Toyota Prius Shows Next Gen Body for First Time

The images confirm the rumors that the Prius would be growing in exterior dimensions – the car seen here is both longer and wider than today’s version – meaning more usable space for backseat passengers and trunk storage. Toyota is said to be giving the Prius a power hike as well, supplying the car with better performance in addition to its beefier body. While one might expect that a larger more powerful car would indicate an attendant drop in fuel efficiency, we’re told that the new Prius will be even more fuel efficient than the old one. That’s a viable claim considering the pressure Toyota must be under to improve the vaunted mpg numbers for its green halo car.


While we’ve seen images of a Toyota test mule for the next generation Prius hybrid already, that earlier test vehicle was little more than a powertrain mule built from the current model with a new front fascia attached. These new images reveal much more; the very first look at the all new, next generation Prius.


Scroll down for the spy shooter’s own words on the next gen Prius and be sure to browse through our gallery of exclusive images above.

The world’s most popular Hybrid car, the Toyota Prius is getting a new look, and here are the first photos of it.
Caught earlier as a mule, with the new front welded to the old body, these are the very first photos of the completely new car.


One of the ways in which Toyota will pull off this trick new packaging is by replacing the current car’s nickel-metal hydride batteries with smaller lithium-ion units. Reported solar panels on the roof also seem to be for real.

Look for the Prius to start a family in this generation as well, with possible station wagon and convertible variants reportedly on the table.


Other news about the Prius: the roof will get solar cells to power the air-condition, and it will also be built in a new plant in Mississippi, USA. So when you look under the next generation Toyota Prius, it could stand: Made in USA, underneath.


Except for the fact that the new Prius has grown, and is now longer and wider, especially the rear seat passengers have gotten more space, and the boot is bigger, rumors are talking about a whole family of Prius models. That means that we also will see a station wagon and maybe even a convertible with the Prius badge.


Insiders in Japan are talking about more power and yet still better fuel economy. There might even be a plug-in version this time which will be even more fuel efficient.

Other news that Toyota is working with, is that they will change the NiMh batteries for lighter and smaller Li-ion batteries. The Li-ion will not just make it possibly to load some more stuff in the boot because they are smaller, no, it will make the Prius faster as well.
Source:nextautos



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BMW M3 Sedan 2009 Update

The new BMW M3 Sedan is the first four-door M3 since the E36. You’ll immediately notice it doesn’t look like a regular 3-Series sedan, but rather it shares the same front end treatment with the M3 Coupe.

The M3 Sedan is based on most of the same components as the coupe, delivering 420 horsepower from 4.0 liters and maximum torque of 295 pound-feet at 3,900 rpm. While the coupe targets the Audi RS5 and Mercedes CLK63 AMG, the sedan takes aim at the Lexus IS-F, Audi RS4, and Mercedes C63 AMG.


Unlike the M3 and M6 Coupes, the M3 Sedan does not have a carbon fiber roof. The Sedan comes standard with the same 18-inch wheels as the Coupe.

Power from the BMW M3 Sedan’s V8 is transmitted to the rear wheels through a close-ratio six-speed manual gearbox or the company’s seven-speed M DCT dual-clutch unit. The new final drive comes with a Variable M Differential Lock generating up to 100 percent locking action with fully variable action whenever required, ensuring optimum traction on all road surfaces.


The Sedan features driver-adjustable settings for crucial dynamic controls including steering, damping and stability. An available steering-wheel-mounted “MDrive” button can be used to store these preferences.



2009 Update

For the 2009 model year, BMW revised its M3 sedan — after just one year on the market. Most notable is the change to the rear taillight design, featuring a ‘notched’ design and drastically smaller reverse lights.

Other changes include the addition of the seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox with Drivelogic, plus a revised center console, active head restraints for whiplash protection, and a selection of new exterior colors.


Pricing

Prices for the M3 Sedan start at 53,800 — $3,000 less than the coupe.

A premium package, priced at $1900, offers power folding mirrors, universal garage opener, digital compass mirror, BMW Assist, Novillo Leather interior and choice of three optional interior trims.


The technology package includes EDC, M Drive, Comfort Access, and a navigation system - all for $3250.


19″ wheels are $1200, Electronic Damping Control is $1000, and Extended Novillo Leather can be had for $2000 as a standalone option or $1000 with the premium package. Enhanced premium sound is $1900.

Buyers seeking an open-air experience can opt to pay $1050 for a glass moonroof.
Source: BMW


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History of Toyota Supra

Toyota Supra underwent a few minor changes for 1998. The exterior remained the same, except for the removal of the Anniversary emblems on the front fenders. Inside, a new 3-spoke steering wheel replaced the previous 4-spoke wheel, the cloth sport seats had a bolder design, and the radio was redesigned. The Naturally Aspirated I6 got Variable Valve Technology with Intelligence (VVT-i), which lead to an increase of 5 bhp and 10 lb-ft over the year before. The Twin Turbo I6 remained unchanged. The 5-speed manual transmission was dropped, even though the 6-speed manual was still available only on the Twin Turbo. Therefore, the base model was only available with an automatic. Faced with declining sales for Japanese super cars, this would be the last year that the Toyota Supra would be sold in the U.S.
for detail of Toyota Supra history,go to musclecarclub.com

All New Honda Jazz/Fit Revealed

The all-new Honda Jazz have been revealed a month ahead of its world debut at the Tokyo Motor Show, revealing a wider and lower grille with an optional glass roof.

Called the Honda Fit on the local market in Japan, the new Jazz builds on much of the technology of the predecessor like the fuel tank located in the centre of the vehicle with a flat floor.


It delivers stronger performance with improved economy and emissions from its two new engines, has more space and is even easier to use.


New ACE body structure

Even more efficient safety performance results from the introduction of the ACE (Advanced Compatibility Engineering) body structure, a concept that is being progressively rolled out across the Honda range. Its structure, in particular a front polygonal main frame, helps to reduce the negative effect of misalignment between vehicles of different sizes and construction and multiple energy absorbing pathways disperse impact energy to prevent cabin deformation.

Standard on all models are dual front and side airbags, full length side curtain airbags and three-point seatbelts in all five seating positions, those in the front with dual-stage pretensioners. The front passenger airbag can also be deactivated to allow a rear facing child seat to be fitted to the front seat and for the first time Jazz is equipped with seatbelt reminders for both the front and rear seats. Front seats are also fitted with active headrests to minimise the potential for whiplash injuries.

Two ISOFIX fittings in the left and right rear seats together with tether anchors in the roof ensure correct child seat installation.


Larger, more refined cabin with even better functionality

The ingenious interior layout of the original Jazz, with its compact suspension and centrally-mounted fuel tank liberating more load space, together with the increased external dimensions of the new model, mean interior comfort has been taken to a new level.

Rear seat passengers now have 37 mm greater knee room, while the distance between front and rear passengers is up by 30 mm. The slightly wider body also means shoulder room increases by 44 mm in the front and 43 mm in the rear.

Visibility gets a considerable boost, too. Reduced width A-pillars, a larger windscreen and quarter windows three times the size of those in the previous model make for more relaxed driving, while retractable rear headrests ensure the view out of the rear window is now totally unobscured.


Magic Seats now one-motion dive-down

Given the popularity of the previous Jazz's innovative ‘cinema' style rear seats, it comes as little surprise that Honda chose to offer a similar arrangement in the new car; but while the latest Magic Seats operate on the same principle, they are even more convenient since they have a one-motion, dive-down operation. No longer is there a need to move the front seats forward to collapse the rear seats. Instead, thanks to headrests that are virtually flush with the seatback, the 2:1 split rear seats are able to clear the front seats even when the latter are slid back to their rearmost position.
New Double-Trunk boot feature (1.4-litre models)

The outstanding practicality of the Magic Seats concept is complemented in the new Jazz by a flexible luggage area based on similar principles to the arrangement found in the Honda CR-V. Standard on 1.4 models, which are equipped with a tyre repair kit, the Double-Trunk boot features an underfloor storage area concealed by a double hinged panel - Regular Mode. The 230 mm deep, 64 litre capacity lower compartment is ideal for stashing sports gear or wet items, and once covered, won't soil other luggage.

The floor can be removed altogether or folded up against the rear seats to make full use of the total depth available - ideal for particularly tall objects (Tall Mode). Alternatively, rather than folding the complete panel against the seat backs, its rear half can be folded up to create a load shelf at half height - so creating a double load space - Upper/lower Mode. Heavier items can be stored below, while lighter items can be placed on the upper shelf, and since it incorporates a load net, is perfect for carrying awkwardly shaped items, preventing them from moving around.

Total luggage space available is 399 litres in models with a tyre repair kit, greater than that of some compact MPVs and class-leading in the supermini sector. The previous Jazz had a total of 380 litres (VDA).


Refined cabin environment

High quality, pleasant-to-the touch materials, stylish design and tasteful colours give the cabin a more upmarket feel.

More comfortable front seats with better support, a driver's footrest, a height adjustable driver's seat, a steering wheel adjustable for reach and rake and larger rear seats are just some of the features that contribute to the more cosseting, more relaxed cabin environment. Extra sound insulation and the increased body rigidity also play their part in making the Jazz a pleasant place to be. And for a real sense of spaciousness, the Jazz 1.4 EX is equipped with a panorama roof that extends over the rear seats for a great aerial view. Heat absorbing glass and a power sun shade ensure a comfortable cabin environment all year round.
Source: Honda via: sportscarforums


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Detroit-Specter Werkes C6 Corvette GTR Revealed

The GTR shares only the roof, rear hatch and glass with the exterior of the 2008 Chevy Corvette Z06 upon which it is based and has a footprint widened by four-and-a-half inches.The overall design effect is one of taking the C6 Corvette, mixing it with a touch of Viper RT/10.

The Specter Werkes GTR combines the distinctly shape of wellknown American muscle cars with a custom bodywork.


After a few months waiting for the new generation of Specter Werkes Corvette GTR extreme, based on the C6 version of the car, Michigan and the company finally presented the car in all her details. The model is based on Corvette C6, ant it is a unique and impressive interpretation of the Corvette basic form.


The company says that the new car will have many levels of engine tune, but the first is based on LS3, up from the standard 6.2L to 6.8L.
Combined with a tune it goes to 535hp (398kW) and 530lb-ft (719Nm) of torque, thanks to a Corsa exhaust. The car is also more wide than the base model with a wider covering and broadened suspension. Also the alloy whels, measuring 19 x 11in at the front and 20 x 12in at the rear provide enough space for the huge 285/30ZR19 front and rear 335/25ZR20 Michelin Pilot Sport 2 Zero Press tires.


Stop Tech 15 inch brake discs and six pistons in front with 14 inch mate and four-piston calipers in the are perfect for stopping the car at high speeds.

The car is painted in BASF silver, while the interior features standard Spinneybeck GTR sport seats and leather trim details. The Corvette GTR package have a base price of $ 34995. Of course all GTR are custom built...
Source:expertmotor



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Schumacher Wrecks Ferrari F430 Prototype on the Ring

Last week Ferrari had exclusively reserved the Nürburgring for testing of a Ferrari 430 Scuderia prototype, and our spy photographer on the scene noticed it was Michael Schumacher driving. Also, as co-driver he had his son, Mick, who seemed to be enjoying some quick laps at the famous Nordschleife.


We recently reported that seven time Formula One World Champion, Michael “Schumey” Schumacher helped complete final test stages of the new Ferrari California. With past development involvement with other notable Ferrari cars such as the Enzo and 599 GTB, Schumacher has become a permanent fixture as a Ferrari test driver on and off the track.


Our spy photographer states that an hour later the track was closed after an accident was reported by the 430 Scuderia at Schwedenkreutz. Some rumors quickly emerged that its was Michael's son Mick who was driving the vehicle, but this is highly doubtful since Mick is only 9 years old, track conditions were damp, we can clearly see his silhouette in the passenger seat and the F430 Scuderia proto hit the guardrail at 250 km/h (155 mph).


According to Schumacher's spokeswoman Sabine Kehm, "Michael called me and said 'We have crashed the car but are going to continue with another one',"
Source:World Car Fans


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Mercedes Benz Brabus

Mercedes Benz Brabus , as usual, a very nice stand with almost the whole range on show.Several of the cars were equipped with this engine, Brabus´
version of the twin-turbo V12 called SV12, first introduced in the
Maybach but also powering Mercedes´ 600-models. Brabus has increased
the displacement from 5,5 litres to 6,3 litres which is achieved through
the installation of a unique steel-billet crankshaft, larger diameter
lightweight alloy pistons and precision-balanced connecting-rods.
The engine is also fitted with sport camshafts, precision-machined
cylinder heads, a high-performance sport exhaust system and reprogrammed
engine electronics. The engine is amazingly powerful, 640 bhp at 5100
rpm and a maximum torque of 1026 NM from 1750 rpm. This engine is
available for the SL-, CL- and S600 and the upgrade costs 44900 EURO
plus an installation cost of 1980 EURO. But it is also available in
the E-class in a model called EV12. The EV12 is only available as
a complete car, built in exclusive small-series production, which
means that you can´t upgrade your standard E500 with the V12-engine,
you have to buy the EV12 directly from Brabus. It is one of the most
amazing 4-door cars ever built.

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AC Schnitzer Presents BMW X6 Styling and Performance Package

In the X6 by AC Schnitzer, the front skirt with its diagonal air intakes and repositioned fog lights are exposed. The drive-under protection has been removed in favour of a more dynamic contour of the spoiler edge. The rear carries a massive skirt with framed edges. In contrast to the original, all components are painted body-colour throughout, so the body appears downstretched and hence more dominant. Instead of the drive-under protection originally fitted here, AC Schnitzer Designer Michele Viandante has opted for a rear diffuser.


The new BMW X6 exerts a particular form of magnetism: not only does its chassis sit perfectly on the road, it also magically attracts attention. Now it appears there is only one place where the fascination, dynamism and presence of the first Sports Activity Coupé (SAC) can be enhanced: in the workshops of AC Schnitzer in Aachen. The result is a visual and technical masterpiece which further magnifies the core qualities of the X6.


Typical AC Schnitzer: The vehicle's appearance is not misleading, but simply a reflection of its inner values. The renowned BMW tuner has developed a real firecracker under the bonnet of the diesel versions 3.0dX and 3.5dX with a new Motor Control Unit. Precise performance data will be released shortly. Of course, sheer engine power is not the only ingredient in sporting performance. So Manfred Wollgarten, Technical Director of AC Schnitzer, has developed a unique suspension spring kit for the X6 on the North Loop of the Nürburgring.


One thing can be disclosed: Despite its high body, the X6 by AC Schnitzer in this configuration will show a clean pair of heels to many sports saloons. Perfect handling with corresponding Look and Feel is ensured by the "EVO" 3-spoke Sport Airbag steering wheel. With AC Schnitzer, you hold the road firmly in almost any position. The X6 by AC Schnitzer takes control on public roads as willingly as on changing terrain with varying up and down gradients!


Another eyecatcher is the chromed tailpipes of the dual-flow exhaust system in AC Schnitzer Racing Design. The BMW X6 is not the only SAC in the world, but it is one of the first vehicles to be fitted with the multipiece AC Schnitzer alloy wheels Type Vll. With their black paint and tightly arranged spokes, the 22" rims present a challenging stance. The changing angles of the web pairs give an air of sophistication.
Source:theautochannel


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2009 Audi Q5Review : Hot Looks, Sporty Moves

the Audi Q5 as an Audi A4 Avant that can wade through 20 inches of standing water and scramble across a mildly muddy two-track trail. The standard Quattro all-wheel-drive system has the same 40:60, rear-drive biased torque distribution, and the Audi Q5 packs the same sweet 265 hp 3.2-liter V6 with 243 lb.-ft. of torque. The engine is paired with a ZF six-speed automatic, and Audi estimates the combination will net 17 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. If we're honest, that is a bit disappointing, especially when compared to the powertrains they'll offer in the homeland. German Audi Q5s can be had with three of Audi's most impressive engines—the four-cylinder gasoline 2.0 TFSI, and two diesels: a thrifty 2.0 TDI or the powerhouse 3.0 TDI V6, which belts out 407 lb.-ft. of torque. Oh yes, they all get better mileage than our V6.

The Audi Q5 cabin is nearly identical to the A4's, which is no bad thing. It is all quite intuitively designed, right to the flip-down rear seats, which are easily actuated from the cargo area. Only leather will be offered, and upscale niceties like a climate-controlled cup holder and ventilated front seats can be optioned. Audi's MMI (Muti-Media Interface) is much improved too, with small pop-up windows sliding onto the screen to note temperature or seat heat adjustments. The navigation system now shows details on buildings, and can be viewed in "bird's eye" format—quite chic, indeed. But we'd still like to have touchscreen controls.

First in road Spy Photos Ferrari California

As the Ferrari California heads into the final stages of development prior to its public unveiling in Paris this October, engineers are keen to keep the new model taped despite its recent media unveiling.


Seen here in the famous shade of blue Ferrari calls, Azzurro California, these are some the first “real life” photos of the California taken on the autostrada just outside of Modena.


Big thanks to David for submitting the pics!



Source:World Car Fans


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Toyota May Raise Prius, Luxury Vehicle Prices in Japan

Jiji Press reported that Toyota Motor Corp. is considering raising prices in Japan of its Prius gasoline-electric hybrid car and luxury models, company officials said.

The Japanese auto industry leader is expected to raise prices by one to 3 pct on average due to soaring costs of raw materials such as steel, informed sources said.

The company is likely to make a final decision as early as August and start introducing new pricing by the end of this year, the sources said.

It will be the first time for Toyota to raise its vehicle prices without model changes since 1992, when the company increased prices for some commercial vehicles.

Unlike the United States, it is unusual for Japanese automakers to raise prices without remodeling. But other Japanese automakers are highly likely to follow suit as they also struggle with higher costs.

Toyota seems to be finding it easy to raise the prices of the Prius and luxury models because their sales are apparently less vulnerable to a price increase than other lineups including smaller cars.

The Prius is in short supply because of its strong demand. Higher materials prices take a heavier toll on the Prius than on other models because the hybrid car uses a lot of rare metals, of which prices are rising steeply. [ theautochannel.com ]