Lexus Rocks the F-Sports at SEMA 2009

Motor Authority - blog Category: 2008

  • Spy Shots: New Details On Lamborghini's Murcielago Replacement

    Spy Shots: New Details On Lamborghini's Murcielago Replacement September 3rd, 2009 By Viknesh Vijayenthiran's avatar Viknesh Vijayenthiran, Author, September 3rd, 2009 Viknesh Vijayenthiran 12 Comments

    Spy Shots: New Details On Lamborghini's Murcielago Replacement

    Lamborghini recently launched its new LP670-4 SV, a car many believe to be the final evolution of the Murcielago platform--though a Reventon Roadster is also rumored to be in the works--so it’s not surprising to see test-mules for the car’s replacement lurking around the streets of Sant'Agata and Germany’s Nurburgring. This new Lamborghini will have some tough competition when it arrives as there are new supercar models in the works at rival brands Ferrari, McLaren, and Aston Martin.

    While it’s still too early to speculate on the final specs, there are several crucial details we can gather from recent spy shots, as...

    Lamborghini recently launched its new LP670-4 SV, a car many believe to be the final evolution of the Murcielago platform--though a Reventon Roadster is also rumored to be in the works--so it’s not surprising to see test-mules for the car’s replacement lurking around the streets of Sant'Agata and Germany’s Nurburgring. This new Lamborghini will have some tough competition when it arrives as there are new supercar models in the works at rival brands Ferrari, McLaren, and Aston Martin. While it’s still too early to speculate on the final specs, there are several crucial details we can gather from recent spy shots, as well as new reports coming out of Europe. One of the biggest changes over the outgoing Murcielago will be the adoption of the Audi R8’s aluminum spaceframe chassis as well as a carbon-fiber bodyshell. This means that the new model will retain the Murcielago’s mid-engine layout but be much lighter. According to previous reports, its wheelbase will be similar in length to the Murcielago but its overhangs, both front and rear, will be much shorter. Furthermore, as evidenced by the extended fender flares in these spy shots, it will feature a wider track. Mounted to each wheel of the test-mule is a RoaDyn torque sensor used to monitor the different forces and torque levels exerted on a specific wheel at different speeds. The data gathered can help engineers work out varying grip and traction levels in an effort to fine tune the vehicle’s all-wheel drive and suspension settings, plus ride characteristics. A big-cube V-12 engine will likely remain but the addition of direct injection technology should improve fuel-efficiency and power levels across the rev-range. In this way, engineers will be able to improve performance without having to boost power, the end result of which will be a much easier to drive Lamborghini flagship. The 670 horsepower and 487 pound-feet of torque developed by the latest Murcielago LP670-4 SV gives us a rough estimate as to what to expect. A dual-clutch transmission may also be offered to help transfer power to the four wheels. This may also be the first Lamborghini to be fitted with a hybrid powertrain, as well as fuel-saving engine stop-start and brake-energy regeneration technologies. CEO Stephan Winkelmann has already hinted at a 2015 launch for a hybrid Lamborghini and the new supercar’s expected 2012 release date puts it right on target to be the first green Lambo. [AutoExpress] Read More

  • Report: Lexus to tackle 1-series in Europe with new hatchback

    Report: Lexus to tackle 1-series in Europe with new hatchback August 6th, 2009 ByAlex Kaufmann Alex Kaufmann, Author, August 6th, 2009 Alex Kaufmann 12 Comments

    Report: Lexus to tackle 1-series in Europe with new hatchback Lexus is unlikely to launch a sub-$30,000 model in the U.S. but that doesn’t mean it won’t develop a new entry-level model for other markets. One possibility is Europe, where small cars like BMW’s 1-series and the Audi A3 sell in substantial numbers, and according to a new report Lexus will have a competitor for its German rivals as early as next year.

    Set for a possible production debut at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show, the new hatch would do battle at the entry-level end of the market, potentially leaving room for the rumored IS-based hybrid also headed to Europe in the next several years. The latest info, from Edmunds,... Lexus is unlikely to launch a sub-$30,000 model in the U.S. but that doesn’t mean it won’t develop a new entry-level model for other markets. One possibility is Europe, where small cars like BMW’s 1-series and the Audi A3 sell in substantial numbers, and according to a new report Lexus will have a competitor for its German rivals as early as next year. Set for a possible production debut at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show, the new hatch would do battle at the entry-level end of the market, potentially leaving room for the rumored IS-based hybrid also headed to Europe in the next several years. The latest info, from Edmunds, follows along the lines of several earlier reports of a coming entry-level Lexus. Toyota exec Tokuichi Uranishi has previously revealed that Lexus could develop a new entry-level model for Europe to help reach its European sales target of 150,000 vehicles by 2015 – information that was backed last year by Lexus’ Australian chief John Roca. Britain's Top Gear reported in May that Lexus will have a concept version of its 1-series rival on show at September’s Frankfurt Motor Show, ahead of its market launch next year. One important difference between the two reports, however, is that the previous report pegs the new Lexus as a dedicated hybrid based on the 2010 Toyota Prius. The latest news reveals no details of the car, but neither does it mention plans for a hybrid. Designed to compete with Germany’s highly efficient four-cylinder diesel lineup, the new car will be a compact hatchback with FWD and be priced cheaper than the current Lexus IS 220D. The aforementioned Lexus IS hybrid also thought to be under consideration for Europe would likely slot it somewhat above the entry-level IS models, doing battle instead with the competition's V-6 diesels. Read More

  • More details on the next-gen BMW 3-series

    More details on the next-gen BMW 3-series August 4th, 2009 ByAlex Kaufmann Alex Kaufmann, Author, August 4th, 2009 Alex Kaufmann 19 Comments

    More details on the next-gen BMW 3-series The current E90 BMW 3-series has been on the market since 2005, so it's only fitting that details about the next-gen model are beginning to circulate. Most agree that the next model will feature styling lifted, at least in part, from the Concept CS, though also expect to see a healthy dose of the new corporate styling debuted on the latest 7-series.

    Due in 2012, the next BMW 3-series will pay special attention to efficiency and it will achieve that goal through extensive use of BMW's EfficientDynamics technology. Low drag aerodynamics, smaller engines, and high-tech electronics will combine to make the next 3-series a step above the... The current E90 BMW 3-series has been on the market since 2005, so it's only fitting that details about the next-gen model are beginning to circulate. Most agree that the next model will feature styling lifted, at least in part, from the Concept CS, though also expect to see a healthy dose of the new corporate styling debuted on the latest 7-series. Due in 2012, the next BMW 3-series will pay special attention to efficiency and it will achieve that goal through extensive use of BMW's EfficientDynamics technology. Low drag aerodynamics, smaller engines, and high-tech electronics will combine to make the next 3-series a step above the current car. Aesthetically, designers will attempt to address criticisms of the current car's awkward styling and lack of interior space. The bonnet will likely sit much higher than on the current model to improve pedestrian safety, while the sides will be marked with a prominent character line and high beltline. Proportions will remain much the same as the current model but weight will be reduced thanks to the increased use of aluminum and other advanced materials in its construction. A huge change for the 2012 car could be the addition of three-cylinder engines to the lineup, according to Autocar. Though these wouldn't likely be seen in the U.S. during the first half of the next 3-series model life, they could eventually make their way across the pond if fuel efficiency and emissions regulations continue to tighten past 2016. With a single turbo and 1.5L of displacement - effectively half of the current twin-turbo inline six-cylinder engine - the cars would be good for anywhere from 150-170hp and 150-220lb-ft of torque, with the gasoline models weighing in lower on the torque scale than the diesel models. Paired with an ultra-efficient 8-speed transmission and more efficient auxiliary systems such as heating and cooling, the next-gen 3-series is expected to deliver some seriously impressive economy. One of the new advanced EfficientDynamics technologies to make its way into the next 3-series will be a so-called 'air curtain'. Using a special series of ducts and vents, the system directs air in a manner such that it slips neatly over the wheels, which are normally an area of high turbulence, and therefore energy-sapping drag. In addition to making the car more efficient overall, BMW is looking to make the next 3-series less expensive to build and therefore to buy as it aims for larger volumes. Whether that will mean compromises in terms of total feature set or simply a lower-end range of models to entice entry-level luxury buyers is not clear, but pushing the 3-series so far down-market could step on the toes of the 1-series range and any future city cars coming from the Project i initiative. Finally, as yet another measure to enhance efficiency while still delivering a BMW driving experience, expect to see the hybrid technology debuting on the X6 and 7-series to eventually make its way to the 3-series, albeit in somewhat reduced form. This technology will likely be especially targeted at U.S. buyers, since even by the car's mid-cycle revamp in 2016, there isn't likely to be widespread adoption of diesel-engined cars. Of course, all of these details are still speculative at this point, but it's clear that BMW is pushing its mainstream offerings in a more efficient direction while still trying to maintain their engaging, driver-focused character. It is a difficult balancing act, but one that enthusiasts will enjoy seeing played out over the years to come. Read More

  • Elite unveils hardcore, lightweight LMV/R Aston Martin Vantage

    Elite unveils hardcore, lightweight LMV/R Aston Martin Vantage August 4th, 2009 ByKenneth Hall Kenneth Hall, Author, August 4th, 2009 Kenneth Hall 4 Comments

    Elite unveils hardcore, lightweight LMV/R Aston Martin Vantage There's no shortage of customized or modified Aston Martins, Ferraris, Lamborghinis and Porsches, but few go as all-out toward pure, unadulterated speed as the Elite LMV/R. Comparing its creation to Lamborghini's Superleggera cars or Ferrari's Scuderia and Stradale offerings, the Elite LMV/R, based on Aston Martin's Vantage, promises real performance through extensive modification.

    Named for Aston's history at Le Mans (the LMV/R stands for Le Mans Vintage Racer), the car is clearly aspiring toward streetable trackworthiness. The main change is a complete carbon fiber body kit, including front and rear bumper covers, canards, splitter, side... There's no shortage of customized or modified Aston Martins, Ferraris, Lamborghinis and Porsches, but few go as all-out toward pure, unadulterated speed as the Elite LMV/R. Comparing its creation to Lamborghini's Superleggera cars or Ferrari's Scuderia and Stradale offerings, the Elite LMV/R, based on Aston Martin's Vantage, promises real performance through extensive modification. Named for Aston's history at Le Mans (the LMV/R stands for Le Mans Vintage Racer), the car is clearly aspiring toward streetable trackworthiness. The main change is a complete carbon fiber body kit, including front and rear bumper covers, canards, splitter, side skirts, 2in wider front and rear fenders, rear quarter panel extensions, trunk lid, rear wing and rear diffuser. That's a lot of carbon fiber - but it doesn't stop there. Inside the engine bay and cockpit there's a full carbon fiber appearance treatment as well. Alcantara upholstery gives a sporting appearance where carbon fiber isn't appropriate, and a serial numbered plaque marks each LMV/R as one of just 30 very special Aston Martins. Further performance enhancements are made with lowering springs, a big brake kit, revised exhaust system, and 20in wheels and tires to match the wider body kit. The LMV/R will be assembled in Florida at Elite's workshop, based on the 2010 Aston Martin Vantage. Pricing for the exclusive, hardcore Vantage starts at $173,000, though customization and additional options from Elite and Aston Martin can drive the package price higher. Cars can be purchased through Elite's exclusive distributor, Exotica Motorsports. Read More

  • Lotus USA now offering supercharger kits for standard Elise, Exige

    Lotus USA now offering supercharger kits for standard Elise, Exige August 3rd, 2009 By Nelson Ireson Nelson Ireson, Author, August 3rd, 2009 Nelson Ireson 4 Comments

    Lotus USA now offering supercharger kits for standard Elise, Exige The power-to-lightness ratio of the naturally-aspirated Lotus Elise and Exige models has never been found lacking, being some of the most competent street/track cars available today. But for those that would like a little more grunt with their grace, Lotus Cars USA is now offering the same kit available on the Lotus Elise SC as a standalone upgrade for existing Elise and Exige owners.

    The kit uses the same supercharger and integrated intake manifold as the production Elise SC, and can be installed on any Elise or Exige with the Toyota 2ZZ-GE engine. Power output is increased from the standard 189hp to 218hp when the kit is applied in... The power-to-lightness ratio of the naturally-aspirated Lotus Elise and Exige models has never been found lacking, being some of the most competent street/track cars available today. But for those that would like a little more grunt with their grace, Lotus Cars USA is now offering the same kit available on the Lotus Elise SC as a standalone upgrade for existing Elise and Exige owners. The kit uses the same supercharger and integrated intake manifold as the production Elise SC, and can be installed on any Elise or Exige with the Toyota 2ZZ-GE engine. Power output is increased from the standard 189hp to 218hp when the kit is applied in conjunction with new high-flow fuel injectors and a reprogrammed ECU. Fitting the extra power bits into the Elise's already tight mid-engine bay is no doubt a feat of engineering, so the availability of the factory-engineered piece will be a welcome addition to many Lotus-filled garages. More than just raw power, however, the upgrade lifts torque output to 155lb-ft and moves the torque peak down to a much more available and enjoyable 5,000rpm from the 6,800rpm naturally-aspirated peak. That will give the Elise and Exige much more stoplight potential as well as better part-throttle response in real-world driving conditions. “Lotus Elise and Exige owners are genuine driving enthusiasts and that’s what has attracted them to Lotus cars in the first place,” said Lotus Cars USA Director of Operations Arnie Johnson. “They will fully appreciate the dramatically enhanced driving character these Lotus Supercharger Kits will bring their vehicles and the peace of mind from a fully warranted, factory engineered kit.” Pricing hasn't been released yet, but the kit is available for purchase and installation at all U.S. and Canadian authorized Lotus dealers. Read More

  • Video: Valentino Balboni discusses Lamborghini Gallardo LP 550-2

    Video: Valentino Balboni discusses Lamborghini Gallardo LP 550-2 July 31st, 2009 By Nelson Ireson Nelson Ireson, Author, July 31st, 2009 Nelson Ireson 3 Comments

    Video: Valentino Balboni discusses Lamborghini Gallardo LP 550-2 The RWD Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 Valentino Balboni was just officially revealed a month ago, and now the company has released a video documenting Balboni's involvement with and influence on the car's design process, and how it reflects his 40 years of test-driving experience.

    At just shy of five minutes long, the video doesn't go into tremendous depth but with cut scenes of the car in serious sideways action and Valentino Balboni himself explaining the car, it adds a level of authenticity and perspective that might otherwise be lacking in the two-wheel drive Gallardo's image.

    But enough talk. Watch it for yourself, and... The RWD Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 Valentino Balboni was just officially revealed a month ago, and now the company has released a video documenting Balboni's involvement with and influence on the car's design process, and how it reflects his 40 years of test-driving experience. At just shy of five minutes long, the video doesn't go into tremendous depth but with cut scenes of the car in serious sideways action and Valentino Balboni himself explaining the car, it adds a level of authenticity and perspective that might otherwise be lacking in the two-wheel drive Gallardo's image. But enough talk. Watch it for yourself, and enjoy.Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 Read More

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