As automakers downsize their payrolls, many are also looking to downsize their auto offerings by producing smaller and more affordable vehicles. While we expect as much from the GMs and Toyotas of the world, luxury and sportscar makers are also hopping on the band wagon. We recently reported that Audi is now selling a less powerful version of the TT Roadster in the U.K., and latest reports suggest Porsche might be bringing a new entry-level vehicle to market to slot in under the Boxster.

The new model would be called the 356 Speedster and would be a two-seater, mid-engine, rear drive machine, based on the Volkswagen Blue Sport Concept unveiled at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit in January.

There is no word on a powerplant for the new model,  but there is speculation that Audi’s 2.0 TFSI engine could be used, with an output of just over 200hp and 200 ft-lbs of torque. This would seem appropriate were it not for the fact that we can’t really see Porsche using an Audi /VW powerplant for a sportscar. It also wouldn’t be very likely that a turbocharged model would be the standard engine, as Porsche typically reserves turbos for high-performance “Turbo” models.

From here the speculation continues to get even more ridiculous with German source autozietung stating that through the use of aluminum and magnesium the new model could weight as little as 1,675 lbs – that’s a good 300 lbs lighter than a Lotus Elise – which has all the comfort and convenience features of a gym locker (we still love them though).

The possibility of such a model actually making it to market is, however, quite good as Porsche is eager to expand its market share and essentially repeat what it did 10 years ago with the Boxster – a vehicle that has grown up in a decade to be a significantly faster and more expensive model. The 356 Speedster wouldn’t see production until 2013 with pricing expected right around the $40,000 mark (undercutting the $46,600 Boxster).

GALLERY: Volkswagen Blue Sport Concept

[Source: autozietung via WorldCarFans]

The highly anticipated Chevrolet Orlando is apparently not one of the top priorities at General Motors – despite the increasing popularity of similar crossovers (like the Ford Flex and Toyota Venza) in the marketplace.

According to Automotive News, the Orlando is no longer scheduled to go into production later this year. Local UAW rep George McGregor told the media outlet that GM management had informed him that work on the Orlando will not start at the Hamtramck plant in 2009 as expected. He did not provide any information on when production of the new model, and its Opel sibling, will begin.

Those looking forward to the new seven-seater model shouldn’t be to worried, however, as it is not a concept but a “future production vehicle” accoriding to General Motors – although these days nothing is really safe.

The Chevrolet Orlando first broke ground at the Paris Auto Show and made its U.S. debut at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. At both shows it featured a 150hp 2.0-liter turbo-diesel under the hood, which, while a definite possibility for the Opel model, is unlikely to make it stateside. Instead, look for a traditional 3.6-liter V6.

GALLERY: Chevrolet Orlando

[Source: AutoNews via AutoBlog]

Amidst all the excitement about the new Toyota Prius at the North American International Auto Show, no one at Toyota mentioned (and no one else seemed to notice)  that for 2010 the Camry will receive all sorts of updates.

The most significant change is the use of a slightly larger 4-cylinder engine – 2.5-liters, up from 2.4-liters. The engine will make 169hp on the LE and XLE models with 179hp on SE models – an increase of 21hp.

Incredibly, Toyota will offer the 2010 Camry four-cylinder models with either a 6-speed manual or a six-speed automatic.

The 2010 Camry will also receive a new front grille and new front bumper with a larger lower intake. The projector headlights will also be larger, the tail lights will get a styling update and XLE and SE models will receive new wheel designs.

The Camry Hybrid will also get a few aesthetic enhancements, aimed at differentiating it from the rest of the lineup. A unique hybrid grille design and new front bumper are a part of the update, as is a larger lower intake and redesigned fog lights. A new 16-inch wheel design is also coming.

In terms of safety, all 2010 Camry’s will come with Vehicle Stability Control as standard. Auto up and down windows that feature jam protection will also be standard equipment on all Camry’s.

2010 Toyota Camry:

2010 Toyota Camry Hybrid:

Official release after the jump:

2010 TOYOTA CAMRY ON DISPLAY
AT THE 2009 NORTH AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW

As the best-selling passenger car in America for seven years running and 11 of the past 12 years, Camry continues to redefine standards for comfort and performance.  The 2010 Camry and Camry Hybrid scheduled to go on sale in March, have an array of enhancements, inside and out, including exterior styling, performance, safety, audio and convenience features.
Camry also has an upgraded standard powertrain for 2010.  A new 2.5- liter four-cylinder engine equipped with variable valve timing with intelligence (VVT-i) will produce 169 hp for Camry, LE and XLE grades.  For sporty performance, SE grade get additional tuning and gets 179 horsepower, 21 more
horsepower than the previous four-cylinder engine.  The new engine can be combined with a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic transmission with sequential shift.  A powerful 3.5-liter V6 delivering 268 horsepower is also available.
Exterior changes to the gas model Camry include a newly designed grille and front bumper, an enlarged lower intake, larger projector headlamps and restyled tail lamps. The Camry and LE grades feature restyled standard wheel covers.   The XLE grade will run on new 16-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels, while the
SE grade adds new 17-inch sporty alloy wheels.
The Camry Hybrid exterior enhancements will include a unique hybrid grille, a distinct front bumper, a wider lower intake, restyled fog lights and 16-inch alloy wheels.

The Camry Hybrid, equipped with Toyota’s industry-leading Hybrid Synergy Drive, certified as an Advanced Technology Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (AT-PZEV) is just one of a handful of cars that meets this strict standard, producing over 70 percent less smog-forming emissions than the average new
car.
Inside, Camry and LE grades are available with an optional audio system equipped with a new USB port for auxiliary music sources, Bluetooth, integrated satellite radio, single-CD, and MP3 and streaming music capability.
Previously an option, all Camry gas models will now be equipped with Vehicle Stability Control with traction control.  Auto up/down power windows with jam protection on all four doors is standard equipment.  Camry Hybrid adds a newly designed meter cluster and Fraichir, a combination of silk protein and synthetic fiber, cloth seating surfaces that are gentle to the skin.
Pricing for the 2010 Camry will be announced shortly before it goes on sale this March.

While in past years we might have handed out praise for the “Best Display” at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, a “Worst Display” nod seems only appropriate for the 2009 show.

And so, without further adieux, the AutoGuide “Worst Display” award goes to Mitsubishi. Why, you might ask? Well, there are several reasons. For starters, the enormous black wall behind the company’s display was barren of any mention of the company and created a somewhat bleak – if not downright ominous – feel to the booth.

Secondly, having had the opportunity to walk past the booth what must have been 100 times, we only noticed a staff member at the information table twice. The rest of the time the space was void of not only Mitsubishi representatives but also of any interested media.

Finally, the small information pillar located at the booth never had any pamphlets in it.

Apparently the display was not the doing of Mitsubishi Corporate, however, but created by a local dealership. With the limited resources of a dealership, it wasn’t bad, but hardly on par with the competition.

This year’s Detroit Auto Show saw several major manufacturers drop out and considering the lackluster appearance of the Mitsubishi stand, it would have been better if they had. Nissan was a no-show in Detroit and according to our sources when local Detroit dealerships requested permission from Nissan Corporate to create their own display (like the Mitsubishi dealership did) they were asked not to.

Runner’s up include Lotus, which really just had some carpet, velvet ropes and stanchions, and Jeep, which was actually just disappointing because in past year’s the display was so impressive. In Lotus’s defense, however, they are a tiny company and haven’t had a display at Detroit as long as we can remember.

Chinese atuo manufacturer Beyond Your Dreams (BYD) announced at the 2009 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit that is it currently working on developing a pure electric vehicle that will offer impressive range.

The announcement was made following news that BYD has developed a plug-in gasoline-electric hybrid which is already on the road in China.

Called the e6, this stylish people-mover will be offered in four different power combinations with output ranging from 101hp to 269hp.

With a zero too 60 mph time of 8 seconds, the acceleration of the e6 is certainly healthy.

Even more impressive is BYD’s claim that the e6 will be able to achieve 249 miles on a single charge.

BYD’s claims may seem far fetched but the Chinese auto manufacturer has already beat automotive powerhouses like Toyota and General Motors to market with two plug-in gas electric bybrids (the F3DM and F6DM) which are currently on sale in China.

Audi released all the information on the new V10-powered R8 months ago but until now they have never shown the vehicle – to the press or anyone else for that matter.

The 525-hp version of the R8 was the first of two world premieres at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. The other debut was the Sportback Concept vehicle.

The V10 R8 uses the Lamborghini-sourced 5.2-liter V10 engine (the same one found in the LP560-4) to make 525hp at 8000 rpm and 391 ft-lbs of torque at 6500 rpm. This is enough to rocket the R8 to 60 mph in just 3.9 seconds and on to a top speed of 196 mph.

Thanks to Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive system, the R8 is capable of a lateral acceleration of 1.2 gs. Braking is also astounding thanks to eight-piston front brakes.

Audi R8 V10

Complete information and specs on the R8 V10 after the jump:

The Audi R8 5.2 FSI quattro: Breathtaking Performance
- The new 5.2-liter, ten-cylinder engine puts out 525 hp
- Sprint to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds, top speed 316 km/h
- High-performance sports car with striking design
INGOLSTADT, Germany, Dec 8, 2008  -  Audi is launching the next variant of its top-of-the-line model. With the R8, the brand has established itself at the forefront of high-end sports cars from the very start – and now comes the R8 V10. Its 5.2-liter, ten-cylinder engine churns out 386 kW (525 hp) and 530 Nm (390.91 lb-ft) of torque, which makes for breathtaking performance. With superior Audi technologies such as quattro all-wheel drive, the lightweight aluminum body, the innovative all-LED headlights, and its striking design, the R8 V10 takes pole position against the competition.

The R8 V10 is the result of cumulative know-how from Audi’s string of Le Mans victories. Its naturally aspirated engine combines racing technology such as dry sump lubrication with FSI gasoline direct injection. The ten-cylinder design is the perfect synthesis for impressive top performance, mighty pulling power, and low weight. Starting in 2009, this engine will also prove its potential on the world’s racetracks – in the new R8 racing car Audi is developing for customer teams in conformance with the GT3 rules.

The V10 engine in the production sports car will be almost identical in construction to the one in the racing version. Its displacement is 5,204 cc, at 6,500 rpm it delivers 530 Nm (390.91 lb-ft) of torque, at 8,000 rpm its power tops out at 386 kW (525 hp).

The specific power output is 100.9 hp per liter of displacement – and each hp has to propel only 3.09 kilograms (6.91 lb) of weight, because the Audi R8 V10 in the version with the six-speed manual gearshift weighs only 1,620 kilograms (3571 lb). The engine accounts for 258 of these kilograms (569 lb) – that’s only 31 kilos (68 lb) more than the V8.

The Audi R8 5.2 FSI quattro rockets from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 3.9 seconds. In the version with the sequentially shifting R tronic it reaches 200 km/h (124.27 mph) in another 8.1 seconds. Even then its propulsive power hardly lessens: it’s sufficient to reach a top speed of 316 km/h (196.35 mph). The immense force, the spontaneity and the thrust of the acceleration, plus the sound of the engine – all these impressions coalesce into a breathtaking sports car experience. The V10 plays a concert with growling bass tones and powerful high notes, which grows into a grandiose fortissimo as the engine revs up. This sonorous acceleration doesn’t reach its limit until 8,700 rpm.

The 5.2-liter powerplant uses direct injection according to the FSI principle developed by Audi. A common rail system injects the fuel into the combustion chambers with up to 120 bar of pressure. Direct injection reduces the susceptibility to knocking and provides a certain amount of cooling through the evaporation of the fuel, which in turn supports a high compression ratio of 12.5:1. This in turn contributes to superior performance and improves fuel economy. The R8 V10 with R tronic gets by on an average of 13.7 liters per 100 km (17.17 US mpg).

For maximum dynamics: low center of gravity engine

The technical refinements of the long-stroke ten-cylinder engine include dry sump lubrication, which allows the engine to be mounted low within the chassis. The wide cylinder angle of 90 degrees also makes for a low center of gravity. The crankcase is a high-strength aluminum-alloy casting produced in a complex process. The connecting rods are made of forged steel, the pistons of aluminum. The four camshafts are chain-driven and each is adjustable through 42 degrees. This provides great latitude in controlling the valve timing. In combination with the straight, flow-optimized ducts of the intake manifold, this improves the charge throughout the entire speed range.

The R8 5.2 FSI quattro has a six-speed transmission. A precise and smooth-shifting manual transmission comes as standard equipment. The sequential R tronic is available as an option. The high-tech gearshift conveys an authentic racing feel – with the rocker switches at the steering wheel and the short shifting times of usually less than one-tenth of a second. When the driver actuates the Launch Control program by pressing a button, the R8 V10 takes off in a vehement quick-start with electronically controlled tire slip – both with the R tronic and with the manual transmission.

A contributing factor to the wide lead in traction and driving safety of the Audi R8 V10 over the competition is quattro all-wheel drive – it’s the superior technology especially for a high-performance sports car. Four powered wheels get more grip than two. They enable the driver to step on the gas sooner when coming out of a curve. It’s not only the traction that benefits, but also the transverse dynamics and the stability.

44 to 56 percent – the ideal axle load distribution

The Audi R8 chassis offers both dynamic performance and astonishing levels of comfort on long distances. This high-performance sports car from Audi eagerly responds to any steering action with instant ease, achieves lateral acceleration of up to 1.2 g, and handles any situation with superb driving safety. Its mid-engine design provides an ideal axle load distribution of 44 to 56 percent.

The wheel suspensions on dual aluminum wishbones front and rear – a classic racing technology – are optimized for neutral self-steering characteristics. Even more than in the eight-cylinder R8, this setup is designed for maximum performance. 19-inch wheels equipped with tire pressure monitoring display are standard equipment. Their 10-spoke Y design is exclusive to the R8 V10. Tire sizes are 235/35 front and 295/30 rear.

The car features a high-end damper technology as standard: Audi magnetic ride adapts the characteristics of the suspension in milliseconds to the nature of the road surface and to the driving style. Suspended in the oil of the shock absorbers are tiny magnetic particles which, when a voltage is applied, rearrange themselves so as to slow down the flow of oil through the valves.

In the R8 V10, deceleration is provided by an extremely muscular braking system – eight brake pistons at the front and four at the rear grasp the brake disks, which are ventilated and perforated to ensure unimpeded heat transfer. The brake disks on the front axle have a diameter of 380 millimeters (15 in); the rear discs span 356 millimeters (14 in).

The R8 5.2 FSI quattro is optionally available with a ceramic brake system whose disks are made of a composite material containing high-strength carbon fibers and abrasion-resistant silicon carbide. These are especially light: their combined weight is nine kilograms (19.84 lb) less than the weight of equivalent steel disks. The ceramic brakes can easily cope with the harsher requirements of racing, won’t corrode, and have a typical service life of 300,000 kilometers (186,400 miles). Their calipers are painted charcoal gray and emblazoned with the inscription “Audi ceramic”.

Typically Audi: Sharp lines and an elegantly curved roof

The wide, full shape of the R8 5.2 FSI quattro seems to hug the road. The brawny proportions and prominent wheel wells underscore its potential. The high-precision styling of the lines and the elegant curve of the roof are typical Audi features. A continuous contour optically connects the front, the wheel wells, the sides and the rear. Located well forward, the cab visually expresses the mid-engine design. The vertical air scoops (sideblades) on the sides are also indicative of the engine location. The massive aluminum gas cap is mounted flush within the right sideblade.

The design of the Audi R8 has already impressed experts, as evidenced by the double victory in the “World Car of the Year Awards 2008″. In the ten-cylinder model, the styling has been sharpened up even more.

The front air inlets, which feed air to the coolers, and the lip of the front apron are painted in high-gloss black. The number of cross-braces has been reduced from four to two. The vanes of the single-frame grille have a striking chrome finish.

A very distinctive highlight of the R8 V10 are the all-LED headlights as standard equipment. Audi is the world’s first automaker to use LEDs for the high beam, low beam, daytime running lights, and turn signals. Each headlight integrates 54 of these high-tech light sources. With a color temperature of 6,000 Kelvin the LED light closely resembles daylight, which is less tiring to the eyes in night driving. Further advantages of the LEDs include brilliant illumination, low energy consumption, and a virtually unlimited service life.

Special details also distinguish the body of the R8 V10. Its sideblades are more accentuated than in the eight-cylinder version. The side sills are more striking and wider; the exhaust grilles at the rear windows have a matt aluminum look. Through the large rear window, the ten-cylinder engine is clearly visible in its consummate technical beauty.

When in motion, this Audi high-performance sports car creates a downforce that keeps it in firm contact with the road – thanks to a rear spoiler which deploys automatically at 100 km/h and the fully enclosed underbody, which terminates in a sharply upward-curved diffuser. The dominant color at the rear end is high-gloss black, including the settings of the LED tail lights. The air outlets at the rear end also have only two cross-braces, and the exhaust system terminates in two large oval tailpipes.

Audi sets the example – in body weight and rigidity

The body of a sports car must be especially lightweight and rigid. Audi meets these requirements with the technology of the Audi Space Frame (ASF) and its high-tech aluminum construction. The body-in-white of the R8 V10, which includes an engine frame made of ultra-light magnesium, weighs only 210 kilograms (463 lb), and the quality of its lightweight design – the relation of weight to torsional rigidity – is the best in the sports car segment. The body is composed of profile extrusions, sheet aluminum and very complex gusset castings, all held together by 99 meters (325 ft) of welding seams, 782 rivets, and 308 special screws.

The interior of the R8 V10 provides a unique racing ambience at the luxury level. Its dominant element is the so-called monoposto – a wide arc that contains the steering wheel and the cockpit. As always in an Audi, the workmanship is of the highest quality. The surfaces of the dashboard and doors are lined with fine materials and adorned with precisely stitched decorative seams. Many customizing solutions are available: Audi supplies leather in a wide range of colors, packages with a carbon and piano-lacquer finish, or a made-to-measure luggage set. quattro GmbH, which has developed and is producing the R8 V10, also provides solutions for unconventional requirements.

The great everyday utility of the Audi R8 V10 is based in part on its spacious interior made possible by the long wheelbase of 2.65 meters (8.69 ft). Drivers and passengers of any size will always find a perfect sitting position. Visibility too is surprisingly good. Slender hinge pillars optimize the obliquely forward field of view. Another advantage for convenient everyday use is the luggage space: 100 liters (3.53 cu ft) fit under the front hood, another 90 liters (3.18 cu ft) can be stowed behind the seats. There is also room for two golf bags.

The Audi R8 5.2 FSI quattro combines its colossal performance with a generous complement of standard equipment. Highlights include heatable seat covers made of Fine Nappa leather, a driver information system, the navigation system plus and the Bang & Olufsen sound system along with deluxe automatic air conditioning and an alarm system. The instruments and the gearshift knob are decorated with red rings; the footrests and the rocker switches of the R tronic have an aluminum finish.

The list of options includes other highly attractive features – such as the Audi parking system advanced with its integrated rearview camera or numerous Audi exclusive customization options. Various leather packages provide a luxurious touch, while the bucket seats from the Audi exclusive program bring a highly concentrated racing atmosphere into the R8 V10.

The Audi R8 5.2 FSI quattro will be rolled out in Germany in the second quarter of 2009 at a basic price of EUR 142,400.

Lamborghini President and CEO Stephan Winkelmann didn’t have much to say at the company’s press conference at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, but it was still well worth attending.

Winkelman announced that the company sold a record 2430 cars in 2008 and opened up 15 more dealerships. The highlight, however, was the cars, two of which (the LP640 and LP560-4) featured a stunning new matte blue color offered as a part of Lamborghini’s Ad Personam personalization program.

Front and center sat the company’s latest car, the LP560-4 Spider in matte-white (Bianco Canopus). Lamborghini als offers two other matte finishes, a matt-luster black called Nero Nemesis and a matte brown finish called Marrone Apus.

“Ad Personam offers every Lamborghini customer the opportunity to acquire a completely exclusive vehicle from a unique brand – one that is perfectly in tune with their own lifestyle,” said Winkelmann. “A super sports car from Lamborghini is always a fundamental expression of the buyer’s personality. And that is why the highest levels of exclusivity are possible, right through to absolute one-of-a-kind Lamborghini vehicles.”

Along with the three different Lamborghini models, there were also three models of the female variety.

Official release after the jump:

Lamborghini presents highly individualized super sports cars at the Detroit Auto Show

Sant’Agata Bolognese/Detroit, 11th January 2009 – Alongside the new Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder, Lamborghini will present two exclusive, highly individualized super sports cars at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show. With a unique, matt-luster paint finish in matt blue and all available special equipment options, this Murciélago LP 640 and Gallardo LP 560-4 demonstrate the virtually limitless possibilities and expert craftsmanship presented through the Ad Personam individualization program by the specialists in Sant’Agata Bolognese.
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“Ad Personam offers every Lamborghini customer the opportunity to acquire a completely exclusive vehicle from a unique brand – one that is perfectly in tune with their own lifestyle,” says Stephan Winkelmann, President and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini. “A super sports car from Lamborghini is always a fundamental expression of the buyer’s personality. And that is why the highest levels of exclusivity are possible, right through to absolute one-of-a-kind Lamborghini vehicles.”

“Think the impossible” is the motto of the Lamborghini individualization program. Ad Personam offers a host of possibilities to bring a highly individual style to the exterior and the interior of a Lamborghini – all the way through to a Lamborghini like no other.

A unique color for a unique design

Both super sports cars presented in Detroit are such highly individualized examples– painted in matt blue, an all-new, powerful blue tone with a matt-luster finish. Dressed like this, the Murciélago and the Gallardo are elegant and refined, yet extremely powerful and dynamic. This is a unique color that fits perfectly to the unique design of a Lamborghini.

The super sports car brand from Sant’Agata Bolognese is the only auto maker to have mastered the difficult and complex craftsmanship required to work with the matt-luster paint finish. Alongside the new matt blue three more colors are permanently available in the Ad Personam program: Nero Nemesis is a matt-luster black, while the matt white is called Bianco Canopus; and Marrone Apus refers to the particularly elegant matt brown finish. In addition, Lamborghini Ad Personam offers its customers complete freedom to choose any color imaginable.

Luxuriously sporty or classically powerful

In their interiors, too, the highly individualized super sports cars presented in Detroit provide a clear example of the possibilities offered by the Ad Personam program. The base color applied to the upholstery of both vehicles is black, with color contrast supplied by fine diamond stitching in the blue of the exterior paintwork. This is applied to the seats, door trim, headliner and the steering wheel. The leather upholstery lends a luxuriously sporty look and feel to the Gallardo LP 560-4.

Furthermore, the Gallardo LP560-4 shows the finest in Nappa leather in color Nero Perseus  which clads not only the seats, cockpit and door trim, but also the pillars and headliners. Further accents are provided courtesy of individual elements crafted in carbon fiber. The Callisto wheels are painted in high-gloss black, providing a contrast to the matt blue paint finish.

The Lamborghini Murciélago LP 640 is one of the most fascinating super sports cars of all time, and underscores this in Detroit with a purist interior finished in Alcantara  with diamond stitching. Not only are the sports seats upholstered in Alcantara, but also the entire interior, including doors and headliner. The cockpit surround is finished in carbon fiber. The steering wheel features stitched suede and carbon fiber inlays. The high-gloss black of the Murciélago’s wheels – in Hermera design – also delivers the perfect contrast to the matt blue exterior paintwork.

An inexhaustible range

Ad Personam offers an inexhaustible range possibilities for bringing a completely unique style to the interior and exterior of every Lamborghini. The color and trim designers from Sant’Agata Bolognese have also created exceptionally exclusive equipment offerings for the entire product range. The extended leather finish, for example, enables the allure of the first-class natural product to be raised even further. Only the very finest quality leathers are used. The seats alone offer infinite possibilities through a vast range of color options for leather and Alcantara , two-tone contrasts, material mixes, stitching and piping in contrasting colors, as well as the diamond-stitched pattern of the seat squabs, known as Q-citura.

The exceptionally hi-tech carbon fiber material provides a hint of the racetrack, with elements such as the control panel for the air conditioning and the hand brake boasting a carbon fiber finish. Further finishing touches for personalizing the exterior include an extended range of wheel options and brake calipers in yellow and silver.

Within applicable vehicles, Lamborghini can comply with virtually any customer’s desire in vehicle individualization. The boundaries are set, however, by Lamborghini’s own quality demands, which apply to all modifications carried out. When a new Lamborghini exactly meets personal expectations in terms of colors, materials and trim, then aesthetic perfection has been achieved.

Chevrolet today announced that the Orlando Concept, unveiled at last year’s Paris Auto Show, and the Beat Conecpt showcased in at the North American International Auto Show in 2007 will go into production in 2011.

Little is know about either vehicle but the Beat production model, called the Spark, will be officially unveiled at the Geneva Auto Show in March.

GM says the Spark micro-car will get 40 mpg on the highway. There was, however, no word on if this impressive fuel economy will be a result of the turbocharged 1.2-liter engine.

As for the Orlando, this aggressive van-meets-suv crossover was powered by a 150hp 2.0-liter turbo when showcased in Paris.

Both vehicles will be sold in almost all markets as true world-cars. And if the production models look nearly as impressive as the concepts they are sure to be successful.

Chevrolet started the Beat/Orlando press conference by parading a long line of its recent award winning vehicles in front of the media. The Orlando and Spark are sure to join this list in the future, however, the 2011 production date is a long way off.

Official release on both vehicles after the jump:

Chevrolet Orlando Show Car Signals Entry Into New Segment For The Brand

Paris Motor Show Preview: First Images of the seven-seat multi-purpose family vehicle

Detroit – The Orlando show car, making its world premiere at the Paris Motor Show in October, is a clear indication that Chevrolet is considering an expansion to its portfolio with a seven-seat multi-purpose vehicle with distinctive sport utility-like design, adaptable seating and impressive interior space.

Based on the recently announced all-new Cruze compact sedan, the Orlando show car carries Chevrolet’s signature design language into a new vehicle segment. It explores the potential of combining the versatility attributes of a sport utility, a family van and a wagon in a single execution.

Chevrolet Orlando cuts a distinctive silhouette, replacing conventional monocab proportions with a more defined contrast between the hood and windshield lines. With flared fenders instead of a flat side-body, Orlando has a muscular stance that gives it the appearance of a sport utility vehicle, yet it offers dynamic ride and handling, excellent fuel efficiency and easy entry thanks to its car-based architecture.

Inside, the five-door Orlando is designed to meet the needs of families and those who need plenty of seating capacity with adaptable, theater-style seating in three rows that comfortably accommodate up to seven occupants. Whenever load carrying becomes a priority, the spacious cabin can be quickly transformed into a large cargo area. A generous 2760 mm wheelbase and wide front and rear tracks provide Orlando with outstanding interior roominess.

Chevrolet’s latest-generation 2.0-liter turbo diesel, developing 150 hp and 320 Nm of torque, provides a powerful and fuel efficient powertrain.

Following the recent announcement of the all-new Cruze sedan, the Orlando show car promises another page in Chevrolet’s product portfolio and another step in Chevrolet’s plan to offer customers around the globe impressive value, quality and fuel efficiency.

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Chevrolet’s Got The Beat: Production Slated Based On Global Popularity

LOS ANGELES – A vehicle based on the Chevrolet Beat concept, which swept through auto shows around the globe and the Internet earlier this year, will go into global production, Chevrolet announced today at the 2007 Los Angeles Auto Show.

An online poll that attracted more than 1.8 million voters helped influence the decision to take the concept to production. The distinctly styled A-class car will be initially targeted to markets outside of U.S. and Canada, starting in mid-2009.

“The people have spoken. The vote count tripled all previous GM online consumer surveys, telling us the Beat resonated with customers all around the world,” said Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager. “Chevrolet was overwhelmed by the positive reaction to each of the ‘triplets,’ but the Beat was the clear winner.”

The production model will carry the spirit of the expressive Beat concept, offering compact, city-friendly dimensions and a small-displacement engine that delivers excellent fuel economy. It adds further depth and breadth to Chevrolet’s global lineup, which is sold in more than 90 countries, giving the brand a leadership position in the segment – the fastest-growing automotive segment in many regions around the world.

“Fuel solutions and great-looking cars are at the core of Chevrolet’s values, and this new production model aligns perfectly with those tenents,” said Peper. “It will be truly global, built around the world for a variety of diverse markets.”

The Beat and the other concepts highlighted in the online survey were developed primarily at GM’s Design Studio in Bupyeong, South Korea , with input from GM’s global network of designers and GM’s Korean partner, GM Daewoo. As South Korea is a primary market for this exciting new car, production will begin there.

Beat beginnings

Conceived to evoke the mood of a speedy micro import tuner, the Beat concept debuted at the 2007 New York Auto Show, along with two other concepts, Groove and Trax. All were designed to appeal to young car buyers in urban markets, infusing the energy, diversity and excitement of urban life into cars that deliver good-looking fun, fuel economy and value.

The Beat concept was designed and built leveraging GM’s Global Product Development process, created from best practices around the world that integrate design, engineering, powertrain and manufacturing organizations to ensure each vehicle program meets its quality, timing and business targets, yet is responsive to the needs in regional markets.

As part of its global product development process, GM is growing the skills and capabilities of its design and engineering centers around the world, using key tools and technologies, such as a global virtual design and engineering network, that allow engineers and designers to collaborate with each other worldwide.

The production car based on the Beat concept incorporates these resources, bringing to market quickly a right-sized car, with a right-sized ecological footprint at the right time.

After  appearing just briefly at last year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed, Jaguar is apparently set to launch its new 510hp XFR at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit.

With 510hp the XFR outpowers the already impressive XF Supercharged by 90hp, thanks to a new 5.0-liter V-8 engine mated to a Roots-type supercharger. Full power is available at 6000 rpm. Torque is rated at 461 ft-lbs and is available at just 2500 rpm.

Jaguar claims a 0-60 mph time of 4.7 seconds and a quarter mile time of 13.1 seconds.

Looks wise, it’s a stunner with a larger lower grille and chrome-trimmed intakes. The hood also gets a bad-boy look thanks to a raised center section and some vents that look like they were lifted from the Aston Martin DBS. Out back there is a new bootlid spoiler. 20-inch wheels (with even larger brakes) complete the package.

Inside, there are more alterations with sporty “R” and “supercharged” logos. There is also more luxury thanks to 18×14 way adjustable seats.

The XFR will be offered in eight colors: Ultimate Black, Indigo, Liquid Silver, Lunar Grey, Porcelain, Botanical Green, Kyanite Blue and Salsa.

2010 Jaguar XFR

[Source: Carscoop]

Scion will have on display a limited edition version of its popular xB at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Called the xB Release Series (R.S.) 6.0, just 2,500 of these vehicle will be sold and all of them with a bespoke paint color called Absolutely Red.

The xB R.S. 6.0 will also receive other exterior treatments including a custom black grille and R.S. wheel covers. (A paint-matched rear spoiler will also be optional).

Inside, the Absolutely Red color seeps through with red-detailed fabric seats as well as red lights in the foot-wells and red illuminated door sills that feature the “Release Series 6.0” logo.

The limited edition xB will also get a Pioneed headunit with a 5.8-inch LCD screen that can play DVDs when the car is in park. The headunit has a flash memory, voice recognition, MSN Direct and Bluetooth functionality, as well as iPod connectivity and slots for SD cards and USB sticks.

The Scion xB R.S. 6.0 retails for 1,743 over a standard xB, making it $17,493 for a manual version and $18,443 for an automatic.

Scion xB Release Series 6.0:

Official release after the jump:

Scion Announces Pricing for xB Release Series 6.0 – To Be Displayed at the 2009 North American International Auto Show

2009 Scion xB RS 6.0
TORRANCE, Calif., Jan. 7, 2009 — Scion announced today that its first limited-production vehicle for 2009, the xB Release Series 6.0 (xB R.S. 6.0), will be available at dealer showrooms in February.

A 2009 xB RS 6.0 will be on display in the Scion booth at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, January 11-25 for media and public days.

The 2009 xB Release Series 6.0 comes exclusively in Absolutely Red exterior paint. A unique front grille with custom black finish and Release Series wheel covers distinguish this limited production xB. A color-keyed rear spoiler will be available as an option.

Inside, the xB features a touch screen Pioneer Audio Visual Navigation (AVN) headunit with flash memory, voice recognition, MSN Direct, and Bluetooth. For media player flexibility, the AVN unit comes with USB, SD card, and iPod connectivity. The Pioneer AVN headunit is also satellite radio and HD Radio ready and will play DVDs and iPod videos when the vehicle is in park. In addition, users can select from over 32,000 colors to customize the 5.8-inch high-resolution WVGA LCD touch-panel display.

Absolutely Red makes its mark inside the xB as well with color-tuned four-in-one interior lights, RS 6.0 illuminated door sills, and accented interior trim and color-tuned seat fabric. The xB RS 6.0 will also be equipped with a rear cargo cover. Individually numbered badging completes the uniqueness of this vehicle.

Only 2,500 units of the xB RS 6.0 will be built. The xB RS 6.0 model will carry a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $1,743 over the base price of the xB. The base MSRP for the standard xB with a manual transmission is $15,750, while the standard xB with an automatic transmission model carries a MSRP of $16,700. The available Absolutely Red spoiler has a MSRP of $320, not including installation.

The delivery, processing and handling (DPH) fee for all Scion models is $670 and is not included in the MSRP. DPH fee for vehicles distributed by Southeast Toyota (SET) and Gulf States Toyota (GST) may vary.

Just ahead of it’s official debut at the 2009 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, Buick has released all the info on the new 2010 LaCrosse.

Redesigned from the ground-up, the most obvious thing is the stunning new design, which isn’t far off from the Invicta concept Buick showed not that long ago.

Inside, it seems as though the LaCrosse is following it he footsteps of the Cadillac CTS and Chevy Malibu by offering a surprisingly up-scale interior. In fact, Buick might legitimately be able to call itself a luxury brand after they roll this car out.

Along with a classy and modern new design the LaCrosse receives a host of in-cabin features including a heads-up display, navigation, Bluetooth connectivity and an auxiliary input. Rear passengers can treat themselves thanks to a power rear-sunshade and a DVD system with integrated seat-back LCD screens (yes, two of them).

The Lacrosse wil be offered in three different trim models, as follows:
• CX – equipped with a new 3.0L direct injection V-6, premium cloth seats and 17-inch wheels. The 3.0L engine generates an estimated 255 horsepower and 211 lb.-ft. of torque and is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.
• CXL – also equipped with the new 3.0L direct injection V-6, 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.
• CXS – equipped with a 3.6L direct injection V-6; real-time active-dampening suspension; perforated, leather-appointed, heated and cooled seats, and chrome-plated 18-inch wheels (19-inch optional). The 3.6L engine, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, generates an estimated 280 horsepower and 261 lb.-ft. of torque.

2010 Buick LaCrosse:

For 2010 Detroit Auto Show News See Here

Complete specifications after the jump:

BUICK TRANSFORMATION CONTINUES WITH THE 2010 LACROSSE LUXURY SEDAN
• Sculpted styling defines Buick’s modern global design
• Luxurious interior crafted of premium materials with cool blue ambient lighting
• Intelligent personal technologies enhance the driving experience
• Responsive performance via efficient. direct injection dual overhead cam engines paired with six-speed automatic transmissions

DETROIT – Redesigned from the ground up, the 2010 Buick LaCrosse luxury sedan makes its world debut at the 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit on Jan. 12. The LaCrosse offers all wheel drive, a suite of advanced intelligent personal technologies and safety features, and a choice of two fuel-saving V-6 engines.

“The new LaCrosse was created with great attention to detail, craftsmanship and advanced technology,” said Susan Docherty, Buick-Pontiac-GMC vice president. “It builds on the success of Enclave as the next step in Buick’s revitalization. And, as with Enclave, our goal is to attract a whole new buyer to our dealerships for LaCrosse.”

Sculpted design
Buick’s long heritage of leading designs, such as the Y-Job Concept, the Roadmaster and the Riviera, helped define American automobile design through the years, according to Ed Welburn, vice president of GM Global Design. Today, Buick design is a product of a global team and resources. Creative collaboration between designers in the United States and China, in partnership with the Pan Asia Technical Automotive Center (PATAC) as well as chassis and body engineers in Europe, resulted in the first General Motors vehicle to be created on three continents.

“The new LaCrosse is intended to represent modern elegance,” said Welburn. “Throughout the design, you experience a balance of contrasts. Both the interior and exterior have been designed with harmony in mind. The exterior balances taut, sculpted lines with sensuous accents and surfaces. Inside, smoked chrome accents, warm wood, first-class leather and materials combine with cool blue ambient lighting to create an inviting environment.”
The exterior design is faithful to the Buick Invicta show car introduced at the 2008 Beijing Auto Show.

“It is instantly recognizable as a Buick, with its signature ‘sweep spear’ body-side styling, portholes inside the character line on the hood, and waterfall grille,” added Welburn.

Luxurious interior experience
Inside, the two-tone interior is defined by a flowing, uninterrupted design theme that wraps around the instrument and door panels. Attention to detail is evident throughout the interior, including the analog instrument cluster, chrome offset by dark wood accents, and the contrasting thread and French stitching on the instrument panel.

Buick’s signature QuietTuning – an engineering process to reduce, block and absorb interior noise – provides a distraction-free passenger environment.

An unexpected, inviting touch is the cool blue ambient lighting throughout the cabin from the center console, instrument panel and door panels.

Intelligent personal technologies
The contemporary atmosphere of the cabin includes the digital connectivity and personal technology offered in the new LaCrosse. That includes features such as in-dash navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, an auxiliary audio input and a USB port. For rear-seat passengers, a power rear-window sunshade and a DVD entertainment system, with two display screens integrated into the seatbacks, is available.

LaCrosse’s intelligent technologies also work to deliver a 360-degree field of vision behind the steering wheel, for a greater feeling of comfort, security and safety. It starts with the available head-up display in the windshield, allowing the driver to monitor speed while keeping his or her eyes on the road. At night, the available adaptive lighting package can direct the high-intensity discharge headlight beams up to 15 degrees for enhanced illumination of the road and its curves.

LaCrosse offers Side Blind Zone alert that notifies the driver if a vehicle in adjacent lanes is traveling in the driver’s blind spot. The LaCrosse is also available with a rear view camera, with the display integrated into the navigation system screen.

The technology available on LaCrosse enhances a suite of standard safety features that is designed to meet the criteria for the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) 20 Star Safety Rating. Highlights include front-, side- and roof-mounted head-curtain air bags, StabiliTrak stability- and traction-control system. The safety and security of OnStar is also included for the first year of ownership.

Responsive performance
LaCrosse’s stiff body structure serves as the foundation for precise suspension tuning, safety and a quiet ride. Buyers can choose from a family of efficient, direct-injection six-cylinder engines and a fuel-conserving six-speed automatic transmission with tap-up/tap-down control.

The direct injection engines in the LaCrosse create more power with less fuel and reduce vehicle emissions through greater combustion control – particularly cold-start emissions that are reduced by up to 25 percent.

The 2010 LaCrosse will be offered in three models – CX, CXL and CXS:
• CX – equipped with a new 3.0L direct injection V-6, premium cloth seats and 17-inch wheels. The 3.0L engine generates an estimated 255 horsepower (190 kW) and 211 lb.-ft. of torque (286 Nm) and is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.
• CXL – also equipped with the new 3.0L direct injection V-6, 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.
• CXS – equipped with a 3.6L direct injection V-6; real-time active-dampening suspension; perforated, leather-appointed, heated and cooled seats, and chrome-plated 18-inch wheels (19-inch optional). The 3.6L engine, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, generates an estimated 280 horsepower (209 kW) and 261 lb.-ft. of torque (354 Nm).

LaCrosse production will begin this summer at the Fairfax Assembly facility in Kansas City, Kan.

Maserati won’t say much about the new QP that it plans to unveil at the North American
International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, but it does claim the Sport GT S will be the
“sportiest” version of its famous sedan.

Using a modified version of the 4.7-liter V-8 found in the “S” model, power is rated at
433hp, a modest increase of 8hp. As the output and engine are the same as the one
found in the GranTurismo S, we can assume torque is equal as well at 363 ft-lbs.

Other “sporty” upgrades include updated transmission software for faster shifts, a
lowered ride height with stiffer springs and an exhaust system that features pneumatic
valves that open to really let the Italian V-8 scream.

Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S

Official release after the break:

4 door GranTurismo S

The new Quattroporte Sport GT S debuting at 2009 NAIAS on the 70th anniversary of
Maserati first Indianapolis 500 win

Modena – December 22nd, 2008 – The new Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S sets yet
another milestone in terms of sportiness in the high performance luxury sedan segment of
the automotive market . Conceived and developed as “a real driving machine in the guise
of a luxury sedan “, the Quattroporte Sport GT S is the ultimate expression of Maserati’s
sportiness in the Quattroporte range.

The technical changes to the new Quattroporte Sport GT S in respect to the Quattroporte
S concern four areas:

- the mapping of the V8 4.7 litre engine, with power increased to 323kW;
- the gearshift management software, with new features designed to increase driving
enjoyment;
- the front and rear suspension system featuring single-rate dampers, stiffer springs and
lower ride height;
- the sports exhaust controlled by pneumatic valves for a deep, throaty and captivating
sound.

The sportier and more aggressive look is evident also in virtue of the interior’s and
exterior’s stylistic choices:

- the new black grille with concave vertical fins featuring the Trident logo with red
accents, typical of the sportier versions of Maserati models;
- the new headlights, in metallic titanium finish;
- the side and rear “shadow line”, which includes black finishing around the doors, body-
colored door handles and black twin oval exhaust pipes,
- the new M-design seats with perforated Alcantara and leather upholstery;
- the standard trim in Titantex, a “titanium colored” composite material.