CARSCOOP |  |
- Guy Crashes his Lamborghini Diablo, Shows the World How He Feels in Video
- Meet Europe's 10 Biggest Automotive Money Losers
- New Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG Sounds Angry Around the Nurburgring
- Student Says Grand Theft Auto Drove Him to Act Senseless, Stealing Truck, Ram Nine Cars
- Shocking Video of Range Rover Running Over Several Bikers while Chased in NYC [Update IV]
- Skoda Releases New Info, Photos and Videos of Rapid Spaceback
- Mini Confirms 1.5- and 2.0-Liter Twin Turbo'd Engines for New Hatch
- Mercedes-Benz Own…'Reporter' Takes New S-Class for a Spin in Berlin
- Want to Own an Original Decepticon S281 Saleen Extreme from 2007 Transformers Movie?
- SRT- Tuned Jeep Cherokee May Come, But Only If It Can Make Money for Chrysler
- Watch a Russian Camaro Aquaplane Into a Roll-Over
- Honda Introduces All-New Odyssey Mk5 for Japan, Australia and Other Markets
- EVO Tries to Prove a McLaren 12C is an Every-Day Supercar
- Renault’s Alpine Racer Snags the European Le Mans Series Title First Time Out [w/Video]
- Range Rover Sport Mk1 NightHawk with 572HP by CDC
- Maserati Releases Video of Ghibli Testing Inside Climatic Wind Tunnel
- Alfa Romeo 4C Going to Maserati U.S. Dealerships Raises Concern Among Fiat Dealers
- "Award Winning" Mazda MX-5 Hodge Podge Could be Yours...
- Impatient VW Beetle Driver Goes Down Under
- Hyundai to Reveal 250HP Veloster Turbo EGR Night Racer at SEMA
- New Mercedes-Benz S-Class Convertible Digitally Visualized
- Jay Leno Drives Batmobile Tumbler on the Street, Finds Out It’s a Solid But Noisy Cruiser
- Kia Enriches Carens' UK Lineup with New Top Edition
- VW’s Ferdinand Piëch Reveals Possible Plan for Ducati Panigale-Powered XL1 Eco Car
- Success Can Be Overwhelming: Land Rover Struggling to Meet Demand for New Models
| Guy Crashes his Lamborghini Diablo, Shows the World How He Feels in Video Posted: 30 Sep 2013 05:50 PM PDT  Ah, first world problems… If you thought that owning a Lamborghini is pure awesomeness 365 days a year, prepare for a reality check. Especially if you're planning on buying a Lamborghini Diablo in the future, you should watch the following videos made by the owner of a 2001 model. In the first video, Rob Dahm tells the story (a pretty long one in fact) of how he crashed the car while driving in the rain on used tires (a big double-no for any supercar owner). The repair bill is not for the fainthearted: $11,000 for a set of four brake rotors (he couldn't buy just one, they're only available in sets of four), $10,000 to replace the carbon fiber front bumper and front fender, more than $4,000 for the wheels - and there's also a damaged suspension for which he didn't do the math yet. That's at least $25,000 for a car he bought used for $130,000. Ouch! In the second video, he points out some inconveniences of the Lambo in a funny way, such as the fact that, although it's a supercar, it still runs out of battery sometimes, and that the interior has no concept of ergonomics whatsoever. The video may seem annoying at first, but his remarks are simply sarcastic. Finally, there's a third video in which he shows what it's like to drive the Diablo. If you want more, you can check out his YouTube channel where there are many more videos about his experience with the Diablo. By Dan Mihalascu        |
| Meet Europe's 10 Biggest Automotive Money Losers Posted: 30 Sep 2013 05:02 PM PDT  Everyone knows that the Bugatti Veyron is one of the most expensive cars to build and that VW loses a lot of money on each unit made. But while the Bugatti is just the tip of the iceberg in terms of losses per vehicle in Europe (€4,617,500 / $6,231,316), it is not the vehicle that inflicted the biggest loss on its company. According to a research by brokerage firm Sanford C. Bernstein that was published by The Economist, the "honor" goes to the first generation Smart ForTwo, built between 1997 and 2006. The 749,000 units produced generated a loss of €3.35 billion ($4.52 billion) for parent company Daimler. The main reason was that the automaker injected a huge amount of cash in the project, building a new dedicated plant, an all-new platform and 3-cylinder engines. As if that wasn't enough, the Smart also failed to meet its sales targets by 40 percent. The maths show that Daimler lost €4,470 ($6,032) on each ForTwo it made. Other vehicles, like the Fiat Stilo (2001-2009), simply failed to convince their target group of customers. The 769,000 units made were 70 percent less than Fiat's estimates, bringing the company a huge loss of €2.10 billion ($2.83 billion), €2,730 ($3,685) per vehicle. The top 3 is completed by the VW Phaeton, which is a rather different case as it was built simply to satisfy the personal whim of VW chairman Ferdinand Piech. Between 2001 and 2012, VW made 72,000 Phaetons and lost €28,100 ($37,910) on each of them. Total loss was €1.99 billion ($2.68 billion). The top 10 of Europe's biggest loss-making cars is completed by the Peugeot 1007 (€1.90 billion), first-generation Mercedes-Benz A-Class (€1.71 billion), Bugatti Veyron (€1.70 billion), Jaguar X-Type (€1.70 billion), third-generation Renault Laguna (€1.54 billion), Audi A2 (€1.33 billion) and Renault Vel Satis (€1.20 billion). By Dan Mihalascu Story References: The Economist                  |
| New Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG Sounds Angry Around the Nurburgring Posted: 30 Sep 2013 04:23 PM PDT  The all-new 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is a lighter and more nimble replacement to the old model. This affects all variants in the range, but it should perhaps be most noticeable on the 5.5-liter twin-turbo V8 AMG powered S63. It may be one of (if not) the last cars to use that engine, according to a report we did not long ago, so we might as well enjoy its sound while they last. Below we posted a video of what is believed to be the S63 being driven around the often-painted the Nurburgring Nordschleife, courtesy of TouriClips, and I can say that it sounds just as good as I was expecting it to - no surprises here. Moreover, it looks really composed and clean through the bends, though, that may also be a byproduct of it not being driven particularly fast around them – I can't tell for sure, but it looks quite slow in and fast out, to me. Regardless, it's quite a sight on the track, and it can't be any slower than its predecessor, since it carries around less weight, so it should be better at trying to be a sports car. It remains to be seen if it's sharper than the Panamera Turbo, but then again, the Porsche isn't as good as the S at being a plush limousine, nor does it look as classy and clean. By Andrei Nedelea    |
| Student Says Grand Theft Auto Drove Him to Act Senseless, Stealing Truck, Ram Nine Cars Posted: 30 Sep 2013 03:50 PM PDT  I get the attraction of Grand Theft Auto 5; publisher Take Two Interactive may be pushing its story and characters a lot, but they're not really what reels people in and keeps them hooked. That job is left to the immersive open world that allows you to fulfill the grimmest of mass destructive fantasies (if you have such ideas floating around in your head, that is – some players seem to do…). Those behind the game will always insist that their product is not to blame for any mirroring of the digital violence that is transposed into the real world, even if the perpetrators themselves say it drove them to commit their acts. I'm not taking sides here, but at the same time, I feel that even with basic knowledge about the human brain, one should be aware of the sponge-like nature of the subconscious, which soaks up pretty much all that we see in an manner most have little control over. With that in mind, do you think Zachary Burgess' actions are in any way related to spending lots of time behind the controller playing the new game? He stole a truck from a parking lot with a female passenger still inside. Apparently, the driver had hopped out and went to a store, leaving the engine running. According to NBC News, Burgess says he saw this as an opportunity to "see what it was really like to play the video game Grand Theft Auto," so he drove off, and rammed nine cars in the same parking lot in his attempt to flee. Do you find any of this odd from a 20-year-old freshman and lacrosse player going to Auburn University? He now faces multiple charges, the most severe of which is kidnapping. By Andrei Nedelea Video: WDSU/YouTube    |
| Shocking Video of Range Rover Running Over Several Bikers while Chased in NYC [Update IV] Posted: 30 Sep 2013 05:23 PM PDT  Warning: some viewers may find certain scenes in the video to be distressing A horrifying video of an appalling incident that took place in New York City between the driver of a black Range Rover and a large group of motorcyclists taking part in what is said to be an annual bikers' meeting has been making the internet rounds this morning. According to online commentators, the incident left one rider dead, several others injured, and the driver of the SUV in a coma, though, we have yet to confirm all this from official sources [Update: NYPD said that no one died in the incident and that the only person injured was the driver of the Range Rover]. The motorcycle-helmet-sourced footage surfaced on several sites including YouTube, from multiple authors, but at the time we wrote this piece, we hadn't discovered the original source. In the footage, we see dozens of bikers circling the black Range Rover and eventually slowing down to a halt (at the 50 second mark), then, all of a sudden, the SUV makes a run for it driving over several riders. A group of motorcyclists then chases the SUV on the freeway until they catch up with the driver on the Cross Bronx Expressway exit, and attempt to attack (at 4:55), but he or she makes another run for it, crashing into another biker(s) in the process. The motorcyclists hop onto their bikes and continue the chase until the Range Rover hits traffic, with riders then breaking the windows of the SUV, at which point, the video ends… If anyone has more information on the incident including the original video, you can contact us through email or in the comments below and we'll update this report. Update: We found what we believe to be the original video (date September 29), while an NYPD spokesman told the Mail Online that the driver was a man in his 30s with his wife and child of under the age of five. The spokesman said that the only person injured was the driver who was taken to the hospital for lacerations to his face and body and that contrary to online commentators, there were no other injuries or a death as originally reported. The incident is still being investigated. Update II: More sources have corroborated the information mentioned above, including the NYpost, and in particular, that amazingly, no motorcyclist was hurt. We also learned that no arrests have been made - yet... Update III: More information has surfaced online about the incident. According to the NY Times, the police said that the encounter began on 12th Avenue at about 2 p.m. on Sunday, September 29, adding that they believe, "the riders were in Manhattan as part of a planned but unauthorized event in which hundreds of motorcyclists were to assemble downtown". Meanwhile, the name of the Range Rover driver who ran over the bikes and was later on assaulted by a number of riders has been identified by the NY Daily as Alexian Lien. His wife, Rosalyn Lien, was in the car at the time along with their young daughter. Lien, director of an e-commerce firm, has not been charged by police. Also, Instagram user Redyredbx, posted new pictures from the incident along with a post that reads, " #wokeup 2 watching the video of that fuckin#range#rover that #RanOva #several #bikers and ran for miles but our #relentless #riders chase his ass down thru #manhattan #fuckin#Bastard #rip#Rider &#getBetter soon #riders" We looked up the group's Statigram page, and found a posting from a one "Brian K." (or "briankiseljewsky") who appears to have taken part in the ride. He places the blame on the Range Rover driver while insisting that the bikers were out on the road just for fun. See his posting below.
          |
| Skoda Releases New Info, Photos and Videos of Rapid Spaceback Posted: 30 Sep 2013 03:04 PM PDT  Launched at the Frankfurt Motor Show earlier this month, the new Skoda Rapid Spaceback is the second body type of the Rapid, filling the gap between the Fabia and the Octavia. A combination between a hatchback and an estate, the Rapid Spaceback represents a more practical proposition than the sedan – and a better-looking one, if I may say so. As the car's launch on European markets begins in October 2013, Skoda has released more than 60 photos shot during the press test drive event that took place in Verona, Italy. With an interior space identical to that of the Rapid sedan and a boot measuring 415/1,380 liters (14.6/48.7 cubic feet), the Rapid Spaceback is fitted with a double cargo floor in the boot, which can divide the space into two horizontal levels. Like the Rapid sedan, the Spaceback also has practical features like the ice scraper in the centrally lockable fuel filler flap, waste bin in the side door, ticket holder, multimedia holders, cup holders front and rear and the parcel shelf that can be stowed behind the rear seats. The Rapid Spaceback debuts the Column-Electric Power Steering (C-EPS), which replaces electro-hydraulic power steering for weight-saving purposes. The car is available with four petrol and two diesel engines at launch. The diesels are both 1.6-liter units with 88 hp (90PS) and 103 hp (105PS) respectively, while the petrol engines are a 3-cylinder 1.2-liter MPI with 74hp (75PS), two four-cylinder 1.2-liter TSI units with 84 hp (85PS) and 103 hp (105PS) respectively, plus a 1.4-liter TSI with 120hp (122PS). All engines are available in the economical Green tec versions, with the most fuel-efficient being the entry-level diesel that averages 3.8 l/100 km (61.9 mpg US) and emits 99 g of CO2 per km. By Dan Mihalascu                                                                  |
| Mini Confirms 1.5- and 2.0-Liter Twin Turbo'd Engines for New Hatch Posted: 30 Sep 2013 02:31 PM PDT  With an all-new Mini hatchback just around the corner, the BMW-owned British carmaker has revealed technical details about the upcoming generation. The most important announcement regards the engines, with the new car to debut a new generation of powerplants that will "optimize the balance between driving thrills and fuel consumption yet again", according to the automaker. The all-new Mini hatch will be the first to use both three- and four-cylinder engines, that the carmaker says will set "new standards in terms of output, performance, comfort and reliability." Mini hasn't revealed output or performance specs of the engines, but confirmed the 1.5-liter displacement of the 3-cylinder engine and the 2.0-liter displacement of the 4-cylinder unit. Both engines are twin-turbocharged and feature direct injection, with the larger engine most likely to be used by the Mini Cooper S. Mini said its future models will continue to favor sporty, agile handling and announced the introduction of electrically adjustable dampers - a first for the brand. The electric control of the damper valves will allow the system to vary the nature of responsiveness to uneven road surfaces. Mini says the dampers will have two characteristic curves for adjustment that can be activated at the touch of a button. Drivers will be able to choose between a "decidedly sporty" drivetrain setting or a more balanced and comfortable setting. By Dan Mihalascu   ![2014-Mini-Cooper-S-2Carscoops[3]](http://lh3.ggpht.com/-DYD_HlZg8XQ/Uknpzqf7sWI/AAAAAAAOabk/TcXCViapz1w/s1600-h/2014-Mini-Cooper-S-2Carscoops%25255B3%25255D%25255B3%25255D.jpg "2014-Mini-Cooper-S-2Carscoops[3]") ![2014-Mini-Cooper-S-4Carscoops[3]](http://lh6.ggpht.com/-lKksSRjXBHE/Uknp1sLqdmI/AAAAAAAOab0/ddkYakSlGE0/s1600-h/2014-Mini-Cooper-S-4Carscoops%25255B3%25255D%25255B3%25255D.jpg "2014-Mini-Cooper-S-4Carscoops[3]") ![2014-Mini-Cooper-S-8Carscoops[3]](http://lh3.ggpht.com/-khGB0iaohEA/Uknp3fk4yMI/AAAAAAAOacE/G037-srSGNc/s1600-h/2014-Mini-Cooper-S-8Carscoops%25255B3%25255D%25255B3%25255D.jpg "2014-Mini-Cooper-S-8Carscoops[3]")    |
| Mercedes-Benz Own…'Reporter' Takes New S-Class for a Spin in Berlin Posted: 30 Sep 2013 02:01 PM PDT  We've seen many reviews for Mercedes' all-new S-Class, but what we haven't watched so far is a review made by the carmaker itself – how thoughtful and original, ahem, ahem… So here you have it: Mercedes-Benz TV reporter Torie Campbell took the brand's flagship sedan for a test drive in Berlin and shared her impressions in a short video. As is the case with other reviews from car manufacturers, objectivity is not their strongest point – to put it bluntly, they're very subjective, but that's something to be expected. The reporter praises the exterior design of the new S-Class, the modern interior with the two large high-resolution display screens and then moves on to optional extras. The Burmeister 3-D surround sound system, the Air Balance package and the Magic Body Control system are just some of the goodies Mercedes-Benz offers on the tech-laden S-Class. You can find out more about these by watching the video posted below. By Dan Mihalascu    |
| Want to Own an Original Decepticon S281 Saleen Extreme from 2007 Transformers Movie? Posted: 30 Sep 2013 01:33 PM PDT  Whatever your opinion is about the fifth gen Mustang, if we're talking about an example of Ford's pony car that's not only dressed like the Decepticon character "Barricade" that appeared in the original Transformers movie in 2007, but is in fact, one of the actual models featured in the film, deserves our attention. This particular model is said to be camera car No2, with the studio having created a total of three cars for the movie – you may remember that one of the three S281 Saleen Extreme Ford Mustangs from the Transformers blockbuster was listed for sale in 2010, but we're not sure if it's the same one featured here. The Saleen-tuned model is based on the 2005 Mustang and comes with a 4.6-liter V8 mill modified to deliver 335-horses, along with many other upgrades, ranging from the full body kit to the 20-inch wheels and the customized interior. As you can imagine, you can't take the car out for a ride without hiding or removing certain Police car features and decals, but the seller has taken care of some of those issues with magnet signs that cover the original police insignias. If you're interested, the 'Buy it now' price on ebay is $80,000 or about €59,200.
Seller's Description:                            |
| SRT- Tuned Jeep Cherokee May Come, But Only If It Can Make Money for Chrysler Posted: 30 Sep 2013 01:02 PM PDT  The first reviews of the all-new Jeep Cherokee are in, and so far, the car has been praised for both its on- and off-road capabilities, as it seems to be surprisingly talented at doing both – surprising for what is for all intents and purposes, a tall all-wheel drive hatchback. Now, specifically because it uses a compact hatch's underpinnings, there may be more in it for Jeep. Currently, their top of the range Cherokee is the off-road-tuned Trailhawk, however, a lowered, road-going SRT model would make a lot of sense too. It would only come about, though, if it can convince Chrysler officials that it can make them some money, and not just break even, according to a report from Motoring, citing Steve Bartoli, Jeep's Head of International Product Planning as the source. Bartoli said that a Cherokee SRT would be "a lot of fun" and that he thinks, "the chassis has a lot of legs to it". "The suspension is really good, nothing's impossible especially with that platform. I think we have a lot of flexibility with it," he replied when asked if an SRT-tuned Cherokee model was in the brand's future. It if does materialize, most of the modifications are predictable: lower, stiffer suspension, bigger brakes and some subtle styling tweaks both inside and out completed by plenty of SRT badges. The problem is the power plant they could use… Currently, the most powerful engine on offer is the 3.2-liter Pentastar V6, but that's just a regular motor, and not a performance-tuned unit, so it wouldn't do it justice. They could also turbocharge one of their four-pot units, like the base 2.4-liter, and see where that takes them. By Andrei Nedelea                       |
| Watch a Russian Camaro Aquaplane Into a Roll-Over Posted: 30 Sep 2013 12:31 PM PDT  As fun as powerful rear-wheel drive sports cars may be on dry asphalt, even the most experienced hands need to be extra careful and always keep the electronic nannies (if available) engaged when driving on wet roads. If the weather takes a turn for the worst and it's pouring cats and dogs outside, then the last thing that a driver of car like the Chevrolet Camaro (which even in base form has 300+ ponies and over 400hp in V8 guise) wants to do is press the pedal to the metal… Of course, you can do what the driver of the white fifth-gen Camaro coupe did in the Russian city of Novosibirsk, but don't complain if you end up in the same exact position. Press play in the video below and you'll see what we mean by that.    |
| Honda Introduces All-New Odyssey Mk5 for Japan, Australia and Other Markets Posted: 30 Sep 2013 11:59 AM PDT  Some three years after Honda presented a new generation of its Odyssey minivan for North America, it's time for the Japanese brand to do the same for the domestic market version of the series, which is also offered in a number of countries around the world, including Australia. The JDM model may share the same name as the American model, but it's a completely different vehicle. Nevertheless, with the fifth generation model, the two are coming a little bit closer to each other in terms of exterior styling. Honda published a comprehensive set of pictures of the JDM 2014 Odyssey, but it has yet to release information on dimensions, prices and technical specifications, all of which should be announced shortly before or during the upcoming Tokyo Motor Show at the end of November, when the minivan will make its world premiere in front of the public. The only bits of information we get about the car from Honda is that it features "an ultra-low-floor platform" that helps increase interior space for passengers and their luggage, and that the 2014 Odyssey will adopt new powertrains that are more powerful yet also, more fuel efficient.
                               |
| EVO Tries to Prove a McLaren 12C is an Every-Day Supercar Posted: 30 Sep 2013 11:28 AM PDT  British magazine EVO uploaded a video some five months ago setting the premise for a longer series based on viewers' comments. The main attraction was a long-term test car, a McLaren 12C. Now, it has been run for about ten months and the first questions have been answered via a second video – the first of six to be released. It goes into greater detail around the notion of every-day supercars, as well as questioning whether or not the 12C fits that bill, and proving that it does. If the arguments for the McLaren made sense to you, then we will subtly remind you of a car called the Audi R8 and its status as a very practical, usable supercar – I say the notion is valid and verifiable one on a wide range of models, especially if we go past the realm of mid-engines (the Ferrari FF comes to mind). Check out the two videos posted below for the full story, though, and perhaps leave us your thoughts in the comments section.    |
| Renault’s Alpine Racer Snags the European Le Mans Series Title First Time Out [w/Video] Posted: 30 Sep 2013 11:33 AM PDT  If Renault can translate the success it has had with the Alpine A450 European Le Mans racer that won the LMP2 class this year onto the street, then we're really going to get one heck of a nice production sports car in 2016. It's an impressive feat for any debuting team, and it was achieved with three podium finishes out of a total of five races. Of the three podiums, the only victory was recorded in Hungary, where the Signatech Alpine team cruised ahead after 82 laps of an extremely wet Hungaroring track – it was still enough to secure the championship, though. The last race they entered was the Three Hours of Paul Ricard, in France, where they came in 4th. This sets the stage nicely for next year's edition of the championship, when the team will line up two cars that will give them twice as big of a chance to make it a double championship win. Renault is being smart about this, and if there were an ideal time to re-launch the Alpine brand in the racing world, it would be now, to make the name familiar again, after a 35-year long absence. By Andrei Nedelea       |
| Range Rover Sport Mk1 NightHawk with 572HP by CDC Posted: 30 Sep 2013 10:31 AM PDT .jpg) Earlier this year, Land Rover presented the second generation of the Range Rover Sport, which like its predecessor, appears to be a commercial success. However, since there are many examples of the Range Rover Mk1 still on the road, tuning firms like CDC Performance, continue to offer special styling and performance packages for the previous model. This package bears the "Nighthawk" moniker and it upgrades the Range Rover Sport from top to bottom, as well as inside and out. At the heart of the project is the engine tune for the 5.0-liter supercharged V8 mill that is pushed from 503hp (510PS) and 625nm to 572hp (580PS) and 695Nm respectively, with CDC also removing the SUV's electronic speed limiter. There's also a sports exhaust system with twin tailpipes and a more macho aural output, a big brake kit with 6-piston calipers on all four corners, and a new electronic module for the air suspension that allows a 70mm drop in ride height…mostly suitable for when you want to show off… For the outside, CDC came up with a wide body kit and a 28-piece carbon fiber trim set covering various parts of the SUV, including bumpers and side skirts, and massive 23-inch forged alloy wheels wrapped in 315/25-23 performance tires all around. The German firm finishes up the comprehensive tune with the fully customized interior that gains an oddly shaped steering wheel, leather and Alcantara surfaces, and more carbon fiber trim bits than most will care to count.                     |
| Maserati Releases Video of Ghibli Testing Inside Climatic Wind Tunnel Posted: 30 Sep 2013 10:02 AM PDT  Say you are a car designer asked by an automaker to come up with a specific idea, for a sporty sedan with Italian flair. The trick won't be to get it looking good and evocative, because it is already known what buyers like to see in such a car, but rather to get the looks as close to the ideal concept as possible, without negatively affecting any of the moving bits. That's why Maserati's Ghbli, aside from looking quite fancy from all angles, I think, must also be a solid automobile able to withstand the harshest of battering weather conditions. One of the ways in which this kind of capability was tested is using a climatic wind tunnel able to simulate anything from a scorching mid-day desert sun to arctic winds. Now, the premium Italian automaker has released a video detailing what the testing procedure in the special wind tunnel is like. It's short, so it doesn't really go into the specifics, but it at least offers peace of mind to future owners who may have been questioning the car's durability and engineering prowess in comparison to those of its German rivals. By Andrei Nedelea    |
| Alfa Romeo 4C Going to Maserati U.S. Dealerships Raises Concern Among Fiat Dealers Posted: 30 Sep 2013 09:31 AM PDT  The Alfa Romeo 4C will not arrive this year in U.S. dealerships, but when it does, it is going to raise some questions about Alfa's future in the United States. Last week, Alfa Romeo CEO Harald Wester revealed that the 4C will be sold in Maserati showrooms, which leaves many to wonder why the company bypassed Fiat dealerships. Many Fiat dealers in the States are having a difficult time and were expecting the Alfa Romeo 4C and other models from the Italian brand to boost their showroom appeal. However, Wester's statement brings uncertainty for them and justified questions. A number of Fiat dealers are wondering whether the 4C will also be sold at Fiat showrooms, but more importantly, if this decision is threatening to cast a shadow over their hopes about future Alfa Romeo volume products. Where will those models be sold – at Maserati dealerships, Fiat stores or both? Unfortunately, Wester did not address these issues. Fiat execs have said in the past that they will sell the Alfa Romeo Giulia mid-sized sedan, Giulietta compact and other Alfa Romeos in the U.S. in the coming years. Fiat dealers never received a promise for a future Alfa Romeo franchise, although Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne acknowledged the expectation. Following the slow sales start of the Fiat 500 in the U.S., the exec suggested that Fiat dealerships will also sell Alfa Romeo models in the future. "The red is not accidental on the sign, believe it or not," Marchionne said. Red is Alfa Romeo's brand color. The exec said that Alfa Romeo needs Chrysler's help in order to have a successful comeback in the U.S. By Dan Mihalascu Story References: Autonews        |
| "Award Winning" Mazda MX-5 Hodge Podge Could be Yours... Posted: 30 Sep 2013 09:01 AM PDT  For many auto enthusiasts, myself included, the first generation Mazda MX-5 (or Miata), is a modern-day classic that should be spared the fate of the Pontiac Fiero. However, truth to be said, the Japanese firm sold so many of them in the 10 years it remained in production, that there are more than enough examples for to go around for collectors, racers, and replica and kit car makers alike, which brings us to this strange eBay find. According to the eBay seller, "this one of a kind Lotus and Veilside inspired concept car was built for promotional use and was originally built for and sold to a car wash owner for 15k," having won a trophy at the Knotts Car show in 2007. The listing says it's a 2007 model, which we assume refers to the date of the kit-car build, as we looked up the VIN that reveals the car is a 1994 model with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine. Last we checked, the highest bid on eBay for the MX-5 was US$5,656 (about €4,180 at today's exchange rates).
eBay Seller's Description:            |
| Impatient VW Beetle Driver Goes Down Under Posted: 30 Sep 2013 08:31 AM PDT  Assuming that you are in the right state of mind, if you see a truck with an oversize load trailer in front of you on the freeway or highway, what would your first course of action be? Keep a safe distance and if you must overtake, choose the time and place very wisely, correct? For safety's sake, we hope that all of you agree with the above statement. If you do not, then you can see one of the many undesirable outcomes in the dashboard-camera footage from a vehicle that captured a new Volkswagen Beetle in a hurry on an Australian highway. The driver of the German hatch seemingly attempted to pass the pickup / SUV at the same time that the large truck in front was changing lanes as the road narrowed to a single lane and dipped into the ditch. It could have ended much, much worse…    |
| Hyundai to Reveal 250HP Veloster Turbo EGR Night Racer at SEMA Posted: 30 Sep 2013 08:11 AM PDT  The 1,000hp Hyundai Genesis Coupe won't be the Korean carmaker's only exhibit at the upcoming SEMA show in Las Vegas (November 5-8), as it will be joined by a custom EGR Night Racer concept based on the Hyundai Veloster Turbo. Developed in partnership with the EGR Group, an OEM and aftermarket accessory supplier, the racecar is designed specifically for time attack races at night racing circuits. The car features a unique vivid yellow paint scheme dubbed Yellowcake. The custom-developed color was created by EGR together with paint experts at PPG and Barry's Speed Shop. The EGR Night Racer features a Wurton roof-mounted LED light bar and custom ONEighty-branded headlights which ensure visibility on night racing circuits. There's more to the car than aesthetic upgrades, though. The custom roll cage helps to significantly increase body rigidity, while ride height is race-tuned with an ARK coil-over suspension and AEM strut brace. Bisimoto Engineering – which also collaborated with Hyundai on the 1000hp Genesis – boosted the turbocharged 1.6-liter engine's output to 250 horsepower, while the oversized Brembo brakes, DPE 3-piece racing wheels and Toyo semi-slick racing tires help the driver keep the car under control. On the inside, the car features a custom interior developed by Katzkin with Takata racing seats and harnesses. "Veloster Turbo provides an ideal tuning platform for enthusiasts who want to modify their cars," said Mike O'Brien, vice president, product planning, Hyundai Motor America. "EGR created a very special night-focused time attack car that perfectly showcases Veloster Turbo's inherently sporty DNA," he added. By Dan Mihalascu     |
| New Mercedes-Benz S-Class Convertible Digitally Visualized Posted: 30 Sep 2013 07:51 AM PDT  Over the weekend, we told you about Mercedes-Benz's plans to create a soft-top convertible version of the upcoming S-Class Coupe, with the information coming directly from the German brand's product development boss Thomas Weber, and now, thanks to the creative efforts of Dutch artist Remco Meulendijk, we can give you rendered idea of what the car may look like. The young designer neatly (photo)chopped the roof off the S-Class Coupe Concept while also replacing certain elements such as the door mirrors, alloy wheels, rear apron and exhaust pipes with more production-like parts. The Benz boss said that the four-seater luxury convertible is scheduled for an introduction about a year or so after the hardtop coupe, which itself, will be presented in production trim in 2014. Powering the snazzy rag top model will be a similar lineup of V8 and V12 bi-turbocharged mills to the S-Class Coupe, all linked to automatic transmissions, but it remains to be seen if Mercedes will offer AMG flavored (and powered) versions as well. Photo Credits: Design RM      |
| Jay Leno Drives Batmobile Tumbler on the Street, Finds Out It’s a Solid But Noisy Cruiser Posted: 30 Sep 2013 07:31 AM PDT  Whenever I look at the "Tumbler" Batmobile movie car, quite a few different stealthy and armored military vehicles come to mind, all of which are not that fast and a bit cumbersome to get around in. Not the Tumbler, though, as Jay Leno found out, because it's a vehicle designed to be part of the actual stunts performed in the Batman movies, so it can drive, turn and stop just like any other car, plus it has a V8 engine and an automatic gearbox, so it's not slow and makes things easier by shifting its own gears. Leno learns that a total of seven were made, but that the one he had a chance to get behind the wheel of was the last one still in the US, and actually the only one that was still drivable. It is also revealed to him that each of the seven built had a specific purpose and was somewhat different to the others – the ones used for the stationary shots didn't even have engines… There's the looks too – whoever thought up its shape was clearly pretty good at what he/she does, because it looks functional on the road, apart from the propane-fueled rear afterburner that is purely for show, of course. No wonder people started making their own – it's just a cool vehicle, making it more than just mere movie paraphernalia. By Andrei Nedelea    |
| Kia Enriches Carens' UK Lineup with New Top Edition Posted: 30 Sep 2013 07:11 AM PDT  Following the UK market launch of its new generation Carens in the beginning of the month, Kia has enhanced the lineup of its compact minivan with a new top of the line trim model dubbed '3 Sat Nav', which is now available for customers to order in dealerships. If you're familiar with Kia's trim range naming strategy (1, 2 and 3), the name of the new edition is pretty much self-explanatory. It is based on the high spec '3' model that comes with leather seats, dual zone climate control, full length panoramic sunroof and a bevy of safety features, adding a seven-inch touchscreen satellite navigation system and an upgraded seven-speaker audio system integrated into the center console. Kia notes that the new audio system also includes an eight-channel external amplifier and sub-woofer along with the AUX, USB and iPod connectivity. On the road prices for the new Carens '3 Sat Nav', which is available exclusively with the 1.7-liter CRDi diesel unit delivering 134bhp and paired to a 6-speed manual transmission, start at £24,845, with the metallic paint option charged at £495.                   |
| VW’s Ferdinand Piëch Reveals Possible Plan for Ducati Panigale-Powered XL1 Eco Car Posted: 30 Sep 2013 06:50 AM PDT  The launch of the limited-series eco car, the Volkswagen XL1, was accompanied by many rumors and speculation as to what it could morph into, were it to get a different powertrain, but retain the same basic body and characteristics. At first, we heard suggestions that a hot XL1 may end up being called XR1 and getting a wider body along with as big an engine as the two-liter turbo from the GTI. Now, we know that the rumors were actually anchored in reality, as VW confirmed it was genuinely considering such a vehicle through its own Ferdinand Piëch, who spoke at presentation held at the University of Vienna., according to Autorevue. The actual vision is a bit different than what we were banking on, especially in terms of engine choice, as VW will apparently be going for a motorbike engine used to power a very special machine – the Ducati 1198 Panigale. The motor itself is a 1.2-liter V-twin that makes the equivalent of 191 hp (143 kW) and 132 Nm (98.1 lb-ft), according to the Italian bike manufacturer's official US site. Its peak power is reached at 10,750 rpm, while the maximum torque comes in very high too, being achieved at 9,000 rpm. Said to be named XL1 sport, Piëch said it would be lighter than the hybrid XL1, and it will probably lose the cool covered rear wheel design (though I`m not sure exactly why…). It was suggested that it may be used as an image car by VW, and have a one-make series that revolves around it, but we'd still like to see a road-going version of it as well. If you want to hear what it may sound like, there's a couple of videos of the Ducati Panigale itself posted below, being put up against a Ferrari 458 - chances are that if you had not seen/heard it prior to now, and aren't against motorbikes, you'll be hard pressed not to find it to be very appealing... By Andrei Nedelea Photo via Autorevue    |
| Success Can Be Overwhelming: Land Rover Struggling to Meet Demand for New Models Posted: 30 Sep 2013 06:30 AM PDT  Having low sales is probably the worst thing for a car manufacturer (and any business, for that matter), but sometimes having too many orders can be quite difficult to manage as well. That's what is happening to Land Rover, which is reportedly having a difficult time meeting demand for the all-new Range Rover and Range Rover Sport. Demand for the Range Rover and Range Rover Sport is so strong that Land Rover is struggling to fill orders. According to a report from Automotive News, which quotes a company spokesman, the waiting time for the Sport is nine months, while Range Rover buyers must wait six months. Much of the demand comes from China, although the Range Rover's list price is as high as 2.8 million yuan (€338,000/$457,000) in the Asian country. Furthermore, according to a report from Bernstein Research, some Chinese customers are willing to pay as much as €60,000 ($81,100) to move to the top of the waiting list. The same report says Jaguar Land Rover vastly underestimated demand for the two SUVs by almost 40 percent. However, JLR doesn't have solutions to speed up manufacturing, as its Solihull plant in the UK is working 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Even worse, the carmaker can't get enough engines from supplier Ford, which still manufactures most of the powerplants for Jaguar and Land Rover. JLR will start making its own range of four-cylinder engines starting in 2015. Based on the modular 4-cylinder units, the carmaker could also build V8 engines. By Dan Mihalascu              |
| You are subscribed to email updates from Carscoops To stop receiving these emails, you may unsubscribe now. | Email delivery powered by Google |
| Google Inc., 20 West Kinzie, Chicago IL USA 60610 | |
