Toyota and Honda top automotive brands in consumer perception

Automakers spend billions of dollars to promote their vehicles and build brand awareness. Yet, marketing alone does not shape consumer perception without a clear connection to the vehicles in the showroom. In the latest Auto Pulse survey conducted by the Consumer Reports National Research Center, Toyota and Honda brands ranked first and second, respectively, by dominant margins over all others. Likewise, the vehicles from those brands have consistently performed well in our testing, often ranking among the best in their classes, and have been mostly at the top of our reliability ratings over the years. Lets your journey with world car brand.............

Monday, August 24, 2009

ALFA ROMEO

2009 Alfa Romeo 8C Spider
Alfa Romeo will unveil at the Geneva Motor Show the 2009 8C Spider, a 500 units limited edition.
The new vehicle inherits all the winning features of the Coupè version. Starting with the two “sport seats” setup and the fascinating exterior lines, which characterized by sculpted and finely designed bodywork, “dress” the automotive and mechanical excellence of the model.
The 8C Spider will be powered by a 8 cylinder engine mated to a 5-speed gearbox with 90°” and a capacity of 4691 cm3. The engine delivers 450 CV at 7.000 rpm and a maximum torque of 7.500 rpm.
The Roadster comes equipped with specially developed 20” tyres that insure excellent performance; the tyres have a: 245/35 front-suspension and a rear-suspension of 285/35.
2009 Alfa Brera TI
Alfa Romeo will unveil at the Paris Auto Show the sporting TI (Turismo Internazionale) specification Brera that is due to go on sale in autumn 2008. The TI logo will be applied to the front wings and will initially be available with2.2 JTS (Manual and Selespeed) and 3.2 V6 engines and later also with other engines.
The Brera TI features: stiffer springs and dampers, 19-inch tires, alloy rims, inspired by the 8C Competizione, large brake discs and Brembo red one-piece front callipers with a radial attachment.
The special edition Brera is powered by a 185 bhp 2.2 JTS engine (an up-to-date power unit made entirely of aluminum and equipped with direct fuel
injection.
2009 Alfa 159 Limited Edition
Bond gets chased by some baddies driving Alfa Romeo 159s in the latest flick Quantum of Solace. That’s all we’ll say for now, but if you haven’t seem it yet, c’mon it’s JAMES BOND.
To celebrate this, the coolest car company that doesn’t sell to U.S. (if you don’t count a
handful of sports cars) has released a special edition of the sedan. The 159 Limited Edition features a lowered suspension, Brembo brake callipers, sports dials, black leather upholstery. The Alfa 159 Limited Edition comes in a Carbonio black metallic paint and sits on darkened 19” alloy wheels. All of this will add a hefty £3,000 (about $4,500) to the 159 TIs £23,000 ($34,000) base price.
For that kinda of cash, some speed would be nice. Unfortunately the car comes with the standard 1.9-liter diesel engine that delivers 150 hp. But hey, at least you’ll look good when getting passed on the motorway.
2009 Alfa Romeo MiTo GTA Concept
Alfa Romeo revealed today the official details on the MiTo GTA (Gran Turismo Alleggerito) Concept that will make its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show.
The word “Alleggerito” in GTA translates into “lightened”, and Alfa went down to even the small details on this one. Carbon fiber was used for the tailgate spoiler, the roof and the side mirrors. Some steel bits in the braking system, suspension and parts of the chassis were replaced with aluminum. All this dieting gives the car what Alfa claims is a power to weight ratio in-line with its sports cars.
The MiTo GTA is powered by a 1.75-liter turbo engine that delivers 240 hp. Alfa says that the by using technology such as direct gasoline injection, dual VVT (variable valve timing), turbocharging, and a revolutionary management system, the engine performs like one almost twice its size (3.0-liters).
2009 Alfa Romeo 159
Even Alfa Romeo’s everyday sedans are breathtaking. At the Geneva Motor Show Alfa will present a refreshed version of its BMW 3-Series competitor: the 159 mid-sized sedan and wagon.
Both models have an availabe 1.75-liter TBi engine that delivers 200 HP from 4750 to 5500 rpm and maximum torque of 320 Nm at 1400 rpm. The 159 sprints from 0 to 60 mph in 7.7 seconds and can hit a top speed of 146 mph. There is also an optional 2.0-liter 170 HP JTDM diesel engine
2009 Alfa Romeo 159 1750
After unveiling the new 159 at the Geneva Motor Show, Alfa Romeo added today two new engines to the line-up: a 200 HP, 1750 cc turbocharged petrol engine and a 170 HP 2.0 JTDM diesel. The new engines will be available starting April.
The new 1750 cc turbo petrol engine is mated to a six speed manual gearbox and boasts advanced ignition control solutions including direct fuel injection, two continuously variable valve timing units, a turbocharger and a revolutionary scavenging control system.
2009 Alfa Romeo Brera "Italia Independan
The Italian automaker Alfa Romeo has just unveiled a new Brera special edition model limited to only 90 units and set to be offered exclusively in Europe, Japan and then Australia. Orders for the new "Italia Independent" Brera will begin in September and go on sale starting at €32,200 (about $45,000).
The Alfa Romeo Brera “Italia Independent” will be offered with a 185 HP 2.2 Liter JTS power plant or a 260 HP 3.2 Liter V6 engines, either way they will be shifted with a host of 6 speed gearboxes; depending on which piston pumper you choose the transmission may be a manual, Selespeed or an automatic Q-Tronic. The new Alfa is also available with the automaker’s sophisticated Q4 four wheel drive system which will be exclusive to the 3.2 Liter V6 version.

ASTON MARTIN

2010 Aston Martin DBS Volante
We knew the Aston Martin DBS Volante was going to break cover in Geneva next week, but thanks to a broken embargo (not us, we swear), we’re able to talk about it before we see the roadster at the auto show.
The DBS Volante is powered by the 6.0-liter V12 engine also found in the DBS coupe. In both applications, the powerplant pumps out 510 bhp and 420 lb ft of torque. This helps the Volante make the 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) sprint in 4.3 seconds and hit a top speed of 191 mph. The topless DBS also comes with carbon ceramic brakes and a six-speed manual transmission or automatic six-speed ‘Touchtronic’ option is also available.
2009 Aston Martin Rapide Preview
After Prodrive got in charge over the Aston Martin company they have announced big plans for the future. One of them is to put into production the Rapide Concept that was unveiled in 2006 at the North American International Auto Show. The Rapide will go into production in 2009 and will compete with the Porsche Panamera, Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class and Maserati Quattroport
2009 Aston Martin V8 Vantage
Aston Martin’s V8 Vantage – originally launched to widespread critical acclaim at the Geneva Motor Show in 2005 – is to receive significant technical enhancements, reaffirming the car’s position as one of the world’s most desirable and exhilarating sports cars.
While the universally distinctive and award-winning shape of the V8 Vantage is retained, the car benefits from a number of technical changes which include significantly up-rated engine performance from a new 4.7 litre power unit in both Coupe and Roadster variants. Other changes include revised dynamics to take full advantage of increased power and torque availability, improved Sportshift™ transmission software and a new sports suspension option.
2009 Aston Martin Vantage GT4
Aston Martin revealed today the 2009 specification Vantage GT4 ased on Aston Martin’s new 4.7 liter V8 Vantage. The Vantage GT4 is built to FIA GT4 regulations, and is a replacement for the V8 Vantage N24 racer. It is priced at $143,000 and will be available starting January 2009.
The Vantage GT4 is powered by the latest 4.7 liter V8, with the engine management system recalibrated for race use. It also has a free flow exhaust system and air filters, and the standard V8 dry sump lubrication system is retained, helping to prevent oil surge during cornering. Aston didn’t release any new horsepower figures, but with the software and airflow upgrades, expect there to be a few more ponies than than the Vantage road car’s 420 hp that are also on tap quicker. The engine is mated to either a six speed manual, or a Sportshift transmission with paddle controls.
2009 Aston Martin LMP1 Car
Aston Martin won the GT1 class in the 2007 and 2008 24 Hours of Le Mans races with the DBR9, and now Aston has set its sights higher this year. It’s abandoning the GT1 class to focus its efforts on the faster LMP1 class and the overall win.
The car is based on the 2008 Charouz Racing System Lola, and power will come from the same production-based Aston Martin V12 engine that was used in the DBR9 that won in 2008. Although all car companies would like to win at Le Mans, this would be especially sweet for Aston Martin. Fifty years ago, Carroll Shelby and Roy Salvadori brought Aston an overall win on the French circuit in a DBR1.
2009 Aston Martin One-77
Aston Martin brought two mockups of the One-77 to Geneva. Between the full size styling model, and chassis and powertrain skeleton, we know have a pretty good idea of how the £1 million (about $1.4 at current rates) supercar will shape up.
The One-77 is powered by a 6.0-liter V12 engine (same from the DBS, DB9 and new V12 Vantage) that delivers 700 hp. With a projected weight of 1,500kg the One-77 should be very quick (Aston predicts a 0-60 time of 3.5 seconds.) Aston also says the engine will be able to pull the car to a top speed beyond 200 mph.
2009 Lagonda Concept
Aston Martin revealed today its concept that will bring back the Lagonda brand. The concept’s styling seems to blends elements of a traditional sedan, SUV and others cars from Lagonda’s history.
Aston Martin CEO Dr. Ulrich Bez sees the Lagonda brand as a way for Aston Martin to branch out into other markets. “Aston Martins are pure sports cars… they are limited in their usability mainly because of the low ground clearance.” Bez says the rebirth of Lagonda must be suitable for or countries that do not necessarily include traditional urban areas. That also means the Lagonda will be geared less for all-out performance, and more about multiple terrains. “We do not intend to claim a lap record around the Nurburgring because there is no point in doing so.”
2009 Aston Martin V8 Vantage Roadster
There are certain car companies that absolutely understand what it means to be a driver. Aston Martin is one of them. When Aston decided that it needed to branch out into SUVs for customers who live where the roads are not paved, it reintroduced the Lagonda brand rather than pollute the Aston name.
Aston Martin only builds sports cars, and it builds them by hand.
The V8 Vantage Roadster that arrived on our doorstep came with a $154,035 price tag (base for a is $134K). For that price we instantly become a member of an exclusive club that mixes rich racing history with modern graceful styling.
2009 Aston Martin V12 Vantage N24
If Aston Martin is going to install its largest engine in its smallest car, then of course it will the car racing. The Aston Martin V12 Vantage got a few minor tweaks to get ready for the Nürburgring 24 hour race on May 23 and 24. Aston says the V12 Vantage race car will be close to production model, with only essential safety modifications, reduced weight and re-tuned suspension. The car has not had any additional aerodynamic enhancements.

AUDI

2010 Audi Q7
Audi is working off the old maxim: “If you ain’t new, you’re through.” So three years into the Q7’s first life cycle Audi says it has given the Q7 a facelift. Can’t see the difference? don’t worry, you’re not the only one.
Outside this Q7 comes with a slightly restyled grille, new bumpers and xenon headlights. If you think the interior is where the significant updates are, then we are sorry to disappoint. The most noticeable elements are a few new wood bits and an upgraded sat nav system.
2010 Audi A5 Sportback
As elegant as a coupe, as practical as an Avant - this is how it can be described the new Audi A5 Sportback in short words. The car was revealed today when the company is celebrating its 100th anniversary. The car is already on sale, and prices in Germany will begin at 33,650 euros.
When will go on sale the A5 Sportcak will be offered with a choice of three gasoline and three TDI engines, with three more engines to follow by mid-2010. All models are equipped with a recuperation system that recovers energy during braking and deceleration and stores it temporarily in the battery.
2009 Audi Q3 Preview
The SUV segment has known a constant success even since its debut. Currently many sub-segments are emerging, one of the latest being the compact SUV. By 2010 most of the important producers will be featuring such a model. As shown to us by the recently presented Cross Coupe concept, Audi has such a project going on, and logically it should be launched in the next three years and marketed as the Q3.
2009 Audi R8 GT3
Audi Sport revealed a racing version of the R8 sports car. The R8 racing version conforms to the production-based GT3 regulations and will be available in the fall of 2009.
Because the GT3 regulations prohibit the use of four-wheel drive the Audi R8 comes with the typical GT rear-wheel drive. The power is transmitted via a newly developed six-speed sequential sports gearbox. A modified front end and a large rear-wing generate the required downforce for the race track
2009 Audi A1 Sportback
At the Paris Auto Show Audi unveiled the A1 Sportback, the last concept version before the A1 production version that will be revealed in 2009. The difference is not down to the two extra doors alone: the styling of the fivedoor concept vehicle is a consistent development of the three-door study, the Audi A1 project quattro from the year 2007. Surfaces and lines are distinctly tauter and more masculine.
2009 Audi A4 TDI concept e
Another model unveiled by Audi at the Paris Auto Show is the A4 TDI concept e that requires just 3.99 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers (58.95 US mpg).
The heart of the sedan is a direct-injection 2.0-liter TDI diesel engine with output of 120 hp, just as for the A4 production models. From 1,750 to 2,500 rpm, the four-cylinder engine produces a constant torque of 290 Nm (213.89 lb-ft). The piezo injectors in the common-rail system inject the extremely finely atomized fuel at a pressure of up to 1,800 bar, and the special piston geometry provides ideal thermodynamics in the combustion chambers (in regular words: it runs smooth with little friction.)
2009 Audi A5/S5 Convertible
Now that Audi has an official coupe based on the A4, it is only sensible that that car takes over the convertible duties as well. For 2009, Audi’s smallest drop tops in North America are now know as the A5/S5 Convertible.
The A5/S5 Cabriolet is being launched with three turbocharged gasoline engines, with power outputs ranging from 211 hp to 354 hp. There will also be two diesel engines that will not make it to the U.S. All five powerplants are fueled via direct injection; four of them use turbocharging. All cars will have some version that will feature the six-speed Tiptronic manumatic transmission. The continuously variable multitronic transaxle as well as a regular manual transmission are also available with certain engines and trims.
2009 Audi Sportback Concept
the Audi A7. The sedan-in-a-coupe-body is exactly what we’d expect from the four-ringed brand: sleek, big schnoAudi debuted Sportback concept at the North American International Auto Show, but we all know better. It’s no great secret that Detroit is where Audi was choosing to show the first preview of z and a little different than everything else out there.
There is also some pretty significant technology behind the big grille. This concept is powered by a 3.0-liter V6 TDI clean diesel engine that Audi says almost completely eliminates nitrogen oxides. This engine already meets the emissions standards of all 50 states and the European EU6 standard scheduled to take effect in 2014. The engine delivers 225 hp and 405 lb. ft. of torque.

Sunday, August 23, 2009

BENTLEY

2009 Bentley Continental Flying Spur and Continental Flying Spur Speed
Bentley today unveiled the 2009 Continental Flying Spur and the new version Spur Speed. The new model is set to deliver even greater levels of refinement, comfort and opportunities for customer personalization.
The Continental Flying Spur is powered by the new Bentley’s 6-litre, twin turbocharged W12 engine, the most compact 12-cylinder engine in production. The 48-valve head employs four camshafts and continually variable valve timing. Power is transmitted via an uprated ZF six-speed automatic transmission.
The W12 engine continues to produce 552bhp at 6100 rev/min and a maximum torque of 479lb ft from 1600 rev/min across virtually the entire rev range.
2009 Bentley Arnage Final Series
Bentley revealed the first Arnage back in 1998. After a long and successful story the model has come to an end. To celebrate the end of its life the company will unveil at the Paris Auto Show a limited edition Arnage. Called "Final Series", this special edition will be limited to only 150 units and will be produced at the Crewe facility.
The engine, transmission, chassis and running gear of the Arnage Final Series are identical to those previously employed in Arnage T. In this specification, Bentley’s remarkable all-aluminium 6.75 liter V8 engine produces 500 bhp and 738lb ft of torque.
2009 Bentley Azure T
The current big Bentley, the Arnage family, is taking a final bow. While the premiere of last year’s Brooklands was a car that was more for the English crowd (foul-weather friendly hard top, understated coupe styling, etc.), the 2009 Azure T is more for an American crowd ("hey look me and at what I can afford!")
It’s safe to write that the Azure T is the most elegant convertible at the moment. PETA gets woozy every time it thinks about how many cows had to die so that the ultra-rich can have coddled hands, legs, elbows and butts. Like any good Bentley, there are only understated changes to the exterior. Little things like new 20-inch five-spoke two-piece alloy wheels, ‘Le Mans’ lower front wing air vents, and dark-tinted upper and lower grilles.
2009 Bentley Continental GTC Speed
Bentley has updated the Continental GTC to go with the subtle changes given to the fixed-roof Continental GT, and as an added bonus, Bentley has made the more powerful engine available to make a "Speed" version of the convertible. Just like the rest of the Continental family, the GTC is powered by a 6.0-liter W12 engine that delivers 552 hp, while the Speed version gets a twin-turbocharged W12 that develops 600bhp.
With the wind in your hair, the GTC Speed can reach 195 mph, but keep the roof up and the performance gets better. With the cloth top in place, the GTC Speed goes from 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds, 0-100 mph in 10.6 seconds, and the top speed increases by 5 mph.
2008 Bentley Brooklands
When Bentley launched the 2008 Brooklands in March at Geneva Motor Show it shocked the entire world. In the good way, of course! Dr Franz-Josef Paefgen, Bentley’s Chairman and Chief Executive, said: "The interest in Brooklands since its unveiling in Geneva has exceeded our expectations. It is surely destined to become a collectors’ classic.” Me, personally I do not like this car, is too British for me, but then again I am not a big Bentley fan. They say is one of the most beautiful cars in the world, it might be, but I didn’t found its exterior beauty (because the inside is amazing). Yet!

BMW

2010 BMW X4 Preview
A Coupe SUV is something everyone is expecting. Land Rover has already announced the LRX Concept for the Detroit Auto Show; so it was about time for the best German maker to start working on a coupe SUV. The upcoming model will be based on the X3 SUV; actually will be a shrinked X3 with two-doors. BMW will launch a concept version sometime this year; while the production version will follow in 2009 and sales will begin in 2010.
The X-Series is a real success for BMW. For example the new X5 was sold out in Germany a month before it really went on sale and the X3 is selling very well, despite its high price. The X6 launched in December turned out to be a real success among the press. This is a very good reason for BMW to start working on a more compact version of the X-Series. It will be called X4 and like the X6 was inspired by X5, it will be based on the X3.
The X4 will be a pure road car, with sporty design elements: it will feature narrow roof pillars and frameless windows. It is expected to be around 10 cm thinner than the X3 and also 5 cm shorter.
2010 BMW M3 Edition Models
As it comes from the factory with its carbon fiber roof, 19 inch wheels and high revving 4.0 Liter V8; the BMW M3 coupe is a very desirable machine. The problem the Bavarian automakers are facing is how to improve upon a good thing. They have solved this dilemma by announcing the production of the M3 Edition. This limited production M3 coupe is powered by the same great 420 HP V8 as the standard model, except both the interior and exterior are adorned with upgrades and accents that make the Edition models very unique BMWs.
The M3 Edition models take the outstanding features of the M3 and dress them up with a new layer of style. Starting with four new individualized colors like Alpine White, Dakar Yellow and Monte Carlo Blue; the BMW design team also added a few exterior modifications, like a blacked out treatment for the grill, side mirrors, tailpipes and even the light weight alloys. The chassis has also been lowered by about 0.4 inches not only set these M3s apart from the rest of the field, but also improves handling.
On the inside, the Edition M3s are set apart from the crowd with Carbon Structure Leather trim and soft black Novillo Leather covering the seats. The piping and stitching is made to match the vehicle’s exterior color. With a production run limited to just six months, the BMW M3 Edition is the perfect option for the driver who never wants to see another car like their’s on the road.
2009 BMW M3 Convertible
The BMW M3 model family is being upgraded by yet another fascinating player: The new BMW M3 Convertible, the third body version of BMW’s high-performance sports car following the Coupé and Saloon, offers new possibilities to experience uncompromising driving dynamics
Beneath the engine compartment lid lurks the V8 power unit displacing 4.0 litres and with all the features of a high-speed engine developed brand-new from the ground up for the
BMW M3. Above the heads of the driver and passengers is either the three-piece hardtop opening and disappearing completely into the rear roof compartment at the touch of a button in just 22 seconds or of course the blue sky and the thrill of open air.
2009 BMW X3 Edition Exclusive
BMW added two new X3 special edition for the 2009 MY: the Editions Lifestyle and Exclusive. Starting autumn 2008 the BMW X3 will be available with no less than six different engines ranging from 150 hp all the way to 286 hp.
The 2.0-litre gasoline entry-level model will now be designated “BMW X3 xDrive20i”, and the most powerful diesel model driven by BMW’s 3.0-litre straight-six with Variable Twin Turbo will now bear the name “BMW X3 xDrive35d”.
The Edition Lifestyle highlights in particular the modern flair and sporting agility of the BMW X3. The vehicle comes with a wide range of paintwork colours made up of new Space Grey metallic and eight further colours. Additional highlights accentuating the impressive look of the Lifestyle model are 18-inch light-alloy rims in double-spoke design on the BMW X3 xDrive35d and, respectively, 17-inch V-spoke wheels on all other model variants.

2009 BMM 3-Series Performance
Its athletic design and its superior driving dynamics make the new BMW 3-Series to be one of the best in its segment. And with the new accessories from the BMW Performance, this unique characters is taken even further. The new 3-Series Performance will go on sale from late March / early April 2009.
This special options, for drive, chassis, aerodynamics and cockpit are part of the original BMW accessories program. The BMW Performance components transferrers the "know-how from" motorsport on the road and allow the driver to express his enthusiasm for technical excellence individually.
The BMW Performance Aerodynamics Kit for the new BMW 3 Series sedan and the new BMW 3 Series Touring includes a striking front apron with an expressive BMW kidney in black glossy appearance and dynamically contoured side sills. Also to improve the aerodynamics of the car many of the accessories are made out of carbon fiber.
2009 BMW Sauber F1.09
Over the last week we’ve seen Ferrari, McLaren and Renault sounding off about their new F1 cars, and now BMW is chiming in with its 2009 racer.
BMW Sauber F1 Team revealed today the F1.09 Formula 1 car today in Valencia, Spain. For those who think all F1 cars look alike, the 2009 car has implicated a few changes including a higher nose, three-part front wing and a slimmer rear wing. The racer also has add-ons, such as air deflectors and cooling air exits. Other eye-catching features include the sidepods, which are now higher at the front.
Like the rest of the 2009 F1 cars, the F1.09 has integrated the kinetic energy recovery system (KERS) for added power. Let’s just hope it was perfected
from when it was tested this summer.
2009 BMW 730Ld
BMW UK added a new model to the 7-series line-up: the 730Ld, the long-wheelbase version of the 730d that adds 14cms of legroom for rear seat passengers. The prices will start from £56,790.
The new BMW 730Ld is powered by an all-aluminium 2,993cc straight-six cylinder diesel engine that produces 245hp at 4,000rpm. A peak torque figure of 540Nm is attained from 1,750rpm through to 3,000rpm and this results in a zero to 62mph time of 7.3 seconds and a 153mph top speed. Its 194g/km emission figure is class-leading for conventionally powered luxury cars, as is its 38.7mpg combined consumption figure. The BMW 730Ld comes with a six-speed automatic gearbox as standard.
2009 BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo
BMW released today the first details on the Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo, the preview version of the future Progressive Activity Sedan (PAS). World debut will be made in just a few weeks at the Geneva Motor Show.
The sound you hear right now is the collective sigh of relief from the automotive world. BMW is trying to build a vehicle designed for multiple purposes, which meant it was possibly going to be a hodge-podge of automotive elements that could make this GT the next Frankenstein. Instead the 5-Series GT is a tasteful mixture of BMW’s X6 and 7-Series. If you’re a fan of outgoing designer Chris Bangle, then the GT may be a wet dream.
Function is the largest purpose of this car. BMW emphasized this in its
teaser video. The 5-Series GT has an interior that designed to move to maximize cargo space or maximize interior space.
2009 BMW 7-Series Individual
We first saw the 2009 BMW 7-Series Individual as a limited model in the 2008 Neiman Marcus Christmas Book. But just like the limited edition Z3 from the 1995 book, BMW couldn’t keep the special car just to the mail order crowd. So now at the Geneva Auto Show in two weeks BMW will show off a 7-Series Individual designed for the showroom.
The Neiman Marcus car was only available in a color called "Diopside Black", but on this one the car can be ordered in Anthracite, Silk Grey, Champagne, Amaro Brown and Platinum. Also the "Champagne Merino" mandatory color on the inside has bee replaced by the choice of leather in Graphite, Silk Grey, Champagne, Amaro Brown, Cohiba Brown, or Platinum. The 7-Series Individual is also offered with 20-inch light-alloy wheels in V-spoke design.
2009 BMW X3 Limited Sport Edition
BMW may be working on an actual M edition for the X5 and X6, but their little brother, the X3, doesn’t want to be left out. Like a good mother, BMW is going to make sure the little one gets to play along too, but it also knows the small X3 is just to little to handle the power of a big engine. That’s why the X3 gets to look like a Motorsport car.
It’s called the X3 Limited Sport Edition, and it includes 19-inch M alloy wheels, M leather steering wheel, sport seats and xenon headlights. This X3 also features M aerodynamic bodywork and a retuned suspension. The package is available across the X3 line for 2009. Starting at €7,250 for the X3 with 150 hp gas engine and topping out at €7,900 for the X3 xDrive35d (diesel).
BMW also knows better than to let its little one play too far from home, so the X3 Limited Sport Edition will likely be limited to Europe.
2009 BMW X3 Rescue Vehicle
BMW will come to the Geneva Motor Show with the X3 xDrive20d emergency rescue vehicle. Powered by a 177 bhp engine, the X3 Rescue vehicle is the perfect choice in any medical rescue situations.
The exterior of the BMW X3 is in plain white, with contrasting reflective red film and red stripes on the sides and boot lid, and double strips on the bonnet, to render the vehicle’s special function visible even at a distance. To further increase its visibility, the car’s contour markings have integrated reflective gaps on the sides and at the bottom of the boot lid.
Naturally, like any emergency rescue vehicle, it is also fitted with a special roof-mounted alarm system, including a blue light, an electronic siren, and an LED display with the word NOTARZT ("emergency doctor").

2009 BMW M3 GT4
BMW doesn’t want the Maserati GranTurismo MC to get all the spotlight at the 24-hour race on the Nürburgring’s Nordschleife this year. The May 23rd race will be the premiere run of BMW’s M3 GT4 car.
BMW is importing Augusto Farfus, Jorg Muller and Andy Priaulx from the World Touring Car Championship (WTCC) to give the M3 GT4 a workout. While BMW has been a dominate force of the WTCC circuit, it has an uphill battle in the GT4 class. It’s been won by an American car, the Ford Mustang FR500C, for the last two years (the driver was German.)

BUGATTI


2010 Bugatti Veyron Bleu Centenaire
In 2009 Bugatti will celebrate its 100th anniversary; to commemorate the event the company unveiled today at the Geneva Motor Show the special edition Veyron Bleu Centenaire. And no, it does not have 1350 hp as previously reported! It is just a special edition Veyron featuring a two-tone exterior color and priced at $1,7 million.
The Centenaire’s unique combination of a « sprintblue matt » and « sprintblue gloss » hence offers a new impression of the two-tone-scheme known so far with parts of the engine also covered in this traditional Bugatti Blue.

2010 Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Sang Bleu
We reported at the end of July that Bugatti will bring a special edition Veyron Grand Sport at the Pebble Beach weekend. And here it is: the Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Sang Bleu, an exclusive supercar limited to only 20 units.
The Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Sang Bleu combines carbon fiber and polished aluminum - an innovative combination never realized before. The visual carbon fiber is tinted in royal blue to emphasize the refined volumes and surfaces of the Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport. The rear airscoops are tinted in the same nightblue – offering a dramatic view from above – and thus fluidly integrate into the overall design philosophy of this unique model.
The rims are inspired by the Grand Sport Roadster and are highlighted in a Midnight Blue and Diamond Cut two tone finish. The interior is trimmed in a newly developed Gaucho leather.
2009 Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport
Rumors about an open-top version of the Veyron 16.4 circulated for a long time now. But today the company made it official, before its official launch at the Pebble Beach Lodge on August 16.
Named Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport, the new Bugatti will be a roadster with a unique, removable roof. The open-top Grand Sport allows driver and passenger to feel even closer to the car’s breathtaking power. Those who consider the wind in their hair and the roar of a thoroughbred racing engine in their ears to be essential to true driving enjoyment will find their perfect motor car in this new Bugatti. Even with the top on the Grand Sport does not loose any of its fascination and conveys to the passenger a new exciting panoramic view.

2008 Bugatti EB 16.4 Veyron "Pur Sang"
Bugatti unveiled today at the Frankfurt Auto Show the Veyron Pur Sang, a model built for the sole purpose of driving. It is entirely made of carbon and aluminum.
The structure of the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 gave the designers the idea of finishing the car in its pure material configuration – meaning no colour coating. The result is the Bugatti EB 16.4. Veyron “Pur Sang”, a two-tone study of pure materialness showing the car’s true essentials: carbon and aluminium.

2008 Bugatti Veyron Fbg par Hermes
Bugatti unveiled today at the Geneva Motor Show the Veyron Hermes edition, a special edition priced at 1.55 million euros (not including tax), available at the end of 2008.
The Veyron Fbg par Hermes is powered by a 16-cylinder "W" configuration engine is fed by four turbochargers and features 64 valves, generating 1001 horse¬power at 6000 rpm. The engine draws on its 8-litre displacement to deliver a maximum torque of 1250 Newton-metres between 2200 and 5500 rpm. With full-time all-wheel drive, the car’s phenomenal power produces breath-takingly dynamic handling, with acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in a mere 2.5 seconds.

2008 Bugatti Veyron Sang Noir
Now, when everyone’s attention was focused on finding as much info as possible about the Targa version of the Veyron supercar, Bugatti launched a new special edition, only one month away after the launch of the special edition Bugatti Veyron Fbg par Hermès.
The new edition, called Veyron Sang Noir is, dedicated to the Bugatti Atlantique 57S, and it features many special design elements, including a black exterior and a orange interior.
The vehicle features re-designed front grille, a black background for the headlights, side mirrors featuring same colour as the front grille, an entire black-painted body, an astonishing interior and custom alloy wheels featuring also black colour.
Like the
Pur Sang version, the Sang Noir will also be limited to only five units.

BUICK

2010 Buick LaCrosse
Buick announced it will unveil the 2010 LaCrosse luxury sedan at the Detroit Auto Show on Jan. 12. The 2010 LaCrosse will be offered in three models - CX, CXL and CXS and with a choice of two V6 engines.
The CX is powered by a a new 3.0L direct injection V-6 that delivers 255 hp and and 211 lb.-ft. of torque and is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The CXL gets the same engine as the CX, but adds leather-appointed heated seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, fog lamps, outside rearview mirror with LED turn indicators and puddle lamps, and 18-inch wheels. Intelligent AWD is available.
The CXS is equipped with a 3.6L direct injection V-6 that delivers 280 hp and 261 lb.-ft. of torque; the engine is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The CXS gets a real-time active-dampening suspension; perforated, leather-appointed, heated and cooled seats, and chrome-plated 18-inch wheels (19-inch optional).
2009 Buick Lucerne E85
Starting 2009 GM will add a new E85 Ethanol-Capable model to its line-up: the Buick Lucerne. The Lucerne, the first flex-fuel capable Buick passenger car, will be among more than 15 GM models with flex-fuel capability in 2009, up from 11 offerings this year.
E85 ethanol is a cleaner-burning alternative fuel that can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by as much as 23 percent compared with gasoline.
The Lucerne is the latest vehicle announced for the 2009 GM FlexFuel lineup. The four-cylinder
Chevrolet HHR was revealed at the Chicago Auto Show in February and the Hummer H2 and H2 SUT were announced in March as part of the opening of the first public E85 pumps owned by a dealership, Classic Chevrolet-Hummer in Grapevine, Texas.
2009 Buick LaCrosse
For 2009, Buick LaCrosse receives some minor upgrades and new additional features. This should be the last year before Buick redesigns the car for the 2010 model year.
A V6 and a V8 are the powertrains used for the 2009 Buick LaCrosse lineup. LaCrosse CX and CXL models are propelled by the 3.8L V-6. This proven industry stalwart is rated at 200 hp and 230 lb.-ft of torque. The 3.8L features electronic throttle control to improve engine response and optimize fuel efficiency. Recent upgrades to the 3.8L also result in quiet operation.
LaCrosse Super models are powered by the robust 5.3L V-8 small-block. Rated at 300 hp and 323-lb.ft of torque, it enables LaCrosse Super to reach 60 mph from a dead stop in just 5.9 seconds. The 5.3L small-block V-8 uses GM’s Active Fuel Management, an engine technology that seamlessly switches between four and eight cylinders to save fuel.
2008 Buick Enclave
Tiger Woods, the world’s top-ranked professional golfer and long-time Buick partner, teamed up with Buick to introduce media to the brand’s newest vehicle: the all-new 2008 Enclave luxury crossover SUV, on the eve of the Los Angeles Auto Show. The Enclave was unveiled at the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, one of the world’s most prestigious art and design schools.
The Enclave is Buick’s first luxury crossover SUV. It is purposely built on an all-new crossover architecture and motivated by one of GM’s most powerful V-6 engines ever. The Enclave creates its own niche in the fast-growing crossover market by melding elegant interior and exterior design and a confident ride in a quiet, well-crafted roomy cabin capable of carrying up to eight passengers with space for gear. It arrives in dealer showrooms next summer.
“Enclave is the new face of Buick and everything we want in future Buicks,” said General Manager Steve Shannon. “It’s an absolutely stunning, high-quality crossover SUV that delivers all the product attributes that define the new
Buick – a confident ride, relevant technologies, more luxury features, elegant design and a quiet, comfortable and well-crafted interior. These are the hallmark traits of future Buicks.”