As engineers of Lincoln quietly work to bring the brand back to relevance, an update to the current Lincoln MKS sedan and MKT crossover will be unveiled at the upcoming 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show as 2013 models.

Although official information has yet to be released, the 2013MY MKS and MKT are expected to receive not only mild cosmetic alterations, but mechanical updates as well.

It will be interesting to see if Lincoln’s new design boss (the man responsible for creating the current look of Cadillac) can do anything to make the MKT look at all appealing.

Look for the new Lincoln MKS and MKT in showrooms next year.

[Source: Carscoop]

See AutoGuide’s complete 2011 LA Auto Show Preview here.

One of the first slots on the auto show calendar is reserved for the LA Auto Show and the event continues to grow as a showcase for major reveals, not just convertibles. Having always had a green-car focus, the increased attention that market segment is now getting has also pushed the show into the spotlight.

For 2011 the event promises 17 world premieres, including the Infiniti JX luxury crossover, as well as the Hyundai Elantra Coupe and Azera. Other world premiers will come from Fiat, Honda, Mitsubishi, Subaru and Volkswagen, as well as Porsche, Mercedes-Benz and Lincoln. Ford will show three all-new cars while General Motors will unveil two.

As for North American debuts, look for the BMW i3 and i8, the Mazda CX-5 and a new Volvo concept car.

In addition, the LA Auto Show will host the Green Car of the Year award, as well as the Green Car Ride and Drive.

Media days for the event are November 16 and 17, so look for AutoGuide’s live coverage then.

This isn’t a bad joke, people: buoyed by the nonexistent success of the yet-to-be-released Nissan Murano CrossCabrio, Audi is rumored to be considering production of the Q5 Cross Cabrio.

Because Audi’s brand motto is “leave no niche unfulfilled,” they are targeting the popular four-seater-four-wheel-convertible-CUV niche with a Teutonic vengeance. The Q5 CrossCabrio is expected to fulfill its promises of go-anywhere open-topped motoring it laid down at the LA Auto Show way back in 2007; if Audi does go through with it, the Q5 ‘vert would be a limited-edition halo model built, with production outsourced to an external coachbuilder like Magna. It would feature quatto all-wheel-drive and a line of sensible, yet torquey TFSI and TDI gasoline and diesel powerplants. And, you know, the ability to scare your neighbors in a way not since the Pontiac Aztek was introduced. Vorsprung durch Technik, indeed.

[Source: Autoblog.nl]

Not to be left behind, Yokohama Tire is jumping on the iPad app craze in a big way. They launched their new free iPad app at the recent LA Auto Show and now it is available to download now on iTunes.

“iPad apps are a new and unique way for consumers to get information,” said Alan Holtschneider, Yokohama manager, advertising, promotions and events. “Yokohama’s app takes advantage of the iPad’s touch gesture technology and provides consumers an interactive, graphically-appealing way to learn about our tires.”

The beauty of this app is that it offers users of the app videos and information behind the technology behind Yokohama’s tires. You can explore sections such as ADVAN, GEOLANDAR, AVID ENVigor, S.drive and dB Super E-spec to learn all about the cool innovations these tires feature.

“There’s information on tire compounds, tread design and construction, along with a ‘Tireology’ section and fun facts about tires. We hope consumers will find the Yokohama app an engaging tool, especially as they begin to consider replacement tires for their vehicle,” said Holtschneider.

Okay, maybe we’re reaching a bit with these “debuts” but that’s how Infiniti is billing the American auto show unveiling of the new G25 sedan at the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show today. Of course, we’ve seen this G25 before, but…it’s a perfectly fine looking sedan so we’ll humor them here a bit. As its name implies, the G25 is powered by a 2.5-liter DOHC 24-valve V6 that produces 218 horsepower and 187 lb-ft of torque. Pricing will start $30,950.

For $30,950, the G25 sedan scores you features like 17-inch wheels, xenon headlamps, leather seats, aluminum interior trim, power seats, and six-speaker stereo. The upscale Journey trim level adds a backup camera, heated front seats and dual zone climate control.

As a more affordable G sedan, the G25 will likely be a new volume seller for the brand, rivaling the likes of the Audi A4 2.0T and BMW 328i. We haven’t driven the car yet, but with the G37 arguably the best alternative to a 335i, we have high hopes for the Japanese sports sedan.

GALLERY: Infiniti G25

Official release after the jump:

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When Dodge boss Ralph Gilles introduced the 2011 Dodge Charger at the LA Auto Show, he said that they call it the “car that makes other sedans wet their pants.” When he introduced the 2011 Dodge Challenger, he smiled.

He explained that all of the work that had gone into remaking the Charger had been transferred over to the Challenger as well. The suspension and steering upgrades, combined with the upgraded Hemi V8, make the car handle like it weighs 500 pounds lighter than it really does. That should bring it into Camaro, if not Mustang, territory. Also new for 2011 is the Pentastar V6 in lesser Challengers, as well as a new 392 Hemi in SRT8 392 special edition models.

That new 392 cubic inch Hemi V8 produces 470 horsepower and 470 ft-lbs of torque. The SRT8 392 will cost $42,555 and will be introduced with an inaugural series of 1,100 units in the States. The Pentastar V6 equipped SE models will produce 305 hp and will start at $24,670. Dodge will also offer just about every option previously available on only one trim level across the board now, so you won’t have to upgrade to an R/T to get 20-inch wheels for instance.

GALLERY: 2011 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392

Official release with pricing after the jump:

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It’s amazing to see what a design team can do when they don’t have their arms tied by accountants. For the 2010 LA Auto Show‘s annual Design Challenge, automakers were invited to create a vehicle that is good for the environment, attractive and exciting to drive, but it also much be safe, seat four and weigh less than 1,000 lbs.

Looking like they belong in anything from Tron to Avatar, nine automakers decided to take up the challenge presenting some seriously impressive concepts. The list of automakers includes: General Motors, Honda, Mazda, Maybach, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Smart, Toyota and Volvo.

The reason for the extensive list of entries is that for the first time, the 2010 Design Challenge includes design studios outside of California, meaning several entries came from Germany and Japan.

A panel of judges will pick the top design, based on criteria such as “artistic beauty, comfort, uniqueness of design, roadworthiness, sustainability, performance and user-friendliness. Oh, and the winner will have to meet the 1,000 lb mark as well. The winner will be announced November 18th, during the Design Los Angeles Conference at the LA Auto Show.

AutoGuide’s 2010 LA Auto Show coverage starts November 17th. Until then, see our LA Auto Show Preview here.

GALLERY: 2010 LA Auto Show Design Challenge

Official release after the jump:

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Just over a week ahead of the car’s scheduled debut, Cadillac has revealed the Coupe version of its popular CTS model, looking almost identical to the concept. Even more exciting is the confirmation that GM’s luxury brand will also deliver a 556-hp CTS-V Coupe, which is expected to debut alongside the standard version at the LA Auto Show.

The CTS Coupe enters a popular segment of the market, competing against vehicles like the BMW 3 Series Coupe and Infiniti G37 Coupe, as well as more high-end offerings like the Audi A5 and Mercedes E-Class Coupe.

One engine will be offered, a 304-hp 3.6-liter direct-injection V6 that achieves maximum power at 6400 rpm. Full torque of 273 ft-lbs will be available at 5200 rpm. A six-speed manual transmission will be standard with an available six-speed paddle-shift automatic. A limited-lip differential is also included. Cadillac rates this engine at 17/26 mpg (city/highway) for rear-wheel drive or AWD models equipped with the auto-box, while the manual transmission is rated at 17/25 mpg. AWD models will only be offered with an automatic.

The CTS Coupe is based on the same chassis as the sedan, with the same wheelbase, but an overall height that is roughly two-inches (51mm) lower and a length that is also 51mm shorter. Unlike the sedan, however, it is not a five-seater but a 2+2.

It may look significantly like the sedan, but little of the sheet metal (or anything else for that matter) is actually shared. In fact, the only identical arts are the headlights, front fenders and grille and the instrument panel and center stack. Original design cues on the two-door include the lack of B-pillars and the use of hidden door handles to give a smooth look to the coupe. Other highlights include a more steeply angled windshield and rear glass as well as a dual-exhaust setup with both pipes placed together in the center at the rear of the car.

Optional goodies include two performance packages, the first with 18-inch wheels and all-season tires, and a second with 19-inch wheels and high-performance Summer Tires. Also optional will be the 14-way power Recaro sport seats that until now could only be had on the CTS-V.

The CTS Coupe is scheduled to go on sale in the Spring of next year, with the the CTS-V version following shortly thereafter.

The car will officially debut at the LA Auto Show and AutoGuide will be there with live coverage starting December 2nd.

See AutoGuide’s Live 2009 LA Auto Show Coverage Here Starting December 2nd

GALLERY: 2011 Cadillac CTS Coupe

More details on the all-new Cadillac CTS Coupe after the jump:

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After much anticipation Audi unveiled the drop-top version of its R8 in Frankfurt a few months back and now the car is set to get its North American premiere at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

Powered by the Lamborghini sourced 5.2-liter V10, the Spyder makes 525hp, allowing it to hit 62 mph in 4.1 seconds and blast on to a top speed of 195 mph!

What might be most impressive about the drop-top R8 is that the exotic German sports car only weighs 13.23 lbs more than the Coupe, thanks in part to the R8’s already stiff chassis and a light-weight soft-top instead of a retractable hard top. The total curb weight of the car is now 3,792 lbs. Additional weight savings were made through the use of carbon fiber for not only the side blades but also the rear tonneau cover for the soft top.

As for the soft-top, it opens and closes in just 19 seconds at speeds up to 31 mph and Audi claims the interior noise with the top up is almost identical to that of the coupe.

As for the style of the R8 Spyder, it is certainly stunning, with a bold chrome grille, gloss black detailing and a rear tonneau cover with large vents. Special Y-spoke wheels in a 19-inch fitment complete the design with 235/35/19 tires up front and 295/30 tires out back. For added grip, Audi also offers the R8 Spyder with 305-wide rear tires.

See AutoGuide’s Live 2009 LA Auto Show Coverage Here Starting December 2nd

GALLERY: Audi R8 Spyder

GALLERY: Audi R8 Spyder Debut in Frankfurt

See two videos of the Audi R8 Spyder after the jump:

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Mazda has chosen the LA Auto Show as the venue to introduce North Americans to its sub-compact Mazda2. Based on the same architecture as the upcoming 2011 Ford Fiesta, Mazda will be competing with Ford in this segment, which is already populated by vehicles like the Honda fit, Toyota Yaris and Hyundai Accent.

Currently sold in 3-door and 5-door hatchback form overseas, it is not clear if both versions will be available in North America, or if Mazda (like Ford) will deliver a sedan version. Also unclear is what sort of engine will power the car. In Europe and Japan, the 2 comes with either a 1.3-liter or 1.5-liter 4-cylinder, with the larger engine making 101-hp. That output number seems too low for U.S. customers and would be less than any of its competition. Even overseas, the Fiesta can be had with a 119-hp motor.

The Mazda2 is, however, incredibly light (weighing just 2,100 lbs in base trim), which could help it deliver ideal performance. However, as we’ve seen with cars like the Mazda3, Mazda often prefers to use a larger displacement engine, helping make sure it delivers on its “Zoom-zoom” tag line.

What we can be sure of is that the 2, like the rest of the Mazda lineup, will get a sporty design and high quality materials inside.

AutoGuide’s live coverage of the LA Auto Show starts December 2nd.

See AutoGuide’s Live 2009 LA Auto Show Coverage Here Starting December 2nd

***UPDATE*** Official images and specs of the 2011 Cadillac CTS Coupe have been revealed, see below for photos or click here for full details ***UPDATE***

Cadillac will finally take the wraps off the production version of the CTS Coupe at the LA Auto Show. Based on the CTS sedan, Cadillac has seen enough success with the four-door model to launch a stylish two-door that will compete against everything from the BMW 335i and Infiniti G37, to the Audi A5 and Mercedes E-Class Coupe.

Currently Cadillac offers two engines in the sedan, a 270-hp 3.0-liter V6 and a 304-hp 3.6L V6. We have heard rumors that only the larger engine will be offered, however, there is also the possibility that GM’s luxury brand will surprise us with the same 300-hp turbo 2.8-liter V6 found in the SRX crossover.

The car is set to debut on December 2nd, but we should have info and pics of the full production model prior to that – so be sure to check back for our live LA Auto Show coverage, starting December 2nd.

See AutoGuide’s Live 2009 LA Auto Show Coverage Here Starting December 2nd

GALLERY: 2011 Cadillac CTS Coupe

GALLERY: Cadillac CTS Coupe Concept

Excited for the LA Auto Show? Can’t wait to see the new Ferrari 458 in person after its worldwide debut in Frankfurt a few months back? We hate to be the bearer of bad news, but the amazing new 458 won’t be on display at the Los Angeles Auto Show. In fact, no Ferrari will – well, not any official Ferrari cars anyway. (We’re sure a few tuners will have some modified F cars).

After showing the California at the LA Auto Show last year, several rumors pointed towards Ferrari displaying a possible hybrid prototype in 2009. That, we have now learned, will not be the case.

Ferrari has made the decision not to have an official presence at the LA Auto Show. Most likely this means a private event will be held near by, but the Italian automaker hasn’t released any info on that either.

Also absent will be Aston Martin, which we expected would use the show to give a North American debut to its new Rapide sedan.

See AutoGuide’s Live 2009 LA Auto Show Coverage Here Starting December 2nd

GALLERY: Ferrari 458 Italia Debut in Frankfurt

After much speculation, Porsche has finally announced that it will introduce a light weight Boxster Spyder model at the LA Auto Show. Designed with inspiration from the iconic Carrera GT, the Boxster Spyder gets lower side windows for that chop-top roadster look and also comes with a unique single clamshell rear with two bulges to really accentuate the two-seater nature of this sports car.

But what really makes the Spyder special is its light weight chassis and more powerful engine. In total 176 lbs of weight has been cut from the car, to deliver a curb weight of just 2,811 lbs. Power comes via the same direct-injection 3.4-liter flat-six as in the Boxster S, but with a 10-hp jump to 320-hp. Combined with Porsche’s new dual-clutch PDK transmission, the car can hit 60 mph in just 4.6 seconds.

The Boxster Spyder will be priced from $61,200 and will go on sale in February of next year as a 2011 model.

See AutoGuide’s Live 2009 LA Auto Show Coverage Here Starting December 2nd

GALLERY: Porsche Boxster Spyder

See a video of the Boxster Spyder in action and the official release after the jump:

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Penske Automotive, the distributor of smart vehicles in the U.S., used the LA Auto Show to announce that for 2009 the special Brabus edition cars will be part of its product lineup. Offered initially to current smart owners, the Brabus fourtwo can be had as a Coupe or Cabriolet in either silver or black at a starting price of $17,990 or $20,990, respectively. (A $4,000 premium over the standard production models).

“This car has always been about personal expression,” says Dave Schembri, president of smart USA, “and as we approach our first anniversary of sales in the United States, Brabus adds a new dimension, extending our brand into new areas of customization and personalization.”

The Brabus edition smart fortwo comes with a complete aero-kit including a front lip that is designed to reduce lift on the front axle – giving the car increased stability at highway speeds. Side skirts are also a part of the package as is a new rear bumper with cut-outs for the Brabus exhaust. Most noticeable, however, are the Brabus Monoblock VII wheels in a front 15-inch and rear 17-inch fitment.

Inside there are plenty of other Brabus accessories, like brushed aluminum sport pedals, a Brabus sport steering wheel and Brabus floor mats.

Surprisingly, while the car does have improved shifting and an upgraded suspension that sits 10mm lower thank stock, Brabus did not do any engine tuning – something it is famous for with Mercedes vehicles. Because of this, smart can still market the Brabus fortwo as getting an EPA rated 41 mpg.

Penske also used the LA Auto Show to announce that Brabus accessories for smart vehicles will be sold individually.

A complete list of those accessories can be found after the jump:

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Think of it as Spyker’s version of a Porsche GT3. Unveiled at the LA Auto Show, this stripped down special edition of the Spyker C8 Laviolette weights just 2,805 lbs and makes a significant 400hp thanks to its Audi-sourced 4.2-liter V-8. Spyker claims this is good for a 0-60 mph sprint of 4.5 seconds (which sounds underrated) and a top speed of 187 mph.

The car was built to pay homage to the Spyker Squadron GT2 cars that have ran at Le Mans since 2002 and even participated in the American Le Mans Series (ALMS).

Only 24 of the C8 Laviolette LM85 vehicles will be made and they come with some very special add-ons. Included with each sportscar, every owner will receive a Chronoswiss 24 Hours Pilot Watch. Every owner will also be invited to the 2009 24 Hours of Le Mans to be special guests of Spyker Cars.

Spyker C8 Laviolette LM85

Official release after the jump:

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Unveiled at the LA Auto Show, some 25 years after the Swedish company first brought the world a Saab Convertible, the 9-X Air Concept will likely drive the design direction of future 9-3 models.

The convertible roof is a new innovation from Saab and slides away flat into the trunk and under the rear tonneau cover in three sections. Saab is currently looking to patent this design.

Surprisingly the convertible top is a soft top and not a hard top, which is much lighter by design. This is something Saab says is due to the 9-X’s environmentally friendly attitude.

The 9-X Air is actually an ethanol powered Hybrid and uses a turbocharged 1.4-liter Hybrid ethanol engine. Saab claims the engine makes 200hp and is capable of propelling the 9-X to 62 mph in 8.1 seconds.

We don’t expect to see this new powerplant in future North American Saabs but the design language is certain to show through on the next 9-3.

Official release after the jump:

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Looking a lot like a Scion xB, the Kia Soul will be aimed at the same consumer and has a lot to offer, including all those crazy options and trim levels. The Soul is based on the Kia Rio platform and will come with two engine options, a 122hp 1.6L four-cylinder and a larger and more powerful 142hp 2.0L four-cylinder. The smaller engine is available with only a five-speed manual (finally a car for the economy minded), while the 2.0L model can be had with an optional four-speed auto. (Apparently a six-speed is in the works).

Official press release after the jump:
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For 2009 Lotus will once again improve the already perfect Exige by adding more power and by further reducing the sportscar’s already anemic curb weight.

Lotus has managed to squeeze an additional 17hp out of the supercharged 1.8-liter Toyota powerplant for a total of 257 ponies at 8000 rpm. Torque is rated at 174 ft-lbs at 6000 rpm.

More importantly, the Exige will drop another 50 lbs thank to the extensive use of carbon fiber. In total it will weight just 2,020 lbs thanks to a carbon fiber front splitter, rear spoiler, roof, engine cover, side air intake ducts, sill covers and even the top of the dash.

Part of the 50-lb weight savings is also due to the use of several other lighter parts including a lightweight “motorsports” battery, lighter 12-spoke forged alloy wheels, a revised rear engine subframe, a lightweight flywheel, alloy piping for the supercharger and intercooler and a composite panel that replaces the rear window.

Unveiled at the 2008 LA Auto Show, the 2009 Exige 260 will retail for $74,995 – a small price to pay for one of the most amazing driving experiences possible.

Official press release after the jump:
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