2007:

2009 Nissan Murano

Get the Flash Player to see the videos.

First launched in 2003, the Murano SUV is entering the 2009 MY with a new exterior, interior and enhanced technology. For 2009, Murano is being offered in five different versions: S 2WD, S AWD, SL 2WD, SL AWD and LE AWD, with prices ranging from $27,680 to $37,260.

For 2009, Murano comes with a wide front end with a dynamic front fascia design, a wide grille with large integrated headlights, strong body side character lines with pronounced 18-inch or 20-inch wheels and tires and a distinctive rear end set off by an expansive rear glass area and LED taillights.

The 2009 Murano is powered by a revised 265-hp 3.5-liter DOHC V6 backed by a new advanced Xtronic CVT™ (Continuously Variable Transmission), with a front-wheel drive or an advanced all-wheel drive drivetrain. Murano also features a new D-platform, as well as new suspension, body structure and state-of-the-art steering for improved ride comfort and precise handling.

Press release after the jump.

Full story

2008 Infiniti G37

Get the Flash Player to see the videos.

The Infiniti G37 Coupé offers dramatic performance in a thoroughly seductive shape. Although sharing a great deal of hardware with the G37 Sedan, the Coupé is designed to appeal to different buyer.

Among the key enhancements to the new second-generation G Coupe are a larger, more powerful 3.7-liter V6 engine, available advanced 4-Wheel Active Steer system, a dramatic new exterior design and a refined interior with intuitive, integrated technology. Top speed is limited at 250 km/h (155 mph), while 0-100 km/h takes just 5.8 seconds (on M/T version).

There are three versions of the G37 Coupé on offer – the well equipped G37 Coupé, the more luxurious GT version with leather upholstery, and the sport-oriented S version with 4-Wheel Active Steer system, a Viscous Limited Slip Differential (VLSD) and sports suspension settings among other changes.

Press release after the jump.

Full story

2008 Volkswagen Tiguan

Get the Flash Player to see the videos.

The Volkswagen Tiguan made its world debut at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show and starting the spring of 2008 it is also available in the USA. In here it can be ordered from three trim levels: S, SE, and SEL, with prices starting from $23,200.

The standard engine is a 2.0L TSI engine that delivers 200 hp and 207 lbs –ft of torque. The combination of four valves per cylinder, direct fuel injection and turbo charging delivers the optimum balance of power and economy. European tuned suspension enables connected handling, while also providing a smooth and compliant ride.

Both front wheel drive and 4Motion all-wheel-drive is available to suit any weather or road condition. The engine is mated to either a six-speed automatic or six-speed manual transmission.

As standard equipment, Tiguan includes six airbags, with rear side airbags available as an option.

Full details in the press release after the jump.

Full story

RKSport Genesis to debut at SEMA

A new customized Genesis sedan to be unveiled at the SEMA Show is the RKSport Genesis. It is a high-performance model that will be powered by enhanced version of the Tau V8 engine (originally making about 375 hp) developed by Hyundai’s U.S. powertrain engineering team in Michigan.

Styling modifications to the RKSport Genesis include a composite hood, unique front and rear lower fascias, side skirts, a composite rear roof spoiler and trunk spoiler. RKSport will partner with well-known aftermarket companies to add TSW alloy wheels, a Baer performance brake package, K&N performance air intake, Eibach lowering springs and a Magnaflow performance exhaust.

At SEMA we’ll also see the HKS Genesis Coupe, the RMR Genesis Coupe, and the Genesis Coupe Street Concepts.

Press release after the jump.

Full story

2008 Audi A4

Get the Flash Player to see the videos.

What is the new Audi A4? It is a car that gives you new feelings every time you get behind the wheel, a car that offers the best driving pleasure; a bad boy that makes people turn their heads every time you are in the neighborhood, but in the same time a car that is capable of offering enough space and security for your entire family. And to summarize in just few words: a car that deserves the four-circle logo.

The Audi A4 made its world debut last year at the Frankfurt Auto Show and on the US market will be available starting fall 2008. It will be offered with two powerful engines, both on gasoline. One will be the 2.0 TFSI four-cylinder engine that delivers 211 hp and one the turbocharged 3.2 FSI V6 that delivers 265 hp. The A4 will make the 0 to 60 mph sprint in 6.3 seconds and will hit a top speed of 130 mph (electronically limited).

First unveiled in 1994, the A4 was a car with many lacks. Is true it was a quality car, but buyers would always prefer its greater competition: the BMW 3-Series. But it seems that the new generation comes to say “enough is enough”: with new look, new technology, new interior and many gadgets that makes the driving more pleasant and offers best security, the A4 is for the first time a car that stands in front of its competitors with no fear.

Compared to its predecessor, the designers tweaked the proportions into a new sporty ratio. The front overhang was shortened, and the hood and the wheelbase were extended visibly. The new A4 measures 4.70 meters (15.42 feet), nearly 12 centimeters (4.6 inches) more than its predecessor. The body also documents the advances: It is significantly stiffer and safer than its predecessor, while, at the same time, dropping about 10 percent of its weight thanks to intelligent lightweight steel construction.

Full story

.

A close look at Formula 1 engines

Their sound sends a shrill through our spines on race weekends. The engine that powers a F1 car is different compared to a normal car’s engine. But how different are they? This topspeed.com special article gives you an exclusive insight on F1 engines that should answer all your questions.

Full story

2008 Audi RS6 Avant

Get the Flash Player to see the videos.

Outstanding top performance and maximum dynamism combined with excellent suitability for everyday use are the impressive features of the new Audi RS 6 Avant, which will be unveiled to the public for the first time at the IAA 2007 in Frankfurt. A newly developed V10 engine with FSI direct injection and twin turbochargers, permanent quattro four-wheel drive and sports suspension with Dynamic Ride Control DRC set the standard for high-performance vehicles in the luxury class. 426 kW (580 bhp) and a maximum torque of 650 Nm add up to an unforgettable performance experience. At the same time, the new Audi RS 6 Avant offers a high standard of travel comfort – on long journeys, too.
Full story

.

TopSpeed’s best 2007 news

At the end of every year is time for a short review: how the year was, what did we accomplished, what did we do wrong. Here’s the best things that happened here at TopSpeed this year. How did we choose? What we considered to be most important, and of course by most of the visits.
Full story

2008 Porsche Boxster

As we are used by now, Porsche’s model follow a certain order, being restyled and updated every few years. And of course the Boxster is no exception. In 2008 Porsche will unveil a new Boxster with subtle styling changes and incremental boosts in power. It will come to compete with models like BMW Z4 and Audi T
Full story

.

Ferrari F430 GT California renderings

Ferrari will unveil the F430 GT California in January at Detroit Auto Show, and of course everyone started making prepositions of how the car will look like. The latest one comes from AutoGespot, and although it looks more like a Hamann tuning for me, it is always fun to see!
Full story