2011 BMW M5 Information Leak, Turbo V8 On The Way

The car that started it all is due up for a refresh, and we have the most up-to-date information on it. Thanks to Edmunds, information from a company "insider" has leaked on one of the most iconic vehicles within the past two decades.

Source: M5board.com

Since its incarnation, the BMW M5 was meant to stand apart from the crowd. It is solely responsible for starting the sport sedan revolution. By combining an exciting powertrain and solid handling characteristics, in a practical sedan setup, made the car likable with families and enthusiasts alike. As an M car, its duty is to set the benchmark in its class. With this in mind, BMW may be upping the ante for the fifth generation, which is rumored to include Formula 1 technology....

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2008 World Car Of The Year Coming To U.S.: Mazda2 Arrives In 2010

Looking for something cheap, fun and spunky? Mazda may have the answer to your petit lust. Finally, the zoom-zoom brand has responded to their dealer's desires and will be bringing the Mazda2 to American soil.

Source: carmagazine.co.uk

Late last week in a meeting with the company's top dealers, Jim O'Sullivan, Mazda's CEO, announced that after much waiting, the 2 will be making an appearance in U.S. showrooms in late 2010...

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IMPA Test Days 2009: Part 1, Road Test Day

Source: rp

Unfortunately it appears that as we spiral down a road of technological improvements, we become more inclined towards instant gratification. With e-mail, instant message, texting and now twitter, we hardly have to wait anymore. When we do, it creates frustration, anger and an unsettled persona. In psychology, this is called "expectation theory."

I am willing to wager that if a study was conducted that looked into the mood swings of an individual who was told "no," thereby ignoring their wants for instant gratification, they would go from normal to irritated rather quickly. You hear that, ivy-leaguers? Get cracking on that study.

In the information age, time is being fractionalized into tenths and hundredths of a second. Hell, I cannot even wait the 30 seconds for the elevator to get to the ground floor when I press the button.

Source: rp

Thankfully, in the auto industry there is an organization -- the International Motor Press Association -- that holds a bi-annual event appropriately named Test Days. Essentially, the gist is to allow professionals in the industry and members of the organization to have the opportunity to test drive new models that have recently launched. Although it would be pretty hard to review a vehicle you drove for only 20 minutes, give or take, it is nice instant gratification.

With a plethora of analogies out there, I find the stripper one fits best here. Imagine: you are presented with a bevy of the most beautiful women and you get to have your allotted time with them, albeit a short period, and at the end of the night you're left with nothing but an empty wallet and dreams.

Source: rp

Here it is in automotive form: industry professionals are presented with the latest and greatest, you get a short spin on the road and on the track, then you go home keyless and with a heavy heart. Later on, wondering when you will be able to land another rendezvous.

The first day consisted of road tests. And the beauts were scattered around like aces at a poker tournament. Some notables:

• BMW X5/6 M
• Audi S5 Convertible
• Aston Martin DBS
• Nissan 370Z Roadster
• MB S400 Hybrid
• MINI JCW
• Shelby GT500

Stay tuned for part two, which was IMPA's track day @ Pocono Raceway

For more than 100 photos of Day 1, check out my post on AutoSpies.

Source: rp

~nz

rp

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SPIED: Pre-production Audi Mule In Colorado

Ah, I love the smell of new Audi's in the morning. Look at what we just got in. A "spy" photo of what appears to be a pre-production Audi mule running around. But what is it?

At first glance, it looks like a current A6 with wider fender flares. But, is there more to it than just some fender flares? We happen to think so.

Source: Fast Lane Daily

There are several options: a current generation RS6 mule, a next generation A6 or a next generation RS4.

Click here to read/see more...

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Edo Creates FXX-clone For The Street

Since Ferrari needed to test future technology, to be implemented on upcoming models, the FXX was born. It was one serious piece of kit, too. Sounding nearly identical to an Formula one car, it was designed with only one focus in mind; performance. Herein lies the problem: Ferrari only built 29 and made one more for the Ferrari god, Michael Schumacher.

Source: Motor Authority

So, this got Edo Competition thinking and they went to work on tuning the regular-spec Enzo. The result is staggering: a 6.3 liter V12 producing 840-horsepower and 575 lb-ft of torque. And to get a little more "oomph," Edo says that without mufflers the Enzo XX Evolution should be able to make over 860-horsepower.

In addition, other engine components were modified. This includes: new camshafts, new titanium valve spring retainers and connecting rods, modified cylinder heads, new high-performance exhaust headers, high-flow catalytic converters, mufflers and air filters, and new solid tappets that allow the monstrous engine's revs to climb up the ladder to an unreal 9,600 RPMs.

Read more here...

rp

August Sales Data A Fluke: One Year Later

One year ago, annualized auto sales data, SAAR, seemed hopeful going into September. Then, all hell broke loose. Sales continued to crater, the auto manufacturer’s outlook became bleak and sure enough the bankruptcies came.

I hate to say “I told you so,” but I did.

With a disaster on its hands, the current administration stepped up to the plate to offer an incentive program, similar to Germany’s, in order to boost the auto sector. Thankfully, it worked.

Now it appears that many are excited that the Cars for Clunkers program has done so well in the U.S., but they are forgetting last year’s “August rush.” This was one of the precursors to last September and October follies.

Source: Usingmyhead.com

For the past six months it has been eventful to watch the annualized sales index hover in between nine to 10 million. Thanks to the Clunker program, there was a last-minute boost in July sales and we have seen August rake in some serious gains.

July stepped up from those ghastly numbers and raised the SAAR to approximately 11.2 million, while August saw a significant jump to just over 14.5 million.

Here is the problem: these numbers are distorted and although the market seems to have an idea that there is a bit of inflation due to the incentive program, there is not a real sense of where the numbers will land. However, some analysts have made approximations.

In a BNET-syndicated Reuters article, Barclays analyst Brian Johnson checked in:

"We expect sales for the remainder of the year to fall well below August results, but believe momentum from the program as well as the stabilization in the economy and improvement in consumer confidence could boost sales above the 9.5 million average seen in the first half," Johnson said.

Source: Flickr

Another point to consider is that now that the CARS program is over and soon-to-be housing incentives will cease shortly, there could be a “veil” protecting the U.S. economy for the short-term. Once the effect from the programs wear off, could the economy begin to slip again?

After all, it does not appear that employers are adding jobs.

According to the latest from Challenger, Gray & Christmas, the leading outplacement consulting firm, although August showed the second lowest levels of job cuts for the year, it does not mean that the economy is out of the woods yet.

John Challenger, the chief executive officer of Challenger, Gray & Christmas, said in a recent press release, “The next four months will be very telling about the state of the job market. The final four months of the year are typically among the heaviest for downsizing.”

Challenger further insists that this does not necessarily mean 2010 will begin with robust hiring. If anything, it could make employers more cautious with their candidates. Essentially, the king of job cuts is hinting that we could have a slow recovery.

Taking these factors into consideration, it appears that we will see the SAAR data return to the 10 – 11 million range. Unfortunately, the economy is not strong enough to carry auto sales any higher, and without an incentive program, new car sales are going to remain hit relatively hard.

~nz

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Audi's A3 TDI Pricing Announced, Undercuts Lexus HS250h By More Than $4k

Today, Audi of America announced pricing for the latest diesel variant to make its way from the other side of the pond. The 2010 Audi A3 will slot in at just under $30,000.

Source: about.com

With many assuming the major competition will be Lexus' HS250h, it seems that Audi has made the right move by pricing in well below the competition. With an EPA estimated 30/42 city/highway MPG, the A3 makes the comparison versus a HS that much harder; considering an HS can achieve 35/34 city/highway. Oh, decisions decisions.

Knowing this information, is the HS doomed? Or, would you still consider taking one home?

Click here to view the full press release and weigh in...

rp

FIRST Impression: New Jaguar R's Diagnosis, Multiple Personality Disorder

There is something about a big cat that is captivating and absolutely terrifying. Perhaps it is because it seems personable and as though it would not hurt a fly. But, in due time and if the moment is right, the feline will show its true self.

Once you turn your back, its instincts can be unleashed in the blink of an eye.

Source: rp

It is this cunning subtlety that makes these creatures unpredictable. One minute you are playing with pillow soft snowball and the next it is clawing your eyes out mercilessly like a saber tooth tiger.

The same can be said for the new R versions coming out of the big cat brand, Jaguar. There is something magical about the two-faced genetics that make up the new R variants. One moment the XFR is cruising down a meandering path, quiet and taking bumps as though it is on a cloud. The next, its monster 5.0 liter, V8 powerplant is snorting 510-horsepower and tires are chirping from 461 lb-ft of torque.

Source: rp

What makes the new R’s special is that they have accomplished a nearly impossible goal; having multiple personalities. This is where so many others have failed, miserably. An example is the sport saloon Lexus IS-F whose suspension is so taut that it bounces like a Mexican Jumping Bean across a freeway.

Another is a small SUV that tries too hard to be a car. The BMW X3 rides over small crevices with no forgiveness; this reminds you to put its good handling to work by dodging all of the road’s imperfections.

This is how the XKR and XFR outshine the competition. It provides a soft ride – like you would expect from a Jaguar – on rough pavement and isolates the cabin from harshness, yet if you want to get on the track and beat the hell out of it you can. This is unlike a normal Jaguar, which were very common among those stuck-up, rigid types.

It is like putting some Tabasco sauce on your filet mignon. It’s an effective way to spice up a classic cut that has already proven its worth.

Source: rp

After a brief spin, to me the steering is uncomfortably light on both the XKR and XFR; however, it is direct. Think: Mitsubishi Evo-ish. Personally, I would prefer heavier steering as it provides more confidence in the switchbacks. Although this may make the XFR a bit too soft for some drivers on the track, it is not meant to be a Lotus Exige and you have to remind yourself of that. It is a practical five person saloon with a heavier design influence on an extremely comfortable ride.

But, when you are cutting through the corners with limited body roll and hitting triple-digit speeds on the straight that fact may be forgotten.

Taking this into consideration, I would suggest acquiring five track helmets. You know, in case the family wants to go to the track to do a lap. Imagine that, a family drifting through an apex at 100 MPH. Sounds like it would bring any family closer together.

With the new XF and the upcoming XJ, it seems as though the big cat has circled back to the fountain of youth. With some liveliness being pumped into the brand’s image and its motors, this is the most alive the British brand has been in years.

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Pininfarina Brings Sexy Back To Maranello, The 458 Italia: New Shots

Late last week, new photos of Ferrari’s latest mid-engined sex machine hit the web. Now there is a clearer picture, no pun intended, of what the 458 looks like.

Let us take a closer look at the latest from Maranello. As Ferrari’s F430 becomes outdated, with similar styling to the F360 Modena, there was only one way to go with the all-new 458; where Pininfarina had never gone before.

Source: Car and Driver

With a front-end that cannot be compared to any red-head from the past, the 458 Italia is a totally unique Ferrari. The only aspect that can be traced back appears to be the silhouette, which is reminiscent of a 246 Dino with an increased derriere. And, without fail, Ferrari has once again overloaded the 458 with plenty of technology.

The wildest things implemented into the design include: two front air scoops that deform as speed increases to add downforce, as well as the now customary flat underbody in order to aid air flow. The remainder of the design has been designed solely with aerodynamics in mind.

Source: Car and Driver

Analyzing the design of the 458, there are clearly elements of the 360/430 front fenders and A-pillar. Furthermore, the upward sweeping shoulderline combined with the thick rear-end and exposed taillights, gives way to an Enzo-like side profile. Walking around the back of the car, it is noticeable that Pininfarina has implemented a triple exhaust. This design has not been seen since the Ferrari F40 and it seems to work without looking tacky.

One element that seems to be disconcerting is the headlights. They look rather insect-ish. The very tiny Xenons, that have stacked LEDs trailing upwards, seem to give off a Lotus vibe. Although I can appreciate a new design direction for any brand, this particular execution does not strike my fancy. However, the two intakes near the headlights are an ingenious addition. They are included into the design without looking too snout-ish. Well done, Pininfarina.

Source: Car and Driver

Getting more acquainted with the cockpit, it seems to be the most driver-oriented vehicle I have seen to date. And, get this: there are no wiper or turn signal stalks. All of the traditional functions one would expect on the stalks have been relocated to the steering wheel. This may take some getting used to but the set-up seems to be pretty nifty from the pictures.

To the left and right of the steering wheel are more areas that can be controlled as needed. On the right: Bluetooth, rearward camera controls and speedometer. On the left: inputs for the left-hand TFT screen and other on-board computer purposes.

Source: Car and Driver

Elsewhere, the interior is very businesslike. Aluminum accents the dash and center console, there are deeply bolstered seats and a flat-bottomed, three-spoke steering wheel. From the latest pictures, there is not anything that stands out negatively.

At the end of the day, it must be remembered that these are merely pictures. What it will appear like in the flesh is more important. By the sounds of it, I do not think it will disappoint. I mean, how can you hate a mini Enzo/246 Dino with 570 screaming horsepower?

Source: Car and Driver

With any luck, the 458’s ride height will stay similar to the studio shots – slammed!

Likely the 458 will sell out its first year’s allocation within weeks, as that is the Ferrari way. People will buy into Scuderia no matter how good or bad it looks – case in point, the new Ferrari California.

The main question remains: is this what the brand is about?

Regarding the 458, I can say a resounding “Yes!” Welcome the new era of curvaceous and sexual Ferrari designs with arms wide open.

~nz

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Is The 2010 Honda Crosstour A Disaster In The Making?

Finally, now that it is September, we have received a look at Honda’s latest and greatest – but I am not sure it is the latter. Yesterday, Honda’s all-new Accord Crosstour made an appearance, and the more I look at it, I wonder if it is a flop in the making.

Taking it from the top, the car is based on the Accord. Although it is a perennial favorite amongst many, the Accord is not a particularly striking vehicle. If it were my money, I would rather invest in a Civic sedan and squeeze a little tighter. Now this Crosstour-jobby is aiming to compete in the growing and competitive crossover area.

Source: HondaNews

In a press release issued yesterday, Erik Berkman, vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. said "Our concept is to broaden the appeal of the Accord line-up by leveraging traditional Accord strengths of fun-to-drive performance and handling while also adapting to dramatic shifts in the light truck marketplace.”

The reasoning behind the Accord Crosstour makes a lot of sense, in fact, it is brilliant. With Subaru’s Forrester absolutely killing its target market, with a 76 percent increase year-over-year in August 2009, it seems sensible to try to get a piece of their market share. Yet the main problem that can be foreseen, lies within Honda’s styling.

Looking at the latest imagery shown yesterday, it appears rather unsightly. An angular front clip and enormous grille seem to take over the front of the vehicle’s overall design. As the design transcends backwards, it seems to become more curvaceous and free-flowing – thus creating a clash that has not been seen since the Greeks and the Turks.

Source: HondaNews

Even Acura’s ZDX looks better than this. Beak and all.

The reason is that Acura kept the theme similar throughout the entire design. The Crosstour looks as though two separate teams worked on the front and rear of the design.

Hopefully its interior and powerplant choices can make up for the exterior’s faults. If not, I am sure that there are some Honda loyalists that will step up to the plate and pick up one of these “hunchbacks,” as I saw someone nickname it.

I mean, they do sell the Element and Ridgeline, right?

The saving grace for this vehicle will be how much utility it has. People will buy nearly anything, as long as it has a significant amount of utility. Case in point: Scion xB. However, with a sloping roofline, it does not appear as though it will have a cavernous rear hatch. Granted, the studio photos are not exactly providing the best angles for judgment.

Stay tuned for more details on the Accord Crosstour.

~nz

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