If you thought the fifth installment of the Fast & Furious movie franchise was the end, you were mistaken… twice. While the closing credits for the film left an obvious opening for a sixth movie, now comes word that Universal Pictures is planning a seventh as well, which is to be shot at the same time as the sixth flick, with both taking place in Europe.

In addition, rumors are swirling that action star Jason Statham (a man often seen behind the wheel of an Audi in the Transporter movie series) could be joining the cast for both movies.

Having dealt with American muscle and Japanese imports, is it finally time for the Fast & Furious cast to hit the Nurburgring in a Porsche GT3 or BMW M5? Once can only hope.

[Source: twichfilm]

You’ve had a taste of Fast Five, and now you craving more. Good News – NBC Universal has just announced a release date for the sixth film in the The Fast and the Furious series.

Even though the newest movie is still untitled, they’ve got some time to come up with something brilliant. Expect it to hit theaters on May 24, 2013. You may be surprised to see a May release, considering the fourth and fifth films did awesome with April release dates. But the studio is hoping to cash in with a blockbuster to open the summer movie season.

Because the Fast Five did so well (the worldwide box office receipts are set to pass $600 million), it shows that this franchise still has plenty of gas left. You can expect to see Vin Diesel, Paul Walker and Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson return for the new film, along with Fast Five director Justin Lin at the helm.

[Source: Edmunds Inside Line]

Yes this story is about Paul Walker, but there’s nothing else fast or furious about it – sorry.

Then again, maybe the owner of the $130,000 Audi R8 is furious (we certainly would be), after his prized German sports car nearly gets run over by the rear wheel of Walker’s oversized Ram pickup.

The damage appears to be minor, but with a high-priced machine like the R8, even a fender bender can be several thousand in repairs. Doing the right thing, Walker does swap insurance info with the unnamed R8 driver.

Watch the video at the link below and turn up your speakers to hear the crunch.

[Source: TMZ]

The Fast and the Furious has attained cult status amongst car guys for its horrific dialogue, cheese-ball action scenes and technical inaccuracy. The subsequent follow-ups were never met with the same fanfare, but the fifth installment, titled Fast Five might be able to bring back some of the magic, with the return of Vin Diesel as Dominic Toretto.

While the first trailer aired in December, 2010, this one features more action-packed hijinks, boiled-over testosterone and big explosions. Hit the jump to take a look.

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News of a fifth Fast & Furious film have been around for quite some time, but now comes word that this next installment in the franchise will include Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson. According to a report by Deadline.com, Johnson will star alongside F&F originals Paul Walker and Vin Diesel. In fact, it’s suggested that Johnson’s character will be, “on the right side of the law,” a role that will no doubt have him slugging it out with Vin Diesel at some point in the movie.

While riced-out lime green Talons and terrible import car jargon might not have us out street racing in an H22 Del Sol like it was 2001, we’re eager to see the next installment of the F&F franchise. If not for the usually cool car chases, then at least for a laugh.

[Source: Deadline.com]

The Redline Time Attack series — where man and machine compete against the clock to post the fastest lap time in Street, Modified, and Unlimited classes — attracts many of the biggest name tuner shops in the country, but it has also attracted Paul Walker, star of the film ‘Fast & Furious’.

Walker has made appearances at West coast Time Attack events in the past in a variety of cars including a R34 Nissan Skyline GT-R and a Porsche 911 GT3 RS, but this year he’s driving an E92 BMW M3 in the Street tire class. On March 26th at Buttonwillow Raceway (100 or so miles north of Los Angeles), Walker posted a best lap time of 2:08.407, good for 12th in class (out of 16 competitors). This was 10-seconds off the pace of class winner Mike Bonnani in the Berk Technology BMW 135i, but Bonnani is a veteran of the series and a professional driving instructor.

Walker’s M3, modified to the limit of the Street tire class, has been prepared by AE Performance of Chino, CA. Modifications include a gutted interior and full roll cage, as well as bigger brakes, wider and lighter Volk Racing TE37 wheels and Hankook Ventus RS-3 tires (which meet the 140 UTQG or higher requirement for this class). Curb weight has been reduced from the factory 3704 lbs down to a comparatively svelte 3567 lbs and a carbon fiber wing has been added to give the M3 some added rear grip.

If you’re a diehard Walker and F&F fan and need an autograph to go with your signed Vin Diesel ‘The Chronicles of Riddick’ action figure, chances are you’ll find Walker at a west coast Redline Time Attack event. Just don’t tell him we sent you.

[Source: Redline Time Attack, AE Performance]

Thieves have made off with that oh so sexy Nissan GT-R from the most recent Fast & Furious film. The car was being stored, along with several other vehicles, at a facility in Sun Valley, Los Angeles. The thieves were no doubt aware that the vehicle was inside the facility when they broke through the metal door and drove off with the car, paying no attention to the other vehicles inside. The thieves did, however, damage both a Porsche Boxster and a classic Studebaker in the process.

While looking like every SpoCom fan’s wet dream, the blue R34 GT-R is actually a GT-S model that was transformed by pro driver Chris Milano over two years. Fast & Furious lead Paul Walker drove the car in the movie.

The car is estimated to be worth roughly $75,000 (” More than you can afford pal”), however, it was not insured as it was only being used for promotional purposes.

There is no word on if the police have any leads on who stole the car, but we think they should check the garage of Nicolas Cage,  Mr. Gone in 60 Seconds himself. Either that, or it’s currently being chopped up and sold to other Skyline owners as “overnight parts from Japan.”

[Source: Edmunds.com]

Suzuki doesn’t have a new vehicle for the New York Auto Show, but it’s resurrecting some SEMA Show cars that are so old old we had forgotten all about them and thought the company’s press release was about some new tricked out versions of the SX4.

But how can you forget a name like Zuk?

That’s right, the Suzuki-sportbike inspired Zuk has been dusted off and polished up for the Big Apple, this after it made it’s initial debut in Sin City back at the SEMA Show in 2006. The Zuk is based off the SX4 Crossover and features a Road Race Motorsports turbo kit, bolted to the factory 2.0-liter engine to make 300hp.

The car also features a complete aerodynamic overhaul, some big fart cans, a sizable rear spoiler and some 19-inch wheels. It reminds us of a more nostalgic time and makes us long for a copy of Modified Mag and Paul Walker on the big screen (the more things change, the more they stay the same…).

The exterior bodywork and paint is inspired from Suzuki’s GSX-R and Hayabusa sport bikes, while inside the motorcycle theme continues with a roll-cage that has a definite motorcycle-frame look to it.

The second SX4 is the SXForce, based on the SX4 Sport sedan version of the popular Suzuki model, and it first debuted at the SEMA Show in 2007. With 250hp and a carbon fiber body, the SXForce looks like it’s ready for track duty, and Suzuki claims it has been “track tested.”

It features Tein coilovers, a roll-cage, 18-inch Enkei wheels with 255/45/18 Toyo T1-R tires up front and 235/40/18s in the rear. It also features a Rotora six-piston calipers with 355mm rotors.

The sportbike theme continues on the SXForce with a motorcycle instrument cluster and controls, as well as Hayabusa handlebars instead of a traditional steering wheel.

Be sure to check out our coverage of the New York Auto Show starting Wednesday, April 8th.

GALLERY: Suzuki Zuk

GALLERY: Suzuki SX Force

More on these models as well as other past Suzuki SEMA Show cars after the jump:

PRESS RELEASE:
SUZUKI AUTO SHINES ON THE STRIP DURING 2007 SEMA SHOW

* Suzuki debuts sportbike-inspired SXForce based on all-new 2008 SX4 Sport
* SX4 WRC and Grand Vitara Dune appeal to off-road enthusiasts
* Five-door SX4 Crossover flaunts concept- and production-based accessory line

LAS VEGAS · October 29, 2007 /PRNewswire/ – American Suzuki Motor Corp. showcases four spirited and dynamic vehicles at the 2007 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) trade show, including its never-before-seen, sportbike-inspired SXForce LIVE vehicle based on the all-new 2008 four-door SX4 Sport. A vehicle designed for four-wheel and two-wheel tuner enthusiasts, SXForce communicates Suzuki’s “Way of Life” brand philosophy as a company that builds fun-to-operate vehicles, from its widely recognized and high-performance motorcycles to its exciting and versatile cars and SUVs.

To further demonstrate the company’s bold and adventurous DNA, Suzuki displays its SX4 WRC car and rugged Grand Vitara Dune LIVE vehicle – two Suzuki machines designed for ultimate off-road performance. In addition, Suzuki offers aftermarket enthusiasts a sneak preview of a number of performance-based concept accessories – specifically developed for this year’s show – and an array of style-enhancing Genuine Suzuki Accessories for its 2008 five-door SX4 Crossover.

“Suzuki always looks forward to SEMA because of its upbeat and somewhat irreverent energy,” said Gene Brown, vice president of marketing and PR, American Suzuki Automotive Operations. “The overall enthusiasm for cars and for life that underlies the entire event meshes perfectly with our brand philosophy and parallels the passion infused into the concepts we have on display this year and the vehicles currently in our showrooms.”

SXForce

With the arrival of the 2008 SX4 Sport, Suzuki expands its highly popular and media-acclaimed Suzuki LIVE Series (LIFESTYLE VEHICLES) – a line of brand-dedicated concept vehicles specially designed for life enthusiasts, adventurers and thrill-seekers.

Reinforcing the link between the company’s rich motorcycle heritage and versatile line of fun-to-drive automobiles, Suzuki introduces the SXForce, a sportbike-inspired concept based on the on the all-new 2008 SX4 Sport. Designed and built by Road Race Motorsports of Santa Fe Springs, Calif., the SXForce boasts a powerful 250-horsepower, 2.0-liter, turbocharged engine matched to a five-speed manual transmission.

The exterior shell of the SX4 Sport has been modified to be eye-catching to both four-wheel and two-wheel enthusiasts. It features a striking blend of carbon fiber, Flash Pearl White and Orange Metallic paint and showcases a number of performance-based automotive parts and stunning motorcycle accents, including sportbike-style side rearview mirrors and dual exhaust, also found on the championship-winning GSX-R1000.

While the SXForce is sure to be a showstopper on display, it was designed to look even better on the road. The fully drivable, track-tested SX4 Sport concept receives several performance enhancements, including a fully tuned performance suspension system, F1-style outlet gills to help underhood air flow, tailored rear bodywork with carbon fiber diffuser, Carbontrix rear wing, Tein coilover suspension height and damper setup, and reinforced structure to further enhance rigidity for optimal handling. The SXForce is outfitted with 18-inch Enkei racing wheels and a staggered high-performance Toyo T1-R tire package – 225/45-18 in the front and 235/40-18 in the rear. It also is equipped with Rotora six-piston calipers with two-piece 355mm rotors for sportbike stopping power.

The motorcycle theme continues inside the SXForce, beginning with suede and leather seats and interior appointments, mimicking sportbike leathers. Other interior enhancements include motorcycle instrument cluster and controls, roof air intake for optimal breathing and a revised track-themed interior, featuring carbon fiber components and accents. Engine vitals are monitored via a Zeitronix ZT-2 wideband data logger. All vital engine parameters are logged on a laptop and viewed on the ZT-2 gauge mounted on the Hayabusa handlebars. The SXForce is equipped with an integrated Garmin navigation system, and its rear seats have been removed and replaced by a high-output Rockford-Fosgate audio system.

SX4 WRC

With its sports-minded heritage, coupled with a passion to excel in the world’s most competitive venues, Suzuki Auto drives toward another motorsports challenge with its entry in the World Rally Championship (WRC).

Derived from the five-door SX4 Crossover, a prototype model of the SX4 WRC was first unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in February 2006. Developed as a driver-friendly World Rally Car offering high controllability under a wide range of rally conditions, this creation by Suzuki Sport, Suzuki’s motorsports division, has involved an extensive testing program on many different types of surfaces. As a supplement to the testing, Suzuki Sport chose two events in 2007, the Rallye de France and the Wales Rally GB, to closely represent the majority of surface types. The Rallye de France is known as one of the most challenging tarmac events, and the Wales Rally GB, held later in the year, is well regarded for similar reasons.

The SX4 WRC boasts a 2.0-liter turbocharged J20 engine with full-time 4WD drivetrain and a five-speed sequential gearbox. The vehicle’s 1,997 cc engine delivers 320 brake horsepower between 4,000 and 4,500 rpm, along with a maximum torque of 590 N-m (435 lb.-ft.) at 3,500 rpm.

The SX4 WRC’s powertrain features a carbon three-disc clutch, electronically controlled center differential and mechanical front and rear differentials. Its well-balanced chassis and rigid structure allow the front and rear MacPherson struts with coil springs work to their full potential, and its Reiger shocks deliver dynamic, responsive handling. For tarmac, the vehicle is fitted with 20/65-18 tires fitted on 8X18-inch wheels. On gravel, 17/65-15 rubber is mounted to 7X15-inch wheels.

The SX4 WRC sits on a wheelbase of 2,500mm, stands 1,450mm high and weighs 1,230 kg (the minimum authorized). All specs reflect those of the final-phase development-test vehicle and are not necessarily indicative of the 2008 entry. As noted by Nobuhiro Tajima, vice president of Suzuki Sport, the endeavor is still in the early stages of development, including the engine, transmission and suspension.

The WRC effort builds on Suzuki’s outstanding success in the JWRC, where the Swift Super 1600 has enjoyed an excellent record, creating even more excitement and anticipation in 2008.

Grand Vitara Dune

First introduced at the 2005 SEMA Show, the Grand Vitara Dune is designed for off-road enthusiasts who demand off-road capabilities. Well-equipped with 11.5 inches of minimum ground clearance and a towing capacity of 3,000 lbs., the Dune provides enough muscle to add a huge dose of exhilaration to any weekend. This Grand Vitara concept also features off-road skid plates, fender flares, wear-reducing cladding and running boards, all dressed in lightning yellow paint to match the color scheme of Suzuki ATVs. Roomy on the inside, the five-passenger Dune features a rear off-road gear storage and “mobile garage” work station, ideal for last-minute adjustments. The Dune also is equipped with a built-in GPS and navigation system.
SX4 Crossover Accessories

To complement Suzuki’s versatile, stylish product line, the company offers an array of Genuine Suzuki Accessories – a line of style-enhancing trim packages and accessories designed to personalize Suzuki cars and SUVs sold in the United States. Suzuki showcases a number of pre-production performance-enhancing parts and interior and exterior accessories for the sporty SX4 Crossover.

Concept Accessories:

* Cat back Exhaust – Features stainless steel design, improves horsepower and offers deep performance tone that remains 50 state “sound level legal.”
* Cold Air Intake – Intake system improves horsepower and offers performance pitch.
* Sport Suspension – Lowers ride height (approx. 1.5 inches) for a firmer ride.
* Alloy Wheels – Custom-designed 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels, available in a chrome finish or machined surface with black paint. Includes chrome lug nuts and Suzuki center cap.

Genuine Suzuki Accessories:

* Rear Spoiler – Rally-inspired rear deck spoiler is molded in sturdy, lightweight polyurethane and is available color-matched to the SX4 Crossover.
* Hood Mask – Custom-fit hood mask made of durable vinyl and soft fleece backing helps protect the front of the SX4 Crossover from damage caused by minor road debris.
* Silver Finish Front Grille – Front grille replaces original black version and matches the lower bumper trim on the SX4 Crossover.
* Carbon Fiber Dash Trim (Red) – Dash trim accents made of real carbon-fiber weave material with an exterior-grade urethane topcoat and screened SX4 logo are available in three different colors to coordinate or contrast with the interior of the SX4 Crossover. Trim fits both automatic and manual transmission models.
* Carbon Fiber Door Sill Trim (Red) – Door sill accents made of real carbon-fiber weave material with an exterior-grade urethane topcoat and screened SX4 logo are available in three different carbon-fiber weave colors or a brushed aluminum finish to coordinate or contrast with the interior of the SX4 Crossover.
* Billet Sport Pedals – Sport pedal set, including dead pedal, is made of lightweight aluminum and non-slip rubber inserts, offering a highly polished look with engraved Suzuki logo.
* Billet Battery Tie Down & Billet Oil Cap (Sold as a package) – Highly polished aluminum battery tie down and oil filler cap with engraved Suzuki logo to dress up your engine bay.
* Blueconnect®, Bluetooth Phone System – Speaker- and microphone-integrated communication system that offers wireless interaction with any bluetooth-compatible cell phone, allowing dialing and hands-free communication with the touch of a button. Installation required (for non-sunroof models only).
* Rear Bumper Protector – Adhesive-backed applique to help protect from minor nicks and scratches.

2008 Suzuki Auto Product Line

Beyond its show vehicles based on the spirited four-door SX4 Sport, bold and functional five-door SX4 Crossover and rugged Grand Vitara compact SUV, Suzuki Auto’s 2008 vehicle line includes the exciting XL7 midsize SUV, popular Forenza sedan and Forenza Wagon, and the European-styled Reno. Every vehicle in the line provides Suzuki’s standout virtues of toughness, leading-edge style and high-end features at very competitive prices. All 2008 Suzuki automobiles are backed by America’s #1 Warranty: a 100,000-mile/seven-year, fully transferable, zero-deductible powertrain limited warranty.
About Suzuki Auto

– 30 –

AMERICAN SUZUKI INVOGORATES CONSUMERS’ “WAY OF LIFE,”
INTRODUCES 2007 “SUZUKI LIVE SERIES” CONCEPT VEHICLES

Suzuki sportbike-inspired Zuk concept offers ultimate street performance

Last year, American Suzuki Motor Corporation (ASMC) launched the “Suzuki LIVE Series” (LIFE VEHICLES) – a line of brand-dedicated concept vehicles specially designed for life enthusiasts, adventurers and thrill-seekers.  In concert with its “Way of Life” brand mantra, which promises products for consumers’ active lifestyles, and to support the launch of the all-new XL7 and SX4, ASMC introduces four all-new “Suzuki LIVE Series” vehicles in model year 2007, illustrating how its cars and SUVs play an integral part of consumers’ lifestyles.  The vehicles coined BaseCamp for outdoor enthusiasts; Flix for film and entertainment buffs; Zuk for motorcycle aficionados; and SXBox for avid gamers; will be on display at various auto shows and lifestyle events around the country.

Zuk
Inspired by Suzuki’s world-renowned, championship-winning sportbikes, and derived from the new SX4 sport X-over, the Zuk concept offers solid functionality both on the road and the track.  Built by Road Race Motorsports of Santa Fe Springs, Calif., the sporty Zuk is powered by a 300-horsepower, 2.0-liter turbocharged and intercooled engine with alcohol injection system, matched to a five-speed manual transmission.
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Designed for ultimate street performance, the stunning SX4 concept features a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system, excellent stability and crisp handling characteristics.  The Zuk features Suzuki Hayabusa and GSX-R-inspired bodywork, ground effects, mirrors, spoiler and exhaust, all wrapped in blue metallic paint and carbon fiber.  Framing accent lights highlight the Zuk’s motorcycle-themed structure and cage, while strategically placed openings reveal the vehicle’s powertrain, wheels, tires and chassis details.  The fully drivable and track-tested Zuk is equipped with a fully tuned performance suspension system, 19-inch alloy wheels and high-performance tires.

The motorcycle-inspired design continues inside the Zuk, revealing a functional, modern sportbike-styled space frame and roll cage.  Cove lighting further accentuates the superbike-inspired structural frame and draws attention to the GSX-R-inspired instrument cluster.  Minimalist racing seats with charcoal and carbon fiber interior trim and touch points provide interior comfort and complement the Zuk’s optimal driving experience.  Other race-inspired interior appointments include center switches and gauge set – evocative of Suzuki racing heritage – and machined aluminum driver and navigator foot platforms cantilevered for an exciting motorcycle feel.

After its debut at the 2006 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) trade show in Las Vegas, the SX4 concept will hit the auto show circuit, with stops planned in San Francisco, Philadelphia and Kansas City, Mo.