CARSCOOP |  |
- Cadillac Boss Says ATS Family May Welcome Wagon and Convertible After Coupe
- Parking Lot Test Drive Annihilates Stanced E36 M3 BMW
- Michelin Debuts New Tires that Improve with Age in Detroit, Guarantees 60,000 Miles
- Mercedes Confirms 4.0-Liter Twin Turbo V8 for C 63 AMG, Will Launch in 2015
- New Lexus RC 350 Shows Off its Luminous Red Paint in Detroit
- New Company Proposes the Google Glass of Motorcycle Helmets
- You Can Now Drive the Toyota FT-1 Concept…in GT6 [w/Videos]
- Subaru WRX STI Returns to the UK, Priced from £28,995, £4k Lower Than Before
- Nissan Boss Says "We Will Build" Sport Sedan Concept
- Lexus LF-NX Compact SUV Concept Slices Through Detroit
- Audi A8 L Security Is Ingolstadt’s Idea of Armored Luxury, Just In Case Someone Throws a Grenade
- Chevrolet to Skip ZR1 Model for Corvette Stingray C7, or will it?
- Nissan’s IDx Concepts Visit Detroit, at Least One of Them May Be Built in 2016
- New 2015 Hyundai Genesis to Preserve Sub-$40,000 Sticker Price
- Bentley Reveals Europe-Exclusive Mulsanne Birkin Edition
- VW's Passat BlueMotion Concept Doesn't Look Like a Study at All
- 2014 BMW 2-Series Coupe Comes to Detroit, M235i Debuts M Performance Brand Stateside
- 2015 Acura TLX GT Race Car Also Debuts at the Detroit Motor Show
- New 2015 Acura TLX Prototype Mid-Size Sedan in Detail [w/Video]
- First Photos of New Acura TLX Prototype, Doesn’t Look Half Bad
- 2015 Subaru WRX STI Bows in Detroit with a Big Wing and 305HP 2.5L Turbo [w/Video]
- Cadillac Goes Wreath-Less, New Emblem to Start Appearing on Cars Later This Year; Do You Like It?
- New Lexus RC F Comes with +450HP V8 That Uses Both Atkinson and Otto Cycles [79 Photos]
- BYD Launches New Qin PHEV in China, Goes from 0-100km/h in 5.9 Sec, Coming to Europe
| Cadillac Boss Says ATS Family May Welcome Wagon and Convertible After Coupe Posted: 14 Jan 2014 05:13 PM PST  If what they say about imitation being the sincerest form of flattery, then Cadillac's German counterparts and especially BMW should feel extremely flattered – and to avoid any misunderstandings, we're discussing the luxury brand's product lineup and strategy. On Tuesday, the Detroit auto show hosted the world premiere of the second member of the ATS family after the sedan, the new Coupe, both of which are aimed squarely against the German competition in the compact executive segment – think BMW 3- and 4-Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class. And this is only the beginning, according to Cadillac global chief Bob Ferguson, who told Autonews that the brand is considering additional body styles, including a convertible and a station wagon. "You've made the investment. You've built a brand within a brand," said Ferguson. "If you have a winner, you should exploit that and offer variations." A high-performance V Series model is also a given, with Ferguson adding that there could be another variant beyond that. However, the GM brand won't try to cover every single niche carved by Audi, BMW and Mercedes, with Ferguson stating that Cadillac will choose its battles in certain categories instead of going "as far and wide as Mercedes and BMW", obviously referring to cars like the 3-Series GT. "We want to keep our focus on a limited number of vehicles and do them very well," said the Cadillac executive.                               |
| Parking Lot Test Drive Annihilates Stanced E36 M3 BMW Posted: 14 Jan 2014 04:40 PM PST  If you're up for a few laughs, then the video posted below will definitely do its best to extract them from you. The YouTube title may contain the word "review", but it's not really that. What it is is a narration of an editorial, peppered with occasional well-placed profanity (that's a NSFW warning right there) and loosely based around the idea of (not) stancing one's car in general or this yellow BMW M3 E36 in particular. The reviewer wonders why the model is such a big hit in the US' stancing community, given the fact that it's not all that special and to make matters worse it also comes from a time when cars were easily forgettable. Moreover, the US version wears a weaker engine than the Euro equivalent, as well as some lower grade components in the drivetrain. The E36 M3 is still a nice car, but as this video advises, if you want to buy one and enjoy it when it's not parked, then you're better off not leaving the suspension as it is; you'll lose some curbside appeal but possibly gain a driver's car. Feel free to add your thoughts after having scrolled down and clicked play. By Andrei Nedelea    |
| Michelin Debuts New Tires that Improve with Age in Detroit, Guarantees 60,000 Miles Posted: 14 Jan 2014 04:13 PM PST  We know that wine gets better with age, but tires? Well, that's what Michelin promises. The French company claims to have developed a new technology called EverGrip that allows tires to not only maintain, but also improve their grip as they wear down. Michelin's first tire to be offered with this new technology that allows the company to guarantee 60,000 miles of life, is the Premier A/S and it made its world premiere today at the Detroit Auto Show. The new tires with EverGrip tech are made from a proprietary rubber compound with extreme amounts of silica and sunflower oil, while featuring a new tread design that expands the rain groves as the tire wears down, instead of getting narrower as on traditional tires. In addition, these tires feature a second set of 150 grooves along the shoulder that remain hidden when new and surface when the tire becomes worn. "With our truly revolutionary advancements in tire technology, we are able to directly address the effects of tire wear on traction and have been able to break the traditional paradigm." said Scott Clark, COO of Michelin North America The new Michelin Premier A/S with EverGrip will go on sale in the States in April, initially available in 32 sizes (185/65R15 – 245/45R18), at a small premium over the brand's regular offerings, with global sales likely to follow later on.       |
| Mercedes Confirms 4.0-Liter Twin Turbo V8 for C 63 AMG, Will Launch in 2015 Posted: 14 Jan 2014 03:31 PM PST  While BMW was revealing the M3 and M4 at the Detroit Auto Show, Mercedes-Benz was announcing that the C 63 AMG will arrive in about a year from now with a new downsized 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine. Tobias Moers, Mercedes AMG's product chief, confirmed to Auto Express that the new C 63 AMG, which is based on the latest C-Class that also made its world premiere at the Detroit Auto Show, is "about a year" away. The current C 63 AMG's naturally aspirated 6.2-liter V8 engine will be replaced by a smaller unit, continuing the downsizing trend initiated by Mercedes AMG with the SL 63 AMG, S 63 AMG and E 63 AMG, all of which are motivated by a 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged V8. However, in the case of the upcoming C 63 AMG, the engine will be even smaller, as Boers hinted at a 4.0-liter unit. "You are now familiar with our 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine? Well you can imagine what happens when you put two of those together," he said. While Boers didn't give any information about output, the new 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 unit should produce well over 450hp in standard trim and possibly over 500hp with the optional Performance Pack. Note: The car shown in pictures is the Mercedes-Benz C-Class AMG Line. By Dan Mihalascu              |
| New Lexus RC 350 Shows Off its Luminous Red Paint in Detroit Posted: 14 Jan 2014 02:58 PM PST  Indeed, Lexus' newly revealed 450+ horsepower RC F is the one we all would like to own and drive, but for most people, the regular RC 350 will probably be the one they can actually afford – just don't ask us how much as the Japanese brand is still keeping it a secret. The display model at the Detroit motor show comes in a new dark red finish that Lexus claims "is made brighter and with more contrast thanks to an entirely new painting process, using a two-color base of both silver and red" with the four coats of paint then baked twice to set the color. Behind the Lexus brand's new trademark "spindle" grille is a 3.5-liter V6 engine teamed with an eight-speed sequential transmission driving the rear wheels. At the show, Jeff Bracken, Lexus Group Vice President and General Manager, said the automaker expects to sell around 200 RC Fs and 1,200 RC350s each month, after they both go on sale in the U.S. this fall.             |
| New Company Proposes the Google Glass of Motorcycle Helmets Posted: 14 Jan 2014 02:33 PM PST  One of the coolest pieces of tech I've seen this year is the Skully motorcycle helmet. It makes glancing at the mirrors a thing of the past, because now you get a direct feed from a rear-facing camera mounted at the back of the helmet, which is played on a tiny translucent display placed just below your right eye. It not only sounds good and useful in theory, but it works in practice too, as one writer from CNET found out when he tried out one of the first prototype helmets. The final verdict is that there really is something there, but at its current estimated cost of $3,000, it has little chance of making it on the market, even if it can also give you direction or play music via voice control. It could even be banned by health and safety offices as it's discovered to give you some kind of terrible eye muscle twitch disease after prolonged use… The plan is to ship them out sometime this year, but it didn't sound awfully convincing when they said it… Scroll down and check out the full video below. By Andrei Nedelea    |
| You Can Now Drive the Toyota FT-1 Concept…in GT6 [w/Videos] Posted: 14 Jan 2014 02:00 PM PST  On the same day that it was making its debut at the North American International Auto Show, the Toyota FT-1 Concept was also going up for download as part of a DLC (downloadable content) for the PlayStation 3 (PS3) title Gran Turismo 6 (GT6). However, the show car lacked an actual engine, so we don't know what exactly will power it in the game, since the official information from developer Polyphony Digital comfortably avoided the subject.. What was specified though was the fact that it was actually made in-game first, courtesy of Calty Design Research, in order "to realistically demonstrate what a production FT-1 could achieve." It's a cool idea (even if it's not all that new to the franchise) and according to GT series creator Kazunori Yamauchi, "it's always been a dream of ours to have our automotive partners use Gran Turismo in exciting new ways…" "The design team at Calty developed a stunning concept car and we were honored to work with them to render the car digitally for the concept presentation," he added. "The FT-1 is a forward-looking, technically advanced and beautiful concept car. We can't wait to see fans' reactions as they drive the vehicle and get to know it the way I was able to." GT6 players will be able to obtain the car either by achieving a bronze (or better) finish in the FT-1 challenge at the Laguna Seca track. Otherwise, it can be purchased separately from the Toyota dealership. The concept comes as part of an update (the third released so far) which also brings the game up to version 1.03, fixing some bugs, also adding a detailed interior for the BMW M4 along with additional unique Seasonal Events to take part in. By Andrei Nedelea                            |
| Subaru WRX STI Returns to the UK, Priced from £28,995, £4k Lower Than Before Posted: 14 Jan 2014 01:48 PM PST  The all-new Subaru WRX STI will once again be available in the UK, less than a year after the last iteration was sold in the country. Arriving in showrooms in May, the high-performance model will be priced from £28,995 ($47,600), making it roughly £4,000 cheaper than its predecessor. Subaru says the substantial price drop is due to "recent movements in exchange rates" – referring to the depreciation of the Japanese yen. Making its world premiere at the Detroit Auto Show today, the new Subaru WRX STI is based on the WRX sedan launched at the LA Auto Show in November, but features enhancements for added performance. The new WRX STI is powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged Subaru Boxer 4-cylinder engine producing 305 hp and 290 lb-ft (393 Nm) of torque. The unit is only offered with a six-speed manual gearbox that works together with the Multi-Mode Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD) version of Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system. The new Subaru WRX STI has a longer wheelbase (+25mm/0.98in), which translates into greater leg room in the back and more shoulder and elbow room, as well as increased boot space over the older model. By Dan Mihalascu                                                       |
| Nissan Boss Says "We Will Build" Sport Sedan Concept Posted: 14 Jan 2014 01:06 PM PST  Well folks, if you liked the Nissan Sport Sedan Concept that's on display at the Detroit motor show, we have good news, and we'll get straight to the point by sharing the words of company Executive Vice President, Andy Palmer, who had this to say about the four-door study: "We will build this car and it won't be that different from the concept car. When we bring a concept car like this we are obviously testing the reaction. Obviously you want to deliver the best that you can," said Palmer. "We're interestingly on the cusp of a very interesting shift with the so called Gen Z, the 17-year-olds of today. By the time some of those potential concepts come to market, they will be the customers, and they think differently from the previous generation," he added. Now, we won't blame you for being skeptical as we're often mislead by carmakers when it comes to concept and production cars, but let us remind you that Nissan is the same company that dared with the Juke and even more so with the GT-R-powered Juke R, so we're not going to be judgmental, at least not just yet. Fred Diaz, Senior Vice President of Nissan, said that sport sedans are deeply ingrained in Nissan's heritage and that prospective buyers will appreciate the concept's aggressive design. "When you look at how gorgeous that vehicle is, the lines, the styling of that vehicle inside and out, the interior and exterior, I think it's definitely a halo and a huge kudos for our brand and our brand image and our relevance in the marketplace," said Diaz. Unless Nissan surprises us with a different model, the concept should transform into the next Maxima.                       |
| Lexus LF-NX Compact SUV Concept Slices Through Detroit Posted: 14 Jan 2014 12:30 PM PST  "Different" is one word (we've heard worse) that you could use to describe Lexus' LF-NX concept for a new compact-sized SUV to take on the BMW X3s and Audi Q5s of the luxury world. After visiting the Frankfurt and Tokyo motor shows last year, the Japanese brand that's celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2014 brought the LF-NX fitted with its upcoming 2.0-liter 4-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine to Detroit. According to the company's American division, "the LF-NX turbo concept, a compact SUV, brings a bold, dynamic and innovative exterior with more distinctive and sculpted styling to the premium compact crossover segment". Last we heard, Lexus is reportedly readying a real-life, toned-down production version of the LF-NX for a world premiere as early as the Geneva Motor Show this March.              |
| Audi A8 L Security Is Ingolstadt’s Idea of Armored Luxury, Just In Case Someone Throws a Grenade Posted: 14 Jan 2014 12:10 PM PST  Audi has unveiled the most exclusive model in the A8 lineup, the A8 L Security, which features a series of high-security equipment including armor plating. Available with two petrol engines, the 429hp 4.0-liter V8 TFSI and the 495hp 6.0-liter W12, the new Audi A8 L Security replaces the outgoing model by implementing the modifications brought by the facelifted A8 range. The new A8 L Security is 5.27m (17.29 ft) long and has a 3.12m (10.24 ft) wheelbase. Audi says it's the lightest luxury sedan in the high-security segment thanks to its modified A8 production body made largely from aluminum. Certified by the German Ballistics Testing Center in Munich, the A8 L Security complies with the requirements of the class VR 7 ballistic protection standard in accordance with the BRV (Bullet Resistant Vehicles) 2009 guideline. This means the body panels and glazing of the passenger cell can withstand firing with NATO sub-caliber ammunition, while in certain areas the armor plating even complies with the criteria for the classes VR 9 and VR 10. The A8 L Security also complies with the ERV (Explosion Resistant Vehicles) 2010 guideline. In order to achieve these ratings, the occupant cell features extremely tough, highly resistant materials – heat-formed armor steel, aramide fabric, ceramic, a special aluminum alloy, and multi-laminated glass. For maximum security, the protective materials overlap at transitions. The windows are made of a special glass with a splinter-inhibiting polycarbonate layer on the inside. Audi says the new A8 L Security can even withstand attack by military hand grenades. Furthermore, in case of a flat tire, polymer rings on the rims enable the vehicle to continue traveling at a maximum speed of 80 km/h (49.71 mph). The A8 L Security 4.0 TFSI accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 7.5 seconds, while the W12 model does it in 7.1 seconds. Order books are open, with deliveries starting in the third quarter of 2014. By Dan Mihalascu       |
| Chevrolet to Skip ZR1 Model for Corvette Stingray C7, or will it? Posted: 14 Jan 2014 11:43 AM PST  With the new Corvette Z06 pumping out higher output numbers on a lighter chassis than the previous ZR1, we were feeling all tingly inside about the possibility of a super Corvette with supercar-crushing performance stats, until Autoblog.com came to ruin the fun stating that we shouldn't expect a new "halo" ZR1 version, after speaking to Tadge Juechter, chief engineer on the C7. Juechter reportedly told the website that the upcoming 2015 Z06 is the only range-topping model "currently" on the table for the C7. While it won't be a devastating development since the Z06 is everything the older ZR1 was and then some more, we're not going to close the lid on this story - just yet. Why? Well, if Juechter did indeed use the word "currently", then we could see a ZR1 coming out later in the life of the C7, and it would make sense, as Chevrolet surely wants to keep the Z06 in the limelight, especially since it's not due for release yet, without the ZR1 taking the spotlight away. And it's not like reports of this kind haven't been wrong before – remember Autoblog.com's story (which we questioned at the time) on the dual-clutch transmission-only BMW M4 citing "a well-placed source"?                  |
| Nissan’s IDx Concepts Visit Detroit, at Least One of Them May Be Built in 2016 Posted: 14 Jan 2014 11:07 AM PST  The retro-styled Nissan IDx concepts that were originally unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show last year have taken a trip to Detroit for the 2014 NAIAS and it looks like we'll be hearing about them in the future. That's because at least one of the twin concepts will go into production by 2016, according to Nissan executive vice president Andy Palmer. "I don't say that we won't do both, but we will definitely do one of them. Obviously there's a debate internally whether you go for the lifestyle one and leave the Nismo one in a slightly different place," Palmer was quoted as saying by CarAdvice at the Detroit Auto Show. While Nissan sees the lifestyle IDx Freeflow powered by a "1.2-to-1.5L gasoline engine mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT)", the wider, sportier IDx Nismo is envisioned with a powertrain consisting of a "high-performance, eco-friendly 1.6L direct-injection turbocharged engine together with a sporty CVT with 6-speed manual shift mode and synchronized rev control." Palmer didn't confirm the displacement of the engine for the production IDx, but said it will be a relatively small engine, as the car is very light. The rear-wheel-drive production IDx would obviously target the Toyota GT86, but Palmer said Nissan plans to do that differently. "I think our intention is to be different from the Toyota 86. We're really looking at sports cars from different angles," he said. As for the styling of the production car, the executive said it will follow closely that of the concepts. So what do you think? Which of the IDx concepts should Nissan build? By Dan Mihalascu                          |
| New 2015 Hyundai Genesis to Preserve Sub-$40,000 Sticker Price Posted: 14 Jan 2014 10:42 AM PST  There's a lot to like about Hyundai's second generation Genesis sedan that just made its world premiere at the 2014 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, and the good news continues with the pricing, at least for the base model. Despite the fact that Hyundai is keeping pricing a secret for now, the carmaker said that the new model will retain an entry price of under $40,000 (€29,200) when it goes on sale in the States this spring, according to an Autonews report. The current model starts at $35,200, which is more than $2,000 less than the smaller BMW 328i sedan. Hyundai's second effort in the mid-size luxury segment introduces a new and more eye-catching, or differentiated, if you prefer, exterior design, more simplified controls and higher quality materials inside, new tech features like smartphone apps that allow Google Glass integration, and for the first time, the option of all-wheel drive for the 311hp 3.8-liter V6 engine. A 420hp 5.0-liter V8 that sends power to the rear axle will also be on offer.                                                      |
| Bentley Reveals Europe-Exclusive Mulsanne Birkin Edition Posted: 14 Jan 2014 10:18 AM PST  Bentley has just revealed a unique version of its Mulsanne flagship, one that is aimed specifically for the European market. Taking its name from one of the original Bentley Boys, Tim Birkin, the Mulsanne Birkin is a limited edition model of which only 22 will ever be built. It's available in three color variants called Ghost White, Damson and a two-tone combination of Fountain Blue and Dark Sapphire. Naturally, this will not be the only aspect that sets this apart from regular Mulsannes and the first thing that comes to mind here are the unique numbered plaques on the door sills, special 21-inch rims that bear a strong resemblance to the original concept car, plus 3D Flying B logos embossed in the headrests and some of the wood trim of the front fascia; the rear wooden picnic tables get it too… Bentley will also throw in a custom luggage set with each of the 22 cars, though, to be fair, while it does look good and is perfectly designed to occupy all of the trunk space available, you might come off as a bit of a pompous snob if you actually use them… In terms of tech and gadgets, Bentley's release reads: "The Entertainment Specification offers a luxurious and comfortable space to work or relax (in the back) while on the move. Each car features exquisitely-packaged twin 8" LCD screens in the rear of the seat headrests, a DVD player, a Wi-Fi hotspot, the Naim for Bentley premium audio system and iPads integrated into the hand-crafted solid wood picnic tables." By Andrei Nedelea              |
| VW's Passat BlueMotion Concept Doesn't Look Like a Study at All Posted: 14 Jan 2014 09:47 AM PST  One of VW's premieres at the Detroit Auto Show is the Passat BlueMotion Concept, which showcases how fuel-efficient a non-hybrid gasoline engine can be when fitted to a mid-size sedan. Based on the platform of the U.S.-spec Passat, the study is powered by the 1.4-liter EA211 TSI engine with cylinder deactivation, sourced from European Golf and Polo models. Producing 150 horsepower and 184 lb-ft (249 Nm) of torque, the unit is mated to a DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission and delivers an estimated highway fuel economy rating of 42 mpg (5.6 l/100 km) - a best in class rating among non-hybrid, gasoline-engined mid-size cars. The Active Cylinder Management (ACT) technology has the biggest contribution to the low fuel consumption, as it deactivates the valvetrain on cylinders two and three when the driver only applies light throttle pressure to maintain specific city speeds. The VW Passat BlueMotion is also fitted with a stop/start system and the coasting function. The latter further increases fuel efficiency when the driver releases the accelerator pedal, as the DSG transmission decouples the engine, allowing the car to roll with the lowest possible mechanical drag from the other moving components. While billed as a concept, the Passat BlueMotion could be easily mistaken for a regular U.S.-spec Passat model as it doesn't sport any show car-specific features, except for the Reef Blue Metallic paint, which will be introduced on other Passat models. As for the 1.4-liter engine, VW didn't say anything about putting it into a production Passat – but they wouldn't have gone through all this trouble for nothing, would they? By Dan Mihalascu                  |
| 2014 BMW 2-Series Coupe Comes to Detroit, M235i Debuts M Performance Brand Stateside Posted: 14 Jan 2014 09:16 AM PST  While we saw the first official photos of the BMW 2-Series Coupe nearly three months ago, the world debut of the carmaker's smallest coupe takes place at the Detroit Auto Show this week. Replacing the 1-Series Coupe, the new BMW 2-Series Coupe is bigger and billed by the company as a spiritual successor to the classic 02 series. Furthermore, its sportiest variant available at the moment, the M235i, marks another U.S. debut. "This is the first M Performance model for the US market. M Performance models are the sportiest versions of our BMW line-up, very close to the racetrack-type performance of our M products," said Dr. Herbert Diess, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Development. In the U.S., the BMW 2-Series will be offered with two engine options: a 2.0-liter twin-turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 240hp and 258 lb-ft (349Nm) of torque in the 228i Coupe and a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged straight-six unit with 322hp and 332 lb-ft (450Nm) in the M235i Coupe. Both engines are linked to an 8-speed sport automatic transmission. The 228i Coupe sprints from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 5.4 seconds and reaches a top speed of 130 mph (210 km/h), while the M235i does it in 4.6 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h). U.S. pricing of the 2014 BMW 2-Series Coupe starts from $33,025 for the 228i and $44,025 for the M235i, including $925 destination and handling. U.S. deliveries begin in first quarter this year. By Dan Mihalascu                                                       |
| 2015 Acura TLX GT Race Car Also Debuts at the Detroit Motor Show Posted: 14 Jan 2014 06:20 PM PST  Acura wants to give some sporting credentials to its upcoming TLX mid-size sedan with a motorsports version dubbed the 2015 TLX GT Race Car for the Pirelli World Challenge Championship, which was revealed today alongside a thinly disguised prototype of the production car at the Detroit auto show. With the TLX GT Race Car, Acura will move up to the top GT category of the racing series where it will go head to head with the likes of the Audi R8 LMS, Cadillac CTS-V, Chevrolet Corvette, Dodge Viper, Lamborghini Gallardo, Mercedes SLS, Nissan GTR, Porsche 911 and Ferrari 458. Powered by a direct-injected, twin-turbocharged V6 engine based on the naturally aspirated unit of the production car and fitted with all-wheel drive, the racing model was developed by Honda Performance Development (HPD), which is the racing arm of American Honda Motor Co. It will be campaigned by long time Acura Motorsports partner RealTime Racing. "The 2015 Acura TLX is a true luxury sport sedan, so it is fitting that the car be raced against several of its natural luxury competitors in the Pirelli World Challenge," said Art St. Cyr, President of HPD. "Acura and Peter Cunningham's RealTime Racing organization have a long history of success together, and we look forward to adding to that tradition with the Acura TLX GT race car in 2014."                  |
| New 2015 Acura TLX Prototype Mid-Size Sedan in Detail [w/Video] Posted: 14 Jan 2014 06:21 PM PST  Acura just released full information on the pre-production TLX concept following its world premiere at the Detroit Auto Show. The study affords us a very close idea of what the 2015 TLX will look like when it arrives in dealerships this summer replacing both the TSX and TL. When the TSX ends production later this year, the TLX will sit neatly in the middle of Acura's new three-sedan lineup comprising the ILX compact on the bottom end and the RLX on top. The prototype is 3.8 inches (96.5mm) shorter in overall length (190.2 inches or 4,831mm) than the current TL, but it rides on the same 109.3 inch (2,776mm) wheelbase, so interior space for passengers should be kept to the same levels. Thanks to the slightly more compact length and specifically, the shortened front and rear overhangs, together with the lower and wider stance, the TLX looks more dynamic than the frumpier TL. As mentioned in our previous post on the concept, the lines of the new mid-size model resemble those of the ILX, and that's a good thing in our book. Notable styling elements include Acura's Jewel Eye LED headlights that were first seen on the RLX, with the concept riding on custom-designed five-spoke 20-inch alloy wheels and 265/35ZR20 low-profile tires. Acura said the production car will be offered with a choice of two engines, a new and lighter 2.4-liter inline-four connected to a new 8-speed dual clutch transmission (DCT) with torque converter driving the front wheels, and a 3.5-liter V6 mated to a new 9-speed automatic transmission feeding either the front or all-four wheels. Acura's SH-AWD system, which is available exclusively with the 3.5-liter V6, employs a new generation of the brand's Super-Handling All Wheel Drive technology with a different torque-vectoring control logic. It's also lighter than the previous version. Designed and developed in the United States at Acura's LA Los Angeles design studio and Raymond, Ohio new-vehicle development center, the TLX will be produced at the brand's Marysville, Ohio auto plant, which currently builds the 2014 TL. The production model should debut at the Chicago motor show in February, or more likely, at the New York Auto Show in April.                                    |
| First Photos of New Acura TLX Prototype, Doesn’t Look Half Bad Posted: 14 Jan 2014 08:01 AM PST  While we count the minutes for Acura to begin its press conference in Detroit to tell us all about the new TLX Prototype, we thought we'd share the first official shots of the mid-size sedan. What we know up until now is that the TLX was conceived as a common replacement for the soon-to-be discontinued TSX and the existing TL. At least in pre-production trim, the TLX managed to capture our attention with its sleek lines (perhaps minus the grille) that build on the design and styling of the smaller ILX, but work better on a car of this size. Do take a look at the first photos below and tell us what you think about it.    |
| 2015 Subaru WRX STI Bows in Detroit with a Big Wing and 305HP 2.5L Turbo [w/Video] Posted: 14 Jan 2014 01:48 PM PST  Subaru left us unsurprised today with the release of the new 2015 WRX STI at the 2014 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. Simply put, it's the more powerful STI version of the all-too familiar WRX, which for all intents and purposes, is a tuned Impreza. Unlike the 2015 WRX that ditched the 2.5-liter turbocharged unit for a newer 2.0-liter force-fed boxer delivering 268hp (+3hp), the new STI continues with the larger displacement engine, which produces the same output and torque figures as before at 305 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 290 lb.-ft. at 4,000 rpm. There's no auto-option for the STI as the 2.5-liter engine is teamed exclusively with a 6-speed manual transmission working together with the Multi-Mode Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD) version of Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system that uses planetary-type center differential gears with a nominal 41:59 torque split. A mechanical limited-slip type center differential supplements an electronically controlled center differential to enhance torque transfer performance. A new feature for the STI is the Active Torque Vectoring system that is an enhancement of the Multi-Mode Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) stability and traction control system, and which can apply brake pressure to the inside front wheel to offer more neutral cornering. Offered exclusively as a sedan (no hatchback this time folks), the STI comes with the Subaru Intelligent Drive (SI-DRIVE) powertrain management system that allows the driver to adapt the car's driving characteristics by choosing from three selectable modes – "Intelligent," "Sport" and "Sport Sharp" via a rotary dial on the center console. It does so by modifying the engine control module and by fine-tuning the electronic throttle control system. Subaru also pointed out that STI's new platform offers a stiffer and more agile chassis. Appearance-wise, the big rear wing won't let you mistake it for an…Impreza or the WRX, unless, of course, we're not talking about stock models. You get all the usual cosmetic and aero pointers like the side skirts, hood scoop and modified bumpers. If you want a more unique look, Subaru will offer an STI Launch Edition limited to a 1,000 units. These cars will exclusively feature the traditional WR Blue paint and gold BBS 18-inch forged alloy wheels, unique interior trim and a short-throw shifter. Pricing and other details are to be announced.       
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| Cadillac Goes Wreath-Less, New Emblem to Start Appearing on Cars Later This Year; Do You Like It? Posted: 14 Jan 2014 06:59 AM PST  You can officially wave goodbye to Cadillac's laurel wreath, as following the introduction of the ATS Coupe, which is the brand's first production model to wear the revised crest, GM's luxury brand will begin fitting its cars with the new emblem in the second half of 2014. Cadillac is no stranger to different evolutions of its crest that was originally conceived as the coat of arms for 18th-century explorer Antoine de la Mothe Cadillac, who founded Detroit in 1701 and loaned his name to the automaker. In the company's 112 year-old history, there have been 38 iterations of the crest, with and without the laurel wreath. Cadillac, which previewed the new crest on the Elmiraj Concept last year, says the sleeker and more streamlined emblem is a better fit to the brand's modern image and design. "The Crest remains a consistent symbol of Cadillac and our core values," said Andrew Smith, Cadillac executive design director. "This new Crest matches the lower, longer, leaner mantra of our current car designs, and reflects the evolution of our Art and Science philosophy." "Our goal was to evolve the emblem design to integrate with the new vehicle form while maintaining the core graphic elements that preserve its strong brand recognition," Smith said. "This resulted in retaining the iconic 'crest' shape and color palette with geometric grid from the original Cadillac family 'coat of arms.'" The last time Cadillac revised its logo was 15 years ago in 1999.           |
| New Lexus RC F Comes with +450HP V8 That Uses Both Atkinson and Otto Cycles [79 Photos] Posted: 14 Jan 2014 11:53 AM PST  Lexus just completed its press conference at the Detroit motor show where it yanked the covers off the new RC coupe and its high-performance sibling, the RC F that will compete with the BMW M4 Coupe and Audi RS5, and in the near future, the ATS V Coupe as well. We already knew many things about the RC F, but besides a plethora of fresh photos, Lexus revealed an interesting fact about the car's powertrain and specifically, the all-new 5.0-liter 32-valve V8 engine. For the first time, a performance Lexus unit utilizes the Atkinson cycle (used in hybrid models) at cruising speeds for improved fuel economy before switching to the traditional Otto cycle at higher rpm to boost performance levels. Lexus won't give out specific output numbers yet, stating that the naturally-aspirated eight-cylinder mill delivers more than 450-horses and over 383 lb-ft (519Nm) of peak torque. By comparison, the BMW M3 and M4's straight-six turbo is rated at 425hp (431PS) from 5,500rpm to 7,300rpm and peak torque of 550Nm (406 lb-ft) between 1,850rpm and 5,500rpm. Lexus said that the RC F will hit 60mph (96km/h) "faster than the IS F", which did it in 4.6 seconds, and reach an electronically limited top speed of 168mph (270km/h). Unlike the M4, there's no manual option for the RC F that comes with a standard eight-speed Sports Direct Shift (SPDS) transmission driving the rear wheels through a Torque Vectoring Differential (TVD). Lexus fitted the RC F with front and rear coil-spring independent suspension, with monotube gas-filled shock absorbers and ball-jointed stabilizer bars, while the car rides on new 19-inch diameter forged aluminum wheels shod in tires size 255/35 on the front axle and 275/35 on the rear. "I've built RC F to be enjoyed by all enthusiasts – no matter what their level of expertise," said RC F chief engineer Yukihiko Yaguchi. "There's a misconception that racing cars are hard to drive. In fact, they're easy in the right hands because they've been purpose-built for the skill level of their drivers. It's the same with RC F. Electronics can be modified instantly on board to provide appropriate levels of performance and protection. But even at its basic setting, it's a blast" he added. Other notable features include an active rear spoiler incorporated into the trunk lid to provide down force at speeds of more than 50 mph (80km/h), and an available carbon fiber package offers a clear coated carbon fiber roof. The new RC F is scheduled to go on sale in the States this fall.                                                                                    |
| BYD Launches New Qin PHEV in China, Goes from 0-100km/h in 5.9 Sec, Coming to Europe Posted: 14 Jan 2014 05:51 AM PST  BYD Auto, the Chinese carmaker backed by Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway, has officially launched its new Qin plug-in hybrid sedan in China, with the company stating that it plans to offer the car in other markets around the world, including Europe from early 2015, albeit with a different name. Initially offered in a limited quantity of 100 cars for real-life testing purposes, the Qin is now available for regular order with prices in China, prior to any EV subsidies, ranging from €23,725 to €26,225 (£19,645 to £21,715 or US$32,435 to US$35,840). The dual mode Qin sedan links a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine to a pair of electric motors, which all together, deliver a combined output of 299hp (223kW) and peak torque of 440 Nm (324 lb-ft). BYD says it can accelerate from 0 to 100km/h (62 mph) in an impressive 5.9 seconds and has a top speed of 185km/h (115 mph) with a claimed overall fuel consumption of as low as 1.6 l/100km (177mpg UK or 147mpg US), obviously with the use of the batteries. In its latest production outfit, the Qin can be driven in pure electric mode for up to 70km (44 miles). Other highlights include four driving functions – EV+ECO, EV+SPORT, HEV+ECO and HEV+SPORT modes, a standard 12.1-inch TFT instrument panel, smart key system and BYD's remote driving facility, which according to the automaker, "allows the car to be maneuvered remotely at very low speed from the outside of the vehicle where permissible". Standard safety features for the Chinese-market model include Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Electric Park Brake, ISO-FIX mounting points for child safety seats, Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), Control Deceleration Parking and 12 air bags.
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