Upcoming Ferrari supercars based on FXX and Millechili concept

A second supercar could appear based on the FXX development program, we think it far more likely that one vehicle will prevail, borrowing on themes and components from both the Millechili and the FXX test-bed.With the Enzo now out of production, and no mega-super-car in the Ferrari stable, the prancing stallion brand believes the Millechili concept, first revealed at the automaker’s 60th anniversary extravaganza, to move from the realm of conceptual toilet paper tubes to production.

The buff book’s sources report Ferrari is looking to see the Ferrari Millechili hit the streets as a 2010 model.One approach is reportedly being based on the Millechili concept, which as you’ll recall was essentially a chopped-down Enzo crafted out of cardboard and plastic holding the promise of environmentally-friendly specs. The production vehicle is tipped to be based on the F430’s platform remember that the 288 GTO and F40 were based on modified 308 underpinnings – but feature a 600hp V10 in a lightweight 1000kg package, with a lengthened wheelbase of around 104 inces, a $500,000 price tag and a production run of 300.

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2009 BMW Series 128i

Irvine BMW from California has announced the introduction of the 2009 BMW 128i luxury model with economic Miles Per Gallon, coming in 2 versions – coupe and convertible. The estimated retail price is of $28,600, while the new car features 230 horsepower, 3-liter, 6-cylinder engine, and 28 miles per gallon. It provides Dynamic Stability Control, Dynamic Traction Control, 6-speed STEPTRONIC with Paddle Shifters and advanced full safety features.



In addition, there is the Bluetooth wireless technology that enables cell phone to car connectivity for handsfree conversations, while the multifunction keys on the steering wheel allow you to browse the phone book and choose which contacts you want to call. The on-board navigation system, High-Definition Radio and iPod/iPhone USB Integrated System are great tools for pairing your high-end mobile handsets to the elegant car.



“The 128i features all the classic power of BMW handling and style,” said General Sales Manager Paul Liu about the new BMW 1 Series car model that comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, sunroof for the coupe, cruise control, rain-sensing wipers, leatherette premium vinyl upholstery, a tilt-telescoping leather-wrapped steering wheel and a 10-speaker stereo with CD player and an auxiliary audio jack. The convertible model features also a power-operated soft top and an enhanced climate control system.



With powerful Hi-Fi audio system integrated, the 2009 BMW 128i surrounds the driver in an expressive and outstanding sound produced by 10 speakers, an AM/FM in-dash single CD player, CD-controller with CD MP3 Playback, and a diversity antenna.

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Aston Martin shows the powerhouse One-77

Aston Martin is ready with its “Technical Showcase” the fastest, most powerful Aston built to date. The rigid carbon fiber monocoque design holds a massive 7.3-l V12 that delivers more than 700bhp, the engine is an improvement over Aston’s 6.0-l V12. Not only is the new engine more powerful than the original, it is also 25% lighter. With a low kerb weight (1500 kg) and that powerful an engine, the car can go from zero to 60mph in just 3.5 seconds, while the top speed is expected to be well over 200mph.

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First pics of Porsche Panamera interior

These are the first images of the interior of the new Porsche Panamera, the sports car firm’s four-door saloon which is due on sale in September.

The images show that the Porsche Panamera will offer plenty of luxurious touches and gadgets to accompany its hefty price tags.

With a continuous center console that extends from the dashboard to the rear seating area, the Panamera offers a new spatial concept for the driver and passengers featuring optimal ergonomic seating with individual cockpit-like spaces for all.

Its deep seating position and a sport steering wheel help give the driver and passengers direct contact with the road.

Porsche will provide countless opportunities for individual interior customization with 13 color and material combinations including four two-tone leather interiors and seven interior trim options including carbon fiber to Natural Olive wood.

An available four-zone climate control system gives each seating area individual control of functions such as temperature, air distribution and venting direction.

The Panamera S and Panamera 4S feature eight-way power seats in front with a driver memory package. In the rear are two individual seats with a folding rear console and plenty of room.

The Panamera Turbo has power seats with a memory package for not only the seat functions but also the electronically adjustable steering wheel.

Further seating customization is available through optional alternatives such as 18-way Adaptive Sport Seats or fully adjustable eight-way power seats in the rear.

Porsche for the first time will offer from Burmester - the renowned Berlin audio manufacturer - a new ultra high-end surround sound system.

With 16 loudspeakers plus a subwoofer (a total of over 2.5 square feet of speaker surface area) and a total output of more than 1000 watts, this new system gives listeners a grand acoustical experience.

And like the 2009 Porsche sports cars and SUVs, Panameras will be available with the latest personal electronic connectivity features, including Bluetooth for cellular telephones, Universal Audio Interface for connecting personal audio devices, and satellite radio.

The rear luggage area provides up to 15.7 cubic feet of space, enough room for four large suitcases. The tall space enables luggage to be loaded in an upright position, and with the rear seat folded down the luggage space generously increases up to 44.6 cubic feet.

The Panamera goes on sale in Europe in September with a US launch one month later. At launch all Panameras will be powered by either 400 hp normally aspirated V8 or a 500 hp tubo version with prices starting at $89,800.

A version using Porsche’s new hybrid system should also arrive either later in 2010 or 2011.

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New Beetle “Blush” special edition

Volkswagen of America, Inc. has released a special edition model of the New Beetle convertible, titled “Blush”. As its names suggests, a red leather interior combined with a red ragtop is an exclusive to this version.

On the outside, it features an elegant metallic “White Gold” paint. The “Blush” edition also includes a red boot for when the convertible top is down and unique17-inch alloy wheels.

Like the New Beetle standard versione Blush gets a 2.5-liter engine that produces 150-horsepower, and 170 lbs.ft. of torque.

It features a six-speed automatic transmission and Volkswagen’s Electronic Stabilization Program.

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Geneva 2009: Bmw Serie 7 Individual

A BMW is always a special car, but you can make it even more special, by choosing BMW Individual, a programme that allows customers to personalize the interior of their 7-Series.

These new 2009 Individual exclusive combinations of unique equipment will be rolled out at the Geneva Motor Show.

BMW Individual is an unique car, since the range of materials to choose from is more select than for any other vehicle: Alcantara roof liners to fully match the available shades and grains of Merino leather upholstery.

Trim options include black Piano paint, Reddish Brown plant tree wood, and Satin Nut Brown.

The owner can also have exclusive 20-inch light-alloys with a V-spoke design, a fully integrated cooler between the individual rear seats and a mini-fridge that holds two 700ml bottles.

For the outside, there is a special colour: the brand new Citrin Black paint, made by Xirallic that has a shiny lustre.

BMW Individual meets even the highest expectations: the most exclusive way to drive BMW.

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Quality, comfort and luxury: new Mercedes E-Class Coupe

With the new E-Class, Mercedes-Benz is presenting the first car in the world whose headlamps adapt to the traffic situation and respond automatically to avoid dazzling other drivers.

It is also a very safe car, as well as being well-equipped, stylish and comfortable, with the option of night vision and radar-assisted brake mitigation.

Moreover, thanks to an innovative attention assist drowsiness detection system, the new E-Class can monitor its driver’s attention with highly sensitive sensors.

The Stuttgart-based manufacturer did a great work with this new model in term of safety and comfort, but also compatibility and economy: the four- and six-cylinder engines are direct-injection units and develop a higher output and torque than the comparable V6-engines of the preceding series but at the same time consume up to 23 percent less fuel than before.

The new E-Class maintains the strong Mercedes traditions of quality, refinement and luxury and pick up styling cues from the CLS four-door coupe featuring a new angular front end with four squares shaped headlights.

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Wiesmann Celebrates 20th Birthday with Special Edition GT MF4-S

Retro-style automaker Wiesmann is celebrating its 20th anniversary with a limited-edition GT MF4-S.

The closed two-seater is powered by a BMW-sourced 4.8L V8 engine but output has been lifted to 420hp (309kW) - the standard GT MF4 produces 367hp (270kW).

This pretty coupe comes with the option of six-speed manual or dual-clutch auto transmission, and unique upholstery and instrumentation.

In addition to the more powerful engine, the interiors come with the usual personalized owner’s name engraving and production number, and special embroidered seats.

Only 30 examples of the MF4-S will be offered, but Wiesmann is expected to follow it with two more special editions before the birthday party is over. It will be unveiled at the Geneva Show in March.

Founded in 1985 by brothers Martin, an engineer, and Friedhelm, a businessman, Wiesmann got its start building hardtops for convertibles.

In 2006, however, the Brothers Wiesmann came out with their own vehicle a curvaceous and retro coupe and roadster. Via Motorauthority / Classiccar

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Hybrid Technologies Supercar Crushes Prius And Corvette

There's a car that's not slated for release until 2009 or 2010. It makes some wild claims. And no one in the media has driven it yet (since it's still in production). But with those caveats in mind, continue on to drop your jaw at Hybrid Technologies' upcoming still-nameless supercar.

Hybrid Technologies is working on a car coming in two flavors—all electric and hybrid. With the electric, they promise a 150 to 180-mile range per charge. With the lithium-ion hybrid, they promise a 220mpg minimum.

Those specs would be impressive in a golf cart.

But the most compelling part of it all is the alleged performance. Popular Mechanics asked Hybrid Technologies if their car could compete with the Corvette ZR-1 and its crazy V8 that induces mid-600s-scale horsepower. The company responded that they were "way out of the ballpark—it's gonna be wild."

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Automotive Gadget : Zenvo ST1 Supercar

The Zenvo Automotive has announced a real super car, the Zenvo ST1. The Zenvo ST1‘s production is set to begin sometime in 2009.The Zenvo ST1 has elected to electronically limit top speed

to 375kph, meaning high velocity bragging rights remain with the Veyron, 9ff GT9 and the Koenigsegg. It is powered by a twin-charged V-8 engine, the ST11 produces 1104 horsepower and a whopping 1056 pound-feet of torque. Carbonfibre bodypane is keep weight down to a controllable 1400kg. Drivers get a traditional 6 speed manual with a hydraulic limited slip diff.

Expect a supercar price to go with the first Danish supercar ever.

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2010 Ford Fusion: First Impressions

The all-new 2010 Fusion line clearly has two targets it's going after- the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. With all three priced competitively in the midsize sedan market, the decision comes down to which one has the all-around edge in features, performance and quality.

Three weeks ago, Ford unveiled the 2010 Fusion at the Los Angeles Auto Show. This week Edmunds.com was invited to get behind the wheel of this second generation in our very own backyard. During two days in and around Los Angeles, we tested the entire Fusion line, which includes the 2.5-liter inline-four version, the 3.0-liter V6, the 3.5-liter Fusion Sport, all-wheel-drive versions and first ever Fusion Hybrid.

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Comparison Test: Nissan Murano vs Toyota Venza vs Ford Edge

Even with uncertain economic times and crazily fluctuating gas prices, we're going to bet that the crossover SUV is here to stay. They now come in all shapes and sizes, while seating between five and eight passengers. This test concerns the five-passenger midsize group, the one that effectively replaces those truck-based models from the 1990s that launched the SUV craze. These are the bread-and-butter crossovers, but amongst 2009 Nissan Murano, 2009 Toyota Venza V6 and 2009 Ford Edge which one excels in the most areas?

Each vehicle was similarly priced and equipped. The Murano was all-wheel-drive, while the other two were front drivers. We ran each crossover through our usual gamut of testing and utilized the same comparison scoring system as Inside Line, with the exception of final score weighting, which we adjusted to reflect a more consumer-oriented perspective.

(Do not violate the copyright law,We are sharing here, only for EDUCATIONAL purpose. )

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Edmunds Test Drive: 2009 Acura TL

"Critics of the 2009 Acura TL and its, um, interesting styling should recall 1889. That's the year Parisians and artistic experts were aghast at a hideous mass of steel and rivets rising over their city of lights -- a "black blot" it was called. They took solace in the fact that after 20 years, it lease would end and it would be dismantled. Well, the Eiffel Tower still stands 119 years later and most consider it rightly beautiful ..."

To see where the hell I'm going with this, check out the 2009 Acura TL Edmunds Test Drive.

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2009 Infiniti G37 Journey: Edmunds Test Drive

The 2009 Infiniti G37 Journey sedan features a pumped-up 328-horsepower V6 and Infiniti's new seven-speed automatic transmission. Our test car had the Sport Package, which adds the G37 coupe's quicker steering ratio and other performance-minded mods. Curiosity piqued? Check out our comprehensive Edmunds Test Drive of the new G37, and then come back and tell us what you think.

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Comparison Test: 2010 Honda Insight vs 2009 Toyota Prius

We can guess what some of you are thinking: "Look at that! Honda went and built a Prius!"

Not necessarily. Honda's Insight hybrid actually came to these shores before the Toyota Prius. It even had the high rear hatch with the vertical peek-a-boo glass panel between the taillights from Day One. That no one remembers this is due to the fact that the original Insight was a weird-looking 2-seater that was impractical for the masses. Honda sold only 18,000 of them worldwide over a 6-year run.

Understandably, Honda wanted its new Insight to have broad-based appeal. They wanted to build a hybrid that didn't harbor any eccentricities. And they wanted to sell some 90,000 of them per year. To do this they had to morph the Insight into a 4-door, 5-passenger machine. The 2010 Honda Insight you see above is the result. But comparisons to the Toyota Prius are inevitable. How would this new Insight measure-up to the current king-of-the-hill? We recently pitted the two against each other to find out.

Final pricing for the 2010 Honda Insight won't be released until we get closer to the April 22, 2009 on-sale date, but an Insight is expected to go for several thousand less than a comparably-equipped 2009 Toyota Prius. In this case, the desire to compare on an equivalent equipment basis means we've matched the top-level 2010 Honda Insight EX Navi against a 2009 Toyota Prius with package #5 -- loaded, but without leather seats.

We put these cars head-to-head at our test track, compared them back-to-back on the road and ran them nose-to-tail through the same 197-mile fuel economy test loop. Then we poked, prodded and evaluated them side-by-side using our 27-point evaluation sheet. And yes, we also factored-in the expected price difference. After crunching all of that data, which of these dedicated hybrids do you suppose came out on top?

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Weekly Top 3: Why I Kind Of Want An SLK55 AMG

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK55 AMG is a car I really didn't expect to like. Honestly, I'm still not completely sold on it, for one reason -- it's saddled with a conventional automatic that's simply not up to the task, serving up lame throttle-blip-less downshifts and generally sluggish responses to driver commands. But otherwise, whoo, pig sooey! This car turned out to be a total hoot.Here's three reasons why.

3. Dialed-in handling. Wow. You know, before I drove this thing, I was thinking unpleasant thoughts about the previous-generation SLK. Remember that one? The Crossfire progenitor with the paleolithic recirculating-ball steering? Yeah, well, this one's a little different. Despite its advancing age, the current SLK chassis is stout and capable in any form, and the AMG treatment really puts the SLK55 over the top. Driven at 9/10ths through the canyons, the SLK55 is a blast -- negligible body roll, nimble yet planted feel, precise and pleasantly weighty steering. This is the most fun I've had on twisty roads in an AMG car, and that includes the C63 and the SL63.

2. Chortle-inducing V8. Before I laid into the SLK55's throttle for the first time, I was also thinking unpleasant thoughts about the engine. "It's only 5.4 liters," I muttered to no one in particular. "What is this, a swap-job from an F-150?" The C63 and SL63, of course, are armed with a considerably more robust 6.2-liter V8. But you know what? Turns out 355 horsepower and 376 pound-feet of torque is just fine for a diminutive roadster. Drop the hammer from rest with traction control off, and burnout-quality wheelspin is yours to cherish; wood it at speed, and the SLK55 charges forward like a short-wheelbase locomotive. The 5.4-liter mill doesn't quite have the 6.2's addictive soundtrack, but this is a wonderfully absurd amount of power for something the size of a Miata.

1. Not that we would...but you could.

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60-0 is More Important Than 0-60

We car guys love 0-60 times. We can tell you a BMW 335i does it in 5 seconds or a Nissan GT-R in 3.3 seconds (with launch control and roll-out). When a car comes back from our test track, the first question you'll hear is "what was its 0-60?" I don't recall anyone saying, "hey Mike, what was the Mustang's braking distance?" But you know, maybe we should.

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Lee's Deal of the Week - The Miata Is Not A "Chick" Car!

With most of the country experiencing some of the worst weather that winter has to offer, it is not surprising that Mazda has put some incentives on the MX-5 (nee Miata). Snow and ice does not make for convertible weather! So to help melt your heart, through February 2nd, you can get $2000 customer cash on both the soft-top and power retractable hard top 2008 MX-5. Â That, plus some healthy discounts (at least on the soft-top) should make the idea of driving a convertible in January a bit more palatable.

The used market is also a great place to pick up a deal on a Miata this time of year. Â You often find late model Miata's for sale, often with low miles, as owners discover they are not quite as versatile as they had hoped. The cold and snow make owners that much more anxious to sell.

I used to own a '99 10th Anniversary Edition Miata, and it was the most fun car to drive that I have ever owned. It even eclipsed the fun I had in my old 12-second '84 Camaro Z/28. However, it didn't make for a very good commuter car, especially having to drive with the top up in 90+ degree Florida summers.

And anyone who says the Miata, I mean MX-5 (it will always be a Miata to me), is a chick car has clearly never driven one. If I had the money and space for a third, fun-car, the Miata would be at the top of the list. For the latest incentives and rebates, click here. You can also click here to see more monthly deals.

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Vehicle Incentives: Desperate Times Call for Desperate Measures

Incentives on new vehicles -- even ones that used to command sticker price and above -- are getting to crazy levels. Why? Dealer lots are still full of new 2008 vehicles that aren't moving (not that the '09s are moving so well, either). In fact, on average, 39% of the cars in lots in December 2008 were that year's models, compared with only 19% for 2007.

The average "days to turn (DTT)" -- the number of days from when a dealer receives a car to when it drives off the lot -- is at a record 86 days for the industry overall. Here's the December DTT for the Big 6. (All names include their subsidiaries except for Ford's Mazda.)

Chrysler Group 124
GM 99
Ford 88
Nissan 83
Honda 59
Toyota 58

Of the above, GM, Nissan, Honda and Toyota are at all-time highs. Toyotas that used to be sold before they even came into the showroom are now sitting on the lot for two months!

What this means to consumers is deals galore. In an unusual reversal of the general rule, it may even be a better deal to get a new car (with incentives on it) than a late-model used car. But the deals aren't limited to '08s; there are some great deals on '09s as well.

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Edmunds Test Drive: 2009 Pontiac G8 GXP

Evaluated on its own merits, the Australian-made 2009 Pontiac G8 GXP is a dream come true for driving enthusiasts who need four doors. Rear-wheel drive? Check. Corvette-derived LS3 V8 power and a sport-tuned suspension? Oh, you betcha. Snick-snick manual transmission? Check the $695 option box, and it's yours. As for the rest of the family, the G8 GXP has one of the most accommodating backseats this side of a Maybach -- and at around $40,000, it's far easier on the wallet than many of its performance peers.

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