We know that you loved the Chevy Matiz TV ad with the sexy Greek babe that we showed you last week – if you haven’t seen it, don’t hesitate to click here. Turns out though that there’s a second Greek Chevy Matiz ad featuring the same Mediterranean hottie. Only this time she’s wearing a scorching mini shorts and a bikini top. If you watch the video really, really careful, you may also spot a red Chevrolet Matiz hidden somewhere…
Greek Babe with Bikini-Top Stars in New Chevy Matiz Ad!
We know that you loved the Chevy Matiz TV ad with the sexy Greek babe that we showed you last week – if you haven’t seen it, don’t hesitate to click here. Turns out though that there’s a second Greek Chevy Matiz ad featuring the same Mediterranean hottie. Only this time she’s wearing a scorching mini shorts and a bikini top. If you watch the video really, really careful, you may also spot a red Chevrolet Matiz hidden somewhere…
$20k Buyers: Dodge Challenger SE V6 or VW Golf GTI?
At the New York Auto Show, Dodge announced that the entry-level version of the 2009 Challenger coupe, the SE that’s powered by Chrysler’s 250 Hp 3.5-liter V6 unit matted to a 4-speed automatic gearbox will be priced in the low $20,000s. Now, let’s say you’re in the market searching for a brand-new sports car in that price range. Would you prefer an underpowered but attention grabbing rear-wheel-drive coupe like the base Challenger SE from an undiluted sport hatch like the 200Hp VW Golf GTI (priced from around $22k)? We’d also like to hear what our European friends have to say if these two cars where available for the same price in their home turf. Have your say in the comment section below. (Pic: Carscoop)
Video: Alfa Romeo’s Designers Talk About the Mi.To
Continuing their aggressive media attack, Alfa Romeo has released a new video of the all-new Mi.To sport hatch. This time, Alfa Romeo invited an Italian guy named Enrico to its Centro Stile headquarters to meet the Mi.To’s head designers who explain the visual links between the sport hatch and the 8c Competizione. Although the tour is in Italian, Alfa Romeo kindly added English subtitles - on most of the video at least. –Video right after the jump
Bentley Boys USA “S3” Project with BMW 4.4L V8
This retro-inspired, low-rider concept is the work of automotive engineer Arturo Alonso from Bentley Boys USA and it is based on the Bentley S3 limo from the 1960’s. Although the car maintains most of the original body and chassis of the S3, Alfonso plans to modernize the Bentley’s mechanics by using a 300 Hp BMW 4.4-liter V8 powertrain complete with a 5-speed ZF automatic transmission.Other changes include a dual-zone air-condition, new interior trim and 20-inch forged alloys wrapped around in 275/40 Continental Sport tires. The Bentley Boys USA original plans are to build three examples of the car with prices estimated to start at around $150k each. –More pics after the jump
Via: Motorpasion
US Marines Ghostriding an Armed Vehicle in... Iraq!
In case you’re not familiar with the term, ghostriding is when a driver and passengers exit a vehicle while it’s rolling uncommanded and start dancing beside it or even on it. But while that might sound just plain dumb (yes, dangerous too) if you do it on your home street in
BMW M6 Convertible: Total... Burn Out
All we know about this BMW M6 Convertible is that it was burnt to the ground – but apparently you can see that for yourselves, and that according to the poster on the forum where we found the pictures, the baked bimmer was located somwehere in the Swedish city of 
Thanks for the tip Jons! - Via: Zatzy
Scion Hacked Coupe Concept: Follow the Orange-Brick Road...
...back to the drawing board. If there’s one car at this year’s 
Pictures: Carscoop
Suzuki Kizashi 3 Live Pics: It Still Looks Good!
Revealed for the first time at the New York Auto Show, the third iteration of Suzuki’s Kizashi series is not only the better looking among the three concepts, but it’s also the one closest to the forthcoming production model that’ll follow in 2011. The live pictures from Suzuki’s NY Show booth give us a more realistic view of the Kizashi compared to the press photos we showed you earlier (see here). The concept features a 300 horsepower, 3.6-liter, naturally-aspirated V6 engine with power delivered through a six-speed automatic transmission, with paddle shifters, to all four wheels. –More images after the jump
Huh? Konigseder Offering New Bodykit for Previous Generation Infiniti FX to Europeans...
Yes Infiniti will begin selling cars in “Since Nissan launched the Europe wide distribution of the luxury brand Infiniti on the
So unless Infiniti has decided to either bring both generations to Europe or import used cars from North America, we fail to see the use of this particular bodykit in
Link: Konigseder
Chrysler VP: “We Only Need About Half of our Current SUV Models”
In an interview he gave to Bloomberg TV from the New York International Auto Show floor, Chrysler LLC’s Vice President Jim Press said that the American automaker needs about half of its 11 current SUV models. According to Press, since the company has started merging the Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge brands into joint dealerships, there is no need for so many SUVs. “We're going to stop overlapping; we're going to bring everything under one roof. By doing that we will have more products in the markets we are not covering,'' Press said. “Our finances will have better quality.''Via: Bloomberg
Video: 2009 Acura TSX Driving & Static Footage
Weirdly enough, we heard a lot of negative comments on the all-new 2008 Acura TSX’s exterior design. While we don’t think that it’s anything special, we can’t say that we dislike it either. Design aside, the evolutionary 2009 TSX has slightly grown in dimensions while power comes from a revised version of Honda’s 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine that delvers 201 Hp. Follow the jump for the video or click here for our previous article that includes a high-res image gallery and details. –Click through to see the video
NY Show: Saleen’s $185k S5S Raptor Supercar
The Raptor is Saleen’s latest offering in the supercar market that is targeted against Italian exotics like the Lamborghini Gallardo. The vehicle presented at the New York Auto Show however is a pre-production model as the Raptor S5S is expected to enter the market in 2011 where it will carry a base price of approximately $185,000. The two-seater, mid-engine super car with the aluminum chassis is powered by a V8 5.0L Supercharged unit designed to digest cellulosic ethanol that develops 650hp at 6,300 rpm and 630 lb-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm. Power is sent to the rear wheels via a close ratio 6-speed manual, or optional paddle shifting sequential gearbox. According to Saleen, the Raptor can go from standstill to 60 mph (96 km/h) in 3.2 seconds while its top speed is in excess of 200 mph or 320 km/h. –More pics after the jump
Via: Autoblog.it , Source: Saleen
ABT Presents 300Hp VW Touareg 3.0 TDI
VW Group tuning specialist ABT, has introduced a new sport package for the diesel-powered Touareg 3.0 TDI. Starting with the Power S engine kit, the 3.0-liter V6 unit’s output rises from 225 Hp to 300 Hp while torque jumps from an already impressive 500 Nm or 368.8 lbs-ft to a whopping 600 Nm or 442.5 lbs-ft. The tweaked Touareg sprints from zero to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 8.2 sec while its top speed is 214 km/h or 133 mph. -ContinuedThe German tuner has also equipped the Touareg with a sports suspension and the ABT sports brake system, which provides appropriate brake force thanks to a disc diameter of 380mm and six-piston calipers. Finally, ABT has developed a full bodykit for the luxury SUV consisting of front spoiler lip, fender extensions, rear wing and rear skirt along with 20 or 22-inch BR-wheels. (Pic edited by Carscoop)
Alfa Mi.To or MINI Cooper? Take Your Pick
There’s not a single doubt in anyone’s mind that Alfa Romeo’s Mi.To sport hatch (pics & details here, video here)is aimed directly towards the MINI. And while we’ll have to drive the Mi.To to see if Alfa’s engineers have magically transformed its Fiat Grande Punto underpinnings, few will disagree with us when we say that the Mi.To’s 8c Competizione-inspired styling is awe-inspiring. What we want to hear from you is your initial thoughts on Alfa’s newest proposition and whether you’d seriously consider buying it over the MINI Cooper. Have your say in the comment section below. (Pic: Carscoop)
Do-It-Yourself: Paper-cut Hyundai Genesis Coupe
Like it or not, the all-new Hyundai Genesis Coupe that premiered in Via: Autoblog.com , Source: Gencoupe
Holden's Cool "Ute Evolution" TV Commercial
One of our readers tipped us off on this wonderful Holden ad that recently hit Australian TV screens to celebrate the launch of the new VE Ute, or as we’ll know it in the US, the Pontiac G8 Sport Truck (see here). Directed by Mark Toia from Zoom Film and Television for McCann Erickson Melbourne, the TV commercial takes us on a journey through the transformation from the classic FJ right through to the new VE model –ok, they skipped a few generations like the WB and the VR, but great ad nevertheless. –Video after the jump
Video: Hyundai’s "Drifty" Genesis Coupe NY Show Presentation
More often than not, media presentations are one of the most tedious things that can happen to a person. Luckily, that wasn’t the case with Hyundai and its 2009 Genesis Coupe presentation at the New York Show opening. Check out the video and you’ll see exactly what we mean.
Kia Presents Redesigned 2009 Optima Sedan in New York, We Yawn...
Get a load of what Kia supports in its official press release on the restyled Optima that made its debut today at the New York Auto Show: “The 2009 Optima is presented with new front, side and rear styling cues, which build upon Kia’s philosophy of creating dynamic vehicles that evoke passion”. We’d gladly appreciate it if anyone could help us find something - anything- on the Optima that evokes passion…Along with the “hi, my name is John Doe” front-end styling the 2009 Optima also features refreshed fascia patterns and color schemes in the interior. Power comes from a new 2.4-liter four cylinder engine that produces 175 Hp and 169 lb-ft of torque (+13 Hp more than the before) and a revised version of the 2.7-liter V6 engine that delivers 190 Hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. –Details and pics after the jump
PRESS RELEASE
KIA DEBUTS 2009 OPTIMA AT NEW YORK
Midsize
Redesigned exterior and interior establishes Kia’s distinctive, aggressive new look
New engine packs powerful punch without sacrificing fuel economy
"Optima is in a strong position to change the way consumers think about midsize sedan offerings," said Tom Loveless, vice president, sales of KMA. "Already known for its exemplary quality, safety and value, Optima’s sleek new redesign provides consumers with a sporty, fuel-efficient choice and showcases Kia’s commitment to providing the best all-around vehicle package."
Exterior Excitement
The 2009 Optima is presented with new front, side and rear styling cues, which build upon Kia’s philosophy of creating dynamic vehicles that evoke passion. The fog lamps and lower front grille have been enlarged and the headlamps narrowed to create an aggressively sharper look. Wider side garnishes add sportiness while the acute front lines continue toward the back, ending on a distinctly edged trunk lid. To complete the redesigned rear fascia, taillights are narrowed to enhance Optima’s sleeker cosmetic appearance.
Also, new for 2009 is the addition of the sporty SX trim, which complements the handsomely-equipped, value-priced LX and luxury-oriented EX trims. Already available with Kia’s Rio, Rio5, Spectra and Spectra5 models, the SX line provides another dimension for Optima buyers looking for a sportier midsize. Along with a sport-tuned suspension, SX upgrades include: a black-bezeled front grille and headlamps, LED outside-mirror turning signals, fog lights and hyper-silver-finished 17-inch wheels. EX and LX V6 models are equipped with 16-inch alloy wheels, and are fitted with Goodyear tires.
The 2009 Optima’s overall length also increased, extending nearly two inches in the front and one inch in the rear, to an overall length of roughly 189 inches. The larger proportions enhance the exterior styling for a lower, leaner, more powerful stance. All other dimensions, including wheelbase, remain unchanged.
Efficient, Powerful Engine
Available in two powerplants – a 2.4-liter four-cylinder or a 2.7-liter V6 engine – and two five-speed transmissions (manual with LX four-cylinder model only), the 2009 Optima introduces a new engine under its hood. When redesigned as a 2006.5 model, the peppy four-cylinder engine delivered 161 horsepower, a 15-percent increase from the previous generation. For 2009, a more powerful 2.4-liter engine takes its place, producing an additional 13 horsepower. Optima’s four-cylinder output increases to 175 horsepower and 169 lb-ft of torque. The available 2.7-liter V6 engine remains a carryover but output has increased to 190 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. The V6 is mated to a five-speed, gated automatic transmission. All automatics feature Sportmatic™ clutchless shifting.
The introductions of Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) and a Variable Intake System (VIS) further enhance Optima’s new under-the-hood excitement. These added systems improve the vehicle’s fuel economy without sacrificing power.
Built on a unibody frame, the front-wheel-drive Optima utilizes independent front and rear suspension systems. MacPherson struts are used in the front with a multi-link layout in the rear and are joined with coil springs and anti-roll bars (standard equipment on all models) to engage drivers with responsive handling and provide utmost comfort whether the road is smooth or less than ideal.
Interior Refinement
The style makeover continues into the Optima’s cabin with expanded electronics melded with refreshed fascia patterns and color schemes. Based on a new platform, the standard audio system features MP3 compatibility, a USB port and SIRIUS satellite radio capability in addition to an auxiliary jack, which was added to 2008 models. An optional in-dash navigation system also is an Optima first.
The rest of the center fascia and floor console receive minor tuning for even more intuitive operation whereas the new barrel-type instrument cluster design adopts a sporty red illumination. Optima continues to offer two seat trims in gray or beige color schemes – cloth (LX), leather (EX) – with black leather trim on SX models, which also features aluminum trim, metal sport pedals and a Supervision meter cluster.
Amidst the host of additional options, Optima still offers an array of standard features. The LX is equipped with air conditioning, power windows and door locks, an AM/FM/CD audio system with six speakers, cloth seat and door trim, a six-way adjustable driver’s seat and four-way adjustable front passenger seat as well as 60/40-split folding rear seats. EX models upgrade to a leather-wrapped steering wheel with tilt and telescopic functions, leather seat and door trim, leather-wrapped shift knob, automatic temperature control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror featuring Homelink® and an eight-way power adjustable driver’s seat. Convenience and Premium Packages offer further content upgrades, including a power sunroof and an Infinity® audio system.
Safety-Minded
As with the rest of the Kia line-up, the 2009 Optima is equipped with many safety features as standard equipment. This includes six airbags (dual advanced front and front-seat mounted side as well as full-length side curtain), front active headrests, side-impact door beams, height-adjustable front seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters, three-point seatbelts for all seating positions, Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). The Electronic Stability Control Package adds Electronic Stability Control (ESC), a Traction Control System (TCS), brake assist and four-wheel anti-lock brakes.
Competitive Warranty
The 2009 Optima is covered by Kia’s comprehensive warranty program, which offers unprecedented consumer protection. Included in this program are a 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, a five-year/60,000-mile limited basic warranty and a five-year/100,000-mile anti-perforation warranty. A five-year/60,000-mile roadside assistance plan also is part of the comprehensive vehicle coverage.
Suzuki Kizashi 3 Concept: Striking Sport Sedan Previews Production Version!
Suzuki took the wraps off the third and final iteration of its Kizashi concept series at the New York Auto Show today. The Kizashi series began with the Kizashi 1 that made its debut at the 2007 Frankfurt Show, and the Kizashi 2 which was unveiled at the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show. The Kizashi 3 however is the closest-to-production variation of the Concept Kizashi series which, according to Suzuki, will arrive to North American dealers by 2011.We’re not ashamed to say that the Kizashi 3 is one of the sexiest sport sedans that we’ve seen lately and we hope that Suzuki won’t change a thing when it presents the road-going version. Measuring in at 4,650mm/183.1 inches in length, 1,900mm/74.8 inches in width, 1,450mm/57.1 inches in height and with a wheelbase length of 2,800mm/110.2 inches, the Kizashi is a tad smaller than a Mazda6 but slightly larger than a BMW 3 Series Sedan for example
The Concept is powered by a new, 300 Hp strong 3.6-liter DOHC V6 engine with plated cylinders. According to Suzuki, plated cylinders are a weight-and space-saving technology that was evolved from the lessons learned by the company’s motorcycle and WRC development teams. Power is transferred to all-wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. (Pics edited by Carscoop) – Image gallery and details after the jump
PRESS RELEASE
LIVE! FROM NEW YORK : SUZUKI DEBUTS CONCEPT KIZASHI 3
AT 2008 NEW YORK
- Suzuki “Way of Life!” brand spirit illustrated by world debut of athletic Concept Kizashi 3
- Suzuki broadcasts plan to produce global sport sedan based on Concept Kizashi 3 design
- Series premiere of complete Concept Kizashi family
NEW YORK (March 20, 2008) — Performing onstage at this year’s New York International Auto Show in front of a packed house, American Suzuki Motor Corp. hosts the world debut of its sleek and athletic Concept Kizashi 3, which completes the company’s star-studded cast of media-acclaimed Kizashi concepts. In addition to the North American reveals of Concept Kizashi and Concept Kizashi 2, the global introduction of Concept Kizashi 3 coincides with Suzuki’s announcement that it will produce a sport sedan derived from the Concept Kizashi 3 design.
The Concept Kizashi series was developed by Suzuki’s Advanced Design Group to reflect a dynamic athlete in motion, taking design cues from a strong, honed physique while displaying the performance, strength and style befitting a flagship vehicle. The design theme began with Concept Kizashi, which made its debut at the 2007 International Motor Show in Frankfurt, and the Concept Kizashi 2, unveiled at the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show, which further revealed Suzuki’s new design language.
“Kizashi means ‘prelude’ in Japanese, and that’s exactly what this design represents for Suzuki from both a business and a product standpoint,” said Mark Harano, president, American Suzuki Automotive Operations. “Concept Kizashi 3 illustrates our brand character and personifies our heritage, design strength and engineering prowess. With customers in 192 countries and regions, Suzuki is truly a global brand, and the coming model carries on our mission to build the image of our automotive products in
Known primarily as a maker of small vehicles, Suzuki intends for the production derivative of the Kizashi series to serve as the company’s flagship vehicle, strengthening its current product line of small cars, trucks and SUVs with a sporting, more accommodating sedan. The future production model will be built at Suzuki’s brand-new Sagara plant in
The Concept Kizashi Series
Evoking the physical superiority and dignity of a world-class athlete, the Concept Kizashi series was developed to create a substantial presence that redefines the traditional performance vehicle and moves the Suzuki brand upscale. The overall design theme suggests physical strength from intense daily training, with the strong will, commitment and presence of a champion.
Each of the Concept Kizashi vehicles strikes a balance between driver comfort and sportiness, with roomy cabins melded to lean, dynamic exteriors. The hood and body style of all three Concept Kizashis hint at abundant engine power and wind-splitting aerodynamics, while the long wheelbase, aggressive wheel/tire combinations and abbreviated overhangs communicate a performance-oriented, energetic image. A powerful-looking body profile is incorporated throughout the series to convey underlying strength, with large wheels and a wide tread expressing a capacity for superior performance. Beyond its exterior architecture, the Concept Kizashi series constitutes a four-wheeled continuation of Suzuki’s exciting, performance-oriented motorcycle heritage, represented best by its dynamic, world-renowned line of GSX-R sportbikes. Those bikes, some two decades after their introduction, continue to dominate the sportbike segment and have achieved iconic status.
Concept Kizashi
Concept Kizashi made its world debut at the 2007 International Motor Show in
Concept Kizashi 2
Debuted at the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show, the Concept Kizashi 2 crossover sport wagon aims at drivers with dynamic lifestyles and can accommodate a wide range of activities. Continuing the series’ athletic theme, Concept Kizashi 2 reflects the body of a triathlete, with the five-door vehicle’s all-road capability enhanced by its raised height and all-wheel-drive configuration. In addition to the sport crossover’s versatility, its 3.6 liter V6 engine and six-speed automatic transmission promise a rewarding and engaging driving experience for daily drivers and enthusiasts alike.
Concept Kizashi 3
The closest-to-production variation of the Concept Kizashi series, Concept Kizashi 3 embodies Suzuki’s interpretation of the sport sedan segment in the North American market. The Kizashi’s “super sport” identity, a core component of the Suzuki brand DNA, is tempered by the vehicle’s overall mission to provide strong, refined urban performance.
As with Concept Kizashi and Concept Kizashi 2, the front end of the Concept Kizashi 3 expresses strength and style, with sharply fashioned headlights that emphasize the sensation of forward motion. The vehicle’s exquisitely engineered body reflects Suzuki’s distinctive combination of capability and refinement, with power flowing from a 3.6-liter DOHC V6 engine with plated cylinders — a weight-and space-saving technology that evolved from the lessons learned by Suzuki’s motorcycle and WRC development teams. The body’s monochrome finish, Kizashi Silver, gives the vehicle a sense of composure and depth of character, with metallic paint sparkling to emphasize the dynamism of the body’s cross-section.
Concept Kizashi 3 Specifications
| Powertrain layout | Front engine, four-wheel drive with Advanced i-AWD system |
| Seating capacity (persons) | Five |
| Tires | 255/30ZR21 9.5J |
| Wheels | 21-inch, nine-spoke, aluminum |
| Engine | 3,564cm3 V6, DOHC, 24-valve |
| Transmission | Six-speed automatic (with paddle shifters) |
| Maximum power | 300 hp |
| Overall length | 4,650mm/183.1 in. |
| Overall width | 1,900mm/74.8 in. |
| Overall height | 1,450mm/57.1 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2,800mm/110.2 in. |
| Minimum ground clearance | 120mm |
Video: 2009 Pontiac Solstice Coupe – 50 Cent Presentation Plus Driving Footage
Not that any of you car aficionados care or anything, but GM called in 50 Cent to present its new products at the New York Auto Show. The successful rapper seemed particularly interested in the 2009 Pontiac Solstice Targa Coupe that will be available in the States in early 2009 (see pics and details here). Along with the NY Show presentation, we also included driving and static footage of
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