2011 Anderson Germany Audi R8 Hyper Black

Audi R8 Hybird 2011


ANDERSON Germany from Dusseldorf helps a practically perfect Audi R8 with specific interventions to attract unlimited attention. First, the performance of 5.2 liter engine and 525 hp was increased, that provides now up to 8700 rpm, 589 hp and accordingly grown torque. This power increase was implemented through the Rennkats exhaust system (this alone allows to save 22 kg weight), a software optimization, and air filter modification. Of course, the exhaust path has a remote-controlled valve adjusting system that lets the driver opt from three different levels of noise. So much for the �inner values�.



Among external and thus visible changes, it is worth to mention exclusive carbon-coated 19-inch rims painted in body color with edging in Racing Orange style. Through the rim, the brake caliper is visible, of course, painted in Racing Orange as well.



On the other hand, the carbon exterior package should also be mentioned which, apart from the window frames, has �covered� various other parts like the front spoiler lip, rear spoiler for improved downforce, the rear diffuser and the mirror. All windows and rear lights were tinted. Last but not least is the expensive paint finish in black mirror which Anderson worthily called Hyper Black. This paint gives the R8 V10 somewhat a black soul.



The interior finish with matte black carbon fiber leather combined with orange Alcantara holds any comparison. At this point, this so-called carbon interior package includes the handbrake handle, the radio visor, the ashtray, the handles of the seat adjustment, door panels, and the side panels of the center console and shifter surround. And finally, the already first-rate sports steering wheel was additionally enhanced with visible carbon.

motorcycles-cars Bugatti Sports Car Abstraction Type 57 Evoluzione

motorcycles-cars Bugatti Sports Car Abstraction Type 57 Evoluzione

The Artist Edwin Conan brings us addition awakening aggressive supercar: the Bugatti Type 57 Evoluzione concept. The motorcycles-cars Bugatti Type 57 Evoluzione abstraction is a affluence of affected sports cars. This is alleged by the Type 57 Evolve Abstraction and afflicted by its design, which is based on actual models of the firm, as the Type 35 and acutely the Type 57 Atlantic.
motorcycles-cars Bugatti Sports Car Abstraction Type 57 Evoluzione

Bugatti Sports Car Abstraction Type 57 Evoluzione

The Bugatti Type 57 Evoluzione abstraction is amazing supercar aggressive from the aboriginal Bugatti Type 57, dating aback from 1930s. The abstraction is that this allegorical artist improvement with a motor archetypal W16 acquired from Veyron , with the aberration that this run on hydrogen.
motorcycles-cars Bugatti Sports Car Abstraction Type 57 Evoluzione

This abstraction car, like the aboriginal Type 57, has a continued bonnet, bland curves and a breach band which bisects the car bottomward the middle. This Bugatti supercar architecture is the awakening of the archetypal Type 57, with a blow of avant-garde technology.
motorcycles-cars Bugatti Sports Car Abstraction Type 57 Evoluzione

On the ancillary we see an accomplished allegory with his predecessors, on the aforementioned curve we agenda Type 57 Atlantic with the abatement of the tail, the break band that divides the car altogether in the average and the aperture design. In the images we acknowledge a awful acknowledged awakening design. In the blow Edwin accompany the allegorical accomplishment of the fresh millennium model, accumulation a fresh advanced caster arches, added affiliates optical and fluid, and fresh dimensions.
motorcycles-cars Bugatti Sports Car Abstraction Type 57 Evoluzione

It is far from actuality a sports car and actual abutting to actuality accepted as a comfortable and absolute agent that has a continued continued out beanie aloof like in the 1930�s. This architecture cue was one of the brand administration elements of the Type 57 Atlantic.

the motorcycles-cars 2010 Fiat Mio FCC III Abstraction Car

The Fiat Mio Federal Communications Commission III apperception auto will arise in Sao Paulo Motor Appearance in October 2010, Fiat Mio FCC III is ultra abject arising so it�s get eco
the motorcycles-cars 2010 Fiat Mio FCC III Abstraction Car
friendly.the motorcycles-cars 2010 Fiat Mio FCC III Abstracti

the motorcycles-cars 2010 Fiat Mio FCC III Abstracti 2010 Fiat Mio FCC III Abstraction Car
the motorcycles-cars 2010 Fiat Mio FCC III Abstraction Car

There are two abeyant designs for the final abstraction car, �Precision� and �Sense�, both based on account and suggestions submitted to Fiat by customers/fans through the Mio FCC III microsite.
the motorcycles-cars 2010 Fiat Mio FCC III Abstraction Car

This abstraction car has immense abeyant to be developed into a baby car for the Brazilian bazaar and artlessly the whats acceptable for Brazil is acceptable for India too. Fiat Mio Designer appearance the Mio action aftermost year as a way of abutting with their Brazilian customer base.
the motorcycles-cars 2010 Fiat Mio FCC III Abstraction Car

the motorcycles-cars 2010 Fiat Mio FCC III Abstracti Fiat Mio FCC III acquire 2.5 beats clear-sighted and 1.5 meters aerial accomplish this car become burghal artery car. This car boasting different accession at rear and battlefront of this car with LED or bendable flourescent. Inside of this car , you will acquisition high-tech and affected berth architecture additionally a different touchscreen in the dash. FCC III can collective with added automobiles because this car acquire several connectivity alternatives.
the motorcycles-cars 2010 Fiat Mio FCC III Abstraction Car

By the time October rolls around, the absolute adaptation will acquire been called from the assorted account and possibilities that arise on the website. The Mio will best acceptable be an electric drive car and by the time the abstraction date is complete, abounding of the solutions will be adopted by the Fiat Topolino, accepted for 2013.the motorcycles-cars 2010 Fiat Mio FCC III Abstracti

Bugatti Type 57 SC Atlantic

The ultra-rare coupe, even rarer than the Type 57 Atalante recently unearthed from a garage in England, is one of only three ever built. On April 24-26, fashion designer Ralph Lauren is going to show off his rare Bugatti Type 57 SC Atlantic at the annual Concorso d�Eleganza at Villa d�Este, in Italy. It will be coming back to Europe for the first time in 18 years to celebrate the marque�s 100th anniversary and to headline more than 50 classic beauties.

Engineless Concept Car

Ross Lovegrove has designed this beautiful car, focuses on organic form and its ability to touch people's soul and emotion. Lovegrove breaks down his design philosophy into one term: DNA - design, nature, art. Lovegrove has reinvented his work in order to keep up with current processes, he condenses design into natural growth patterns.

The City Car was an interesting way of simplifying a vehicle from 30,000 components into 300. The engine-less car works on solar power, which makes sense that he would utilize a natural power source as all of his work is based on nature. Lovegrove makes use of the solar power by having the car radiate light at night and transforming the car into a street lamp. By stripping it down to its bare minimum, the design displays the sound organic form of the cellulose structure of DNA.

Audi Shark Concept Sports Car



Audi Shark Concept Sports Car is very famous and award winning sports car design. This sports car concept was designed by Kazim Doku and had just won the top price in the recently concluded 2008 Desire Design Competition in Italy by the Domus Academy. The Audi Shark is a flying vehicle. A two-seater flying car was inspired by the designs of the motorcycle and the airplane combined. With sleek shark-look, the lights are made of transparent tubes, sporty seats and cockpit-like interior design.

2012 Mostro Di-Potenza SF22 Concept

Mostro Di Potenza SF22


An American Based company 215 Racing Incorporation has announced that they get the exclusive rights to build the Lamborghini Indomable Concept created by Design 4 Motion. The concept car will be built by the Sub-company MOSTRO DI-POTENZA and to be called Mostro Di-Potenza SF22. SF stands for Street Fighter and only 50 of these cars will be produced.



Mostro Di-Potenza SF22 will be produced in the Philadelphia, PA area, at a production rate of 2 per month. 215 is currently accepting Preliminary Sale Contracts for the Purchase of the car for mid- 2012.

2010 Aston Martin Rapide

Aston Martin Rapide side view


The Aston Martin Rapide took a long time to finally come to market and it seems like it�s taken almost just as long to go on public display. First shown in concept form at the Detroit Auto Show way back in 2006, the Rapide had its world premiere at the Frankfurt Auto Show last Fall. Since then both the LA and Detroit shows have come and gone, with Aston a no-show. Finally, North Americans (or at least New Yorkers) will get their first look at the Rapide when it goes on public display at the NY Auto Show in April.

BMW 1M

BMW 1M front view


Breaking from Detroit, BMW has released their new 1M sports car on North American shores. The long awaited BMW 1M features cost effective engineering solutions (ie. part sharing) to provide enthusiasts with the M experience at a more affordable price.



BMW�s 1M packs 340 hp spun from the N54 twin-turbo 3 liter inline six. 332 lb-ft of torque is on tap from low in the rev range, and in harmony with the M limited-slip differential, we see this as a recipe for tail out fun.

BMW intends to open the M brand up to a larger, younger demographic with the 1M � hoping to capture the M5 buyers of tomorrow.



Our editor Hugo Becker shares with us his first impressions of the 1M:



�The new 1 Series M in person is a bit more subtle than one feared (boy racer this isn�t). The front and rear fascia show the most distinction from the existing 1 series along with the flying biplane M3 side mirrors.

Where the difference between the existing 1 and the 1M really shows is in the wheels and brakes. The brakes have a very serious appearance � the floating calipers showing well even up against the stylish Brembos on the regular 135i.



The most striking element of the 1M is the the Valencia Orange paint. It is a polarizing color, more so than the Sedona Red launch color of the 1 Series. Fortunately it is also available in black or white.�

Be sure to check out our exclusive photo gallery from Detroit, and stick around for a video walk around of the 1M later today.

Audi R8 V10 Spyder

Audi R8 V10 Spyder


Audi is set to broaden the brand�s appeal by attending the annual SEMA tuning show in the US in an official capacity for the first time. And to mark the occasion in style, Audi of America has commissioned US-based tuner STaSIS Engineering to create a very special one-off R8.Based on the already-potent R8 Spyder V10, STaSIS has added a supercharger and sports exhaust to the engine, upping power from 518bhp and 530Nm to 700bhp and 709Nm. This chops a whole second from the 0-60mph time, with the tuned car completing the sprint in just 3.1 seconds.



To compliment the engine upgrades, STaSIS has also added bespoke Ohlins dampers, lowered the suspension by 20mm, added enlarged Alcon brakes and lightweight 20-inch wheels. STaSIS products are available through Audi dealers in the US, so if an approved dealer completes the modifications, buyers also get a four-year, 50,000-mile warranty.Also on display on Audi�s stand will be its autonomous TTS Pikes Peak technology concept, and an S5 Cabriolet, Q5 and S4 which have also been modified by STaSIS.

Audi A1 Hybird

Audi a1 hybird in red color


Audi will not only be displaying its all-new A1 minicar at October�s Tokyo Motor Show but it will also unveil its new hybrid drive system. Targeted at premium small cars such as BMW�s Mini, the new A1 will come as a three-door hatch and be priced less than �20,000 when it goes on sale in 2010.



Production of the new minicar will top 100,000 units per year and it may be joined by a new �shooting brake� mini-estate, a drop-top roadster and possibly a new Q1 mini-SUV, reports Auto Motor und Sport. The source also told that a mild hybrid option will be available as well as more conventional TSI and FSI petrol engines and TDI diesels.



This rendering gives us a preview as to what the final version may look likes and shows that designers are going with conventional hatchback styling and will incorporate Audi�s familiar oversized grille.



Sister brand Volkswagen, meanwhile, will showcase its own minicar concept at next month�s Frankfurt Motor Show. The VW car will be built on a new low cost platform and will feature a rear-engined RWD layout and is expected to be sold in emerging markets for under �8,000.

motorcycles-cars 2010 Noble Supercar M600 The British Sports Car

motorcycles-cars 2010 Noble Supercar M600 The British Sports Car

motorcycles-cars 2010 Noble Supercar M600 The British Sports Car

Here is a fresh supercar, aimed at the top of the bazaar area with amazing performance. And it comes from a aggregation with an accustomed almanac for fast fine-handling cars. That sums up the Noble M600. Noble has appear the aboriginal images and capacity of its most recent supercar, fresh M600 supercar. The M600 - congenital as a purist's car - appearance actual little in the way of Ferrari-like computer control, with the capital driver-assist arrangement actuality a switchable absorption control, deactivated via missile-launch-like about-face labeled artlessly 'TC'. There is no ESP, and no anti-lock brakes.

motorcycles-cars 2010 Noble Supercar M600 The British Sports Car

Boasting all-encompassing supercar styling, the M600 is powered by a twin-turbo 4.4-liter Volvo V8. While it's odd audition "Volvo" and "supercar" in the aforementioned sentence, the M600 is annihilation but Volvo-like. Packing 650 bhp, the car accelerates from 0-62 mph in 3.0 seconds, 0-100 mph in about 6.5 seconds, and acme out at 225 mph.

motorcycles-cars 2010 Noble Supercar M600 The British Sports Car

To accumulate things beneath control, the disciplinarian has a best of three ability levels. At the aberration of a dial, outputs of 335kW, 410kW and 485kW are available. At the accomplished ability setting, the M600 develops 820Nm of torque. A six-speed Graziano chiral manual is amenable for carrying ability from the twin-turbocharged V8 to the rear wheels.

motorcycles-cars 2010 Noble Supercar M600 The British Sports Car

The M600 artist would like to baffle these appearance of a avant-garde car by axis off computer-assisted controls and the like. The architecture of M600 is focused on the added �analogue� affection of architecture that uses the assumption of authentic engineering candor from architecture the anatomy up to every tiny detail a car charge have. A being who is active this car absolutely deserves to be alleged a disciplinarian in the absolute sense.

motorcycles-cars 2010 Noble Supercar M600 The British Sports Car

Featuring fixed-rate dampers and steering, forth with Alcon brakes - with adamant discs and bound servo abetment for added acknowledgment and affluence of accentuation - the M600 has been developed with an about ancient sensibility.motorcycles-cars 2010 Noble Supercar M600 The British Sports Car motorcycles-cars 2010 Noble Supercar M600 The British Sports Car

motorcycles-cars 2010 Noble Supercar M600 The British Sports Car

It was accustomed in 1999 by Lee Noble in Barwell, Leicestershire, for bearing accelerated sports cars with a rear mid-engine, rear-wheel drive layout. Lee Noble was the arch artist and buyer of Noble. He awash the aggregation in August 2006. He accommodated from the aggregation in February 2008 and appear his fresh venture, Fenix Automotive in 2009.

motorcycles-cars 2010 Noble Supercar M600 The British Sports Car

Deliveries to barter are accepted mid 2010. With a retail amount of GBP200,000 the amount is as apperception alarming as its 225 mph top speed.

2011 Mercury Mariner

2011 Mercury Mariner front view


2011 Mercury Mariner .In some ways, the Mariner is still a decent small crossover. The Mariner also offers a number of high-end features unavailable on most rivals, such as Ford's Sync voice-activated multimedia system. Other Mariner strong points are excellent crash test scores and the availability of a hybrid model (reviewed separately).



The 2011 Mercury Mariner compact SUV is available in four trim levels: base I4, base V6, Premier I4 and Premier V6. The Premier models add rear parking sensors, ambient interior lighting, heated front seats, leather upholstery (microfiber suede inserts are a no-cost option), a power driver seat, a six-speaker stereo, Sync and an auto-dimming rear view mirror.

Options for base models include a roof rack, a moon roof, Sync, leather upholstery (with heated front seats), a power driver seat and ambient interior lighting.



Power trains and Performance

The 2011 Mercury Mariner is available with either front- or all-wheel drive. EPA estimates are about average for this segment, with front-wheel-drive I4 models checking in at 20 miles per gallon city/28 mpg highway and 23 mpg combined (19/25/21 for AWD models), while front-wheel-drive V6 models are rated at 18 mpg city/26 highway/21 combined (17/24/20 for AWD models).

Safety

Anti lock brakes (albeit with rear drums), traction control, stability control, front-seat side airbags and full-length head curtain airbags with a rollover sensor are all standard equipment on the 2011 Mercury Mariner.



Unfortunately, the Mariner's braking performance is poor. From 60 mph, the Ford Escape we tested (mechanically identical to the Mariner) required 138 feet to come to a halt.

The Mariner shows its age, however, in terms of comfort and space. Cargo volume stands at a useful 29 cubic feet with the rear seat in place and 66 cubic feet when that seat is folded down not bad given the Mariner's relatively compact footprint.



Driving Impressions

The 2011 Mercury Mariner feels reasonably secure during quick changes of direction, and its ride quality is pleasantly supple.



In 2009, the Mariner adopted more significant power train updates. A third power train is offered in the Mariner Hybrid, which is virtually identical to the award-winning Ford Escape Hybrid. The technology in this version of the Mariner crossover couples a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with a full hybrid system combining an electric motor system. The Mariner's somewhat upright look translates into plenty of interior space. Safety scores for the Mariner crossover have been strong. Features like Ford's voice-controlled SYNC system have kept the Mariner somewhat up to speed.

National base price of 2011 Mercury Mariner is around $ 23,565 which excludes destination charges.

Some optional features offered with base model are moon roof, roof rack, sync, power driver seat, leather upholstery and ambient interior lighting.

2010 Lamborghini Sesto Elemento Concept

2010 Lamborghini Sesto Elemento Concept in silver


Lamborghini Sesto Elemento Concept it is powered by the Gallardo Superleggera�s 5.2-liter V10 and has an overall curb weight of just 999 kilograms (2,202 lb). With its amazing output of 570 hp, sensational power-to-weight ratio of only 1.75 kilograms per hp and 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration of only 2.5 seconds. At the same time, fuel consumption also drops because of the extreme lightweight engineering applied throughout.



This makes the Lamborghini Sesto Elemento a unique demonstration of the technological expertise of Automobile Lamborghini. Innovative carbon-fiber technologies are being used here for the first time in an automotive application.



It�s like the 4-door Es toque and retro Miura, the Sesto Elemento looks more like a Gallardo � Lamborghini�s smallest and lightest current model � just drove through a razor-filled car wash.

Review: 2011 Chrysler 300 V6

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Of the many hurtful similes one can hurl at a vehicle, few are more insidious than drawing design or driving parallels to the oft-maligned American sedan. Thanks to the dark days of the �70s and �80s, once proud nameplates like Imperial, Impala and Galaxie were either completely forgotten or bastardized into models with about as much personality as a tube sock. Whether you blame it on oil prices, safety standards or the popularity of disco and cocaine, there�s no denying that the domestic four-door suffered a major fall from grace.

Now, General Motors, Ford and Chrysler are all fighting tooth and nail to establish their products as capable of besting metal from Japan, Germany and Korea. While that�s largely translated into a fleet of mid-sized sedans with soap-bar aesthetics and front-wheel-drive architectures, the 2011 Chrysler 300 is hell-bent on continuing to buck that trend.

With its rear-wheel-drive configuration and stylish lines, the four-door strives to draw connections to the Pentastar�s more successful past � to an era long before corporate take-overs and the K-car. Is it successful?

When the 300 first bowed in 2005, it brought a new-found element of menacing appeal to the full-size segment thanks to its high shoulder line, chopped roof and vertical grille. The design may have borrowed more than a few cues from the Bentley stable, but buyers were more than happy to embrace the high-dollar association. For 2011, Chrysler insists the 300 is all-new from tires to taillights, though much of that same look has held on for the new generation. The company�s designers have given the big beast a more mature nose with LED-trimmed projection headlamps, touches of chrome and a more subdued grille.

From the profile view, it�s difficult to discern the new-generation 300 from its predecessor, though careful examination will reveal more pronounced fender arches fore and aft, as well as new detailing behind the rear wheel. The tail of the sedan has received much more aggressive updating, with a new valance that integrates smoothly into the upper and lower portions of the 300�s posterior, allowing for muscular-looking exhaust outlets � even on our V6 tester. The LED taillights are both bright and beautiful at night, and although we don�t mind the chrome detailing on the lamps themselves, the shiny trim along the trunk sill is a bit much.

2011 Chrysler 300 side view2011 Chrysler 300 front view2011 Chrysler 300 rear view

While the 2011 Chrysler 300 may still wear its older sibling�s hand-me-down skirt outside, its cockpit has benefited fully from the Pentastar�s interior renaissance. A single piece, soft-touch dash stretches between both A-pillars and integrates flawlessly with the front door panels. Compared to the clunky center stack and cheap plastics of the old machine, the new cabin has been improved by several orders of magnitude. The centerpiece of the dash is the same 8.4-inch LCD touchscreen interface found elsewhere in the Chrysler lineup. As massive as it is quick, the new piece of kit puts most other infotainment systems to shame, at least in the graphics department.

The interface is a little cumbersome when it comes to actually managing mobile media players, but climate, radio and navigation settings are intuitive and blisteringly quick.

In addition, the driver is treated to attractive and easy-to-read gauges highlighted by bright blue accent lighting. These pieces do much to give the cabin a much classier look compared to the white-faced gauges found on the previous generation. A new, well-sculpted leather-wrapped steering wheel has has replaced the chunky tiller of old.

Our tester arrived with black cloth seats that must have been lifted straight from the Lay-Z-Boy factory. The front buckets are ludicrously huge and envelop passengers in a loving embrace of foam and high-quality cloth that�s perfect for a vehicle of this size. The rear seats afford the kind of space that only a full-size sedan can deliver, too. For quick trips, there�s ample room for three full-grown adults on the back bench.

The trunk offers up a cavernous 16.3 cubic feet of cargo room, which means that there�s enough storage area for everyone�s luggage should you decide to pack the family in for a trip cross-country.

2011 Chrysler 300 interior2011 Chrysler 300 front seats2011 Chrysler 300 rear seats2011 Chrysler 300 trunk

We were fortunate enough to sample the 2011 Chrysler 300 with the base 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 behind its headlights. In this application, the engine delivers 292 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque and is mated to the same old five-speed automatic transmission found in the previous-generation model. According to the EPA, the 300 should see 18 miles per gallon in the city and 27 mpg highway, which fits pretty closely with the 23 mpg we saw over five days of mixed driving.

Despite the fact that the new six-cylinder weighs in with 70 fewer ponies and 134 fewer pound-feet of torque than the optional 5.7-liter V8, the V6-equipped 300 never really seems out of breath. In fact, the V6 feels pretty quick on the way to 60 miles per hour, though its torque deficit is readily apparent. As we�ve found in other applications, this Pentastar engine is happy to rev, making the majority of its power at a high 6,350 rpm. For buyers used to the early-pull of the big V8, the V6 may take some getting used to. Even so, after a week with the vehicle, we�d have a hard time paying more for the bigger displacement mill.

Unfortunately, the 3.6-liter engine is handicapped by its aging five-speed automatic transmission. We�ve rarely taken issue with the gearbox when paired with the larger 5.7-liter V8, but in this application, the automatic seemed easily confused. That was especially true under hard-acceleration passes as it struggled to drop a gear or two to put the engine in its lofty power sweet spot. We can�t wait for Chrysler to grace this engine with its upcoming new generation of eight-speed transmissions.

2011 Chrysler 300 engine

Chrysler describes the redesigned suspension at work in the 300 as built for grand touring duty, which is surprisingly accurate for PR-speak. While clearly engineered to consume mile after mile of interstate asphalt, the springs and dampers do a stand-up job under more athletic driving circumstances. There is some body roll, to be sure, but it doesn�t translate into traditional understeer as readily. Really get the V6 singing in its upper octaves and saw on the wheel, and you�ll actually be rewarded with some rotation before the traction control quietly steps in to contain the chaos. This beast drives incredibly well for its size.

Unfortunately, the 2011 300 is cursed with comically light steering. That beautiful leather-wrapped wheel seems to be only casually associated with hardworking hardware out front, and as a result, piloting the vehicle takes some adjustment. Trying to command the big sedan through aggressive maneuvers is like attempting to pluck a stuffed animal from one of those infuriating claw games. Despite being able to see what needs to happen, you�re constantly flummoxed by a layer of machinery seemingly designed to misinterpret your every input.

2011 Chrysler 300 steering wheel2011 Chrysler 300 gauges

The good news is that the vehicle�s brakes don�t suffer from the same impotence. Despite the fact that the 300 weighs in at 3,961 pounds, its 12.6-inch vented rotors up front and 12.6-inch solid rotors out back do an outstanding job of bringing the beast down from speed.

Chrysler has really done its homework in the noise, vibration and harshness department, too. The 2011 300 is quiet at most sane speeds and there�s very little engine vibration at idle. The single-piece piece dash has done away with any squeaks and rattles that could arise from plastic-on-plastic action, and the result is a cabin that could allow eight hours of driving in a day to be comfortably covered without making you want to guillotine yourself with the auto-up driver�s window.

But there are still a few ghosts of Chrysler past bumping around the big sedan. While the interior fit and finish is top notch, it�s apparent that the company could still use some work in the detail department outside. Our tester wore an excess of structural adhesive along the trunk rail (see it here) that looks to have been haphazardly slathered on. To us, it�s the kind of �good enough� thinking that got Chrysler into its most recent Chapter 11 mess.

2011 Chrysler 300 rear 3/4 view

At the end of the day, the 2011 Chrysler 300 is a vehicle you can�t help but want to drive. It looks as good as it feels, offers decent fuel economy for a full-size and won�t break the bank. Prices get going at $27,170, not including the $825 destination fee. That figure is fairly close to what our tester commanded, and includes niceties like the big LCD screen and Uconnect telematics system.

Unfortunately, nearly $28,000 is a lot of money to pay for a thirsty sedan these days. As vehicles like the Honda Accord and Volkswagen Passat grow to full-size territory, buyers may be less inclined to shop bigger. That�s especially true as fuel prices continue to creep up. While the ballyhooed eight-speed automatic transmission that�s coming to Chrysler will likely increase the Pentastar�s fuel economy, the engine will never be able to effectively lock horns with the four-cylinder, diesel and hybrid options available in the mid-size segment.

Still, as with most of the vehicles crafted from the Chrysler renaissance, the 2011 300 is yet another big step in the right direction. It ought to be a giant leap when we can finally get our hands on the SRT8 version.

[Source: autoblog]

GM releases another shot of the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu

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The 2013 Chevrolet Malibu will be unveiled on Monday at the Shanghai Motor Show. General Motors is expectedly making a big deal of the event, and started dropping teasers a couple weeks back. Those were followed by a full-on, high-resolution pic of the Malibu in red on Thursday. And now? Another picture of the China-spec car in blue. Since it�s static, we get a clean look at the new Malibu�s wheels and a better idea of the car�s profile

If you feel like you�re already overstuffed on the 2013 Malibu, try to save some room for the main course, which comes in the form of the sedan�s official debut in Shanghai.

[Source: GM via EGM Car Tech]

Roush announces 2012 Stage 3 Mustang with 540 horsepower horsepower

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The Stage 3 has always been the flagship of Roush�s modified Ford Mustang stable, and the supercharged pony car is making a return for 2012 with a new RS3 moniker. With 540 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque on tap, the Stage 3 replaces the 5XR as Roush�s most powerful offering.

Along with the extra power, the RS3 comes with a new graphics package that is available in six stripe colors and six accent colors, making for 288 color combinations. You can use Roush�s new online configurator to see what colors like Luminescent Lime and Red-Blooded American look on the car and add optional items like the 20-inch Hyper Black wheels and rear three-quarter window louvers. The 2012 RS3 Mustang starts at $59,945 and comes standard with a 3-year/36,000 mile warranty.

[Source: Roush]

PRESS RELEASE:

Livonia, Mich. (April 14th, 2011) � DETROIT MUSCLE | REDEFINED is the vision that sets the direction for the design team at ROUSH� Performance this year. The ROUSH brand has long been synonymous with high horsepower, performance handling and an aggressive body style. And, for the 2012 Mustang model year, ROUSH is introducing some game-changing enhancements that will �Redefine� their heritage of high performance and stylish appearance.

ROUSH Performance proudly introduces the new 2012 ROUSH Stage 3� performance Mustang. The 5.0L 4-valve DOHC TiVCT power-plant has received clearance for takeoff with the addition of the R2300 ROUSHcharger, forcefeeding up to 12psi of inter-cooled energy to the already robust Coyote engine. The ROUSHcharger� supercharger induction system increases the base horsepower from 412HP to an impressive 540HP and 465 ft/lbs of torque. To enjoy the ride, ROUSH Stage 3 (RS3) vehicle owners enjoy peace of mind with ROUSH�s 3 year/36,000 mile power train warranty.
The 2012 RS3 takes to the streets with an all new graphics and appearance package. ROUSH Performance is now offering a wide palette of color options for the RS3�s appearance and curb appeal. This allows for personal customization of three different aesthetic elements of the car ? 8 choices for the base vehicle color, 6 stripe colors, and 6 stripe accent colors. Together, these options offer an impressive 288 unique color combinations.

�In addition to the powerful ROUSH power train and tuned suspension, we�re really excited about the new graphics and design options,� says Gary Jurick, VP/GM of ROUSH Performance. �The �Redefined� graphics introduce new metallic colors utilizing automotive paint-grade materials. The result is a breathtakingly deep tone to the RS3�s graphics. We�re now providing our ROUSH consumers a very broad spectrum of graphics and color combinations to consider for their 2012 RS3 Mustang.�

To view and interact with the new RS3 paint colors, graphic striping and accent combinations, painted calipers and wheel options visit the all new ROUSH Vehicle Configurator at: http://www.roushperformance.com/2012-stage3-mustang-configurator.shtml
The ROUSHcharged� 2012 RS3 vehicle is currently not available for sale into California and other states requiring CARB emissions standards.

The estimated retail price for the typically equipped 2012 ROUSH Stage 3 Mustang is around $59,945. Actual final retail pricing will vary based on options selected. The RS3 is backed by a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty and is currently available with a 6-speed manual transmission only. The 2012 ROUSH Stage 3 is expected to start appearing on ROUSH Authorized Ford Dealer lots by the end of April 2011.

For more information on the 2012 ROUSH Stage 1, Stage 2 and RS3 vehicles, upgrades and options, retail pricing, and downloadable Hero Cards, please visit: http://www.roushperformance.com/vehicles.shtml

Review: 2011 Kia Optima EX

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Nobody remembers the 2010 Kia Optima, but just like that, the 2011 model may be the mainstream sedan to beat. While some consumers � the uninformed and brand-bigoted � might remain skeptical, the 2011 Kia Optima is the new benchmark. How could the Optima go from warmed-over also-ran to the segment�s latest front-runner?

The 2011 Kia Optima is at once classy and striking. There�s just enough detailing to keep it interesting without looking gaudy. Kia sent us an Optima EX with standard 17-inch alloy wheels, chrome accents on the door handles, body color mirrors and chrome exhaust tips added to the crisp bodywork. The windshield header�s echo of the �tabbed� grille is the designer�s way of saying �Hey, we thought about this.� Clean and inoffensive, there�s virtually nothing to criticize about the 2011 Optima�s styling.

The nuts and bolts of body assembly appear carefully attended to with tight panel gaps and good fit and finish all around. A stretched-out, long-wheelbase look underscores the increased size over the old Optima, and passenger volume is boosted to 102 cubic feet, near the top of its class. A 15.4-cubic-foot trunk is also larger than several of the Optima�s peers.

2011 Kia Optima EX side view2011 Kia Optima EX front view2011 Kia Optima EX rear view

On the inside, there�s not as much flair as the outside, perhaps, but the dashboard has a whiff of Saab-ness to it. French stitching, the latest way to say �I�m upscale!� appears on the padded material ringing the instrument panel and center stack. The EX trim level we tested carried the $2,000 Technology Package, which also rolls in the $2,500 Premium Package. All of this translates to a panoramic moonroof and heated and cooled power-adjustable front seats with memory for the driver�s side and heated rear seats. A metal bezel around the shifter and wood trim on the center console and door panels is there to reinforce the message of fancy tailoring. Materials, design and quality are as good or better than anyone else. You�ll have to step up to a luxury brand to find anything better.

Knobs and stalks also feel tight and precise. The big LCD screen, automobiledom�s equivalent of the ostentatious flat screen, is clear and easy to use, but we found it too bright for night driving, even at its minimum illumination setting. Fortunately, the screen is easily switched off to minimize nighttime distraction. We did occasionally hunt for buttons, and even though Bluetooth is standard, there�s no voice command system for anything other than paired phones. Uvo, developed with Microsoft, does offer some voice recognition control and communication and device integration, but it�s rolling out gradually and not offered on Optimas that have navigation like our EX.

2011 Kia Optima EX interior2011 Kia Optima EX front seats2011 Kia Optima EX navigation system2011 Kia Optima EX engine

The Optima is a mainstream sedan, so ease-of-use is a priority. The chunky leather-wrapped steering wheel is sporty-feeling, even if the electrically-assisted rack and pinion is too light and not much of a talker. With a roomy cabin, the Optima is comfortable front and rear, though the class-leading 44.5 inches of front leg room comes at the expense of rear legroom � at just 34.6 inches, it�s about three inches shy of its segment peers. Rear seat passengers are also shortchanged on shoulder room relative to the rest of the class, though rear headroom isn�t bitten by the raked C pillar like you might expect.

Kia says the 2011 Optima rides on an all-new platform. That�s true, and the underpinnings were co-developed with the all-new Hyundai Sonata. The Optima�s suspension is firmer, giving sharp responses at the expense of some ride comfort. Kia�s modus operandi of stiffly tuned standard suspensions makes even the basic 2011 Optima stern enough over bumps. It�s more supple than some of its overly-harsh siblings that bounce and clunk over bad pavement, capable of tight body control and impact absorption. The multi-link rear and MacPherson strut front setups allow the Optima to corner with discipline. Brakes are firm and easily modulated, as well. The bottom line for drivers is that the 2011 Optima follows orders eagerly and can actually be fun to drive.

2011 Kia Optima EX rear 3/4 view2011 Kia Optima EX headlight2011 Kia Optima EX side trim2011 Kia Optima EX wheel

The 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that our EX carried is among the smoothest engines of its type. Its 200 horsepower is made possible by direct injection that also boosts efficiency. A six-speed manual transmission is available in the entry Optima LX trim and a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine can also be had, but not together. Optional turbo aside, the 2.4-liter�s no slouch on its own. Teamed with a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic, this powertrain is quiet and refined, capable of great fuel economy. The EPA estimates you�ll get 24 mpg city and 34 mpg highway. We scored a solid 27 combined.

Perhaps it�s not much of a surprise that the newest mainstream sedan appears to trump all the established players. After all, competitors like the Nissan Altima, Toyota�s evergreen Camry, Ford�s lauded Fusion and the Chevrolet Malibu that debuted to much fanfare are all years-old veterans by now. Refreshes are coming and this battle will wear on. Soon, we�ll know if the 2011 Kia Optima is forged from the right stuff to continue proving the company�s �The Power to Surprise� tagline. For the moment, it�s got what it takes, but our advice would be to not rest on its newfound success. It�s brutal out there.

[Source: autoblog]