Porsche's 2011 Boxster Takes Its Top Off

Motor Authority - blog Tag: Chicago Auto Show

  • V6-powered TSX joins Acura’s 2010 lineup

    V6-powered TSX joins Acura’s 2010 lineup July 28th, 2009 By Viknesh Vijayenthiran Viknesh Vijayenthiran, Author, July 28th, 2009 Viknesh Vijayenthiran 7 Comments

    V6-powered TSX joins Acura’s 2010 lineup Acura teased us back at February’s Chicago Auto Show with a new V6-powered version of its TSX sports sedan, and now the car is finally ready to go sale as part of the automaker’s updated 2010 lineup. The midsize sedan picks up Acura’s familiar 3.5L V6 from its TL and RL siblings, which in the TSX is rated at 280hp (209kW).

    To handle the extra power, the car has also been updated with stiffer suspension and new control setting for Acura's Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic transmission with F1-style paddle shifters. The V6 TSX also sports unique five-spoke 18in aluminum wheels shod with Michelin Pilot all-season tires.
    ... Acura teased us back at February’s Chicago Auto Show with a new V6-powered version of its TSX sports sedan, and now the car is finally ready to go sale as part of the automaker’s updated 2010 lineup. The midsize sedan picks up Acura’s familiar 3.5L V6 from its TL and RL siblings, which in the TSX is rated at 280hp (209kW). To handle the extra power, the car has also been updated with stiffer suspension and new control setting for Acura's Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic transmission with F1-style paddle shifters. The V6 TSX also sports unique five-spoke 18in aluminum wheels shod with Michelin Pilot all-season tires. In addition to larger wheels, the V6 TSX is further distinguished from the four-cylinder variant with the use of a slightly revised front fascia and V6 badging. The 3.5L engine meets California's CARB LEV II ULEV emissions certification and delivers an EPA estimated city/highway fuel economy of 18/27mpg. Remaining on sale is the 2.4L four-cylinder version. Producing 201hp and 172lb-ft of torque, the four-cylinder engine comes standard with a 6-speed manual or optional 5-speed automatic. All 2010 TSX models feature a double wishbone front and multilink rear suspension system, while the new V6 model's independent front suspension receives firmer springs and revised calibration for the dual-mode suspension dampers. Like all Acura models, the new TSX features as standard a power moonroof, automatic climate control, a premium seven-speaker sound system with XM Satellite Radio, Bluetooth hands-free and USB and auxiliary ports. Optional goodies include Acura’s Technology Package, which adds satellite navigation, a reversing camera, and a premium sound system.2010 Acura TSX V6 Read More

  • Ford releases new high-res Taurus SHO photos, configurator alongside launch event

    Ford releases new high-res Taurus SHO photos, configurator alongside launch event June 17th, 2009 ByAlex Kaufmann Alex Kaufmann, Author, June 17th, 2009 Alex Kaufmann 2 Comments

    Ford releases new high-res Taurus SHO photos, configurator alongside launch event The 2010 Ford Taurus SHO launch event is currently underway, and driving impressions are still under wraps for a few days yet but Ford has seen fit to let our eyes feast on a new set of high-res photos of the forced-induction family sedan with a mean streak.

    The AWD, twin-turbo 365hp EcoBoost V6 Taurus SHO is set to return to the American market with a vengeance. Few cars can offer the feature set or performance that the big American sedan promises while maintaining a $45,175 price point.

    Despite Ford's mass-market positioning Lincoln, Mercury and even the Germans may get their toes stepped on by this sharp-looking, hard-driving special.... The 2010 Ford Taurus SHO launch event is currently underway, and driving impressions are still under wraps for a few days yet but Ford has seen fit to let our eyes feast on a new set of high-res photos of the forced-induction family sedan with a mean streak. The AWD, twin-turbo 365hp EcoBoost V6 Taurus SHO is set to return to the American market with a vengeance. Few cars can offer the feature set or performance that the big American sedan promises while maintaining a $45,175 price point. Despite Ford's mass-market positioning Lincoln, Mercury and even the Germans may get their toes stepped on by this sharp-looking, hard-driving special. But we won't know for sure if it lives up to its spec sheet for a few days yet. In the mean time, enjoy the photos, and try your hand at building your own on Ford's configurator site.2010 Ford Taurus SHO Read More

  • Nissan prices Cube lineup, starts at $13,990, Krom from $19,360

    Nissan prices Cube lineup, starts at $13,990, Krom from $19,360 February 24th, 2009 ByRalph Hanson Ralph Hanson, Author, February 24th, 2009 Ralph Hanson 3 Comments

    Nissan prices Cube lineup, starts at $13,990, Krom from $19,360 Nissan has announced base pricing for the all-new Cube minicar earlier this month, starting at $13,990. Now it has revealed pricing for the full line, including the special-edition Krom, which starts at $19,360.

    Four variants of the Cube will be sold, dubbed the Cube 1.8, Cube 1.8 S, Cube 1.8 SL, and the Cube 1.8 Krom. In addition, the Cube will also be available with more than 40 individual accessories, ranging from a unique 20-color interior illumination kit and ‘shag carpeting’ instrument panel inserts to aerodynamic body kits and custom 16in aluminum wheels.

    The base Cube's entry level price still gets customers a punchy... Nissan has announced base pricing for the all-new Cube minicar earlier this month, starting at $13,990. Now it has revealed pricing for the full line, including the special-edition Krom, which starts at $19,360. Four variants of the Cube will be sold, dubbed the Cube 1.8, Cube 1.8 S, Cube 1.8 SL, and the Cube 1.8 Krom. In addition, the Cube will also be available with more than 40 individual accessories, ranging from a unique 20-color interior illumination kit and ‘shag carpeting’ instrument panel inserts to aerodynamic body kits and custom 16in aluminum wheels. The base Cube's entry level price still gets customers a punchy 122hp (91kW) 1.8L inline four-cylinder engine that can be paired with a six-speed manual. Stepping up to the 1.8 S, priced at $14,690 with manual six-speed or $15,690 with the optional Xtronic CVT, gets higher trim specifications, while the 1.8SL goes further upmarket still at $16,790. The Krom tops the range with its unique options for a base price of $19,360. The range-topping Krom model is differentiated by a number of unique features including 3-bar chrome grille, 2-bar chrome front bumper grille, fully integrated front and rear fascias, body side sills, unique rear roof spoiler, and exclusive 16in alloys. Inside, the Krom picks up Bluetooth hands-free, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, an upgraded audio system with six speakers and Rockford Fosgate subwoofer, aluminum pedals, and titanium trim accents. Nissan hasn't yet revealed the estimated EPA fuel economy figures for the Cube but says it expects better than 30mpg on the highway from the CVT-equipped model. Given the typical relationship between CVTs, automatics and manuals, very similar figures can be expected from the six-speed unit as well. Read More

  • Hyundai shows off 460hp 4.6L supercharged Tau V8 at Chicago Auto Show

    Hyundai shows off 460hp 4.6L supercharged Tau V8 at Chicago Auto Show February 12th, 2009 By Nelson Ireson Nelson Ireson, Author, February 12th, 2009 Nelson Ireson 4 Comments

    Hyundai shows off 460hp 4.6L supercharged Tau V8 at Chicago Auto Show The Equus large sedan just received a new dose of teasing ahead of its South Korean release later this month, and if it weren't for the 7-series rival's existence, the 4.6L supercharged Tau V8 on display in Chicago might not make much sense.

    Such a beefy engine would definitely enliven the Genesis, maybe even enabling the company to take on the BMW M5, but it doesn't really make sense in light of impending fuel economy and emissions standards. In a big executive sedan, possibly available with a long wheelbase version, however, such an engine does make sense - as BMW has illustrated with its twin-turbo 4.4L V8 and Mercedes-Benz has shown... The Equus large sedan just received a new dose of teasing ahead of its South Korean release later this month, and if it weren't for the 7-series rival's existence, the 4.6L supercharged Tau V8 on display in Chicago might not make much sense. Such a beefy engine would definitely enliven the Genesis, maybe even enabling the company to take on the BMW M5, but it doesn't really make sense in light of impending fuel economy and emissions standards. In a big executive sedan, possibly available with a long wheelbase version, however, such an engine does make sense - as BMW has illustrated with its twin-turbo 4.4L V8 and Mercedes-Benz has shown with its 6.0L V12. No plans exist to bring the Equus to the U.S. as yet, however, so such power-hungry ideations may simply be ruminatory. Earlier talk of supercharged V8s slotting into the Genesis sedan had appeared to stall, but the fact that the engine has really been built and exists in the flesh, however, tilts the tables in favor of its eventually being put into some sort of production. A SEMA concept from last year, built by RKSport, illustrates just what could be possible. For live photos of the engine as it sits in Chicago, head over to Jalopnik.Hyundai Genesis SedanRKSport SEMA Hyundai Genesis Sedan 2008 Read More

  • 2009 Mazda MX-5 makes North American debut at Chicago Auto Show

    2009 Mazda MX-5 makes North American debut at Chicago Auto Show February 12th, 2009 By Nelson Ireson Nelson Ireson, Author, February 12th, 2009 Nelson Ireson 2 Comments

    2009 Mazda MX-5 makes North American debut at Chicago Auto Show Fresh from its de facto split from Ford, Mazda is moving forward with the final touches on its 2009 lineup. Most of the 2009 U.S. range was revealed in mid-2008, but the MX-5 facelift has been kept secret. Today Mazda has let the new car out into the open, with full specs, photos and pricing.

    The new MX-5 gets its power from a 2.0L four-cylinder engine, producing 167hp (124kW), a 1hp gain over the previous model. Redline rises 500rpm to 7,200rpm. New for 2009, six-speed manual models get an Induction Sound Enhancer (ISE). Made up of a series of tuned pipes and a passive resonance membrane, the ISE delivers the engine's natural induction... Fresh from its de facto split from Ford, Mazda is moving forward with the final touches on its 2009 lineup. Most of the 2009 U.S. range was revealed in mid-2008, but the MX-5 facelift has been kept secret. Today Mazda has let the new car out into the open, with full specs, photos and pricing. The new MX-5 gets its power from a 2.0L four-cylinder engine, producing 167hp (124kW), a 1hp gain over the previous model. Redline rises 500rpm to 7,200rpm. New for 2009, six-speed manual models get an Induction Sound Enhancer (ISE). Made up of a series of tuned pipes and a passive resonance membrane, the ISE delivers the engine's natural induction sound to the cowl, just ahead of the windshield, so engine sounds can be delivered at a 'comfortable volume'. The car's transmission also gets upgrades: the new six-speed delivers quicker, lighter, more direct shift feel thanks to a new carbon coating on the 1st through 4th gear synchros and larger diameter syncrhos on 3rd and 4th gear. Sixth gear is also slightly taller (0.787:1 vs. 0.832:1) for improved fuel economy and more relaxed highway cruising. Handling is also improved by way of relocated ball joints on the front suspension that lower the car's roll center by about an inch. Damping has also been completely re-tuned on both the standard suspension and the Bilstein-equipped suspension package. The optional traction control and stability control systems have also been thoroughly re-tuned to be less intrusive during sporty driving. Taken together, Mazda's ethos of 'Jinba ittai' (horse-and-rider-as-one) driving sensation grows further. "The MX-5 Miata has been true to Mazda's Zoom-Zoom philosophy since rolling off the assembly line 20 years ago," said Tim Barnes, director of product development for Mazda. Other updates include a revised front fascia with the 'smiling' face common to the new 2010 Mazda3 and other new Mazda models. The outside gets a range of new paint colors: Competition Yellow and Liquid Silver Metallic. As with the previous car, both folding soft top and power retractable hardtop (PRHT) versions will be available. Inside, the seat shape has been refined for better lower-body comfort, while the backrest still delivers body-hugging lateral support for sporty driving. Two new interior color schemes are also available: Dune Beige Leather and Havana Brown Leather. The center console has been redesigned for more flexible storage and, and better comfort, with a padded armrest now residing behind the shifter. New standard features have also been added, including an auxiliary-audio input jack and a CD player with MP3/WMA playback capability. Touring models now include an auto dimming rearview mirror with Homelink, premium finish on the instrument panel and a trip computer sporting average MPG and ambient temperature displays. The top Grand Touring model adds automatic air conditioning, leather-wrapped hand brake and 5-way adjustable seat heaters. Sales are expected to begin soon now that the car has been unveiled. Pricing starts at $21,750 for the stripped-down SV model soft-top, $22,750 for the Sport soft-top and $25,390 for the Sport power-retractable hard-top. Prices rise incrementally to the top-of-the-line Grand Touring models, which go for $27,450 (automatic transmission) in soft-top guise and $29,250 (again, auto-box) in PRHT trim.2010 Mazda MX-5 facelift2009 Mazda MX-5 U.S. variant Read More

  • Lexus releases F-Sport Performance Accessories for GS and IS Convertible

    Lexus releases F-Sport Performance Accessories for GS and IS Convertible February 11th, 2009 ByJames Martinez James Martinez, Author, February 11th, 2009 James Martinez 2 Comments

    Lexus releases F-Sport Performance Accessories for GS and IS Convertible Lexus announced at today’s Chicago Auto Show that it will expand its F-Sport Performance Accessories line to include parts for the GS sedan, IS AWD, and the all-new IS C convertible. Previously the performance range was only applicable for the IS 250 and IS 350 sedans but Lexus has always maintained that parts would eventually be developed for other vehicles in its lineup.

    The new GS, IS AWD and IS C F-Sport accessories will include performance enhancing parts such as forged alloy wheels, brake upgrades, suspension systems, air intake, exhaust systems and more. The parts were developed with help from Toyota Racing Development (TRD)... Lexus announced at today’s Chicago Auto Show that it will expand its F-Sport Performance Accessories line to include parts for the GS sedan, IS AWD, and the all-new IS C convertible. Previously the performance range was only applicable for the IS 250 and IS 350 sedans but Lexus has always maintained that parts would eventually be developed for other vehicles in its lineup. The new GS, IS AWD and IS C F-Sport accessories will include performance enhancing parts such as forged alloy wheels, brake upgrades, suspension systems, air intake, exhaust systems and more. The parts were developed with help from Toyota Racing Development (TRD) and will be available at North American Lexus showrooms from June 1. The new range includes 18 and 19in forged alloy wheels designed in a dark graphite finish, six-piston fixed calipers and drilled cast-iron rotors, braided stainless-steel brake lines, sports pads, and a new shock absorber and suspension spring set. The shock absorbers and springs were co-developed with Bilstein and provide a firmer ride, increased stability and reduced body roll. Body roll and chassis flex is further reduced with the adoption of the sway bars and a chassis brace. Engine performance is lifted with a new sports exhaust and intake system consisting of stainless-steel mufflers and double-wall exhaust tips and high-flow filters. Other pieces include a carbon-fiber engine cover, a performance clutch for manual models, as well as a quick-shift gearstick that decreases shift throw by approximately 35%.Lexus F-Sport Performance Accessories range for GS, IS, and IS Convertible Read More

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