2010 Mazda CX-7 Overview

The 2010 Mazda CX-7. The changes add up to a great value equation -- the Mazda CX-7 is a great family SUV with cool styling and a sporty driving experience.

For 2010, the Mazda CX-7 boasts new styling and a new base engine. Mazda has addressed this concern with the new model -- the 2010 Mazda CX-7 starts at $2,350 less than the 2009 model. Though the Mazda CX-7 is improved, it still isn't perfect. The Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 also offer plenty of cargo space, and the RAV4 even boasts an optional third row.

The 2010 Mazda CX-7 comes in three trim levels -- the new SV base model, Sport, Touring and Grand Touring -- with a new 2.5-liter base engine and an optional turbocharged four-cylinder

The turbocharged 244-hp 2.3-liter engine is still available, and this year Mazda raised the turbo engine's fuel economy a bit by making a few engineering tweaks.
Alas, none of these changes address one of the CX-7's more notable drawbacks -- cargo capacity and rear passenger room.
The 2010 Mazda CX-7 is a midsize five-passenger crossover SUV available in four trim levels i SV, i Sport, s Touring and s Grand Touring.

The well-equipped base i SV trim includes 17-inch alloy wheels, air-conditioning, full power accessories, cruise control, a six-way manually adjustable driver seat, a tilt-telescoping steering wheel and a four-speaker CD stereo with an auxiliary audio jack. The i Sport adds privacy-tint rear glass, a leather-wrapped steering wheel/gearshift knob and Bluetooth connectivity.

The s Touring model adds a turbocharged engine, 18-inch alloy wheels, dual exhaust outlets, leather upholstery, an eight-way power driver seat, heated front seats and a rear cargo cover. The top-of-the-line s Grand Touring features 19-inch alloy wheels, automatic xenon headlights, foglights, rain-sensing wipers, a sunroof, heated exterior mirrors, automatic climate control, a navigation system, keyless ignition/entry, a rearview camera, electroluminescent gauges, distinct leather upholstery, driver seat memory settings, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a four-way power passenger seat and an upgraded Bose audio system with satellite radio and a six-CD changer.

It's paired to a five-speed automatic transmission with manual shift control. The i SV and i Sport are front-wheel-drive only, while the s Touring and s Grand Touring can be had with either front- or all-wheel drive. In normal driving situations, the AWD system routes 100 percent of the engine's power to the front wheels. Fuel economy estimates from the EPA for the new 2.5-liter engine are 20 mpg city/28 mpg highway and 23 mpg combined for a FWD model.

Antilock disc brakes, stability control, front-seat side airbags and side curtain airbags come standard on all trim levels. In crash testing by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the 2010 Mazda CX-7 did great, garnering a top five-star rating in both front and side collisions. In our own braking testing, the CX-7 s performed excellently for a compact crossover, with fade-free stops from 60 mph in just 113 feet.

Ample hip- and headroom keep CX-7 passengers comfortable, even with all five seats occupied. For more Interior Features information, see our Specifications page.
When it comes to handling and braking performance, the 2010 Mazda CX-7 lives up to Mazda's sporty reputation.

2011 McLaren MP4-12C interior photos

power satring
2011 McLaren MP4-12C interior
2011 McLaren MP4-12C interior pics
2011 McLaren MP4-12C interior image
new McLaren MP4-12C engine

McLaren MP4-12C pics

McLaren MP4-12C wallpaper
McLaren MP4-12C image
new McLaren MP4-12C
McLaren MP4-12C photo
McLaren MP4-12C picture

The McLaren MP4-12C is revealed as the first in a range of high-performance sports cars from McLaren Automotive, the independent car division based at the McLaren Technology Centre in Woking, England. The 12C, and future models within the range, will challenge the world's best sports cars, benefiting from the expertise and virtuosity of the McLaren Group.

Twenty years of sports car design, engineering and production combined with inspirational success in Formula 1 have driven Ron Dennis, McLaren Automotive Chairman, to announce his plans for the ultimate line-up of technology-led and customer-focused performance cars for the 21st century. The rules in the sports car world are about to be re-written.

Through a rich modern history, McLaren's automotive division has already built the world's most critically acclaimed supercar, the McLaren F1 (1993-1998) and the world's best-selling luxury supercar, the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (2003-2009). McLaren Automotive now looks to the future with a new range of revolutionary sports cars.

"It is a long-held dream of mine to launch a range of high performance sports cars that set new standards in the industry," said Dennis.

"We began designing and building cars for aficionados of thoroughbred sports cars almost 20 years ago. Incorporating the leading edge technologies that the McLaren Group has built up within its various companies, I believe we are now perfectly placed to open up this new chapter in McLaren's history as well as play a part in the regeneration of high-tech manufacturing in the UK and global automotive environment," he concluded.

At its heart, the McLaren MP4-12C features a revolutionary carbon fibre chassis structure, the Carbon MonoCell: the first time a car in this market segment is based around such a strong and lightweight racing car engineering solution and the first time any car has ever featured a one-piece carbon fibre structure.

This step change in sports car design means that the 12C introduces new standards not just in handling, ride and outright performance, but also safety, economy and practicality in an already competitive sector.

Martin Whitmarsh, Team Principal of McLaren's racing team highlighted the integral part that McLaren's motorsport and road car experience played in developing the 12C: "McLaren has for years offered a potent mix of race car and road car technologies. This combination of McLaren's performance heritage, and future demands on what is expected of high performance sports cars in the 21st century, gave us a head-start when we embarked on this project. The 12C, and future variants, draws on the spirit of Formula 1 and delivers real-world technological advances."

The first car from the new company, the McLaren MP4-12C, is a high performance two-seat mid-engine model in the 'core' sports car market segment for cars costing between £125,000 and £175,000. The 12C is pure McLaren, featuring no carryover parts from any other car, and will be produced by McLaren in the UK. It goes on sale through a dedicated, worldwide retailer network in early 2011.

"McLaren is already a car maker with maturity and experience, having produced iconic cars such as the F1," said Antony Sheriff, McLaren Automotive Managing Director.

"The next step was to construct a range of pure McLaren high performance sports cars that are true to the company's philosophy and reflect our position as an absolute technology and performance leader. So, when we embarked on the 12C project, we wanted to re-write the rules of sports car design. Indeed, the 12C offers performance and technology that exceeds that of the world's most expensive and sophisticated supercars, while competing in a much more accessible market segment. And to achieve this result, we designed every component from scratch to meet the extreme goals of the 12C and avoid any compromise."

"Forget what you know about sports car companies, McLaren is different," he concluded.

Inside out

The heart of the new car is the Carbon MonoCell. McLaren pioneered the use of carbon composite construction in the 1981 Formula 1 MP4/1 model and set a trend that all Formula 1 teams have followed. The company brought carbon fibre to road cars for the first time with the 1993 McLaren F1 and then built on this experience with a carbon fibre chassis and body on the SLR manufactured to the same exacting standards, but in higher volumes.

So, until now, carbon chassis have remained the preserve of the most expensive exotic cars; a purchase for the super-rich where costs are driven by the complexity of carbon fibre chassis design and build.

The 12C changes this by introducing the advantages of carbon composite - light weight, high strength and torsional rigidity, and longevity - to a more affordable sector through its revolutionary engineering as a one-piece moulding. Never before has a carbon fibre chassis been produced this way.

The 12C MonoCell not only brings dynamic benefits, but also offers fundamental engineering opportunities that form the basis of the car's unique character. It has been designed to allow a much narrower structure overall which in turn contributes to a more compact car that is easier to position on the road and more rewarding to drive.

Not only is the 12C unique in its class by offering carbon technology, it also has the highest specific power output as well as extraordinary power- and torque-to-weight ratios. Furthermore, the Proactive Chassis Control system offers groundbreaking handling and ride comfort while an intense focus on occupant packaging offers new levels of comfort and everyday usability.

Antony Sheriff explained. "With the 12C we are redefining the relationship between performance and practicality, as well as performance and efficiency, achieving leading positions in both. We have designed this car from the inside out. We have a saying in McLaren - 'everything for a reason' and the 12C will surprise people in many ways.

"A clear illustration of its special qualities is in the efficiency of its power delivery. With the 12C's power output of around 600hp and its low CO2 emissions, it delivers the highest horsepower to CO2 ratio of any car on the market today with an internal combustion engine...and that includes petrol and diesel hybrids," Sheriff concluded.

Pure McLaren

All the parts of the McLaren MP4-12C are bespoke and unique to this car. Everything from the engine right down to the tailor-made switches and buttons is pure McLaren: nothing has come from another manufacturer's parts bin.

The 12C is powered by a bespoke McLaren 'M838T' 3.8 litre, V8 twin-turbo engine producing around 600bhp, driving through a McLaren seven speed Seamless Shift dual clutch gearbox (SSG). It is targeting not only new standards for power and performance in its sector, but also class-leading fuel economy and CO2 emissions; supported by McLaren's experience of active aerodynamics to aid cooling, grip, handling and road holding.

"The 12C is all about performance," said Sheriff. "And in McLaren, we have a very broad definition of performance. We don't just look at the traditional one-dimensional parameters like top speed, we focus equally on useable measures such as in-gear acceleration times, braking performance in all conditions, and efficiency of power delivery combined with the lowest possible fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. Sure, 12C is very fast, but it is also the most efficient, most driveable high-performance sports car in the world.

"In the more subjective areas of road-holding, handling, comfort, driver involvement and day-to-day usability, McLaren is achieving new standards for a mid-engined high performance sports car in this sector," he concluded.

Thorough engineering and market research led to concept development and a clear decision in favour of a mid-engined two door high performance sports car. Intensive work was carried out in the wind tunnel and the driving simulator to ensure that the new car would inherently have superb dynamic qualities.

Dick Glover, McLaren Automotive Technical Director, was closely involved with the development of these invaluable tools during his time with McLaren's Formula 1 race team.

"There are so many examples of race car process and technology transfer in the 12C," claimed Glover. "The car owes much to McLaren's experience and success in motor sport. The advantage of technology transfer is only one element; speed of decision-making and development, F1 processes and people all make an important contribution.

"Brake Steer, for example, is a technology we pioneered on our Formula 1 car back in 1997. It helps to dial out understeer on entry to a corner and improves traction on the way out. Another is the Pre-Cog function on the gearshift rocker that effectively primes the gearbox ready for the next change, ensuring a more satisfying and faster gearchange. This is a high performance sports car with race car genes and teamwork at its heart."

Adding lightness

Weight is the enemy of performance in every area of car design. It affects acceleration, speed, handling, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions - everything. McLaren Automotive engineers pursued weight saving obsessively. For example:

* The Carbon MonoCell not only reduces the weight of the structure but also allows for the use of much lighter weight body panels.
* The close position of the driver and passenger allows a narrower, lighter body while giving improved visibility with a clearer perception of the car's extremities.
* Brakes with forged aluminium hubs save 8 kg and weigh less than optional carbon ceramic brakes.
* Lightweight exhaust pipes exit straight out the rear of the car, minimizing their length and weight.
* Airflow-assisted Airbrake deployment dramatically reduces weight of the Airbrake activation system.
* Small, compact downsized engine coupled to lightweight compact SSG minimizes vehicle length, weight and polar moment of inertia.
* Significant weight was pared off the alloy wheels through intensive Finite Element Analysis of wall thicknesses.
* The engine cooling radiators were mounted at the rear, as close to the engine as possible, to minimize the pipework, the fluids contained within them, and therefore weight. They were also mounted in car line to minimize vehicle width.

MINI Countryman review

Mini is preparing to launch its latest offering, the Countryman, in the UK later this month.

Jochen Goller, director of Mini UK, said that the Countryman "takes the Mini story to a new level".

Back in July, Mini announced that it was to make a comeback on the international rally circuit.

The MINI 4x4 has finally hit UK roads. With a raised ride height, four doors and a usable boot, the new Countryman is no ordinary MINI. We got behind the wheel of the range-topping, four-wheel-drive Cooper S ALL4 to find out. The good news is all the things that make the MINI so popular are present in the Countryman, from the quirky interior to the sporty driving experience and bold styling.

Watch our video review of the MINI Countryman at launch in Germany.

MINI Countryman
The MINI 4x4 has finally hit UK roads. With a raised ride height, four doors and a usable boot, the new Countryman is no ordinary MINI. We got behind the wheel of the range-topping, four-wheel-drive Cooper S ALL4 to find out.
Watch our video review of the MINI Countryman at launch in Germany.

Inside, there’s MINI’s trademark chrome toggle switches and huge central speedometer, plus the new Centre Rail which holds cups, sunglasses and phones.
With the seats all the way back, luggage capacity measures 350 litres, but fold the Countryman’s seats flat, and it has a generous 1,170-litre bay.
Even in standard trim, the Cooper S is £22,030, which is expensive when compared
to rivals – the turbocharged 1.6-litre four-wheel-drive Juke starts from £19,595.

2011 Lamborghini Gallardo LP570-4 Blancpain cars pics

Automobili Lamborghini and Blancpain are uniting their phenomenal engineering skill and honoring the huge success of the Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo racing series with a very special super sports car: the new Lamborghini Gallardo LP570-4 Blancpain Edition.

This extraordinary super sports car joins the competition spirit of the Super Trofeo race car with an exclusive design and one hundred percent road-going usability. The first Gallardo from the exclusive and limited Blancpain Edition production run has been presented by Stephan Winkelmann, President and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini, and Marc A. Hayek, President and CEO of Blancpain, at the final race weekend of the Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo on Sunday September 26, 2010 in the "Piero Taruffi" circuit, Vallelunga.

Automobili Lamborghini, the manufacturer of extreme Italian super sports cars, and Blancpain, the world's oldest luxury watchmaker, are among the very best brands in their respective sectors worldwide. Blancpain was recently voted the "Best of the Best" among the world's most exquisite watch brands by the "Luxury Institute" in New York. Now the two brands have come together to develop a unique blend of technology and design to create the Lamborghini Gallardo LP570-4 Blancpain Edition, putting the power of the world's fastest mono-marque race series into a road-legal vehicle.

Blancpain is the title sponsor of the successful Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo series. The cooperation between these two brands brings together the highest levels of engineering excellence from the automotive and chronometry industries. Blancpain has been producing innovative masterpieces of watch-making art in Switzerland's Vallée de Joux since 1735. Each timepiece is assembled by one single watchmaker, reflecting the quality and individual attention with which Lamborghini builds its super sports cars for the road, and its 570 hp Super Trofeo race cars.

2011 Lamborghini Gallardo LP570-4 Blancpain car
2011 Lamborghini Gallardo LP570-4 Blancpain
2011 Lamborghini Gallardo LP570-4 Blancpain wallpaper
2011 Lamborghini Gallardo LP570-4 Blancpain image
2011 Lamborghini Gallardo LP570-4 Blancpain

2011 Opel GTC Paris top cars pics

The best of Opel’s compact car technology is brought to its sportiest level on the GTC Paris. The chassis has a special design with an extra-wide stance. It features a compound crank with an Opel-exclusive Watt’s link in the rear, a new, updated execution of the adaptive mechatronic FlexRide suspension and a front electronic limited slip differential. The GTC Paris is planted to the ground with dynamic 21-inch wheels.

The powertrain in the GTC Paris is a four-cylinder, 2.0 liter Turbo with direct injection, packing maximum horsepower and torque. It is fitted with Start/Stop technology, proving that drivers can combine high performance with maximum fuel efficiency in urban driving conditions. The transmission is a six-speed manual gearbox.

2011 Opel GTC Paris
2011 Opel GTC Paris pic
2011 Opel GTC Paris car
2011 Opel GTC Paris car pic
2011 Opel GTC Paris wall

The GTC Paris concept car embodies the passionate side of Opel: Its role is to show how Opel can “dial up” the brand’s now established design direction by creating a very sporty and emotional interpretation.

The GTC Paris is designed to be artistically sculpted using sweeping dynamic lines. At the same time, it is engineered with German precision and energized with technical innovation, like a 2.0 liter Turbo gasoline engine with direct injection, a new execution of the fully adaptive FlexRide suspension and an limited slip differential in the front.

This three-door sporty hatch is pure but sporty, simple but expressive and at the same time bold and iconic. Keeping in line with Opel’s DNA, it is an achievable dream car, conceived to showcase an energized brand. This energy is also conveyed by the vibrant and expressive Liquid Metal Red exterior color.

Coming close on the heels of the new generation Astra Sports Tourer which will also debut at the Paris motor show, the GTC Paris is how Opel envisions the next logical step of a newly shaped line-up.

New Porsche Cayenne

Volkswagen AG CEO Martin Winterkorn said a new Porsche small SUV will be brought to market soon as part of plans to expand the sports car brand's lineup to boost sales.
The Porsche Cayenne shares a platform with the VW Touareg and Audi Q7.
Besides a small SUV based on the Audi Q5, Porsche could build a new small sports car.
Commenting that the new model would be used to increase Porsche’s sales numbers, Winterkorn used the name Cajun to describe the baby Cayenne.
VW’s goal for the Porsche brand is to almost double overall sales, pushing total annual output to roughly 150,000 units using volume sales models.
According to Volkswagen Group CEO, Martin Winterkorn, Porsche is working on a baby Porsche Cayenne to extend Porsche’s off-road lineup. Porsche, who owns 50.74 percent share of Volkswagen is yet to confirm or provide definite details.

Reports from German publication, Der Spiegel, quoted Volkswagen boss, Winterkorn, as saying about the project, “A new SUV, a smaller brother to the Cayenne which might be named Cajun.”

Range Rover Evoque five-door version

Land Rover has held a special dealer presentation for the five-door version of the Range Rover Evoque model. Just like the three-door incarnation of the vehicle, the five-door one comes with an engine range consisting of three diesel units (three versions of a 2.2 liter engine) and a petrol powerplant. The oil-burners offer 150 (two of the versions) and 190 hp. Range Rover offers both a four wheel drive and a front-wheel drive system.

It's the five-door version of the Rover Evoque which (according to reports elsewhere on 'tinternet), the company plans to reveal to an awestruck public at the Los Angeles motor show in November.
(The five door was apparently snapped 'illegitimately' during a private preview session for dealers.)
The model pictured here was shown to dealers ahead of the Paris show.
It will have shortened front doors and narrow-aperture rear doors and sales are likely to start in 2012.
Like the three-door model, two specs of 2.2-litre turbodiesel powerplants, with 148bhp and 187bhp, will form the bulk of sales. The front-drive 148bhp diesel will return 58mpg and less than 130g/km of CO2 when paired with a manual gearbox (adding two driven wheels will cost you 8mpg and more than 15g/km).
Other options include park assist, dual-zone climate control with a timer facility, a powered tailgate, adaptive headlights and a heated windscreen.

2011 Kia Sorento review

The 2011 Kia Sorento straddles the line between compact and midsize SUVs. Though the Sorento can cost more than $29,000 if you opt for the highest trim, a modestly equipped base model is quite a good value. Kia estimates the new Sorento’s base fuel economy at 21/29 mpg city/highway. So far, test drivers say the all-new Sorento has few faults. Just remember that you won’t be getting the Sorento’s excellent warranty coverage.

Since the Sorento can be compared to both compact and midsize SUVs, buyers should shop both classes. Since the RAV4 and Sorento are so similar, it’s best to test drive them both.

It’s technically a midsize SUV, but it actually starts at almost $2,000 less than the Sorento.

The 2011 "Kia Sorento" is a crossover SUV offered in three trim levels: base, LX and EX. A third-row 50/50-split-folding seat with room for two is optional on the LX and four-cylinder EX, and standard on the EX V6.

A rear-seat DVD entertainment system is available on EX V6 models without the sunroof.

All Sorento trim levels come standard with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 175 horsepower and 169 pound-feet of torque. The base model has a six-speed manual transmission, while the others get a six-speed automatic. Front-wheel drive is standard across the board, while LX and EX models are eligible for all-wheel drive. EPA-estimated fuel economy is 21 mpg city/29 mpg highway and 24 mpg combined with front-wheel drive and the automatic. Fuel economy stands at 20/26/22 with front-wheel drive and 19/25/21 with all-wheel drive.

The 2011 Kia Sorento comes standard with antilock disc brakes, stability control, hill-start assist, hill descent control, front seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags and front active head restraints.

It doesn't slide fore and aft without the optional third-row seat (standard on EX V6), meaning the Sorento's not quite as versatile as an Equinox, CR-V or RAV4.

Like the RAV4, the 2011 Kia Sorento is a tale of two engines. At highway speeds, the Sorento's cabin remains impressively isolated from both road and wind noise. We're also fond of the Sorento's handling ability, as this crossover responds directly to steering inputs.

2010 Infiniti IPL G Cabrio interior

2010 Infiniti IPL G Cabrio interior pic
2010 Infiniti IPL G Cabrio interior image
2010 Infiniti IPL G Cabrio interior photo
2010 Infiniti IPL G Cabrio interior tyre
2010 Infiniti IPL G Cabrio interior staring

2010 Infiniti IPL G Cabrio Concept walpaperz

2010 Infiniti IPL G Cabrio Concept pic
2010 Infiniti IPL G Cabrio Concept image
2010 Infiniti IPL G Cabrio Concept photo
2010 Infiniti IPL G Cabrio Concept
2010 Infiniti IPL G Cabrio

Already perhaps the most handsome hard-top cabriolet whether the three-piece electric roof is up or down - an operation that takes just 25 seconds - the Paris concept's exterior changes sum up the dynamic character behind the IPL badge. Perfectly poised on its new 19-inch split-rim 7-spoke graphite-finish alloy wheels, the Infiniti IPL G Cabrio Concept's stand-out style is based around a sporting new front-end look. A new bumper section and blacked-out grille and headlight surrounds bring an aggressive new edge to the Cabrio while integrating perfectly with the rest of the design.

Sculptured side sill extensions work with the bigger wheels and slightly lowered body to accentuate the purposeful new stance. A body-colour bootlid spoiler, based on the aerodynamic design of that fitted to the IPL G Coupé, adorns the rear.

The interior trim finishers are unique to the Paris concept. The centre console is finished with black lacquer while the dashboard area above the glove box and doors are adorned with KACCHU, the name given to the armour used by Japan's feudal warlords, or samurai, in the Middle Ages. Small iron plates were woven through textile to provide not just great strength but also flexibility and light weight. Because the highly skilled process allowed for a multitude of colours and patterns, the most elaborate KACCHU designs were a sign of great power and wealth.

Under the bonnet of the Infiniti IPL G Cabrio Concept is Infiniti's charismatic 3.7-litre V6 boasting 338 PS, 18 PS more than standard thanks to a high-flow dual exhaust system. It doesn't just sound great but also reduces exhaust pressure by 30%, further enhancing engine efficiency. The point at which peak power is developed has been boosted, from 7000 to 7400 rpm - high revs which the VQ engine's motor racing-inspired "bed plate" construction technique can take in its stride.

Maximum torque output is increased - from 360 to 374 Nm - but most important the shape of the torque curve has been refined so performance doesn't feel in any way peaky, maintaining the linear acceleration so crucial to any Infiniti.

The Cabrio Concept's running gear has been upgraded, again following the lead set by the IPL G Coupé. Sports suspension, with 10% stiffer springs and recalibrated dampers, are fitted and the body sits a little lower.

Top speed of the de-restricted concept car, which has a seven speed automatic transmission with magnesium paddle shifts, is more than 270 km/h, with 0-100 km/h available in under 6 seconds.

Nothing in the IPL philosophy calls for a let-up in the provision of features as standard. The Infiniti IPL G Cabrio Concept maintains this Infiniti advantage by being superbly well equipped with an array of innovative comfort, convenience and safety technologies - just like the GT Premium model on which it is based and which has been available as part of the G Line in Infiniti Centres across Europe for more than a year.

So in league with the high performance looks and ability are features such as noise-cancelling technology, head restraint-mounted "personal" speakers, seats with internal heating and cooling and adaptive climate control. The 13-speaker premium sound system is by Bose® while suggestions on where to visit, stay or eat and drink are sourced from the Michelin Guides directly into the 30 GB hard disk drive navigation. It's just one part of the all-encompassing functionality of the Connectiviti+ infotainment system which the G Cabrio first introduced to the world at the model's launch in 2009.

Rolls-Royce to show off customizations‎ in Paris‎

If you like your bling with an extra side of bling, line up at the Rolls-Royce stand at the Paris Auto Show next week.

The automaker will be showing off five personalized Rolls vehicles with unique colors and interiors.

The extended wheelbase Phantom will come in gunmetal metallic (the Grey Poupon of gray) with a "sunrise" leather interior.

Rolls-Royce wants you to know that despite its success with the "more approachable" Ghost (MSRP: $245,000), they haven't lowered the luxury bar or gone downmarket.

"Ghost is a more approachable "Rolls-Royce" that is bringing an entirely new type of customer to the Rolls-Royce brand," said CEO Torsten Mueller-Oetvoes said in a press statement. "But in Paris we are also demonstrating how we continue to strengthen our position as the pinnacle luxury brand, thanks to the enduring appeal of Phantom family and the depth of our bespoke personalization service."

To prove its point, the company will display a handful of commissioned Rolls-Royces at the 2010 Paris Motor Show. On display will be a Phantom Extended Wheelbase, a Phantom Coupe, a Phantom Drophead Coupe, and two Ghosts that demonstrate the type of customization requests it regularly fields from its tony customer base.

The photos show the Phantom Extended Wheelbase's mother-of-pearl instrument dial centers, clock faces, and inlaid door trims, and personalized tread plates
The Paris Motor Show will be the place for Rolls Royce to showcase their extensive individualization programme. Apart from the customized look, the Phantom Extended Wheelbase will feature a seat piping, mother of pearl centres to white instrument dials, control dials and clock face, Rolls-Royce monogram embroidery in all head restraints and personalized tread plates inscribed with Mondial de l’Automobile Paris 2010.

2010 Infiniti G37 review

The 2010 Infiniti G37 ranks 2 out of 17 Upscale Midsize Cars. The 2010 Infiniti G37 is an extremely well-rounded car, balancing the comfort of a commuter and the athleticism of a performance car. It’s available as a refined sport sedan, an aggressive coupe or a gorgeous convertible. Reviewers note, however, that its extensive option list can make ordering a G37 an expensive proposition.
There are few more balanced cars than the "Infiniti G37". Consumer Guide sums up its appeal well -- “The Infiniti G37 performance, space, and available all-wheel drive make it an excellent alternative to rivals from Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz, especially with the addition of the hardtop convertible. Reviewers complain that the coupe and convertible editions have small backseats and limited storage, even when compared to other coupes and convertibles.
Available in sedan, coupe and convertible variants, it is the G's major rival on the track, and is offered at a similar price.
Convertible shoppers might also consider the Lexus IS C. Some reviewers find that its top-down handling is tighter than the Infiniti's. Both Coupe and Sedan models are available in a dizzying array of trims, including G37, G37 Journey, G37S Sport 6MT, and G37x AWD. Sport and Journey models come with a unique four-wheel active steering system that improves handling. The G37 Convertible comes in a single, rear-wheel drive trim.

Trim levels include the rear-wheel-drive G37 Base, G37 Journey, G37S Sport 6MT, and all-wheel-drive G37x. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain-side airbags, and front-side airbags.

Premium-Midsize Cars sport interior dimensions similar to Midsize Cars. Premium-Midsize Cars offer more luxury, performance, and prestige when compared to Midsize Cars.

New or significantly redesigned models include the BMW 5-Series Gran Turismo, Infiniti G37 convertible, Lexus ES 350, Lincoln MKZ, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. The Cadillac CTS gains a 4-door wagon body style for 2010.

Chevrolet HHR

A newcomer to the growing compact wagon scene is the Chevrolet HHR.
For shoppers searching for a versatile compact wagon that's also stylish, the HHR certainly merits consideration.
Current Chevrolet HHR
The Chevrolet HHR is a compact four-door wagon that shares its front-wheel-drive architecture -- and thus many of its driving characteristics -- with the Chevrolet Cobalt. Four trim levels are offered: LS, 1LT, 2LT and SS. A passenger version is available in all trims, and the two-seat panel van version comes in LS and LT trims.
The athletic SS comes with a turbocharged 260-hp 2.0-liter engine, a sport-tuned suspension, 18-inch wheels and special exterior and interior accents. All Chevrolet HHRs have antilock brakes, stability control and side curtain airbags as standard.
The Chevy HHR is available only with front-wheel drive, while several competitors offer all-wheel drive for enhanced foul-weather capability.
Used Chevrolet HHR Models
The HHR's sophomore year brought a little more power (the 2.2-liter four went from 143 to 149 hp while the 2.4-liter unit went from 172 to 175 hp. More standard features came on line for all HHR trims for '09, including antilock brakes, stability control and side curtain airbags.
The 2011 Chevrolet HHR ranks 4 out of 7 Affordable Compact Wagons. Combining modern versatility with old-school styling, Chevy’s HHR is available as either a comfortable five-passenger wagon, or a versatile panel van. With the HHR SS model, Chevrolet used to have a cure for buyers who wanted performance, but for 2011 that model is discontinued. Designed primarily for hauling cargo, the HHR Panel ditches the Chevrolet HHR’s rear windows and seats. While the HHR has its appeal, you should look at other compact five-door wagons. The Hyundai Elantra Touring offers more space than even the HHR Panel and starts out at about $2,700 less than the Chevrolet HHR. Likewise, the Toyota Matrix offers slightly more cargo space compared to the standard HHR and has a base price almost $2,000 cheaper. Buyers interested in the Chevrolet HHR Panel should also take a look at the Ford Transit Connect. Also designed as a utility vehicle, the Transit Connect gets worse highway gas mileage (it’s EPA-rated at 25 mpg compared to the HHR Panel’s 32 mpg), but makes up for it with a whopping 72.6 cubic feet more cargo space than the Chevrolet HHR Panel.

2010 Lexus IS F overview

2010 Lexus IS F Full Review

THE 2010 LEXUS IS F FEELS unburstable, rock solid, ferocious.
In manual mode, its rifle-bolt precision and lightning-fast shifts make DSGs feel soft, and manuals a bit last century...
The big news is the move to a compact Torsen Limited-Slip Differential (LSD) from the pre-update model's electronic limited-slip type.
According to Lexus, the adoption of a mechanical LSD improves both road and track performance. The Lexus IS F blends velvety V8 torque with a crisp-shifting eight-speed automatic. Inside, little has changed.
The centre stack gets updated audio switches and a new fascia around the touch-screen and air-conditioning controls.

As with the former model, the updated Lexus IS F includes active cruise control, hands-free phone connectivity, Smart Key automatic locking and unlocking, dual-zone climate control, Lexus Parking Assist and a power-operated moonroof among its extensive features list.
In lieu of a manual transmission, the eight-speed unit in the Lexus IS F offers both Drive and 'Manual' modes - paired with steering-mounted paddle shifters.
Where the original arrangement offered a 'simulated' limited-slip diff effect by adjusting rear brake balance, the Torsen unit redistributes torque without affecting power.
The brake system features Brembo monobloc aluminium calipers. Six-piston calipers up-front acting on 360mm x 30mm ventilated discs, and twin-piston calipers in the rear acting on 345mm by 28mm ventilated discs.
How does it drive?
The eight-speed automatic is a precision instrument. TMR's Tim O'Brien questioned the old IS-F's mid-corner balance, but I found little to complain about with this updated version. Apart from new foldable head restraints for the rear seats, the 2010 IS F's leather-trimmed seating is identical to its predecessor.
The front seats have been designed to offer a compromise between sports-car support for performance driving, and ultimate comfort.
Interior Quality and Feel?
The leather trim of the front and rear-seats is of high quality; soft to the touch and durable.

Based on the regular IS entry-level luxury sport sedan, the "Lexus IS F" is fortified with all the expected "performance division" upgrades, such as a tire-burning V8, bigger brakes, stiffer suspension tuning and stickier tires.
The 2010 Lexus IS-F high-performance luxury sport sedan is available in only one well-appointed trim level. Standard features include 19-inch alloy wheels shod with sticky tires, Brembo brakes, adaptive xenon headlights, a sunroof, keyless ignition and entry, auto-dimming mirrors, 10-way power heated front leather sport seats with memory settings, dual-zone automatic climate control and a 13-speaker audio system with satellite radio, Bluetooth audio, a six-CD changer, iPod integration and an auxiliary audio jack.
EPA fuel economy estimates are 16 mpg city/23 mpg highway and 18 mpg in combined driving.
The 2010 Lexus IS-F comes equipped with antilock brakes with brake assist, stability control, traction control, front-seat side and knee airbags and full-length side curtain airbags. Optional is a pre-collision system paired with the adaptive radar cruise control that senses an impending collision and automatically adjusts seatbelt tension and braking force.
The IS-F has not been crash-tested, but in government testing, its IS 350 sibling was awarded four stars out of five for driver and front passenger protection in frontal impacts as well as rear side impacts.

2011 Volvo S60 Review

The Volvo S60 has returned, and Volvo is calling it the sportiest Volvo ever. Reviewers enjoy the newfound emphasis on sport in the redesigned 2011 Volvo S60. Most consumers will enjoy the"Volvo S60" balance between sport, style, comfort and safety. If you want comfort, Volvo has you covered. Reviewers praise the comfortable front seats. If you want a car that focuses mainly on sporty driving, be sure to check out the BMW 3-Series. It starts at $31,450 and comes equipped with a fuel-efficient 211-horsepower 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine and front-wheel drive, though all-wheel drive is optional. According to the EPA at 25 miles-per-gallon combined the front-wheel drive A4 tops the 21 mpg combined Volvo.

Those seriously interested in sporty driving will enjoy the S4’s extra power, six-speed manual transmission and available seven-speed automated manual transmission, and rear biased all-wheel drive system.

The 2011 Volvo S60 is available with either a performance-oriented dynamic suspension, or a comfort suspension. Dynamic is the standard suspension for the S60, though comfort is a no-cost option.
The Volvo S60 is an established yet unconventional member of the entry-level luxury sedan segment.

As you might expect, all Volvo S60s are protected by an umbrella of Volvo safety features -- including stability control, anti-whiplash seats and full-length side curtain airbags -- and have performed extremely well in crash testing.

EachVolvo S60 model has its own engine. A five-speed automatic transmission routes power either to the front wheels or all four on all-wheel-drive (AWD) models. Unfortunately, the T5 is front-wheel-drive only, but buyers have their choice of a five-speed automatic or a six-speed manual gearbox.

Trunk capacity measures nearly 14 cubic feet, and the 60/40-split rear seat folds to handle extra-long cargo.

The Volvo S60 2.4 came with a 2.4-liter five-cylinder engine that produced 168 hp. The most powerful engine was the 247-hp 2.3-liter five-cylinder in the T5. In '03, the AWD sedan switched to the current 208-hp 2.5-liter engine, prompting Volvo to rename it the 2.5T AWD. In '06, Volvo dropped the base 2.4 model and upgraded the 2.5T AWD model with a new all-wheel-drive system for enhanced traction. All '07 S60s received revised front fascia styling. For 2008, the high-performance R model was dropped

Kia Pro Cee’D VR7 Kia Cee’D Special Editions

Kia has created low-priced special edition versions of the cee'd hatchback and its three-door equivalent, the pro_cee'd, and given both of them the name VR-7.

the VR-7s are cheaper than the current entry-level models in each range, though they do come with a reasonable amount of equipment as standard: 16" alloy wheels, air-conditioning, front electric windows, Bluetooth and iPod connectivity, six audio speakers, body-coloured door mirrors which are also heated and electrically controlled, and leather on the steering wheel, gearlever and handbrake gaiters and front armrest.

Electronic stability control, Hill Start Assist and Vehicle Stability Management are standard on both VR-7 models, improving safety credentials.

The VR7 treatment is available in 1.4 petrol manual models for both cars and features 16inch Style ‘A’ Alloys, and body colour, heated and electronically controlled door mirror.
Electronic Stability Control with Hill Start Assist Control and Vehicle Stability Management are standard on the VR-7 models that now meet Euro-5 emission standards.
VR-7 Special Edition is priced from £11,695 for the pro_cee’d while the 1.4 cee’d VR-7 Special Edition starts from £11,995.

bugatti Veyron Roadster interior photos

bugatti Veyron Roadster interior pic
bugatti Veyron Roadster interior photo
bugatti Veyron Roadster interior 2010
bugatti Veyron Roadster interior image
bugatti Veyron Roadster interior gear

bugatti Veyron Roadster images

bugatti Veyron Roadster 2010
bugatti Veyron Roadster pic
bugatti Veyron Roadster photo
bugatti Veyron Roadster hot
bugatti Veyron Roadster image

Here is the new Bugatti Veyron Super Sport with its four enlarged turbochargers and super-size intercoolers pushing the output of the 8-liter W-16 engine to stupefying 1,200-horsepower. And it’s already broken a speed record for a production car, with a two-way average speed of 267.86 miles per hour. The record run, certified by the German government and the Guinness Book of World Records, took place a couple of weeks ago at the Volkswagen Group’s giant Ehra-Lessein proving grounds in Germany. VW owns the Bugatti brand. The new speed record is a bit more than 14 miles an hour better than what the regular Veyron 16.4 ran under similarly strict circumstances at Ehra-Lessein in 2005. More importantly to Bugatti, 267.86 m.p.h. exceeds the previous Guinness-certified two-way average run of 256.18 m.p.h. made on a closed stretch of Highway 221 in rural Washington State by the 1,183-horsepower Shelby SuperCars Ultimate Aero in 2007. It’s the other Shelby — Jerod Shelby — who runs tiny Shelby SuperCars out of his hometown of Tri-Cities, Wash. He doesn’t have access to a high-speed circuit like Ehra-Lessein that has a perfectly flat surface and a long 5.6-mile straight.

While it’s the bigger turbos and intercoolers that make the additional power, the visually distinctive elements of the Super Sport are a revised front end with larger air intakes and the elimination of the rear, high-mounted air intake scoops that have been replaced by low-profile NACA ducts. The tail has been reconfigured around a new air diffuser and a centered exhaust bundle. It’s just the sort of subtle differences that the elite won’t notice and that are guaranteed to crush the egos of those poor near-billionaires stuck driving their now passé regular Veyrons. The Super Sport’s suspension has also been fortified and stiffened to handle the additional power. The body has also been strengthened and will be available unpainted for those who like the menacing King of the Underworld look of clear-coated raw carbon-fiber.