motivemag.com

Seoul 2009: Kia Double-Teases Sorento Replacement

Wed, 25 Feb 2009 09:52:31 PST

If it seems like the Sorento has carried on basically unchanged forever, that's because it has. Other than a few mild alterations and additions, Kia's mid-size SUV has remained the same from its introduction in 2003 until today. That'll change later this year with the Sorento will migrate from a ladder-frame chassis to the Hyundai Santa Fe's unibody. Other details are thin, but the Sorento should use engines and transmissions from elsewhere in the Kia/Hyundai range, and should be right on top of the competition. The new car will go on sale later in 2009 after a debut at April's Seoul auto show. Two sketches follow the jump.

Geneva 2009: Bentley Continental GT Supersports, Fastest Bentley Ever

Wed, 25 Feb 2009 09:28:56 PST

How could Bentley possibly make the Continental GT more impressive? Well, this new Supersports version reads like a laundry list of answers to that question. First, they'd remove the rear seat, adding extra structure and some beautiful leather in its place. Then, they'd drop in a set of Bugatti Veyron seats and a touch of carbon-fiber. With the cabin dealt with, they'd add unique bumpers and exhaust, along with massive wheels and shadowline black trim. In all, the changes save about 243 pounds compared to a regular Continental GT.

The weight savings are then combined with a tweaked, E85-capable W-12 producing 621 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque and a modified six-speed automatic with gearchange times that are twice as quick as usual. The results are predictably fantastic, delivering a 0-60 mph time of just 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 204 mph. Wowza.

Geneva 2009: Alfa Romeo Mito GTA

Mon, 23 Feb 2009 12:07:04 PST

The GTA edition of Alfa's adorable Mito has broken cover ahead of Geneva, and we've got to say it is a fantastic little Mini-fighter that we hope makes it over here as part of the Chrysler/Fiat deal. The coolest visual addition has to be the two center exhaust exits in the rear diffuser. They look like those of a VW R32, only bigger and cooler. And the dramatic flaring of the rear fenders--fantastic.

The engine, a 1.8-liter four, gets all sorts of goodies including direct-injection, variable valve timing, and turbocharging. It makes 240 hp, which should be more than adequate for this tiny hot hatch. The GTA, in addition to packing 90 extra horsepower, sits 20 mm lower on an active suspension system. Pictures are after the jump.

Geneva 2009: 2010 Audi TT RS Teasers, Engine MP3

Fri, 20 Feb 2009 09:33:40 PST

It's been some time since Audi last built a turbocharged five-cylinder, but that engine layout is set to return soon with more power and better noises than ever with the TT RS, set to debut in Geneva. This MP3 from Fourtitude.com proves that second part. Audi's teaser press release, however, doesn't give any firm horsepower figures. Actually, it's one of the more vague pieces of text we've ever seen, with figures like "well over 300 hp," 0-62 mph in "nowhere near five seconds," and "overtaking is child's play" on the TT RS's way to a 155 mph limited top speed "only on paper." Whatever that means. We'll hopefully have more concrete stats to give you soon, but we can tell you that the RS isn't approved for sale in the U.S., at least yet. Teasers, front and rear, after the jump.

Sun Sets On GM High Performance Vehicle Operations

Thu, 19 Feb 2009 08:45:32 PST

The writing was on the wall, but that doesn't make it hurt any less. Just as GM's high performance division was on a serious roll--products like the turbo'd Chevy Cobalt SS, the Cadillac CTS-V, and the Pontiac G8 GXP were all built by the HPVO team--General Motors has disbanded its group of talented, true car guy engineers.

The announcement obviously comes as a result of the current economic climate, the push for fuel efficiency, and GM's viability plan just submitted to Congress. There are no plans for any high-performance variants of any cars going forward, so the current collection will last only until the product cycles are up. So go--go now--and get that HHR SS of your dreams. Seriously, this is sad--we've met the whole team at the performance division and they're some of the coolest, most dedicated guys in the business. They'll all reportedly be transfered to new, more mainstream products, and we're happy GM appreciates the work they've done. Here's to hoping they can all pass along some of their passion to the rest of the company in their new roles.

Cadillac CTS Coupe, Chrysler 300C, and Jeep Grand Cherokee All Debut In Chrysler/GM Government Documents

Wed, 18 Feb 2009 08:32:45 PST

As you surely know, GM and Chrysler submitted proposals to Congress yesterday outlining how each company will survive the current economic climate. While the 300 or so combined pages were mostly depressing for car lovers, there were a few exciting pages. Some of those pages even had pictures. Pictures of new, unseen cars. They include a front three-quarters shot of the production Cadillac CTS coupe, along with renderings of the fronts and interiors of the next-generation Chrysler 300C and the Jeep Grand Cherokee, which we already know will debut at the New York show in April. Not surprisingly, considering this proposal was to get more money from the government, all three look quite nice. See them after the jump.

Geneva 2009: Infiniti Essence Concept Takes C-Pillars To Wild New Places

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 09:14:19 PST

Congratulations, you've officially been teased by Infiniti. How does it feel? We'd describe it as hurtful, yet strangely satisfying. The teaser photo shown here also brings out some other mixed emotions, as we wonder whether this squiggly-line C-pillar is attractive and original or just plain odd, like the Nissan Maxima's headlights. While we haven't seen the whole car yet, we'll at least venture a guess that the design element shown here will be polarizing. Hopefully the interior of Infiniti's Geneva concept--called "Essence"--won't split opinions, as it has been professionally trimmed by Louis Vuitton. The concept celebrates 20 years of Infiniti cars (except in Europe, where the concept debuts) and also will be an "inspiring exploration into the brand's future." We think that translates to "Next Generation M," as a new version of the mid-size sedan is due out next fall. See the full photo and release after the jump.

Hyundai Equus: No More Sketches, We've Got The Real Thing

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 08:42:43 PST

That's right--it looks like there won't be any more "official sketches" of the Equus, Hyundai's Genesis on steroids that may or may not make it to the U.S. Two pictures, apparently from scans of a Korean market dealer pamphlet, hit the web today showing the new S-class-sized machine in all its glory. What we can tell so far is that it'll use a 4.6-liter Tau V-8 (look at the numbers on the rear) and that the earlier sketches were pretty accurate. While we're still not sure about the car's styling, it is at least less generic than the Genesis. From what we can tell, it borrows heavily from just one car, the new Buick LaCrosse. See the full pictures in our forums.

Geneva 2009: Rinspeed Meets Annual Concept Car Quota With iChange

Mon, 16 Feb 2009 09:48:02 PST

We're not exactly sure why Rinspeed keeps rolling out these extravagant, extroverted concepts at the Geneva show (it being a company that doesn't build production cars and all) but we certainly don't mind. Every year, the Swiss company delivers on giving its home crowd a truly fantastic vehicle. If not producing a full range of dealership-sold vehicles has an advantage, it is that Rinspeed is able to take more spectacular photos than most companies and churn out press releases that would make most PR types cry.

On to the car--the iChange is Rinspeed's 2009 Geneva concept, and it is predictably outrageous. The car is a three-seat supercar that easily converts to a single-seater by the push of a button that drops the rear of the car down. It is powered by a 150kW motor capable of delivering 0-62 mph times of just over four seconds and a top speed, thanks to a six-speed Subaru WRX gearbox, of 137 mph. Solar panels on the roof operate the HVAC system, while an iPhone operates most of the controls inside. Good luck with the press release after the jump; we'd suggest clearing your next twenty minutes.

BMW 5-series GT Progressive Activity Vehicle Shot Ahead of Debut at Private Event

Fri, 13 Feb 2009 10:10:48 PST

BMW's 5-series based PAS, which will be known as the 5-series GT, made its unofficial debut at a private event in Germany last night. A set of photos slipped out, unsurprisingly, and they've made it into our forums. We'll bring you the official photos and information later today, but for now hit the link below for the early pictures.

Porsche Releases Panamera Interior Shots, Announces U.S. Pricing

Thu, 12 Feb 2009 10:52:38 PST

We've all seen it through leaks, but Porsche today released a set of four photos fully revealing the new four-door Panamera's interior. It looks nice--better than the outside--but man, is that ever a lot of buttons in there. In addition to the photos, Porsche U.S. has confirmed an on sale date of October 17, 2009, which also happens to be this writer's wedding day. How does one go about doing a gift registry at a Porsche dealer?

The final bit of news today is pricing for the Panamera. The 400-hp, 4.8-liter V-8-powered Panamera S will start at $89,800, an all-wheel drive 4S will run $93,800, while the 500-hp Turbo model will start at $132,600. Not too insane for a 500-hp, four-passenger Porsche.

Audi's Truth in 24 Documentary: Fourtitude.com's Backgrounder and Review

Tue, 10 Feb 2009 11:10:40 PST

In case you hadn't heard about this, Audi commissioned the amazing filmmakers at NFL Films to follow the company's Le Mans race team at (and leading up to) this past year's 24 Hours of Le Mans race. The result has just been shown to journalists, and George Achorn at our Fourtitude affiliate site has written what should (hopefully) be the most exhaustive background story and review the film will see. Check it out here.

Geneva 2009: 2010 Mini Cooper S John Cooper Works Convertible

Tue, 10 Feb 2009 10:57:47 PST

How's that for long names? It's right up there with Land Rover Range Rover Sport Supercharged and the other wonderful models us journalists love to write out over and over again. At least this newest Mini, which we'll now refer to only at the Cooper S JCW Cabrio, has a name that can be easily shortened. And at least it promises to be very cool, combining the JCW's 211 hp with the convertible's open air motoring. The details from there are rather self-explanatory, other than the fact that it'll go on sale in the UK in late March, meaning it should arrive here soon after, at a price slightly higher than either the new Cooper S convertible or the existing JCW hardtop.

Geneva 2009: 2011 Chevrolet Spark

Tue, 10 Feb 2009 10:29:45 PST

Despite Switzerland's supposed neutrality, the Geneva show always tries to steal a bit of thunder from Motive's hometown Chicago show. Guys, come on, your show is still a few weeks away so why is everything slipping out now?

One of today's preview releases is the Chevy Spark, which we saw just one picture of at the Detroit show last month. The most recent images reveal the production car's rear end and interior. In addition, the press release has confirmed 1.0-liter and 1.2-liter four-cylinder engine options, plus the fact that Europe will be the Spark's first market. It goes on sale there in early 2010, while other regions will follow later, likely with the U.S. at the tailend of the rollout. See the full details after the jump.

2010 Saab 9-3x Fully Exposed In Snowy Parking Lot

Mon, 09 Feb 2009 12:24:15 PST

Aw, isn't that cute. The license plate on this Saab test mule starts with "Jet," which according to the recent company tagline is this car's father's name. But shouldn't the spawn of Jet have a "Jet Jr." plate? Oh well, maybe we're over-thinking it. These spy photos show a fully uncovered view of Saab's latest project, a lifted, tougher-looking 9-3 SportCombi. The car is expected to debut in a few weeks at the Geneva show, but here it is for you now it all its Volvo- and Audi-fighting glory. Hit the forum link for more, and don't forget to visit TURBONINES.com, our Saab Enthusiast affiliate.

Bob Lutz to Retire From GM at the End of 2009

Mon, 09 Feb 2009 10:06:10 PST

Bob Lutz, GM's very public, design-driven VP of Product Development, will fly his fighter jet off into the sunset when the end of 2009 rolls around, as the 76-year-old has finally decided the time has come for retirement. Lutz, along with denying that global warming exists, will be remembered as the one-man army behind GM's current trend of making cars that are actually attractive, including the Chevy Malibu, Cadillac CTS, and upcoming Buick LaCrosse.

Lutz will move to a senior advisor role in April and will then help is replacement, current VP of Powertrain and Quality Tom Stephens, with his transition before leaving altogether at year's end. Stephens will have his hands full--along with product development, he will still oversee powertrain engineering. Perhaps this is a sign of efforts at GM to reduce the number of high-level, high-money executives. Either way, we're sad to see Lutz go, but hopefully he has impacted enough people that GM will continue on the right track for years to come.

Chicago 2009: GM Bringing Bumblebee, Other Transformers Characters

Fri, 06 Feb 2009 10:09:16 PST

The Autobots were sent to Earth to save mankind, but can they also save GM? The company is apparently hoping so, having put out a short press release that Bumblebee and company will be the stars of GM's Chicago Auto Show booth next week. Will that include the Centennial Corvette that still hasn't been shown in public? We certainly hope so. Here's the release:

On Wednesday, February 11, 2009 Chevrolet and Paramount Pictures are proud to announce the return of BUMBLEBEE to the Chicago Auto Show, in anticipation of the upcoming movie, "Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen." BUMBLEBEE, the heroic AUTOBOT based on the Chevrolet Camaro concept, will appear for the first time in public with other new Chevrolet "characters" from the film at a press conference scheduled to begin at 10:15 am CST in the Chevrolet exhibit at McCormick Place.

TurboNines.com Ponders What Could've Been Between GM and Saab

Thu, 05 Feb 2009 13:47:55 PST

Through the eyes of our young and growing Saab enthusiast affiliate siteTurboNines.com, the current state of things between General Motors and Saab isn't looking too good. Will the brand go independent? Can it be salvaged? Will they ever update the products over there? In an Op/Ed piece today, our staff over at T9s thinks aloud about what went wrong, what could've been, and where Saab could be today, had there been some better planning. It's a pretty cool piece--read it here.

New Kia Spectra Getting Sporty With Coupe Variant

Thu, 05 Feb 2009 10:36:19 PST

Kia-world.net has obtained some spy shots of what appears to be a coupe version of the new, updated Spectra. Because yeah, it doesn't resemble the Honda Civic enough already, so let's add a coupe. Still, it looks like it should be pretty attractive, with a slightly smaller decklid than the Honda with which it will eventually compete. See the photos in our forums below.

Pre-Production Camaros Start Rolling Down the Line, Being Built By Strange Blob-like Aliens

Thu, 05 Feb 2009 10:28:04 PST

Seriously, what's the deal with those workers? Are they melting in the paint booth? Okay, enough with the jokes. Camaro5.com has gotten ahold of a set of photos showing the Camaro (finally) rolling down the assembly line in Oshawa, Ontario. Now, they aren't official production cars, but pre-production units that'll be used for promotion and media drives, but still, some assembly is actually happening and that's a good sign. The series showcases all steps of the process, including the bodies coming together, paint going on, and the car's attractive skin joining together with its awesome engine and rear-drive chassis. Head through our forum link below for more.