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2015 KAHN 6×6 Huntsman Now Also Hunting Women and Children

  If you like the KAHN Design Defender 105 Longnose Huntsman, you are going to have major bloodlust for the latest concept from the Chelsea Truck Company: the KAHN Huntsman 6×6. Debuting in Geneva next week, the latest KAHN truck might be the maddest, baddest and coolest of all. Powered by a 6.2-liter Chevrolet V8 engine making 450-horsepower, the KAHN 6×6 Huntsman promises to be fast, wild and more than capable of pulling its own weight up any dune, mountain or rocky trail. It definitely has “going” power. But this design from all angles? All about stopping power, curb appeal …

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2015 Kia SPORTSPACE Concept in 20 New Photos + Powertrain Details

Updated 2.27.14 With 20 New Photos Half of these are official shots from Kia, and the other half from KoreanCarBlog. In addition to the pics, Kia confirms that the powertrain is a 250-horsepower turbo four with the firm’s new DCT driving the front wheels. In that regard, the SPORTSPACE’s name is clearly SportSpace… not SportsPace. 2015 Kia SPORTSPACE Concept – Latest Photos   Darnit! Right when we had almost completely written Kia off as poorly-driving, and poorly-marketed cars aimed at idiots — here comes this stunning SPORTSPACE estate concept for Geneva 2015. Hitting my fast-wagon passion right in the jugular, …

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HD Engine Startup! Meeting Three NASCAR Truck Series 2015 Toyota Tundra Drivers

Insights about the 2015 Toyota Tundra NASCAR trucks versus the cars? A special meet/greet with Johnny Sauter let us know that the trucks are far more controllable, and far more thrilling to race (in the driver’s seat) as a result. The NASCAR sedans, in contrast, were much more “exhilarating” due to a pronounced lack of control via grippy downforce. Exhilarating would definitely be a code-word for terrifying and loose and wild….! The 2015 NASCAR Tundra, by contrast, is more playful and playable out there on the Daytona International Speedway — per driver Johnny Sauter, who drove both trucks and cars …

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2015 Mercedes-AMG GT3 Racecar Revealed Wearing 300SL-Inspired Vertical Grille Slats

First off, Mercedes-AMG has been remarkably kind with the name of its new racecar: just called the AMG GT3. Versus the AMG GT GT3, the simple moniker is very nice indeed. Besides that generosity, the AMG GT3 is a totally brutal racecar. Running the previous SLS GT3’s 6.2-liter V8 versus the new twin-turbo powertrain in the production car, the AMG GT3 is nonetheless comprehensively overhauled for the needs of FIA GT3-class racing. These GT3 specials are interesting to watch race because they are all genuine production platforms, upgraded for racing. No other class or series is as faithful to original …

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395HP, 3.5s 2015 MINI Vision Gran Turismo Runs AWD With 180MPH Vmax

  We did not have to wait long to see the full MINI Vision Gran Turismo concept in all its glory! This hotshot pocket-rocket is now a serious racing beast: full AWD system, a 395-horsepower turbo engine, and a sprint to 62-mph in just 3.5-seconds. The overall top speed? 180-mph! The hottest-ever MINI racer is available to play in GT6 from today. 2015 MINI Vision Gran Turismo     MINI goes Gran Turismo®6. From today gamers can enjoy driving the virtual MINI Clubman Vision Gran Turismo. 26.02.2015 Munich. Inspired by the brand’s legendary motor racing success, the MINI Design Team …

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2016 Audi R8 – Digital Colorizer in 60 Custom Shades

Step right up, folks! Pick a color… any color…. there’s plenty for all  and plenty to choose from! Took to Photoshop to explore some wild digitally-rendered colors on the new R8 shape. Most of the candy-colored Skittles rainbow is proudly represented here, along with a set of bold hues and a set of deep and dark shades. Enjoy! 2016 Audi R8 – Digital Colorizer Brights   2016 Audi R8 V10 Plus – Digital Colorizer – Bolds 2016 Audi R8 V10 Plus – Digital Colorizer – Darks  

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3.0s, 610HP 2016 Audi R8 V10 and R8 V10 Plus Are Official! HD Video + 30 Images

The 2016 Audi R8 V10 is official today ahead of its Geneva debut next week! Packing a totally redesigned chassis, cabin and exterior — the R8 hopes to keep its place as the modest and comfortable supercar in a world filled with moody McLarens and finicky Ferrari’s. The 5.20-liter V10 of the R8 V10 in blue here is only slightly tweaked from before, as it also is in the orange and red V10 Plus R8 models with their extra spoilers and TopGear-lap track mods. Inside, the design is quite fantastic and now includes all the latest and greatest Audi tech, …

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RM Amelia Island 2015 – 1953 Chevrolet Corvette Is Rare, Flawless First-Year Example

  The power of the model-year in full effect with this 1953 Corvette, which is ballparked at $350,000 when it goes up for auction in March. This is triple the estimate of the identical 1954 model. But the 1954 is far less exclusive. The first year of Corvette production was actually fraught with peril and assembly issues. The never-before-used fiberglass bodywork proved extremely challenging to produce accurately, let alone assemble. A new setup wherein the complete bodywork was lowered onto the frame helped make 1954 a massive production year. They are both special, but obviously the collector value of the …

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Hypercar Heroes – 1999 Lamborghini Diablo GTR – Restored By Reiter Engineering

The 1999 Diablo GTR was the ultimate Lambo from the 20th century — with power from its V12 up 50 from the SVR and now belting out 590 ponies, the GTR was a shock to the system. Custom-built in a run of just 30 cars, the Diablo GTR was a track-day special and dominated in the one-make SuperTrophy series. This fantastic example is completely restored to as-new condition by the current SquadraCorsa race partners of Lambo, Reiter Engineering. Despite being replaced by the Murcielago shortly after the GTR arrived, this Diablo is arguably more enticing these days than its successor. …

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OP_ED Part 2 – Cadillac #DAREGREATLY Campaign Previews 2016 CT6 Limo + de Nysschen Progress Report

  It is so irritating when writers quote themselves. Drives me nuts. But this one is very, very relevant. On July 3rd, 2014 – we jotted out the below Editor’s Opinion article attempting to diagnose what was making Cadillac feel so ill. We scathed… This really is not an old-man brand anymore. But sadly, it is definitely run by losers. Not losers in life, mind you. They must be smart and successful – but they are definitely, definitely not cool people. They live in Michigan and are sheltered C- and D-county (aka, rural) people who have never even stood on …

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First Look – 2015 MINI Vision Gran Turismo Concept Is Widebody Clubman GT3

First look today at the upcoming MINI entrant into the world of Gran Turismo 6. This MINI Vision GT concept promises a massive jump in power and track ability, likely with AWD and nearly 400-horsepower. We only have a few sketches of the car plus two digital teasers, but the real thing will be seen very soon online, and perhaps in person at the Geneva auto show next week. The MINI VGT will be raceable with the next PlayStation update for Gran Turismo, likely mid-March. 2015 MINI Vision Gran Turismo Concept  

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850HP 2016 Aston Martin VULCAN Is All-New Tactical Strike Flagship with 7.0L Racing V12

  WOW! This new Aston Martin flagship has some serious thrills in store for its lucky owners. Named to honor the famous Avro Vulcan bomber, the Aston Vulcan will seek to match the excitement, adrenaline and glory of the first tactical nuclear strike plane ever produced. Luckily, this new track-only Aston delivers the goods without any fallout or blowback…. To continue the theme, the Vulcan was designed in a time when nuclear bombs had to still be dropped. Although the ICBM would arrive in the 1960s along with the production bomber, this plane was still a critical part of the …

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2.9s 2015 McLaren 675LT Brings LongTail Aero, Track-Attack Chassis and 666HP!

You really have to admire McLaren Automotive’s brand and product savvy. On either side of the 650S, we now have two tweaked variants to suit individual buyer tastes. Complementing the Asia-only 625C and its softer suspension setup is this new 675LT, a thoroughly revamped 650S with an all-new tail, advanced GT3-style aero pieces for the sills and nose, and a cabin with racing seats and details. The biggest change is in back for this new LongTail model. You instantly see how different the design is versus the 650S, with a longer rear spoiler, unique fender vents behind the wheels, and …

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Cool Gift Ideas – NOMO Design Auto Icon Screen Prints Show History and Evolution of Famous Car Makes

  What to do for interesting and informative wall decor between the teenage years of Blue-Tac posters and the mid-life oil on canvas? How to keep you automotive passion visible, brand loyalty powerful and left-brain active … without dusting off those old Porsche posters? These new screen prints from Chicago-based NOMO Design are a fantastic way to relive the evolution of iconic brand styles every day. Highlighting the major design features of BMW noses over the last 80 years? Fantastically interesting, relevant and stimulating to all car-guys and gals. Jerome Daksiewicz is the designer behind this project, which is on …

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2015 Audi Prologue Avant Concept Shows 4-Door, Fast-Wagon Style Ahead of Geneva Show

We have seen two iterations of the Prologue concept so far from Audi: both coupes with the scale and presence to compete between the BMW 6 series and the Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupes. With a design that harks back to the low and lean appearance of the Audi 5000 from the late 1980s, the Prologue design does feel much better as a deeply-sloping wagon silhouette. More naturally Audi, but still a bit blah for our tastes. It engenders little to no visual passion or excitement, despite being a clean and pure design. This latest Prologue Avant dramatically decorates the exterior details …

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Digital Renderings – 2017 Mitsubishi MiEVO – Doubles Power, Adds Grip and New Widebody Stance

We know that the i-MiEV powertrain from Mitsubishi is fully modular. The units can simply be stacked or added to a new drive axle for a precise doubling or tripling of the power. This knowledge comes from the MiEV Evolution III Pikes Peak racer, which juices up to an impressive 600-horsepower via AWD. How would this huge dose of new speed fare on the $16k i-MiEV from Mitsu — the cheapest-ever electric car ever sold in the US? It would easily overwhelm the 15-inch wheels and pizza-cutter tires as stock. So a giant rubber upgrade to 18-inches and double the …

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2016 Mitsubishi i-MiEV Updated With Nav Touchscreen From Just $18k Net Price

  The Chevy Bolt concept from Detroit last month made a bit of a splash for promising to be a full-EV five-seater with great utility and a 200-mile battery range for a pre-tax-credit price of around $38,000. Mooted as a Tesla-fighter, the Bolt’s competitive benchmark should actually the innovative Mitsubishi i-MiEV. This funky city car redefines easy, smooth and pure-electric driving for the masses — with an out-the-door price of just $16,000 after considering the US EPA’s federal tax credit of $7500. That is seriously affordable, and makes the i-MiEV a realistic second-car for city-dwellers. Unlike the $35,000 Nissan Leaf …

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Racing Icons – 1954 Mercedes-Benz ‘Blue Wonder’ Race Transporter in 69 RARE Photos

Part publicity stunt, part engineering exercise — and all fun and playful. The 1950s Mercedes-Benz Racing Division needed a rapid transport vehicle to supplement the big trucks with closed canopies that typically moved racecars and teams among the European circuits. Lower, faster and far more nimble than the big trucks, the Blue Wonder could navigate under any bridge or within any narrow city streets — areas typically off-limits for a heavy heauler. Powered by a race-ready engine from the 300SL and plopped into Mercedes sedan chassis, the ‘Blue Wonder’ was billed as the fastest transporter in the world. A top …

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3.3s, 217MPH 2015 BRABUS 850 S-Class Coupe is Torque-a-Saurus Through 4Matic AWD

Welcome…. to Jurassic Torque. 1069-pound-feet, to be precise. Through the new S63 AMG 4MATIC drivetrain, this 850-horsepower monster will screech to 60-mph in just 3.3-seconds and on to a 217-mph top speed. We really enjoy the design accents shown here on the new S63 850 exterior design. In front, the upper bumper intakes are nicely flared with a carbon-fiber accent. In back, a near-perfect rear spoiler looks like it should be from the Mercedes factory. That is the sign of a really good custom mod. Stunning power, tasteful exterior upgrades and a cabin to redefine swanky? Brabus! 2015 BRABUS 850 …

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Design Talent Showcase – 2022 AVENUE ROCKET by Sabino Leerentveld

  As the previous Sabino Design concept shows an extreme, deconstructed exoskeleton stripped all bodywork, this Avenue Rocket goes the other direction. A huge and intricate bodywing is made of more than 80 individual spikes, wings and dynamic surfaces. Totally absurd? Not at all. Aerodynamic studies and wind tunnels are only as good as the software and number-crunching hardware used to predict and confirm design ideas as effective. At the current rate of computer evolution, the black air of aerodynamics are about to see the light. Supercars are already leveraging these aero insights in their race upgrades. But what if …

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Design Talent Showcase – 2020 Puma Boulevard Racer by Sabino Leerentveld

LocalMotors.com is not just the hub of a budding OEM manufacturer of trucks, motorcycles and trikes — but actually a full-fledged design community. Collaborative engineering and project management takes a huge hive of intellectual capital. It is fun to browse around the design section of the site to find exciting ideas, fantastic renderings of the future, and draft design projects that will make you gag in horror. Buried deep in the pages, however, you can find some really exciting achievements in design. Stuff that no company or even Gran Turismo concept is doing yet. Such is the Puma Boulevard Racer …

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2015 Rally Fighter PRO By Taggart Autosport Brings Configurable Options + 3 New Transmission Choices

If there is one downside to the Local Motors Rally Fighter, it might be that the spec sheet is a little dry. Where are the wild suspension upgrades, rhino bars and upgraded seats, wheels and detailing? Typically, this type of aftersales upgrade and accessorizing is all on the buyer’s shoulders. Taggart Autosport has stepped into this middle ground to custom-build and finalize a Rally Fighter to your exact specs. They call it the Rally Fighter Pro. The four suspensions and transmission choices are perhaps the biggest substantive upgrade to the factory setup – which is a bulletproof but less-than-modern three-speed …

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2015 Mercedes-Maybach PULLMAN Limousine Previewed With Quad Rear Thrones + HUGE Sense of Entitlement

  Royal families have it so tough. Every step is seemingly an exhausting endeavor. Even waving to their subjects when en route between photo-ops can be emotionally and physically exhausting for this sensitive group. They are constantly pulled one way or another, with no time to just relax and mellow out. I mean, it is Gstaad skiing this week and then RIGHT to St. Barts for some beach thing. No break. Double vacations can be so tiring, right? Just getting from private chalet to private jet can be a taxing experience. These poor, pampered beings are never happy. But they …

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2015 Aston Martin VANTAGE GT3 Is Most-Extreme V12S With Hardcore Aero Upgrade All Around

Okay, Aston special edition fatique is definitely setting in pretty hard lately. But this is one special Vantage to really get – and keep – your attention in focus. But there is a big catch. What is special about this Vantage GT3? Based on the Vantage V12 S Coupe, the new GT3 model is 200-pounds lighter and nearly doubles the aerodynamic grip generated at high speeds. How? Through an all-new nose with deep splitter and ductwork, a fresh hood vent design to free any trapped air in this ultra-tight engine bay, and full reprofiled intake and bumper design in carbon-fiber. …

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2016 Range Rover EVOQUE Refreshed With Full-LED Lighting, New Cabin and All-New Infotainment

Remember how much excitement the Evoque generated just a few short years ago!? Looking like a production Range Stormer Concept, but sized at the affordable side of the Land Rover catalog — the Evoque really packed a wallop in the cool-SUV poker game. But reality is a harsh mistress. The Evoque took almost two years to finally arrive in the USA, by which time most of the excitement had worn off. Still cool, make no mistake. But not gotta-have-it cool. And then you sit inside. It is respectable in the front, but woefully tiny in the rear seat. The low …

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2015 Mercedes-Benz G500 4×4² Debuts Hardcore Off-Road Kit, New 4.0L V8TT and LWB Options

A concept only in name, the new G500 4×4² does what it says on the tin: four-by-four — squared. A giant wide-track design and 37-inch tires run much of the hardcore offroad tech from the AMG G63 6×6, but under the skin of the standard G-Class. This G500 runs the latest 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 from the AMG GT, but retuned to have rock-crushing torque at all times versus peaky high-rev horsepower. Even so, 422 ponies is plenty when riding this high off the earth below! Mercedes calls this a concept, but the G500 4×4-squared is almost a sure-thing for limited-production …

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2015 Toyota Camry Retraces NASCAR Roots with a Drive on Daytona Beach

No NASCAR crash course would be truly immersive at Daytona without a drive on the original NASCAR track – this pristine stretch of flawless Atlantic beach. First off, an intro. Why would driving on sand at speeds topping 140-mph have ever seemed like a good idea? When you put yourself in the driver’s seat 65 years ago, running high-powered and highly dangerous racecars on Daytona Beach actually seems really reasonable. Daytona Beach has three qualities that make it extremely desirable for high-speed runs: it is smooth, flat and nearly endless. Those same criteria are exactly what the  Bugatti Veyron La …

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Last Bugatti VEYRON ‘La Finale’ To Take Bow in Geneva

  The time has come, ladies and gentleman. After ten years of production and 450 units, La Finale is indeed upon us. This final Veyron caps off perhaps the most-successful hypercar program of all time. Still the ultimate king of speed, the Veyron is the pride of the Volkswagen Group — and also the entire automotive industry, in some ways. We can only smile imagining what barriers the next Bugatti models will break through, what records smashed and fantasies ignited.   2015 Bugatti VEYRON Grand Sport Vitesse La Finale   2015 Bugatti VEYRON Grand Sport Vitesse La Finale Bugatti sells …

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2015 Toyota Camry XSE V6 Morphs Into DAYTONA 500 Official Pace Car + #83 Johnny Sauter Camry NASCAR

First up-close look at the 2015 Camry Pace Car in real life. A modified 2015 CAMRY XSE V6, shiny exhausts and a lower stance are visible above 19-inch BBS alloys and Z-rated tires. Just a tire and spring change away from being approved for 155mph? Yep. Summer rubber on this pace car, even in chilly February! The pair of Camry Pace Cars is active regularly during the Budweiser Duel Races that serve as a qualifier for the Daytona 500 lineup. This new LED-lit 2015 Camry Pace Car has no trouble managing track brutes at up to 125-mph around tracks like …

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DAYTONA – Meeting the 199MPH 2015 Toyota Camry NASCAR of Matt Kenseth #20 Dollar General

Thrilling week in Daytona Beach so far! An incredible day of meeting Toyota NASCAR drivers, crew chiefs and even the president of TRD USA, the overall lead in the Toyota Racing effort in American events. Meeting the 2015 Camry racer up close then seeing it in what felt like an HD action movie of the race Duels later? YES! So much fun to see the Daytona Speedweek leadup to the Daytona 500 tomorrow, Sunday the 22nd of February. The car-guy part of NASCAR culture makes tech and equipment off-track and in the pits every bit as serious as a wild …

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986HP, ~2.2s 2016 McLaren P1 GTR Revealed Before Geneva and Catalunya Track Driver Program

  The 2016 McLaren P1 GTR is now in full racing mode. Scary-fast and ready to blast out of the pits at the Circuit de Catalunya later this year with the elite crop of owner-drivers who will join the ultimate racing experience. The P1 GTR is significantly stripped and optimized for track duties versus its P1 road-going hypercar base-point, which was no shrinking violet itself when it comes to extreme performance. The P1 GTR is an in-house way for McLaren to bring its racing expertise to regular owners, with full pit-crew support and the chance to touch the P1 GTR’s …

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400HP, 4.1s 2016 Lotus Evora 400 Is Leaner and Meaner 2+2 With Designed-In Downforce

First look tonight at the new Lotus Evora 400 — a tweaked and updated version of the promising sports-car with mid-mounted V6 power, a supercharger with 50 extra horsepower to deliver 4.1-second sprints to 60-mph, and even an available IPS automatic transmission. The big news of the Evora 400 is its cooler style, better aero slipperiness combined with almost double the downforce of the existing Evora S. Inside, the new Evora 400 is far more advanced with new controls and new tech throughout. The center stack is incredibly modern and delivers Porsche-beating design details for things as everyday as the …

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2017 Rolls-Royce SUV Is Official! #EffortlessEverywhere Is New SuperLux High-Rider

We have a bit of a jump on this hot news!  Rolls-Royce just confirmed that it is developing an all-new SUV to join the finest motor-car range ever made. After 111 years in the car business, it is a thrill to learn that Rolls-Royce is adapting and thriving in the post-modern world of crossovers. So, what do we know so far? Car-Revs-Daily.com Animated Ghost II vs Rendered RR SUV Transition Very little. We know that the future Rolls-Royce SUV will have a go-anywhere capability, which is code for AWD and ground clearance. We also know that it does not yet …

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2016 Skoda Superb Revealed in Prague With Audi A8-Rivaling Roominess and Superior Design?!

Skoda is very proud of the Superb, their flagship of the line and packing a gigantic back seat that is in the same league as the standard-wheelbase A8 limousine. How and why is this possible in a car that is priced under the VW Passat? How comes down to the mass-market MQB chassis componentry and lack of an aluminum-spaceframe chassis or alloy bodywork. Front-drive is the name of the game, but this is also a side benefit. The trunk is bigger than any Audi sedan. Why? That is a bit more complicated. Think of the Superb as the Phaeton of …

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2015 KTM X-Bow GTR Is Reskinned and GT4-Ready To Race via Reiter Engineering

KTM’s branch-out from its motorcycle core with the X-Bow has created a rapid and fierce bunch of loyalists on and off the racetracks of the world. A simple idea of a carbon-fiber tub, mid-engine dynamics and deconstructed and minimalist panels was such a revolution six years ago — yet today is almost the global supercar template. From the X-Bow — pronounced CrossBow — came the X-Bow GT and the latest one-make race series, increases to 400-plus horsepower, and even a windshield for those days when you can drive without a race helmet. The next step for the X-Bow takes the …

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2016 Hyundai Tucson Breaks Cover Ahead of Geneva Show Packing New DCT

Warning: this is not a concept. This fresh and big-SUV design is in fact the real Euro-spec Hyundai Tucson! This seriously stylish upgrade of the compact Tucson crossover also includes new engines and a brand-new seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission on some trim levels. You can really see the Hyundai first-mover advantage coming into play: as this Hyundai crossover looks far more grown-up than the new Chevy Trax or Honda HR-V, but is likely to be priced at similar sub-$20,000 base prices when it arrives stateside this Fall. 2016 Hyundai Tucson   The all-new Tucson All-New Tucson represents significant step forward …

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Wow! 2015 Kia SPORTSPACE Concept Previews Future Optima Estate in Stellar Fashion

Darnit! Right when we had almost completely written Kia off as poorly-driving, and poorly-marketed cars aimed at idiots — here comes this stunning SPORTSPACE estate concept for Geneva 2015. Hitting my fast-wagon passion right in the jugular, the bleeding passion down my neck is almost as red as this SPORTSPACE. Long, low and sexy — the SPORTSPACE concept packs a gorgeous new design from double-quad LED light-pods back to its low-roofed tail and slimline glasshouse. Inside, things improve perhaps even further, with a full-length The SPORTSPACE is a strong statement of intent and first glimpse of the new Frankfurt-led design …

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2016 Bentley Continental GT and Flying Spur Boast More W12 Power + Revised Designs

Not content playing second fiddle to the very warmly-received Bentley twin-turbo V8 in the Conti GT family, the W12 engine is back for 2016 with a vengeance! Big power boosts, enhanced efficiency and slight tweaks outside and in are enough to bring the W12 entries bang up-to-date. The Continental GT Speed and Flying Spur Mulliner Spec now boast an impressive 600-plus horsepower each, along with some yummy new colors for the exterior and the leathers inside. Less touted but just as significant, the W12 Continental GT is likely to adopt much of the handling and chassis changes that have made …

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Road Test Review – 2015 Nissan Pathfinder SV 4WD

2015 Nissan Pathfinder SV 4WD Review INTRO The funny thing about most crossovers and SUVs these days is that comfort is generally a very relative term. Sure, you might have every bell and whistle imaginable in the new Escalade, and searing performance in the new BMW X5 M. And while those crossovers might be extreme examples, others in the price bracket also qualify. Vehicles like the Ford Explorer and Dodge Durango, for example, are prime competition for the massive, three-row Nissan Pathfinder. What is one thing that none of the above machines can actually deliver in a luxurious way? Road …

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2015 RINSPEED Budii Bringing i3-Based EV Wackiness To Geneva

  Rinspeed is a reliable Geneva Auto Show attendee – typically with one of the most avant-garde designs on the entire showfloor. This year, the concept is called the BUDII and is based on the BMW i3. A new style and complete infotainment redesign takes the dashboard completely out of the picture, in favor of an adjustable-side steering column. This column on a robotic arm can also fold itself away for automated driving modes. This next skill of the Budii also reveals one of its most interesting aspects: the periscope-style rising sensor pod to allow a birds-eye view of the …

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All-New 2016 Audi R8 First Look Teases Laser LED Headlamp For Berlinale VIPs

    Audi has been swishing it up with the European Sundance attendees this past week – being the official car of the Berlinale film festival. Giving its highest honor to “Taxi, a film shot with dual dash-mounted cameras by a passport-revoked director from Iran, the Berlinale is just the kind of flashbulb event sponsorship Audi loves. Countering Mercedes-Benz near-domination of fashion weeks in NY and abroad, Audi is cozying up to film stars, movie lovers and culture jockeys alike. Sample the new car, sir? Along with this glitz and bohemian glamour, Audi also took the wraps off a new …

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2016 Toyota Avensis Sedan and Estate Coming to Geneva; Showing New Prius Nose?

  Toyota’s latest Avensis is coming to the Geneva auto show next month, with a nose that wears a striking new split-arrow LED emerging from the slim upper grille. This nose is the product of the ED2 design studio in France, and may influence the upcoming 2016 Toyota Prius sold globally.   2016 Toyota Avensis Sedan and Estate Posted on 15 February 2015 TOYOTA TO REVEAL NEW AVENSIS AT THE GENEVA MOTOR SHOW Toyota will reveal the new Avensis at the Geneva motor show (3 – 15 March), the latest development of its contender in the European mid-size (D-segment) car …

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2016 Citroen DS5 Is Fresh With Upscale Cabin and Ultra-Modern LED Lighting

The 2016 Citroen DS5 is here and very cool!  Packing a cosmopolitan luxury-wagon style, a premium and laid-back cabin layout — the latest DS model really proves the transformation from basic Citroens up to the premium and swanky DS lineup. 2016 Citroen DS5   NEW DS 5: THE SYMBOL OF THE DS BRAND The New DS 5 is a vehicle of avant-garde styling, allying dynamic behaviour, refinement and attention to detail with a selection of advanced technologies. It embodies all the attributes of present and future DS vehicles. The DS flagship model introduces the brand identity and gains the new …

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RM Amelia 2015 Preview – 1931 Alfa Romeo 6C 1750 Gran Sport Spider by Zagato

  Meet the most successful Alfa Romeo racecar of all time. This 6C 1750 Gran Sport Spider by Zagato is the ultimate evolution on the Alfa Romeo race platform of the day, refined and tweaked with the help of poached Fiat engineering talent. The goal? To win races decisively. And win it did. This tilt-radiator design helped to keep the supercharged engine cool by shifting more air through its vanes, and also creating less aerodynamic drag. A one-two punch. That and the body by Zagato certainly helped the car look cool – both then and now. 1931 Alfa Romeo 6C …

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RM Amelia 2015 Preview – 1963 Shelby 289 Cobra May Top $1-Million In Return to Early-Series Buyer Preference

The million-dollar pre-sale estimate on this 1963 Shelby Cobra is a testament to three things: — the essential ‘rightness’ of the original concept, design and execution of this Anglo-American mashup — the value of Shelby Cobra’s continuing to rise, with originals like this sure to be among the highest-value models of all — and the fact that all those replicas and rip-offs actually reinforce and strengthen the legacy of the Shelby Cobra, but will never touch its overall collector value 1963 Shelby 289 Cobra RM Auctions Amelia Island 14 March 2015 Lot 178 1963 Shelby 289 Cobra $950,000 – $1,150,000 …

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1968 Intermeccanica Italia Spyder 1

RM Amelia 2015 Preview – 1968 Intermeccanica Italia Spyder

Imagine a car with the low, wide and long late-60s proportions of the Maserati Ghibli and Ferrari Daytona, but with nose detailing more evocative of the famous Ferrari 250 GTO. Even the chrome wrap-around bumpers set a perfect late-50s mood that was forever lost to history by the introduction of 5-mph safety bumpers and other pesky requirements for US sale. The team behind Intermeccanica certainly could, and this machine has a really timeless and special beauty as a result. Powered by a Ford V8, this Turin-made supercar also lacks the badge appeal of any modern Ferrari or Lamborghini. As such, …

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1955 Jaguar D-Type Twin-Cowl 15

RM Amelia 2015 Preview – 1955 Jaguar D-Type Twin-Cowl

This Jaguar is sure to be both a fan and expert favorite at the RM Auctions event in Amelia Island next month. One of 54 ever made, this privateer racecar is exquisite in its period style, achievements and performance. A surviving race-winner, the twin-cowl cockpit and windshield are particularly delightful, as is the cabin with its myriad aviation-derived instruments. 1955 Jaguar D-Type Twin-Cowl RM Auctions Amelia Island 14 March 2015 Lot 135 1955 Jaguar D-Type $3,750,000 – $4,250,000 Chassis no. XKD 530 Engine no. E 2044 9 Body no. H 2030 Est. 300 bhp, 3,781 cc DOHC inline six-cylinder engine …

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2014 Ford Mustang RTR Spec 2 3

2014 Ford Mustang RTR Spec 2 – HD Video Startup, Specs and Colors

RTR upgrades for the Ford Mustang are new on the scene, but gaining ground fast with their affordable, high-performance and high-impact style upgrades. Short for Ready To Rock, the RTR upgrades come in Spec 1 changes available for the V6 or V8 Mustangs since 2010, or the Spec 2 for only the V8s from 2013 and 2014. There are also packs for the 2015 car. We caught up with a Spec 2 RTR 2014 Mustang at Charleston Cars and Coffee yesterday and nabbed a few photos and a startup video of this steriodal ponycar. The exhaust note alone is enough …

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Winter Drift Gallery – 2015 Buick Regal GS AWD Slides Sideways Across Canadian Border

The big news on the very-cool Buick Regal GS this year is the addition of AWD as an option on the automatic transmission, plus a stick-shift choice for the Hy-Per-Strut front-driver. Eager to get sideways, the new Regal GS is at home in the snow like no Buick sports-sedan in decades. Enjoy this photo blast…. just try not to get snow in your eyes! 2015 Buick Regal GS AWD    

Mitsubishi Evolander

Concept Flashback – 2006 Mitsubishi EvoLander

Proof that the Lancer Evolution component set is pure gold where-ever it lives? The 2006 EvoLander concept from Mitsubishi for the 2006 SEMA show. You might think it would be simple or low-budget to complete an upgrade like this. Swap the engine, driveline, brakes, wheels and tires – then slap on some fender extensions and lower the ride height 4 inches. Not the Mitsubishi way. This EvoLander actually runs a turbocharged V6 MIVEC engine and a custom widebody kit with no seams or stick-on mounting points. These are all-new, one-off panels all around — and are extra stunning as a …

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2015 Chicago Auto Show MEGA Gallery in 151 Photos + Best and Worst in Show

Many reveals of all-new cars and trucks at the 2015 Chicago Auto Show, and perhaps  all-time great lineups of performance and luxury cars – both in terms of quality and quantity of cool cars offered. For us, the highlight is the Alfa Romeo stand with its incredible legacy models alongside the new 4C and 4C Spider. The 1967 33 Stradale is extra special, but the pre-war racers are pretty hot too. Worst would have to be the very, very odd Dodge Viper. This showcar advertises the new Viper’s 1 of 1 personalization program wherein a buyer can choose any of …

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2015 Lincoln MKS 8

2015 Lincoln MKS Wears Secret Trim Updates for Houston Auto Show

It took a few minutes to realize what exactly was new about the 2015 MKS versus the previous refresh – introduced in the 2012 model-year. But are any of these changes outlined below in the press release, per usual? Not exactly. As far as Lincoln Media and Lincoln.com are concerned, the 2015 MKS does not exist yet. Even so, here is a slightly updated model in Houston last month. The key detail change? New LINCOLN badging across the trunk-lid, right above a new chrome handle hiding the backup camera lens. 2014 MKS 2015 MKS Is that it? Well, we also …

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First Drive Review - 2015 Porsche Panamera S E-Hybrid 42

First Drive Review – 2015 Porsche Panamera S E-Hybrid

After driving the Porsche Panamera S E-Hybrid, we have finally realized where this fast and ultra-efficient plug-in fits in the Panamera lineup. It might not have the extra roominess of the Executive long-wheelbase Turbo and Turbo S, but the secret sauce of the E-Hybrid is its total smoothness and relaxing driving mood. This is in contrast to the drive mood of even the base V6 Panamera. All other Panamera models are designed to thrill, and they are mechanical, heavy-feeling and serious. The PDK seven-speed automatic is swapped in the S E-Hybrid for an eight-speed automatic. This torque-converter unit totally changes …

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2015 BMW M4 MotoGP Safety Car - New Hydro-Cooled Boost Vaporization 72

2015 BMW M4 MotoGP Safety Car – New Water-Cooled Boost Vaporization – Coming to 2016 M4 GTS?

This new M4 MotoGP Safety Car is a beaut in its matte-black finish and artful M-color racing stripes and huge fixed wing atop the trunk. But there are two pieces of big news hiding under that pace-car livery: a new water-cooled turbo vaporization technology and the possibility of these upgrades hitting an M4 GTS production model in the next year or so with up to 100 extra horsepower. First off, the water cooled turbo system. First off, to clarify. Most intercoolers or charge cooler systems actually spray water to the outside of the intercooler itself. Spraying water atop the cooling …

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2015 Volkswagen Tanner Foust Racing ENEOS RWB Beetle 992

2015 Volkswagen Beetle Rear-Drive Widebody by Tanner Foust Racing

What is the best way to make the VW Beetle a credible sports-car? Make it rear-drive! But a race-prep overhaul and a widebody package from famous Japanese Porsche tuner RAUH-Welt Begriff on top of that? Yes yes yes! 2015 Volkswagen Beetle Rear-Drive Widebody by Tanner Foust Racing   2015 Volkswagen Tanner Foust Racing ENEOS RWB Beetle ft. RAUH-Welt Begriff Widebody This Volkswagen Beetle that represents a collaboration between Volkswagen rallycross driver Tanner Foust and famed Porsche tuners RAUH-Welt Begriff is set to be unveiled this week at the SEMA show in Las Vegas. The Tanner Foust Racing ENEOS RWB Beetle …

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2016 Hyundai Veloster RALLY Edition 1

2016 Hyundai Veloster RALLY Edition + New 7-Sp DCT Turbo Lead Updated Range

The 2016 Veloster is here with some extra-subtle tweaks and a sweet Rally Edition limited to just 1200 units in sexy matte-blue paint over gloss-black Rays alloys. A bit less exciting visually, but far more thrilling on throttle is the Veloster Turbo. This speedy model now features a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic to zing through the gears on the way to an estimated 6.8-seconds to 60-mph. 2016 Hyundai Veloster RALLY Edition   2016 HYUNDAI VELOSTER RECEIVES MAJOR PERFORMANCE, DESIGN AND CONNECTIVITY ENHANCEMENTS, PLUS NEW RALLY EDITION 13/02/15 New Rally Edition Model Adds both Dynamic and Aesthetic Upgrades to Turbo R-Spec Model CHICAGO, …

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Nissan GT-R LM NISMO

2015 Nissan GT-R LM Nismo LMP1 Racer Makes Public Debut in Chicago – 40 New Photos!

 The hot and heavy three-way battle among Porsche, Audi and Toyota in the LeMans Prototype One race class just got a lot steamier. Nissan just pulled back the silk sheets on its contender to World Endurance Championship racing: the 2015 Nissan GT-R LM NISMO. And boy does it go its own way to achieving massive speed and impact, while sticking to the very expansive fuel usage rules of LeMans racing. The biggest shocker is not that it is a hybrid twin-turbo-charged V6 making 1250-horsepower. It shocks with where that engine sits, and where it delivers its power. The engine lives …

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2016 Ford Explorer Police Interceptor Is Updated for Home-Town Chicago Auto Show

The Chicago Ford assembly plant was both one of the first city-center auto factories outside Detroit, and is now one of the sole surviving plants nearly 100 years later. Located just minutes from McCormick Place where the Chicago Auto Show is held, the Explorer Police Interceptor is a proud home-town hero in the Windy City. The big irony about the Explorer and Taurus cop cars — officially called the Ford Police Interceptor Utliilty and Sedan, respectively — is that the Chicago Police have not used them. You’d think they would want the AWD capability, modern fuel-economy and great tech of …

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2016 Mercedes-AMG GT S and Cigarette Racing Concepts Outrun ‘Las Tres Letras’ for Miami Boat Show

  If there are two lifestyle accessories you musthave to live the life of a Miami kingpin, they are a supercar and a speedboat. The ultimate incarnation of the speedboat is the Cigarette Racing style: ultra-long hulls deliver insane speeds of more than 135-mph.   Huge double motors roaring at full chat will drown out even the loudest wind noise, water slaps and the DHS, DEA, Coast Guard and Border Patrol helicopters and drones above. Anything to escape the dreaded ‘tres letras’ — or three-letter goons. They might even struggle to catch you in the latest Mercedes-AMG concept boat: the …

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2015 Mitsubishi GC-PHEV – 40 Photos and 4 Reasons This Concept Previews USA-Bound 2017 Montero Full-Size SUV

  Okay, okay. We can certainly echo your initial thoughts on this design. First reaction at this desk was a blasphemous exclamation. “Sweet Jesus.” Second reaction after thinking we might see a production-spec Montero reborn. But ended up with this? “Holy Mary, mother of God…. what is this evil monstrosity?” But step back a minute. Appreciate its creamy and sily surfaces atop this unapologetically blocky shape. Functional, futuristic, and certainly eye-catching. The nose and tail are absolutely ghastly, but then, the 2016 Outlander shows how cool and chic production-spec nose like could look. With some tweaks, the overall scale of …

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2016 Volvo XC90 Hits 16,000 Pre-Orders So Far + 38 New Dynamic Photos

  The 2016 XC90 is easily the most important Volvo in the last five years. Scoring a hit with buyers is a make-or-break venture for the much-loved Swedish car brand. A simple refresh with new cabin tech, design and exterior upgrades might have secured a 30-percent sales increase all on its out. The previous scenario assumes carry-over powertrains. Volvo has not taken that route. The new strategy is an all-new platform with standard plug-in hybrid tech, a T6 power level and T8 setup with 400-horsepower. If the old gains might have been modest, the new XC90 is looking set to …

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2017 Ford GT in Liquid Silver 1

2017 Ford GT in Liquid Silver + Grey Racing Stripes Stuns Chicago

In most cases, you would not want to be splashed with liquid, molten silver. But when that silver is Ford Performance at the 2015 Chicago Auto Show, all signs say: Dive in! The most striking new lines visible on the 2017 Ford GT in this new color are in the doors and lower sills. Here we see a huge level of pinched creasing, elaborate aero vents and intakes, and overall beauty to rival any Ferrari. 2017 Ford GT in Liquid Silver

2016 Chevrolet Equinox  1

2016 Chevrolet Equinox Facelift Revealed in Chicago

The 2016 Chevrolet Equinox just had its best-ever sales month in January 2015, which is proof that the large and affordable crossover is still a hit with shoppers. For 2016, the Equinox features an all-new nose and tail look, along with a classier glasshouse shape and upgraded interior. Chevrolet Equinox – 2016 Fresh Face: Chevrolet Introduces Restyled 2016 Equinox Premium cues, new safety features enhance Chevy’s record-selling compact SUV CHICAGO – Chevrolet today introduced the 2016 Equinox – a contemporized version of the popular compact SUV. Updates include new styling with premium accents, new wheel designs and new available safety features, …

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2016 Toyota Avalon Brings New Suspension Tuning, LED + Tech Upgrades and Top-line Touring Trim

  The 2016 Toyota Avalon is refreshed for Chicago including a number of tweaks to the current style and trim levels, plus a loaded Touring trim to top the model line with sporty dark-grey wheels and grille. All 2016 Avalons benefit from enhanced chassis tuning — with the suspension now delivering a better sport and comfort ride compromise than the current model. Shifted a bit too far toward sporty springs in its 2012 refresh, the Avalon in this generation was never too happy either cruising or handling tight bends at speed. We hope the new model addresses this unhappy handling …

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2015 Acura RDX 2

2015 Acura RDX Refreshed With New Tech, LED Lighting and Chassis Refinement

 The quick and nimble Acura RDX is fresh for 2016 with new LED lighting front and rear, a server of new active safety technology and a redesigned cabin control stack. Now majoring on touchscreens and simplified settings, the 2016 RDX’s standard 3.5-liter V6 will compete even more effectively with the Lexus NX, BMW X3, Lincoln MKC, Mercedes GLK and a half-dozen other five-seat, semi-compact SUVs and crossovers. This segment is definitely not the small or compact SUV norm– these luxury models are big and wide, with roomy rear seats. They are small enough for city duty and most travel, but …

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Update1 – 2015 Nissan 370Z NISMO Roadster Concept Could Be Yours….!

  This 370Z NISMO is remarkably sexy, considering we have already seen the latest 370Z NISMO as well as the standard 370Z Roadster. Combine those two, however, and real sparks fly. The gorgeous snowflake white metallic paint with NISMO red accents in the lower aero pieces are fantastic, and the car wears a sexy single-piece spoiler that totally changes the 370Z Roadster’s silhouette. Overall, a striking vision indeed. This NISMO Roadster runs an automatic, which is also different from the manual-only helm of the NISMO 370Z hardtop. So what is the catch?! When will it arrive? Perhaps by August of …

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2015 Rolls-Royce Phantom SERENITY 4

Exclusive Preview – 2015 Rolls-Royce Phantom SERENITY Is Latest Bespoke Creation

First preview of a Rolls-Royce Geneva highlight: this Bespoke ‘Serenity’ limousine. Fabulous silk-blossom headlining in a pistachio green is paired with mother-of-pearl marquetry woodworking. The primary wood is a smoked cherry, which also lines the front of the lounge in back. Silk-edged carpeting and silk-woven headrests bring the opulence of the world’s purest and softest fabric to the occupants most-important touch-points. We have a strong hunch the Serenity is a Phantom Extended-Wheelbase, but this is not yet confirmed. We also speculate that the car is headed to an Asian client after it stars at the Geneva motor show in early …

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Update2 – 2016 Honda Pilot Is All-New With 9-Speed Automatic, New AWD and Vastly Superior Cabin

The new 2016 Honda Pilot is here! With a striking new design that moves away from the blocky look of the current model, this eight-seater promises improvements in almost every single way. The biggest news for drivers is an all-new nine-speed automatic transmission for top trims, plus a redesigned AWD system that can move more torque to either axle than before. Inside, a total redesign makes things far smoother, quiter and safer than before. Upgraded entertainment and touch-screen nav and climate controls are welcome, as are the advanced safety systems to be offered on the 2016. In this family-dominated segment, …

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2015 KIA Trail’Ster Concept Previews Upcoming Soul Refresh + All-New Interior

The Kia Soul is easily our favorite model in the Kia range – with actual sportiness in the handling and impressive power, there is no other car on the market with such a flexible crossover package. Best of all? The Soul is priced like an economy car, and has almost double the power of the Scion xD and xB. But how to make it a real SUV instead of just a fun and light-hearted crossover? For that, you need all-wheel-drive. KIA has gone theRX450h route here — powering the rear axle with hybrid electric motors. Efficient, compact, and lacking any …

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2016 Mazda MX-5 Aero Accessories Concept 2

2016 Mazda MX-5 Aero Accessories Concept Packs Fresh Splitters, Wheels, and Sills for Chicago

Sweet BBS alloys in gloss-black, splitters all around, a Brembo big brake kit and even a luggage rack atop the trunk for those cross-country trips?! We’ll take them all except that luggage rack, thank-you-very-much!     2016 Mazda MX-5 Aero Accessories Concept MAZDA UNVEILS 2016 MX-5 MIATA ACCESSORIES CONCEPT DESIGN AT CHICAGO AUTO SHOW CHICAGO, Feb. 12, 2015 /PRNewswire/ — The only thing better than the all-new 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata is a personalized 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata. Today at the Chicago Auto Show, where the first-generation MX-5 Miata was introduced to the world in 1989, Mazda revealed an MX-5 …

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DAF Trucks – Powerful, Efficient and Extra Affordable When Pre-Owned

  Part 1 of TruckMaster Article Series Powered by TruckLocator.co.uk   DAF Trucks – Dutch Innovation Since 1928 DAF was founded in 1928 by Hubert van Doorne and A.H. Huenges, a local business owner. Huenges’ had used the services of van Doorne on several occasions to fix his car. He was so impressed with his engineering skills he put forward an offer of investment, creating a business which the two of them would run together. From this start-up business grew the Van Doorne’s Aanhangwagen Fabriek or Van Doorne’s Trailer Factor, more simply known as DAF. By 1936 Huenges had parted …

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Watch the PP-Performance Porsche 911 Turbo Slam a 9.8s Quarter Mile!

Talk about bang for the buck! Or maybe a better phrase? G-forces for your G’s? 2.5G of acceleration pushing you into the 911 Turbo’s seat twice as hard as stock, for just 15G’s of your cash. This PP-911 Turbo upgrade creates a stonking 150 extra horsepower for just 12,000 Euros. Roughly exchanged to dollars, this is a very reasonable $100 per pony. The results of this giant torque and horsepower expansion take the 911 Turbo to a new league of performance. 2.5-seconds to 60-mph, and a blistering 9.8-second 1/4-mile sprint. Stellar numbers, both. Finely honed on the PP-Performance dyno’s and …

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2015 Volkswagen Golf SportWagen 14

2015 Volkswagen Golf SportWagen Replaces Dog-Shit Jetta Wagon With $2k Price Drop

The new Golf SportWagen replaces the hideous Jetta SportWagen with better tech, performance, style and – gasp – even pricing. The TSi is $700 cheaper, while the TDI is a cool $2,000 less than before. Good. These are like-for-like comparisons, however. The nasty current Jetta SportWagen is listed at $21k on VWusa.com, leading to some head scratching overall. No word in the below release on when the new Golf SportWagen’s will become available in the US. Probably before 2018, presumably.   2015 Volkswagen Golf SportWagen VOLKSWAGEN ANNOUNCES PRICING OF 2015 GOLF SPORTWAGEN Feb 11, 2015 Pricing starts at $21,395 for …

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3.6s 2016 BMW ALPINA B6 xDrive Gran Coupe Updated With Latest 6-Series Tech and Style

We really wondered about the just-released-in-the-US Alpina B6 for 2015. How would this sync with the overall 635i, 650i and M6 Coupe, Convertible and Gran Coupe that are all packing barely-noticeable updates? Luckily, the Aplina B6 benefits from these ultra-subtle tweaks for 2016. We recently spotted (what the owner said) was the first B6 GC on the East Coast, after falling hard for the first USA B6 GC at a BMW event in Pebble Beach. 2015 BMW Alpina B6 (current model)   The biggest change to spot is that the current car has its LED indicator elements below the main …

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2015 Chevrolet Colorado GearOn Special Edition Packs Anything Via Cargo Management System

With a name like Colorado, you would definitely expect the vehicle to excel there. And as the fittest state in the nation, Colorado folks love to get outdoors and live the active lifestyle that most people just see in glossy magazine or TV ads. This means skiing, camping, kayaking, biking, hiking and boating.   The new Colorado GearOn Special Edition is a handy way to have a truck that is ready to haul anything right from the factory. Unique style like the gloss-black running boards, gloss-black wheels and body-color grille are a cool look, but the real action for the …

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INFINITI QX70 Larte LR3 Widebody from AHG-Sports

Larte Design is making some waves in tuner-loving Germany! The wildest of the three upgrade kits, dubbed LR3, is fitted here to the QX70 by AHG-Sports, who also completes a comprehensive dechroming and black-on-black styling overhaul. The results speak for themselves! INFINITI QX70 Larte LR3 Widebody from AHG-Sports INFINITI QX70 LR3-WIDE BODY from AHG-SPORTS Since five years AHG-Sports has been extremely positively talked about as in-house tuning department of the car dealer Günther, which is represented four times in Hamburg especially with cars of the precious Nissan-offshoot Infiniti. And cooperation agreement recently reached with LARTE Design resulted in additional opportunities …

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TechArt Reveals Porsche 911 GTS AeroKit and Noselift System

  The new Porsche 911 GTS models are absolutely awesome. With the wide-body rear fenders and LED lightbar in back, these are easily some of the coolest naturally-aspirated Porsches out there. But when seeking new wheels, a lower stance and added curb appeal — the TechArt gurus are a great destination. The new GTS Convertible shown here wears their new centerlock forged wheels, a meaner front bumper design, and a big wing in back to drive home the point for those you pass. A lower and cooler stance is possible with the TechArt Noselift system — a hydraulic lift to …

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2007 Nissan BEVEL Concept 23

Concept Design Analysis – 2007 Nissan BEVEL Was Futuristic SUV Workvan

As Nissan explored the commercial vehicle segments leading to the NV and NV200, there were a few exploratory design concepts leading the way. This BEVEL concept is a cool look at what a cross between the Cube and Pathfinder might resemble — at least in some far-off universe. A single door on the driver’s side contrasted with normal twin doors on the passenger side, while all the seats folded flat to form a flat load bay. The panel-van style of the rear sides is then contrasted with a giant glass roof and huge glass tailgate. Overall, the design is characterized …

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2015 nanoFlowcell QUANT F Headed to Geneva With New 1000HP Powertrain

Quant is back in Geneva this year with a new evolution of the Quant E from 2014 – now packing 500 extra horsepower, a new transmission and drivetrain, a bright red color outside, new LED headlights and fresh wheels. The 2014 nanoFlowcell eSportLimousine prototype was recently approved for road use in Europe, so production reality is coming along nicely for this cool supercar. Imagine a Tesla Model S crossed with a Porsche 918 Spyder, and you have the $350,000 estimated price point of the eventual production model.    2015 nanoFlowcell QUANT F 10.02.2015 nanoFlowcell AG presents new QUANT F in …

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RM Amelia Island 2015 Preview – 2008 Lamborghini Murcielago Roadster

How time flies in the hypercar world! Only seven short years ago, this Lamborghini Murcielago Roadster was the absolute hottest, wildest machine on four wheels. With only 156 miles since new, the original owner clearly thought highly of the car and wanted to maximize its collector potential in the future. But again just seven short years later, he or she is making room in the garage. Perhaps for one of the hypercar class of 2015? 2008 Lamborghini Murcielago Roadster RM Auctions Amelia Island 14 March 2015 2008 Lamborghini Murciélago LP640-4 Roadster Chassis no. ZHWBU47S88LA03146

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RM Amelia Island 2015 Preview – 1937 Lincoln Model K Convertible Sedan by LeBaron

Here is a gorgeous classic we are excited to even see in person! A V12 Lincoln cabriolet with four doors!? Yes indeed. 1937 Lincoln Model K Convertible Sedan by LeBaron RM Auctions Amelia Island 14 March 2015 1937 Lincoln Model K Convertible Sedan by LeBaron Chassis no. K-8128

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RM Amelia Island 2015 Preview – 1968 Toyota 2000GT

The second Japanese car to join RM Auctions Amelia Island 2015 auction? The stunning and very desirable 2000GT from Toyota. 1968 Toyota 2000GT RM Auctions Amelia Island 14 March 2015 1968 Toyota 2000GT Chassis no. MF10L-10189 Engine no. 10225 Body no. 1179

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RM Amelia Island 2015 Preview – 1970 Nissan Fairlady Z 432

It is rare to see Japanese cars in the high-dollar auction world, so this Z-car is extra special in that regard. Additionally, as what appears to be a Japanese Domestic Market model, the vehicle is officially a Nissan versus a Datsun as it was sold stateside. 1970 Nissan Fairlady Z 432 RM Auctions Amelia Island 14 March 2015 1970 Nissan Fairlady Z 432 Chassis no. PS30-00092

1958 Porsche 356A 1600 Speedster by Reutter 18a

RM Amelia Island 2015 Preview – 1958 Porsche 356A 1600 Speedster by Reutter

Any  Porsche 356 in 2015 is almost unbelievably tiny and basic, so the Speedster with its stripped down cabin and tiny glass areas is almost the perfect caricature of a 1950s sports roadster.   1958 Porsche 356A 1600 Speedster by Reutter RM Auctions Amelia Island 14 March 2015 1958 Porsche 356 A 1600 Speedster by Reutter Chassis no. 83814 Engine no. 75350 60 hp, 1,582 cc OHV air-cooled horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine with dual Zenith carburetors, four-speed manual transmission, independent front suspension with laminated torsion bars, parallel trailing arms, and tubular shock absorbers, independent rear swing axles with torsion bars …

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2016 Acura ILX COLORS – All Six Shades in Flawless Animated Turntables

The new 2016 Acura ILX A-Spec proves that the TLX was not a fluke — Acura is indeed on a roll. The A-Spec ILX is priced from $32,000 and includes a sportier body kit, sill extensions, a rear spoiler and foglamps in the deeper front bumper. It is also sportier inside with a dark headliner and alloy accents for the pedals. So, which color to choose? There are six shades available, but it looks like Basque Red II is not available for the A-Spec trim. No official word on when the new ILX will arrive in showrooms, but we’d shoot …

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2016 Acura ILX A-SPEC Makes Credible, Playful and Chic Audi A3-Fighter

The first-gen Acura ILX did not do it for us. It seemed too much like a lightly-upfitted Civic to really turn heads, and its design never appealed much either. But for 2016, the ILX takes huge advances on the performance, style and tech realms. The new eight-speed, dual-clutch automatic is a peppy and responsive playmate for the 201-horsepower 2.4-liter engine, while even the new design is actually quite cool. ILX is bit more handsome than the Audi A3? What is happening!?! Even the much-maligned Acura single-bar grille is suddenly much cooler, with a sharp and three-dimensional new shape making it …

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Design Talent Showcase – Ege Arguden 2035 Aston Martin AMR-AP LeMans Racer

This design study by emerging automotive design all-star Ege Arguden is a fascinating look into the future of endurance racing. With ‘air power’ that compresses oxygen and converts it to wheel thrust, this future-tech racecar has many interesting facets to study even today. Versus contemporary Aston Martin racing prototypes, the AMR-AP by Arguden is a massive leap into the future. Even so, the 2035 AMR-AP design sticks with the things we know already work so well on the track: ultra-low nose, shrouded fenders, massive length and long-tail spoiler with numerous stabilizer elements. The Arguden AMR-AP prototype is most special to …

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Superformance GT40 Mk1 – Gulf Racing Livery in 90 Gorgeous Photos + 2 Videos

Update1 – Republishing this with new gallery formats. While editing these photos just now, I am trying to think of the right description for the beauty shown by the Superformance GT40 Mark I. (And its humble photographer…!) All I keep thinking is: “These Photos Are Wet-Your-Pants Gorgeous!” The 100-plus photos below hopefully make up for the very disappointing camerawork in my GT40 ride-along. Yes, for most of it, I am narrating into an iPhone that was not actually, ahem, recording… VIDEO PART ONE Ride-Along VIDEO PART TWO Overall, owning a Superformance GT40 is now near the top of my long …

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Design Talent Showcase – Porsche 901 by Ege Argüden – Future Super-911 To Take On McLaren and Ferrari?

With the Porsche 911 one of the most consistent and linear designs in all of automobile-dom, it might be easy to think there are no new ideas for how to make the icon more modern, more svelte and delivering even  more performance. Ege Argüden is an exciting talent in the car-design world. Studying automotive and industrial design in Pasadena, Arguden has not only created a stunning new Porsche 911 style. But also a story and design rationale, product positioning and brand heritage study. BIO Originally from Turkey, Arguden recently wrapped up his second design internship with BMW in Munich. Arguden’s …

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JEEP Heritage and Icons - Mega Gallery in 113 Rare Photos 98

JEEP Heritage and Icons – Mega Gallery in 113 Rare Photos

You all know the Jeep story. The GI’s personnel transport system is a legend worldwide for its off-road prowess, but is there a brand trait that more accurately describes Jeep? Yes. We would argue its deliberately simple designs helped the Jeep to excel in three other areas: –build-ability from scratch –durability once assembled –repair-ability once damaged These three abilities make any Jeep a superhero in your driveway and in harm’s way with shells landing nearby.   A fourth ability? Perhaps this new skill should be adaptability. The Jeep brand name itself is evolved from the short-hand for its name, and …

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2012 Jeep Mighty FC 1

Concept Flashback – 2012 Jeep Mighty FC

The 2012 Jeep Mighty FC is hilarious to behold, and a really cool concept idea overall. Beyond the many Jeep pickup truck conversions and concepts, the Forward Control recreates an actual Jeep production truck from the mid-1950s to the late 1960s. Overall, the Mighty FC builds on Jeep’s very impressive concept repertoire: this truck is not just a runner, but it hit the Moab Jeep Jamboree for some extreme off-road proving. Versus most concept cars that are barely rollers, this is an impressive level of engineering. Two things: How!? and Why!? How? The Forward Control is created by the very-simple-sounding …

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Jaguar Land Rover 007 SPECTRE Cars 6

Jaguar Land Rover Reveals its 007 SPECTRE Cars: C-X75, Range Rover Sport SVR and Defender Big Foot

The irony of Jaguar Land Rover partnering with the ultimate secret agent is deep. First off, the entire script of SPECTRE was stolen in the Sony hack in late 2014. Then, a garage full of Range Rovers was also pinched from a garage somewhere in Europe ahead of production. So … not exactly a secret that JLR would be a strong player in the next Bond film. But we had yet to get confirmation that the C-X75 would be the baddie’s car of choice, nor seen the RRS and Defenders that will be used alongside the Aston Martin DB10. Just …

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2015 Toyota Camry SE Hybrid Review 16

MEGA Road Test Review – 2015 Toyota Camry SE Hybrid

2015 Toyota Camry SE Hybrid Review At the new Camry’s launch event in Florida last Fall, we were very surprised to hear the best-seller’s recent powertrain sales mix. With such a gem of a 3.5-liter V6 available and pushing sprint times to the low 6’s, that would be our choice Monday through Sunday. And such a smooth and effortless hybrid available too, with almost no downsides except a very-slightly smaller trunk? These two premium powertrains have recently each pulled just 10-percent of overall sales each, with the base four-cylinder hoovering up 80-percent of the overall mix. Surprising to us as …

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Larte Design Mercedes-Benz GL-Class 74

LARTE Design Mercedes-Benz GL-Class Black Crystal in 80 New Photos!

Better than even the awesome Larte QX80 and QX60 makeovers? Better than the LX570 Alligator that Larte Design just launched in Moscow? Taste is always subjective — but in terms of the high-fashion and high-exclusivity goals of a luxury SUV upgrade, we’d vote for this Larte GL as their best work yet. The angularity and strongly matte finishes to the Larte trucks grilles and body kit certainly applies here, giving the brand a relatively unique statement of design across all its models. They best part of this body kit and accessory package for the GL550, GL450, GL350 and GL63 is …

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LARTE Design Range Rover Sport WINNER 18

LARTE Design Range Rover Sport WINNER Styling Kit in 26 New Photos

Updated 2.8.15 The Larte Design WINNER kit for the Range Rover Sport is now available to order!  Who would have thought… seven items to make any RRS so cool and stylish!? There are no shortage of custom upgrades for the new Range Rover Sport, but this latest kit from Larte Design is instantly one of the most distinctive. A gloss black dip for all the trim elements and the new alloys sets the tone, while new bumpers front and rear are fresh and angular like the best supercars.A new pair of white LED DRL’s live in the lower intakes, and …

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Design Analysis - 2013 Opel-Vauxhall MONZA Is Exotic, Advanced PHEV GT 12

Design Analysis – 2013 Opel-Vauxhall MONZA Is Exotic, Advanced PHEV GT

This Monza concept feels subtle at first. Its slinky and silky metallic gunmetal finishes are the perfect shade of subtle, and let the wild surfaces and flowing silhouette speak for itself. How to think of this car? A future production model? Not at all. This is perhaps best thought-of as a potential Tesla Model S-fighter, with ambitions to compete with the BMW i8 from a technological perspective. Theoretical pricing would be around $100,000 — so obviously in the fantasy realm for the mid-premium Opel and Vauxhall brands. Let’s do a full design assessment by angle. But first! Here is what …

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1956 Arnolt-Bristol Deluxe Roadster by Bertone 14

RM Amelia Island 2015 Preview – 1956 Arnolt-Bristol Deluxe Roadster by Bertone

As ever, these high-dollar auctions are a rare chance to see priceless classics out and about in the real world. This Arnolt-Bristol by Bertone certainly applies — a run of 143 total rebodies of the Bristol 404 completed to order by Bertone in Italy. The design shows how an odd chassis package can actually inspire fantastic design solutions. The donor Bristol had a particularly tall engine, which needed to be shrouded in perhaps the Arnolt-Bristol’s most characteristic style: an almost cartoonishly-swoopy panel form. Disguised by the hood scoop, this tall hood profile makes the subtle nose and bulging rear fenders …

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Concept-Flashback---2000-Audi-Rosemeyer-10a

Concept Flashback – 2000 Audi Rosemeyer

Steampunk? Does that apply here? No, none of the original Audi race-cars from the 1930s were powered by steam, but this Rosemeyer concept seems to fit into this new, retro-mechanical style movement. Exposed rivets, pop-up lamp covers, individual headlight pods, massive vents all down the back of the engine compartment — all fantastic and moody. The brushed-aluminum surface takes a big step toward authenticity versus the clean and polished surface of the Avus Quattro concept, while the front vents all feel milled from a solid piece of metal. 2000 Audi Rosemeyer