Friday, March 26, 2010

>> Chevy Camaro Bumblebee Edition


As expected, GM's announced to dealers a limited Chevy Camaro Bumblebee Edition will be available to order beginning June 1st. Production will run from June 24th through December. Camaro5 tells us this special Transformers-badging will be on wheel centers, sill plates and embroidered console lid. The $995 appearance package can be applied to LT (V6) and SS-trim Camaros in Rally Yellow with or without the optional RS package.

If you were hoping for more, such as the Z/28 fascia and hood, the storm drain-sized exhaust outlets used on Bumblebee in Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen, or, say, an actual robot mode, you're outta luck. There are no performance upgrades, either -- you'll simply have to make do with the 304, 400, or 426 horsepower that comes standard, depending on which base config you select. If you desperately want your own Bumblebee but are turned off by the whole Transformers brand-mania thing, you can still do the obvious thing and order up a regular Rally Yellow car and simply add plain black rally stripes for $470. We'd do that. Check out the official press release after the jump.

Chevy Accessories will include:

- Autobot insignia fender badges and wheel caps;
- An embroidered Autobot insignia on the center console;
- Gloss-black rally stripes with Transformers logos;
- Transformers-logo doorsill plates.

>> Chevy Autobots

Chevy Autobots

Chevy Autobots are the most vivid characters of the Transformers sequel's second episode. GM borrowed 5 Chevy models during filming to add realism to the battle scenes and keep the watchers breathless. "Chevrolet is thrilled to again be part of one of the most anticipated movies in years," said Ed Peper, GM North America vice president, Chevrolet. "'Transformers' gives us a great opportunity to connect with young people on their terms, with a dynamic, environmentally friendly image. Autobots often turn into civilian vehicles, that's why Chevy brand suits best for being a prototype of the heroic crew. The team consists of: Chevy Volt (Jolt), Chevy Stingray Concept (Sideswipe), Chevy Trax (Mudflap), Chevy Beat (Skidz) and the main hero Chevy Camaro (Bumblebee). While Chevy Autobots have usually found themselves outnumbered by the Decepticons, they still have always had home-field advantage, having not only the human's military support, but also having more places on Earth to fall back on, while the Decepticons are entirely unwelcome on Earth.

Chevy Autobots

Jolt is an Autobot described as a troublemaker and a bit of a snob but loves to battle Decepticons. He seems to have fondness of Earth's nature and a habit of saving energy explaining why he chose an eco-friendly car as a disguise. Jolt is a new Autobot character that appears in the production form of the 2011 Chevy Volt extended-range electric vehicle. The only visible differences between the production Volt and the Chicago Show Transformers film model, seem to be limited to the silver-colored exterior mirrors and the trim surrounding the lower part of the windows. Prototypes of the electric Volt are starting to turn up, and it looks like we could see a 2011 release. By the time it's available, though, hype generated from the movie will be long gone.

Chevy Volt - Jolt

In the movie the Stingray will be called Sideswipe and is a good guy, but it looks like a Decepticon to us. Focusing on his enemies with absolute attention, his blades are a shining blur as he leaps through the air, twisting to avoid enemy fire. Converting to his vehicle (Chevy Stingray) to drive at blazing speed, he uses every trick in the book to get close to his opponent, and put his powerful swords to work. Not that that’s a bad thing, it's just a bit too wild for a real car. GM also says this is a design study and not to get your hopes up for this to pack a ZR-1 engine under the hood anytime soon. The concept also brings back the split rear window. Because of visibility concerns, it's unlikely a split rear window would ever make it to production, but it's probably the one element that screams "Stingray" from this concept.

Chevy Corvette - Sideswipe

Many of the pics featured the "Twins" which are two new unique additions to the Autobot cast taking the vehicle forms of the Chevy Beat and Chevy Trax concept designs. For starters, the twin bots disguised as compact Chevys, constantly argue and and spew rap derived street slang. The Twins are two Autobots that transform into the Chevy Beat and Chevy Trax concept cars by themselves. Together they act like brothers and can apparently also combine into one alternate form vehicle, although we probably won't see that until during the movie sometime. The inseparable pair spends more time fighting with each other than paying attention to anything going on around them. They like to think they're hard core, but when their guard drops, it turns out they're basically a couple of robot rednecks.

Chevy Beet - Skids and Chevy Trax - Mudflap

Bumblebee - is the heroic autobot based on Chevrolet's Camaro concept from the first "Transformers" movie, returns with a high-performance attitude. Camaro into which he transforms has been spiffed up for the sequel with a new front bumper, chin spoiler, hood scoop and different wheels. Whereas the first Bumblebee was based on the Camaro Concept, it appears that the new one is based on the actual production car. From afar the Bumblebee Camaro is simply gorgeous; the shape that mesmerized on the show stands looks even better in sunlight. Up close, this movie prop is even more impressive, despite plenty of fakery including plastic door handles that are supposed to look like metal and plexiglass side windows that don't roll down. This isn't some cheap splash of fiberglass done up by amateurs, but rather Corvette-quality resin and mat. Every piece of the body is perfectly formed, the panels fit to each other with precision and the paint is thick and luminous.

Chevy Camaro - Bumblebee

Tuesday, March 16, 2010

>> Civic Type R Mugen



On sale through Honda dealers in April it’s inspired by the 237bhp ultra-rare Civic Type R Mugen we drove back 
in September. Additional 
equipment includes a Mugen-designed bodykit, 19-inch ‘Lightning’ alloy wheels, Mugen badging on the bootlid and a dashboard plaque. 
As with the Championship White Type R it replaces, the Mugen will have white paint, gloss black mirrors and a 
limited-slip differential. Prices are yet to be confirmed.



The announcement of the Mugen 200 coincides with the launch of the firm’s British Touring Car Championship bid for 2010. Honda will campaign two Civics with a white-and-black colour scheme, similar to the special edition road car.

>> 2011 Ford Edge


The 2011 Ford Edge is much more than a simple refresh. Ford is offering three new powertrains and a revamped transmission to the Edge's SEL, Limited, and Sport lineup.


Peer closely at the new Ford Edge's exterior and you'll notice the slight, but distinguishable changes. Upgrades like slimmer headlights, a bolder front grille, fresh wheel designs, and a more pronounced chin spoiler create a clean, sophisticated look.

>> 2011 BMW Alpina B7


The F01/F02 BMW 7 Series-based Alpina B7 is the latest offering from the Bavaria-based factory-supported BMW tuner (Alpinas are sold at BMW dealers and covered by BMW warranties) and is only the second B7 to be offered in the U.S. The full line of BMW 7 Series exterior colors will be available, in addition to the signature ALPINA Blue metallic paint.


Refresher: Power for the 2011 BMW Alpina B7 comes from a twin-turbocharged 4.4L V8 power that produces 500-hp with a maximum torque of 516 lb-ft. Mated to a ZF 6-speed automatic transmission, 0-60 mph comes in just 4.5 seconds with a top speed that is electronically-limited at 174 mph. Maximum torque is available from 3,000 to 4,750 rpm.


>> 2010 Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition


The 2010 Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition starts with a 2010 Nissan 370Z Touring equipped with the Sport package, sprayed in "40th Quartz" gray on the outside and fitted with a red interior.



For extra flavor, there are high-luster "smoke" finish 19-in. wheels, red brake calipers, a shock tower brace with a 40th Anniversary badge, and another one of those special badges on the rear hatch.


Monday, March 15, 2010

>> 2010 Scion tC RS 6.0


The aging tC goes to version 6.0 with the 2010 Scion tC RS 6.0, boasting violently blue paint and audio upgrades from Alpine. It goes on sale in March, starting at $19,290 for a manual including destination. Opting for an automatic adds $800.






>> Lexus IS 350C F-Sport Special Edition

Lexus IS 350C F-Sport Special Edition

Lexus announced a new special edition based on the IS350. The new F-Sport Special Edition will be limited to only 100 units, and will have a price of $57,500.

The IS 350C F-Sport will only be available in Tungsten Pearl or Obsidian exterior colors and is distinguished by: 19-inch forged alloy wheels, front and rear brake upgrade, F-Sport grille, Bilstein shock set, lowering springs, sway bar set, embroidered floor mats with F-Sport logo, leather-wrapped shift knob with F-Sport logo and exterior badging and an individually numbered badge on the center console.

Standard equipment includes: a seven-inch VGA touch-screen, Bluetooth® phonebook download capabilities, a rear back-up camera, Voice Command casual-language voice recognition system, Lexus Enform, XM® NavTraffic, XM® NavWeather, and XM® Sports and Stocks.

>> Hummer H2 Black Chrome Limited Edition

Hummer H2 Black Chrome Limited Edition

That Dubai has a lot of cool cars, well that’s not a secret anymore! And to make us even jealous on this guys, GM launched a new limited edition H2 across the UAE. Called H2 Limited Dark Chrome Edition, the new special edition will be limited to only 1300 units.

It will be available on both SUV and SUT models and will be distinguished by: black chrome details, including Twenty-inch chrome-clad wheels, grille, hood latches and handles, fuel filler door, door handles, mirror caps, “H2” badges, side air vents and spare tyre cover.

GM will offer three exterior colors: Silver Ice Metallic, Sedona Metallic and Carbon Black Metallic. Silver Ice Metallic and Carbon Black Metallic are offered with the Ebony/Shale interior combination, while the Sedona Metallic color is exclusive to the Limited Dark Chrome edition and is offered only with the Sedona interior.

Wednesday, March 10, 2010

>> Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera

Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera

Despite the rumors of the Italian super car maker Lamborghini making a SuperVeloce Gallardo, the raging bull is going to bring a factory tuned version of their more compact dream machine to market, but it won’t be wearing an SV logo. Instead the new car will focus on reducing weight as a means of going faster and will be appropriately named the LP570-4 Superleggera when the car makes its official debut tomorrow at the Geneva Motor Show.

The new Lamborghini LP570-4 Superleggera will weigh in at around 154 pounds less than the Gallardo LP 560-4. The 5,2 liter V10 engine will deliver an incredible 570 hp. The result is a sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 3.4 seconds, from 0 to 124 mph in only 10.2 seconds later, wjile top speed goes up to 202 mph.

The car’s exterior is defined by three-dimensional front bumper with large air intakes, new sill elements and a redesigned diffuser incorporating four large tailpipes and a big rear spoiler available as an option.

>> Lamborghini Estoque

lamborghini estoque

Lamborghini finally unveiled the official details on the 2009 Estoque Concept. The Estoque is the first sedan in the history of Automobili Lamborghini, but Lambo wants people to think “sedan” is more a reference to the number of doors than any other characteristic.

Even if it wants to keep the sports car image, Lamborghini is still positioning the Estoque as the family man’s Lambo. As the press release says, "It is the only car that allows you to share the singular driving pleasure of a Lamborghini with more than one person – possibly even with the whole family. And there is still enough room left over for weekend luggage or several golf bags."


Although the car is only 4.43 feet high Lamborghini says the long wheelbase will make the car spacious. This means not only will the driver get the low, leaning back position typical of a Lamborghini, but so will wife (or husband) and the kids. But don’t expect all traditions in this Lambo sedan, the doors open in a normal front-hinged, swing out manner.

The engine proposed for the Estoque is likely the V10 from the Gallardo LP 560-4. Lambo also hinted that a turbocharged V8 as well as even a hybrid or diesel powertrain could be thrown into the mix.


>> Audi R8 V10


The Audi R8 V10 is a car that needs no presentation, and for sure is a car that develop enough power for most of us. But there are people out there who want more. For them, Abt Sportsline announced today the ABT R8 GT R, a tuning kit limited to only 25 units.



The R8 GT R features a carbon made bonnet, front and rear aprons, adjustable rear wing, tailgate, external mirrors and door panel. And with windows made of Makrolon, the tuner managed to reduce the total weight by 100 kilos.

Also the 5.2 FSI engine is tuned to deliver an impressive 620 hp. The result is a sprint from 0 to 62 mph in 3,2 seconds, from 0 to 124 mph in 9.9 seconds and a top speed of 201 mph.

The sports car also gets height-adjustable ABT Sports suspension and adjustable dampers and 19" extremely light ABT CR alloys wheels.


>> Mazda RX-7 Revival

4.

Chief Designer for Mazda, Ikuo Maeda has some feelings about the revival of the RX-7.

"I do have a strong yearning to revive the RX-7 during my tenure," Maeda said. "But in order for that to happen, we need the U.S. economy to come back, first and foremost."

Well, gee, thanks Maeda. We’re glad to know that you are thinking of our well-being. Oh wait, probably not. Well at least we might get the opportunity to see a revival of the RX-7 featuring a 16X rotary engine in the near future. But don’t expect a high-powered sports car. Mazda is still experimenting with forced induction so we probably won’t see that in the first batch of this much anticipated comeback. Sources say that the new RX-7 will be an affordable, user-friendly sports car with a reasonable price tag of $30,000USD.

>> Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Carbon Limited Edition

Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Carbon Limited Edition

Chevrolet unveiled today the special edition Corvette Z06 Carbon Limited Edition. It will be limited to only 500 units and will go on sale later this summer.

The limited edition will be distinguished by Brembo carbon ceramic brakes with specific dark gray metallic calipers, black 20-spoke 19-inch front/20-inch rear wheels, black headlamps and mirrors, a ZR1-style body color spoiler, body color door handles, carbon fiber raised hood, and black carbon fiber rockers and splitter. It will be available in only two colors: Inferno Orange and the all-new Supersonic Blue.

The interior gets blue or orange seat stitching, a unique steering wheel emblem, sill plate and logoed headrest.

Monday, March 8, 2010

>> Mercedes SLR-Hamann Volcano Special red IAA


The high performance tuning house Hamann has just unveiled the Volcano based on the McLaren SLR super car. The Volcano is powered by a 5.4 Liter V8 boosted from 626 HP all the way up to a clean 700 HP, this drops .2 seconds off the car’s 0 to 60 MPH time which now clocks in at 3.6 seconds and is able to reach a top speed of 216 MPH.




Aside from the bold new paint scheme, the Volcano wears an extremely aggressive body kit complete with bare carbon fiber fender flares and a very sharp front lip. Hamann even saw fit to incorporate a few stylish LED driving lights underneath the front air dam and a carbon fiber roof scoop up top. Now Hamann is typically known for their powerful creations, but this particular SLR is just completely over the top. What the heck.


If you are going to introduce a new tuner car at the Frankfurt Motor Show, why not go all out.

>> Lexus LF-A


It’s finally official! The Lexus LF-A has just made its world debut at the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show. The Toyota built super car will be limited to a production run of only 500 units, each priced at $375,000. The Japanese luxury automaker is already taking orders, however the first deliveries won’t be made until early 2011.


As you might already know, the LF-A is powered by a 4.8 liter V10 that delivers a maximum output of 560 HP at 9,000 RPM and a peak torque of 354 lb-ft at 6,800 RPM, with 90% of the total torque being available between the 3,700 RPM mark and the super car’s 9,000 RPM red line. As a result of such a road torque curve, the LF-A can sprint from 0 to 60 MPH in just 3.7 seconds and won’t stop until it reaches a top speed of 202 MPH.


In order to ensure that the LF-A handles as well as it goes in a straight line, the Lexus design team incorporated lightweight materials like aluminum alloys, magnesium alloys and titanium alloys as well as some carbon fiber to ensure that the LF-A is as rigid as possible while maintaining a low curb weight. Even the new super car’s power plant is compact in size, smaller than a conventional V8, which allowed the Toyota engineers to design the LF-A with the optimal weight distribution and an exceptional power to weight ratio. Thus giving Nissan and their GT-R super car something to watch out for.