2011 Ford Edge gets three engine choices, more ambitious Sport model

As dutiful American consumers, we've been taught to believe that choice is good. To that end, the splintering of the automotive market into different niches (four-door coupes, small panel vans, high-riding hatchbacks, etc.) is a positive development for buyers. But while the range of total models from automakers has been increasing, individual variation within a given model range has seemingly been reigned in, from a drastic reduction in build combinations of light-duty pickups to the availability of engines and ala carte options in everyday vehicles. Standing in direct contrast to this trend, however, is the 2011 Ford Edge crossover.

Whereas the first-generation Edge has lived since 2006 with a 3.5-liter V6 as its sole drivetrain, the 2011 model will offer no fewer than three powertrain choices. For 2011, the 3.5-liter engine will live on as the Edge line's bread-and-butter, but it is being joined by Ford's first production application of a new EcoBoost 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo, as well as the larger 3.7-liter V6 for the popular Edge Sport. In the case of the 3.5-liter, it produces 285 horsepower and 253 pound-feet of torque, while the Sport's larger 3.7 Ti-VCT V6 delivers 305 ponies and 280 torques on 87 octane. Ford is not yet releasing power and economy numbers on the EcoBoost engine, but it promises "class-leading" fuel efficiency, noting that the new powertrain should eclipse the original 2006 Edge by some 30 percent.
follow the link to read on and more pics ---> AutoBlog

Potential deal points leaked concerning Tengzhong's purchase of Hummer

As the Opel transaction takes on Biblical intrigue, the Hummer exchange goes on in another dark corner, laboriously, like the gestation of an elephant. The latest report from a Chinese news website states that General Motors and Tengzhong "might sign an agreement" this week, but that strikes us as exceedingly optimistic seeing that there's been no word on the government approving the deal yet.

Slightly more believable are the supposed deal points that would guide Tengzhong's initial ownership of Hummer: Tengzhong will own all of Hummer's intellectual property rights and sales network, but would not build Hummers in China and would operate the company as an off-shore entity based out of Detroit or Nashville. General Motors would continue to build Hummers until 2012 and provide "technical services," and Tengzhong would continue to fund research and development, while the "off-shore" Hummer team (read: probably the folks doing the job now) would be responsible for launching the new H3 and H4. As for that H4, though, the article lists them as "CUV models." If the H4 is a CUV, we hope they manage to make it look like the 2008 Hummer HX concept shown above.

Tengzhong reps are headed to Detroit to continue discussions. The General's response, according to the CEO of Hummer is that "Negotiations continue to progress and the transaction will be announced upon the signing of the definitive agreement as soon as appropriate." Hat tip to Emilio!

BMW May Be Planning X4

BMW has been aggressively expanding its vehicle offerings, and like most other automakers, crossovers make up the majority of additions. Earlier this year, team Bimmer added the X6, and with the X1 concept unveiled in Paris, mild-to-wild CUVs seem to be the focus for the boys in Bavaria. Automotive News is reporting that the SAV love will continue next year when BMW unleashes the X4. Design elements are said to come from the larger X6, which is to say that it'll probably look like a really tall hatchback. The X1 concept and the production X3 are based off of the excellent 3-Series platform, and we're guessing the X4 will also don the sharp-handling underpinnings.

If this is what BMW needs to do in order to remain the world's top-selling luxury automaker, we're not so sure it's worth the trouble. The X1 will probably sell relatively well, but it will do so with underwhelming sheet metal. An X4 based off the X6 sounds like an even worse proposition, but then again, we didn't think the X6 was a bright idea either.

Volkswagen Pickup Concept Revealed

After many speculations and rumors, VW finally lifted the wraps of its forthcoming 1-tonne pickup truck in the form of a pre-production model simply called ‘Pickup’ at the International Automobile Exhibition in Hanover (September 26 to October 02). The concept gives us a taste of the production model that we’ve become accustomed to knowing it as Robust. Production of the new Pickup will begin in fall 2009 at Volkswagen’s “Pacheco” plant in Argentina. According to VW, the production model will be initially introduced at the end of 2009 to South America, South Africa, Australia and Europe with other markets following shortly after.

Audi Q5 by ABT

The Audi Q5 is not yet available in the U.S., and we can already show you the second tuner package for the car. After Digi-Tec, the Audi Q5 received another tuning program from another major German tuner, ABT. The new body kit consists in a new front grille in the ABT style, a completely re-designed front bumper with integrated fog lights, new stylish side sills, a new rear bumper with integrated exhaust system and rear air diffuser and a rear roof spoiler.

Under the hood, the 2.0 TDI engine received a power boost of 20 hp, developing now 190 hp, while the 3.0 TDI engine develops now 310 hp. The 2.0 TFSI engine was also boosted from 211 hp to 240 hp. More details when the official information will be released.

Source: Top Speed

2008 Wolf Ford Kuga

With the Ford Kuga, the Cologne-based automobile manufacturer once again presents a car from a still booming vehicle class: a compact SUV. The Ford Kuga is an emotionally and technically perfected vehicle which can now even be further enhanced by the exclusive Wolf styling programme. The Ford specialist already devised a power enhancement which improves the serial performance from a standard 136 hp with 320 Nm to 158 hp with 375 Nm. The (German) retail price is 795 euros. The Wolf Race rims measuring 9 x 20“ ET40 in a silver design with high-grade steel lining of the outer rim are not only elegant, but also sportive. The set comes with 275/30 R20 Pirelli tyres. The overall price for the light alloy rim set by Wolf is 2,850 euros (Germany). The Wolf sport springs which lower the car by 40 mm render optimal road holding and can be obtained at any Ford dealer or directly at the company Wolf Racing Neuenstein GmbH & Co. KG for 199 euros (Germany).

The light alloy rim programme for the Ford Kuga is also available in the measures 8,5 x 18“ and 8,5 x 19“. The light alloy rims which were exclusively developed by Wolf stand out by their lower weight compared to the serial rims. This does not only reduce the unsprung masses and renders more comfort, it also minimises the fuel consumption, as every additional and unnecessary load leads to a higher total weight and therefore also to a higher fuel consumption. The light alloy rim programme by Wolf is available in various surface finishes. The complete Wolf styling programme can be directly ordered from Wolf Racing, Neuenstein or from your local Ford dealer.

BMW X5 Security model can with-hold a .44 Magnum

If you happen to be the Head of State of a controversial nation, have a lot of enemies, or you are just plain paranoid, BMW's latest X5 variation may be just right for you. It's called the BMW X5 Security, and it has been armored by the factory to protect its occupants against some serious firepower (BMW claims safety class "VR4" to resist the penetration from a .44 Magnum, .357 Magnum, or a nine-millimeter Luger). While BMW is understandably silent about specifics, we do know that the body panels (including the roof and trunk) have been reinforced with a ballistic-resistant armored fiber developed in the Netherlands. The windows are upgraded to laminated 22-mm thick security glass, and a camera system with intercom keeps the passengers informed of what's happening outside their isolated cocoon. To handle the extra mass (you know its packing some weight) the Security package is bundled to the X5 4.8i model with its 4.8-liter 350-hp V-8. Nearly indistinguishable from the regular model, BMW has reportedly attempted to maintain the X5's driving dynamics with upgraded suspension and brakes. It's apparently no slouch, but we have yet to see any armored car that is considered exceptionally nimble.

Source: Auto Blog

Lincoln MKT Concept

Lincoln has given the MKT crossover the green-light, with the production version set to debut in Detroit this January and sales beginning sometime next year.

The MKT is built on the same platform as the Ford Flex, but Lincoln insists that the two models won't share a single body panel. Power will be provided by either a 3.7-liter V6 or a 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine, equipped with direct injection and a turbocharger, however a hybrid drivetrain will not be offered. A six-speed automatic gearbox, complete with paddle shifters, will be standard, along with seven-passenger seating, a power-folding third-row seat, heated and cooled, first- and second-row thrones and the SYNC in-car entertainment system. Options will include a new satelite navigation system, Sirius Travel Link, an auto-park feature (similar to that found on the Lexus LS460) and a Cross Traffic Alert system that alerts drivers to obstacles when backing out of a parking space(parking sensors?).

Mazda Kazamai Concept to Premiere at Moscow International Automobile Salon 2008

Mazda will unveil a sporty, compact crossover concept vehicle, Mazda Kazamai, at the Moscow International Automobile Salon (MIAS) on August 26. Kazamai, which means “swirling crosswinds” in Japanese, expresses the powerful yet nimble image of a stylish and compact crossover. The concept is based on Mazda’s long-term vision for technology development, Sustainable Zoom-Zoom, which aims to provide a unique balance between sporty driving fun and superior environmental and safety performance. Kazamai will be joined at MIAS by the Russian debut of Mazda’s CX-9 SUV, which was crowned 2008 North American Truck of the Year in February.

The Kazamai concept further evolves Mazda’s ‘Nagare’ design language by fusing Nagare’s ‘flow’ design cues with aerodynamic proportions. The design features panel lines inspired by crosswinds in nature which evoke visual lightness. Its bold five-point grille, accentuated front wheel arches and sleek roof line, combined with large 22-inch wheels, lend it high emotional appeal.

Sporty to look at, Kazamai is meant to be spirited and fun to drive, with compact dimensions. Kazamai’s four-wheel drive powertrain will consist of a next-generation direct injection engine and a newly developed transmission. It is also aerodynamic, with an evolved lightweight body structure and enhanced the vehicle safety attributes. Were it to be built, Mazda’s latest show car would deliver exciting driving dynamics, frugal fuel consumption and greatly reduced CO2 emissions.

The Mazda Kazamai promises to be another ground-breaking show car from Mazda Design, winner of this year’s Grand Prix du Design in Paris. Created especially for the Moscow International Automobile Salon, it gives a good indication of where Mazda is going with a possible future compact crossover. And in Russia’s growing automotive market, compact SUVs are the second-largest segment, representing about 13 percent of all new car sales.

Source: Tuning News

New Lamborghini SUV? Lamborghini LM00X

Lamborghini will be building a SUV based on the same platform as it's sibling Audi’s Audi Q5.

The new SUV is currently known as the LM00X. People will have the option of two engines - a supercharged 400hp 4.2 V8 and a supercharged 500hp 5.0 V10. It’s expected that the Lamborghini SUV will debut in 2008, while the Audi Q5 it’s based on will be released in 2007.

Audi Q7 - The Je Design

What do you get when JE DESIGN combines its special paintwork “Red Rocket” with its Audi Q7 aerodynamics kit “Street Sport”? JE DESIGN “Street Rocket”! An elegant luxury vehicle with integrated show-effect.

The JE DESIGN “Street Rocket” gets its really sporty look from the body construction set "Street Sport" (€5,719). JE DESIGN unites a new front spoiler, double headlights including headlight shutters, side rocker panels and a new lower back apron extension to create an appearance bursting with dynamic energy. It harmonizes perfectly with the Audi lines making the refined Q7 continue to radiate its typical elegance. The JE DSIGN double trapezoid tail pipes in chromium-plated stainless steel (€988) present a further highlight. The LED door exit lights on the vehicle underside (rocker panels x 5 / lower back aprons x 6) for €1,500, are guaranteed to steal the show, particularly at night.

Thanks to its special paintwork "Red Rocket", with special low gloss effect and superior brilliance which JE DESIGN offers for €15,000 , JE DESIGN’s “Street Rocket” definitely stands out well among the crowd.

BMW X6 Hartge Wallpaper

Some Wallpapers of the BMW X6 tuned by Hartge. High Quality 1600x1200.

The ENCO-Exclusive 550 GT Biturbo Cayenne

The Cayenne has always been my favorite SUV, mostly because of the common design, seeing the ENCO-Exclusive 550 GT Biturbo Cayenne, I must say I’m really surprised

Germans are highly skilled in providing special prototyping services for race teams and tuning companies, and man those black lacquered one-piece 23×11J XXL-rims with white ornamental stripes are really killing me. It’s probably the thing I liked in the first place.

This is what you’ll get if you can afford spending 170,000 euros for the car.

Volkswagen Touareg R50 - a Review From Down Under

Volkswagen’s strident motto clearly and eloquently defines their love of the car, though when it comes to the ‘R’ designated models, one must surmise that this is no ordinary love. This is lustful and unadulterated passion.

Having driven the thrilling R32 earlier this year I was impressed at just how well balanced and centred a car it had become above that of the already outstanding Golf. Thanks to some brilliant engineering work the enhanced model is truly something to behold.

Not only had shoe-horning a 3.2 litre V6 in to the small hatch back made it go harder, but every other mechanical feature of the car complimented the package so well as a whole that parting with such splendid company was a very hard process indeed.

Imagine then applying that level of enthusiasm and exhilaration to Volkswagen’s über four wheel drive, the Touareg. Now, that time has come.

Engine

Power bhp: 345

Torque lb-ft: 627

Type: Turbo-Diesel V10

Performance

Acceleration 0-60 mph: 6.7 Seconds

Top Speed: 146 mph

Full Review: Car Advice

Infiniti Announces Pricing on 2009 FX50 and FX35

The all-new second generation 2009 Infiniti FX crossover will go on sale June 24 at Infiniti dealers in the U.S. and Canada with prices set at $40,950 for the FX35 RWD, $42,350 for the FX35 AWD and at $56,700 for the FX50 AWD. Both FX35 variants are equipped with a 303 Hp 3.5- liter V6 while the top-end FX50 gets a new 390Hp 5.0-liter V8 unit. All FX models are paired with a new 7-speed automatic transmission featuring Adaptive Shift Control (ASC) and available solid magnesium paddle shifters.

source: http://www.carscoop.blogspot.com/

2009 Mercedes-Benz G55 AMG

Hot on the heels of its revisions to the uber-brick known as the G-Class for 2009, Mercedes-Benz has released the first batch of pics showing the hotted-up AMG version, the G 55 AMG. Like its lesser brick siblings, the big box on wheels benefits from the same upgrades in convenience, comfort and safety, but also gets a host of styling tweaks. The lipstick on this particular pig is comprised of a new chromed, three-bar grille, the requisite fender flairs, body-color bumpers, chrome trim, stainless steel tube running boards and 19-inch AMG light-alloy wheels painted grey. The 5.5L V8 engine has received a modest bump from 500 hp to 507, while torque remains put at 516 pound-feet. All this adds up to an incredible 5.5 second run to 62 MPH for what is perhaps the most unaerodynamic vehicle on sale today. The starting price is 121,618 euro.

Engine

Power bhp: 507

Torque lb-ft: 516

Type: V8

Performance

Acceleration 0-62 mph: 5.5 Seconds

New Volkswagen Tiguan

What more would you want from a German company that makes good promising vehicles. An affordable fuel efficient SUV. The new Tiguan from Volkswagen starts at $23,000 with an inline-4 cylinder engine that produces 200 hp and 206 torque and does 0-60 mph in 7.8 seconds with a top speed of 131 mph. With amazing sporty styling, and fuel efficiency of 18 mpg in the city and 25 on the high way. Volkswagen keeps bringing in promising vehicles every year. Just like in the pictures there will be a sport edition, with more horsepower and better performance.

Tiguan S - Engine
Power bhp: 200
Torque lb-ft: 206
Type: Inline-4

Performance
Acceleration 0-60 mph: 7.8 Seconds
Top Speed: 131 mph

Relentless Show Stopping FX35

When the Infiniti FX35 first made it's debut in 2003, it made quite an entrance. It was the fastest SUV in production. Like most Nissan's it inherits many of it's family generics from the 350z and G35. Which made it useless off road, whimpering SUV? Nope not really the FX35 is something else on the black top.

Viet Nguyen our boy from California, decided to make his FX35 a better than before SUV that packed a punch into the hot import nights. First of all he would put on some aftermarket rims, and later on the FX35 was supercharged by JWT. He went down to California to test his project at the local drag races. He landed 13.3 at 103 mph for the quarter mile. Many people would be satisfied with these results but no Viet, he went for more.

The first things to go were the S2 cams from JWT and in went C2 cams instead. The turbos were swapped out next, as a pair of GT28 turbos would be more capable of handling higher boost pressure. The new cams were working the valves with JWT springs and the valves themselves had just received a three-angle job. The rest of the head was ported and polished. The exhaust is routed through JWT 700BB manifolds into 2.5-inch test pipes from APS and exits through a GReddy Evo TT 70mm system. The engine internals were reinforced with forged Pauter rods and Arias pistons and rings. Fuel was brought from the stock tank with a Walbro 255lph pump and sent to Nismo 555cc/min injectors. HKS handled the ignition with their Twin Power DLI-II system. In the meantime, the internals of the auto transmission were upgraded to a Level 10 kit, the torque converter was swapped for one from Edge Racing and ATS Carbonetics handled the differential. Finally, a Rotora brake kit helps bring the vehicle to a stop, thanks in part to massive 15-inch front discs and 14-inch rears.

The car was now putting down over 500 hp to the wheels. It made a significant difference at the strip as well, with his best run now being a 12.7 at 110 mph-seriously fast for a vehicle like this.

With all this power you think he would keep this car in the garage right? Nope Viet uses this car as a daily commuter and drives up to 100 miles a day. This car is definitely a show stopper, head turner, rice eater for sure.

2008 Porsche Cayenne Turbo

The Cayenne Turbo has always been on my good side. It is one of the SUV's that I like best, it comes second on my list after the BMW X5. The 2008 Cayenne has a new design, with a larger but more efficient engine. It feels better and more expensive than the X5, but less sporty. It has a twin-turbocharged 4.8 liter engine that produces 500 horsepower and 516 torque. And goes from a standing start to 60 miles per hour in just 4.9 seconds. Top speed on the test track has been recorded at 171 mph.

Engine

Power bhp: 500

Torque: 516

Type: V8 Twin-Turbo

Performance

Acceleration 0-60 mph: 4.9 seconds
Top Speed: 171 mph

My Rating: *****/*****

Base Price: 2008 Porsche Cayenne Turbo - $93,700

2006 BMW X5 4.8is

The X5 4.8is is one of the greatest BMW's ever made, they are simple but yet are fascinating and actualy pretty fast for a sport utility vehicle(SUV). The X5 4.8is is a V8 M powered engine with 350 horsepower, and 350 pound torque. With wheels so wide, it looks as though they took them off a corvette and put them on the X5. With the all wheel drive at the power of your foot on the pedal, the X5 4.8is goes from 0-60 mph in 6.1 seconds. Not only is it fast but can also tow up to 6000 lbs. The X5 is an all use vehicle, good for towing, off road, and speed.

Engine

Power bhp: 340

Torque lb-ft: 350

Type: v8

Performance

Acceleration 0-60 mph: 6.1 Seconds

Top Speed: 155 mph (electronicaly limited)

My Rating: *****/*****

Base Price: for 2006 BMW X5 4.8is - $58,000