Audi prices 2010 A4, A5 and Q5

Audi has released pricing for the 2010 model-year Audi A4 sedan, Audi A5 coupe and Audi Q5 crossover vehicle.

The A5 replaces the 3.2L six-cylinder with the 2.0T TFSI four-cylinder. For $36,000, one’ll be able to have the A5 2.0T Quattro Coupe with a manual transmission in Premium trim, with the Premium Plus model commanding $39,500 and the Prestige variant priced at $44,300. Tack on an additional $1,200 onto each model's MSRP if you opt for the Tiptronic automatic gearbox.

Core updates for the 2010 Audi A5 include the above powertrain changes plus the new third-gen MMI system, new LED tail lights on Premium Plus and Prestige models, a new wheel design for the entry-level Premium trim, and a new set of optional wheels for the S5.

"Despite the economic headwinds that have affected all premium automotive brands this year, we see no signs of interest lagging in these three models," said Johan de Nysschen, President, Audi of America. "We need to release these new models early because of our proactive management of unsold inventories and because Audi continues to bring new models to the freshest lineup in the luxury sector. Both trends will continue in the months ahead."

For the 2010 Audi Q5, starts at $37,350 for the base Premium model, while the Premium Plus and Prestige rises to $41,400 and $48,850, respectively. The 2010 mdoel year updates include a new Fine Grain Ash and Natural Brown interior inlay option, new 20in five-spoke S-line wheels, standard side assist on Prestige models, a new luxury package for the Prestige model that includes leather door armrests and IP, along with ventilated front seats swathed in Milano leather, the Bang & Olufsen sound system is now available as a standalone option, and a variety of minor interior and exterior appearance tweaks.

Finally, the 2010 Audi A4 gets the biggest price rise at $450 over the outgoing model, now starting at $31,450 for the Multitronic-equipped 2.0T FWD sedan. Adding quattro AWD with a manual transmission raises the price of entry to $32,350, and stepping up to the tiptronic transmission bumps that another $1,200 to $33,550. Like its siblings, the A4 is available in Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige trims.

A new set of LED tail lights on Premium Plus and Prestige models and the third-gen MMI system are available on all new models, while the S4 gets a new 7-speed S-tronic dual-clutch transmission and a new 3.0L TFSI supercharged V6 engine rated at 333hp and 325lb-ft of torque.

Pricing for the2010 Audi S4 hasn't been released yet, however, it has released an on-sale date for its 333-hp sedan: August. Expect pricing to follow in the coming weeks.

Ferrari F430 Spider by Inden Design

Tuning a Ferrari may be a challenge for tuning companies. However, German tuner INDEN-Design does reach their hand to the Ferrari F430.

INDEN-Design starts from a modified front spoiler, and not just for looks, as its there to help the INDEN-Design F430 achieve a top speed greater than 300 km/h (186mph). The aerodynamic kit also includes "muscular" side flaps, a rear carbon diffuser and spoiler.

Performance enhancement include a new stainless steel exhaust with a special damper control that automatically opens until full throttle, but can also be controlled remotely to modulate the engine's sound, and some engine electronics trickery which deliver a modest rise to 525hp from the stock 490hp rating.

The wide track of the F430 is covered by new, lightweight 20-inch wheels with 235/30 R20 tires at the front and 325/25 R20 at the rear.

INDEN-Design also provides some extra luxury and comfort for the cabin. A conjunction of carbon paneling and leather finish, with a variety of color combinations to choose from, help redefine the interior and cockpit. The original leather stitching is extensive, also covering the dashboard, steering wheel and center console.

1957 Aston Martin DBR2 recreated by Rizk Automobile

"Yesterday engineered for tomorrow", Rizk Automobile certainly like to take their inspirations from both the past and the future. Using modern technology in recreating the classic race car, the tuned 1957 Aston Martin DBR2 LeMans racer from the company is a nice proof.

The model features a material called Carbon-Nomex for the body panels (carbon panels with Nomex honeycomb). As a result, the car is all CNC machined stainless steel and aerospace grade carbon fiber, as is the monocoque chassis. Carbon-Nomex body panels wrap carbon fiber around a Nomex aramid material that is both tough and fire retardant. It also adds a high degree of stiffness without adding much weight.

The decidedly retro-future-race cockpit is actually a highly advanced piece of modern engineering, with a range of adjustability for the steering wheel and pedal assembly that were never contemplated for the original. The seats are equally advanced, faturing a unique adjustment mechanism that allows for height and tilt ranges suitable for drivers from 5'0" to 6'5".

The fully independent, height adjustable double wishbone front suspension pairs with a fully independent rear and adjustable coilover shocks to deliver modern handling, while inboard Wilwood discs minimize unsprung weight and provide all the stopping power the DBR2 modern recreation needs.

Rizk Auto offers a choice from three engines: a Jaguar straight six, a Jaguar V12 or a fuel-injected Corvette V8. Both Jaguar engines are mated to a five-speed manual gearbox, while the Corvette V8 unit comes with a choice of a six-speed manual or auto.

Price for the model is 180,000 US dollars, or 128,000 euros.

Ferrari 599 GTB HGTE package now available as dealer option

The Handling GT Evoluzione (HGTE) package for the 599 GTB Fiorano was first revealed at this March’s Geneva Motor Show. After months of waiting, the package finally is now available and can be fitted at authorized dealers.

There are two options available. The Ferrari 599 GTB HGTE package for the pre 2008 models costs £17,213 (US$28,000) and includes handling, exhaust and aesthetic kits. For the post 2008 models the Ferrari 599 GTB HGTE package price is £19,703 (US$33,000) and includes handling, performance, exhaust and aesthetic kits.

The HGTE package is designed to deliver even sportier, more dynamic driving, giving a focal point of improving handling. The standard 599 GTB is criticized for leaning too heavily into corners when pushed to the limits, which in turn reduces turn in and leads to slower lap times. The HGTE package is expected to solve the problem well.

But you need to pay attention that the more expensive pack comes with handling improvements, better exhaust, more performance, and aesthetic touches, while the less expensive one misses out on the performance benefits.

The full specification of each kit is detailed below:

1) Handling, includes:
* Lower suspension (10mm)
* New magnetorheologically controlled suspension calibration for the Manettino SPORT and RACE configurations
* More rigid suspension springs (front + 17%, rear + 15%)
* More rigid rear anti-roll bars (diameter increased to 25mm)
* HGTE specific tyres with improved compound (8% more grip)
* 3-piece modular rims with reduced weight (forged spokes) and special new design

2) Performance (only available for post-2008 cars, from engine no. 122779), includes:
* New exhausts silencers with two-tone finish tailpipes
* Enhanced F1 gearshift actuation, with response times reduced to 85ms
* New accelerator logic with modified mapping for improved throttle response
N.B. The Performance kit cannot be installed on cars with manual gearboxes.

3) Exhaust, includes:
* New exhausts silencers with two-tone finish tailpipes
The Exhaust kit is designed for:
* vehicles that cannot receive the software updates listed in the Performance kit since the engine was produced before assembly number 122779 (pre-2008)
* all cars with manual gearboxes
* clients who are only interested in modifying the styling and sound of their own cars
N.B. The Exhaust kit is included in the Performance kit, for cars post-2008.

4) Aesthetic, includes:
* New design front grille with a special chromatic treatment
* Burnished finish to Prancing Horse symbols on the front grill and rear boot lid

2010 Acura RDX Leaks Out

A series of images of the 2010 Acura RDX has leaked around the web, which will possibly debut later this year at the LA Auto Show.

Some information we can gather from the photos include a TL-derived front grille, a reshaped fog lamps and air intakes along with a restyled lower fascia. Furthermore, the 2010 RDX is said to feature hexagonally shaped exhaust tips along with a redesigned bumper that will give the car a much more aggresive look.

It’s rumored that the updated RDX will get a new front-wheel drive version, which has been the only front-wheel drive version available since the compact SUV was launched for 2008. This could boost fuel economy over the all-wheel drive model and save about 200 pounds.

It’s still not known if the RDX’s turbocharged 2.3L inline four will receive any performance or fuel economy changes for the 2010 model year.

More updates inside include USB connectivity and stereo Bluetooth audio; ambient lighting; and a navigation system update with rearview camera updates and real-time traffic.

2010 A5 Sportback officially revealed in depth

We have mentioned Audi A5 Sportback many times, now finally here comes the true face. The 2010 Audi A5 Sportback, set to go on sale in Europe following a debut at September’s Frankfurt Motor Show, has officially revealed in July 16 during a ceremony that celebrates 100 years of Audi.

Described as offering the practicality of an Avant wagon with the elegant styling of a coupe, the new A5 Sportback features a five door body with an elongated profile, sitting 36mm lower than the A4 sedan. Frameless doors definitely add to the car's clean look. The nicely-angled side windows, ringed in chrome, show off a sporty look with a flowing roofline.

Inside, there’s generous space for four adults. At 480 liters, Audi also provided nearly the same amount of cargo space as the A4 Avant.

Under the hood, three petrol engines are available, including 180 and 211 horsepower variants of the 2.0-liter TFSI unit, and a 3.2-liter V6 model providing 265 horsepower. If it is diesel you prefer, you can choose the incredibly efficient 2.0-liter TDI. The 170 hp unit uses just 5.2 liters of fuel per 100 km, or rougly 45+ mpg. A start/stop system helps increase fuel efficiency. The other TDI engines are a 190 hp 2.7-liter unit and a 3.0-liter, 240 horsepower model. The 2.0 TFSI quattro, the 3.2 FSI quattro and the 3.0 TDI quattro models are available with the seven-speed S-tronic gearbox.

Audi will release three more engines for the A5 Sportback within the next year. Each petrol model, and the highest-powered TDI, is fitted with Audi's "quattro" all-wheel drive system, while customers purchasing one of the two most powerful engines may also add on a newly offered sport differential which distributes the drive power in continuously variable proportions between the rear wheels. Those not receiving quattro instead get a stability unit that helps prevent understeer with an electronic front differential. The 180 hp 2.0-liter TFSI engine also gets the stability program.

Pricing in Europe will start at €33,650 (approximately $45,000) for the base 2.0L TDI model, however, Audi has confirmed that an even cheaper model will arrive in the middle of next year. Orders are already being taken.

Nissan unveils New Dual Injector System

Nissan has announced the development of a new Dual Injector system, which will help improve the fuel efficiency of its small-displacement, gasoline/petrol engines.

While most current petrol engines utilize one injector per cylinder (sending fuel to two intake ports), the new Nissan Dual Injector system doubles the number of injectors per cylinder. This improvs vaporization and reduces the diameter of the fuel droplets by about 60 percent, making combustion more efficient.

Nissan claims it will adopt this system for small-displacement engines instead of a direct-injection system. While similar in theory to direct-injection systems, which also inject fuel directly into cylinders, such direct injection systems are difficult to use on small-displacement engines because they require a high-pressure pump that complicates system design, making component layout less cost-efficient. In contrast, the Nissan Dual Injector system is lighter and structurally simpler and takes up less space because it sends fuel at normal pressures. The system also requires half the amount of rare metals in the catalytic converter compared with a standard engine, helping to further reduce costs.

The Duel Injector system also features continuous valve timing control on the exhaust to reduce pump losses, improve heat efficiency, and raise fuel efficiency by up to 4 percent in sync with the dual injectors.

Nissan will be introducing the new system on some of its models early in 2010, but so far no actual models have been confirmed.

MTM Tunes Audi S4 3.0 TFSI to 430HP, A6 3.0 TFSI to 360HP

Audi S4, already one of the most potent of the Audi S cars, produces a respectable 333hp (248kW) with the 3.0L V6 TFSI engine. Now, specialist Audi tuner MTM, has enhanced the power to 430hp (320kW) and 380lb-ft (515Nm) of torque for the Audi S4 sedan and Avant models, thanks to its M-Cantronic system. This makes the cars able to challenge the previous generation RS4 that came with 420 horsepower and 430Nm of torque.

With the quattro AWD and the 6-speed manual gearbox, the modified S4 will accelerate from 0 - 100km/h in just 4.7 seconds – 0.4 seconds faster than the stock version.

Beside improved performance, buyers have a choice between 19-inch and 21-inch Bimoto alloy wheels in addition to a height-adjustable suspension system. An exclusive four-pipe oval exhaust system with different optics is also fitted along with MTM brakes.

As for the Audi A6 3.0-litre TFSI, MTM has a special M-Cantronic programme which not only increases their V6's efficiency but boosts the supercharged V6's output from 290 horsepower to 360 horsepower.

Incidentally, MTM said that assembly and disassembly are done quickly. For vehicles used commercially, making it ideal for people who are using leased cars as well as outright owners.

Nissan prices 2010 370Z Roadster from $36,970

Nissan has announced pricing for the all-new 2010 Nissan 370Z Roadster, starting at $36,970, just $100 more than the outgoing 350Z roadster. The car will go on sale in September at Nissan retailers nationwide.

The 2010 Nissan 370Z Roadster is offered in four models, full pricing details as below:
370Z roadster w/six-speed manual: $36,970
370Z roadster w/seven-speed automatic: $38,270
370Z roadster Touring w/six-speed manual: $40,520
370Z roadster Touring w/seven-speed automatic: $40,520

One thing to be noticed is that the two Touring models add a 6CD Bose audio system, XM Satellite Radio (XM subscription required, sold separately), Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System, HomeLink Universal Transceiver, aluminum-trimmed pedals and power leather-appointed heated and cooled ventilated net seats.

Also, two option packages are offered to the two Touring model only: the Sport Package, with 19-inch RAYS forged wheels and Bridgestone Potenza tires, Nissan Sport Brakes, SynchroRev Match (6-speed manual transmission only) and Viscous Limited Slip Differential; and the Navigation Package, with Hard Drive-based Nissan Navigation System, 9.3GB Music Box Hard Drive and USB connectivity.

"The new 370Z Roadster offers more refinement, quality, performance and sheer driving pleasure than any Z convertible that has come before - while retaining its great value positioning in the sports car segment," said Christian Meunier, vice president, Nissan Marketing, NNA.

"Compared to the 2009 350Z Roadster, the new 370Z Roadster features 26 more horsepower and cleaner emissions from an all-new standard 3.7L with VVEL technology. The Z Roadster also offers an all-new exterior design, refined interior, all-new auto-latching convertible top design, and technology not previously available on the 350Z Roadster, including Bluetooth, XM Satellite Radio and Nissan Navigation System with XM NavTraffic Real-Time Traffic Information."

Peugeot 308-based RC Z sports coupe teaser released

The midsize Peugeot 308 is one of the most flexible vehicles in the French automaker’s lineup, spawning numerous variants such as the regular three and five-door hatchbacks, SW wagon, as well as the stylish CC convertible. However, there is at least one more 308 variant in the works and it’s destined to be the most exciting of them all.

That’s the Peugeot 308 RC Z sports coupe, which is the production version of 2007’s 308 RC Z concept. The RC Z is unique in a number of ways. It is the first Peugeot not to use the zero or double zero numbering system in its name. The car would be revealed at the Frankfurt Motor Show this September.

Peugeot has said that the car will be sold as an exclusive model that will give discerning enthusiasts great driving enjoyment. The nearly undisguised photos show the car will bear a fair resemblance in proportion to the Audi TT, though no observer is likely to confuse the two. Heavily flared fenders, a longer rear deck line and Peugeot's chunky front-end design - still slightly obscured here - will make the 308 RC Z stand out from the crowd.

As for the power, not much is yet known. However, it’s rumored that the RC Z will share the standard range of engines available in the 308 and also comes with a new 250hp (184kW) motor. With figures like that, the car will definitely have to focus on nimble handling to meet its performance targets.

Porsche GT3 first gets new magnetic engine mounts from Delphi

A ground-breaking new powertrain mount - MR engine Mount, has been developed by Delphi Corporation. And the first car to get the new engine mounts is the 2010 Porsche 911 GT3.

The MR engine mount uses magneto rheological (MR) fluid that can change its dynamic rate in real time, the new MR Mount prevents the build-up of resonance in a system by maintaining control of the mounted mass across all appropriate frequencies.

The use of the Magneto engine mount in vehicles help to controll the noise and vibration of the powertrain, and more importantly, improve stability and traction, especially during 'transient torque events'. For instance, these Magneto engine mounts can automatically adjust their stiffness when the engine is initially started or when the transmission is shifted into Drive or Park.

In the case of the 911 GT3, Porsche expects these engine mounts to improve traction and stability during hard acceleration and cornering.

The new tech supersedes Delphi's previous solution of glycol-filled mounts. Those mounts could only be tuned to control a single main frequency, however, and didn't offer the dynamic capabilities of the MR mounts.

"This is the first technology that allows precise real-time management of the relevant frequencies created by an automotive powertrain, including the challenging low frequencies and higher amplitudes caused by transient torque events," says Delphi's MR Mount manager Timothy Schlangen.

"Vehicle manufacturers working closely with Delphi have been excited by the wide range of benefits that MR Mounts can bring and by the increasing list of ways they can improve performance, safety and refinement through vehicle-specific tuning."

The new mounts are good news for the industry, we expect to see future applications used in the industry as production and availability makes them more affordable, though high-torque applications like sportscars and luxury sedans are likely to be among the first adopters.

Spy shots: Next-gen Volkswagen Touareg prototype caught in U.S.

Lately, the next-gen Volkswagen Touareg has been caught undergoing testing in the United States. Unlike previous mules, this is the first time the 2011 Touareg has been caught wearing a production body. Set to be launched in late 2010 as a 2011 model, the new Touareg will be slightly smaller than the current one but will feature a range of more fuel efficient engines and be able to seat up to seven passengers.

As with the current model, the new platform will be shared with the next-generation Porsche Cayenne and Audi Q7 and will feature increased use of aluminum to keep weight down. It will also be slightly sportier and adopt styling influences from the more recent Tiguan SUV.

The new engine lineup for the 2011 Touareg is expected to start with a 280hp (208kW) 3.2L V6 petrol engine and top out with a 345hp (257kW) 4.2L petrol V8. A pair of diesel engines will also be on offer including 2.7L and 3.0L turbodiesels. All the engines will be matted with a six-speed automatic gearbox, though VW’s new seven-speed DSG may also be made available.

Up front, the next generation Touareg appears to adopt VW's new grille design which has appeared on the Golf VI, Golf Plus and Polo. Other changes appear to include more pronounced character lines, a wider rear bumper and misaligned fuel filler cap. The front of the car also featured a different intake system, positioned lower than on the current model. Shots of the interior also revealed several major changes, including an all-new instrument cluster and a similar steering wheel to the unit found in the Mk VI Golf.

Expect the new Touareg to be unveiled in late 2010, with sales beginning in early 2011.

Honda CR-Z and Fit hybrids on sale in 2010

The Honda CEO, Takanobu Ito, has announced the plans to begin sales in Japan of the CR-Z hybrid sports car in February 2010 and a Fit hybrid before the end of 2010.

By combining these two models with the currently available Insight and Civic Hybrid, Honda will further enhance its lineup of compact hybrid models and swell Honda's hybrid portfolio to four models. More importantly, this helps it become one of the ‘greenest’ automakers in the world and makes Honda’s plan to increase hybrid production to 500,000 units per year by 2012 achievable.

Both cars will be powered by Honda's Integrated Motor Assist (IMA), also found in the Insight and Civic hybrids. In the case of the Insight, the IMA incorporates a 13hp (10kW) electric motor and a compact Intelligent Power Unit (IPU) – recapturing and storing kinetic energy from vehicle braking and deceleration and supplying additional power for acceleration when needed.

The CR-Z will be heavily influenced by its concept car which was debuted at the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show. The CR-Z, promising eco-conscious buyers a car that is both stylish and fun to drive, is expected to make its world debut in production trim at this October’s Tokyo Motor Show.

The CR-Z is currently being designed and engineered in Europe, its expected largest market, but will likely be sold as a global vehicle. And it is rumored to feature either a 140 horsepower, 1.8-liter engine, or a larger, more powerful 2.5-liter unit from its hybrid drivetrain.

Not much is known about the Fit hybrid but previous reports have suggested that it could cost about ¥1.5 million (approximately $15,800) when it goes on sale late next year.

As for other market, American Honda Motor spokesman Chuck Schifsky said, "We can confirm that the CR-Z will go on sale in the U.S. in 2010," but added, "We are not ready to announce any plans for the sale of the Fit Hybrid in regions outside of Japan."

Honda also confirmed they are working on a new hybrid powertrain for larger-sized vehicles, but no release dates have been mentioned yet.

Nissan 370Z by Cobra N+

After the release of the new Nissan 370Z, Nissan factory tuner Cobra N+ has designed a wide range of exclusive options for refining the two-seater sports car. No major modifications were made to the engine, but Cobra N+ says its aerodynamic and handling enhancements made a lot of difference.
To reduce unsprung weight to a minimum level, Cobra has developed lightweight wheels with six double spokes, measuring 9Jx19 in the front and 10Jx19 in the back and shod with Pirelli rubber. The wheels are linked to stiffer-than-stock springs which lower the ride of the 370Z by 30 mm. An additional coil over suspension kit varies the ride height between 20 and 40mm on front and rear axle.

For aerodynamic enhancements, Cobra has introduced a diffuser insert for the production apron, custom developed and featuring a central reflector as well as custom cutouts for the two 120-mm tailpipes of the Cobra N+ sport exhaust system. The stainless-steel sport rear mufflers of the exhaust system feature new 120-mm tailpipe on either side. The electronically controlled flap allows selecting an exhaust note for the V6 engine ranging from discrete to racing, depending on what sound you’d like for your 370Z.

At the front, the tuner fitted the 370Z with a carbon fiber front spoiler, squeezed in the opening of the air inlet of the production front apron. Additionally, the body kit includes carbon-fiber-look covers for the outside rearview mirrors.

The new upgraded components will be offered through Nissan dealers in Japan only for now, and pricing is yet to be revealed.

Volkswagen Golf VI GTI by ABT Sportsline, starting at 1500 euros

It’s no secret that the Volkswagen Golf GTI is not so powerful. Then ABT Sports line got their hands on a new Golf VI GTI, providing performance and styling upgrades.

The standard GTI is known for producing 155kW (211hp) out of its 2.0-litre four-pot turbo engine. With a reworked ECU and exhaust system from ABT, the power has been upped to 191kW (260hp) which is the same as the Mazda3 Speed/MPS.

A second package with a new turbocharger takes the power up to 221kW (300hp), which is just 4kW (5hp) short of a BMW 135i. Performance is 0 - 100km/h in 6 seconds.

ABT is also offering an aerodynamic kit that makes the GTI an even more aggressive. ABT suspension springs and brakes are fitted and the suspension system itself is lowered by 30mm. A four-pipe exhaust emits a sporty sound to compliment the kit.

The body kit underlines the car's pure dynamics, consists of LED lights, a new Abt front grille, spoiler, side bar and a rear spoiler. There is also a front lip, which provides a power-performance in combination with the front apron and the new ABT Daytime Running Lamp. The equally elegant as expressive colouring matches this: the paintwork in carbon steel grey metallic harmonises perfectly with side mouldings and front lip in the contrast colour red. Customers will have a choice of between 18-inch and 19-inch wheels.

The design also continues consistently in the interior, for all screens, the ornamental rings of the combination instrument and the steering wheel panels are painted in the signal tone.

Pricing for the aerodynamic kit is €3,276 in Germany. To install and paint will cost €1,080 and €1,170 respectively. The 260hp package comes to €1,490, plus €60 installation and €130 TÜV-registration. The 300hp package is priced at €5,300 and that includes installation and TÜV-registration.

Cargraphic tunes Porsche Cayenne Diesel to 290hp

It seems that Porsche Cayenne Diesel is big fan for tuning companies. Few days ago, we just introduced the modified Cayenne Diesel from Techart. Now Cargraphic has also unveiled a new range of styling and performance package for the Porsche Cayenne Diesel.

Under the hood, Cargraphic adds a revised ECU module which boosts the 3.0-liter V6 turbo diesel's output from 240hp (176kW) and 550Nm of torque to 290hp (213kW) and 630Nm of torque – the exact same figures as Techart’s performance kit. Although Cargraphic did not provide any performance data, they did state the Cayenne's top speed is increased to 221 km/h (137 mph). Priced for this mod is at a reasonable $1,650.

Other modifications include a new suspension upgrade for the Cayenne’s air-suspension system that can adjust the vehicle’s ride height and is priced from roughly $1,987.

An extensive body kit is also available, including a new front bumper with integrated fog lights for $2,984, a rear diffuser for $656, pumped fenders for $1,721, sporty side skirts for $1,405, and optional alloy wheels ranging from 20 to 22in in diameter.

Gemballa Mirage GT Matt Edition

One of the foremost tuners of Porsche, Gemballa, has revealed its latest creation, the Gemballa Mirage GT Matt Edition.

Unlike the Gemballa tuned Carrera GT, which have put out as much as 750hp (560kW), this time Gemballa hasn’t focus too much on the power output. Powered by a potent V10 engine, the Matt Edition reaches 670 HP and 630 Nm of torque. However, that's still about 50hp (40kW) more than the stock Carrera GT. Performance stats of the Matt Edition include 0-100 km/h time of 3.7 seconds, a 0-200 km/h (124 mph) time of 9.7 seconds, and a top speed of 335 km/h (208 mph).

Beyond the power mods, the Mirage GT Carbon Edition features an original paint job and seductive matt black. The Matt Edition adds lots of exposed carbon fiber accents, a black-on-black color scheme and custom alloy wheels. A hydraulic height-adjustable coilover kit is also supplied to improve handling, as well as protect the car when any steep bumps need to be conquered.

Inside, there’s a mix of blue Alcantara trimmings as well as carbon-fiber and aluminum accents.

It’s expected that the vehicle will be produced in very limited edition. And the point is that the price will be priceless with a pricetag of €300,000 ($419,000 USD).

G-Power boosts the E46 BMW M3 to 450 horsepower, faster than new M3

The German tuner G-Power has created a new performance package for the BMW M3 E46, one of the best Ms built by BMW.

To achieve more power, G-Power used a high-tech supercharger from ASA Engineering, more specifically, the ASA TM I 20. This enables BMW's 3.2-liter straight -six to produce 450 hp and 450 Nm of torque (up from 343 hp/365 Nm). The extra 107 hp help the E46 M3 run from 0 to 124 mph(220 km/h) in only 14.7 seconds, which beats the 15.8 second posted by BMW's 420 hp V8-powered M3 E92.

To handle all that new power, the E46 M3 runs on 20-inch alloy wheels fitted to Michelin Pilot Sport tires, 245/30 ZR 20 at the front and 285/25 ZR 20 at the back. Then the M3 E46's top speed increases to more than 300 km/h (186 mph).

Other optional equipment includes a high performance stainless steel muffler and a continuously height-adjustable G-POWER coil-over suspension with nine selectable settings for bound and outbound.

Audi adds two new engines into Euro Q5 and A4 Allroad

Customers in Europe have a new choice for efficiency and savings now, with the announcement of a new pair of entry level engines available in the Audi Q5 and A4 Allroad.

The Audi's 143hp 2.0 TDI diesel four-cylinder and the 180hp 2.0 TFSI gasoline four, both in conjunction with the 6-speed manual transmission, are available in Audi Q5. And the 2.0 TDI is now also available in the A4 allroad.

However, Americans have less options. The A4 allroad is not yet available in North America , and the Q5 is currently only available with a 3.2-liter gas V6 in North America .

Selling prices for the Audi Q5 start at EUR 36,800 for the 2.0 TFSI and EUR 36,500 for the 2.0 TDI. The base price for the Audi A4 allroad 2.0 TDI is EUR 37,100.

Spy shots: BMW's next 5-series

The BMW’s next-gen 5-series will arrive late this year as a 2010 model. The lately spy shots haven’t tell us much information, with the camouflage still pretty distracting.

It’s not yet clear which engines will be used for the new 5-series. However, a wide range of engines currently in the BMW stable is expected. Those include both the 3.0 liter inline 6 cylinder and the 4.4 liter V8 twin-turbo engines. On the lower end of the scale, there will also be 2.0 liter petrol and diesel engines packing enough punch to properly power this mid-range premium model.

Performance will also be improved thanks to the extensive use of lightweight materials including carbon-fiber and aluminum. The car’s construction will be a hybrid of an aluminum spaceframe for the front section, and a traditional steel monocoque for the passenger compartment and rear. This will ensure a favorable front-to-rear weight distribution and improved handling. Up front will be an independent suspension with MacPherson struts, with a multi-link layout for the rear. High-performance models will include carbon-fiber body panels to shed even more weight.

GM resurrects from bankruptcy

A new GM is here!! New GM emerges from bankruptcy today as a smaller company with fewer brands and owned by the US government. Lighter, smaller, quicker and more responsive to customer needs - that's the feature of the new GM.

The new GM will be majority owned by the US government with a 60.8 percent stake. The Canadian government will also own an 11.7 percent share of the new company. The US Treasury will have committed some 50 billion dollars to GM by year's end. The remaining share of the now private company will be held by the UAW (17.5 percent) and bondholders who previously held GM debt will get 10 percent of the new GM.

Central to the new GM manifesto is an openness to customer input, a new buying structure that allows eBay-like purchasing, including 'but it now' pricing, and a focus on continuing to turn out new products that are their own best argument for buying GM.

"Customers will be able to bid on actual vehicles just like they do in an eBay auction, including the option of choosing a predetermined 'buy it now' price," Henderson said of the as-yet-unannounced plan to partner with eBay for sales.

GM's transformation into its newer, lighter self isn't yet complete, however. Downsizing will continue through 2011 at least, with a reduction of 13 plants to just 34 in operation by the end of 2010, and a cut in U.S. jobs from the 91,000 GM had at the end of 2008 to around 64,000 by the end of 2009.

Since the US government now owns GM, Congress can act to exert control, and a majority of House members have voted for a bill that blocks the closing of GM and Chrysler dealerships in order to help save jobs. But GM needs to close the 1,300 dealerships it had planned to in order to trim its operations and become a viable company once again.

Opening more communications channels, including direct employee interaction with customers, is also a core element of GM's plan to help bridge the 'perception gap' between its products and what people think when they hear the GM name. Fritz Henderson will lead the charge, launching his own blog and ramping up use of social media tools like Twitter.

"In August, we'll begin regular visits with customers, dealers, suppliers, employees and others - in the U.S. and abroad - who impact our relationships with customers. We'll be listening to their ideas, and acting on the ones that will improve our ability to serve our customers better," said Henderson. "And of course, other executives and I will continue to reach out to customers through our ongoing web and Twitter chats."

The President of GM North America, Troy Clarke, said, "This is a new General Motors, which is going to be focused on fewer brands, fewer entries...We'll ask for people to please give us that one look. Give us that one consideration and we won't disappoint you."

It's still long way to go for the new GM to really recover from bankruptcy and rebuilt reputation. What's your point?