Honda CR-Z Hybrid Concept From The Tokyo Show


In our opinion, the Honda CR-Z concept (click here) was one of the most important cars that made their debut at the 2007 Tokyo Show last month. The reason is that, not only is the CR-Z Coupe heading for production, but it will also be equipped with a hybrid powertrain. You may not completely agree with Honda’s styling choices, but to us, a mainstream compact coupe with a hybrid powertrain sounds like a recipe made for success.

Breaking: Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne Crashes With Ferrari 599 GTB

Fiat Group’s chief executive officer, Sergio Marchionne was involved in a car accident after his Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano collided with a Renault late Friday on the Swiss A1 highway near the city of Basel. Luckily, both Marchionne and the driver of the Renault managed to escape unhurt from the accident. -Continued after the jump

Local Swiss newspapers quote the police as saying that Marchionne was travelling at about 100 km/h (62 miles) on the highway when the driver of the Renault suddenly slowed down. Despite emergency braking, Marchionne was not able to avoid the impact. As you can see in the pictures provided from Corriere Della Sera, Marchionne’s Ferrari ended up on the protective barriers. And yes, in case you’re wondering the 599 GTB is heading straight for the scrap yard.

Via: Autoblog.it , Source: Corriere

Subaru Impreza WRX Dresses Up For Halloween At SEMA

Booo, it’s the Subaruuuuu! The Halloween special edition of the 2008 Impreza WRX hatch was presented at the 2007 SEMA Show earlier this week along with a few other tricked out Imprezas which you can check out here, here and here. This one-of-a-kind WRX features Halloween lighting effects to the headlights, taillights, wheel openings, front grille and undercarriage all wrapped in a Halloween-themed orange and black body. Who’d have thought that Subie had such self-awareness about the 2008 Impreza’s looks… -More pics after the jump

Unbelievable Highway Accident In Croatia


We’ve seen some pretty weird accidents here at Carscoop, but this one -even though some might question its authenticity, is totally mind-blowing. Take a good look at the speeding black BMW (most probably new 7-Series) on the left as soon as it hits the corner of the white car that entered the left-lane. After the impact the white vehicle hits the protective wall and tumbles across the highway literally “chasing” the black bimmer. Miraculously, from what we see, the BMW driver managed to avoid any contact with the tumbling white car. You can follow the jump for a clearer version of the video. -Continued

Video: More Ferrari F430 Scuderia Test Driving

We can’t seem to get enough of the new F430 Scuderia and thank God, there’s plenty of media material circulating around the net these days. In this video, the guys at American car magazine Road & Track put Ferrari Formula One test driver Marc Gene in the driver’s seat and let him take advantage of the sexy Italian supercar. Also, don't neglect to check out our humongous F430 Scuderia wallpaper gallery by clicking here. -Video after the jump


Via: Motorpasion

Suzuki Offers SX4 With Peugeot 1.6-litre Diesel Engine

Suzuki U.K. is broadening the SX4’s range with the addition of a second diesel option, the 1.6 DDiS engine supplied by Peugeot which complements the existing 118 Hp (120 PS) 1.9 DDiS. The 1.6-litre turbo diesel unit has an output of 89 Hp (90 PS) and 215 Nm (159-lbs/ft) of maximum torque. Mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox and available exclusively as a front wheel drive model, the SX4 1.6 DDiS goes from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 12.2 seconds and has a top speed of 109 mph (175 km/h). Combined cycle figure is 5.1 lt/100km or 53.3 UK mpg / 46.0 US mpg while CO2 emissions are 139 g/km. -Continued

The new SX4 1.6 DDiS will be offered with similar equipment levels to the SX4 1.6 GL but adds manual air conditioning, heated door mirrors, 16 inch alloys, roof rails, front fogs and wheelarch extensions. According to Suzuki, the on-the-road price is £11,999 ($24,990 or €17,250) and, in common with petrol-engined models, the new diesel model qualifies for a 6D insurance grouping.

Chevrolet CR8: Middle East Gets 412 Hp Holden Commodore HSV

With petrol prices flirting with $100 a barrel, we’re guessing there’s big market for cars like the Holden Commodore based, HSV Clubsport R8 in the oil-producing areas of the Middle East. The Clubsport R8 will be exported to the Middle East in left-hand-rive form as the Chevrolet CR8 and that’s about all the differences between the two cars. The new CR8, which will be on display at the forthcoming Dubai Motor Show from 14-18 November, is equipped with a 6.0-liter V8 LS2 delivering 412 Hp. So, now that HSV has created a left-hand-drive version, what the excuse for not bringing it to the U.S.? -Continued after the jump


Press Release: GM Holden has teamed up with Holden Special Vehicles (HSV) to expand its range of exported vehicles to the Middle East.

The new export program, launched overnight in the Middle East, will see a version of HSV’s popular E Series ClubSport R8 model exported in LHD form and badged under the Chevrolet Special Vehicles logo.

The new high performance model will be known as CR8. It features the LS2 6.0-litre engine Generation IV V8 engine delivering 307kw of peak performance with 550 Nm* of torque.

With over 200,000 Holden-sourced short and long wheel based vehicles sold into the region since 1998, the Middle East has been Holden’s biggest and most enduring volume export market.

Currently Holden currently exports variants of the VE and WM sedan ranges which are sold in the region as Chevrolet Lumina and Chevrolet Caprice respectively. The Chevrolet Lumina ranges from the LS model (based on the VE Omega) up to the sports-based SS (based on the equivalent Commodore SS model).

Alan Batey, GM Holden Executive Director – Sales and Marketing comments, “This extension of our product range in the region illustrates the growing maturity of the Middle East market.

“Holden has been able to partner its expertise in tailoring vehicles for the Middle East with the high performance expertise of HSV to deliver a vehicle that will deliver a great driving experience.

“Local buyers appreciate the luxury brands but also seek great performance and handling from their vehicles. Both the Lumina and Caprice deliver that combination and with the introduction of the CR8, consumers will be offered another exciting option.”

Scott Grant, Managing Director of HSV, said “This announcement adds another important export market to the HSV portfolio, on top of our successful program with Vauxhall in the UK and long standing presence in New Zealand.

“HSV is already well known brand among car enthusiasts in the Middle East, many of whom are fans of the Aussie high performance cars and our racing activities.

“We have also been involved in the region through supply and preparation of 20 Clubsport R VZ models for the Lumina CSV Championship which is run by the Bahrain International Race Circuit and sponsored by Chevrolet.

“The initial response from dealers has been exceptional with the CR8 being praised for its aggressive stance, excellent acceleration and handling.”

Exports represent an increasingly important part of GM Holden’s current business model with total export sales for 2006 reaching 46,074. Of those, over 31,000 were for the Middle East in what was a record export year to the region for GM Holden.

Earlier this year, Chevrolet Caprice received its second major award in the Middle East as it was named Best Executive Sedan by Middle East Car magazine. In late 2006, it was announced as Luxury Car of the Year by Middle East Autocar magazine.

The launch of the new export program is timed to coincide with the Desert 400 V8 Supercar round in Bahrain this weekend where the CSV logo will feature prominently on Todd Kelly’s Chevrolet branded Holden Racing Team car.

The new CR8 will also be on display at a CSV stand at the forthcoming Dubai Motor Show from 14-18 November.

SEMA: Lexus LS 460 by VIP Auto Salon

We just couldn’t resist adding the “low-rider” image of VIP Auto Salon’s supped up Lexus LS 460 sedan as the opening picture to this article. However, as you can see in the image gallery and the detailed list of accessories, the LS 460’s ride-height is adjustable, so don’t worry about denting the front lip spoiler if you happen to fall upon a quarter on the road. Suspension aside, VIP Auto Salon has dressed the LS 460 with a full bodykit and 22-inch alloy rims from Wald International, a two-tone leather interior, LED cabin lighting and a bunch of other accessories which you can check out right after the jump. -Continued










(Opening picture modified by Carscoop)

Highlights:

Exterior

• Full Wald Body Kit Molded

-Front Lip

-Side Skirts

-Rear Lip

-Trunk Spoiler

-Roof Spoiler

-Fender Replacements

• Smoked Taillamps

• Custom Paint Finish

• Lexus Japan Window Side Visors

Lighting

• Replacement 6000K D4S Bulbs

• 3000K HID Foglamp Kit

• Replacement of Interior Lighting to LEDS

Interior

• Full Interior Upholstery (Two-Tone - Ash Gray & Black)

• Full Leather Headliner

• 50% Window Film

Suspension

• Universal Air Systems Air Bag Setup

• Dakota Digital Air Ride Management System

Wheels & Tires

• Wald Portofino Wheels

Front: 22x8.5

Rear: 22x10

• Pirelli P-Zero Nero Tires

Front: 245/30-22

Rear: 285/25-22

Engine / Engine Bay

• Painted Engine Cover

• Custom Power Supply Unit

Brakes

• Brembo Brakes 15” Rotors 8 Piston Front, 4 Piston Rear

Czech Soccer Star, Milan Baros Breaks Speed Violation Record In France

Czech soccer star, Milan Baros is facing a hefty fine and the risk of loosing his driver’s licence for three years after being caught by French Police doing 271 km/h or 168 mph with his Ferrari on the A42 highway near the city of Lyon. According to local newspaper “Le Progress”, police we’re quoted as saying that Lyon’s (French soccer team) striker had broken the speeding record for that French region, previously set by a motorcyclist in the year 2000 when he was clocked doing 248 km/h or 154 mph.

Thanks for the tip Chris P!

Hyundai’s 2008 - 2009 Product Plan Revealed


Hyundai is getting ready to revamp its whole line-up over the next two years and British car magazine Autocar, has the inside details. First of all, let us start with what we already know. During the first quarter of 2008, Hyundai will begin worldwide sales of its all-new i10 mini (click here). At the L.A. Show this month, Hyundai will give us a sneak peak of the forthcoming rear-wheel drive coupe in the form of the Genesis concept (click here). The production version is expected to be introduced in late-2008, early-2009. As Autocar rightfully points out, Hyundai hasn’t decided yet if the coupe will come to Europe. -Continued after the jump

Autocar doesn’t say this, but we know that the production version of the Genesis Concept (luxury rear-wheel drive sedan which could be named i60 in Europe) will definitely make its appearance at the Detroit Show in January 2008 (click here). Sales of the luxury sedan will commence during 2008.

In 2008, Hyundai will take the wraps off two more models, the all-new i20 B-segment mini which will replace the Getz and the facelifted Sonata which will be renamed (at least in Europe) as the i40.

Talking about names, a Hyundai UK insider told Autocar that both the Tucson and Santa Fe will receive major facelifts in the next 18 months with the Tucson renamed as the i30x and the Santa Fe as the i50x.

Finally, the Hyundai insider told the Brits that Korean carmaker is considering adding a seven-seater compact MPV based on the i30 hatch to its range. If this car gets the final ok the styling could be inspired from the Frankfurt Show concept, i-blue.

Via: Autocar

2008 Subaru Impreza 2.5i Sedan By STi & Kicker

Continuing with our reports on the supped up Imprezas that appeared at the SEMA Show (click here and here) this red-to-the-bone Subie was created by audio specialist Kicker. Using the 2008 Impreza 2.5i Sedan as a base, Kicker equipped the car with a full line of Kicker car audio equipment including Kicker speakers and two Clarion VMA7196 7” monitors highlighting an Xbox360 game-console. When it came to bodywork and mechanical tuning, Kicker took a look at the STI accessories bin fitting the Impreza Sedan with STI sport springs and a carbon fiber body kit. Inside, the tweaked Impreza features a roll cage and Sparco bucket seats.

Fully Customizable Scion xB Toy Car Appears At SEMA

Here’s a tricked out Scion that’s available for all ages. Created by toy maker Ridemakerz, the fully customizable ‘Scion Ride” is based on the new xB. Measuring approximately 12 inches in length, the approximately 1:18 scale xB models will be available in Cannonball Black, Comet Blue and Wasabi Green and. The scaled xB’s prices range from $22 for the Cannonball Black and Comet Blue versions to $25 for the Wasabi Green. Custom accessories range in price from $2.50 for grille guards and hood scoops to $15 for a deluxe "Muscle Kit" that includes a blown engine, spoiler, side pipes, muffler tips and roof vents. Radio-control can be added for $25. -Continued

According to the Ridenmakerz, you or your kids can build the new Scion RIDE on RIDEMAKERZ.COM and at Shops located at Broadway at the Beach in Myrtle Beach, S.C. and the Mall of America in Bloomington, Minn. In November, RIDEMAKERZ will open two additional Shops at the Spotsylvania Towne Center in Fredericksburg, Va. and at Castleton Square Mall in Indianapolis, Ind.

UK Prices Announced For Saab’s Limited Edition 2008 9-3 Turbo X

Making its UK premiere at the MPH 2007 motor show in London, the 2008 9-3 Turbo X is a limited edition model that celebrates 30 years of Saab turbocharging. Equipped with an AWD drive system and a 280 Hp strong 2.8-litre V6 Turbo engine, the 9-3 Turbo X is offered in both Saloon and SportWagon bodystyles. According to Saab U.K., the order book for the 9-3 Turbo X is now open with first customer deliveries are expected early next year. Prices start from £32,495 ($67,750 or €46,860) but if you’re interested, better hurry up as only 500 units will be available in the U.K. -More pics after the jump

Maybach Landaulet Study – Updated, With Official Image Gallery


Earlier this morning we previewed a leaked image of the Maybach Landaulet. Well, now its official as mama-Benz has released all the details along with a string of images, both of which are available after the jump. In a nutshell, the one-off Maybach Landaulet is a concept vehicle that has had its rear roof module removed and replaced with a black soft-top that is opened electro-hydraulically. The soft-top is deposited on the parcel shelf in the rear, together with its integral rear window of single-layer safety glass. Opening and closing the roof takes about 16 seconds. Based on the Maybach 62 S, which is equipped with a 612 Hp V12 engine, the Landaulet also features a unique exterior paintjob, 20-inch rims along with revised interior trim. -Details and high-resolution pics after the jump







PRESS RELEASE

Maybach Landaulet Study: Only the sky is the limit

  • Maybach shows one of the world’s most exclusive luxury cars
  • Majestic open-air experience with the ultimate in luxury and comfort
  • Folding roof for pampered rear-seat passengers
  • Appointments in the rear include white leather, piano lacquer and exquisite black granite

Stuttgart– With this study of an open-top landaulet, Maybach has re-enlivened the great art of building majestic automobiles. True to the tradition of exclusive landaulets, the roof of this sparkling white one-off study can be opened fully at the rear, while the chauffeur’s compartment remains completely enclosed. The passengers are then able to enjoy the clear, blue sky above. Seated in opulent armchairs upholstered in white leather, they are treated to a majestic open-air experience currently unrivalled by any other automobile in an environment of the utmost luxury and exquisite style. Romance close to the heart of nature is harmoniously combined with the ultimate in comfort and technological sophistication. With this unique study, Maybach is once again demonstrating its expertise in building the world’s most exclusive luxury cars.

Large folding roof for passengers in the rear

In technical terms the Landaulet study is based on the Maybach 62 S – which can claim to be the world’s most powerful series-produced chauffeured saloon. Maybach technicians have removed the rear roof module in order to afford passengers an unobstructed view of the sky above. The side walls remain, and have merely been invisibly reinforced with an integral tubular steel structure. As these measures have not altered the silhouette of the luxury saloon, the generously dimensioned doors and the complete interior with its reclining seats remain unchanged.

When closed the black soft-top of the Landaulet rests on the frame formed by the roof bows, and is wind and weather-proof. When requested by the passengers, the chauffeur operates a switch in the centre console. The roof then opens electro-hydraulically and is gently deposited on the parcel shelf in the rear, together with its integral rear window of single-layer safety glass. Opening and closing the roof takes 16 seconds. The chauffeur is able to enclose the folded roof with a fitted leather cover, which both conceals the roof mechanism from view and completes the overall picture of outstanding elegance.

White paintwork and wheels

This impression is accentuated by the shining white paintwork of the study, an exclusive finish named antigua white. Visual highlights are provided by 20-inch wheels specially designed for the Landaulet study. These are also painted in white with high-sheen spokes, and are accompanied by white indicators in the front and rear light clusters in dark red.

Black for the chauffeur, white for the passengers

In addition, the already luxurious driver’s compartment of the successful Maybach 62 S has been enhanced in a number of important respects. All the interior trim is now surfaced in black piano lacquer, and for the extensive leather appointments Maybach has used particularly exclusive, glossy stromboli black leather.

In contrast Maybach has fitted the passenger compartment almost completely in exquisite seychelleswhite leather. The footwell and roof liner of this high-end luxury landaulet are also in white – the floor is carpeted in white velour and the roof lined with white fabric. A dramatic contrast is provided by inserts and decorative trim in glossy, black piano lacquer or exclusive black granite with numerous gold inclusions.

Generous spaciousness and first-class comfort

Outstanding comfort is assured by the generous spaciousness of the rear, which the Landaulet study has adopted unchanged from the Maybach 62. Passengers are welcomed into the interior by two large, single seats. These elegant seats also allow even very tall passengers to enjoy a reclining position which travellers normally only encounter in the first-class armchairs of modern passenger jets.

The study is designed as a chauffeured vehicle and features a partition. The upper section of the partition is a glass panel which the passengers can render opaque at the touch of a button, thanks to a liquid crystal membrane embedded in the glass.

Two ultra-modern automatic climate control systems, whose parameters have been adapted to the Landaulet study, ensure that open-air travel remains a pleasure even under adverse climatic conditions.

State-of-the-art entertainment and communications

As in the Maybach 62 S, the rear console is the centrepiece for entertainment, communications and travelling pleasure. This is where Maybach engineers have grouped everything relating to the entertainment and pleasure of the rear-seat passengers: a DVD-player, six CD-changer, a cooler compartment with its own electric compressor and an intelligent system which holds glasses, goblets and champagne bottles safely in position.

Engine and suspension

The Maybach Landaulet study is powered by the uprated V12 engine which Maybach engineers have developed further for the Maybach 57 S and Maybach 62 S together with the specialists at Mercedes-AMG. Thanks to twin turbochargers and water intercooling, the V12 develops a maximum output of 450 kW/612 hp from a displacement of 5980 cubic centimetres. This is continuously available between 4800 and 5100 rpm, and the engine also delivers an impressive maximum torque of 1000 newton metres between 2000 and 4000 rpm.

The electronically controlled air suspension AIRMATIC DC (Dual Control) and the Adaptive Damping System (ADS II) endow the Landaulet with outstanding levels of ride comfort, at the same time demonstrating that even a prestigious vehicle such as this can exhibit extraordinary agility and dynamic performance.

In addition to large, internally ventilated brake discs – with twin callipers at the front – both the study and the Maybach 62 S are equipped with two electro-hydraulic Sensotronic Brake Control (SBC™) braking systems working in tandem. Together with ESP®, ASR, ABS and Brake Assist, this provides the Landaulet study with the very latest in effective, high-tech handling control systems.

Innovative technology from the sister-brand Mercedes-Benz

Like all Maybach saloons, the Landaulet also benefits from the unrivalled experience of the sister-brand Mercedes-Benz in the development and production of high-quality cars in the luxury segment. Important innovations from Mercedes-Benz, successfully developed further for the Maybach saloons, are standard equipment in every Maybach and are of course also on board the Landaulet study – examples include the electronically controlled air suspension AIRMATIC DC (Dual Control), LINGUATRONIC voice control and the control and display system COMAND APS.