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2008 Nissan Rogue Review
2007-12-05 16:08:00
IntroductionIt's not quite to the extent of Moon Unit Zappa or Apple Martin, but the 2008 Nissan Rogue should give its parents hell for its name. While its similarly styled big brother Murano is named after the glass-making island in beautiful Venice, the little Rogue is at best named after a rather dull X-Men character. At worst, this stylish cute-ute crossover shares its moniker with an uncontrolled animal that lives apart from the herd, or a plant that is inferior and unwanted. Do Nissan's marketing folks not have a dictionary in the office?Powering the Rogue is a torquey 170-horsepower four-cylinder engine that provides smooth acceleration on par with other vehicles in the class. Unfortunately, it is tied to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) -- a design Nissan has utilized with great success in the V6-powered Altima, but needs rethinking here. Feeling like it's partially constructed of rubber bands, the CVT can get maddening on the freeway, constantly raising and dro...
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2008 Dodge Ram Pickup 3500 Review
2007-12-05 16:08:00
IntroductionYou'd have to be a little nutty to buy a 1-ton dually pickup truck and not really need one. Sure, those double tires and wide truck bed look tough, but the stiff-legged ride created by its beefed-up suspension can make highway cruising a jittery affair. Plus, driving a dually around suburbia is only one step removed from piloting a Norwegian Cruise liner down the Erie Canal. The 2008 Dodge Ram 3500 exists for truck buyers who need serious towing capacity, whether they're lugging around Secretariat's relatives or their own relatives in a 30-foot Fleetwood trailer. In other words, posers need not apply.The Ram 3500 features a dual-wheel rear axle (except for short-bed Quad Cabs) and is available in two-wheel- and four-wheel-drive configurations, with the latter being controlled electronically on all but the lowest trim level. The four-wheel-drive 3500 has a solid front axle and recirculating-ball steering setup, while the two-wheel-drive model gets an independent front ...
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Full Test 2008 Chevrolet Malibu LTZ
2007-12-05 16:07:00
Ever experience the Law of Automotive Similarity? You know, whatever you drive, you'll see it in great numbers? Well, we've been driving a 2008 Chevrolet Malibu LTZ sedan around for a couple of weeks now, and we've not seen very many other examples of any Chevy Malibu from recent model years.Just One LookSleek and handsome in the Dark Gray that Chevrolet has chosen as the car's signature color to help reinforce its upmarket aspirations, this car looks like the fitter, hipper younger brother when parked beside a dowdy '07 Malibu (still to be sold to commercial fleets as the 2008 Malibu Classic). And its straightforward design makes some of the Japanese competition seem downright quirky.Drive TimeThese and other basic dimensions come straight from GM's Epsilon chassis that the 2008 Malibu shares with the Saturn Aura. So it's no surprise that our top-level Malibu LTZ carries the same 252-horsepower 3.6-liter double-overhead-cam V6 with variable valve timing that we've seen in t...
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2008 Edo Competition Lamborghini Murcielago LP640 Versione Nardo
2007-12-05 16:06:00
October 21st, 2007. A 4am wake-up Espresso has to suffice. The remaining drowsiness disappears as soon as the 6.5 ltr. V12, now with 663 hp, is fired up. Re-torque the wheels once again. After checking the pressure of the new Continental V-max tires the edo competition LP 640 Versione Nardo rolls onto the 12.6 km (7.8 miles) long oval.Each contestant has 3 laps: The first one as the warm-up lap, the second one as the high-speed lap and the third one as the cool down lap. By now it?s 6am, the sun is rising over the test track. It?s chilly with light winds, but above all -It?s dry. On this Sunday morning the warm-up lap is driven at speeds between 280 and 300 km/h (174-186 mph). Particular attention is paid to vibrations, oil-and water-temperatures. It feels good, the LP 640, and thanks to the newly developed rear wing it?s so fantastically stable, as if the tires were glued to the south-Italian tarmac.Now it?s on. The second lap counts and the growl of the V12 is turning into an infe...
More About: Competition , Lamborghini , Murcielago , 2008

2007 Citroen Nemo Concetto
2007-12-05 16:06:00
FINDING NEMO?After presenting Nemo at the Road Transport Show in Amsterdam in October 2007, Citroen is displaying NEMO CONCETTO at the 2007 Bologna Motor Show. Nemo Concetto is a take on a concept car based on Nemo, a compact, practical and intelligent vehicle that lends itself particularly well to this type of exercise.Nemo Concetto is a nod to Disney's clown fish hero, with its orange and white colour scheme. It illustrates the world and values of Nemo, as well as highlighting the many possible ways of customising this vehicle.Nemo Concetto illustrates the astonishing closeness between the Citroen Nemo and its clown fish homonym. Like the fish, Nemo Concetto can be considered as "small" among its peers. However, its size is an asset, since it is able to nip in and out of traffic easily.In a world where it would be tempting to think that bigger is better, Nemo Concetto combines intelligent design with compact exterior dimensions and interior space. It shows that intelligence is th...

2007 Lotus Exige S - Track Pack
2007-12-05 16:05:00
Seller: parkplaceAddress: 13710 Northup WayCity: BellevueState: WashingtonCountry: USAPrice: $66,150.00Date Added: December 4, 2007Expiration: April 2, 2008Link: http://www.parkplaceltd.comViews: 189Description:This Exige S is available for immediate delivery. It takes the already hard-core theme turns it up even one more notch with the optional Track Pack age and optional Lotus Traction Control. It is further equipped with Starshield paint protection for the Ardent Red paint, and the Touring Pack that gives you premium audio with XM satellite radio capability, leather seats, and weight-saving power window lifts.

2008 Porsche 911 GT3 Cup
2007-12-05 15:54:00
New 420 bhp Porsche 911 GT3 Cup Stuttgart. The new Porsche 911 GT3 Cup is entering the 2008 motorsport season with engine output increased to 420 bhp. The car will be raced in the Porsche Mobil1 Supercup, the world?s fastest international brand trophy, and worldwide in national Porsche Carrera Cups and GT3 Cup Challenges. 265 units of this production-based racing car developed in Weissach will be built on Porsche?s production line in Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen, marking a new record for a car of this category.The most significant modification compared with last year?s model is the new rear end following the design of the production model. Air venting slits ensure better dissipation of heat at the rear. The 3.6-litre six-cylinder boxer engine developed in Weissach is also based on the street-legal GT3 and develops maximum output of 420 bhp, 20 horsepower more than on the previous model. The sequential six-speed transmission with interruption of engine power enables the driver to shift up ...

2008 Mitsubishi Endeavor SUV
2007-12-05 15:32:00
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) continues to enhance the value of its Endeavor mid-size crossover SUV model, making the Active Stability and Traction Control (ASTC) system standard on front-wheel drive models for 2008 . (The ASTC system was already standard on the all-wheel drive models.) 2008 Mitsubishi Endeavor LTD Endeavor is available as the high-value LS and the luxuriously equipped SE that challenges near-luxury brand models, but at a better value. All models are powered by a 225-hp 3.8-liter SOHC V-6 engine that requires regular-grade fuel. In addition to three rich new exterior colors, the 2008 Endeavor offers a new two-tone leather seating option in the SE model grade. The Suki Beige seating is accented by black side bolsters for a truly luxurious appearance. "Endeavor brings bold, sporty style to the mid-size segment and today remains a compelling choice, thanks to its smooth, easy-to-drive performance, comprehensive safety technology and generous standard equ...
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Los Angeles Rolls Out the "Green Carpet" for General Motors' Chevy Volt Con
2007-12-05 15:31:00
Extended-Range Electric Vehicle Will Electrify Los Angeles Commuting General Motors ' extended-range electric vehicle concept arrives in Southern California on Thursday, giving Angelenos a rare, up close preview of the highly-anticipated Chevy Volt. The vehicle will be on display at hot spot locations throughout Los Angeles from December 6 through December 11. Los Angeles is one of only four U.S. cities to host the Chevy Volt around town, providing an opportunity for locals to see the car of the future. Chevy Volt Concept Car Since its introduction in January at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, the Chevy Volt sedan - powered by GM's E-Flex electric propulsion system - has energized car enthusiasts in the U.S. and abroad with its potential to greatly reduce trips to the gas station for many commuters, as well as greatly reduce CO2 emissions. More than 75 percent of drivers in the United States commute fewer than 40 miles a day1. For these drivers, a fully charg...
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Tata Motors Reports Total Vehicle Sales for November 2007
2007-12-05 15:30:00
Tata Motors reported a total sale of 46,947 vehicles (including exports) for the month of November 2007, a decline of 4% compared to 49,061 vehicles sold in November last year. Cumulative sales for the company at 3,59,251 nos., grew by 0.3% over last year. The domestic market continues to be sluggish, due to the high interest rate regime, continuing to affect retails.Commercial Vehicle sThe company?s sales of commercial vehicles in November 2007 in the domestic market were 26,895 nos., a growth of 4% compared to 25,793 vehicles sold in November last year. M&HCV sales stood at 14,426 nos, a growth of 0.2% over November 2006, while LCV sales were 12,469 nos., a growth of 10% over November 2006.Cumulative sales of commercial vehicles in the domestic market for the fiscal were 1,86,869 nos., a growth of 2% over last year. Cumulative M&HCV sales stood at 97,182 nos., a decline of 7% over last year, while LCV sales for the fiscal were 89,687 nos., an increase of 14% over last year....
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Chrysler LLC Announces Overall November 2007 U.S. Sales Down 2 Percent
2007-12-05 15:29:00
Blames Flat Consumer Spending Chrysler LLC dealers delivered 161,088 new vehicles to U.S. customers in November 2007, down 2 percent compared with a year ago. All sales figures are reported as unadjusted. Highlights:- Chrysler brand car sales rise 9 percent over November 2006; led by Chrysler Sebring Convertible- Chrysler Town & Country up 10 percent on the success of the new model- Jeep(R) brand sales down 2 percent year-over-year- Dodge brand sales up 6 percent from the same period last year led by Dodge Avenger, Charger, and Nitro- Dealer inventory down 4 percent or 18,612 units versus November 2006 "Despite consumer concerns, Chrysler LLC sales are off only 2 percent showing customers are still purchasing quality and value. High fuel prices and falling home prices continue to impact vehicle sales in November which remain below trend," said Darryl Jackson, Vice President - U.S. Sales . "We remain optimistic moving into December due to the growing availability of new models, i...
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Lists the 10 Best Car Features Introduced in 2007
2007-12-05 15:28:00
What's the Coolest New Car Feature?The automobile industry continues to make great strides, bringing new, creative features to market each year. Whether related to safety, comfort or convenience, carmakers develop a wide variety of new features to attract new-car shoppers. With countless hours behind the wheel of new vehicles, the Cars.com reviewers identified what they consider the 10 most notable features that debuted in 2007."We're impressed every year with the new features that show up in cars, but this year the 2008 Infiniti EX35, which goes on sale at the end of December, definitely offered the most," said Cars.com managing editor Patrick Olsen. "It has our favorite new feature, Lane Departure Prevention."The Top 10 new car features according to Cars.com include:1. Lane Departure PreventionWhere you can find it: Infiniti EX35Infiniti's Lane Departure Prevention builds on conventional lane-departure warning systems, which detect lane markings and sound a chime if you drift a...
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BMW Group Reports 4.2 Percent Increase in November 2007 Sales
2007-12-05 15:27:00
Year-to-Date Sales of BMW Group (BMW and MINI combined) up 7.8 Percent The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) reported November sales of 26,985 vehicles, an increase of 4.2 percent over the 25,889 vehicles sold in November 2006. The BMW Group also increased its year-to-date sales volume to 302,079 vehicles, up 7.8 percent, compared to 280,186 vehicles in the same period of 2006. BMW Brand Sales Sales of BMW brand vehicles increased 5.3 percent in November for a total of 23,808 compared to 22,602 vehicles reported in the same month a year ago. Year-to-date BMW brand sales were up 8.3 percent, to 263,596 vehicles compared to 243,487 vehicles sold in the first eleven months of 2006. MINI Brand Sales MINI USA reported November sales of 3,177 automobiles, down 3.3 percent from the 3,287 cars sold in November 2006. Year-to-date, the division reported sales of 38,483 automobiles, an increase of 4.9 percent, compared to the 36,699 cars reported through November of 2006. Table: ...
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Mitsubishi Sales Through November 2007 Exceed Entire 2006 Total
2007-12-05 15:27:00
Mitsubishi Motors announced today that calendar year-to-date (CYTD) sales reached 123,089 as of the end of November , a 13.3% increase compared to the first eleven months of 2006 and already more than the entire 2006 full-year total of 118,558. November sales this year were 7,983, a decrease of 13.8 percent compared to the 9,256 units sold in November 2006.The new Mitsubishi Outlander crossover sport utility continued to show the largest year-over-year increase through November, at 136%. Mitsubishi Lancer sedan (61%), Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder convertible (15.4%), Mitsubishi Raider truck (10%), and Mitsubishi Galant sedan (1%) sales are also ahead in 2007 compared to the January-November period a year ago.November sales highlights:-- Sales of the all-new fuel efficient Mitsubishi Lancer were 1,708 in November, a 54% increase over November 2006.-- Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder convertible sales were up 5.9% in November.-- Mitsubishi Raider sales were up 35.1% for the month.-- Mitsubishi E...
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Consumer Reports Rates Toyota Highlander Tops Among Three-Row SUVs
2007-12-05 15:26:00
Buick Enclave also impresses, Ford Taurus X improves; New Chrysler minivans disappointThe redesigned Toyota Highlander received top scores in a new Consumer Reports test of four midsized three-row SUVs, though it did not earn the organization's Recommended designation. Still, the Highlander now tops a field of 14 similar vehicles. The Buick Enclave and Ford Taurus X didn't score as well in this test, but both bested the Subaru Tribeca.In a test extra, the new Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country minivans proved disappointing. Details are available in the January issue of Consumer Reports magazine, on sale December 4, and to subscribers to http://www.consumerreports.org/.The Highlander is the first model to feel the effects of a decision by Consumer Reports that it would no longer automatically award Toyotas with its Recommended designation because its Annual Car Reliability Survey showed several other models had problems. In the past, Consumer Reports automatically ...
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Suzuki Auto Sales on Track for Another Record Year in 2007
2007-12-05 15:24:00
? American Suzuki closes in on second consecutive year of 100,000-plus vehicle sales? Popular Suzuki SX4 models lead upward year-end sales momentumBREA, Calif., Dec. 3, 2007 ? American Suzuki Motor Corp. today announced automobile sales of 5,987 units in November, achieving the second-best November sales volume in company history. Year-to-date sales stand at 93,673 vehicles, maintaining the company?s pace for its fourth consecutive year-over-year sales increase and second successive year of 100,000-plus units sold in the U.S.Suzuki Auto ?s upward sales momentum remains rooted in its right-sized product line. November sales were lifted by the Suzuki SX4 models, including the media acclaimed five-door SX4 Crossover and the all-new four-door SX4 Sport, which began arriving in dealer showrooms in September. November sales of the SX4 models totaled 1,664 units, while Suzuki?s XL7 midsize crossover SUV posted a notable 162 percent increase.?With the growing popularity of SX4 Crossover and ...
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2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
2007-12-05 15:23:00
The all-new Mitsubishi Lancer for 2008 delivers thrilling dynamics, "class-up" value, advanced safety and cutting-edge user-technology in an aggressively styled package. The new Lancer brings the bold, dynamic lines of the Mitsubishi Concept-X to the showroom, with a shark-nosed front end, a distinct wedge-like profile and crisp, taut lines. 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer GTS Lancer is available as the value-minded DE, the well-equipped ES and the sport-tuned GTS. The 2008 Lancer is based on a new performance-engineered global platform that also forms the foundation of the new Mitsubishi Outlander SUV. The new Lancer has a longer wheelbase and wider track, but slightly shorter overall length than the previous model. All Lancer models are powered by a new 2.0-liter 152 hp aluminum DOHC MIVEC 4-cylinder engine (143 hp PZEV in Calif.) teamed to a 5-speed manual transmission. The new Lancer offers an optional continuously variable transmission (CVT), that, in the GTS model, exclusively feature...

Daimler Chairman Dieter Zetsche Presents smart fortwo to US Govt. Represent
2007-12-05 15:21:00
At a traditional luncheon with prominent speakers hosted by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in Washington, Daimler Chairman Dr. Dieter Zetsche today presented the smart fortwo to representatives of U.S. businesses and government as an environmentally friendly solution for future mobility. Starting in January, the compact model, which has already been very successful in Europe with about 850,000 units sold, will also be available in the U.S. 2008 smart fortwo micro hybrid drive (mhd) In his presentation to the high-profile audience in Washington, Dr. Zetsche expressed his conviction that the smart fortwo will be a resounding success in the U.S. as well. The reason is that the smallest model produced by Mercedes-Benz Cars is a standout - not only because of its unique compact design and intelligent, safety-oriented construction, but also thanks to its low fuel consumption and exemplary environmental friendliness. "Europeans are enthusiastic about the smart and we are beginning to see Ame...
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Daimler Presents European Carrier Awards 2007
2007-12-05 15:21:00
First place in the passenger car category awarded to Horst Mosolf GmbH & Co KGStuttgart - At the European Carrier Days 2007, Daimler AG once again honored its best providers of vehicle transport logistics in Europe. The awards were presented at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart?Untertürkheim. In addition to the European Carrier Awards Passenger Cars, which were presented for the eighth time, Daimler also presented the fourth European Carrier Awards Commercial Vehicles for the fourth time this year.As was the case last year, first place in the passenger car category went to the freight forwarding company Horst Mosolf GmbH & Co. KG Internationale Spedition from Kirchheim/Teck, Germany. Daimler was once again particularly impressed by the company?s outstanding logistics processes, which are supported by a consistent and continuous system of quality management and controlling. Second place went to Frankenbach Automobil Logistik GmbH from Ginsheim-Gustavsburg, Germany, while ...
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Ford of Canada Truck Sales Up 3%
2007-12-05 15:18:00
Led by Ford F-Series, truck sales momentum continues into NovemberOAKVILLE, Ontario, December 3, 2007 ? November proved to be another winning month for Ford Motor Company of Canada , Limited, where truck sales increased three per cent. Not to be outdone, Ford cars also saw a rise in sales in November ? namely the newly redesigned Ford Focus and Ford Taurus.November Highlights:* Ford F-Series sales up 4%* Ford Focus sales increase 6%* Ford Taurus sales rise 14% in November* Ford Ranger sales increase 33% and achieve best November on record* Ford SUV sales are up 11%"Our showrooms are bustling with pre-holiday traffic," said Bill Osborne, president and CEO, Ford Motor Company of Canada, Limited. "The 'Get in and Drive' year-end clearance has given Canadians even more reason to take a second look at the great products Ford has to offer. From the bold new look of the 2008 Ford Focus, to the enduring Ford Ranger and the reliable Ford F-Series work-horse, Ford of Canada provides vehicles...
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Ford Delivers First Escape Plug-In Hybrid To Southern California Edison
2007-12-05 15:17:00
First Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) delivered to Southern California Edison as part of unique partnership to advance commercialization of PHEVs ANAHEIM, Calif., Dec. 3 - Ford Motor Company?s first demonstration Escape Plug-In Hybrid is ready to roll on California roads. Ford today delivered the first of 20 research PHEVs to Southern California Edison to begin road testing as part of a unique partnership between the automaker and utility. Ford Escape Plug-in Hybrid The Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid, a research vehicle using high voltage, lithium-ion batteries, can deliver up to 120 miles per gallon which would mean far fewer trips to the gas station. The vehicle uses common household current (120 volts) for charging. Full charge of the battery takes six to eight hours. When driven for the first 30 miles following a full charge, the Ford Escape PHEV can achieve up to 120 mpg when driven on surface streets. The vehicle is not range limited by the amount of charge available in the high...

GM Canada Receives Top Honours at the AJAC ?Best New? Vehicle Awards
2007-12-05 15:16:00
GM Canada was today honoured by the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC), which named 4 GM entries as the best new vehicle in their respective categories. The recognition results from recent back-to-back driving evaluations of over 60 new vehicles at the recent AJAC Test Fest evaluation - the foundation of the Canadian Car of the Year Awards (CCOTY) program. 2008 Saturn Astra XR Saturn Astra: Best New Small Car Saturn Vue: Best New CUV $35,000-$60,000 Buick Enclave: Best New CUV over $60,000 Chevrolet Silverado: Best New Pickup Truck Over 70 of Canada?s top automotive journalists judged this year?s competition which aims to provide consumers with sound, comparative information on new vehicles. ?We?re honoured by these awards from Canada?s top automotive journalists, which we think will help consumers appreciate the strides GM has made in terms of product design, technology, fuel efficiency and quality,? said Marc Comeau vice president of sales, service and m...
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Audi R8 Is Autobild's "SportsCar 2007"
2007-12-05 15:14:00
Only pure-bred sports cars are crowned ?SportsCar? of the year by a panel of experts in the Autobild SportsCars monthly magazine. Following its victory in the March 2007 issue, the Audi R8 has now been awarded top place overall, and has thus secured the title of ?SportsCar 2007?, one of the German car industry?s most sought-after awards. 2008 Audi R8 The trophy was presented to Werner Frowein, Managing Director of quattro GmbH, during the magazine?s ?Race Night?, which formed part of the Essen Motor Show. The Audi subsidiary was responsible for developing the 420 bhp mid-engined R8 sports car, which it also manufactures. The Audi R8 is hand-built at quattro GmbH in Neckarsulm. Together with the TÜV Rheinland inspection authority, members of the magazine?s panel conduct demanding on-road tests on an ongoing basis to assess the qualities of the very latest sports cars. They then present their favourites as the monthly winners in each new issue. At the end of October, the jury cast a d...

Los Angeles Auto Show Blog!
2007-11-17 17:26:00
Latest news from Los Angeles Auto Show !
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2008 Dodge Caliber Review
2007-11-15 20:22:00
What's New for 2008 The enthusiast-oriented Dodge Caliber SRT4 makes its debut this year, bringing with it a turbocharged 285-horsepower engine. The rest of the 2008 lineup is pretty much unchanged. Caliber SXT and R/T models have some additional standard equipment this year, and all Calibers get new chrome accents within their cabins.IntroductionThe 2008 Dodge Caliber shines in certain respects. Those who favor styling with an aggressive edge will enjoy its looks. Huge headlights, a crosshair grille and testosterone-laden fenders call to mind the Dodge Ram, and available 18- and 19-inch wheels only add to the Caliber's swagger. Inside, you'll find a versatile interior that's a good fit for passengers and cargo; there's seating for five, along with available 60/40-split fold-flat rear seats. The Caliber also boasts distinctive features like liftgate speakers that flip down for tailgate party entertainment, a chilled glovebox for beverages and a handy center armrest-located flip-...
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What else is new Lexus struggling to develop LF-A supercar
2007-11-15 20:22:00
Toyota's showing in Tokyo was rife with disappointments, none more so than what was over at the Lexus booth. Beyond its LF-Xh hybrid crossover, rumor had it that a revised version of the LF-A supercar would make an appearance. No such luck. Instead, the same show car we've seen over the last year stood alone, longing for refinement.According to Winding Road's Japan correspondent, the reason for the dismal showing was a shakeup on the engineering side of Lexus' new halo. A number of "key engineers" have apparently been yanked off the project to work on other programs within Toyota, and that, partnered with problems providing power from both a V10 and a gas-electric hybrid V8, along with reaching the 218 MPH targeted top speed, has caused delays in development.The business plan for the LF-A includes building 26 units per month, and sources suggest that sales are likely to begin in 2009 ? the same year Acura will bring its own supercar to market.© Source: autoblog
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2009 Lincoln MKS
2007-11-15 20:21:00
If you?ve been waiting for the all-new 2009 MKS with quiet patience, then the new Lincoln flagship is for you. This is a car all about refined luxury for the responsible types who want a little pampering and a little power?but it must be guilt-free.Ford will start building the full-size luxury sedan at its Chicago plant next summer.Volume should be in the 40,000 range annually, with a starting price below $38,000.On the style spectrum, the MKS lands between the Lincoln MKZ (formerly Zephyr) and the sexy MKR concept that kept bringing us back to the Lincoln stand at the Detroit show in January to double-check that it was really wearing a Lincoln badge.The MKS will launch with a new 3.7-liter V-6 that won?t be shared with Ford or Mercury brand vehicles, says Derrick Kuzak, group vice president responsible for global product development. It produces 270 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque, which is up 20 lb-ft over Ford?s 3.5-liter V-6 upon which it is derived. It is similar to the 3.7-liter en...

2010 Porsche Panamera
2007-11-15 20:21:00
Porsche?s much-anticipated 2010 Panamera ?four-door coupe? does not go on sale until the fall of 2009, but we caught the four-passenger car doing hot laps at the Nürburgring, revealing a number of 911-esque styling cues, especially in the headlights.We credit the Carrera for the turn signals and, unfortunately, the Cayenne for the greenhouse. We don't know where else to point the finger for the droopy, bloated rear end. Additionally, we see nothing to get excited about on the side panels, and the profile is?dare we say??a trite conventional. All in all, the car certainly is no raving beauty, and the use of 17-inch 996 wheels doesn't help. We have to hope these are for the entry-level Panamera, with at least 18-inchers on tap for most models.Meanwhile, we?ve been working to sort out the pedigree and powertrain for this Mercedes-Benz CLS fighter that Porsche officials tell us is a joint venture with the VW Group?contrary to original statements by Porsche chief Wendelin Wiedeking tha...
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2008 Acura MDX Review
2007-11-15 20:21:00
What's New for 2008 After a full redesign last year, the Acura MDX heads into 2008 with no significant changes.IntroductionThe term "performance SUV" comes very close to being an oxymoron. Really, if your number-one goal is performance, a big and boxy sport-utility is usually a poor choice to go about getting it. But for consumers who really like to drive, yet have certain constraints in their life that require an SUV (read: a family), such a vehicle can make a certain amount of sense. Enter the 2008 Acura MDX.Acura's midsize luxury SUV was redesigned last year. As with the first-generation MDX, it's a car-based crossover SUV with V6 power and seating for seven. But the new model is considerably sportier. It's powered by the largest and most powerful V6 ever to grace an Acura (yes, including the NSX), giving it unparalleled juice and athleticism. With it, Acura promises V8-like performance while still maintaining respectable fuel economy.Powertrains and PerformanceThe MDX's sole...
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2009 Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione
2007-11-15 20:17:00
This gorgeous two-seat coupe turns out to be the latest chapter in the on-again/off-again thriller that centers on the chances that Alfa Romeo will one day soon be reunited with U.S. buyers. The 450-hp 8C Competizione is, we?ve been assured repeatedly, a certainty to reach our shores. We might even say we?re confident that by the end of 2007 Americans will be able to drive away from the local Maserati dealership in an Alfa.The production 8C, which will meet federal regulations here, is remarkably close to the concept. At a cost of about $175,000, 500 will be built for European consumption and will have to be ordered directly from Alfa?s home office in Italy. Stateside, Maserati will sell a production run of 99 of these cars for about $200,000 apiece. A special facility at Maserati?s headquarters in Modena has been set up to build the 8C. Production is set to start next September. Alfa expects to build 600 of these cars over 18 months and then cease production.The engine under the lo...