2008 BMW M3 Sedan

The new M3 follows in the footsteps of its predecessors by being the ultimate high-performance upgrade to the already-excellent BMW 3-series line-up. If you want the best of the best in a car with a less-than-six-digit price tag, the M3 continues to be that car. Where the newest M3 departs from the path is in the source of its power: rather than hotting up the BMW straight-six engine, as in the older M3s, this version installs a downsized V8 version of the BMW V10 engine, which is not only more powerful than the previous M3 engine, but lighter to boot. Rated at 414 horsepower, the engine revs easily to an 8400 rpm redline, so the 295 foot-pounds of torque is more than enough to take the car from zero to 60 in a claimed 4.7 seconds. We didn't have a stopwatch, professional driver, or closed course but found no reason to doubt that claim. In our week-long test, we drove the sedan version – four doors and no carbon-fiber roof – with a straight-up six-speed manual transmission. It didn't have the Technology Package or navigation system, which also meant no iDrive knob to contend with. The M3, like the rest of the 3-Series line, received some minor changes for 2009. We'll be sure to test a 2009 as soon as they become available. What's it up against? It isn't so much what the M3 is up against, since it has been the benchmark for medium-priced four-passenger performance cars for over two decades. Instead, the question more properly is: what currently is trying to knock the M3 sedan off the top of the hill? Looking at the question from that perspective, some of the standard suspects include the Audi S4, Lexus IS-F and, of course, the fantastic Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG, which we tested earlier this year. Any breakthroughs? There's no question that the big breakthrough on the new M3 is that incredible four-liter, V8 engine with double Vanos variable valve-timing technology that enables the car to meet emissions requirements while delivering incredible performance. Don't be deceived by the relatively low torque rating. This engine gives the car an almost schizophrenic personality. At low rpm, it's capable of loafing quietly in traffic like a Toyota Avalon. But if you get an open stretch of highway or clear track ahead, downshift, prod the accelerator and watch the tach swing up to wow or redline, whichever comes first. The g-forces will put a grin on your face. You're not going to average much better than 16 mpg in mixed use driving in the M3. That means you'll have to fork over $1,300 to at purchase to keep the car out of gas guzzler jail. But at this echelon, that's probably not a major factor for most buyers. The only optional equipment on our test car was three-level electronic damping control lined up on the console with the on-off switches that control the electronic throttle and steering response and the dynamic stability control. That is all the control you need to drive it like that Avalon when chauffeuring your wife's maiden aunt, or put it into taut tail-out drifts when track conditions permit. Sure, the optional Technology Package would allow multiple-screen graphical control of engine, throttle, shocks, and stability control response but, except for owners with the skills to test for a professional racing team, we suspect the benefits of this additional flexibility are more likely to be realized in chat room arguments than on the track. How does it look? The M3 in its sedan guise is a worthy successor to earlier BMW performance sedans, managing to convey its power in subtle ways that the initiated will recognize, while not screaming "track rat" to the world at large. Doors, fenders, and roof line are common to other 3-Series cars, but a subtle bulge in the bonnet, flanked by two functional vents, provide clues to the V8 lurking underneath. In addition, the lower front fascia is pure M3, with its functional brake duct openings and black mesh oil cooler grille. There won't be any question when a driver sees that fascia in the rear-view mirror that it's time to give a passing signal, or move out of the fast lane. When the M3 does pass, the car doesn't make as much of an impression – the spoiler is almost invisible and the quad tail pipes could easily be those of a Honda or Toyota – but since it isn't likely to be in sight for very long, the rear quarter aesthetics don't really matter much. The optional 19-inch wheels with low-profile tires on our test car did look pretty trick against the dark blue paint, but we wouldn't have been unhappy, nor would we have compromised handling performance, if the car came with the standard 18-inch wheels to reduce unsprung weight, and their slightly thicker tires to provide cushioning against deteriorating California freeways. And inside? Because BMW still spurns the very thought of any dashboard ornamentation – wouldn't want to distract the driver, after all – there isn't much to say about the view forward beyond paying respect to its functionality. Controls are neatly presented, and the white on black gauges, illuminated at night in soft submarine red, echo that straightforward design. We also liked the simplicity of the basic interior accessories. By avoiding the Techology Package, we were free of the extra screen stuck in the center of the dash board and the chrome knob competing with the gear shift for attention in the center console. Everything we needed was right there, and there was nothing that wasn't necessary. Another design element we appreciated is that BMW has become more liberal in recent years in trim choices for its pure-performance automobiles. The rich Interlagos Blue metallic paint of our sedan was nicely complimented with Bamboo Beige leather, while we noticed other M3s at the press launch with lighter exterior colors counterpointed by deep red and butterscotch interiors. We suppose one could elect black on black, but why should the car look so restrained just to emphasize its performance capabilities? Here's another point where we depart from the conventional wisdom of high-performance: A four-door sedan is a more practical package for an automobile than a coupe. If you aren't going to use your performance car for anything other than personal errands and track entertainment, then why not go all the way and buy a two-seat roadster? In our view, the sedan is ideal, making it convenient to use to stow packages, dry cleaning, or whatever, even when you're not hauling more than one other passenger. Certainly performance isn't going to suffer. In our week with this car we found any number of reasons to be grateful that BMW has returned to making a four-door sedan (BMW did offer a four-door M3 in 1997 and 1998). Rear seat space wasn't overwhelming, but then no one expects that a car with a bulge in the hood is going to double as a limousine. Nevertheless, our rear seat passengers had no complaints during evenings out in town. But does it go? With the M3's well-earned reputation, it almost seems silly to ask "does it go?" You better believe it does. With each generation, M3 power and responsiveness has improved, and handling and braking capabilities have kept pace. We could describe the feeling of taking the car out on a country road for a little fun, or what it felt like to drive the coupe version at Laguna Seca, but Mark Elias did that well in his review in February. Instead, what we'd like to note is the comparison to some of the new cars that are coming out now. All-wheel drive, electronically controlled "sway bars" that modulate the shock absorbers to keep the car level in corners, and variable torque controls do deliver results if all you care about is how fast you can get around the corner or around the track, and don't care to invest any time actually learning to drive a high-performance car. For us, the appeal of the M3, especially in the manual-transmission version without the high-tech handling controls, is that it is becoming almost retro, with more in common with a vintage race car than with much of the other automotive magic being introduced today. Sure the car is a little tightly-wound in everyday use, but that's like a wink and a nod to what we could be doing, if we weren't going to the grocery store or office. Why you would buy it: The M3 is still king of the hill in mid-priced performance automobiles, and the basic sedan package with manual transmission is a perfect way to enjoy the capability of the new V8 engine without buying or paying for any more than you need. Why you wouldn't: If the enjoyment of high-performance driving isn't number one on your priority list, there are lots of other BMWs, or even other sedans, that will give you the same feeling of quality without compromising on ride comfort. What we drove: base price: $53,800. As tested: $61,450. Interlagos Metallic paint, $475; Cold weather package, $1,000; Premium package, $1,900; 19" alloy wheels, $1,200; Electronic damping control, $1,000; Gas guzzler tax, $1,300; Destination and handling, $775.

 

Popular Science names Best of What's New in Auto Tech for 2008

What are the best innovations that the global automotive industry debuted in 2008? Popular Science has just picked its favorites and revealed the Best of What's New awards for the year that just was; um, is. The grand prize goes to the Nissan GT-R for its technical brilliance, astonishing performance and relatively attractive pricing. No real complaints there, though we'd be remiss if we didn't at least mention that the new Corvette ZR1 in the same breathe, which PopSci fails to do. Green technology holds down three of the 11 positions, with two coming from Ford for its capless fuel fillers and EcoBoost engine tech, though the latter won't arrive until 2009 and Ford can't be credited with pioneering the combination of turbocharging and direct-injection on small displacement engines. Honda takes up a slot with its largely unobtainable hydrogen fuel cell-powered FCX Clarity. Also winning awards from the techy Mag are BMW's Google Maps-infused MyInfo service and the speed recognition system from the Euro-spec 7 Series, the DARPA-winning Tartan Racing Boss, Audi's Dynamic Steering, the Wide-View cameras from Lexus, Infiniti's self-healing clearcoat and the Speedshift transmission from Merdedes-Benz. Click the source link to read about each honoree, and let us know in the comments if you think PopSci missed an automotive tech marvel from 2008. [Source: Popular Science]

 

2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit

What 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit has to offer automotive fans? This year 2009 NAIA in Detroit, Michigan will review last year NAIA 2008 and introduce some new cars for production 2010.Well, from their web, NAIAS will take place early next year Jan. 11 - 25, 2009.What i was expecting was review picture and performance of Lebanon First Supercar, Frem F1 by David Frem. Important date for NAIA Detroit: January 11-13 — Press days January 14-15 — Industry days January 16 — Charity preview January 17-25 — Open to the public Production car introductions 2010 Ford Taurus 2010 Honda Insight 2010 Toyota Prius NAIAS 2008 VEHICLE DEBUT LIST Updated from announcement made on Jan. 24 WORLDWIDE PRODUCTION 2009 Cadillac CTS-V 2008 Chevy Impala 50th Anniversary Edition 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart 2009 Saturn Vue Green Line 2 Mode Hybrid SUV 2009 Audi TTS Coupe 2009 BMW 1-Series Ragtop Convertible 2009 BMW X6 Sport Activity Coupe Changfeng Kylin Changfeng Liebao CS7 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 2009 Dodge Ram 2010 Fisker Karma 2009 Ford F-150 2009 Ford Glass Roof Mustang 2009 Hyundai Genesis 2009 Kia Borrego Maserati Quattroporte Collezione Cento 2009 Mazda RX-8 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK Mercedes-Benz Carbon Fiber SLR McLaren Roadster 2009 Toyota Venza 2009 Volkswagen Passat CC WORLDWIDE CONCEPT Audi R8 V12 TDI Concept Cadillac CTS Coupe Concept Chrysler ecoVoyager Dodge ZEO Ford Explorer America Concept Ford Verve Sedan Concept Ferrari Biofuel-Powered F430 Spider Prototype 2009 Honda Pilot Prototype Hummer HX Concept Jeep Renegade Land Rover LRX Concept Lexus LF-A Roadster Lincoln MKT Concept Mazda Furai Concept Mercedes-Benz Vision GLK Freeside Concept Mercedes-Benz Vision GLK Townside Concept Mitsubishi RA Concept Nissan Forum Saab 9-4x Concept Saturn Flextreme Concept Saturn Vue Green Line Plug-in Hybrid Prototype Toyota A-BAT NORTH AMERICAN PRODUCTION 2009 Audi A4 2009 BMW 335d Sedan 2009 BMW X5 xDrive35d9 2009 Subaru Forester Maybach Landaulet NORTH AMERICAN CONCEPT BYD H6 DM Hybrid Car Buick Riviera Concept Citroen C-Sport Lounge Dodge Hornet Ford Verve Three-Door Concept Honda CR-Z Kia Kee Mazda Taiki Concept Nissan Effis How about 2009 North American International Auto Show?This is the most prestigious auto shows in the world and is one of the largest media events in North America.Let us wait up what's hot from the auto show event early next year 2009.

 

A car, a legend. Bob Weir’s Corvette Stingray Roadster

Bob Weir is founding member of the Grateful Dead, a band that helped a lot the Hippie movement. But despite his age, he bought a 2007 Lexus GS 450h. He is anxious about new technology when it comes to transportation choices. It seems a paradox for a commonplace man, but not for him. He isn’t such a person!

It took a year to get used to the automatic, but he succeed. And this is the most important part. Weir gives his car an 8 of 10 rating, based on the fact that he isn’t very pleased about the gas mileage it gets.

However, the car Weir really loves doesn’t get out of the garage much these days. He said that the car in which he’ll probably be buried in is the ‘63 Corvette Stingray Roadster. Weir asserts that he is an environmentalist and this is the reason he doesn’t drive his Corvette all that much.

“You must not lose faith in humanity. Humanity is an ocean; if a few drops of the ocean are dirty, the ocean does not become dirty.” - Mahatma Gandhi

2009 Ventross Lexus ISF

Vorsteiner has officially announced Ventross: a sub division and brand under the Vorsteiner group, which will primarily focuses on high-end Japanese import vehicles sharing the same high end technology backbone from the Vorsteiner heritage.

The Lexus ISF that was originally built for Lexus North America for the 2008 SEMA show will boast the latest dry carbon fiber aerodynamics consisting of: VSF Dry carbon front add-on spoiler with center vent opening; VSF Dry carbon fiber lightweight rear boot lid with integrated wing profile (Up to 50% weight savings over factory steel unit); and VSF Dry carbon fiber add-on rear diffuser. A three-piece forged aluminum wheel set will also be available in 19- and 20-inch sizes.

The Lexus VSF concept project by Ventross was a joint effort with RJ De Vera and Motorworldhype.com In 2009 Ventross plans to build a full carbon fiber aerodynamic & light forged wheel package for the Nissan GTR.

© Source: dubmag

Mighty Lexus IS-F Five Axis One of the stars of this week's New York Motor Show is this specially tuned Lexus IS-F.

Can't help feeling the new Lexus IS-F isn't a worthy rival for Europe's fastest? Then feast your eyes on this spectacular evolution of the newcomer built by an American tuning firm called Five Axis.Aimed at stealing the thunder from the likes of the eagerly anticipated new BMW M3 CSL and powerful Mercedes C63 AMG Black, the car is powered by a near 600bhp evolution of the standard cars 5.0-litre V8. To add visual drama, the composite bodied machine is actually a full six inches wider than the standard model, thanks to wheelarch extensions and changes to the front and rear axles.

The car also gets 20-inch alloy wheels, plus custom paint - called black pearl satin black. The matt finish looks spectacular, and though not yet offered as an option at dealers, the changes to the car do show that the Japanese firm is serious about delivering performance modifications for the IS, under a new programme called Lexus F Specification. This will allow customers to choose from a wide range of go faster options, designed to make their cars look and drive better

Lexus IS F

No luxury car range is complete with-out a super-saloon these days – so Lexus has come up with this. The IS F is the Japanese manufacturer’s answer to the BMW M3 and Mercedes C63 AMG. It lacks the heritage of its Euro­pean rivals, but can it match the old guard on UK roads?
Judged on looks alone, this version of the IS is a rather sober piece of kit. Lowered suspension and 19-inch alloys give a ground-hugging stance, yet the new front bumper, side sills and large bonnet bulge are surprisingly discreet.Our model’s black paintwork also reduced the impact of the standard anthracite wheels, and on our drive no other road users paid the sporty Lexus any attention. The only details which spoil its Q-car credentials are the two pairs of stacked oval tailpipes that protrude from the back bumper.It’s a similar story inside, because the cabin is pretty much unchanged from the standard IS 250. You do get loads of kit, including sat-nav, sports seats and a 14-speaker stereo, but the new silver trim on the centre console is somewhat underwhelming.

A quick look under the IS F’s bonnet should be enough to restore faith in the brand, because crammed into the engine bay is an incredible 5.0-litre V8. It develops a mouth-watering 417bhp and powers the sal­oon from 0-62mph in 4.8 seconds.However, the car’s pure pace tells only half the story, because the high-revving unit is smooth, with a linear power delivery and pin-sharp respon­ses. It’s muted in normal driving, but once you pass 3,600rpm, a valve in the exhaust manifold opens and the volume instantly rises, creating a fantastic V8 soundtrack.Enthusiasts won’t be as happy with the standard eight-speed paddleshift-operated automatic gearbox, though – this is the only transmission option avail­able. Changing ratios takes a fraction of a second, and in full manual mode the torque converter is locked in all but first gear, which provides the feel and speed of a clutchless manual – it even blips the throttle on downchanges. However, the auto transmission can’t match a conventional box for driver involvement.With 505Nm of torque, the IS F is no slouch in a straight line – it has a top speed of 168mph. Yet any self-respecting performance saloon also needs to handle brilliantly. The Lexus’s stiffened suspension is fine at lower speeds, but once you increase the pace, it doesn’t provide the fluency of an M3 or Audi RS4. There is plenty of grip and feedback through the revised steering rack, although the newcomer simply doesn’t gel like its rivals and rides very harshly.While it’s still fun to drive, most of that enjoyment comes from its mighty V8. And in this class, the IS F’s limited handling involvement won’t appeal to everyone – especially when you’re paying £51,000 for the privilege.

Latest Sport Cars - 15 Cool New Cars Introduce in 2008

This is an amazing year for cars lovers, so far, 15 new supercars were introduced in 2008 and you can view all of them below. Though these sport cars didn’t make the list for the fastest cars in the world nor the most expensive, they are still great to look at and I’m sure you would love to take one of these cars home. Some of the cars below will not be made for public, but the idea and concept is there. The list will start from the beginning of the year to the most recent car that was just introduce.

Mazda Furai Concept

Mazda Furai, Japanese for ‘Sound of the wind’. People generally equate Mazda with cheap, this car is here to prove them wrong. This looks more like a drunken Batmobile than a regular sport car.

Audi R8 V12 TDI Concept

Great concept car with a V12 TDI engine, which produces 500 horsepower and 738 pound-feet of torque. It can sprints to 60 mph in 4.1 seconds and it is describes as ergonomic and elegant because the interior’s design is as sporty and exclusive as the exterior. The precision chassis of the Audi R8 V12 TDI concept remains ultimately in control of the sporty performance, but is also capable of assuring relaxed driving pleasure over long distances. This car looks sweet!

Mercedes-Benz SL600

Mercedes-Benz continue producing it legendary sports cars and will release a new version of the SL600 this spring with a V12 engine. Performance, luxury, refinement, just three of the outstanding characteristics of the SL600.

Gemballa Avalanche GTR 800 EVO-R

This new supercar is the latest upgrade of the Porsche 911 Turbo, extreme tuning takes the Flat-6 turbocharged engine to 850 hp. . The 911 Turbo engine has been replaced with a bigger one of 3.8L and replaced the standard blow dryers with a pair of Garret T035 turbos. Not sure how much this piece of machine will cost yet, but it will definitely be up there among one of the most expensive cars due to it performance.

Maserati Chicane Concept by IED

The graduate students from the Instituto Europeo di Design (IED) unleashed their new design which beat out many competitors and won themselves sponsorship and a spot at the Geneva show to show off their talent.

Dodge Challenger SRT8
The price tag on this machine is $37,995 and Chrysler is already accepting orders. The choices of colors include Black, Silver or HEMI Orange with carbon fiber racing stripes. It can reach 0-60 mph in 5 secs with a top speed of 170 mph. Awesome car for only $38,000.

Porsche 911 GT3 RSR

Price at €349,800 ($543,000), this is an upgrade from the Porsche 911 GT3. A year ago, the 911 GT3 manages to win at the 24 hour races of Le Mans and Spa as well as overall victory at the Nuerburgring 24 hours, competes in the GT2 class at international long distance races. The most distinguishing feature of the new GT3 RSR is the front end which received major improvements to the aerodynamics. The majority of innovations however are hidden under the weight-optimised body.

Morgan LIFEcar

“A concept car with zero emission and also fun to drive.” That’s what the British said. Who say going green is boring? The new architectural design helps reduce fuel consumption and may create a new trend for the future.

Rolls-Royce Phantom Coupé

An expensive luxury car from Rolls-Royce which promise comfort, style, and performance. This car can go on forever and it muscles design is built to last. With a 6.75-liter V12 engine and 453 hp, this luxury car is designed for those folks who strive for class and performance.

Fiat 500 Abarth

A safe approach to sport cars. This sporty style car looks more like a mini-van then a sport car. It is targeted toward the old folks who want to drive a sport car but it’s too afraid of the power. I’ll pass on this one.

Ugur Sahin Design Corvette Z03 Concept

This gorgeous looking car is based on the Chevrolet Corvette Z06 which has great performance and very attractive pricing at only $65,000. Some say this car looks like an Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione rip-off. Exact pricing has not been set, but it will be very affordable and similar to the Corvette Z06. This car is just a beauty.

Maserati Gran Turismo S

If you looking for an affordable supercar that cost $125,000, this is the one . The Gran Turismo S emphasize on both performance and driving enjoyment. This little machine can reach 60 mph from stand still point in 4.8 secs. However, you will not be able to win a race against the Bugatti Veyron, so choose your opponent wisely.

Bentley Continental GTZ

Zagato, the most famous Automotive Atelier in the world is developing a rare, coachbuilt body for a Bentley, one of the most sought after car in the world. The tag price on this new Bentley is €540,000 ($835,000). The driver of this new car will get to enjoy it high-end luxury combined with superiror speed. Very nice car if you can afford it.

Alfa Romeo Bertone BAT 11

This supercar is based on the Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione high-performance coupe. B.A.T., which stands for Berlinetta Aerodinamica Tecnica (aerodynamic technical Berlinetta in English). They haven’t really create the interior for this yet. Maybe they will give this car to Bruce Wayne as a gift or to those of you who want to become a superhero.

Out of the 15 cars above, which car do you like the most?

2009 Lexus RX SUV Brochure Leaked into the Web!

Our friendly agents over at Autospies have stumbled upon an official Japanese brochure of the all-new 2009 Lexus RX SUV that is slated to make its world premiere at the upcoming Los Angeles Auto Show in November with sales expected to begin in mid-2009. From what we can tell by looking at the pictures from the scanned brochure, Toyota Lexus seems to have maintained the current RX's crossover-ish silhouette adding a few modern design elements to the mixture like the sculpted lower parts of the doors and a new front grille. Inside it appears that the Japanese automaker has completely overhauled its luxury crossover model which now features a more stylish dashboard with a swoopy-looking center console. -Continued

Details are still scarce as we speak, but in what concerns the Japanese market at least, the next generation RX will be offered in two guises, the petrol-only RX350 and the petrol-hybrid RX450h.

Infinity Fx mid size luxury

The super car was produced by Nissan in 2003, and it`s available in 2 versions, first version is FX35 and second FX45. The second version Fx45 uses a 4500 V8 engine (315 Horsepower) with a five speed automatic transmission and the Fx35 is powered by a 3,5 L V6 engine. In 2006 both of cars (Fx35 and Fx45) were upgraded with new options, the Fx45 engine engages now 320 Horsepower, more with 5 hp :). When we talk about the performance of the Fx series, we must say that Fx35 has a max speed of 137 mp/h, reaches 100 km/h in 7 seconds and Fx45 has a top speed similar with FX 35, but it’s touching 100 Km/h in 6,3 seconds. Similar cars with Fx series are Bmw X5 and Lexus Gx. It`s not a real super car but it’s features makes us think otherwise.

Lexus Es 350 Sedan

Lexus Es 350 ( the new Es) debuted in 2006 at the Chicago Show.The V6 aluminum engine has 3,5 L and engages 272 Hp and the super car can touch a speed of 100 km/h in less then 7 sec, which makes it one of the fastest luxury sedan available at this moment.

Lexus LF-A sport car

Manufactured by the Lexus division of Toyota Motor Corporation like just a prototype showed in Detroid in 2005, it takes now the new initiative of a road car, the engineers making test at the famous test track in Germany, Nürburgring. Toyota’s new “secret” car, Lexus LF has a V10 engines and carries a 500 horsepower (373 kW) that make the car reach a top spead of 200 mph (322 km/h). The other clues about how it’s really going to look and what features will have remains unknown until probably early 2008, but the price is expected to go over 100 000$, making it one of the most expensive Japanese super car on the American market.