Wednesday, July 7, 2010

RPMGO.com (former Auto Unleashed)

RPMGO.com (former Auto Unleashed)


Citroen reportedly won’t produce the GT supercar concept

Posted: 07 Jul 2010 03:43 AM PDT

Citroen reportedly won't produce the GT supercar concept

Citroen really shocked the whole automotive industry back in 2008, when it presented the fabulous GTbyCitroen concept.

The media and the regular public applauded the aggressive design and many hoped that it would make it to production as soon as possible. Things got even more interesting as one Citroen executive even admitted that it would become a halo supercar, in order to promote the rest of the range.

Now though, a new report comes from the guys at 4WheelsNews, which say that the Citroen GT concept won’t be making its way to production. The main reason behind this would be the large cost of manufacturing the GT.

Instead, projects like the recent Survolt, or investments for the new, upmarket DS range will be made.

While we can see the business logic, the Citroen GT / GTbyCitroen concept still remains one of our favorite models, and we would’ve loved for it to be produced.

Source: 4WheelsNews via Automarket

Post published on Rpmgo.com

Citroen reportedly won’t produce the GT supercar concept

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Pagani planning entry-level V8 supercar?

Posted: 07 Jul 2010 03:17 AM PDT

Pagani planning entry-level V8 supercar?

Italian supercar manufacturer Pagani might have some serious future plans, which involve not one, but two exotic models.

As you all know, the current Pagani Zonda is nearing the end of its life cycle, and will be replaced with the V12-powered C9.

That’s not all, at least according to a recent report, which indicates that the company will launch an entry-level supercar. Not a lot is known at the moment, but a V8 engine, possibly with some kind of forced induction, will power it.

Even though the thought of a more reasonably priced Pagani does sound extremely good, according to the report, the entry-level model will hit around 2015, in order to give the C9 plenty of breathing room.

We’re not exactly sure of this rumor, but seeing as how Pagani became extremely popular thanks to the Zonda, more supercars on the market might make for an increased profit.

Source: Autovisie via Autoblog

Post published on Rpmgo.com

Pagani planning entry-level V8 supercar?

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Citroen Survolt electric race car to make its debut at Le Mans Classic

Posted: 07 Jul 2010 01:49 AM PDT

Citroen Survolt electric race car to make its debut at Le Mans Classic

The Citroen Survolt electric vehicle concept impressed a lot of people when it was revealed at the beginning of the year.

Now, it seems that Citroen really wants to make the Survolt stand out even more, and has announced that the electric model will be driven at the famous Le Mans Classic race, set to start on July 10th.

In case you forgot, the Survolt electric race car (pictured above while preparing for the Le Mans event) uses two motors, capable of a combined output of 300 HP. When you combine the impressive power figure with the carbon fiber bodywork and the low weight of the tubular steel chassis, you get a proper race car, even if it is an electric one.

According to Citroen, the Survolt is capable of sprinting from 0 to 62 mph in under five seconds, and up to 162 mph. Thanks to the two battery packs, the Survolt can cover 124 miles on a single charge. Its recharge times vary from 2 hours, with a special charger, or 10 hours, from a regular 220-volt socket.

Source: Citroen

Post published on Rpmgo.com

Citroen Survolt electric race car to make its debut at Le Mans Classic

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Aston Martin V8 Vantage N420 special edition revealed

Posted: 07 Jul 2010 01:26 AM PDT

Aston Martin V8 Vantage N420 special edition revealed

A few years ago, in order to celebrate its success at the famous Nurburgring 24 Hours endurance event, Aston Martin revealed the N400 V8 Vantage special edition.

Now, seeing as how the Vantage did receive a refresh in that time, a new special edition has been revealed: the Aston Martin V8 Vantage N420.

As its name implies, the car is capable of 420 HP, squeezed from its 4.7-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine. This, coupled with a weight reduction of around 60 pounds (27 kg), means that the N420 is capable of sprinting to a top speed of 180 mph. The model can be ordered with either the standard six-speed manual or a Sportshift semi-automatic transmission.

Seeing as how it is based on the racing efforts of Aston Martin, you know that the new edition will have some serious credentials. It uses the Sports Pack’s upgraded suspension, as well as a new body kit, made almost completely from carbon fiber. Unique wheels, as well as a wide array of racing liveries can be ordered to decorate the N420 Vantage.

Production will begin immediately, while deliveries are going to start in August. Don’t expect it in the USA however, as the Aston Martin V8 Vantage N420 will be catered to the UK and European markets.

Source: Aston Martin

Post published on Rpmgo.com

Aston Martin V8 Vantage N420 special edition revealed

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2010 Smart ForTwo gets refreshed with new looks and options

Posted: 07 Jul 2010 12:58 AM PDT

2010 Smart ForTwo gets refreshed with new looks and options

The Smart ForTwo hasn’t exactly been the city car sales phenomenon Mercedes-Benz had been hoping for.

Still, the company is confident in the compact model, and has revealed the 2010 refresh to the ForTwo range.

As you can see above, the outside hasn’t seen any dramatic changes, with the new, optional LED daytime running lights being the biggest addition. A set of 15-inch alloy wheels can also be ordered, alongside an even wider array of colors, that can decorate anything from the body to specific components of the car. Also, for the open top version of the ForTwo, customers will be able to order either a red or blue cloth top.

2010 Smart ForTwo gets refreshed with new looks and options

The interior of the 2010 Smart ForTwo has seen some much needed improvements though. The instrument panel has been redesigned, while an optional three-spoke leather steering wheel can be ordered. Another new addition is a touchscreen infotainment system, letting drivers control the navigation, bluetooth connectivity or the audio system.

In terms of engines, the units haven’t changed, but their CO2 emissions have been lowered. The top-of-the-range Brabus version is now capable of emitting just 119 g/km of CO2. The most frugal in the range is still a CDI diesel unit, which puts out just 86 g/km of CO2.

Expect the 2010 Smart ForTwo to debut in dealerships this fall, across the world.

Source: Smart

Post published on Rpmgo.com

2010 Smart ForTwo gets refreshed with new looks and options

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Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon LAPV 6.X Concept is capable of conquering small nations

Posted: 07 Jul 2010 12:20 AM PDT

Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon LAPV 6.X Concept is capable of conquering small nations

Mercedes-Benz is a pretty sensible automaker, offering both exquisite luxury limousines, like the 2011 CL Class, but also performance supercars, like the SLS AMG.

Every once in a while though, the company’s engineers get ‘creative’. The result is the hulking monster you can see above, the Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon LAPV 6.X Concept.

The imposing model boasts everything you might see in a tank, but all packed in the already capable G-Wagon (G Class) off-roader. You’ll find armor plating, including underbody protection, in case you fancy a drive over land mines. Besides that, adjustable suspension is present, capable of offering 18 inches worth of clearance, as is a hydraulic braking system with ventilated discs.

The G-Wagon LAPV also boasts a military-grade communications system complete with a jamming station, you know, just because. A common-rail diesel engine powers this road-ready tank, but it wasn’t detailed. Even so, Mercedes guarantees that the model can haul around 2,866 pounds of cargo at speeds of up to 150 km/h.

So, in case you want to complete that personal militia, or just invade a small nation, ‘Ze Germans’ from Mercedes have got you covered.

Source: WCF

Post published on Rpmgo.com

Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon LAPV 6.X Concept is capable of conquering small nations

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2011 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X SE revealed, combines GSR and MR options

Posted: 06 Jul 2010 11:55 PM PDT

2011 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X SE revealed, combines GSR and MR options

In order to give its customers an even better deal when opting for a new Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X, the Japanese company has just revealed a new edition of its powerful sedan.

The 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X SE version will slot in below the top-of-the-range MR, but above the GSR version.

The SE will combine the best of both worlds, taking options from the more hardcore MR but also things from the GSR. Specifically, the dual-clutch TC-SST gearbox, complete with three driving modes (Normal, Sport and Super-Sport) will be standard. It will push the 291 HP and 300 lb-ft of torque through the Evo’s S-AWC all-wheel drive system.

The Evo X SE sports the GSR’s front fascia, combined with a rear diffuser from the MR, and sits on upgraded Bilstein shock absorbers. Recaro seats are present on the inside, sporting a cloth material, instead of the MR’s leather.

Pricing hasn’t been announced, but expect it to sit snugly between the GSR’s $30,000 and the MR’s $40,000 tag.

Source: Mitsubishi

Post published on Rpmgo.com

2011 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X SE revealed, combines GSR and MR options

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NHTSA investigating power steering issues on BMW Z4 and Mazda3

Posted: 06 Jul 2010 11:42 PM PDT

NHTSA investigating power steering issues on BMW Z4 and Mazda3

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has just announced that it will be starting two new investigations, both related to the power steering systems of the BMW Z4 and the Mazda3.

The specific models currently being investigated are the 2003-2005 BMW Z4 and the 2007-2009 Mazda3. It seems that while the systems may be quite different, they both are responsible for incidents. Three Mazda crashes and one BMW accident were reported, stemming from a loss of response from the steering system.

The Mazda3 did receive a Technical Service Bulletin (not a full pledged recall) last year, but it seems that the electro-hydraulic power steering system still has some problems.

The BMW Z4, on the other hand, uses a completely electric steering system, which, at high speeds or temperatures, may manifest some issues. As you can imagine, under such conditions, you want the car to be as responsible as possible.

The investigations are still underway, so a result is to be expected in the following weeks.

Source: BusinessWeek via Autoblog

Post published on Rpmgo.com

NHTSA investigating power steering issues on BMW Z4 and Mazda3

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Mazda launches its own certified pre-owned program

Posted: 06 Jul 2010 11:29 PM PDT

Mazda launches its own certified pre-owned program

Seeing as how not a lot of people afford to buy new cars these days, certified pre-owned programs are increasingly attractive for automakers.

Now, Mazda has just announced that it will be starting its own CPO program, in order to offer customers a more attractive option than buying from the second hand market.

The new program covers models from 2006 through 2010, with less that 60,000 miles. Depending on the age of the car, several warranties will be offered. Either the existing warranty is kept, or a new 12-month or 12,000 miles deal is offered. Better yet, a 7-year/100,000 mile powertrain coverage is also part of the deal, as is free roadside assistance.

Expect Mazda’s new certified pre-owned vehicle program to be appearing in dealerships across the USA in the following weeks.

Source: Mazda

Post published on Rpmgo.com

Mazda launches its own certified pre-owned program

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2011 Volvo V60 revealed, the Sports Wagon version of the S60

Posted: 06 Jul 2010 06:55 AM PDT

2011 Volvo V60 revealed, the Sports Wagon version of the S60

After Volvo revealed the impressive 2011 S60 sedan, it was only a matter of time before the Swedish company presented the wagon version of that same model.

Now, the 2011 Volvo V60 Sports Wagon has been formally revealed, complete with an impressive video.

In terms of equipment, you won’t find any big changes, as it really is just the wagon version of the S60 sedan. Still, Volvo did try to implement a more aggressive design, with a sloped rear end, aiming to really highlight the sporty nature of its sports wagon.

There are changes from a technical standpoint though, as two chassis versions will be offered, Touring and Dynamic. The main differences reside with the suspension system, which is much more responsive in the Dynamic flavor. Still, both versions will provide an adequate amount of comfort, even on low quality roads.

As usual for Volvo, a huge amount of safety systems are offered, including the Pedestrian Detection one, which premiered on the S60 sedan. Hopefully, all of the systems will work in real life conditions. All-wheel drive is offered as standard for the top-of-the-range version, while you can order it as an option for other ones.

In terms of engines, Volvo is throwing everything it has on the V60, with three diesels and no less than five gasoline units. The diesel range offers the 115 HP 1.6-liter DRIVe, the 163 HP 2.0-liter D3 and the 205 HP 2.4-liter D5. Gasoline fans will be able to choose from the 150 HP 1.5-liter T3, 180 HP 1.5-liter T4, 203 HP 2.0-liter 2.0T, 240 HP 2.5-liter T5, 304 HP 3.0-liter T6.

No word yet on US availability, seeing as how Volvo might operate some changes to the American lineup. Still, Europeans will be able to enjoy the sleek new 2011 Volvo V60 Sports Wagon starting this fall.

Until then, check out the photo gallery below and then hit the jump for an interesting presentation video.

Photo Gallery: 2011 Volvo V60

2011 Volvo V602011 Volvo V602011 Volvo V602011 Volvo V60

2011 Volvo V602011 Volvo V602011 Volvo V602011 Volvo V60


Source: Volvo

Post published on Rpmgo.com

2011 Volvo V60 revealed, the Sports Wagon version of the S60

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