After a recent spate of engine fires, Ferrari has officially issued a recall of the 458 Italia.

According to the automaker, an adhesive used to attach a heat shield under the rear fender can ignite under high temperatures, leading to a larger fire in the engine bay. We’ve seen at least four cases on the internet of flaming 458s like this one, and while we can’t say for certain, it would seem this adhesive is the likely cause.

Ferrari has designed a new heat shield that attaches with rivets, negating the need for the adhesive. Naturally, 458 owners are urged to call a dealer to schedule an appointment for the free fix.

[Source:Autoblog]

If you’ve never heard of Argentina-based Donto Motors before, you’re not alone. However, just because this company has remained out of the spotlight doesn’t mean they don’t have big things in the works – how about a hardcore track day racer designed to compete with the likes of the Ariel Atom and KTM X-Bow? If it ever sees production, Donto Motors’ P1 should easily fit right in with these odd/awesome track toys.

The rear-mounted engine is a Volkswagen/Audi-sourced 1.8-liter turbocharged inline-four that produces 180 horsepower, and it looks like Donto took visual cues from Audi, as well. The front end’s large side vents are reminiscent of a certain supercar that we’ve grown quite fond of, and the rest of the body work is made up of a split construction, in which it’s designed to look as if the body is floating on the FIA-approved chassis. The whole thing weighs just over 1,500 pounds, too, so we imagine that the end result will be a spirited little whip for track day fun.

Donto is hoping to keep the P1 priced around $55,000, and the United States is one of the countries that could receive the lightweight roadster if it goes into production. Emphasis on the word “if.” Head over to Diseno-art.com for more.

[Surce:Autoblog]

With the departure of Laurens van den Acker to Renault, Mazda’s loved or loathed Nagare design language has been dispatched, and in its place is a new designer (Ikuo Maeda) a new theme, a new concept and a new name: Kodo.

Set to debut at the Paris Motor Show later this month, the Shinari concept is our first glimpse at the future of Mazda styling. The four-door design exercise evolves the Nagare theme into a more cohesive and – dare we say – production-ready form, toning down the massive grin currently found on the Mazda3 and other models, while incorporating new aluminum accents that are expected to proliferate through Mazda’s future products.

Until the Paris show, these leaked image are all we have to go on, but judging by the hit-or-miss nature of Nagare, we like what we’re seeing thus far. And if you’re wondering, “Kodo” translates roughly to “soul of motion.”

[Source:Autoblog]

Back in May, Ford showed off the first of what will likely be many special edition Mustangs based on the 2011 model: the DUB Edition Package. Available on the Mustang V6, the DUB Edition features an assortment of Roush aero components, a Ford Accessories hood scoop, stripe package, lowering springs, 3:31 gears, DUB-embroidered headrests and, of course, 20-inch TIS wheels with Pirelli tires.

Starting next week, the DUB Mustang will be available at Ford dealers across United States and Canada, kicked off by a launch party at Galpin Ford in Van Nuys, CA this weekend. Pricing has also been announced for the package, which carries an MSRP of $3,599.00 plus an additional $100 for shipping. DUB says that its contract calls for at least 1,000 of the limited edition pony cars to be built through 2012, with the possibility of a V8 version being added in the future.

[Source:Autoblog]

Renault does well in Russia, and the market is important enough to the French automaker that it’s unveiled its latest car in Moscow. The Renault Latitude is described as a “business class” sedan, which translates to a crisply-styled, generously-sized car carrying luxury and tech features. The Latitude will spread into other markets this fall, and the European version will debut at the Paris Motor Show, carrying powertrains and some altered styling details from the Russian-spec versions that just bowed.

Powering the Latitude are a 2.0-liter, 139-horsepower four-cylinder backed by a CVT, or a 2.5-liter, 177-horse version of Nissan’s VQ V6 mated to a six-speed automatic. Drivers are attended to by massaging seats, and niceties like three-zone climate control, sound systems by Arkamys and Bose, and a Carminat TomTom navigation system are some of the equipment details. Chassis bits are borrowed from both Renault and Nissan cars; the front reportedly comes from the Renault Laguna and the rear multi-link setup is from the Nissan side of the family.

Buyers can start lining up to buy the Latitude at the end of September in Morocco and Algeria, and the car will be rolled out in Russa, Ukraine and Africa shortly thereafter. The Latitude is definitely coming to continental Europe, and a decision on whether to offer the Latitude in the United Kingdom will be forthcoming. Want to know more? The press release is posted after the jump.

*  World debut for Latitude at the Moscow International Motor Show
* On sale at the end of September in Morocco and Algeria, then in Russia and Ukraine and in Africa
* European version will be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show and will feature a specific engine line-up, fascia and exterior detail
* Renault introduces Duster, the new automatic Logan, Sandero and Sandero Stepway (in complete knock down, CKD), as well as Fluence and Mégane Hatchback (semi-knock down, SKD). These vehicles will be produced locally from 2010-2011.

Renault is one of the key players in the Russian automobile industry. Since 2005, in partnership with the Government of Moscow (Avtoframos), it has successfully developed its production facilities in the country and in 2008, Renault became the strategic partner of AvtoVAZ. The alliance between Renault-Nissan and AvtoVAZ plans to capture 40% of the Russian market by 2015.

Renault has ranked as the number-four brand in Russia since April and its market share has risen to 5.3%, with 50,801 cars sold in the first seven months of this year. Logan has maintained its position as Russia’s top-selling imported car.

THE RENAULT LATITUDE: THE WORLD OF BUSINESS CLASS

Renault is giving a world premiere of its new business class saloon in Moscow. This elegant car combines balanced proportions, with classic design, and spaciousness. This car will appeal to customers who appreciate superior quality materials and comfort in all its forms. Latitude embodies the best technical advances in terms of reliability and efficiency and is destined to become the flagship model of Renault’s range of cars.

It goes on sale in Russia in the autumn and will then be released in a further 50 countries around the world.

THREE NEW MODELS FOR LOCAL PRODUCTION IN 2011: FLUENCE, MÉGANE AND DUSTER

Renault is expanding its range of models that will be produced locally:

* Semi knock down (SKD) production of Fluence and Mégane hatchbacks will be launched in the Moscow Renault plant in the first half of 2011
* Complete knock down production (CKD) of Renault Duster will start in Russia towards the end of 2011

The local production of these models will enable Renault to offer competitively priced cars that are manufactured with the specific needs of the Russian market in mind, not only in the Entry segment, but also in C and SUV segments.

Fluence went on sale on the Russian market in April of this year. Customers appreciate this car for its size, characteristics and position between the C and D-segment. The Mégane hatchback has been sold in Russia since May this year, expanding Renault’s C-segment offer.

Renault Duster is a reliable, safe, comfortable, easy to drive, and affordable 4×4. It is built on the B0 platform (Logan platform) known for its durability and reliability. Economical to run and affordable, this genuine 4×4 is an unrivalled offer in the car market and is certain to be a success in Russia. Russian versions of Duster will include specific interior design, equipment and engines to appeal to the tastes and demands of the market.

RENAULT FLUENCE Z.E. CONCEPT: FUTURE ELECTRIC CAR FROM RENAULT

In Moscow, Renault is presenting Fluence Z.E. Concept, the high-tech, attractive, spacious, electric family car developed with the aim of creating a long-awaited affordable vehicle with zero CO2 emissions. Fluence Z.E. Concept previews the forthcoming Fluence electric car, which will have a range of up to 100 miles and zero CO2 emissions.

A BRAND THAT MAKES “PEOPLE’S CARS”

Renault is popular in Russia first and foremost thanks to its star models, Logan and Sandero, which are both prime examples of an unrivalled balance between price and quality. Logan is the best-selling foreign car in Russia. Sandero has already sold in large numbers since its launch in Russia in March this year and it is largely thanks to these two models that Renault has reached fourth place for car sales in the market. Both models target the budget segment which occupies one third of the Russian car market and more than 80% of Renault sales in Russia. More than 290,000 people have bought a Logan since its launch in 2005 and more than 9,000 Sandero have been sold the launch in March this year.

Renault will expand its offering to the Russian market next month, where the mix of automatic cars represents a third of the market, with the long-awaited release of the Logan and Sandero automatic.

Renault has released an unprecedented number of new models onto the Russian market this year:

* Six new models have debuted in the first six months alone: the updated Logan and new Sandero hatchback are the company’s best offerings in the budget range. The C segment range has also been completely updated: the elegant Fluence, the new Mégane and the compact Scenic, as well as Mégane Coupe, all went on sale at the end of last year. And for ‘hot hatch’ fans, the new Clio Renaultsport 200 has been available since June
* Renault is continuing to update its entire range during the second half of this year with the immediate release of two new commercial vehicles, Kangoo and Trafic, and the most eagerly awaited of all Renault’s new releases, Latitude, which will soon be the flagship model of the company’s new vehicle range.

Renault has 120 official sales points throughout Russia.

RUSSIA – A KEY MARKET FOR RENAULT

Russia is a strategic market for Renault and the Renault-Nissan Alliance. Together the Renault-Nissan Alliance and AvtoVAZ plan to capture 40% of the Russian market by 2015.

With three production sites in Russia, the partnership will have an overall production capacity of 1.3 million cars in 2012 with the Moscow Renault plant (production capacity 160,000 cars per year), the Nissan plant in St Petersburg (50,000 cars per year) and the AvtoVAZ production facility in Togliatti (1.1 million cars per year).

The partners are currently implementing a production system for the Alliance in the Togliatti plant and a joint production line for the manufacture of cars based on the B0 (Logan) platform with a capacity of 350,000 vehicles per year. Each of the three brands will produce models of their respective ranges on this line. Lada will be the first of the three carmakers to produce its vans and estate cars here.

In addition, the Renault-Nissan Alliance and AvtoVAZ united their quality and supplier development teams in March 2010. The joint team is working on making quality improvements to the Russian supplier base. The qualitative and quantitative development of suppliers in Russia, a country where local production is the key to success, will be advantageous to all the partners and the goal for all three companies is to have 74% of components manufactured locally.

WORLD PREMIERE

RENAULT LATITUDE: THE WORLD OF BUSINESS CLASS CARS

Renault is giving the world premiere to its new saloon in Moscow. This elegant car combines balanced proportions, with classic design, generous exterior dimensions, roominess and a large boot. This saloon embodies the best technical advances in terms of reliability and efficiency, and is destined to become the flagship model of Renault’s range of cars. Latitude goes on sale in Russia in the autumn and will then be released in a further 50 countries around the world.

Generous dimensions:

* Length – 4,887mm; width – 1,832mm; height – 1,483mm; wheelbase – 2,762mm
* Boot capacity 477litres
* The elbow room is one of the best in its category – 1,460mm in the front, 1,440mm in the back
* There are many storage compartments, including the generously proportioned 9.6 litre glove compartment, which is both illuminated and cooled, whilst the compartment next to the main console has a capacity of 2.4 litres

Innovative comfort technologies:

* The driver’s seat has a massaging function with four different settings
* The triple-zone automatic climate control system allows the driver and each of the passengers to achieve their preferred temperature
* An air quality control management system with a dual-mode air ioniser with double fragrance diffuser – a first in the D-segment
* A hands free electronic key card that controls the central locking, ignition, and automatically locks the car when the driver walks away
* Directional bi-xenon headlights
* A wide range of audio systems including “3D Sound by Arkamys®”, as well as the first class “Bose® Premium” system with digital audio connector.
* A new satellite navigation system, Carminat TomTom® (available the beginning of 2011), as well as rear-view camera and automatic parking brake

The pleasure from driving the vehicle and its superior handling on the road is a result of the powerful and efficient power trains and optimum suspension setup:

* The choice of a dynamic and efficient two-litre petrol M4R engine with a continuous variable transmission (CVT) or a powerful VQ25 2.5 litre engine with a six-speed automatic AJ0 transmission.
* Independent multi-link rear suspension

The build quality and features of this model are designed for the most demanding customer:

* The most up-to-date active and passive safety features of the car were developed using Renault’s unique experience in this area: anti-lock and EBA (emergency brake assist) come as standard together with ESC (Electronic Stability Control), eight airbags with a two-tier system of lateral sensors, seat belt retractors with integrated load limiters, a cruise control system and directional bi-xenon headlights
* The reliability, safety and durability of the car are based on the joint technologies and technical achievements of the Renault-Nissan Alliance: the cars are put through extensive road testing and trials in extreme conditions to guarantee the highest standards of quality, which is of the utmost importance in countries with difficult road conditions. Not forgetting the highly valued manufacturing experience of the Busan plant where Koleos is already being manufactured.

THE RENAULT LATITUDE: BIG ON THE OUTSIDE, BIG ON THE INSIDE

With such generous external dimensions (length – 4,887mm; width – 1,832mm; height – 1,483mm), Latitude easily falls into the category of large saloon. The wheelbase stretches 2.76 metres and the front and rear overhangs are 1.02 metres and 1.1 metres respectively. The intelligent adaptive bi-xenon headlights compliment the contours of the chrome grill. The boot compartment is one of the best in the category: 477 litres (511 litres without the spare wheel). The size of the optional electric panoramic sunroof makes it stand out from others in the category.

The vehicle and onboard comfort controls are all within easy reach with all located around the steering wheel and central console. The interior features; chromed door handles, dial rims, and gear lever, all emphasising the car’s status as a business class saloon. Customers can either choose between a dark grey interior with dark leather, and a dark beige interior with beige leather.

FOR LONG JOURNEYS

Latitude was developed using the combined expertise of Renault and Nissan. The comfortable and silent driving experience, precise handling chassis, and high tech engine give it the decisive edge over its rivals. Latitude inherited the front part of the chassis from Laguna, which is well known for its excellent handling, whilst the rear multi-link suspension from Nissan provides an unrivalled level of comfort. These features actively dampen bumps and other irregularities in the road, remove vibrations, thereby smoothing the whole car driving experience, and making it equal to the best cars in its class.

In Russia, Latitude will come with a choice of two power plants. The 2.5 litre V6 generates 130 kW (177 hp) at 6000 rpm. Combined with a six-speed (AJ0) automatic transmission, it delivers a torque of 233 Nm at 4400 rpm and can accelerate quickly and easily reaching a top speed of 131mph. The combined fuel consumption is 29.1mpg.

The other option is the M4R engine with a 2.0 litre capacity with 102 kW (139 hp) 6000 rpm. Along with the excellent continuous variable transmission CVT, this engine is both versatile and efficient with a maximum torque of 191 Nm at 4400 rpm. The combined fuel consumption is 34.0mpg.

Latitude will propose a wide range of engines and six-speed manual and automatic gearboxes which customers in different countries will be able to choose from. The 2.0 dCi (M9R) is available in a choice of power outputs: 110 and 127 kW (150 and 175 hp). For some markets there will also be the choice of V6 dCi (V9X) with 177 kW (240 hp) or a petrol V6 3.5 litre (V4Y), also with 177kW (240hp).

AIR QUALITY AND PREMIUM CLASS COMFORT

Based on the same architecture as the new SM5, recently launched in the Korean market, Latitude benefits extensively from the joint developments and expertise of Renault, Nissan and Renault Samsung Motors. The comfort and interior acoustics have become the subject of much attention. The driver has a whole array of functions that are as useful as they are original.

Latitude is one of the first D-segment cars to include a massaging function in the driver’s seat and the new triple-zone automatic climate control system. The driver’s seat contains five pneumatic massaging rollers, with four operating modes: constant, intermittent, soft and firm. The precise motions of the flexible pneumatic rollers on the spine have a relaxing effect during long journeys or long periods of time stuck in traffic.

The vehicle also features a unique interior air quality control management system. The triple-zone automatic climate control system allows the driver and each of the passengers to individually regulate the temperature inside the vehicle. The system, which is based on the “best in class” system used in the Laguna, is also capable of controlling the composition and characteristics of the air in the car. As well as a filter, which prevents dust and unpleasant smells from entering the vehicle, Latitude features a dual-mode air ioniser. It not only emits healthy negatively charged ions, but purifies the air by removing allergens and harmful bacteria. The driver and passenger can also take advantage of the double fragrance diffuser to fill the car with a pleasant aroma with refill cartridges that may be obtained from any Renault dealership.

ALL THE RIGHT CONNECTIONS

Latitude features all the latest on-board technical equipment capable of a multitude of functions. For example, each model has a Bluetooth® connection as standard. The following audio systems will be available depending on model:

* All Latitude will include a 3D Sound audio system by Arkamys® with six speakers. It also includes a CD and MP3 player, as well as a 3.5mm “jack” and Bluetooth®
* The top of the range Latitude features an extra two speakers and the “Plug & Music” system, which facilitates the connection of most external media players, including iPod
* The exclusive Bose® Sound System is available as an additional extra. It provides perfect sound production in the cabin, includes 10 speakers (including the central channel and subwoofer) and also a multi-channel amplifier with equaliser.

All audio controls are located on the central console and the steering-wheel, while the information is shown on the dashboard displays.

Latitude comes with a Carminat TomTom® satellite navigation system which is completely integrated into the onboard systems, and its accuracy and quick response time are a marked improvement on other navigation systems. This satnav will include such features as “IQ Routes”® (statistical route optimisation), “Advanced Lane Guidance” ® (visual junction display) and “Mapshare” ® (proprietary map improvement technology). This satnav will be available in Russia from the beginning of 2011 and will be combined with an integrated automatic parking brake and rear view camera.

Latitude has all the various types of equipment needed to make driving the car easier and more comfortable: the next generation hands-free key card, front and rear parking sensors, cruise control, ESC and directional bi-xenon headlights.

QUALITY AND SAFETY ARE “IN THE GENES”

In terms of quality and reliability Latitude features components designed by the Alliance and assembled according to its standards. The vehicle thus benefits from the excellent results achieved by Renault in these areas. The Renault Samsung Technical Centre (RSTC) at Giheung, near Seoul, has taken charge of the project on the basis of elements pre-determined by Renault. Teams from Renault Samsung Motors have worked closely with Renault’s and Nissan’s teams on all aspects of production of Latitude, from validation and design to development and manufacture. Renault Samsung Motors has been market leader in South Korea for eight years running and quality of design and build is part of the company’s DNA and is widely acclaimed by customers. Constant emphasis is placed on service quality, not only at point of sale but throughout the vehicle’s life.

Safety has always been the first priority in the development of this car. There is a whole range of safety features: ABS, EBA (emergency brake assist), EBD (electronic brake distribution), ESC (electronic stability control) as well as passive safety features: eight adaptive airbags, passenger and driver restraint and load limiter seat belts. Latitude has the same two-tier side impact sensors and dual chamber airbags as the Laguna.

THE LATITUDE AT ALL LATITUDES

Latitude is the embodiment of the international Renault Company. Developed in France and South Korea and incorporating elements of the platform from Renault and Nissan, this automobile incorporates all the best achievements in terms of technology, the fields of aerodynamics, safety, comfort and quality.

Latitude is manufactured in South Korea in the Busan Renault-Samsung-Motors plant. This production site is respectful of the environment and is certified ISO 14 001 and has great experience in the production of cars of higher automotive segments. Today, together with Latitude, the Busan factory produces Renault-Samsung-Motors models SM3, SM5, SM7, QM5 and Renault Koléos.

Latitude will make its first public appearance at the Moscow Motor Show, and will go on sale at the end of September in Morocco and Algeria, then in Russia and Ukraine and in Africa.

The European version will be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show and will feature a specific engine line-up, fascia and exterior detail.

A decision on the possible UK launch of Latitude has not yet been made.

Potential international customers will be able to discover more about the car at www.renault-latitude.com.

[Source:Autoblog]

Not long after Lotus accidentally leaked its plans to unveil two new Evoras at this year’s Paris Motor Show, we now have the full details weeks before the dynamic duo make their public debut. The Evora S and IPS (which stands for “Intelligent Precision Shift” or “automatic transmission” in layman’s terms) will nicely fill out the Evora range, and we’re aching to get our hands on the former.

For the Evora S, Lotus has tweaked the Toyota-sourced 3.5-liter V6 to produce 345 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque – gains of 69 hp and 37 lb-ft over the standard car. The run from 0-60 happens in just 4.8 seconds and top speed has been raised to 172 miles per hour. What’s more, the Evora S comes standard with a sport button that allows the driver to control the throttle response and activate an exhaust bypass valve. On top of that, pressing the magic switch increases the rev limiter and changes the stability control settings, and we imagine that the end result is more than pulse-quickening.

On the tamer side of things, Lotus is also offering the Evora IPS with its new six-speed automatic transmission, featuring both fully automatic and manual shift modes. The two-pedal Evora uses paddle shifters to control gear selection, and buttons are housed on the center console to switch between the standard PRND drive modes. Power has not been changed for the Evora IPS, and thankfully, Lotus has managed to develop a slushbox that doesn’t add any weight to the Evora. After all, lightness is key.

We anticipate a full raft of high-resolution photos to be released closer to the official Paris show debut, but for now, scroll through the small gallery below and follow the jump to read the official release from Lotus.

It’s an Evora but not as you know it

Ahead of the official unveil at the Paris Motor Show on September 30th, Lotus announce the latest evolution of the award winning Evora – the Evora S and Evora IPS (Intelligent Precision Shift) option.

Lotus has taken the award winning* Evora and re-created it with a 350 PS 3.5l V6 engine to create the Evora S. Dany Bahar Lotus’ Chief Executive Officer summed it up beautifully when he said: “You don’t realise what you were missing from your driving experience until you get behind the wheel of the Evora S.”

So apart from the obvious power difference, how is the Evora S different to the standard Evora? It’s another question we put to the CEO (given that he’s spent a little time behind the wheel, we thought he’d be best placed to answer questions). This is what he said: “It’s the next level of Evora experience. It communicates with you better, the suspension setting has been fine tuned for added power and control so it responds even more to direction. It’s an instinctual car, the experience is pure.”
“We were proud of the Evora but we’re even prouder of the Evora S, I feel like it does the true Lotus experience justice. The really great thing is that as we move forward the standard Evora should also benefit from some of these developments.”

The Evora S comes with a sport pack as standard featuring a ’sport’ button which allows the driver to control throttle response and activate the exhaust by-pass valve. The sport button also raises the instantaneous rev limit and changes the dynamic stability control settings resulting in a total experience change. There are cross-drilled brakes for improved cooling. And here’s a heads up for those who buy into the old adage ‘you can tell the men from the boys by the size of their toys’: the external emotion of the Evora S has been improved with a completely new active exhaust which means that at the push of a button the car sounds just as dramatic as it feels.

Commenting on the Evora S, Lotus Chief Commercial Officer Andreas Prillmann said: “The Evora S is a natural progression for us but more than that, it’s a taste of what people can come to expect from the next generation of Lotus cars. It retains core Lotus values such as performance through lightweight but it also gives more than that. It’s the perfect combination of top performance, style and comfort. Form doesn’t sacrifice function in the case of the Evora S.”

So there you have it folks, the next generation of Lotus Evora, the Evora S, set to be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show.

But that’s not all. In addition to the Evora S, Lotus also presents the IPS (Intelligent Precision Shift) option. This inception of the seven-time-award-winning (who’s counting? We are!) Evora sees an automatic 6-speed gearbox with Lotus developed transmission control with a 3.5 l V6 engine delivering 280 PS assuring a superior automatic driving experience.
The IPS version of the Evora allows the driver to switch between manual paddle shift and automatic drive modes. The driver also has the option of selecting ’sport’ mode which showcases the Lotus sport driving experience allowing the driver to really feel each gear shift and be in complete control of the transmission.

Commenting on the development Dany Bahar said: “The Evora IPS is set to broaden the appeal of the Evora and reach out to a slightly different market. We hope it will be popular with established automatic locations such as Asia, the Middle East and the US. It’s been a long time since Lotus created an automatic and we’ve spent a great deal of time refining this one to make sure that it perfectly complements the Evora drive experience.”

Evora S Technical Specification

Model Evora S
Engine - Mid mounted, transverse 3.5 litre DOHC V6 VVT-I
Emissions see below due to wheel options
Transmission - 6 speed manual
Chassis - Modular lightweight bonded aluminium structure
Steering - Lotus tuned hydraulically-assisted power steering
Suspension - Forged aluminium double wishbone suspension
Bilstein high performance gas dampers
Eibach coaxial coil springs

Performance data

Standard wheel option
Fuel consumption - urban 14.5 l/100km
Fuel consumption – extra urban 7.4 l/100km
Fuel consumption - combined 10.0l/100km
CO2 Emissions 235 g/km

19/20″ wheel option
Fuel consumption - urban 14.6 I/100km
Fuel consumption – extra urban 7.6 I/100km
Fuel consumption - combined 10.2 I/100km
CO2 Emissions 239 g/km

Max power - 350 PS / 257.5 kW @ 7000 rpm
Max torque - 400 Nm / 295 lb ft @ 4500 rpm
0-60 mph - 4.6s
0-100 km/h 4.8s
Maximum speed - 172mph
Vehicle mass (unladen) - 1437kg

Evora IPS Option Technical Specification

Engine - Mid mounted, transverse 3.5 litre DOHC V6 VVT-I
Emissions - 208 g/km
Transmission Electronically controlled 6 speed automatic
Chassis Modular lightweight bonded aluminium structure
Steering Lotus tuned hydraulically-assisted power steering
Suspension Forged aluminium double wishbone suspension
Bilstein high performance gas dampers
Eibach coaxial coil springs

Performance data

Fuel consumption - urban 12.6 l/100km
Fuel consumption – extra urban 6.6 l/100km
Fuel consumption - combined 8.8 l/100km
CO2 Emissions 208 g/km

Max power - 280 PS / 206 KW @ 6400rpm
Max torque - 350 Nm / 258 lb ft @ 4700rpm
0-60 mph - 5.3s
0-100 km/h - 5.5s
Maximum speed - 155mph
Vehicle mass (unladen) - 1436 kg

[Source:Autoblog]

Right on cue, Toyota has debuted the 2011 Highlander at this year’s Moscow Motor Show. As we first showed you earlier this month, the refreshed crossover now wears a slightly reworked nose, complete with hood, front fenders, fascia, grille and headlights as well as a mildly massaged rear end. Look for new taillights and a new bumper cover to help differentiate the 2011’s rump from its predecessors. Buyers in the motherland can look forward to a single engine – a 3.5-liter gasoline V6 delivering 273 horsepower through a five-speed automatic transmission.

Can we expect a similar treatment when the 2011 Highlander hits our shores? Perhaps. We’re currently awaiting a response from Toyota as to whether this is the face of things to come for the U.S.-spec CUV, but we’d be surprised if our version was terribly different from what you see above, as the Highlander is only built in three factories – China, Japan, and Indiana, making a Russia-specific model unlikely. Chances are that our Highlander will continue to soldier on with the same engine choices available right now. That means that buyers can have their choice between a 3.5-liter V6 with 270 horsepower, a 2.4-liter four-cylinder with 187 horsepower or a hybrid drivetrain.

[Source:Autoblog]

The internets are aflame with word that General Motors will unveil a new Cruze hatchback at this year’s Paris Motor Show. According to Go Auto, the concept was worked up by none other than The General’s Down Under contingent at Holden. Now, before you start hoping for a more functional version of the Chevrolet Cruze to show up in a showroom near you, know that the production version of the car will be built in Australia and sold to, you guessed it, Australians. Chances are looking slim that the long-roof Cruze will ever make it to the Land of the Free in any official capacity.

Shucks.

GM has made it clear that it will debut no less than four new models in Paris, including production versions of the Chevrolet Aveo and Chevrolet Orlando. While the Orlando is another piece of forbidden fruit from the General, buyers in the U.S. can look forward to getting their hands on the Ford Fiesta-fighting Aveo sometime soon. From what we’ve seen of the new subcompact, the car looks galaxies better than the outgoing model – of course, that’s not hard…

[Source:Autoblog]

Remember the report from Quebec that suggested Honda Canada would be discontinuing the Insight and Civic hybrid for the 2011 model year due to poor sales? According to company spokesman Richard Jacobs, the two hybrids have not in fact been discontinued. Instead, Jacobs tells us that Canadian dealers currently have a six month supply of the Insight and Civic so it hasn’t ordered any new cars from the factories in Japan.

“Honda Canada will listen to the voice of our customers and will bring the products they want,” says Jacobs. Both hybrids will remain available and Honda will be monitoring inventories and customer demand to determine when to order more units. Perhaps the launch of the CR-Z will get customers to reconsider its siblings as well.

[Source:Autoblog]

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is intensifying its investigation into stalling Toyota Corolla models. According to the Associated Press, the agency has opened what it calls an engineering analysis into 1.8 million Corolla and Matrix models sold between 2005 and 2007. So far, NHTSA has received around 163 complaints about stalling in those vehicles, and the government seems to believe the problem may be due to a faulty coating on the vehicle’s circuit boards. It’s also possible that a crack could develop in a particular glass coating in the vehicle.

NHTSA hasn’t gone so far as to issue a recall in this particular case as its research into the problem is ongoing. Previously, investigators were only looking into Corolla and Matrix models produced in 2006, though the recent expansion indicates that the issue may be more widespread than previously believed.

Last we heard, Toyota was considering a voluntary fix for the problem, though since then nothing has come up in terms of a proposed solution from the carmaker. Back in March, NHTSA said that the problem doesn’t pose any danger to drivers.

[Source: Associated Press]

[Source:Autoblog]