Tuesday, May 25, 2010

RPMGO.com (former Auto Unleashed)

RPMGO.com (former Auto Unleashed)


BMW starts teasing 2011 X3 before its Paris debut

Posted: 25 May 2010 02:48 AM PDT

BMW starts teasing 2011 X3 before its Paris debut

The upcoming Paris Motor Show may be a full 5 months away, but that hasn’t stopped BMW from teasing one of the models it will premiere in the French capital, the 2011 X3 crossover.

So far, we only have a couple of shots with the hood and the rear taillight. From what we can tell, a lot of the styling cues from the 2011 5 Series, the 5 GT and the refreshed 3 Series are making an appearance on this new model.

BMW starts teasing 2011 X3 before its Paris debut

The taillight reminds us of a cross between the 5 GT, the X1 and the X5. LED technology does seem to be incorporated, as is usual on all new BMW models. The hood also sports some of the new lines we saw on other refreshed models from the Bavarian brand.

Expect an array of technologies from under the EfficientDynamics logo, as well as several potent yet nature-friendly engines to make an appearance on the 2011 BMW X3. Until its Paris debut though, fans will have to take it slowly.

Source: BMW

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BMW starts teasing 2011 X3 before its Paris debut

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Mercedes-Benz set to expand entry level offers with new C Class and B Class models

Posted: 25 May 2010 02:31 AM PDT

Mercedes-Benz set to expand entry level offers with new C Class and B Class models

Mercedes-Benz has a varied product offer in Europe and just about any other territory expect the USA. As such, we’ve been hearing a lot of rumors about new compact models set to be sold in that specific country.

Now, Mercedes-Benz USA CEO Ernst Lieb has talked with Automotive News and confirmed the carmaker’s desire to expand its entry-level offers. Current, the C Class is the least expensive model, in just sedan form.

Lieb confirms that the future will see the introduction of three new models based on the next generation B Class, a coupe, crossover and sedan, as well as new C Class versions.

The goal of this new strategy is to take on both BMW and Audi, who have decent priced entry-level sedans, in the form of the 3 Series and A4/A5, but also lower priced hatchbacks in the form of the 1 Series and A3.

Besides the opportunity to take on its rivals at their own game, Lieb also highlighted that it will allow for more growth in terms of sales. Said growth can be easily achieved in the entry level segment with these new models rather than the higher priced E or S Class in their respective niches, according to the MB CEO.

In terms of the C Class, we can expect a coupe model in 2012, while a redesign is expected in 2013. During that year, we can also expect a convertible model, in order to really cover all the bases against BMW and Audi offers.

Overall, Mercedes-Benz has some really big plans for its entry level. Do you think it will be successful in the USA with such a strategy? Share your thoughts below.

Source: Automotive News

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Mercedes-Benz set to expand entry level offers with new C Class and B Class models

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Video: Porsche reveals first 2011 Cayenne ad, showcases its utility

Posted: 25 May 2010 01:55 AM PDT

Video: Porsche reveals first 2011 Cayenne ad, showcases its utility

Think fast! Why would you buy the 2011 Porsche Cayenne?

If you answered to flaunt it in front of your mates and put money in the pockets of Stuttgart execs, well you’re wrong. According to Porsche, customers would buy the new Cayenne for its utility (that’s what SUV has right?).

As such, it has revealed a new ad which showcases that exact feature on the 2011 Porsche Cayenne. How does it do that, you ask? By showing that kids these days have car posters with the new Porsche SUV and by hyping up the hybrid model.

Take a look for yourselves at the video located after the jump.

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Video: Porsche reveals first 2011 Cayenne ad, showcases its utility

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Lamborghini recalls 2007 and 2008 Murcielago models over fire hazard

Posted: 25 May 2010 01:42 AM PDT

Lamborghini recalls 2007 and 2008 Murcielago models over fire hazard

We’ve seen a big number of recalls being issued in the last few weeks, but this one definitely stands out because none other than Italian supercar manufacturer Lamborghini has acknowledged a problem regarding the 2007 and 2008 model year Murcielago.

It seems that both the coupe and the roadster versions of the Murcielago might have some problems with the fuel pump. It seems that the welding that holds the fuel pump and the tank in place can loosen over time and eventualy result in a detachment of the whole tank.

Whether you’re in a low priced Tata Nano or a Lamborghini Murcielago, such an incident would be extremely bad. Owners of the 428 models affected will be informed of the recall and will be able to go to the nearest dealership for a free fix.

Source: NHTSA

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Lamborghini recalls 2007 and 2008 Murcielago models over fire hazard

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Audi A1 flips during marketing stunt

Posted: 25 May 2010 01:18 AM PDT

Audi A1 flips during marketing stunt

As we said time and time again, Audi is pulling out all the stops in order to ensure its newest model, the tiny A1 gets remembered by its target audience.

From the constant teasers before its official release to the ‘Next Big Thing’ short film series, we were treated to quite a few marketing stunts. Sadly, at least for Audi PR people, a stunt that took place in Brussels, Belgium, went awfully wrong.

The German company set up a big skateboard-like half pipe ramp and showcased the maneuverability of the compact city car. Sadly, during one of those tests, the stunt driver approached the half pipe head on, resulting in the A1 flipping on its side.

The incident was immediately covered up by Audi, but a few photos (seen above) were taken during the incident.

So, do you think quattro all-wheel drive would’ve saved the A1 from flipping over? Share your thoughts below.

Source: Nieuwsblad.be via Jalopnik

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Audi A1 flips during marketing stunt

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395 HP Subaru Impreza STI Cosworth is the new ultimate hot hatch

Posted: 25 May 2010 01:00 AM PDT

395 HP Subaru Impreza STI Cosworth is the new ultimate hot hatch

Subaru has just added more fuel onto the hot hatch fire, as it has just unveiled, alongside performance company Cosworth, the Impreza STI CS400 model.

Using the same 2.5-liter turbocharged engine, but with more performance parts than you can shake a stick at, this new Impreza is capable of a whopping 395 HP and 398 lb-ft of torque. 0 to 62 mph in achieved in a supercar-like 3.7 seconds while the top speed is limited to 155 mph.

The Subaru Cosworth Impreza STI CS400 stands out from all the other models with a redesigned front bumper, new foglights, mesh grille,revised front spoiler and a set of wider 18-inch wheels. In terms of handling, it received a new chassis, resulted from a partnership between Cosworth and Eibach, lower suspension springs and larger front brakes, courtesy of AP Racing.

395 HP Subaru Impreza STI Cosworth is the new ultimate hot hatch

On the inside you’ll find a piano black center console and a pair of bucket racing Recaro seats. You’ll be able to choose from three colors if this hot hatch got you interested, silver, dark gray and red.

Only 75 cars will be made, sadly intended for UK use, with right hand drive. Even if you considering popping over the Atlantic for such a powerful model, the price starts at £49,995 (around $71,600).

Source: Autocar

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395 HP Subaru Impreza STI Cosworth is the new ultimate hot hatch

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Lexus LS 460 and 600h officially recalled, sales stopped

Posted: 25 May 2010 12:30 AM PDT

Lexus LS 460 and 600h officially recalled, sales stopped

As was rumored last week, Lexus officially announced that it is going to recall all 2009 and 2010 model year LS 460 and 600h models (both in standard and long wheelbase formats), as well as stop the sale of current vehicles due to a problem with the steering system.

It seems that the electronics in the aforementioned steering system can suffer from glitches, causing the wheel to become off-centered. This usually goes away on its own in about five seconds, according to the Japanese luxury carmaker, but that doesn’t make it less dangerous.

The fix for this problem is already implemented in the cars that are being manufactured in Japan, but until those cars arrive in the US (around the middle of June), the company has stopped the sales of any Lexus LS model. The existing 3,800 owners will be notified as soon as possible and a free fix will be offered in existing dealerships.

No injuries or incidents were reported as of yet, but it might be best to not take your chances. You can contact Toyota for more info at 1-800-331-4331.

Source: NHTSA

Post published on Rpmgo.com

Lexus LS 460 and 600h officially recalled, sales stopped

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400 HP BMW Alpina B3S revealed for the UK

Posted: 25 May 2010 12:13 AM PDT

400 HP BMW Alpina B3S revealed for the UK

Customers looking for a more special BMW in the UK have more reasons to celebrate as the 3 Series-based Alpina B3S has just been revealed by the German coachbuilder.

The model, which you can see above in Convertible form, uses the 3.0-liter straight-six engine but manages to squeeze a very impressive 400 HP and around 400 lb-ft of torque. This doesn’t mean fuel average has dropped, as it can still get around 24.2 mpg (US) on the combined cycle. CO2 emissions are also quite low, considering the sporty nature of the B3S, at 224 g/km.

400 HP BMW Alpina B3S revealed for the UK

Among the bespoke features that will make the Alpina B3S stand out from the other BMW 3 Series models will be things like a new front spoiler, a revised rear diffuser plus a set of alloy wheels similar to the ones we saw on the much bigger Alpina B7 limousine.

The B3 S Bi-Turbo will go on sale this summer and appear in all 3 Series body forms: Saloon, Touring, Coupe and Convertible.

Source: Alpina

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400 HP BMW Alpina B3S revealed for the UK

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Maybach 57S gets the coupe treatment from Xenatech

Posted: 24 May 2010 11:42 PM PDT

Maybach 57S gets the coupe treatment from Xenatech

Have you ever fantasized about getting a Maybach 57S luxury limousine but didn’t really fancy the four doors it had?

Well luckily for you and unfortunately for your wallet, tuning company Xenatech has just revealed a new customization program for the 57S which turns it into a coupe model. Besides chopping off two doors, the engineers have also widened the track of the car and lowered the roof line.

Maybach 57S gets the coupe treatment from Xenatech

The new luxury coupe retains the same power ratings, according to Xenatech, meaning the 612 HP 6.0-liter V12 engine will propel the limousine sans two doors from 0 to 62 mph in 5 seconds. The bespoke model will sport the same facelift implemented across the Maybach range in Beijing and supposedly even has the blessing of Daimler.

Only sketches were released, but in case you’re already interested, the starting price for this modified Maybach 57S starts from €650,000 (around $800,000). Only 100 models will be made, so if you want to enjoy all that luxury but without a couple of doors, you might want to hurry up.

Source: Autocar

Post published on Rpmgo.com

Maybach 57S gets the coupe treatment from Xenatech

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Video: The first motorcycle hearse gets ready for memorable funerals

Posted: 24 May 2010 11:28 PM PDT

Video: The first motorcycle hearse gets ready for memorable funerals

We’ve reported on some odd hearses around here, but a new invention coming from Auckland, New Zealand definitely takes the morbid cake.

A motorbike engineer decided that funerals needn’t use just elongated limousines and put his knowledge to good use. The result is (probably) the world’s first motorcycle hearse.

As you can see above, the hearse stores the coffin in the middle and requires two riders to properly maneuver the much longer bike. A hydraulic system can even slide the coffin out so that it can be easily taken out of the odd invention. The power comes from a Harley Davidson 1,350 cc engine, that is more than capable of hauling around up to 440 lbs in cargo.

Curious to see the motorcycle hearse in action? Then hit the jump and check it out.

Source: Papakura Courier via Autoblog

Post published on Rpmgo.com

Video: The first motorcycle hearse gets ready for memorable funerals

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