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Officially Official: Saab unveils new 9-3 range
2007-06-15 03:11:00
It's about time Saab just officially reveals the 9-3. After all, the full 9-3 range can be deemed as the worst kept secret of 2007. New unmasked spyshots popped up everyday and all we had to do was wait for the officially official debut. Finally, Saab released a great load of press images of the full 9-3 range, which includes the Sedan, SportCombi and the Cabriolet.The Aero-X inspired front fascia is the main highlight of the changes that the Swedish automaker has implemented for this refresh. The look is controversial and the reception of the new design is nearly half and half, as some Saab enthusiasts like the cleaner design of the pre-facelift model. With the new front end comes other visual changes including new clear-lens taillights and a new bumper.Saab also introduced their brand new all-wheel drive system called the XWD. The new quad-steer tech is only available on the top Aero models, which are also equipped with a new 2.8L 280hp V6 turbo. Along with the new turbo V6 is an...
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TheCarBlogger Exclusive: Hyundai Genesis (BH) RWD snapped
2007-06-09 05:26:00
We bring you exclusive spyshots of Hyundai 's new RWD premium sedan, Gene sis . Hyundai unveiled the Genesis Concept at the Big Apple this year, which was a preview of Hyundai's new RWD premium-segment fighter. The Genesis will be powered by a 3.8L Lambda V6 powering around 260-280hp and an optional 4.6L Tau V8 powering around 340hp. The Genesis will feature many luxury goodies such as Smart-Key access, navigation system and Bluetooth.These shots prominently reveal the Genesis's grille, something we've been anticipating to see since first prototype mules were spotted in 2006. Looking at these shots, it seems Hyundai ditched the Camry-esque grille in favor of a simpler and more attractive 2-bar grille. We can also vaguely see the headlights and HID (High Intensity Discharge) projectors are visible. The photographer of these shots stated that a smart-key button was visible on the driver's door handle which confirm the Smart-Key access. Some other design cues visible are the attracti...
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Mercedes-Benz gives green-light for Ocean Drive Concept production
2007-06-09 05:15:00
Motor Trend is reporting that the four-door convertible unveiled in Detroit this year, is approved for production. Production dates are speculated to be 2011 and it will be based on the S600. They will most likely share powertrains and the 5.5L V12 is most likely to be the main variant. However, we're talking four years from now. So, by then, powertrains would be larger and more powerful.The Ocean Drive Concept, based on the Mercedes W221 S600, raised many eyebrows when it was unveiled in Detroit this year. The eye-catching part was its four-door cabriolet design which raised questions on its fate in our local Benz dealerships. Follow the jump to view a hi-res image gallery of the Ocean Drive Concept.[Source: Autoblog]
More About: Mercedes Benz , Mercedes-Benz , Green

Spied: Kia Sportage Facelift unmasked!
2007-06-08 14:09:00
The Spor tage is Kia's offering in the compact sport-utility vehicle market. The Sportage isn't what we would call a success, but it has faced enough sales to please Kia Motor Corporation. The Sportage is planned to have a major facelift for the 2008 model year and Kiaworld just posted up two images of the unmasked Sportage facelift.From what we can tell, this is a leaked studio shot. The new Sportage seems to carry Kia's new design theme of following the Cee'd. The most prominent change is the front where a pro_ceed style grille is visible. New headlights and front bumpers seem to be the highlights of this change. The rear doesn't seem to change as much as the front as only new taillights can be seen.We have no idea on the powertrains Kia will opt for, but we think they will most likely keep the engines for another year or so before a full redesign. Judging by the recent spyshots and the leaked image, the Sportage facelift would most likely debut at a major European autoshow th...
More About: Facelift , Mask , Lift , Portage

MINI Clubman sketch leaked!
2007-06-07 17:48:00
Just moments ago, our friends over at TheHollywoodExtra just posted a leaked sketch of the MINI Clubman production version. The Clubman has been tipped to unveil later this year in Frankfurt. The Clubman will sit on an extended chassis of the MINI Cooper and will likely share the same powertrains. The fate of the Clubman reaching our shores is questionable, but as popularity of the Cooper increases by the day, we'll most likely see the Clubman on sale in North America sometime after its initial launch in Europe.[Source: TheHollywoodExtra]
More About: Mini , Sketch , Leak , Leaked , Etch

Chevy Beat production confirmed as Matiz-replacement
2007-06-07 17:36:00
Autocar got an advanced previewing of the next Chevrolet Matiz recently. They are happy to report that one of the trio concepts unveiled at the Big Apple will be the main influence for the design. The Matiz will depart from the vanilla-esque look of now and will move into the hot-hatch sector for the successor.The Matiz, which will heavily influence styling from the Beat Concept, will be available in three or five-door configurations. The Matiz will grow in size in accordance to South Korea's new regulations on city cars.Autocar also got some hints on the reskinned Aveo hatchback which will go on sale next spring. The new Aveo Hatchback will feature a sharper exterior with interiors shared with the new Aveo Sedan, which is on sale currently. The new Aveo will most likely debut in Bologna later this year. Follow the jump to view a hi-res image gallery of the Beat Concept.[Source: Autocar via GMInsideNews]
More About: Daewoo , Production

Dodge Hornet confirmed for production
2007-06-07 17:27:00
The Dodge Horn et has been officially given the green light for production. Sources say the Hornet will be built with co-operation of the Chinese automaker, Chery. Autocar predicts that the production Hornet will be unveiled as early as September in Frankfurt. However, we think that it a bit too early as the official announcement has yet to be released.The Hornet will be part of Cerberus's new 3-year $3 billion Chrysler renewal program. The Hornet will likely appear at an European autoshow as Chrysler will mainly target that market. However, there is a big chance that the Hornet will arrive on our soil soon after its initial debut. Follow the jump to view a hi-res image gallery of the Hornet Concept.[Source: Autoblog]
More About: Production , Prod

Milestone: Toyota reaches 1 million hybrid sales
2007-06-07 16:18:00
Toyota announced today that they have surpassed the one-million mark in sales of their hybrid vehicles. Since 1997, Toyota pioneered the gasoline-powered hybrid-electric technology and now, it is common to see hybrid offerings from many different automakers. Of the 1.047 million units sold around the world, 345,000 were sold in Japan and 702,000 throughout the rest of the world. Of the million units, the Prius accounted for 757,600 units. As Toyota aims to improve their hybrid systems, so is the global perception on rising fuel prices and climate changes. Toyota claims all of their vehicles will be hybrids by 2020.[Source: Motor Authority]
More About: Toyota , Hybrid , Sales , Green , Million

Peugeot releases new images of 207 SW
2007-06-06 13:58:00
The last model of the 207 range has been revealed by Peugeot . The 207 SW will go on sale on July 5th of this year. Peugeot expects sales of around 98,000 units and expects the diesel variant will account for 56% of that. The 207 SW is 119mm longer than the regular hatch and features a panoramic glass roof that adds to the sense of space. Storage capacity measures in at 428L, and folding rear seats that collapse into the floor increase the car?s practicality.The petrol range starts with a 75hp 1.4L unit mated to a manual gearbox jointly developed between Peugeot and BMW. The range topper is a 1.6L VTi unit producing 120hp and 160Nm of torque mated to a tiptronic-style auto.The diesel range consists of two 1.6L HDi units developing 90hp plus 215Nm of torque, and 110hp with 240Nm of torque, respectively. A new RC version will also be launched with a 175hp engine that delivers 240Nm of torque from just 1600 rpm. Follow the jump to view a hi-res image gallery provided by NetCarShow.com. ...
More About: Images , Lease , Ease , Ages

Renault releases new images of Laguna
2007-06-06 13:42:00
Renault let it loose today when they released official images of the new Laguna before its official unveiling in Frankfurt this September. The Laguna is Renault's competitor to the Ford Mondeo, VW Passat, and the Opel Vectra.The diesel variant is projected to take account of more than half of the Laguna's sales. The predecessor accounted for more than 70 percent. The most fuel-efficient diesel powertrain in the line-up is a 1.5L 110hp diesel that gets around 46MPG. The new offering from Renault is certainly an attractive one and it departs from Renault's usual quirky styling of the Megane and the last Laguna. Renault claims the interior quality of the new Laguna exceeds its competitors and meets premium cars like the BMW 5-Series. Follow the jump to view a hi-res image gallery provided by NetCarShow.com.[Source: Autoblog]
More About: Renault , Images , Lease , Ease

Honda plans on dropping Accord Hybrid
2007-06-04 14:02:00
According to Nihon Keizai Shimbun, Honda plans on axing the Accord Hybrid when they release the next-generation Accord in the fall. Honda will focus more on the Civic Hybrid and another subcompact hybrid in the works. Instead, the Accord will opt for a new clean-diesel engine.2009 will be a big year at Honda as they will unveil two fuel-efficient vehicles. An entry-level, mass-produced hybrid car will be priced at around $25,000 and is expected to go on sale worldwide. Honda also plans on producing a production version of the Small Hybrid Sports Concept.[Source: Motor Authority]
More About: Green , Plans , Plan

US-Spec Subaru Impreza WRX receiving a different grille after all?
2007-06-04 01:51:00
CARSCOOP's recent article gave us more hope that Subaru might've listened to countless Subie fans regarding the atrocious grille they patched onto the new WRX. Days after the Impreza had its initial debut at the Big Apple, we were brought to a few grainy, low-res shots of the new Impreza wearing custom wheels and a thousand times better grille. We were on the edge on whether it was the STi model or a miraculous last-minute grille makeover.A Subaru fan posted up fairly good images of the new Impreza at a racing event in Hollywood, wearing the new grille. The WRX hatch was spotted at an ESX (Easy Street Motorsports, a tuner for Subaru) meeting in Hollywood, wearing New Jersey plates and being driven by Subaru USA representative, Garrick Goh. The new grille in these shots improve the look of the whole car abundantly. Could it be that this is the chosen grille for the new Impreza WRX after all? Follow the jump to view more shots. [Source: CARSCOOP]
More About: Grille , Reza , Rent , Ving

BMW announces M Sport Package X5
2007-06-01 14:00:00
BMW released the first official images of the M Spor t Pack age variant of the X5 today. It is the first time the German automaker implements the tuning kit onto an SUV. The changes made include a sportier exterior and interior, and a tweaked chassis for better performance. There is no boost under the hood, which slows our excitement a bit.The exterior features a color tone bumper with integrated fog lights, larger wheel arches to house the standard 19" wheels you get with the pack or an optional set of 20"s. The interior receives a batch of M badges everywhere, sport seats, aluminum trimmed interior, and an M steering wheel. Performance enhancements include better handling thanks to tweaks made into adaptive drive and active steering systems.The M Sport Pack X5 will only be on sale in Europe. The 3.0si or 3.0d models can get the kit for ?6,350 while the 4.8i V8 version costs ?4,840. Follow the jump to view more hi-res images.[Source: Motor Authority]
More About: Tuning , Package

IIHS tests convertibles, Saab 9-3 and Volvo C70 earn Top Safety Picks
2007-05-31 14:15:00
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety made history today when they announced results of their first crah testings of convertibles. Out of the 10 new drop-tops they tested, the Saab 9-3 Convertible and the Volvo C70 received the Top Safety Pick. They scored "good" for all three criterias: frontal, side, and rear.The rear impact tests proved to be the most difficult for these cars as fixed roofs can do a great deal in protecting the cabin and the car itself. The Pontiac G6 Convertible did not do so well in every criteria. Some other vehicles tested were the Chrysler Sebring Convertible, BMW 3-Series Convertible, Mitsubishi Eclipse Convertible, and the Audi A4 Cabriolet. Follow the jump to view the official press release.[Source: Autoblog]PRESS RELEASE:1st time Institute tests convertibles: Saab & Volvo models are top performers; 3 are marginal in side impact testARLINGTON, VA - The Saab 9-3 and Volvo C70 earn the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's TOP SAFETY PICK award for...
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Nissan mulls Altima Convertible
2007-05-29 13:56:00
Nissan may add a drop-top variant of the Altima in the years to come. If the project is given the go-ahead, the drop-top will be based on the Altima Coupe. The Altima Coupe is based on the Altima Sedan, but only shares an interior and hood. The low-priced convertible segment isn't what we call "successful" these days as sales are slow, mainly because of the lack of new models in the segment.Main rivals of the Altima Convert ible would include the Toyota Solara Convertible , Chrysler Sebring Convertible and the Pontiac G6 Convertible. [Source: Motor Authority]
More About: Nissan , Vert

Chevrolet Lambda crossover likely to launch as early as next year
2007-05-28 13:54:00
Is anyone surprised that the TrailBlazer is still part of the Chevrolet line-up for this year? We are, as the car has dwindled quickly and most of its siblings have already departed. The Detroit News is reporting that the TrailBlazer will be canned by 2010 and a new crossover will replace the old-timer as early as next year.The new Chevrolet crossover will sit on GM's successful Lambda platform which underpins the Saturn Outlook, GMC Acadia (pictured) and the Buick Enclave. All three of the crossovers are doing exceedingly well and Buick has had waiting lists on its Enclave, something that was hardly noticed in Buick dealerships for a long time. The crossovers accounted for 4% of GM's overall sales last month. Motor Authority is reporting that the new bow-tie crossover will be named the Traverse.The new crossover will be assembled in GM's Spring Hill, Tennessee plant.[Source: Motor Authority]
More About: Launch , Early , Crossover , Like

Spied: 2009 Chevrolet Nubira
2007-05-25 14:04:00
The third generation Nubira has been caught testing at the Nurburgring recently. The prototype shows an all-new design with a rounder roofline. The C-pillar cues the Chrysler Sebring and the new design is more European than its predecessor. It is also designed under GM unlike its predecessor which was designed by Pininfarina. Headlights that cue the Epica mid-size sedan can be visible under the tapes. From what we can see, it also appears to have 4-wheel disc brakes. Sources say that GM will drop the Lacetti name in 2009 and rename all variants to Nubira. Head on over to WorldCarFans to view more shots.[Source: WorldCarFans]
More About: Chevrolet , Daewoo , Role

Buick to revive Skylark nameplate in China
2007-05-25 01:39:00
The Skylark had its days in the 80's and 90's. The impression that remained of the Skylark was certainly not positive. However, GM did not market the Skylark outside of the US. So the nameplate will be revived in China for the successor of their Excelle compact sedan, based on the Daewoo Lacetti. The Skylark will sit on GM's new Delta II platform, which will underpin the next Cobalt, G6 and Saturn Astra.The Skylark will be engineered and built in GM's Chinese facilities and it may be one of the first vehicles from GM China destined for the US. While we have little or no idea on how it will shape up, we can predict that it will be widely received in the US. The Park Avenue, based on the Holden WM Statesman, had a distinct interior designed in China and we still hear pleads from GM enthusiasts to bring it over to the US. While GM already had three compact cars in the pipeline, it wouldn't hurt for a fourth one. But the real question is: Are Americans ready for a compact Buick ? We...
More About: Late , Lark , Vive

Porsche's mini-Cayenne rumored to be named Roxster
2007-05-25 01:23:00
Porsche is rumored to be working on a sub-Cayenne model according to Autobild. Like the Cayenne which shares underpinnings with the Audi Q7, the new vehicle, rumored to be named the Roxster, will share underpinnings with the upcoming Audi Q5. They are reporting that Porsche AG has already trademarked the name. In exchange for the Q5, the source reports that Porsche will share technologies of its next generation Cayman and Boxster with Audi for a new roadster rumored to be called the R4.The Roxster will be different from its Cayenne in performance as Porsche will focus more into superior handling and dynamics. There had been inquiries put in by Porsche for another model to accompany the Panamera in its new production facility, and it's very likely the Roxster is the top candidate.[Source: Motor Authority]
More About: Porsche , Mini

Official: Peugeot reveals new 308
2007-05-25 01:00:00
After many revealing spyshots of the 308 undergoing testing surfaced on the web, Peugeot decided to officially reveal the evolutionary 308 today. The exterior of the car seems more of an evolution of the 307 while the interior is quite the unexpected. The exterior also seems fit to describe as a bloated 207.The interior shows some retro touches including individual slots for the CD changer and the circular air vents which give the 308 the elegance it deserves. Peugeot did not reveal any technical specs, but sources say it will be available with the 207's 1.6L 120hp, 1.6L 150hp turbo and a 2.2L 170hp turbodiesel in the higher-end trims. The 308 will make public debut at the Frankfurt International Motor Show this September. Speculations note that the 308 will go on sale this fall. The Coupe-Convertible version should launch a year later. Follow the jump to view the other two images.[Source: Cochespias]
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Spied: Mercedes C63 AMG Estate
2007-05-24 14:21:00
Mercedes-Benz is definitely serious about performance as these latest shots of the C63 AMG Estate show us that they will surpass the boundaries. The C63 AMG will be powered by a 6.3L V8 pumping out around 400 to 420hp. These are the very first shots of the AMG Estate and it looks sexier than its predecessor. The AMG Saloon and the Estate are expected to debut alongside each other at the Frankfurt Motor Show this September. Head on to WorldCarFans to view more shots.[Source: WorldCarFans]
More About: Mercedes , Mercedes-Benz , Stat , Merc

Off and On: Chrysler and Chery resumes discussion, Hornet confirmed
2007-05-24 14:01:00
Chrysler and Chery have resumed discussions for a possible co-operation for building subcompact cars in China for the US. Chery stated that their hiatus in this deal was to get a better look on the Americans' future. Cerberus has taken over Chrysler and they're back in the talks.According to Automotive News, an official at Chery leaked the word that Chery will build two cars for Chrysler. One model would be destined for low-end markets such as South America and sources say it could be the Chery A1. The other car is stated to be the Hornet, which will be based on the Hornet Concept. The Hornet will be both engineered and built in China as soon as 2010.[Source: Autoblog]
More About: Chrysler , Sion , Discussion , Resumes

Box On Wheels: Nissan planning to bring three subcompact cars to US, includ
2007-05-24 03:39:00
Japanese media reports that Nissan is planning to throw in more subcompact cars in the North American market as early as next year. Alongside the Versa will be the next-generation Cube and two other subcompact cars. Nikkei is reporting that one model could be priced below $10K, which will indefinitely trigger a price war here in the US.GM unveiled the Spark last year, which is roughly priced around $7300USD, in India. GM also has the three mini-car concepts ready, so they should have no problem. The Cube will compete alongside the Scion xB in the fierce subcompact market and Nissan comes at a right time as fuel prices are rising and fuel economy is being taken very seriously in purchasing a car now.[Source: Motor Authority]
More About: Cars , Planning , Wheels , Wheel

Bloomberg: All NYC cabs to be hybrids by 2012
2007-05-24 03:10:00
That's right. Michael Bloom berg , the current mayor of New York City, announced plans of replacing the current taxi fleet of 13,000 into hybrids by 2012. The plan takes effective immediately as the current hybrid cab fleet of 400 will be increased to 1000 by October of 2008. The current hybrid fleet consists of mostly the Ford Escape Hybrid, Toyota Prius, Toyota Highlander Hybrid and the Saturn Vue Green Line.The plan also announced that by October 2008, all taxi cabs would have to have minimum fuel consumption of 25mpg. By 2009, it will be increased to 30mpg. The popular Ford Crown Victoria taxi cab only gets 15mpg by the 2008 EPA standards, whereas the 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid serves up 34mpg. Since all taxi cabs in NYC will suffer major traffic congestion and slow cruising speeds, emissions would drastically decrease and mileage will increase. The reason being that a hybrid motor stays all-electric in low speeds, something which NYC cabs will face commonly.[Source: Kicking Tires]
More About: Hybrids

Kia introduces revamped 2008 Picanto
2007-05-24 01:12:00
Kia introduced the first facelift of its successful Pica nto subcompact hatchback today. The Picanto receives new headlights, new "Cee'd" style grille, new bumper and hood up in the front. It also receives new sets of wheels for all trims. The Picanto also receives redesigned taillights and bumper at the rear. It also gains an extra 40mm in length to a total of 3540mm.The "Cee'd" style continues inside with the "Cee'd" style gauges, redesigned center console and a new "Cee'd" style stereo with matching buttons. A new steering wheel is also standard as well as new side mirrors with turn signal repeaters, something which is scarce in the city-car segment. Overall, this facelift brings the Picanto to a new standard as Kia strives to avoid the cheap-look with their new vehicles.[Source: CARSCOOP]Continued: More images
More About: Intro , Cant , 2008

Ford introduces new Harley F-150 with optional 450hp V8
2007-05-24 00:31:00
Ford and Harley -Davidson do a great deal in business co-operatively and one great example is the Harley-Davidson Ford F-150. Based on the F-150 SuperCrew 4x2, last year's model churned out 300hp, powered by the 5.4L Triton V8. Until then, 300hp was enough to get us all crazy, especially for a pickup. However, with the recent debuts of many sub-$30K vehicles that easily exceed 300hp, the Harley was overshadowed. The 2007 model adds an optional 450hp V8, brought to you by SALEEN. This supercharger is also found in the Shelby GT500.Ford also revamped minor details such as the grille and badging. The Harley now sports a 6-bar chrome grille coupled with some Harley-Davidson badges here and there. The 300hp V8 is the standard powertrain while the SALEEN supercharger is a $6500 option. The Harley F-150 will have a base price of $37,210 in addition to a $925 destination charge.[Source: Autoblog]Continued: Official press release, hi-res image galleryPRESS RELEASE: SUPERCHARGED 2007 FORD F-1...
More About: Ford , Intro , Opti

Spied: 2008 Honda Accord EX Sedan caught testing
2007-05-18 14:06:00
Temple of VTEC just posted up three spyshots of the EX trim of the new Accord Sedan , due to be unveiled on August 21st. Last week, the first spyshots of the Accord Sedan surfaced on the web, showing the LX variant. Reception was love-it-or-hate-it and we were on the tip of the cliff on whether we liked it or not. These new shots improve our perspective of the Accord drastically, especially with the bigger wheels.The Honda Accord Coupe and Sedan will be unveiled on August 21st, according to Motor Trend, who told us to give a close watch on their website on that day. However, a September 1st debut might be more likely, as it follows Honda's previous annual September 1st releases, like the CR-V in 2006, Civic in 2005, and Odyssey in 2004. Head on over to VTEC to see these images fully.[Source: Temple of VTEC]
More About: Testing , Sting , Test

Pontiac G8 and G6 GXP appears on 50 Cent's new video
2007-05-17 13:45:00
GM is continuing its media blitz with a cameo appearance of the Pont iac G8 and the G6 GXP in 50 Cent's new music video. This continues the recent appearances of various GM vehicles like the Camaro Concept featured in rapper T.I.'s recent video.The new G8 and the G6 GXP appear for several seconds in 50 Cent's "Amusement Park", a single for his new album "Curtis" which will be released in June.[Source: GM]Continued: More screenshots
More About: Video , Pears , Ears

Audi Clubsport quattro Speedster Concept revealed
2007-05-16 13:48:00
This reveal was quite unexpected, as we came across upon this today. Audi released images of its Clubsport quattro Speed ster Concept, which is basically an Audi TT Roadster with no pillars. The Speedster consists of no top, A-pillar, or rearview mirrors. Instead, a small windshield and side mirrors with turn signals do the job. It also features an enormous grille, which is prominent in Audi's recent concepts such as the Cross Coupe quattro Concept, revealed in Shanghai.The Speedster is powered by a gussied up variant of the 2.0L TFSI engine, pumping out 300hp. Coupled to Audi's S-Tronic dual-clutch transmission, its brakes have been also modeified to carbon ceramic units. It runs on 20" lightweight alloys to maximize its advantage of the light weight.Audi has revealed no more information than what we wrote above via Autobild. The Speedster will NOT debut at this year's Frankfurt Motor Show as you might have expected while reading the article. In fact, Audi will unveil the Speedst...
More About: Tuning , Quattro , Once

El General Does It Again: GM releases new images of Camaro Vert' and Beat
2007-05-15 02:48:00
GM really knows how to excite car enthusiasts like us. The General released new images of the Camaro Convertible Concept and the Beat Concept, but this time, with some life into it. The cars were fine, but the initial shots they gave us at launch was lifeless with the dull gray studio backgrounds. They even managed to sneak in a beautiful human this time, coupled with the beautiful setting.These shots came at an unexpected time (last weekend according to Jalopnik), but they are good enough to heat up our already boiling anticipations on both of these cars. Enough talking, we'll leave you in front of your PC with the glory shots yourself.[Source: GM]Continued: More hi-res imagesChevrolet Camaro Convertible ConceptChevrolet Beat Concept
More About: Images , Again , Image