Autoblog

Spy Shots: Next-gen Porsche 911 sporting double-bubble roof

Damon Lavrinc — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 19:44:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Auto Show, Spy Photos, Sports/GTs, Porsche

2011 Porsche 911 - Click above for a high-res image gallery of spy shots

With every iteration of the 911, Porsche makes incremental improvements to its iconic sports car and naturally, the next generation will be no exception.

This latest 911 prototype was caught at the Nurburgring sporting 997 sheetmetal, but it's what's on top and out back that deserves note. A double-bubble roof panel has been fitted, while underneath the rear camouflage is a sizeable wing and additional ducting. Look closely and you'll see a small sill at the base of the rear windscreen that's assumed to be feeding the rear-mounted flat-six - likely necessary keep the boxer cool while Porsche engineers figure out how the new contoured roof affects aerodynamics. If previous reports are to be believed, we can expect the next 911 to debut sometime in 2010, but we wouldn't rule out an appearance at the Frankfurt Motor Show this September.

Gallery: Spy Shots: Porsche 911 with double-bubble roof

Spy Shots: Next-gen Porsche 911 sporting double-bubble roof originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 03 Jul 2009 19:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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UKDM Nissan 370Z 'Yellow' is a special-edition homage to Europe's GT4 series

Chris Paukert — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 19:56:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Coupes, Sports/GTs, Nissan, UK, Special/Limited Editions

2010 Nissan 370Z Yellow - Click above for image gallery

American fans of Nissan's fantastic new 370Z can order their cars in Chicane Yellow, but up until now, their counterparts in Blighty have been out of luck if they've wanted a sunburst Z of their own. Until now. That's because Nissan UK has cooked up a special new limited-edition (if unimaginatively named) 370Z Yellow.

Apparently inspired by the Japanese automaker's European GT4 series racers, all Yellows will receive 19-inch forged RAYS alloys, a black leather and suede interior, along with illuminated door sill plates, special floor mats, and so on. Did we mention the bespoke lower body graphics? They remind us of less subtle, billboard-sized versions of the graphics packages on certain Porsche 911s.

Nissan assures that there will be a "strictly limited volume" of Yellows for sale in the UK, with "exclusivity guaranteed." But tellingly, perhaps, the company isn't divulging just how many it plans to produce in the model's press release (available after the jump). If you're interested, prepare to shell out £31,650 (nearly $52,000 USD)
for a six-speed manual or £33,050 for the automatic (just over $54,000 USD - as usual, bear in mind the UK's comparatively inflated pricing structure for new cars).

Gallery: 2010 Nissan 370Z Yellow

Continue reading UKDM Nissan 370Z 'Yellow' is a special-edition homage to Europe's GT4 series

UKDM Nissan 370Z 'Yellow' is a special-edition homage to Europe's GT4 series originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Jul 2009 19:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Double Oops: Wife plows into husband's new Chevy Corvette Z06... in her Hyundai Genesis

Chris Shunk — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:29:00 EST

Filed under: Coupes, Sedans/Saloons, Sports/GTs, Safety, GM, Hyundai

Hyundai Genesis crashes into Chevrolet Corvette Z06 - Click above for high-res gallery

We can only imagine how exciting a day it would be to bring home a brand spanking new Chevrolet Corvette Z06. Genesis Owners forum member zedbuyers was feeling that love as he and his wife left a Massachusetts Chevy dealer with a spanking new Cyber Gray Metallic Z06. Zedbuyers was driving from the dealer in the rain with his wife following behind in the couples' nine-month-old Genesis Sedan when disaster struck.

As traffic slowed from 60 mph to 30 mph in the exit lane, zedbuyers applied the brakes, but his wife evidently didn't. The Genesis slammed into the hours-old Z06, thrusting the $80,000 supercar into the vehicle in front of it. Oddly, the Genesis took the brunt of the blow, and a local Hyundai dealer estimated the damage at $16,000, including nearly $2,000 for the HID headlamps alone. The Z06 damage was $10,000, including $2,000 for a carbon fiber bumper.

Luckily, nobody was seriously injured in the accident, but we're sure the owner is smarting none the less. We're guessing the insurance company is not going to react kindly to a combined $26,000 in damages only hours after the purchase of what is likely a very expensive vehicle to insure in the first place. Peruse the gallery below to check out the carnage, and click on the link below for zedbuyers' damage estimates.

Gallery: Genesis crashes into Corvette Z06

[Source: Genesis Owners via Jalopnik]

Double Oops: Wife plows into husband's new Chevy Corvette Z06... in her Hyundai Genesis originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Exclusive: Hurst announces Competition/Plus Dodge Challenger

Drew Phillips — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 09:58:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Tuners, Coupes, Sports/GTs, Dodge

Hurst Competition/Plus Dodge Challenger - Click above for high-res image gallery

When we last visited the Hurst facility in Irvine, CA, we noticed something unusual. While nearly all of the Challengers were painted in either white or black, a lone Challenger painted in B5 Blue sat tucked away in a corner. When we inquired about the car, we were told that we would find out soon enough. Well, we know now, as Hurst has just unveiled a Competition/Plus package for the Dodge Challenger at the NHRA Motorsports Museum in Pomona, CA.

The Competition/Plus project was started in an effort to provide a more affordable package, as well as appeal to customers who might not necessarily want the classic gold paint schemes. Named after the legendary shifter that helped make Hurst famous, the package includes only the essentials: an Eibach suspension system, Magnaflow exhaust system, Hurst 20-inch alloy wheels, color-matched leather inserts and stitching for the interior, matte black exterior accents, and, of course, a Competition/Plus short throw shifter with the classic white ball. We're told the package is available on any color of Challenger, whether it's the B5 Blue pictured here, Hemi Orange, TorRed or any other.

Pricing has yet to be announced, but full details on the car should be released soon. Until then, take a look at our exclusive gallery of photographs that were given the chance to snap a couple of days before the car's release.

Gallery: Hurst Competition/Plus Challenger

Exclusive: Hurst announces Competition/Plus Dodge Challenger originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Jul 2009 09:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Elon Musk: "Golden handcuffs" require I stay through Model S launch

Sebastian Blanco — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 09:28:00 EST

Filed under: Convertibles, Hybrids/Alternative, Sedans/Saloons, Sports/GTs, Government/Legal, Green

For a guy who allegedly wants a lot of the credit for creating Tesla Motors, Elon Musk certainly doesn't seem to like the job of being its CEO. As part of Daimler's investment deal with Tesla, Musk needed to commit to staying on as Tesla's CEO at least until the Model S launches in 2011. Musk told Reuters:

I didn't really have a choice. This was a requirement of Daimler that I remain CEO of Tesla through the Model S launch and then continue to be part of Tesla in a chairman role beyond that. It's flattering, but at the same time it's golden handcuffs.

Well, that sure makes it sound like fun, doesn't it? It's clear that Musk has always been interested in projects other than Tesla (e.g.: electric planes and SpaceX), but does he have to make running one of the hippest electric car companies around sound like a drag?

Another nugget from the article: One of the reasons the price on the Roadster was raised was to help qualify Tesla Motors for the DOE loan it later received. Musk said, "We did the minimum we needed to do to make the business work."

Gallery: Tesla Model S

[Source: Reuters]

Elon Musk: "Golden handcuffs" require I stay through Model S launch originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Jul 2009 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Steeda announces 2010 Sport Edition Mustang [*UPDATED]

Drew Phillips — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 08:58:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Tuners, Coupes, Sports/GTs, Ford

Ford tuning specialists Steeda Autosports have been teasing the 2010 version of their Q-Series Mustang for quite some time, and apparently for some of their customers, it can't come soon enough. To help deal with requests, the Florida-based company has introduced a Sport Edition model that utilizes an array of parts already in the Steeda catalog.

This particular steed is tweaked to handle, with upgraded billet lower control arms, sport springs, and 20-inch chrome wheels wrapped with Nitto NT05 high-performance tires. Other modifications include a sport shifter, underdrive performance pulleys, a performance air cleaner, and distinctive Steeda graphics. At ~~$8995~~ $6,995, the pricing seems pretty steep, especially without any significant power upgrades, but we have to admit it's one good looking pony car.

[Source: Muscular Mustangs]

*UPDATE: Steeda representatives have contacted Autoblog with correct information regarding the new Sport Edition, including a different, wallet-friendlier package price of $6,995 (the source article cited incorrect information). The full, official press release has been added after the jump.

Continue reading Steeda announces 2010 Sport Edition Mustang [*UPDATED]

Steeda announces 2010 Sport Edition Mustang [*UPDATED] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Jul 2009 08:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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eBay Find of the Day: 1989 Mustang Dominator, straight off the cover of Road & Track [w/VIDEO]

Noah Joseph — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 19:57:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Time Warp, Tuners, Sports/GTs, Auction Action, Ford

1989 JBA Dominator GTA Mustang - Click above for an image gallery

The Fox body was hardly a high point in the history of the Ford Mustang. But every kingdom must have a king, and in the late-'80s and early-'90s this was it: the JBA Dominator GTA. Commissioned from J Bittle American by Ford in 1989, the Dominator took the pony car to new heights, installing what was likely the first independent rear suspension on a Mustang along with a long list of features that differentiated this custom muscle car from stock. The Lightning 351 engine features the iron heads from the GT40 and the intake manifold from a Cobra. A custom exhaust and aircraft-derived fuel system kept it breathing, while 17-inch rims obscured race-spec disc brakes at all corners.

The list goes on and on, and during its reign, the Dominator received plenty of media attention. The Mustang was featured on the cover of Road & Track in November 1989 in a shoot-out against other factory-backed custom muscle cars and went on to star in various hot-rodding and Ford-specific magazines. The JBA even has its own website, which will transfer to the buyer willing to pony up the $34,500 asking price for this piece of Mustang tuning history. Check it out in the gallery below and the video after the jump, or follow the link to the eBay auction page to make an offer.

Gallery: 1989 JBA Dominator GTA Mustang

[Source: eBay Motors via BAT]

Continue reading eBay Find of the Day: 1989 Mustang Dominator, straight off the cover of Road & Track [w/VIDEO]

eBay Find of the Day: 1989 Mustang Dominator, straight off the cover of Road & Track [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Jul 2009 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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In Tune With the Past: Arden re-issues limited-edition AJ18 XK

Noah Joseph — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 18:20:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Time Warp, Tuners, Sports/GTs, Jaguar, UK

Arden AJ18 - Click above to view in high-res

The thing about limited editions is that there are bound to be at least a few customers disappointed that they couldn't get their hands on one. That's the whole point, keeping demand higher than supply and thus ensuring a high price. So it's a little unusual to see an automaker or aftermarket supplier going back and reopening the supply lines, especially if the model in question has already been replaced. But that's exactly what British tuning house Arden has done with the AJ18.

Based on the previous-generation XK, Arden debuted this limited-edition track-inspired Jag coupe nearly ten years ago at the 1999 Frankfurt Motor Show, pegging production at just 13 units. A decade gone by, Arden has announced the availability of an additional five examples, bringing the total run up to 18 pieces. What sets the AJ18 apart from the stock XK8 is the carbon-composite aero kit, custom grilles and bumpers, narrow wing mirrors, giant rear wing and 20-inch Sportline rims hiding 370mm brake discs with 6-piston calipers mounted to a lowered Bilstein suspension.

We'd just as soon go out and buy a new XK, dynamically superior as it is to its successor in just about every way, but if you've already got a previous-generation model in your driveway and still regret missing your chance to upgrade it to the Arden AJ18, this will probably be your last chance. Probably.

[Source: Carscoop]

In Tune With the Past: Arden re-issues limited-edition AJ18 XK originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Jul 2009 18:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BREAKING: Chevrolet Camaro outsells Ford Mustang in June

Chris Paukert — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 14:42:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Trends, Convertibles, Coupes, Sports/GTs, Chevrolet, Ford, GM

Despite having fewer model variations on the market, pent up demand for the 2010 Chevrolet Camaro appears to have been enough to send the bad Bowtie past Ford's redone Mustang in June. Sales figures for the month are beginning to trickle in today, and General Motors says it shifted 9,320 Camaro units last month, as compared to the Blue Oval's 7,632 Mustangs.

Whether Chevrolet's victory will be sustainable over the long haul remains to be seen, but as The General has a backlog of 10,000 sold orders to fill (equating to less than a seven day supply), the streak is likely to continue for at least the next few months. Presently, GM offers just two main Camaro models, the V6 RS and the V8-powered SS, while the Ford Mustang has more bodystyles and trims than you can shake a stick at (arguably making the Camaro's achievement seemingly that much more impressive).

Sales of the third leg of 2009's pony car table, the Dodge Challenger, trail far behind, with just 1,369 units cleared last month.

As the industry heads into the dog days of summer, it looks like America's renewed pony car war is just heating up. Who will take the crown for the whole year? Sit tight, muscle fans.

Gallery: One Night Stand: 2010 Chevrolet Camaro

Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Ford Mustang GT

BREAKING: Chevrolet Camaro outsells Ford Mustang in June originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Jul 2009 14:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Jaguar officially announces XKR Goodwood Special... in lime green

Jonathon Ramsey — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 18:58:00 EST

Filed under: Coupes, Sports/GTs, Jaguar, Misc. Auto Shows, Special/Limited Editions

2010 Jaguar XKR Goodwood Special -- Click above to enlarge

In a press release announcing the cars it would be taking to this year's Goodwood Festival of Speed, Jaguar's own Mike Cross has officially confirmed the coming of the Jaguar XKR Goodwood Special. We noted before that it would be louder and faster and detailed in satin graphite, but now we find out it will get a lower ride height over 21-inch wheels and - are you ready? - "a unique Lime Green paint scheme and XKR exterior graphic" as shown above. Alrighty, then.

That hard-to-miss car will join a few more trailers of Jaguar goodies, including the 225 mph Bonneville XFR, a 1957 Long Nose D-Type, a Le Mans winning C-Type, and the one-of-a-kind Jaguar XJ13. Goodwood is just around the corner (July 3-5), and you can read all about Jaguar's plans in the press release after the jump.

[Source: Jaguar]

Continue reading Jaguar officially announces XKR Goodwood Special... in lime green

Jaguar officially announces XKR Goodwood Special... in lime green originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Jun 2009 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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More Audi "Ur-Quattro" revival rumors surface, debut expected in 2010

Damon Lavrinc — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 08:24:00 EST

Filed under: Coupes, Sports/GTs, Audi, Rumormill

Rumors of Audi's plan to resurrect the Ur-Quattro continue to persist, with Auto Motor und Sport reporting that the highly modified A5 is due to arrive sometime next year.

According to the German pub and coinciding with earlier reports, Audi plans to bring the curb weight down to around 3,000 pounds by using scads of aluminum along with polycarbonate windows in place of their glass counterparts. Further weight reductions will come from a lightweight set of 19- or 20-inch wheels and carbon ceramic brakes, while an active rear spoiler, magnetic-ride suspension system and a raced-out interior are rumored to be part of the package.

Naturally, Audi's all-wheel drive system will be the centerpiece of the reborn Ur-Quattro, but there's still plenty of questions surrounding the coupe's powertrain. Audi has supposedly decided to nix the idea of fitting its 4.2-liter V8 and will instead use either a new, twin-turbocharged V6 (odd, considering the automaker put all its efforts into creating a 3.0-liter supercharged V6 for the new S4 and A6) or possibly the 2.5-liter five cylinder currently fitted to the TT-RS in a historical nod to the new Ur's ancestry. If AMuS is to be believed, expect output somewhere between 300 and 425 hp - and there's also talk of a hybrid variant that would allow for a 20-mile electric-only commute (something about a snowball comes to mind...). Regardless, if the Ur-Quattro does come to fruition, expect it to debut sometime next year to coincide with the original's 30th anniversary, with pricing set considerably north of the current S5.

[Source: Auto Motor und Sport | Image Source: AutoBild]

More Audi "Ur-Quattro" revival rumors surface, debut expected in 2010 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Jun 2009 08:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Wink, Wink: GM officials reportedly coyly confirms Camaro Z28... but it isn't coming soon

Chris Paukert — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 15:29:00 EST

Filed under: Coupes, Sports/GTs, Chevrolet, GM, Rumormill

According to the well-connected boys over at Camaro5, General Motors will indeed produce a Chevrolet Camaro Z28 after all... and they've even scored some details on the hi-po offering.

According to Camaro5 user Hiney1 who attended a special question and answer session at the Carlisle Nationals this weekend (seen above), a Z28 will arrive after the Camaro Convertible, itself expected in the spring of 2011.

The Z28 will reportedly make use of some sort of high-output LS-based engine (C'mon, guys! You're killing us!), and it will incorporate a hood similar to that of the Bumblebee edition, along with a unique grille, the usual spate of graphics and emblems, and perhaps even a tweaked rear-end. Thanks for the tip, Jay!

[Source: Camaro5]

Wink, Wink: GM officials reportedly coyly confirms Camaro Z28... but it isn't coming soon originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Jun 2009 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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China's Tong Jian S11 hybrid sports car attempts to channel inner Audi, Ferrari

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 12:58:00 EST

Filed under: Hybrids/Alternative, Sports/GTs, China, Green, Shanghai Motor Show

Tong Jian S11 - Click above for image gallery

Somehow, we managed to miss China's first-ever hybrid sports car at the Shanghai Motor Show earlier this year. Known as the S11 from Tong Jian - which incidentally also seems to be the name of a popular Chinese figure skater - this hybrid sports car looks production ready. Details on the coupe's powertrain are extremely scarce, but China Car Times reports that all four wheels are powered in some manner, presumably through a combination of electric motors and internal combustion.

It's obvious that the S11's designers have looked to the Audi R8 and any number of recent Ferraris for design inspiration, both inside and out. As far as we can tell, the resulting mashup isn't all that bad - minus the one-size-too-small alloys and those awkward Audi-esque blades on either side.

If CCT's sources are correct, design work on the Tong Jian S11 has been completed and the hybrid sports car is headed for production at an unknown plant in Changchun city in short order.

Gallery: Shanghai 2009: Tong Jian S11 hybrid sports car

[Source: China Car Times| Images: goche.sohu]

China's Tong Jian S11 hybrid sports car attempts to channel inner Audi, Ferrari originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Jun 2009 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Leaked: Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2

Alex Nunez — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 09:33:00 EST

Filed under: Sports/GTs, Supercars, Lamborghini

2010 Lamborghini LP550-2 - Click above for hi-res photo gallery

Oh baby. The cat would appear to be out of the bag for the Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2, as what certainly look to be official photos of the newest bull have hit the web. Details are sketchy, but Lamborghini's naming scheme keeps no secrets. Assuming this is all on the level, expect 550 horsepower from the V10 mounted aft of the cockpit, with that power going to the rear wheels exclusively. The lack of AWD should also result in some weight loss, a welcome addition in any sports car, much less a Lamborghini making this kind of power. And yes, that's a ball-topped gated shifter in the interior photo featured in the gallery. Glorious. A very serious car for very serious drivers. We're dying to hear the official details.

UPDATE: It's now official. The car is named the Gallardo LP550-2 Valentino Balboni, in honor of Lambo's legendary test driver. Only 250 cars will be made.

Gallery: 2010 Lamborghini LP550-2

[Source: Net Car Show]

Leaked: Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Jun 2009 09:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Lotus Evora makes SoCal stop at Cars and Coffee

Frank Filipponio — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 08:58:00 EST

Filed under: Coupes, Sports/GTs, Lotus, Misc. Auto Shows

2010 Lotus Evora at Cars and Coffee - Click for high-res gallery

While lucky Brits are already capable of walking into a Lotus dealership and driving off with a new midsize Evora of their very own, Americans still have to wait a bit longer. We've already shown you the 2010 Lotus Evora that was at the L.A. Auto Show, and we've given you info on the specs and options. We've even confirmed U.S. details for the most important numbers.

Although an official release date hasn't been confirmed yet, we have heard that the magic moment will arrive early next year. Whether the Evora gets labeled as a 2010 or 2011 model remains up in the air, but we do know a lot of other info about this all-new model crafted by the magicians in Hethel. What we haven't had until now are some real-world photos. That all changed over the weekend when a couple of test engineers stopped by for a spell at our favorite weekly Southern California car meet, Cars and Coffee. Read the rest of our first impression after the jump, and don't forget to check out the gallery as well.

Gallery: 2010 Lotus Evora development cars

Continue reading Lotus Evora makes SoCal stop at Cars and Coffee

Lotus Evora makes SoCal stop at Cars and Coffee originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Jun 2009 08:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Jaguar to make a roaring lion? XKR Goodwood Special mooted

Jonathon Ramsey — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 17:25:00 EST

Filed under: Coupes, Sports/GTs, Jaguar

The details haven't been disbursed yet, but one of Jaguar's chief engineers has reportedly spilled the beans on a special XKR to be shown at Goodwood. Called, fittingly, the XKR Goodwood Special, it will get more power than the standard XKR's (shown above) 500 horses, and more audible snarl than the current exhaust emits.

Because Jag is said to be reconsidering the car's brightwork treatment, the Goodwood Special will wear a satin graphite detailing package that could foreshadow a future running change (we know we could do without the metal surrounds on the car's front skirt nostrils). The car is still being finished so there's a good chance it won't be seen until just before the event, but we always look forward to a cat that scratches harder and roars louder.

[Source: Pistonheads]

Jaguar to make a roaring lion? XKR Goodwood Special mooted originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 28 Jun 2009 17:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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First Impression: 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer lineup includes new MR Limited

Frank Filipponio — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 22:01:00 EST

Filed under: Sedans/Saloons, Sports/GTs, Etc., Hatchbacks, Mitsubishi, Misc. Auto Shows, Special/Limited Editions

2010 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart, Evo GSR and Evo MR Limited - Click above for high-res gallery

Remember the Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart Sportback we showed you back in October? The one that debuted in Paris? The one that we lusted after for its hatchback practicality and Ralliart brawn? The one that the good folks from Mitsubishi had promised we'd be getting here in the States this summer as an early 2010 model? Well, Mitsubishi has delivered. Sort of. A few Mitsu reps drove down to Irvine from Cypress with a genuine 2010 Ralliart Sportback. And not only that, but they dragged along an Evo GSR and an all-new MR Limited as well.

The Ralliart Sportback drew a lot of attention for its shape, but the Limited was the one that caught our eye. It's a regular old MR with a few differences. In place of the Alcantara bits, Mitsubishi has gone all-cowhide inside. There are also a few additions to the standard options list, including an Evo-first moonroof. Out back, the car has gone undercover by foregoing the large wing that has heretofore characterized the Evo sedans. Sounds like the Evo MR for grownups. Mitsu's reps remained tight-lipped on the details, but pricing is likely to top $40,000 for this model. We didn't get as many shots as we would have liked, but we did manage to get a few that we've assembled in the gallery below. As soon as we get more details, we'll fill you in.

Gallery: 2010 Mitsubishi Lancers

Photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio / Weblogs, Inc.

Gallery: 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback Ralliart

First Impression: 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer lineup includes new MR Limited originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 27 Jun 2009 22:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Don't believe the hype: Porsche exec says fifth model dropped, financials strong

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 18:29:00 EST

Filed under: Sports/GTs, Porsche, Earnings/Financials

2009 Porsche Boxster S with PDK - Click above for high-res gallery

Despite numerous reports to the contrary, Executive Vice-President for Sales and Marketing Klaus Berning says Porsche is not currently planning a fifth model line at this time. This news shouldn't come as much of a surprise given that the German automaker has its hands full launching its first-ever four-door sedan in the midst of the worst worldwide recession in recent memory.

Still, the possibility remains in the future that Porsche could take another look at the sportscar market below the current Boxter and Cayman or even consider dropping a four-cylinder engine option in its standard-bearing 911. After all, Porsche will need to deal with the same increasingly strict pressures to improve fuel efficiency and environmental performance as any other automaker.

Further, Berning would like to set the record straight when it comes to Porshce's finances and its oft-talked-about merger with Volkswagen:

In the car business we are one of the very few car makers the world over still writing black figures today... Our operative return on turnover is in the double digit percentage range - a level of profitablity other manufacturers can only dream of. Our brand alone is a precious jewel... believe me, this small manufacturer of exclusive sporting cars is strong - very strong. I promise you that in a symbiosis with the Volkswagen Group Porsche will retain the independence and freedom we need to continue our success in business.

Well now, that sounds definitive, wouldn't you say?

Gallery: First Drive: 2009 Porsche Boxster S PDK

[Source: CarsGuide.com.au]

Don't believe the hype: Porsche exec says fifth model dropped, financials strong originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 25 Jun 2009 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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First Drive: 2010 Porsche Panamera a 4-door sedan 78 years in the making

Michael Harley — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 11:55:00 EST

Filed under: Sedans/Saloons, Sports/GTs, Euro, Porsche, First Drive

2010 Porsche Panamera - Click above for high-res image gallery

Porsche invited us to Germany to be one of the first to drive its all-new Panamera, the company's first four-door sedan. We spent three days assailing the Bavarian Alps, streaking across the German Autobahn, and meandering through picturesque Alpine towns. We touched 170 mph at one point and sat stagnant in city traffic during another. What were Porsche's objectives with this new sedan? How does it drive? Who's going to buy it? And, most importantly, does the Panamera deserve to wear the coveted Porsche crest? Find out after the jump...

Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Porsche Panamera

Continue reading First Drive: 2010 Porsche Panamera a 4-door sedan 78 years in the making

First Drive: 2010 Porsche Panamera a 4-door sedan 78 years in the making originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 25 Jun 2009 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW 7 Series M Sport images arrive on web

John Neff — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 16:57:00 EST

Filed under: Sedans/Saloons, Sports/GTs, BMW

BMW 7 Series M Sport - Click above for high-res image gallery

We're not sure where they came from, but official-looking images of the upcoming BMW 7 Series M Sport just popped up on the interwebs today. The car you see here is identical to the one we saw in spy photos just a few weeks ago. Since the M6 will reportedly remain the brand's top dog in terms of big performance cars, the 7 Series M Sport will be to the standard 7 Series what all M Sport models are. That is, it gets more aggressive fascias front and rear, unique wheels, an M steering wheel, M shifter and M footrest. Rumor also has it that the 7 Series M Sport will be powered by the brand's newly updated 3.0-liter, twin-turbo diesel engine producing 306 hp and 442 lb-ft of torque. No, it's still not an M7, but if you want a lightning quick 7 Series, you can go buy an Alpina B7 Biturbo for now.

Gallery: BMW 7 Series M Sport

[Source: Bimmerpost, BMWBlog]

BMW 7 Series M Sport images arrive on web originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 24 Jun 2009 16:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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