wheel drive, however, and the Juke gets a Nismo-tuned CVT transmission with paddle shifters. Nismo also tuned the Juke's suspension and electric power-assisted steering system for better response and roll control. Read our First Drive of a European-Spec 2013 Nissan Juke Nismo here . Changes to the Juke Nismo's exterior include unique front and rear fascias with red stripes on the bumpers, a mesh lower grille with chrome insert, LED accent lights, red-striped Nismo side skirts, body-color fender flares, smoked headlights, Nismo roof spoiler, Nismo badging, and 18-inch alloy wheels. Inside, the model gets exclusive Nismo seats with more bolster support, Nismo embroidery, and red stitching, a leather- and Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel, and a Nismo badge on the painted center console. Also launching in Chicago is the 2014 Nissan 370Z Nismo , which gets slight exterior and interior changes. The higher-performance coupe is still powered by a 350-hp 3.7-liter V-6 , and a close-ratio six-speed manual is still the only transmission choice for the Nismo variant. For 2014, the 370Z Nismo receives new dark gray accents on the front and rear fascias, lower side sills, exterior mirrors, and Nismo rear spoiler. With the exception of the side sills, each of those pieces also sport Nismo's characteristic red pinstripes. An Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel and red Nismo tachometer are new interior additions. The same performance enhancements that made the last 370Z Nismo a potent sports car return, including the tuned suspension, stiffer stabilizer bars, front strut tower brace, forged 19-inch Rays alloy wheels, and Nismo Sport Brakes. The 370Z Nismo's lengthened front end and integrated chin spoiler make it 6.2 inches longer than a standard Z , while aero bits like the side sills and sculpted rear bumper help route airflow beneath the car. Both cars debut at the 2013 Chicago Auto Show. For all the latest news, photos, videos, and much more direct from the 2013 Chicago auto show floor, don't forget to CLICK OVER to our 2013 Chicago show coverage page . Source: Nissan | 9 | 1,187 | autos |
On day one of the 83rd annual Geneva Auto Show, I spoke with McLaren design chief Frank Stephenson on his new P1 supercar . An hour later, I ran into him at Ferrari's busy booth where he and P1 program chief engineer Paul Mackenzie were taking a close look at the LaFerrari flagship. Motor Trend : What are your first impressions? Frank Stephenson : I think it's pretty good actually. I heard all kinds of rumors and likes and dislikes...and these cars should be like that anyways. But I think it's very nice. They've made a Ferrari out of it, which is good. Definitely moving on from the Enzo. This looks like a real Ferrari! I do like it...beautiful sculpture... Read more about the LaFerrari: Ferrari LaFerrari First Look FS : [Pointing to an arc along the rear flank] I don't agree with that line because it doesn't do anything. That's something we would have never done at McLaren. That line has no reason to be there. MT : How did you get in here? FS : [Laughs] I walked in! I used to work here! MT : Yeah, but how did you get [Paul McKenzie] in here? FS : I asked Luca! Interestingly enough, later that night, I was chatting with Robert Cumberford, Automobile magazine's automotive design editor, about the cars we had seen at the show and he echoed Stephenson's thoughts on the Ferrari - including his dislike of the character line on the flank. Great designers do think alike. For more on the Ferrari LaFerrari and McLaren P1 , read our Geneva Motor Show First Looks. | 9 | 1,188 | autos |
The growing commercial vehicle segment will see another contender in April when the 2013 Nissan NV200 arrives in showrooms with a base price of $20,835 (including destination). Nissan released all the details on its newest commercial van at the 2013 Chicago auto show. The 2013 NV200 is cheaper and much smaller than the Titan-based NV2500 and NV3500 commercial vans that entered the U.S. market over a year ago. Nissan says the smaller van will hold up to 122.7 cubic feet of cargo, and a low floor height of just 19.5 inches should make it relatively easy to load and unload the goods. The sole powertrain is a 2.0-liter, naturally aspirated I-4 rated at 131 hp and 139 lb-ft of torque; Power is sent to the front wheels via Nissan's latest continuously variable transmission and the automaker says the van should achieve 24 mpg combined and 24/25 mpg city/highway. Nissan is currently testing an electric version of the NV fitted with a modified version of the Leaf's powertrain, but the automaker hasn't officially green-lighted the zero-emissions NV200 for production. The NV200 will be available in S or SV trim levels. Both will come standard with 15-inch steel wheels, brake assist, power windows, 12-volt power outlet, a 6-way adjustable driver's seat, and tire pressure monitoring system. The SV model adds cruise control, cargo tie-down hooks, steering wheel-mounted infotainment buttons, power adjustable side view mirrors, power door locks, and remote keyless entry. Options like navigation and a backup camera are available on the SV model. The cabin can also be transformed into a mobile office thanks to items like laptop storage, pen and pencil holders, and a passenger seat that turns into a table when the backrest is folded flat. Once the NV200 arrives, it will compete against the Ford Transit Connect, which was first offered to Americans back in 2010. However, an all-new 2014 Transit Connect is set to arrive this fall with a long list of features including two wheelbase choices and two engine offerings a turbocharged 1.6-liter turbocharged I-4 and a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder. Ford hasn't released official power figures, but we predict the former will produce 170 hp and the latter should put out 178 hp. Ford is also confident that certain variants of the Transit Connect will achieve 30 mpg on the highway. Ram hopes to cash in on the segment by offering a Fiat Doblo-based van in the U.S., which could arrive in showrooms by the end of this year. Following the NV200's arrival this April, Nissan's new van will serve as New York's official taxi starting this October. Nissan is currently performing durability test on the NV200 taxi, which is at the center of a controversial lawsuit involving city officials and taxi operators. For all the latest news, photos, videos, and much more direct from the 2013 Chicago auto show floor, don't forget to CLICK OVER to our 2013 Chicago show coverage page . Source: Nissan | 9 | 1,189 | autos |
Bentley CEO Wolfgang Schreiber minced no words during the reveal of the new Flying Spur at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. After taking the stage, he opened by stating "Bentley is the number-one luxury car maker in the world" and then called for the sheet to be pulled back on the new Flying Spur only a few seconds later. As you'd expect, Bentley claims the Flying Spur is improved over its predecessor in almost every way. It's slightly wider, lower, and longer with a more raked profile contributing to 0.29 drag coefficient. It's a bit lighter, yet has a more powerful 6.0-liter W-12 engine that makes 616 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque. This makes it the most powerful four-door Bentley in history, above even the Flying Spur Speed. The reduced weight and increase in powers means a 14 percent improvement in power-to-weight ratio, and 0-60 mph time of 4.3 seconds. Top speed is a claimed 200 mph. The Flying Spur doesn't disappoint when it comes to luxury features, either. Thirty square feet of sustainably sourced wood veneers are used in the interiors as well as countless premium cowhides dyed 12 different shades. Features like 14-way adjustable seats, an 8-inch touch-screen display in the center console, and an optional 1100 watt Naim audio system are the kind of luxury touches you'd expect from Bentley. The Flying Spur is also a showcase of new technology. Mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets can be connected to the internet while on the go, via the car's onboard Wi-Fi system (technology pioneered at Volkswagen group mate Audi). For more on the 2014 Bentley Flying Spur, read our First Look here . Rear-seat passengers now benefit from a variety of luxuries as well, including enormous headrest-mounted television screens and a variety of A/V inputs, beautifully veneered flip-down picnic tables -- even an optional, mini refrigerator hidden between the seats. A new touch-screen remote control stored in the rear console is another high-tech touch, providing wireless access to the climate control, seat heating/cooling, navigation, and the multimedia systems. Or, digitally savvy passengers can download an app that provides the same control via iPhone and Android smartphones Fuel economy is an estimated 12/20 mpg city/highway; the 2013 model is EPA-rated at 11/19 mpg. The international launch of the new Flying Spur will take place in May in the capital city of the car's most important market: Beijing. We'll be on hand to issue a full report. Stay tuned. For all the latest news, photos, videos, and much more direct from the 2013 Geneva Motor Show floor, don't forget to CLICK OVER to our 2013 Geneva show coverage page . | 9 | 1,190 | autos |
Subaru used the Geneva Motor Show to reveal a futuristic crossover concept that previews the future of the brand's styling and engineering. The Subaru Viziv, for "Vision for Innovation," advances the company's design language and presents a new diesel-hybrid powertrain. The two-door, four-place Viziv looks nothing like any existing Subaru. Its roofline terminates in a spoiler and leads to a steeply raked rear window. Bracket-shaped headlights on either side of the prominent front grille are reprised as skinny taillights on the liftgate. A scalloped edge and a prominent character crease define the doors. There is but a single main window for both rows of seats, with a small quarter-window behind the door. The cabin, too, has a decidedly futuristic look that begins with a wide display screen spanning the entire width of the dashboard. Blue lighting, blue accents for the steering wheel and seats, and a twin-binnacle instrument cluster give the Subaru Viziv a typical show-car appearance. Because there is no propshaft to the rear axles (more on that in a second), the floor is totally flat and thus, Subaru claims, four adults can ride comfortably. The Viziv concept uses a new powertrain called Subaru Boxer Diesel Hybrid, which consists of a 2.0-liter turbodiesel flat-four engine , a lithium-ion battery pack, and three electric motors. One electric motor is connected to the engine and continuously variable transmission, while the other two drive the rear wheels to provide Subaru's signature all-wheel drive. The electric motors assist the diesel engine at low speed to improve power and reduce fuel consumption, but the diesel engine is the primary motivator at highway speeds. If it went into production, this would be Subaru's first hybrid powertrain. Using two motors for the rear axle means Subaru can also provide torque vectoring, shifting more electrical power to the outside wheel during cornering. This can improve handling at speed, and Subaru says it could also allow for tighter turning radii in city driving. "This is our future-generation crossover concept," Fuji Heavy Industries president Yasuyuki Yoshinaga said in a speech at the Geneva show. "It embodies our vision of Subaru's future." In other words, expect to see toned-down versions of this styling and technology implemented in future production cars. For all the latest news, photos, videos, and much more direct from the 2013 Geneva Motor Show floor, don't forget to CLICK OVER to our 2013 Geneva show coverage page . Source: Subaru | 9 | 1,191 | autos |
The 2013 Geneva Motor Show might be most notable for unleashing the new Ferrari LaFerrari , Lamborghini Veneno, and production-ready McLaren P1 on the world, but there were also quite a few obscure, oddball, and plain weird cars shown at the show, including an Italian interpretation of the C6 Chevrolet Corvette, a Spanish take on the SRT Viper, and some rare Amphibious cars. Soleil Motors Anadi From t he "What were they thinking?" department, I bring you the Soleil Motors' reboot of a C6 Corvette. Yes, you read it right these Milanese geniuses are entering the market with a car based on one that's left it. The company supposedly buys just chassis and engines, but I see plenty of gauges and so forth. All panels are handmade and the interior is all bespoke (was it our constant harping on the C6 interior that inspired this little enterprise?). They have sufficient C6 stock to make 25 cars this year, selling each for 225,000 euros (about $292,000 U.S.). The first one, finished in sparkle gold paint that doesn't photograph well, is headed for Dubai. Frank Markus Spania GTA Spano Quick, name this Spanish supercar from the home of paella! Give up? It's the Spania GTA Spano, a mid-engine monster motivated by a twin-turbocharged Viper V-10 making a claimed 900 hp and 738 lb-ft of torque. Only 99 will be made, and we hear the company has a dealer arranged in the U.S., but don't hold your breath. Frank Markus Italdesign Giugiaro Brivido Somewhat upstaged by the all-wheel-drive Lambo-V-10-powered Parcour , Italdesign Giugiaro also had this sleek-looking Brivido plug-in hybrid at the Geneva show. The Brivido is a true GT with room for four and luggage. It's motivated by the same supercharged 3.0-liter V-6 in parent company VW's Touareg Hybrid (not to mention the Porsche Cayenne and Panamera hybrids). The V-6 is paired with an electric motor/generator and an eight-speed automatic, making the Brivido good for 360 hp and 339 lb-ft of torque, which should motivate it from 0-62 mph in 5.8 seconds, with a top speed of 171 mph. 1965 Ferrari Dino 206GT Prototype Que Bella! This is the same 1965 (Ferrari) Dino 206GT concept that debuted at the 1965 Paris show. This Aldo Brovarone-penned car was the last seen by Pinin Farina's founder before he passed. It graced Pininfarina's Geneva stand this year, overshadowing the new Pininfarina Sergio concept , which struggled to upstage this beauty. Frank Markus Amphibious Cars Who doesn't love amphibious cars? There was a huge display of them at the show. Ranging from the obscure (like the Croco ), to the purely conceptual, like the Rinspeed Splash, which used hydrofoils to allow it to hit 45 knots on the water. Also present was the famous Amphicar 770 , and the Volkswagen Type 166 , better known to most as World War II Germany's Schwimmwagen . Which oddball car is your favorite ? In case you missed it, check out our full Geneva coverage here . | 9 | 1,192 | autos |
Toyota kicked off the 2013 Chicago Auto show by announcing substantial updates to its Tundra truck. Along with new styling inside and out plus updated ergonomics and electronics, the 2014 Tundra receives two premium trim levels above Limited: Platinum and 1794 Edition. The latter attempts to establish a link to America's farming roots ( paging Paul Harvey ) and take market share currently dominated by Ford and its fancy F-150 King Ranch editions. Why 1794? That's the founding year of the ranch upon which Toyota Motor Manufacturing Company Texas sits. How do they stack up? 2013 Ford F-150 King Ranch Name : King Ranch Founded : 1853 Founder : Captain Richard King, Steamboat pilot Location : South Texas Size : 825,000 acres/1,300 square miles (bigger than the state of Rhode Island) Truck connection : When Ford first started the King Ranch trim level, rumor has it all of premium leathers were sourced from King Ranch. Powertrain (EcoBoost V-6 optional): 5.0L V-8 - 360 hp at 5500 rpm, 380 lb-ft at 4250 rpm, 6ATurbo 3.5L V-6 - 365 hp at 5000 rpm, 420 lb-ft at 2500 rpm, 6A 2014 Toyota Tundra 1794 Edition Name : JLC Ranch (El Rancho de la Purisima Concepcion) Founded : 1794 Founder : Juan Ignacio de Casanova, former Texas governor Location : San Antonio, Texas Size : 24,000 acres originally, under 5000 acres today Truck connection : Toyota builds all Tundra and Tacomas at a factory built on the JLC Ranch. Powertrain (Expected for 1794 Edition): 5.7L V-8 - 381 hp at 5600 rpm, 401 lb-ft at 3400 rpm, 6A So who is the winner? Although Toyota's ranch was established earlier and has a $1.2-billion state-of-the-art manufacturing plant within its fences, Ford's King Ranch dominates the market when it comes to the premium truck sector. | 9 | 1,193 | autos |
You've read the Toyota Avalon/Hyundai Azera/Nissan Maxima comparison , voted in our poll , and even read about the cars' backseat comfort -- but how do the full-size sedans perform with insurance costs? Here at CoverHound we have nailed down the insurance aspect of this comparison. As it relates to vehicles, insurers factor in the following four characteristics to calculate pricing: safety ratings, rates of theft, cost to replace parts, and damage susceptibility. So which 2013 model came up on top in this comparison? The data below controls for driver variables such as education, age, accident history, credit, and geography. As you can see, the 2013 Maxima is significantly costlier to insure than the Azera and Avalon. This difference is almost certainly driven by the higher theft rates of the Maxima: NHTSA data from 2010 shows that the Maxima had theft rates of more than double that of the Azera or Avalon. Over the four years of data we looked at, the Avalon was consistently the cheapest to insure of the three. Perhaps the most interesting finding was the change in how insurers priced the Avalon with the redesigned 2013 model. We typically observe a 2-4 percent increase in insurance premiums across our carriers with each new year of a given model. With the Avalon, we actually observed a 3-percent drop in premium for 2013 versus 2012! This may be partly attributable to Toyota's Smart Stop braking technology that comes standard on every 2013 Avalon -- the feature prevents any unintended acceleration episodes like those that plagued the automaker in numerous high-profile recalls. If there's one lesson to learn here, it is that automotive technology can help dispel the corollary that insurance bills must increase with the purchase of a new vehicle. About the data: Data uses nationwide average across CoverHound carriers for each vehicle with following driver profile: average credit, currently insured, age 30, no accidents or violations, single, male, renter. The rates generated assume full coverage on vehicle and 100/300 bodily injury limits. | 9 | 1,194 | autos |
If you think Lamborghini isn't moving fast enough in bringing to life the Urus SUV , Italdesign Giugiaro presents the Parcour. Powered by a 550-hp 10-cylinder engine from Lamborghini, the mid-engined, four-wheel-drive two-door is presented at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show as a coupe and convertible. Marking Italdesign's 45 years in business, the Parcour is named after parkour enthusiasts. "The purpose of parkour is to move around as efficiently as possible," said Fabrizio Giugiaro, in a release. "By efficiently I mean: simply, quickly, and safely, which are characteristic features of our car." We're not so sure there's anything simple about the two Parcour cars featured in the gallery below, but it's hard to argue with an estimated 0-62 mph sprint in 3.6 seconds. The car has four driver-selectable settings that affect the ride height and the engine setup. The settings are optimized for comfort, off-roading, winter conditions, and track driving. The Parcour clearly has styling ties to current Lamborghinis, but adds an A-pillar that's detached from the front windshield. As with the detached rear pillar, the design has an impact on aerodynamics and, of course, curb appeal. In the exterior design, the Parcour reminds us a little of the Lancia Stratos . Beneath those carbon fiber doors that open upward, the two passengers sit close together, and in true concept car style, cameras replace the side and rear-view mirrors. The Parcour's seats may be fixed in place, but the steering wheel and pedals are adjustable. Since this is a GT, Italdesign says three bags can fit in the space behind the seats. The Parcour rides on an advanced suspension Italdesign calls "pushrod 2.0," so heavy bumps and badly paved roads shouldn't present a problem. If you're already building a car as crazy as the Parcour, why not also introduce a convertible variant? That car, officially called the Parcour Roadster, has a mountable ski rack with custom Giugiaro Design skis, and is shown in white below. What do you think of the Italdesign Giugiaro Parcour concepts? Source: Italdesign Giugiaro | 9 | 1,195 | autos |
The Lamborghini Aventador is proving to be a great start point for special variants and low-volume models. We recently sampled the 2013 Lamborghini Aventador Roadster , and let's not forget the one-off Aventador J speedster that stole the spotlight at last year's Geneva motor show . Now, the Italian returns to Geneva with another Aventador-based debut: the Lamborghini Veneno, a three-unit exotic that was named after a bull that killed a matador during a fight in 1914. Lamborghini Veneno drivers could face the same fate if they're not careful. The special exotic has a claimed 221-mph top speed and though Lamborghini hasn't released any acceleration figures, we're confident it will run from 0-60 mph in under 3 seconds. Power comes from the same 6.5-liter naturally aspirated mid-mounted V-12 found in the Aventador hardtop, but the Veneno gains 49 horses for a total output of 740 hp. The boost in power comes courtesy of bigger intake paths, improved thermodynamics, and a tweaked exhaust system. Slight modifications were also made to the seven-speed single-clutch transmission, all-wheel-drive system, and pushrod suspension system. The Veneno manages to look even more menacing than the Aventador, thanks to a number of dramatic mods made to its carbon-fiber chassis and body panels. The front end, for example, is dominated by gaping lower air dams, an angular lip spoiler, and headlight units that extend well into the middle of the front fenders. The side profile still features the Aventador's signature engine air scoops situated behind the scissor doors and the large wheels (20 inches at front and 21 inches at the rear) have a carbon-fiber ring the automaker says "works like a turbine" to help cool the carbon-ceramic brakes. Around back, a shark-like fin runs down the length of the engine cover and intersects with the high carbon-fiber spoiler. If that weren't crazy enough, the taillights and rear diffuser are comprised of a dizzying amount of triangular body panels. Lamborghini also made generous use of carbon-fiber for its interior , including the seat frame and the seating surfaces (a "supple" material dubbed CarbonSkin). While the Veneno appears to be a track-only special, Lamborghini says it is completely street legal. But spotting one on your local road may be next to impossible since only three copies are slated for production, with each carrying a price tag of about $3.9 million (put your checkbook away because all three are spoken for). All three Venenos will sport grey metallic paint, but each will receive a different accent color -- red, white, or green to represent the colors of Italy's national flag. The Veneno displayed at the show, however, will feature accent stripes with all three colors. The show vehicle isn't for sale and will likely remain as Lamborghini's display and test vehicle. Lamborghini hasn't hinted at what the Veneno may preview (if anything), but a lightweight Aventador Superleggera seems like a logical next step. Source: Lamborghini | 9 | 1,196 | autos |
To commemorate the end of the Volkswagen GTI's sixth generation, two special-edition hot hatches debut at the 2013 Chicago Auto Show: the 2013 GTI Wolfsburg Edition and the 2013 GTI Driver's Edition. Both GTIs will be limited to just the four-door body style and three paint colors: Candy White, Carbon Steel Gray, and Deep Black. Based on the standard Volkswagen GTI, the GTI Wolfsburg Edition adds 18-inch "Laguna" alloy wheels, a retro golf ball shifter knob, and red-stitched floormats. The production run is limited to 2000 examples and will go on sale the first quarter of 2013. Cars with the six-speed manual transmission start at $25,890 (including destination), while the six-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic adds $1100 to the base price. Read more about the GTI: 2014 Volkswagen GTI Concept from 2012 Paris Motor Show GTI Driver's Edition models are based on the GTI Sunroof and Navigation trim and feature the same 18-inch "Laguna" alloy wheels, retro golf ball shifter knob, and red-stitched floormats. 18-inch "Laguna" alloy wheels, retro golf ball shifter knob, and red-stitched floormats as the Wolfsburg Edition, as well as partial leather seating surfaces. Also included with the GTI Driver's Edition is a certificate of authenticity, a special package of GTI gear that includes a hat, keychain, and parking sign. The GTI Driver's Edition will arrive during the second quarter of 2013 with manual transmission cars starting at $30,490 and DSG models starting $31,590. A run of 3000 GTI Driver's Edition models is planned. After the next-generation Volkswagen Golf starts production in Mexico , a GTI model is expected to be unveiled with more power than the current car, lighter curb weight, and new safety technology. For all the latest news, photos, videos, and much more direct from the 2013 Chicago auto show floor, don't forget to CLICK OVER to our 2013 Chicago show coverage page . Gallery shows the 2013 Volkswagen GTI Driver's Edition along with the 2014 Volkswagen GTI concept. | 9 | 1,197 | autos |
Dutch automaker Spyker is planning a big comeback that hinges on its new Aston Martin V8 Vantage - and Porsche 911-fighter , a concept of which debuts at the Geneva Motor Show. Dubbed the Spyker B6 Venator concept, The Wall Street Journal reports this mid-engined sports car will go on sale with a price in the $150,000 range. Named for the Latin word for "hunter," the new Spyker B6 Venator couldn't be mistaken for anything but a Spyker. Up front, the B6 Venator sports new LED accents, Spyker's signature V-mesh grille, and "Spyker" written in a similar script that graced the company's 1903 60 HP race car. Like the Spyker C8 and C12, the Venator pays tribute to Spyker's aircraft manufacturer heritage with an airplane-inspired interior. The aluminum and leather interior features the automaker's signature exposed gear change mechanism, as well as an engine start button hidden under a red cover. Powering the B6 Venator will be a mid-mounted V-6 that's mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The V-6 is said to make about 375 hp, though no other engine specs are available. Given Spyker's history of using Audi-sourced powertrains, we suspect the Venator is powered by Audi's 3.0-liter supercharged V-6, which makes 333 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque in the S5 . The Spyker B6 Venator features a carbon fiber body that sits on an aluminum chassis. Given the lightweight materials and small dimensions, the report says the B6 will weigh less than 3080 pounds which, coincidentally, is just about the same as Porsche's claimed curb weight for a base-model 2013 911 with the PDK automatic transmission. Flush with cash thanks to a partnership with Chinese automaker Youngman Lotus , the B6 Venator will likely join the D8 Peking-to-Paris SUV as one of two new Spykers set to debut in 2014. Source: The Wall Street Journal | 9 | 1,198 | autos |
German supercar manufacturer, Porsche tuner, and restorer Ruf Automobile GmbH arrived in Geneva with plenty of heavily modified Porsches including a Boxster with 911 muscle. The automaker made news with the announcement of an investment and cooperative agreement signed with investment group GENII Capital with that group's founding partner Gerard Lopez owner of the Lotus F1 team becoming non-executive chairman of the board. Alois Ruf hopes to leverage the arrangement to help his group "undertake a major technological push," adding that this liaison with an F1 partner will help further propel the company in the direction of high-technology supercars (an area Ruf has already explored with electric high-performance models), as the brand grows with recent expansions into China and Thailand. 1964 901 Ruf had a large presence on the main show floor at Geneva this year, highlighting the breadth of its range of products and services, starting with a gorgeous Porsche 901. This freshly restored example was on hand to celebrate the 50 th anniversary of the model quickly renamed 911 after Peugeot enforced a French trademark on three-digit names with a zero in the middle. Ruf has a full restoration shop that has undertaken refurbishment of several of the original 82 901s built, of which this was the 18 th . 3800 S Here is the car I've been clamoring for Porsche to offer, but which the automaker apparently never will: a proper mid-engined Boxster or Cayman with full 911 muscle. Porsche engineers have mumbled about structural problems with this, but Ruf proves them wrong, easily shoehorning the 3.8-liter, 414-hp, 332-lb-ft flat-six and a seven-speed PDK transmission into either model. Rt 35 Roadster Speaking of cars Porsche can't, won't, or hasn't built yet, here's the first twin-turbo convertible body offered on the new 991 architecture. Choose rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, six-speed manual or seven-speed PDK transmission of your 621 hp and 610 lb-ft. Air intakes atop the rear fenders and Ruf wheels are the only clues to this stealthy Rt35's Rufness. (The coupe body style is also offered.) Rt 35 S Paying homage to the legacy of the original Ruf Yellowbird, this S model adds 20 hp to the standard Rt 35 package, and the coupe gets an integral roll cage incorporated in the bodywork while preserving everyday usefulness. The cage improves torsional rigidity, for improved handling. The rear wing provides greater downforce, for improved high-speed handling. Rt 12 R This competition-oriented model is still based on the 997, but remains available. Lightened weight, the integrated roll cage, more advanced aerodynamics, and a lift system to help the aggressive front airdam clear driveways and such are part of the package. In this installation, the 3746cc six produces 740 hp and 708 lb-ft. RGT-8 To me, the most impressive offering in Ruf's 911-based line is the RGT-8, which manages to install a compact, lightweight, four-cam, hemi-head, dry-sump V-8 in place of the standard flat-six with very little modification of the existing body structure. Designed, developed, and manufactured entirely in-house at Ruf, this naturally aspirated 4499cc wonder produces 542 hp and 370 lb-ft. Two were delivered in 997 bodywork, and delivery of 991-based cars is expected in August. CTR 3 Clubsport The CTR 3 is entirely manufactured by Ruf, with styling that apes the LeMans racers of the 50s and 60s. This Clubsport variant gets extra carbon embellishments on the wheel arches, sills, and engine lid, and it gets a "Mohawk" air intake running over the roof. Its 3.8-liter six makes 766 hp and 723 lb-ft of torque. For price and availability, contact Ruf's U.S. distributor, Grand Sport LLC at 248-304-9091, or grandsport-michigan.com | 9 | 1,199 | autos |
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