DONKERVOORT D8 GT 2010

Engine package 150
- 132 kW @ 5500 rpm
- 235 Nm @ 1950 rpm
- 210 km/h top speed
- 0 - 100 km/h - 5 s
- Reinforced 5-speed gearbox
- Intercooler 11 rows
- Carbon fibre engine cover
- Carbon fibre air-filter box
- Oil cooler set

Body package
- Ultra light weight composite Coupe with poly carbonate windows and alu hinges
- Silencer guard in body colour
- Extra cooling side pods both sides of the nose cone and bonnet
- Engine bay bottom panel
- Roll-bar polished stainless steel
- Polished aluminium towing eyes, front and rear
- Double headlights halogen and Xenon
- Roof and doors in carbon fiber
- Chassis: tubular frame with carbon fibre subframe
- Body: Aluminium / carbon fiber

Luxury package
- Cloth seats in black
- Carpet set 'De Luxe' in various colours
- Leather tunnel upholstery
- Aluminium gear knob and handbrake lever with logo
- Leather dashboard in various colours

Road handling package Sport
- Front: anti-rollbar with separate upper wishbone
- Rear: 'Hockenheim' radius arm
- Sport shock absorbers, adjustable in damping
- 'Sport' springs
- Standard disc brakes front and rear
- Aero front suspension

Wheels and Tires
- 8J x 17 ''Road'' wheels
- Front tires: 215/45x17"
- Rear tires : 215/45x17"

BMW M3 GTS

With the BMW M3 GTS, BMW M GmbH now offers a truly outstanding performer based on the BMW M3 Coupé also ideal for Clubsport events - exactly the right car for the truly discerning customer demanding the very utmost in terms of power and performance. The BMW M3 GTS is largely hand-built by the most skilled craftsmen at BMW M GmbH as a perfectly harmonised package of outstanding modifications, with production exclusively to the customer's personal order. Focused on motorsport, the modifications comprise both the drivetrain, the suspension and the body of the car, as well as its interior. Market launch of the

BMW M3 GTS will be in spring 2010.

Offering this truly exclusive model for the genuine motorsport enthusiast, BMW M GmbH is continuing a great tradition introduced on former generations of the BMW M3. Once again, the outstanding sports potential of the BMW M3 is being consistently enhanced and upgraded to an even higher level, the customer benefiting from the Company's wide range of know-how in the development and production of racing cars. Through its race-oriented modifications enhancing both performance and safety, the BMW M3 GTS is ready to go in Clubsport events on the track and comes with the option for homologation on the road. So that the driver is able to make his way to the race track in the very same car he will use for racing.

Consistent lightweight technology.

Consistent lightweight construction, adjustable aerodynamic units, an increase in engine size and output on the V8 high-speed power unit and suspension technology meeting all the requirements of motorsport - all this gives the BMW M3 GTS a top position among high-performance cars built for Clubsport racing. Unladen weight according to the DIN standard is less than 1,500 kg (3,300 lb), the lightweight body comes with special mounts for six-point seat belts and a rollcage fitted behind the B-pillar.

Through its design and construction, the materials used and its special equipment, the BMW M3 GTS is a lightweight performer all the way, offering a genuine motorsport driving experience in every respect. In addition to the carbon fibre roof already featured as standard on the BMW M3, weight is consistently optimised by features such as silencers made of titanium, the extra-light centre console and door linings, the omission of rear seats, automatic air conditioning and an audio system, as well as sound insulation tailored specifically to this very special model.

V8 high-speed power unit: derived from motorsport, optimised for motorsport.

The eight-cylinder power unit of the BMW M3 GTS enlarged in size to 4.4 litres and boosted in output to some 450 hp boasts construction principles and technical details carried over directly from motorsport. A supreme surge of ongoing power throughout a wide range of engine speed characterises the outstanding performance of the V8 with its high-speed concept. The features typical of a motorsport engine include the crankcase made of a special aluminium-silicon alloy and constructed in bedplate design, individual throttle butterflies, anti-knock sensors with ion flow technology, and, wet sump oil supply optimised for supreme driving dynamics.

Seven-speed M DKG Drivelogic with race-bred gearshift.

Power is transmitted in the BMW M3 GTS by the M double-clutch gearbox with Drivelogic also available as an option on the regular production model. This seven-speed M DKG Drivelogic gearbox follows a principle also developed for motorsport, shifting gears without the slightest interruption of engine power. The transmission was developed specifically for a particularly powerful high-speed engine and offers ideal qualities for truly dynamic acceleration at all times. The gearshift characteristics on the seven-speed M DKG Drivelogic have been tailored specifically to the modified power unit of the BMW M3 GTS and the driver is able to shift gears both through the selector lever on the centre console and through special M shift paddles on the steering wheel.

High-performance suspension with purpose-built brakes.

To convey the supreme power of the engine to the road in equally supreme style even under the most extreme conditions, the BMW M3 GTS comes with suspension technology likewise derived from the highest realms of motorsport. While the suspension is based on the front and rear axle of the BMW M3 Coupé, the rear axle subframe is bolted firmly in position and the suspension features adjustment threads on the dampers for individual variation of the inbound and rebound strokes.

The high-performance brake system of the BMW M3 GTS features fixed callipers with six pistons up front and four pistons on the rear wheels. The race-oriented set-up of DSC Dynamic Stability Control naturally considers the supreme dynamic potential of the BMW M3 GTS. Different-sized tyres front and rear running on 19-inch M light-alloy Competition rims in double-spoke design ensure optimum transmission of acceleration and brake forces to the road.

Aerodynamics: optimised components with variable geometry.

To optimise the flow of air and adjust the car's downforce as required, the BMW M3 GTS comes with a race-oriented front air dam and rear wing. This allows appropriate adjustment of the car's aerodynamic qualities in motorsport and for other purposes, tailored to the specific profile of the respective track. The air guidance units on the front air dam, for example, may be varied in their geometry, just like the position of the rear wing based on the wing already featured on the BMW 320si raced in the WTCC World Touring Car Championship.

Exterior features such as the BMW kidney grille and the gills at the side finished in chrome on the regular BMW M3 come in special dark eloxy-plated chrome on the BMW M3 GTS.

Special interior for supreme performance and safety.

The interior of the BMW M3 GTS clearly reflects the focus on supreme performance and safety on the race track. The interior features include classic bucket seats, interior trim in carbon and an M steering wheel finished in alcantara. The door and side panels at the rear also come in alcantara, while six-point seat belts delivered with the car for subsequent use, a fire extinguisher and preparation for an emergency-off switch in motorsport round off the wide range of special features inside the car.

Mitsuoka Orochi now available to rent in Osaka

So you're headed to Japan and need to rent a car. What to choose? The island nation is a smorgasbord of metal foreign to American tastes, from a wide buffet of pint-sized kei-cars to more American-sized contraptions. But what if none of those options have the kind of flair you require for that special business meeting? Fear not. Mitsuoka has you covered. The company has just announced a rental program that will let you pick up either of its two sports cars for a fairly low per-day rental rate in Osaka.

For a mere $390 per day, you can play around with the ridiculously over-the-top Orochi, complete with its underwhelming Toyota 3.3-liter V6 mounted mid-ship. If you require something topless, Mitsuoka will be happy to put you in the driver's seat of its roadster, the Himiko for a mere $177 per day. Whichever you choose, you'll need a fair command of the Japanese language to navigate Mitsuoka's site. Our Google Translator was no help at all.

Peugeot launches 3008 Hybrid4

Peugeot 3008 Hybrid4

Peugeot's first production hybrid is finally coming to market next spring, but we already know most of the technical details. The 3008 Hybrid4 is the first light-duty diesel hybrid to come to market and also the first through-the-road hybrid. The midsize crossover uses a system that consists of a fairly conventional 163-horsepower 2.0-liter inline-four diesel engine driving the front wheels and a 37-horsepower electric motor at the rear axle that operates completely independently of the internal combustion drivetrain.

The diesel drives through an electronically controlled and mechanized six-speed manual gearbox that can either be shifted manually or left in full automatic mode. A more powerful eight-kilowatt high-voltage integrated starter-generator on the engine provides automatic start-stop capability as well as the ability to charge the nickel metal hydride battery from the engine.

When the battery has sufficient charge, the electric motor alone can propel the 3008 at lower speeds or provide on-demand all-wheel drive. The rear-mounted motor also provides regenerative braking to charge the battery. The combined output of the two powerplants comes in at 200 hp and 369 pound-feet of torque. The mechanically simpler (compared to most parallel hybrids) system allows Peugeot to produce a less expensive diesel hybrid than would be possible with a power-split system like the one used by Toyota, all while taking advantage of the highway cruising efficiency of compression ignition. The 3008 Hybrid4 is rated at 61.9 miles per gallon (U.S.) on the EU combined driving cycle with CO2 emissions of just 99 grams per kilometer. Eventually, Peugeot will also add a plug-in version of Hybrid4 with a lithium-ion battery. Click past the jump for the full skinny after looking over our high-res gallery below.

Two new models coming from Morgan

Two new models Morgan

We suppose it was only a matter of time before mighty Morgan threw its cap into the electric car realm. With everyone from Mercedes-Benz to Audi toying around with motor-powered supercars, the eclectic purveyor of long-hood wonders was bound to follow suit. According to Autocar, we can expect to see a pair of new models to emerge from Morgan in short order. The first, called the LIFEcar 2, is especially mouth watering. The svelte coupe supposedly gets its power from a diesel-electric powertrain and will pack a range of around 1,000 miles. Despite its city car name, the LIFEcar 2 will be a sports car above all else.

As for the second model, Autocar was able to drum up very few details, other than it will be more extreme with a focus on entertainment.

If you're thinking this sounds like the standard Brit-pub rumor mongering, think again. Morgan says it will bring the LIFEcar 2 from prototype to production, and that it will weight a scant 1,700 pounds when it hits the road.

2011 Nissan Murano unveiled with mild refresh, new SV trim

2011 Nissan Murano

Nissan has officially confirmed that the new fascia we saw on the European version of the 2011 Murano will find its way to the land of the free. The look carries a reworked bumper, along with similarly sculpted headlights and a new grille. If you were hoping to see the diesel model crop up on dealer lots in your neck of the woods, we've got bad news – it ain't happening. The oil-burning Murano is still only available to our cousins across the pond, leaving us with the capable 3.5-liter VQ V6 with 250 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque as our only powerplant option.

Even so, Nissan has chucked an additional trim line into the mix. Buyers can now choose between a total of eight variants on the Murano theme, including the new SV FWD and SV AWD trims. The Japanese automaker has thrown in 20-inch wheels, a dual-panel moonroof and a bevy of exterior color choices as optional goodies, too. Look for the 2011 Nissan Murano to land on dealer lots by October.

Google Maps goes steampunk with scrolling brass wristlet

Google Maps directions are great, but when the turns are coming one after the other, it can be challenging to follow the route and simultaneously avoid mowing down passersby. Simon Jansen's Brass Wristlet Navigator Watch offers a potential solution and puts a little piece of steampunk on your wrist.

A navigation system that delivers your route in the way proclamations were read back in ancient Rome or rally notes were read at the advent of the sport, the brass, leather and glass Wristlet needs no batteries and couldn't be easier to use. Simply turn one of the knurled knobs to move the scroll. Head on over to the Makezine blog to get inspired; let's see what kind of chops y'all got.

HE ULTIMATE BUGATTI VEYRON 16.4 FROM MANSORY

With the LINEA Vincero d'Oro, MANSORY has completed its strictly limited series for the refined Bugatti Veyron 16.4. After the specialist for exclusive luxury vehicles raised the bar for high-performance sports cars by another level in March 2009, MANSORY is now placing the crowning glory on the art of refinement. Using targeted changes, MANSORY first transformed the Bugatti Veyron into the LINEA Vincero and then, using a special gold-coloured alloy, into the unique LINEA Vincero d'Oro.

Compared with the standard Veyron, the LINEA Vincero has received a comprehensive facelift to its front, consisting of modified fenders, a shortened bonnet and a striking front apron. The LED daytime running lights and the stylised letter "V" (paying homage to the name Vincero) built into the car's front end are particular highlights of the new design while the newly developed side skirts form a visual and aerodynamic link between the axles. Larger air outlets at the rear and at the sides of the car ensure optimal engine cooling and, with the new diffuser, underscore the vehicle's vibrant design. MANSORY manufactures almost all the components in the car's body from ultra-light, high-strength carbon and the autoclave method of hardening under high pressure and high temperatures used during the manufacturing process makes a huge improvement to the quality of the materials. One unique feature of the design of the LINEA Vincero d'Oro is the carbon fabric with inbuilt copper thread used by MANSORY, the metallic sheen of which really brings out the exceptional nature of this special car.

Other gold-coloured features complete the LINEA Vincero d'Oro, including the distinctive "turbine" design alloy wheels, the curved grill featuring the stylised Vincero-Vï, the door handles, the rear view mirror caps and the fuel tank cap. But that's not all: the headlight washer nozzle covers, the borders around the daytime running LEDs and the decorative features on the roof all shimmer in precious gold too.

The car's interior has an exclusive look and feel while remaining functional. MANSORY understands the importance of combining luxury and technology with the golden aspirations of this unique car. Traditional workmanship, fine materials and a stylistically confident design combine to create an interior that is fitting for such a classy car. You notice this in particular with the LEDs of the car's mood lighting system placed in the car's seats, the door trims and the dashboard. The entire passenger cabin shines in the golden glow of this feel-good lighting which masterfully draws attention to the high-quality carbon appliques as well as to the specially embossed leather. The airbag steering wheel with inbuilt shift paddles and gilded elements, designed in a new ergonomic style, is both sporty easy to keep a good grip of. Gold alloys can also be found on the decorative strips of the door trims and on the centre console.

The Mansory Cooperation GmbH solely offers proprietary developed modification accessories under the name LINEA Vincero. They do not market entire automobiles and also do not sell any such vehicles.

For more information about the exclusive LINEA Vincero, please visit the web site www.vincero.com

MUSTANG BOSS 302 LAGUNA SECA

How do you amp up a performance car package as complete as the new 2012 Ford Mustang Boss 302 - already a street-legal race car in its own right? Pull out everything that doesn't make it go faster and add in more of what does. The result is the limited-production Ford Mustang Boss 302 Laguna Seca package - the ultimate 2012 Boss, named to commemorate the first-place Boss 302 finish at the 1970 Trans-Am series opener.

"The Ford Mustang

Boss 302 Laguna Seca puts a race-ready version of the new Ford Mustang Boss 302 directly into enthusiasts' hands," said Mark Fields, Ford president of The Americas. "Laguna Seca isn't intended for Boss buyers who simply want an exhilarating daily driver. Think of it like a factory-built race car, which we hope avid racers and track-day fans are going to love."

Ford Mustang Boss 302 Laguna Seca builds on the bumper-to-bumper improvements found on the standard Boss while further stiffening the chassis and installing an aerodynamics package carried over almost in its entirety from the Ford Racing Boss 302R.

"Drivers who know how to get the most from a tuned race car on a closed course are going to be amazed by what the Laguna Seca is capable of," said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president, Global Product Development. "The balance, agility and tuning of each vehicle system places the driver at the center of the machine, completely connected to everything the car is doing."


Ford Mustang Boss 302 Laguna Seca

Chassis enhancements

Ford Mustang Boss 302 Laguna Seca cars are powered by the same smooth, high-winding 440-hp 5.0-liter V8 as the standard Boss, since the engine was already tuned specifically for road racing. Instead, engineers turned their attention toward delivering power to the ground most efficiently, and getting the car around a track in the quickest possible time.

"When we built the Boss, we had to step back and ask ourselves 'How do we improve on this?'" said David Pericak, Ford Mustang chief engineer. "That car is so strong we realized the Laguna Seca package was going to have to be just a fraction of a step back from the Ford Racing 302R to top it. So we went back and threw daily-driver practicality out the window, cut some things we couldn't cut on the volume model, like the back seat, and built it the way we would set up a production Boss for pure competition."

Ford Mustang Boss 302 Laguna Seca cars eliminate the rear seats, instead adding a cross-car X-brace that couples the structure between the rear wheels. The brace offers chassis stiffness improvements of as much as 10 percent and allows the suspension tuning - precisely calibrated by Mustang team members - to better do its job.

Standard Recaro front seats were designed by Ford SVT in cooperation with Recaro for high performance Mustang models, and are shared between the Boss and GT500. An Alcantara-covered race steering wheel provides a solid grip for hard cornering.

Engine power routes through a six-speed close-ratio manual gearbox to a standard 3.73-ratio Torsen limited-slip differential, helping the revised rear suspension deliver maximum torque and traction under the punishing conditions encountered on the track.

Higher spring rates and a larger rear stabilizer bar - all upgraded over Boss specifications - help generate unrelenting grip. And drivers can dial in exactly the level of shock stiffness a particular track requires using the four standard, independently adjustable dampers with Laguna Seca-specific valving.

The final touch for a proper race car was to add the proper wheels and tires: Ford Mustang Boss 302 Laguna Seca models use lightweight 19-inch alloy racing wheels in staggered widths: 9 inches in front, 10 inches in the rear. R-compound ultra-high-performance tires, 255/40ZR-19 in the front, 285/35ZR-19 in the rear, maintain contact with the pavement - a job that ended up being trickier than expected.

"The R-compound tires on the Laguna Seca are so sticky we had to really work on the rear suspension tuning to make sure drivers can get the most out of them," explains Pericak. "The rear stabilizer bar is the largest we've ever installed on a production Mustang - including any SVT product. The rear spring rate was also maximized to work with the massive rear tires and balance the car for minimal lap times."

While standard Ford Mustang Boss 302 cars get vented brake dust shields to help cool the rotors, Laguna Seca models receive Ford Racing front brake ducts that force outside air directly onto the 14-inch vented front rotors, helping to eliminate brake fade and ensure hard, repeatable late braking on the track. Combined, the braking changes help refine the sense for drivers of being directly connected to the pads - an essential edge during car-to-car combat on a road course.

Added up, the further improvements to Ford Mustang Boss 302 Laguna Seca result in the best-handling Mustang ever, with more than 1.03 g of lateral acceleration, stopping distances shortened by three feet from 60 mph over Boss, 0-60 acceleration improvements of one tenth of a second, and an overall expected lap time improvement of one to two seconds over the standard Boss on a typical road course.

Styling evokes racing, improves aerodynamics

As a race car should, Ford Mustang Boss 302 models with the Laguna Seca package look like nothing else on the road. A bright red C-stripe offsets either Black or Ingot Silver paint, and is complemented by a red roof panel. Red also sets off the front grille, mirror caps and rear pedestal spoiler, while Laguna Seca rear badging and unique two-tone red and silver wheels complete the transformation.

Adding both to appearance and aerodynamics, an aggressive front splitter for track use adds downforce at the front of the car, while helping channel air under and around the car. At the same time, air impacting the front end is funneled into the radiator and brake ducts, supporting cooling even under grueling race conditions.

"The Ford Mustang Boss 302 Laguna Seca front splitter is really a Ford Racing piece we've lightly adapted for our purposes," explains Pericak. "It's been tested and refined for the last six months on the Boss 302R to perform exactly as required on the track; we just made a few changes so it could be adapted to the production Boss - though owners will still want to avoid speed bumps and parking blocks."

At the back, a large rear spoiler is sized to exactly complement the effect provided by the front splitter and underbody aero treatments, with the combination adding as much as 90 pounds of downforce at 140 mph.

"Balance is the key on Boss, and even more so on Laguna Seca," said Pericak. "A winning race car has to do everything well, and we've had the ability to test all the engineering that went into Boss Laguna Seca on the Ford Racing 302R. It's not for everyone: It's stiffer, there's no back seat, and the aero package is designed for downforce, not speed bumps in the mall parking lot. But for hard-core Mustang racers who want something they can occasionally drive on the street, to shows or whatever, Ford Mustang Boss 302 Laguna Seca is the car they've been waiting for, and they're not going to be disappointed."

2011 Kia Sportage bags IIHS 'Top Safety Pick'

When it comes to the Kia Sportage 2011 has much to say. From where we sit, it is one of the finest compact crossovers on the market, there is a reasonable price (starting under $ 20,000), and as we discovered in our first race, he is a very nice beef too. To add to these outlets, Sportage has recently been named Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for

Highway Safety, get high scores in frontal, side, rear and rollover crash tests. Top people's security is nothing new for Kia in those days - the soul, Sorento, and Forte sedan has received this approval. Follow the jump to read specific words on the recognition Kia Sportage safety.

New Ford 5.0L and supercharged 5.4L V8s now available as crate engines

Thanks to an alert reader perusing the Ford Racing online parts catalog, we now know that both the new 5.0-liter "Coyote" V8 and the aluminum-block supercharged 5.4-liter V8 that power the 2011 Mustang GT and GT500 can be purchased in boxes.

The 412 horsepower, twin-cam 32-valve V8 comes fully dressed except for the air-conditioning compressor and alternator. That means it has compete fuel injection and ignition systems and all the manifolding and other bits. The other item that's not included is the wiring harness and powertrain control module which will set you back an extra $1,499 on top of the $6,999 for the engine.

For those with a hankering for even more grunt, the aluminum 5.4-liter also comes dressed for success with 550 hp and 510 pound-feet of torque. The cylinder bores of the new engine have been coated with a Plasma Transferred Wire Arc system to make them tougher than steel or iron with much lower weight. The blown engine is a good bit steeper – $20,999 – plus the harness and PCM. A tip of the hat to GT!

2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG The Super Sports Car Debut at The Frankfurt Motor Show

2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

Mercedes-Benz’s highly-anticipated SLS AMG, which takes the iconic 300SL Gullwing to the next generation, is set to debut next week at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

“With the new SLS AMG, Mercedes-Benz is presenting a fascinating super sports car that will quicken the pulse of any car fan. The SLS AMG bolsters both the Mercedes-Benz and AMG brands equally, and will surely become one of the most alluring sports cars of our time,” says Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars.

2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

The performance highlights start under the long, shapely hood: 6.3-liters of AMG-massaged V8 will pump out 571 horsepower at 6,800 rpm and 480 lb-ft. of torque at 4,750 rpm transmitted to the transaxle-mounted seven-speed SpeedShift dual-clutch transmission. With this powertrain, the SLS AMG will accelerate to 62 mph in 3.8 seconds before topping out at about 197 mph.
Stuttgart/Affalterbach — Automotive fascination and high tech of the highest order: These are the traits embodied by the new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, which is making its world premiere at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt on 15 September 2009. The super sports car boasts a purist design, the systematic incorporation of lightweight engineering and superior handling dynamics. At the same time, the SLS delivers the high everyday utility and exemplary safety that typifies Mercedes-Benz, making the new gullwing the ideal synthesis of the strengths of Mercedes-Benz and AMG.

2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

The new super sports car from Mercedes-Benz and AMG dazzles with its unparalleled technology package which includes: an aluminium space frame body with gullwing doors; an AMG 6.3-litre, front-mid V8 engine with a top power of 571 hp, 650 Nm of torque, and dry sump lubrication; seven-speed dual-clutch in a transaxle configuration; a sports chassis with aluminium double-wishbone suspension; and a kerb weight of 1,620 kilograms. It's a combination that guarantees supreme handling dynamics. The car's ideal weight distribution between the front and rear axles (47 to 53 per cent respectively) and its low centre of gravity emphasize the concept's pronounced sports car nature.

2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

The gullwing accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 3.8 seconds and has a top speed of 197 mph (electronically limited). The fuel consumption of 21.4 mpg (combined) is best-in-class (all figures are provisional).“With the new SLS AMG, Mercedes-Benz is presenting a fascinating super sports car that will quicken the pulse of any car fan. The SLS AMG bolsters both the Mercedes-Benz and AMG brands equally, and will surely become one of the most alluring sports cars of our time,” says Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars.

2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

Mercedes-Benz says the SLS AMG will retail from €177,310 (including VAT) in Europe when it goes on sale in spring of 2010, although the automaker has not released pricing or an on-sale date for North America.

Lotus accidentally confirms Evora automatic and S variants for Paris through email snafu

Lotus seems to have quite a hit on its hands in the form of the Evora. We were quite taken with it ourselves when given the chance to put the car through its paces in Southern California, and we've yet to hear a nasty word uttered in its general direction. But that doesn't mean Lotus can't find a way to improve the breed yet further.

Apparently, a couple of those improvements are headed to the Paris Motor Show later this year. Buried within the automaker's stand will be both a hotted-up S version of the Evora and one bestowed with an automatic transmission. How do we know? Well, an errant email recently went out to everyone on Lotus' media list (ourselves included) that promised the two machines along with the other "new car(s) not yet announced."

As if the thought of a Lotus Evora S (forced induction?) and an automatic for the clutch averse among you wasn't enough, it seems the British specialists have plenty more up their well-tailored sleeves. There's been plenty of postulation regarding what else we may see – most notably the rumored return of the Esprit – but we're content to just take a wait-and-see attitude on this one. Paris just can't come soon enough.

French automaker Renault encourages stripping for fun, profit

If you happen live in the UK, Renault is offering you a chance to win one of its diminutive new Wind convertibles. All you or a friend has to do is strip down from "winter clothes" to a single layer of clothing on video in less than 12 seconds. Not coincidentally, the dozen seconds are how long it takes to flip the Wind's lid and go from closed coupe to open-top roadster.

Of course, it's not as simple as just shedding some clothes... because plenty of people will beat the timeline. Renault is also looking for some creativity in what the contestants wear, where they strip or who accompanies them. In order to encourage some spontaneity, Renault is even offering up a couple display screens in London and Manchester with a timer and the car opening up.

Once entrants have finished their videos, they can upload them to www.12secondstrip.co.uk or YouTube for judging. The winners will be selected by panel of judges after the contest closes on September 30. Want to get to strippin' yourself?

2011 Iconic Motors Sports Car AC Roadster

ICONIC Motors answers with 2011 ICONIC AC Roadster, for those who crave unparalleled power and innovative performance. The 2011 ICONIC AC Roadster is designed from the ground up to be on of the world most completely refined and advanced super cars. Virtually no other vehicle in the planet has undergone the same kind of engineering development and attention to detail as the ICONIC AC Roadster.



2011 Iconic Motors Sports Car AC Roadster
Designed as the world’s most completely refined and advanced super cars, 2011 Iconic Motors AC Roadster has got styling cues from the legendary Shelby Cobra.



Now American sports car company ICONIC Motors have partnered up with AC Cars and renamed the car AC Roadster. First revealed by AC Cars back in 2008 as the GTR Roadster, then unveiled in the flesh at last year's Top Marques Monaco event as the MkVI AC Cobra, ICONIC has partnered with AC to present the AC Roadster. The sports car a 6.9-liter V-8 rated at 800 horsepower married to a classic AC-styled roadster chassis weighing in at about 2,400 pounds. That's good for 60 mph in under three seconds, according to the company.



“The ICONIC AC Roadster is more than just a sports cars, it’s among the world’s most refined and beautifully designed super cars. It’s the lightest, strongest, most well engineered, high performance roadster of our time. The engine, drive train, support electronics and overall chassis make this one of the most complete vehicle packages on the market today and is made right here in the USA,” said Claudio Ballard, chairman and founder, ICONIC Motors.



This innovative process allows for ICONIC Motors to capture the look and style of timeless classic roadsters from the 1950's and ’60's, while infusing all of the modern technology and engineering available today, this super car is truly the first of its kind.



The 2011 ICONIC AC Roadster is the first of many uniquely designed modern era muscle cars that blend the legendary design cues of the past with the technology of the future. The sports cars is now available for order, with first deliveries to come in 2011.

CARLSSON REFINES THE NEW SMART WITH GREAT SUCCESS

- LED daytime running lights individualise the front
- Leather packages ensure high-quality interior
- High-end sound system specially developed for the smart

So much luxury fits into only 2.70 metres. The automobile manufacturer Carlsson transforms the practical smart fortwo Coupe and Convertible into individual, classy cars for the necessities of urban living. LED daytime running lights, exclusive leather packages which start where the factory left off, and an audio system for the finest sound experience make this winning model unique.

At the front, the two black radiator grill inserts of powder-coated stainless steel above and below the number plate provide a note of individuality (from 153 Euro including VAT). In addition, the LED daytime running lights make the Smart stand out from the masses. And here once again Carlsson from Gut Wiesenhof in Germany demonstrates what care they take with their conversions: the LEDs have been approved not only as daytime running lights but also as sidelights. This means they may be used at the same time as dipped headlights and so set themselves apart from the typical upgrade kits. The ready-to-fit set, including the power supply and control unit, the cable harness and the bracket, is provided by Carlsson for only 415 Euro. As usual with products by Carlsson, the bracket requires no painting.

The all-round luxury in the vehicle interior is taken care of by the leather packages from the customizer based in Merzig, Germany. The finest 'Softwalk' Nappa leather and Alcantara now envelope the entire instrument panel, the knee area, the steering wheel, the instrument cluster, the radio and air-conditioning console, the air vents, the doors, door pockets and of course both seats, including the quilted lozenge pattern and the embroidered Carlsson logo in the headrests. The complete leather package is available from Carlsson for 4163 Euro.

For a mere 359 Euro more, smart passengers get specially developed sports seats with more pronounced, contoured bolsters on seat and backrest which also provide perfect support when cornering fast.

And for those who wish to enhance their original Smart leather equipment, Carlsson has an appropriate offer on hand. For 2559 Euro the upgrade covers Softwalk Nappa leather and Alcantara on the instrument panel, knee area, instrument cluster, radio and air-conditioning console, air vents, doors and door pockets. Furthermore, to suit every interior colour, the automobile manufacturer provides a gear selector in finest leather for 89 Euro in the colour combinations black and silver, black and red or black and beige.

For audiophile pretensions Carlsson has developed the "Exclusive Edition" high-end sound system specially for the Smart. The audio system, which has been adapted to the fortwo's and the Convertible's vehicle interior, consists of a digital two-channel power-amp with 400-Watt RMS output, the pre-assembled cable harness for the original Smart radio and sound insulation in the doors. The two, black-leather covered doorboards enclose, behind the loudspeaker grilles with the Carlsson logo on each side, a 16.5-centimetre loudspeaker and a textile tweeter which, connected by a specially adapted crossover network, ensure perfect high-frequency reproduction and full-bodied sound. The audio system for 1295 Euro also includes as a special feature the LED footwell lighting which is activated when the doors open.

With the comprehensive customizing package, the automobile manufacturer Carlsson transforms the small city runabout into a luxurious vehicle for the metropolis.

Further information on the extensive customizing range for Smart and Mercedes-Benz vehicles is available on the internet at www.carlsson.de

EXCLUSIVELY FOR THE MIDDLE EAST

Bentley Motors launches two unique special-edition Continental models for the Middle East
A total of only 50 Continental Flying Spur Arabia and Continental Flying Spur Speed Arabia cars will be built
(Crewe, England) Bentley Motors has unveiled two unique Continental models, which have been engineered and designed exclusively for the Middle East market. These special edition cars have been created at Bentley’s Crewe headquarters with both models offering a range of striking features specially commissioned for Arabic customers.

The Middle East market now represents 10 per cent of Bentley retail sales globally and has doubled its contribution to the worldwide percentage of sales over the last five years. This trend has continued despite the recent global recession.

From Bentley’s first dealership in Dubai, the network has grown to become nine-strong in 2010, with dealers in Dubai, Doha, Abu Dhabi, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, Jeddah, Riyadh and Al Khobar. These two new models have been launched specifically for this unique market.

The Continental Flying Spur Arabia and the Continental Flying Spur Speed Arabia retain all the potent performance of the company’s Continental Flying Spur and Spur Speed, the world’s fastest luxury four-door saloon, but with a range of additional exterior and interior features to create the ultimate in distinguished, elegant driving developed for the Arabic market.

Both cars are further distinguished by some subtle exterior and interior ‘Arabia’ motifs. These include an exterior front fender badge, tread plate and ashtray lid badge – all bearing the Arabia signature.

The class-leading performance of the W12, 6-litre engine is in no way diminished. The Flying Spur Arabia is capable of achieving a potential top speed of 312 km/h and a 0-100 km/h sprint time of just 4.9 seconds. The Flying Spur Speed Arabia offers a more powerful 600 bhp (610 ps, 449 kW) version of Bentley’s highly acclaimed W12 with 553 lb-ft (750 Nm) of torque. This is a 9 per cent increase in power and 15 per cent increase in torque over its sister model, and will drive from 0-100 km/h in 4.8 seconds with a top speed of 322 km/h.

Unique wheels are also offered on both models. The Continental Flying Spur Arabia is designed with an elegant 14-spoke diamond alloy wheel, which has incredible strength through a small surface area and allows the best possible flow of air to the brake discs.

For the Continental Flying Spur Speed Arabia, vibrant and sporty, bright silver, 10-spoke, 20-inch wheels are included, and are also compatible with optional carbon ceramic brakes.

Bentley’s ability to add extra, well-executed touches of luxury can be found in the ventilated fluted seats that effectively cool and warm the body, helping driver and passengers always to stay comfortable. The craftsmanship features which are synonymous with the Bentley name also include veneered picnic tables to the rear of front seats inset with vanity mirrors, chrome inlay strips to the door waistrails and deep-pile carpet mats with hide trimming. To surprise and delight the customer, even the fuel cap has been designed with jewellery in mind and is engineered in bright chrome with the famous ‘B’ badge.

For convenience, an additional valet key is offered with limited functionality that allows the car to be driven without giving access to the boot or glove box. This provides secure storage of personal belongings when using valet parking services.

Further options that offer the luxury and refinement to the customer include Adaptive Cruise Control with ‘follow to stop feature’, a rear-view camera, the iPod interface linked to the infotainment system and privacy phone handsets in the front and rear of the car.

Geoff Dowding, Regional Director, Asia and Middle East, comments:

“We have created these exclusive new models for our Arabic customers in recognition of the growing importance of these influential customers. Bentley has a long and proud tradition of being able to design, engineer and personalise our cars to the individual styling and driving tastes of our customers and these special-edition Bentleys showcase these skills for the Middle East Market”.

Will New Car Prices Stifle an Industry Recovery?

Pop quiz: in what calendar year did the U.S. auto industry first sell more than 15 million cars and trucks? Time's up. It was 1965. A year later, the Center for Automotive Research (CAR) held its first Management Briefing Seminar, a collection of speeches and panel discussions featuring automaker and auto supplier executives, engineers and analysts and United Auto Worker chiefs. They're held in the resort town of Traverse City, in the northern lower peninsula of Michigan. The people running the event, including CAR Chairman David Cole, find the federal bailout of General Motors and Chrysler very distasteful. Yet they know that without the help, there very likely would not have been a 2010 Management Briefing Seminar.

CAR's post-mortem for the worst downturn in the auto industry since the 1930s provided some fresh insights. For one thing, scratching our way back to a 16-million-unit year, which was the norm from the late Clinton years through most of George W. Bush's two terms, will be very difficult.

CAR figures the Treasury department has handed out a total of $132 billion to automakers, and that includes Targeted Asset Relief Program money from late-'08/early '09, plus the current administration's program to encourage battery-electric car production. GM and Chrysler have paid back about $17 billion, total, to date. (This doesn't include $3.1 billion the Obama administration just pledged to Ford to help it export American-made vehicles to NAFTA neighbors Canada and Mexico.)

Meanwhile, the Detroit Three have announced more than $7.6 billion in new projects this year, and CAR says more than 50,000 auto industry jobs (including from suppliers) have been added since the bankruptcies. Most of those jobs are in Indiana, Ohio and Michigan (no wonder I'm bullish on the bailout), and CAR figures the multiplier effect could add a million or more new jobs to the economy.

Here's McAlinden's most startling statement. "The auto recession may have started before the economic recession." CAR figures that the industry was in a housing-related bubble from 1997 to 2007, when sales consistently tickled the 17-million level.

"Until we burn off that bubble, we're not going to get back to the trend, sales growth rate," McAlinden says. "Prices are high and the buyer is waiting."

The corrections made in the past two years have made the Detroit Three pretty healthy, from CAR's point of view. With their bankruptcies, GM and Chrysler were able to wipe out crippling debt, money that was borrowed at rates higher than either company's (or Ford's) margins. Market share for GM and Ford have stabilized and all three are running operating profits in a still-depressed market.

But there's still more than 15-million unit capacity in North America, plus imports. Ford, McAlinden notes, is cutting production in the next quarter to maintain profit.

The attitude of the Detroit Three takes these arguments head-on. It has been a long time since GM, Ford and Chrysler could claim to make money on small and midsize commodity cars. When it announced July sales numbers, GM proudly noted its incentive spending as a percentage of average transaction price is 10.6 percent, roughly equal to the industry average and four full points lower than its ratio last year.

After the concessions the UAW made in the 2007 labor agreement and then, again, in 2009, GM pays an average of $58.15 per hour to its factory workers. The days of GM's huge cost disadvantage per car are over. Toyota's non-union Kentucky plant pays $56.16. And the two-tier labor agreement with the UAW could lower GM's cost by up to $10 per hour.

It seemed less than a year ago when foreign and domestic companies were giving away cars just to move the metal; McAlinden says new car prices (adjusted for inflation) are at their highest point in seven years, bolstered by even higher used car prices and higher loan interest rates.

New Cars for 2011 What to Look For

This is the first of a series on what’s new in 2011 models. Throughout the month, MoneyWatch will tell you about the most significant 2011 small cars, mid-size cars, small SUVs, mid-size SUVs minivans, and hybrid and electric cars to help you make smart buying and leasing decisions.

For 2011 models, the magic word is mileage. Gas mileage gains abound in the ’11s–from Ford’s Mustang (rated 30 mpg in highway driving) to General Motors’ new high-mileage Chevrolet Cruze small car (pictured at right) to new hybrids from Honda, Hyundai, Lexus, Porsche, and Volkswagen. “People have come to accept that gas will remain expensive, and high mpg has become a major shopping point and a major factor in car advertising,” says Jessica Caldwell, director of pricing and industry analysis for auto information web site Edmunds.com.

But consumer demand isn’t the only driving force for high mpg. By 2016, the cars of each auto company must average 35.5 mpg under recently-adopted federal regulations. (See What You’ll be Driving in 2016. )

The race for mileage and consumer dollars has spawned 17 first-year models. In small cars, Ford Fiesta and Chevrolet Cruze–both based on cars already sold in Europe–are joined by the

Mazda2. Among hybrids, Honda’s sporty hatchback CR-Z (pictured at left) and Lexus CT 200h join the pack. Two small SUVs, known as the Mini Countryman and Nissan Juke (pictured below), also debut. And the Nissan Leaf and Chevrolet Volt, the much-anticipated plug-in electrics, will soon hit showroom floors.

Some of the best-known SUVs and minivans will get full redesigns. The Ford Explorer and Jeep Grand Cherokee SUVs are all-new as are the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna minivans.

Under the hood, smaller engines with turbochargers that kick in when you want more power will be more widely available, too. (See 2011 Ford Explorer MPG Gains 20% to 30%.) And you can look for growing numbers of models with electronic stability control as standard safety equipment. This feature, already in 88% of 2010s, will be mandatory for all new models in 2012.

Looking for bargains? Since many 2011s came out in spring or summer (examples: the redesigned BMW 5-series, the Hyundai Sonata and Ford Mustang), you can get some of the best deals around on the remaining 2010 models of those cars. (See Best Car Deals on Hot Models and Cold).

If you’re thinking about buying or leasing a 2011, remember these points:

Don’t assume you have to pay full price just because the car is new or redesigned. Informed negotiation always pays. Check out average selling prices on sites like Edmunds.com and TrueCar.com. For instance, a 2011 Hyundai Sonata GLS with typical options is selling for $20,990 or $775 under sticker price, according to Edmunds. A 2011 BMW 528i is selling at $44,336 or $909 below list price.

Expect fewer and smaller incentives on 2011s. Though well below pre-recession levels, auto sales have been rising steadily this year partly due to heavy incentives. (Toyota kicked off the big scramble of rebates, low-rate financing, and cheap lease deals to kickstart sales after its major recalls.) Such incentives, which hurt manufacturers’ and dealers’ profits, have already been scaled back on remaining 2010s. Nevertheless, be sure you get any available incentives.

If you aren’t in a hurry, wait until December. The final month of the year is always one of the best months for car shopping because most people are busy spending time and money on holiday gifts. If you’re enough of a contrarian to research and negotiate hard just before the holidays, though, you might find a great deal.

G-POWER X6 TYPHOON RS ULTIMATE V10

With 900 HP and a top speed of more than 330 km/h, G-POWER is building the world's fastest SUV based on the BMW X6 M in a limited edition of 5 units.

With the G-POWER X6 TYPHOON RS ultimate V10, G-POWER once again presents an automobile that can only be described with superlatives. The standard X6 M with its twin turbo-charged engine is already powered by an impressive power unit, but the standard BMW engine has not been capable of arousing emotions to the same way as the original M-POWER engine has been able to up to now. For this reason the engineers at G-POWER decided to fit the X6 M with the breath-taking performance of Formula 1 technology.

An appropriate powertrain to suit G-POWER's philosophy was quickly found. A high-revving engine with direct throttle response is now showing a character which the 5.0 l V10 power unit produced by M GmbH inherited at birth.

"The intention behind the G-POWER X6 TYPHOON RS ultimate V10 is, besides the aim of building the world's fastest SUV, to create a vehicle to do homage to M GmbH's fascinating V10 power unit", according to G-POWER's Managing Directors Christian Stöber and Zoran Zorneke talking about the ultimate X6 M's technical specification.

As with all the elaborately hand-built vehicles from the G-POWER manufactory, 100% orientation towards customer requirements as regards the interior finish and instrumentation and the strict limit on the numbers of each Edition is the key of the company’s thinking. The circle of clients among whom the G-POWER X6 TYPHOON RS ultimate V10 has been publicised clearly aims at solvent fans of the famous power unit which unfortunately will no longer be available in the foreseeable future.

In keeping with the dynamic presence of the TYPHOON RS wide-body kit, the G-POWER X6 TYPHOON RS ultimate V10 with its superlative power unit is the focus of everybody´s attention. To achieve this as a first step the BMW M5 5.0 l power unit was transplanted and comprehensively modified. The objective of the engine development at G-POWER was to bring out the best of the BMW Formula 1 characteristics hidden in the genes of the V10 power unit. The result was an engine without any equal in the world. Revving high, immediate throttle response and an explosive power output create a sensation of acceleration which otherwise only pure racing engines can achieve.

In addition, the G-POWER BI-compressor system (taken from the G-POWER M5 HURRICANE RR world-record vehicle) was developed one stage further and at the same time the cubic capacity of the BMW V10 power unit was increased from 5.0 to 5.5 litres. This means more space for the supercharged air from the twin ASA T1-316 compressors which will be cooled to optimum performance temperatures by the double-flow, water-cooled intercooler. This complicated aluminium casting replaces the standard air box on top of the engine, and its direct inlet is responsible for the spontaneous response characteristics which give the G-POWER motor its incomparable "Race Feeling". The inner workings of the 10-cylinder, four-valve engine are optimised by light, precisely balanced MAHLE high-performance forged pistons with lower compression and increased mechanical strength. As the standard connecting rods and piston pins were equally not up to the considerably increased forces, here too, recourse was had to special parts. The forged, 7-bearing crank shaft is also a custom-made part which boosts the cubic capacity by 10% from 5.0 up to 5.5 litres. An optimised data map for the engine electronics rounds off the extensive modifications made to the V10 power train. The result is a peak performance of 900 HP / 662 kW at 8.000 rpm and a maximum torque of 870 Nm at 6.800 revs. This enormous power output is transmitted by a six-speed gearbox built by G-POWER to the rear axle. The automatic gearbox fitted as standard, just like the standard BMW xDrive all-wheel drive system, have been sacrificed to the G-POWER engineers' objective of creating a pure-bred sports car in SUV clothing.

Powered like that it is an easy job for the G-POWER X6 TYPHOON RS ultimate V10 to claim the title of the fastest SUV in the world:The sprint to 100 km/h takes a mere 4.2 seconds. In less than 13.0 seconds this exceptional SUV is already up to 200. The top speed is over 330 km/h.

So that the future owner of one of only 5 G-POWER X6 TYPHOON RS ultimate V10s available in the world can enjoy the fastest speed achievable with an SUV in complete safety, distinctively shaped skirts and spoilers, front and rear, trimmed for maximum aerodynamic efficiency provide the necessary downforce. The elegantly curved G-POWER wings on the front and the rear make room for the 3-part 23" G-POWER SILVERSTONE RS forged wheels: 11Jx23 at the front and 12Jx23 at the back. 315/25 ZR 23 high-performance tyres all round from the development associate MICHELIN ensure optimum traction and sports car handling.

Bringing the G-POWER X6 TYPHOON RS ultimate V10 from its top speed back to zero is the job of a high-tech brake system equipped with 410 mm carbon-ceramic brake disks and 6-piston callipers. This system allows a deceleration better than Earth's gravity while at the same time this system gives a weight savings of 50% compared with a standard brake system.

In the vehicle interior, the weight reduction demanded by the sports car concept is continued. After getting rid of the heavy xDrive all-wheel drive and making use of titanium as the material for the exhaust system, the four ultra-light carbon individual seats in the vehicle interior complete the weight reduction programme. Overall is the car ca. 150 kg lighter than the standard version.

However, such asceticism does not mean that comfort has to be sacrificed. The work lavished on the cockpit is no less than that on body and engine and with hand-finished interior fittings underlines this automobile's distinguished position. To this end the entire vehicle interior is fashioned in leather on a carbon structure. The style defined by the 4 carbon individual seats is emphasised by 2-coloured seams which tie in the leather on seats, instrument panel, interior door panels and last but not least on the A, B and C pillars. Door linings in leather and carbon manufactured in "CSL light-weight" harmonise perfectly with the new central console, equally made of carbon, which stretches up to the front seats and which encloses the high-end entertainment system. A tachometer reading up to 400 km/h, as well as the ergonomically shaped G-POWER sports steering wheel complete the G-POWER X6's interior.

The G-POWER X6 TYPHOON RS ultimate V10 can be ordered for Euro 675 000.-- (net) as a completely finished vehicle from the G-POWER manufactory in Autenzell. The edition is limited to 5 vehicles worldwide.

The company G-POWER:

G-POWER was established in 1983 and has ever since exclusively focused on tuning BMW automobiles and producing exclusive one-of-a-kinds. In 2008, the brand celebrated its 25-year anniversary and today, it is one of the most renowned providers on the global market. By developing the world-wide strongest versions of the most important BMW engines in-house, G-POWER significantly stands out from its competitors. G-POWER holds various world records and its 800 hp strong BMW M5 Hurricane RR is the fastest limousine in the world. G-POWER is holding the High-Speed record for over two years now.

Range Rover plans fourth model

According to Autocar, Land Rover isn't done expanding its Range Rover model lineup now that the Estoque has made its official debut. Citing so-called "well-placed sources," the UK mag suggests that LR is surprised by the overwhelmingly positive reaction to the new entry-level Range Rover - enough that it's now considering another model to slot in below the Range Rover Sport.

The report goes on to suggest that development of the proposed machine has barely begun and there's no clear indication of what exactly is in store, though a seven-passenger "lifestyle" (whatever that means...) vehicle has been hinted at. It's thought that the Range Rover Sport may be moved slightly upmarket from its current £46,000 (just over $60,000 U.S.) starting price to make room for this theoretical new model. In any case, considering that the Evoque is still quite a way off, we don't expect to see this new rumor fulfilled any time soon.

Saab planning to enter the World Rally Championship (WRC) in 2012

According to the latest reports, it appears that Saabwants to enter the World Rally Championship with its upcoming 9-2 supermini.

The debut is rumored to take place in 2012 and the new car is expected to use the same engine as the Mini Countryman, which will also make its debut in the WRC in 2011. The Countryman uses a 1.6-litre turbo four-cylinder turbo-charged engine from BMW Motorsport. Regarding Saab, sources confirmed the fact that Spyker (the new owner of the Swedish firm) and WRC officials already met for further discussions and planned new talks at the Rally of France in October. “The initial meeting has happened and there’s a huge amount of enthusiasm from all concerned. Like Mini, Saab has a great heritage in the sport and a return to the WRC makes a lot of sense.” said the source. Another carmaker prepared for a WRC debut in 2012 is Volkswagen, but this is still a rumor.