MTM turns up the wick on the 2010 Audi S4

The tuners at MTM have begun tweaking the all-new 2010 Audi S4 (B8) in Europe, and as expected, Audi's new supercharged 333-hp 3.0-liter V6 is rife with potential. With only a revised ECU and an underdrive pulley – no intake or exhaust mods – MTM was able to coax 430 crank horsepower out of the blown six – 97 hp more than stock.


The kit, which retails for 2,491 euros (around $3,500 USD), brings torque output up to 380 lb-ft and, according to MTM, drops the 0-60 mph time from 5.2 to 4.6 seconds. Clearly, good things are on the way for the BMW 335i fighter, and we expect more to follow when the new darling of the Euro-tuning scene arrives in the States later this year.
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2010 Mitsubishi Lancer lineup includes new MR Limited

Remember the Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart Sportback we showed you back in October? The one that debuted in Paris? The one that we lusted after for its hatchback practicality and Ralliart brawn? The one that the good folks from Mitsubishi had promised we'd be getting here in the States this summer as an early 2010 model? Well, Mitsubishi has delivered. Sort of.


A few Mitsu reps drove down to Irvine from Cypress with a genuine 2010 Ralliart Sportback. And not only that, but they dragged along an Evo GSR and an all-new MR Limited as well.


The Ralliart Sportback drew a lot of attention for its shape, but the Limited was the one that caught our eye. It's a regular old MR with a few differences. In place of the Alcantara bits, Mitsubishi has gone all-cowhide inside. There are also a few additions to the standard options list, including an Evo-first moonroof.


Out back, the car has gone undercover by foregoing the large wing that has heretofore characterized the Evo sedans. Sounds like the Evo MR for grownups. Mitsu's reps remained tight-lipped on the details, but pricing is likely to top $40,000 for this model. We didn't get as many shots as we would have liked, but we did manage to get a few that we've assembled in the gallery below. As soon as we get more details, we'll fill you in.
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Spy shots: 2010 Suzuki Kizashi caught in Colorado

Spy shots of the upcoming Suzuki Kizashi are becoming rather common as the mid-size sedan gets ready to launch later this year, but what we've yet to see – what we've needed to see – is a shot of what's inside. Thanks to Autoblog reader Curtis Lewis, we finally have our first glimpse of the Kizashi's interior, and we've got to say, it's looking good.

　
The exterior hasn't changed much since the last batch of spy shots, and although it isn't nearly as swoopy and aggressive as the Kizashi 3 concept that we saw at the New York Auto Show, we're still encouraged by the sculpted haunches, angular trunk, stretched taillights and integrated exhaust tips. Too bad the front fascia looks like a Neon when coated in camo. Expect the Kizashi to debut in production form this December with a choice of a 2.5-liter inline four driving the front wheels or 3.6-liter V6 sending approximately 300 hp through all four.


While the design is hardly revolutionary, the materials appear to take a solid step above and beyond Suzuki's current offerings, with some tasteful wood and aluminum trim. The center stack is rather straightforward, but everything appears more fluid and refined compared to what we've seen in the past. The steering wheel is reasonably sized (not to big and not to small), complete with redundant controls for the stereo and possibly Bluetooth integration, and the seats have a fair amount of bolstering to compliment the leather surfaces.
Source:autoblog

First images shows for Hyundai Accent facelift

Hyundai has revised a popular Accent/Verna for its home Korean market. Dubbed the Verna Transform, the sub-compact car received a number of technical enhancements as well as heavily updated exterior and a few minor interior upgrades.


Sepaking of exterior updates, the new Hyundai Verna Transform features a revised front fascia with more agressive overall exterior look. Styling upgrades on the facelifted Verna/Accent include a pair of redesigned headlights, new signature grille with two bars and Hyundai logo placed atop. There is also a sportier front bumper with redesigned fog lights and larger air intakes. Styling changes at rear include redesigned tail-lights and redesigned rear bumper.


Inside, the center stack has been modified with new faux aluminum trim and upgraded materials, while the green illumination of the instrumentation has been ditched in favor of a new blue hue. Motivation comes courtesy of a 1.6-liter, four-cylinder engine and Hyundai Korea will continue to offer an "Eco" indicator on the dash that encourages a light foot. The redesigned Verna is rumored to hit Korean dealers this month, and it's assumed that the 2010 Accent will show up Stateside later this year.



Source: Hyundai

Hamann does its thing to the new BMW 7 Series

The arrival of the new F01 BMW 7 Series means that aftermarket companies have a new toy upon which to apply their talents. Enter Hamann, the German tuner with a penchant for Lambo-dooring, among other things. Thankfully, the firm's workup of the all-new 7 Series leaves the factory door hinges intact, but that's about it.


A new aero kit makes the big sedan less vanilla-looking with updated fascias, skirts and spoilers on both the rear decklid and roof. Naturally, a lowered suspension is offered, which, when combined with a selection of new wheels and the aforementioned bodywork, gives the über-Bimmer a nastier stance.


Inside, Hamann will fully customize the cabin appointments to your taste, or lack thereof. The Hamann 7 Series isn't necessarily all show, either -- an available sport exhaust upgrade for the 730d bumps power by 45 horses for a total of 290. Hamann's unlikely to stop with this batch of initial offerings, so more extreme modifications are probably inevitable. Just resist that primal urge on the butterfly doors, okay guys?




PRESS RELEASE:

The HAMANN refining programme for the new BMW 7-series

Individualisation on the highest level – this is the motto under which HAMANN presents its refining programme for the new BMW 7-series of the model range F01 and F02. Already since 1986, the Laupheim-based company develops and produces products for the individualisation of BMW automobiles. Thereby, the HAMANN technicians profit from hundreds of successful motor sports participations. The competence which was gained there is the basis for the development of new HAMANN products and renders the highest level for product quality and processing. The result: stainless steel exhaust systems with a sporty and earthy sound, aerodynamics components reducing the lifting forces and striking light alloy rims from 19 to 22 inches. Interiors perfectly fitted with leather and combined with floor-mats in matching colours as well as non-slip aluminium pedals extend the accessory range.

Already when establishing the design, HAMANN perfectly adjusts the individual components of the aerodynamic pack. The result is an exciting styling with an optimised air flow across the car silhouette. LED daytime running lights which are integrated in the new front skirt, render a sporty-dynamic look and increase the passive safety. Simultaneously, in combination with the roof spoiler and the rear spoiler, the lifting forces are reduced and give the upper class limousine a new, attractive overall appearance. The visual connection between the front and rear part are the HAMANN side skirts which are available for the model series F01. The optionally available rear shield insert for the side skirt of the model 730d and 740i allows fitting the four-pipe sport end muffler. Four round stainless steel end pipes with a diameter of 90 millimetres perfectly enhance the rear part of the 7-series BMW and produce a powerful, earthy sound.

A performance enhancement for the Diesel engine with variable turbine geometrics is already under construction. By this first tuning stage the serial measure of the 730d (180 kW / 245 hp) increases by approximately 33 kW/45 hp.

A technical highlight of the offered tuning programme is the one-piece HAMANN-aluminium wheel called DESIGN HM EVO 22 inches. A hallmark of the modern styling is the glossy black paint with the diamond-grinded rim star and the discreet deep rim well. Five elongated and over-vaulted triple spokes document visual and technical finesse. Struts inside the spokes render additional stability. Modern production processes and the use of special aluminium alloys guarantee highest bearing loads at a low weight. Here, HAMANN recommends the dimensions 9.0Jx22 inches with 265/30ZR22 tyres at the front axle and 10.5Jx22 inches with 295/25ZR22 tyres at the rear axle.

The four progressively coiled chassis springs which lower the centre of gravity with the models 730d, 740i by 40 millimetres at the front- and rear axles, render a dynamic appearance. For the models 750i and 750Li, there is a lowering kit consisting of two chassis springs and an evening kit.

In addition to the existing, serial interior equipment, HAMANN accessories made first-class aluminium, pedals and foot-rests render motor sports air and perfectly match the embroidered HAMANN floor mat set. If desired, even a complete leather equipment can be produced with expert precision.

For more information about the extensive HAMANN refining programme, please visit the web site www.HAMANN-MOTORSPORT.com
via:autoblog

Burying the Dead: Pontiac G8 faces recall over faulty taillamps, tire-pressure sensors

General Motors may have already buried its Pontiac division, but the brand’s recent passing isn’t stopping a posthumous recall campaign by the automaker and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.


The action, which covers some 35,038 Pontiac G8 sedans from the 2008 and 2009 model years, stems from two potential issues:


1) The brake pedal position switch may be incorrectly programmed, which NHTSA says could lead to the brake lamps operating in a constant state of illumination, leaving trailing motorists unable to tell whether the G8 driver ahead of them is stepping on the binders or not. The defective taillamps could therefore contribute to an accident.


2) In another programming issue, certain G8s make have tire pressure monitoring systems loaded with incorrect values, which could result in the system failing to identify under-inflated tires, potentially leading to reduced handling abilities and/or tire failure.


According to NHTSA, Pontiac dealers will reprogram the brake position sensor and the remote control door lock receiver to remedy both issues. G8 drivers can expect the recall to begin by June 5, and anxious owners can call GM at 1-800-620-7668 to learn more. Thanks for the tip, Peter!


via:carmk

Maserati Loves Company: Quattroporte stretched limousine

While running around from merger to acquisition, Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne has been riding in style in a Maserati Quattroporte. And why shouldn't he? The luxurious sport-sedan is miles ahead of the Alfa Romeo 167 which Fiat executives were chauffeured around in beforehand, and better than anything Opel or Chrysler has got to show off, too. But one limousine company in Florida has what it figures is the next step up: a stretched Quattroporte with seating for ten.

Not even the Maserati Quattroporte which in normal form is one of
the most stylish sports sedans money can buy. The same can't be said for its
10-passenger limousine offspring that's up for hire by a Miami-based limo
company called "Padilla Car Collection". The firm claims that this is the only
stretched version of the Quattroporte in the world - thank God for that...




via CarScoop autoblog



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Rakish 2011 Hyundai Sonata draws closer Spy

Hyundai has really upped its game with new entries like the Genesis Coupe and Sedan, but right now its high volume products like the midsize Sonata are simply "good enough." The Korean automaker has already committed to big plans for Sonata, as it has promised direct injection and turbocharging for improved efficiency. A quick look at some well camo'd photos of a 2011 Sonata mule shows that improvements could come in design as well.
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Great Wall Hits it again with a CLS-kind of a Thing

This CHC011 might look a little, only just, like that German car but still I like to see Great Wall experimenting around. This is definitely better than a Cool Bear, that car by a way doesn't seem to Hit It, I've seen only one on Beijing's streets until today.


CHC011 shares its 3.0 V6 engine with that Hover H7 but as I get it no four wheel drive. Maybe the power will all go to the rear? A muscle car from China will be good, 400 hp please in this CHC011, and another name. No word yet on anything more, we'll see in Shanghai.


100409, Beijing. It was only yesterday oh yesterday that Great Wall leaked some images of a funny looking suv. Funny, but original. Today the wall leaks again and here we have a sedan-coupe cross over prototype called the CHC011. Say that again ma? CHC011, it doesn't really roll off my tongue easy but that might have to do with last night's beer, hik!
via The Tycho




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Roewe N1 concept sedan debut at the Shanghai

Back in 2004, Chinese firm Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation (SAIC) purchased the rights to assemble the Rover 25 and 75 from British automaker MG. Since then, SAIC has been content to offer a few vehicles that closely resemble the old Rover designs under the Roewe brand name. If the new Roewe N1 sedan concept is anything to go by, it looks as if the Chinese automaker is finally ready to branch out with something a bit more modern.


So far, all we have are renderings of the sleek new sedan, but the real thing is expected to debut at the Shanghai Motor Show next week. We look forward to finding out whether the Jaguar XF-esque sedan's coupe-like profile is retained when the N1 makes its official entrance in the metal. Stay tuned.
via:autoblog



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New E-Class Brings 50,000 Orders to Mercedes

Finally, there's a little bit of good news for a change for an automaker. Mercedes-Benz has already received approximately 50,000 orders for its new 2010 E-Class, the company announced today. The sedan arrives in European showrooms on May 9 and marks a return to the Mercedes core as "a solid, safe, comfortable, conservative car in which you can invest utter faith," Paul Horrell wrote in our First Drive.

Sales chief Klaus Maier claimed dramatic sales improvements in a statement, "In Germany, bookings for an E-Class saloon more than doubled in the first quarter of this year compared to the previous year."
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Spy: Ford Fiesta sedan for U.S. market gets minor changes

Ford is busy courting the youth population as potential buyers for the new Fiesta--it has brought 100 Fiesta five-doors over from Europe and loaned them to people for extended test drives.

Meanwhile, engineers are putting the final touches on the Fiesta for the United States. Some of those changes are happening in the front and back, as seen on this prototype of the 2011 Fiesta sedan.
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Spy Shots: Fiery new Insignia VXR uncovered

Here's proof that Vauxhall’s white-hot Insignia VXR is nearly ready for the road.

Our spies spotted the fiery Vauxhall testing in Europe, and these undisguised pictures show the performance version of the Insignia strutting its stuff in public for the first time.

As well as a bodykit, the Insignia VXR has been fitted with twin exhausts and Brembo brakes. Insiders have also hinted it could get four-wheel drive for extra grip. Power will come from a twin-turbocharged V6 with more than 300bhp.
Source: F1 Live




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Lamborghini Estoque canned

Lamborghini has shelved plans to produce the dramatic Estoque four-door supercar that was unveiled at last autumn’s Paris motor show.

Maurizio Reggiani, the firm’s head of research and development, said the Estoque has been put on ice for the time being. "The timing and market conditions are just not right for an additional model line," he explained.

The Estoque was a four-door, four-seat concept with a front/mid-engined layout and permanent four-wheel drive.
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Nissan announces new 2009 Sentra FE+ 2.0 SR

Nissan North America Inc. (NNA group) (NASDAQ: stock) today announced the expansion of popular Nissan Sentra line, an increase of sports-style iron ion Sentra Jane Model 2.0. Iron ions of the Sentra 2.0 Jane is scheduled to begin this summer on sale at Nissan retailers start, the National April 17, 2009.

Iron ions of the Sentra 2.0 Jane has the manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) * of 17,760 U.S. dollars, are the same as the price of iron ions Sentra 2.0 S model. Complete line-up, and now in 2009 Sentra features seven models, from entry-level Sentra 2.0 iron ion performance-oriented Sentra SE - R Spec V models


"There is so much attention to high-value, high-mileage vehicles like the Sentra today, we hope to provide users with a series of selection of the team - so that they can find the best level of equipment, sports and performance to meet their needs and the budget said, "Al-Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, arginine.

The new Sentra iron ion 2.0 Jane was founded in response to customer demand for the Sentra sports do not have to look all the way to high-performance Sentra SE - R model and the Sentra SE - R models of the Spec V model. In "Jane" from a standard Sentra 2.0 S and the increased appearance of exercise-based improvement, including the SE - R model-style front and rear fascias, side sills and rear spoiler; Sport grille; dark chrome Noodles plate and dark smoked headlights taillights panel; 16-inch aluminum alloy wheels; exhaust shooter; and "Jane" trunk lid badge. It has six kinds of color, including the limited Sentra SE-R/SE-R Spec V models color, and will provide a charcoal cloth interior.


With a series of models, the Sentra to 2009 to provide a choice of two engines and two transmission. All models except for Se-R and SE - R Spec V model is equipped with fuel-efficient 140-horsepower (135 hp CAL emissions) 16-valve 2.0-liter DOHC inline 4-cylinder engine. Estimated fuel economy of 34 miles for every Highway/26 City (iron ions or Sentra 2.0 CVT).

2009 Nissan Sentra SE - R model and the Sentra SE - R on the Spec V is equipped with the sports car styling, higher performance and more standard equipment (with non-SE - R models model) and 2.5 liters 4 cylinder engine (rated at 177 horsepower of the SE - R and 200 horsepower SE - R models on Spec V models). Sentra existing transmission selection (depending on model) is an advanced Xtronic CVT (TM) (Continuously Variable Transmission) and 6-speed manual.


"We have invited a closer look at the Sentra customer value, style and performance. Now, we add more reasons - more choices," said Castignetti.


About Nissan North America
In North America, Nissan's operations include automotive design, engineering, consumer and corporate financing, sales and marketing, distribution and manufacturing. Nissan is committed to improving the environment under the Nissan Green Program 2010, whose main focus is to reduce carbon dioxide (2) emissions, cutting other emissions and increasing recycling. For more information, Nissan in North America and the complete Nissan and Infiniti vehicles can be found online at www.NissanUSA.com and www.InfinitiUSA.com.


* Suggested retail price does not include applicable taxes, title and license fees. Dealer sets actual price. Price and specifications subject to change without notice.
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