Driving Sports TV - Epic AWD Sport Sedan Shootout: Mitsubishi, Acura, Audi

The team compares three all-wheel drive sedans: the Audi S4, Mitsubishi Evolution MR and Acura TL with SH/-AWD. The three cars are then raced for time at the historic Maryhill Loops Road.

[VIDEO] 2013 Lexus GS 350 F Sport revealed ahead of SEMA

2013 Lexus GS 350 F Sport

VIDEO: Silverado Realtree | Concept Vehicle for 2011 SEMA Show

The Silverado Realtree Edition concept vehicle makes its debut at the 2011 SEMA Show in Las Vegas

VIDEO: 2012 BMW 3 series

The BMW 3-Series Sedan is the original in the compact sports sedan segment and over the years has come to symbolise the aesthetic appeal, dynamics and sporting capability of BMW. With its dynamic and elegant lines, the sixth model generation of the world's best-selling premium vehicle highlights the sporting character of the brand's mid-size model. Although the new BMW 3-Series has grown in all dimensions compared to itspredecessor, it retains a perfect balance of sportiness and elegance. As in previous generations, the sedan's dynamic proportions are shaped by the sweeping bonnet, short front overhang, long wheelbase and set-back greenhouse typical of BMW.

Striking front end with precise contours and multi-faceted surfaces

The wedge shape of the new 3-Series' silhouette and its wider track (+ 37/47 mm at the front/rear) underline the sporting appearance of the new BMW. By clearly accentuating the width of the car, the multi-faceted surfaces of the expressive front end give the BMW 3-Series a sportier face than ever. A wide, squat interpretation of the upright, slightly forward-slanting BMW kidney grille emphasises the stance of the new BMW 3-Series. LED accent lights positioned like eyebrows above the striking twin headlights with corona rings (if xenon headlights are specified) lend an extra intensity to the classic BMW focused look. The headlights now extend up to the frame of the kidney grille, merging the headlights and grille of the new BMW 3-Series Sedan into a single stylistic unit and adding further emphasis to the car's broad-set stance. The BMW 3-Series replaces the central air intake of its predecessor with two larger intakes, which are positioned underneath the headlights to the outer edges of the front end and add extra depth to the car's sporty styling. On the far left and right of the main ducts are small vertical intakes which help create the "Air Curtain". This new technology improves air flow around the front wheels, enhancing aerodynamic efficiency and reducing fuel consumption at higher speeds.

VIDEO: Three Row SUV Showdown

Although consumers turned their backs on the biggest SUVs in the wake of 2008's gas-price spike, they have come back to family haulers, but on a slightly smaller scale. We put seven of these to the test to see which could please our experts and our family with its combination of driving quality, features and family-friendliness.


We pitted seven of the largest SUVs against each other in our latest Shootout.

The seven contenders, in alphabetical order:
2012 Chevrolet Traverse
2012 Dodge Durango
2012 Ford Explorer
2012 Honda Pilot
2012 Kia Sorento
2011 Mazda CX-9
2011 Toyota Highlander

We researched the segment's major players, models such as the Honda Pilot and Chevrolet Traverse, and priced midlevel trims with family-friendly features. That brought us to roughly $37,000, so we asked automakers to give us models below the price that would best serve a family of four.

Ford officials said they were unable to lend us an Explorer because they were in the midst of their model-year changeover, but it's such a large player in the segment that we secured a brand-new 2012 Explorer from a broker. A Hyundai spokesman said the 2012 Veracruz was getting several updates and would not be available in time for our Shootout. Subaru said it did not have a suitable Tribeca available in its fleet.

Chevrolet to Produce Pure-Electric Version of the Spark, Sales Start in 2013 [with Video]

The development of the Chevrolet EN-V prototype wasn't the only electric vehicle-related news to come out of General Motors' Detroit headquarters today as the automaker also announced the launch of the Spark EV.

The pure-electric version of its Spark city car will be produced in limited numbers for select global and US markets, including California, starting from 2013.

“The Spark EV offers customers living in urban areas who have predictable driving patterns or short commutes an all-electric option”, said Chevrolet’s global vehicle chief engineer for electric vehicles Jim Federico.

“It complements Chevrolet’s growing range of electrified vehicles, including the Volt extended-range EV and the 2013 Malibu Eco with eAssist technology," he added.

The zero-emissions model will be powered by A123 Systems’ nanophosphate lithium-ion battery pack that was initially thought to have been created for the Cadillac Converj but was in fact developed for a new range of GM electric vehicles.

Naturally, the Spark EV is based on Chevy’s five-door hatchback that is already on sale in overseas markets.

As Federico explains, it will benefit from experience gained in GM’s experimental fleets in Shanghai (Sail EV), Korea (Cruze EV) and India (Beat/Spark EV): “Our global demo fleets continue to provide insight into the needs of electric vehicle customers. The Spark EV is another step in Chevrolet’s plan to provide customers with a variety of electrification solutions to address the lifestyle and transportation needs of people around the world.”

GM said that further details on specific markets, range, quantities and of course, pricing, will be announced at a later date.

VIDEO: CUE_ The Cadillac XTS' new Apple-like infotainment system

Natural voice recognition, fewer buttons, larger icons, greater customization
Central instrument panel features fully capacitive faceplate, vibrant 8-inch LCD touch screen with proximity sensing, multi-touch hand gestures
3.5 times more processing power than current systems

CUE will debut in 2012 in the Cadillac XTS and ATS luxury sedans and SRX luxury crossover. CUE is designed to be unique for each consumer, from the “simple user” to the fully connected “super user.”
“For the tech-savvy, it’s everything you want it to be – a full suite of infotainment, navigation and communication tools that keeps you fully connected. For the tech-averse, its power is remarkably simple, intuitive and accessible,” Butler said.

CUE, which stands for Cadillac User Experience, will pair entertainment and information data from up to 10 Bluetooth-enabled mobile devices, USBs, SD cards and MP3 players with a vehicle infotainment system that reduces complexity through customized information, natural voice commands and fewer buttons and larger icons

2012 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2011 Honda Accord, 2012 Hyundai Sonata - Comparison Test

Middle Class Acts: Can VW's Passat satisfy the mainstream without pandering to it? We bring along two 10Besters to find out.


2012 Volkswagen Passat 3.6 SEL vs. 2011 Honda Accord EX-L V6, 2012 Hyundai Sonata 2.0T Limited -Comparison Tests

[VIDEO] Lotus Exige S full promo released

Lotus said just before the German event that its facelifted version of the Exige S will have a new redesigned aggressive front fascia, and what better way to reveal this in the promo than placing it against a menacing looking boxer, which may have one out of two roles: symbolizing the Porsche Boxter or simply putting an accent on the aggressive front fascia of the Exige S.

Being presented at the Frankfurt Motor Show, the Exige S is powered by the same engine found on the Evora S, the 3.5 liter supercharged V6, delivering a total output of 345 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque, with a total weight of 1.080 kg or 2.376 lbs.

The “new” Lotus Exige S promo video can be watched below. Enjoy!

[VIDEO] 2012 Audi A6 commercial mocks US driving

After the Frankfurt Motor Show has ended, the major car manufacturers are moving their battle to a whole new ground in the marketing territory by releasing new commercials that put a smile on our face every time we see them, the latest example being the new generation of the Audi A6, where the German automaker has decided that mocking US driving would sell the model better.

The “Lord of the Rings” manufacturer has just released its newest commercial promoting the 2012 A6 model and saying that the United States are one of the worst place in the world for driving because of the damaged roads, distracted drivers and road signs that don’t make any sense so the “obvious” solution would be to buy the new Audi A6.

The German automaker had several attempts to introduce its new models on the North American market announcing after that that the vehicles won’t arrive there and changing its mind again, but it seems that one popular European model is already available for its future customers: the 2012 A6.

You can watch the video below. Enjoy!

[VIDEO] Skoda MissionL hits the road

After being officially presented at the Frankfurt Motor Show, the MissionL made by Skoda is finally hitting the road, proving that it’s a fully functional concept besides an attractive look of what is supposed to be a new low-cost sedan that will rival the cheap Dacia (Renault) Logan.

The Czech automaker still didn’t provide any details about the MissionL’s engine, performance, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, but the production version is expected to be powered by units under 1.6 liters in naturally aspirated forms, just like the “Romanian” car.

“This new compact model, along with other new products to follow, will enable us to accomplish our goal increasing global annuals sales to 1.5 million vehicles by 2018. We are going to present a new car approximately every six months over the next few years”, said the Skoda Board Chairman Winfried Vahland during the Frankfurt Motor Show MissionL unveiling.

The new Skoda low-cost vehicle is expected to be placed between the Fabia and the Octavia models and will be sold at first in markets like Russia, China and India, but the European version could have better quality materials and a larger cabin.

You can watch the Skoda MissionL Concept video on the road below. Enjoy!

[VIDEO] Frankfurt: Cadillac Ciel Concept revealed

After it was officially presented during the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in California, Cadillac decided to bring its Ciel Concept to an European audience at the Frankfurt Motor Show, representing the best of American design in the backyard of German automakers.

The Ciel is definitely a hot car and if Al Capone would still be alive he would have brought his crew and machine gun to Frankfurt just to steal it but considering the fact that those times are over expect to see it in rappers’ videos over-seas.

Cadillac says that the Ciel Concept is powered by a 3.5 liter, twin-turbo, V6 engine, delivering 425 horsepower and 583 Nm of torque (430 lb-ft), mated to a hybrid transmission powering the all-wheel drive system, making it quite appealing in European’s eyes.

Being 300 mm longer than the Cadillac CTS, the automaker says that the Ciel (French for Sky) was inspired by Highway 1 in California, which is the coastal highway that threads the Golden State from top to bottom.

[VIDEO] Frankfurt: BMW Husqvarna E-go Concept revealed

We are usually used to presenting cars in different shapes, forms and powertrains when talking about international events like the Frankfurt Motor Show, but when your “name” is BMW than a few words about your new motorcycle concept can be said.

The Bavarian automaker, or in this case bikemaker, has presented to the public a new motorcycle concept under the name of Husqvarna E-go Concept, which is actually designed for first time riders with a single-sided aluminum swingarm, an electric powertrain and a coaxial traction system.

“The Concept E-go is Husqvarna’s solution to electric motorcycling and how to enthuse the young generation to the spirit of riding and freedom. Change is inevitable, and the Husqvarna is ready, with an advanced technological concept and a highly personal design”, says an official statement of the company.

BMW didn’t offer too much information about its new eco-friendly motorcycle concept, in fact it didn’t say anything more than how much the bike is weighing: 80 kilograms or 176 lbs.

[VIDEO] Frankfurt: Bugatti Veyron Sport L’Or Blanc revealed

After presenting it earlier this summer in Berlin, Bugatti decided to take its L’Or Blanc or While Gold to the Frankfurt Motor Show, where it stood beside the drop-top version which is actually the world’s fastest convertible.

“The one-of-a-kind ‘L’Or Blanc” is the world’s first car to feature porcelain in both the body design and the interior. The impressive paintwork, which could pass for a piece of abstract art, is based on the roads of the Stelvio Pass in Italy”, as it is written in an official Bugatti statement.

The automaker says that under its hood the Veyron Sport L’Or Blanc is powered by an 8.0 liter, sixteen-cylinder, quad-turbocharged engine, which is delivering 987 horsepower and 1.250 Nm of torque or 922 lb-ft. Bugatti didn’t say if the added weight has affected the performance because we know that the “standard” model can reach a top speed of 407 km/h or 252 mph.

“In cooperation with the Konigliche Porzellan-Manufaktur Berlin Bugatti turns a totally new page when it comes to creating pieces of automotive art. This is precisely what makes us stand out from other brands. We are not afraid of the extravagant idea to use porcelain in a super sport car. We love taking on new challenges and bringing those ideas to life in keeping with the high quality and aesthetics that Bugatti is known for”, said the President of Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S., Wolfgang Durheimer.

Bugatti didn’t release too much info about its “new” supercar but one thing is for sure: its price – 1.65 million euros / $2.27 million dollars / 1.44 million pounds.

[VIDEO] Frankfurt Live: Citroen Tubik concept revealed

After teasing it just a few days before the Frankfurt Motor Show opened its gates, Citroen has decided to finally unveil its new concept named Tubic at the same German event, sharing the same roof with other model from the French automaker.

The Citroen Tubik is looking just like an ice-cream truck with a boxy styling, bold front fascia, massive grille and small headlights, and as we said before here at inatuonews.com, weird door displacements are trendy this autumn and every automaker is using them on new concepts, but we like it, especially that once they open it reveals a spacious airy cabin.

According to the French automaker, the Tubik can carry nine people and the second and third rows can be folded, creating a comfortable bed.

Citroen didn’t release any details about its powertrain but considering the fact that everyone is concerned with saving the trees, expect a hybrid or an electric motor.

You can watch the video and the photo gallery below!

[VIDEO] Frankfurt: Volkswagen Polo R WRC and R-Line revealed

One of the hottest hatches ever to be made by Volkswagen has seen the daylight for the first time at the Frankfurt Motor Show under the Polo R WRC name, and as you probably figured it out yet, it’s been developed especially for the World Rally Championship in 2013.

If you ever thought that the Polo GTI was quite hot with its small 1.4 liter turbocharged engine which is delivering 180 horsepower, you can forget it because the Polo R WRC is on a whole new level and with its 1.6 liter turbocharged engine, the racer is producing 300 horsepower sent to all four wheels.

If Volkswagen ever decides to release the Polo R WRC as a standard car than we are definitely talking about one of the hottest hatchbacks in history but until than a replica should also do the trick, so Polo owners, you know what you have to do!

Volkswagen’s stand at the Frankfurt Motor Show also hosted the new Polo R-Line package, which is actually coming with 16 inch Mallory design alloy wheels, R-line bumper, R-line badging on the radiator grille, chrome tailpipes, roof edge spoiler, R-line side sills, LED license plate illuminations, fog lights and daytime running lights.

The GTI “wannabe” package also comes with sports seats, Kyalami fabric or optional Alcantara leather combi surface, R-line logos in the headrests, R-line door sill plates and aluminum look pedals.

Volkswagen says that it will bring this package, along with any engine choice, to the over-seas dealerships starting from later this year, but didn’t announce anything yet for the European auto market.

[VIDEO] Frankfurt: Peugeot HX1 Hybrid4 Concept revealed

The Hybrid4 technology is pretty popular at Peugeot and after the French automaker revealed its new “eco-friendly” 3008 has decided to use the same Frankfurt Motor Show to present its HX1 Concept, developed with shoe designer Pierre Hardy, and yes, shoes come as an accessory to this vehicle.

Peugeot says that the HX1 Concept is using the same pattern as the 3008 Hybrid4, meaning a diesel engine and an electric motor are powering the vehicle. According to the French car manufacturer, the HX1 Concept is powered by a 2.2 liter HDi diesel engine which is delivering 201 BHP, “moving” the front axle, while the electric motor with its 95 BHP is sending power to the rear wheels to a total output of 299 BHP.

The HX1 Concept has an impressive fuel efficiency, burning just 3.2 liters of diesel every 100 km in an average cycle, which means 88 mpg in the UK or 73.5 mpg in the US, while its CO2 emissions are just 83 g/km.

As we said in other articles too, weird door displacements are catching on this autumn and Peugeot doesn’t make an exception with its HX1 Concept, but we like it.

Even if the French automaker didn’t announce any plans to mass produce a version of the new concept we are pretty sure that we would see one in the drive-way not long from now. Meanwhile enjoy the two videos below!

[VIDEO] New Opel Astra GTC

Being officially presented at the Frankfurt Motor Show with its Corsa-like body, the new Astra GTC has attracted more people into Opel’s stand thanks to its dynamic character, being revealed along with other models of the German automaker like the new Zafira Tourer or the Ampera.

Opel says that it’s offering new engines for the 2012 Astra GTC which range from 100 to 180 horsepower, but the Frankfurt Motor Show model was equipped with the 1.7 liter ecoFLEX unit, which comes in two versions: 110 and 130 horsepower, both fitted with the start/stop system to improve fuel consumption.

If the five-door variant has already attracted many eyes on the road, the GTC is looking like it’s getting ready to enter a quarter-mile race and this is definitely a car that will surpass the old generation, attracting more young customers into the brand.

With its attractive 20 inch rims, the new generation of the Astra GTC is getting ready for its new customers and the 1.4 liter Turbo with 120 HP will cost 18.495 pounds in Britain, while the 2.0 CDTi 165 PS Sri will get £22.430 out of your pocket.

Besides the new Astra GTC, Opel’s Frankfurt stand had the new Zafira Tourer, which will hit the UK dealerships later this year with a Vauxhall badge on it, along with the Ampera, which isn’t quite new but considering that it’s a hybrid and all hybrids are sold, we expect this one to be a success too.

[VIDEO] Frankfurt: Mansory Siracusa based on Ferarri 458 Italia revealed

Luxury tuner Mansory was also present at the Frankfurt Motor Show but when talking about its latest creation, the Siracusa, based on the Ferrari 458 Italia, we have only one word to say: blasphemy!

Even if it may look better in many eyes than the original supercar or it may be more powerful, thanks to its ECU remap, sport air filter and sport exhaust, the Mansory Siracusa is the best example of “how not to…”.

The luxury tuner is bragging with the supercar’s performance, saying that thanks to the modifications mentioned above it’s now delivering a total output of 582 BHP and 560 Nm of torque (413 lb-ft), being able to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.2 seconds and stopping at its 330 km/h top speed.

Mansory also played with the suspension, fitting new sport shock absorbers and lowering springs by 20 mm, while the supercar is standing on 20 and 21 inch rims, wrapped in Michelin PS2 tires, with 245/35R20 for the front and 305/30R21 for the rear.

The tuner is using even more carbon fiber than Ferrari and says that the interior now has top materials including leather and, of course, carbon fiber, along with a new redesigned center console, decorative stitching, aluminum pedals and a sport steering wheel with a full-sized airbag.

Mansory didn’t announce a price for its Siracusa and we are not sad about that because maybe the tuner has no intention of selling it, which is a good thing.

2011 Frankfurt Auto Show Highlights

Notable debuts for the Frankfurt auto show include the all-new 2012 Porsche 911, the redesigned 2012 BMW M5 and the roadster version of the Mercedes-Benz SLS. Don't miss Ailstair Weaver's guide to the auto show.