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Motor Authority - blog Tag: Geneva Motor Show

  • Production MINI Countryman Delayed Until Geneva?

    Production MINI Countryman Delayed Until Geneva? October 26th, 2009 By Nelson Ireson's avatar Nelson Ireson, Author, October 26th, 2009 Nelson Ireson 1 Comment

    Production MINI Countryman Delayed Until Geneva?

    MINI fans have been waiting with a mixed sense of dread and anticipation ever since the 2008 Paris Auto Show where the MINI crossover concept was introduced, but it looks today like that wait may be extended another three months. A new report says that instead of showing up at the 2010 Detroit Auto Show in January--after a delay from the Frankfurt show--the car's debut will be delayed again, this time until  March, 2010 in Geneva.

    Along with the report of the delayed debut comes alleged confirmation that the Countryman name is final. Previous reports have hinted at this name, so it won't be a surprise to many, but MINI has yet to release...

    MINI fans have been waiting with a mixed sense of dread and anticipation ever since the 2008 Paris Auto Show where the MINI crossover concept was introduced, but it looks today like that wait may be extended another three months. A new report says that instead of showing up at the 2010 Detroit Auto Show in January--after a delay from the Frankfurt show--the car's debut will be delayed again, this time until  March, 2010 in Geneva. Along with the report of the delayed debut comes alleged confirmation that the Countryman name is final. Previous reports have hinted at this name, so it won't be a surprise to many, but MINI has yet to release any official statement on the matter. Other tasty tidbits from the new report include an expected "All4"-branded all-wheel drive system for the Countryman, which will be marketed much as BMW's xDrive system or Audi's quattro, potentially opening the door for more MINI applications. Who wouldn't want to see an all-wheel-drive turbocharged, John Cooper Works version of the Coupe or standard hatchback? When the Countryman finally does arrive on the scene in production form, expect it to seat four at about 13 feet in length but with MINI's now-expected handling qualities intact. Powertrains will include both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive variants, though the all-wheel model may not be available at launch. Engines will include the standard 1.6-liter 118-horsepower unit, a 173-horsepower 1.6-liter four, and for Europe at least, a 1.6-liter common-rail diesel rated at 110 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque. [Motoring File via Autoblog] Read More

  • Alfa Romeo MiTo GTA not dead yet, but future still uncertain

    Alfa Romeo MiTo GTA not dead yet, but future still uncertain July 21st, 2009 By Nelson Ireson Nelson Ireson, Author, July 21st, 2009 Nelson Ireson 0 Comments

    Alfa Romeo MiTo GTA not dead yet, but future still uncertain Alfa Romeo hasn't officially announced the MiTo GTA for production yet, but already reports of its demise are making the rounds at enthusiast and news portals. The latest reports indicate the hot-hatch GTA could still see production, but it nothing is certain yet.

    The news comes from an unnamed Alfa Romeo spokesman, according to Autocar, and though nothing solid is known yet, there is a definite desire within Alfa to see the car built.

    The car has been strongly hinted at for production despite only seeing public display as a concept at the Geneva Motor Show. All the way back in June of 2008, Alfa CEO Luca de Meo confirmed the car was... Alfa Romeo hasn't officially announced the MiTo GTA for production yet, but already reports of its demise are making the rounds at enthusiast and news portals. The latest reports indicate the hot-hatch GTA could still see production, but it nothing is certain yet. The news comes from an unnamed Alfa Romeo spokesman, according to Autocar, and though nothing solid is known yet, there is a definite desire within Alfa to see the car built. The car has been strongly hinted at for production despite only seeing public display as a concept at the Geneva Motor Show. All the way back in June of 2008, Alfa CEO Luca de Meo confirmed the car was coming and that it would be powered by a 1.75L turbo four good for 240hp. Since then more details, including an official video of the car, have come to light. Upgrades to the standard MiTo include under-floor aerodynamics enhancements, a revised front suspension with new geometry with aluminum leading arms, and all new bushings for the rear suspension. Alfa Romeo engineers also planned an active suspension management system with advanced damper control. The car had been pegged for a mid-2009 debut, but now it's looking like it will be 2010 at the earliest if it does eventually see production. Until then, check out the video below to see the hot little Euro-hatch in action.Afla Romeo MiTo GTAOfficial release video for Alfa Romeo's new MiTo GTA Read More

  • Mega gallery: Mansory's 1,100hp Vincero Bugatti Veyron

    Mega gallery: Mansory's 1,100hp Vincero Bugatti Veyron July 17th, 2009 By Nelson Ireson Nelson Ireson, Author, July 17th, 2009 Nelson Ireson 8 Comments

    Mega gallery: Mansory's 1,100hp Vincero Bugatti Veyron Customized Bugatti Veyrons are almost as common as the cars themselves, which is to say not common at all. But this particular car, modified by Mansory, is less common than even most other custom Veyrons. In March, at the Geneva Motor Show, the modified Veyron was put on display for the first time and officials from Mansory let loose full details about the car, including its mammoth 1,109hp (827kW) power output. Today, we have a new mega-gallery of photos straight from the company that show off the car in every exquisite, carbon-weave detail.

    Along with the huge power figure is an equally tall torque number: 967lb-ft (1,310Nm). That should... Customized Bugatti Veyrons are almost as common as the cars themselves, which is to say not common at all. But this particular car, modified by Mansory, is less common than even most other custom Veyrons. In March, at the Geneva Motor Show, the modified Veyron was put on display for the first time and officials from Mansory let loose full details about the car, including its mammoth 1,109hp (827kW) power output. Today, we have a new mega-gallery of photos straight from the company that show off the car in every exquisite, carbon-weave detail. Along with the huge power figure is an equally tall torque number: 967lb-ft (1,310Nm). That should be enough to erase a few tenths off the already-world-class mid-2 second 0-60mph (96km/h) time for the Veyron. The extra power comes by way of improved intake and exhaust systems plus attendant engine tuning. Eschewing the popular matte-color trend of late, the Mansory Vincero is pure gloss from stem to stern. Largely blacked out, but with a sprinkling of chrome accents in the grille and a dark chrome treatment along the side of the car across the front fenders and door panels, the Vincero certainly lives up to its name. LED accents in the headlights and fully custom forged wheels finish off the exterior treatment with attention to detail. Inside the car gets a typically Mansory two-tone black and white treatment, though the addition of a woven element makes for a unique touch. Ambient lighting and custom shift paddles on the steering wheel complete the package. An extra dose of naked carbon fiber across the front bonnet and rear engine cover, plus the rear fascia and diffuser gives the Vincero the look of the Sang Noir, though it is not the basis for this custom car. Only 15 of the Sang Noir special-editions were built, however, so it's enough that this car is styled to look somewhat alike. For those that would like to investigate the matter in person, or just happen to have several million unused dollars lying about, the car is on sale exclusively at Prestige Cars in the United Arab Emirates. Bring an extra $1 million in addition to the purchase price of your Veyron, though, because that's what the Vincero upgrades will cost you.Mansory Vincero custom Bugatti Veyron Read More

  • Aston Martin releases new high-res shots of V12 Vantage in action

    Aston Martin releases new high-res shots of V12 Vantage in action July 10th, 2009 ByAlex Kaufmann Alex Kaufmann, Author, July 10th, 2009 Alex Kaufmann 2 Comments

    Aston Martin releases new high-res shots of V12 Vantage in action Aggressive carbon fiber louvres, a bold engine note and the sheer speed of the thing are all that's needed to distinguish the Aston Martin V12 Vantage from its V8 sister. These latest high-res photos help capture all that's changed, and all that's stayed the same, adding to the photos previously released with more detail and action shots.

    Output of the svelte 6.0L V12 is rated at to 510hp (380kW) and 420lb-ft (570Nm) of torque. This is enough to propel the car from 0-100km/h in just 4.2 seconds – 0.1 seconds quicker than the DBS – and allow it to reach a top speed of 305km/h. Drive is sent to the rear wheels via a six speed... Aggressive carbon fiber louvres, a bold engine note and the sheer speed of the thing are all that's needed to distinguish the Aston Martin V12 Vantage from its V8 sister. These latest high-res photos help capture all that's changed, and all that's stayed the same, adding to the photos previously released with more detail and action shots. Output of the svelte 6.0L V12 is rated at to 510hp (380kW) and 420lb-ft (570Nm) of torque. This is enough to propel the car from 0-100km/h in just 4.2 seconds – 0.1 seconds quicker than the DBS – and allow it to reach a top speed of 305km/h. Drive is sent to the rear wheels via a six speed manual gearbox. Designed for the focused driver, numerous components from the standard V8 Vantage were either replaced or enhanced for application in the V12 model. For example, engineers have added a new limited slip differential, a final drive ratio of 3.71:1, and an alloy torque tube with a lightweight carbon-fiber propeller shaft. Engine airflow is improved by an intake bypass that opens up at 5,500rpm, along with a revised induction system and re-profiled inlet ports. The shark-fin hood vents also help get heat from the high-strung powerplant out of the engine bay. The V12 unit is 220lb (100kg) heavier than the V8, but thanks to all the weight saving measures the car’s curb weight has only increased by 110lb (50kg) and checks in at 3,700lb (1,680kg). For full details on the V12 Vantage, check out our release story here.2010 Aston Martin V12 Vantage Read More

  • Aston Martin releases mega-gallery for DBS Volante

    Aston Martin releases mega-gallery for DBS Volante July 8th, 2009 ByKenneth Hall Kenneth Hall, Author, July 8th, 2009 Kenneth Hall 5 Comments

    Aston Martin releases mega-gallery for DBS Volante Few automakers have the pedigree - the panache - of Aston Martin, and even fewer cars can match the elegant DBS. Now Aston Martin has seen fit to add a drop-top version of the DBS, called the Volante.

    The DBS Volante is powered by the same 6.0L V12 engine rated at 510hp (380kW) and 420lb-ft (570Nm) of torque as the hard-top DBS. Top speed in the convertible variant is 191mph (307km/h) and it sprints to 62mph (100km/h) in just 4.3 seconds.

    “The DBS Volante delivers the utmost relaxed driving experience with the roof up or down. It combines engineering excellence with design perfection," said Aston Martin CEO Ulrich Bez. “The... Few automakers have the pedigree - the panache - of Aston Martin, and even fewer cars can match the elegant DBS. Now Aston Martin has seen fit to add a drop-top version of the DBS, called the Volante. The DBS Volante is powered by the same 6.0L V12 engine rated at 510hp (380kW) and 420lb-ft (570Nm) of torque as the hard-top DBS. Top speed in the convertible variant is 191mph (307km/h) and it sprints to 62mph (100km/h) in just 4.3 seconds. “The DBS Volante delivers the utmost relaxed driving experience with the roof up or down. It combines engineering excellence with design perfection," said Aston Martin CEO Ulrich Bez. “The DBS Volante offers a subtle mix of power and performance. Adding to this, the fine craftsmanship – it is an unparalleled ownership and driving experience.” Only the 16th convertible Aston has built in its 95-year history, the DBS Volante rides at the forefront of the company's available technology. Beyond the simply awesome sounding V12, the car gets a choice of six-speed manual or Touchtronic automatic six-speed transmissions. Structural rigidity is preserved well, with the Volante exhibiting 75% of the stiffness of the coupe, thanks in part to a rigidly mounted rear sub-frame and optimized front and rear shear panels. Carbon ceramic brakes are standard, and the most cutting edge materials are used throughout the car, including a carbon fiber hood, front wing and trunk lid. Despite the weight-shaving measures, the DBS Volante is still a big GT, with a curb weight of 3,990lb (1,810kg). An Active Damping System (ADS) keeps the big car's roll under control, however, and can be tuned for comfort or speed. Aston's partnership with Bang & Olufsen bears more fruit in the DBS Volante, with the BeoSound DBS in-car entertainment system's 13-speaker symphony part of the standard equipment package as well. Most of the rest of the running gear is shared with the coupe, making the DBS Volante not just attractive but eminently capable on the road, the track or cruising the strip.First Drive: Aston Martin DBSAston Martin DBS Volante Read More

  • New images of Spyker’s jet-inspired C8 Aileron supercar

    New images of Spyker’s jet-inspired C8 Aileron supercar July 2nd, 2009 ByAlex Kaufmann Alex Kaufmann, Author, July 2nd, 2009 Alex Kaufmann 9 Comments

    New images of Spyker’s jet-inspired C8 Aileron supercar Concept cars are exciting, but as often as not, they're also huge letdowns. Why? Because you know they'll be so neutered by the time they make production that it's the same car only in name (Jaguar XF, anyone?). Luckily we have Spyker, a company where the production cars are more insane than most concepts, and they understand this problem and have built the C8 Aileron to be almost identical to the concept.

    Despite all of Spyker’s management reshuffles and financial setbacks of the past two years, the Dutch sports car company has used March’s Geneva Motor Show to debut the C8 Aileron. Spyker introduced the concept unveiled last... Concept cars are exciting, but as often as not, they're also huge letdowns. Why? Because you know they'll be so neutered by the time they make production that it's the same car only in name (Jaguar XF, anyone?). Luckily we have Spyker, a company where the production cars are more insane than most concepts, and they understand this problem and have built the C8 Aileron to be almost identical to the concept. Despite all of Spyker’s management reshuffles and financial setbacks of the past two years, the Dutch sports car company has used March’s Geneva Motor Show to debut the C8 Aileron. Spyker introduced the concept unveiled last year and made some minor changes to change that vision into reality. In order to enhance the aerodynamic performance of the car, several changes in styling were made such as stretching the canopy backwards and abandoning most of the shark-like gills , which results in a cleaner, smoother appearance. The front end is now characterized by a larger grille that gives additional cooling and the rear diffuser was redesigned for improved functionality. Finally, an extra spoiler has been placed under the diffuser, providing additional downforce to boost the ground effect produced by the diffuser. The C8 Aileron’s design is heavily inspired by Spyker’s aviation heritage, as was the case with all previous models, but with a clear emphasis on the jet engine and not the propeller that adorned so many elements of Spyker’s earlier cars. Compared to the short wheelbase of the first generation cars - the C8 Laviolette and C8 Spyder - the wheelbase of the C8 Aileron is 150 mm longer and its track is also 155m wider. The total dimensions of the front and rear track are now 1625mm and 1645mm respectively, while the kerb weight comes in at 1425kg (3142lbs). Power comes from an Audi-sourced 4.2L V8 rated at about 400hp (298kW) and 354lb-ft (480Nm) of torque. Shifting duties are taken care of with a either a Getrag manual or ZF auto gearbox, both with six speeds, and drive is sent to the rear wheels. The automatic is Spyker's first, though it doesn’t hamper the car's 4.5-second run to 62mph (100km/h) nor its top speed of 187mph (300km/h). The car rides on a brand new front and rear independent double-wishbone suspension system. The set-up includes a new kinematic layout of the front and rear suspension, front and rear stabilizer bars, mono-tube dampers, and coil over damper steel springs. The suspension components are made of forged aluminum where possible, to keep the vehicle’s unsprung weight as low as possible. Stopping power is supplied by respected brake company AP Racing and these are fitted with black calipers with the Spyker logo. Carbon ceramic brakes will be available as an option soon. Inside, the C8 Aileron gets a Kharma sound system, GPS navigation, and all the standard modern electronics connectivity - Bluetooth, MP3, etc. The trademark engine turned aluminum dash will be present, plus 19in Aeroblade wheels and a quilted leather cockpit. Production of the new car will start in May, with sales following shortly thereafter. It is available in 16 standard colours, but customers may choose any colour they wish as an option, as well as the Spyker Squadron GT2 colour scheme. Pricing in Europe will start at €189,990.Spyker C8 Aileron production versionSpyker C8 Aileron Concept Read More

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