Driving & Motorsports

Road Test: 2009 Toyota Venza

tmartin — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 11:40:56 -0600

When any manufacturer, but particularly an industry titan like Toyota, rolls out a new vehicle that they say is “in a new class”, well, the hairs on any journalist’s neck stand up a bit. That was certainly the case as we listened to Toyota’s executives and engineers roll out the new Venza. But after a couple of days of driving it, talking to Toyota about it, and reviewing the data, we think they have a point. It’s a subtle point, but a point nonetheless.

You’ll notice that so far we haven’t said what the Venza “is”. We haven’t put it in a category. Before we discuss the category the vehicle belongs in, we invite you to do the same experiment we performed with some of our colleagues at the launch. Take a good look at the pictures of the Venza. What would you say this is? Just for fun, make a mental note of that, so you can compare your reaction to what a group of journalists said in response to the same question.

Of course, at some level it really doesn’t matter how the Venza (or any other vehicle) is categorized. The problem with categorization is that is makes it hard to see new things. If the iPhone is just a “cell phone” then it is hard to understand how different it is. A rational person might note that the world hardly needs its 829th cell phone and move on. But if you have an iPhone or have played with one, you know how vastly different it is and you know it isn’t just a cell phone. The category no longer matters when you’ve experienced reality.

And the reality of this Toyota is rather appealing, if you’re in the target market, because the Venza actually breaks with Toyota tradition in some fairly important ways.

Not Your Mother’s Toyota

Let’s start with driving dynamics. Just let that phrase wash over you for a moment. We’re at the start of a Toyota road test and we’re talking driving dynamics, rather than leaving it ‘til the end where hopefully no one will notice. At the opening launch dinner, Toyota execs brought up the need for good steering feel—without prompting. We almost passed out. Always a serious and sincere company, Toyota has made a serious and sincere effort to make the Venza fun to drive.

We took a V6 Venza AWD around a 20-mile loop of Pennsylvania mountain twisties at pretty close to full chat and came away impressed. First off, roll control is quite good. Actually, a lot of taller vehicles have some pretty hefty anti-roll bars attached so that may not seem exceptional, but there are several things to like about the Venza in this department. Unlike many SUVs, the Venza stays fairly flat as you push it (in contrast to, say, a Range Rover which initially resists roll, but as the cornering forces rise can’t resist tilting more and more). To maintain a decent ride, we noticed that the Toyota has only moderate roll damping (the BMW M3 takes a similar approach) but switchbacks are handled well, with minimal sloppiness.

The Venza’s handling is also nicely balanced front to rear—though it does tend towards understeer—and it feels happy carving through curves. Since the Toyota is lower and lighter than most SUVs or crossovers, you can feel physics helping (or at least not hurting). Let's be clear though, the overall sense given by the Venza is that it is well-mannered, not that it is exciting or involving.

We also drove FWD Venzas, with both the I-4 and V-6 engines, which handle in much the same way as the AWD model. The I-4 feels a little lighter, affecting the ride quality more than handling, with the V-6s being a little smoother. The FWD vehicles want to understeer just a tad more than the AWD, but one would have to drive them back-to-back to notice.

Venza’s ride quality is pleasantly firm, with large swoops and bumps being tracked very well. If Michigan or New York residents ever find out how smooth southwestern Pennsylvania roads are, there will be a riot. As a result, we can’t be sure about how the Venza handles the tragedy of typical urban roads. We did run two of our testers onto the shoulder multiple times in search of fragmented pavement and noticed very little ride harshness, which bodes well for commuter use on patchier pavement.

Performance is more than acceptable as well. The 268 hp V-6 feels strong and unstressed even in low-altitude mountains with a couple of passengers on board. Toyota has done some fine work on the six-speed transmission to make its shift points different for uphill or downhill runs, and we liked the relative lack of hunting for gears.

But Will It Do the MPG Dance?

The Venza’s V-6 is a fine engine, but with fuel economy on everyone’s mind, the I-4 is the big news. This new four cylinder is the key to Toyota’s intent of creating a vehicle that breaks with SUV and crossover tradition in fuel mileage. And, it does deliver better fuel mileage, as you would expect. Toyota estimates that EPA ratings for the I-4 will be 21 city and 29 highway in FWD form (take off 1 mpg for AWD), and the V-6 should come in at 19/26.

Whether 21/29 is enough better to capture buyer’s attention will remain to be seen. In all the hysteria of $4 gasoline consumer expectations about gas mileage have skyrocketed. While 24-25 mpg combined is actually a pretty good number, we suspect it will only inspire folks who are actually in showrooms or on the web comparing what is possible. Breaking through the 30 mpg barrier will await a possible hybrid version. Toyota won’t say a hybrid is coming, but the Venza is derived from the same architecture as the Camry, and there is a Camry hybrid, so it isn’t hard to imagine a Venza hybrid in a few years.

For 21/29 mileage to seem desirable, you also have to consider how the 2.7L drives. With 182 hp and 182 lb.-ft. of torque pulling 3760 lb., the numbers don’t seem especially impressive. But 2.7L is a big four and relative to the V-6, is only down on torque about 10 percent at 2500 rpm. The result is that the I-4 feels strong and seems completely adequate for most normal driving. If you love a strong engine or you need the towing capacity (3500 lb for the V-6 vs. 2500 for the I-4), the V-6 will, however, be the engine of choice.

That’s A Toyota?

The second area where the Venza departs from Toyota tradition is in its design. Before our drive we grabbed a cup of coffee in a vain attempt to overcome a time zone shift, and stumbled, half-asleep, over to the technical presentation. On the way, Toyota had set up a Venza, and it was our first sight of the vehicle. Honestly, our first thought was “what the heck is some new Infiniti doing here?” Somewhere in our intuition, the Venza clearly registers differently than Toyotas of the past.

Our second thought was “that looks pretty sharp.” Beauty is in the eye of the beholder of course, but we’d say the majority opinion at the launch was that the exterior of the Venza was very well executed. Almost every angle of the vehicle looks carefully shaped.

Interior materials are similarly attractive and definitely not grabbed at random from the Toyota parts bin. We think this is a big step forward, as Japanese interiors over the past years have slipped behind not only the European but often the Americans.

More important than how the design looks though, is how it “reads”.” Is the Venza big or small? Rugged or stylish? Youthful or conservative? In these times of shifting automotive priorities and tastes, these factors will probably have a lot to do with whether the Toyota succeeds and whether it appeals to you.

And that read is pretty hard to tell from pictures, one has to see it in person. We noticed that the Venza doesn’t come off as an SUV, being a bit too low and sleek. It could almost pass for a station wagon, except that it seems more stylish and muscular than most sedan-derived wagons. It doesn’t look tall, like some crossovers, despite having 8 inches of ground clearance. It is basically the same length as a Camry, so it doesn’t seem small, but it isn’t big either. Frankly, if you want a true four-passenger vehicle that’s practical and looks politically correct, but not so boring, conservative, or downscale as a sedan or hatchback, we think the Venza will seem “just right” (apologies to Goldilocks).

Practical Matters

Of course, for all the talk of the Venza being different from past products, we shouldn’t forget that it is in fact a Toyota. That means that some serious thought has been put into passenger comfort, ergonomics and features.

Seat comfort in the Venza is very good, with nicely firm, reasonably cosseting cushions. The fabric is attractive and substantial enough that one doesn’t have to opt for leather to get a decent seat.

Toyota’s engineers have put an impressive effort into the ingress and egress aspects of the Venza. The seat height has been optimized to use minimum force from your legs. Engineers put force sensors on real human legs and found the height that minimized muscular output. Any higher or lower seat and it would take more effort to get in or out. No kidding. We tried it and it seemed to work. They also worked on the sill shape to make entry/exit easier and cleaner.
This seat height, coupled with ample glass area, makes sightlines pretty good. The A-pillar intrudes a bit in the front, and some will want an even taller vehicle, but the Venza will suit many drivers who place a premium on visibility.

The rear seat is also well done, placed farther rearward than in a sedan like a Camry, and giving the Venza excellent rear legroom. The slight higher than normal roof, along with a flat roofline, allows for excellent headroom. The two-panel sunroof also increases rear headroom with the sunshade open, because there is no headliner in the second row.

With 34.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row seats, the Venza has just average cargo capacity when compared with crossovers. But compared with a sedan, the Venza has the big advantage of wagon-style load area.

Available option packages deliver most modern gizmos. Two newish options on offer are automatic high beam headlights and Bluetooth music streaming. Even one doesn’t get the rather mediocre JBL Synthesis surround sound system with Bluetooth streaming, there is an auxiliary in jack for your iPod or other music player (but no interface that integrates with the in-dash display).

Pricing for the Venza starts at $25,975 for the four-cylinder FWD version. At the other end of the spectrum, the V-6 AWD has an MSRP of $29,250. See the NextAutos Buyer’s Guide for more details on options and pricing.

So What the Heck Is It?

By now you may think we’ve forgotten our little experiment (what do you think the Venza is?); we haven’t. Here’s what our informal poll of journalists at the Venza launch said:

14% -- “It’s a wagon”
35% -- “It’s sort of a wagon, but not exactly”
42% -- “It’s a crossover – whatever that is”
9% -- “It’s a car”

We think it doesn’t really matter. One guy summed it well: “This is a vehicle I could actually see myself buying”. We can see a lot of people saying that.

The V-6 comes out in December, followed by the four cylinder in January.

See the NextAutos Buyer’s Guide for more details on our experience with the Venza, options and pricing.

Buyer's Guide: 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart

NextAutos Staff — Tue, 06 Jan 2009 16:03:57 -0600

CAR SUMMARY
New for 2009, the Lancer Ralliart fills the wide gap between the Lancer GTS and Lancer Evolution. Mitsubishi wants this car to be their version of the Subaru Impreza WRX, and with all-wheel-drive capability and a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, the Ralliart indeed fits the bill. The Ralliart's aggressive styling, sporty handling, and twin-clutch transmission make it a worthy competitor not only for the WRX, but for the Mazdaspeed3 and Volkswagen GTI, as well.

PROS
- Turbo-four engine makes for a quick and powerful Lancer.
- Aggressive styling sets the Ralliart apart from the competition.
- All-wheel drive makes this sportster four-season friendly.

CONS
- Interior refinement is a bit lackluster.
- Price point may be higher than some would like to spend.
- Fuel economy is poor compared to competitor offerings.

Read more about the Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart on the vehicle's Buyer's Guide page, where you'll find our driving evaluations, previous road tests, galleries, and more. You can find Buyer's Guides to other vehicles in the NextAutos Car Search database.

So Long, Farewell: Honda Cancels S2000 Replacement, Future Acura Models, Rumored V-8

Steven J. Ewing — Tue, 06 Jan 2009 10:20:54 -0600

For a while now, Honda has been deliberating as to how it plans to restructure itself and its luxury marque, Acura, over the next few years. We already spread the word that a future NSX replacement was canned in the works, but now it seems that more casualties have come up across the two brands.

Honda will not be planning a successor to the S2000 roadster, nor will there be a drop-top version of the upcoming CR-Z coupe. Additionally, all plans for Acura's rumored V-8 engine have been shelved, as well as any future entries into the rear-wheel-drive segment. Honda was planning to potentially build these new RWD cars to compete with vehicles like BMW's 3- and 5-Series. The first of these examples was expected to roll out in 2015 as a 7-Series competitor. AutoCar also reports that the Honda Accord could move to one global model, as opposed to the two different versions which are sold around the world.

As we drive into the future, Honda will concentrate its efforts on building more hybrids and a new small city car. The automaker projects to build more than 500,000 hybrids by 2012, including the all-new Insight which will debut in Detroit next week.

+ AutoCar: Honda axes sports and luxury models (via AutoblogGreen)

Buyer's Guide: 2009 Volvo XC70

NextAutos Staff — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 13:14:25 -0600

Volvo recently launched a new option for the XC70 -- the T6 turbocharged 3.0L engine, with 281 hp. We just drove the car with the T6 and updated the Buyer's Guide for this interesting Volvo.

Car Summary

The XC70 has the hauling ability that families have come to cherish in their Volvo wagons, with a measure of sure-footedness on- and (occasionally) off-road. For most practical purposes, the XC70 functions the same as the slightly more civilized V70 wagon but it has that buff SUV-like body, extra ground clearance and driving position that customers like in both urban and exurban settings. Volvo’s AWD system performs admirably in most situations with its Haldex differential, but the XC70 still hasn’t got the same sort of athletic ride as some of the German competition.

Pros
- Load space is quite configurable and spacious
- Attractive, comfortable interior and distinctive "not-an-SUV, not-a-wagon" exterior
- Compliant ride mixed with acceptable handling gives a balanced performance for a taller AWD vehicle

Cons
- Doesn’t have the sporting feel (nor the sometimes crashy ride) of other premium wagons
- Expect to average no more than 20 mpg, except in pure highway driving

Read more about the Volvo XC70 on the XC70 Buyer's Guide page, where you'll find our driving evaluations, previous road tests, galleries, and more. You can find Buyer's Guides to other vehicles in the NextAutos Car Search database.

Queen of England Awards Lewis Hamilton MBE

Hardy Shen — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 09:26:36 -0600

For Lewis Hamilton, it seems that everything has been going his way recently. Not only did he snatch up the Formula 1 Driver's World Champion title, he was the youngest ever to do so, and the first Englishman to do so in twelve years. To top it all off, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II has dubbed Hamilton, along with nearly 1,000 other recipients, as Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (or MBE for short).

"It is a massive honor and incredible privilege for me to receive an MBE from Her Majesty The Queen. It is the most amazing culmination to what has been quite a year for me," Lewis commented after the announcement.

"I am also very humbled to be included on the Honors list alongside all the members of the general public who have been recognized for their tireless work in such varied and worthwhile arenas."

So what does this mean for the British champion? Well, he can officially add the letters MBE to his name with legitimate bragging rights. Don't be mistaken however, this is no 'Knighthood,' but at least it will look rather dashing on the resume and serve as an interesting conversation piece at parties.

+ Vodafone McLaren Mercedes: Lewis Awarded MBE

Revealed! 2010 Shelby GT500 Drops Before Detroit Debut

Steven J. Ewing — Thu, 01 Jan 2009 19:23:30 -0600

When Ford told us that they'd be unveiling the "next chapter in the Mustang story" at the upcoming Detroit Auto Show, some of us were hoping for a sort of Mustang SVO replacement, but we're definitely pleased to see that Ford has finished up its development of the 2010 Shelby GT500 coupe and convertible. The new Mustang's exterior design looks especially bold in Shelby guise, and some of us think that the rear duck-tail spoiler meshes quite well with the new Mustang's rump.

When engineering the new GT500, Ford decided to take most of the inner workings from the current GT500KR, meaning that the newest Shelby cranks out 540 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque from its 5.4-liter supercharged V-8 and runs through a Tremec six-speed manual transmission. We're told that the clutch has been heavily reworked, too, which is indeed a good thing since the clutch in the current car gave us quite a bit to gripe about. Overall handling is supposed to be a vast step above the outgoing model, as well.

Inside, the new 'Stang's interior was fitted with a custom shift knob and special Shelby seats. In fact, the seats are custom fitted to each car so that the stripes within the leather match the stripes on the car's exterior. Alcantara trim can be found on the seat side bolsters, shift lever, emergency brake boot, and steering wheel. The 2010 GT500 is expected to hit showrooms this Spring.

We'll be sure to pass on live shots of the Shelby when it officially debuts at the Detroit show later this month. In the meantime, click through our gallery of shots and click through the post to read Ford's official press release.

2010 FORD SHELBY GT500 PACKS MORE POWERFUL PUNCH

* Ford's Special Vehicle Team (SVT) delivers a more powerful 2010 Shelby GT500 increased to 540 horsepower, torque increased to 510 foot-pounds, downforce increased and drag reduced
* New gearbox enhancements, plus a standard 3.55:1 rear axle ratio, mean the 2010 Shelby GT500 will deliver improved acceleration performance, while providing better highway fuel efficiency
* Aggressive new exterior design features new functional details, such as the hood extractor to remove heat from the engine and "Gurney Flap" spoiler to tune rear downforce; world-class materials and craftsmanship create the most unique GT500 interior yet
* 2010 Shelby GT500 will be in dealer showrooms in spring

DEARBORN, Mich., Jan. 1, 2009 – The new 2010 Ford Shelby GT500 delivers the most power and refinement ever for a Ford SVT-tuned performance Mustang – and a few surprises, too.

"The 2010 Shelby GT500 demonstrates Ford's continuing commitment to high-performance vehicles," said Derrick Kuzak, Ford group vice president, Global Product Development. "In addition to the numerous performance and refinement improvements inside and out, the 2010 Shelby GT500 is an estimated 2 miles per gallon more fuel efficient on the highway."

"We're proud of the many enhancements that were developed jointly by the Ford and Shelby Automobiles team last year that we've now incorporated into the new 2010 Shelby GT500," said Carroll Shelby, founder of Shelby Automobiles. "Building on what we learned to create the Shelby GT500KR, this new car offers a great combination of power, handling and braking. It is truly a special car that is a great deal of fun to drive."

Ford's Special Vehicle Team used the gains made on the 40th anniversary edition Shelby GT500KR "King of the Road" Mustangs as the performance starting point and built from there. The design team, with a nod to the original Shelby Cobras from the 1960s, takes those design cues even further with nuanced improvements in both the coupe and convertible, each of which boasts a more-refined interior.

"Working together on the KR, the Ford and Shelby teams developed new systems to continually improve the iconic Mustang," stated Amy Boylan, president of Shelby Automobiles. "Those lessons learned are incorporated into the 2010 Shelby GT500. This approach will help maintain Mustang's leadership position at the front of the pack and make the ownership experience even more enjoyable."

"The muscle car segment is becoming even more competitive," said Jamal Hameedi, chief nameplate engineer for SVT. "We need to uphold the Mustang badge with honor, the Shelby badge with honor and most importantly the Ford badge with honor. The 2010 GT500 is the car that will do all of that."

More horsepower, more refinement, more functionality
The combination of added horsepower, refinement and functionality makes the 2010 Shelby GT500 a unique high-performance car. The 2010 Shelby GT500 delivers more horsepower and more torque than the outgoing model, thanks in part to advancements pioneered on the GT500KR.

The 2010 Shelby GT500 is powered by a supercharged and intercooled 5.4-liter dual overhead cam V-8 engine expected to produce 540 horsepower and 510 foot-pounds of torque. The redline is 6,250 rpm. The car's aluminum power dome hood not only adds to the Shelby's appearance, it helps cool the engine through a hood extractor.

The Shelby's open-element air induction system features a conical air filter instead of a flat-panel closed system to reduce air restriction. This approach allows more air to be pumped through the engine, producing more power and increasing the engine's efficiency.

A cold-air intake feeds the coolest air possible directly into the air box, helping further increase horsepower. The intake necessitated moving the Cobra snake badge to the other side of the grille to enable maximum airflow.

The twin-disc clutch on the six-speed manual transmission has been significantly upgraded, improving drivability and NVH. The discs on the 2010 Shelby GT500 are larger – 250 mm in diameter compared with 215 mm in diameter on the outgoing model – and made of copper and fiberglass to make them more robust.

A unique component of the twin-disc system is the control of the intermediate disc. Rather than floating, it instead has six straps that control the engagement of the clutch, improving drivability.

The 2010 Shelby GT500 offers customers improved straight-line acceleration, plus fuel savings when cruising on the highway in the top gears. Gears 1-4 remain the same, but fifth gear changes from .80 to .74 while sixth gear goes from .63 to .50, meaning that the 2010 Shelby GT500 will turn lower engine RPMs in those gears and deliver improved fuel efficiency. The new final drive ratio, from 3.31 to 3.55, enables the improved acceleration in lower gears while complementing the revised fifth and sixth gear ratios.

The Shelby's distinct sounds will be apparent as always, though with new refinements, thanks to the work of the Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH) team. A patented resonator placed between the air filter and engine throttle body helps keep unwanted noise in check.

"You still hear the supercharger but not so that it's intrusive," said Kerry Baldori, chief functional engineer for SVT. "It's the same with the exhaust. You want people to know you're driving something special, but you don't want an exhaust note that overpowers the whole interior.

"We spent a lot of time getting the right sound quality out of the exhaust so you get that nice, crisp Shelby sound outside and a pleasant sound inside the cabin. It's a nice balance; one isn't overpowering the other."

Driving dynamics also are improved, thanks to SVT's signature chassis tuning as well as new 19-inch Goodyear F1 Supercar tires and forged aluminum wheels on the 2010 Shelby GT500 coupe and 18s on the convertible.

Spring and dampers have been optimized for better roll control, giving customers more confidence when braking, accelerating or turning. The new chassis tuning takes its philosophy from the KR program, with a greater emphasis placed on primary body control.

The team also stiffened the steering shaft.

"All our changes were about making the car to respond as fast and as predictable as possible," Hameedi said. "The 2010 Shelby GT500 conveys an athletic, confident feel. The shifter, clutch pedal, brake-pedal efforts and overall steering efforts are easier now. We wanted to make sure we had a nice, crisp short-throw shifter that was easy to go from gear to gear."

The Goodyear F1 Supercar 19-inch tires have been upgraded, too. SVT members developed a "recipe" for the attributes and characteristics they wanted in the tire, which Goodyear's team of engineers, designers and manufacturers brought to life. The result is better grip, better handling and better NVH properties, leading to a better customer experience.

The wheels themselves complement the high-performance nature of the 2010 Shelby GT500. The 19-inch wheels are forged aluminum wheels milled on both sides. The extra machining process creates "blade" spokes with very thin, yet strong, cross-sections. The spokes have a specific curve from the rim to the hub, not only for strength, but also to accentuate the offset and width of the tires.

The 2010 Shelby GT500 features AdvanceTrac, Ford's stability control system with several options for performance. The default "on" mode accommodates every-day driving, and a Sport mode delivers for those wanting to put the Shelby GT500 through its paces on the track. The system also can be turned completely off, although the anti-lock brake system and other active safety systems remain in place. Standard safety equipment includes: dual stage front air bags, side-impact air bags and Ford's Personal Safety System.

Numerous aerodynamic upgrades, including a redesigned splitter, were made to the front end of the 2010 Shelby GT500.

"We worked hard to get as much downforce with as little drag as possible," Baldori said. "We worked to seal off the air that comes in the front so it can't go underneath the car. We spent a lot time sealing components such as the radiator and intercoolor to get rid of all the leak paths.

"The result of this evolution of aerodynamics is we've increased downforce, reduced drag and improved the overall efficiency of the 2010 Shelby GT500."

Directing the air so it's used most efficiently was a painstaking process that ultimately will be rewarding to customers. The design of the front fascia and the car's "flush" hood helps focus air flow. The top grille focuses air into the radiator, with a rubber flap inside the engine compartment helping to seal the system. The lower grille helps cool the intercooler. SVT engineers also went as far to block off specific diamonds in the front of the 2010 Shelby GT500's distinctive grille to help maintain the correct cooling and aerodynamic balance.

A meaner, reskinned snake ready to take to the streets
The 2010 Shelby GT500 is the most-robust design and most-distinctive model of the new 2010 Mustang lineup. "The design we chose was a 'flush' hood where the fascia defines the entire front of the vehicle," Hameedi said. "That's very hard to execute from an engineering standpoint, but it really sets the Shelby off as very, very different from the base Mustang."

"This epitomizes the ultimate Mustang," added George Saridakis, Exterior Design manager of the Mustang and Shelby GT500. "It's all about power and expressing power."

Saridakis said his team took a cue from the Shelby AC Cobra 427 with respect to the front grilles, which are gaping and appear ready to swallow the road.

Another obvious difference for the Shelby is the addition of racing stripes, which also will now be available on the convertible. "Racing stripes made their mark on 1960s-era Ford performance vehicles," Hameedi notes. "That's something we feel is a key part of the Shelby performance DNA – maybe more so than some of our competition."

Rounding out the Shelby's exterior modifications are the unique signature coiled Cobra badges on the front grille and front fenders, a more aggressive front splitter and lower-drag rear spoiler, which added to improved aerodynamic features, round out the exterior modifications. "We wanted the spoiler raked back aggressively to minimize drag, but we also have an integrated Gurney Flap that provides the downforce," Saridakis said.

What's inside counts with the 2010 Shelby GT500
The base 2010 Mustang received a powerful new interior design. For the GT500, the interior design team members challenged themselves to raise the bar even higher to create the ultimate Shelby Mustang interior.

Using genuine materials such as real leather in all seats, real aluminum on the instrument panel and Alcantara inserts on the seats and steering wheel gave the appearance a precisely crafted, jewel-like yet functional feel. "You'll definitely know you're in a Shelby," said Douglas Gaffka, Chief Designer, Shelby GT500.

The genuine aluminum finish panels have a unique-to-GT500 three-dimensional dimpled texture pattern inspired by racing clutch plates, braided hoses and cross-drilled racing brake rotors. The pattern has been painstakingly tuned to compensate for the compound curvature of the instrument panels. In addition, the "GT500" logo has been discretely engraved into the aluminum in front of the passenger as a nod to classic Shelby Mustangs of the 1960s.

This unique aluminum finish panel is fully encapsulated by an exquisite soft seamless TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin) instrument panel with a shape that resonates with Mustang's powerful heritage. The center stack flows into the console and features a sub-flush shifter trim ring, flush cup holder door and lockable console stowage featuring the word "SHELBY" engraved in its Satin Liquid Chrome release button.

All 2010 Mustangs and Shelbys feature bright 360-degree rings surrounding the gauge cluster, uninterrupted by the steering column. These rings will come in chrome for the Mustang and a Satin Liquid Chrome finish for the GT500. This finish is featured throughout the interior. An intricate cobra is etched into the center of the aluminum steering wheel badge. The Shelby Cobra appears at startup on the navigation screen, and the familiar red "SVT" logo utilizes new ambient lighting to illuminate the door scuffplate.

"When customers drive this car, they're not only going to be impressed by the performance and the Shelby heritage, but they're going to see all these carefully designed details and know they've bought a well-crafted car," Saridakis said.

Even the classic white shift knob – an icon of Shelby Mustang DNA from years past – received special attention. First, it had to be the traditional white. It also had to be specific to the Shelby. The answer was to combine the racing-stripes theme with the traditional "H" pattern found on shifters to create a one-of-a-kind knob. Like the exterior, the racing stripes wrap from end to end, encircling the knob.

Wide suite of standard features on the 2010 Shelby GT500
The 2010 Shelby GT500 includes several Ford innovations and industry-exclusive standard features, including:
SYNC: The voice-activated hands-free in-car communication and entertainment system developed by Ford and Microsoft. The system fully integrates most Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones and digital media players, providing customers hands-free cell phone and music selection capabilities – plus new 911 Assist and Vehicle Health Report provided with no monthly fees.

911 Assist: When a phone is properly paired, turned on and connected to SYNC, the system is ready to assist in placing a call directly to a local 911 emergency operator in the event of an air bag-deploying accident. The key advantage of SYNC 911 Assist is speed, as calls are placed directly to local 911 operators.

Vehicle Health Report (VHR): SYNC gathers relevant information from the major vehicle control modules and packages diagnostic data into a usable format in a matter of minutes. That data packet is sent to Ford via an 800-number automatically dialed using the customer's paired and operable mobile phone.

Ambient Lighting System with MyColor™ allows drivers to customize the interior lighting of the vehicle to suit their mood. The enhanced MyColor system features seven base colors – ice blue, purple, blue, orange, red, white and green. Customers also can create 125 custom colors by mixing the red-green-blue palette.

Available options:
Voice-Activated Navigation with SIRIUS Travel Link™ is an industry-leading technology that will provide users with a unique, information-rich in-car experience. The suite of data services includes up-to-the-minute real-time traffic data with accident and incident information for 78 markets, coast-to-coast weather data including current conditions and five-day forecasts and fuel price information for more than 120,000 gas stations. SIRIUS Travel Link also offers sports scores and schedules and a listing of more than 4,500 movie theaters with movie times, theater addresses, movie synopses and more.

This combination of outstanding performance coupled with a fresh, exciting, well-crafted interior intensely focused on improving the entire experience will make the 2010 Shelby GT500 even more sought after, and a fitting addition to a long and proud history.

The 2010 Shelby GT500 will be in dealer showrooms in spring. The cars will be built at the Auto Alliance International Plant in Flat Rock, Mich

Video: Car Climber

John Beltz Snyder — Tue, 30 Dec 2008 15:09:33 -0600

Don't ever do this.

That being said, check out this guy who did it.

+ LiveLeak: Wacky Saudi Car Climber

Nissan Announces Pricing for 370Z

John Beltz Snyder — Tue, 30 Dec 2008 09:26:01 -0600

Nissan announced today the pricing for its revamped Z, which starts at under $30,000. The 2009 370Z Coupe, featuring a shorter wheelbase, more horsepower, and a lighter, more aerodynamic body, has an MSRP starting at a reasonable $29,930, which includes the six-speed manual transmission. The new seven-speed automatic transmission will bring the price to $31,230. The 370Z Touring model, with an MSRP of $34,460 for the manual transmission, and $35,760 for the automatic, includes heated power seats, audio upgrades, and a Bluetooth phone system.

The Sport Package is available for an additional $3000, and features larger brakes, 19-inch RAYS wheels dressed with Bridgestone Potenza tires, and the new SynchroRev Match for the six-speed. The Navigation Package adds $1850 and an iPod interface.

Along with the pricing, Nissan announced a revised marketing tagline, “SHIFT_the way you move.”

Scroll down to read the full press release.

For Immediate Release

Nissan Announces Pricing on All-New 2009 370Z Coupe
– Revised Marketing Tagline “SHIFT_the way you move” Also Revealed –

FRANKLIN, Tenn. (Dec. 30, 2008) – Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) gets an early start on
the new year with the announcement of pricing of the all-new 2009 Nissan 370Z Coupe and
a revised marketing tagline. The new Z® goes on sale today at Nissan dealers nationwide
with a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP)* starting at $29,930 for the 2009
Nissan 370Z Coupe equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission and $31,230 with the
new 7-speed automatic transmission. The new Z® is also offered in a 370Z Coupe Touring
model, which is priced at $34,460 with the 6-speed manual and $35,760 with the 7-speed
automatic transmission.

Two option packages are offered: the Sport Package, priced at just $3,000, with 19-inch
RAYS forged wheels and Bridgestone Potenza tires, aerodynamic front and rear spoiler,
larger Nissan Sport Brakes, SynchroRev Match (6-speed manual transmission only) and
Viscous Limited Slip Differential; and the Navigation Package, priced at $1,850, with Hard
Drive-based Nissan Navigation System, 9.3GB Music Box Hard Drive and Interface System
for iPod®.

As the most powerful Z® ever produced, the new 370Z hits dead center in the sports car
“sweet spot” of performance, design and value – with less weight, more power and
enhanced handling, quality and style. With a standard 332-horsepower 3.7-liter V6, choice
of two advanced transmissions and a full array of driver-oriented interior features, the new
370Z is designed to be one of the top performance values in the world.
Also today Nissan announced the rollout of a revised marketing tagline: SHIFT_the way you
move. Previously, SHIFT_ was used with multiple complement words, which varied by
product or media application. The move to one set phrase “the way you move” reflects
alignment of the direction Nissan is taking to meet changing consumer needs and wants.

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- more -

“SHIFT_ has always been the core of Nissan’s DNA. It is rethinking the ordinary, changing
your point of view, and being original, forward thinking and challenging,” said Christian
Meunier, vice president, Nissan Marketing, NNA. “Our commitment to the philosophy of
SHIFT_ has become even more critical as we look to the future and the pressures of
economic and environmental change that are affecting consumer behavior in how they
interact with and impact the world.”

All Nissan national marketing materials will include the new SHIFT_the way you move
tagline beginning in January.
About the 2009 Nissan 370Z

The all-new 2009 Nissan 370Z, the first full redesign of the iconic Nissan Z® since its
reintroduction as a 2003 model, solidifies the strengths of its predecessor with an
unmatched balance of performance, style and value. Nearly every piece and component of
the 370Z has been rethought or redesigned (compared to the previous 350Z) – a shorter
wheelbase, greater use of lightweight body materials, larger engine with 26 more
horsepower, a new 7-speed automatic transmission, an available world’s first synchronized
downshift rev matching 6-speed manual transmission, a new high quality interior design
and new available technology features.

The 370Z’s new aerodynamic body is more compact and offers a more aggressive stance.
Attention to details such as the new “boomerang” headlights and taillights increases its
dynamic presence, elevating the overall styling to much higher quality and emotional levels.
The dramatic new interior utilizes a driver-centric three-layer design which groups items by
how a driver sees information, operates the controls and is held in place – so drivers feel
completely connected and engaged whenever and wherever they drive.

Performance has been enhanced with a more rigid body structure, better power-to-weight
ratio and a new 332-horsepower 3.7-liter DOHC V6 engine with Variable Valve Event and
Lift Control (VVEL). Crisp handling is provided by a refined 4-wheel independent
suspension, while steering and braking systems, including available Nissan Sport Brakes,
have also been upgraded. Available technology features include Nissan Navigation System
with XM NavTraffic® with Real-Time Traffic Information (XM® subscription required, sold
separately) and 9.3GB Music Box Hard Drive and a Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System.

- 3 -

12/08

The new Z® is offered in two models: 370Z and 370Z Touring. In addition to the 370Z’s
long list of standard equipment, the 370Z Touring adds heated leather-appointed power
seats, HomeLink® Universal Transceiver, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, 8-speaker
Bose® audio system, XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription, sold separately) cargo cover and
aluminum pedals to the long list of standard Z® features and equipment. Also available is a
premium paint color, Chicane Yellow.
About Nissan North America

In North America, Nissan's operations include automotive styling, engineering, consumer
and corporate financing, sales and marketing, distribution and manufacturing. Nissan is
dedicated to improving the environment under the Nissan Green Program 2010, whose key
priorities are reducing CO2 emissions, cutting other emissions and increasing recycling.
More information on Nissan in North America and the complete line of Nissan and Infiniti
vehicles can be found online at www.NissanUSA.com and www.infiniti.com.

# # #

* MSRP excludes applicable tax, title and license fees. Dealer sets actual price. Prices and specs are subject to
change without notice.

Hyundai To Flaunt Genesis Coupe In 2009 Super Bowl Ads

Steven J. Ewing — Mon, 29 Dec 2008 14:06:18 -0600

Following last year's rather sedate (yet to-the-point) Super Bowl advertisements for the Genesis Sedan, Hyundai will be showing a new set of ads to promote the upcoming Genesis Coupe during this year's Bowl. The set of commercials will be titled "The Epic Lap," shot at Road Atlanta featuring some professional precision driving by Pike's Peak record holder Rhys Millen. The musical score for this event will be performed by none other than award-winning cellist Yo-Yo Ma, performing Bach's "Cello Suite #3 in C, Gigue."

Hyundai reports that during the three total days of filming, the Genesis Coupe was in top form, saying that the only piece of equipment that needed replacing was a new set of tires. We're eager to get some drive time in the Genesis Coupe, ourselves, but in the meantime, we'll be sure to look for Hyundai's ads come Super Bowl Sunday.

Click through the post for all of the details in Hyundai's official press release.

Sports Car Will Dance to Music Performed by Grammy Award-winning Cellist Yo-Yo Ma
Precision Driving Performed by World Champion Racer Rhys Millen

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., December 29, 2008: Hyundai Motor America will air its first two television commercials for the new 2010 Genesis Coupe during Super Bowl XLIII on Sunday, February 1, 2009. The 30-second commercials will position the 300+ horsepower sports coupe as a performance machine designed to capture the hearts of automotive enthusiasts.

The two spots share the same theme, "The Epic Lap," but each offers a distinct perspective of Hyundai's newest offering to highlight both its fluid design and track-worthy performance. Precision driving performed by Rhys Millen, a Pike's Peak world record holder, Formula-D champion and professional driver, is choreographed to music performed by Yo-Yo Ma in the version airing in the first half of the game. A second musical talent will be introduced in the subsequent 30-second spot, which will feature re-edited precision driving footage matched to a completely distinct soundtrack.

"Genesis Coupe is Hyundai's most dynamic performance car ever and it is the second-consecutive all-new model introduction from Hyundai to debut during the Super Bowl," said Joel Ewanick, vice president of Marketing, Hyundai Motor America. "So many elements come together in these advertisements that showcase the Genesis Coupe's design and performance that we know it will cast a halo over the entire brand."

Just as the Genesis sedan set a new benchmark for the $35,000-$40,000 premium sedan segment, Genesis Coupe will provide sport coupe enthusiasts a fresh new set of performance alternatives. The Genesis Coupe offers a 30-mpg 2.0-liter model with a low-pressure intercooled four-cylinder turbocharged engine producing 210 horsepower, and a 3.8-liter V6 Track model with 306 horsepower and massive Brembo brakes.

"The Epic Lap" Captures Genesis Coupe's Performance

For the Super Bowl, Hyundai elected to create two commercials that put the Genesis Coupe in the only element where drivers can safely and legally explore the upper limits of the car's awesome abilities: a race track.

As racecar driver Millen navigates the 2.54-mile, 12-turn world class road course at Road Atlanta in Northeast Georgia, you hear a beautiful solo of Bach's "Cello Suite #3 in C, Gigue" performed by Grammy Award-winning cellist Yo-Yo Ma. The artist will also be editing the film footage with editor Hank Corwin to make sure his interpretation of the "The Epic Lap" is brought to life.

"We have captured the spirit of Genesis Coupe in 'The Epic Lap,'" said Ewanick. "Yo-Yo Ma's interpretation is gracefully paired with Hank Corwin's artistic editing and we have done a fantastic job of showing off the sculpted, modern design of the Genesis Coupe."

Rhys Millen flogged a Genesis Coupe for three days during the filming process and the car never missed a beat. The only item that needed to be replaced on the Genesis Coupe was a set of tires.

"The Epic Lap" was created by Goodby, Silverstein & Partners. Both versions of the advertisement will air again during the Academy Awards(R) on February 22 on ABC and on other special events programming. Hyundai will also host an online contest asking consumers to edit their own version of "The Epic Lap." Details will be announced after the Super Bowl.

HYUNDAI GENESIS COUPE HIGHLIGHTS

Hyundai's first rear-wheel drive sports car 306-horsepower from enhanced 3.8-liter V6 with premium fuel
Standard 220-horsepower turbocharged, intercooled inline four cylinder with premium fuel
Genesis Coupe arrives in the spring of 2009 as a 2010 model

BMW 7-Series To Get AWD In Late 2009

Steven J. Ewing — Mon, 29 Dec 2008 09:01:16 -0600

Starting in late 2009, BMW will offer its xDrive all-wheel-drive system on the new flagship 7-Series, meaning the big Seven will now have more ammunition with which to battle the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and Audi A8. However, BMW has insisted upon keeping the 7's rear-drive dynamics intact, so while other BMW xDrive vehicles have a 40 percent front and 60 percent rear power distribution, the 7 will have a 30:70 rear bias.

In America, all versions of the 7-Series will be available with all-wheel drive, though no U.S.-spec pricing figures have been released at this time. Across the pond, however, AWD will command €2500 to €2800 more than the respective rear-drive models. BMW is currently testing the all-weather 7 in cold climates, but look for the xDrive 7-Series to launch at the Frankfurt Motor Show in October.

+ Autoblog: BMW to offer 7 Series with xDrive AWD in late 2009

Driven: 2009 Nissan 370Z

Seyth Miersma — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 10:38:55 -0600

— Las Vegas, Nevada

Downshifting from third into second for an especially tight right-hander, Nissan’s 370Z makes a soaring, rev-matching howl that radiates through the desert like thrown-stone ripples in a quiet pool. It’s the sort of bellicose and randy whine that alerts motor-minded schoolboys to prick up their ears, setting the would-be racer’s heart to flutter. The uninitiated might assume that the sonorous growl of a lone sports car in the desert may simply evaporate into the vast distance, but our tour of the stark, southern Nevada moonscape in the newest Z proved that to be untrue, with the hard scrabble surfaces acting more like an echo chamber for the roaring V-6 and a sonic lodestar for anyone within earshot.

(Click through the jump to read on.)

Sound, its intensity, character, or in some cases, lack, is a hugely important characteristic for any vehicle, and doubly so for sports cars like the 370Z. The Nissan coupe, an unmitigated and rich aural experience, is in large part defined by its sound. Part of that auditory splendor is the product of Nissan’s new, and rather brilliant, SynchroRev Match feature on its close-ratio six-speed manual transmission. As advertised by its name, SRM does and amazing imitation of a practiced and perfect heel-toe shift, blipping the throttle as one changes up or down through the gears to effect a smooth, effortless, and surprisingly satisfying shift. To the casual passerby this function gives the impression that any 370Z driver is some kind of talented hooligan, stroking the VQ-series engine at every stoplight, stop sign, and crosswalk in town. Thankfully, Nissan has seen fit to include a cutoff switch for the SRM system, allowing for quieter and more anonymous operation should one require it. We didn’t.

We also sampled a 370Z with Nissan’s optional and capable new seven-speed automatic transmission, complete with flappy paddles and another rev-matching system for downshifts. The unit functions crisply going up through the gear range, and slightly less so on the downward trip, but overall it just left us flat after the genius of the new six-speed. Do yourself a favor; buy the manual if you’re going to buy this car.

Part of the reason we feel so strongly about transmission choice for 370 buyers is that the manual had us feeling so wonderfully in tune with a really wonderful V-6 engine. Nissan has bumped displacement of the mill up to 3.7 liters from 3.5, added its Variable Valve Event and Lift system, and improved output by 26 horsepower (totaling 332) as a result. It’s the adjustable valve trickery, more than the outright power increase that has the biggest impact for the driver though—the new VQ feels far steadier pouring on the juice throughout the rev range and much less likely to feel out of breath if one misses the occasional downshift before a slow corner. (This came in especially handy while lapping a tight racetrack, but more on that later.) VVEL is also really effective for the causal, short-shifting driver, offering more pop down low than the 350Z would have been willing to muster.

We were lucky in that part of our Z drive was under the auspices of, and on the fabulous facilities of the Spring Mountain Motorsports Ranch, a first-class racing facility nestled in desolate Pahrump, Nevada. Spring Mountain’s 1.5-mile course gave us ample opportunity to explore near the outer limits of Nissan’s handling and performance, as well as a safe-ish way to get a bit more foolish than would be advisable on public roads. Nissan engineers made a special point to emphasize that they consider the 370Z’s 54/46 front/rear weight balance to be ideal, noting that such a split allows for a perfectly even 50/50 under the load of a hard corner—just the time when a car’s balance really comes to life. When pushed into a bend, the Nissan grants to its driver the feeling of being completely centered, as if in the stationary middle of two outwardly rotating masses. Once embraced, this sanguine method of cornering gave us the confidence to push the Z harder and harder into increasingly familiar turns. The utter stiffness of the 370 package (30 percent stiffer in the front and 22 percent stiffer in the rear versus the 350) helped our confidence as well, by mitigating chassis flex and roll to such an extent that it was virtually unnoticeable.

Outside of the sanitized track atmosphere and out on the open road, the Nissan remained both fleet, and agile of foot, though we became increasingly aware of a dearth in road manners. As lovely and song-like as the 370Z’s engine was when driven in anger, it couldn’t help but be overwhelmed by the booming drone of the rest of the road noise. Some synchronicity in tire roar, wind bluster, and monotonized engine sound at a highway tilt, creates a ruckus that is rather unpleasant in the two-person cabin. It may be a bit unfair to praise the throaty engine and stellar grip with one side of our mouths, and damn their discordant hubbub with the other, but the fact remains that even hardcore owners won’t be driving at ten-tenths all of the time—and the most leaden foot may still want to hear the stereo on occasion.

Problematic noise to the side for a moment, the updated Nissan cabin is a fairly respectable place to pass the time, as long as one understands that the functions of driving have been given more than equal time in its execution. Deep and fitted bucket seats strike a clever balance between bolster and comfort, and provide better than adequate adjustment on the road to the ideal driving position. (We’d be remiss if we didn’t note that the steering wheel is adjustable for rake but not for reach, perhaps not a deal-breaker for most, but potentially annoying for those of slightly irregular proportions.) Nissan has added thoughtful and driverly touches, like a pad against the transmission tunnel within the foot well that serves to cushion one’s knee during the natural bracing that takes place in a hard corner. The steering wheel is pretty standard Nissan fare, thicker of diameter and nicely weighted, but using the same style, dual thumb switches, and blade-like paddle shifters (for the auto) as can be found in the new Maxima. Those looking for utter refinement will struggle for purchase in the Z’s cabin, though in full-leather trim it is far more fetching than the 350’s affair, as it still seems as though Nissan’s interior design department is a few years behind the bleeding edge of the industry. For instance, the 370Z may be all of a match for the new Ford Mustang GT on the track but most definitely lags behind the pony car’s high-spec new driver’s area.

Those quibbles with cabin fit and finish, a sometimes unrefined nature, or personal issues with styling (we found opinion about split on the roundish redesign, you can make up your own mind), go quickly out of focus when the scene shift’s back to something like our desert romp. Digging deeper into each corner, pushing faster mile after sun-setting mile, and listening pointedly to the song of a true sports car hard at work, we can tell that the 370Z is a success before even the first car is sold. The car has, for lack of a more perfect descriptor, soul. And it has it in spades. Expect to hear big things from this Nissan.

Video: Mercedes-Benz Shows Off The McLaren SLR Stirling Moss

Steven J. Ewing — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 10:44:01 -0600

Mercedes-Benz will be showing its special edition SLR Stirling Moss next month at the Detroit Auto Show -- sort of a last hurrah for the Mercedes/McLaren partnership. Powered by a supercharged V-8 engine, the SLR will be good for 650 horsepower and able to sprint from 0 to 62 miles per hour in just 3.5 seconds on its way to a top speed of 217 mph.

The design of the SLR Stirling Moss was inspired by the original 1950 300 SLR, and the current car has an extremely striking resemblance to the classic car. The open-top speedster design is indeed unique, yet functional -- the integrated air scoops also serve as roll bars.

Only 75 examples of the SLR Stirling Moss will be built, retailing at €750,000 each. (That's just over $1 million in USD.) We'll give you the full details from the Cobo Hall floor next month.

+ World Car Fans: Mercedes SLR McLaren Stirling Moss

Video: Rental Corvette vs. GT-R – Drag Race

John Beltz Snyder — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 13:46:04 -0600

The GT-R has become a standard against which drivers gage the practical value of other sports cars, often in the form of a drag race. What makes this video interesting, however, is the opponent the guys at Garage419 choose for the beloved Nissan. What happens when a nitrous-fueled Corvette ZHZ rented from Hertz takes on the Japanese beast over an eighth of a mile?

+ Garage419: NOS Rental Vette vs Nissan GT-R

Swedish Design Firm Creates Race-Ready Dodge Challenger GT

Steven J. Ewing — Thu, 18 Dec 2008 14:56:15 -0600

The last thing on Chrysler's mind is putting a stronger focus on motorsports, but Swedish design firm Vizualtech has created some renderings of what a potential Challenger GT car could look like. While Vizualtech is only a design firm, not a manufacturer, we still wouldn't mind seeing one of these show up in future GT competitions.

This whole package looks pretty menacing, and we like the idea of a retro-racer for the GT circuit. Side-mounted exhaust pipes, a beefy rear diffuser, rear wheel-well arches, and a front spoiler definitely give the Challenger a menacing appearance and would do great things for the car's overall handling, as well.

Be sure to click through the gallery to see the Challenger's GT livery in all its different iterations.

+ Motor Authority: Vizualtech renderings of Dodge Challenger GT racer

Pricing Announced For 2009 Pontiac G8 GXP

Steven J. Ewing — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 16:46:58 -0600

The Pontiac G8 GXP -- the most powerful production Pontiac ever made -- now has a price tag: $39,995, including a $1700 gas guzzler tax and $685 destination charge. In addition, a six-speed manual transmission can be had for $695 and a sunroof can be added on for $900.

$41,590 seems like a tidy sum for a fully-optioned G8 GXP, what with its 415-horsepower V-8 and rear-drive setup. Pontiac says that the GXP should be able to achieve 0-60 times under five seconds, though fuel economy rings in at 13 miles per gallon in the city and 20 on the highway.

Click through the post to read Pontiac's brief press release and scroll through the gallery above for a full load of images.

Pontiac today confirmed pricing for the 2009 Pontiac G8 GXP will start at $39,995, including $685 destination and freight charges and $1,700 in applicable federal gas guzzler taxes. With 415 horsepower and 0-60 times well under 5.0 seconds, the G8 GXPs is the most powerful production Pontiac ever created and comes standard with a six-speed automatic transmission or an optional ($695) six-speed manual transmission. A $900 sunroof option is also available.

Final EPA fuel economy ratings for the G8 GXP are 13 miles per gallon in the city, 20 miles per gallon on the highway.

Subaru to Exit WRC After 2008

Seyth Miersma — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 06:27:30 -0600

Japanese automaker Subaru announced this morning that it would be withdrawing from the FIA World Rally Championship at the end of the 2008 season. The announcement marks the end of a 19-year run in WRC by Subaru, with the automaker securing three manufacturer’s championships and three driver’s titles in that span.

While Subaru is claiming to have achieved all of its original goals in WRC competition—a fair assessment considering the great success of its rally-bred Impreza WRX and STI—the company also sites the, “quick deterioration of the global economy” and therefore smaller pool of resources for the exit. Subaru will continue to support private teams and drivers participating in the P-WRC or the Group N category.

Subaru’s retreat from rallying marks another high-profile exit from motorsport in recent weeks, with Audi pulling out of ALMS and Honda killing off its Formula 1 program. Read the full Subaru press release below.

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.

Issue 41 of Winding Road Magazine is Now Available!

NextAutos Staff — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 14:24:20 -0600

The February 2009 issue of Winding Road Magazine is now available in both our online and PDF formats. Our big feature this month is the new Porsche Cayman S, now with more power and a dual-clutch transmission. In fact, it's so good that we're forced to ask: Do you really need a 911?

Also, don't miss our comparison test of the 2009 Acura TL and 2009 Nissan Maxima, along with reviews of the 2009 Hyundai Genesis 3.8, 2009 Acura RL, and 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt SS. We've also got our Dynamic Dozen -- the twelve cars we loved this year -- and many more lists, too.

+ Click here to read Winding Road in our online format.
+ Click here to download the PDF of Issue 41.

Panic at the Bingo Hall: Granny Racing!

Chris Paukert — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 09:29:26 -0600

Barely a week goes by that we fail to ponder purchasing an old Scalectric set to set up on the conference table in the offices of Winding Road. Sadly, the need to have productive meetings (and work days in general) has precluded such indulgence.

Having said all of that, this novelty Granny Racing set may just have us bending our own rules, as it’s cheap (available for under $20), small, and offers battery-powered portability. And while we love the idea of tearing around in realistic scaled-down touring cars or F1 racers, there’s something irresistible about a wheel(chair)-to-wheel(chair) scrap between Edna and Betty that makes us smile. Perfect for the young (or young at heart), we only wish this set offered more track and additional features like scaled-down farmer’s markets and bingo parlors.

+ Jumpin' Banana: Granny Racing

Refreshed Mazda MX-5 Now On Sale in Japan

Steven J. Ewing — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 14:28:14 -0600

The Mazda MX-5 is one of our favorite droptops around the NextAutos office, so we're pleased to see that this refreshed version is making its way off of assembly lines, if only in Japan for the moment. Mechanically, not a whole lot has changed with the MX-5, though cars equipped with a manual transmission can now rev up to a 7500 rpm redline and new shift settings for the automatic-equipped models have been implemented.

The MX-5's exterior speaks to Mazda's new design language that we've seen on the updated Mazda6 and Mazda3, and some new color choices and wheel options are available, along with a choice of a traditional canvas roof or folding hardtop. Inside, there are minor updates to the fabrics and switchgear, and should make for a pretty solid package overall.

While no official details have been released for the upcoming U.S.-spec MX- refresh, we'd expect that all of the JDM updates will carry over. Expect pricing to be in line with the current car's numbers, as well. Click through the post to read Mazda's official press release, too.

Mazda Launches Freshened Roadster in Japan
Revamped Roadster inherits and evolves the original model's "Jinba Ittai" fun-to-drive qualities -

HIROSHIMA, Japan (12-9-08)-Mazda Motor Corporation today announced the launch of the freshened Mazda Roadster (known as the MX-5 overseas) into the Japanese market. Mazda's updated iconic lightweight, open-top sports car goes on sale today (December 9, 2008) at all Mazda and Mazda Anfini dealers throughout Japan. Manufacturer's suggested retail prices (including consumption tax) range from 2,330,000 to 2,600,000 yen for the soft top models, and from 2,680,000 to 2,950,000 yen for the Power Retractable Hard Top (RHT) models that feature Mazda's groundbreaking electric roof system.

The latest version of Mazda's two-seat sports car carries forward the Roadster's traditional "Jinba Ittai" ("rider and horse as one") concept, and features detailed improvements in the exterior and interior design, quality, functionality and dynamic performance. As a result, the Roadster is now more fun-to-drive and more desirable than ever. The RHT models, which provide both the enjoyment of open-top driving and the comfort of a coupe, are now even quieter and feature new, exclusive exterior parts, offering customers even higher levels of comfort and quality.

The design of the front fascia has been updated with Mazda's hallmark five-point grille. A stronger character line that stretches along the lower edge of the vehicle's sides has been visually extended to the rear bumper, further enhancing the Roadster's sporty dynamism. Newly designed alloy wheels (two sizes) now come as standard on all model grades. Three new exterior body colors have been added, including the high quality Aluminum Metallic and vivid Sunflower Yellow.

On the inside, the five gauges on the instrument panel have been newly designed and are highlighted by a dark silver decorative panel. The interior quality is enhanced by a choice of tactile brown leather seats or Recaro bucket seats upholstered in a combination of leather and Alcantara®*1. Comfort levels are also improved through the addition of heated seats with a temperature control with five temperature settings (for grades with leather seats only).

The rev limit on grades with a manual transmission has been increased to 7,500 rpm for improved driving performance. The height of the front roll center has been optimized, and the retuned suspension makes the vehicle's handling even more natural. Additionally, automatic grades now offer Direct Mode*2 and Active Adaptive Shift (AAS)*3 functions for an even sportier ride. Improvements have also been made to the engine and body to enhance noise reduction levels and provide a more satisfying engine sound.

The Mazda Roadster was certified by Guinness World Records as the world's highest production two-seat open-top sports car when production passed 500,000 units in 2000. Guinness has updated the Roadster's record since then, which now stands at over 800,000 units built.

*1 ALCANTARA® is a registered trademark of Alcantara S.p.A.
*2 Steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters can be used to change gear even when the gear shift is in the Drive position.
*3 AAS automatically selects the optimal gear depending on driving style and road surface conditions.

Main features of the refreshed Mazda Roadster

Exterior
The freshened Roadster carries forward the simple elegance and familiar styling of previous Roadsters, yet incorporates Mazda's latest design motifs.
- The front fascia now features Mazda's hallmark five-pointed grille. Sharper headlights and bold fog light bezels enhance the lively and refined styling. This further emphasizes the curved corners of the front bumper, which also improves the vehicle aerodynamics.
- More prominent character lines running along the bottom of the vehicle sides strengthen the appearance of the side sill garnish. The character lines have been visually extended to the rear bumper to better express speed and stability.
- The rear end has been updated with new rear combination lights that flow smoothly into the bumper. A larger black rear diffuser further emphasizes the Roadster's sporty appearance.
- RHT models feature an exclusive mesh grille with a chrome border, chrome headlight inner bezels, silver fog light inner bezels and chrome outer door handles. A high-mounted clear brake light completes the RHT's distinctive and high quality look.
- All models come with newly designed alloy wheels as standard equipment. The five-spoke 16-inch wheels complement the Roadster's lightweight image (on the S, NR-A, S RHT and VS RHT model grades). The 17-inch wheels feature 10 rounded spokes for a more dynamic appearance (on the RS and RS RHT model grades). Additionally, forged 17-inch alloy wheels, customized by BBS, are available as a factory-installed option (on the RS, RS RHT and VS RHT grades).
- Eight exterior body colors are available, including three new options: deep Metropolitan Gray Mica, high quality Aluminum Metallic, and Sunflower Yellow, which expresses the Roadster's Zoom-Zoom spirit.

Interior
The interior design of the freshened Mazda Roadster offers improved quality and functionality in every detail, while the snug cabin conveys a sense of openness.
- A sporty, dark silver decorative panel runs across the center of the dashboard. Silver rings have been added to the air conditioner dials on the center panel to raise the interior quality feel.
- The five gauges on the instrument cluster have been newly designed to make them easier to read. A red LCD screen is located in the center of the meter console. It displays data from the odometer/trip meter, as well as the average fuel consumption and ambient air temperature.
- The design of the inner door pocket has been flattened to increase space in the foot well. Soft padding has been added to the lid on the center console storage box and the door armrests to increase comfort levels.
- The newly designed seats come in four grades. Sporty black fabric seats are available for all grades except the VS RHT. The VS RHT features tactile, Havana Brown leather upholstery as standard equipment. Black leather seat covers (for the RS and the RS RHT grades) and RECARO bucket seats upholstered in a combination of black leather and Alcantara® (for the RS, RS RHT and VS RHT grades) are available as factory-installed options.
- The seats have larger side bolsters for greater support. For added comfort, heated seats with a five-setting temperature control are standard for the VS RHT and available for the RS and RS RHT grades as a factory-installed option.
- A BOSE® sound system, developed exclusively for the Roadster, features a six-channel digital amplifier and seven speakers with independent playback. The system also features AUDIOPILOTTM 2, a BOSE® noise compensation system (available as a factory-installed option on all grades except NR-A).
- An auxiliary jack that is located at the base of the center stack provides connectivity for portable audio devices (standard on the VS RHT and available as a factory-installed option on all other grades except the NR-A).

Driving performance
By reviewing and evolving the basic aspects of the vehicle's dynamics, such as acceleration, cornering, and braking, Mazda further enhanced the "Jinba Ittai" ("rider and horse as one") feel that the Roadster has become famous for since the original version was introduced.

Powertrains
- The 2.0-liter double overhead cam (DOHC) engine features a newly forged crankshaft for extra strength. Additionally, new full floating piston pins and revised valve springs raise the engine's overall operational precision. Maximum output is now generated at 7,000 rpm, up from 6,700 rpm, and the rev limit has been increased from 7,000 to 7,500 rpm. These changes result in a stretched power band at higher engine speeds (for manual transmission models).
- The highly rigid forged crankshaft, together with a stiffer plastic surge tank, contributes to improved quietness when cruising. At the same time, these changes bring out a clearer sound when driving at medium to high speeds. Six-speed manual transmission models also feature a newly developed Induction Sound Enhancer. This amplifies the throbbing noise generated as air is sucked into the engine and reverberates it around the cabin for an even better driving experience.
- The updated six-speed manual transmission provides an even smoother shift feel thanks to the carbon-coated meshing surfaces on the first to fourth triple-cone synchronizers and a larger diameter third to fourth synchronizer.
- The electrically-controlled six-speed automatic (Activematic) transmission now has a "Direct mode" and Active Adoptive Shift (AAS) which enhance the sporty driving experience and provide better response to driver inputs.

Body and chassis
- By lowering the front roll center height by 26 mm, the added vertical load on the outer wheels when cornering is minimized. This results in a more natural amount of body roll when cornering and more linear response to steering inputs. With added improvements to the suspension, the updated Roadster offers improved "Jinba Ittai" handling balanced with a higher quality ride.
- The protruding design of the front bumper corners and the rear combination lights, together with wider front under-floor tire deflectors, contribute to improved aerodynamics.

Quietness
The door modules are made from a stiffer new material and feature a reinforcement rib for extra rigidity. Together with a stronger number two crossmember, these changes make sound insulation better than ever. For RHT models, road noise is further reduced due to the addition of urethane foam filling in the front suspension crossmember and extra sound insulation in the roof.

Environmental and safety features
Mazda evolved the eco-friendly and safety features of the Mazda Roadster to increase its fun-to-drive qualities.
- All models qualify as Super-Ultra-Low Emission Vehicles (SU-LEV) by achieving exhaust emissions that are at least 75% lower than the levels required by the Japanese government's 2005 exhaust emissions standard.
- A display on the instrument panel shows the average fuel consumption and ambient temperature.
- The Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system supports linear and confident driving by helping to prevent loss of control when cornering (standard equipment on the RS, RS RHT, and VS RHT grades).
- The Roadster offers excellent collision safety performance thanks to a version of Mazda's highly rigid Advanced Impact-energy Distribution and Absorption System that has been specially adapted for an open-top car. Other safety equipment to mitigate potential injuries to occupants and pedestrians includes an airbag system and a bonnet with Mazda's shock cone structure.

Quick Drive: 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt SS Coupe

Steven J. Ewing — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 13:18:58 -0600

When General Motors introduced the first Chevrolet Cobalt SS for 2005, it was praised within the sport compact scene for its supercharged power and relatively cheap price point, though the car didn’t really have the overall refinement to make it something extra special. Thus, Chevy has gone back to the drawing board and come up with something it can really be proud of. This latest addition to the Cobalt lineup was tuned and tested on Germany’s Nürburgring and finally has the power and poise to be taken seriously as a true performance car.

(Click through the post to read our full review of the Cobalt SS.)

The old Cobalt SS used a supercharged version of GM’s 2.0-liter Ecotec four-cylinder, and while at 205 horsepower it was more powerful than comparable Volkswagen GTI and Honda Civic Si models, those overseas competitors were ultimately more engaging cars to drive. That engine was heavily reworked and now uses the turbocharged, direct-injected setup found in the Chevy HHR SS, Pontiac Solstice GXP, and Saturn Sky Red Line, meaning this Cobalt is good for 260 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. GM says that the SS will sprint from zero to 60 miles per hour in just 5.7 seconds, and having tried a few such runs ourselves with the help of the Cobalt’s launch control system (it holds the engine’s revs at 5000 rpm and minimizes wheel spin upon takeoff), we feel comfortable agreeing with this sub-six-second time. The no-lift upshift feature built into the five-speed manual transmission allows for rapid gear changes without any loss in power, too. And yet, when driven with care, it’s syill possible to get 30 miles per gallon on the highway.

Around town, the SS’s suspension does a respectable job of softening up any potholes or pavement irregularities. However, this is not to say that the suspension feels soft during hard cornering. We noticed good amounts of grip during quick maneuvering exercises, but because all 260 horsepower runs through the front wheels, torque steer has a tendency to show itself—especially when accelerating hard out of a turn (our test car’s limited-slip differential aided in this area a bit). The SS rides on some pretty attractive eighteen-inch wheels with 225/40ZR18 tires, behind which lies a set of Brembo brakes measuring a healthy 12.4 inches in the front and 11.5 inches out back.

The interior, sadly, is a place where the Cobalt SS really falls short versus its competition. Our biggest gripe is that the steering column has no telescopic function, and a few of us found it difficult to adopt a comfortable driving position. A smaller-diameter, thicker wheel would be nice, as well. Beyond that, the rest of the interior doesn’t stand apart from what you’d find in a base Cobalt, with the exception of SS stitching on the seats and an optional LCD performance display mounted to the A-pillar ($295—an analog boost gauge comes as standard fare). Pricing for the Cobalt SS starts at $23,425 for either the coupe or sedan, though our car’s optional LSD, performance display, and larger wing brought the as-tested price to $24,550.

There’s a lot to like about the Cobalt SS—tons of power and decent road manners and for many, its blown rental car charm may shine through its adolescent styling and bargain-bin interior. Still, we commend GM for putting out a worthy contender in the sport compact segment, as it gives us a reason to find more merit in the aging Cobalt.

2009 CHEVROLET COBALT SS COUPE
Engine: Turbocharged inline-4, 2.0 liters, 16v
Output: 260 hp/260 lb-ft
0-60 MPH: 5.7 seconds (est.)
Weight: 2975 lb
Fuel Economy, city/hwy: 22/30 mpg
Price as Tested: $24,550