Sam Hubinette filming Gallardo drifting commercial for Lamborghini

He usually spends his time behind the wheel of a Dodge Charger, but recently Samuel Hübinette made an exchange for something with a lower roofline. Lamborghini asked him to take a seat in a 2009 Gallardo for the filming of a European-market commercial set on the streets of Los Angeles and Palm Springs. Blowing tire smoke for the camera is nothing new to Sam since his blue Mopar-mobile has been featured in many a BF Goodrich tire commercial. Unlike the Charger though, the Gallardo isn't quite the towering elephant. It is also equipped with all wheel drive, a feature that requires a bit more driving finesse in order to pull off an extended slide. Look for the spot to hit YouTube sometime in the not too distant future.

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Mazda Biante: JDM-only seating for eight

Meet the Biante, Mazda's new Japan-only 8-passenger minivan. The funky oversized headlamps, expansive greenhouse, and stylish frenched taillamps are the work of Iwao Koizumi, designer of the original Atenza (Mazda6 outside Japan) and CX-7.

Mazda announced the Biante earlier this week, and details are still a bit thin thin. According to the automaker, the new people-mover's name is derived from the word "ambient" and will deliver the most interior space in its class when it goes on sale later this summer. We expect to learn more technical info then, but in the meantime, we've got a promo video after the jump as well as a high-res photo gallery below.

If you can read Japanese, you can also stop by the official Biante website, which features a bunch of Gumby-like characters that represent a family of seven, plus one dog -- all of whom should fit in the new ride. You know, if they were real people. It's all very Japanese.

All New Mazda Biante
by Sports Cars

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Saab halts next 9-3 development, may radically downsize next-gen

Tougher emissions and fuel economy regulations in Europe and the United States have forced Saab to put the brakes on development of the next-generation 9-3. The current Saab 9-3 is built on GM's Epsilon platform (shared with the Opel Vectra, Chevrolet Malibu, and Pontiac G6). The next-gen model was set to be based on the longer and wider GM Epsilon II platform (used for the 2009 Saab 9-5). However, Saab and parent company General Motors are considering radically downsizing the model to fit GM's upcoming 'Global premium compact' platform - a size rivaling the Audi A3.

GM design sources told Autocar that a smaller chassis would dictate new technologies to maximize interior room. These would include a slim modular roof assembly and slimmer doors with advanced side-impact technology. General Motors has also hinted that the new 9-3 could be manufactured in the United States. Many European automakers are feeling the impact a weak dollar is having on profits and, like BMW, are moving or increasing production in the States.

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Ferrari GT will be revealed in a few days

A new Ferrari Grand Tourer is in the offing and, in an innovative move, will be revealed to the fans and enthusiasts in a non-traditional way. In the build-up to the new model’s official unveiling at the Paris Auto Show next October, we’ll be revealing it bit by bit on the dedicated www.ferrarigtcountdown.com site which can also be accessed through the official Ferrari portal at www.ferrariworld.com.

Visitors to the site will be guided through a sensory voyage of discovery which, over the coming weeks, will gradually reveal the new car in its entirety and feature some highly gratifying virtual road tests too.

The new site launches today and begins that voyage of discovery with the sense of sound. The roar of the new GT’s engine will be the first bit of it to be revealed to enthusiasts, in fact, and will be followed over the next few days by the first photographs of this eagerly-awaited car whose name will also be revealed.

This is the first time that the Prancing Horse has used this virtual voyage of discovery approach which will allow it illustrate various aspects of the new GT model’s design and the many, many technological innovations that it sports.

Updates and additions to the site will continue until the Paris Show. To ensure that you are kept constantly abreast of the new content being revealed, simply register with the site and then experience these sneak previews of this latest gorgeous Ferrari creation.

This new approach to unveiling the car will naturally also be flanked by more traditional encounters involving the release of photographs and, of course, the Paris Show. It is, in fact, just one part of a highly focused strategy that puts the web at centre stage as an instant, privileged communications channel through which Ferrari can keep in constant contact with its burgeoning numbers of fans and enthusiasts worldwide.

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Cadillac CTS-V did the Nurburgring in 7:59

In testing this morning at Germany’s Nurburgring, Cadillac’s upcoming new 2009 CTS-V completed a lap of the legendary Nordschleife in 7:59.32. This blistering time appears to be the fastest ever publicly documented for a production sedan.

Cadillac is nearing the completion of testing of the highly anticipated CTS-V, the limited-edition high-performance model based on the award-winning CTS sport sedan. John Heinricy, GM Performance Division executive and an acclaimed racing driver, piloted the CTS-V through its sub-8 minute lap today. The car itself was equipped exactly as planned for consumer production, which is scheduled to begin this fall.

Estimated at 550-hp, the CTS-V is at the moment going through the final stages of intensive testing and development. One of the realistic objectives of the Cadillac team is to make the CTS-V the world’s fastest production sedan, as a part of the overall goal to make the V-Series Cadillac’s ultimate expression of performance and technology. More updates will be released in the coming weeks as testing is finalized, including the car’s certified SAE power ratings, acceleration specifications and U.S.-market pricing.

Video documentation of the car’s breakthrough Nordschleife performance will be posted online in the coming days at Cadillac.gmblogs.com. The eight-minute mark has long been recognized as a major Nurburgring milestone, reserved for race cars and the fastest exotic sports cars. While there’s no single official repository for Nurburgring data from private test sessions, numerous reputable websites and publications report lap times from race teams, automakers and independent sources.

The new 2009 CTS-V includes a suite of advanced performance technologies, including a new version of Cadillac’s acclaimed Magnetic Ride Control suspension and a LSA 6.2-liter Supercharged V8 engine. For the first time, CTS-V will include the choice of 6-speed manual or automatic transmissions, with the new automatic sporting steering wheel-mounted shift buttons.

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9ff proves the GT9 is stupid fast, tops 253 mph

here are only a handful of cars that can strike fear into the Bugatti Veyron. The Koenigsegg CCX comes close with a top speed of 242.42 mph, and the SSC Aero Twin-Turbo is even faster, hitting a two-way average speed of 255.83 mph and officially taking the crown of world's fastest car back in September. These über-fast supercars will now be looking over their shoulders with the new kid on the block, the 9ff GT9. Based on the Porsche 911 GT3, 9ff stretches the chassis about a foot and chops the roofline for improved aerodynamics. A carbon-kevlar subframe houses a twin-turbo 4.2-liter flat-6 pushing out 987 bhp. Our German is a bit rough, but we can translate enough of Autobild's recent story on the 9ff GT9 to know they achieved ridiculous speeds in the super Porsche at the Papenburg high speed oval in Germany. 409 km/h to be exact, which roughly translates to 253 mph. We're not sure if there is more speed left in the GT9 to top the Bugatti or the SSC, but it's impressive nonetheless.

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New McLaren P11

McLaren is already testing their second supercar - the P11, a new model that will compete with Ferrari F430, but the P11 will be noticeably lighter and more compact than the competition. It will make its official debut in autumn 2009, and sales will begin in March 2010. The P11 will be followed by both open-top and hardcore versions of the base model.

It will be powered by a 550bhp V8 engine which some sources say will be built by Mahle (which bought out the old Cosworth business) in Northamptonshire. It’s thought that the McLaren engine will be based on an existing Mercedes unit.

The Spider version will follow in March 2011, while the top version, codenamed P12 will debut in summer of 2011. It will be powered by a V10 engine delivering over 600bhp and will cost around £250,000.

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Spy Shots: Baby Cayenne caught on 'Ring!

A while ago there were rumors talking about a smaller SUV from Porsche; that was supposed to be called Roxster, but Porsche said "No, there’s no way we will build a baby Cayenne!" We have a question for you then Porsche: what is this small thing the spy photographers caught testing at Nurburgring? Deny this, if you can!

The future Porsche Roxster will be based on the same platform as the Audi Q5. We believe under the hood there will be a V6 and a V8 engine for the standard version and a turbocharged V8 for a Turbo version of the small Cayenne. The output will rank between 280 hp and 500 hp for the Turbo version.

About the performance, they will be improved compared to the big Cayenne, one main reason being the loose of weight. So, the Roxster will make the 0 to 60 mph sprint in 4.5 seconds and will have a top speed of 180 mph.

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2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 production started

Chrysler today celebrated the production launch of one of the industry’s most highly anticipated vehicles — the all-new 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8(R). Dodge Challenger is back in Chrysler’s line-up as a modern muscle car with a new SRT8 model. A full line-up will follow in the 2009 model-year. Consumer interest in the Dodge Challenger has been some of the highest seen at Chrysler.

The all-new Dodge Challenger is built at Chrysler’s Brampton Assembly Plant on the same assembly line as the Dodge Charger and the award-winning Chrysler 300.

The 2008 Challenger SRT8 is powered by a 6.1-liter HEMI V-8 engine that delivers 425 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque. The engine is mated to a five-speed automatic transmission with AutoStick. It makes the 0 to 60 mph sprint in lest than 5 seconds and the 0-100-0 mph in under 17 seconds.

The U.S. MSRP for the 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 starts at $37,995, including the $675 destination charge.

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2008 Volvo V70 R-Design

The best-selling Volvo V70 becomes the fifth Volvo model to be offered with the sporty factory-fitted R-Design option pack. This further cements Volvo Cars’ aim to offer unique products to particularly discerning customers.

The Volvo V70 estate car is for many people the very essence of Volvo: practical, safe and exuding Scandinavian elegance. The R-Design pack spotlights a new dimension: impassioned, extrovert and challenging.

The R-Design pack for the Volvo V70 boasts a wide range of eye-catching features. For example door mirror housings and grille detailing in silk metal finish, chrome exhaust tailpipe and specially designed 18-inch aluminium wheels. On the inside it is primarily the purposeful, sporty leather-clad seats in black and cool Nordic Ceramic Light that catch the eye - together with the various aluminium details. From the instrument panel’s aluminium inlays to the centre console and door sides, there is a milled circular décor pattern that spreads like ripples in water.

Comprehensive package

"The décor pattern in the aluminium details gives the interior a very special, modern character. The pattern symbolises how the dynamic R-Design characterises the entire car, linking together the seats’ ribbed surfaces and the exterior’s multitude of detailing in a silk metal finish," says Maria Thunberg, manager of Colour & Trim, Volvo V70 R-Design.
Optimised sports chassis

Volvo R-Design not only offers visible detailing, it packs properties that simply have to be experienced out on the road. The sporty chassis offers plenty of driving pleasure and immense control in every situation. The sports chassis has been optimised with the help of features such as stiffer anti-roll bars and bushings and lower ground clearance for more direct road contact and more responsive and rewarding steering feedback.

"The big challenge with this project the R-Design chassis was to combine crisp driving pleasure with Volvo’s renowned secure properties in poor road conditions such as heavy rain or snow. I’m convinced we’ve found exactly the right balance," says Ekkehard Schwartz, Vice President Chassis and Vehicle Dynamics.
The whole package - Volvo V70 R-DESIGN



* Grille in silk metal finish with R-Design emblem.
* Foglamp décor at the front in silk metal finish.
* Door-mirror housings in silk metal finish.
* Five-spoke 18-inch aluminium wheels - Cratus.
* Black anodised window mouldings made of aluminium.
* Tailgate spoiler in the same colour as the body.
* Chromed visible exhaust tailpipe, 90 mm diameter,
* Rear colour-matched spoiler with black insert.
* Sports chassis: lowered 20 mm front and 15 mm rear.
* 11 exterior colours to choose between.
* Sports seats reinforced with extra foam padding in the seat and backrest cushions for added stability and comfort.
* Combined instrument with blue dial faces unique to R-Design cars.
* Sports steering wheel trimmed in perforated leather and R-Design emblem.
* Sports pedals made of aluminium.
* Upholstery of smooth leather in Off-Black and Ceramic Light colour combination, embossed with the R-Design emblem in the backrest.
* Specially designed centre console and unique décor pattern.
* Gear selector trimmed in perforated leather.
* Off-Black sports mats.

To further emphasise its sportiness, the car has no rails on the roof. These are however available as factory options for those buyers who wish to specify them.
R-DESIGN for the C30, S40, V50 and XC90

R-Design for the Volvo C30, S40 and V50 allows customers to choose between 10 different exterior colours and a range of specially designed exterior and interior details. For instance colour-matched bumpers and lower side mouldings, leather-trimmed steering wheel with R-Design emblem, a unique combined instrument and seats upholstered in black Flex-Tec with the seat and backrest cushions in contrasting cream-coloured leather.

The R-Design pack for the Volvo XC90 was introduced in early 2008 and replaced the optional XC90 Sport pack. Among the new R-Design details are 20-inch wheels (optional), twin exhaust tailpipes, a unique skid-plate, door-mirror housings in silk metal finish and R-Design emblems in the grille, on the steering wheel and embossed into the seats.
Emotional and extrovert

"R-Design is entirely in line with our accelerating focus on making our cars more extrovert and emotional. The packages allow buyers the option of giving the already distinct personalities of these models added spice," says Volvo Cars Design Director Steve Mattin.

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New MG TF on sale in 2010

The new MG TF will make its debut around 2010 and will replace the TF – production of which is back on track at MG Rover’s old home of Longbridge in the West Midlands. Based on the current Roewe 550 compact hatch, which made its debut at the Beijing Motor Show, the future TF will be available in both coupe and convertible version.

The new TF takes some of its styling inspiration from the MG SV supercar and X80 concept. Those models were both based on the Mangusta – a sports car from Italian maker Qvale, which MG Rover bought in 2001.

The 2010 TF will be based on a rear-wheel-drive platform dev­eloped in conjunction with British engineering expert Ricardo and will be powered by MG Rover-based engines – including a 1.8-litre turbo and 2.5-litre V6.

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Audi R8 sold out "for months"

The Audi R8 has supercar looks and red-hot demand, so if you want to own the stunning German two-seater, you'd best get to the back of the line. Buyers of the mid-engine Audi have picked up every model that will be made for months, which tells us what we already knew: the R8 is a legitimate smash hit. Oddly, Audi isn't specifying how many R8s it has sold since the vehicle's introduction, and it's likely the German automaker won't go out of its way to ramp up production and risk ruining the all-wheel-drive supercar's buzz-factor.

It's no surprise that the R8 is so successful on the sales floor, but the downside is that the vehicle's sustained popularity is keeping higher performance editions off the market. If a 420-hp 4.2L powerplant can take you to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds, just imagine what a 580-hp twin-turbo V10 will do on dry pavement.

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AC Schnitzer ACS1 Convertible

Following the ACS1 Coupe the ACS1 Cabrio based on the Bmw 1-Series Convertible was unveiled today by the German tuning company AC Schnitzer. The new vehicle features heigh-adjustable suspensions, exhaust silencer and allpy wheels available in different sizes. At the interior the silver-carbon insertions ad a plus of sportivity to the car while the aluminium pedals and accesories together with the new gear knobs and velour floor mats complete successfully the tuning kit.

In order to obtain more power AC Schnitzer re-programmed the ECU and the results are as follows: 360 hp for 135i, 240 hp for the 123d and 200 hp for the 120d.

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Mercedes SL-Class by Brabus

One of the most well-known tuners in Germany, Brabus, proposed a special work for the new Mercedes SL-Class. The biggest change represents the 730hp high performance engine of found also on the Brabus Rocket. The powerful engine inforces a five-speed automatic transmission and a special Brabus limited-slip differential. The package is completed with a new sports exhaust system, a special suspension kit and a high performance brake system. With all this added the SL can reach now 0-60mph (0-100km/h) in just 4 seconds flat and up to 124 mph(200km/h) in 10.5 seconds with a top speed of 219 mph.

The body kit was aerodynamically-enhanced due to a very customized look completed by Brabus. The front bumper was replaced by the front apron and features LED daytime tunning lights and high beam and fog lights. The rocker panels have three entrance lights which illuminate the floor around the vehicle. The interior of the SL also receives the an increased level of luxury.

Press release

Rejuvenated by a substantial model update the fifth generation of the Mercedes SL now starts yet another chapter in the unparalleled success story of the popular Mercedes roadster. The corresponding exclusive sport program comes from BRABUS. Powerful increased-displacement engines with up to 730 hp (720 hp SAE net) / 537 kW of power, a striking designer suit, high-quality light-alloy wheels with diameters of up to 20 inches, professional suspension tuning and custom interior design: The BRABUS program leaves nothing to be desired.


The top-of-the-heap BRABUS power source for the SL 600 is the BRABUS SV12 S Biturbo engine, developed originally for the BRABUS ROCKET, the world’s fastest sedan. 730 hp (720 hp SAE net) / 537 kW of power and a whopping peak torque of 1,320 Nm (973 lb-ft), electronically limited in the car to 1,100 Nm (811 lb-ft), are the result of numerous modifications. During the displacement increase from 5.5 to 6.3 liters the engine’s interior is completely reworked. In addition the engine is fitted with a more efficient turbocharging system and a stainless-steel high-performance exhaust system with metal catalysts. Power is transferred via a reinforced five-speed automatic transmission and a special BRABUS limited-slip differential that is available for all SL models.

A sprint time of 4.0 seconds from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph), 10.5 seconds to 200 km/h (124 mph) and depending on final drive ratio and tire speed rating, an electronically limited top speed of 350 km/h (219 mph) make the BRABUS SV12 S Biturbo roadster one of the world’s fastest sports cars.

BRABUS tuning is also available for the SL 65: The BRABUS T 12 S performance kit increases power output by 40 hp (DIN and SAE net) / 29.4 kW. The BRABUS T 65 S power kit bumps power output to 715 hp (705 hp SAE net) / 526 kW and peak torque to 1,100 Nm (811 lb-ft).

The SL 63 AMG also receives some added power with BRABUS B63 S tuning. Sport air filter, high-performance metal catalysts and newly programmed engine electronics add 40 hp (DIN and SAE net) 29.5 kW to the power output of the fast-revving V8 engine, and increase top speed to 320 km/h (200 mph).

The four-valve-V8 engine of the SL 500 (US: SL550) with BRABUS 6.1 S displacement increase produces 462 hp (456 hp SAE net) / 340 kW of power at 6,200 rpm and a peak torque of 615 Nm (453 lb-ft) at 3,100 rpm. The BRABUS 4.0 displacement engine with 332 hp (327 hp SAE net) / 244 kW of power and 420 Nm (310 lb-ft) of torque is available for the V6 four-valve engines of the SL 280 and SL 350.

The stainless-steel BRABUS sport exhaust system with four chrome-plated tailpipes is a must for all BRABUS high-performance engines. But it is also the answer for all SL owners wishing for a sportier exhaust note and for a more striking rear appearance of their two-seater.



To add sporty emphasis to the elegant lines of the new Mercedes SL series, the BRABUS designers went into the wind tunnel to develop a strikingly styled aerodynamic-enhancement kit.

The front of the SL receives some added pizzazz with the BRABUS front apron that replaces the production bumper. It features LED daytime running lights as well as auxiliary high beams and fog lamps, and reduces lift on the front axle at high speeds.

The elegantly shaped BRABUS rocker panels each have three entrance lights integrated into their underside. The lights are activated with the keyless fob or by pulling on an inside door handle. The LED lights illuminate the ground on either side of the vehicle and help avoid unfortunate missteps into puddles or holes in the dark.

The BRABUS design package for the latest SL-class is rounded out by a rear component that integrates environmental lighting, a centrally mounted rear reflector and two cutouts for the sport exhaust system.


Just as important for a customized look are one-piece and multi-piece BRABUS Monoblock light-alloy wheels, which can be mounted on the new roadster in four different designs and with diameters of 17, 18, 19 and 20 inches. The largest possible tire/wheel combination on the new SL features BRABUS Monoblock VI, E or S wheels in size 9Jx20 in front with size 255/30 ZR 20 tires. The rear axle rolls on size 10.5Jx20 wheels with size 305/25 ZR 20 tires. BRABUS recommends high-performance tires from Pirelli and YOKOHAMA.

To further improve the already potent handling capabilities of the new Mercedes SL, BRABUS has developed special suspension solutions. For the SL 280 and 350 models with conventional suspension BRABUS offers its sport springs. For all SL models with ABC active suspension BRABUS has developed an electronic module that lowers the ride height by some 25 millimeters. Sport sway bars reduce body roll.

BRABUS high-performance brake systems for the SL-Class are available in four different versions. The largest one features vented and cross-drilled front discs measuring 375 x 36 mm (14.8 x 1.4 inches), and 12-piston fixed calipers. The rear discs measure 355 x 28 mm (14.0 x 1.1 inches) and come with six-piston fixed calipers.

BRABUS also customizes the interior of the two-seater by upping the level of luxury. The list of products includes scuff plates with illuminated BRABUS-logo, an ergonomically shaped sport steering wheel with shift paddles, and an exclusive BRABUS custom interior crafted from an exquisite combination of especially soft yet durable BRABUS Mastik leather and Alcantara.

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2008 Mercedes SL 63 AMG Edition IWC

The AMG PERFORMANCE STUDIO has developed a new limited edition vehicle, the exclusive SL 63 AMG Edition IWC. Limited to a total of 200 units, the new roadster features an eye-catching designo magno Kashmir white finish as well as an AMG Exterior Carbon package with a matte surface. In keeping with the exterior appearance, the vehicle’s interior is fitted with Carbon matte trim as well as Tobago Brown nappa leather upholstery that creates additional visual and tactile highlights.

In addition, the vehicle features the AMG Performance package to ensure unparalleled handling. All SL 63 AMG Edition IWC vehicles will be delivered to customers along with an exquisite “Grosser Ingenieur” (Great Engineer) watch from the renowned Swiss watchmaker IWC Schaffhausen.

The SL 63 AMG Edition IWC will be powered by a AMG 6.3-liter V8 engine engine that delivers 525 hp and a peak torque of 630 Nm. The engine is mated by an all-new AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT seven-speed sports transmission. It makes the 0to 60 mph sprint in 4.6 seconds and has a top speed limited to 186 mph.


The SL 63 AMG Edition IWC will be the first vehicle to be offered with the all-new designo magno Kashmir white finish. An interesting contrast to this color is formed by the components with a Carbon matte finish: the trailing edge , the diffusor insert in the lower back panel, and the side air vents on the front apron. In stylistic sync with these components is the Carbon matte trim on the center console and the interior door panels.

They are harmoniously augmented by the Tobago Brown nappa leather upholstery on the electronically adjustable AMG sports seats, which feature multicontour and memory functions, heating, an AMG-specific perforation pattern, a special design, and AMG badges. The vehicle’s limited edition status is discreetly emphasized by black AMG floormats with Tobago Brown leather piping, AMG door sills with white illuminated AMGlettering, and the IWC logo on the lid of the center console.

To ensure that the driver remains in perfect control of his or her vehicle, the two-tone AMGPerformance steering wheel has a reduced diameter, a rim that’s flattened at the bottom, and silver-finish aluminum gearshift paddles. The steering wheel is part of the Performance package, which also includes forged 19-inch AMG light alloy, double-spoke wheels with a titanium gray finish and polished surfaces. The 8.5-inch and 9.5-inch rims sport 255/35 R 19 and 285/30 R 19 format tires, respectively.

The front axle is equipped with internally ventilated, perforated composite disc brakes (390 x 36 mm) that keep braking distances to a minimum and ensure the vehicle is extremely resistant to fading. Handling is further enhanced by other technical features from the Performance package, including a rear-axle, multi-disc limited-slip differential with a lock factor of 40 percent, as well as an AMG Performance chassis equipped with Active Body Control.

AMG naturally aspirated V8 with 6.3 liters displacement and 386 kW/525 hp

The drive system of the SL 63 AMG Edition IWC will provide motorists with an exhilarating driving experience. Boasting a top output of 386 kW/525 hp and a maximum torque of 630 Nm, the AMG 6.3-liter V8 engine is augmented by an extremely responsive partner in the shape of the all-new AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT seven-speed sports transmission. The SL 63 AMG Edition IWC accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds, while its top speed is electronically limited to 300 km/h.

Mercedes-AMG and IWC Schaffhausen: A luxurious partnership

Along with the vehicle, buyers of the SL 63 AMG Edition IWC will also receive a limited edition model of IWC’s “Grosser Ingenieur” watch. This precious chronometer has a stainless steel housing measuring an impressive 45.5 millimeters in diameter. The design of the watch’s wristband and face compliment the vehicle concept. In addition, the watch’s bottom is made of sapphire glass that reveals the intricate mechanical clockwork with its automatic Pellaton winding system.

Mercedes-AMG has been collaborating with the time-honored Swiss watch manufacturer IWC Schaffhausen since 2004. In October of that year, the two companies presented their first jointly designed vehicle, the CLS 55 AMG “IWC Engineer.”

Customers will be able to order the SL 63 AMG Edition IWC beginning in fall 2008 , and vehicle deliveries will commence in November 2008. The model will be limited to 200 units.

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New BMW M5 coming in 2011

BMW is already working on the fifth-generation M5 and its official debut will be made in 2011. Mercedes is currently working on a ground-up redesign of the E63 that will appear in 2009.

The new 5-series, due in 2010, will be an obvious evolution of today’s design, and the new M5 is expected to use the current V10, bored out to 5.5 litres. The engine will have an out of 550 hp, making the M5 a serious competition for Mercedes.

It is also likely to get a direct injection, turbocharged unit, to reduce emissions. The engines will be available with either the six-speed manual gearbox or the new seven-speed M DCT double-clutch transmission.

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2008 International Engine of the Year awards announced

And the grand winner is not surprisingly an engine from BMW, just like it has been for the last three years going back to 2005. The Bavarian automaker's 5.0L V10 won the award that year and in 2006, and BMW's luscious 3.0L twin-turbo inline six-cylinder engine won it in 2007 and has repeated its performance by winning the International Engine of the Year Award again for 2008. We get it, BMW makes really good engines.

There were 11 other categories in which engines from around the world were honored, and no less than five of those were also won by BMW. Check the list below to see what other automakers were able to wrest an International Engine of the Year Award from BMW.

Best New Engine of 2008
BMW 2.0L twin-turbo diesel (123d)

Green Engine of the Year 2008
Toyota 1.5L Hybrid Synergy Drive (Prius)

Best Performance Engine 2008
Porsche 3.6L Turbo (911 Turbo, 911 GT2)

Check out the rest of the awards for individual displacement classes after the jump, and visit the source below for a lot of good information on why each engine was a winner.

[Source: International Engine of the Year Awards]

Sub 1-Liter: Toyota 1.0L three-cylinder
1.0L - 1.4L: VW 1.4L TSI Twincharger
1.4L - 1.8L: BMW-PSA 1.6L Turbo
1.8L - 2.0L: VW/Audi 2.0L Turbo FSI
2.0L - 2.5L: Subaru 2.5L Turbo
2.5L - 3.0L: BMW 3.0L twin-turbo inline-six
3.0L - 4.0L: BMW 4.0L V8
Above 4.0L: BMW 5.0L V10

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Bmw 135i vs Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X

According to some of us the Bmw 135i Coupe is the best competitor for the recently launched Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X, but some of you folks would not agree with this test. As you know the Bmw is rear–wheel drive vehicle while the Japanese car has a high-tech AWD system. The engine of the Mitsubishi is a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine while the Bavarian coupe features a 3.0-liter straight-six developing 306 hp. Who will be the winner of this test? Watch the video and find out!

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Ferrari F149 spy shots

The Ferrari F149 will debut this autumn at the Paris Motor Show. Until then here are the best shots of the car.

The F149 will be powered by a newly developed 4.7 liter engine with 480/500 bhp mated by a seven speed ultra quick gearbox. It will make the 0 - 100 km/h in less than four seconds, but the top speed will be kept under F430.



Sources say it will have all-new injection rails, new intakes, new cylinder heads and new valvetrains and will debut a type of throttle body never used before. Direct injection will bring an instant fuel-efficiency increase of between 5 and 8 percent, and an all-new gearbox will provide additional gains.

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BMW will increase pricing starting June 1

With all the dollar decline it was obviously that the car’s price will be affected. So, if you want a BMW you better hurry up, as starting June fist all models, with the exception of the recently introduced M3, X6 and 1 Series, will have bigger prices!

Pricing will be increased as follows:

* Base price increase of $300 on X5, Z4, 328i and 528i
* Base price increase of $400 on 335i and 535i
* Base price increase of $600 on the X3
* Base price increase $1000 on M5, M6, 750i, 750Li and 6 Series
* Base price increase of $1500 on the 760Li
* Destination charge increase of $50
* Automatic Transmission charge increase of $50
* Metallic Paint charge increase of $50
* Premium Package price increase of $100
* Sport Package price increase of $100

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Cadillac will launch hybrid motorcycle at Los Angeles Auto Show

D Business magazine featured a recent interview and photo session with Cadillac boss Jim Taylor. While talking about the Cadillac CTS Coupe, Taylor also talked about a future hybrid motorcycle.

The hybrid Cadillac bike is being built by V20 Consulting of New York City, and has been tasked with displaying “GM’s strength in science and technology.” The bike is purported to be capable of a 0 to 60 sprint of 4.5 seconds, and should be unveiled for the public at this year’s Los Angeles Auto Show.

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Your oil dollars at work - $9.8 million license plate auction in the UAE

While fuel prices continue to ratchet up and put a squeeze on all aspects of the world economy, times are flush within the borders of major oil producing nations. So flush, in fact, that several Emiratis found a total of 9.8 million dollars to indulge in low-number license plates at a recent auction. The fascination with distinctive tags is a world-wide phenomenon, but $926,000 for a plate that says "50G" is uniquely asinine. If that's what our last few fillups helped purchase, we're going to bike more.

[Source: Yahoo]

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Batmobile for sale on eBay

Imagine yourself driving this around your neighborhood? What do you think will people say? If you want to find out, you can now buy one of the five Batmobiles on eBay!

Here it is one of 5 cars that could have been in the "Batman" movie staring Micheal Keaton and Jack Nicholson. Five cars were built for the movie and this car is the number five car. Being that this car originally was owned by Warner Bros productions it is important to note that the buyer will have to sign a contract with them and some other legal items.

The car is 20 feet long and 8 feet wide. The chassis is custom built and the motor is a Chevrolet 350. There an o doors on the door. To get in you have to be able to enter through the top where the canopy opens, just like in the movie.

And the starting bid is a bargain: $500.000! Just joking!

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2008 Ford Mondeo Titanium X Sport

he multi-award winning Ford Mondeo is set to extend its premium sporty appeal with the introduction of a new flagship - the Titanium X Sport. Visually exciting, packed with standard equipment and powered by new premium diesel or five-cylinder petrol engines, the new Titanium X Sport is the most desirable Mondeo yet.

Created in response to the recent surge in retail demand for top end versions of Mondeo, the new Titanium X Sport combines superb dynamics with premium luxury and a sportier new look.

Available in five-door hatchback and estate body styles, Titanium X Sport models are designed to stand out from the crowd. Aggressively styled 18in alloys fill the wheel arches while twin chromed exhaust tailpipes and body-coloured side skirts complete the picture.

The interior is also themed with sporty red stitching on the leather/alcantara seats, leather steering wheel and gear shift lever. Aluminium trim detailing is replaced with stylish piano black inlays. Customers can choose from two powerful and efficient powertrains. Existing five-cylinder 220PS 2.5-litre turbocharged petrol, or the new diesel, which is expected to account for the majority of sales.


With 35PS more than its 2.0TDCi sister, the new 175PS 2.2-litre TDCi engine is among the smoothest units of its type combining swift, quiet acceleration of 0-62mph in 8.4 seconds and a top speed of 139mph with a combined economy figure of 45.6mpg. C02 emissions are low too at 165g/km.

Generously specified, the Mondeo Titanium X Sport’s standard equipment includes in-dash Sony six CD player, voice control, rain sensing wipers, automatic headlights, front and rear park assist, dual-zone climate control and Ford Power start button.
Additional upgrades over the standard Titanium include advanced Bluetooth connectivity, bi-xenon lights, alloy pedals and sports suspension.

Both engines come with six-speed manual gearbox and insurance groups are 12E for diesel and 14E for petrol models. Available to order now and priced from £23,355 (5 door) and £26,605 (estate) on the road, Titanium X Sport adds more premium appeal and choice to Ford’s popular Mondeo.

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2009 Audi RS8 - more info

As you already know Audi will launch a V10-powered version of the R8 sports-car. The company has finished the development of the 530 hp V10 engine, but because of the high demand of the regular demand, Audi has pushed back the launch of the car until well into 2009.

The V10 engine will deliver with 110 hp more than the regular version. Compared to the Lamborghini Gallardo, from there the RS8 will borrow the engine, the RS8 will feature more room inside and will have a different price tag.

The RS8 will be just one of the R8 versions that will follow in the near future. First to follow will be a roadster version of the V-8, succeeded by a roadster V-10. For packaging reasons, the R8 roadsters will likely feature a retractable softtop similar to those used on convertible versions of the Gallardo and Ferrari F430.

A V12 diesel version is also under consideration, but Audi engineers are having trouble packaging the particulate trap-required to meet stringent U.S. emissions standards-and the bumper beam needed to meet U.S. crash standards at the rear of the car.

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2011 Volkswagen Passat renderings

The Volkswagen Passat was first launched in 1973, but none of the fifth generation had anything impressive regarding their design. The only exception is the newly launched Passat CC, that brings a more attractive design.

The next generation Passat will be launched in 2011, and even if everyone expected something big, it only brings small innovation regarding its design; only the front will be changed a bit. The 2011 Passat will be bigger than a current Audi A6 Avant; it will move to a more flexible modular platform and will keep the current engine line-up.

Volkswagen will also bring a New Midsized Sedan (NMS) for the US and that they will introduce a complete fleet of hatchbacks across the whole model line-up.

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BMW M1 Prototype?

Real or not, this M1 Prototype looks amazing, and we only hope that BMW will built it in the near future, or that the production version will look at list as hot as this one!

Only few days after the launch of the M1 Hommage Concept, FreshTarmac claims the thing you see in the picture is the 2008 BMW M1 Prototype.

It looks like its sitting on a stretched chassis of the current BMW M3 incorporating various parts including the front fascia and the hood.

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Carlsson Ck50 based on the Mercedes SL500

Recently launched, the facelifted Mercedes SL is already receiving some attention from the well-known Mercedes tuners. After Brabus unveiled its R230 tuning kit last week, Carlsson unveiled today its CK50 pack for the SL. The CK50 kit contains new carbon fiber front-lip spoiler, rear air diffuser, new side skirts as well as new alloy wheels. The most important upgrade was received by the engine which now develops 436 hp and 600 Nm of torque, a good improvement comparing it to the stock 388 hp. The vehicle is now capable to sprint from 0-100 km/h in just 5.1 seconds and has a top speed limited to 300 km/h.

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Ferrari F430 vs. Lamborghini Gallardo

Ferrari F430

Horsepower: 490@8900 RPM
Torque: 343 lb/ft
Engine Type: V8
Driveline: REAR Wheel Drive
Weight: 3,196 lbs
Acceleration: 0-60 in 3.95 seconds; 0-100 in 9.2 seconds
City/Highway MPG: 11/16
Price: $168,000






Lamborghini Gallardo


Horsepower: 520@8000 RPM
Torque: 376 lb/ft
Engine Type: V10
Driveline: ALL Wheel Drive
Weight: 3,153 lbs
Acceleration: 0-60 in 4.0 seconds; 0-100 in 9.1 seconds

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Bugatti Veyron Sang Noir

A darker, evil-er Bugatti Veyron has been born to run alongside the Pur Sang: the Sang Noir. Word is the newest variant has been created to be a tip of the hat -- that would be "chapeau!" in French -- to the Bugatti Atlantique 57S. It gets a slightly different front grille with matching side mirrors, black headlight surrounds, exclusive wheels, and an interior dressed in what looks like electric orange. All in all, the car appears to share nothing with the Atlantique other than the name Bugatti and choice of exterior color

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