When Porsche introduced the Cayman in 2006, one thing was abundantly clear: Porsche had muzzled its midship coupe to prevent cannibalizing 911 sales. Despite a more favorable weight distribution and an unflappable chassis, the Cayman lacked the power to exploit its excellent underpinnings, even in "S" guise. So like its Boxster sibling, the Cayman was destined to play second fiddle to Porsche's iconic rear-engine flagship. From a business perspective, Porsche's decision made sense. For enthusiasts, it was yet another bitter pill from Zuffenhausen.

When the Cayman underwent a refresh, there was always hope that a turbocharged variant would be included in the line-up. Predictably, that never happened. So the Cayman continued to stand on the lower/middle rung of the Porsche ladder, offering less power and a lower price than the 911. The Cayman could dance. It just needed an extra bit of oomph.

That's where Mike Levitas comes in. Mike is the brains behind TPCRacing of Jessup, MD. Born of a family of automotive tinkerers, Mike spent most of his formative years learning about turbos and turning that knowledge to race cars – fast, reliable race cars that won championships. Like most other Porsche enthusiasts, Mike thought the Cayman could use more power. Turbocharged power. But unlike most of the marque's devotees, Mike made it happen.

Levitas began producing race cars back in the late Eightes, and over the course of the next decade and a half he managed the turbocharger programs for the Nissan 300ZX, Mazda RX7, Lotus Esprit and Consulier GTPs in the IMSA Supercar Series. Mike's background and advanced aeronautical training eventually led him to build some of the best Porsche race cars around. Porsche Club racing, Motorola Cup action, and a brief dip into Mercedes sedans eventually led him to the Grand American Rolex Sports Car Series.

In 2000, TPCRacing began racing under its own banner, racking up more than 20 class wins (including one at Daytona in 2006) and an unprecedented 1-2-3-4 sweep of the driver's championship. The team was so dominant that the lead car during that championship season never missed a podium. With all of that race history as a test bed, TPC thought it was time to offer some of its accumulated wisdom to the masses.



TPCRacing is now known as one of the premier outlets for readying your Porsche for track duty. Turbochargers, suspension upgrades and computer reflashing are all available to professional and club racers. And for those who'd like a little more performance out of their daily drivers, TPCRacing has you covered in spades. While most of the company's work is devoted to 911s, TPC thought the Cayman needed a little something extra as well. They picked up a Guards Red 2006 Porsche Cayman S a couple of years ago and went to work.

The result is the TPCRacing Cayman S Turbo Kit. Producing around 485 horsepower, it's packing more ponies than – until recently – nearly any vehicle in Porsche's lineup, save the GT2. And that's only with 5.5-pounds of boost. With such a low amount of pressure, the turbo kit puts barely any additional stress on the stock internals of the 3.4-liter flat-six.



TPCRacing sells its Cayman Turbo Kit (with intercooler) for a buck less than ten grand. It includes nearly everything needed for installation: a cat-back exhaust, turbocharger, liquid-to-air intercooler, new intake plenum, all brackets/plumbing/fitting/hardware/clamps, upgraded injectors and custom silicone piping. The ECU needs to be shipped to TPC for reprogramming, but anyone with a fair amount of mechanical aptitude can do the installation. The total tab for our tester was about $12,000 according to the owner. Of course, he also went nuts with suspension, brakes, wheels, tires and body mods that more than doubled that figure.

A few extra bits are recommended by TPC, although they're not included in the kit. Pop for a set of GT3 spark plugs as well as the factory Porsche front-center radiator and associated ducting and brackets, and it will add around $750 to the tab. Tiptronic cars can skip that last item, as they're already equipped with the front-center radiator. The downside for Tiptronic owners is that the installation requires modifications to the transmission mounting brackets as well as relocating the transmission oil cooler.

TPC is also working on a non-intercooled Turbo Kit that eliminates the need for the liquid-to-air intercooler as well as the front center radiator and all the additional plumbing and water pump. Boost levels are a bit lower, but so is the price – an estimated $7,490.



We got a chance to sample the full-on intercooled turbo kit and, needless to say, it's like no Cayman we've met before. It's a mid-engine Jekyll and Hyde. In normal commuter duty the TPC drives exactly like any other Cayman on the road. That's to say it has near perfect handling, with some of the best brakes and most precise steering ever engineered into a road-going vehicle. But dip into that throttle a bit deeper and... whoosh! As if a giant hand dropped down from the sky and gave you a gentle shove, you're hurtled along into extra-legal speeds in seconds.

There's no drama, only a throatier roar from the exhaust that fades as the RPMs drop. Although not quite as transparent as the factory turbo setup in the 997 Turbo, it feels just as fast. The power is available at seemingly any RPM too. There's a progressive feel rather than the expected lag and burst of traditional tuner turbos – further proof that Mike and his crew know more than a thing or two about balancing linear performance and potent thrust.



Our seat time was all too brief, but it was more than enlightening. Levitas is a manic bit of energy, equal parts mad scientist and grassroots racer. Two of his customers, David and Kevin, happened to be computer engineers and even they were hard pressed to keep up with Mike's constant stream of technical babbling. The one thing they definitely picked up is Mike's passion for his work and ability to build an impeccably well-thought out and professional turbo kit.

Our sentiments and disappointments were echoed by several of Mike's customers. While most would prefer a factory Cayman Turbo, Porsche didn't build one. That left the door wide open for tuners and TPC happily stepped in to fill the void. For around $12,000 over the price of a Cayman, customers can have a unique, track-friendly daily-driver that's ready to trounce its rear-engine grandfather, while still costing less and retaining its reliability. That's a 400-hp formula we can get behind. Now we just need to start trolling Craigslist for used Caymans...

[Source: Autoblog]

sports cars

The bespoke department at Rolls-Royce has come up with another special edition Phantom to go along with the already released Phantom Pearl, Phantom Silver, and Phantom Tungsten. This one is the Phantom Sapphire, and unlike its rarefied stablemates, it gets built on the long wheelbase spaceframe.

The Milori Sapphire exterior wraps itself around two options of interior treatment: navy blue leather with seashell highlights, or seashell leather with navy blue highlights, and each is finished off with walnut burr veneer inlaid with a diamond-pattern. For those in the back enjoying themselves, a cool box below the rear seats will chill two bottles of bubbly in an aluminum billet receptacle. When it is time to imbibe, the parcel shelf hides hand-engraved crystal tumblers, and time is kept with a Rolls-Royce clock set with a diamond-shaped sapphire. And for the driver – who should never be left out of events like this – a Conway Stewart fountain pen set and solid silver key fobs that come in a lacquered, walnut veneer box. The price: No object. Thanks for the tip, James!

[Source: Sybarites]

sports cars

Turning road cars into race cars and then back into road cars seems to be Reiter Engineering's new specialty. The factory-supported Lamborghini race team, which also recently built a street-legal variant of their Murcielago R-GT that competes in the FIA GT1 and European Le Mans Series, is now offering a road version of their Gallardo GT3 racecar. Based off the standard Gallardo with the 5.0L V10, the "Strada" features carbon fiber bodywork including fenders that have been widened 60mm, a new front fascia with "shark" style air ducts, side skirts and a large carbon fiber wing at the rear. A single large center-mounted exhaust system reduces weight by nine kg and added an extra ten horsepower, while new three-piece alloy wheels are wrapped with ultra sticky Michelin Pilot Sport 2 rubber. The interior stays relatively stock, although the stock seats have been replaced with leather-covered racing units. While we wouldn't say the result is subtle, it's definitely one of the cleaner designs we've seen.

[Source: Reiter Engineering]

sports cars

Thanks to some embargo breaking that's already occurred, we've known for a week that the 2011 Ford Mustang GT would pack a brand new 5.0-liter V8 producing 412 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque. We thought those tidbits might hold over the internet 'till the official embargo date lifts early next week, but we were wrong and therefore are still awake at 1:30 AM on Christmas morning writing this post. Thanks to Jalopnik via MustangHeaven via BurlappCars, we have the first images of the 2011 Mustang GT and its new 5.0-liter V8.

You can read more about some of the engine's details that have already leaked here, but let's just take a look see at what we've got. Kudos to Ford for leaving the engine's tippy top unadorned and we also dig those 5.0 badges on the engine and fenders. Nostalgia FTW – OMG! An old fat guy with a sack of stuff just crawled out of my fire place! I think he's a burglar. Gotta go hide the silver

[Source: BurlappCars via MustangHeaven via Jalopnik]

sports cars

We're technically embargoed from telling you anything about the new 2010 SRX, but that hasn't stopped Cadillac from releasing a teaser video on YouTube of the new wreath and crest CUV sliding around in the snow. Set to replace the current SRX that didn't sell well despite being a perfectly competent machine, the new SRX will debut next month at the Detroit Auto Show as the latest model to continue Cadillac's resurgence as a brand that actually matters in the marketplace. The new SRX promises to be much more appealing to the mainstream, especially if you like drifting on frozen lakes, and really, who doesn't?

videos

The current economic conditions may be wreaking havoc on the Detroit Three, along iwth Toyota and Honda, but Lamborghini is apparently impervious to the global financial crisis. The House of the Raging Bull posted record sales and profit records for the fourth straight year and has followed through on its promise to introduce a new model every year during that time period. The company has no intentions of reducing funding for R&D, and plans to expand its global presence and dealer network throughout the next year. Here at Autoblog, we're all for Lamborghini's continued success, especially if they continue to let us drive their new models.

[Source: Lamborghini]

PRESS RELEASE:

Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A. will deliver another record year's results in 2008. Official sales figures will be communicated on the occasion of Lamborghini´s appearance at the Detroit Motor Show in January 2009.

Even as a low volume luxury car manufacturer, Automobili Lamborghini is not unaffected by the present downturn in economic activities in the wake of the global financial crisis. However, the company is in a favourable strategic position due to its identity as a luxury brand of longstanding tradition. One of its core brand values is exclusivity, which is maintained through tight management of volumes and a strict policy of maintaining a strong forward order bank. This exclusivity is of essential relevance to both dealers and customers and is pivotal for the appeal of the brand.

Lamborghini has the most attractive product line-up in the company´s 45 year history. With at least one new product launched every year, and the continued development of the dealer network to maximise market penetration, Automobili Lamborghini has produced a year on year record performance in terms of turnover, profit and volumes for the last four years, together with a rare double digit profit margin. The company´s development marks one of the most respected company turn-around programmes in the automotive and luxury industries.

Long before 2009, the company took decisive steps to address potential market volatility. Production flexibility is made possible by cooperative concepts developed with the union representatives. Besides flexible working hours, it provides the opportunity to create training and qualification programmes during work hours. There will be no layoffs, but an extension of the Christmas holiday for eight days has been confirmed.

Lamborghini will not divert from its long-term strategy. Investment into R&D will not be reduced, and there will be ongoing expansion of its brand presence on a world-wide scale, with more new products and further expansion of its dealer network. The company will continue its strategy of announcing at least one new product each year. The latest examples of this are the new Lamborghini Gallardo LP 560-4 Coupe for which deliveries commenced summer 2008, and the Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder unveiled in November 2008 with market launch in spring 2009. Lamborghini continues its stated objectives of becoming the most profitable supersportscar manufacturer, the most attractive employer and the most attractive brand in its market.

sports cars

What happens when you combine a flamboyant Italian supercar with celebrity fashion designer Christian Audigier? You get... this. German tuner edo competition has teamed up with the clothing icon for a limited run of Murcielagos that feature custom design themes chosen by each customer. This ensures that each car is a one-off while simulaneously proving -- yet again -- that taste and income are mutually exclusive.

On the positive side, the Lambo's been fitted with a completely new exhaust system along with more aggressive camshafts, upgraded cylinder heads, and a high-flow air filter that bumps output above the 700-hp mark. A new single disc clutch helps transmit the power to all four wheels, although edo also offers a conversion to rear wheel drive that shaves off nearly 90 pounds. Pricing gets a cue from the designer clothing industry, coming in at just over $690,000, nearly double the MSRP of a standard LP640.

PRESS RELEASE:

In cooperation with internationally acclaimed designer Christian Audigier, edo competition has pulled out all the stops to create the fastest Lamborghini ever made.

The limited edition edo LP 710, of which only five will be produced, is a vehicle engineered to the highest standards, combined with Christian Audigier's unusual themes and unparalleled sense of color.

For those wishing to follow in the footsteps of international celebrities, there's no way around Christian Audigier. With his luxury clothing label he is setting new standards in the fashion world, exemplified by the sparkling skull and pirate themes adorning his designer pieces. However, Christian Audigier's creativity is not limited to fashion; it also translates to the world of automotive design, as evidenced by this latest cooperative effort.

Thanks to his inexhaustible imaginativeness, the matte black outer skin of the edo LP 710 has been completely restyled. However, it doesn't end there! The redesigned interior is an impressive sight as well. Carrying the creative theme inside, the seats, door panels and center console have been upgraded using his exquisite designs.

Carrying out the elaborate airbrush work to bring Christian Audigier's ideas to life is none other than Marcus Pfeil, of Pfeildesign in Austria. It's only fitting that the work being carried out on these unique vehicles is done exclusively by an artist with a worldwide reputation in the custom painting scene.

All five Haute-Couture Lamborghinis are custom made for each customer. The themes typical of Audigier's design underline the edo LP 710's proud pedigree. Every wish of the client can be accommodated during production. Customers have the opportunity to personalize their vehicles by choosing from a wide range of themes, lending an individual touch to Christian Audigier's work. Thus it is ensured that prospective owners do not just get the world's fastest Lamborghini, but also a completely unique design. In addition, each vehicle will be personally signed by the US-based star designer!

The base car, a Lamborghini Murciélago LP 640, is completely disassembled. The modifications to the engine, aerodynamics, wheels, tires, exhaust system and interior are made to measure at edo competition within a three month time frame.

Along with the purchase of the vehicle, the customer gets the opportunity to drive his Lamborghini LP 710 at the limit, either at the high speed oval in Papenburg, Germany or at Nardo, Italy. Upon request, our test driver and pro racer Patrick Simon will coach the proud owner at the race track. Undoubtedly a memorable experience at speeds of over 360 km/h (224 mph)!

Specifications:
Engine: 6.5 liter V12
Output: 710 hp and 700 Nm (516 ft-lb)
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h (0 – 62 mph): 3.2 seconds
0 – 200 km/h (0 – 124 mph): under 10 seconds!
Top speed: >360 km/h (>224 mph)
Net price: 495.000 EUR

Power increase
The increase in power was achieved through the use of new exhaust headers, new high flow catalytic converters, new mufflers, a new exhaust tip, new performance camshafts, modified cylinder heads and new high flow air filters.
The engine controls are reprogrammed to make ideal use of the individual modifications.

Aerodynamics
This powerful package is brought to perfection with optimized aerodynamics which enhances the stability of the mighty bull and bestows the car with an even more dynamic elegance. A newly developed and beautifully shaped rear wing with an adjustable lip completes the aerodynamics package.

Wheels/tires
A high-speed wheel and tire combination: 19 inch light alloy wheel set with special Continental high-speed tires: 225/35 ZR 19 Continental V-max in the front and 325/30 ZR 19 Continental V-max in the rear.

High performance exhaust system
A marvelous sound emanates from the edo competition stainless steel high performance exhaust system which includes a new exhaust tip. A new butterfly-valve control system – remote-controlled on request – is available, too. The more aggressive rear view is a great side-effect.

Drivetrain/clutch
edo competition has developed a new single disc clutch. Additionally the 4-wheel drive arrangement is turned into a 2-wheel drive setup. The LP 710 /2 is delivered with rear wheel drive. Weight savings of 40 kg (88 lb) and more agile handling are the result of this conversion.

All modifications are carried out exclusively at edo competition Motorsport GmbH in Ahlen.

sports cars

The benefits of having an F1 team is that, in the off season at least, you've got some of the world's best professional drivers on call for test driving duties. And promotional detail, too.
Specifically, In this case, we're talking about star driver Nico Rosberg and upcoming Mercedes-Benz 2012 SLK. Michael Scheer-Vehicle engineer riding in the new roadster around Monte Carlo shot some footage as Rosberg brief us of what to expect from the new SLK. Check it out in the video

sports cars

We're convinced the Bugatti Veyron has to have the highest ratio of variants per total production -- Ford Mustang included. There's the Sang Noir, a first and second version of the Hermes, Pur Sang, Grand Sport, and now the Vincero built by Mansory. Not much is known about the car since no information is listed on the Swiss tuner's web site, but United Arab Emirates exotic car dealer Prestige Cars has posted the car for sale, listing it as one of three built. Looking at the photos, the Vincero features a carbon fiber hood and engine cover, new black wheels, and an interior that has been reupholstered in black and white with carbon fiber trim. It's not everyone's taste, but we definitely wouldn't kick it out of the garage.

[Source: Prestige Cars via Autogetspot]

sports cars

Normally the models in BMW's art car line -- sixteen and counting -- get their body panels splashed up with designs by the who's who of the art world. BMW has decided to switch up the concept for a commercial for the new Z4; instead of the car being the canvas, the Z4 paints a canvas. Guided by modern artist Robin Rhode and a team of technicians, the Z4 is rigged up with machines that spray paint from the wheels, with everything captured on film by director Jake Scott, Ridley's son. The tire prints in all kinds of hues are laid down on an enormous white canvas, and the result is called "An Expression of Joy."

PRESS RELEASE

MULGRAVE, Australia – December 19, 2008: Imagine a canvas nearly as large as a football field. On it bold, swirling shapes in primary colors like red, yellow and blue. As the eye uncovers the rhythm of the lines, curves, circles and color splotches, something else is revealed: these forms must have been created by tire treads! A work of art like no other, created by an artist like no other – the new BMW Z4 Roadster.

Over the years BMW has offered great contemporary artists the chance to express themselves on the surfaces of a variety of the marque´s sports cars. However, the art performance created by the young South-African Robin Rhode daringly moves beyond the concept behind the BMW Art Car Collection. Here the car is no longer just a stunning model, but itself executing artist. "This work is an expression of painting in action – my hope is to communicate the power and thrill inherent in the creation of art", says Rhode. "For me, the use of an untraditional paintbrush like a high performance car is a great way to investigate the relationship between emotion, technology and industrial creativity." The development of the picture, this process of formation itself is as important as the completed oeuvre. For this reason the Z4 performance is suggestively titled "An Expression of Joy".

The powerful and vibrant images created by the treads on the huge canvas appear dynamic and spontaneous, as if created out of the whim of the moment. Yet each movement had been painstakingly planned to the last detail and was the result of an immense technical effort. Unlike the legendary "action paintings" created by Jackson Pollock nothing was left to chance. As an artist working at the cutting edge of performing and fine arts, Robin Rhode is an experienced planner and capable of organizing and directing a large technical staff, but with "An Expression of Joy" even he broke new ground. This in every respect extraordinary work of art that was to emerge in the huge Downey Studios of Los Angeles offered another equally challenging aspect. During the creation of the painting, prize-winning young director Jake Scott intended to film the complete performance for the TV campaign accompanying the new Z4 Roadster´s launch in 2009.

But how was the palette of colors actually applied to the tires? How was the BMW Z4 harnessed to Robin Rhode´s specific concept? And how was Jake Scott able to transform this dynamic act of creation into an equally fascinating film? These questions reflect how many demanding aspects needed to be dealt with in order to create a performance blending high tech and artistic vision. Obviously, in the beginning was an idea. The idea was to present the innovative next generation of the BMW Z4 in a totally unusual location. "One source of inspiration was the seminal work of Gerhard Richter´s series of paintings 'Red, Yellow, Blue' made in 1973 for the company headquarters in Munich, Germany", Rhode explains. Another reference point were the experimental optic animations from the 1920´s and German Expressionist Film. "The tracks left by the tires combine the two-dimensional plane of the picture with the three-dimensional space of the actual driving experience."

The artist began by sketches, using black finger paints on paper to draw an outline of the general shapes and rhythms. Then Robin Rhode created the visual equivalent of a storyboard with the exact details of each driving sequence and the specific color used. Of course, the driver received a copy of the storyboard that he was able to prop up in the cockpit. Since it was nearly impossible to follow the development of the emerging tracks, given the sheer size of the pictoral dimensions, Rhode also furnished a miniature of "An Expression of Joy" complete with two models of the car in order to simulate driving maneuvers in advance of the actual "paint drive".

The art performance was a challenge for the driver as well as driving the MINI for the movie "Italian Job". Accustomed to taking high performance cars to their limit on test tracks, here he needed to follow the exacting choreography established by Rhode. Which meant executing the same moves back and forth several times if the artist wasn´t satisfied by the specific color intensity, and yet keeping the tracks of the treads perfectly aligned each time. Each of the colors was individually applied through remote-controlled nozzles mounted near the axles of the roadster. To avoid an accidental mix of the colors due to residue in the treads, new sets of tires were constantly being rolled in and carefully exchanged, a feat of logistics in itself. From time to time a sock-clad Robin Rhode literally stepped into the picture to pour on more color, where necessary adding generous drips. An alluring aspect accidentally created by this motorized paint brush were the sprays and splotches of color highlighting the wheel casings of the Z4, resulting in visual traces and echoes of the dynamics of the composition. The monumental canvas itself was composed of individual segments that had been attached together to create a surface measuring 100´ by 200´ and thus allowing the driving and painting process to be sequenced in quadrants. This solution also benefits all future storing and moving of the artwork. Segments of the spectacular giant picture will be on the road in 2009, first to be shown at the Detroit Motor Show.

Robin Rhode and his team executed the project in 12 hours. That was also the time frame essentially allotted to director Jake Scott and his crew in which to shoot the Z4´s chromatic driving movements. The challenge was that each segment of his film for the BMW campaign needed to be "just right" the first time around. The usual number of takes just would not possible for this kind of recording. Scott, who is just wrapping up his first feature-length film, has won numerous prizes for music videos and commercials. The cinematographer was able to draw on his experience documenting rock concerts in order to deal with the singular character of this particular live performance. The dynamic undertaking of a car painting was captured with 45 simultaneous camera angles. So, while Robin Rhode was watching the color choreography unfurl, Jake Scott kept a critical eye on all the many screens monitoring the camera movements. "It is always a gift for a filmmaker to watch an artist of any discipline work", Scott recounts. "It is creation at its core and I have been privileged to observe musicians, actors and now a significant, young artist. I am excited to showcase the rarely seen link between art and technology in action."

The huge space of the studio and the giant dimensions of the lowered tub in which the canvas had been spread out, offered exciting vantage points for the placement of the cameras. At the same time it also meant coordinating two highly complex and diverse projects – the actual art performance and the shooting of a TV commercial – down to the last second. But despite this double challenge demanding concentration and precision timing the atmosphere surrounding all the teams involved was relaxed.

Certainly, Dennis Hopper seemed impressed by the easy, professional low-key air of the project. The enigmatic movie star was there on assignment from "Vanity Fair" to take pictures of "An Expression of Joy" as a work of art in progress. The former "Easy Rider" not only shares a passion for wheels, but is considered to be one of the truly serious, important art collectors of Hollywood.

Robin Rhode
The artist, who was born in 1976 in Cape Town and now lives in Berlin, has made a name for himself in the past few years on account of his distinctive artistic work. His oeuvre centres on performances that have evolved from his experiences as a highschool student growing in the Johannesburg suburbs, supplemented culture (sports, music, and fashion) that he likes to mingle with the process of "making art". In 2001, Rhode was nominated for South Africa's FNB Vita Art Prize. He has been included in several group exhibitions, including Dislocation. Image. Identity. South Africa, Centro Cultural de Maria, O'Porto, Portugal (2002); Shelf Life, Gasworks Gallery, London, England (2001); and Juncture, The Granary, Cape Town, and Studio Voltaire, London (2001). His solo exhibitions include Fresh: Robin Rhode at South Africa National Gallery, Cape Town (2000).

Jake Scott
The Englishman Jake Scott, born 1965, has been directing commercials and music videos for over 15 years, during which time he has accumulated stellar recognition in his field such as numerous MTV awards, a Grammy Nomination, an Emmy and the Grand Prix at Cannes. His clients include renowned brands like Adidas, American Express, AOL, Coca Cola and JP Morgan. The list of artists he has worked with also reads like a Who´s Who of the music industry: REM, U2, Smashing Pumpkins and George Michaels. Jake Scott who ist the son of famous director Sir Ridley Scott ("Alien", "Blade Runner", "Gladiator") has just completed work on his second feature-length film, "Welcome to the Riley´s" with "Sopranos" star James Gandolfini.

sports cars

Audi's upgraded A6 and S6 are scheduled to hit US dealerships in January, and the four-ringed midsize sedan has new pricing to match its upgraded powertrains. The A6 3.2 premium stars at $45,100, a price bump of over $2,000 over the 2008 model. The newest member of the A6 family, which comes with a 300 hp supercharged 3.0L V6 and standard quattro AWD, starts at $53,310. That's $3,000 less than the starting price of the previous generation 4.2L V8, which packed more punch at 350 hp, but the 3.0T fights back with more low-end grunt and far better fuel economy. It manages 26/21, while the outgoing V8 averages 23 on the highway and 16 around town. The 3.0T will also hit 60 in 5.9 seconds, so it's no slouch on the track.

The top-level S6 prices out at $75,900, or $3,500 more than the outgoing model. The S6 will carry-over the 435 hp 5.2L V10 powerplant, which definitely isn't a bad thing. Given the unfavorable exchange rate between the euro and dollar, we're not surprised to see prices go up on the A6 3.2 and S6 models. It's nice to see an actual price decrease from the 3.0T versus its V8-powered predecessor, with vastly improved efficiency to boot.

sports cars

Things got just a bit brighter for the Detroit Auto Show. Mercedes-Benz will officially unveil what will surely be one of the most attention-grabbing cars in Cobo Hall, the 2009 McLaren SLR Stirling Moss. The boldly styled Merc will be the last vehicle built under the partnership with McLaren, and even at a cost of €750,000 Mercedes should have no trouble finding buyers for the 75-car allotment. Each will feature full carbon fiber bodywork wrapped over the standard version, a 650-hp supercharged 5.5-liter V8 and the five-speed automatic transplanted from the SLR 722. Despite lacking any sort of roof or proper windscreen, the Stirling Moss can still achieve a top speed of 217 mph and can reach 100 km/h in just 3.5 seconds. Other unique features include "swing-wing" doors, a retractable air brake that can be operated manually and a two-piece tonneau cover (stored in the trunk) that can cover the entire cockpit or just the passenger seat. Check out the gallery below for high-resolution images, and expect plenty more when we see the car live in Detroit.

sports cars

Cobra Technology has released a handful of images and info on its tuned Nissan GT-R, dubbed the Cobra N+ Tuning Concept. There's a full press release after the jump, but the important bits are this: When equipped with the Stage One package, output rises to 550 hp while torque grows to 500 lb-ft. So equipped, Cobra says its fettled GT-R will run to 62 mph in under 3.5 seconds and max out at 199 mph. If that isn't enough, a planned race performance version is expected to pump out 620 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque.

To get the extra power, Cobra reprograms the ECU, ups the boost pressure by 0.15 bar and modifies the air intake. A new free-flowing stainless-steel exhaust system is also in the works and the upgrades aren't just restricted to the engine bay. Cobra has aworked its magic on the suspension, wheels and brakes. Three-piece, 21-inch, lightweight rollers make room for eight-piston brake calipers and 15.9-inch discs up front, and the coil-over suspension features adjustable ride height and damper rates.

The interior gets two options: luxurious Alcantara and leather, or racing-spec carbon fiber seats and a roll cage. Exterior changes include a front fascia claimed to reduce lift and improve cooling, new rocker panels, and a reworked rump with an integrated diffuser and a larger wing. Personally, we'd pass on the Speed and Stripes decal kit (it's got a whiff of John Player Special livery gone awry) and go stealth instead.

The Cobra N+ tuning program will be available when the Nissan GT-R reaches the European market in the spring of 2009. We're not sure we'd want to mess with Nissan's sophisticated suspension setup, but the extra power, body kit, interior upgrades, along with updated wheels and brakes, look rather tasty.

[Source: Cobra Technology & Lifestyle]

sports cars

Stand on any corner in any city, close your eyes and open your ears. Eventually you'll hear the telltale swell of an engine as someone blips the throttle while braking before the bend. This secret auditory handshake among gearheads signals the arrival of a driver schooled in the art of heel-and-toe. And when the 2009 Nissan 370Z goes on sale in January, you won't be able to tell an aspiring Schumacher from Joe the... shoemaker. Nissan's simple yet brilliant "SyncroRev Match" will relegate the artistry of rev-matching to the annals of motoring history. Other automakers compelled to offer manual gearboxes for the dedicated few will doubtlessly adopt the system, and those of us who care – who've unconsciously conditioned ourselves to crane our heads to catch a glimpse of what's coming – will cease to do so. Progress is a double-edged sword and rarely balanced, but don't fret. The 370Z's overly hyped rev-matching system isn't the end of the world, and it's hardly the best part of Nissan's new Z.

The moment the first batch of Z spy shots surfaced, it was obvious that Nissan's sports car was on its way back from the gym. The coupe was wider, shorter and more sculpted, and when the wraps came off at the 2008 LA Auto Show, we finally had proof that at least one automaker gets "it." By "it" we mean lighter. And Nissan has succeeded – just.



Although the Z's overall length has been shortened by 2.7 inches, the wheelbase cut by 3.9 inches and a set of aluminum doors join an aluminum hood and hatch, Nissan has only managed to shave 95 pounds from the curb weight of the standard model. Thanks to a wider track (0.5 inches up front and 2.2 inches in the rear), side curtain airbags and all of the other assorted equipment required by both the government and the public, the weight savings on the base 370Z is negligible, and the car will likely be heavier than its predecessor when kitted out in Touring trim.

But the Z's 3,232-pound heft is used to good effect. Weight distribution remains 54/46 front-to-rear, and a lighter, stiffer aluminum front suspension cradle works in conjunction with a rear-mounted V-bar and a carbon composite radiator housing to stiffen the structure while keeping it light. The result is 30 percent more torsional rigidity up front, a 22-percent increase in the back and a 30-percent increase in vertical bending resistance in the rear. Combined with the new double-wishbone front suspension, redesigned four-link rear setup and new shock valving, the overall effect is – at first – mildly disconcerting.



The 370Z eschews its predecessor's rickety ride for the kind of refinement you'd expect from a grand tourer. Puttering around town and mashing on the motorway, you get the sense that the 370Z has matured, dropping any adolescent ideas of performance and instead, making a B-line for Dullsville. That sensation continues right up to the point that you muscle the six-speed manual into a lower gear with a notchy ka-thunk, mash the floor-hinged throttle into the carpet and let the 3.7-liter's exhaust note evolve from a idle buzz to a mechanical beehive jacked up on Ephedra.



As you're likely well aware, the 3.7-liter VQ37VHR V6 is the same engine that motivates the Z's FM-platform stablemate, the Infiniti G37. With the optional seven-speed automatic, complete with paddle shifters, you'd swear you are driving the Z's more luxurious sibling. The thoroughly refreshed interior helps matters, dropping the Playskool plastics in favor of a soft-touch dash, redesigned IP and a leather-stitched center console that bears a passing resemblance to that of the GT-R. The eight-way adjustable driver's seat benefits from a bit more bolstering than the passenger, but both chairs balance the proper amount of coddling with the kind of side-hugging support you'd expect in a sports car. The three-pod gauge cluster still pivots to provide an unobstructed view through the asymmetrical steering wheel (it's not quite an oval, but it's certainly not round), allowing you to keep tabs on the central-mounted tach, speedometer and ghastly LCD/LED read-out.



We're at a loss on that last one. Instead of fitting traditional fuel and coolant temperature gauges – just like the trio perched atop the center console – Nissan decided to go with a set of horizontal LCDs sitting above and below a multi-information display. While the idea might be sound, the execution leaves a lot to be desired. The LEDs wash out in all but the subtlest sunlight and the pseudo-techno theme doesn't tie-in with the rest of the analog dials. It's a small gripe compared to the massive blind-spots created by the C-pillars. A back-up camera isn't quite a necessity, but the side mirrors do little to alleviate the pain.



But both of these foibles are forgiven the moment you let out the stiffly sprung clutch and give it the beans. The 3.5-liter V6 fitted to the former Z remains one of our favorite mills, but the 3.7-liter proves that Darwin lives in the details. The new bent-six is mounted 15mm lower, boasts 35% all-new parts, an increased cylinder block height, and with the help of Nissan's Variable Valve Event and Lift (VVEL) system, churns out 332 hp at 7,000 rpm and 270 lb-ft of torque at 5,200 rpm. Along with the increase in displacement and power, redline is up to 7,500 rpm, but getting that high into the rev range comes with an aural cacophony that's far less desirable than the thrust accompanying it.



In Sport Package trim, the 370Z comes equipped with 19-inch forged-aluminum RAYS wheels shod in Bridgestone Potenza RE050A rubber (245/40 front and 275/35 rear). The standard brakes (12.6-inch fronts, 12.1-inch rears) are tossed in favor of 14-inch rotors in front and 13.8-inch discs out back, and the variable ratio brake pedal, Electronic Brake-force Distribution and Brake Assist all work together with the ABS and Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) to provide a suitable safety net for ham-fisted frat-boys intent on exploring the Z's substantial limits of adhesion on public roads.



While the 370Z does its best grand-touring impression in the civilian world, the refreshed Z grits its new air-dam-mounted fangs and goes in for the kill out on the track. Even with the traction control on, the 370Z is a revelation compared to its predecessor. Smooth inputs allow you to brake later, accelerate earlier and rarely worry about the terminal understeer that plagued the last generation. With the traction control off, it gets even better. Trail-braking elicits the perfect amount of rotation towards the apex and with the Sport Package's viscous limited-slip differential, a judicious press of the long pedal provides the perfect opportunity to test the Z's speed-sensitive rack-and-pinion setup.



With redesigned mounting bushings and a solenoid valve that acts like a damper under harsh loads, the weighty feel of a wheel that was mildly cumbersome on the road makes perfect sense when applying quick corrections -- something we had the chance to explore on a particularly short downward slope leading into the first turn at Spring Mountain Motorsports Ranch. With a slightly off-camber exit following a drop into a right-hand bend, the rear suspension unloaded quickly (for the record, we were forewarned) and the back end lightened just enough to set our neurons on full alert. A quick correction to the left while feathering the throttle brought things right back into line, and we were headed down the straight in third, then fourth gear, ready to tackle the next right-hander.



Hard braking induces a small amount of dive, but not nearly enough to break the Z's composure, and body roll in the bends is nominal at best. Despite being aware of the SyncroRev Match system, our muscle memory subconsciously pivoted our right foot onto the gas pedal while braking before the hairpin. As impressive as the throttle-blipping doodad is (it's fun to drag the shifter around at stop lights and let the engine rev), after our third lap we disabled it by pressing the S-Sport button above the stick. The system is nearly flawless, but old habits die hard.

After a full day of flogging, we're perfectly content declaring the 2009 370Z one of the best performance coupe bargains on the market. With a sticker starting at $29,930, a repositioned trim package that only offers two models (base and Touring) and a convertible on the way that will almost assuredly look more attractive than the Z33 (it was designed right next to the coupe, unlike the 350Z), Nissan has hit all of the right pressure points to stir the enthusiast's soul.



Although pricing for the Sport Package has yet to be announced, it's the only way to go. Forget the Touring trim, option up for the NISMO engine oil and LSD cooler (equipped on our tester and highly-recommended by Nissan if you plan to hit the track) and enjoy excessively. As for the styling – get over it. It's impressive in person and has significantly more presence than its predecessor. And if you're worried about the future of heel-and-toe, don't be – you can hold onto the past with the press of a button.

sports cars

Nikolay Fomenko, who was probably busy enough being a popular singer, television new anchor and theater actor, also found time to become an FIA N-GT champion. And if that wasn't enough to keep this Russian renaissance man busy, he has just launched his country's first sportscar company, Marussia. To top it off, it's a hybrid, just to make things more difficult.

Fomenko says that he brought a lot of knowledge from his racing career to bear on the Marussia. We see elements of just about every supercar on the market in its appearance, but it manages to still look unique. While he envisions producing a pure electric car sometime down the road, the company's first project is a hybrid.

The Marussia is slated to use a 240-hp, 3.5-liter six-cylinder engine, most likely from Renault or Nissan, but it's unclear where the electric drive components will originate from. While much of the car's parts are expected to be sourced from established companies, approximately 35% of the content will be Russian.

Adding a bit of sizzle to its speed, the Marussia will also have "a host of gadgets," including a 4G Yota network with 10 Mbps data transfer rates at vehicle speeds of up to 120 km/h. Bluetooth, GPS and video screens all around, plus a 320 GB hard drive to round out the electronics.

The goal for the electric supercar is a 400km range, but Russian winters mean the batteries will need a boost. That's where nanotechnology comes in. Fomenko thinks the solution might be in a "nanotech project made at one of Russia's big construction bureaus." The company foresees a 0-62 mph dash of around five seconds and a Tesla-like price tag of $100,000. Plans call for the first customer cars to be delivered next Fall, with race versions taking part in the 2010 edition of FIA GT championship. Fomenko is clearly nothing if not ambitious.

[Sources: Russia Today, Luxury Version]

sports cars

Bidding for the first retail production 2010 Chevy Camaro is set to begin in Prime Time on Saturday, January 17, 2009 at the Barret-Jackson auction in Scottsdale, Arizona. A similar move was made last year when the first production Corvette ZR1 managed to rake in an astounding one-million dollars. Like that ZR1, all proceeds will be given to charity, in this case, the American Heart Association, so anything over the car's list MSRP will be tax deductible, which is nice.

Regular production of Chevy's new pony car won't begin until a month after the auction takes place, so the Camaro on display in Scottsdale won't be the actual unit being bid on. We're still awaiting official details, like if the Camaro – lot number 1316 for those interested in bidding (go for it, it's for charity!) – is a base model (seems unlikely) or a fully loaded SS model, complete with a 422-hp small block V8. Of course, the big question is how much it'll bring, and we'll be sure to have that figure for you as soon as the gavel falls.

[Source: Barret-Jackson via Motor Trend]

sports cars

Not content to rest on its laurels after taking the Guinness-verified top speed world record, SSC has revamped the Ultimate Aero for 2009 to make it more powerful, more aerodynamic, and even faster. We thought the 2008 model had plenty of horsepower with 1183 ponies underneath the hood, but SSC has increased that number to 1287 courtesy of a new one-piece billet aluminum engine block that improves structural integrity and oiling capabilities. Helping to push all that horsepower through the air is a redesigned front fascia with a new center grille opening, as well as carbon fiber louvers that feed 20% more air to the radiators. The aerodynamic changes, combined with the increased power, yield an estimated 270 mph top speed. SSC has also given the interior a thorough refresh, adding carbon fiber trim to the dash, air vents, door sills, and around the gauge cluster. A new center console features an Azentek PC Infotainment system that can process the car's onboard diagnostic system. There's no word on whether they'll attempt to best their top speed record achieved earlier this year, but we're sure SSC would like to further distance themselves from the Bugatti Veyron or the 9ff GT9.

[Source: Shelby Supercars]

SSC

Rally fans who were troubled by the rumors yesterday that Subaru was preparing to do the unthinkable and scrap its WRC team will be disappointed to learn that the speculation has proven to be true, as parent company Fuji Heavy Industries has announced it is pulling its participation effective immediately.

Not unlike its fellow Japanese automaker Honda, which has canceled its Formula One program, Fuji Heavy points to cost-cutting measures amidst the current global economic crisis as its reason for canceling its motorsport program. Still, it's a shocking move for the automaker that earned its reputation on the rally circuit, even if they haven't won a single stage since 2005. The move also means that Prodrive, the racing consultancy firm that has operated the Subaru WRC team for over 20 years, will need to find a new partner for next season and beyond as the WRC moves ahead with new regulations. But Prodrive may find the rally circuit a lonely place after Suzuki also canceled its participation, leaving Ford and Citroen as the only manufacturers fielding factory teams in the top level of rallying.

PRESS RELEASE

FHI to withdraw from FIA WRC after 2008 season

Tokyo, December 16, 2008 – Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. (FHI), the maker of Subaru automobiles, today announced the withdrawal from the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) at the end of the 2008 season.

FHI has participated in the WRC together with Prodrive, a motorsports and automotive engineering group in the UK, over the past 19 years to pursue its goal and philosophy in motor sports activities to enhance Subaru brand awareness by showing that Subaru vehicles offer safe, comfortable and pleasurable driving no matter the weather or road conditions, featuring Horizontally-Opposed engine and the Symmetrical All-Wheel drive system as its core technologies, and to transfer results of race-tested technical improvements into Subaru passenger vehicles.

Subaru has won three manufacturer's championship titles and three driver's championship titles in its history of rally racing. This has helped enhance the value of the Subaru brand as well as the sales expansion of Subaru vehicles all over the world.

FHI considers it has achieved its original target in WRC participation. However, while considering positioning the WRC activity in Subaru branding strategy towards the future, our business environment has been dramatically changed due to the quick deterioration of the global economy. In order to optimize the management resources and to strengthen further the Subaru brand, FHI decided to withdraw from WRC activities at the earliest timing.

As regards future involvement in rally activities, FHI will continue to support teams and drivers that participate in P-WRC or the Group N category.

President Mori commented that reaching this decision has been an extremely difficult task, not least with regards to the countless Subaru fans that for many years have cheered the legendary Subaru blue liveried Impreza World Rally Car; "We would like to express our sincere appreciation for our fans' strong and loyal support worldwide. They will remain an invaluable treasure for us."

Capitalizing on the priceless experience gained throughout the history in the WRC field, FHI will continue to offer Subaru customers products that integrate sheer excitement, safe, comfortable and reliable driving, respect of the global environment and peace of mind based on its philosophy of "Customer comes first."

About Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd.

Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. (FHI), the maker of Subaru automobiles, is a leading manufacturer in Japan with a long history of technological innovations that dates back to its origin as an aircraft company. While the automotive business is a main business pillar, FHI's Aerospace, Industrial Products and Eco Technologies divisions offer a diverse range of products from general-purpose engines, power generators, and sanitation trucks to small airplanes, crucial components for passenger aircrafts, and wind-powered electricity generating systems. Recognized internationally for its AWD (all-wheel drive) technology and Horizontally-Opposed engines in Subaru, FHI is also spearheading the development of environmentally friendly products and is committed to contributing to global environmental preservation.

Subaru

The Nissan GT-R V Spec will allegedly be packing 520 horses when it arrives some time next year. That still won't be enough for a lot of people (especially folks who want to win seriously competitive drag races), so Hennessey is offering GT-R upgrades that beef Godzilla up to 600 hp. The seven mods in the kit don't do anything crazy to the car -- items like stainless steel turbo downpipes and a wastegate actuator upgrade -- they simply combine to add 120 hp to the corral already on hand. As far as we're concerned, we'd take that over a 520 hp V Spec any day... we can rip out the rear seats ourselves.

[Source: Hennessey]

sports cars

Traditionally, Mazda has a large presence at the Tokyo Auto Salon, and the 2009 show won't be any different. Mazda will have 13 vehicles on hand in January to showcase the automaker's continued commitment to its "zoom-zoom" philosophy, along with concepts carrying the theme (and we quote) "Driving-oriented environmental technologies for endless driving pleasure." Mkay.

Headlining the show will be three "Circuit Trial" models, including an RX-8, Demio and Atenza (Mazda6), along with the all-new Mazda Roadster (MX-5) kitted out in NR-A trim and packing Bilstein dampers along with other race-ready parts. Mazda hasn't released any details on what the Circuit Trial models will consist of, but its safe to assume that reworked suspensions, brakes, fascias and engine components will be part of the package.

The other featured model this year is the Mazda Biante people mover, which benefits from production accessories provide by Wagonist, Rota, DAMD, Kenstyle and others. Mazda also plans to show of its Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid concept and will be exhibiting the new 2010 Mazda3 in Japan for the first time. The show gets underway January 9th and runs through the 11th.
PRESS RELEASE

Mazda to Display All-New Mazda3 at Tokyo Auto Salon 2009
- Exhibits to include RX-8 and other 'Circuit Trial' models, customized Mazda Biante minivans and eco-friendly technologies -

HIROSHIMA, Japan-Mazda Motor Corporation will showcase an engaging lineup of 13 vehicles and eco-friendly technologies at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2009 with NAPAC. Mazda will be featuring the all-new Mazda Mazda3 (known as Mazda Axela in Japan) – one of the most popular Zoom-Zoom models, now fully redesigned – which is scheduled for launch in Japan in 2009. The 2009 Tokyo Auto Salon will be held at the Makuhari Messe Convention Center in Chiba Prefecture from January 9 to 11, 2009.

Mazda's stand at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2009 will adopt the theme: "Driving-oriented environmental technologies for endless driving pleasure." The spirited lineup of exhibits will include the next-generation Mazda Axela (North American spec Mazda3), which is being revealed for the first time in Japan. Other exhibits will include "Circuit Trial" versions of the all-new Mazda Axela, Mazda RX-8, other popular Mazda models, and six customized versions of the new Mazda Biante minivan, which went on sale earlier this year.

Mazda will also present unique environmental technologies that will ensure it can continue to provide all its customers with driving pleasure in a sustainable future. These include the Mazda Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid, which combines Mazda's proprietary hydrogen rotary engine with an electric motor, and i-stop,*1 an engine start-stop system that Mazda has independently developed by utilizing direct injection technology.

Mazda's exhibits at Tokyo Auto Salon 2009
No. Model Vehicle/Accessory type
1 All-new Mazda3 (North American specification model) Reference exhibit
2 All-new Mazda Axela Circuit Trial*2 Reference exhibit
3 Mazda RX-8 Circuit Trial Reference exhibit
4 Mazda Demio Circuit Trial Reference exhibit
5 Mazda Atenza Circuit Trial Reference exhibit
6 Mazda Biante WAGONIST Custom Production accessories
7 Mazda Biante SYTLE WAGON Custom Production accessories
8 Mazda Biante Rotas RV Special Production accessories
9 Mazda Biante Colombia Sport MTB Special Production accessories
10 Mazda Biante DAMD Production accessories
11 Mazda Biante KENSTYLE Production accessories
12 All-new Mazda Roadster NR-A Production vehicle
13 Mazda Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid Reference exhibit
*1 The "i" in "i-stop" stands for "idling", "Intelligent" and "I". It is intend to convey the image that "I am stopping my engine idling."
*2 Customized version of the North American spec Mazda3.

Mazda's Exhibits at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2009

1. All-new Mazda3 (North American spec model) (reference exhibit)
The Tokyo Auto Salon 2009 will mark the debut of the all-new Mazda3 (Mazda Axela) in Japan. Fully redesigned for the first time since the model was launched in 2003, the all-new Axela inherits and evolves the sporty performance and exterior styling that has made the original version so popular. It offers an attractive interior with high quality equipment and top-class environmental and safety features. The all-new Axela will go on sale in Japan in 2009.

2. All-new Mazda Axela Circuit Trial (reference exhibit; the following three models are also reference exhibits)

3. Mazda RX-8 Circuit Trial

4. Mazda Demio Circuit Trial

5. Mazda Atenza Circuit Trial
Mazdaspeed has applied its extensive knowledge of Mazda vehicles to produce these racing circuit ready versions. They combine everyday driving comfort with equipment and performance upgrades to maximize enjoyment at the racetrack. The upgrades include M'z Custom aeroparts, Recaro bucket seats and large diameter tires and alloy wheels made by Yokohama Rubber Co., Ltd.

6. Mazda Biante WAGONIST Custom (production accessories)
Wagonist, a magazine for readers who enjoy tuning their wagons and minivans, has customized a Biante for its "Cool Ideas" section. The magazine published a special series of feature articles over six months entitled "Wagonist's Evolution of the Biante."

7. Mazda Biante STYLE WAGON Custom (production accessories)
This Biante has been customized by Style Wagon, a specialist tuner magazine for minivan and wagon enthusiasts. It appeared in a feature called "Biante a Go! Go!"

8. Mazda Biante Rotas RV Special (production accessories)
This model comes from Rotas, a company specializing in manufacturing and equipping campervans. In this version of the Biante, the minivan's third row of seats has been replaced with a folding board system that provides a flat space measuring 1.8 meters by 1.2 meters.

9. Mazda Biante Columbia Sport MTB Special (production accessories)
This Biante has been converted into a sports event support vehicle by the American brand, Columbia Sportswear Company. The third row of seats has been removed and replaced by a sliding bicycle rack.

10. Mazda Biante DAMD (production accessories)
This tuner emphasizes the Biante's unique styling under the theme of "Sports & Luxury." Two-tone paintwork enhances the Biante's bold presence while afterparts maker DAMD's elegant styling is combined with sporty performance.

11. Mazda Biante KENSTYLE (production accessories and planned production accessories)
The KENSTYLE company's high quality and chic customized parts enhance the Biante's refined design. The Biante KENSTYLE is a mature and subtle sport wagon with a touch of elegance.

12. New Mazda Roadster NR-A (production model)
This NR-A customized version of the freshened Roadster, which went on sale in December 2008, is the base model in the Roadster Party Race series in Japan. It comes fully loaded with race-spec parts such as height adjustable Bilstein dampers.

13. Mazda Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid (reference exhibit)
This Premacy features a unique hybrid system that mates an electric motor with Mazda's hydrogen rotary engine and dual-fuel system, enabling it to run on either hydrogen or gasoline. This Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid features unique environmental technologies, including various interior parts made out of Mazda's plant-derived Biotechmaterials.

Mazda's environmental technology exhibits at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2009

Mazda aims to improve the fuel economy of Mazda vehicles sold globally by an average of 30 percent by 2015. Based on its long-term vision for technology development, Sustainable Zoom-Zoom, Mazda continues to advance its technology development in order to offer all its customers outstanding environmental and safety features as well as pure driving pleasure.
At the 2009 Tokyo Auto Salon, Mazda will showcase its weight reduction and powertrain technologies, including internal combustion engines that combine driving pleasure with environmental performance.

Vehicle and technology exhibits
- Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid
- i-stop
Mazda's i-stop is a proprietary engine stop-start system that uses direct injection technology. It improves fuel economy by approximately 10 percent and restarts the engine in just 0.35 seconds, ensuring that drivers experience a natural driving feel with no sense of delay. i-stop is scheduled for launch in Japan in 2009.
- Weight reduction technologies
Reducing vehicle weight is a key method of improving fuel economy and dynamic performance. The display will include a new plastic molding technology that significantly reduces the amount of plastic resin used in parts, and various techniques (suspension parts, high-tensile steel, etc.) that were used to cut the weight of the Mazda Demio by approximately 100 kilograms.

sports cars