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Ford 2009 Escape and Mercury Mariner get advanced 6-speed automatic transmission

Ford Motor Company is fitting the 2009 Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner with the automaker’s newest, advanced 6-speed automatic transmission, further demonstrating its commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve fuel economy for customers.

The new 6F35 front-wheel-drive transmission offers a 4 to 6 percent improvement in fuel economy versus conventional 4- and 5-speed automatics, in addition to improved acceleration.

“With a greater gear span, the 6F35 allows the engine to operate at more optimum combinations of speed and load to meet certain driving conditions,” said Craig Renneker, chief engineer for new automatic transmissions, Ford Powertrain Operations. “The new transmission also enables the engine to run at lower speeds on the highway, which aids fuel economy.”

The 6F35 will be mated to a new 2.5L I-4 engine and a power-improved 3.0L V-6 in the 2009 Escape and Mariner. The engine offers horsepower increases of 17hp for the I-4 and by 40hp for the V-6, while also boosting fuel economy by 1 mpg when mated to the new six-speed transmission. The 2009 Mazda Tribute also will feature the 6F35, as will two other vehicles early next year.

The new 6-speed offers numerous technologies and design features that increase durability, performance and quietness. Ford’s patented one-way rocker clutches allow for smoother, quieter, more precise shifts. Working like a socket wrench, the rocker clutches spin freely one way, but securely lock in the other direction. As result, gears are engaged and disengaged more quickly.

Other notable features include:

• Chain-driven secondary gearset – Specifically designed with random-size links, the unique chain reduces noise, vibration and harshness when driving the transmission’s secondary gearset.
• Unique pump-filter interface – Virtually eliminates pump whine, contributing to projected best-in-class noise, vibration and harshness characteristics.
• Flat-tow capability – Vehicles equipped with the 6F35 can be flat towed (all four wheels on the road) behind other vehicles without damaging the transmission. When flat towed, the transmission is in neutral, but internal parts rotate, causing heat. With the engine turned off during towing, the pump cannot create pressure to move oil around in the transmission and cool parts. To address this, internal baffling was added to the 6F35 to capture and direct oil to key areas.
• Fluid fill for life – A special blend of transmission fluid is maintenance free for the life of the gearbox.
• Transmission System Characterization – A process that utilizes software to ensure proper transmission operation before a vehicle leaves the assembly plant. During final testing, the functioning of several common shift cycles are matched against established parameters. Variability is then corrected by software in the Powertrain Control Module. The process helps deliver a high-quality, correctly operating transmission to customers from the very first day they drive their new vehicle.

Quality Tested for Durability
Ford automatic transmissions are subjected to hundreds of hours of durability, noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) testing. A series of accelerated durability trials equate to 150,000 miles of the most abusive customer usage under extreme conditions.

“One test for the 2009 Escape was to run in fourth gear with maximum trailer load at 100 mph for 15 miles. And that was repeated about 500 times,” explained Rich Rej, 6F35 systems engineer, Ford Powertrain Operations. “We determine what the most abusive driver would do to our transmissions and then we do more to it to make sure that we are delivering a high-quality, durable gearbox for our customers.”

Ford also utilizes a state-of-the-art Transmission NVH Hemi Anechoic Chamber that allows engineers to develop hardware to meet noise and vibration targets that will result in a quiet, interior cabin, and yield higher customer satisfaction levels for transmission quietness.

The new 6F35 6-speed automatic transmission is assembled at Ford’s Van Dyke Transmission Plant, which also produces the 6F50 6-speed automatic in 2008 models of the Ford Taurus, Taurus X, Edge, Mercury Sable, Lincoln MKX and 2009 Ford Flex and Lincoln MKS.

Ford Mustang GT convertible is the 9 millionth and heads to Iowa

Iowa farmer Thomas Krumm went to his local Ford dealer to order a Mustang GT convertible and unwittingly ordered a piece of history – his Mustang is the 9 millionth built by Ford Motor Company.

He discovers that today when he picks up his milestone Mustang at Gookin Ford in Story City, Iowa.

Krumm, a farmer from rural Story City, became interested in Mustangs through his daughter, Rachael, a Mustang enthusiast who saved enough money to buy her first Mustang at age 17.

“Having been a Mustang fanatic my entire life, I couldn’t be more excited that my dad is receiving the 9 millionth Mustang,” said Rachael Krumm, who also is a member of the Iowa National Guard. “I am thrilled that I get to see his Mustang GT and its cool new features before I leave for Iraq.”

Mustang is Ford Motor Company’s longest-running nameplate. It was introduced on April 17, 1964 at the New York World’s Fair.

“Mustang is an icon, and the 9 millionth Mustang is a milestone we’re very proud of,” said Fritz Wilke, Mustang Brand Manager.

“So many people have contributed to Mustang’s proud 44-year heritage possible – from incredible Mustangs owners and enthusiasts to our partners at AAI where Mustangs are built to Ford’s Product Development and Ford Division teams,” he said.

The Ford Mustang is one of the most widely recognized vehicles in the world. Today, one of every two sports cars sold in America is a Mustang.
Visit Ford to get yours.

Ford Mondeo introduces new flagship Titanium X Sport

The multi-award winning Ford Mondeo is set to extend its premium sporty appeal with the introduction of a new flagship - the Titanium X Sport. Visually exciting, packed with standard equipment and powered by new premium diesel or five-cylinder petrol engines, the new Titanium X Sport is the most desirable Mondeo yet. Created in response to the recent surge in retail demand for top end versions of Mondeo, the new Titanium X Sport combines superb dynamics with premium luxury and a sportier new look.

Available in five-door hatchback and estate body styles, Titanium X Sport models are designed to stand out from the crowd. Aggressively styled 18in alloys fill the wheel arches while twin chromed exhaust tailpipes and body-coloured side skirts complete the picture. The interior is also themed with sporty red stitching on the leather/alcantara seats, leather steering wheel and gear shift lever. Aluminium trim detailing is replaced with stylish piano black inlays.

Customers can choose from two powerful and efficient powertrains. Existing five-cylinder 220PS 2.5-litre turbocharged petrol, or the new diesel, which is expected to account for the majority of sales.
With 35PS more than its 2.0TDCi sister, the new 175PS 2.2-litre TDCi engine is among the smoothest units of its type combining swift, quiet acceleration of 0-62mph in 8.4 seconds and a top speed of 139mph with a combined economy figure of 45.6mpg. C02 emissions are low too at 165g/km.

Generously specified, the Mondeo Titanium X Sport’s standard equipment includes in-dash Sony six CD player, voice control, rain sensing wipers, automatic headlights, front and rear park assist, dual-zone climate control and Ford Power start button.
Additional upgrades over the standard Titanium include advanced Bluetooth connectivity, bi-xenon lights, alloy pedals and sports suspension. Both engines come with six-speed manual gearbox and insurance groups are 12E for diesel and 14E for petrol models.

Available to order now and priced from £23,355 (5 door) and £26,605 (estate) on the road, Titanium X Sport adds more premium appeal and choice to Ford’s popular Mondeo.

Ford is the first automaker to join The Climate Registry

Ford is taking an industry-leading move by becoming the first automaker to join The Climate Registry (TCR), building upon Ford’s leadership in facility greenhouse gas (GHG) initiatives globally. Ford supports the global harmonization of GHG monitoring and reporting practices. TCR represents a significant step toward that goal.

TCR is a non-profit organization established to measure and publicly report GHG emissions using a single reporting standard across industry sectors. TCR represents a linking of several state-sponsored GHG emissions reporting efforts, including the California Climate Action Registry and the Eastern Climate Registry. TCR’s reporting protocol is based on the internationally recognized GHG emissions measurement standards of the World Resources Institute and World Business Council on Sustainability (WRI/WBCSD) - an approach Ford has voluntarily supported since 2001.

Nearly all U.S. states, many Canadian provinces and some Mexican states have adopted TCR’s program, thereby eliminating a patchwork of reporting standards that could lead to unnecessary and time consuming complexity in the system.

“We endorse the TCR’s reporting process because it has adopted the WRI/WBCSD reporting structure, which will ultimately lead to a common, single reporting standard worldwide,” said Larry Merritt, manager, Global Environmental Policy, Ford Motor Company. “A single reporting standard is easier for its members and administrators to manage and more cost effective than developing new tools on a state-by-state basis.”

Following TCR’s reporting process will allow Ford to focus its resources on finding and implementing GHG emissions reduction projects rather than comprehending and implementing complex, disparate reporting requirements around the world. In the U.S. alone, without TCR, each state could have developed its own unique GHG reporting requirements

To become a TCR member, Ford must demonstrate environmental stewardship in several areas by voluntarily committing to measure, independently verify and publicly report GHG emissions on an annual basis utilizing TCR’s General Reporting Protocol. Ford will leverage its emissions monitoring and reporting experience with the Chicago Climate Exchange (CCX) to support its commitment to TCR.

“Ford has demonstrated exemplary environmental leadership by courageously stepping forward to support TCR in its preliminary stages,” said Gina McCarthy, Chair of the Climate Registry. “We are deeply grateful for their integral support in helping to address the challenges of climate change.”

Ford is an industry leader in global facility GHG initiatives including voluntary reporting, emissions trading and carbon offset programs. The company has achieved many GHG reporting firsts, most recently as the first automaker to submit a voluntary GHG report to the Chinese government for its Changan Ford Mazda Automobile Co., Ltd. facility in Chongqing, China. Ford’s Chinese report follows the same principles as TCR and other country-specific GHG initiatives Ford has supported.

Ford also was the only automaker to join CCX and the UK Emissions Trading Scheme (predecessor to the current EU Emissions Trading Scheme) by voluntarily accepting emissions reduction targets and undergoing third-party verification of GHG emissions data. Ford was the first automaker to voluntarily report facility emissions to the Mexican GHG Program and the Philippine GHG Accounting and Reporting Program.

Ford was also the first to publish an auto industry report dedicated to addressing the business implications of climate change, carbon dioxide emissions and energy security concerns.

“Through these early, voluntary actions, Ford’s manufacturing operations have gained first-hand experience with emerging policy tools,” said Merritt. “Our global, centralized approach has supported our participation in CO2 initiatives in a more cost-effective and operationally-efficient manner. Ford’s early action has also developed internal expertise which enables us to share our lessons learned with others.”

Pontiac Trans Am found on eBay: signed by Burt Reynolds

For me the best Pontiac Trans Am has to be the models from the Mid-to-late 70’s, they just scream muscle and power and if purchasing one you just have to get one that comes in black. Although not as powerful as the 1969-1974, this model is still great and the reason for this is because it reminds me of the great movie Smokey and the Bandit which starred Burt Reynolds.

Well here we have a model that was found on eBay; this is a 1978 Special Edition Y/82 Trans Am and has the Pontiac 400 engine which is mounted to a 4-speed manual transmission, what the hell four, lol. As you would imagine, this car is already a collectors item just as is and as it comes with an AM/FM/8-track player and CB radio it just ads to the movie theme.

To add to the coolness of this car is the dash, just check out the image it has been signed by Burt Reynolds himself. That is not all, Burt actually drove the car around while he was in Georgia as he was there to develop Year One’s Bandit Edition replica car, and the tranny also appeared on the TV many times.

Ok so the good news is you could own this cool looking vehicle, but the bad news is the current bid standing at $46,100.00.

Source – eBay Motors

Gran Turimso Nissan GT-R reaches 193 mph: driven by GT creator

A day does not go by without us hearing about the awesome Nissan GT-R, this twin-turbo beast seems to do something amazing everyday and this one is no exception. The Nissan Gran Turimso is popular with both drivers as well as gamers as it appears in the latest Gran Turismo 5 Prologue game.

In this video we watch the creator of the GT, Kazunori Yamauchi take the car for a spin on the race track, and takes it up to 193 mph. There was only one race track to take this beast on, and that is the Nurburgring and I have to say the legendary game creator did well to keep the car on the track as conditions were not that great.

The track was wet and a little slippery but Yamauchi looked as though he had been racing for years, and the Nissan GT-R sounded like a devil as the power from the engine screamed around the track. Kazunori did ten laps around the ring and at one point he hit 6 Gs on the meter, which was when the GT-R kicked out on him and gave him a bit of freight. One thing that Yamauchi did say that made me laugh was “driving the GT-R was less like driving a thoroughbred and more like sitting astride a lion.”

VW Passat R36: New powerful Volkswagen’s on sale in UK

The VW Passat R36 is the most powerful from Volkswagen yet and is now on sale in the UK, this is almost a year after we first heard about the car. There will be two versions a sedan or saloon as they are called in the UK and a Wagon otherwise known as an estate. The new VW Passat R36 features Volkswagen’s new 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system which helps to distribute the 300hp evenly and perfectly.

VW claim that the Passat R36 will go from 0 to 100 (62) in 5.6 seconds with the wagon being just a fraction under that time and will then power up to 155 mph. The new Passet is not all about power as that would not be enough to make it a great car; the R36 has a unique body kit as well as a new chrome grille. Other enhancements include new brake calipers which give the car more stopping power as well as new 18-inch rims. To give the VW Passat R36 a sportier look there is an aluminum dash as well as matching pedals and sill plates.

The new VW Passat R36 will cost £30,990 base-price, for just a little more you could get yourself an Audi but not with 300hp. The wagon model will cost £32,150 and is worth the little extra as you only lose a little power but gain more in how much more space the vehicle has.

Source - AutoBlog

Test Drive of the 2008 Ford Shelby GT500KR: Much too heavy

Many of us have been getting exited with the release of the 2008 Shelby GT500KR however; we have been left with a bitter taste in our mouths as the vehicle is a little on the heavy side. It just seems such a shame that we have that nice 5.4-liter V8 engine that pushes out 500 horsepower and much of that is needed to get this 4,000 pounds beast moving forward. Ford has put a supercharger in the engine bay however; this has been put in the worst place possible, which is right in the front.

The result of this is that the car feels a little unresponsive around corners; this is also made worse by the suspension which does not seem to be able to handle the fast corners. Do not despair though as this is a common fault with a lot of American cars, and just can’t come close to performance cars from countries like Germany and the UK.

Please do not despair though as the 2008 Ford Shelby GT500KR has got something going for, and that is that it has to be one of the best performance bargains. You go shopping around and see if you can find a car as powerful as this foe such a little price. Carbon fiber has been used in a number of places around the exterior like the mirror covers, front splitter as well as the hood. One thing that does seem strange though is “where have the 20-inch rims gone from the concept,” what we now have on the production model are small 18-inch wheels. When look at the 2008 Ford Shelby GT500KR from the outside things look more aggressive as the vehicle sits much lower to the ground than the old model

For a full test drive review visit: AutoBlog

Cool pictures of the 2009 BMW M3 Convertible: best ever

My brother has been talking about getting a convertible BMW for a while now however; I have been trying to change his mind as he wants to get an older model which is a soft top. The problem is my brother lives in the UK and the weather is just not that great for this kind of car.

Now I have seen this 2009 BMW M3 Convertible I think that I might have to give him another call and let him know about this car. The thing is my brother thinks that convertible cars look so cool, but then when you put the soft top up man they look ugly. That is not the case with the 2009 BMW M3 Convertible; this car just looks so cool and has great styling.

The M3 is truly amazing with its 4.0-liter V8 which pushes out 420 hp and will redline at 8,400 RPM. This powerful engine is mounted to either a six-speed DCT or a six-speed manual gearbox.

The manual version will go from 0 to 62 in just 5.3 seconds and will cost £54,760.

The M DCT version of the M3 will go from 0 to 62 in only 5.1 seconds and will cost £57,350.

Both these model are now producing about twice the amount of power that the old 1988 M3 did.

Source - AutoBlog

2008 Hybrid vs. Diesel Video: Mercedes-Benz GL320 vs Chevrolet Tahoe

The Hybrid vs. Diesel debate has been going a little while now and Edmunds are taking a fresh look at this debate in the form of the 2008 Hybrid Chevrolet Tahoe vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL320 Diesel. You can watch the road test and review in the video below this article; Edmunds said that availability might be a big issue with both of these vehicles.

Many car owners would not think of buying a Hybrid, but this attitude is starting to change and with the environment being such a hot topic the idea of a nice green Hybrid will become more popular as the prices get better and choice increases. The 6L V8 Chevrolet Tahoe sounds like every GM truck you have ever heard of, but its got a pair of electric motors in the transmission casing and does 20 city, 20 highway according to the EPA. Some people think the Mercedes-Benz GL320 CDI Diesel is the better way to go, although the two big SUVs do share some common ground. The Mercedes-Benz costs only $480 more than the Chevrolet Tahoe and they both are reasonably fuel-efficient at least by big SUV standards.

Watch the Edmunds hands-on and comparison video below or read the full article on Edmunds.com, where they aim to find out if these vehicles can hit the EPA ratings, they also show you how both vehicles are equals in a contest of speed but the Agile Benz pulls ahead in many areas and although the 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid is more versatile than earlier hybrid SUVs, Edmunds believe that the diesel wins this round.

Via TecheBlog

New copper-colored BMW M1 concept

The photos on this page show a new copper-colored BMW M1 concept, the photos were snapped up first from Asphalte.ch and these are the same people that gave us a sneak peak at the Lamborghini LP560-4 earlier in 2008. These photos were of the BMW M1 concept at Villa d’Este; they show the super car on its own and with its forebears.

As you can see, the BMW M1 concept has a flowing, smooth design with “a low brow, high haunches and the signature kidney grille”. The M1 is part of Bimmer’s 30th anniversary celebration of Munich’s original classic supercar, while these photos are from a private exhibition that took place today, we should be hearing more news within the next 24 hours when an official Press Release becomes available.

What do you think of the BMW M1? We love it and hope BMW do not mess around and get working on a production version, but I would imagine that will be a while yet. Join our Autos RSS Feed for an update when we get more information and also other daily auto news. You can also visit supercars.net for more information, more photos below.

Via TecheBlog

Suzuki SX4t comes with a Mitsubishi 16G GT3 turbocharger

When the Suzuki SX4t first hit the market we did feel that the car had an odd shape however; it did have some great aftermarket potential. Suzuki also realized that there could be more to come from the SX4 which is why they asked Road Race Motorsports for a little help as Suzuki wanted to showcase a SX4 concept at the Chicago Auto Show.

Well it looks as though Road Race Motorsports done a superb job and have given us the SX4t, as you know with this tuner firm they always add their own body-kits as well as upgrading the wheels and brakes, as well as a few engine mods. However; the best thing that Road Race have done is to add a Mitsubishi 16G GT3 turbocharger, the 2.0-liter four-pot engine only used to be able to push out 143 hp but with this turbo fitted the Suzuki SX4t will push out 224 hp, that’s a huge increase.

The result is a 0-60 time of just a little under 7 seconds, that’s in the five-speed manual model. Although Suzuki have only asked Road Race Motorsports to add these features onto this one concept, it seems as if the Japanese automaker have given the tuner their blessing. This could mean that you could take a visit to your local Suzuki dealer and pick up a SX4t. The cost of the new Mitsubishi 16G GT3 turbocharger is $5,400 once it comes on the market this June, however you will then have to pay Suzuki a fee for fitting the device

Source – AutoBlog

Honda develops device to help the disabled and elderly walk

When it comes to developing cars Honda are one of the best in the business however; the Japanese automaker also develops other things like a jet as well as that cool looking walking robot called Asimo. Getting Asimo walking on its own was a hard but worthwhile task and Honda are about to put that kind of technology to good use.

Honda will be taking some of its robotic technology to the International Trade Fair where they will showcase the technology that they used for the robot to walk unaided and will offer it as a unique aid to help the disabled and elderly walk. These devices will be available in three sizes and will use brushless DC motors which are powered by lithium ion batteries. These batteries will allow you to use the device for about 2 hours between charges.

Auto Companies such as Honda do take a lot of criticism from tree huggers who do not like how some of their cars pollute our earth; however they do not think about all the good work that they do to help how we live our lives. What I would like to know is would a person who works for someone like Greenpeace turn one of these walking devices down if they had trouble walking, knowing that it has been developed with money from and auto maker.

Source - AutoBlog

Test driving the 2009 Infiniti FX CUV

There are a host of great CUV’s ready to hit the market like the BMW X6 however; there is one that has got our attention now and that is the 2009 Infiniti FX. It would be so nice to get the opportunity to have a test drive of this CUV but we can only but dream, well those guys over at AutoBlog have managed to secure a test drive and they spent a little time just getting to know the Cross Over Vehicle.

While looking at the exterior of the 2009 Infiniti FX you will notice that it has kept the basic shape of its predecessor although the 2009 model does have a wider track as well as a longer wheelbase. Weight distribution is perfect thanks to front-midship architecture that is used on the G35 sedan.

There are a range of 2009 Infiniti FX models to choose from, the entry-level is the VQ35HR V63.5-liter which pushes out 303hp. However if that is not enough power for you then you could opt for the bigger FX50, the engine used in this beast is the VK50VE V8 5.0-liter and manages to produce 390hp. Both of these models come with a seven-speed automatic transmission with an option for manual shift. If you look at the paddle shifts you will notice that they are the same that are used in the Nissan GT-R.

For a full review on the 2009 Infiniti FX test drive visit: AutoBlog

Jeep Liberty could face recall: Government upgrades investigation into SUV

It seems that there could very well be a new Jeep Liberty recall on the 2002-2003 models SUV; this comes to light after the government has upgraded their investigation as to why the vehicles are losing control. A total of 22 complaints have so far been received by The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, because of a problem with the ball joint which actually separates from either of the front wheels.

This is a very bad safety issue as one of the front wheels could collapse, and as you know that would cause the drive to lose control of the Sports-Utility- Vehicle. The problem with the ball joint has affected over 300,000 Chrysler Jeep Liberty SUV’s and covers the 2002 and 2003 models.

According to Max Gates a spokesperson from Chrysler, over 74 complaints have been received by them which is why the automaker is continuing its investigation into the problem however; thankfully there are no reports of any injuries. The people who have made complaints has said that the ball joint became separated while only traveling at 20mph, but reports have come in from the government that some people have reported the joint separating while doing speed of 40mph, one driver was even traveling at 75mph.

This is not the foist time that the Jeep Liberty has faced trouble, back in August 2006 over 800,000 of the SUV’s were recalled.

Source – Associated Press

Beijing 2008 update: Nissan shows off Teana and XV

It was late last year at the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show when Nissan decided to show of their new Intima concept. The concept was large in size and was a front wheel drive, and if you can remember that far back you will see that it was going to become the new Teana as well as the Teana XV which is a luxury version of the vehicle.

The Intima concept really does show up in many areas of the new Nissan Teana, like the huge amount of glass being used as well as its windswept front fascia and the cool looking kink at the bottom of the C-pillar. There are a couple of things that Nissan decided to leave out that I think would have looked perfect on the Teana, like the LED headlamps and the flush grille, oh well we can’t have everything.

The engine that will be used to power the two different Teana models will be a 3.5L VQ V6 engine, although they do have some smaller engines the 2.0 and 2.5L, both are four-cylinders which does lack a bit of refinement. If you do get a little bored hearing the sweet sound of the 3.5L VQ V6 engine then just turn up the volume on the BOSE 5.1-channel surround sound system that comes with the Teana, the sound quality as with all Bose systems is truly amazing.

The new Nissan Teana will go on sale late this summer, so best get your order in now.

Source - AutoBlog

Premier4509 new Lamborghini Gallardo aero kit

Premier4509 does superb kits for some great cars such as the Continental GT however the Japanese has left some of the best supercars in the world alone. Well that is until now Premier4509 has now released the Lamborghini Gallardo aero kit, but why would they want to release this aero-kit for a car model that has been replaced.

The new Gallardo LP560-4 is now on the market and debuted last month in Geneva, but that aside the new aero-kit really does look awesome and gives the aero kit for this Lamborghini gives the Gallardo a new lease of life and gives it a whole new look.

The kit consists of a rear spoiler, new front and rear bumpers as well as side skirts. You also get the choice of a stainless steel exhaust tips as well as some sexy rims that are used on their Bentley. When you start to look at this kit once it is on the car you are reminded of the Lamborghini Reventon, well from the front end anyway. The Premier4509 Lamborghini Gallardo aero kit is made from carbon fiber; this keeps the weight down while not losing its strength.

If you do not own a Lamborghini Gallardo then why not check out some of their other kits in their range like the Lamborghini Murcielago, Maserati, Bentley Continental GT as well as the Aston Martin

Source - AutoBlog

Beijing 2008: Porsche Cayenne Turbo S gets more power and torque

We are used to nice amounts of power from Porsche vehicles however; the Cayenne has never produced enough power for the Asian and Eastern European market. It seems as if the drivers in those parts of the world demand more power, and the German automaker has answered this with the launch of the Porsche Cayenne Turbo S, and just to tease us Porsche were showing the powerful SUV at Beijing 2008.

Porsche have given the new Porsche Cayenne Turbo S more power and torque thanks to an update in its management system as well as a new exhaust system. The end result is more horsepower 550HP in fact; all this is handled nicely through the 6-speed Tiptronic S gearbox. Have you ever known an SUV to go from 0 to 60 in just 4.7 seconds and reach a top speed of 174MPH. With all that extra power it will be a mammoth task to bring the Porsche Cayenne Turbo S to a stop, which is where the new 16-inch ceramic composite brakes comes in, so now you have more engine power as well as braking power.

The new more powerful Porsche Cayenne Turbo S will be launched in August with prices starting at €111,400, as you can see having this extra power has made this SUV more expensive and I am sure that people will pay the little extra.

Source - AutoBlog

BMW Motorrad S 1000 RR race bike on sale next year

Many of us have been speculating as to when BMW Motorrad will be releasing their new and much anticipated 1000 RR race bike. Well we can now tell you that BMW are to launch the new motorcycle and will hit our streets next year and has committed to build 1,000 units.

When you look closely at the BMW S 1000 RR bike is a little conventional than other bikes in the BMW Motorrad range. The engine used to power this motorcycle is a 1000cc inline-four and has been transversely mounted between the frame rails and its upside-down front fork. As a result the bike is very compact, so should handle very well on the road and on a race track.

As yet we have no performance figures, but we do know a few things and one of those is that the new race bike will use traction control. The bike should also be light as the carbon fiber has been used extensively throughout the design of the bike.

Looking at these couple of pictures of the BMW Motorrad S 1000 RR race bike in action on the road, it looks so cool in black I am reminded of the old TV series StreetHawk, not sure if it will be as fast though.

Source – AutoBlog

Official: New Opel Vauxhall Insignia to hit UK showroom this October

Last month we showed you a teaser image of the new Opel Insignia, ok we did not give you much to go on but thankfully we have a few more great shots of this new sedan. This new vehicle will be aimed at the Ford Mondeo and Mazda6 market and is to replace the old Vectra; there are also rumors that the new Opel Insignia could replace the Saturn in the U.S.

The new Insignia really does put the old Vectra to shame; while the new Insignia will be badged as an Opel in Europe in the UK it will be badged as a Vauxhall. The new car is not only sleeker than the old Vectra but also has a more muscular stance; I think I could actually be looking at the best car that Opel/Vauxhall has ever built.

The old V-Bar that we are used to seeing on Vauxhall’s has now gone, in its place is a wider grille that has a couple of air intake ducts which shows of Vauxhall’s new logo. This new car is 21cm longer and 5cm wider than the old vectra and as the new Insignia has 35mm on its wheelbase there is more legroom for passengers.

The Vauxhall Insignia comes in three variations, Sedan, Hatchback and an estate (wagon). There will be a choice of four gasoline engines and three diesels. Expect to see the new Insignia in UK showroom this October.

Source - AutoBlog