Jaguar XFR-S NEW

Prototypes for the hardcore Jaguar XFR-S super-sedan are appearing with the least camouflage gear yet, meaning the car’s auto show debut can’t be far. Here we see an almost production ready example being thrown around the Nürburgring, with its new aero components, which include a large rear wing, being the only bits masked by camouflage.

With the XKR-S and more recent XKR-S Convertible proving to be quite formidable track weapons, though we’re sure most owners wouldn’t even know where their nearest track is, it was only a matter of time before Jaguar used the powertrain from its most powerful sports car in the XF sedan. Yes, the new XFR-S is expected to be packing a supercharged 5.0-liter V-8 with 550 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque channeled to the rear wheels, most likely via the latest ZF eight-speed automatic.

The XF sedan is a heavier car than the XK coupe, so expect the XFR-S’ 0-60 times to be slightly worse than the XKR-S’ 4.2-second figure. Top speed, however, should remain around 186 mph.

With these kinds of perfects stats, the XFR-S should have no trouble keeping up with the BMW M5s and Mercedes-Benz E63 AMGs of this world, and we could even see it ending up taking home the executive sedan performance crown.  

Look out for the new Jaguar XFR-S to debut at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show in November before going on sale early next year as the pinnacle of the recently announced 2013 Jaguar XF range. Note, this isn’t the only high-performance model Jaguar is currently working on, in addition to the production version of its C-X75 plug-in hybrid supercar concept as well as the recently revealed 2014 F-Type, the automaker is also planning a special track-focused XKR-S to take on the likes of the Porsche 911 GT3.

Lamborghini Urus concept

More stringent fuel economy and emissions regulations rolling in across major markets around the globe have all automakers, even supercar manufacturers, rethinking their designs and manufacturing processes in an effort to become greener.

Even the likes of Ferrari and Porsche will be launching new flagships powered by hybriddrivetrains by the end of next year, but while its rivals race to launch a new generation of hybrid supercars on the market, Lamborghini is taking a different view with its green strategy.

Speaking at the 2012 Paris Auto Show, Lamborghini CEO Stephan Winkelmann said his company’s supercar line, made up of the Aventador and Gallardo models, won’t adopt a hybrid system anytime soon. The reason being that current hybrid technology is simply too big and heavy.

While the technology may not be ready for one of its supercars, Lamborghini certainly remains interested in hybrids. In fact, we could see the option offered in a production version of the Urus SUV concept, should such a vehicle be given the green light.

When asked if Lamborghini might launch a hybrid SUV, a spokesman for the company said that something like the Urus would be the right type of vehicle. Of course, a production version of the Urus isn’t expected until 2017 at the earliest, and there’s talk that even that date might have tobe pushed back.

In the meantime, Lamborghini will focus on reducing the weight of its vehicles and refining its powertrains to cut emissions further. We’ve already seen this with the recent announcement of cylinder deactivation and engine stop-start on the Aventador.

According to the same spokesman, the decision behind adding these features to the Aventador is due to Lamborghini’s overall goal to reduce the CO2 emissions of its vehicles 35 percent by 2015, compared with 2009 levels.

This is something all Volkswagen Group brands are committed to, though Lamborghini is particularly focused in this area. In fact, the automaker sees boosting its environmental credibility as a company-wide task and is working on improving the efficiency of its entire operations. Another initiative was the installation of photovoltaic solar cells, which has already helped reduce the CO2 emissions of its factory by 30 percent.

Fisker Karma at SEMA 2012

If you thought that SEMA was limited to tuners and mainstream automakers, think again. Even extended-range electric sedan builder Fisker is back in on the action this year, partnering with suppliers to demonstrate personalization options for itsKarma sedan.

First up is 3M, who will be on hand in Fisker’s booth to wrap a Karma sedan in a different vinyl treatment each day, showing the advantages of vinyl wraps over traditional paint. Since SEMA stretches over Halloween this year, two of the four color schemes feature traditional holiday hues.

Gloss Burnt Orange and Metallic Black blend in an “October Sun” theme; Matte White with Gloss Blue stripes pay homage to classic American racing colors; Hot Rod Red and Black, trimmed in aluminum give a nod to customizers and Satin Black with Gloss Burnt Orange symbolize Fisker’s theme of “Onward.” Frankly, we’re just grateful there’s no chrome wrap.

Marking its partnership with Mobil 1 synthetic oil (chosen for its resistance to aging and efficiency-boosting properties), Fisker will show off its “American Icon” Mobil 1 Fisker Karma, in Gloss Sterling Silver with 3M Matte Blue Metallic striping, at the DUB Arena outside the show’s South Hall.

Demonstrating an environmentally-friendly chroming process, Fisker will show off Goodrich Technology’s PermaStar plating on 22-inch Circuit Blade wheels fitted to the Mobil 1 and 3M Karma’s on display.

This isn't Fisker's first trip to SEMA, and we suppose it won’t be too much longer before extended-range electric cars become more mainstream and tuner-friendly. While Fisker may be showing just appearance upgrades at this year’s show, we’d be surprised if next year’s SEMA show didn’t highlight faster and better-handling Karmas, too

Nissan Extrem Sports Concept Set For 2012

Nissan has revealed a new sports concept it plans to unveil later this week at the 2012 Sao Paulo Auto Show. The concept, which combines elements from a sports car with those of a crossover, is called the Extrem and was designed by a team at Nissan Design America in San Diego, California.

The Extrem’s designers describe the vehicle as an “urban rally car” aimed at young couples that spend most of their time in the city, though occasionally like to head for the outdoors. The lower half of the body and raised ground clearance is said to express the vehicle’s strength and soft-road ability, while the sharply sloping roof line suggests its sporting intention.

The combination of elements such as the wraparound glass, floating roof rails and detached C pillars enhance the feeling of an open, airy cabin. The rest of the concept features current Nissan design trends such as a raked windshield, angular headlights and vertical daytime running lights.

The exterior is also painted in a new color for Nissan, Solar Cortex, which is described as a deep metallic orange with radiant highlights. Other new elements include the contrasting matte finish of the roof and bright colors on the 19-inch alloy wheels.

Underpinning the Extrem is Nissan’s V-platform, currently found in the Nissan March sub-compact sold overseas. It features a 2+2 cabin and a two-tier storage area at its rear.

If built, Nissan says the Extrem would be powered by the automaker’s turbocharged and direct-injected 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, which is based on the unit in the Juke crossover as well as the one in theDeltaWing race car. The V-platform of the Extrem is flexible enough to spawn front-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations.

Nissan hasn’t said anything about production, though compact crossovers are certainly gaining in popularity around the world. And the last we heard, Nissan’srumored sports model to slot in below the 370Z may end up being a new front-wheel drive hatch, so we wouldn't at all be surprised if we saw something like the Extrem in production one day.

Subaru BRZ fitted with STI

                                                        Though it’s not quite the new BRZ STI model we’ve been hoping for, Subaru has unveiled a range of performance upgrades for the BRZ sports car developed by its performance arm Subaru Tecnica International. The upgrades were previewed today on a concept vehicle at the 2012 Australian Motor Show taking place in Sydney, and are said to be going on sale soon.

The highlight of the new range is a sporty body kit consisting of a front spoiler, side sills, rear diffuser and trunk lid spoiler. Also previewed today were new 17-inch light alloy wheels, a coil spring set, a sports muffler, adjustable strut tower bar for the front suspension, and a few interior bits and pieces. 

So far the range has only been confirmed for the Australian market, though they do hint at some of the upgrades that may be offered to customers in the U.S. and other markets where the BRZ is sold. 

In addition to the STI-enhanced concept, Subaru also showcased a BRZ race car developed by Possum Bourne Motor Sport (PBMS) and available for order from the New Zealand-based firm.

Designed for club-level competition, the race car is built to order and features upgrades such as a full roll cage, Recaro racing bucket seats with six-point Sabelt harnesses, carbon fiber interior panels, 18-inch Enkei wheels, AP brakes, Cusco adjustable suspension, and much, much more.

PBMS has stated it plans to offer more extensive upgrades, including modification of the engine and transmission, though no details on these have been released yet.

CHEVERLET CAMARO COUPE

It starts when you get that first glance of the unmistakable design. Those deep-set eyes, the rear shoulders sculpted from an impressive one-piece, body side panel. Oh, there’s an immediate chemistry alright. But it’s on that first real driving date that you’ll really be hooked — because Camaro Coupe’s beauty isn’t only skin deep.

It’s the 323-horsepower V6. Or the massive boost behind the 426-horsepower V8 available on SS, including the SS with the track-ready 1LE Performance Package. It’s the excitement of the precision handling that comes with 4-wheel independent suspension and world class braking you can’t get on a Mustang. The smart and accessible technology you’ll find inside. It won’t take you long to realize that this one is different from all the other cars you’ve driven before.

By the time you uncover the accessible price, the EPA-estimated 30 MPG highway for 2LS, the available 7-inch diagonal touch-screen and the available Head-Up Display projected on your windshield, there’ll be no turning back. This really was meant to be.

Outstanding Performance and Efficiency

Not only does the Camaro Coupe’s LFX V6 boast 323 horses that will propel you from 0 – 60 in 6.4 seconds. But it also offers impressive fuel efficiency: 30 MPG highway^† for the 6-speed automatic transmission 2LS.

The dual overhead cam engine gives you heart-racing performance. Direct Injection and Variable Valve Timing combine to ensure you’ll never waste a drop of gas. This is one high-tech, low-down, powerful engine. If unbridled power is what you’re after, the Camaro aluminum SS 6.2L V8 engine offers 426 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque befitting its aggressive reputation.

Suspension and Steering That Helps Keep You in Control

It’s so fun to drive, you might just volunteer to pick up the dry cleaning. The independent rear suspension and variable-ratio power steering give you the kind of handling you’ve only dreamt about. Its chassis is tuned to stick in turns and handle transitional situations like a champion. A 52/48 front-to-rear weight ratio gives you the kind of balance you’d expect from the world’s best sports cars.

New in 2013 for manual transmission models is Hill Start Assist that will help keep your Camaro from rolling backwards when you’re taking off from an inclined position.

Performance from the Ground Up

The exhilarating Camaro experience starts — literally — where the rubber meets the road. New 20” wheels available on LT and standard on SS, make a statement that’s impossible to ignore. Pair them with Pirelli^® PZero^®† ultra high performance tires^† for a true experience of style and power.

The Power and Performance You’d Expect from a Camaro SS

The first time you strap yourself into Camaro SS, make a mental note of where the hood release is. You’ll thank yourself later.

Because with this car you don’t just prop the hood to add windshield washer fluid. It’s packing an engine you’ll want to stand back and admire. And maybe let your friends sneak a peek at. If they’re lucky.

Unbridled Camaro Power…

The 6.2L V8, paired with the standard 6-speed transmission, offers 426 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque. Or opt for the high-tech combination of speed and efficiency with the 6-speed automatic transmission with Active Fuel Management, which offers 24 MPGhighway^† and delivers 400 horsepower.

…and the Tools to Control It

Launch control on the manual transmission SS helps control wheel spin for faster 0­60 sprints. TAPshift^® manual controls on the automatic transmission SS give you command over the gear selection for an exhilarating sports car experience, while keeping the transitions smooth.

The performance-tuned suspension with finely tuned stabilizer dampers provides an outstanding ride, balanced transitions, and excellent steering and handling. Pair it with the standard 20” wheels with Pirelli^®† PZero^® ultra high performance tires^† and Brembo^® brakes for superior performance and control

Lexus‑IS‑F‑CCS‑R‑Race‑Car

First seen at the 2010 Tokyo Auto Salon, The IS F CCS-R will be looking to to prove it's more than just a show car. Thankfully, it's properly equipped to tackle the 14,114-foot peak with items like a full roll cage, racing brakes, a lowered suspension and a slathering of carbon fiber throughout the car. The rest of the IS F has been lightened as well, with items like power windows, power door locks, rear seats and roof lining all removed. The powertrain remains the same as the standard IS F production car, however, its 5.0-liter V8 producing 416 horsepower and 371 pound-feet torque.