2007 Lancia Ypsilon FL Pictures

The first unmasked pictures of Lancia’s revised hatchback have surfaced on the net. Due to be presented at the upcoming Paris International Motor Show, the 2007 Yspilon has received a mild exterior facelift which includes new front and rear bumpers, a redesigned front mask with a honeymesh grille and new rear light crystal design. Although it is said that there will be no significant changes in the interior, we’ll have to wait for the official press release to be sure.

Technorati: Lancia+Ypsilon, 2007, facelift, Paris+International+Motor+Show, 2006, autos, auto+news, automobile, cars, automotive, vehicles

2007 Bentley Arnage: More power & new 6speed auto

Bentley presented it's refreshed 2007 Arnage range which, finally, gets a brand new 6speed ZF automatic transmission (the previous model had a 4speed auto) and an upgraded engine range which benefit from a new low inertia turbocharger and roller tappet system. Depending on the model, Arnage's 6.75-litre V8 engine now develops up to 500Hp. The powertrain changes are complemented by subtle exterior, interior and under-bonnet design cues. The new 2007 Model Year Bentley Arnage range will go on sale from September 2006.

Press release

Powertrain: In the performance-oriented Arnage T model, the revised twin-turbocharged V8 engine produces 500Hp and 1000Nm of torque -11% increase in power and 14% increase in torque over the outgoing model. In the Arnage R and RL models the new engine is boosted from 400 to 450bhp, while torque climbs from 835 to 875Nm. All versions are twinned with a new six-speed ZF automatic transmission

Chassis: Another important development for the 2007 Model Year Arnage range is the separation of the sports suspension and sports gearbox settings, allowing the driver to select their preference for each system independently -via a Sport button on the dashboard for the suspension and by positioning the gearlever for the transmission's Sport mode. Also, a new Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) logic system improves dynamic response and handling with less intrusive intervention when a reduction in grip is detected.

Exterior: The performance intent of the Arnage T is underlined by the addition of a new dark finish to its front radiator and bumper grilles. A standardised bright chrome finish is applied to the R and RL grilles while Bentley B badges have been applied to the D-pillars on all models.

Interior: Cabin updates include a new hide-trimmed gearlever, chrome gearlever bezel, and new Thin Film Technology driver information panel to display more comprehensive and clearly accessible information. The Arnage RL model receives additional standard specification including a rear centre armrest bottle cooler, veneered rear centre cushion box, rear rSAP Bluetooth master telephone system and reversing camera (US, EU, Australia and New Zealand markets only). Finally, driver ergonomics are improved thanks to 25mm increase in length of steering column and in vertical steering wheel adjustment.

Technorati Tags: Bentley+Arnage, 2007, autos, auto+news, automobile, cars, automotive, vehicles, press+release

Tuning News: STARTECH 2007 Dodge Caliber

Tuning specialist Startech revealed it's first interpretation of Dodge's new 2007 Caliber. As with all Startech versions, the Caliber can benefit from an upgraded suspension and engine kit (the latter is available only for the diesel model for now), and a variety of exterior and interior accessories.

Press Release

40Hp+ for the Dodge Caliber 2.0 CRD: The STARTECH SD3 performance kit consists of a plug-and-play control module that can be installed by any authorized Chrysler/Jeep/Dodge dealer in half an hour. With STARTECH SD3 tuning peak power output of the 2.0-liter common-rail four cylinder engine with Diesel particulate filter jumps from standard 140 hp / 103 kW to 180 hp / 132 kW at 4,000 rpm. Even more important is the increase in peak torque from 310 Nm to 360 Nm between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm. Sprint time from 0-100 km/h (62mph) is shortened from 9.3 to 8.6 seconds while top speed of the tuned model increases to 201 km/h (125mph).

Exhaust: For all engine variants STARTECH will soon offer a stainless-steel sport rear muffler with four tailpipes. It lends the Caliber not only a more striking rear appearance but also a more powerful exhaust note.

Suspension: STARTECH offers more driving fun in the form of custom-tailored modifications to the suspension of the Dodge. Progressive-rate springs precision-calibrated to the standard shocks lower the ride height of the vehicle by some 30 millimeters.

Wheels: STARTECH offers various custom-tailored STARTECH Monostar tire/wheel combinations with 19- and 20-inch diameters for the Caliber. The palette of suitable Monostar IV five-spoke wheels ranges from size 8.5Jx19 all around with tires up to 245/40 R 19 in size to an especially exclusive version with size 9Jx20 wheels and 245/35 R 20 tires.

Bodykit: To add more sporty emphasis to the characteristic appearance of the Dodge Caliber the STARTECH designers have developed an aerodynamic-enhancement kit that'll be introduced shortly.

Interior: The STARTECH program also offers numerous customization options for the interiors of all Caliber models including polished aluminum for door-lock pins, shifter and foot pedals. Also available are high-quality floor mats with STARTECH signet.

Technorati: Dodge+Caliber, Startech, diesel, tuning+news, accessories, 2007, autos, auto+news, automobile, cars, automotive, vehicles

Exclusive Paris Sneak Peak: 2007 Nissan Qashqai Production model Teaser Video

Get a first sneak peak at Nissan's 2007 Qashqai production model that will be officially unveiled at the 2006 Paris Motor Show. According to the teaser video, Nissan will release the preliminary photos and specs on September 6th.

Based on the homonymous concept which was revealed at the 2004 Geneva Motor Show, the Qashqai is a compact crossover that combines characteristics from various categories (C-segment hatchback models like the VW Golf /Rabbit, SUV's and MPV's). If that doesn't sound like a perfect match for the Dodge Caliber I wonder what does.

Technorati: Nissan+Qashqai, Paris+International+Motor+Show, 2006, crossover, video, clips, teaser, 2007, autos, auto+news, automobile, cars, automotive

Green day: Nissan Hybrid Concept at the 2006 IAA

Aside Paris, there's another show going around at this time of the year: the 61st International Motor Show (IAA) for Commercial Vehicles (CV) in Hanover, Germany (21-28 September). As with the car industry, Hybrids seem to be the hip here too. So apart from the World Premiere of the all-new 2007 Cabstar light duty truck and a new range of engines on the new Atleon light truck, plus enhancements to Primastar and Interstar, Nissan will also display a hybrid-powered Cabstar concept vehicle.

The concept features a parallel hybrid powertrain (co-developed by Nissan and ZF) with a powerful electric motor (eMotor powered by an ion-lithium battery) supplementing the Cabstar's conventional diesel engine, a 3.0 litre common-rail diesel developing 150PS (110kW). Besides emitting less pollution, the Hybrid Cabstar is expected to cut fuel bills by up to 30 per cent.

Technorati Tags: Hybrids, Nissan+Cabstar, 2007, Commercial+Vehicles, Trucks, ecology, ZF, IAA, 2006, International+Motor+Show, Hanover, CV, Concept, pictures, autos, auto+news, automobile, cars, automotive, electric+vehicles

Transformers Exclusive Update: Bumblebee revealed on Video plus pictures from the Pontiac Solstice Jazz

Fed up with all the Bumblebee pics that have been going around the past few months? Think its time that we saw the 2008 Chevy Camaro based character in live action? If so, then click on the follwing video and get a first live glimpse of Autobot's "yellow menace". Also, after the video clip, take a look at a new set of pictures concerning Bumblebee and more importantly, the Pont iac Solstice based Jazz, that have submerged on the net.

Technorati: Transformers, Movies, Bumblebee, Chevrolet+Camaro, Autobots, Deceptecons, Jazz, Pontiac+Solstice, Entertainment, Toys, gadgets, autos, auto+news, automobile, cars, automotive, vehicles

Form Russia With Love: Infiniti goes "perestroika"

Nissan Group steps up its offensive global expansion strategy by introducing it's luxury car brand, Infiniti, in the Russian market at the Moscow International Motor Show. That's a good two years ahead of the planned European introduction of Infiniti -the wonders of capitalism ...

Launched in the US and Canada in 1989, Infiniti is currently sold across North America, Taiwan, Korea and the Middle East. Further launches of the Infiniti brand include two other, consumer hungry nations, China and Ukraine (both in 2007).

Back to Infiniti's Russian expedition, the initial line of vehicles, which go on sale this fall, includes the FX SUV and the M sedan, both offered in 3.5 V6 and 4.5 V8 versions and available at dealerships in Moscow and St Petersburg. Infiniti also disclosed its future Russian product line-up including the G35 sport sedan and QX56 full-size SUV and provided a hint at the future with the Infiniti Coupe Concept.

European Headquarters Announcement: During the press conference for the introduction of the mark, the Japanese luxury carmaker also announced the establishment of a regional headquarters for Infiniti Europe in Rolle, Vaud canton in Switzerland.

Technorati: Infiniti, Nissan, Russia, business+news, Moscow+International+Motor+Show, autos, auto+news, automobile, cars, automotive,

Say Ciao to all new Hybrid Formula Racing Car From Italy

Italian racing specialist's N.Technology S.p.a. and Tatuus s.r.l. have signed a deal for producing a new single-seater Formula racing car called the N.T07 that's been conceived to be fitted with a hybrid engine system. The new single-seater car will have a 2-litre, 4-cylinder, 250-bhp engine, gearbox and clutch controls on the steering wheel. And this Italian formula racing car isn't yet another concept destined to travel from show to show but it will actually prove itself on the racing grid!

From the next 2007 season the Formula N.T07 cars will compete in a new international series within the European rounds of the FIA World Touring Car Championship. Eurosport will grant TV production and broadcasting to the events of the international series. As for what each company will do, Tatuus will take care of building N.Technology's latest idea. Tatuus will also provide technical assistance and spare parts service to the teams involved in the new series.

WHO IS WHO

Tatuus: Founded by Artico Sandona, Tatuus has been involved in car racing since 1980. The Italian company does not only designs, builds and sells racing cars but it also competes directly with its own team (F.Panda, Alfa Boxer, F.3, F. Renault and the F. Ford 2000 which debuted in the US Championship in 1997)

N.Technology: Three main steps characterized N.Technology's story. Nordauto Squdra Corse was born in 1991 and converged into Nordauto Engineering in 1994. In 2001 N.Technology was established following big successes obtained all around Europe. During all these years, easy "team" concept moved to the one of "avant-garde technical and operating structure able to produce and manage racing cars and sporting programmes".

Among others, N.technology currently manages Alfa Romeo's FIA World Touring Car Championship campaign (WTCC) with the Alfa 156 racer. Previously, N.Technology also managed Fiat Group's diverse racing and rally programmes. Although the Italian car maker held a minority stake in N.technology, both their "racing" relationship and shareholding was dissolved earlier this year.

Technorati Tags: Hybrid, N.T07, Tatuus, N.Technology, FIA, WTCC, Italy, Formula, racing+news, pictures, autos, auto+news, automobile, cars, automotive

Darth Vader-Mobile: The Mercedes S-Class based, ASMA Eagle 1

If the dark lord of the Universe ever wanted a car I'd bet a gazillion bucks that this dazzling German "frauline" would captivate his dreams for ever. For Dark Vader, the Maybach Exelero (see any resemblance ?) wouldn't even comes close to the ASMA designed Eagle 1 in terms of sheer beauty. For the rest of us, Asma's all new interpretation of the new Mercedes S-Class seems to have the same affect as, how can put it, mm... a bad asthma ? via: Autoblog.com

Technorati: ASMA+Eagle+1, Mercedes+S-Class, tuning, , pictures, autos, auto+news, automobile, cars, automotive

Transformers Update: Holly Autobots, Jazz with Pontiac Solstice uniform revealed!

As reported a few days ago from Carscoop, Autobot character Jazz in the upcoming Transformer Movie will not be based on the classic Martini Porsche 935 Turbo that most of us knew in the 80's, but instead it will wear a Pontiac Solstice "costume". And what better proof of that is a picture from the actual movie set ?

Thanks to Latinoreview which released a series of pictures during a filming in Los Angeles, we get a first look of Jazz in his Solstice uniform -check out that Fast & The Furious rear spoiler, and not only as the set reveals more pictures of Bumblebee (Chevrolet Camaro), Ratchet (rescue vehicle) and Ironhide (Black GMC 4X4 truck). To see more click on this link: LatinoReview - Transformers

Technorati: Transformers, Autobots, Deceptecons, Jazz, Movie, Entertainment, Toys, pictures, autos, auto+news, automobile, cars, automotive

Final Fantasy: Mitsubishi launches the last EVO IX editions, the Lancer EVO IX MR and Lancer EVO Wagon MR

Can this be the "Final Fantasy" of the renowned EVO line up that has taken our hearts since it first came to life in 1992? About a year before the big question mark named EVO X gets unleashed, Mitsubishi released the last versions of the almighty Lancer Evolution IX. Unfortunately, for know at least, the last EVO's will be available only in Japan.

So, what's different? Although maximum power and toque figures are unchanged, thanks to new improvements to the turbocharger and other areas that enhance response, Mitsubishi promises greater dynamic performance in terms of off-the-line acceleration.

The EVO IX MR Sedan also benefits from an upgraded suspension while ride height is lowered by approximately 10 mm (optional on RS). In conjunction with the suspension improvements, the Super AYC system that provides electronic control for the 4WD system has been tuned to a more sporty orientation. Finally both body versions get minor design changes that include a slightly extended front air dam which reduces the flow of air under the car, while reducing air resistance and further reducing front lift.

The EVO IX MR will also be the last model to use the famed 4G63 2L DOHC intercooled turbo engine as the EVO X will get an all new 2.0 Turbo

Versions: The Lancer Evolution IX MR will be available in two grades: the GSR, with a 6-speed manual gearbox and the RS, which has a 5-speed manual gearbox and is stripped down for motorsport competition. The Lancer Evolution Wagon MR also has two grades. The GT is equipped with a 6-speed manual gearbox while the GT-A has a 5-speed automatic gearbox with sports mode to provide flexibility in a wide range of scenarios from easy driving to sport driving.

Technorati: Mitsubihsi+Lancer+Evolution+IX, EVO+X, specifications, MR, Wagon, pictures, autos, auto+news, automobile, cars, automotive, press+release

Run Forester, Run ! Police officer forgets to pull his vehicle's handbrake during a routine stop...

Watch this police officer run like the wind and swear like a "queen" as soon as he realizes that his vehicle has started to roll-back all by itself during a routine stop. The funny thing is that, after he regains control of his vehicle, he returns to the poor fellow he previously stopped and he gives him a ticket for reckless driving! Makes you wonder if those chocolate covered doughnuts have a weird affect on some people's brain doesn't it...

Technorati: Funny, humour, police, video, entertainment, autos, auto+news, automobile, cars, automotive

Toyota announces it's Paris Show Line-Up: 132hp 2007 Yaris TS & the more powerful 2007 Hilux

2007 Yaris TS: Starting from the Yaris TS, Toyota's new sporty hatchback is based on the homonymous prototype and it features an all-new 1.8-litre Dual VVT-i engine developing 132 Hp and a top speed of 194 km/h. Although Toyota hasn't revealed any pictures yet, the production version will remain faithfull to the concept that was previewed at the Geneva Show earlier this year. Besides the bodykit and the new engine, Toyota stated that the TS will also get a retuned suspension. The new Yaris TS will be launched in Europe at the beginning of 2007.

2007 Hilux: According to Toyota, the 2007 Hilux features a powerful new range of diesel engines and styling enhancements. The new engines include a high performance, high torque 3.0-litre D-4D diesel which will help the Hilux compete in the growing leisure pick-up segment of the market. At the same time the current 2.5-litre D-4D diesel engine has been upgraded to develop 120 Hp and 325 Nm of torque. Sales of the more powerful Hilux will start before the end of the year.

Technorati: Toyota+Yaris+TS, Hilux, 2007, diesel, Paris+Motor+Show, autos, auto+news, automobile, cars, automotive, press+release

2007 Honda CR-V: US vs EURO EDITION

CLICK HERE FOR THE OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE: 2007 Honda CR-V

Wondering what's the difference between the US (left-hand photos) and Euro (right-hand photos) 2007 Honda CR-V ? Although there's no official info yet on technical specifications concerning the American edition of Honda's new CR-V, these photos (3/4 front and interior) reveal the aesthetic differences between the two versions.

Starting from the exterior the two models get a different set of alloys & logo badges, the Euro model has bigger mirrors with integrated turning signals while the American CR-V gets coloured turning signals on the front lights. Finally, the Euro spec CR-V features a centre license plate holder. To be honest though, most people won't even notice the exterior differences between the two versions. As for the interior, Honda seems to believe that there was no need for differentiations as the two vehicles share the exact same dash.

Technorati: Honda+CR-V, Paris+Motor+Show, autos, auto+news, automobile, cars, automotive, press+release

Magnum PI: Ferrari 308 GTS vs Dodge Challenger

All I can say is just read Tom Selleck's (aka, Magnum) self-dialogue during the chase! "About the time my hart started to pump again, I realised that whoever was on my tale didn't have enough car to catch me so I started worrying about wrecking the Ferrari. I know its crazy but that's what was going through my head. How could I pay for a total 60.000$ Ferrari ? via: Jalopnik

Technorati: Magnum+PI, Ferrari+308+GTS, Dodge+Challenger, video, entertainment, , autos, auto+news, automobile, cars, automotive

Honda Releases Info on its 2007 CR-V

Although it's kind of strange as official pictures have leaked by the dozen over the net the past few day's, Honda is sticking to its September 1st release date for the 2007 CR-V. Anyway, the Japanese automaker decided to give us a few clues concerning its 3rd generation compact SUV by revealing a few specs, the most important of which concern the engine line-up.

According to Honda, the CR-V will be offered with two engines, a brand new 2.0 petrol and the 140 Hp 2.2 i-CTDi diesel which of course, will probably only be available at the European and Japanese markets. CR-V's new 2.0 i-VTEC petrol engine is based on the 1.8 i-VTEC engine that the new Civic wears, producing 150 Hp/6.200 rpm and 190 Nm/4.200 rpm of torque. Power will be driven to the wheels through a 6speed manual or a 5speed gear automatic. The manual CR-V will sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62mph) in 10,2 sec while the auto will need 2 sec more.

Press Release: The brand-new, third generation CR-V combines SUV practicality with more car-like driving dynamics, sportier styling and a more luxurious, generously equipped interior to take it into premium SUV territory. Uniquely within the sector, it is also available with the advanced Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Collision Mitigation Brake System (CMBS), two cutting-edge technologies that deliver added driver convenience and much enhanced safety.

A brand new 2.0-litre petrol engine, together with the 2.2-litre i-CTDi diesel engine, ensures that the CR-V continues to offer class-leading fuel consumption and performance.

Technorati: Honda+CR-V, Paris+Motor+Show, autos, auto+news, automobile, cars, automotive, press+release

CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL PRESS RELEASE: 2007 HONDA CR-V

CLICK HERE FOR MORE OFFICIAL PICTURES: 2007 HONDA CR-V PICTURES

Transformers Rumors: Jazz to "transform" from a Porsche to a Pontiac Solstice ?

The boyz over at TFW2005 have obtained information that Autobot character, Jazz, will wear a Pontiac Solstice uniform in the upcoming Transformer film. Additionally, the report say's that his snazzy outfit will include the following:

• Grey Body
• Visor over eyes
• Claw like fingers
• Design is similar to Optimus Prime and Bumblebee in that it has exposed gears, similar feet
• Pontiac Solstice
• Front end of the car becomes his chest

I don't know if TWF2005's information is true -although they seem like a reliable source up till now, but to be honest, I'd prefer to see the original Jazz as I remembered him when I was a kid, a Martini Porsche 935 turbo racing car. via: twf2005

Technorati: Transformers, 2007, Movie, entertainment, toys, Jazz, Pontiac+Solstice, Porsche+, 935+turbo, racing+car, autos, auto+news, vehicles, cars, automotive

Funny Video: Woman vs London Taxi Cab

I know that a alot of woman aren't very fond of cars and can't look at the time to completely exit them -especially if there's shopping to be done, but this "gal" went overdrive. What did she do ? Well, let me put it this way: she remembered all of her belongings except one very, very personal... via: TheFashionBeat

Technorati: Video, funny, humor, taxi, autos, auto+news, vehicles, cars, automotive

Crash Video: Mini takes a maxi-beating

During the Mini Challenge support race for the 24 hours of Nurburgring in June, race-driver Tommy Winkelhock got an anti-athletic shove by one of the competing Mini's (the black one) which resulted to a frightening, but nevertheless spectacular series of rollovers. Astonishingly as it may seem, he walked out of his Mini with minor physical injuries but major bruises to his ego... via: Autoblog.com

Technorati Tags: Mini, Mini+Challenge, Nurbugring, video, clip, accident, Race, autos, auto+news, vehicles, cars, automotive

2007 Hyundai Veracruz SUV Picture Update

Oh, boy, those "annoying" camera-phones did it again: they caught the 2007 Hyundai Veracruz with its pant's down... showing off its interior beauties. Too be honest though, I can't say that I’m aroused by the looks of it. Looks too simple, too Korean for me, but hey, who'd expect something different anyway.

In case you've missed it, here's the official Hyundai press release on the 2007 Veracruz plus a few exterior pictures:

The ninth vehicle to join Hyundai's 2007 model year lineup, the midsize Veracruz will be larger than Honda Pilot, have more cargo volume than the full-size Mercedes-Benz GL and offer sleek styling, a car-like ride and premium features.

Veracruz will also feature as standard equipment the Hyundai HideawayTM third-row seat, a simple-to-use 50/50 split fold-into-the-floor seat, offering flexibility for up to seven passengers.

Equipped with a standard 3.8-liter V6 engine and six-speed automatic transmission, Veracruz will offer an unprecedented combination of styling, safety, comfort and convenience including available all-wheel drive, standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC), standard side-airbags, as well as side-curtain airbags for all three rows of passengers. Veracruz will compete primarily with upper midsize crossovers including Honda Pilot, Nissan Murano, Subaru B9 Tribeca and Lexus RX350.

Technorati: Hyundai+Veracruz, SUV, 2007, auto+news, automobile, autos, vehicles, automotive, cars