From all times car manufacturers are trying to design the cars of the future. If we are talking about cars that stared in movies like Batman, Agent 007 we can see that the companies produced some prototypes that are featured with a special and distinguish design, with powerful motors and a lot of astonishing characteristics.
The main question is, in what kind of measures someone can produce a car thought for 2035? How can they predict what kind of motor will be using, what kinds of features and especially, what will be the top speed of one of this future cars?
The Audi manufacturer imagined how can all this will be.
Audi made a prototype that is supposed to be used in the future, based on the story of the movie I Robot, a car that can be drove in the year 2035.
For the first time, the manufacturer Audi collaborated with the I Robot movie director Alex Proyas on this project. They made a car that contains of course, first of all, the emblem of Audi company, the 4 rings and the traditional design of all Audi cars.
The special parts that may be said that comes from the future thinking are the wheels transformed in spheres and the butterfly doors.
We may say that the company has not thought yet about what kind of engine the car will use, what kind of speed and other elements of technology, the car is made more for it`s sequential appearance in that movie and not for it`s ability of his technical characteristics. For all that we may agree that the concept of future car remains just an idea, because nobody can actually know what kind of engine can be conceived for all the new fuels that our scientist are now just in the phase of experimenting.

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From all times car manufacturers are trying to design the cars of the future. If we are talking about cars that stared in movies like Batman, Agent 007 we can see that the companies produced some prototypes that are featured with a special and distinguish design, with powerful motors and a lot of astonishing characteristics.
The main question is, in what kind of measures someone can produce a car thought for 2035? How can they predict what kind of motor will be using, what kinds of features and especially, what will be the top speed of one of this future cars?
The Audi manufacturer imagined how can all this will be.
Audi made a prototype that is supposed to be used in the future, based on the story of the movie I Robot, a car that can be drove in the year 2035.
For the first time, the manufacturer Audi collaborated with the I Robot movie director Alex Proyas on this project. They made a car that contains of course, first of all, the emblem of Audi company, the 4 rings and the traditional design of all Audi cars.
The special parts that may be said that comes from the future thinking are the wheels transformed in spheres and the butterfly doors.
We may say that the company has not thought yet about what kind of engine the car will use, what kind of speed and other elements of technology, the car is made more for it`s sequential appearance in that movie and not for it`s ability of his technical characteristics. For all that we may agree that the concept of future car remains just an idea, because nobody can actually know what kind of engine can be conceived for all the new fuels that our scientist are now just in the phase of experimenting.

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What do you think?

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You see, I really love about BMW Cars. Not because of it prestige but, the design and the performence that make me admired it much.

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Mercedes-Benz debuts its glamorous half-million-dollar SLR McLaren roadster in our inboxes.

Usually, automakers debut important or exciting new cars at a major auto show, all the better to drum up consumer interest, my dear. We expected the same to be true of Mercedes-Benz’s upcoming SLR McLaren roadster.

’Twas not to be, however. Just as the day was winding down and we were rinsing our coffee mugs after another productive day, Outlook perked up with this little tidbit: the first official photos and information on the SLR McLaren roadster.

When we were all partying like it was 1999 (because it was), Mercedes-Benz teased us with not one, but two mouth-watering Vision SLR supercar concepts. One had a roof, the other was a convertible. The Vision SLR coupe eventually became the stupidly fast and stratospherically priced SLR McLaren coupe, which Mercedes-Benz builds with racing partner McLaren Cars.

Now, four years into its product cycle, Mercedes-Benz and McLaren are finally giving their SLR coupe a droptop playmate, to be called the SLR McLaren roadster, and slated for sale this fall.

The just-revealed roadster, built at McLaren’s Formula 1 factory in Woking, England, will spawn one of only a handful of droptops ever to break the 200-mph barrier. It could prove to be the fastest open-topped automobile ever sold in this country by a major manufacturer when it appears on our shores as a 2008 model.

The SLR roadster will be pretty much identical to the current SLR McLaren coupe in terms of its lovely long-nose proportions and front and rear styling. It will also share the hardtop’s carbon-fiber monocoque chassis, carbon-fiber body panels, and cool butterfly doors. A semiautomatic fabric top (opens in fewer than 10 seconds), as opposed to a heavier retractable hardtop, will be fitted in the interest of cost saving.

Good thing, because we figure a premium of about 10 percent over the coupe’s $455,750 starting price. Although we can swing $499,000, once we crest that half-million mark, the missis is going to start nagging about dipping into the kids’ college fund.

Expect little or no diminution of performance from the 617-hp, 5.4-liter supercharged V-8 with 575 pound-feet of torque that powers the SLR hardtop. Mercedes is claiming a 0-to-60 time of 3.8 seconds and a top speed of 207 mph for the roadster, with an AMG Speedshift R five-speed automatic transmission.

The carmaker also promises the ability to converse at speeds above 120 mph with the top down, courtesy of its “aeroacoustics.” We imagine such conversations starting with “yeah, baby” and ending with “hope that wasn’t a speed trap.”

As appropriate as it would be to offer the roadster in the intensified 641-hp “722” guise—considering the original 1955 Mercedes-Benz SLR racer that Stirling Moss drove to victory in the Mille Miglia three consecutive years was actually a roadster—Mercedes disclosed no such plans.

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Add 113 horses to last year’s model.

The current CLK is four years old, so it’s not surprising that the highlight here is the new, AMG-developed 6.2-liter V-8 beast that is spreading throughout Mercedes’ lineup of cranked-up AMG cars. It puts out 475 horsepower in the CLK63, making last year’s 362-hp CLK55 AMG seem somewhat tame. The new engine comes alive right off idle, heaving the tach toward the 7200-rpm redline and singing a refined yet seductive engine snarl that is nothing short of stupendous.

The urge to keep the throttle pinned is almost irresistible but will bring up extra-legal speeds in a hurry: 60 mph arrives in 4.2 seconds, 100 in 9.5, the quarter-mile in 12.5 at 116 mph. That’s 0.6 second quicker through the quarter than the last CLK55 coupe we tested [C/D, May 2004], despite the 4113-pound CLK63 weighing 373 more pounds. Those numbers are also within a sneeze of some intense performers, including the Ferrari F430 and BMW M5, and sufficient to humiliate the 2006 M3.

Inside, the CLK63 is fitted with seriously supportive front buckets, with lumbar, thigh, and bolster adjustments, and one of the sportiest steering wheels we’ve seen in a Benz. Even better, it doesn’t have that weighty feel we’ve become accustomed to in Mercedes products. Still, neither the steering nor the brakes respond quite as sharply as we’d like.

Turn off the stability control and the CLK63 is still as friendly as can be, happily neutral and content to slide around at hero-sized drift angles. Skidpad grip is a decent 0.86 g. But the extra-stiff AMG suspension sends noticeable tremors through the steering wheel and chassis, which makes us yearn for the more solid, sportier coupe that won’t be sold here.

The biggest negative is probably the heart-stopping $92,575 base price, some $45,600 above an entry-level CLK350. That’s also $5100 more than big-brother E63, which seems backward.

At that price, it seems Mercedes’ fabulous new engine is destined to stay rare. That’s a shame.

VEHICLE TYPE: front-engine, rear-wheel-drive, 4-passenger, 2-door convertible

PRICE AS TESTED: $96,655 (base price: $92,575)

ENGINE TYPE: DOHC 32-valve V-8, aluminum block and heads, port fuel injection
Displacement: 379 cu in, 6208cc
Power (SAE net): 475 bhp @ 6800 rpm
Torque (SAE net): 465 lb-ft @ 5200 rpm

TRANSMISSION: 7-speed automatic with manumatic shifting

DIMENSIONS:
Wheelbase: 106.9 in
Length: 183.1 in
Width: 68.5 in
Height: 54.4 in
Curb weight: 4113 lb

C/D TEST RESULTS:
Zero to 60 mph: 4.2 sec
Zero to 100 mph: 9.5 sec
Zero to 150 mph: 22.2 sec
Street start, 5–60 mph: 4.4 sec
Standing ¼-mile: 12.5 sec @ 116 mph
Top speed (governor limited): 155 mph
Braking, 70–0 mph: 155 ft
Roadholding, 300-ft-dia skidpad: 0.86 g

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Coupe scoop! Audi’s new two-doors are based on the next-generation A4 and S4.

Look out, BMW 3-series coupe, Infiniti G37 coupe, and Mercedes-Benz CLK, the 2008 Audi A5 and Audi S5 are poised to make their debuts later this year. Derived from the next-generation A4 platform, dubbed B8, the A5 and S5 coupes have just two doors—go figure—bucking the silly four-door-coupe trend that marketers at other manufacturers have dreamed up recently. By year’s end, the A4 cabriolet is expected to defer to a convertible version of the A5, and there’s even talk of a five-door A5 “spaceback” model sometime thereafter.

The four-seat A5 will have a 3.2-liter FSI (direct injection) V-6. We expect a rating of at least 260 horsepower in U.S. trim. The engine also will be pushed farther behind the front wheels for a more favorable weight distribution. (Rejoice! The next A4 is sure to boost its skidpad numbers.) Although diesel and four-cylinder engines will be offered in Europe, the 3.2-liter is the sole U.S. powerplant. Initially, six-speed manual and continuously variable transmissions (with eight nominal ratios in manual mode) will be offered. U.S. specifications aren’t yet finalized, but we expect front-wheel drive will be standard and all-wheel drive will be optional. As in all recently redesigned and new Audis, power distribution in all-wheel-drive A5 and S5 models will be rear-biased with a nominal 40/60 split.

The S5 will get the same 4.2-liter V-8 found under the hood of the S4 and S4 Avant, updated with direct injection, as found in the current A8, and rated at 354 horsepower. The S5 will route power through a six-speed manual transmission to standard all-wheel drive. The current S4 offers a conventional automatic transmission as an option, and the lack of that option on the S5 lends credence to the rumor that a new sequential manual is in the works. The A5/S5 line would be the first from the brand to mate a dual-clutch sequential manual transmission to a longitudinally mounted engine. Such a transmission also would have to be far more robust than the current sequential manual, which hasn’t been mated to anything more powerful than a 250-hp V-6.

Although the A5’s styling isn’t terribly original, we can find little fault with it—the latest Audi is pretty stunning. As with every other Audi, the A5 wears the corporate single-frame grille. The detailing in the lighting, particularly the optional LED daytime running lamps, recalls the Audi R8 supercar. The upper-body coke-bottle sculpting also reminds us of the R8, although the lower-body rise is a TT-ism. Somewhat surprising, however, are the formal, notched roofline and the thick C-pillars. The rear end reminds some of us of the 3-series coupe, only executed with considerably more elegance. The S5 packs a bit more visual punch in the form of an egg-crate grille insert, a lower stance, a more pronounced integrated trunklid spoiler, and wide-set quad pipes in place of the lesser A5’s duals.

The interior, as expected, is swank. The photos clearly show lots of aluminum trim, Audi-typical gauges, and what appear to be comfortable and supportive sport front seats (but we’ll have to wait until we climb in back to see if we can say the same about the rears). An electronic parking brake and a push-button ignition system will also be standard. And, of course, the capable but complex MMI is there to serve and confuse.

We also wouldn’t be surprised if an RS 5 appeared sometime during the 2009 model year with the RS4’s direct-injected 4.2-liter V-8 with 420 horsepower.

The A5 will be priced between the A4 and A6, so you will be able to scoop one up for between $35,000 and $40,000. Pricing of the forthcoming S5 is less clear, but we expect it to be in the low-$50,000 range to slightly undercut the 400-hp 2008 BMW M3. Oddly enough, the S5 goes on sale first, this October, while the A5 doesn’t make its way here until spring 2008. But one thing is certain: Audi’s new coupe will give empty nesters another alluring option.

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An all-wheel-drive hybrid Saab ragtop with 260 horsepower? Bring it on.

Saab claims its new BioPower Hybrid concept provides V-6 punch from a four-cylinder coupled with zero-emission electric power and the capability of running on bio-ethanol (E100) fuel.

The concept—being showcased at the Detroit show in a Saab 9-3 convertible—uses the two-mode hybrid system that GM is co-developing with DaimlerChrysler and BMW. The first confirmed manifestation of this two-mode system is the 2008 Chevy Tahoe hybrid, but this Saab concept gives us a glimpse of other potential future applications.

In the Saab, a 2.0-liter turbo four works with a trio of electric motors to provide a maximum of 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. That’s a useful step up from the 210-hp and 211 lb-ft delivered by the turbo-four alone. It’s also an improvement on the 250-horsepower and 258 lb-ft that comes from Saab’s 2.8-liter turbo V-6.

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Corvette paces The Race – again. But this time, Chevy lets you share in the glory

For the ninth time in 29 years, Corvette will lap Indianapolis Motor Speedway as the official pace car of the Indy 500. And to celebrate the occasion, Chevrolet will build replicas to sell to collectors, Indy fans, and whomever else gets in line for one of the 500 special ragtops that Chevrolet will roll out of its Bowling Green, Kentucky, assembly plant during the next few months.

The official replica of the official pace car will feature Atomic Orange paint, gold ribbon stripes, a smattering of patriotic Indy 500 badges, sassy silver split-spoke aluminum wheels, and a small rear spoiler, the latter snagged from the Z06 parts bin. Interior modifications include black leather bucket seats with colorful Indy 500 embroidery and orange trim bits. The engine covers are also orange in hue. Keep

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Stunning Peugeot Coupe unveiled

Peugeot unveils stunning Audi TT rival at Frankfurt, the 308 RC-

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Fancy a ride in a Fiat 500?

Fiat blows away the Frankfurt Motor Show with giant 50

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Frankfurt Motor Show

Chrysler beefs up the minivan

A new Chrysler Grand Voyager shows the future of minivans - it's chunky and full of flexible seating

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The original minivan is back in the guise of the Chrysler Grand Voyager and it looks beefier than ever. The American giant claims that this car features 30 new or improved features inside such as the Swivel ‘n Go seating system which allows the second row seats to rotate 180 degrees. This means if you’ve kids in both rows they can swivel to face each other, there’s also a removable table that can be placed in between these rows so that passengers can chat, play games or even work when on the move. There’s also the nifty looking sliding front console that can be moved between the fron and rear passenger.

For more details and pictures on all the launches at Frankfurt, get your copy of the latest Auto Express, on sale at newsagents now!

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Frankfurt Motor Show

BMW kicks off the show

X6 concept proves popular as BMW suggests a new class of car - the sports utility coupe

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The cover's been lifted on the very first unveil at this year's Frankfurt Motor Show. And fittingly, it's German maker BMW that's kick-started the proceedings - with its stunning new X6 concept. It may have been just 8.30am, but it was already standing room only in the vast exhibition hall BMW had exclusively filled with examples of what looked like its entire line-up.

The eyes of the world's press were firmly fixed on the X6 podium, however - where its arrival was marked with giant pistons pulsating at the mouth of the stand and, of course, a time-honoured smoke screen. When this finally dispersed, it revealed the newcomer in the flesh - and a completely new car category - a Sports Utility Coupe.

And it certainly lived up to its badge. The X6 is an impressive mix of chunky, practical 4x4 styling, with the sleek lines and the dramatic sloping roofline you would expect in a coupe.

Other unveils on the stand included a diesel-powered 6-series, the 635D, with a 3.0-litre 285hp engine promising to deliver around 40mpg. A 1-series coupe was also unveiled, with diesel power. The 123D promises to emit just 138g per km of CO2.

For more details and pictures on all the launches at Frankfurt, get your copy of the latest Auto Express, on sale at newsagents now!

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It's not that the all-new Volvo XC70, on display Sunday through Tuesday at ispo Sport & Style in Munich, Germany, is really a green ride. In this case, it's what's on top that counts. At the show, Volvo is pushing this year's Volvo Sports Design Forum and the Volvo Sports Design Award, just like its been doing since 2003. The award-winner this year is the Swiss bicycle expert BCM with their Pro Machine SLC01.

The Volvo XC70 that will be displayed at ispo will feature a Pro Machine SLC01 mounted on a special roof rack.
Volvo points out that the Pro Machine SLC01 is easy to get onto the roof, because the bike's frame weighs less than a kilogram (it's heavy on the wallet, though, at about US$3,650).

I'll be more impressed when built-in bike racks like this one are standard equipment, or at least affordable options, on more vehicles

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Frankfurt Preview: Renault's new Clio-based station wagon

Want a small Renault car, but nothing too small? The French automaker would like to introduce you to the latest incarnation of the Clio, this time its a small station wagon that will be unveiled the Frankfurt IAA in September. Just how green this car might be is not yet public information, but any time automakers give small a chance is good news to us.

Automotive News (subs req'd) says that Renault aims to compete with Skoda's Fabia Combi and Peugeot's 207 station wagons. Global Insight's Christoph Stürmer told AN that, "It's a defensive move. The success of the first-generation Fabia Combi was so great that no one wants to miss out on the opportunity. The B segment is highly competitive and you are fighting for every customer."

Seems like a good fight.

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Citroën C5 Airscape is a green executive cabriolet with new UrbanHybrid system

Citroën's latest announced concept car, the C5 Airscape, is coming to the Frankfurt Motor Show next month and the green side of this muscular convertible (excuse me, cabriolet) is presented first and foremost as Citroën tries to build up interest in this car. From the carbon fiber roof to the aerodynamic design to the new "UrbanHybrid" powertrain, Citroën is trying to make the executive cabriolet a greener cruiser.

Here's what Citroën says about the UrbayHybrid system:

Fuel economy is managed by an 'UrbanHybrid' system that includes a reversible alternator-starter and super capacitors. This system allows onboard equipment, such as the air conditioning or audio system, to be powered by energy recovered during braking and deceleration, while engine torque can be temporarily boosted when required.

The 'UrbanHybrid' system, which helps reduce CO2 emissions by 24g/km on the combined cycle, also switches off the engine when the vehicle is at standstill, before starting it again instantly once the accelerator is pressed. The fitting of a refined, bio-diesel compliant 208bhp 2.7HDi V6 engine, complete with particulate filter, further minimises any impact on the environment.

A biodiesel hybrid with lightweight parts? That gives the C5 Airscape a solid combination of green tech and an exterior look that should appeal to those who desire an elegant silver Sunday driver. It'll be interesting to see how much of this concept makes it to future Citroën models. Aside from the green side of the C5 Airscape, Citroën seems to be excited about the automatic folding top and other high-end features. You can read about those in the press release after the jump.

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BMW becomes world's biggest-selling premium automaker

BMW outdid compatriots Mercedes and Audi to sell the most cars in August, taking the cake with the number one spot and probably the Benjamins as well. Compared to Audi's 66,400 cars and Mercedes' (and smart's) 96,200, BMW (with MINI) rolled 99,755 cars off dealer lots.

BMW couldn't have done it without the success of the MINI, and we can debate whether it's fair to include it in a shootout. Minus the little British lifestyle accessory, BMW only moved 85,003 units. Nevertheless, as long as its in there, it bodes well for the blue-and-white propeller, with the X5 and MINI (which is up 24%) still doing very well. All three makers have new and refreshed models on the way shortly, but BMW also has the brand new -- and certain to be popular -- volume-selling 1-Series and MINI Clubman in the works.

And not that they will add too much to the tally, but while we're throwing things in, there's the Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe that will probably outsell Maybach all by itself. If it isn't already, the question soon will be: can you get too much BMW?

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Mitsuoka Orochi specs, pricing announced

Japanese automaker Mitsuoka has revealed the production version of it's unique-looking mid-engined Orochi sports car, along with the car's production plans, pricing, and specifications. The Orochi, named for an eight-headed serpent out of Japanese folklore, first appeared as a 2001 concept car, and from the looks of things, the production vehicle stays very true to the concept. The Orochi was introduced at a press conference that opened with a Kabuki show (above right), during which a white example of the sports car was driven onstage.

In the past, we've seen the Orochi referred to as a supercar, but while it looks as (if not more) exotic as just about any limited-production vehicle on the planet, it lacks the performance credentials (on paper, at least) to put it in supercar territory. In fact, the powertrain will be familiar to many. The 3.3L V6 mounted aft of the passenger compartment is Toyota's well-known 3MZ-FE, which sees duty in the Camry, Solara, Sienna, Highlander, and Lexus RX (hybrid and standard versions). It makes around 230 horsepower and is connected to a Toyota 5-speed automatic. The decision was made to place efficiency and ease of use ahead of high performance.

Speaking of performance, no numbers were released along with the technical specifications, but don't expect anything earth-shattering. The car's average power, combined with a weight of approximately 3,400 pounds (around 100 less than a Solara), is not a recipe for big-time track numbers. In Japan, though, exclusivity seems to trump all, and that's a commodity the Orichi has in abundance. So what if it has just 230 horsepower? In Japan, arriving anywhere in one of these will bestow instant superstar status upon the driver.

400 Orochis will be built over the next four years, each costing ¥10,500,000 (around $89,000 USD). Orders can be placed beginning today with the first deliveries taking place in January 2007.

(Photos, tech specs after the jump)

[Source: Carview (translated)]

Production Version:



2001 Concept:


Technical Specifications:

Total length / Width / Total height = 4560mm / 2035mm / 1180mm
Wheelbase: 2600mm
Ground Clearance: 130mm
Vehicle weight: 1580kg
Passengers: 2
Engine: 3.3L V6DOHC (Toyota 3MZ-FE)
Max output: 233ps (172kW) at 5600rpm
Max torque: 33.4kg-m (328Nm) at 4400rpm
Fuel capacity: 60 liters (unleaded premium)
Transmission: 5-speed AT (Toyota)
Drive system: Mid-engine/rear drive
Suspension: front and rear double wishbone
Tires: Front: 245/45ZR18, Rear: 285/40ZR18
Body: hand made FRP make body
Door: side impact door with built-in steel beams
Chassis: handmade steel space frame

Equipment:
Low-beam side HID, motorized door mirror, airbags, automatic A/C, the Panasonic HDD Navigation, power windows, immobilizer, and full leather interior all standard

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Based on next gen SL-ClassFinally it’s on its way, the new Audi R8 rival from Mercedes. It has been rumored for quite a while, and here are the first pictures of an early mule for the new sports car by Mercedes likely to be named SLC.

Based on the next generation Mercedes SL-Class, the SLC will be powered by the 6.2 liter AMG V8 delivering 500 bhp mounted in the front which is contrary to early rumours the SLC would be mid-engined. If necessary, this engine is capable of delivering up to 700 bhp with twin turbos. The SLC will be more sport than luxury much in the same vein of the recently released CLK 63 AMG Black Series – a race car built for the road and also the RS-series from Porsche.
The sports car’s hard top as well as many other lightweight parts will be completely made of carbon fiber. A large portion of mechanical assemblies and interior trim will be shared with the next generation SL-Class.

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New prototypes for the Audi RS6 have been spotted in Germany, this time basically undisguised. Now that the car is free from the annoying black-and-white checkered camouflage, the extent of the changes over the Audi S6 are now clearly visible. The LED light strips on the S6’s front bumper have been removed on this RS6. New front air-intakes are larger, and they wrap around the front bumper allowing for some integrated brake cooling ducts up front. The front intakes are highlighted by low flares which continue along the side, between the wheels, making for a more aggressive stance.

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BY LARRY WEBSTER, PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEFFREY G. RUSSELL

Versatility is the name of this game.

The Avalanche would be just another four-door pickup if it weren’t for the folding partition that separates the passenger compartment from the cargo bed. So, although the news for 2007 is that it’s now underpinned by GM’s new GMT900 full-size-truck platform, the stuff that makes it an Avalanche remains. That center partition is called the Midgate, and it also has a removable rear window. Also returning is the three-panel, hard-plastic cover that turns the 63.3-by-50.0-inch truck bed into a lockable trunk. These pieces — the window, the Midgate, and the bed cover — can be removed or folded independently, which makes for several cargo-carrying possibilities. For example, when the rear seats are folded, the Midgate, which is hinged at the floor, can be opened onto the rear seats, thus extending the length of the pickup bed. Drop the Midgate, but leave the rear window and bed cover in place, and you have a rather large, lockable storage compartment. Or you can remove only the bed cover and haul large dirty items without soiling the cab. Or you could remove the rear window — it stows on the inside of the Midgate — to haul especially bulky items. We could go on, but you get the picture.

Like the original Avalanche that debuted in 2001, the bed is layered with a high-friction plastic that keeps things from sliding around but is still smooth enough for easy garden-hose cleanups. Also returning for 2007 are the lockable storage compartments — complete with drain holes — in the sides of the bed that can serve as handy beverage coolers.

Thankfully, the tacky plastic body cladding that marred the original won’t be returning, and the new truck is as handsome as the old one was garish. Dimensionally, there’s not much to report. The ’07 truck is fractionally shorter and narrower but a smidge taller, which translates into a bit more interior headroom.

It probably sounds as if the Avalanche simply got a reskin, but that notion fades when you open the door and see the new dash and center console that look tidy and well organized. The interior is handsome and offers such features as a navigation system, satellite radio, and a rearview camera for backing up.

The biggest change, however, is how this nearly three-ton brute goes down the road. It’s still sort of a lumbering beast that feels big and grips the skidpad at only 0.71 g. But a quicker steering ratio added a bit more liveliness, and the improvements in refinement and ride quality are palpable. The front portion of the ladder frame was stiffened so there’s none of the front-end jiggling over washboard surfaces that plagued the old truck, and the ride is now as good as a Cadillac’s.

Under the hood of our test vehicle was the familiar 5.3-liter V-8 coupled to a four-speed automatic transmission. Now with 320 horsepower — 25 more than before — this setup never seemed to breathe hard but didn’t make the new model any quicker. The sprint to 60 mph still required a merely adequate 8.3 seconds.

There is an optional 355-hp, 6.0-liter V-8, but you can only get it in the top-of-the-line LTZ that starts at a heady $40,125 for the two-wheel-drive model. We tested a two-wheel-drive mid-level LT that had few option boxes unchecked and rang in at $39,829. That’s a pretty stiff price, but the base LS model is $32,690, or about three grand more than a similarly equipped Chevy Silverado conventional four-door pickup that doesn’t have the cargo cleverness.

Vehicle type: front-engine, rear-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 5-door pickup
Price as tested: $39,829 (base price: $33,390)
Engine type: pushrod 16-valve V-8, iron block and aluminum heads, port fuel injection
Displacement: 325 cu in, 5327cc
Power (SAE net): 320 bhp @ 5200 rpm
Torque (SAE net): 340 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm

Transmission: 4-speed automatic
Wheelbase: 130.0 in
Length/width/height: 221.3/79.1/76.6 in
Curb weight: 5693 lb
Zero to 60 mph: 8.3 sec
Zero to 90 mph: 18.3 sec
Street start, 5–60 mph: 8.5 sec
Standing ¼-mile: 16.4 sec @ 86 mph
Top speed (governor limited): 98 mph
Braking, 70–0 mph: 204 ft
Roadholding, 300-ft-dia skidpad: 0.71 g
EPA fuel economy, city driving: 15 mpg
C/D-observed fuel economy: 14 mpg

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2009 Porsche Cayenne Hybrid

BY STEVE SILER

Porsche’s upcoming hybrid ute will deliver more than 400 pound-feet of torque.

Two years ago at the Frankfurt auto show, Porsche announced it had begun work on a hybrid Cayenne program, but the company has remained quiet since then, except to tell us it has remained partnered with VW on the SUV’s development. However, Porsche recently broke its silence and gave us a few more details about what we can expect from its new hybrid SUV, which is on track for a 2009 launch.

What we know is that a compact, 34-kW electric motor in the Cayenne hybrid will slot between its 3.6-liter V-6 and the six-speed automatic transmission, a series configuration that Porsche claims is more compatible with the Cayenne’s platform. The company also says the setup is more fuel efficient and flexible in terms of the hybrid system management, which Porsche claims will allow the vehicle’s performance to remain, well, Porsche-like. By adding electric power to the 290-hp, direct-injection V-6, maximum torque rises from 273 lb-ft to over 400 at 1800 rpm for the hybrid. That part sounds good, but all the hybrid components will add significant weight to the already bloated Cayenne, so we’ll have to wait to see what affect this has on not only acceleration but Porsche hallmarks such as handling and braking as well.

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2008 CHEVROLET TAHOE: New Hybrid Delivers Up To 25 Percent Improved Fuel Economy With Uncompromised Capability

The Tahoe Hybrid offers the utility and capability customers

Chevrolet Tahoe is the industry’s best-selling full-size SUV. It was comprehensively redesigned for 2007, giving customers the capability expected of a full-size SUV with a sharper, more precise driving feel, more power with improved, segment-leading fuel economy, increased interior refinement and improved quietness.

Chevy takes another leap forward in the segment – and the world – for ’08 with the introduction of the Tahoe Hybrid. It features the world’s first production 2-Mode full hybrid propulsion system, which offers a 25-percent overall improvement in fuel economy. Better still, the fuel-saving advantages of the Tahoe Hybrid are balanced with a superior driving experience and uncompromised capability.

“The Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid combines the functionality and comfort of a full-size SUV with a 2-Mode full hybrid system that optimizes fuel efficiency in both city and highway driving, the way most Americans use their vehicles,” said Tom Stephens, group vice president, GM Powertrain. “The Tahoe Hybrid offers great performance, 25-percent better overall fuel economy and legendary Tahoe utility.”

Indeed, the Tahoe Hybrid offers the utility and capability customers seek in a full-size SUV. The Hybrid can tow up to 6,000 pounds (2,721 kg). To maximize its efficiency, the 6.0L V-8 engine is equipped with GM’s Active Fuel Management™ technology, which switches between four- and eight-cylinder power in certain driving situations.

All Tahoe models are built on GM’s full-size SUV platform, which incorporates features such as a fully boxed frame, coil-over-shock front suspension, rack-and-pinion steering and a premium interior that bolsters the vehicle’s comfort, quality and capability. Wide front and rear tracks enhance handling and lower the center of gravity for a more confident road feel.

Tahoe is also designed with safety in mind. It delivers a 360-degree safety system of occupant protection and crash-avoidance technology, with features such as standard StabiliTrak stability control system with rollover mitigation technology. For 2008, Tahoe’s list of standard safety features is enhanced with the inclusion of head-curtain side impact air bags on all models. Previously, they were optional on some models.

The 2008 Tahoe is available in LS, LT, LTZ and Hybrid models (Hybrid with interim availability), with 2WD and 4WD. Tahoe’s standard powertrain (except base 2WD) includes an efficient 5.3L V-8 with Active Fuel Management technology that seamlessly switches from eight-cylinder to four-cylinder operation to save fuel.

Additional changes for ’08 are minor, reflecting customer preferences and enhancing Tahoe’s style. They include a change to a 40/20/40-split bench seat in LS models that provides convenient storage space in the center section; woodgrain trim added to the forward center console and brighter instrument pointers in the gauge cluster. There are also two new exterior colors: Blue Granite and Deep Ruby Metallic.

Returning for 2008 is the Tahoe’s popular Z71 Off Road appearance package. This optional package includes the Z71 Off Road suspension with high-pressure, gas-charged monotube shocks, 18-inch on/off-road tires, automatic-locking rear differential, front recovery hooks, a durable skid plate and a high-capacity air cleaner. Large, color-keyed fender flares, an aggressive front fascia, chrome tubular assist steps, chrome door handle centers, chrome mirror caps and chrome grille inserts provide a distinctive appearance. Inside, a brushed metal-look replaces wood grain accents for a more rugged appearance. Also included are leather-appointed bucket seats that are available in solid Ebony, Ebony with Light Titanium inserts and Ebony with Morocco Brown inserts.

Also available on Tahoe LTZ models is the Chrome Appearance Package, which includes a stainless steel exhaust tip, chrome recovery hooks and the choice of one of six 20-inch wheel designs.

Power articulating running boards are available. They blend smoothly with the vehicle’s design, but automatically move downward and outward when the doors are opened, providing a lower step-in height.

Tahoe Hybrid details

The Vortec V-8 powered Tahoe Hybrid is expected to deliver a composite fuel efficiency improvement of 25 percent when combined with Active Fuel Management cylinder deactivation technology. The Tahoe Hybrid has a distinctive look befitting its unique powertrain; it is 10 mm lower in the front and has additional aerodynamic features compared to non-hybrid models. Special features, including prominent hybrid badges and a unique Glacier Gold exterior finish, complete the look.

GM, BMW and DaimlerChrysler have co-developed the 2-Mode full hybrid system that will leverage automatic transmission technology and electronic controls in an integrated, powerful and compact system that can be used with both gas and diesel engines. GM’s 2-Mode full hybrid system in transit buses has been established as the starting point for the GM-BMW-DaimlerChrysler collaboration. The design integrates proven automatic transmission technology with a patented hybrid-electric drive system to deliver the world’s first 2-Mode full hybrid.

The 2-Mode is patented hybrid technology with two modes optimized for city and highway driving. In the first mode, at low speed and light loads, the vehicle can operate in three ways: electric power only, engine power only or in any combination of engine and electric power. When operating with electric power only, it provides all the fuel savings benefits of a full hybrid system. Leaving the engine shut off for extended periods of time and moving under electric power at low speed is key to reducing fuel consumption in heavy stop and go traffic.

The second mode is used primarily at highway speeds. In addition to electric assist, the second mode provides full eight-cylinder engine power when conditions demand it, such as when passing, pulling a trailer or climbing a steep grade. The second mode integrates sophisticated electronic controls, such as Active Fuel Management, cam phasing, and late-intake valve closure, allowing even more efficient engine operation.

2-Mode system innovations allow for more efficient packaging because its compact and powerful electric motors are designed to fit within the approximate space of a conventional automatic transmission – an efficiency advantage compared with today’s typical single-mode systems that rely on much larger electric motors.

A sophisticated controller determines when the vehicle should operate in either mode of the 2-Mode drive system. Input from the controller determines the necessary torque for the driving conditions and sends a corresponding command to the engine and electric motors. The engine and electric motors transfer torque to a series of gears in the transmission, which multiply torque similar to a conventional automatic transmission to propel the vehicle. Unlike conventional continuously variable transmissions, however, the 2-Mode full hybrid’s electrically controlled system uses no mechanical belts or bands. Shifts between the two modes are synchronous, which means no engine speed changes are necessary for the mode shift to occur, resulting in ultra smooth accelerations.

The 300-volt battery pack provides electric power for the system, and while it is larger than a typical automotive battery, it is designed to fit in the vehicle without compromising passenger space. Special converters located under the vehicle’s hood convert the motors’ AC output to DC current and power conventional 12-volt accessories, such as interior lighting, climate control and the radio. The vehicle’s internal combustion engine provides power to charge the battery pack, so the vehicle doesn’t have to be plugged in to keep the battery pack maintained.

Because the architecture can be scaled to fit multiple vehicles and adapted to gasoline or diesel engines, the 2-Mode full hybrid can be applied globally. In Europe, for example, where diesel engines are common in passenger vehicles, it can provide a significant reduction in fuel consumption, which would help automakers meet the region’s ever-stringent carbon dioxide emissions standard.

To maximize efficiency, the front of the Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid is lowered 10 mm compared, which provides additional aerodynamic benefits as well as a smoother and sleeker appearance. The hood and liftgate are made of aluminum to trim weight, and the leading edges of the hood have been streamlined.

The Tahoe Hybrid retains Chevy’s trademark dual-port grille with Chevy bowtie, but with a larger intake to accommodate the hybrid powertrain’s higher airflow requirement for cooling. The fascias are tuned at the corners and air dam, and the running boards are flared in front in an effort to guide airflow around the wheel openings. Hybrid badging appears on the C-pillar, on the rear liftgate and on the hitch cover.

Other aerodynamic refinements include sharpening of the D-pillar rearward, including the taillamps, a CHMSL appliqué detail spoiler over the rear hatch and a closeout panel under the back of the vehicle to facilitate airflow.

Lightweight, aero-efficient wheels with the lowest rolling-resistance tires available for full-size trucks further trim fuel use, and are complemented with a tuned ride to provide the ride and handling performance and attention to detail that customers expect from a totally integrated vehicle.

Strength and quietness

Tahoe features a stiff, fully boxed frame, which reduces vibrations transmitted to the passenger cabin. The strength and accuracy of the frame also enable more precise mounting and tuning of chassis and suspension components, which also helps reduce vibration. Even the tires on the large, 17-inch standard and 20-inch available wheels were designed to reduce noise.

Noise-reducing components and materials are used throughout the body structure, including the headliner material, door seals and front-of-dash area. The engine also features a quiet-tuned alternator and an acoustically tuned engine cover that dramatically reduces engine noise heard inside the vehicle. Specific door seals help reduce seal “pull away” at highway speeds, which can cause wind noise. Also, Tahoe’s more slippery shape, thanks to improved aerodynamics, streamlined exterior mirrors and roof rack, and tighter body gap tolerances, makes Tahoe quieter as it slices through the air.

Tahoe’s quietness and smoothness are complemented by the Autoride suspension system, which is standard on LTZ. This segment-exclusive bi-state, real-time damping system provides an extremely refined ride with greatly reduced body motion. The system consists of a semi-active, two-position damping control system that responds in real time to road and driving conditions, based on body and wheel motion sensors.

Tahoe’s quietness and smoothness are complemented by its full-size SUV capabilities. Tahoe 4WD models offer up to 8,200 pounds (3,720 kg) of towing capability. Features such as articulated running boards and the popular Z71 Off Road appearance package are available, enhancing the Tahoe’s levels of convenience and personalization.

Efficient V-8 family

A small-block V-8 family powers the Tahoe lineup. Fuel-saving Active Fuel Managementtechnology also enables better fuel economy. When combined with other vehicle-wide features, including improved aerodynamics, the small-block V-8 helps give the Tahoe the segment’s best fuel economy.

A Vortec 5.3L V-8 with 320 horsepower (239 kW)* and 340 lb.-ft. of torque (461 Nm)* offering Active Fuel Management technology and E85 capability is standard in 4WD models and Hybrid. E85 is a renewable fuel made of 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline. GM vehicles with E85 capability can run on 100 percent gasoline or on E85 or any combination of the two. A Vortec 4.8L V-8 is standard on Tahoe 2WD base models.

Tahoe’s steeply raked windshield and smoother roofline improve its aerodynamics, resulting in a best-in-class 0.363 cd and enhanced highway fuel economy. Additional contributors to efficiency include a lower, wider front air dam, tighter tolerances and gaps between the fascias, lamps and grille openings, and improved front-end sealing that nearly eliminates air leak paths. These features contribute to enhanced fuel economy and improved driving quietness, compared to previous models.

Tahoe design

Redesigned in ’07, the Tahoe’s design is lean and agile looking, with large wheels and a wide track enhancing Tahoe’s powerful, capable stance. Sleek aerodynamics also contribute to the look, with a more steeply raked windshield and smoother roofline accentuating the exterior length.

Tahoe features the new face of Chevrolet with a large Chevy gold bowtie, centered on a twin-port horizontal grille. The body-colored grille surround is inset with an argent texture or available chrome mesh. Fog lamps and headlamps feature jewel-like optics. The lower fascia, incorporating the front license plate holder and integrated recovery hooks, is aggressively styled with a skid plate look that enhances Tahoe’s rugged, off-road appearance.

Tahoe’s front end reflects its sporty, outdoor character. It includes the fast-rake windshield; a bulging power dome hood; a prominent new fender design with integrated wheel flares; a distinctive new grille and headlamps; and a full-wrap fascia. The wraparound fascia, which eliminates the conventional bumper-to-body gap, is one of the numerous attributes that give the Tahoe a more refined look, while also enhancing aerodynamics.

Also complementing Tahoe’s sporty appearance is an assortment of 17-inch and 20-inch wheels. Seventeen-inch wheels and tires are standard, with 20-inch factory-installed wheels available (standard on LTZ). The larger wheels give the vehicle a more confident stance.

Tahoe also offers power articulated running boards. They blend smoothly with the vehicle’s design, but automatically move downward and outward when the doors are opened, providing a lower step-in height.

Interior refinement

The ’08 Tahoe is available in three trim levels: LS, LT and LTZ, with the high-volume LT trim level offered with LT-1, LT-2 and LT-3 equipment groups. Two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive models are available. All models come well equipped with enhanced safety, comfort and convenience features. Available features include:

• Power-release fold-and-tumble second-row seat
• Remote vehicle starting system
• First- and second-row heated seats
• Ultrasonic Rear Parking Assist
• Rearview camera system
• Touch-screen navigation system
• DVD rear-seat entertainment system with larger, eight-inch screen and enhanced features

Refinements throughout Tahoe’s spacious interior create an environment that exudes quality and precision, as well as comfort. A two-tone color scheme offers softer and low-gloss materials for the instrument panel and other trim pieces. Additional details include LED backlighting for the instruments and chrome accents on instruments and vents. Flush-mounted accessories and controls, such as the climate control/radio center stack, create a seamless, “single unit” appearance. Also, there are almost no exposed metal hardware or latches, as all models feature enclosing “close-outs” around the seat bottoms and door sill trim plates.

Safety and security

The Tahoe features a 360-degree perimeter safety system of occupant protection and crash avoidance technologies. Standard features include head curtain side air bags with rollover protection for all seating rows and front-seat safety belt pretensioners that are linked to the vehicle's sensing system to provide segment-exclusive deployment in rear-end crashes.

The roof-mounted head curtain air bags include design features that provide increased rollover protection and occupant containment. These head curtain side air bags stay inflated longer than air bags developed only for side impacts, since rollover incidents can last longer. The deployment duration and other design features of the air bags combine to provide increased occupant protection and the ability to help keep occupants inside the vehicle. Sensors located at the front of the vehicle, in the side doors and within the occupant compartment provide increased and more immediate crash detection.

Crash avoidance is bolstered through enhanced design and driver control dynamics, such as wider front and rear tracks, as well as more responsive suspensions – including a new coil-over-shock front suspension design and new rack-and-pinion steering. The vehicles are built on a stronger and stiffer, fully boxed frame that contributes to enhanced crash energy management. The front frame section has been designed to optimize crush progression, resulting in improved energy absorption efficiency. The improved crush performance, enabled by hydroformed frame rails and efficient chassis component packaging, also comprehends design provisions for improved vehicle-to-vehicle compatibility in the event of a frontal impact with a smaller vehicle.

Additional safety and security features include:

• Standard StabiliTrak stability control system with rollover mitigation technology
• Standard dual-stage driver's front air bag
• Standard dual-stage outboard-front passenger air bag with Passenger Sensing System
• Standard front seat safety belt pretensioners with rear-impact deployment capability
• Standard tire pressure monitoring system
• Available rain-sensing wiper system
• Available Ultrasonic Rear Parking Assist that can detect certain stationary objects in the rearward path of the vehicle and send an audible warning sound and display via three LEDs on the right D-pillar
• Available rearview camera system designed to provide the driver with a view of people or objects in the rearward path of the vehicle
• Standard pull-up/push-down power window switches

All models come with the OnStar system. The system includes the General Motors Advanced Automatic Crash Notification (AACN) system, making crash data available to emergency services to potentially dispatch the appropriate life-saving personnel and equipment to crash scenes faster. If the vehicle is in a crash that activates an air bag, the OnStar system automatically notifies an OnStar advisor, who will check on the occupants or summon emergency help if necessary. OnStar also can assist authorities in locating a vehicle if it is reported stolen (ability to locate stolen vehicles varies with conditions). All ’08 Tahoe LT and LTZ models feature OnStar’s Directions & Connections package, which includes Turn-By-Turn Navigation.

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Originally launched in 2004, the Nissan Titan pickup lineup expands for 2008 with the addition of two new long bed configurations and a new PRO-4X grade, which is available in both King Cab and Crew Cab 4-wheel drive standard bed configurations. In addition, the 2008 Titan features revised front styling with a new grille and light design, a redesigned brake system with larger front rotors, a variety of interior and technology enhancements and larger standard wheel sizes – including 20-inch alloy wheels on Titan LE models. Titan LE models receive an extensive list of new standard equipment, including XM satellite radio, Bluetooth hands-free phone system and wood appearance trim.


Prices for the 2008 Nissan Titan start at an MSRP of $23,700 for Titan 2WD King Cab XE standard bed and $26,550 for Titan 2WD Crew Cab XE standard bed. The 4WD King Cab XE standard bed starts at $26,900, while the 4WD Crew Cab XE standard bed is $29,750. Titan PRO-4X models are $31,450 for the King Cab and $33,950 for the Crew Cab standard bed models (available in 4WD only).

With the addition of the new Long Bed models, Titan is now available in two body styles – King Cab and Crew Cab; in 4x2 and 4x4 drive configurations; four bed sizes – 5-foot 6-inch, 6-foot 6-inch, 7-foot 3-inch and 8-foot 2-inch; and with Flexible Fuel Vehicle (FFV) capability (E85 Ethanol) in select markets.

Titan is built on Nissan’s rugged F-Alpha pickup platform, featuring a powerful 5.6-liter DOHC Endurance V8 rated at 317 horsepower and 385 lb-ft torque. Titan features a standard 5-speed automatic transmission and a maximum towing capacity of up to 9,500 pounds for King Cab and 9,400 pounds for Crew Cab (when properly equipped).

“The 2008 Titan, with its freshened styling, new wheel styles, new seat design, refined meter clusters and available features such as Bluetooth hands-free phone system, XM satellite radio tuner, heated leather-appointed bench seat and larger, 8.0-inch DVD screen, offers more choice and greater value than ever before,” said Bill Bosley, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division. “Titan remains first and foremost a powerful, go-nearly-anywhere, tow-nearly-anything workhorse. For 2008, it’s also a refined partner for work and play.”

2008 Nissan Armada

Prices for the refined 2008 Nissan Armada, which is offered in eight models, each equipped with standard 5.6-liter Endurance V8 and 5-speed automatic transmission, start at $35,250 for the Armada 4x2 SE and $41,750 for the Armada 4x2 LE. FFV (Flexible Fuel Vehicle) editions of the same models are offered at no additional cost in select markets. Four-wheel drive Armadas begin at $38,050 for the Armada 4x4 SE and $44,550 for the Armada 4x4 LE. As with the 2WD models, Flexible Fuel Vehicle versions are available at no additional cost in select markets.

The major enhancements to Armada for 2008 include a new front fascia, new headlight and fog light designs, new one-piece roof rack design, revised rear fascia and an available 20-inch wheel and Michelin tire package (LE only).

Inside, the 2008 Armada offers an available power folding 60/40 3rd row seat (LE only), new interior colors and fabrics, new gated shifter, new wood grain accents (LE only), available heated steering wheel (LE only), a locking glove compartment and revised steering wheel and combination meter illumination.

Armada technology enhancements include an Intelligent Key with twist start (standard LE, optional SE), enhanced Bose sound system with 9.3-gigabyte Music Box hard drive and 3rd row speakers and amplifier (standard LE, optional SE), Bluetooth hands-free phone system (optional on LE), improved available Nissan Navigation system with an XM NavTraffic system with real-time traffic information (XM contract required), a standard integrated 7.0-inch color information monitor and a larger 8.0-inch screen for the optional DVD Entertainment Package.

Armada’s strength comes from a 5.6-liter V8 producing 317 horsepower and 385 lb-ft of torque, with available Flexible Fuel Vehicle technology (FFV) in select markets, allowing drivers to use traditional gasoline or an alternative fuel such as E85, a mix containing 85 percent renewable ethanol and 15 percent gasoline.

Every 2008 Armada also comes with standard customer-friendly features like three-row, eight-passenger seating, ample 2nd row leg room, roof-mounted curtain air bags for all three rows and up to 9,100-pound maximum towing capacity (when properly equipped). Prior model year Armadas have been awarded the top honors in two customer opinion-based studies - buyer-perceived overall quality by the Strategic Vision research firm in the Large SUV class of its 2006 Total Quality Index, and “Most Appealing Large Premium Multi-Activity Vehicle” by J.D. Power and Associates’ 2006 Automotive Performance, Execution, and Layout (APEAL) study.

“Armada continues its strong value positioning for 2008, offering a long list of enhancements to its foundation of power, roominess, style, comfort, utility and safety,” said Bosley. “It’s another great Nissan SUV made even better for the new model year.”

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