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2009 Porsche Cayenne Diesel Announced
2009 Porsche Cayenne Diesel Announced

The Executive Board at Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, has given the go-ahead: from February 2009, the sports car manufacturer will offer a Cayenne with a diesel engine and thus extend its range of drives for the sporty all-terrain vehicle further, once again. This decision was taken in response to changed legal regulations especially in European markets, resulting in tax incentives for vehicles with diesel engines. Furthermore, Porsche's stake in the Volkswagen Group, the world’s largest manufacturer of modern diesel engines for passenger cars, has opened up new opportunities to utilise diesel technology. Porsche will equip the...

Volvo First to offer HD Radio Technology as Standard
Volvo First to offer HD Radio Technology as Standard

Volvo will become the first automaker to offer HD Radio technology as standard equipment in all but one of its 2009 models, it was announced today. The running change becomes effective next month on the 2009 Volvo model line up.* HD Radio technology is the most significant advancement in radio broadcasting since the introduction of FM stereo. Across the United States, more than 1800 AM and FM stations are broadcasting using HD Radio technology and more than 900 are offering subscription-free HD2 multicast channels on the FM dial. These channels feature fresh new music and news formats, showcase young artists and local bands, as well as air...

BMW Car Keys is now a Credit Card
BMW Car Keys is now a Credit Card

BMW Group Research and Technology has developed a prototype for a multifunctional car key which enables cashless payment and personalised vehicle access. “As part of our research project we first integrated a security chip into the key casing, which communicates across short distances by radio with a card reader,” says Hans-Jörg Vögel, project manager at BMW Group Forschung und Technik. In future the key could also be used for other transport systems. Indeed, electronic tickets for bus, train and air travel could all be stored on the chip. The credit card function in the security chip allows electronic payments to be carried out quickly,...

Mercedes myCOMAND, Internet-based Infotainment System
Mercedes myCOMAND, Internet-based Infotainment System

Mercedes-Benz is offering a glimpse into the future with myCOMAND, an internet-based infotainment system as part of a special preview during the Los Angeles Auto Show. myCOMAND is especially efficient and user-friendly and offers a range of functions unrivalled for variety. Using internet connectivity, all data and information is kept fresh and current at all times without the need for software or hardware updates. All functions are concentrated on one attractively designed user interface for easy and intuitive access. Complete integration, reliable operation and data protection were the highest priorities in the design of myCOMAND.

Honda Ecological Drive Assist System
Honda Ecological Drive Assist System

Honda has announced a new Ecological Drive Assist System to help drivers achieve better fuel economy. The technology will feature on the new Insight family hybrid car, which goes on sale in spring 2009. It will be the world’s first system to combine three different functions to enhance fuel economy: an ECON Mode which controls engine, transmission and other powertrain components to support more fuel-efficient driving; a guidance function that helps drivers become more fuel efficient behind the wheel using the color of the speedometer display; and a scoring function that provides instant and long term feedback on driving techniques, after...

2010 Kia Borrego FCEV
2010 Kia Borrego FCEV

Kia Motors Corporation’s (KMC) Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV) program takes a major technological step forward today with the global unveiling of the all-new Kia Borrego FCEV at the Los Angeles International Auto Show. Numerous innovations including a higher output 154 horsepower fuel cell and a new 450-volts Supercapacitor give the Borrego FCEV higher performance, a greatly extended driving range and cold-weather starting capability to operate in sub-zero temperatures.

2010 Kia Soul In Detail
2010 Kia Soul In Detail

Kia Motors America (KMA) today announced the North American debut of the all-new and highly anticipated Soul passenger vehicle at the 2008 Los Angeles Auto Show. Designed in Southern California, the Soul is the newest product offering to join the company’s ever-expanding line-up, following the introduction of the all-new Borrego midsize SUV earlier this year. Soul’s bold and edgy design is indicative of the new Kia design theme, with more package and styling combinations than any previous Kia vehicle. With Soul’s arrival as an early model year 2010 vehicle to the C-Segment, it allows young and young-at-heart buyers to have the freedom to...

Video: 2009 Nissan 370Z
Video: 2009 Nissan 370Z

The 2009 Nissan 370Z's dynamic new styling offers dual benefits – a more aggressive appearance and a lighter, tighter structure for enhanced performance. The new Z's wheelbase is nearly four inches shorter than the previous generation Z (100.4 inches versus 104.3 inches), accomplished by moving the rear wheels forward in the 2nd generation FM platform, while overall length is reduced by 2.7 inches (167.1 inches versus 169.8 inches). At the same time, the overall width been increased by 1.3 inches, the rear track by 2.2 inches and overall height reduced by 0.3 inches, giving the 370Z a much more aggressive stance.

Video: 2009 Infiniti G37 Convertible
Video: 2009 Infiniti G37 Convertible

The Infiniti G37 Convertible, like its coupe sister, is powered by the 3.7-litre VQ-series V6 with VVEL (for Variable Valve Event and Lift) rated at 320PS. The engine is backed by a choice of an electronically controlled seven-speed automatic transmission with magnesium paddle shifters or a responsive close-ratio six-speed manual transmission.

Video: 2010 Ford Mustang Coupe and Convertible
Video: 2010 Ford Mustang Coupe and Convertible

Available for the 2010 Ford Mustang are a 4.0-liter V-6 engine, which is rated at 210 horsepower and 240 pounds-feet of torque, and a 4.6-liter V-8 engine, which is rated at 315 horsepower and 325 pounds-feet of torque. Each is mated to five-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmissions.

Baja Volkswagen Touareg TDI Unveiled
Baja Volkswagen Touareg TDI Unveiled

The countdown to what is arguably the world's most unusual rally is running: On 21 November 2008, Volkswagen will start to the Baja 1000 in Mexico with a specially designed Touareg TDI for the first time. Today, Dr Ulrich Hackenberg, Member of the Board for Technical Development of Volkswagen, unveiled the spectacular prototype for the race at the LA Auto Show in Los Angeles. "We're extending our motorsport activities in North America by a pillar in off-road sport this way," says Volkswagen Motorsport Director Kris Nissen. "By contesting the Baja 1000, we're committing ourselves to yet another discipline within the circle of...

2010 Lincoln MKZ Premiered - (USA)
2010 Lincoln MKZ Premiered - (USA)

Customers who have come to equate Lincoln with elegant, modern design, unparalleled comfort, unrivaled features and top quality have still more reason to favor the brand: the new 2010 Lincoln MKZ mid-size sedan. “The new MKZ improves on the success of the current vehicle with Lincoln’s new signature look, appointments that amplify and expand the Lincoln portfolio and a faster, more refined powertrain,” said Mark Fields, Ford’s president of The Americas. New for 2010, the MKZ features a new sport version with special sport suspension tuning with stiffer springs and larger stabilizer bars, 18-inch Euroflange polished wheels, darkened...

Honda FC Sport Concept Car
Honda FC Sport Concept Car

Honda today revealed the Honda FC Sport design study model, a hydrogen-powered, three-seat sports car concept, at the 2008 Los Angeles Auto Show. The FC Sport emphasizes the design flexibility and potential of Honda's V Flow fuel cell technology - already deployed in the Honda FCX Clarity sedan - and reconfigures it into a lightweight sports car design with an ultra-low center of gravity, powerful electric motor performance and zero-emissions. The design study concept is inspired by supercar levels of performance through low weight and a high-performance, electrically driven fuel cell powertrain.

2009 Infiniti G37 Convertible Premiered
2009 Infiniti G37 Convertible Premiered

Infiniti has released new pictures and details of its fifth body-style for Europe, the G37 Convertible. Arguably Infiniti’s most seductive car yet, the Infiniti G37 Convertible will go on sale across Europe from late summer 2009. As the latest expression of ‘Inspired Performance’ by Infiniti, the G37 Convertible combines beautiful styling, exciting performance and a three-piece retracting hardtop that is designed to look as good with the top up as it does down. This ‘dual beauty’ is a rare event among coupe convertibles. The Infiniti G37 Convertible offers an all-new design from the A-pillar back compared to the G37 Coupe, with...

2009 Lamborghini Gallardo LP 560 4 Spyder
2009 Lamborghini Gallardo LP 560 4 Spyder

With the new Lamborghini Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder, Lamborghini has created a driving experience like absolutely no other – fascinating design, breathtaking performance and extreme handling characteristics come together with all the sensual intensity and open-air pleasure that only a soft top super sports car can deliver. An even more powerful engine, permanent all-wheel drive and an all-new chassis mean that the Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder offers yet another significant increase in performance against its predecessor. With its innovative design, the new LP 560-4 Spyder takes the unique Lamborghini styling ethic to the next level; the Spyder...

Suzuki's GSX-R750 Gets New Colour Options - (Australia)
Suzuki's GSX-R750 Gets New Colour Options - (Australia)

Suzuki's GSX-R legend continues, with the 2009 GSX-R750 available in Australia with three brand new colour schemes. Bursting onto the world scene in 1985, the introduction of the GSX-R750 changed the world of sportsbikes forever; as the first mass produced race replica, it was a race bike first and a street bike second. A truly individual street machine, Suzuki's GSX-R750 is the only 750cc sportsbike in the market and comes complete with significant developments keeping it at the forefront of race replica motorcycles. Suzuki has produced its most-efficient and cleanest-running four-cylinder, DOHC, liquid-cooled 750cc engine to date,...

2009 Ducati Streetfighter, Soul of a Superbike, Attitude of a fighter - (Australia)
2009 Ducati Streetfighter, Soul of a Superbike, Attitude of a fighter - (Australia)

The Streetfighter's Superbike soul combines fighter attitude and naked sophistication to create a machine of pure adrenaline. Stripped to the bare essentials, its combination of state-of-the-art race technology, exposed styling and cultured design takes Ducati's big naked concept to the very top of the fighter food chain. With 155hp of awesome Ducati L-Twin muscle harnessed in a stripped-down, super-light bike that packs more punch for its weight than any other contender, this fighter is gloves-off and ready for action. Whether laying down the miles on open roads or ripping up the urban asphalt, no other bike in town will roll with...

2009 Ducati Sportclassic, Retro Café Racer - (Australia)
2009 Ducati Sportclassic, Retro Café Racer - (Australia)

The SportClassic family recreated the original styles produced by Ducati throughout the 1970s, motorcycles characterised by minimalist, sports designs with exposed frames and classic bodywork shapes typical of the 'Café Racer' era. To emphasis the unique style of these bikes, Ducati applied modern engineering techniques and finishes to original component designs, featuring plenty of chrome and polished finishes that literally mirror the beautiful details of the original motorcycles. The SportClassic family is represented by these versions: the Sport 1000 S, using a classically shaped half-fairing with central round headlamp in keeping...

2009 Ducati Multistrada, Challenge Every Road - (Australia)
2009 Ducati Multistrada, Challenge Every Road - (Australia)

The Multistrada family of sport bikes excel on every road you challenge with amazing sports performance, outstanding comfort and everyday-use versatility. Ideal for a day in the mountains, the daily commute or a weekend tour, the Multistrada offers sport bike aggression on twisty roads, yet is smooth and relaxed when scenery beckons. Developed on the winding mountain roads and city streets of Italy, the Multistrada is a real-world motorcycle for real-world riders, a dream come true, a high performance sports bike that doesn't compromise comfort, versatility or practicality. The Multistrada breaks down all barriers. Its unique...

2009 Ducati Monster 696 - (Australia)
2009 Ducati Monster 696 - (Australia)

Enhancing the "less-is-more" philosophy that has made the Monster a global legend, the Monster 696 continues to redefine expectations. Every finely engineered element of the chassis and engine is on display allowing the true beauty of the 696 to be showcased for all to see. Naked ambition has never been so graphically described. With its thinner waistline and wide handlebars, the Monster 696 provides unrivalled ergonomics for all riders whether cruising the concrete jungle or carving through canyon asphalt. BALANCING ACT The Monster 696 strikes a carefully designed balance between performance and every-day usability,...

Lexus Previews 2009 RX 350 and RX 450h
Lexus Previews 2009 RX 350 and RX 450h

Lexus has today unveiled the next-generation of its RX SUV models at the Los Angeles International Auto Show. The new models are the double overhead cam (DOHC) V6 RX 350 and a hybrid RX 450h. The two models have been redesigned and restyled. Both models will go on sale in Australia -RX 350 will be available in the first quarter of 2009 and RX 450h mid-year. The RX range has been fitted with redesigned engines and suspension, and features significant safety improvements.

Ford Engine Plant in Geelong to Stay
Ford Engine Plant in Geelong to Stay

Ford Australia’s Geelong Engine Plant, which currently employs 400 people, will remain open post-2010 and continue producing the company’s iconic in-line six-cylinder engine, which will now be engineered for Euro IV compatibility. Ford will invest $21 million in plant and equipment for continued use post-2010, as well as invest in considerable engineering development of the I6 engine to ensure compliance with stringent Euro IV emissions standards. This adds to the $200 million that the company has previously invested in facilities and product development in Geelong since 2006 and will supplement the company's ongoing Geelong-based...

Renault-Nissan co-developed V6 dCi Diesel engine
Renault-Nissan co-developed V6 dCi Diesel engine

The Renault-Nissan Alliance unveiled its brand-new V6 dCi Diesel engine (V9X type) on Laguna Coupe at the Paris motorshow, in October 2008. This engine is the first Diesel V6 engine developed and produced by the Alliance. It will equip upper-range vehicles to meet the growing worldwide demand for engines that are powerful and yet fuel and CO2 efficient. The Alliance cooperation has made it possible for both Renault and Nissan to offer a state-of-the art premium powertrain to their customers, all around the world.

2010 Mazda3 Sedan Unveiled
2010 Mazda3 Sedan Unveiled

Developed in line with Mazda’s Sustainable Zoom-Zoom philosophy of engineering vehicles that are fun to drive, satisfying to own, and environmentally responsible, the all-new Mazda3 is one of the most anticipated product launches at the 2008 Los Angeles Auto Show. The popular Mazda3 – the company’s best-selling vehicle worldwide – arrives as a fully reengineered, completely redesigned, second-generation compact sedan providing:

2009 Nissan Cube Introduced
2009 Nissan Cube Introduced

Nissan today held the European unveiling of the all-new Cube at its London, England, based European design headquarters. The car will go on sale in the primary markets of Western Europe in late 2009. Already an icon in its home market of Japan, the new Cube has been developed as a global model and from early next year, will also go on sale in North America. Characterised by its rounded-off squared dimensions, it’s easy to see how Cube got its name. Boasting bags of character, Cube also sports an asymmetric rear design, with a wrap-around window at the rear on the passenger side, and a pillar on the driver’s side, giving a distinctive,...

2010 Mercury Milan Hybrid - (USA)
2010 Mercury Milan Hybrid - (USA)

The Mercury Milan builds on a strong foundation of quality and reliability, adding to the mix for the 2010 model year an all-new hybrid model, more fuel-efficient gasoline powertrain options, class-exclusive technologies and a more refined, sophisticated design. “The Milan has been a strong part of the Mercury lineup since its initial launch and has helped attract more consumers to dealer showrooms,” said John Felice, general manager, Ford, Lincoln Mercury Marketing. “For sophisticated consumers looking for a stylish hybrid, the Milan now offers them the most fuel-efficient hybrid sedan in its class.” Chief designer Darrell Behmer...

2010 Ford Fusion Sport Unveiled - (USA)
2010 Ford Fusion Sport Unveiled - (USA)

The base 2010 Ford Fusion already is a fun-to-drive mid-size car. With an even sportier look, a bigger, more-powerful engine, special 18 inch wheels and upgraded suspension tuning to go along with a distinctive interior, the new 2010 Ford Fusion Sport is a dynamic, welcome addition. “We’re maintaining the fun-to-drive elements that made the Ford Fusion such a huge success and building on those,” said Chief Engineer J.D. Shanahan. “Our 2010 models are even more fun to drive with better steering and handling. It’s all exemplified by the Ford Fusion Sport with its 3.5-liter engine, 18-inch wheels and sport tuning.” The 263-horsepower...

Video: 2009 Porsche Cayman S Facelifted
Video: 2009 Porsche Cayman S Facelifted

We bring you first footage of the new 2009 Porsche Cayman S Facelift.

Video: 2009 Porsche Boxster S Facelift
Video: 2009 Porsche Boxster S Facelift

We bring you first footage of the 2009 Porsche Boxster S Facelift.

2009 Porsche Cayman and Boxster Facelift
2009 Porsche Cayman and Boxster Facelift

Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, is presenting the second generation of the mid-engined Boxster and Cayman sports cars for the first time at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The highlight of the new generation is of course the new flat-six boxer engines developed with new technical features from the ground up, providing not only more power, but also significantly greater fuel efficiency than their predecessors. A further improvement of both fuel economy and performance is guaranteed by the Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe or PDK for short, the new double-clutch gearbox.

Award for the Innovative Power Transfer for the SL 63 AMG
Award for the Innovative Power Transfer for the SL 63 AMG

The well-known American technical magazine "Popular Science" has awarded the newly developed AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission. During the "Best of what’s new Awards", the innovative power transfer of the SL 63 AMG high-performance Roadster achieved first place in the "Automotive" category. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission claimed victory in the hotly contested "Automotive" category. According to the editors of Popular Science, this AMG transmission represents "important and revolutionary technological progress". Popular Science has presented its sought-after...

2010 Ford Mustang Details
2010 Ford Mustang Details

Lessons learned on the track and from specialty Mustangs mean even more fun for drivers of the new 2010 Ford Mustang – especially those who want to customize their powertrains. Available for the 2010 Ford Mustang are a 4.0-liter V-6 engine, which is rated at 210 horsepower and 240 pounds-feet of torque, and a 4.6-liter V-8 engine, which is rated at 315 horsepower and 325 pounds-feet of torque. Each is mated to five-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmissions. “We have fantastic engines,” said Chief Nameplate Engineer Paul Randle. “Our 4.6-liter, three-valve V-8 engine has won ‘Ward’s 10 Best’ for our years in a row and is the...

2009 Nissan 370Z - Sculpted, Engineered and Equipped
2009 Nissan 370Z - Sculpted, Engineered and Equipped

In the first full redesign of the iconic Nissan Z since its re-introduction as a 2003 model, nearly every piece and component has been rethought or redesigned – shorter wheelbase, greater use of lightweight body materials, new engine with more horsepower and improved fuel economy, a new 7-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters, a world's first synchronized downshift rev matching system for the manual transmission, new high quality driver-centric interior and new available technology features. But to get the full measure of the new model, now designated the Nissan 370Z, one need look no farther than the subtle upswept line of...

2009 Ford Fiesta Sedan
2009 Ford Fiesta Sedan

Ford today staged the global reveal of its all-new Fiesta four-door sedan at the Guangzhou Auto Show, delivering in full on the bold promise made by the Verve Concept notchback last year. The dynamic all-new Fiesta sedan features Ford's signature kinetic design elements – introduced to China first on the exciting Fiesta five-door hatchback at Auto China in Beijing in April – demonstrating the versatility of this unique design language and its consumer appeal in important global markets. “We set out to design a truly exciting, desirable small car that exceeds all expectations. Today, we are keeping our promise that was made with the...

2010 Mazda 3 Sedan, More Details
2010 Mazda 3 Sedan, More Details

On November 19, 2008, at the 2008 Los Angeles Auto Show, Mazda will unveil the all-new 2010 MAZDA3, the much-anticipated successor to the company's best-selling car globally. The new MAZDA3 is perfectly positioned for the rapidly changing auto market. It offers a mix of quality, styling, power, dynamics and fit and finish that hits the bulls-eye for today's customers. In typical Mazda fashion, MAZDA3 will offer standard and optional equipment simply not found on other cars in this class - exactly what buyers looking for more value and less bulk want. Environmental and safety features, based on Mazda's long-term "Sustainable...

2009 GMC Sierra Hybrid - (USA)
2009 GMC Sierra Hybrid - (USA)

The 2009 Sierra Hybrid joins the Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid as the only full-size hybrid pickup trucks on the market. Equipped with GM’s two-mode hybrid system, Sierra Hybrid is offered in the crew cab body style and is also available with 4WD. EPA-estimated fuel economy for 2WD models is 21 mpg city and 22 on the highway; 4WD models are estimated at 20 mpg in city and highway driving. That mileage, combined with a 26-gallon (98 L) fuel tank, delivers a cruising range of more than 500 miles with 2WD models and more than 470 miles with 4WD models Production begins in December of 2008, with delivery to dealers expected in early 2009.

2009 Volvo XC60 and DRIVe enters production
2009 Volvo XC60 and DRIVe enters production

With the Volvo XC60 Volvo Car Corporation is stepping boldly into the growing crossover segment. At the other end of the range it is offering the C30, S40 and V50 1.6D DRIVe with best in class consumption and lowest CO2 emission levels. Both the XC60 and the DRIVe cars have successfully entered the mass production stage in Volvo Cars' Ghent plant during the last weeks.

2009 Volvo S80L Announced
2009 Volvo S80L Announced

Volvo Car Corporation proudly presented the Volvo S80L at the 6th Guangzhou Motor Show in south China. The S80L, a long wheelbase version of the popular S80 sedan, has been locally tailored and specifically designed for the market in China. Furthermore, the Volvo S80L will be locally produced in China. The new design was unveiled by Dr. Alexander Klose, CEO of Volvo Car China, and marks the acceleration of its localization plan. Volvo Cars has enjoyed stable growth since entering China. It released its first locally built model, the Volvo S40, in 2006, to better address the Chinese market and the particular demands of Chinese consumers....

2009 Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid - (USA)
2009 Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid - (USA)

Chevrolet today announced pricing for the 2009 Silverado Hybrid - the only full-size hybrid pickup on the market. It starts at $38,995, including a $975 destination charge, for 2WD models with the 1HY package. The MSRP does not reflect a $2,200 federal tax credit that applies to many customers who purchase the Silverado Hybrid. The Silverado Hybrid delivers fuel economy comparable to many midsize sedans, but with the cargo and towing capability expected from a full-size truck. It is offered in the crew cab body style and also available with 4WD. Production begins in December 2008, with delivery to dealers expected in early 2009. All...

2009 Pontiac G6 Facelift - (USA)
2009 Pontiac G6 Facelift - (USA)

Pontiac has announced that it is ringing in the new year with a fresh look for its best-selling line of G6 mid-size vehicles. Additional fuel-saving powertrain options, more aggressive exterior styling, and a sleek new instrument panel highlight the 2009.5 model G6, which will begin arriving in Pontiac dealerships in January. "The G6 has always been one of our most important vehicles and has been Pontiac's number-one seller since it was launched in 2004," said Susan Docherty, vice president of Buick-Pontiac-GMC. "As the most complete family of mid-size vehicles available in the marketplace, the new enhancements for 2009...

Ford Reduces Stake in Mazda
Ford Reduces Stake in Mazda

Mazda Motor Corporation (Mazda) has announced today that Mazda and several of its strategic business partners will acquire a part of Ford Motor Company’s (Ford) shares in Mazda through market trading. As a result, the ratio of Ford’s ownership of Mazda stock will be reduced from 33.4 percent to just over 13 percent, with the new agreement allowing the two companies to continue their strategic relationship that spans nearly 30 years. “The sale of Mazda shares by our partner, Ford, will not result in any change in Mazda’s strategic direction and we will continue to accelerate our product-led brand improvement and cost innovation...

GETRAG seeks Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection
GETRAG seeks Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection

GETRAG Transmission Manufacturing LLC (GTM LLC) has filed for protection under chapter 11 of the United States Bankruptcy Code for its Tipton, Indiana facility. The GTM LLC facility in Tipton was being constructed for the sole purpose of manufacturing dual clutch transmissions for Chrysler LLC (Chrysler). This action is a direct result of a recent termination by Chrysler of contractual agreements related to the construction and operation of a dual clutch transmission manufacturing facility in Tipton. Also as a result of Chrysler's actions, GTM LLC has been forced to terminate its operations in Tipton and cancel the project. The filing...

Caterham Drive Experience, The Ultimate Christmas Drift
Caterham Drive Experience, The Ultimate Christmas Drift

Forget socks, awful jumpers and smellies this Christmas and give a loved one a gift to remember by strapping them into one of the world’s best handling cars. Caterham Drive Experience (CDX) vouchers can be exchanged for an adrenaline-fuelled day, putting people in the seat of a legendary Seven sports car where they’ll learn how to burn rubber in style. Through friendly coaching in a relaxed environment, CDX participants are taught the type of driving skills usually reserved for racers and stunt drivers, such as learning how to steer using the rear wheels, also known as ‘drifting’ and pulling ‘doughnuts’. Held at locations across the...

2009 BMW 7 Series, A Technical ‘tour de force’ in Showrooms
2009 BMW 7 Series, A Technical ‘tour de force’ in Showrooms

The launch of the new BMW 7 Series on 15 November heralded the arrival of a host of world-first driver and passenger-focussed technologies. As the world’s best selling luxury car, the four previous generations of BMW 7 Series have consistently offered the highest levels of technology, with the first 750i of 1987 famously offering more computing power than NASA utilised to put man on the moon. Now the latest BMW 7 Series has raised the technological benchmark again. As a world first in the new, fifth generation BMW 7 Series, Speed Limit Display comes as standard with the optional Lane Departure Warning system. Using a camera mounted...

2009 Toyota Auris, Gains a Competitive Advantage - (UK)
2009 Toyota Auris, Gains a Competitive Advantage - (UK)

The Toyota Auris gains a competitive advantage in the C-segment hatchback market with the introduction of a new engine that delivers lower emissions, better fuel economy and improved power and torque. And with the benefit of Toyota Stop&Start technology, environmental performance is further enhanced, with particular benefit in urban traffic. The new Auris 1.33 Dual VVT-i Stop&Start has the distinction of being the first Toyota to go on sale in the UK with the benefit of Toyota Optimal Drive, a breakthrough in powertrain engineering and design technology that will be a feature of all future Toyota models.

Micro smart Generates Huge Improvements
Micro smart Generates Huge Improvements

smart is set to clean up when it comes to environmental compatibility and driver enjoyment with the launch of a new model with micro hybrid drive (mhd) technology and enhanced equipment levels. From November, 61hp and 71hp versions of the iconic smart fortwo will feature micro hybrid drive as standard, which is an automatic start/stop start function helping to provide significant savings in terms of both fuel economy and emissions. The smart mhd models return fuel savings of up to 24 per cent and lower CO2 emissions to 103 grams per kilometre. The micro hybrid drive system operates during the engine idling phases. The engine stops...

Volvo Announces Greenline Initiative
Volvo Announces Greenline Initiative

To help keep Volvo servicing as environmentally friendly as possible, the Swedish vehicle manufacturer has introduced its Greenline range of renewed vehicle components which are procured by recycling components from scrapped Volvos. This latest green initiative reinforces Volvo’s Exchangeparts system, where used components such as engines, gearboxes and axles are collected from dealers and remanufactured to the same exacting standards as those leaving the production line. Components selected for the Greenline renewed parts programme follow the same rigorous quality control and inspection checks as new ones – they are returned to “as...

2009 Ducati Hypermotard - (Australia)
2009 Ducati Hypermotard - (Australia)

Two wheels, one purpose - to thrill The Hypermotard takes on urban canyons and mountain curves with total abandon. Its purpose is single-minded - to thrill. The aggressive 'motard' styling and stance combine with Ducati 'Superbike' technology to deliver the best of both worlds. With a riding position that ensures total control, the exceptionally slim and incredibly light Hypermotard is ready to dominate every inch of asphalt with big-bore acceleration and dynamic road holding that redefines the street experience. High performance starts with attitude and the Hypermotard is the most aggressive motorcycle in the Ducati family. Reduced...

Video: What happens if the Domestic Auto Industry Collapses?
Video: What happens if the Domestic Auto Industry Collapses?

From plants to parks. From dealerships to driveways. From gas stations to grocery stores. What happens in the automotive industry affects each and every one of us. In fact, the collapse of the U.S.-based auto industry wouldn't just impact the more than 239,000 Americans directly employed by the Big Three. One out of every 10 people in America is employed in a service that is related to the U.S. auto industry. If a plant closes, so does its suppliers, the local stores, the hot dog vendors, and the local restaurants. The effect would be devastating in ways of which you never have thought:

Yamaha FZ1 Abarth Assetto Corse Concept Bike
Yamaha FZ1 Abarth Assetto Corse Concept Bike

Modifying material with the force of passion. This philosophy, which is close to the Yamaha and Scorpion brands, has inspired the creation of a unique Concept Bike, on which ideas of exclusiveness and beauty add value to the standard production. The FZ1 is the most powerful "naked" bike on the market, thanks to the 150 bhp of its engine derived from the supersporty R1; it has been embellished by carbon, aluminium and titanium components, ultra-adjustable suspension, monobloc brake callipers and daisy discs. Thanks to materials and technical solutions that have been experimented on circuits all over the world, the FZ1 Abarth...