First Drive: 2007 Honda Civic GX

Previews

Greenie spendthrifts wanted: A heavier, slower Civic with a smaller trunk. Oh, yeah, and it costs 50 percent more.

Never mind that we in Michigan are just emerging from our igloos after a long cold winter. The world is heating up, the ice caps are melting, and when that melt is complete, we’ll all be living high in the mountains in houses on stilts to stay dry. Forty days and 40 nights the waters will rage, and when the ice caps refreeze, we’ll all be fighting over who called first dibs on those last two pigs for our celebratory barbecues, since the unicorns were already eaten by sharks.

There are people who would argue that that sinister little creation, the automobile, is responsible for it all. We blame Al Gore, China, sweatshops, and greenie celebrities who flit about in private jets. Those who want to make a difference drive hybrids, while those who researched their decision drive diesels. Those who are truly enlightened and want to make a difference, however, seek something higher, lighter, more ethereal. They find natural gas.

For the most part, the hunt is conducted outside of new-car showrooms, although the game is no longer found in the back-yard sheds of neighborhood madmen or the workshops of “some guy my uncle’s caterer’s yoga instructor knows,” but in experienced shops that sometimes charge twice the list price of the customer’s 1989 Toyota Corolla to convert it to natural-gas propulsion.

The Only Natural-Gas-Powered Vehicle Available to New-Car Buyers in the U.S.

Natural-gas seekers in California and New York, however, can simply stroll into a Honda dealership, plunk down $25,185 for a new Civic GX sedan—a premium of $8780 over a $16,405 base Civic DX automatic—and whoosh out of the showroom on a massive tide of self-empowerment and an itty-bitty ripple of torque: 103 pound-feet, to be exact.

Originally conceived as a parking-enforcement cruiser in L.A. back in 1998, the GX was strictly a fleet vehicle meant to do its small part to reduce pollution. Emissions from natural-gas-burning engines are a fraction of those of similarly sized gasoline units, the GX being recognized by the EPA as the cleanest-burning engine it had ever tested when introduced. Today, when the EPA’s Tier 2 Bin 5 standards are causing a panic among auto execs, the Civic GX easily skips past Bin 5 and is the only vehicle to meet the lofty Tier 2 Bin 2 standards. If this talk of tiers and bins makes no sense, just be impressed by the fact that the GX is so clean it is the only vehicle in its emissions class. In 2005, Honda saw fit to finally offer the Civic GX directly to the public in California. New York citizens have only been able to buy the car since October 2006.


A Few Compromises and A Gas Station in Your Garage

It Ain’t Magic—The Greenie Car Comes with a Few Compromises

Why only California and New York? Because that pricing premium and the torque output—15 percent below the base car’s 128 pound-feet—are just the beginning of the compromises to be made in the name of lower emissions and a head seat at the greenie table. The car’s trunk shrinks from a reasonable 12 cubic feet in dinosaur-fueled form to just 6 cubic feet with the tanks for the compressed natural gas (CNG) taking up residence behind the back seats. If that were all the luggage space we needed, we’d be driving a Lamborghini Murciélago, thank you.

In addition to taking up more space, those CNG tanks weigh a lot. At 2904 pounds, the GX is 204 pounds heavier than a similar base DX model. With 27 fewer horsepower—113—than the gasoline-powered car and the added weight of a body stuffed in the minuscule trunk, the GX is a slug. The last Civic sedan we tested with a gasoline-burning 1.8-liter did go from 0 to 60 in 7.7 seconds. Figure the greenie at right around 10 seconds with a brisk tailwind.

But the Civic GX is not about cargo carrying, and it’s certainly not about performance. It’s about compressed natural gas. Compressed to 3600 psi, the natural gas fueling the GX is served up in gallon gasoline equivalents (GGE)—the amount of CNG that holds as much energy as a gallon of gasoline. If your home is heated with natural gas, you pay by the CCF, which is 100 cubic feet of natural gas at 60 degrees Fahrenheit and 14.7 psi, also called a therm. Prices in California are currently 75 to 80 cents per therm. A GGE is about 1.25 therm and costs on average about $2.24 in the Golden State, or about $1.30 more per GGE than it would cost if we could refuel at home.

A Gas Station in Your Garage, but without the Stink of Gas or Mechanics

Aha! Home refueling is possible, for a price. For about $3500 (plus $1000 to $2000 for installation), CNG junkies can refuel natural-gas-powered vehicles at home. A Toronto-based company—Fuelmaker—sells a device called Phill that can be installed in the garage and will refuel CNG vehicles from the home’s natural-gas line. The catch is that Philling up a full tank takes much longer.

Refueling at a commercial station takes only a couple minutes longer than refueling a regular gasoline-powered car. Pumps use a slip-collar fitting that will be immediately familiar to anyone who has ever used an air compressor. It’s just bigger. Once the hose is locked onto the car’s fuel-fill nozzle, flipping a lever on the side of the collar starts the flow.

Phill, essentially an air compressor drawing natural gas instead of air and without a storage tank to compress air into, simply uses the fuel tank of the GX as its tank. It will take up to 20 hours to fill a completely empty fuel tank. An overnight fill (eight hours) will give owners enough fuel for about 100 miles of driving. Even on a full 3600-psi tank, the Civic GX will only make it about 250 miles.


How Far is Too Far to Recoup the Costs?

How Far Is Too Far to Recoup the Costs?

At $2.24 per GGE and the equivalent of 30.1 mpg—what we averaged on our drive—each of those miles costs only 7.3 cents, compared with 9.5 cents per mile (using current California prices) in a regular-gas-powered Civic LX getting the 33 mpg we recorded in our Sensible Shoes comparo [December 2006]. If saving 2.2 cents per mile doesn’t seem worth it to you, consider that, in addition, buyers in California are eligible for a $4000 federal tax credit for purchase of the Civic GX, bringing the premium paid for the vehicle down to, um, only $4780. At 2.2 cents saved per mile, it would take only 217,272 miles of driving to recoup that difference. If any vehicle is likely to survive that long, certainly a Honda Civic is a good candidate, although we know of no extreme long-term-reliability evaluations done on natural-gas-fueled cars.

During those 271,272 miles, the Civic GX will be eligible for a single-occupant HOV (carpool) lane permit, a priceless commodity on California’s gnarled freeways, as well as free parking at meters in L.A., Santa Monica, and San Jose. (If you can find an open meter, that is.)

Add in $5000 or so for Phill, subtract an additional $1000 tax credit for that purchase, and figure a saving of $2.21 per gallon—1 GGE is $0.94 (1.25 CCF at 75 cents per) versus $3.15 for a gallon of regular—and it would take 137,187 miles to regain that cost. Obviously, paying more than $8000 extra for a Civic is not a financially driven choice but an environmentally driven one. Countless polar bears may have already been saved by GX pilots, but countless is never enough when it could be more.

BY JARED GALL
caranddriver.com

First Drive: 2007 Hyundai Veracruz Limited

Previews

A Lexus-like seven-seat SUV that should continue to convert Hyundai skeptics.

Plop down into the driver’s seat of the Hyundai Veracruz, and you’ll find yourself in the middle of a quiet, comfortable, content-rich revelation. With a smooth, competent powertrain and luxury touches everywhere you look, it’s not hard to convince yourself that you’re behind the wheel of a Lexus. That’s hardly a shock, of course, given that Hyundai chose the Lexus RX350 as the benchmark for its seven-passenger Veracruz, which is now the largest SUV in Hyundai’s lineup.

A Smokin’ Deal

We tested an upscale front-wheel-drive Limited model, but all-wheel drive is available on any trim level for a $1700 premium. Ours was $33,120, with the only extra a set of floor mats for $125. Those luxury touches we mentioned? Mood lighting, heated leather seats, a six-CD Infinity stereo, a power liftgate, a sunroof, and auto-dimming rearview and side mirrors are all standard. Granted, many of those items are optional on lesser trim levels, but even the base Veracruz includes second-row climate controls, satellite radio, six airbags, and defroster-equipped side mirrors for $26,995, $100 less than an entry-level Honda Pilot and $500 or so less than a similarly outfitted Toyota Highlander. (A base Highlander costs some $1500 less than a Veracruz but doesn’t include a V-6 or third-row seating.) Should you feel particularly self-indulgent, available packages will add anything from a rear-seat DVD entertainment system to an upgraded, 605-watt stereo to power-adjustable pedals to hands-free keyless entry.

Refined and Smooth: Hyundai Hallmarks?

A 3.8-liter, 24-valve V-6 is the only engine for the Veracruz, no matter which trim level you choose—GLS, SE, or Limited. Its 260 horsepower provides acceleration that we can’t call particularly fast or ridiculously slow. Figure on about eight seconds for the 0-to-60-mph benchmark. But power delivery is very linear, and there’s a respectable 257 pound-feet of torque. The big Hyundai is quiet, too. Very little engine noise makes it into the cabin, and at idle, the Veracruz is so quiet and vibration-free that, if you’re like us, you’ll need to double-check that you’ve twisted the key before slipping into gear. Fuel-economy ratings are 18 mpg city and 25 mpg highway, on par with the Pilot and Highlander. As refined as the V-6 is, the best part of the drivetrain is perhaps the Aisin-sourced six-speed automatic, Hyundai’s first. Upshifts are hiccup-free and quick, and the box operates so seamlessly, you hardly know it’s there. There’s a manumatic shifting feature, although tipping the lever toward the passenger side to activate it rather than toward the driver seems backward.

The strut-front and multilink-rear suspension delivers a plush, comfortable ride, especially on the freeway, and we found body control to be exemplary. Sure, there’s some lean when you pitch the Veracruz into a corner with any aggression, but it’s taken care of so quickly that you hardly care. This is certainly no bobbing oceanliner, and there’s little of the rear-end wiggle that usually accompanies soft-riding vehicles with a high center of gravity. The steering has luxury-grade heft but unfortunately is as dead as Orson Welles; you’d be better off looking for feedback from a room full of mimes than from this rack. The brakes are nothing special, although at least there’s no dead zone in initial pedal travel—when you call on the brakes, you get brakes.


Rolling In Style

The cabin of the Veracruz is beautifully trimmed using top-shelf materials, and the buttons and the switchgear are all relatively substantial. Fit and finish is excellent, but we will admit to finding a few ergonomic mistakes. Besides the foot-operated parking brake, which is positioned to rip out chunks of shin at will, the ashtray takes up far too much of the center console and the seats—all seven of them—could use longer bottom cushions. This is not to say, however, that inside a Veracruz isn’t a good place to be. Despite the too-short cushions, the seats are comfy enough for long trips, and we appreciate the iPod hookup, which is neatly located behind a flip-down door on the dash. Hyundai even thoughtfully provides a short 1/8-inch-to-1/8-inch connection cable and a spot to stash it.

Second-row passengers ride on a sliding and reclining 60/40-split bench, and it’s nearly as comfortable as the front row. Getting into and out of the two-person third row is a simple task, with only one hand required to move the middle row out of the way. Average-size folks will be relatively comfortable back there even with the middle seats pushed all the way back in their travel; unfortunately, you sit so low and the windows are so high that you feel like you’ve fallen into a hole. The cargo area features a shallow, snap-shut bin under the floor, but there’s scant room to be had until you fold the third row. Once those seats are flat, though, the cargo area will hold 40 cubic feet of stuff.

Boring—but It Won't Matter

The Veracruz is quite good, and its interior is astonishingly well-appointed, but an unfortunate side effect of Hyundai’s devotion to the Toyota/Lexus creed is that the Veracruz is also unmistakably boring. It’s not as fun to drive as even the Pilot, never mind something more sporting like the Mazda CX-9. So there’s little about this new Hyundai that will attract enthusiasts, but with its low price and loads of standard equipment, the Veracruz shouldn’t fail to find plenty of buyers. And besides, being boring hasn’t really held back a certain goliath from Japan, has it?

BY ERIK JOHNSON
caranddriver.com

Nissan unveils 2007 NISMO 350Z

PRESS RELEASE:

2007 Nissan NISMO 350Z Continues Tradition of Performance, With GT Racing Machine Style and Features

The new 2007 Nissan NISMO 350Z, which makes its North American debut at the 2007 New York International Auto Show, features an extensively developed list of unique equipment – including a special body package and improved handling equipment. This new model, the fifth in the 2007 350Z Coupe lineup, goes on sale at Nissan dealers nationwide in July 2007. NISMO is the premier supplier of high-performance aftermarket parts and accessories for Nissan vehicles worldwide.

The most striking visual feature of this special vehicle is the NISMO aerodynamics package with an aggressive front fascia with chin spoiler, side skirts, a larger rear fascia with functional air diffuser and rear wing. The NISMO 350Z also features the use of special mass dampers between the left- and right-side frame members. Additional performance enhancements include a specially tuned independent multi-link suspension, Brembo brakes, NISMO-branded tuned exhaust and NISMO-branded gunmetal gray RAYS super lightweight 5-spoke forged-alloy wheels (18x9-inch front, 19x10-inch rear) with Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tires.

Inside, NISMO 350Z includes unique black cloth seats with red inserts, red stitching throughout the interior and special NISMO white and gray gauge faces. All NISMO Z"s receive a serialized NISMO-etched aluminum plaque mounted on the center console.

The NISMO 350Z includes a full complement of 350Z standard features, including the new VQ35HR 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 306 horsepower and 268 lb-ft of torque, close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission, Traction Control System (TCS) and Viscous Limited-Slip Differential (VLSD).

2008 Hummer H2

(from General Motors Press Release) 2008 HUMMER H2 DELIVERS GREATER CAPABILITY AND COMFORT, RETAINS ICONIC DESIGN

All-new interior features refined, premium appointments, all-new instrument panel and all-new, more comfortable seats with a full third row

New standard safety features include new electronic stability control system with rollover mitigation technology, panic brake assist and roof rail head curtain side air bags with rollover sensing system

All-new 6.2L V-8 and six-speed automatic combination delivers more power and efficiency

Towing capacity increased to 8,000 pounds (3,629 kg)

NEW YORK – HUMMER announced the 2008 H2, with a completely redesigned, more refined interior that combines luxury with HUMMER’s legendary ruggedness; enhanced safety features and a more powerful engine that is coupled with a new, six-speed automatic transmission. The new powertrain combination improves efficiency when compared with previous models.

“The 2008 HUMMER H2 represents a major step in the evolution of this iconic vehicle,” said Martin Walsh, HUMMER general manager. “From performance to comfort to safety and overall refinement, the new H2 lineup delivers more of what customers expect from HUMMER; they will be especially impressed with the new, more refined interior.”

HUMMER revealed the 2008 H2 at the New York Auto Show. The powertrain, interior and exterior changes also are included on the H2 SUT. The ’08 H2 and H2 SUT go on sale later this year.

The new powertrain combination consists of a 6.2L all-aluminum small-block V-8 engine, rated at 393 horsepower (293 kW)* – an increase of about 20 percent over the previous engine – and a Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed automatic transmission. Performance-optimizing engine technologies, such as variable valve timing, and the six-speed’s wide gear ratios, including a “tall” overdrive gear, enable the improved performance and efficiency over previous models.

“This is one of those rare instances where enhanced performance is matched with improved efficiency,” said Walsh. “More power in the H2 helps make highway maneuvers, such as entering from a freeway on-ramp, feel effortless while simultaneously bolstering towing capability.”

All-new, luxury-appointed interior

While drivers will feel the ’08 H2’s improved performance on the road, they’ll appreciate it more while experiencing it in the all-new interior. It features a completely redesigned instrument panel, new seats – including a full third-row seat for two passengers– new door trim panels, new controls, new rear-seat heating/air conditioning system, new rear-seat overhead DVD entertainment system and a new family of premium radios.

“The new interior delivers a refined, premium feel while maintaining HUMMER’s trademark ruggedness,” said Dennis Burke, interior designer. “Everything from the flushness of the controls to the feel of the materials exudes craftsmanship in the H2’s new interior, while the fine details, like leather seat piping, create a consistent, premium interior design style across the entire HUMMER family.”

Seats in the H2 have a new, chiseled appearance and offer improved comfort. In fact, HUMMER engineers focused on every detail to improve interior comfort. For example, the front seat safety belts are now mounted to the vehicle’s B-pillars rather than to the seats themselves. This change enabled engineers uncompromised comfort tuning for the seats. Front seat safety belt pretensioners are new, too, and are standard.

Complementing the new seats are new door trim panels and an all-new instrument panel and six-gauge instrument cluster that features a more refined appearance and better tolerances. In fact, the new interior is designed with interior gap tolerances of one millimeter or less. Soft-touch materials and new, more tactile controls enhance the feeling of craftsmanship. A new center stack houses the climate controls and a new family of GM radios – including a standard premium Bose audio system and an available surround sound system. The instrument panel also features new vents that enhance heating or cooling comfort throughout the vehicle – particularly for the second- and third-row seats.

Numerous available comfort and convenience features are either new or carried over into the ’08 H2, such as a new rear-seat overhead DVD entertainment system, a navigation system, a rear-view camera system and heated windshield washer fluid. OnStar and XM Satellite Radio are standard.

The ’08 H2 also offers a remote starting system that enables the vehicle’s interior to be heated or cooled prior to driving.

Driving experience

The heart of the ’08 H2 is a new, 6.2L V-8 engine that uses variable valve timing technology to maximize performance and fuel efficiency. It is rated at 393 horsepower (293 kW)* and 415 lb.-ft. of torque (574 Nm)*. The engine also features lightweight materials, including an aluminum cylinder block, which helps reduce the vehicle’s overall mass.

The 6.2L V-8’s technologically advanced features also help it meet new federal emissions standards a year before mandatory implementation.

A new six-speed Hydra-Matic 6L80 RWD electronically controlled automatic transmission backs the 6.2L engine. The six-speed automatic has a wide, 6.04:1 overall ratio – including two overdrive gears – that helps deliver an excellent balance of performance and fuel economy. Also, the 6L80 has a “tap up/tap down” capability that allows the driver to manually select upshifts and downshifts with a button on the column shifter.

The new powertrain combination helps the 2008 H2 and H2 SUT deliver an additional 1,500 pounds (680 kg) in towing capacity – an increase from 6,500 pounds (2,948 kg) to 8,000 pounds (3,629 kg). A host of additional powertrain revisions also contributes to the H2’s improved performance and efficiency, including:

Larger-capacity cooling system complements larger, more powerful engine

Electric engine cooling fans reduce “drag” on engine, enabling more horsepower

Regulated voltage control maximizes fuel economy by charging electrical components only when necessary

New LAN electrical architecture is more efficient and uses less electrical energy

Standard 3.73 rear axle ratio

Off-road acumen also was enhanced with the new powertrain system. The 6L80 transmission’s tap up/tap down feature provides more control on grades and it offers automatic grade braking. It also improves the off-road crawl ratio to approximately 39:1 – an improvement of about 20 percent.

The transfer case is improved in the ’08 H2; it is stronger with improved performance. A new traction control system also is standard, which helps ensure sure-footed traction in most driving conditions.

Driving performance off the road or on is enhanced by a revised steering gear that has a quicker ratio and improved on-center returnability. The driving experience also is quieter and more refined, thanks to new, tuned air intake and exhaust systems.

Safety standard

Complementing the H2 lineup’s performance and comfort changes are enhancements to the safety system. They include several new standard features:

Roof rail head curtain side air bags for first-, second- and third-row passengers with rollover sensing system

Safety belt pretensioners (first-row seats)

Electronic stability control system with rollover mitigation technology

New traction control system

Tire pressure monitoring system

Also new is a panic brake assist feature – the first application for a full-size GM truck or SUV – which detects emergency braking situations and maintains maximum brake pressure to help stop the vehicle more quickly and with more control. It is a standard feature on all H2 models. Also, the standard OnStar system now offers the optional Turn-By-Turn navigation system. Additional optional features that contribute to a safer driving experience include HUMMER’s Rear Vision System – a rearview camera system – and a navigation system.

Exterior enhancements

All 2008 H2 models are distinguished from previous models with functional changes that maintain HUMMER’s instantly recognizable design identify. The iconic, seven-slot grille features larger openings and the lower grille also is enlarged, accommodating the cooling needs of the more powerful 6.2L V-8 engines. The lower bumpers on ’08 models are painted silver (previous models had black lower bumpers).

The soul of a HUMMER

While the ‘08 H2 is offered with a new powertrain and interior, its foundation remains the same: a fully welded ladder-type frame that features a modular, three-piece design incorporating a number of hydroformed components. This design delivers outstanding strength, stiffness and dimensional accuracy.

The H2 has short overhangs for radical approach and departure angles, and exceptional ground clearance for minimal impact on trails. Standard 17-inch wheels, heavy-duty independent front suspension and a five-link rear suspension provide superior handling, carrying and towing capability. The solid rear axle ensures durable sure-footedness, particularly in tight, off-road situations. Also standard is underbody protection and rocker protection. These elements help the H2 deliver on HUMMER’s mantra of capability, including traveling through streams 24 inches (508 mm) deep, climbing 16-inch (406-mm) steps and rocks and paddling through deep sand or snow.

A new, four-channel anti-lock braking/traction control system (ABS/TCS) provides optimum control on slippery surfaces. In addition, the ABS can detect and adjust its braking capabilities to rough off-road surfaces like gravel and potholes. The TCS also includes the ability to gain traction through a single wheel, if necessary, and more wheel slip in a second traction control mode for sand and desert racing conditions.

A self-leveling rear air spring suspension system is available for extreme off-road and towing requirements.

H2 SUT – maximum utility and fun

Like the H2, the H2 SUT carries passengers and cargo, but does so with a twist: an open cargo bed enables convenient storage of larger items. When cargo requires more space, a 4-foot by 6-foot (122-cm by 244-cm) pickup bed can be created by powering the rear window into the Midgate, then folding forward the Midgate and rear seat. With four passengers on board, the bulkhead at the rear of the SUT’s passenger compartment remains upright, still providing ample cargo-carrying capacity.

Practicality aside, the H2 SUT also offers an open, invigorating driving experience. At the push of a single button, the driver can lower all four side windows and the rear window. Using a separate switch, the standard sunroof can also be opened, giving SUT a truly open-air feeling.

Toyota Increases 2007 Tundra Incentives to $3,000

TORRANCE, Calif. — Toyota Motor Corp., which has traditionally been sparing with its incentives, has added a nationwide $1,000 trade-in incentive through April 30 for buyers of its 2007 Tundra pickup. The offer comes on top of other discounts worth as much as $2,000 per Tundra, depending on the model.

The Tundra CrewMax model has no incentives, however.

The latest Tundra incentive is aimed squarely at buyers who owe more on their existing vehicle loans than their car or truck is worth. The new incentive can only be applied to help a buyer with a vehicle trade-in allowance. In addition, dealers have the discretion to use the incentive as they see fit. They do not have to use the entire amount.

Toyota is pulling out all the stops to win American buyers to the Tundra as competitors offer discounts as high as $5,000 per truck.

The 2007 Toyota Tundra ranges in price from $22,935 for a base 4x2 regular-cab model with a 236-horsepower 4.0-liter V6 to $42,495 for a CrewMax model with a 381-hp 5.7-liter V8. Prices include a $645 destination charge.

Volkswagen has just built its 25 millionth Golf !

Volkswagen has just built its 25 millionth Golf, surpassing sales of even the company's perennial favourite, the Beetle.

The Golf has easily exceeded the 21 million Beetles sold and it's done it in a mere 33 years, compared to the Beetle's five decades in production.

With these figures in mind, it won't be long before the vehicle passes the Ford F-150 pick-up in the sales charts. The Ford has found 26 million customers, but sales are slowing.

The 25 millionth Golf was a 1.4 TSi model fitted with a DSG gearbox.

However, the VW still has some way to go to catch the world's best-selling car, the Toyota Corolla, which has a tally of more than 35 million over its 40-year lifespan.

source: topgear

Chevrolet Trax

DETROIT — Next week at the New York auto show, Chevrolet will pull the wraps off three new Korea-designed minicar concepts — and will ask Web viewers to vote for their favorite.

To be officially unveiled April 4 at the auto show are three design concepts based on General Motors' global minicar platform, including a tiny crossover called Chevrolet Trax. The minicar platform was engineered in Korea by GM Daewoo, and all three minicar concepts were created at the automaker's design studio in Incheon.

Chevy says the concepts are intended to appeal to "young car buyers in urban markets." After April 4, Web users can vote for their favorite at www.vote4chevrolet.com. The division says it will use the results to help it determine U.S. market interest in the minicar segment, as well as to learn which design appeals the most to potential buyers in the States.

The four-door Trax is powered by a 1.0-liter engine, with an orange exterior paint scheme.

source: insideline

2007 Land Rover Defender

GAYDON, England — Land Rover has updated its long-lived Defender for its 60th birthday, but there are still no plans to bring the iconic off-roader back to the U.S. market.

The 2007 Defender, which gets numerous enhancements inside and out, goes on sale in mid-April in the U.K., priced from $36,667 for the basic Defender 90 pickup. The range-topping Defender 130 will reach British dealers in July, priced from $44,475.

Among the highlights for 2007 are a new 2.4-liter common-rail diesel engine, a six-speed gearbox, a fully integrated front fascia, new seating and improved heating and air-conditioning.

Land Rover says it still sells 6,000 Defenders a year in Britain, its largest market. U.K. dealers already have taken 800 orders for the new model, which can be ordered in one of 14 different body styles, including pickup, soft top, crew cab and station wagon.

source: insideline

Chrysler Announces Pricing on 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible

• With a starting U.S. Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price of $26,145 (including $675 destination), the all-new 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible is priced $645 below the comparable outgoing model with $2,965 more standard content
• Chrysler Sebring Convertible delivers open-air freedom with elegant coupe styling and functionality of a year-round car
• Designed and engineered to deliver all-season driving comfort
• Model line-up offers a broad range of powerful and fuel-efficient powertrain and feature combinations

Chrysler is raising the roof on the convertible segment, introducing the all-new 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible. With a starting U.S. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price of $26,145 (including $675 destination), the Chrysler Sebring Convertible is priced $645 below the comparable outgoing model with $2,965 more content, including standard side seat-mounted air bags for head and thorax protection, four-wheel disc anti-lock brakes, tire-pressure monitoring system, automatic latching convertible top, standard hard tonneau cover, AM/FM stereo with six- disc CD player, six-way power driver and passenger seats and a tilt/telescoping steering wheel.

This completely redesigned Sebring Convertible is built on the company's new D-segment platform and offers what no other convertible on the road can: Chrysler's sleek and elegant design, exhilarating performance with excellent fuel efficiency, a spacious interior that comfortably seats four adults and enough room in the trunk to hold two golf bags, even when the top is dropped.

"America's favorite convertible is now better than ever," said George Murphy, Senior Vice President-Global Marketing, Chrysler Group. "The all-new 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible offers the unprecedented combination of unmistakable road presence, agile performance, innovative technologies, as well as plenty of room for people and gear. In fact, the all-new Sebring Convertible is the only retractable hard top in the segment that can pass the two-golf-bag test. The sky's the limit on what this vehicle can accomplish in the marketplace."

The all-new 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible is the only four-passenger convertible to offer three automatically latching convertible top options: vinyl, cloth and a first for this new 2008 Sebring Convertible, a body-color painted steel retractable hard top, all of which can be retracted with a push of a button on the key fob. Top that with a standard power hard tonneau cover on all models, and top up or down, Sebring Convertible provides the benefits of a coupe and the true open-air freedom of a convertible, all at a surprisingly affordable price.

The Chrysler Sebring Convertible has long held the honor of America's favorite convertible, solidly leading the segment for the past decade. In fact, Sebring Convertible has earned the title of best-selling convertible in the United States for seven of the past 11 years. The 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible is poised to reign supreme when it becomes available in U.S. dealerships in the second quarter of 2007 and in global volume markets in the second half of 2007.

2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible Model Lineup

The 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible is available in the United States in three models: Chrysler Sebring Convertible, Chrysler Sebring Convertible Touring and Chrysler Sebring Convertible Limited.

2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible

With a starting U.S. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $26,145 (including $675 destination), the Chrysler Sebring Convertible model features a standard 2.4-liter World Engine that produces 173 horsepower (129 kW) and 166 lb.-ft. (225 N*m) of torque coupled with a four-speed automatic transmission. Other standard equipment includes side seat-mounted head and thorax air bags, four-wheel disc anti-lock brakes (ABS), Tire Pressure Monitoring system, automatic latching vinyl convertible top, hard tonneau, remote keyless entry, tilt/telescoping steering column, power windows with express down feature, power locks and mirrors, AM/FM radio with six-disc CD player and DVD/MP3 connectivity and play capability and six speakers, six-way power driver seat with driver adjustable lumbar, six-way power adjustable passenger seat, visor mirrors, floor mats, passenger seat back map pocket, an electroluminescent cluster with outside temperature display, Chrysler signature analog clock in the instrument panel, rear window defroster, speed control, locking glove box, sliding front center armrest, an upper and lower bin in the center console and a second power outlet.

On the exterior, the Chrysler Sebring Convertible model features standard heated power mirrors, quad headlamps with off-time delay, bright beltline molding and 16-inch tires with wheel covers.

Available options on the Sebring Convertible model include remote start with auto down windows, automatic retracting top that retracts with the press of a button on the key fob, automatic window down on the key fob, remote start, SIRIUS Satellite Radio, UConnect Hands-free Communication System with automatic-dimming rearview mirror, daytime running lamps, Smoker's Group, engine block heater, cast-aluminum wheels and a Travel Convenience Group (which includes YES Essentials(R) premium seat fabric, cabin air filtration system and theft alarm).

2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible Touring

The 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible Touring has a starting U.S. MSRP of $28,745 (including $675 destination). In addition to the standard features on the Chrysler Sebring Convertible model, the 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible Touring model includes a standard 2.7-liter V-6 Flexible Fuel Vehicle (FFV) engine that produces 189 horsepower (141 kW) and 191 lb.-ft. (259 N*m) of torque, paired with a four-speed automatic transaxle. Additional standard equipment includes YES Essentials stain-resistant seat fabric, Electronic Vehicle Information Center, Tire Pressure Monitoring display, travel computer, Satin Silver accents and chrome interior door handles.

Standard exterior equipment on the Chrysler Sebring Convertible Touring includes a Touring badge, heated body-color exterior mirrors, automatic headlamps and 17-inch tires with aluminum wheels.

Available options on the Chrysler Sebring Convertible Touring model, beyond the options available on the Sebring Convertible model, include a cloth or retractable hard top convertible top, a MyGIG(TM) navigation/entertainment/infotainment system, an Electronic Convenience Group (which includes heated/cooled cupholder, remote start, single-zone automatic temperature control, automatic headlamps, cabin air filtration system, universal garage door opener, automatic-dimming rear-view mirror and security alarm) and a Special Touring Group (which includes 18-inch tires and aluminum wheels, cloth convertible top, windscreen, leather/chrome shift knob, leather- wrapped steering wheel, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, leather trimmed and heated seats and fog lamps).

2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible Limited

The 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible Limited model has a starting U.S. MSRP of $32,345 (including $675 destination). In addition to the standard features on the Chrysler Sebring Convertible and Sebring Convertible Touring models, the Chrysler Sebring Convertible Limited features a standard 3.5-liter V-6 engine that produces 235 horsepower (175 kW) and 232 lb.-ft. (232 N*m) of torque coupled with a new six-speed automatic transaxle that comes standard with Auto Stick.

Additional standard features include a cloth convertible top, leather- trimmed seats, leather shifter knob, leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, tortoise shell accents on the steering wheel, instrument panel and doors, chrome exterior door handles, Satin Silver door handles and PRNDL bezel, premium Boston Acoustics sound system, cabin air filtration system, bright sill scuff pad, automatic-dimming rearview mirror and theft alarm.

Standard exterior equipment on the Chrysler Sebring Convertible Limited model includes a Limited badge, fog lamps and 18-inch tires with aluminum wheels.

Options, beyond those available on the Sebring Convertible and Sebring Convertible Touring models, include a Luxury Group (which includes 18-inch tires and chrome-clad wheels, heated front seats and a windscreen) and an Electronic Convenience Group (which includes automatic headlamps, remote start, single-zone automatic temperature control, universal garage door opener and heated/cooled cupholder).

2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible Production

Production of the 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible began in the first quarter of 2007 at the newly refurbished Sterling Heights (Mich.) Assembly Plant. Sebring Convertible's new 173 horsepower 2.4-liter four-cylinder World Engine is built in the state-of-the art Global Engine Manufacturing Alliance (GEMA) plant in Dundee, Mich. The 2.7-liter V-6 engine and the 3.5-liter V-6 engine are built at the Kenosha (Wis.) Engine Plant.

Source: Chrysler Group

Winner to be named at New York International Auto Show on April 5

The countdown continues! From an initial entry list of twenty-eight (28) new vehicles from all over the world, then a short list of ten finalists, the top three contenders for the third annual World Car of the Year awards were announced today by the international accounting firm KPMG. The winners of the 2007 WCOTY will be unveiled during Press Preview at the upcoming New York International Auto Show (NYIAS) on Thursday, April 5.

The 2007 World Car of the Year top three finalists are, in alphabetical order:

• Audi TT
• Lexus LS460
• MINI

To be eligible for a World Car award, the contender had to be in production, and sold, in at least five countries on two continents during 2006.

Vehicles are selected and voted on by an international jury panel comprised of 44 top-level automotive journalists from 22 countries around the world. Collectively, their opinions reach many millions of potential vehicle purchasers. Each juror has been appointed by the World Car Steering Committee on the basis of his or her expertise, experience, credibility, and influence. Each juror typically drives and evaluates new vehicles on a regular basis as part of their professional work.

The 2007 World Car of the Year will be declared on Thursday, April 5, 2007 during a press conference hosted by the New York International Auto Show.

"Announcing the annual World Car of the Year awards at the New York show in April is a fitting finale to the international auto show season that begins each fall with either the Paris or Frankfurt motor shows," said Gerry Malloy, co-chair, WCOTY.

Three additional winners for World Performance Car, World Green Car, and World Car Design of the Year will also be announced during the same press conference on April 5, 2007 in New York.

The Top Three finalists for the 2007 World Performance Car title are, in alphabetical order:

• Audi RS4
• BMW 335i
• Porsche 911 Turbo

To be eligible for the 2007 World Green Car award, a vehicle had to be all-new or substantially revised, in production, and for sale, in at least one major market during 2006. Either the vehicle or the green technology could be experimental or a prototype with near-future application (i.e. will go on the market soon) provided that it was released for individual or press fleet evaluations in quantities of ten or more during 2006.

The 44 member jury chose the following top three finalists for the 2007 World Green Car award:

• BMW Hydrogen 7
• Mercedes-Benz E320 Bluetec
• Volkswagen Polo BlueMotion

Cars eligible for the 2007 World Car Design of the Year award are taken from the list of World Car candidates.

The top three design finalists are, in alphabetical order:

• Audi TT
• Citroen C4 Picasso
• Fiat Grande Punto

The World Car of the Year Awards program is initiated by, organized by, and conducted by, automotive journalists from around the globe. A non-profit association guided by a steering committee of journalists from Asia, Europe, and North America administers the awards program.

Situated in the media, financial and advertising capital of the world, the New York International Auto Show hosts a wide range of important industry events as well as dozens of world and North American new vehicle introductions each year. The Show's annual Wall Street Awards Dinner recognizes leading automotive stock performers, while the Television Bureau of Advertising's Annual Spring Conference attracts more than 1,200 of the nation's leading broadcasting executives. Top international automotive journalists present the World Car of the Year Awards, and IAG Research hosts the IAG Automotive Advertising Awards. It all takes place in America's largest car market at America's largest-attended auto show.

Important Auto Show Dates:
Press Preview: April 4 & 5
Public Sneak Preview: April 6
Public Show Dates: April 6 - 15

Source: New York International Auto Show

Audi announces 2008 R8 U.S. pricing

Audi announced today pricing for the all-new 2008 R8 sports car. The R8 with a six-speed manual transmission will have a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $109,000 when it launches this fall in the United States. Models equipped with the six-speed R tronic automatic gearbox will start at $118,000.

The Audi R8 is the first mid-engine sports car Audi has ever produced. With a 420 hp V8 4.2L FSI engine and rear-biased quattro all-wheel drive system, the R8 has the performance capabilities unlike any Audi before it. With a zero to 60 mph time of 4.4 seconds and a top speed of 187 mph, the Audi R8 is the fastest Audi ever produced. The lightweight aluminum frame and body and 44:56 front-to-rear weight distribution give the R8 tremendous handling capabilities, with the balance expected of a mid-engine sports car.

Standard luxury features include Audi magnetic ride, automatic bi-xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights, LED taillights and LED engine compartment lighting. 19-inch alloy wheels, automatic climate control, power and heated leather/Alcantara sport seats, cruise control, Sirius satellite radio, and nine-speaker audio system. An optional Convenience Package includes Audi parking system advanced with rearview camera, Audi hill hold assist, a six-disc CD changer, HomeLink, Bluetooth® phone prep, auto dimming exterior mirrors, and a storage package.

Stand alone options on the Audi R8 include a 12-speaker, 465-watt Bang & Olufsen sound system, Alcantara headliner, Audi navigation plus, an upgraded Leather Package, and Enhanced Leather Package which includes a leather covered dash and interior trim pieces, metallic/pearl effect paint, carbon fiber sideblades, body color sideblades, and the previously mentioned R tronic automatic gearbox. These options allow R8 owners to personalize their sports car to make it an even more exclusive vehicle than it is right from the hand-assembly plant in Neckarsulm, Germany.

Audi’s history in America dates to 1969, when the brand was first introduced to the U.S. market. Today, a network of over 260 Audi dealers currently offers a line of premium vehicles that include the Audi A3 compact; the sporty A4 sedan, Avant and Cabriolet models; the high performance S4 sedan, Avant and Cabriolet models; the high-revving RS 4 sports sedan; the design-leading A6 sedan and Avant; the all-new Audi Q7 performance SUV; and the all-aluminum Audi A8; and the new V10-powered S6 and S8 performance sedans.

Audi A6 and A6 Avant: Attractive equipment packages

There are two new packages available for the Audi A6 and A6 Avant luxury-class models offering particularly popular equipment at attractive prices.

The business package and the business package plus each provide savings of up to 28 percent on the price of ordering the items they contain individually.

Safety and comfort are provided in equal measure by the business package: powerful xenon plus headlights, cruise control, the Audi parking system, the four-spoke leather multifunction steering wheel, front centre armrest, heated front seats and the lighting package are all included in the total price of €1,380 (for the 4.2 FSI quattro) or €1,950 (for four-cylinder and six-cylinder models).

The business package plus, costing €1,940 (4.2 FSI quattro) or €2,250 (four-cylinder and six-cylinder models) combines particularly exclusive equipment: in this package, A6 customers receive the navigation system with MMI basic plus, the driver information system with colour display, the Bluetooth mobile phone preparation including centre armrest and deluxe automatic air conditioning plus.

The saving made here is again almost 25 percent.

Ferrari at the Techno-Classica 2007

Ferrari will be represented at the Techno-Classica 2007 by a stand dedicated entirely to Ferrari Classiche, a specialist division set up in Maranello to provide owners of historic Prancing Horse cars with restoration, maintenance, and assistance services. The Ferrari Classiche division also issues Authenticity Certificates.

Based in the original old factory building, Ferrari Classiche opened its doors in the summer of 2006 and has since become a major player in the protection of the unique Ferrari heritage. In fact, it has already received 496 certification requests (308 of which have already been issued) and has restored a total of 84 at its workshop (this included 12 complete restorations).

Ferrari Classiche’s plans for the future include a wider presence across the world, starting with Europe and North America. In fact, the intention is to have a total of 17 Ferrari Classic Certification Centres opened by the end of the year.

Since Ferrari’s earliest days, its cars have enjoyed cult status and have been eagerly sought after by collectors the world over. This is why one of the main functions of the Ferrari Classiche Division is to issue Certificates of Authenticity to road-going Ferraris of 20 years old and over as well as to all Prancing Horse competition cars, including Formula 1 single-seaters, regardless of the year they were built. The certification document officially attests to the cars’ authenticity and also provides a further guarantee for buyers should the certified vehicles ever be sold on.

During the certification process, the cars undergo a very careful inspection in the Ferrari Classiche division in Maranello or at specially authorised centres throughout the world. Using Ferrari’s extensive historic archive, a special committee of experts known as COCER (Certification Committee) chaired by Vice president of Ferrari SpA, Piero Ferrari will evaluate the technical characteristics of each individual car put forward for certification. The technical examination of the car is the most important step in the process as it reveals whether the car is fully functioning, and whether its chassis, engine, gearbox, transmission, suspension, brakes, wheels, bodywork and interiors are original or at least comply with the original specifications.

If any non-original mechanical parts are discovered, the car may still be restored to its original authentic condition as Ferrari Classiche can, on request, supply spares conforming to the original specifications and manufactured using the original designs and specialist machinery either directly at Ferrari or by its official suppliers.

The manufacture and supply of original components is all a part of Ferrari Classiche’s renovation and maintenance work where the aim is always to save the Prancing Horse’s historic models.

The fact that Ferrari Classiche’s services provide exceptional satisfaction to our clients is clear from the fact that increasing numbers of owners opt to travel to the division headquarters in Maranello to pick up their restored cars personally. The long list of messages of appreciation for our dedicated technicians’ highly professional work, left by clients in the client comments book at Ferrari Classiche, also speaks for itself.

Ferrari will also be organising a wide range of activities and events for classic cars for 2007. The Shell Ferrari Historic Challenge Europe and North America will be staged once again. Last year there was an average of 80 cars participating during the 10 rounds held throughout the season. The weekend of March 31st to April 1st marks the start of the European series at Mugello as part of the 1st Mugello Historic Festival.

Ferrari will then pay homage to the Mille Miglia on 17th – 19th May with the original 315 S in which Piero Taruffi won the very last edition of the legendary Italian race in 1957.

The Ferrari Legend and Passion auction organised by RM Auctions in collaboration with Sotheby’s takes place on May 20th in Maranello and will feature some of the most famous Prancing Horse models of all time, including a 340 MM (1953) and a 275 GTB4 (1966) in addition to a wide selection of memorabilia.

The finale of the Ferrari 60 Relay, which will have visited five continents en route to Maranello, will include the Concours d’Elegance Ferrari 60 on Sunday 24th of June at the Fiorano Circuit.

A total of 80 Grand Tourers (12-cylinders up to the early 1970s and special series) and Sports Prototypes will be competing for the Best of Show and other awards.

This event will be preceded by the Ferrari 60 Classic Tour which is being held on Friday June 22nd and will take participants along the route traditionally used by the Prancing Horse’s test drivers. There will also be an official parade of the cars competing with a public vote on Saturday June 23rd, once again at the Fiorano Circuit.

Accubuilt Introducing New Chrysler Interior at New York City Event

Accubuilt, Inc. will host an event on April 5th to introduce the new Dark Slate Gray interior now available in its W.P. Chrysler Executive Series 300 long-wheelbase Chrysler model. The new interior also features premium leather Seat trim as well as genuine California Walnut wood accents throughout. All livery operators in the Metro NYC-NJ-CT area will be formally invited but the event is open to all livery operators, regardless of location.

The event will take place at the Marriott LaGuardia Airport and will be held from 9:00 a.m. until approximately 1:00 p.m.

“We'll have 300s available to ride and drive and will be offering heavy snacks and refreshments (including adult beverages from 11:00 a.m. on) to all attendees. Attendees can come anytime in that time span and stay as long or as little as they want,” Accubuilt says. Accubuilt will also pay attendee's parking charges at the Marriott.

Accubuilt President Don Cuzzocrea will personally host the event and Chrysler fleet sales and Chrysler Financial personnel are scheduled to attend as well. They will answer questions about the car, its no charge 4 year/150,000 DaimlerChrysler extended service contract that covers 800+ components, and financing.

Toyota Avensis refreshed for spring 2007

Toyota is introducing some feature changes for the Avensis range this spring, most notably upgrading the standard satellite navigation on T3-S, T4, T Spirit and T180 grades from a turn-by-turn to a full-map, touch-screen system.

Planning and following your route is made easier than ever thanks to enhanced graphics displayed on a 6.5-inch LCD monitor with 32,000-colour fine resolution map. Landmark buildings are shown in 3D effect and a city and motorway lane guidance function helps ensure you move to the right lane at the right time at complex intersections.

Programming is made simpler, too, with touch-screen controls and a voice recognition function for address searches.

Thanks to Traffic Message Channel (TMC) monitoring and Dynamic Route Guidance (DRG), the system obtains early alerts to any delays on a programmed route and will automatically offer the driver an alternative, if desired. It also provides an anticipated arrival time at your destination.

The more sophisticated navigation pack, available now, also provides a more versatile sound system, which can play MP3 and WMA digital music files stored on disc.

Further changes to the Toyota Avensis range include a new-design of alloy wheel for the T3-S and T3-X 1.8 VVT-i, 2.0 D-4D and 2.2 D-4D models, with wheel size on the D-4D versions increased from 16 to 17 inches.

A new fabric upholstery exclusive to the T3-x and T4 has been introduced, with a new stone leather interior newly available as an option on T Spirit models. For the exterior, Venetian Silver metallic joins the colour range available on T4, T Spirit and T180 grades, with Silver Steel metallic now offered on T2, T3-S and T3-X grades.

Hyundai Tucson Xenith Limited Edition

As spring approaches Hyundai has added a new luxury special edition to its highly successful Tucson SUV range. The Tucson CDX already features a high level of standard equipment, such as; full leather interior, heated front seats, ABS with EBD, remote locking with alarm and air conditioning with climate control, to name a few.

The Hyundai Tucson Xenith is available in black or silver and is a 6-speed, 2.0 CRTD (Common rail turbo diesel) 4WD manual. The Tucson Xenith includes all the specification of the best-selling Tucson CDX model plus more than £3000 of added specification upgrades.

The New Hyundai Tucson Xenith includes:

• Colour coded side mouldings and bumpers
• Rear privacy glass
• Two tone leather and Alcantara upholstery
• Alcantara covered instrument cluster surround, gear gaiter, steering wheel, handbrake, armrest, door pull linings and door inserts
• Birds eye black maple wood effect trim on dashboard, console and door pulls
• Leather and alloy sports gear knob
• Luxury stainless steel embossed door entry guards
• Aluminium sports pedal trims
• 19” multi spoke alloy wheels with polished rims

Priced at £20,670 OTR this highly equipped model is in the showrooms now with the remit to provide customers with class leading value and exceptional specification.

As with all Hyundai vehicles a comprehensive support package goes hand in hand with any new purchase from the range. The package includes three-years’ RAC assistance cover, six year anti-perforation warranty and the industry leading, range-wide, five year unlimited mileage warranty.

Chinese Flybo Electric Car Coming to America

EASTON, Pa. — Wuzheng North America, which recently made headlines by bringing in China-made pickup trucks, has made a deal with another Chinese company, to sell electric vehicles here.

The Jinan Flybo Motor Company's flagship is called the XFD-6000ZK. The name is almost longer than the vehicle, which measures 102.3 inches long on a 71-inch wheelbase and looks similar to the Smart from certain angles. Top speed is 45 mph (with the 25-mph limiter removed), and it has a range of 70 miles on a charge. Classified as a Neighborhood Electric Vehicle (NEV), the XFD-6000ZK is "100 percent legal for on-road use," the company says. It and two lower-end electric cars — yes, there are lower-end models — are powered by a 48V electric motor. MSRP on the XFD-6000ZK is $12,950. Complete details are available at the Flybo Web site.

Jinan Flybo Motor is a subsidiary of Shandong Pioneer of the China Qingqi Group, the oldest and biggest motorcycle manufacturer in China. Qingqi was the first local partner of Suzuki back in the 1980s.

2007 Callaway C16 Cabrio based on Chevrolet Corvette

(from Callaway Cars Press Release) CALLAWAY C16 CABRIO MAKES WORLD DEBUT AT 2007 NEW YORK AUTO SHOW

World-Class Supercar Performance, Now Available as Convertible

Callaway Cars today announced it will unveil the C16 Cabrio, the company’s convertible variant of the limited production C16 supercar, at the New York International Auto Show.

Callaway engineers integrated powertrain, brakes and suspension enhancements into the current Chevrolet Corvette platform, giving driving enthusiasts the opportunity to experience ultra-high performance levels in a convertible body style. Six-speed manual or paddle-shift automatic transmissions are available with either standard 560 or optional 616 horsepower engines.

The C16 Cabrio, like the C16 Coupe, was drawn and modeled by designer Paul Deutschman who has a twenty-year portfolio of Callaway designs. Architect of the “Callaway Look” – from its 254 mph Sledgehammer and Le Mans race cars to the current C16 models – Paul has created a stunning new design while retaining unmistakable Callaway lineage.

“With this car, we’ve maintained the C16’s class-leading performance, while creating a gorgeous ‘Cabrio’ version, based on one of the best sports car platforms available anywhere,” says company founder Reeves Callaway. “In true Callaway tradition, it incorporates our race-proven technologies, painstaking testing and validation efforts, and expert craftsmanship in an arresting and appealing style.”

The C16’s Callaway-supercharged 6.0L engine provides world-class power, producing 560 bhp at 6,200 rpm and 529 lb-ft of torque at 4,750 rpm. The optional 616 HP Performance Package raises the bar to 616 bhp and 582 lb-ft of torque, propelling the paddle-shifted Cabrio from 0-to-60 in 3.5 seconds. Quarter-mile acceleration tests consistently record low 11-second elapsed times. Maximum speed of the C16 Cabrio is estimated at just over 200 mph. Equally impressive is its fuel efficiency rating of 18 city/28 highway. Callaway’s warranty covers the equipment for 5 years or 100,000 miles.

Inside the C16 cockpit, door sill panels, dash pad, and steering wheel are upgraded and carry signature Callaway badging. The optional “Deutschleder” package completely retools the interior in fine German leather and Alcantara, featuring seats manufactured for Callaway by Recaro. Clients choose exterior and interior colors to suit individual taste. Each C16 Cabrio is built to order, serialized and identified by its build plaque.

The handling precision of the C16 is courtesy of the newly developed Callaway/Eibach Multi-Pro coil-over suspension. This joint development effort produced an advanced spring/damper system, featuring 10-position compression and rebound adjustability, allowing the driver to customize settings for specific track or road conditions. The sophisticated design provides excellent response while avoiding racecar-like rough ride characteristics.

To bring the Callaway C16 Cabrio from 200+ mph to rest, and to help negotiate the tightest tracks, the C16 utilizes a StopTech brake system engineered to Callaway specifications including 6-piston front and 4-piston rear calipers gripping 355mm x 32 mm rotors.

Callaway/Dymag wheels weigh approximately half that of their aluminum counterparts, providing significantly reduced unsprung weight for improved acceleration, cornering and braking. These TUV- and DOT-certified wheels feature forged magnesium spiders surrounded by durable carbon fiber rims and measure 19” by 10” front and 20” by 12” rear. Another of Callaway’s technology partners, Yokohama Tire, developed their “AdvanSport” specifically for the C16 in 285/30ZR19 front and 325/25ZR20 rear sizes.

Pricing for the C16 Cabrio starts at $128,765 USD. Callaway C16 components are also available individually for 2005 - 2007 Corvettes through Callaway authorized retailers and installers.

Callaway C16 Cabrios are built by Callaway facilities in California, Connecticut, and Germany and are available to purchase exclusively through Callaway Cars’ authorized dealer network. For additional information on Callaway Cars, its automobiles and dealer locations, call 860-434-9002 or visit www.callawaycars.com

2007 Callaway C16 based on Chevrolet Corvette

(from Callaway Cars Press Release) STUNNING CALLAWAY C16 MAKES WORLD DEBUT AT 2007 GREATER LOS ANGELES AUTO SHOW

First Look at Callaway Cars’ Newest Statement of “Powerfully Engineered Automobiles”

Callaway Cars today unveiled its Callaway C16 – the 16th in an impressive lineup of exclusive, built-to-order Callaway automobiles. Based on the current Chevrolet Corvette platform, the C16 takes performance and style to the next level, with 616 supercharged bhp and 582 lb-ft of torque. The new sports car incorporates Callaway’s race-proven technologies, superlative craftsmanship and arresting style.

“The C16 says exactly what we want to say about the capabilities at Callaway Cars: It’s gorgeous, it has class-leading performance—and it’s a true daily driver based on one of the best sports car platforms ever made,” says company founder Reeves Callaway.

The C16 was drawn and modeled by designer Paul Deutschman, who has a twenty-year portfolio of Callaway designs. “He is the architect of the Callaway look—from the 254 mph Sledgehammer and our C4-based Le Mans race cars to the C7, the C12 and now the C16,” says Callaway. The car’s handcrafted bodywork replaces every panel of the standard body to achieve its integrated look. The C16 also attains a new level of manufacturing efficiency. “In making this car we went from CAD design straight to tooling, bypassing a full-sized model—a first for us,” says Callaway. “It’s tools like PTC’s Pro/ENGINEER software, our technology partner, that make such efficient car design possible.”

The Callaway supercharged 6.0-liter LS2 V8 produces an impressive 616 bhp at 6,200 rpm and develops 582 lb-ft of torque at 4,750 rpm. The Callaway C16 does 0 to 60 in 3.3-seconds, and a quarter mile in 10.9 seconds. Top speed of the manual transmission coupe is 206 mph. Equally impressive is its fuel efficiency rating of 18 city/28 highway. It is emission compliant worldwide.

Yokohama “AdvanSport” 295/30ZR19 (front) and 345/25ZR20 (rear) tires complete the package. “The secret to this level of road-holding starts with the tire,” says Callaway. “As a specialist manufacturer, we are honored to have Yokohama as our exclusive tire partner, which gives us access to technology that results in our extraordinary performance numbers.”

The car’s excellent handling and ride feel are courtesy of the newly developed Callaway/Eibach Multi-Pro coil-over suspension. This advanced spring/damper system features ride height, corner weight, and pitch angle adjustability. The aluminum-bodied dampers feature 10-click-position compression and rebound adjustability and have remote mounted reservoirs, allowing the driver to control a range of ride stiffness settings for track or road.

Inside, the C16 cockpit is completely retooled in German leather and Alcantara. Also fitted are Recaro Pole Position seats with a choice of harnessing styles. Door sill panels, steering wheel and passenger dash area also carry signature Callaway badging. Each automobile is serialized and identified by its build plaque. C16s are built to order. Clients choose body color and interior appointments to individual taste.

The C16’s Callaway exhaust system is manufactured from stainless steel and features Callaway’s signature Double-D exhaust tip design. As demonstrated by the car’s horsepower throughput, the exhaust system is the least restrictive and is generally known as the best-sounding solution for C5- and C6-generation Corvettes.

To bring the Callaway C16 from 200+ mph to rest, Callaway 6-piston front and 4-piston rear calipers grip 355mm diameter rotors. Super-lightweight Callaway Dymag wheels, the lightest road wheel in the industry, are fitted in sizes 19-inch x 10 front and 20-inch x 12 rear. The Dymag wheel features a remarkable hybrid of forged magnesium centers surrounded by carbon fiber rims - another example of Callaway bringing their race experience to their road cars. Dymag has been supplying advanced road wheels to Callaway since 1986.

There are three transmission options on the Callaway C16: two 6-speed manual transmissions (one incorporating the Z51 Performance Package’s shorter ratios in the first four gears), or a 6-speed automatic with paddle shift. The Callaway C16 delivers the feeling of a fully integrated driver’s car, maintaining the company’s legendary hallmark of easy-to-drive, super high-performance road cars.

Callaway C16 automobiles are built by Callaway facilities in California, Connecticut, and Germany. The Callaway C16 is available exclusively through Callaway Cars’ authorized dealer network in North America, Callaway Competition in Leingarten, Germany, and CorvetteTotal, Bonstetten, Switzerland.

Pricing for a fully loaded C16 coupe is $126,685 USD.

All Callaway C16 components are available individually, for both new and currently owned Corvettes, through Callaway authorized retailers and installers.

IL Insider: Chevy Mulls Reviving "Nomad" Name for New Crossover Vehicle

DETROIT — Industry sources tell Inside Line that a Lambda-based Chevrolet crossover vehicle in the works for the 2009 model year may be called "Nomad," reviving a storied nameplate that dates back to the 1950s.

The Nomad name would be resurrected and used on a new crossover that would be a sibling to the 2007 GMC Acadia. The upcoming Chevrolet crossover will be a seven-seater with unibody construction that will replace the slow-selling Chevrolet Uplander. Sources say Chevrolet is convinced that returning to retro names — although not to retro styling — is the way to win consumers. It's similar to a trend that is in vogue with other domestic manufacturers, including Ford, which recently revived the Taurus name.

Nomad originally was used on a Chevrolet station wagon, most notably in its two-door form that was on the market from 1955-'57. That landmark Chevrolet Nomad was styled more like a hardtop than a station wagon and could arguably be described as a kind of primitive "crossover." The Nomad design was an offshoot of a 1954 GM Motorama show car of the same name that was based on the Corvette. Chevrolet also revived the Nomad name on a 2004 concept vehicle off the Kappa platform that featured a removable rear roof panel and a folding tailgate.

Production Version of Ford Fairlane To Be Christened "Flex"

DEARBORN, Mich. — The Ford Motor Company will take the wraps off the boxy full-size crossover vehicle called Flex that it plans to launch next year at the upcoming New York auto show. The Flex is the production version of Ford's 2005 Fairlane concept.

The Flex is due to hit showrooms in late summer of 2008 as a 2009 model, although industry sources tell Inside Line that the company may try to get the vehicle to market sooner. The Flex will be built in Oakville, Ontario, and will range in price from $27,995 for a base model to about $40,000 for a top-of-the-line model. The Flex will use Ford's all-purpose 3.5-liter V6. Horsepower is expected to be around 265. The Flex is larger than the Ford Edge and shares a platform with the Five Hundred sedan.

A Lincoln version of the new crossover, with a 3.7-liter V6, is also in the works. It will differ from the Flex in terms of styling, with a much curvier exterior than its boxy counterpart. It also will be build in Oakville. Sources tell Inside Line that the automaker will likely stick with an alphanumeric nameplate, possibly MK-F.

It is not clear if the production version of the Flex will retain the Fairlane's signature center-opening clamshell doors.

Opel Tigra TwinTop Now Wears Mango Fashion

Opel and the Spanish fashion brand Mango have signed an agreement to launch a joint advertising campaign across Europe from this spring. The cooperation between the two firms promotes the two-seat Tigra TwinTop cabrio and the current Mango collection. “Every street is a catwalk, and that goes for people and their clothes as well as for cars,” says Olivier Danan, Director Marketing Communication for Opel, explaining the concept behind the cooperation. “Today more than ever before, cars are also considered chic accessories that have to fit an overall stylish look.”

Ever since its launch two and a half years ago, the Opel Tigra TwinTop has been mainly aimed towards stylish, trend-conscience young women. “Our target groups are the same as Mango’s, so it made good sense to jointly promote our products’ attractiveness,” said Olivier Danan.

The campaign includes different actions in each market, like contests, catwalk during a motor show with special ladies day, special day shopping in Paris or a sweepstake to win a shopping voucher.

For the advertising initiative, Opel will use models dressed in Mango fashions to promote the Tigra TwinTop both on the Internet, in newspapers and magazines. Other country-specific opportunities in Europe are also being explored.

The sporty two-seater with electro-hydraulic retractable steel roof is available in Germany from 17,983 euros. Buyers who wish to combine open-air driving in the Opel Tigra TwinTop with very low CO₂ emissions can choose the 1.3 CDTI ECOTEC engine, which emits just 124 g/km.

Mazda Ryuga Concept at the 2007 Shanghai International Motor Show

Mazda will showcase the Asian premiere of the Mazda Ryuga, the second concept car to arise from the "Nagare" (flow) design theme at the 2007 Shanghai International Motor Show to be held from Friday, April 20 through Saturday, April 28 2007.

Also on show will be the new generation Mazda2 (European spec) which made its world debut to great acclaim at the Geneva International Motor Show in early March 2007; the Mazda RX-8 Hydrogen RE equipped with Mazda's unique hydrogen rotary engine; the Mazda5 (known as the Mazda Premacy in Japan); and the Mazda CX-7. Including these reference exhibits, a total of 14 vehicles comprising 11 different models will be displayed to help spread Mazda's Zoom-Zoom brand message.

Officially titled Auto Shanghai 2007, the press days are April 20 and 21, and the public days are April 22 through 28.

Vehicles to be displayed

Concept vehicle	Mazda Ryuga
Reference vehicles	Mazda2
	Mazda5
	Mazda CX-7
	Mazda3 MPS
	Mazda RX-8 Hydrogen RE
Technical exhibits	MZR 2.3L DISI Turbo engine cut model
	RENESIS engine cut model
	RENESIS Hydrogen rotary engine cut model
Vehicles currently on sale in China	Mazda3 (sedan), Mazda6 (sedan, 5-door hatchback, wagon), Mazda RX-8

The Dangerous Ten

Jeremy Clarkson selected the ten most exciting/fastest cars he has ever thrown around a track...

10: Noble M12 GT0-3R 170mph

"In a world obsessed with image, you can’t beat a Porsche. But in a world obsessed with time, a Porsche is a library. A TVR is the internet. And the Noble is broadband"

9: Aston Martin V8 Vantage 175mph. £51,500.

"Thanks to heavy steering, heavy brakes and a heavy six-speed manual gearbox, they’ve made the syllabub-light body feel like a meat pie. The 911 is for nancy boy racing drivers. The Aston’s for gentleman thugs"

8: Chevrolet Corvette C6 180mph. £52,595.

"This car has a head-up display, just like you get in an F-16 fighter. It’s fantastic. Whole bus queues are hidden behind the digital speed read-out, which is going to make for some wonderful insurance claims"

7: Vauxhall Monaro VXR 185mph. £36,995.

"Think of it as an Aussie from the outback. Maybe he can’t quote Shakespeare. Maybe he’s never heard of Terence Conran. But he can smash all the teeth clean out of your mouth with a single punch. That's the Monaro"

6: Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder 190mph. £115,000.

"So why, you may be wondering, am I so fond of this car? I’ll tell you why. Because it’s got orange seats. And because it is so pretty. And because when you go above 3500rpm it makes a noise like a punctured sumo wrestler. And because you sit so far forwards you feel like you’re on the nose of some giant, snarling power-crazed animal"

5: Lamborghini Gallardo 192mph. £115,000

"It changes direction like a fly, grips like a barnacle and goes like a jet fighter on combat power. At one point I saw 175mph on the clock and there was plenty more where that came from"

4: BMW M5 204mph. £61,760.

"Eventually I relocated Bob Seger but unfortunately I was approaching a roundabout and the sat nav woman had decided I was an idiot. So she told me to go straight over and then repeated herself and then repeated it again. And by the time she’d shut up Bob had been replaced with a miserable sounding girl called Dildo"

3: Porsche Carrera GT 205mph. £330,000

"I’ve been in some pretty fast machinery over the years, but nothing prepared me for the neck-snapping, spleen-bursting, hammer blow explosion of power that came the first time I floored the Carrera’s throttle"

2: Koenigsegg CCX 250mph £368,700

"The noise is hard to explain. There’s a lot of it, and in some ways it sounds like an amplified version of that sound you make when you hit the brakes at 193mph. A sort of AAAAAAAARGH"
1: Bugatti Veyron 16.4 253mph £810,345

"On a recent drive across Europe I desperately wanted to reach the top speed but I ran out of road when the needle hit 240mph. Where, astonishingly, it felt planted. Totally and utterly rock steady. It felt sublime.

Not quiet, though. The engine sounds like Victorian plumbing — it looks like Victorian plumbing as well, to be honest — and the roar from the tyres was biblical. But it still felt brilliant. Utterly, stunningly, mind blowingly, jaw droppingly brilliant"

What would your top ten be?

The BRABUS Sport Program for the New C-Clas

PRESS RELEASE:
The BRABUS Sport Program for the New C-Class

Concurrent with the market introduction of the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class BRABUS presents an exclusive sport program for the new sedan.

Highlights of the product lineup are the BRABUS 4.0 displacement engine with 332 hp / 244 kW for the V6 gasoline models, an elegant aerodynamic-enhancement program, light-alloy wheels with 20-inch diameter and corresponding suspensions, plus numerous individual interior options.

BRABUS is world-renowned for its powerful yet clean-burning displacement engines,
lubricated exclusively with ARAL motor oil. All tuning components and conversions are backed by the one-of-a-kind BRABUS Tuning Warranty? of three years up to 100,000 kilometers (see BRABUS warranty conditions as of June 2003).

For the new C 280 and C 350 models BRABUS offers its BRABUS 4.0 engine. By installing a special crankshaft and larger pistons displacement is increased to 4.0 liters. Additionally the four-valve cylinder heads are optimized for gas flow, and fitted with special camshafts. The conversion further includes a stainless-steel high-performance exhaust system with metal catalysts, and newly programmed engine electronics.

The impressive results of the conversion are a maximum power output of 332 hp / 244 kW and a peak torque of 420 Nm at 4,200 rpm. Thus equipped, the four-door delivers excellent performance: Just 5.9 seconds pass from 0 - 100 km/h, top speed is 275 km/h in combination with the BRABUS Vmax-Unit.

For the CDI models of the new C-Class BRABUS offers its PowerXtra performance kits. The list starts with the D2 (III) kit that increases power output of the C 200 CDI by 39 hp / 28.7 hp, and bumps peak torque to 385 Nm. The C 220 CDI with BRABUS D3 (III) kit delivers 195 hp / 143 kW of power and 450 Nm of peak torque. For the top-of-the-line turbodiesel model C 320 CDI there is the D6 (III) power kit. It delivers 48 hp / 35.3 kW of additional power and a peak torque of 590 Nm, turning the new C-Class into one of the world's sportiest diesel- powered cars with a 0 ? 100 km/h time of just 6.9 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h.

BRABUS stainless-steel quad sport exhaust systems are available for all engine variants.

More dynamics for the new C-Class also come from custom-tailored BRABUS tire/wheel
combinations with diameters of 17, 18, 19 and 20 inches and corresponding BRABUS sport
suspensions, lowering kits and sport sway bars. The largest wheels for the new C-Class are
BRABUS Monoblock VI, E and S light-alloy wheels in size 9Jx20 front and back, fitted with
tires is sizes 235/30 ZR 20 in front and 265/25 ZR 20 on the rear axle.

BRABUS high-performance brake systems are available for the W 204 model series in two
versions and offer maximum stopping power and endurance.

The BRABUS design team also went into the wind tunnel to develop aerodynamic-
enhancement components that not only look great but also offer maximum aerodynamic
efficiency. All parts are manufactured from high-quality PUR-Rim in OEM quality.

The sporty styled BRABUS front spoiler lends the C-Class a more characteristic appearance
with its generously dimensioned air inlets for improved supply of cooling air for radiators and
front brakes. It also minimizes lift on the front axle, thus improving directional stability at high
speeds. Four integrated auxiliary headlights further optimize active safety. BRABUS offers a
three-piece rear spoiler that serves as its aerodynamic counterpart in the rear.

Strikingly styled BRABUS rocker panels create perfect aerodynamic transitions between front
and rear wheel arches. The panels are optionally available with integrated LED entrance
lights. For the outside mirrors BRABUS offers custom-tailored carbon-fiber covers.

The new BRABUS rear apron with one cutout left and right for the sport exhaust rounds out
the exclusive appearance.

BRABUS also enjoys a great reputation worldwide for exclusive interior design: For the new
C-Class the company-own upholstery shop handcrafts exclusive interiors from especially soft
and breathable BRABUS Mastik leather and Alcantara with utmost precision. The BRABUS
program also includes a wide array of individual accessories for the interior. The lineup
ranges from an ergonomically shaped sport steering wheel to aluminum foot pedals and 330-
km/h speedometer to stainless-steel door sills with illuminated BRABUS logo to precious-
wood and carbon-fiber trim sets.

Citroen's code cracker: C2 Code special edition

Citroën has taken its lively 125bhp C2 1.6i 16V VTS supermini and enhanced it with a luxurious full leather interior, sporty exterior styling touches and an exclusive paint job to create the new, high performance C2 Code special edition – all for a cracking £10,545.

Sporting a unique athletic look, complete with a full-length roof stripe, a chrome exhaust pipe and Smart 16” alloys, Citroën’s C2 Code stands out from the crowd whether dressed in the striking new iron grey pearlescent paint work or a dynamic black look. What is more, the cost of these colours is included in the price.

On the inside the C2 Code really sets itself apart from other small hot hatches – the sports-style, bolstered seats and door panels are coated with a rich new leather trim, while the front occupants benefit from the added luxury of heated seats. A sparkling aluminum gear knob hints at the performance credentials of this hot hatch, whilst added practicality is provided by the independently sliding and folding split rear Seat design.

The quick and refined 1.6i 16V engine reinforces the sporty vibe. A 0 to 62mph time of a little over eight seconds and a top speed of 126mph combine with a frugal 41mpg on the combined cycle and a recommended retail price of just £10,545 to give the Citroën C2 Code one of the best pound v performance ratios on the road.

Despite its lower list price, and the addition of those Smart interior and exterior touches, the C2 Code offers the same standard equipment as the VTS, which last year accounted for around 15% of all C2 sales. The kit list includes air conditioning, electric one-touch front windows, ESP, four airbags, an anti-theft alarm and fog lights.

All-new Infiniti G37 coupe debuts at New York Auto Show

The all-new 2008 Infiniti G37 Coupe, which makes its world debut at the 2007 New York International Auto Show, combines the exhilarating performance, stunning styling and modern, sporty interior of the original Infiniti G Coupe and accelerates each to new levels. Among the key enhancements to the new second-generation G Coupe are a larger, more powerful 3.7-litre V6 engine, available advanced 4-Wheel Active Steer system, a dramatic new exterior design and a refined interior with intuitive, integrated technology. The Infiniti G37 Coupe joins the recently introduced, all-new 2007 Infiniti G35 Sedan in Infiniti showrooms nationwide in August.

“The new Infiniti G35 Sedan, which has been named to both Car and Driver’s ‘10 Best Cars’ and
Automobile magazine’s ‘All-Stars’ list, has set the stage for the introduction of the new Infiniti G37 Coupe,” said Mark Igo, vice president and general manager, Infiniti Division. “The new Coupe builds on the styling, performance and interior enhancements of the G Sedan, adding the dynamic style, sporty atmosphere and expressive driving character expected of a class-leading luxury sport coupe. The line starts here.”

Exhilarating Performance From a New Engine Design

Leading the enhancements to the 2008 Infiniti G37 Coupe is the first-ever application of the new 3.7-litre V6 engine with VVEL (for Variable Valve Event and Lift).

Estimated at 330 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque, the new “VQ37VHR” contains approximately 35 percent new and unique parts from the new VQ35HR engine introduced in the 2007 Infiniti G35 Sedan just last year. Both the Coupe’s VQ37VHR and the Sedan’s VQ35HR engines are based on the award-winning VQ engine series, named one of the “Ten Best Engines” by Ward’s Auto World magazine for 13 consecutive years.

Along with utilising a larger displacement than the previous 3.5-litre powerplant, the Infiniti G37 Coupe’s new VVEL system combines hydraulic-controlled variable valve timing and electronically controlled variable valve lift on the intake side to help improve performance and response. The VVEL system is also expected to improve emissions and fuel efficiency. The VVEL intake camshafts, featuring continuously variable lift control teamed with the Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System (CVTCS), allow for a 7,500 rpm redline.

The engine also features increased cylinder block height (from the previous 3.5-litre design), ladder frame construction for greater rigidity, large crank journal and pin diameters, asymmetric piston skirts, twin knock sensors, an electronically controlled “drive-by-wire” throttle system, molybdenum coated lightweight pistons, Iridium spark plugs and a symmetric twin air intake system.

A new, specially tuned dual exhaust system has been designed with equal length exhaust manifolds and low muffler exhaust backpressure to help improve engine breathing. Both intake and exhaust enhance driving pleasure with their authentic performance notes.

Rated at an estimated 330 horsepower, the new engine is not only considerably more powerful than the previous generation G Coupe (rated at 275 hp with 5AT, 293 hp with 6MT), but is expected to offer increased fuel mileage and reduced emissions levels. Overall vehicle fuel economy improvements are estimated to be nearly one mpg better than the G35 Sedan and nearly two mpg better than the previous generation G35 Coupe (actual EPA mileage estimates and emission information to be announced at a later date).

“The new 3.7-litre V6 is a true powerhouse – becoming more enjoyable as you drive it,” said Igo. “And, this powerplant also features Infiniti’s trademark “Swell” acceleration – introduced on the new G Sedan last year – with special tuning that builds horsepower almost continually to the redline like a building wave.”

The Infiniti G37 Coupe engine is backed by a choice of an upgraded electronically controlled 5-speed automatic transmission with manual mode, downshift rev matching, DS mode and ASC (Adaptive Shift Control) that allows for quicker shifts in sporty driving situations and available genuine magnesium paddle shifters; or a newly revised, lightweight 6-speed manual transmission.

Performance Platform and Suspension

Developed at test circuits throughout Europe – including the famed Nürburgring – the G37 Coupe was conceived as a performance thoroughbred. Handling and ride performance increases come from the G37 Coupe’s enhanced FM (Front Mid-ship) platform, which has been stiffened 36% from the previous generation, is lower in overall height and has a wider front and rear track width.

The G37 Coupe’s 4-wheel independent suspension design features lightweight aluminium components and large front and rear stabiliser bars, increased spring rates and optimised suspension damping.

The front suspension is a double-wishbone design, with a single pivot lower wishbone and a long upper link. The multi-link rear suspension separates the shock absorbers and springs, locating the shock absorber inline with the wheel centre. These designs help minimise alignment changes and reduce suspension friction for nimble handling and smooth riding characteristics.

Steering is provided by a twin-orifice vehicle-speed-sensing design, which provides optimum steering effort at both high and low vehicle speeds. Standard on all G37 Coupes is Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), which assists in enhancing vehicle stability under a variety of driving conditions.

Also available on the new G37 Coupe is Infiniti’s exclusive 4-Wheel Active Steer system (4WAS), with unique chassis configuration that features automatically variable front steering ratios and rear suspension geometry that adjusts to steering input and vehicle speed via motor-driven controls. The system’s electronic control unit calculates the desired vehicle dynamics from a series of sensors, including vehicle speed and steering angle, and separately directs both the front and rear actuators to change steering gear ratios and rear geometry by moving both the front steering gear and rear suspension lower links – thus providing sports car-like agility and secure stability.

Braking performance is provided by standard 4-wheel vented discs with 4-channel, 4-sensor Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA). The standard G37 Coupe adopts the “sport” braking system of the recently introduced G35 Sedan. The G37 Coupe Journey with Sport Package and G37 Coupe Sport 6MT are further enhanced with aluminium four-piston callipers (front)/two-piston callipers (rear) embossed with Infiniti lettering and large ventilated rotors – 14.0-inch front and 13.8-inch rear.

Also available on G37 Coupe is Infiniti’s Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC) with Preview Braking, which provides a precise following distance from the vehicle ahead. It also identifies sudden braking situations with laser sensors to determine distance and relative speed of the vehicle ahead in the same lane and “pre-pressurises” the Brake Assist system before the driver steps on the brake pedal.

A new 18-inch wheel and tyre package is standard on G37 Coupe, featuring a “split 5-spoke” 18x8-inch aluminium-alloy wheel design with P225/50VR18 all-season tyres. A new 10-spoke 19-inch wheel and tyre package, with lightweight cast aluminium wheels and high performance tyres, is also available. A Tyre Pressure Monitor System (TPMS) is standard on all 2008 G37 Coupes.

To enhance the already high level of dynamic performance, the G37 Coupe 6MT and G37 Coupe Journey with Sport Package come standard with unique sport suspension, a Viscous Limited Slip Differential (VLSD) and a new wheel and tyre package with 19x8.5-inch front wheels with 225/45WR19 front tyres and 19x9-inch rear wheels with 245/40WR19 rear tyres.

Seductive Styling

The G37 Coupe’s advanced performance systems are wrapped in an all-new seductive skin, giving the vehicle a kinetic feeling with emotional surface expression, sweeping character lines and tight panel gap lines.

“Compared with its predecessor, the G37 Coupe is longer, lower and wider – indicative of the power and technology of the vehicle,” said Igo.

Exterior highlights include flowing front fender curves, a wave-style hood, expressive front fascia with Infiniti’s signature double-arch grille and L-shaped High-Intensity Discharge (HID) bi-xenon headlights with integrated fog lamps. As with the new G35 Sedan, Infiniti developed a specialised production process for headlight installation to impart tight build tolerances and an exacting fit of the complex front fascia. The aluminium hood is secured by dual latches located at the two front corners to ensure an excellent fit.

The strong side character line and side sills integrate with the large wheel wells and the 18- or 19-inch performance-oriented wheel and tyre packages to transmit an added sense of power and vibrancy.

The rear of the G Coupe features broad rear fenders, flowing into the large LED taillights – an Infiniti trademark, refined rear bumper, integrated RearView Monitor camera (when equipped), rear underbody air diffusers and large dual exhaust outlets with chrome finishers.

An available rear spoiler gives the G37 Coupe zero rear lift, matching the standard zero-lift front aerodynamics.

The G37 Coupe Sport 6MT models and G37 Journey with Sport Package add an enhanced performance look, with a unique front fascia, special side sills and standard 19-inch aluminium-alloy wheels with high performance tyres.

Eight exterior colours, including two all-new colours, are offered.

Sophisticated, Luxurious Interior

The 2008 G37 Coupe interior design features sophisticated craftsmanship, with a cockpit-oriented front driver and passenger area, Infiniti signature “double wave” instrument panel design featuring the Infiniti-signature analogue clock and dramatic, full-length centre console with a leather and aluminium-clad shifter. Special aluminium-alloy interior trim, inspired by elegant, handmade Japanese Washi paper, is located across the instrument panel, on the centre console and on the door panels. Genuine African Rosewood trim is also available.

The instrument panel features Infiniti electroluminescent instrumentation with white-and-violet illumination and integrated multi-function information drive computer (average fuel consumption, real-time fuel economy, average speed, elapsed time, running distance, distance to empty, outside air temperature, warning displays, odometer and automatic transmission shift indicator) display.

Drivers grip a double hand-stitched leather-covered steering wheel, designed for maximum comfort and usability with wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls. Available genuine magnesium paddle shifters for the 5-speed automatic transmission fall readily to hand and add control (G37 Coupe Journey with Sport Package only).

The 8-way power driver and 4-way front passenger seats (8-way on G37 Coupe Journey, G37 Coupe Journey with Sport Package and G37 Coupe Sport 6MT model) are appointed with Infiniti’s exclusive premium leather and feature 2-way adjustable head restraints and a unique rear-seat access system, whereby the front seats will move forward automatically at the touch of a button to allow passengers into the rear seat.

The G37 Coupe Journey with Sport Package and G37 Coupe Sport 6MT add special 14-way sport-styled seats with thigh extensions and power adjustable torso and thigh bolsters for the driver, unique steering wheel stitching and high-grip aluminium pedals.

Technological and convenience features abound in the new G37 Coupe. Standard is the Infiniti Intelligent Key with push button ignition, Remote Keyless Entry system, a tilt/telescoping steering column with increased travel, illuminated glove compartment and automatic temperature control.

Also standard is a 6-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system with mp3 playback capability, Radio Data System (RDS) and centre console-mounted auxiliary input, as well as a 7-inch colour display.

Available is an 11-speaker Infiniti “Studio on Wheels”™ by Bose®, combining a 3-way front door speaker array using 10-inch woofers with an audiophile-quality head unit incorporating double oversampling 24-bit 96KHz Burr Brown® Digital Analogue Converters (DAC). Also available is a Bluetooth® hands-free phone system, new touch screen Infiniti Navigation System with available XM® NavTraffic™ real-time traffic information (subscription required), voice activation for navigation, audio and HVAC functions, and a 9.3-gigabyte Music Box hard drive with compact flash drive slot.

Three interior colour combinations are offered – Wheat, Graphite and Stone.

Safety Performance and Technology

Available on the new G37 Coupe is an Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS), which automatically controls the headlight lighting pattern according to steering angle and vehicle speed to help provide better visibility at night.

Standard on all G37 Coupes is an Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual-stage supplemental air bags with Seat belt sensors and occupant classification sensor, front-seat side-impact supplemental air bags and roof-mounted side-impact curtain air bags for front- and rear-seat occupant head protection.

Also standard are 3-point ALR/ELR Seat belts (driver’s side ELR only) and front Seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters and adjustable upper anchors, driver and front-passenger knee bolsters, front Seat Active Head Restraints and the LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system. Available as part of the Technology Package are brake-operated pre-crash Seat belts with motion sensor on the brake pedal.

The G37 Coupe features Zone Body Construction with front and rear crushable zones to help disperse crash energy around the passenger compartment. For occupant safety, the engine is designed to move under the occupant compartment in a high-speed frontal collision, while a breakaway construction of the propeller shaft (connected with the engine-drop function) and the double-wall construction of the bulkhead helps to minimise cabin deformation, especially in the lower leg area. In addition, the brake pedal is designed to collapse to help reduce lower leg injuries in a severe crash.

Three Well-Equipped Models

The 2008 Infiniti G37 Coupe is available in three models: G37 Coupe, G37 Coupe Journey and G37 Coupe Sport 6MT. In addition to the long list of standard features on all three models, several options and packages are available.

These include the Premium Package, with a power sliding glass moonroof, 11-speaker Infiniti “Studio on Wheels”™ by Bose® audio system with iPod connection, memory system (driver’s seat, steering wheel and outside mirrors) with synchronisation, power tilt and telescoping steering wheel, anti-glare rearview mirror with compass and HomeLink© Universal Transceiver, Bluetooth® hands-free phone system, and heated front seats and door mirrors.

Also offered is the Sport Package (available on G37 Journey model and standard on G37 Coupe Sport 6MT), which includes 19-inch wheels and tyres, Viscous Limited-Slip Differential (VLSD), sport-tuned suspension, sport brakes, unique front fascia and side sills, sport-styled seats and steering wheel stitching, aluminium pedals and paddle shifters (G37 Coupe Journey only).

The Infiniti Navigation Package adds an advanced navigation system with touch-screen capability, available XM® NavTraffic™ real-time traffic information (subscription required), voice activation for navigation, audio and HVAC functions and a 9.3-gigabyte Music Box hard drive with compact flash drive slot, and RearView Monitor. The Technology Package includes Infiniti Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC) with Preview Braking, Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS) and, available for the first time on G Coupe, a “Pre-Crash Seatbelt” system.

Also available is the Infiniti 4-Wheel Active Steer system; Performance Wheel and Tyre Package with 19-inch high performance tyres featuring lightweight cast aluminium-alloy wheels; Moonroof; Rear Spoiler; and African Rosewood interior trim.

“When the original G Coupe was introduced, it proved to the world that exhilarating sport coupe performance doesn’t have to come in a machine-like box,” said Igo. “This new G37 Coupe, which we’re proudly showing for the first time anywhere in New York, is pure G and pure Infiniti – and ready to take centre position on the world automotive stage.”