CARSCOOP

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• Ford Explains How it Kept the 2015 Mustang Hidden from Paparazzi and You
• Spy Shots: BMW Unleashes the M Version of 2016 X6
• Automated Wash Damages Classic Car, Owner Eventually Finds Justice
• Tuned GMC Canyon with Bolt on Turbo Sounds Like a Rally Car, almost Goes Like One
• Cuba to Lift Restriction on Auto Imports, Finally…
• 2014 Detroit Show Officials Outline First Batch of Premieres
• NHTSA Pushing for Use of Breathalyzer Interlocks for First-Time DUI Offenders
• Next Holden Commodore Rumored to be Rebadged FWD Buick Made in China
• Imagine That: Russian Points Out Egypt's Chaotic Roads
• Specialist Mitsubishi Shogun SUVs for UK's Highway Agency
• A Look at Assetto Corsa, an Upcoming PC Driving Sim
• Audi Reveals 2014 R18 Racing Car, Now with Laser Headlights
• BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Opel Investigated for Tax Fraud in Greece
• Watch the Wild Lamborghini Huracan Do Donuts in Official Video
• No Christmas Spirit for Grumpy Old Boston Man who Blocks Bicyclist [NSFW Swearing]
• Lamborghini Hurucan Testing on the Snow Next to Aventador
• Tommykaira Brewing Tuned Mazda CX-5 for Tokyo Auto Salon
• New Mazda2 Range Extender Prototype Leaves Hope for Rotary Engine
• Lexus Drops 2nd Teaser on New F Model for Detroit Show, Confirms it's a Coupe
• The Wedding Drifters: BMW M3 Spins Around Newlyweds
• 2014 Hyundai Azera Gains Revised Chassis, Extra Features and $1,250 Lower Starting Price
• Skoda Reportedly Preparing VW Crossblue-Based SUV for 2016
• Official: Lamborghini Huracán with 602HP V10 Does 0-100 KM/H in 3.2 Seconds, 325 KM/H

Ford Explains How it Kept the 2015 Mustang Hidden from Paparazzi and You Posted: 20 Dec 2013 04:25 PM PST Looks like Ford isn't at all fond of spy photographers,  and the same probably applies to any of you looking to snag a picture of a future Blue Oval car. And since we are on the receiving end of the photo-subject, it rubs on us as well. In a freshly released video, FoMoCo explains how it worked to keep the 2015 Mustang "hidden in plain sight" from spy photographers, or as the company calls them, "paparazzi". This is a recurring theme in the video as well as Ford's press release that states: "Professional photographers – who prefer to stay in the shadows or trees – acknowledge they can wait anywhere from minutes to months to catch a prototype, and patience is a virtue." Dave Pericak, Mustang chief engineer, had this to say: "The professional photographers all know where the cars get built and where they get tested. One photographer we see frequently parks in discrete locations with a view of these facilities, just waiting for something new to emerge." Vehicle engineering manager Tom Barnes, who took the first fully covered new Mustang out of the factory in June this year, says that photos of the car began popping up on automotive websites in less than an hour after he hit the road – we assume he means these spy images. "After spending weeks refining the camo package for the Mustang, it was a bit frustrating getting snagged by the paparazzi almost immediately," said Barnes. "On the other hand, when we saw the photos later that day, it was a relief to realize you really couldn't tell what the car looked like." We beg to differ on that last statement as we had a pretty good first idea of what the new Mustang would look like almost a year before the first prototype hit public roads – remember these renderings from Josh Byrnes? We'd like to hear to what you, the readers think about all this. If any spy photographers would like to chip in, you can leave your comments below too, or if you prefer, send us an email and we'll post it here. VIDEO

Spy Shots: BMW Unleashes the M Version of 2016 X6 Posted: 20 Dec 2013 03:11 PM PST While BMW officials are denying the upcoming X4 compact crossover an M version, the next generation of its big brother will continue to offer a high-performance edition at the top end of its range. There's no question that his prototype is the new X6 M as it carries all the typical treats of the series, like massive rubber on all four corners, all-you-can eat plate-size brake discs, sculpted bumpers with air vents up front, and a diffuser flanked by twin exhaust pipes on either side at the rear, along with a discrete rear spoiler and "M" style double kidney grilles. You won't be surprised to learn that BMW won't share any information on the powertrain at this point, but it is expected that the new X6 M will utilize either a new V8 turbo or an improved version of the current eight-cylinder force-fed mill. Sources from Germany have said that it could flirt with the 600-horsepower mark, up from the current model's 555-horsepower. Rendering Copyright: Carscoops PHOTO GALLERY

Automated Wash Damages Classic Car, Owner Eventually Finds Justice Posted: 20 Dec 2013 02:33 PM PST Taking your carefully restored classic car for a clean at an automated car was is by no means a good idea, especially if you have delicate chromed mirrors, or other details that were not designed to withstand the crushing force of the brushes. Even worse, if your vehicle is of an unusual shape, like say a vintage VW Beetle, then the brushes could snag and damage the bodywork. That's what happened Juan Bermudez from California, as he took his 1974 Bug through the Quick Quack Car Wash in Citrus Heights. Apparently, one of the brushes was caught in the protruding rear bumper and scraped off some paint. Upon discovery, the owner called for damages to be paid and asked for the security camera footage taken during the wash. At first, he was denied both, but after involving the press and asking for legal advice, he got a call from Quick Quack that confirmed they were going to cover the severely scraped rear bumper, after having hidden behind their disclaimer that absolved them of any responsibility for cars more than five years old. By Andrei Nedelea Story References: Aol-Autos VIDEO

Tuned GMC Canyon with Bolt on Turbo Sounds Like a Rally Car, almost Goes Like One Posted: 20 Dec 2013 02:01 PM PST Matt Farah of Drive isn't big on done up pickups destined for street use, and I can understand why… It's very hard to turn a such a vehicle into a sports car, because physics will always have a big part to play in handling. You can still try to do it, and while the result will never be truly sporty (unless you have like a million dollars to spend and/or are some kind of tuning guru) the extent of your skills will give it charm, character, or not, as the case may be. This GMC Canyon, for instance, is a nice attempt that would definitely be an experience to drive. As Farah finds out when he gets a go, the turbocharged 3.5-liter straight-five it has under the bonnet makes a really nice noise once opened up, and the rear-mounted turbocharger also adds to the thrill – it even goes well, with a claimed 335 hp at the rear tires. Handling is also improved via a custom front suspension setup and custom leafs at the back, as well as chunky rims with wide tires, plus a set of bigger brakes up front; strangely, the owner Matt Ochoa opted to leave in the stock drum brakes on the rear. Scroll down and check it out in detail, in the video posted below. By Andrei Nedelea VIDEO

Cuba to Lift Restriction on Auto Imports, Finally… Posted: 20 Dec 2013 01:40 PM PST Cuba is definitely one of the top places to visit around the world, especially for car people who will undoubtedly find the Lada-powered American classics from the 1950s a real treat. However, it wasn't by choice that the Cubans used the old Yank tanks and Russian Fiat 131s as their only means to get around, but rather because of the monopoly imposed by the government on the sale and import of cars. All who want to get in on the act in Cuba need an "authorization card." Now, though, that may all change, according to The Washington Post quoting AP. Apparently, local officials had already lifted restrictions on second-hand sales two years ago, yet there had been no word as to the fate of imports. "It's become clear that while private sales of cars between individuals has developed smoothly, the sale of cars using 'authorization cards' has been inadequate and obsolete," reported Granma, the Party newspaper, adding that "the card, apart from being overly bureaucratic, became a source of speculation and illicit self-enrichment." Following that statement, another one came out: "steps will be taken to eliminate restrictions that lost their reason for being with the passage of time. Administrative shackles that created opportunities for illegal activity will also disappear." We will let you know how this develops further. By Andrei Nedelea Story References: Authorselectric VIDEO

2014 Detroit Show Officials Outline First Batch of Premieres Posted: 20 Dec 2013 12:58 PM PST If you've set a mark on your calendar for January 13-14 (the press days), and/or January 13 to 26 if you're actually planning to attend, then you'll be interested to know that the 2014 Detroit Auto Show officials have released a preliminary list with the world and North American premieres. From the cars listed on the initial list, those that caught our attention are the Cadillac ATS Coupe, Porsche 911 Targa, the two Volkswagen Concept cars and the Toyota study. It's not that we hadn't heard or told you about most of these cars, but now, it's official. The rumor-mill has it that the Toyota concept will be a sports coupe hinting at a Supra replacement. As for the unnamed cars in the list, the Audi study is a compact crossover, the Hyundai production car is the new Genesis, the Lexus is the RC F Coupe, the Kia is a 2+2 Coupe Concept, while we don't know details yet about VW's two studies. According to NAIAS (North American International Auto Show – the official name of the event), "more intros are planned, but have not been publicly announced by auto manufacturers," so stay tuned for updates in the coming days and weeks. PHOTO GALLERY

NHTSA Pushing for Use of Breathalyzer Interlocks for First-Time DUI Offenders Posted: 20 Dec 2013 12:30 PM PST All of the US' fifty states have laws permitting the use of ignition interlocks that can only be bypassed if the driver proves he or she has not been drinking, by taking their own breathalyzer test each time they set out. However, from that point on, legislation varies from region to region, and cannot be enforced with the same strictness everywhere, as NHTSA Administrator, David Strickland, would like. The official, speaking on behalf of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, urged all states to start requiring these devices for first-time drunken driving offenders, in order to "protect sober motorists and ensure that individuals convicted of drunk driving learn from their mistakes." The Detroit News says that in the state of Michigan, for instance, the law prevents the device from allowing you to start your car, if the blood-alcohol reading is higher than 0.0025, and will then still subject the driver to random tests on the move. The price for all this safety is about $50 to $75 per device to buy and have installed, then another $50 to $75 in monthly maintenance and monitoring costs. The NHTSA says drivers of cars equipped with these interlocks are 75 percent less likely to go about their drunken driving ways again, and that's why it's funding a $7.5 million advertising campaign to raise awareness during the holiday season. By Andrei Nedelea VIDEO

Next Holden Commodore Rumored to be Rebadged FWD Buick Made in China Posted: 20 Dec 2013 12:03 PM PST We learn from Cars Guide of Australia that there may be more know about the story of Holden shutting down. Apparently, GM did some kind of prior deal with Holden to have it design the next Commodore along with a Buick for the Chinese market. The Holden would have been made in Aussie, while manufacturing of the Buick-badged car would have been outsourced to China. Now that the production halt of 2017 is official, and GM denied getting rid of Holden as a brand, the quoted report has firm footing to believe that the car destined for the Australian market will now be built alongside the Buick. The worst part of all, for those used to rear-wheel drive cars being called Commodore, is that this future model is neither of those things… Four cylinders and front-wheel drive are expected. It will be a Euro-inspired car, and from what we understand a bit of a four-door coupe, sleeker than the car it will replace; length will be almost five meters so it will be about the same as the current one, in that area – the only similarity. By Andrei Nedelea PHOTO GALLERY

Imagine That: Russian Points Out Egypt's Chaotic Roads Posted: 20 Dec 2013 11:36 AM PST We'll leave it to you to decide if it's refreshing or amusing that a Russian YouTube user (nicknamed Senmuth Av) has uploaded a video that highlights all the wrongs in another country and continent. Still, and while we cannot be entirely sure whether he filmed it or simply…borrowed it (his picture suggests the former), he had does have a point that driving around in Egypt can be a truly hectic, chaotic and nerve-wrecking experience with vehicles of all sorts appearing from nowhere and going on all sides of the road. The author also commented in the video's description box the following, which has been translated with the help of Google (so don't blame us for the thing that don't make sense…). [Google Translation] "There's almost a complete lack of traffic signals, traffic controllers, pedestrian crossings, prohibition signs. At the same time, a lot of lying cops let some cars with low ground clearance constantly koryabayut currently bottom. Overall, it seems that the motion is chaotic. Pedestrians walk on the road where they want, and the drivers do not miss them. More precisely, they never miss other drivers, and are in a hurry to drive themselves, without cursing like ours, but always BIBIK. Many cars have numerous dents and scratches. Once grappled mirrors: we drove corrected her mirror, the other carrier - its, Thu shouted to each other, and we drove on. Imagine what would we have? Gibddeshnikov wait for hours .. then draw ... If jam band, the plug can be circled in the opposite lane without problems. And simply can ride along the side of the oncoming lane." VIDEO

Specialist Mitsubishi Shogun SUVs for UK's Highway Agency Posted: 20 Dec 2013 11:10 AM PST You could call them the men in lime-green, but that doesn't sound right, does it… Anyway, the people running the Highway Agency in Britain will employ the use of a new batch of 30 Mitsubishi Shogun SUVs, or as it's known in other markets, the Pajero. The bespoke Shoguns come with special light bars, grill lights and Highways Agency livery, with each example taking up to 24 hours to complete. "The Shogun is a tough, practical vehicle but it is also extremely comfortable to drive," said Dan Pigot, Corporate Sales Manager at Mitsubishi Motors in the UK. "For eight hours of the day the vehicle is their office so it needs to be comfortable and the feedback from the traffic officers is that they really like the Shoguns." Mitsubishi seems to be a beloved brand among government agencies as earlier this year, the Japanese firm supplied 138 specialist vehicles to the Environment Agency, including 70 new Outlanders. PHOTO GALLERY

A Look at Assetto Corsa, an Upcoming PC Driving Sim Posted: 20 Dec 2013 10:50 AM PST Assetto Corsa is Italian for "racing setup" and the title of an upcoming PC-only driving/racing simulator that promises ultra-realism. It will let you individually tailor which assists you can use with the cars, but only if said vehicle has them from the factory in real life. Naturally, driving physics that closely mirror reality are also part of the Italian-themed package, though they don't seem to be quite ready yet... The game is currently in a phase of early access beta, and those who have willingly parted with €34,99 or $48,90 gain access to its laser-scanned tracks and still limited list of cars that includes the McLaren 12C, Ferrari 458, Lotus Exige S and Evora S, as well as an Abarth 500 SS and two BMW M3s; lots more including the Pagani Zonda R will join the roster too. The graphics are very pretty, as we can see in the screenshots and videos posted below, and once polished up will undoubtedly be one of the game's Forza-beating selling points. I was not able to track down any release date whatsoever, aside from the one for the beta, November 8. By Andrei Nedelea PHOTO GALLERY VIDEO

Audi Reveals 2014 R18 Racing Car, Now with Laser Headlights Posted: 20 Dec 2013 10:33 AM PST Audi has revealed its refreshed 2014 R18 e-tron Quattro racing car that is to be used throughout next year. At first glance, it doesn't differ significantly from this year's outgoing model, but it does have one cool new feature that's still very rare: laser headlights, similar in tech to those used by BMW on the i8 where they are optionally available. "The new laser light is just one of numerous technical innovations featured by our new R18," said the recently appointed head of Audi's Motorsport wing, Wolfgang Ullrich, who added that "We're not going to reveal any more than that at this early stage, as in 2014 we're facing an extremely tough competition and a year full of challenges for Audi Sport." So, this means that apart from some photos and hardly any explanation as to how their headlights differ from BMW's or in regards to any of the other changes, we'll have to wait for them to announce what this "year full of chances" actually means, and what novel ideas will push it forward. By Andrei Nedelea PHOTO GALLERY

BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Opel Investigated for Tax Fraud in Greece Posted: 20 Dec 2013 09:54 AM PST In a somewhat strange twist of events since it's usually the Europeans, and in particularly, the Germans, who have been dubious about Greek tax authorities and practices, news magazine Der Spiegel reported that the Mediterranean country's inspectors are investigating three major German carmakers for possible tax fraud. Theodoros Floratos, the head of Greece's Financial and Economic Crime Unit (SDOE) confirmed the report that said the carmakers being under investigation are BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Opel. The reason why SDOE is looking into these companies is that it suspects the aforementioned German carmakers are delivering their vehicles to their respective partners in Greece at extremely low factory prices, which the government uses as a base for a number of taxes – the lower the factory price, the less taxes paid to the country. As an example, the report mentions the Mercedes-Benz S 500 CGI Blue Efficiency that has an in-house importer price of only €22,135 ($30,282), but sells for six times that, with a retail price (inclusive of all taxes) of €124,450 (US$170,300). If you're wondering, in the States, the S 550 costs $92,900 (excluding sales tax – i.e. 6.25% in Massachusetts). PHOTO GALLERY

Watch the Wild Lamborghini Huracan Do Donuts in Official Video Posted: 20 Dec 2013 08:32 AM PST We can now confirm that Lamborghini's Hexagon Project teaser videos were about the all-new Huracán (as if you didn't know…) as the fourth video of the series features the Gallardo replacement during a "hooning" session. In the film, the two men that were featured in the previous three videos finally get to the room where Lamborghini keeps the Huracán and take it for a spin around the factory (just skip to the 2-minute mark if you're impatient). This allows us to hear the glorious sound of the V10 engine and to witness Huracán's ability to do donuts – it looks like the car's four-wheel-drive system doesn't mind this type of behavior at all. The Lamborghini Huracán is a car that sounds and looks spectacular, and frankly, that's all Lamborghini fans want. Scroll down to see the new Lambo do powerslides and spit flames in the official video. By Dan Mihalascu VIDEO

No Christmas Spirit for Grumpy Old Boston Man who Blocks Bicyclist [NSFW Swearing] Posted: 20 Dec 2013 08:11 AM PST I've been living in Boston for a few years, but I must say that, local accents never get old (you know, cah pahk for car park)– especially when someone's swearing behind the wheel, and there's plenty of that going around in this video footage from the helmet camera of a bicycle rider on Commonwealth Avenue. The rider approaches a Lincoln LS sedan that's blocking the lane and tries to squeeze through, when the driver opens his window and remembers his younger days as a sailor… While the roads are covered in snow, and unless I'm hugely mistaken, I recall that there is a bike lane there and this report from Boston.com supports that. I'll agree with Jalopnik that the best line of the video was when the rider told the grumpy old man, "You're going on YouTube, my friend." He also wrote this under the description box of his YouTube video: "Asshole driver thought that bike lanes magically disappear when it snows and that I should ride on the sidewalk instead. I have no idea why he was so far over into the bike lane, he had plenty of room on the other side." Go ahead and watch the clip, but just keep in mind that swear words are flying left and right. By John Halas VIDEO

Lamborghini Hurucan Testing on the Snow Next to Aventador Posted: 20 Dec 2013 07:43 AM PST Yes, yes, we know that the Lamborghini Hurucan made an official appearance today, but that doesn't mean engineers are done – not even with the base LP610-4, let alone the rest of the models that will follow like the Roadster and the various editions being planned. We can't say with certainty whether our spies photographed the entry-level Hurucan LP610-4 (it does appear to be one, though) or a different version this week on the snow-covered roads of Northern Sweden. Lamborghini's team had also brought along a blacked-out Aventador to the testing grounds. The Hurucan will be displayed in private preview events for qualified prospect buyers (read very deep pockets) starting from January, before first deliveries commence in spring of the same year. Photo Credits: CarPix for CarScoopS PHOTO GALLERY

Tommykaira Brewing Tuned Mazda CX-5 for Tokyo Auto Salon Posted: 20 Dec 2013 07:25 AM PST At the 2014 Tokyo Auto Salon, Japan's annual aftermarket tuning show that will run from January 10 to 12 next year, local tuner Tommykaira will present a new styling take on Mazda's well-received CX-5 compact crossover. Tommykaira didn't divulge any details on the performance aspect of the tune, but we do get a sneak peak of the work being done on the car as well as a computer render that shows the aggressive-looking aero package, lowered suspension, different grille, bigger wheels and the crossover's hunched down stance. The tuner added that the fender extensions add 10mm (0.39 inches) on both ends of the car and that the package will be offered for sale later this year (in Japan, at least). PHOTO GALLERY

New Mazda2 Range Extender Prototype Leaves Hope for Rotary Engine Posted: 20 Dec 2013 07:05 AM PST Granted; a very Chevrolet Volt-like in philosophy Mazda Demio (Mazda2 for the rest of the world) prototype fitted with a range extender powertrain comprising an electric motor turning the wheels and a gasoline-fueled 0.33-liter rotary engine in the rear generating electricity for the supermini's lithium ion battery, isn't exactly promising for the future of rotary-powered Mazda sports cars. But it's better than nothing, especially after new Mazda CEO Masamichi Kogai admitted that there are no current plans to revive a rotary engine for mass production, or in other words, a successor to the RX-7 and RX-8 models. As long as Mazda engineers keep on working on the technology, there's hope… Back to the Demio Range Extender study, Mazda showed the sub-compact to the press on Thursday in Japan. According to an Autonews report, Mazda said that while meeting stringent emissions regulations is a problem that needs to be solved, the rotary unit has many advantages, including its small size, running quietly with little vibration, and the ability to burn different fuels. Like the pure-electric Demio EV, the range-extender hybrid uses a 75kW electric motor to turn the front wheels. The rotary engine is believed to almost double the 200km (124 mile) driving range of the electric model with a 10-liter (2.6 gallon) fuel tank. Kogai told Autonews that while there are no specific production plans, the company is holding on the rotary technology "partially for sentimental reasons". "We are the first and only manufacturer to commercialize the rotary engine," he said. "In that respect, we have some responsibility." PHOTO GALLERY

Lexus Drops 2nd Teaser on New F Model for Detroit Show, Confirms it's a Coupe Posted: 20 Dec 2013 06:42 AM PST With the release of the second cropped photo of its new 2014 Detroit motor show-bound F model, Lexus basically confirmed what we all knew from the first time it mentioned the car (that it's the RC F) with the following statement: "Half the doors, twice the roar. Lexus will unleash its upcoming F model as a coupe, conceived with grit, an entirely new expression of design and uncompromising performance." The new photo shows the RC F's scooped hood and chrome-trimmed grille, but reveals nothing about the type of engine lurking right under. Whether it's a newer V8 or a smaller displacement force-fed V6 unit, as the rumor-mill has suggested, is something we do not know at this point. For what it's worth, Lexus officials have hinted in the past that the previous IS F's 416hp 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V8 wouldn't be used in future models as it doesn't meet emission standards across the world. PHOTO GALLERY

The Wedding Drifters: BMW M3 Spins Around Newlyweds Posted: 20 Dec 2013 06:24 AM PST Every kiss begins with Kay…and a little tire smoke from an older generation BMW M3 E46 Coupe doing drift circles, may we add to the jewelry store jingle. South African couple Kay-Leigh and Gervan Diaz earned Carscoops' official stamp of 'Offbeat Approval' after filming the following video on the day of their wedding this past Saturday, December 14. And yes, Gervan, whichever way you see it, this woman is a keeper for any car enthusiast. Thanks to Kevin for the nod! VIDEO

2014 Hyundai Azera Gains Revised Chassis, Extra Features and $1,250 Lower Starting Price Posted: 20 Dec 2013 06:01 AM PST Hyundai wants to make the Azera a more attractive proposal in the mid-size segment with a 2014MY update that brings suspension and steering revisions, new features, the expansion of the trim grades and perhaps more importantly, a lowered starting price of $31,000 (excluding delivery and handling fees), which represents a $1,250 reduction over the 2013MY. Despite the more competitive price, the Koreans say that the base Azera's content has been updated with a new 6-inch color LCD audio display, rearview backup camera and driver blind-spot mirror. For 2014, there's a new trim model named Limited, priced from $34,750 (not including D&H), that adds a new electroluminescent gauge cluster with color LCD trip computer, an 8-inch navigation system, power-folding side mirrors and ventilated front seats, among others. Finally, Hyundai's engineers have made changes to the 2014 Azera's steering and suspension set-up, for "better dynamic feel and precision", according to the automaker. PHOTO GALLERY

Skoda Reportedly Preparing VW Crossblue-Based SUV for 2016 Posted: 20 Dec 2013 05:40 AM PST Skoda will launch a large SUV in 2016 based on the VW Crossblue, itself based on VW Group's MQB platform. The Czech carmaker's boss Winfried Vahland told Autocar magazine that the SUV will arrive in 2016, a year after VW will have introduced the Crossblue in Europe. The upcoming Skoda SUV is said to be around 4.6 meters (181.1 in) in length, which means it could be based on the shorter Crossblue concept, the one carrying the Coupe moniker. The report says Skoda will offer the SUV in five-seat and seven-seat configurations, as well as with front-wheel drive and four-wheel drive. Skoda aims to position its large SUV as a rival to the Kia Sorento and Hyundai Santa Fe. According to Skoda technical chief Frank Welsch, the new SUV is "the right concept for Skoda, it works perfectly with our brand values". The project is said to be in its early stages, with designers working on a full-size clay model and engineering work only beginning. According to Welsch, the Skoda SUV won't get engines larger than 2.0-liter four-cylinder units, with a 1.6-liter turbodiesel to be the base engine. Diesel-electric hybrid technology is also being considered. As for styling, Skoda's take on the Crossblue concept may be bolder and more provocative, "slightly different from the mainstream," in Skoda design chief Josef Kaban's words. By Dan Mihalascu PHOTO GALLERY

Official: Lamborghini Huracán with 602HP V10 Does 0-100 KM/H in 3.2 Seconds, 325 KM/H Posted: 20 Dec 2013 05:15 AM PST Following leaked photos and information, Lamborghini decided to lift the veil off its newest supercar, the Huracán LP610-4. While the world public debut of the car will take place at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2014, the Gallardo successor will be displayed at more than 130 private preview events in more than 60 cities throughout the world. The Huracán is an all-new car that keeps Lamborghini's traditional wedge shape and sharp creases. It somehow reminds of the Aventador, but is original enough not to be mistaken for its larger sibling. The rear end is the more dramatic part of the car, but in my eyes, the Huracán looks good from every angle. The interior features a 12.3-inch full-color TFT instrument panel that delivers all car information to the driver, from rev counter to navigation maps and infotainment functions, and can be configured by the driver in different setups. Nappa leather and Alcantara adorn the seats, door panels and dashboard, with Lamborghini saying the cabin is a showcase of its "superb craftsmanship." Obviously, the most interesting part of the Huracán is the powertrain, which consists of a 5.2-liter V10 engine that produces 602hp (610PS – hence the name LP610) at 8,250 rpm and 560 Nm (413 lb-ft) of torque at 6,500 rpm. The powerplant features the new "Iniezione Diretta Stratificata" (IDS), a technology that combines direct and indirect gasoline injections, resulting in more power and torque with lower fuel consumption and emissions compared with the Gallardo V10 engine. The engine is mated to a 7-speed dual clutch transmission "Lamborghini Doppia Frizione" (LDF) and sends power to all four wheels via a fully electronically controlled four-wheel drive system. The driver can select three driving modes from a switch located on the steering wheel: Strada, Sport and Corsa. The Huracán sprints from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.2 seconds and to 200 km/h (124 mph) in 9.9 seconds. Top speed is over 325 km/h (202 mph), while average fuel economy is 12.5 l/100 km (18.8 mpg US), thanks to the Stop & Start technology. The engine is Euro 6-compliant and emits 290 g of CO2 per kilometer. The chassis features a hybrid lightweight design, combining carbon fiber with aluminum. The Huracán has a dry weight of 1,422 kg (3,135 lbs), enabling a power-to-weight ratio of just 2.33 kg/hp. Lamborghini says the hybrid chassis also guarantees "race-car precision with outstanding stiffness." Lamborghini Huracán is fitted as standard with carbon-ceramic brakes, while the "Lamborghini Dynamic Steering" variable steering ratio system and magneto-rheologic suspension damper control are available as options. Deliveries to the first customers are planned for spring 2014. By Dan Mihalascu PHOTO GALLERY

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