Saturday, July 25, 2009
Sunday, July 12, 2009
2009 Hyundai Tucson FCEV Fuel Cell Vehicle

Hyundai is showing a Tucson SUV with a fuel cell in place of a traditional gasoline engine for the Los Angeles auto show. If the Tucson looks familiar, you may have seen it on the street. Hyundai recently took part in the Hydrogen Road Tour, which was a 13-day drive across the country to demonstrate the feasibility of hydrogen-powered vehicles in real world driving conditions.
There aren't many specifics available right now, but we're betting the Hyundai uses a system similar to that found in the Kia Borrego FCEV, which is also debuting at the Los Angeles show. Hyundai did tell us the Tucson could go 185 miles before refueling and allegedly hit speeds of 95 mph on the Hydrogen Road Tour.
That's all we know for now, but stay tuned to Automobilemag.com and we'll bring you more information on the Tucson FCEV and all the other green machines from the 2008 Los Angeles auto show as we learn more.
Volkswagen's newest Hymotion is a hydrogen fuel-cell Tiguan

Mazda CX-7

From a styling perspective, the CX-7 doesn’t instantly tick the machismo box, but it is distinctive and handsome… The Mazda’s sleek, curved lines will appeal to those torn between the draw of a sports car and an SUV. The steeply curved windscreen angle gives the Mazda CX-7 a dynamic silhouette, while the rising belt line and prominent fender arches hint at the RX-8 influence. But it’s the rear of this car that is most impressive. The large dual exhaust pipe and detailed round motif tail lamps round off this vehicle’s its sporty appearance.
Don’t be mistaken by the Mazda CX-7’s compact lines, however. Once inside, you feel as if you are sitting in any one of the larger SUV’s on the road. And as you drive past other vehicles in this class you feel as if you are in the league of the big boys! This car certainly ‘represents the adventurous spirit of Mazda’, as the company says. It is luxurious and entertaining to drive.
At the heart of the CX-7 lies a detuned version of the turbocharged and intercooled 2,3-litre four-cylinder direct-injection petrol engine that has seen service in the Mazda3 and Mazda6 MPS. This unit is mated with a six-speed Activematic transmission, which allows the fun and freedom of manually shifting gears for the racecar driver in you. The engine develops 175 kW at 5 000r/min and 350 Nm torque at 2 500r/min. To put this power into play, the Mazda CX-7 is equipped with Mazda’s newly developed Active Torque-Split All-Wheel Drive system. And with a top speed of 181 km/h and 13 second sprint from zero to 100 km/h, this is not just a family car, it’s a fun car!
In keeping with the CX-7’s sporty appearance, the car’s handling inspires a great deal of confidence, thanks to sharp steering and minimal body-roll. The acronymic assault of driver aids such as ABS, EBD, TCS and DSC, help to make the most of the power on offer and lend to the feeling that you are driving a sports car and not an SUV. The only negative that could be drawn against the CX-7’s nimble handling is that the taut suspension can make itself apparent on less than perfect road surfaces
The cabin is spacious and the enveloping sports seats are comfortable and offer a commanding perch, while the “double-roof structure” sunroof adds to the light, airy feel of the cabin. There is hardly of hint of “Soccer Mom” about the CX-7 - to be honest, not once did I feel like a middle-aged woman driving this car. In fact, I wouldn’t mind having one of these at my age (25)…the sporty driving dynamics would prove to be a boon on long road trips and there’s enough practical storage space for a surf trip with the guys.
The orange dials aren’t all that appealing, but somehow fit with the look and feel of the car. And one of the best features is the six-disk CD changer that delivers crisp sound through 240-watt Bose 9-speaker Surround System. There are satellite controls for this system mounted on the steering wheel alongside the cruise control settings.
Normally, when a manufacturer claims to have combined the virtues of a sports car and an SUV, you tend to take such a statement with a pinch of salt. The CX-7, however, appears to have successfully bridged the gap between two distant genres of motoring, being fun to drive and practical – I’d be loathe to extol its virtues off-road, but the ride height should allow you to tackle the odd dirt track without too much drama. It gets many looks along the road and you do feel pretty important in this vehicle. Get this in black and I can guarantee you will have no problem making friends!
Nissan Unveils Their NV2500 Light Commercial Vehicle Concept

At the latest Tokyo Motor Show back in 2007, Nissan unveiled the NV200, their first attempt at designing a commercial van. Today Nissan went further by announcing their NV2500 concept that will see the light on the North American market in 2010.
Based on Titan F-Alpha chassis, the NV2500 concept is just one of many configurations possible, with a new and improved diesel engine and automatic transmission.
G-Power upgrades the BMW M3 with 450 HP

Its true that the current generation is without a doubt a genuine high performance machine, but the older is still looking as good as ever and can be had at quite a discount. So why ditch your slightly used car in favor of a brand new one especially when you can add a tuning kit like G-Power’s. The performance upgrade will not only boost the output of your Bimmer’s straight six up to 450 HP but will also increase handling performance and add some style with a new set of rolling stock. One of the best features of the G-Power kit is that there is no need to crack open the engine to fit forged pistons or reinforced connecting rods. Even the exhaust is left just like it came from the factory spitting out the spent gasses that the centrifugal supercharger pumped into the M-tuned engine.
The upgrade package also includes a set of G-POWER’s new Silverstone Diamond alloys measuring 20 inches in diameter and wrapped in very sticky MICHELIN Pilot Sport tires sized 245/30 in the front and 285/25 in the rear to complete the staggered setup. Hidden behind the new rims is a G-POWER coil-over suspension that is aimed at keeping body roll to a minimum and all four corners of the car planted firmly when the G-POWER M3 goes deep into a turn.
Even though you can use the stock exhaust, G-Power also offers a stainless steel sport muffler that features the legendary G-POWER “DEEPTONE” technology for the ultimate sound and performance. If you happen to be a fan of BMW roadsters, you will be happy to know that the kit will also fit the model.
Press release after the jump.
> MoreWorld’s cheapest car- Tata Nano to hit Indian roads in July

Ratan Tata on Monday launched the Nano in Mumbai’s famed Parsi Gymkhana. Nano is the cheapest car in the World, with an on-the-road price tag of Rs 1.2 to 1.3L. The bookings for the car will be open from April 9 to April 25. Tata Motors would insist on 100% (Rs 1 lakh) down payment for the Nano on booking.
The Nano will be sold through a lottery system. The booking forms would be available over the week with all its dealers, select SBI branches and all Tata group retail ventures, including Croma, Westside, Trent and Star Bazaar. The booking forms will cost Rs 300 only. Dream car Nano comes with a warranty of 18 months or 24,000 kms.
Continue reading…
2009 Fiat Bravo MSN Edition

Explore Antarctica Via Lotus Concept Ice Vehicle

With technology infusing life to every corner of the inhabitable zones, now it is marking its entry to the dilapidated corners of the orb. And credit for this goes to its futuristic feats likewise the Concept Ice Vehicle from Lotus. Against your expectations of facilitating leisure and entertaining activities, the latest ice automobile from Lotus is developed to make a trip to Antarctica during the Moon Regan TransAntarctic Expedition. Aimed at exploring the region, it is made up of tough material to endure the sternness of polar surroundings. The neat walk doesn�t leave the footprints behind as the CIV runs on biofuel. It is an ideal vehicle for the region suffering the worst brunt of global warming.
The Ice Vehicle sports three skids and is 4.5 meters long and 4.5 meters wide with an autonomous suspension. It is also en suite with ice piercing radar that can perceive crevasses. The spear foot beneath the cockpit is thought to aid brake pedal on icy topography. With such potential concepts evolving, there arises a hope for Eskimos to park ice vehicles out side their igloos.
Batmobile from Batman Returns May Set a Record Price

News is Batman enthusiasts can now start saving their fortune as here is an opportunity for them to make up to headlines. The Batmobile from Batman Returns flick is all set to be auctioned off at the 38th annual Kruse International Auction scheduled for 28-31 August followed by 1-2 September (Labor Day weekend) at the 480 acre Kruse Auction Park in Auburn, Indiana. It is being said that the model one of the five Batmobiles witnessed making shots in the movie �Batman Returns.�
After an exhaustive research, one gets to know that less precious non-movie promotional Bat mobiles got sold for $550,000 plus, which offers a neat chance for the masterpiece to set a record price at an upcoming auction. The Comics sales approval agreement from Warner Bros. & DC clearly validates that the number “3″ “Movie” Batmobile is a guaranteed lifetime opportunity to be the proud owner of the grand model from movie history. For more details, prospective bidders may reach Kruse International.
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Chrysler Shocks Electric Car Timeline With New Plug-ins for 2010

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. - In a surprise move here this morning amid struggling sales numbers from its dealers and fuel-efficient buzz from competitors, Chrysler announced that it’s charging into the electric vehicle market a lot sooner than expected. The automaker just unveiled a trio of battery-powered vehicles-including an all-electric, 200-mile-range Dodge sports car that we revved up near its 120-mph top speed on the test track and think could give the Tesla Roadster a run for its money-and plans to bring one of them to market by 2010, aligning Chrysler with the timetable for General Motors’ Chevy Volt.
Chrysler officials, who reinforced their case for an entirely hybrid fleet at least partially powered by batteries, said at a news conference on Tuesday that they’re aiming to sell all three cars-extended-range plug-in versions of a Jeep Wrangler and Chrysler Town & Country were unveiled in addition to the Dodge EV-within a decade. But how fast they reach dealerships, CEO Bob Nardelli cautioned, may well depend on whether the federal government comes through with a package of loan guarantees for Detroit’s Big Three. (more…)
2009 Nissan Murano earns IIHS Top Safety Pick rating

2009 Chevrolet Traverse FWD 2LT Review: Business up front, party in the back

Growing up in rural Nova Scotia, it was not uncommon to see road kill. Whether it was something as small as a porcupine or as large as a moose, it's a familiar sight on the roadways in most of Atlantic Canada.
Fortunately, I have only had one major encounter with highway wildlife – a beaver on my way home from Truro to Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia – many years ago. Since then, I have counted myself lucky.
Then I picked up the 2009 Chevrolet Traverse.
Another step towards GM's lithium BAS hybrids

By the second half of 2010 GM should begin rolling out a few new hybrids with its upgraded BAS mild hybrid system. And the lithium-ion batteries for these new hybrids will be powered by Hitachi.
Today, Hitachi announced that it is planning to significantly increase production of its lithium ion batteries in advance of an expected significant increase in demand. So far, GM alone has already ordered enough cells for 100,000 hybrid vehicles.
"Drive home a Toyota sweepstakes"

Home Hardware is offering their customers the chance to win 1 of 3 Canadian-made 2009 Toyota RAV4’s in their recently launched ‘Drive Home a Toyota Sweepstakes’.
Transport Canada issues its latest recalls
Transport Canada has issued its latest recalls, which may affect some Nissan, General Motors, Ford, Dodge and Jeep vehicles.
2007-2009 Nissan Sentra
Vehicles affected: 25,517
On certain vehicles, one or both of the side curtain airbags may have been incorrectly positioned during vehicle assembly. If this occurred, a portion of the bag may be restricted from fully deploying. The side curtain airbag will still timely deploy, meet and exceed applicable safety standards. This action is deemed a voluntary service campaign and is not being conducted under the Motor Vehicle Safety Act. Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, reposition the airbag.
Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder

Subaru Impreza 1.5 R AWD

Most motors I test are subject to their scrutiny – especially during the football season when they are ferried to and from training sessions and matches in the latest automobiles.
They are not easily impressed, so when they remarked on the smoothness of the ride in the Subaru Impreza I took notice.
This was because the 1.5R had done anything but impress me up to that point.
The Impreza rightly has a reputation for hair-raising heroics, but Subaru decided the range needed a more conservative version. The reasoning is that, while Mach 2 with your hair on fire may be okay for Tom Cruise in Top Gun, for some, 0-60mph in less time than it takes to say Scooby Doo is scary.
So for them Subaru decided to offer a ‘lite’ version of its legendary motor.
But it may have gone a bit too far in toning down the performance because the 1.5R has about as much punch as a butterfly.
Lancia Delta Awarded Five Euro NCAP Stars

Trans Sport Show 2007

On display will be the best in fully restored classic, vintage and exotic cars as well as the hippest restyled and customized compact cars by the leaders in the aftermarket industry all vying for the coveted Best of Show award.
Event highlights include the highly competed Trans Sport Show Cup, The Miss Trans Sport Show, Orange Dance Studio Street Dance, DJ Mixing, Mini City Defensive Driving Challenge, Photo Opportunities
with celebrities and other chill out parties by the car competitors. Plus over 75 retail booths and a special display of the latest exotic automobiles.
Trans Sport Show is a production of Tradeshow International, Inc.
And is brought to you by the following sponsors:
Solar Auto Club, Sony Xplodm, Seaoil Philippines, California Scent, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Business World, Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard, Business Mirror, Daily Tribune, Malaya, Dream Radio 106.7, NU Rock 107.5, RX Monster Radio 93.1, Magic 89.9, Hit 99.5 FM, 105.1 Crossover, Wave 89.1, Jam 88.3, Heart FM 103.5, RJ 100.3, Philippines On Line, Digital Resources Corporation, Yehey.com, Asmann Energy, K.I.D.S. Foundation, Café Puro
Recently, the nearly eighty-year-old Moss returned to Brescia, Italy, the site of his great racing triumph, to sample the last-of-the-line SLR. Asked

Vincero is also the name of the latest automobile accessory line by refining specialist Mansory. Mansory already finds many parallels for the new name: The plot of the aria stems from a Persian tale of 1001 days which also relates to the standard motorisation of the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 with 1,001 hp.
On the other hand, it should also refer to the origin of Kourosh Mansory, the founder and CEO of Mansory Corporation. And the opera has another reference to the offered product portfolio by ending after three acts. The Mansory Bugatti Veyron Linea Vincero edition is also not infinite – the project is strictly limited.
It goes without saying that such a sonorous name is only suitable for an absolutely high-quality programme. Already the Bugatti Veyron serial edition sets standards in terms of price, maximum speed and engine power and leaves its competitors far behind when a contender for the super sports car is to be crowned. Whoever now thinks that everything possible has been achieved, can be proved wrong. Already visually, the changes clearly show. The front part gets a comprehensive face-lift including modified wings, a shorter hood and a striking front apron. The LED daytime running lights integrated in the front mount and the implemented stylised “V” as a special tribute to the name “Vincero” draw even more attention to the car. The newly developed side skirts are the visual and aerodynamic connection between the axles. Larger air outlets at the sides and at the back render optimal engine cooling and in combination with the new diffuser, they underline the powerful
car design. Mansory manufactures nearly all auto body parts from ultra-light and high-strength carbon. The applied hardening technique with strong pressure and high temperatures in the autoclave thereby enormously improve the material quality.
In order to perfect the entire visual appearance, Mansory devised new, striking fully-forged turbine-design wheels for the Mansory Bugatti Veyron Linea Vincero in serial dimensions. .
Also, the power engine is refined by Mansory. Technical innovation is combined with technical expertise and thereby, an increased cooling air supply and optimised exhaust system produce an unbelievable 1109 hp and 1310 Nm.
The interior is exclusive and yet functional. Also here, Mansory understands how luxury and technology can be harmonically combined. When traditional craftsmanship, selected materials and stylish design merge, the result is an interior of automobile excellence.
2009 Mercedes Benz SLR McLaren Stirling Moss

Recently, the nearly eighty-year-old Moss returned to Brescia, Italy, the site of his great racing triumph, to sample the last-of-the-line SLR. Asked to give his opinion of the new supercar that bears his signature, Sir Stirling was extremely candid: "I'm afraid modern cars don't do much for me," he said. "I have seen the SLR once before, but I never tried one. Quite frankly, I am not that interested, either. You see, I don't like driving on the road anymore. Too much traffic, too many people who don't know what they are doing. That's why the only car I own is the vintage OSCA that I still race occasionally. When a transportation need arises, I call a taxi or ask [my wife] Susie to chauffeur me in herSmart."
But Moss seemed to warm up to the 2009 SLR. "It is brash and very aggressive," he allowed. "You certainly don't notice any lack of power or torque," he conceded after his test drive. "I suppose one needs all those horses to compensate for the weight penalty, which is a typical vice of modern cars. It certainly also feels very safe - strong roadholding, sticky tires, good chassis, awesome brakes. But it is loaded with electronics, and some engineering details look quite complex, so I am curious what the reliability is like in everyday use."
Moss needn't worry. The 641-hp, 200-plus-mph hyperexotic SLR isn't likely to see much everyday use. It has only a token windshield, no top, and a sticker price of €750,000 (a little more than $1 million). All seventy-five examples - which were made available only to current SLR owners - have been snapped up, presumably by serious collectors.
Friday, July 10, 2009
2009 Acura RDX

General Motors Recalling 2006-2008 Chevrolet HHR

2008 Mazda CX-7

(Over) Active Aero: VW recalling Touareg over spoilers that might take flight

Rumormill: Mercedes-Benz working on electric SLS eDrive for 2015

Thursday, July 9, 2009
Compact SUVs - Most Economical SUVs in Germany

Latest Luxury Extra-Terrestrial Vehicle Conceptual Automotive Car

Rolls-Royce new version car

Wednesday, July 8, 2009
New Suzuki Grand Vitara diesel out in Europe

The Suzuki Grand Vitara diesel will soon available in Europe, the car will come only as a 3-door version with the 1.9 ltr diesel engine sourced from Fiat.
Recently Maruti Suzuki added Grand Vitara 2.4 ltr petrol to their gamut of cars in India. In Europe the 3 door models are available with options of 1.6 ltr petrol and the 1.9 ltr common rail diesel.
The new models bring with them a series of features like ABS, EBD, ESP (Electronic Stability program), 17 inch alloys (optional), automatic air conditioning, rear privacy glass and a 6 CD changer.
2007 Nissan Qashqai 2.0 dCi

Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder

Furthermore, Lambo claims that topless supercar benefits form a 44 lbs or 20kg reduction in weight thus improving the power-to-weight ratio to 6.10 pounds or 2.77 kg per horsepower. Therefore, this make the Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder able to accelerate from 0 to 100km/h or 62mph in just 4.0, to 124mph (0 to 200 km/h) in only 13.1 seconds and goes on to a top speed of 201mph or 324 km/h.
Q7R from RhinoTuning
