Porsche is upping the engineering ante with their 2013 911 Turbo, which our spy photographer caught yesterday, to deliver more power and better fuel efficiency all at once.

The new 911 Turbo will keep the same 3.8-liter horizontally opposed six cylinder engine as previous models, but it will have a new boost thanks to a complex tri-turbo setup similar to what BMW is using in the M550d xDrive and X5 M50d models, among others.

The system employs one smaller turbocharger and two larger ones. The smaller spools up more quickly at lower rpms, delivering an initial power boost that carries smoothly into the second and third larger units.

Although the horsepower ratings aren’t certain yet, the new system is expected to boost the 911 Turbo from 495 to 525 horsepower, which is quite close to the 530 hp 911 Turbo S.

Porsche is currently completing testing on the tri-turbo setup inside their 991, though further details can’t be that far off given that it’s slated for the 2013 model year.

GALLERY: 2013 Porsche 911 Turbo spy photos

[Source: Auto Car]

Out photographers have snapped several spy photos of the upcoming Mazda6 undergoing testing in the frozen European north. Underneath this current-generation body there’s plenty of new equipment to evaluate, from an all-new Skyactiv chassis and suspension system, right down to the engine and a start-stop system mated to an innovative regenerative braking system.

The next-gen Mazda6 will look nothing like this mule, which sports a chopped-up body similar to the prototypes we’ve already driven. Instead, it will share the swooping lines of the Takeri Concept car, unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show.

Mazda has confirmed north America will get a diesel engine in early 2013, but hasn’t confirmed which model it will arrive in yet.

Look for the debut of the new Mazda6 next fall at the Paris Motor Show.

GALLERY: 2013 Mazda6 Test Mule

GALLERY: Mazda Takeri Concept

Find out more about the next-gen Mazda6 by reading our prototype drive here.

If there were any doubts that Hyundai is planning to offer a second generation of its Elantra Touring in North America, this should pretty much do away with them.

Spied parking in an underground condo garage in Toronto, Canada and sent to us by a friend who runs the Endras BMW Blog, the spy photos at first seem to show some type of Volkswagen prototype. The shape of the headlights, however, is just some camo trickery, and the fenders are most certainly those of the Hyundai Elantra Touring. As though more confirmation was needed, a peak inside shows the Hyundai badge on the steering wheel and a typical Hyundai interior.

When it does arrive on our shores, look for the same engine as the current Elantra, with a 2.0-liter making 148 hp and getting 40 mpg on the highway. Previous reports have suggested a 200 hp turbocharged model could be in the works, as well as a plug-in hybrid version.

GALLERY: 2013 Hyundai Elantra Touring Spy Photos

Read AutoGuide’s 2012 Hyundai Elantra Review Here

Our spy photographers have seemingly followed the BMW X5, all the way from Germany earlier this week to a decidedly more wintry location for some extreme weather testing.

Looking visibly smaller than its predecessor in these spy photos, its unlikely the new X5 will actually shrink in size, although it will most certainly lose some weight. Through the extensive use of light weight materials, the X5 will no doubt partake in a diet similar to that of the rival Porsche Cayenne in order to shed several hundred pounds and stay competitive.

No big surprises are expected under the hood, with the continued use of BMW’s turbocharged six and eight cylinder engines, as well as a diesel option and eventually a hybrid too. An X5 M is also likely, and if the sport ute’s diet is drastic enough, even look for a turbocharged 4-cylinder.

GALLERY: 20134 BMW X5 Spy Photos

What do the Porsche Panamera and Nissan Juke have in common? Answer: the ability to love them only after you’ve driven them.

With styling that wouldn’t sell were it not for that Porsche badge, the German sports car maker has put its notoriously uncreative design team to work searching for a way to “modernize” the luxury sports sedan. As these new spy photos reveal, the updates will include slight changes to the front and rear bumper, as well as new headlights and taillights.

It’s not known if Porsche is planning any interior updates (one area the Panamera certainly doesn’t need improvement), nor do we know if any engine tuning will be performed. More power isn’t really necessary either, but it might help the Panamera more speedily escape from its former self.

GALLERY: 2013 Porsche Panamera Spy Photos

Rolls-Royce has been quietly planning a faelift for its flagship Phantom model, as our spy photographers found out when they came across a camo-clad version of the luxury behemoth testing in Europe.

At first look it appears to be a “regular” old Rolls. A closer look at the headlights in these spy photos, however, reveals that those aren’t functioning units but covers, hinting at a new design underneath. Exactly what Rolls is planning isn’t known, but you can be sure the changes won’t be dramatic. After all, the British super-lux automaker wouldn’t want to make its old models look dated – something that would certainly upset the brand’s clientele.

Additional upgrades expected in this update include an improved navigation system, with a strong possibility of changes to the engine to deliver a slight increase in power with reduced emissions. Look for a possible debut at the Geneva Motor Show this March.

GALLERY: Rolls-Royce Phantom Spy Photos

Having just launched the all-new 2012 3 Series, BMW will soon look to add the coupe and convertible versions to its lineup, with one big change from the past. No we’re not talking about a turbocharged 4-cylinder, but rather the fact that from now on the 3 Series two door models will be referred to as the 4 Series. This is in keeping with a larger BMW plan to have all four-door sedans receive odd number badges, while coupes will get the even number treatment.

As these new spy photos show, don’t expect a dramatic change from the past model, with a similar silhouette. The biggest change will be up front with a more pointed grill reminiscent of the Z4.

As mentioned, a base 428i model will now come with a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder making 245 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, while a top-level 435i will get BMW’s turbo inline-six for 306 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque.

Pour over the gallery of spy photos below and if you’re appetite for next-gen BMWs isn’t satisfied, check out our spy photos of the 4 Series Convertible here, and the upcoming M3 Sedan here.

GALLERY: 2013 BMW 4 Series Spy Photos

Several spy shots of the upcoming Mercedes CLC sedan have been snapped during the car’s cold weather testing. Expected to be styled as a baby CLS, this compact sedan will be based on the same platform as the upcoming A-Class and B-Class models, meaning it will be a size down from the brand’s C-Class offering.

Using this flexible new paltform Mercedes will be able to offer both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive versions of the CLC. Diesel engines will be offered in Europe, while a North American model will likely sport a 4-cylinder – with the 201-hp turbocharged 1.8L from the C-Class a likely candidate. Both a six-speed manual and 7-speed dual clutch are expected to be offered.

Rumors have also suggest a high-performance AMG version making over 300-hp.

The CLC (which may be badged as the CLA) is expected to arrive in showrooms as early as next year.

GALLERY: Mercedes CLC Spy Photos

Just last week Volvo first confirmed the existence of the V40 (previously believed to be called the V30) and now we have the very first spy photos of the compact Swedish machine.

Set to replace both the S40 and V50 wagon, the V40 is being built as a rival to the Audi A3 Sportback and BMW 1 Series. While much of the car is covered in camo, when the production model does arrive this March at the Geneva Motor Show, look for design cues taken from the XC60 crossover with a shape similar to that of a shrunken V60. After its debut, Volvo is expected to follow-up with an XC40 crossover version, while an S40 is rumored for the Chinese market.

What isn’t yet clear is if Volvo will continue to produce the C30 hatchback or if the V40 is also designed to replace that car as well.

As for engines, expect a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder gasoline version, as well as either a 1.6-liter or 2.0-liter diesel 4-cylinder.

GALLERY: 2013 Volvo V40

Spied for the first time is Ferrari‘s successor to the incredibly powerful and luxurious 599. This next-generation Ferrari GT (code named F152) is rumored to wear the F620 badge when it debuts next year at the Geneva Auto Show, powered by a version of the FF’s new 6.3-liter V12 engine. Power is expected to be upwards of 700-hp, headed to the rear wheels and using a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.

Wearing an Old Navy-style Puff jacket, look for the next 599 to share a similar overall shape to its predecessor, with more angles and styling cues taken from the FF and 458.

GALLERY: Ferrari F620 Spy Photos

The launch of the higher performance Chevy Camaro Z28 is approaching and so its no surprise to see more spy photos of the car popping up on the internet. These latest pics come via a member of Camaro5, who snapped a duo of Z28s testing in Coronado (San Diego).

Most notable from the photos are what appear to be massive bumps in the hood (much larger than anticipated), which are believed to signify the supercharged 6.2-liter LSA V8 that will give the Camaro Z28 as much as 556-hp.

We’ll continue to await more info on Chevy’s high-powered Camaro, but in the mean time, make sure to check out our Z28 rendering here.

And hit the link below to see the rest of the pics:

[Source: Camaro5]

More amateur spy photos of the upcoming 2011 Volkswagen Jetta have been captured and so far the reaction probably isn’t what VW is looking for. The dull looking compact car in the photos is believed to be the next Jetta model, that VW has code-named the NCS (for New Compact Sedan).

Along with less-than-impressive looks the new Jetta is believed to be less premium than before, but larger to meet with the demands of U.S. consumers. It has also been reported that the next Jetta (at least North American models) will use a less-sophisticated torsion beam rear suspension. The up-side to all this is a significantly lower cost, with rumors that it will start at $14,950 – significantly less than the $17,735 entry price for a current Jetta model.

We’re hoping Volkswagen still has some design changes in mind for the model to give it a bit more flare. Otherwise, it’s no surprise to us why VW just bought a majority stake in Italian design firm Italdesign Giugiaro.

GALLERY: 2011 VW Jetta Spy Photos

[Source: GMI]

We’ve already seen quite a few spy photos of the revamped Dodge Charger, but these are easily the best yet. Spy photos taken by KGP for Autoblog show the more aggressive and angular front snout of the big American sedan after the tarp covering the car was either left up or blew back. Along with the more sloped eyes and a hood that comes down over the front just a little, the fascia also gets larger lower air intake, adding an even more menacing look. We have to say, the design cues certainly look inspired by Alfa Romeo.

Past spy photos of the car have shown a more sloping rear roofline, aimed at giving it a sportier look. We’ve even seen a few snaps of a much improved interior for 2011.

See all the pics at Autoblog’s gallery by hitting the link below.

[Source: Autoblog]

Even though Bugatti still refuses to admit it, the Bugatti Galibier looks poised to be put into production. These photos were snapped out in Molsheim, France and it looks nearly identical to the concept that debuted just head of this year’s Geneva Auto Show. Rumors are that Bugatti will be launching the Galibier in 2013 with a $1.3 million price tag.

With how successful luxury sedans are becoming with Porsche’s Panamera, Aston Martin’s Rapide and even Rolls-Royce’s new Ghost, it would make sense for Bugatti to transition from their Veyron supercar to the Galibier. It’ll feature an 8.0L 16-cylinder twin-supercharged powerplant dropping anywhere from 800- to 1000-hp. Their vision is to have the most exclusive, elegant, and powerful four-door automobile in the world.

Here’s to hoping Conan O’Brien will get his hands on it in 2013 when his contract with TBS is over, one-upping his Bugatti Veyron Mouse.

GALLERY: Bugatti 16C Galibier Spotted

[Source: AutoGespot]

Several photos of what appear to be a Subaru WRX STI Spec C sedan have been captured, showing the big-winged 4-door testing on the Nürburgring. Notable differences on this model and the standard WRX STI Sedan just unveiled at the New York Auto Show, include black alloy wheels, gold brake calipers and a new front lip.

If in fact it is a Spec C model then, like its hatchback brother, it will get a long list up upgrades including, but not limited to, a more powerful 304-hp engine, lighter aluminum hood and smaller battery, plexiglass windshield and windows, stiffer springs, a larger rear stabilizer bar, stiffer sub-frame bushings and new shocks.

With Subaru recently announcing its return to WRC with the homologation of the Spec C model, it’s likely that this sedan is also being built for the same purpose. What that means is we expect Subaru to announce a very limited number of production models, followed by word that the new WRX STI Spec C sedan is also admissible to compete in WRC competition.

Follow the link below for more pics:

[Source: Carscoop]

A single spy photo captured in Korea seems to show the next-generation Hyundai Elantra. Some reports have suggested this might be the next Accent, but it simply looks to large and too impressive to be a true economy car.

If in fact it is the Elantra, what is obvious is that the compact sedan has inherited some good looks from its big brother, the Sonata. We have to say the coupe-like profile isn’t quite as impressive on a car with a shorter wheelbase and it seems like Hyundai engineers have a tough time making the Elantra look like anything but a jellybean.

With the car due out near the end of this year or early next year, we expect to be impressed – and for good reason. Since the debut of the Genesis Coupe and Sedan, all of the Korean automaker’s products have won our highest praise. We recently tested the 2010 Tucson and the 2011 Sonata and regarded them as segment leaders. In addition to the new Elantra, Hyundai will introduce all-new versions of the Accent, Santa Fe and an unnamed “sporty coupe” based on the Veloster Concept before the end of 2011.

But before we get any production news on this model, Hyundai will introduce the Sonata Hybrid, a turbocharged Sonata model and the new Equus flagship this year.

[Source: ppomppu.co.kr via Autoblog]

Kia has already released two images of its 2011 Optima [Magentis] family sedan before its world premiere at the New York Auto Show later this month, but thanks to an amateur spy photographer in Korea we now have a few extra shots. These new angles confirm the Optima’s handsome good looks, especially as the car still manages to look stylishly European, even without the help of a pro photographer.

The 2011 Optima is longer, lower and wider than its predecessor, which should result in a more comfortable ride, better handling and more interior room. Based on the same platform as the newly released Hyundai Sonata, the Optima doesn’t have quite the coupe-like look, with a rather high Lexus IS-like rear end. It features Kia’s “tiger” front end design with a flat nose and large grille, while LED lights are used on the bumper.

While no powertrain info has been provided, it’s safe to assume that much like the Sonata (reviewed here), it will receive a GDI (gasoline direct injection) 2.4-liter 4-cylinder with 198-hp and a six-speed transmission. In the Sonata that engine gets 22/35 mpg (city/highway). With Hyundai set to unveil a 250-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged Sonata and a Hybrid at the NY show, it’s likely that Kia will do the same either in NY or soon after.

Kia claims the new Optima will have class-leading safety and luxury equipment.

AutoGuide will be on hand in New York for the official debut, with live coverage starting March 31st.

GALLERY: 2011 Kia Optima [Magentis] Spy Photos

GALLERY: 2011 Kia Optima [Magentis]

[Source: TheCarBlogger]

We’ve already seen a few spy photos of the updated Dodge Charger, but a selection of new images now reveals some impressive updates to the big sedan’s interior. Likely a high-end trim level, the photos show an impressive two-tone interior with leather door inserts, stitched into patterns. The instrumentation looks nicer overall and the new gauges have a retro feel with plenty of aluminum color trim. There’s also a sporty three-spoke steering wheel and a push button ignition.

These updates, along with a revised exterior with a more sloping rear roofline, should arrive for the 2011 or 2012 model year. The updated car is also expected to get a new standard 3.6-liter V6 with more power (280-hp most likely) and much improved fuel economy, while the HEMI 6.1-liter V8 will be replaced by a 6.4-liter V8 with cylinder deactivation and Fiat’s MultiAir variable valve timing.

We’re interested to get a closer look when these much-needed updates make it to market. In the mean time, See more Charger spy photos here

[Source: Autoblog]

Thanks to a citizen journalist, or should we say citizen spy photographer, we now have several images of Pagani’s upcoming Zonda replacement, the C9. These photos of the car were shot by an Autoblog reader who passed by the transport rig parked on the side of the highway in near the airport in Johannesburg, South Africa. Most likely this isn’t a very accurate idea of what the C9 will look like and it appears as though this test mule is using a modified Zonda body to cover up the important parts underneath.

According to the now-amateur spy photographer, many automakers test vehicles in South Africa, using large areas of unused public road – hence the stickers.

What we do know about the C9 is that it will be built of carbon and titanium and will also be powered by a V12 engine. The new V12 will displace 6.0-liters, however, and make 690-hp and 737 ft-lbs of torque. Company owner Horacio Pagani has said that the new model will meet U.S. crash test and emissions regulations, meaning that unlike the Zonda it will be sold in the U.S.

GALLERY: Pagani C9 Spied

[Source: Autoblog]

Several amateur spy photos have appeared online showing what appears to be the upcoming Hyundai Veloster out testing in Korea. While the body cladding certainly covers up the details, the overall shape of the car is undeniably like the Veloster Concept. As it should; after all, Hyundai Motor America CEO John Krafcik did say the sub-compact would look a great deal like the concept version, calling it both “Accent sized” and like a,” four passenger Honda CRX.”

Thought by many to be the replacement for the Tiburon, the Veloster will be in a different class, with no Tiburon-type model in Hyundai’s future product plans. Instead, much as the Genesis Coupe is a slightly larger, more powerful and more expensive model, the Veloster will sit at the other end of the scale, undercutting the Tiburon in most areas.

Reportedly, the Veloster will be powered by a direct-injection 1.6-liter 4-cylinder that will get over 40 mpg on the highway.

The Tiburon’s sporty-CRX-like successor is due out as a 2012 model at dealers by late 2011.

GALLERY: Hyundai Veloster Spy Photos

GALLERY: Hyundai Veloster

[Source: bobaedream.co.kr]

Thanks to a quick thinking amateur spy photographer, we now have a single photo of what the upcoming 2011 Buick Regal will look like. Caught outside the Grand Rapids Art Museum in Grand raids, Michigan, the car was reportedly being photographed for future editorial or advertising images. A gentleman who goes by the name Nathan, snapped the pic and quickly posted it on Buick’s facebook page.

Last week Buick announced the Regal name would return to North America as a new entry-level Buick model that will slot in below the LaCrosse – which lists for $27,085. Currently sold in China and based on the Opel Insignia (which uses a slightly smaller version of the LaCrosse’s platform), Buick is expected to debut the Regal as a 2011 model. Two engines will be offered initially, including a 180-hp 2.4-liter four-culinder, as well as a more powerful 220-hp turbocharged 2.-0-liter four-cylinder. According to recent reports a sporty GS trim level may also be offered with a 280-hp V6, Brembo brakes, 19-inch wheels, and a six-speed manual transmission.

[Source: Facebook]

A rather unique looking M3 has been spotted on the Nürburgring and the photos seem to suggest that BMW is prepping a CSL model. BMW execs have denied a light weight and even more performance-oriented M3 is on the way, but with the recovering economy, the demand for such a car and the fact that the idea behind it fits nicely into BMW’s “efficient dynamics” philosophy, the car almost seems like a sure thing.

The spy photos, captured by the U.K.’s AutoExpress show a lower car with a new front lip spoiler and a significantly sized rear spoiler. There is also the matter of the CSL-styled wheels.

If BMW does go through with it, expect the CSL model to come with many of the upgrades fund on the previous (E46) CSL. This would include items like a carbon fiber hood and front bumper, a lighter exhaust, stiffer springs and roll bars and light weight racing seats. Under the hood there should also be some light-weight carbon fiber components (like the intake manifold), some new engine software and possibly a new set of cams could bump up horsepower even higher.

See all the photos here:

BMW M3 CSL Spy Photos

[Source: AutoExpress]

With the expected launch of the LF-A grand touring supercar at the Tokyo Auto Show in two months time, Lexus was out recently doing some last minute tweaks at the Nürburgring. The folks over at AutoCar snapped these photos of what appears to be an undisguised production ready version of the LF-A.

Lexus recently revised its expectations for the LF-A, saying that it wouldn’t make 500, but 550hp from a 5.0-liter V10 engine that will rev all the way to 9000 rpm. According to AutoCar the LF-A will have a carbon-composite structure, and will also use carbon-composite brakes with big 20-inch wheels.

Just 500 LF-As are scheduled to be built with a price of almost $500,000. Owners will reportedly be flown to a private track in Spain to be acquainted with their cars, with driving instruction being given by famous Toyota racing drivers.

GALLERY: Lexus LF-A Spy Photos

[Source: AutoCar]

Thanks to a budding spy-photographer with a cell phone camera we have these images of the next Infiniti QX. Reportedly taken at a private event in the middle-east, the photos show a significantly revised look with much of the old luxury SUV’s odd proportions smoothed over.

Looking a lot more like it’s Lexus LX competition, the QX gets an imposing grille and what appear to be smaller windows, giving the SUV a more serious look. It also gets a massive set of wheels and some fender vents.

There’s no official word that it will continue to be called the QX56, but its unlikely Infiniti will have an all-new engine for such a low volume vehicle. We’ll be sure to bring you updates once Infiniti makes an official announcement on the 2011 QX.

GALLERY: 2011 Infiniti QX

[Source: VWVortex]