CARSCOOP |  |
- Future Cars: Envisioning Cadillac's Upcoming Mercedes S-Class Rivaling Large Sedan
- Two New Videos of NYC Bikers Brutally Beating Range Rover Driver Surface Online [NSFW]
- New BMW 2-Series Coupe Appears in Magazine Stills; Looks Schön!
- Elon Musk Calls Hydrogen Fuel-Cell Vehicles "So Bullshit" [w/Video]
- Does Size Really Matter? Tug of War between Land Rover Defender and Ram Pickup
- House Members Sent Letter to Obama, Praising Japanese Automakers’ Contribution to Economy
- Scoop: Test Mule for New 2015 Mazda MX-5 and Alfa Romeo Spider
- One-off 1,000HP Lotec Mercedes-Benz C1000 Supercar Up for Auction
- You Might Not Know the Car in This 1970s Ad, but You Surely Know the Man
- SsangYong Launches Prettier Rexton W in the UK, Starts from £21,995
- Hyundai Genesis and Nissan and Infiniti SUVs Recalled Over Unrelated Brake Problems
- Check Out MT's Pagani Huayra Appreciation Class
- Mercedes Tells the Inside Story of New 2015 C-Class, Says it's 100kg or 221lbs Lighter
- Peugeot Reconsiders Alliance with GM as it Looks to China for Help
- Chevy Driver Tailgating Land Cruiser Fails to See Concrete Median
- World’s Most Popular Car Color is Still White; Which is Yours?
- Spied: New 2015 Audi TT Mk3 Photographed and Filmed on the 'Ring
- Jeep Wrangler Polar Edition Comes to the U.S. with a $32,395 Sticker Price
- Alfa Romeo 4C's 8:04 Nürburgring Lap Run in Full
- 2014 Detroit Auto Show: Facelifted Cobo Center to Host "Dozens" of Word Premieres, Say Officials
- Pissed Off Husband Rams His Own House with Jeep Grand Cherokee! [NSFW]
- Hyundai and Fox Marketing Create the Most Powerful Street-Legal Veloster Turbo Ever
- Jota Mazda MX-5 GT with 203HP Goes from Concept to Production
- Magnum Lifts the Skirt on MK5 Lightweight Sports Roadster [w/Video]
- Euro NCAP Crashes Jeep Cherokee, Mercedes CLA, Suzuki SX4 and Peugeot 2008
| Future Cars: Envisioning Cadillac's Upcoming Mercedes S-Class Rivaling Large Sedan Posted: 23 Oct 2013 05:42 PM PDT  Ever since Cadillac's reveal of the Elmiraj Coupe Concept back in August, I've wondered how it would translate into a four-door large sedan, sitting as the pinnacle vehicle in the luxury carmaker's lineup. Sure, some may say that the XTS fills a part of the void; but it's debatable whether it really has the right credentials to fight any of the big Germans. Nevertheless, there's word that Cadillac is developing such a rival and test mules wearing Chevy Caprice PPV clothing have been spotted out and about. So with that in mind, it was decided to illustratively explore how a large Caddy could look. Design: Straight off the bat, I'll make no secret that this proposal was heavily based off the Elmiraj Concept car. For starters, the Elmiraj has the right proportions, size and elegant detailing to successfully translate into a large sedan. Where this differs with its 'Art and Science' design language is in the details. Starting from the front; the long, imposing hood is squared-off by sleek vertical LED headlamps that flow down into the corners of the bumper - similar to those found on the latest CTS. The grille retails the same overall width of the Elmiraj's, yet adds elegant horizontal bars with segmented mesh inserts. Word has it the Cadillac badge may give loose its accompanying wreath; however as this is yet to be confirmed, the current version stays for now. In addition, making the jump from concept coupe to concept illustration are the lower swathe lines that run the length of the vehicle; these are exaggerated by lower sill extensions that begin their narrow path from the front, leading to the rear, where they widen out onto the bumper. Above this is an element from Cadillac's past - a fender-vent encompassing chrome strip that leads down the side of the front doors to emphasize its premium status. Above the fluid shoulder lines is cabin architecture that will look familiar to some; the side DLO (daylight opening area) has been massaged from the CTS, albeit with stronger chrome-work that adds a hint of S-Class to the affair. One area that where I thought the latest CTS disappoints, is in the hindquarters. Such a vehicle with a strong frontal presence should equally look great from the rear too. In this proposal, the recessed trunk follows some of the elements of the outer grille. The same applies to the taillights using a similar theme from the headlights. Interior: GM's luxury division has been on a roll with its interiors in recent years. Compare the original CTS with its trash bin-like materials to the latest ATS, CTS and Escalade - their premium switchgear, materials and build quality, are now comparable with best in class. However, any range-topper needs to push the envelope further with exquisite design and technological detailing. Think beyond what's currently found in the Jaguar XJ, Audi A8 and BMW 7-Series; such a cabin could be based on the glorious Elmiraj's. If you couple that with all the latest gadgetry, even Mercedes-Benz would sit up and take notice. Cabin real estate would be vast enough to comfortably seat its passengers with room to spare; and ideally, to provide space for various business and luxury packages from integrated personal computers & keyboards to reclining, massaging and climate-controlled seating. What Could Power It: If dreams were free I'd be shoe-horning the C6 Corvette's, ballistic 6.2-liter supercharged V8 from the ZR1. However, realistically speaking, we learned from one of our sources that the top Cadillac sedan will go on sale in 2016 with a new 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 as well as the current 3.6-liter turbocharged V6 that produces 420hp in the CTS V-Sport. At the high end of the range, we expect it to utilize the 500 hp 4.5-liter Twin Turbo V8 that debuted in the Elmiraj. Transmission-wise; a 9 or 10-speed automatic would help send those potent horses to the tarmac via the wide rear rubber, and possibly, all-four wheels as well. Alternatively, a V6 hybrid setup could be utilized for the more fuel-conscious drivers out there. However it's likely any diesel offering would be off the cards for the American and Canadian markets. Platform & Handling: This design study rides on the same base that underpins the Elmiraj, which is code-named 'Omega' - it's a work-in-progress platform intended for larger GM RWD vehicles. Usually car manufacturers like to get a good balance between ride and handling; for luxury cars, there is a tendency to gun for a smoother riding experience. However, such a large Cadillac could have the best of both worlds by utilizing adaptive damping or air suspension. Sure, technological wizardry won't turn it into an Ariel Atom, but it will keep the driver and its important human cargo happy. For the driver who is, well err…a tad careless behind the wheel; one would expect a plethora of driving aids. From automated emergency braking, self-park assist and even an autonomous mode that will take care of collision avoidance & lane-keeping if the driver decides to nod off. Market Positioning: As a large range-topping sedan, this proposal has intentions to take the fight right up against the established kings in this market: the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7-Series, Audi A8, Jaguar XJ and Lexus LS. Whilst my personal favorite is currently the Jaguar XJ, Cadillac's benchmark should be the S-Class - an engineering triumph that sits right up there with the best as an automotive pinnacle. Sales-wise, Cadillac has been rather frank about its poor showing in Europe and other markets - they know the numbers need to improve, and have the ball rolling with their BMW 5-Series-challenging CTS. A proposal like this would potentially help reinforce that GM means business and improve brand awareness in critical markets. Overall, if Cadillac were to follow the lines of this study, a rather compelling piece of kit could emerge as a serious alternative to the established main players. Coupled with powerful drivetrains, clever interior packaging and standout styling; it may even surprise a few that are dedicated to (European) brand snobbery. Let us know your thoughts and suggestions in the discussion section below. By Josh Byrnes Photo Renderings Copyright: Carscoops / Josh Byrnes                                 |
| Two New Videos of NYC Bikers Brutally Beating Range Rover Driver Surface Online [NSFW] Posted: 23 Oct 2013 04:40 PM PDT  Warning: Videos contain graphic scenes that may be disturbing to some readers It's been a while since we had something new to report on the now infamous New York City incident between a group of bikers and Alexian Lien who ran over several motorcyclists with his Range Rover before he was pulled over and brutally beaten. Today, we learned from Jalopnik that news station ABC 7 got its hands on two new videos showing the moment that the bikers attacked Lien in front of his family, which were filmed by an eyewitness, who has already shared the footage with the police. The report said prosecutors believe most of the bikers who have been arrested over the past couple of weeks can be seen in the clip shot on September 29. Meanwhile, the lawyer who represents undercover narcotics detective Woljiciech Braszczok, who was revealed to be involved in the incident after being filmed smashing the rear window of the Range Rover at the end of the original video, John Arlia, said on Tuesday that his client no longer plans to testify before a grand jury. "My client, with the advice of counsel, has decided not to testify before the grand jury," said Arlia who added that Braszczok never laid a hand on Alexian Lien. "It shows at no point in time him coming in contact with Mr. Lien. He will be seen separate and apart from the attackers, at no time going near them," he said according to an NBC NY report. "I want to be clear about this: no one would ever want to put blame on a victim of an attack," added Arlia. "He is sorry the individual was injured. It was never his intention to have anyone harm him. But the facts were set in motion after Mr. Lien crushed Mr. Mieses' spine. My client just wanted to stop him." When asked why the off-duty cop did nothing to stop the beating of Lien, Arlia said that "things obviously got out of hand, and it was not under his control. He is an undercover officer. Compromising his anonymity could compromise his and his family's safety."    This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| New BMW 2-Series Coupe Appears in Magazine Stills; Looks Schön! Posted: 23 Oct 2013 04:00 PM PDT  What is it with BMW lately? Can't they keep a model properly secret until its launch? It's like every new one approaching its set date, gets "accidentally" revealed some way or another. We're not complaining, just noting the fact, and enjoying looking over the batch of 220d photos leaked from Germany's AutoBild. They go nicely, along with the other leaked set, which shows the sportier M235i, in red. But still, we use a strong word like enjoy because the little 2-Series' shape is very easy on the eye, boasting far more visual appeal than to its puffer fish-faced hatchback brother (and a strong bone line) – I don't fully agree with the Germans who already call it a classic, but I will concede it's not bad at all. Seen here in a sand-like beige/gold color, it rides on white wheels belonging to the Urban pack (there's also Sport and Comfort, both better, more serious options). The diesel engine on the 220d puts out 181hp (184PS), and in the aforementioned hatchback variant uses around 4.8 l/100km (49 mpg US / 59 mpg UK) yet posts a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) time of 7.2 seconds, topping out at 220 km/h (137 mph). But enough with the reading; the photos are the reason for clicking this title, so scroll down and check them out. By Andrei Nedelea Story References: Autobild via 2addicts             |
| Elon Musk Calls Hydrogen Fuel-Cell Vehicles "So Bullshit" [w/Video] Posted: 23 Oct 2013 03:38 PM PDT  Elon Musk has definitely made a name for himself in the automotive industry and beyond (literally, with SpaceX) in a relatively short time span. His reputation was built on showing off the things his companies had achieved (and making comparisons to what other companies haven't), coupled with his strong visionary attitude towards the future and humans' evolving transportation needs/problems. You can swap out 'visionary' with whatever word you want, but it doesn't change the fact that he still wants to build a supersonic-vacuum-tube-train and thinks it would work. However, Musk is sometimes a bit too outspoken about his personal views, and this time he definitely got on a few people's nerves with what he said. During a speech he was giving at the opening of a new Tesla service center in Germany, the EV maker's CEO and co-founder revealed his disapproval of hydrogen-fuel cell-powered vehicles by saying they are "so bullshit. Except in a rocket." He backs up his claim by adding that current fuel-cells lack the necessary energy storage capacity of lithium-ion cells (like on the Model S), still seeing conventional batteries as the way to go. You can check out his entire speech below, though most of what is said (aside from Musk's own words) is in German. Skipping through to the 29th minute, when he says it, may not be the worst idea if you don't speak the language – he starts speaking after the 15-minute mark. By Andrei Nedelea Story References: YouTube via Wired   |
| Does Size Really Matter? Tug of War between Land Rover Defender and Ram Pickup Posted: 23 Oct 2013 03:01 PM PDT  Just like arm wrestling, tug of war duels between cars serve the same purpose: to show overly competitive men that they are more powerful than their opponents. This type of battles can go spectacularly wrong some times, but no matter the outcome, they always seem to entertain spectators. The following tug of war includes two rather different machines: in the left corner we have a Land Rover Defender 90 powered by a 3.0-liter diesel engine, while in the right corner, there's a massive previous-generation Ram pickup truck powered by a 5.9-liter Cummins diesel unit. The clash is rather interesting because the Defender is four-wheel drive, whereas the Ram looks like its rear-wheel drive – either that, or the driver didn't engage 4WD on purpose. Even so, the fight seems balanced at first, but shortly after that one of the cars loses clearly. Find out which one from the video posted below. By Dan Mihalascu    |
| House Members Sent Letter to Obama, Praising Japanese Automakers’ Contribution to Economy Posted: 23 Oct 2013 02:30 PM PDT  The Detroit News reports that 79 House members sent a letter to US President Obama, keen to bring his awareness (again) to the huge contributions made to the country's economy by the adopted Japanese automakers – note, though, that none of the representatives that signed the letter were from Michigan. The letter reads: "Congress and the administration must continue to foster a business climate that promotes the United States as a premier location for global companies to build, sell and export their products." One of its two authors, Mississippi representative Alan Nunnelee, added that "We wanted to remind the president of the significant contributions these automakers and dealers make to our nation's economy each day," and mentioned the creation of thousands of jobs in his home state. The 79 members that put their signature on the letter want to smooth the transition into existence of a 12 country trade treaty (the Trans-Pacific Partnership, or TTP) encompassing Australia, Canada, Japan, Malaysia and Mexico as the major players (detailed below), and others like Singapore as major export markets. It promises to open the US up to yet more imports, while at the same time allowing it and the other members to export more of what they have and bring in more of what they need, all at better tariffs. Still, it's not a done deal, as the same source reports that "Earlier this month, the 12 nations released a statement on the talks, but unlike prior communications, didn't say they plan to reach a deal by the end of the year." Whether or not they are all keen on the idea, the US is now intrinsically linked with Toyota, Honda and Nissan all of which have extensive manufacturing, parts supply chain and dealership networks currently active in the States, which account for a the creation of a reported 419,000 jobs nation-wide. The number is so large, because for the forty-odd years that the Japanese companies in question have been present in the States, they have invested $47.1 / €34.4 billion and have built a total of 29 plants. By Andrei Nedelea Story References: Detroitnews     This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| Scoop: Test Mule for New 2015 Mazda MX-5 and Alfa Romeo Spider Posted: 23 Oct 2013 02:05 PM PDT  So it begins; here we have the first appearance of a test mule for the next generation of the Mazda MX-5, and consequently, the new rear-wheel drive Alfa Romeo Spider, since the two companies came together to develop the shared-platform roadsters with each model featuring its own styling and crop of engines. Being a chopped test mule wearing body parts from the current MX-5 Mk3, there's nothing we can comment about the styling as the primary purpose of this model is to evaluate and work on the chassis and powertrain components. Nevertheless, as pointed out by our man with the long lens, the mule appears to feature a slightly longer wheelbase and overall length than the third generation MX-5. While it may share the same timeless looks with the original MX-5, the current model is past due for a replacement as it has been around on the market for a little over eight years now. That will likely happen sometime next year with the Alfa Romeo Spider having already been officially confirmed for 2015. Both models will be manufactured at Mazda's Hiroshima plant in Japan. Mazda's roadster model and possibly the replacement for the hardtop roadster-coupe, will benefit from the brand's new SKYACTIV range of petrol engines and transmissions, while chances are that the Alfa will use one or more versions of the 4C's 1.75-liter turbocharged four. Photo Credits: CarPix for CarScoopS               |
| One-off 1,000HP Lotec Mercedes-Benz C1000 Supercar Up for Auction Posted: 23 Oct 2013 01:30 PM PDT  RK Motors Collector Car Auctions (RKMCCA) will offer a unique Lotec Mercedes-Benz supercar at the auction scheduled between October 31 and November 3 at the Charlotte Convention Center. The one-of-a-kind 1995 Lotec Mercedes-Benz C1000 was commissioned by a businessman from the United Arab Emirates. The man paid $3.5 million to have the world's fastest street-legal car, so Lotec and Mercedes-Benz designed a vehicle according to his wishes. The C1000 features a 5.6-liter Mercedes-Benz V8 engine twin-turbocharged with Garrett turbos generating 1,000 hp. The Lotec Mercedes-Benz C1000 sprints from 0 to 60 mph (96 km/h) in 2.8 seconds and allegedly can reach a top speed of 268 mph (431 km/h). For the record, that's 1 mph (1.6 km/h) faster than the Bugatti Veyron's top speed. The engine is mated to a Hewland 6-speed transmission. These figures are in part due to the car's curb weight of only 2,381 pounds (1,080 kg), as the bodywork is made of carbon fiber. The interior is a combination of red leather and carbon fiber and features two bucket racing style seats with 3-point harnesses, air conditioning, adjustable pedals, adjustable steering column and even a luggage compartment. The odometer reads only 2,576 kilometers (1,600 miles). The price for one of the rarest supercars in the world? Bidding starts at $1,000,000 (€726,000), with RKMCCA anticipating a sale price of up to $1,300,000 (€943,875). The auction will also include the 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR roadster we've spotted on eBay earlier this year. The car is one of only six roadsters made and has 71 miles (115 km) on the clock. The auction starting price was not announced, but it's safe to say bidding will start from around $2 million (€1.45 million) - the price advertised on eBay. By Dan Mihalascu                        |
| You Might Not Know the Car in This 1970s Ad, but You Surely Know the Man Posted: 23 Oct 2013 01:00 PM PDT  Back in 1970, when American Motors Corporation (AMC) was still trying to put up what turned out to be a futile fight against Detroit's Big Three, it enlisted the help of a young actor who had not yet made it big in Hollywood to participate in a television commercial for the Ambassador sedan; his name was Robert De Niro. In the 30 second spot that was unearthed and brought to our attention by the folks over at Aol Autos, 27-year old De Niro is depicted as a successful college graduate who visits Little Italy in a spanking new AMC Ambassador impressing his family and friends. And being the 1970s, the creators of the ad had no problem to include all kind of exaggerated Italian American stereotypes... Watch it in full in the video below the break.    |
| SsangYong Launches Prettier Rexton W in the UK, Starts from £21,995 Posted: 23 Oct 2013 12:33 PM PDT  SsangYong is not a carmaker renowned for beautiful design (remember the first-generation Rodius?), but things have started to change with the launch of the recently facelifted Korando. The Mahindra & Mahindra-owned Korean carmaker has begun taking design more seriously, and that can be seen on the restyled Rexton W as well. Arriving in the UK this winter, the Rexton W features consistent visual upgrades both inside and out. The SUV features a new face with more expressive headlights, as well as minor modifications that make it look contemporary. Inside, the cabin features a refreshed look thanks to aluminum-effect and chrome finishes. The SsangYong Rexton W has seven seats, with the third row of seats stowing behind the boot floor. Standard equipment includes cruise control, air conditioning, electric and heated door mirrors, leather covered steering wheel and gear knob, and radio CD with iPod and Bluetooth connectivity. The EX model also gets an electrically operated memory driver's seat, leather upholstery, privacy glass, sunroof and rear parking sensors. The Rexton W retains its body on frame construction, low range and towing capability of up to 3 tons (6,000 lbs). It is powered by a 2.0-liter e-XDI200 turbo diesel engine developing 155 PS (153 hp) and 360 Nm (265 lb-ft) of torque between 1,500 and 2,800 rpm. The engine is mated to a standard 6-speed manual transmission, with a 5-speed Mercedes-Benz T-Tronic automatic being available as an option. Active safety features include Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Active Rollover Protection (ARP), ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Hill Descent Control (HDC). Dual front and side airbags are standard as well. Order books are open, with prices starting from £21,995 (€25,810) for the base EX model. By Dan Mihalascu         |
| Hyundai Genesis and Nissan and Infiniti SUVs Recalled Over Unrelated Brake Problems Posted: 23 Oct 2013 12:10 PM PDT  While unrelated between them, Hyundai's and Nissan / Infiniti's latest recall actions both concern issues with the braking system. In the case of the Japanese carmaker, the group is recalling 151,695 examples of certain model year 2013-2014 Nissan Pathfinders built from April 18, 2012, through September 20, 2013; model year 2013 Infiniti JX35 crossovers manufactured from September 15, 2011, through January 16, 2013; and model year 2014 Infiniti QX60s made from January 17, 2013, through September 20, 2013 "In the affected vehicles, during light braking on rough roads, the antilock brake system (ABS) brake pressure output software may lead to an increase in stopping distance," Nissan told the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). To fix the issue, Nissan and Infiniti dealers will simply reprogram the ABS, free of charge, of course, with customers to be informed about the service schedule in the coming weeks. Hyundai on its behalf has posted a recall that affects 27,500 Genesis sedans from the 2009 through 2012 model years over faulty brakes, which have led to 23 complaints and one accident report on NHTSA's website. The Korean brand said that there are "potential durability issues" with the brake system's Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit, and that the latest recall is a follow-up to the one made last March as it didn't include all vehicles affected. "Hyundai previously initiated a service campaign in March of 2013 to replace the brake fluid in the subject vehicle population," the automaker said in a statement sent to USA Today.                   |
| Check Out MT's Pagani Huayra Appreciation Class Posted: 23 Oct 2013 11:43 AM PDT  Back in 2003, the idea of the Huayra started taking shape inside the head of its creator, Horacio Pagani. At the time, while he was pleased with what he had achieved with the Zonda, it was a mere supercar, in a time when much faster machines were being rolled out. Ferrari unleashed the Enzo, Porsche brought out the Carrera GT and Koenigsegg's CC8S was clocked at 390 km/h (242 mph) - Bugatti too was well into the development cycle of the Veyron. It was the minuscule Italian automaker's answer to the above, and even if it took long to develop and is still no match for today's crop of supercars in terms of straight line performance, it has a niche all of its own, making it impervious to critique about its performance. MotorTrend confirmed what we already knew from countless other reviews, in their recent drive of the Huayra, which was complimented by a quick tour of the Modena factory grounds: you don't buy one of these cars to drive as fast as you can, even though it is more than capable of that, but rather you invest in one and appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into all of its hand-made components and the result of them coming together. If the old motoring cliché of driving a certain vehicle "being an event" applies to any new/modern car, then this is about as eventful as it can get – classics are a different story. Check out the video after the virtual jump. By Andrei Nedelea    |
| Mercedes Tells the Inside Story of New 2015 C-Class, Says it's 100kg or 221lbs Lighter Posted: 23 Oct 2013 11:14 AM PDT  After an unceremonious release of the interior shots of the brand-new 2015 C-Class sedan on Monday, Mercedes-Benz discharged the official (high-resolution) photos together with some initial details on the car, including its U.S. on-sale date of fall 2014 (European sales will likely begin earlier). The interior design of the next C-Class is modern, building on the lines of the current model as well as the newer CLA compact saloon, with Mercedes leaving promises of "high-grade materials" and all the latest technology features such as a free-standing, tablet-style touchscreen display on the center console. According to Benz, the standard 7-inch and the optional 8.4-inch screens work much like a smartphone with the use receiving "clear, haptic feedback when operating the touchpad control surface". Other notable interior features mentioned are an available air condition system with automatic air recirculation with tunnel detection using satellite navigation, an S-Class-like AIR-BALANCE package with active fragrancing and ionization, and a new head-up display projecting information on speed, speed limits, navigation and messages from DISTRONIC PLUS as a virtual image directly into the driver's field of vision. Mercedes also tells us about its efforts to reduce the new C-Class' weight while at the same time, increasing rigidity, and reducing noise and vibration characteristics. The C-Class sports an aluminum hybrid body, which Benz says it makes it the "lightweight construction trailblazer" in its segment. The body and the bodyshell are around 70 kg (154 lbs) lighter than conventional production using steel, with the entire vehicle being around 100 kilograms (221 lbs) lighter than its predecessor. Moving on to the chassis, we're told that the 2015 C-Class gains a newly designed 4-link front axle for the suspension, which is made from steel, while alternatively and for the first time, Mercedes will offer an optional air suspension (AIRMATIC) on the front and rear axles allowing the driver to choose between Comfort, ECO, Sport and Sport Plus modes. Finally, Mercedes confirmed that all of the available passive and active safety technology from the S-Class and E-Class will be available on the all-new 2015 C-Class, including a new front passenger airbag that can detect every child seat installed. For the first time in the model's history, the new C-Class will be built in the United States at the brand's Tuscaloosa, Alabama plant as well other locations including Germany.                 |
| Peugeot Reconsiders Alliance with GM as it Looks to China for Help Posted: 23 Oct 2013 10:45 AM PDT  France's largest carmaker PSA Peugeot Citroen has said that its alliance with General Motors may be scaled back, sparking speculation that it is doing so in preparation for a deeper partnership with China's Dongfeng Motor. The carmaker, which recently posted a 3.7 percent quarterly revenue decline, said plans for a joint small-car program with GM are "under review", despite having announced earlier this month joint production of B-segment MPVs in Spain. "The project of development of a new joint platform for B segment models with GM is under review as well as the relevant terms of the development agreement. As a result, the announced mid-term synergies ($1 billion for PSA) may be readjusted downwards. New initiatives are under consideration," Peugeot said in a statement. Peugeot is currently in tie-up talks with its Chinese partner Dongfeng Motor. Dongfeng and the French have stated that they are considering taking equal stakes in Peugeot of about 20 percent in a capital increase that would raise at least €3 billion ($4.13 billion). While the GM alliance is focused on cost reductions in the shrinking European market, a partnership with Dongfeng would help Peugeot expand in China and boost its profits. Peugeot and Dongfeng currently operate three factories together in China, with annual production capacity expected to rise by two-thirds to 750,000 vehicles until the end of 2015. Peugeot's sales in the first nine months of this year in China rose 29 percent to 403,000 vehicles. Peugeot has a second joint venture in the country, Changan PSA Automobile, and opened a fourth factory last month. Should PSA Peugeot Citroen pursue a deeper partnership with Dongfeng, it would risk the GM alliance, since GM's Chinese partner is SAIC Motor, a rival for Dongfeng. If that happens, GM may pull out of the alliance with PSA and sell its 7 percent stake. By Dan Mihalascu Story References: Reuters & Bloomberg        |
| Chevy Driver Tailgating Land Cruiser Fails to See Concrete Median Posted: 23 Oct 2013 12:54 PM PDT  If you're going to speed and act stupidly on the road, then be prepared for the worst, as there's a very good possibility that you're going to pay the price for it, one way or the other. In the case of the Russian driver of a Chevrolet sedan who was tailgating a speeding Toyota Land Cruiser in a highway near the city of St. Petersburg, the price was a horrendous crash with a raised median barrier. The Chevrolet driver looks like he or she tried to squeeze between another car and the Land Cruiser from the right lane, failing to see that the road split in front. The author of the dash-cam video footage said that the driver and a passenger of the Chevrolet were hospitalized injured, but at least alive. We tip our hats to Dmitry!    |
| World’s Most Popular Car Color is Still White; Which is Yours? Posted: 23 Oct 2013 09:50 AM PDT  Statistics say that wherever you are in the world, if you're going to see a car, there's a good chance it's going to be a white-colored one. It is chosen by one in four car buyers, followed by black and silver tying for second place with a popularity rating of 18 percent and " gray, red, natural hues, blue and green which stayed the course from 2012," according to a Detroit Free Press report. The data it's based on comes from PPG Industries, a major US-based global paints and coatings supplier that recorded sales of $15.2 billion in 2012. It also has detailed stats for the North American market separately. Here, white is still most common, with a leading 21 percent share, with black in second place (19 percent), gray in third (17 percent) and lastly silver scoring two percent less than that. It does mention renewed interest among Americans for blue and red on sporty cars, and a continuation of the proliferation of gold and beige minivans (MPVs). In regards to the future, Jane Harrington, PPG manager of color styling says "car manufacturers are seeking ways to create variations of white, silver, black and gray that are specific to their brands and that complement different vehicle types," (which are nice when they are kept subtle, not overpowering) – "more than 60 new colors will be introduced for the 2016 and 2017 model years." Now, let's see if the numbers stack up. What's your top general color pick, that you think best suits not one, but a wide array of different cars? By Andrei Nedelea                  |
| Spied: New 2015 Audi TT Mk3 Photographed and Filmed on the 'Ring Posted: 23 Oct 2013 09:08 AM PDT  Just the other day, we brought you the very first spy shots of an actual prototype of the next Audi TT, and now, we can enhance your view of the coupe model with a fresh batch of pictures as well as a video of the car, the latter courtesy of France's L'Automobile magazine. Before it entered the Nürburgring circuit for some quick laps, the 2015 TT tester was spotted with Audi's engineers driving along in three of its rivals, including the BMW Z4 and Mercedes-Benz SLK hardtop roadsters and the Peugeot RCZ. Despite Audi's efforts to hide the car's styling under wraps with scribbly shapes, it's pretty clear that the designers have followed an evolutionary path with the third generation model that's expected to arrive next year riding on the VW Group's longer-wheelbase MQB platform with a new generation of engines on offer. Photo Credits: CarPix for CarScoopS , Video Credits: L'Automobile            |
| Jeep Wrangler Polar Edition Comes to the U.S. with a $32,395 Sticker Price Posted: 23 Oct 2013 08:47 AM PDT  Following its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show last month, the winter-themed Jeep Wrangler Polar Edition is now heading to the U.S. with sales to start in November, just in time for the cold season. The 2014 Jeep Wrangler Polar Edition is said to take inspiration from the extreme conditions that characterize the Antarctic region, even though it's based on the…Sahara trim level. The Polar edition features special styling cues including a new front grille with black accents, Powerdome hood, hard spare-tyre cover, body-color hardtop with deep-tint sunscreen glass and 18-inch polished Gloss Black alloy wheels. Other upgrades include a three-color hood decal featuring the outline of mountains, and the black fuel-filler door from Mopar. On the inside, the Wrangler Polar Edition features the "Polar" logo on the upper portion of the backrests and on the front passenger's grab bar, while the black leather seats are enhanced by Pearl White accent stitching. The steering wheel's spokes, the dashboard vent rings and grab bar are finished in high-gloss Ceramic White. There's also an all-new cluster overlay with rings painted in the same hue and a blue instrument background with "Polar" logo. The new limited-edition Wrangler is powered by the Pentastar 3.6-liter V6 engine that delivers 285 hp and 260 lb-ft (350 Nm) of torque and is linked to a standard six-speed manual or an available five-speed automatic transmission. For off-road adventures, the Wrangler Polar is equipped with the Dana 30 front axle and 44 rear axle. There's also the standard Command-Trac NV241 part-time, two-speed transfer carse with a 2.72:1 low-range gear ratio and the Trac-Lok anti-spin rear differential. By Dan Mihalascu             |
| Alfa Romeo 4C's 8:04 Nürburgring Lap Run in Full Posted: 23 Oct 2013 08:25 AM PDT  When Alfa released a short video of the new 4C completing a lap of the Nürburgring Nordschleife track in eight minutes and four seconds the other day, we were left with a bitter taste in our mouths, as we wanted to see it in full. To our delight, our wish was granted with the release of a full –length video shot through an inboard camera. The Italians said that the 4C's lap time is a record for a series production car with less than 250-horses under its hood. To be precise, the European market specification model seen in this video piloted by former Sport Auto magazine editor Horst von Saurma, sports a 1.75-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine delivering 236hp (240PS) to the rear set of wheels via a TCT twin-clutch automatic transmission. While sales of the 4C have already started in Europe, we hear that the U.S. launch has been pushed back to the second quarter of 2014.    |
| 2014 Detroit Auto Show: Facelifted Cobo Center to Host "Dozens" of Word Premieres, Say Officials Posted: 23 Oct 2013 07:57 AM PDT  The city of Detroit isn't exactly going through the best of times these days and in fact, as most of you know, it filed for bankruptcy on July 18 this year after falling an estimated $20 billion in debt to over 100,000 creditors. Still, it remains the capital of America's auto industry and home of the continent's biggest international motor show. In stark contrast to the city's immediate future, the auto industry is rebounding from the recession and is on track for a fifth straight year of growth – only the second time this has happened since World War II. The Detroit auto show's officials expect this positive trend to be displayed at the upcoming 2014 event in January. We're still three months away from the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS), but the event organizers said today that they have "secured dozens of worldwide vehicle introductions" and that the products will debut "in nearly all vehicle categories, including concepts, luxury, sports/performance, crossovers, trucks, SUVs, and alternative fuel technologies." You can see a list of automakers that have confirmed world debuts in the list below. "Manufacturers have clearly stated that 'Detroit' continues to be a significant component in their global auto show strategies," said NAIAS 2014 Chairman Bob Shuman. "Our partnership with manufacturers in Asia, Europe, and North America has never been stronger, and their ongoing confidence in the NAIAS is evident by the critical worldwide product unveilings headed for Detroit's world stage." Visitors at the 2014 NAIAS in January will also be amongst the first to see the latest improvements at the revamped Cobo Center in Detroit, including the conversion of the former Cobo Arena, now known as the Grand Ballroom. Work on the Cobo Center is expected to be fully completed in 2015.    |
| Pissed Off Husband Rams His Own House with Jeep Grand Cherokee! [NSFW] Posted: 23 Oct 2013 07:20 AM PDT  We're no strangers to angry wives, mistresses and girlfriends lashing out on their men, but don't think for a moment that some males don't do the same if strong emotions such as passion and jealousy take control over reason. That's when bad things happen like, for example, driving your older generation Jeep Grand Cherokee (unless the video is playing tricks on our eyes and it's a Cherokee) into your other car before smashing it into your house. And we quote YouTube author 'annahill3001': "Caught this on the way home from work. Word is the man caught his wife cheating on him and he decided to take things into his own hands bulldozing his own home! CRAZY! THIS GUY IS A MORON!" Crazy stuff indeed, which you can watch in the (vertical and NSFW language alarm) video below.    |
| Hyundai and Fox Marketing Create the Most Powerful Street-Legal Veloster Turbo Ever Posted: 23 Oct 2013 06:50 AM PDT  Rounding up Hyundai's 2013 SEMA Show lineup and following the already announced Bisimoto Genesis Coupe, Veloster EGR, Genesis Coupe Legato and JP Edition Genesis Coupe, is the Fox Marketing Veloster Turbo. According to the Koreans, it's "the most powerful street-focused Veloster Turbo ever", with the car's extensively modified 1.6-liter turbocharged unit delivering an impressive 370 horsepower. Other performance upgrades made to the Veloster Turbo include an array of new suspension bits such as the fully-adjustable ARK Performance coil-overs, plus 6-piston front calipers with carbon fiber ducting and bigger alloys wrapped in beefy sports wheels. A new aero package along with a unique paint job and racing seats inside complete the tuning job. For more details on the upgrades, scroll down for the full list.
CHASSIS
EXTERIOR
INTERIOR
BRAKING
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| Jota Mazda MX-5 GT with 203HP Goes from Concept to Production Posted: 23 Oct 2013 06:33 AM PDT  If you fancied the Mazda MX-5 GT Concept shown at last year's Goodwood Festival of Speed, then you'll be happy to know that the Japanese company has green lighted its production, albeit through its racing partner Jota Sports, which had helped build the original study, and only for the UK. Mazda had hinted at a production version of the car, but in the end, it decided to let Jota Sports be the one to offer the MX-5 GT. "Following a year of development and testing, Mazda handed over the project in its entirety to Jota in 2013 for the Le Mans specialist race team to take the car to market independently as a Jota Mazda MX-5 GT," said Jota Sports in a statement. Priced at £29,995 (about US$48,500 or €35,200), the GT costs £10,000 (US$16,200 or €11,800) more than the MX-5 Roadster Coupe 2.0-litre Sport Tech upon which it is based, and comes with a 3 year standard Mazda warranty for all non-modified parts and an aftermarket extension to cover all modified parts. What you get over the standard car is a tuned version of the 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four producing an extra 45hp, lifting output from 158hp (161PS) to 203hp (206PS) and cutting the 0-60mph (96km/h) time by 1.5 seconds to 6.4 seconds. According to Jota Sports, the car hits a limited top speed of 140mph (225km/h), with a "minimal change to fuel consumption". To improve handling, there's an uprated and re-tuned Bilstein dampened suspension, while additional features include a carbon rear diffuser and leather Recaro seats. Customers can also further enhance the MX-5 GT with the option of a carbon rear boot lip spoiler, a carbon front splitter and Jota's road and track Öhlins suspension kit. The GT comes in three colors, white pearl, true red and aluminium silver metallic, all with a brilliant black roof and anthracite alloy wheels. Note: The white car in the gallery is the production model, while the orange is last year's MX-5 Concept GT          |
| Magnum Lifts the Skirt on MK5 Lightweight Sports Roadster [w/Video] Posted: 23 Oct 2013 06:05 AM PDT  Here's another peep at Magnum's new MK5 street-legal, yet track-day-ready, sports model. In this second video, the Canadian firm with the…Transformer's-like logo slightly lifts the sheet off the car to show some sections of the car, though, don't expect any groundbreaking revelations as it remains a teaser. For the official unveiling, we'll have to wait until next Wednesday, October 30, 2013, when Magnum will yank the covers off the MK5 while also releasing a number of details in the process. As you may have figured out already, we have nothing else on the MK5 other than that it's a lightweight and open-top creation that can seat two people.    |
| Euro NCAP Crashes Jeep Cherokee, Mercedes CLA, Suzuki SX4 and Peugeot 2008 Posted: 23 Oct 2013 06:05 AM PDT  The latest roundup of cars put to the test by Euro NCAP succeeded in achieving the maximum possible five-star score. Jeep's Cherokee, the Mercedes CLA, Suzuki SX4 and Peugeot 2008 all impressed, though the European crash safety authority doesn't currently have an equivalent to the small overlap test, the one that's been troublesome for so many apparently safe cars. But regardless, at least the stability control test is not only relevant for testing the ESC, but also for seeing if a vehicle's chassis is up to scratch – the Opel Adam from the previous batch of cars showed it had a big tendency to understeer. Here, out of all four cars tested, the Suzuki seemed to have the straightest trajectory, and it runs a bit wide with the electronics turned off… No other notable occurrences to report on, aside from the fact that for the Peugeot 2008, much of the crash data was taken from the 208 supermini on which it's based – it shares its basic structure. It even suffers from the same high chance of giving passengers whiplash injuries in rear impacts, as the seats and headrests are not as efficient at culling this as they could be. Check out the all six videos posted below; there are two for each car, bar the Peugeot, which doesn't get any. By Andrei Nedelea           |
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