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Chrysler’s customer satisfaction director says that, in an effort to retain the automaker’s customer base by improving service, it will move its off-shore customer care call centers from India to Michigan and Utah. Chrysler says the transition will take several months but that eventually all customer service calls will be directed to the United States.

“In these difficult times, we all must view each customer as a keeper,” Chrysler’s customer satisfaction director, Paul Alcala, wrote on the automaker’s corporate blog.

“As promised by senior management, we are in the process of transitioning the customer assistance center toll-free telephone number from India back to the United States.”

The automaker said that it is opening call centers in Rochester Hills, Michigan, and Salt Lake City. Chrysler didn’t comment on the degree of success it had with its offshore call centers, which were implemented as a cost-savings measure.

© Source: leftlanenews
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An image showing the concept version of Kia's upcoming VG luxury sedan has leaked to the web ahead of its unveiling at the Seoul Motor Show next month. Dubbed the KND-5, the concept hints at what we can expect from the company's new Amanti replacement which will officially debut later this year.

Created to rival other near-luxury sedans such as the Volkswagen Passat CC, the new Kia KND-5 concept boasts an elegant exterior which features upscale design touches such as LED lighting, 20-inch wheels, and a massive panoramic glass roof.

Riding on new front-wheel-drive platform which will be shared with the next generation Hyundai Azera, the concept features a 2845mm (112 inches) wheelbase that should offer noticeably more interior room than the current Amanti. As we have previously reported, speculation seems to suggest the new VG could potentially be outfitted with a Haldex all-wheel drive system but that remains to be seen.

As with the concept, power for the production VG sedan will come from a 3.5-liter V6 Lambda engine but several other engine options are also expected to be available when the sedan goes on sale.

© Source: worldcarfans
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Imposing and elegant in the halls of Palexpo exhibition in Geneva, but more shy and less on the haunting new video promo of the Pagani Zonda R proposes that the siter Supercarmovies. Is still a staging licked attractive for a supercar. To discover, therefore, for a simple but fun fun! Of course nothing new about the Pagani Zonda R, bomb last line signed Horacio Pagani in the same vein as other supercars as exclusive as diabolical as the Ferrari FXX and Maserati MC12. For the record, the Pagani Zonda R takes a block of AMG 6 liter, 750 horses for a couple of 710 Nm at 5 700 rpm.



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Here’s a quick recipe for a rendering of the Alfa Romeo Milano GTA: start with the spy shots, take a few hints from the teaser image, and then photoshop what was learned over the MiTo GTA photos. While this formula would normally not earn a spot on our page, the result from an Alfa Blog submitter was done strikingly well.

As Alfa Romeo changes the remaining number cars to names, the Milano will be the replacement for the 147. This will be an entry into the luxury small car market, so the Milano’s name competition will be models like the Audi A3 range. We expect the engine lineup to include four and six cylinder engines starting at 120 hp and topping out with the GTA at about 265 hp.

© Source: topspeed
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Sometimes it's better to not go overboard with your tuning proposals as not everyone wants to transform their vehicle into a wannabe race car.

For the new Opel Agila, German tuning firm and Opel specialist, Steinmetz, limited its offerings to a new set of fifteen-spoke 17-inch alloy wheels shod in 195/40 R17 tires, a suspension lowering kit that brings the mini 30mm closer to the ground, a chrome tailpipe and decorative trim for the center console plus an aluminum gear knob and a four-piece mat set.

© Source: carscoop
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Renault has chosen the glamorous weekend which sees the Cannes Film Festival coincide with the Monaco Formula 1 Grand Prix to take the wraps off Laguna Coupe. The flowing lines of the newcomer’s elegant, uncluttered design express timeless beauty and the promise of sheer motoring enjoyment. Its performance provides unprecedented pleasure behind the wheel thanks to the combination of its Active Drive chassis equipped with four-wheel steering – which has been acclaimed by the media across Europe on the GT version of Renault Laguna – and the two new V6 powerplants which have been introduced at the same time as this image-forging vehicle. The brand new V6 dCi, which is poised to become a benchmark in terms of performance and pleasure, delivers 235hp (173kW), while the new 3.5-litre petrolpowered V6 offers 240hp (175kW). Laguna Coupe stands out as an inspiring, fourseater with genuine sensual appeal and will be shown in further detail at the forthcoming Paris Motor Show in October.



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It goes without saying that purchasing a Suzuki Swift+ is not an emotional decision. It's a matter of necessity. And yet, few people are buying it. Less than 2,000 units have found takers in Canada last year, while overall econobox sales amounted to over 150,000 cars. The exterior design is far from the most spectacular in its class, but the Swift+ can comfortably sit two adults and two kids. This lack of interest isn't caused by a less exciting design than a Toyota Yaris or a less sophisticated construction than a Honda Fit. No, it's simply the result of most Canadians not even knowing it exists!

The Swift+ is clearly the lesser child in the Suzuki family. Dealers have all the reasons to put more emphasis on the SX4, even the base model, because it's roomier, higher-performing, more pleasant to drive... and more profitable to sell! The poor success of this subcompact car can also be explained by its seesaw history. The Swift nameplate isn't new; consumers should normally have heard about it as Suzuki has been using it ever since the Swift replaced the Forsa in 1989.

The thing is, the Swift+ is not a Swift. It's not the same Suzuki-designed model that's currently all the rage in Asia and Europe. The car we have here since 2004 is actually manufactured at the GM-DAT (formerly Daewoo) plant in Bupyong, Korea. Plus, it shares basically the same design with the Chevrolet Aveo5 and Pontiac G3 Wave Hatchback. In 2008, GM Canada sold over 8,000 of these, not to mention the 11,000 copies of the sedan variant, which is exclusive to GM.

An unfortunate series of events and coincidences has kept the "real" Swift from Canadian showrooms: the alliance between Suzuki and GM (which ended last November), the purchase of Daewoo by GM in 2002 and the expansionist designs of Suzuki in Europe which have monopolized its production capacity. That's how a Korean-born subcompact found its way under the wing of Suzuki in Canada -- not in the U.S. The American branch rejected the Swift+ in 2004, arguing that their customers would find no interest in that model (at least back then!).

Despite marginal sales volumes, the Suzuki Swift+ gets a slight makeover for 2009 -- just like its twins, by the way. A new, sharper grille that's specific to each one, redesigned headlights and taillights, a reshaped hood and front fenders that now integrate fake air vents are among the upgrades that define the new model. The dashboard gets a fresh look and the steering wheel is connected to a precise, nicely-calibrated steering.

The 60/40 split-folding rear seatbacks add versatility to the interior of the Swift+, which is great since they allow owners to adjust the size of the cargo area based on their needs. Folding all seatbacks increases cargo capacity from a meager 200 liters (the smallest of all econoboxes on the market, including the smart fortwo) to a whopping 1,190 liters, which is enough to load big items. In comparison, the Fit offers 25-percent more room for your luggage. That said, the Yaris is 36-percent less accommodating than the Swift+.

© Source: auto123
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German tuner Wheelsandmore is now offering a tuning package for the Audi R8 4.2 liter V8 that provides more than a few added extras to this raging supercar.

For a mere 1,700 euros, a chip tuning kit offers 30 hp more on the 4.2 liter V8, which will take your total horsepower rating to a nice, round 450. That seems like fair value for your money, yes. But if you want more than that you may have to weigh the considerations of waiting for the R8 V10 version, which will come with a 5.2 liter FSI with 525 hp and will be priced at 142,400 euros, versus the 4.2 V8 FSI which costs 109,100.

Don’t feel like waiting? Spoiled and rich and used to getting everything you want right away? Okay, fine. For 32,500 euros, you can pump up the volume on this beast to 530 hp by means of a Wheelsandmore compressor. For an additional 13,998 euros, Wheelsandmore will also refine the braking system with 8-piston calipers at the front, 6-piston ones at the back, and high-performance pads. Just bring 14 one thousand-euro notes and Wheelsandmore promises they have plenty of two euro coins on hand for your change. Now, that is service.

And there are even more goodies available - an aluminum race suspension for 3,999 euros or a 8,949-euro hydraulic lift full-race suspension that permits the front and rear axles to be raised 30mm, a 5,500 euro front lip spoiler and rear diffuser both made of carbon fiber, two sets of 20-inch alloy wheels for 9,250 and 9,800 euros, respectively, a handmade rear silencer with valve system for 4,800 euros (an extra 900 to have it remote controlled).

© Source: autofans
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While global automakers are still desperately looking for new ways to cope with the economic recession, tuning companies are pretty busy improving their last-generation models and bringing a couple of new functions to consumers seeking more power and enhanced appearance. The aftermarket package for Agila B created by the folks over at Steinmetz is the best example you can get, as the tuner used the standard 1.2i engine configuration to make modifications in specific areas.

The first thing you’ll notice when looking at the car is surely the 17-inch 4-hole 15-spoke alloy wheels ST8 fitted with 195/40 R17 tires. Obviously, these wheels have a major contribution to improving handling and control at high speeds. And because we're talking about handling, Steinmetz lowered the body by 30 mm, creating a more aggressive stance and improving maneuverability in the same time.

Interiors are being offered with a wider array of improvements, starting with the new aluminum gear knob exclusively included in Steinmetz’s aftermarket package. The top half of the shift stick is styled in chrome aluminum, while the lower half in black, the company explained in a statement for the press. A 4-piece floor mat set with Steinmetz stainless steel logo is also included in the package.

The last-generation Agila boasts a total of three engine variants, 1.3 CDTI ecoFLEX, 1.0 ecoFLEX and the aforementioned 1.2-liter version used by the tuner in the aftermarket package. This particular unit delivers a total of 86 horsepower at 5500 and 84 lb-ft of torque at 4400 rpm. The standard model accelerates from a standstill to 100 km/h in 12.3 seconds, while maximum speed goes as much as 109 mph (175 km/h).

© Source: autoevolution
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Ferrari will be celebrating the first GP of the 2009 F1 World Championship season, kicking off this weekend in Melbourne, Australia, with the launch of its new Ferrari.com website which will go live on Sunday, March 29. The site is loaded with interactive sections with exclusive images and dedicated sections to GT & Sport cars, Scuderia F1, News, Community and Ferrari Store.

There is even a new feature called the Maranello Experience, which is a virtual tour of the company complex. More virtual goodies include a GT and Sports car section where visitors can explore, personalize and perform virtual test drives of the cars at the Mugello Circuit.

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Wow, is about all I can say to this video. The guys from Autocar have given the Tata Nano about the most important endorsement it could probably have, and we could really be seeing a modern revolution, which is something we haven’t seen much of late. Despite its unbelievable price - about 1,500 euros, the Tata Nano drives and feels like a real car. And the most important thing is that the designers have done exactly what they needed to do; design a cheap and economical small car that will revolutionise motoring in India. The 650 cc and 110 km/hr top speed are nothing special, and there’s no power steering (it’s starting to sound like the car I drive!). But everything is in its place and there’s no fancy additions to “disenfranchise” the scooter owners who are the one’s likely to take on this proposition. Watch the video, it’s worth it.



© Source: eurocarblog
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Opel Astra has always been a great competitor against VW Golf, but the next generation is expected to be even fiercer in its intentions, both because of the slow-selling market and for the fact Opel seems to be in a great moment (just check out how gorgeous and good the new Insignia is).

The next generation Astra was supposed to be presented in Geneva. It wasn’t, but will be, and very soon, according to these leaked images. Although they are in very low resolution, they give us a good idea of what the car has become. Pictures only give us the five door version, but you can expect a three-door, a station wagon and a convertible.

We would also bet on a minivan and a sedan, but there are no rumours in the market about these versions, unless this car was destined to emerging markets. For those models, GM’s vehicle will be Cruze, under all badges necessary (Daewoo, Chevrolet and even Buick).

© Source: eurocarblog
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Brace yourselves: it's another body kit for the Bentley Continental GT. It's called HAMANN Imperator Widebody. As a follow-up to the performance upgrades designed for the Bentley Continental GT and GT Speed, the tuner's comprehensive appearance upgrade is now available. The sixteen-piece body kit includes a revised front bumper with the latest in LED daytime running light fashion, side skirts and fender flares with vents, and a new rear bumper, diffuser and spoiler. A choice of Hamann-designed wheels is available; 21 x 10.5 inch, or a set of even larger 22-inchers that are 10.5 inches wide at the front and 11 at the rear.

The visual upgrades are a nice complement to the power boost, which raises the power output of the 6.0 liter W12 to 630HP thanks to an ECU upgrade and a new exhaust with high-flow catalytic converters, an x-pipe and new mufflers. Torque is up to 553 lb-ft. The Continental GT Speed benefits as well, jumping to 650 horses and 612 lb-ft. A revised control unit for the Bentley's air suspension is part of the package as well, allowing the Imperator to be lowered 30mm up front and 20mm at the rear for a more race-ready look.

The interior is offered with clear-coated carbon fiber trim, of course, as well as aluminum pedals and a sport steering wheel.

© Source: worldcarfans
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Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the F-CELL Roadster project. The F-CELL Roadster is controlled with drive-by-wire technology, and a joystick takes the place of a conventional steering wheel. The vehicle is powered by a 1.2 kW emission-free fuel cell system located at the rear. It could reach a top speed of 25 km/h and achieve an operating range of up to 350 km(217 mile).

"The F-CELL Roadster uniquely combines state-of-the-art technologies with the history of vehicle construction. As an allusion to the Benz Patent Motor Car from 1886, the vehicle is fitted with large spoked wheels.Moreover, the F-CELL Roadster incorporates stylistic elements from diverse eras of automotive history, such as the carbon-fiber bucket seats with hand-stitched leather covers and the distinctively styled fiberglass front section, based on the component from the Formula One racing bolides."

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The Volkswagen Golf Plus BiFuel has been unveiled today at the 2009 AMI in Leipzig. The Volkswagen Golf Plus BiFuel is factory equipped to operate with Autogas or LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) and can be easily switched to run on gasoline. We run on LPG, the Volkswagen Golf Plus BiFuel offers a 10 percent reduction in CO2 emissions.

One of the major advantages of having a factory equipped LPG vehicle is that, as the Volkswagen Golf Plus BiFuel is, the car has been crash tested with all its fuel tanks. The engine of the Volkswagen Golf Plus BiFuel has been adapted to work on LPG and has a longer life than gasoline-only developed engines that run on LPG.

In LPG model, the four-cylinder Volkswagen Golf Plus BiFuel outputs 72 kW / 98 PS, consumes 9.8 liters of LPG per 100 kilometers and has a 159 g/km CO2 emissions level.

© Source: zercustoms
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BMW X6 M has been confirmed to debut at the New York Auto Show next month. One of sources confirmed this a couple of weeks ago along with the fact that the “twin brother” BMW X5 M will be present as well.

Today, Motor Trend received official confirmation from BMW, but only regarding the X6 M. With the official unveiling scheduled for the first week in April, I don’t see any reason why both would not present together at the NYC Auto Show.

The X M models are powered by a tuned up V8 4.4 liter Twin Scroll Twin Turbo engine, outputting 550 horsepower. The M SAVs will feature an improved all-wheel-drive system, but in order to reflect the true M performance, it will offer a more rear-concentrated approach.

Technology from the 7 Series, like the Head Up Display or Adaptive Drive will be standard on the BMW X5 M and X6 M.

© Source: bmwblog
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(from Exotica Motorsports) Novitec Ferrari 16M: Exotica Motorsports breaks this story with some non-official images of the Novitec Ferrari 16M.
The Novitec Ferrari 16M is the latest creation from the German tuner. Taking an amazing car like the Ferrari Scuderia and Ferrari 16M to the next level of performance, is a tough task. Novitec outfitted this 16M with their 3-pc NF3 wheels in custom painted colors. The NF3 wheels are 20x8.5” front and 20x12” rear and feature Pirelli tires.

The suspension is converted to their Hydraulic Coil-Over Suspension system which allows for a 40mm front end lift when entering driveways or going over speed bumps by the touch of a button. The engine of this very special 16M is outfitted with a twin supercharger system that gives a horsepower rating of 696hp! Finishing off the car is Novitec’s black tail lights, LED third brake light and reflectors. Novitec also has a range of products for the Scuderia and other Ferraris.

For these and other Novitec products visit www.Exotica-Motorsports.com

© Source: seriouswheels
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Hyundai is continuing its shock and awe campaign on the automotive industry, having revealed the first official photos of its new plug-in hybrid concept car – BLUE-WILL. Due to be unveiled at the Seoul Motor Show, BLUE-WILL will boast a host of innovative technologies designed to return excellent fuel economy and lessen its impact on the environment.

It utilizes a range of recycled materials in its construction, with PET soft drink bottles used to make the material for the headlamp bezels, while some interior plastics and the engine cover have been forged from materials derived from plant extracts rather than fossil fuels and are bio-degradable.

The concept is powered by an all-aluminium direct injection 1.6-litre petrol engine which is mated to a CVT transmission and a 100kw electric motor which is at the heart of Hyundai’s parallel hybrid drive architecture.

The Lithium Ion Polymer battery pack is bundled with the fuel tank underneath the rear seat to maximize luggage space, with the glass area integrating dye-sensitized solar cells which can generate power for the batteries from the sun without impeding visibility.

Hyundai will be the first automaker in the world to apply Lithium Ion Polymer in a mass production vehicle when the Elantra LPI Hybrid goes on sale in Korea in July this year.

© Source: caradvice
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Japanese automaker Mazda proudly announced today that it started commercial leasing of the Premacy Hydrogen RE hybrid, the company's second hydrogen rotary engine model that reaches the market. The first units will be delivered to government authorities in companies involved in the energy sector in 2009, Mazda said in a statement, with the first units already
registered at the Hiroshima branch of the Chugoku District Transport Bureau on March 25.

Mazda says specification of this special model were approved by Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) on March 5, 2009, with the Japanese automaker becoming the first manufacturer to commence commercial leasing of a hydrogen hybrid car.

In essence, Mazda's Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid is a hydrogen hybrid model that relies on the company's hydrogen rotary assembly and on an electric unit for reduced emissions and fuel consumption. The hybrid system is said to provide a hydrogen fuel range of up to 200 kilometers (124 miles) plus a maximum output of 110 kW (147 horsepower).

Several other technologies aimed at improving fuel efficiency and reducing CO2 emissions are also available, including a dual-fuel system that lets the driver switch to gasoline when hydrogen is unavailable. Most interior parts are made from Mazda’s plant-derived Biotechmaterials, the company said in a statement.

© Source: autoevolution
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At a base price of $61,000 and with lots of options added, passing the 80k mark,BMW xDrive50i is obviously a little too expensive, even for the die hard BMW fans. Regardless the high price, most of the U.S dealerships are actually sold out and it is pretty hard to find the V8 twin-turbo sitting in their lots. One reason: an increase in the car export business, especially to the countries in Eastern Europe. And now let’s enjoy the good review made by the Roadfly folks.



© Source: bmwblog
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(from JE Design Press Release) JE DESIGN constructs the most masculine Porsche world-wide: Cayenne turns into the PROGRESSOR

Progress can not be stopped, especially when it is dashing forward in such a broad and powerful way. The automobile refiner JE DESIGN converts the current Porsche Cayenne (Type 957) into the PROGRESSOR and shows which potential can be release from the serial Porsche.

The PROGRESSOR presents itself significantly broader and more dominant than the standard Cayenne. This impression is already confirmed by a first glance at the front skirt with its LED daylight running lights, the side skirt and the rear skirt extension. At the front, voracious air inlets and fierce headlamp masks confirm that the PROGRESSOR is not only up for games.

The PROGRESSOR does not only pretend to be broader, it really grew. The track width at the front axle extended by enormous 60 millimetres, and even by 80 millimetres at the back axle. This goes hand in hand with extended wings, adapted side skirts with integrated LED door sill lamps and the robust wheels SUV-Select. These cast wheels in one piece measure 10x22 inches and are equipped with high performance tyres sized 295/30 R22 XL. JE DESIGN has engineered the wheels with its classic five-spike design especially for king-sized automobiles like the Cayenne. The wheels with the graphite gloss finish perfectly match the white racing colour varnish of the PROGRESSOR.

The sportive appearance is not only accentuated by the additional width, but also by the additional depth of the car. With its reduced sport springs, an electronic lowering kit or a version 3 coilover, the PROGRESSOR can be lowered between 35 and 70 millimetres. Therefore, the sportive appearance is also honoured by the driving dynamics.

The rear exterior is by no means docile at all. The perfectly adjusted rear skirt extension sets a dominant mark with its six integrated LED lights and its diffuser look. Anyway, most motorists only see the four-pipe exhaust system of the PROGRESSOR which protrudes through the rear skirt with its chromed oval pipes.

© Source: seriouswheels
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General Motors has pieced together a short clip of the construction and delivery of the very first Chevrolet Camaro which was purchased by the CEO of Hendrick Motorsports, Rick Hendrick.
While it would be nice to say this was filmed right here in Australia, in reality the manufacturing stage has been assigned to GM’s Oshawa Plant in Ontario, Canada.



© Source: caradvice
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Vizualtech has given us impressive 3D renderings of different vehicles in the past like the Dodge Challenger, Mercury Cougar and the Volvo C30 Racer. Now designer Bo Zolland had created a rendering of a Pickup concept that fuses classic Volvo design with an El Camino body style.

The front of the model has the face of the S40 with some minor tweaks. The rear has the Volvo V70 pickup bed the features Volvo tailights. The car would have the XC90’s 311-hp V8 engine.

© Source: dubdaily
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After making its first public debut in concept form at the Paris Motor Show, Volkswagen has officially unveiled the production version of its new generation Golf GTI MkVI flagship. Building upon the dynamics and driver involvement which defined the spirit of its predecessors, the new model is faster, sharper and more powerful than any standard GTI before it. At its core is an advanced new 2.0-litre TSI engine producing 154kW and peak torque of 279Nm from just 1,700rpm, linked to either a six-speed manual or DSG gearbox.

This allows the new Golf GTI to sprint from zero to 100km/h in just 6.9 seconds while returning impressive fuel economy of just 6.1 litres per 100km and emissions of only 170 g/km of CO2. Despite its slightly higher output compared to its predecessor, the new GTI is assured maximum traction with the addition of a new XDS electronically controlled differential as standard. This is coupled with new springs and dampers unique to the GTI which also lowers the ride height by 22mm at the front and 15mm at the rear, as well as strut-type front and multi-link rear suspension joined by new anti-roll bars to provide sharper responses.

Volkswagen’s Adaptive Chassis Control system (ACC) is also offered for the first time on the GTI, incorporating pneumatically controlled damper units which allow the driver to choose from normal, comfort or sport modes. As with previous generations, the flagship GTI variant boasts an aggressive new look, with a new front bumper which integrates a deep honeycomb airdam flanked by vertical foglights, a rear diffuser and an all-new exhaust system with dual outlets. A subtle rear wing, smoked rear lenses and red brake calipers surrounded by 17-inch ‘Monza’ alloy wheels tie the look of the exterior together.

Inside the red and black tartan sports seats with red stitching make a return, along with a flat-bottomed GTI multifunction steering wheel and 2Zone electronic climate control. Its inherited Golf DNA also means the new GTI boasts class-leading levels of safety with ABS, ESP (Electronic Stabilisation Programme) and seven airbags, including for the first time a knee airbag, all as standard. Despite the R32 no longer forming part of the new generation Golf line-up, the new GTI may not be able to claim the flagship title for much longer with an even more potent GTI-R model rumoured to be in development.

© Source: caradvice
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The French brand has released the Renault Sandero GT in Colombia. Don't get all excited! The "GT" has nothing to do with extra performance. The Renault Sandero GT is just a styling package for the French economic-class model, which aims to give it a more aggressive look.

We're not sure if the Renault Sandero GT looks more aggressive, but we guess the package will set it apart from the thousands of Sanderos that roam the streets Bogota everyday. Until everybody gets the package that is.

The Renault Sandero GT kit includes a new front and rear bumper, front grille and side skirts. The Renault Sandero GT also comes with a little bling/chrome on the exhaust tip and a rear diffuser.

For the interior, the Renault Sandero GT offers a Kenwood sound system with an USB port.

The Renault Sandero GT price in Colombia is the equivalent of around 11,500 Euros.

© Source: zercustoms
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Maserati has released a new video on their new GranTurismo S model. It features the car at different angles with the Manhattan skyline in the background. This is the third model in the GranTurismo lineup. This particluar car has a six-speed ZF transmission and a V8 engine that produces 433-hp. It has a top speed of 183-mph.



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If these pics were anything to go by, this Mercedes SLK would be off to the panel beaters, but instead these spy shots show some heavy camouflage to protect the SLK from spying eyes. No definite news is available as to the date of its presentation, though some sources have been talking the end of 2012.

While it’s likely we’ll see a debut before that date, looking at these pics we still get some idea as the modifications in style. The nose looks to dip less and the headlights look sharper in design, conforming with recent developments in Mercedes style. Other changes are the LED lights, and new rear vision mirrors.

The engine range appears to provide some tantalising news, with talk of the new turbo charged four-cylinder, although after rumours of the powerful 3.5 litre V6 twin turbo, all eyes are on the AMG version. It’s possible that the next generation SLK will sit somewhere between the 6.2 litre V8 aspirated engine, and the next, smaller, turbo models.

© Source: eurocarblog
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This is a sweet looking custom built vintage-style beach cruiser the brings together old and new to give the bike a modern edge while keeping comfort in mind. This is a limited edition so each bike will have a specific serial number.

The Cruiser bycicle features a Hydroform steel frame, billet aluminum stem, hand-aged leather seat and grips, triple clamp fork and extra wide 2″ rims and tires. They are available exclusively at James Perse boutiques and come in matte black, antique white, khaki green and dark orange. The bike is priced at $2,200.

© Source: dubdaily
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After presentation to the press in Spain recently, BMW has released this video of the new Z4. The new spider with metal roof was presented in the SDrive35i version, but the video doesn’t leave any space to hear the six cylinder, 306 hp engine.



© Source: eurocarblog
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(from Rinspeed Press Release) Swiss Innovative Thinker Frank M. Rinderknecht Builds Fiat 500 with Two Energy Levels. „E2“ - 60 or 160 hp at the Push of a Button from Swiss Automotive Powerhouse Rinspeed

What is this? It is round, small and cuddly, has eyes to fall in love with, a sexy behind - and on demand 60 or 160 hp as necessary. It is Rinspeed’s answer to the fast changing requirements of the market and sociopolitical perception about the tuning industry.’ Rinspeed boss Frank M. Rinderknecht hits the nail on the head: “Just like the auto industry has to adjust to the demands of a new era, tuners have to look for new ways to do business as well.” The Swiss automobile visionary Rinderknecht, who has his roots in the tuning business, observes a change in people’s attitude, at least in the western world: “We need an intelligent use of our fossil resources, especially of our energy".

Rinspeed’s creation is based on the Abarth version of the Fiat 500. Its name ‘E2’ signals the fact that the nimble little Italian car is equipped with two different power levels: The 60-hp ‘Commuting’ level is more than sufficient to move along with city traffic while saving energy. In this mode the ‘E2’ consumes just some four liters of fuel per 100 kilometers. Outside the city, the ‘Highway’ mode provides driving fun and added power for fast and safe passing. In ‘Highway’ mode the engine produces 160 lively horsepower and transforms the Italian flea into a venerable hornet. Fuel consumption in ‘Highway’ mode is in the neighborhood of seven liters per 100 kilometers. The energy management system of the ‘E2’ is controlled by a small button in the cockpit that affects the engine electronics.

Rinderknecht believes he is on the right path with his new interpretation of automobile customizing. With the ‘E2’ and his concept car ‘iChange,’ which is much further removed from production, he wants to nudge the automotive as well as the tuning industries in a new direction, to leave well trodden paths and creatively look for new ones: “I don’t believe too much in eco tuning. Many drivers are not willing to miss out on driving fun and don’t want to drive a something that announces to the world that they do without. But the number of people who want to use our energy supply responsibly not in the least because they want to protect our environment will grow quickly.”

© Source: seriouswheels
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(from Vorsteiner Press Release) Vorsteiner Porsche V-RT Edition 997 Turbo:
The Vorsteiner Porsche V-RT (Vorsteiner Race Technologies) latest aerodynamic & forged wheel package is finally being released to the public to add to the current V-GT lineup for the 997 Carrera. The all-new V-RT parts will be available for world wide release after March 23rd, 2009. Please our website at www.vorsteiner.com/porsche for any public updates.

The exterior aerodynamic package consists of 3 primary packages. Up front is a new replacement front fascia that features larger carbon fiber air intakes for the radiators and elimination of the fog lights like the factory 997 GT2. A removable dry carbon fiber front lower spoiler adds additional down force to the front end while protecting the front bumper from any steep inclines or road hazards. The principal challenge of this front bumper was maximize weight savings . This was achieved by eliminating the fog lights, and replacing the factory plastic air ducts and hardware with carbon fiber ducting as a molded single component of the front bumper.

The V-RT rear bumper is also designed to offer the 997 Turbo with a wider stance with enlarged side intercooler extraction vents that house a replacement dry carbon fiber shroud that is approximately 35% larger for improved airflow through the intercoolers. The rear bumper also features a new molded carbon fiber rear diffuser with integrated twin aero fins that encompass the quad sport exhaust tips.

The Porsche V-RT rear end is completed with a carbon composite rear deck lid/engine cover with twin ram air scoops that feed air into the engine bay and air intake for maximum airflow and cooling. Additionally a carbon fiber wing blade enhances the final appearance while increasing down force to the rear of the vehicle at high speeds.

The V-306 twin 7 spoke 3-piece forged wheels shown are wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 tires. The wheels feature a race-inspired center mesh design in 20x8.5J and 20x12J that are also available in 19 inch configurations with many personalized finish options.

© Source: seriouswheels
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Recession? Global Warming? Future gas-price worries? Bah. This is turning out to be some sort of National Musclecar Month (stay tuned for more Camaro/Mustang/Challenger news coming very soon), and Jack Roush is striking while the iron is hot. Today, Roush Performance unveiled its fifth-generation Mustang performance car, the 2010 427R, at its Livonia, Michigan, factory in suburban Detroit.

As before, the Roush Performance 427R package includes enhanced styling, suspension, and engine-performance upgrades. In terms of styling, the front and rear fascias are more aggressively sculpted, with a jutting front splitter and simulated venturi air exhausters in back. Side skirt and louvered quarter windows, chromed 18-in. Roush wheels, a three-piece rear spoiler, and badging inside and out complete the package (which will be offered by itself as a Stage I package for $6852).

Chassis upgrades revised spring and damper rates, new anti-roll bars, revised rear-suspension geometry to combat wheelhop (using unique upper trailing links, mounting brackets, and bushings), new jounce bumpers and bushings. (An $8226 Stage II package will buy the appearance and chassis mods.) The 427R stripes and decals accompany a revised Roots-type supercharger and intercooler plus other powertrain upgrades that bring the stock 4.6L SOHC three-valve motor up to 435 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque. And what's more, they do so WITHOUT incurring a gas-guzzler penalty as the 2009 427R did. That savings helps bring the 427R package price in at just $15,056 ($43,071 out the door, including the base Mustang GT).

How did they manage to improve performance while trimming overall emissions by 38% and boosting fuel economy by about 10% (firm numbers are not yet available but there will be no guzzler tax)? According to powertrain honcho Erin Dmytrow, more efficient breathing and intercooling are key. The base car's cold-air induction (breathing from ahead of all the heat exchangers) is retained, opening into a freer-flowing air box and intake manifold.

And while the previous intercooler radiator was of a double-core design down in the lower fascia opening, the new one uses a single core that's nearly the same height as the engine radiator. Overall coolant capacity for the dedicated intercooler circuit is up over 25%, and charge-air temperatures are said to be dramatically lower. The supercharger is a 1.5L Roots-type using the familiar three-lobe impellers to develop 5.5psi max boost (any more wouldn't be safe without reducing the stock engine's compression ratio).

© Source: motortrend
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Subaru is offering a special edition version of its flagship turbocharged Liberty GT spec.B sedan and wagon for a limited time, featuring an ochre leather trim interior as standard.

Officially named the Liberty GT spec.B R, it will be limited to just 50 examples nationwide, all boasting a black exterior finish with the choice of a six-speed manual or five-speed SPORTSHIFT automatic transmission.

These special edition models also feature a subtle black honeycomb grille, which distinguishes them externally from the standard versions.

Nick Senior, Managing Director, Subaru Australia, said: “Subaru’s performance special editions are renowned for their retained value and with just 50 of these Liberty GT spec.B Rs available, we anticipate significant interest.”

Inside, the ochre leather trim also covers the door panels and centre console lid, complimented by silver alloy-type interior highlights.

The Liberty GT spec.B R special edition is available now from Subaru dealers, priced from $56,990.

Please note, official images of the special edition model are yet to be made available, the above image is for illustrative purposes only.

© Source: caradvice
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During the brand's annual meeting, Erich Schmitt, President of SEAT, announced that third variant of the new Ibiza - the Seat Ibiza ST - will be launched next year.

The Seat Ibiza ST, or Sports Tourer, will be a wagon that will probably offer the same engine line-up as the current versions. The Seat Ibiza ST will be powered by either one of these engines: 1.9 TDI with 105 hp, 1.6 16V with 105 hp, 1.4 16V with 85 hp or 1.2 12V with 70 hp.

Erich Schmitt also said the Seat Ibiza ST will be produced in Martorell, but did not disclose any further details.

We're wondering if the Seat Ibiza ST will also have a Cupra version.

© Source: zercustoms
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