Hyndai Genesis Coupe R-Spec

Alfa Romeo Kamal

2011-05-12T00:27:00.000-07:00

The new compact SUV is intended to revitalize the brand and make the Italian marque a viable contender in the North American market when it returns there in 2013.
The compact SUV is a C-segment vehicle that will go up against models such as the Audi Q5 and BMW X3.
Currently, Alfa Romeo has just three models in its lineup - the Mito, Giulietta and the 159 which is sold as both a sedan and wagon. The brand will be adding the 4C GTA sports coupe to the lineup next year.
But the company is facing a set-back in replacing the aging 159 - a mid-sized sedan segment offering crucial in the North American market. Called the Giulia, the model in development is having some problems. Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne confirmed as much when he said recently that, "Americans don't (or won't) like the Giulia's styling, but we're working on it."

But the new compact SUV's development seems to be on track and it will share a platform with a future Jeep model that replaces the Compass and Patriot. Both vehicles will be built at Fiat's Mirafiori plant in Turin and production is scheduled to start in late 2012. The SUVs will feature both front-drive and all-wheel drive variants.

Engine choices will include a 1750 TC GDI with an output of around 200 PS (147 kW), a 140 PS 2.0-litre JTDm diesel unit, and a 3.3 liter variant of Chrysler's Pentastar V6 with around 275 PS (202 kW). More variants featuring a new 3.0 liter V6 diesel may follow later.

Total production will be an ambitious 280,000 units a year - 100,000 of which will be for the Alfa SUV for which Fiat hopes to split sales 50:50 between Europe and North America.

That means Alfa Romeo intends to sell 50,000 units a year of a compact SUV in North America in 2013/2014 as a completely new brand entry into the market.

Volvo XC90 R

2011-05-12T00:17:00.000-07:00

Volvo XC90 is nearly ten years old, but an executive has confirmed the company is working on a redesigned model.

While no timeframe was given, Doug Speck - the CEO of Volvo North America - confirmed plans to "bring an all-new XC90 to the market." This is critical as the crossover is a bread-and-butter model that has languished virtually untouched.

Nothing is official, but Speck seemed to imply there could be a facelift before the redesigned model is introduced. If this is correct, expect more information in the coming months.

Hyundai Azera

2011-03-29T23:21:00.000-07:00

Hyundai Azera Quality has risen, style has become modern, and the driving experience is as good as any of its competitors from Japan. When the Azera rolled into our test garage, the overwhelming response was, "Oh yeah, that's still around."

The Azera is old school Hyundai Azera , designed when the company had just started to figure out what needed to be done to play with the big boys, but couldn't quite execute it. Everything on the Korean midsize is developed to 7/10. It still seems like this is the test car for newer, better cars like the Genesis and the new Sonata. It isn't necessarily a bad car; it just isn't what we know Hyundai Azera is capable of.
Build quality is good. Gaps are consistent, the paint is nice, and the styling borrows from some of the best names in the business, but Hyundai Azera can't quite meld it into a coherent form. There is a bit too much mass over the undersized 17-inch wheels, the part lines look more like they were meant for cost-effective body part-stamping than styling, and the look just doesn't flow like the new Genesis.

Hyundai Genesis Priced $24,500

2010-11-29T18:31:00.000-08:00

As Hyundai attemps to scale the heights of the luxury sector with the new 2011 Equus full-size sedan, it's also still pushing in the sports car arena with its Genesis Coupe. The 2011 model sees some shuffles in the trim levels, and today we finally get pricing for the R-Spec, in both 2.0T and 3.8 configurations.

The 2.0T R Spec, powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-banger rated at 210 horsepower, starts at $24,500. The bigger brother 3.8 R Spec, powered by a 3.8-liter V-6 engine rated at 306 horsepower, starts at $26,750. Both are available only with a six-speed manual transmission.

2011 Hyundai Genesis Coupe released

2010-11-29T18:29:00.000-08:00

The Hyundai Genesis Coupe has always pinned itself against America’s muscle cars including the Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro and the Dodge Challenger. It even feels like it can steal some market away from the luxury Infiniti G37 Coupe.

Well, while all those models were getting an update, Hyundai just couldn’t sit back and watch and let the Genesis Coupe go on with out any upgrades. Besides a bunch of new interior updates, the most important update for 2011 is the addition of the 3.8 R-Spec. Up until now Hyundai has only offered the R-Spec Package on the 2.0T Â but the sportiness now expands to the 3.8L V6 model pumping out 306-horsepower.

The 2011 Hyundai Genesis 3.8 R-Spec adds a 6-speed manual transmission,Â 19-inch gunmetal-finish alloy wheels wrapped in summer-compound Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tires, aÂ Brembo braking system, track-tuned suspension, torsen-type limited-slip differential, black leather bolsters with red cloth insert seats,Â R-Spec badges and much more.

police chief Cathy Lanier, frustrated that iPhone technology

2010-09-06T18:44:00.000-07:00

D.C. police chief Cathy Lanier, frustrated that iPhone technology is one step ahead of the red-light and speed cameras in her jurisdiction, has announced that those who use their hand-held electronic devices are "cowardly" and "...are going to get caught" in one way or another.

The subscription-based software that has Lanier shaking her fists and blurting out names is called PhantomAlert. In a nutshell, its GPS-enhanced database of law enforcement "points of interest" mimics alarms similar to those common to radar detectors (remember, radar detectors are already illegal in Virginia and D.C.). Drivers are alerted to approaching speed traps and photo enforcing locations on in their iPhone, or portable GPS units, enabling them time to slow down.

Not surprising when you consider that the greater D.C. area is home to nearly 10 percent of all traffic cameras in the U.S., according to experts. Chief Lanier is frustrated that the innovative technology is "designed to circumvent law enforcement -- law enforcement that is designed specifically to save lives." What Lanier seems to be forgetting is that attentive drivers using PhantomAlert will be slowing down at all 290 enforcement zones... saving countless lives in the process.

buyers who want a Lexus LFA

2010-06-09T22:03:00.000-07:00

Still dreaming of buying a Lexus LFA supercar? There's hope.

Despite earlier saying that all 500 copies of the LFA were spoken for, Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A. says it has received an extra allocation of the 552-hp LFA.

Toyota says LFA production spots for U.S. buyers are still available. But consider this the last last call. Prospective buyers can contact their local Lexus dealers or call 866-532-4794.

Ferrari removes barcode from F1 cars

2010-05-11T09:56:00.000-07:00

Following more than a week of controversy regarding its livery, Ferrari has capitulated for this weekend's Spanish Grand Prix. For more than a decade, the Ferrari Formula One team has been sponsored by Marlboro cigarettes. Ever since tobacco sponsorship was banned from F1, however, traditional Marlboro branding has been absent from the Italian cars.

In recent weeks, though, accusations flew, alleging that the replacement "bar code" logo adorning the Ferraris' engine covers was merely a subliminal reference to the tobacco brand. After Ferrari president Luca di Montezemolo insisted just days ago that the "argument was pointless," the cars appeared in Barcelona devoid of the controversial livery. Instead, the cars now have a simple red rectangle wear the bar code once was.

Would you Letting Big Brother Watch Over Your Driving if it Saved You Insurance Money?

2010-03-24T20:51:00.000-07:00

Letting Big Brother would look beyond the license, if the money you saved by insurance?

It 'was an interesting discussion that The New York Times today, "Would you let your insurance company electronically monitor your travel if you knew that could lead to a reduction?

In other words, a black box in the car checked by a number of different variables to determine the type of risk factors (insurance companies up to hear) what you pay for.

The box would also "not only how many miles [people drive], but the way in which these units miles." Other factors include miles a year, deceleration / acceleration, as aggressive / defensive, is driven by the vehicle, and where (if GPS) equipped.

In defense of black boxes is possible, "charge" to ensure freer than the current method, based on risk factor, such as how many miles you drive one years of relationship. "But what about this:" For example, drivers who are commuters during peak periods of higher risk than those who have the roads clear. "To pay now, people go to work?" I do not think driving a car.

While the debate rages on privacy, should know that this technology is already being done by insurance (Progressive made using since 2004) and that costs are always much cheaper ($ 175-250 compared to U.S. $ 500-1000) per car.

According to Richard Hutchinson, Progressive plans to use a GM, a way to make people feel, the program includes "[body] of the speed of a driver based on the standard formula and give them a monitor with the promise that their rates go , but with caution, could lead to a fall. "

This is a great confidence in an "insurance company promises. Even if you could organize such a vote, it will be worth more than an elder brother of the back seats to save a dollar? Express your opinions in the comments below.

the 1967 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500

2010-01-17T22:29:00.000-08:00

There have been countless efforts to replicate the 1967 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 Eleanor from the 2000 blockbuster movie "Gone in 60 Seconds" with Nicolas Cage. We've seen Eleanor replicas based on everything ranging from a Toyota MR2 to even -the most ridiculous of all- a Smart Fortwo.

At this year's edition of the Tokyo Auto Salon, the students from Saitama University's automotive course presented their take on the Eleanor Shelby GT500 using a fourth generation (1993-2002) Toyota Supra sports coupe as a base.

The replica, which is called "Moto Supra", maintains the Supra's six-cylinder powerhouse, though it's not clear if the students performed any upgrades on the sport coupe's hardware. More photos after the jump.

Photos by Phil Alex with the help of friends Mike and Aaron

Exclusive Interview with the Head of BMWNA Product Planning and Strategy

2010-01-17T21:19:00.000-08:00

Exclusive Interview with the Head of BMWNA Product Planning and Strategy/BMW Motorsport Manager, Martin Birkmann – A Look into the Future World of ///M Cars, Racing, and Current Engine Tech. At the recent 2010 NAIAS, we got a chance to speak with Martin Birkmann who is the Head of Product Planning and Strategy with BMW NA, as well as BMW Motorsport Manager in the U.S. If you haven’t already, we advise you get some coffee brewing or pop-corn popping – what follows is extremely interesting information about current and future BMW products.

With BMW’s new engines, the revamped N54 and now the N55, what have you upgraded on the N54?

Martin Birkmann: With the N54 we’ve basically changed the mapping of the engine, pressure of the engine, given it a more sporty, more torque, and peak oriented performance curve.

What are the differences between the N54 and N55?

Martin Birkmann: At first glance we’ve changed something in the architecture, we made the engine more compact, but in terms of costumer benefit the biggest change is the application of VALVETRONIC. With variable valve lift we eliminate the throttle and so we’ve made the engine again more efficient than the N54. The N55 is maintaining the N54’s base performance level, but gives you a lot of enhancement on the efficiency side

Will we see the N55 engine across the range?

Martin Birkmann: We started announcing the N55 for the 5 series GT so you can expect to find it in the regular 5 series sedan, one series, and we’ll roll it out for more and more applications.

With the new 5 series, what kind of changes can we expect to see on the new M5?

Martin Birkmann: I think it’s been widely speculated and confirmed that we’ve somewhat seen the dawn of the end of the NA engine. M is no exception, we’ve launched our first turbo M engines and I think that will be the biggest difference if you look at the tech spec sheet – that we will go with turbo charging for the M5. There is speculation that I don’t want to comment about; we will clearly see a change in the transmission strategy, we are still examining the need for a second transmission variant. We’ll know more about that as we go forward, as you know, every one should know that BMW NA in persona is a big proponent of manual transmissions and three pedal vehicle operation, but it’s not a trend that you see in the market gaining a lot of momentum right now. Our customers want more semi-automatic transmissions, so that’s a must, and everything else is a can. We’ll see as we approach the launch of the car.

What clear future do you see for BMW and racing?

Continued

Read Article

Jyuichi Wakisaka and Andre Lotterer took the overall GT500 win in the team's Lexus SC430 last year

2010-01-11T00:51:00.000-08:00

SuperGT Lexus LFA GT500 – Click above for image gallery

Take a look at the field of 2010 SuperGT competitors and something's amiss. Nissan's been campaigning its new GT-R in the series for two years and Honda recently revealed the HSV-010 before its inaugural run in the series this May. What's missing? A new competitor from Toyota.

Jyuichi Wakisaka and Andre Lotterer took the overall GT500 win in the team's Lexus SC430 last year, but that model is not long for this world, so it's just a matter of time before Toyota fields a new car in the series. So what's set to take the SC430's place? The answer's obvious: the Lexus LFA.

Although Toyota's yet to confirm the LFA's entrance (we're expecting an announcement later this year), Iain Chandler, a skilled 3D artist hailing from Australia, has rendered a GT500-class LFA, complete with six sets of livery. While it's far from official it's a pretty good indication of what to expect when Toyota finally pulls the trigger, and Lotterer seems to approve – he posted the images on his site.

SuperGT Lexus LFA GT500 Renderings

Dacia Logan, Logan MCV and Sandero Black Line

2010-01-11T00:28:00.000-08:00

Dacia Logan, Logan MCV and Sandero Black Line – Click above for high-res image gallery

These days it seems like every color is being claimed for one cause or another. Medical research has laid claim to a few (pink and yellow come to mind), but so has the automotive industry: red for performance, green for hybrids, blue for clean diesels... Mercedes adopted black as the label for its most extreme AMG models, but now the shade is being used for something decidedly more low-rent: Renault's budget brand and Romanian subsidiary, Dacia.

Available on the Logan, Logan MCV and Sandero – though not, apparently, on the Logan pick-up or the upcoming new Duster crossover – the Black Line adds a touch of class to the budget cars. The package, based on the Laureate trim level, adds such "special" touches as metallic paint, visible top-stitching on the black fabric upholstery, MP3-capable CD player and a leather-trimmed steering wheel. Nothing ground-breaking here, and it's not going to outshine an SL63 by any means, but finally a car Top Gear's James May can drive to the symphony. Details in the press release after the jump and photos in the gallery below.

Dacia Black Line

HD Radio Technology will be standard on 2011 A6, A8 and Q7 models

2010-01-11T00:04:00.000-08:00

Audi has announced that HD Radio Technology will be standard on its 2011 model year A6, A8 and Q7 vehicles.The 2011 Audi A4, A5 and Q5 models, sold at lower price points, will also offer the technology, but with the optional navigation radio.

"We are dedicated to providing our customers with the best entertainment options to enhance their Audi driving experience," said Filip Brabec, General Manager, Product Planning at Audi of America. "These upcoming 2011 models will be fully equipped with the best in digital broadcast engineering, making it a clear choice to offer HD Radio Technology to our customers."

Compared to static-laden traditional AM/FM radio, HD Radio offers CD-quality sound on FM channels, and FM-stereo quality sound on AM channels. According to iBiquity Digital Corporation, the company holding the trademark for HD Radio, there are more than 2,000 HD Radio stations and more than 1,100 HD2/HD3 channels (FM multicast) currently on the air. As of today, HD radio is available to 85 percent of Americans. It's interesting to note that when HD Radio debuted, "HD" was the abbreviation for "Hybrid Digital," but that was later dropped. Today, "HD" is simply part of the brand name - contrary to popular belief, it doesn't stand for "high-definition." Audi's press release is pasted after the jump.

[Source: Audi]

PRESS RELEASE

Audi Standardizes HD Radio™ Technology in Three Models
HD Radio Technology will be standard on 2011 A6, A8 and Q7 models
Available on the optional navigation radio for 2011 A4, A5, and Q5 models
All cars will be available at U.S. Audi dealers by Fall 2010
HERNDON, Va., Jan 7, 2010 - Delivering the latest in digitally enhanced audio, extra programming and advanced data services, Audi of America today announced that it will offer HD Radio Technology as a standard feature on some of its 2011 models, including the A6, A8 and Q7. HD Radio Technology will also be available via the optional navigation radio in the 2011 A4, A5 and Q5 models. All models will be available at U.S. Audi dealerships by Fall 2010.

"We are dedicated to providing our customers with the best entertainment options to enhance their Audi driving experience," said Filip Brabec, General Manager, Product Planning at Audi of America. "These upcoming 2011 models will be fully equipped with the best in digital broadcast engineering, making it a clear choice to offer HD Radio Technology to our customers."

"As a leader in engineering, Audi provides its drivers with high-quality innovation that truly defines the luxury markets, and they continue to raise the bar with the inclusion of HD Radio Technology," said Jeff Jury, Chief Operating Officer of iBiquity Digital Corporation, the developer of digital HD Radio Technology for AM and FM audio and data broadcasting. "We are extremely pleased to be partnering with Audi and enabling their enthusiasts to enjoy the extra programming, crystal-clear sound, and advanced data services to enhance the driving experience."

HD Radio Technology is available to 85 percent of Americans with more than 2,000 HD Radio stations on the air, and 1,100+ new HD2/HD3 Channels (FM multicast). The digital platform offers fresh, creative programming on HD2/HD3 Channels, with CD-quality sound on FM and FM-stereo quality sound on AM.

More information on HD Radio broadcast stations currently on air nationwide can be found at http://www.hdradio.com.

Filed under: Technology, Audi

Tags: Audi, Audi HD Radio, Audi HD2, Audi HD3, AudiHd2, AudiHd3, AudiHdRadio, Free HD Radio, FreeHdRadio, HD Radio, HD Radio A4, HD Radio A5, HD Radio A6, HD Radio A8, HD Radio Q5, HD Radio Q7, HdRadio, HdRadioA4, HdRadioA5, HdRadioA6, HdRadioA8, HdRadioQ5, HdRadioQ7, iBiquity, No charge HD Radio, NoChargeHdRadio

the Mercedes-Benz CLS, BMW X6 and Volkswagen CC

2010-01-07T22:27:00.000-08:00

2010 Mercedes-Benz E350 Coupe – Click above for high-res image gallery

Marketing does funny things. Recently the word "coupe" has been rendered null and void of meaning by crafty marketing types behind cars like the Mercedes-Benz CLS, BMW X6 and Volkswagen CC, while the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo has sucked every last ounce of truth, honesty and passion from the term "Gran Turismo." It's now just advertising flim-flam. The BMW 8 Series was a grand tourer. The 535i Gran Turismo? We hear it's very practical...

We mention co-opting of the terms "coupe" and "Gran Turismo" because marketers pulled a similar stunt back in the early '70s with the phrase "Personal Luxury Car." Some cars did fit the definition well (roughly, a luxury coupe exists where practicality and efficiency are traded in favor of style, plush and image), others did not. For example, in the U.S. where we like our luxury by the yard, a 1971 Buick Riviera is a perfect example of a personal luxury car. An AMC Matador Brougham complete with Oleg Cassini interior isn't. Regardless of reality, by 1973 every car with two doors and faux-vinyl seats got tagged with the PLC label. As such, the phrase "personal luxury car" became meaningless.

Apropos of all that, Mercedes-Benz was kind enough to let us test its two-door version of its new W212 E-Class, the 2010 E350 Coupe. The new model marks the first time in three generations that Mercedes has offered a coupe version of what's generally considered to be its sauerbraten und spätzle. You'd have to go back to Bill Clinton's first term (that's pre-Lewinsky) to find the two-door W124 E-Class. Obviously, the B-pillarless two-door qualifies as a coupe, but a personal luxury car? Or, dare we say it, a GT?

2010 Mercedes-Benz E350 Coupe

but a bone-stock, 2011 Kia Sorento

2010-01-07T22:00:00.000-08:00

Kia's UVO system hands-on – Click above to watch video after the jump

Tucked in between Google's hot new smartphone and a variety of other computer peripheral equipment at this year's CES show is a crossover. Not the jacked-up, tricked-out, neon-dragging customized type that we typically see around the Consumer Electronics Show, but a bone-stock, 2011 Kia Sorento. Well, stock except for one option: UVO.

We recently got a chance to try out the newly-announced system in the plastic, and while impressive in its own right, just hours after sitting down with Ford to check out the latest Sync and MyFord Touch, it's somewhat less than stunning. But, ignoring that for now, Kia's offering looks good and still ahead of the rest of the curve. It's functionally comparable to early Sync, enabling easy access to media on 1GB of internal storage, on a USB-connected drive or even on a CD. You can rip from CD straight to internal memory or to a thumb drive, an interesting feature we're not sure is particularly useful. The touchscreen display is a nice improvement over Ford's two-line Sync readout, but remember that if you get this system, you'll have to opt out of in-dash GPS. Good thing you splurged and got that Droid, right? Check out some screens in the gallery below, and there's a quick video demo after the break.

Kia and Microsoft's UVO

Despite the similar looks, it's likely that Mercedes

2010-01-07T19:10:00.000-08:00

Subtlety is the key for Mercedes. Our spies captured this facelifted C-Class testing with only a few minor styling updates over the model it replaces. Most noticeable are the re-designed bumper, headlights and wheels.

Despite the similar looks, it's likely that Mercedes will offer a refreshed interior and a host of mechanical updates to improve efficiency and reduce emissions. Among these changes we can expect to see direct fuel injection and a stop-start system, as well as an ultra efficient BlueTec diesel engine.

Reports suggest that there may also be a new C-Class Coupe added to the range, which will replace the smaller CLC.

The facelifted C-Class is likely to be unveiled at the Los Angeles Motor Show in December.

above to watch the 9ff TR 1000 reach 391.7 km/h

2010-01-03T21:37:00.000-08:00

Click above to watch the 9ff TR 1000 reach 391.7 km/h at the Papenburg test track after the jump

There aren't too many places you can cruise at over 200 mph in relative safety, but the Papenburg test track is one of them. The high speed oval located in Northern Germany is a pavement playground for supercars in search of straight line speed, and various manufacturers and tuners regularly use the track to see just how fast their projects can go.

Take, for instance, 9ff. The Porsche super-tuner previously used Papenburg to reach v-max in its GT9 supercar, and they recently brought out a modified 911 Turbo dubbed the TR 1000 for a high speed romp. While not quite as fast as the GT9 (409 km/h), the TR 1000 still reached an impressive 391.7 km/h -- just over 243 mph. Fortunately the cameras were rolling, giving us an opportunity to see just how quickly a 1000 horsepower Porsche can triple the legal speed limit. You can watch it for yourself after the jump.

9ff TR 1000

which will get the firm’s V10 engine used in the LF-A supercar

2010-01-03T21:17:00.000-08:00

In these very last days of 2009, some Japanese magazines are spreading the rumor that Lexus is working on a very hot version of the GS luxury saloon, allegedly called GS-F, which will get the firm’s V10 engine used in the LF-A supercar, to rival BMW M5. Now apparently Lexus has responded to this by tweeting! They say that the V10 is bespoke to the LF-A and won’t be used in any other car. They didn’t comment on the existence of GS-F though.

So as it’s usually the case, there must be a GS-F in the works but it certainly won’t be getting the V10. This makes more sense actually, because as we’ve reported earlier, BMW will replace theV10 engine of the M5 with a twin-turbo V8 in the upcoming model. Mercedes too has plans to drop the big and thirsty V8s in favor of more efficient turbo engines, so even if Lexus is to rival the M5 or E63, they would come up with something in the same league.

And as a side note, the GS’s face is too dull for a weapons-grade V10 such as LF-A’s 4.8 liter! It looks good as a hybrid, but as a performance saloon?! The M5 will eat it for breakfast!

Ford rank number one on J.D. Power and Associate's 2009 navigation system survey

2009-12-08T16:34:00.000-08:00

Not only does Ford rank number one on J.D. Power and Associate's 2009 navigation system survey, it ranks number two as well. The top ranking system, according to Power's study, is the one found in the Lincoln MKS, followed by a nearly identical system (if not 100% identical) in the Ford Flex. And get this, Ford took down five of the top ten spots with the F-150 coming in fourth and the Escape and Edge taking seventh and eighth place, respectively.

To anyone that's driven a modern Sync-equipped Ford with navigation, these survey results probably won't come as any sort of shock, as FoMoCo has been making some of the best systems in the business ever since they released Sync with Sirius Travel Link. Here's what Ford user interface design engineer Jason Johnson had to tell us about why Ford got ranked tops:

"I think what really makes our system stand out is the fact it's designed with the user in mind. Yes, it has all the features you'd expect from a high-level navigation system -- the 3-D maps, the digital jukebox, the customizable home screens, and of course we pride ourselves on SYNC and SIRIUS Travel Link -- but it's more than that. This system is easy to use. It's intuitive. The buttons are where you'd expect them to be, the grouping is logical and the graphics are bright and easy to read. Everything is integrated, so it all works together, simply and easily."

Non-Ford top ten nav-system finishers include the Acura TL (third), Porsche 911 (fifth), Cadillac CTS (sixth), Hyundai Genesis (ninth) and Infiniti FX-series (tenth). Interestingly, Ford is the only non-luxury/premium brand to make it into the top ten. If you were wondering, seven of the bottom ten nav-systems were made by Toyota, with the Avalon finishing dead last. Complete results list and official press release available after the jump.

Danica Patrick to race NASCAR in 2010

2009-12-08T16:24:00.000-08:00

More Danica Patrick news and this time, it's actually racing related. Last week came a report that Ms. Patrick had inked a multi-year deal with the recently restructured Andretti Autosport, putting to rest the rumors that the sometime-swimsuit model was headed to NASCAR. Well, Sporting News is now reporting that the gun might have been jumped on that conclusion. It seems that the GoDaddy pitchwoman is about to announce a deal to drive for Dale Earnhardt Jr.'s NASCAR Nationwide Series team in 2010.

SN is reporting that Danica will run the full IndyCar calendar and a limited Nationwide schedule, with GoDaddy sponsoring her stock car. According to the GoDaddy website, the formal announcement will come at 1 PM ET Tuesday, December 8. We'll be sure to watch for that announcement and update as needed.

1962 Corvette C1-RS is a worthy Goodguys Street Machine of the Year

2009-11-06T16:05:00.000-08:00

1962 Chevrolet Corvette C1-RS - Click above for a high-res image gallery

It takes a lot to win the the Goodguys Street Machine of the Year award, but this custom 1962 Corvette convertible you see here easily deserves the honor. The car not only looks incredible, but it posted the fastest time at the Goodguys autocross track as well! Every single one of the body panels on the car has been modified, and the majority of the components are constructed either of aluminum or carbon fiber.

Powering the C1-RS is an LS7 V8 putting out more than 600 horsepower, but we were most impressed with the eight carbon fiber intake trumpets on either side of the engine that bring air into the intake manifold. The interior was beautifully crafted as well, with a custom fabricated aluminum dash and console and Alcantara and leather seats. Check out the high-res gallery below to see all the details yourself, or follow the jump to read more about the car.

1962 Chevrolet Corvette C1-RS

Remember Toyota's massive 3.8 million unit unintended

2009-11-06T15:57:00.000-08:00

Remember Toyota's massive 3.8 million unit unintended acceleration recall that was attributed to pesky floor mats? It appears defective floor mats doesn't tell the whole story, as the Department of Transportation and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration declared in a statement that "this (unintended acceleration) matter is not closed," adding "removal of the floor mats is simply an interim measure, not a remedy of the underlying defect in the vehicles."

Up to 2,000 Toyota customers claim to have experienced a sudden surge of acceleration, and some reportedly told ABC News that they didn't even have the recalled floor mats in their vehicles. Even more disturbing are the results of an ABC News investigation that reportedly found "hundreds" of accidents and up to 16 deaths as a result of unintended acceleration.

Four of those deaths occurred in August when an off-duty California Highway Patrol Officer, traveling with his wife, daughter and brother in-law, were killed after their Lexus accelerated uncontrollably. The driver's brother in-law called 911 and said that the brakes didn't work before the vehicle reached an intersection, struck another car, went into a ditch and caught fire. Some Toyota owners feel there is an electronic glitch in the system that controls the throttle and the ABC report shows that there is some anecdotal evidence which illustrates that incidents rose after the system was put into place in 2002, but so far, NHTSA has found no evidence to support those claims after six investigations.

ABC News caught up with Toyota Vice President Yukitoshi Funo (pictured second from left) and asked him if Toyota was covering anything up. Funo replied "It is not part of the Toyota culture and Toyota way to cover up anything," adding that the Japanese automaker is working with NHTSA to come up with an agreement on how to proceed going forward.

If you own a Toyota or Lexus and you are concerned about this issue, it appears that there is little that will be done in the short term other than tie down or remove the floor mats. If you do experience the acceleration issue, Consumer Reports suggests shifting your vehicle into neutral, pressing the brake and holding it down in an effort to bring your vehicle to a stop. This post and video from CR demonstrates how to effectively resolve the situation, and the risks of pumping the brakes. Turning off your vehicle could be a bad idea, as turning off the engine will also result in the loss of power steering and power brakes.

Grunewald Racing Camaro sets its sights on 2010 Formula Drift season

2009-11-06T15:35:00.000-08:00

2010 Grunewald Racing Camaro - Click above for high-res image gallery

Conrad Grusewald has been an occasional participant in the Formula Drift series for the past several years with a supercharged C5 Corvette as his vehicle of choice for piloting around clipping points and narrowly missing concrete barriers while in opposite lock. For the 2010 season, however, he plans to step up the efforts with an all new 2010 Camaro built specifically as a drift car with Hankook Tire as the lead sponsor.

In addition to providing the Camaro for Grusewald, Chevrolet also pitched in an LS-A crate motor from GM Performance Parts that should produce more than 600 horsepower at the wheels. The car also features an Eibach suspension, carbon fiber body panels from Seibon, Forgeline aluminum wheels and more. Expect to see more of this car when the Formula Drift season starts in April, but until then you'll have to settle for our gallery of high-res photos below.

Grunewald Racing Camaro

Renault board considering following Toyota out of F1

2009-11-06T15:25:00.000-08:00

Things have never been this bad for the Renault F1 team. Their performance is light-years behind where it used to be, their star driver is bolting once again, their top management has been thrown out of the sport in disgrace, and its biggest sponsors are leaving en masse. And now, following months if not years of speculation, the French automaker could be preparing to cut its losses and shut down its racing team altogether.

Reports indicate that Renault's board of directors is currently weighing its options, with possibilities including maintaining its full participation in the series, reverting to acting as an engine supplier for other teams (like Red Bull), or following Toyota and BMW out of the sport before next season. However reports that the FIA is considering taking legal action against Toyota for breach of contract which locked the company into the series through 2012 could make the decision a little more difficult.

The anticipation must be especially gut-wrenching for Robert Kubica, who just signed with Renault for next season after BMW Sauber exited the series. One way or another, the company is expected to announce its decision in the coming days.

Cars and Coffee roadshow headed for New England

2009-10-10T07:42:00.000-07:00

Cars and Coffee, the informal and inclusive wheeled hootenanny originated in Irvine, California has been spreading across the country faster than swine flu. There's no stage with bad cover bands, not a trophy in sight, but you're always likely to see some astounding vehicles.

Herb Chambers, New England dealership juggernaut, has thrown his support behind a New England gathering. "Herb himself is a super car enthusiast," says John Covell, Director of Marketing for the Herb Chambers Companies, "He thought that others would enjoy it." A new BMW dealership in Sudbury, MA, where the event is being held this Saturday, October 10th, is a supporting cast member.

Cynics may dismiss this as another ploy akin to inflatable dinosaurs, but when was the last time you were invited out by a car dealership to drink free coffee and ogle a McLaren F1 on a Saturday morning? Running from 7-10 AM, the inaugural event will be over before many people's days get under way. "Herb is passionate about cars and he's passionate about this business. If our customers understand that we share their passion, that's a good thing," sums up Covell. Hey, if he doesn't mind us drooling all over his McLaren, we'll agree.

New GM marketing boss Mark LaNeve apparently unaware that diesel is now cheaper than gas

2009-06-05T23:59:00.000-07:00

Over the last several years, we've heard a lot of excuses from many auto executives as to why their companies aren't offering diesel engines in their American market cars. Yesterday, General Motors' Mark LaNeve, the company's vice president of sales and marketing, made an appearance on C-SPAN's Washington Journal. The final question of the segment came from a viewer wondering why GM has failed to offer U.S. consumers the chance to buy some of the high-mileage diesel cars it offers in Europe.

It would appear that LaNeve might have done better to take a pass on the question. Instead of talking about the cost of making those diesels meet U.S. emissions regulations or the difficulty in helping Americans overcome the misconceptions about the fuel, he claimed that no one has successfully cracked the diesel passenger nut in the U.S. (which based on VW's May sales appears to be wrong). More startlingly, LaNeve went on to claim that diesel is $1.25 a gallon more expensive than gasoline. According to the Energy Information Agency, the national average for diesel this week is $2.35 / gallon while regular gas is $2.52 or $0.17 more than diesel. Admittedly, the fact that diesel is now cheaper than 87 octane gas is a recent development (a trend that nobody is sure how long it will last), but – going on national television and quoting outdated fuel prices as a reason for your bankrupt company's business decisions... well, that doesn't strike us as a terribly hot idea.

You can hear the question and response at 20:30 into the video replay over at C-SPAN.

Hyndai Genesis Coupe R-Spec

2009-04-16T00:10:00.000-07:00


Hyndai Genesis Coupe R-Spec high resolution wallpapers

When the colors of your new turbocharged rear-wheel-drive sport coupe are named after international racing circuits, you`d better have the performance and confidence to back it up. Now, Hyundai is upping the ante by announcing an R-Spec version of the all-new 2010 Genesis Coupe, designed to appeal to true enthusiasts who want a low starting price and the ability to tune their car to their own specifications. R-Spec will be available as a mid-2010 model year introduction.

R-Spec provides genuine track-readiness in an affordable model. The R-Spec adds core performance equipment to the most affordable 2.0T model, such as: Track-tuned suspension, 19-inch gunmetal-finish alloy wheels with performance summer tires, Brembo® braking system, Torsen limited-slip differential, and R-Spec badging. To further reduce cost and weight, it also eliminates some non-essential convenience equipment such as: Bluetooth®, automatic headlights, cruise control, trip computer, chrome interior accents and steering wheel audio controls. The Genesis Coupe R-Spec will be priced at $23,750 and $3,000 less than the 2.0T Track model, leaving tuners with extra cash for their own choice of aftermarket performance upgrades. Appropriately, the R-Spec will be available in three performance oriented exteriors colors: Karussell White, Bathurst Black and Tsukuba Red.

R-Spec equipment includes:

2.0-liter low-pressure turbocharged intercooled four-cylinder engine with dual continuously variable valve timing delivering 210-hp, an estimated 30 mpg EPA highway rating and a top speed of 137 mph
6-speed close-ratio manual transmission
Electronic Stability Control with Traction control, ABS, Electronic Brake-Force Distribution and Brake Assist
19-inch gunmetal-finish alloy wheels with staggered-width high-performance summer-compound Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tires (225/40YR19 front, 245/40YR19 rear)
Brembo® braking system with 13.4-inch ventilated front rotors, 42mm four-piston fixed front calipers (red), 13.0-inch ventilated rear rotors, 32mm+28mm four-piston fixed rear calipers (red)
Track-tuned suspension (higher-rate coil springs, higher-control shock absorbers, 25mm front stabilizer bar, 22mm rear stabilizer bar, front strut brace)
Torsen-type limited-slip differential
R-Spec badging
Quick-ratio hydraulic steering (2.7 turns lock-to-lock)
Tire Pressure Monitoring System
Front, side, side air curtain air bags
Active front head restraints
Driver`s lumbar support
Air conditioning
Remote keyless entry system
Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob
Power windows (one-touch up and down), door locks and mirrors
AM/FM/XM/MP3/CD audio system with six speakers
iPod/USB/Aux jack connectivity
Projector beam headlamps
Lightweight temporary spare with aluminum wheel (T135/80D18)
Note: Automatic transmission not available with R-Spec
End of Hyndai Genesis Coupe R-Spec review.

Hyundai and Prada team up to create three special edition Genesis

2009-04-16T00:09:00.000-07:00

Click above for a high-res gallery of the Hyundai Genesis Coupe R-Spec live from Chicago

While the car they brought to the show is basically a concept, the R-Spec package will be available through dealers and will give performance junkies more in some areas and less in others. The full list of equipment is in the press release after the jump, but the highlights are a 210-hp turbo’d inline-four that returns 30 mpg and a top speed of 137 mph. Available only with the six-speed manual, it comes with stability control, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, 19-inch wheels, Brembos, a Torsen limited-slip differential, a beefier suspension and summer-only Potenzas. To reduce cost and weight, the R-Spec doesn’t include Bluetooth, automatic headlights, sail about control, trip computer, chrome interior accents and steering wheel audio controls. Basically, the R-spec is packing all the heavy-hitting hardware from the Track model and ditches the frippery that drivers and customizers aren’t interested in.

The Genesis Coupe R-Spec will be available mid-2010 with a base price of $23,750, or $3,000 less than the 2.0T Track model. That should allow a lot of extra cash for some tuner bits. Besides the performance tweaks, the R-Spec will only be available in three colors: Karussell White, Bathurst Black and Tsukuba Red. Good names, good colors, good kit and a good price. We’re sold. Check out the press release after the jump and the live gallery in the lower regions.

Gallery: Chicago 2009: Hyndai Genesis Coupe R-Spec

Live photos copyright ©2009 Frank Filipponio / Weblogs, Inc.

PRESS RELEASE

Hyundai Debuts a HIGH–PERFOMANCE BLANK canvas for tuners: Genesis Coupe R-Spec

CHICAGO, Feb. 11, 2009 – When the colors of your new turbocharged rear-wheel-drive sport coupe are named after international racing circuits, you’d better require the performance and confidence to back it up. Now, Hyundai is upping the ante by announcing an R-Spec rendition of the all-new 2010 Genesis Coupe, designed to appeal to true enthusiasts who want a low starting price and the ability to tune their car to their own specifications. R-Spec will be available as a mid-2010 model year introduction.

R-Spec provides genuine track-readiness in an affordable model. The R-Spec adds core performance equipment to the most affordable 2.0T model, such as: Track-tuned suspension, 19-inch gunmetal-finish baser element wheels with performance summer tires, Brembo® braking system, Torsen limited-slip discriminating, and R-Spec badging. To further reduce cost and weight, it also eliminates more non-essential convenience equipment such as: Bluetooth®, automatic headlights, cruise control, trip computer, chrome interior accents and steering wheel audio controls. The Genesis Coupe R-Spec will be priced at $23,750 and $3,000 less than the 2.0T Track model, leaving tuners with extra cash for their own choice of aftermarket performance upgrades. Appropriately, the R-Spec will be available in three performance oriented exteriors colors: Karussell White, Bathurst Black and Tsukuba Red.

R-Spec equipment includes:

2.0-liter low-pressure turbocharged intercooled four-cylinder engine with dual continuously variable valve timing delivering 210-hp, an estimated 30 mpg EPA highway rating and a top speed of 137 mph
6-speed close-ratio manual transmission
Electronic Stability Control with Traction control, ABS, Electronic Brake-Force Distribution and jungle Assist
19-inch gunmetal-finish alloy wheels with staggered-width high-performance summer-compound Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tires (225/40YR19 forehead, 245/40YR19 rear)
Brembo® braking system with 13.4-inch ventilated front rotors, 42mm four-piston fixed front calipers (red), 13.0-inch ventilated rear rotors, 32mm+28mm four-piston fixed rear calipers (red)
Track-tuned suspension (higher-rate coil springs, higher-control shock absorbers, 25mm front stabilizer bar, 22mm rear stabilizer bar, front strut brace)
Torsen-type limited-slip differential
R-Spec badging
Quick-ratio hydraulic steering (2.7 turns lock-to-lock)
Tire Pressure Monitoring System
Front, side, side air curtain air bags
Active front head restraints
Driver’s lumbar support
Air conditioning
Remote keyless entry system
Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob
Power windows (one-touch up and down), door locks and mirrors
AM/FM/XM/MP3/CD audio system with six speakers
iPod/USB/Aux jack connectivity
Projector beam headlamps
Lightweight temporary spare with aluminum wheel (T135/80D18)
Note: Automatic transmission not available with R-Spec

Hyundai introduces R-Spec Genesis Coupe for enthusiasts

2009-04-16T00:08:00.001-07:00

Hyundai has been one of the few companies keeping us busy at the Chicago Auto Show. Besides showing the Rhys Millen drift car and announcing pricing for the Genesis Coupe, the automaker trotted out the R-spec enthusiast model.

While the car they brought to the show is basically a concept, the R-Spec package will be available through dealers and will give performance junkies more in some areas and less in others. The full list of equipment is in the press release after the jump, but the highlights are a 210-hp turbo'd inline-four that returns 30 mpg and a top speed of 137 mph. Available only with the six-speed manual, it comes with stability control, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, 19-inch wheels, Brembos, a Torsen limited-slip differential, a beefier suspension and summer-only Potenzas. To reduce cost and weight, the R-Spec doesn't include Bluetooth, automatic headlights, cruise control, trip computer, chrome interior accents and steering wheel audio controls. Basically, the R-spec is packing all the heavy-hitting hardware from the Track model and ditches the frippery that drivers and customizers aren't interested in.

The Genesis Coupe R-Spec will be available mid-2010 with a base price of $23,750, or $3,000 less than the 2.0T Track model. That should allow a lot of extra cash for some tuner bits. Besides the performance tweaks, the R-Spec will only be available in three colors: Karussell White, Bathurst Black and Tsukuba Red. Good names, good colors, good kit and a good price. We're sold. Check out the press release after the jump and the live gallery below.

Chicago 2009: Hyndai Genesis Coupe R-Spec

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Live photos copyright ©2009 Frank Filipponio / Weblogs, Inc.

PRESS RELEASE

Hyundai Debuts a HIGH–ERFOMANCE BLANK canvas for tuners: Genesis Coupe R-Spec

CHICAGO, Feb. 11, 2009 – When the colors of your new turbocharged rear-wheel-drive sport coupe are named after international racing circuits, you'd better have the performance and confidence to back it up. Now, Hyundai is upping the ante by announcing an R-Spec version of the all-new 2010 Genesis Coupe, designed to appeal to true enthusiasts who want a low starting price and the ability to tune their car to their own specifications. R-Spec will be available as a mid-2010 model year introduction.

R-Spec provides genuine track-readiness in an affordable model. The R-Spec adds core performance equipment to the most affordable 2.0T model, such as: Track-tuned suspension, 19-inch gunmetal-finish alloy wheels with performance summer tires, Brembo® braking system, Torsen limited-slip differential, and R-Spec badging. To further reduce cost and weight, it also eliminates some non-essential convenience equipment such as: Bluetooth®, automatic headlights, cruise control, trip computer, chrome interior accents and steering wheel audio controls. The Genesis Coupe R-Spec will be priced at $23,750 and $3,000 less than the 2.0T Track model, leaving tuners with extra cash for their own choice of aftermarket performance upgrades. Appropriately, the R-Spec will be available in three performance oriented exteriors colors: Karussell White, Bathurst Black and Tsukuba Red.

R-Spec equipment includes:

2.0-liter low-pressure turbocharged intercooled four-cylinder engine with dual continuously variable valve timing delivering 210-hp, an estimated 30 mpg EPA highway rating and a top speed of 137 mph
6-speed close-ratio manual transmission
Electronic Stability Control with Traction control, ABS, Electronic Brake-Force Distribution and Brake Assist
19-inch gunmetal-finish alloy wheels with staggered-width high-performance summer-compound Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tires (225/40YR19 front, 245/40YR19 rear)
Brembo® braking system with 13.4-inch ventilated front rotors, 42mm four-piston fixed front calipers (red), 13.0-inch ventilated rear rotors, 32mm 28mm four-piston fixed rear calipers (red)
Track-tuned suspension (higher-rate coil springs, higher-control shock absorbers, 25mm front stabilizer bar, 22mm rear stabilizer bar, front strut brace)
Torsen-type limited-slip differential
R-Spec badging
Quick-ratio hydraulic steering (2.7 turns lock-to-lock)
Tire Pressure Monitoring System
Front, side, side air curtain air bags
Active front head restraints
Driver's lumbar support
Air conditioning
Remote keyless entry system
Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob
Power windows (one-touch up and down), door locks and mirrors
AM/FM/XM/MP3/CD audio system with six speakers
iPod/USB/Aux jack connectivity
Projector beam headlamps
Lightweight temporary spare with aluminum wheel (T135/80D18)
Note: Automatic transmission not available with R-Spec

Hyundai Genesis Coupe R-Spec surrenders luxury for performance and a lower price

2009-04-16T00:07:00.000-07:00

Usually when a car company introduces a special model it’s about adding content. Not so with the 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe R-Spec. Hyundai has removed standard equipment including Bluetooth, cruise control, trip computer, chrome interior accents and steering wheel audio controls.

On the other hand, Hyundai has added a list of features including performance suspension, 19-inch gunmetal-finish aluminum wheels with summer performance tires, Brembo brakes and a Torsen limited slip differential.

The objective is simple. Give “true enthusiasts” a blank slate for high performance use and even modification, lowering weight—although Hyundai doesn’t say how much—but more importantly, lowering the price of the 2.0T Track trim level by $3,000 from 26,750. You can get a Hyundai Genesis Coupe for less. The base 2.0T lsits for $22,000. But it doesn’t have quite the impressive list of equipment of the R-Spec.

While Genesis Coupe R-Spec, as introduced at the Chicago Auto Show, is available only with the 2.0-liter low-pressure turbocharged intercooled four-cylinder engine with dual continuously variable valve timing, rated at 210-hp, the stripped for action R-Spec comes with an impressive list of equipment:

· 6-speed close-ratio manual transmission

· Electronic Stability Control with Traction control, ABS, Electronic Brake-Force Distribution and Brake Assist

· 19-inch gunmetal-finish alloy wheels with staggered-width high-performance summer-compound Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tires (225/40YR19 front, 245/40YR19 rear)

· Brembo® braking system with 13.4-inch ventilated front rotors, 42mm four-piston fixed front calipers (red), 13.0-inch ventilated rear rotors, 32mm+28mm four-piston fixed rear calipers (red)

· Track-tuned suspension (higher-rate coil springs, higher-control shock absorbers, 25mm front stabilizer bar, 22mm rear stabilizer bar, front strut brace)

· Torsen-type limited-slip differential

· Quick-ratio hydraulic steering (2.7 turns lock-to-lock)

· Tire Pressure Monitoring System

· Front, side, side air curtain air bags

· Active front head restraints

· Driver’s lumbar support

· Air conditioning

· Remote keyless entry system

· Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob

· Power windows (one-touch up and down), door locks and mirrors

· AM/FM/XM/MP3/CD audio system with six speakers

· iPod/USB/Aux jack connectivity

· Projector beam headlamps

· Lightweight temporary spare with aluminum wheel (T135/80D18)

It’s not available with an automatic transmission, by the way, and were it left to us, the fancy radio would go—or at least traded in for cruise control for that transit to the track. The remote keyless entry and the power windows and door locks would be in serious jeopardy as well, though devising hand-crank windows would probably cost more than just leaving the power windows in place, especially for what is likely to be a relatively small demand model.

We admit to being curious about the business model for the Genesis Coupe R-Spec--they don't exactly give away Brembo disc brakes and Torsen limited-slip differentials--but a Hyundai spokesman assured us that the company has found a way to make money on each one.

The only thing left then is to chose a color: Karussel White, Bathurst Black and Tsukuba Red. Not that it matters, though, because that money saved is going into custom paint, right?

Illustration: Top, Hyudai Genesis Coupe 2.0T R-Spec badge; bottom,

The 2010 Genesis Coupe will be arriving at dealerships in late February with prices ranging from $22,000 for the Genesis Coupe 2.0T with the six-speed manual and for the Genesis Coupe 3.8 with the ZF 6-speed Shiftronic automatic transmission. The $23,750 Hyundai Genesis Coupe 2.0T R-Spec will be available in a "mid-2010 model year" introduction.

Illustrations: Hyundai Genesis Coupe 2.0T R-Spec badge; Bottom, 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe 3.8. Photos of 2.0T R-spec not available at publication, but will be added when the do become available. Illustrations courtesy Hyndai.

Hyndai Genesis Coupe R-Spec

2009-03-23T21:53:00.001-07:00