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Dismal Sales Kill The Lexus HS 250h Hybrid 18
May

The 2012 Lexus HS 250h. Image: Lexus

Lexus launched the HS 250h hybrid in the U.S. in the summer of 2009, as a 2010 model. Meant as a fuel-efficient bookend to Lexus’ other entry-level offering, the rear-drive IS sedan, the HS 250h never really took off in the U.S. market.

As Inside Line reports, sales in the 2010 model year were acceptable, hitting 10,663 units, but plummeted to just 2,864 units for 2011. The introduction of the less-expensive and more functional Lexus CT 200h had erased any market for the HS 250h, and the CT 200h has now become the fourth-best-selling vehicle in Lexus’ current product mix.

Sadly, the death of the HS 250h came with no announcement, but Toyota did admit to Inside Line that “Production of the HS 250h ceased in January, 2012. Lexus continues to monitor sales for each product and we make adjustments to make sure we meet market demand, and the discontinuation of the HS was part of that adjustment.”

If you’re looking for a hybrid sedan offering from Lexus in the coming months, you’re still in luck: Lexus will soon launch the ES 300h sedan, which is expected to be both more powerful and more fuel efficient than the discontinued HS 250h. We’ll bet that there are deals to be had on leftover HS models, though.



Posted by Kurt Ernst in Automotive, Hybrids, Kurt, LEXUS, Lexus HS 250h, News on 05 18th, 2012
Big Muscle Pits The CTS-V Wagon Against The BMW X5 M: Video 18
May

Nowhere is it written that muscle cars must be ancient relics, stuffed full of carburetor-fed, hydrocarbon-belching V-8 engine and fitted with the kind of primitive suspensions usually found on farm wagons. There are plenty of muscle cars available from new car dealers, like anything with an SRT badge, the upcoming Chevy SS and the Cadillac CTS-V series.

Most discussions of muscle cars don’t extend to station wagons, either, but the CTS-V wagon is equally adept at hauling groceries, hauling the family or just plain hauling ass. Unlike that Buick Roadmaster wagon your grandfather owned, the CTS-V wagon handles as well as anything with the mass of a small planet can, thanks to both its Magnetic Ride Control suspension and the electro-wizardry of stability control.

On a dry track, the CTS-V is quite a bit faster than you think it will be. Throw some rain into the mix, and the weaknesses of 556 horsepower sent to two wheels only, coupled with a long wheelbase, begin to become apparent.

Enter the BMW X5 M, which exists in the category of “Uber SUV” alongside rides like the Porsche Cayenne Turbo and the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT 8. Like the CTS-V wagon, the X5 M is a lot faster than you’d expect it to be, and it’s M-tuned stability control and all-wheel-drive system don’t care much if the track is dry, wet or somewhere in between.

Which is the best choice for a family hauler? That all depends on geography, budget and expectations, we suppose. If you live where snow isn’t an issue and favor wagons over SUVs, the CTS-V wagon will save you around $25k compared to the X5 M. On the other hand, if you deal with snow in the winter, the X5 M may be worth the price of admission.

One thing is absolutely certain, though: you can’t go wrong with either choice.



Posted by Kurt Ernst in Automotive, BMW, BMW X5 M, Cadillac, Cadillac CTS-V Wagon, Kurt, Videos, video on 05 18th, 2012
Bentley to Enter 2013 Dakar Rally 18
May

According to a recent report by Car Magazine, Bentley will enter the 2013 Dakar Rally to promote its upcoming crossover.

The report says that Bentley will be buying back VW’s Race Touaregs, previously sold to private racing teams, and will update the SUV racers into modified versions of the EXP 9 F concept in order to have them ready for the 2013 competition.

Although the EXP 9 F was only just unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show and is likely a few years away from production, both the Bentley and its platform-sharing Lamborghini Urus SUV are “crucial to their respective brand’s future fortunes and both are production certainties”.

Like the Race Touaregs, the Bentley versions would be bare-bone off-roaders although it is likely that they could have a body shell that more closely resembles the production model.

Source: World Car Fans



Posted by Kelly Levinsohn in 4X4, Automotive News, Popular, Uncategorized on 05 18th, 2012
Chris Harris Pits The Nissan GT-R Track Pack Against The Porsche 911 Turbo S: Video 17
May

Even in base form, the Nissan GT-R is almost unbelievably quick, and blessed with the kind of handling limits that few owners will test, even on track days. While we get the “Black Edition” in the United States, with extras like lighter Rays Wheels and a carbon-fiber rear spoiler, we don’t get the “Track Pack,” which is reserved for the right-hand-drive markets of Japan and Great Britain.

In Britain, the Track Pack adds nearly $16,000 to the cost of a GT-R, and on the surface it’s easy to question where that money was spent. The car gets lighter wheels (same as the Black Edition cars, as far as we can tell), a stiffer suspension, brake cooling ducts, sticky seat fabric and a rear-seat delete to save weight. Customers can even have the suspension set to road (less negative camber) or track (more negative camber) by their dealer.

It may not seem logical to benchmark the Nissan GT-R against Porsche’s uber-grand-tourer, the 911 Turbo S, but Harris makes a pretty good argument for the comparison. Cost difference aside (in Britain, the Turbo S costs some $71,000 more than the GT-R Track Pack), both cars have force-fed engines that produce over 500 horsepower and both feature all-wheel-drive. Both cars shift via flappy-paddle gearboxes, and both feature adjustable suspensions and variable stability control.

In the end, Harris gives a fair assessment of both cars, and we have to agree with his summation. Which is the winner? Watch Harris flog both cars on a wet Brands Hatch racetrack to find out.



Posted by Kurt Ernst in Automotive, Kurt, Nissan GT-R Track Pack, Porsche 911 Turbo S, Videos, nissan, porsche, video on 05 17th, 2012
Porsche 918 Spyder prototype returns 17
May

Porsche’s 918 plug-in hybrid prototype is back and it certainly looks different from the last time it made an appearance with its 770 horsepower.

The powerful vehicle with new polished black and white skin, blasted its way past 100 kilometres of terrain for every three litres of petrol. To acheive this fuel efficiency, it pairs a combustion engine with two independent electric motors.

It also features a carbon-fibre reinforced-plastic monocoque shell, rear-axle steering and unique upward-venting exhaust system.

Wolfgang Hatz, Member of the Executive Board Research and Development of Porsche AG said in the official press release that  ”What we are doing with the 918 Spyder is redefining driving fun, efficiency and performance.”

The 918 Spyder is expected for an initial production run starting in September 2013.

Source: Endgadget



Posted by Kelly Levinsohn in Automotive News, Super car news on 05 17th, 2012
2012 Infiniti G37 Sport Convertible – Top-Down Luxury & Sport Fun 17
May

The new 2012 Infiniti G37 Hardtop Convertible continues to offer exceptional value in a package consisting of advanced technology, performance and luxury.

The new 2012 Infiniti G37 Convertible, virtually unchanged from the 2011 model year, remains to offer the versatility of a luxury sports coupe and a convertible. Placed in the ring with luxury hardtop convertibles such as the Lexus IS C, the new G37 Convertible manages to offer a slight edge in terms of a more powerful standard V6 engine combined with a 6-speed manual transmission option.

As with any other hardtop convertible, the G37 gives passengers the needed isolation from road noise when compared to convertibles with a fabric top. The aluminum folding roof takes a while to fold, about 25 seconds, but is well worth the wait when you get to enjoy the open top and sporty attitude of the 325 horsepower and 267 ft. lbs. of torque 3.7-liter V6 engine.

Just like my test vehicle from last year, my 2012 G37 Sport Convertible’s V6 engine was mated to a 6-speed manual transmission. Opting for the somewhat notchy but sporty manual transmission, connects the drive to the road more-so than the optional 7-speed automatic. However, in either transmission flavor, the G37 Convertible remains to keep its sports appeal in the performance department.

Being that the G37 Convertible adds over 400 pounds to the equation, things get a bit lazy when compared to the G37 coupe. However, Infiniti still manages to keep the body ridged enough that the added flex and vibrations on the convertible version do not put a damper on the G37’s luxurious appeal and smooth ride.

The use of well-bolstered heated leather front seats and ample adjustability, give the driver and front passenger plenty of room and supportive comfort. The rear seating areas are virtually useless for normal-sized adults when the front seats are occupied. Trunk cargo room is cut short with the hardtop retracted leaving about 2 cubic feet of storage. The fortunate part about leaving the top, is up you have access to a total of 10.3 cubic feet of trunk storage.

The 2012 Infiniti G37 Sport Convertible feels heavy at times just as I noted in last year’s review. The extra 400+ pounds added for structural reinforcements and hardtop mechanics definitely play a part in putting damper on the over-all performance. However, the G37 Convertible is plenty fast, just you may expect to add about a half a second onto the 0-60 mph times when pitted against the G37 coupe. Not to mention, at high rpm you get a slight coarseness and vibration from the throaty V6 engine.

The G37 coupe is already a good-looking luxury sports coupe. The G37 convertible looks just as good having a slightly different roofline shape. The most notable difference in the G37 convertibles exterior, departing from its coupe sister, is the rear trunk and rear window areas. Both vehicles have a certain classiness to them, but the convertible takes it to a higher level, especially with the top down.

My G37 Sport Convertible came loaded up with a hard drive based GPS navigation system, an excellent Bose stereo with clever headrest-mounted speakers, power-folding rearview mirrors, HID headlights, fog lights, upgraded 4-piston front and 2-piston rear brakes, dual zone climate controls, Bluetooth connectivity w/audio streaming, keyless entry/exit, 19-inch wheels and summer performance tires.

All of the controls and navigation interface fed through the center-stack LCD touch-screen, customary to other Infiniti vehicles, remains unchanged from last year’s model.

Pricing for the new 2012 G37 Convertible is slightly more than the 2011 model year. My G37 Sport Convertible starts at an MSRP of $51, 300 while a base G37 hardtop convertible starts at an MSRP of $46,650. As a comparison, you can get a new base Lexus IS C 350 V6 (hardtop convertible) for about the same starting MSRP. A BMW 335 hardtop convertible will start out of the gate at $53,800 quickly climbing several grand when adding on options comparable to those found on my $51K G37 Sport Convertible test vehicle.

2012-infiniti-g37-sport-convertible 2012-infiniti-g37-sport-convertible-top-up 2012-infiniti-g37-sport-convertible-side-top-folding 2012-infiniti-g37-sport-convertible-side-top-up 2012-infiniti-g37-sport-convertible-rear-top-up 2012-infiniti-g37-sport-convertible-1 2012-infiniti-g37-sport-convertible-rear 2012-infiniti-g37-sport-convertible-wheel-tire 2012-infiniti-g37-sport-convertible-seats 2012-infiniti-g37-sport-convertible-cluster 2012-infiniti-g37-sport-convertible-door-trim 2012-infiniti-g37-sport-convertible-trunk-top-down 2012-infiniti-g37-sport-convertible-trunk-top-up 2012-infiniti-g37-sport-convertible-engine

Copyright: 2012 AutomotiveAddicts.com

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Price: Base G37 Convertible $46,650 / As-Tested G37 Sport Convertible $52,085
  • Engine: 3.7-liter V6 325 horsepower @ 7000 rpm / 267 ft-lbs. torque @ 5200 rpm
  • Wheelbase: 112.2in.
  • Total length: 184.0in.
  • Total width: 72.9in.
  • Total height: 55.1in.
  • Track: f/r-60.8/62.0in.
  • Headroom: f/r-39.4in./34.5in.
  • Legroom: f/r-43.9in./27.2in.
  • Turning circle: 36.1ft.
  • Fuel tank: 20.0 gallons
  • Curb weight: 4,149lbs.
  • 0-60 mph: 6.0 seconds
  • EPA mileage: 16 mpg/city, 24 mpg/highway


Posted by Malcolm Hogan in Automotive, Infiniti, Infiniti G37, Infiniti G37 Convertible, Test Drives, featured on 05 17th, 2012
Japan’s Gazoo Racing Builds Twin-Charged Toyota GT86 (Scion FR-S) 17
May

Gazoo Racing's Sport FR Concept. Image: Gazoo Racing

So much for the debate on whether or not a turbocharger setup will fit under the hood of the Scion FR-S: Japan’s Gazoo Racing has found a way to stuff both a turbocharger and a supercharger under the hood of the new Toyota GT86/Scion FR-S.

The report comes from FT-86 Club via Autoblog, but there isn’t a lot of detail to be had on Gazoo’s efforts just yet. The build included a Gazoo turbo and blower, Gazoo exhaust, Gazoo suspension and brake upgrades and a body kit that includes a sizable rear wing. Output is said to be 320 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, which should prove to be plenty entertaining in a car as light as the Scion FR-S.

Although the car is a one-off concept for now, it stands to reason that Gazoo will put the various parts into production once testing is complete. We’re not sure you’ll be able to buy the Gazoo-branded parts on this side of the Pacific Ocean, but we wouldn’t be too concerned. Gazoo has something of an OEM supplier relationship with Toyota, which seems to open the door for a TRD-branded twincharger kit.

Even if that doesn’t happen, we’d be very surprised if other tuners don’t have forced-induction kits for the Scion FR-S/Subaru BRZ ready in time for this year’s SEMA show.



Posted by Kurt Ernst in Automotive, Concept Vehicle, Gazoo Racing, Kurt, News, Scion, Scion FR-S, TOYOTA on 05 17th, 2012
Tour The Workshops Of Porsche Classic: Video 16
May

Let’s say you’re lucky enough to own a collection of classic and exotic Porsches. When it’s time for an engine rebuild on a 356 or 911SC, that task can be farmed out to any number of shops specializing in Porsche, since parts are available and neither model is very specialized.

On the other hand, when it’s time for a complete restoration on your 959 or original 550 Spyder, do you really want to trust that work to anyone other than Porsche itself? For customers that want Porsches restored to original specs, in some cases by the workers who originally built the car, there’s Porsche Classic.

Part of Porsche AG, Porsche Classic exists to restore and maintain classic road-going Porsches. They won’t touch your Porsche racer, since that’s the job of Rennsport, but they’ll to everything from routine maintenance to a rotisserie restoration on your classic street-legal Porsche.

The division also stocks parts for any car that’s 10 years out of production, ensuring that you can always get an exhaust manifold for that Porsche 928 you’ve been restoring. Parts can be ordered by any Porsche dealer worldwide, but they’ll always come from Porsche Classics 35,000-part inventory.

If you’re looking for custom work, look elsewhere. Porsche Classics won’t turn your 1980 911 into a 930 replica, but it will restore the car to as new specifications if that’s what your after. It’s no surprise, then, that a Porsche Classic restoration can add more value to a car than a complete restoration done by a third party shop. After all, no one on the planet knows Porsche as well as Porsche.



Posted by Kurt Ernst in Automotive, Kurt, Porsche Classic, Videos, porsche, video on 05 16th, 2012
When Legos, a Passion for Cars and an Unlimited Amount of Time Converge: Videos 16
May

When it comes to having a lot of time on your hands, not many can compare to Fernando (Sheepo) who occupies himself by building some of the most interesting Lego vehicles. Fernando doesn’t just build small-scale Lego cars, this guy takes his builds to the next level by turning them into fully functional remote control Lego cars and trucks. One of his latest projects, a Land Rover Defender 110, is probably the most amazing Lego creation I have ever seen on a small scale.

For Fernando, the Land Rover is a supercar, as he explains on his Sheepo’s Garage blog. The Lego truck, among his other projects, is built from original Legos but has a fully functional radio control system with gears, disc brakes and a running engine to boot.

I welcome you to check out Fernando’s site where he posts about other Lego vehicles he has constructed such as a Porsche 911 Cab, Mini Cooper, Dodge Viper and Bugatti Veyron. His attention to detail in the realm of what you can do with Legos is simply astonishing. He has even entered the vehicles into competitions and of course walked away with a victory. Hit up the videos below to see some of his latest projects in action for yourself.



Posted by Malcolm Hogan in Automotive, Bugatti, Land Rover, Lego Cars, Legos, MINI, video on 05 16th, 2012
2012 Nissan Murano Platinum Edition Review & Test Drive 16
May

‘Superb Performance, Luxury and Infotainment’

Midsize crossover sport utility vehicles continue their strong demand by consumers looking for a vehicle that they can use for many purposes-comfortably transporting up to five adults, cargo carrying flexibility, and towing capabilities for their boat, atv’s, jet skis, etc, up to 3,500 pounds.

With its distinctive styling, high levels of performance, luxury, comfort infotainment inside and advanced technology inside, the new Platinum Edition is like no other crossover sport utility on the road.  This new addition to the Murano nameplate is distinguished by adding standard 20 inch aluminum alloy wheels, DVD players behind the front head restraints, and Nissan’s latest Navigation system.

All 2012 Murano’s feature a powerful yet fuel-efficient 260hp VQ-Series 3.5 liter, all-aluminum, DOHC V6 engine that incorporates a Twin Nissan Variable Induction Control system, microfinished camshaft and crankshaft surfaces.  Diamond Like Carbon coated valve lifters, resin intake manifold, forged crankshaft, digital knock control system, high capacity mufflers round out this truly high-tech engine.  It is mated to a smooth and quiet advanced Xtronic CVT transmission that is one of the best that I have ever tested.  It also comes with Nissan’s Adaptive Shift Control that provides you with a sporty driving experience and the smoothness that only a CVT offers.

Murano is available in standard front-wheel drive or the optional Intuitive All-Wheel Drive system, and all Murano’s come with standard Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and Traction Control to help you maintain control of the vehicle when driving on the edge of adhesion in sharp turns.

Murano’s sculpted exterior features a wide front end with a dynamic front fascia design and wide grille.  Murano is again available with quad-cylinder style HID, bi-functional Xenon projector headlights and standard foglamps to lighten the darkness up ahead and increase your safety.  The wide hood sweeps into the sculpted dynamic bodylines, with pronounced wheel arches that the Platinum’s 20X8 inch tires and wheels fill up giving it a more aggressive stance.  Large chrome door handles and optional roof rails add both functionality and visual accents.  Murano’s equally distinctive rear end features a unique rear glass shape that flares out, integrated rear roof spoiler and large rear LED taillights that accents the body side character lines.  Dual exhaust outlets with chrome tips give the rear another aggressive look.  My loaded Platinum model came with rain-sensing wipers, a power liftgate, and a large dual panel power glass moonroof with 2nd row skylight that provided an open-air experience for the rear seat passengers.

Nissan’s advanced ‘D’ platform provides a solid foundation for family adventure-style crossover duties and fun.  This platform, which is similar to that used in the 2011 Altima, has been optimized for Murano using aluminum and high-strength lightweight steel.

Taking advantage of the premium rigid and torsional structure is the standard four-wheel independent suspension also with an extensive use of lightweight aluminum for a reduction in unsprung weight.  The suspension design features cradle-type front subframe and multi-link rear design with improved geometry and large front and rear stabilizer bar, provides increase stiffness with no noise, vibration or harshness.  The suspension in combination with high performance dual flow path gas-charged shocks helps provide sure footing and increased ride comfort on rough surfaces.

Helping to guide you around slow moving city traffic, at high speeds on the freeways and when busting trails if you order the AWD model, is the twin-orifice speed-sensitive power rack & pinion steering system that provides the proper levels of boost with excellent feel for the road, quick reaction to your inputs and a great on-center feel.  It was a pleasure guiding this exceptional CUV around town and on the freeways.

Quickly and safely slowing the Murano Platinum down from speed are great, 4-wheel disc brake with vented discs at all four wheels, very unique.  Up front are 12.6 inch rotors clamped with dual-piston calipers and 12.1 inch discs in the rear clamped with single-piston calipers.  Keep your in control during severe braking time and when braking on slick or wet pavement are standard ABS, EBD and BA.

Open the doors of the new Platinum and view a sumptuous, well designed interior cabin with the latest technology, safety and infotainment features.

The 8-way power bucket driver and 4-way passenger seats are double-stitched, very comfortable and very supportive with a memory system for two drivers.  The beefy leather wrapped steering wheel features power tilt-telescoping for the optimal angle and reach.  The advanced ‘mobile suite’ interior, embodying warmth and modern style starts from its sweeping instrument panel, easy-to-see instrument cluster, it its wide console, all with ambient lighting.  The center console features rich wood trim, dual cupholders and two-tiered storage box under the padded armrest.  The 60/40 fold-flat rear seat is available with a convenient power return feature, with the touch of a button on either side, while heated seats are standard front and back.  The back also features a pull-down center armrest with dual cupholders.

Standard equipment in the new Platinum Edition Murano not mentioned above includes wood tone trim on the door switch plates, console, cruise-control with steering wheel controls, rear view TV camera, 7 inch QVGA color display, Bose audio system AM-FM-CD with 9-speakers and dual subwoofers, XM satellite radio, USB with interface system for iPod, Bluetooth hands free phone with steering wheel buttons, rain-sensing wipers, dual-zone climate control with front/rear vents, Nissan Intelligent key with keyless entry, push button start/stop, power front windows with express up-down, power door locks, dual pane sunroof, auto-dimming rearview mirror, power-remote/heated sideview mirrors, Homelink Universal garage door opener, grab handles above each door, dual map lights, dual lighted vanity mirrors, aluminum door kick plates, dual head-restraints mounted monitors,  voice recognition, floor mats with carpeted cargo area with under floor storage, and three 12-volt DC power outlets.

Standard safety features include driver/front passenger front/side and curtain airbags, active head restraints, LATCH system for child seats, rear side curtain airbags, 3-point safety belts with front pretensioners/load limiters, front/rear crush zones and side impact steel beams.

The new 2012 Nissan Platinum Edition puts the proven Murano up to a higher level competing against the best luxury crossover vehicles from Germany and Japan.

2012 Nissan Murano Platinum Beauty Left 2012 Nissan Murano Platinum Headon Action 2012 Nissan Murano Platinum Pan Right 2012 Nissan Murano Platinum Rear Action 2012 Nissan Murano Platinum Dashboard 2012 Nissan Murano Platinum Cluster 2012 Nissan Murano Platinum Front Seats 2012 Nissan Murano Platinum Rear Seats 2012 Nissan Murano Platinum Door Trim 2012 Nissan Murano Platinum Dual Sunroof 2012 Nissan Murano Platinum Rear Cargo Full 2012 Nissan Murano Platinum Badge Done 2012 Nissan Murano Platinum Engine

Copyright: 2012 Harvey Schwartz

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Price: Base Murano S MSRP $29,960 As-Tested $42,840.00 including destination charges
  • Engine: 3.5-liter DOHC V6 260 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm 240 lb.ft. torque @ 4,400 rpm
  • Turning circle: 38.1ft.
  • Wheelbase: 111.2 inches
  • Total length: 189.9 inches
  • Total height: 67 inches with roof rails
  • Total width: 74.1 inches
  • Track: f/r-63.4/63.4 inches
  • Minimum ground clearance: 7.4 inches
  • Breakover angle: 15.8
  • Approach angle: 28.8
  • Departure angle: 25.7
  • Headroom: f/r-40.1/39.4 inches with moonroof
  • Legroom: f/r-43.6/36.3 inches
  • Curb weight: 4,025lbs.
  • Fuel tank: 21.7 gallons
  • Passenger volume: 140.4cu.ft.
  • Cargo volume: 31.8 cu.ft. with 2nd row upright
  • Cargo volume: 64.5 cu.ft. with 2nd row folded flat
  • EPA fuel economy: 18mpg/city 24mpg/highway


Posted by Harvey Schwartz in Automotive, Nissan Murano, SUV, Test Drives, featured, nissan on 05 16th, 2012
BMW Announces 2013 135is Coupe And Convertible 16
May

The 2013 BMW 135is coupe. Image: BMW AG

BMW’s 1 Series M is heading out of production, and (as far as we know) all inventory has already been spoken for. If you missed your chance to buy one, BMW will soon offer you the next best thing: the 2013 135is.

Available in both coupe and convertible flavors, the 135is comes with a TwinPower Turbo 3.0-liter inline-six, good for 320 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. A performance exhaust system ensures that the car sounds good, too, and a larger capacity radiator should be able to handle the stress of summer track days. Buyers can choose from a six-speed manual transmission or BMW’s seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox, ensuring that the 135is has broader appeal than the 1 Series M.

The 2013 BMW 135is convertible. Image: BMW AG

Underneath, the 135is gets a sport suspension, although we’re pretty sure it won’t allow the same cornering speeds as the M-designed suspension on the 1 Series M. The 135is comes with the now-required electronic stability control, but traction and stability control can be dialed back for a bit more fun on dry roads. For track days, both systems can be defeated entirely, which is good news for driving enthusiasts.

The 2013 BMW 135is interior. Image: BMW AG

The cars will hit dealer showrooms this fall, with prices starting at $44,145 for the coupe and $48,845 for the convertible. We doubt these will be limited production, either, meaning that there should be plenty of inventory for all interested customers.

We don’t want to sound ungrateful, but quite frankly we’d rather see the M135i hatchback that Europe is getting. Forget the idea that Americans don’t want hatchbacks, especially when they look as good as the M135i three-door hatchback concept that BMW exhibited in Geneva.



Posted by Kurt Ernst in 2013 BMW 135is, Automotive, BMW, Kurt on 05 16th, 2012
2014 Porsche Macan Spy Shots 16
May

Here are a few spy shots of Porsche’s 2014 Macan snapped by Motor Authority.

The Macan was first announced by Porsche as the name of its upcoming compact crossover SUV at the Geneva Motor Show that took place earlier this year with production expected to begin in late 2013.

On the performance side, “the Macan is expected to feature torque-sensing and torque-vectoring differentials, a wider track than the Q5, and both manual and PDK transmissions. A sport-tuned suspension with an optional adjustable ride system is also likely”.

According to Porsche CEO Matthias Mueller, the sales volume estimates range from 50,000-55,000 units per year.

View the gallery of the Porsche Macan below:

2014-porsche-macan-spy-shots_100390542_m 2014-porsche-macan-spy-shots_100390544_m 2014-porsche-macan-spy-shots_100390546_m 2014-porsche-macan-spy-shots_100390543_m

Posted by Kelly Levinsohn in 4X4, Automotive News, Popular, Uncategorized on 05 16th, 2012
Old Air Products and best used car deals in dallas 16
May

Those who have classic or antique vehicles, should know that it is not easy to find the spare part for their car. Do you have classic cars? Well, just imagine if AC system in your car is not working and you need to change the spare part. Where you have to go for solving this problem?

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This company make many models specific A/C Systems for all popular automotive brands, such as Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet & GMC, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, Jeep, Mercury, Oldsmobile, Plymouth, Pontiac, corvette ac and many other old and new car brands.

If you have bad credit used cars in dallas and are a bad car credit customer (very bad credit in some case), then please dont worry, we can help. AutoUSA specializes in providing bad credit financing on high-quality, late model and pre-owned vehicles.

The best used cars are cost-effective alternatives to brand new vehicles. The company AutoUSA offers a significant number of the best used car deals in dallas available that are considerably less expensive than a brand new car.

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Cross an ATV with a pickup truck and you get UTV (Utility Terrain Vehicle). They started out as purely work based vehicles, but quickly found a place in many people’s stables as a sport and utility vehicle.

If you are interested in owning a UTV, UTV Guide is here to help you choose a best side x side utv vehicle that meets your needs. This company offering better side x side vehicles. On they website you can review basic information on each vehicle – general features and specifications.



Posted by admin in Retro Cars on 05 16th, 2012
Sport Is Back: 2013 Scion FR-S Commercial Debut 16
May

The new Scion FR-S, along side of the Subaru BRZ, will be among the most affordable new rear-wheel-drive sports cars around. To demonstrate the sportiness that can be had for just over 24 grand, Scion has released its new FR-S commercial reiterating how the ‘Sport Is Back’.

All together, the new 2013 Scion FR-S commercial seems to be well thought-out and enthusiast driven. Even the drift action will raise the eyebrows of non-carbuffs who may cultivate a desire within them to check out the most exciting thing to hit a Toyota/Scion dealership showroom in a very long time.

The new 2013 Scion FR-S will officially go on sale June 1st with a starting MSRP of $24,930.



Posted by Malcolm Hogan in Automotive, Car Commercials, Commercial, Scion, Scion FR-S, video on 05 16th, 2012
Porsche Cancels Plans For A Sub-Boxster Roadster: Report 15
May

Porsche's latest Boxster. Image: Porsche AG

When it comes to reports about future models from Porsche, here’s a bit of free advice: believe about half of what you hear. Earlier this year, sources reported that Porsche had stopped work on an entry-level sports car that was to slot in below the Boxster. Why? Because the sales gains wouldn’t offset the dilution of the brand, and because Porsche (at that moment, anyway) had its eyes on higher-end, higher-performance models with larger profit margins.

Fast forward to March, when Porsche insisted that the sub-Boxster, code named the 551, was very much alive but possibly delayed for a “new generation” of buyers. Now comes word from Automotive News (subscription required) that plans for an entry-level roadster have been scrapped in fear of alienating traditional Porsche customers. In other words, not everyone is supposed to be able to afford a Porsche.

Rumors of a new sedan in the Porsche lineup have been downplayed, too. Last week, some outlets reported that Porsche had begun work on a smaller version of the Panamera, in order to combat sales of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class. This actually makes some financial sense, since the Panamera sedan has been a sales success for the brand.

Now comes word that Porsche has “no immediate plans” to develop such a model, although it could be added to the product line in five or six years. In other words, Porsche is neither confirming nor denying any reports of future models at this time, but don’t expect that to stop the rumor mill.



Posted by Kurt Ernst in Automotive, Kurt, New Models, porsche, rumors on 05 15th, 2012
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