Hot on the bumpers of the New York Auto Show, the oddball Mercedes-Benz G-Class officially shows its ever-so-slightly redesigned face to the world. As we’ve discussed previously, it looks a whole lot like last year’s model, but distinguishing tweaks outside include the dashes of LEDs underneath the headlights and new side mirrors.
The momentous advances have come inside and under the hood. The 612-horsepower, 738-pound-foot twin-turbo V12 G65 AMG is now a reality along with a 544-hp, twin-turbo V8 G63, both of them sitting above a naturally aspirated 5.5-liter V8 in the carryover G550 (the G500 in Europe) and a diesel V6 in the Bluetec G350. Don’t get your hopes up for that G65, though – Mercedes-Benz has confirmed to Autoblog that the V12 monster will not be coming to the United States.
Inside, the dash and console get a thorough resculpture, with bezeled dials in the cluster and discrete control pods replacing the flat planes in the previous model. Additional comfort and luxury options can be checked if one wishes for radar-based cruise control, Blind Spot Assist and Parktronic. The ESP programming has even been reworked to play nicely with trailers.
The 2013 G-Class will be available at European dealerships in June with U.S. sales to follow in August. Prices for our market haven’t been released just yet, but we do know that the European version will start at €85,311 for the G350, which we also won’t get (along with the cabriolet models). The current G550 starts at $107,000, so you should plan on adding a few grand to that to get in the 2013-model-year’s big, square door.
Scroll down to read all about the new G-wagen models and have a gander at the new celebrity hotness in the high-res gallery above.

The new generation G-Class: Forever young
Stuttgart, Apr 11, 2012 — Mercedes-Benz has once again significantly upgraded the G‑Class, so reemphasising its position as the leader among off-road vehicles. The interior is characterised by high-quality appointments finished with exquisite materials. The instrument cluster and centre console have been completely redesigned. The driver’s field of vision now encompasses a colour screen, between two new round dials. The car features as standard the sophisticated COMAND Online infotainment system, including a navigation system and internet access. New LED daytime driving lamps and new exterior mirrors bring a few discreet changes to the exterior appearance of the luxury off-roader. The range of safety features can be optionally enhanced with the addition of Blind Spot Assist, the parking aid PARKTRONIC and the adaptive cruise control system DISTRONIC PLUS. New to the range are the G 63 AMG with an eight-cylinder biturbo engine and the ECO start/stop system as standard, and the G 65 AMG with twelve-cylinder biturbo engine.
Since it was originally conceived in 1979, as a vehicle to be used primarily in tough off-road terrain, the G-Class has undergone an astounding process of evolution. Over the course of 33 years Mercedes-Benz has refined what was initially a very practically-oriented off-road specialist by giving it a high-class interior and road-going qualities on a par with those of the premium saloons emanating from Stuttgart. The G-Class today is considered the top model among luxury-class cross-country vehicles, and has provided the gene pool for the other very successful SUVs built under the Mercedes-Benz brand. The G-Class has been voted off-roader of the year countless times over the past years – as also once again this year.
A comprehensive range of measures ensures that this classic cross-country vehicle remains in a class of its own in the off-road sector.
These measures include new engines, a significantly extended range of appointments, a new, even more luxurious interior and a few discreet external modifications that nevertheless manage to preserve the timeless, classic design – virtually unchanged since 1979 – that has made the G-Class a true automotive style icon.
Dr Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars: “Our G-Class has been a force to be reckoned with for the last 33 years. In its latest evolutionary stage, it offers state-of-the-art, powerful engines, a further improved range of luxurious appointments and the very latest safety features, as well, of course, as its now legendary off-road capabilities. At the same time the design remains true to its down-to-earth, unmistakable style.”
Discreet exterior modifications, a complete new look insideThe external modifications include LED daytime running lamps and new exterior mirrors for all engine variants. The AMG versions also feature a new, characteristic AMG radiator grille with double louvres, plus distinctive new bumpers with large air intakes. Red brake callipers and 20-inch wheels, available here for the first time, complement the emotive appeal of its exterior.
The instrument panel and centre console have been completely redesigned to include new controls and generously proportioned, exclusively designed trim elements. These give the interior of the car a fresh and classy look. Drivers will now find a TFT colour display in the instrument cluster between the two round dials. A further large colour screen, conveniently positioned in the centre, is part of the COMAND Online system and incorporates a DVD changer and the COMAND Controller, which are standard on all G-Class models. This new infotainment generation offers, amongst other features, a navigation system with special additional off-road functions, the LINGUATRONIC voice-operated control system and Bluetooth wireless connectivity. In order to ensure that the G-Class nevertheless does not lose any of its character, certain specific design elements in the interior have been preserved. The G-Class thus retains the grab handle on the front-passenger side, the switches for the three differential locks – clearly aligned within the driver’s field of vision and highlighted in silver-coloured trim – and the redesigned shift lever in the lower section of the centre console.
New optional extras include safety features such as DISTRONIC PLUS, Blind Spot Assist and the parking aid PARKTRONIC with reversing camera. The ESP®system has been completely revised and now includes Trailer Stability Assist and a HOLD function.
Further individualisation options from the exclusive designo range are available as enhancements to what is already a very high-quality interior package.
Sophisticated engines with high power reservesThe range of engines in the G-Class includes the G 350 BlueTEC and the G 500, both as a long-wheelbase station wagon, plus the G 500 as a short-wheelbase Cabriolet model.The basic version of the long-wheelbase station wagon model is the G 350 BlueTEC with V6 diesel engine and a displacement of 2987 cc. The four-valve engine has an output of 155 kW (211 hp) at 3400 rpm and has available torque of 540 Newton metres across an engine speed range of 1600 to 2400 rpm. The BlueTEC technology developed by Mercedes-Benz minimises its emissions, in particular of nitrogen oxides (NOx). The G 350 BlueTEC works to even better effect with the addition of AdBlue®, an aqueous urea solution that is injected into the flow of exhaust gases. Refilling with AdBlue®is conveniently done from the outside of the vehicle.
One alternative to the diesel engine is the G 500, with its powerful 5.5-litre V8 petrol engine. This has an output of 285 kW (388 hp) and offers excellent torque of 530 Newton metres. The same engine also ensures that the G 500 Cabriolet has generous reserves of power to deal with any situation.
Both the G 350 and the G 500 feature the 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission as standard. This sixth generation of the stepped automatic transmission that has been developed and produced by Mercedes-Benz since 1960 has once again been thoroughly revised, and optimised with regard to both consumption and comfort.
New to the range is the G 63 AMG with V8 biturbo engine (400 kW/544 hp and 760 Nm of torque), which features the ECO start/stop system as standard. The engine range has been extended by the addition of the G 65 AMG with V12 biturbo engine (450 kW/612 hp and 1000 Nm of torque), making this the most powerful series-produced cross-country vehicle in the world.
The G-Class engines at a glanceModel / Engine / Displacement cc / hp at rpm / Nm at rpm / l/100 km / CO2 g/km
G 350 BlueTEC / V6 diesel / 2987 / 211 at 3400 / 540 at 1600-2400 / 11.2 / 295G 500 / V8 / 5461 / 388 at 6000 / 530 at 2800-4800 / 14.9 / 348G 500 Cabriolet V8 / 5461 / 388 at 6000 / 530 at 2800-4800 / 14.9 / 348G 63 AMG / V8 biturbo / 5461 / 544 at 5500 / 760 at 2000-5000 / 13.8 / 322G 65 AMG / V12 biturbo / 5980 / 612 at 4300-5600 / 1000 at 2300-4300 / 17.0 / 397
Superior off-roaderThe technical qualities of the G-Class continue to be highly prized. The tremendous torque of its engines makes the luxury off-roader an excellent vehicle for towing, while its three electrically controlled 100-percent differential locks, ladder frame and rigid axle characteristics make it an unrivalled proposition in rough, off-road terrain.
The new G-Class is available from June 2012.
Prices in Germany (incl. 19% VAT):G 350 BlueTEC 85,311.10 eurosG 500 99,948.10 eurosG 500 Cabriolet 100,900.10 eurosG 63 AMG 137,504.50 eurosG 65 AMG 264,180.00 euros

[Source:Autoblog]

So a new front-drive Lexus RX 350 will now set you back $40,185, but that’s really not the most interesting pricing news from Lexus. That would be the RX 350 F Sport, which debuts for the 2013 model year in July, carrying a base sticker of $47,875.
While all versions of the RX get the new spindle grille, the F Sport packs Lexus’ eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and a performance-tuned suspension that employs Lexus Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management, akin to what’s available on the GS line. Cosmetic enhancements include a mesh grille and F Sport badges, aluminum pedals and black leather seats with contrasting white stitching. A unique set of 19-inch wheels completes the package, which we look forward to getting our hands on.
Lexus has also announced the base price of its hybrid RX, which will start at $46,805, and the hybrid GS. When the 2013 GS 450h goes on sale in May, it will be priced from $59,845. Additionally, the 2012 Lexus IS will see the price bumped $200 across the board. Scroll down to read the full press release.

GS 450h Price Remains Unchanged From Previous Model2013 RX 350 and RX 450h to Begin Arriving in Dealerships in AprilRX F SPORT Arrives in July With Eight-Speed Transmission and Sport-Tuned SuspensionTORRANCE, Calif. – April 6, 2012 – Lexus today announced the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the all-new 2013 GS 450h hybrid luxury sport sedan, the complete 2013 RX luxury utility vehicle line, and a price adjustment to the 2012 IS luxury sport sedan.
Equipped with the second generation Lexus Hybrid Drive system, the 2013 GS 450h delivers 338 total system horsepower, while achieving 31 combined city/highway mpg. Arriving in dealerships in May, the 2013 GS 450h will have a base MSRP of $58,950, unchanged from the model it replaces.
The updated 2013 RX once again raises the bar for design, engineering, and luxury innovation in the segment it created. Arriving in dealerships this month, the 2013 RX 350 carries a starting MSRP of $39,310. Offering V8-like performance and fuel economy similar to a four-cylinder sedan, the 2013 RX450h will also arrive at dealerships this month with a starting MSRP of $45,910.
Featuring an eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and a sport-tuned suspension with performance dampers, the RX F SPORT was designed to engage driving enthusiasts. When it arrives at dealerships in July, the RX 350 F SPORT will have a base MSRP of $47,000.
The 2012 Lexus IS luxury sport sedan will receive an increase of $200, representing a percentage increase of 0.5% to 0.6% on a model-by-model basis.
MSRP does not include a delivery, processing and handling fee of $875.
GS 450hThe 2013 GS 450h will complete the GS lineup when it joins the recently launched GS 350 and GS 350 F SPORT at Lexus dealerships in May. With a total system power output of 338 horsepower, the GS 450h not only has the power of a V8, but also exceeds most V6 engines in fuel economy with best-in-class EPA estimated ratings of 29 mpg city, 34 mpg highway, and 31 mpg combined. The GS 450h is certified as a Super-Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle (SULEV).
Like the GS 350, the new GS hybrid also features Lexus Drive Mode Select. In addition to the Normal, Eco, Sport S, Sport S+ modes available on the GS 350, the GS 450h adds an EV mode, which allows the driver to travel a short distance at low speed using only the hybrid battery pack.
Available options to help further enhance occupant safety include a Pre-Collision System, which uses the radar sensors shared with the Dynamic Cruise Control System to provide early warning of upcoming objects that might result in a collision as well as to apply braking force in the case of an impending collision, a Night Vision System, Heads Up Display, Blind Spot Monitor, and Lane Keep Assist (LKA) with Lane Departure Warning (LDW). LKA and LDW provide a small amount of active steering torque to help maintain course and alert the driver if the system detects that the vehicle is beginning to drift out of the lane.
Next-generation Lexus multimedia brings a host of entertainment and connectivity enhancements, including the Lexus Enform® App Suite (one-year trial subscription included) and standard enhanced Bluetooth® capability with automatic phonebook download and streaming audio.
RX 350 and RX 450hThe RX, the top-selling luxury utility vehicle in America for 14 years, raises the bar even higher in 2013 with numerous interior and exterior upgrades. The RX 450h with Lexus Hybrid Drive also receives these enhancements.
The bold new face of Lexus, the signature spindle grille, is complemented by a new headlamp design, LED daytime running lights, distinctive fog lamp bezels, and an aggressive new bumper. Updated taillamps and the rear license plate surround complete the exterior enhancements.
The luxurious and spacious RX receives numerous interior enhancements for 2013. The steering wheel has been redesigned with a sportier look and a more comfortable and relaxing grip. A metallic accent enhances the look of the glove box. The center console has been redesigned for versatility and easy accessibility.
The cabin of the 2013 RX also gets new available Ebony Bird’s-eye Maple wood trim and available Saddle leather interior. Rich, detailed contrast stitching is used on the seats, center console and door-mounted armrests of the available leather trim. Four new exterior colors are available for the RX: Silver Lining Metallic, Claret Mica, Deep Sea Mica, and Fire Agate Pearl, replacing Tungsten Pearl, Matador Red Mica and Cerulean Blue Metallic.
RX 350 F SPORTThis 2013 RX 350 F SPORT (AWD only) was designed to engage driving enthusiasts with performance and styling enhancements including:
Eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters;Newly designed 19-inch alloy wheels with dark graphite finish with 235/55R19 tires front and rear;New and unique sport front bumper with mesh grille;F SPORT tuned suspension with front and rear performance dampers; andVehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM).
F SPORT exterior and steering wheel badging further differentiates this vehicle from the rest of the RX line.
The RX 350 F SPORT also comes with black leather-trimmed seats with white contrast stitching, black headliner, and aluminum pedals and footrest. The RX 350 F SPORT also comes standard with all features from the Premium and Comfort packages. The eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters is a first for the RX line.
Model Year Model Name, MSRP, Price Increase $, Price Increase %2013 RX 350 FWD, $39,310, $235, 0.6%2013 RX 350 AWD, $40,710, $235, 0.6%2013 RX 350 F SPORT AWD, $47,000, n/a, n/a2013 RX 450h FWD, $45,910, $675, 1.5%2013 RX 450h AWD, $47,310, $485, 1.0%
IS 250 and IS 350The 2012 Lexus IS luxury sport sedan received a price adjustment which will become effective with May production. All IS models receive a $200 price increase. The model-by-model adjustments reflect individual percentage increases ranging from 0.5 to 0.6 percent. The MSRP does not include a delivery, processing and handling fee of $875. A complete list of model-by model price adjustments is below.
Model Year Model Name, MSRP, New MSRP, Price Increase $, Price Increase %
2012 IS 250 (MT), $33,595, $33,795, $200, 0.6%2012 IS 250, $34,765, $34,965, $200, 0.6%2012 IS 250 AWD, $37,225, $37,425, $200, 0.5%2012 IS 350, $40,020, $40,220, $200, 0.5%2012 IS 350 AWD, $42,480, $42,680, $200, 0.5%
All prices listed above exclude the Delivery, Processing, and Handling (DPH) fee

[Source:Autoblog]

If you fancy a new Ford Mustang but are looking for some added muscle, few places will give you what you want and what you need like Roush. The veteran tuning house has just released its latest range of customized pony cars, and at the top of the line sits its most powerful model yet.
In full-fat spec, the Stage 3 Roush Mustang supercharges the 5.0-liter V8 up to a whopping 565 horsepower and 505 pound-feet of torque. But the Roush kit isn’t all about power: it also features an upgraded suspension riding on 18-inch cast aluminum wheels with Cooper rubber that help it pull a full g on the skid pad, an enhanced aero kit and a choice of four different brake packages.
There’s also plenty of optional equipment to make the Roush Mustang your own – all covered under Roush’s bumper-to-bumper warranty – but if the Stage 3 model proves too much car, buyers can also opt for the Stage 1 body kit or the Stage 2 suspension upgrade without the supercharged engine. Scroll down to read the press release.

Press Release: The New 2013 ROUSH MustangsOut With The Old And In With The New
PLYMOUTH, Mich. (April 4, 2012) – Just as the weather changes for the better moving into spring, so does the ROUSH Stage Mustangs as they move into the 2013 model year. The newly designed 2013 ROUSH Mustangs add more grunt and aggressive looks to an already impressive redesigned Ford Mustang.
The Stage 3 Mustang is the pinnacle of the ROUSH “Stage” Mustangs. Improving upon the styling of the Stage 1 and the handling of the Stage 2, our Stage 3 Mustang adds its own piece of the pie by supercharging the 5.0L-4v Coyote powertrain. It is the perfect infusion of styling, handling and power. The Stage 3 embodies everything a muscle car can and should be.
At the heart of the Stage 3 is a newly updated ROUSH supercharged 5.0L-4v powertrain, pumping out a massive 565 horsepower and 505 lb-ft of torque – more than enough power to make you one with your seat as you stab the throttle. With power numbers like these, the 2013 Stage 3 marks ROUSH Performance’s highest horsepower street legal Mustang to date. Force feeding air to the 5.0L engine is ROUSH’s R2300 supercharger featuring Eaton’s® TVS (Twin Vortices Series) patented technology. The TVS design delivers greatly enhanced thermal efficiency, produces higher volumetric capacity, and enables higher supercharger RPM’s; all of which equate to more power and better fuel efficiency in a smaller, lighter package. ROUSH powertrain engineers calibrated the new Stage 3 to the perfect combination of power, drivability and durability.
But what is power if you can’t put it down on the street/track? The Stage 2 and Stage 3 packages provide greatly improved handling over stock mustangs, allowing our cars to pull over 1g of lateral acceleration on the skid pad. Part of this handling package is the 18-inch by 10-inch cast aluminum, five spoke, chrome ROUSH wheels – wrapped in the ROUSH/Cooper (co-developed) RS3 ultra high-performance tire. The suspension system consists of a larger, stiffer front stabilizer bar to reduce body roll and provide balanced, neutral handling. It also includes a unique ROUSH designed anti-wheel hop kit, twin-tube shocks with unique valving, increased rate springs as well as upgraded bushings and jounce bumpers. ROUSH chassis engineers spent thousands of hours in development and testing to create the perfect set up to aid in acceleration, cornering, stopping and ride quality
To give the 2013 ROUSH Mustangs a more aggressive look, all of the new Stages 1 through 3 platforms receive the newly designed 6th generation ROUSH Aerobody package. Dubbed the “R6″, the new aero-body package incorporates a remodeled ROUSH upper grille, high-flow lower grille, corner fascia aero-pockets with driving lamps and front chin splitter. It also includes a new ROUSH hood scoop, rocker panel and rear fascia side splitters, a three-piece rear decklid spoiler, new ROUSH rear aero-valance featuring race-inspired diffusers, and is finished off with newly designed, integrated dual chambered, chrome exhaust tips.
“The 2013 ROUSH Stage 3 Mustang is by far one of the best performing Mustangs to come out of our shop” states Gary Jurick, General Manager for ROUSH Performance. “The idea is not to have the highest horse power out there, but to embody all around performance and combine that with an exclusive vehicle at a great value.”
The Stage 3 also gets an RS3 graphics package available in multiple color combinations to allow owners to personalize to their taste. Inside the Stage 3 you get a custom gauge cluster, ROUSH embroidered floor mats, a ROUSH center console button and a Stage 3 dash medallion. All Stage Mustangs receive ROUSH badging throughout and a serialized engine bay plaque.
To further customize your ROUSH Stage Mustang there are several exterior, interior and chassis options available including rear quarter window louvers and the all new Stage 3 Interior Package consisting of Stage 3 embroidered leather seating with suede inserts, suede door panels and a suede shift boot all with highlight stitching. There is also a vent gauge pod with LED boost gauge, a suede wrapped steering wheel, and a convertible light bar just to name a few. Some chassis options include three 20-inch wheels choices, four different brake packages, ROUSH laser cut hood struts and red or black ROUSH engine coil covers. Additionally, the ROUSH dual chamber off-road exhaust system to put a grin on your face and let everyone else know you’re not to be messed with.
All 2013 ROUSH “Stage” Mustangs are available in both coupe and convertible chassis and both manual and automatic transmissions. They are also all 50-state legal and covered by ROUSH’s 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. The 2013 ROUSH Mustangs are expected to start showing up on dealer lots by late April 2012.

[Source:Autoblog]

There are many names you could associate with Mustang tuning, but few are as iconic as Steve Saleen. The American tuner extraordinaire made a name for himself tweaking the Ford muscle coupe under the Saleen brand until he left his own company to start SMS Supercars. But now that the two have been reunited, word has it that Saleen is moving ahead with plans to produce a new mid-engine exotic to follow in the footsteps of the famed S7.
Saleen, as you may recall, branched out of tuning pony cars with the S7 in 2000. The car packed a 7.0-liter V8 that was later twin-turbocharged up to 750 horsepower to make it good for a 0-60 run in under three seconds and a top speed of nearly 250 mph. The car endures as an American performance icon, but while an S5S Raptor concept (pictured above) was showcased four years ago at the New York Auto Show, the schism between the two Saleen companies kept it from ever seeing the light of day.
With that ugliness now behind us, however, Autoweek reports that Steve Saleen is intent on picking up where the S7 and S5S left off. Getting to that point is expected to take Saleen a while, but in the meantime, he’s working at integrating the two operations. The SMS facility in California will continue building the cars – White Label for mild upgrades, Yellow Label for supercharged models and Black Label for the works – while his Saleen facility in Michigan will distribute the parts. Look for a tuned Chevrolet Camaro to come rumbling around the corner in the near future.

[Source:Autoblog]

The National Highway Traffic Safety Association has announced on its website that Ford is recalling 140,000 Focus models built between August 1, 2010 and October 18, 2011. The defect in question is a seal in the wiring harness connector to the passenger side wiper motor that may be missing.
If the seal is AWOL, water can build up in the connector, which could over time render the passenger-side wiper useless. And if that happens, visibility could of course be altered, resulting in a higher probability of a crash.
To fix the issue, affected Focus owners need to take their vehicles to a Ford dealer for a free inspection of the wiper connector. A technician will clean and seal any connector that needs it, and any wiper motor that no longer works will be replaced free of charge. Hit the jump to read over the NHTSA press release.Vehicle Make / Model: FORD / FOCUSModel Year(s): 2012Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY Mfr’s Report Date: APR 02, 2012NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 12V149000 NHTSA Action Number: N/AComponent: VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:SWITCH/WIRINGPotential Number of Units Affected: 140,310
Summary:FORD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 FOCUS VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM AUGUST 1, 2010, THROUGH OCTOBER 18, 2011. A SEAL IN THE WIRING HARNESS CONNECTOR TO THE PASSENGER SIDE WIPER MOTOR MAY BE MISSING.
Consequence:WATER OR OTHER CONTAMINANTS MAY ACCUMULATE IN THE CONNECTOR, RESULTING IN AN INTERMITTENT OR INOPERATIVE PASSENGER SIDE WIPER MOTOR, REDUCING VISIBILITY AND INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Remedy:FORD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND AS NECESSARY, CLEAN AND PROPERLY SEAL THE PASSENGER SIDE WIPER MOTOR CONNECTOR. ANY INOPERATIVE WIPER MOTORS WILL BE REPLACED. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PROVIDED FREE OF CHARGE. FORD EXPECTS TO BEGIN ON OR ABOUT MAY 21, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT THE FORD MOTOR COMPANY CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP CENTER AT 1-866-436-7332.

[Source:Autoblog]

Tesla Motors is close to rolling out the first Model S electric five-doors from the company’s Fremont, California plant, and customers who reserved the Model S Signature Series are already sending in their specification requests, indicating that the company will likely hit its July deadline for first deliveries.
Tesla has also added three colors – Piano Black, Lacewood and Banana Leaf – to its interior options and Internet connectivity will be an option on all cars, the company said in a letter to prospective customers that was posted on its blog last week. Tesla also said it would personally deliver the cars to the location of the customer’s choice.
The Model S, the second model from Tesla after the Roadster, will be priced starting at $57,400 for a version with a 160-mile single-charge range before the $7,500 tax credit goes into effect. A 300-mile-range version goes for about $77,000. Read here for Autoblog’s “First Ride” impressions.
Earlier this year, Tesla said 2012 sales may triple last year’s revenue of $204.2 million and forecast Model S sales at 5,000 units for this year. That’s more than double the 2,100 of the $109,000 Roadsters that Tesla sold over the past four years.

[Source:Autoblog]

Canada’s SR Auto Group likes to take a car, any car, and make it wilder. The Audi S4 they did looks intriguingly evil. The wheels they’ve created for the Lamborghini Reventon are amazing.
Their latest canvas is the Scion iQ, which became Project Pryzm. “The objective behind Project Pryzm was to create a car that would leave you speechless,” says SR Auto. Let’s just say they’re getting really close, but we still have a few things to say about it.
These guys apparently took inspiration from the Mitsubishi Evo and one of the pigs from Angry Birds, and we think they’ve come up with mixed results. We like the idea of a more aggressive iQ, we’re just not sure we’re fans of one with this much going on. Passengers are treated to an upgraded interior with leather seats and diamond-stitched suede inserts on the seat centers and door panels.
Check out our gallery for more images, then let us know what you think of this pint-sized mouth-breather.

[Source:Autoblog]

Hyundai Motor America CEO John Krafcik confirmed Wednesday that the all-new seven passenger 2013 Santa Fe will replace the Veracruz model.
“The Veracruz is going away,” Krafcik told Autoblog. “It ends production around November.”Hyundai debuted the Santa Fe Wednesday at the New York International Auto Show in both five-passenger and seven-passenger configurations.
The seven-passenger Veracruz was a new nameplate for Hyundai when it rolled out in 2007. It never gained much acceptance in the U.S., so Hyundai has found a new way around that problem.
“It’s hard to establish a new brand name,” Krafcik said. “It can take $50 to $100 million dollars. Santa Fe is a golden nameplate for us, it’s a great product, and now it will be much more efficient in my marketing spend.”
Indeed. It will also be more efficient producing a five- and seven-passenger Santa Fe than two different vehicles. From the B-pillar forward, there will only be minor differences between the two Santa Fe models.
Furthermore, the new design of the Santa Fe moves it into Hyundai’s stylized fluidic design theme, something that has been very successful with the compact Elantra and midsize Sonata. The Veracruz, which still included many of Hyundai’s older design elements, just didn’t fit in with everything else.
Now, or at least in the coming months, it will be no more.

[Source:Autoblog]

Shortly after Jaguar announced that the production F-Type will be coming to market in mid-2013, we sat down with Adrian Hallmark, Jaguar Global Brand Director, to discuss some of the finer points of the new sub-XK sports car. The F-Type is more or less the production version of the C-X16 concept that debuted at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show, but instead of sticking to the concept’s coupe body style, Jaguar said that the production F-Type will launch as a two-seat roadster. But that doesn’t mean a coupe isn’t coming.”C-X16 was a vision car,” Hallmark stated. The intent of C-X16 was to show off a new design language, and it’s easier to completely realize the full capacity of a new styling direction on a coupe body style rather than on a roadster. But when we asked Hallmark about the possibility of a hardtop F-Type, his response was that Jaguar “certainly won’t stick to just a convertible. If you get a convertible right, it’s easy to do a coupe.”
Jaguar’s director of design, Ian Callum, added that there are no plans to offer a folding hardtop version of the F-Type roadster – it will use a standard soft top. A folding hardtop “would ruin the shape of the car,” Callum told us.
As we reported earlier, the F-Type will use a new powertrain family, possibly previewed by the supercharged 3.0-liter V6 and electric motor combination found under the hood of the C-X16 concept. Hallmark stated that in terms of driver involvement and performance, the F-Type “will start where the XKR-S finishes, even with less power.” In other words, the F-Type will be more of a focused sports car rather than a luxury GT. As for pricing, Hallmark stated that the F-Type will be priced below the XK but above competitors like the Porsche Boxster/Cayman, BMW Z4 and Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Moving away from the F-Type, Hallmark spoke briefly about plans to add all-wheel drive into the Jaguar lineup. “We’re very interested in all-wheel drive,” he stated, later adding that the company will likely offer it in its next-generation products rather than fitting it to the vehicles that are currently available. Hallmark assured us that it will be “not more than two years” until we see an all-wheel-drive Jag, and that prototype vehicles are already in the on-road testing phase.

[Source:Autoblog]

A Passat used to be a Passat, and that was that. But these days, things have gotten more complicated. Like Honda does with the Accord, the Passat that Volkswagen builds and offers in the United States is an entirely different vehicle from the one it offers overseas. And while we used to have a Passat wagon at our disposal in American showrooms, that one stayed on the opposite shore when the model was split.
And then there’s the Alltrack. Taking a similar approach to what Volvo took to make its V70 into the XC70, what Subaru does to its Legacy to turn it into an Outback and what (perhaps most pertinently) sister-brand Audi does to its A6 to make it the Allroad, the Volkswagen Passat Alltrack production model was unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show back in November with a higher suspension and some rugged-looking lower body cladding.
Although the Alltrack – or for that matter, the Passat wagon altogether – is not currently available in the United States, Volkswagen has brought the overseas model to the New York Auto Show (as a “concept”, mind you) in an effort to gauge reaction. If it drums up enough support – and over 80 percent of you have supported in our informal poll so far – VW could opt to offer it to American customers as a more cost-effective alternative to the Audi Allroad range. The showcar seen here is fitted with a TDI diesel engine, but presumably if it came to the States, it would be offered with a gasoline engine as its main powerplant. Take a closer look in our gallery of high-resolution live images from the show floor and the official release below and decide for yourself.

04.02.2012VOLKSWAGEN UNVEILS ALLTRACK CONCEPT VEHICLE AT THENEW YORK INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW
All-wheel-drive TDI® Clean Diesel wagon set to gauge market reaction for a new vehicle concept from Volkswagen
Herndon, VA – For those who want versatility and offroad ability without the footprint of an SUV, the choices facing buyers are limited in the U.S. That’s why Volkswagen is showing the Alltrack Concept at the New York International Auto Show. This car closes the gap between passenger car and SUV. With chunky bumpers and flared side skirts, as well as a raised ride height, the Alltrack shows that it’s as comfortable off the beaten path as it is in the city.
To illustrate how serious the Alltrack can be in an offroad environment, the engine is protected by a solid underbody guard made of steel plate. This helps protect the engine, gearbox, oil pan, exhaust system (front section) and various hoses from damage, and there’s another underbody shield at the rear of the car. Other exterior changes include matte chrome window surrounds, door mirror housings and radiator grille trim strips. Anodized silver roof rails are standard, along with front foglights and dual chrome tailpipes.
The Alltrack concept on display in New York features Volkswagen’s frugal 2.0-liter turbocharged TDI Clean Diesel engine that makes 140 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque, mated to a six-speed DSG® dual-clutch automatic transmission. It also features 4Motion® all-wheel-drive, with an offroad driving program. Essentially, this program tunes key vehicle dynamic and assistance systems for offroad driving at speeds of up to 18 mph at the press of a button.
The offroad program modifies the settings for the safety and driver assistance systems. For instance, the anti-lock braking system (ABS) now has higher control interval thresholds; on loose surfaces, such as gravel, a wedge of material is formed in front of the tires to decelerate the vehicle more effectively. At the same time, the electronic differential locks react more quickly to help prevent wheelspin at individual wheels. The engine’s torque control is modified in parallel.
A Hill Descent Assist program is automatically activated when the gradient exceeds 10 percent; the system applies the Alltrack’s brakes. Meanwhile, features such as the optional adaptive cruise control are deactivated.
In offroad mode, the throttle map is altered to give a “longer” pedal to more accurately meter engine power. At the same time, gearshift points are raised, automatically giving the driver higher engine revs and therefore more power to work with. If the DSG lever is switched to the manual shift gate, the transmission no longer upshifts automatically.
Adding to its offroading credentials, the Alltrack’s ground clearance is raised by1.2 inches compared with a non-Alltrack model. This ride height and the more aggressive bodywork improve the approach and departure angles: these are pitched between a conventional wagon’s and many a crossover at 16 degrees and 13.6 degrees respectively. The ramp breakover angle is 12.8 degrees.
Currently, there are no plans to bring this vehicle to market in the U.S., but the concept is set to gauge market reaction to a potential future model that is similarly sized and combines offroad ability with wagon versatility.
About Volkswagen of America, Inc.Founded in 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc. is headquartered in Herndon, Virginia. It is a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG, headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany. Volkswagen’s operations in the United States include research and development, parts and vehicle processing, parts distribution centers, sales, marketing and service offices, financial service centers, and its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Volkswagen is one of the world’s largest producers of passenger cars and Europe’s largest automaker. Volkswagen sells the Beetle, Eos, Golf, Golf R, GTI, Jetta, Jetta SportWagen, Passat, CC, Tiguan, Touareg and Routan vehicles through approximately 600 independent U.S. dealers. Visit Volkswagen of America online at www.vw.com or media.vw.com to learn more.
“4MOTION”, “DSG”, “TDI”, “VW”, “Volkswagen”, all model names and the Volkswagen logo are registered trademarks of Volkswagen AG.

[Source:Autoblog]