Ford to launch facelifted Mondeo until global Mondeo

Ford is reportedly preparing to launch a subtle facelift for its European-market Mondeo sedan, but according to reports, this will be the last Mondeo revision before the new model – Ford's third new global product – hits the streets in 2014.

The interim Mondeo, pictured in the leaked photo on the right, will receive some minor adjustments to its appearance and specifications in an effort to keep it fresh, like the new Galaxy and S-Max minivans, until the new model arrives.

The next-gen Mondeo, however, will join the Fiesta and the new Focus as Ford's third new global car, replacing the Mondeo overseas and the Fusion in the North American market. According to reports, the new Mondeo/Fusion is being developed in the United States for expected simultaneous manufacturing – with few adjustments to local tastes – in the U.S., Europe and China.

Ford to launch facelifted Mondeo until global Mondeo

Ford is reportedly preparing to launch a subtle facelift for its European-market Mondeo sedan, but according to reports, this will be the last Mondeo revision before the new model – Ford's third new global product – hits the streets in 2014.

The interim Mondeo, pictured in the leaked photo on the right, will receive some minor adjustments to its appearance and specifications in an effort to keep it fresh, like the new Galaxy and S-Max minivans, until the new model arrives.

The next-gen Mondeo, however, will join the Fiesta and the new Focus as Ford's third new global car, replacing the Mondeo overseas and the Fusion in the North American market. According to reports, the new Mondeo/Fusion is being developed in the United States for expected simultaneous manufacturing – with few adjustments to local tastes – in the U.S., Europe and China.

Mitsubishi ASX to Debut at Geneva - European

Mitsubishi will be debuting its new crossover, the ASX, at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

The ASX is the European version of the Japanese market RVR. It is a 5-seat, compact crossover, about 4.3 meters long, and is slotted below the Outlander in the Mitsubishi lineup.

Mitsubishi hasn't released many details on the model. It will come with a 1.8 liter turbocharged, direct-injection petrol/gasoline engine coupled to a 6-speed manual transmission, but they don't specify power outputs. The concept upon which the ASX is based, the Concept-cX, featured a diesel, but there is no mention of an oil-burner for the European market in the very brief press release. That concept car was also an all-wheel drive but there's no news either on whether this crossover will have that feature too.

The RVR will go on sale in Japan next month. The ASX will be rolled out in European markets in the spring, following its introduction in Geneva. We will have to wait until then for more details.

Mitsubishi ASX to Debut at Geneva - European

Mitsubishi will be debuting its new crossover, the ASX, at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

The ASX is the European version of the Japanese market RVR. It is a 5-seat, compact crossover, about 4.3 meters long, and is slotted below the Outlander in the Mitsubishi lineup.

Mitsubishi hasn't released many details on the model. It will come with a 1.8 liter turbocharged, direct-injection petrol/gasoline engine coupled to a 6-speed manual transmission, but they don't specify power outputs. The concept upon which the ASX is based, the Concept-cX, featured a diesel, but there is no mention of an oil-burner for the European market in the very brief press release. That concept car was also an all-wheel drive but there's no news either on whether this crossover will have that feature too.

The RVR will go on sale in Japan next month. The ASX will be rolled out in European markets in the spring, following its introduction in Geneva. We will have to wait until then for more details.

Lamborghini Gallardo LP 620 YarroW

Here's another variation on the Lamborghini Gallardo LP 560-4. This one, called the YarroW, is from German tuner Wheelsandmore.

First up, power on this Lambo is amped up to 620 hp and 580 lb-ft of torque (785 Nm). Wheelsandmore achieves this increase by means of ECU tampering, a carbon airbox and a stainless steel exhaust system with valve control.

The YarroW also comes with a beefed-up brake system to match those extra horses. 8-piston calipers are fitted at the front and 6-piston ones for the rear wheels, with 14.96 and 14.17-inch discs at front and back, respectively.

20-inch wheels are also part of the tuning kit, wrapped in 235/30/20 Dunlop Sport Maxx tires at the front (for the 8.5 x 20" rims) and 305/25/20 at the back (11.5 x 20"). The 3-piece forged rims are lightweight and come in various color and surface configurations.

The suspension gets a special coilover installed that goes up to 1.77 inches by hydraulic lift.

Carbon parts added to the exterior include a rear diffuser, frontflap and side mirrors. Carbon finish is also part of the interior redecorating.

Prices?

Engine tuning: 12,500 euros.

Brake kit: 13,998 euros.

Suspension: 8,999 euros.

Wheels: 11,400 euros.

Lamborghini Gallardo LP 620 YarroW

Here's another variation on the Lamborghini Gallardo LP 560-4. This one, called the YarroW, is from German tuner Wheelsandmore.

First up, power on this Lambo is amped up to 620 hp and 580 lb-ft of torque (785 Nm). Wheelsandmore achieves this increase by means of ECU tampering, a carbon airbox and a stainless steel exhaust system with valve control.

The YarroW also comes with a beefed-up brake system to match those extra horses. 8-piston calipers are fitted at the front and 6-piston ones for the rear wheels, with 14.96 and 14.17-inch discs at front and back, respectively.

20-inch wheels are also part of the tuning kit, wrapped in 235/30/20 Dunlop Sport Maxx tires at the front (for the 8.5 x 20" rims) and 305/25/20 at the back (11.5 x 20"). The 3-piece forged rims are lightweight and come in various color and surface configurations.

The suspension gets a special coilover installed that goes up to 1.77 inches by hydraulic lift.

Carbon parts added to the exterior include a rear diffuser, frontflap and side mirrors. Carbon finish is also part of the interior redecorating.

Prices?

Engine tuning: 12,500 euros.

Brake kit: 13,998 euros.

Suspension: 8,999 euros.

Wheels: 11,400 euros.

Hertz announces Lotus Elise, Exige rentals available in Italy

You will now get another option if you are looking for a fast rental car in Italy. Hertz has inked a deal with Lotus to provide customers the opportunity to rent a Lotus Elise or Exige.

Unfortunately, it appears the press release may have been sent out a bit too soon. The vehicle does not appear on the Hertz "Fun Collection" web page, and our search for the vehicle in one of the Rome locations turned up empty.
via:worldcarfans




Press Release

Hire your dream - Lotus cars now available for rental with Hertz Italy

Lotus Cars Limited, the sportscar subsidiary of Group Lotus plc is delighted to announce a marketing co-operation agreement with the car hire company Hertz Italiana and to supply Lotus cars for its rental business in Italy.

Now driving enthusiasts, fans of the Lotus brand and those who want to drive cars from one of the finest sportscar marques in the world will be able to hire a Lotus Elise directly from Hertz Italiana S.p.A.

Lotus Elise SC sportscars will be available to hire from key Hertz centres throughout Italy from middle of July.

Mr. Michael J. Kimberley, Chief Executive Officer of Group Lotus plc, commented, "I am delighted that Lotus Cars has entered into this agreement with Hertz, giving us the opportunity to make our stunning world class sportscars available to the rental market. The iconic and multi award winning Lotus Elise and the stunning Lotus Exige are the perfect fun rental cars for those who desire exclusive and high performance motoring."

Mr. Andrea Manni, director of the official Lotus dealer, ‘Lotus Rome' said, "For many, to drive a Lotus is to fulfill a lifelong dream and now, thanks to Lotus and Hertz Italiana S.p.A. this dream can be realised for a longer period than just a quick test drive at a Lotus dealer. We expect some drivers who hire an Elise or Exige from Hertz Italiana S.p.A to visit a Lotus dealership afterwards, as once you have experienced the exciting and adrenaline fueled capabilities of a Lotus, there is no turning back!"

Ing. Giuseppe Caminiti, Fleet Director for Hertz Italiana said: "We launched the Hertz Fun Collection last year to give our customers the possibility to drive the cars they have always dreamt of driving. The Lotus Elise SC is one of these dream cars and by including it in the Hertz's Fun Collection our customers have an opportunity to drive a real sportscar. We are honoured to be able to work with Lotus and are delighted that Lotus has created personalised versions of the Elise SC especially for Hertz."

To book a Lotus Elise car hire from Hertz, drivers are invited to contact Hertz on www.hertz.it or by calling the Hertz call center on +39-199-11-22-11.

Photos LEAKED: 2010 Jaguar XJ

Jaguar is using aerospace-inspired aluminium body architecture for the first time in a car with the XJ. The technology is next-generation stuff and is likely to filter down into other next-generation Jaguars.


The next XJ is promised to be the new class-leader in a segment led by the BMW 7 Series and the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, as well as the Audi A8 and the Lexus LS. Jaguar seeks to reclaim its spot alongside these luminaries after years of being sidelined by both buyers and the motoring media.


Powerful engines will match or even outperform some of its competitors. Here we can mention engines like the new 275hp (202kW), 600Nm 3.0-litre twin turbo diesel and the 5.0-litre V8 with natural aspiration. A supercharged XJR might use the engine that makes 510hp (380kW) in the XFR/ XKR but have its power upped to keep up with the BMW 760i and the Mercedes-Benz S 63 AMG. Of course this is just pure speculation at this point in time.
via:worldcarfans

MINI makes 1.5 million

ust over two years after reaching the 1-million vehicle production mark, MINI has made it to 1.5 million. Since the new MINI was introduced in 2001, the car has been a hit, and demand shows no signs of waning. The fact that this milestone has been reached during the Mini's 50th anniversary year adds significance for fans of the car as well. 5.3 million classic Minis were produced between 1959 and 2000. Total production for both cars is close to seven million vehicles.


Read full story from worldcarfans

Spy Shots: Ferrari F450 full body prototype

Some of the first details to catch the eye are the LED daytime running lights which appear to be flowing upwards into the fenders as headlight extensions. They will prove to be a provocative talking point if they make it into production.


These are the very first spy pictures of the upcoming Ferrari F450 prototype testing on the road and track. The F450 replaces the current F430. Previously spies have only been able to snap test mules using an F430 body but this time it is the car itself hiding underneath all the black garments.


The F450 will have a V8 engine worth over 500hp (368kW) and is likely to be shown for the first time at the 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show.


At the rear we can see three tailpipes in a horizontal formation sticking out. Because they are not exactly fitted properly they may not be the final layout. What is likely to stay are the two round rear lights sitting almost on the car's shoulder. Overall the F450 seems to be lower and shorter than before. Spy photographers reported that during in town driving the engine sounded very quiet but when the throttle was tickled it blurted out the familiar Ferrari roar.
Source:worldcarfans

Bentley Continental GT meets pop art with artist Romero Britto

This is probably one of the most unusual Bentleys ever seen: a large, happy flower, little stars, squiggles and signs dance on the elegant hood and colourful, comic-like figures adorn the doors. The Continental GT – a static prototype built in 2003 – has become a truly unique work of art created by the world-renowned Brazilian artist Romero Britto. Bentley Motors donated the Coupe on the occasion of Britto´s Berlin exhibition ‘Come to my World’ in the Automobil Forum Unter den Linden.


Designed to put a smile on people's faces, the oddly painted Bentley features a bizarre mix of cartoonish flowers, flying hearts, and yellow stars. These unique designs are further emphasized by the GT's dark blue exterior which boasts white squiggles.

According to Britto, "It (the Bentley Continental GT) is the most beautiful and elegant car in the world. The lines of the new design are perfect to paint as a clean canvas. What a way to start a fascinating and colorful journey."


The Romero Britto exhibition, hosted by the Automobil Forum Unter den Linden in cooperation with the Mensing Gallery, will take place from 10 July until 6 September 2009. In keeping with Britto’s wider ideals, at the conclusion of the show, the ‘Britto-Bentley’ will be put up for auction in aid of the Nathalie Todenhöfer Foundation for multiple sclerosis as well as Best Buddies, an organization dedicated to improving the integration of the mentally disabled within society.
via:worldcarfans oneighturbo

Pagani Cinque Roadster Revealed

　
New limited production Pagani Cinque Roadster takes advantage of the incredibly light carbon-titanium fibre body used in the previous Cinque to keep weight down at only 1 210 kg, that’s exactly the same as the Coupe.


We already know how rigid the Zonda is from the Zonda F Roadster, so Pagani haven’t had to add half a ton of iron girders to the Cinque to compensate for chopping the top off. So you will still have a car that can deliver 0-62mph in 3.4 seconds from its 678bhp V12 Mercedes-sourced engine, and on up to almost 220mph.


The specifications mark the Zonda Cinque Roadster as the most exotic of exotics: an AMG engine making 678 horsepower and 780 Nm torque, ceramic-coated titanium exhaust, traction control and a six-speed sequential transmission by Cima. The nineteen- and twenty-inch aluminum/magnesium wheels are forged by APP and wrapped in Pirelli P-Zero rubber, and of course Brembo provides carbo-ceramic brakes with six-piston calipers. The Zonda Cinque Roadster's 1210kg curb weight is the same as that of the hardtop, as is the reported 3.4-second 0-100km/h run.


Pagani offers a zero to 100 km/h time of 3.4 seconds and a zero to 200 km/h time of 9.6 seconds, again exactly the same as the coupe. No top speed was offered but it’s a good bet that it’ll be about 347 km/h (I think you know why by now).

The price? €1.3 million, plus taxes. That said, with a production run of just five vehicles, it's a fair bet that the Pagani Zonda Cinque Roadster has already sold out.
via:sacarfan

GTbyCITROEN supercar concept video driving in London

A new promotional video was released last week showing the GTbyCITROEN concept cruising around the streets of London. You may recall that Citroen executive Vincent Besson told members of the media attending the Geneva Motor Show that the car will be produced in a limited edition of no more than 20 units.


In this video, we see the proposed supercar just as much as we see stupified onlookers. Needless to say, you do not often get the chance to see a production version of a car specifically designed for a videogame. Takumi Yamamoto, of Style Citroen, created the 4.96 meter long exterior of the car while working with his friend, Gran Turismo creator Kazunori Yamauchi. The car will be featured in Gran Turismo 5, a videogame that may be released for the Sony Playstation this winter.


We would not be surprised to see Ford win the bid for these engines, as PSA Peugeot Citroen already has a cooperative agreement on four different sets of common rail diesel engines. Using Ford engines could keep relations positive between the two companies.


Those details have changed a bit since March. Autocar is reporting that Besson officially gave the car a greenlight. Production will initially be limited to just six, with an expected retail price in the £1.1 million range. Expect the car to keep it's carbon fiber body and less-than-common interior. While we don't mind the copper trim, we get much more excited about the driver-side switches, and the F1-inspired steering wheel. Expect the car to recieve a 500+ horsepower V8 engine provided by an American automaker.


Instead of looking for the car virtually, you can check out the actual GTbyCITROEN at Goodwood from July 3rd to the 5th. The current version of the car will attempt the 1.16 mile-long Goodwood Hill six times during the weekend. Meanwhile, the first look at the final production model will take place at September's Frankfurt Motor Show.




via:worldcarfans

Leaked: Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 Images

The Lamborghini Diablo was the last rear-wheel drive car to come from the factory at Sant'Agata. That may change soon, however, if the car depicted in these images that have surfaced on the Web are to be believed. This orange beast is rumored to be called the Gallardo LP550-2, and given Lamborghini's very descriptive naming scheme, all of this Gallardo's 550-hp are supposedly sent only to the two rear super-wide Pirellis.


Given the stripe package and contrasty black-on-white interior, it’s clearly some kind of upcoming special edition; but determining its drivetrain layout from these images alone is near on impossible. There aren’t any noticable differences in bodywork between this and the current LP560-4, but the 19-inch wheels are reminiscent of the old Superleggera.


Power comes from the 5.2-litre normally aspirated V10 engine but has been detuned to make 550hp (405kW) and not 560hp (412kW) like the LP560-4. A 6-speed manual gearbox comes standard. Don't let that minor power cut dissuade you from forming high opinions of the car though; it has shed 30kg (66 lbs) and dispatches the 0 - 100km/h sprint in 3.9 seconds.


An AWD Italian bull rushing over 500 stallions from under the bonnet is no child's play at full glory. One with no AWD safety net is something only a few should attempt to play with.
via:motortrend

Frankfurt Motor Show; 2010 Citroen C3 unveiled

Citroen has decided to officially reveal the new Citroen C3 months before its scheduled Frankfurt Motor Show debut. The new generation C3 is far more aggressive than previous model which was literally an egg! It is pretty funky as all Citroens are, but because of some nice detailing it looks very elegant, which is a rare treat in the world of small hatchbacks.


As previously mentioned, it appears as though early rumors of a full panoramic glass roof were unfounded. The "Zenith" windshield does in fact extend over the front occupants' heads, but only just to the b-pillar. The company believes occupants will find the Zenith Windscreen very comfortable, as progressive glass helps keep harsh rays out of the cabin. Citroen says they worked hard to guarantee that the car would not have an increase in road noise due to the glass extension. A thin strip of chrome at the top end of the windscreen matches chrome lines seen around the honeycomb grille, and on the side mirrors, door handles, door panels, and trunk.


The old C3 has always been in the shadow of names like Peugeot 207 and Renault Clio and even it’s smaller brother the C2, but the new model seems to have everything it needs to change this. It appeals to both male and female customers. In front, the shape of headlights and that amazing grille are all very aggressive and sporty, while at the back those Boomerang shaped tail lights give it a nice cutesy look. You also get a lot of chrome straps here and there which again, is a very nice touch.


The car's front end is completely redesigned, with a sportier front bumper featuring integrated fog lights. The new rear light cluster is designed rather well, and is a nice step up from the current C3 model. We are still not certain if the entire rear bumper will be painted in the same exterior color of the car, or if the lower section will remain black for all vehicles. Either way, the bumper's new shape is a nice touch.


But the most striking feature of the 2010 Citroen C3 should be the new panoramic windshield called Zenith which is an optional extra. This innovation was first seen in the previous generation of the Opel Astra some years ago. New C3 is also improved inside the cabin, where its extra 8cm length than the old model translates into greater comfort for passengers and bigger luggage space. It is also very well equipped, you even get a full navigation system with RD4 radio and MP3 audio system and USB ports.


In these first photos of the car's interior, we see a very clean design utilizing a two-tone thermo-coated dash and center console that matches the contrasting seats and headliner. The customer can customize the dash a bit by choosing from either a satin grey or glossy brushed aluminum strip mixed with chrome detailing. It appears a CD-radio, climate control, and sat-nav/infotainment unit are the features built into the console. The HiFi system gives the driver a few extra options, thanks to the USB port, iPod jack, and BlueTooth. The covered, recessed gauges feature a pleasing mix of analogue and digital display.


As for the engines, at launch it’ll be available with a 1.6 liter HDi diesel developing 90 hp and CO2 level of only 99g/km, a 1.4 liter VTi petrol with 95 hp, a 1.6 liter petrol with 120 hp and at the top of the range a 110 hp HDi engine. Form 2011 a new range of petrol and diesel engines, plus the Start/Stop system will be added.


The new Citroen C3 will be built in France at the company's facilities in Aulnay and Poissy. The car will be available beginning in November.
via:worldcarfans



Press Release

NEW CITROËN C3 - VISIODRIVE
Beautiful, young, intelligent. The new C3 by Citroën.
Coming out in November 2009, the new Citroën C3 has a strong ambition: to replace a bestseller that has sold more than 2 million units. "This is a major renewal for the Marque and gives us the wherewithal to achieve our target of increasing market share even more, among both individual and corporate customers," says Frédéric Banzet, Managing Director of Citroën.

The winning formula: take the best of the C3 and make it even better. The new C3 is packed with seductive features: tauter styling, high-class trim, intelligent architecture creating exceptional interior space in what is still one of the most compact vehicles on the market, and superior on-board comfort and road handling, both in the city and on the open road. With the most advanced features in the segment, the new Citroën C3 will be ideal as the main family car or core fleet vehicle.

But that's not all. The Zenith windscreen makes the new C3 unique. As well as drenching the cabin in light and expanding visibility, this windscreen introduces passengers of our Visiodrive to a new driving experience. "With the new C3, Citroën is opening up a new automobile universe. A universe where reason and responsibility leave room for new driving pleasure. And new sensations," says Vincent Besson, Products and Markets, Citroën.

These quality features are confirmed in the design and manufacturing of the new Citroën C3. Made in France, on the industrial sites of Aulnay and Poissy, the new vehicle meets high quality standards, both new and over time. To guarantee optimum reliability, and iron out the last imperfections, it will be put through more than 2 million kilometres of on-road testing before the market release.

A UNIQUE, ALLURING PERSONALITY

The new C3 is asserting its personality. The recognisable protective roundness of its predecessor is given a sportier edge with tauter, smoother lines. Exciting with a gentle touch: the essence of seduction.

The styling and refinement of the new C3 are seductive. The materials are high class, such as the thermo-coated dash, highlighted by a cross strip in satin grey or gloss brushed aluminium, and chrome detailing. The new C3 takes trim level and quality to a new dimension. This is illustrated perfectly by care with gap and flush, attention to every detail and robust design.

INTELLIGENT ARCHITECTURE

The new C3 is one of the most compact vehicles in its segment. With a length of 3.94 m, a width of 1.71 m and a 10.2 m turning circle, it is perfect for the city.

A compact exterior, without compromising on interior space. The new C3 has the roominess it needs to assert its new status as the main family car or core fleet vehicle. This can been seen in the generous 300 litres of optimised boot capacity, numerous storage spaces (console, glovebox, central armrest...), medium-height seats facilitating access and visibility, and optimised interior space offering more knee room. The new Citroën C3 is more spacious, but still compact. It's a "real" car, with upper-segment features.

A NEW DRIVING EXPERIENCE

The new experience goes further and gets better with the Zenith windscreen, a technological feat. This exceptionally long windscreen expands the front occupants' field of vision by 80° upwards. Combined with slimmer pillars, the Zenith gives all occupants a sense of unlimited, high-definition vision. Total immersion. As a world first, the progressive glass smoothes the transition from the strong sun protection above the front passengers to the standard clear glass for looking forwards. The saloon with the biggest windscreen and the smallest roof on the market delivers more new driving sensations! The new C3 offers more visibility and light, for more safety and driving pleasure.

Speaking of pleasure, our Visiodrive naturally benefits from the Marque's know-how in comfort. Everyone will be extremely comfortable on board the new Citroën C3 for all the senses: not just low noise and low vibration, but fragrant and nice to look at, with the many windows and air freshener. A relaxing atmosphere. A great car to drive and be driven in.

The new C3 is a "connected" car. In addition to the RD4 mp3 audio system, the USB Box (USB slot + jack, full iPod compatibility, Bluetooth® hands-free kit) and MyWay navigation, the new Hifi System® surrounds passengers with sound, as if they were in a concert hall. The system offers not only exceptional sound quality, but comes with a competitive price tag.

IMPRESSIVE AND REASONABLE DYNAMIC FEATURES

The new Citroën C3 will make others green with envy... with more dynamic road handling, it is as comfortable on the open road as in the city, and has managed to keep a slim figure by not putting on any weight! An exceptional achievement given the convincing increase in comfort and interior space. This weight control, combined with optimised aerodynamics (a Cx of 0.30), the new C3 manages its fuel consumption and CO2 emissions intelligently. Right from launch, it will come in a version emitting 99 g/km de CO2, with the HDi 90 DPFS engine.

That expertise in managing fuel consumption will reach a new stage with the arrival of new powerplants in 2011, incorporating second-generation Stop & Start. Coupled with five- and six-speed electronic gearboxes, they will equip diesel versions emitting only 95 and 90 g/km de CO2. In short, the new generation of three-cylinder engines will enable versions emitting less than 100 g/km de CO2.