It has been a while that Suzuki unveiled a new car for the market. A few months ago there have been some rumors about an upcoming model from the brand. Those who are so looking for ward to this new model will be disappointed because the supposedly upcoming Suzuki Kizashi mid-sized saloon’s sale has been postponed for an indefinite time. However, the company gave its assurance that the said model will go into production.

But then, news says that the model will still be unveiled at the New York Motor Show in April. It’s just that it will not be coming to the UK and Europe in the originally touted date which is spring of 2010. Instead of the two aforementioned countries, the Kizashi will be launched in major markets like Russia and America.

When finally launched, the Suzki Kizashi will be the company’s first foray into developing bigger cars for its assorted customers. As you are probably aware, Suzuki is more focused in developing small cars. This branching out of interest is definitely something to look forward to.

When the Kizashi gets produced it will be a four-wheel drive vehicle. Under the hood will be a 3.6-liter V8. This is the original plan but it may still change. Right now all we can do is sit still and let Suzuki do its job. If it’s meant to be launched at the appointed date it will materialize.

 A new model has been unveiled by Nissan. The new limited production GT-R SpecV will be put on sale in Japan next month. Shortly after that it will reach U.S. shores. What can we expect from this new model? For one thing, it looks really good, very sporty and streamlined. It should be since it is based on the new Series II GT-R.

Among the highlights in the exterior are the carbon-fiber rear spoiler, carbon-fiber grille, and carbon fiber brake ducts. To stand out from the rest of the sporty cars on the road, the SpecV comes exclusively in Ultimate Black Opal or a color that’s defined as unique purplish black. Seeing the pictures I really have to say this Nissan sports car is quite a looker! When light hits the panels, a one of a kind sheen shows through.

But, it’s not only the exterior that’s attractive about this car. The interior is also quite smart. By the way it is only a two-seater. The Recaro carbon fiber bucket seats offer comfort to the driver and his passenger. The rear center storage box, instrument panel, and other trim areas have carbon fiber inserts that enhance their appearance.

In addition, the Nissan GT-R SpecV is not all about good looks. It has the performance that you are looking for. Powering it up is a twin turbocharger engine teamed up with high gear boost device. This device helps the engine produce more torque in the intermediate to high-speed ranges for much impressive road acceleration. Also helping boost its performance is the new titanium-coated exhaust system. Providing excellent stopping power is the carbon-ceramic brakes.

Here’s the press release if you’d like to know all about the Nissan GT-R SpecV. 

PRESS RELEASE

Nissan Announces New GT-R SpecV Model

TOKYO (Jan. 8, 2009) — Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. today announced a new limited-production Nissan GT-R SpecV model, which goes on sale at seven specially selected Nissan dealers throughout Japan on February 2, 2009. The GT-R SpecV is targeted specifically at enthusiast drivers who desire race car-level performance in a street-legal vehicle.
NISSAN GT-R SpecV

NISSAN GT-R SpecV

Developed around the multi-dimensional Nissan GT-R sports car, which was introduced just more than one year ago to universal global acclaim, the new SpecV model builds on the original’s “ultimate supercar that anyone can enjoy driving anywhere, at anytime” philosophy – taking it to an entirely new level of “oneness between man and machine.” The SpecV model includes unique body, interior and performance equipment and modifications, raising the GT-R’s unmatched performance to even higher levels.

The GT-R SpecV’s new exterior features include a carbon fiber rear spoiler, a carbon fiber grille, and carbon fiber brake ducts. The SpecV is available exclusively in Ultimate Black Opal (RP) body color. Inside, the SpecV’s unique two-seat interior (non-SpecV GT-R models also include a two-place rear seat) offers special Recaro carbon fiber bucket seats, while carbon fiber insets embellish the rear center storage box, instrument panel and other trim areas.

Performance is enhanced with a new high gear boost control device, which momentarily increases boost of the engine’s twin turbochargers for greater torque in the intermediate-to-high speed ranges to provide a more powerful feeling of acceleration, while also allowing the engine to operate at a lower speed for improved fuel economy. Other modifications include a titanium-coated exhaust system and carbon-ceramic brakes that provide powerful stopping performance.

The GT-R SpecV is also equipped with lightweight, racing-style forged aluminum wheels that were developed for this model and have been sold by Nissan Motorsports International (NISMO) since September 2008. The lighter unsprung weight provided by the new wheels, together with the enhanced braking capability, an exclusive suspension and high-grip tires, combine to deliver the SpecV’s exceptional performance.

The SpecV will be sold at the following seven dealer outlets, each of which is staffed by mechanics with special GT-R SpecV training and who are knowledgeable of racing circuit driving.

Dealer outlets selling the SpecV
Ibaraki Nissan Sales Co., Ltd. Mito Sennami Outlet
Nissan Prince Tokyo Sales Co., Ltd. Kamedo Outlet
Nissan Prince Nagoya Sales Co., Ltd. Fukiage Outlet
Nissan Prince Osaka Sales Co., Ltd. Horie Kawaguchi Outlet
Nissan Prince Hyogo Sales Co., Ltd. Nada Outlet
Nissan Prince Kagawa Sales Co., Ltd. Takamatsu Outlet
Yamaguchi Nissan Sales Co., Ltd. Ogori Interchange Outlet

Suggested nationwide retail price (including consumption tax) 15,750,000 yen

But let’s look back on 2008. Last year is not all difficulties for some brands. In fact there are several brands that can boast of their best sellers for 2008. Let’s take a look at the best selling vehicles in the U.S. for 2008.

1. Ford F-150 – 515,513 units sold
2. Chevy Silverado – 465,065 units sold
3. Toyota Camry – 436,617 units sold
4. Honda Accord – 372,789 units sold
5. Toyota Corolla – 351,007 units sold
6. Honda Civic – 339,289 units sold
7. Nissan Altima – 269,668 units sold
8. Chevy Impala – 265,840 units sold
9. Dodge Ram – 245,840 units sold
10. Honda CR-V – 197,279 units sold

Well, congratulations to these models. We have to wait if any of these will still make to the list of top selling cars for 2009.

Aside from its attractive looks, the 2009 Mitsubishi Galant Ralliart is equipped with excellent mechanical features. For its transmission, it has adaptive automatic transmission; 5-speed electronically controlled manually interactive adaptive automatic transmission with overdrive, and sportronic manually interactive automatic transmission. Its power steering capability is matched with a 21-mm ear Stabilizer Bar, Front Strut Tower Bar, Independent MacPherson strut front suspension with coil spring and independent multi-link rear suspension with coil springs.

Control is given to the driver through the 4-wheel anti-lock brakes, front power 290-mm Ventilated Disc and Rear Power 284-mm Ventilated Disc Brakes. And for added security when driving on the road, the 2009 Mitsubishi Galant Ralliart is installed with front and rear side head curtain airbags, seat belts, trunk anti-trap device and automatic locking retractors. It also has power door locks, vehicle anti-lockout, child safety door locks on rear doors, vehicle anti-theft via alarm and engine immobilizer.

This vehicle comes in two variants. The four-cylinder type comes with a price tag of $23,998. The 258-horsepower V6 on the other hand is priced at $32,998. But, it seems that Mitsubishi is offering an attractive package. This new vehicle will come with a full 10 years or 160,000 kilometers of warranty coverage on engine transmission, five years/100,000 km on other parts and five years/unlimited mileage of roadside assistance. Wow, who would pass up this offer? If I have the money I definitely would not! All its features certainly make it a car worth having.

The new CLS550 Grand Edition is really a grand looking car. Well, that is the impression you’re going to get at first glance in this car. Among the initial impressions you’re going to get are the dark casings for the bi-xenon headlight units and 18-inch AMG wheels that are painted in extremely attractive titanium gray color. What makes the paint stunning is the mango platinum matte finish, which is claimed to be “highly scratch and dirt resistant”. The grille is also painted in a color that matches the whole exterior. The “Grand Edition” badge is located right in front of the vehicle touching up its appeal even more.

Its grandness is not merely on the outside but extends on the inside. Highlighting the interior are the Alcantara headliner, matte or high-gloss laurel wood, brushed stainless-steel pedals, and special available maroon leather. Some of the goodies that can be found inside are the COMAND navigation system and the parking aid system.

Aren’t you going to ask what lies underneath the hood? Maybe I shouldn’t tell. Ok just kidding. In Europe the CLS Grand Edition is available in full range of CLS engines. As such, it also costs $10,000 more than the normal CLS. In the U.S. it will be available in 5.5-liter V8 engine.

By the way, the Mercedes-Benz CLS550 Grand Edition is a four door coupe that sketched by American designer Michael Fink. This guy must have the muse on his shoulder when he drew the design because until now the four door model remains to be one of the most attractive vehicles to operate on the road.

Again I think it is only the lucky ones again who will be able to own this Grand Edition. Only a limited number will be produced so, enthusiasts who want one badly certainly have to stand in line.

January is just a few weeks away, which also means that the anticipation for the much-awaited Detroit Auto Show is coming to its height! Though the economy is in a slump right now, things seem to look a bit brighter for Mercedes-Benz. In fact the company will officially unveil another of its greatest creations, the 2009 McLaren SLR Stirling Moss. One look at the Stirling Moss and you’ll know its going be a hit with auto lovers! And to make them crave for this car, only 75 units will be available for sale. Whoever those 75 people are, I only have one thing to say – You sure are Lucky!

Here’s the press release to give you a full account of what this vehicle holds.

PRESS RELEASE:
Stuttgart– Mercedes-Benz and McLaren are adding the crowning glory to the model family of their highly successful SLR super sports car with a new, uncompromisingly spectacular car. There is neither a roof nor a windscreen to separate the driver and passenger from the outside world; they enjoy unadulterated high-speed excitement with all the attributes of a speedster.

The new SLR Stirling Moss is also characterised by the most sophisticated technology and a breathtaking design which reinterprets the SLR legend. With 478 kW/650 hp the SLR Stirling Moss accelerates its V8 supercharged engine from standstill to 100 km/h in less than 3.5 seconds, and has a top speed of 350 km/h – no other series-production car is at the same time so open and so fast. This extreme concept makes the new high-performance sports car a legitimate bearer of the name of the British motor racing legend and Mille Miglia record-holder Stirling Moss, who drove the legendary Mercedes-Benz SLR racing cars from victory to victory during the 1950s.

The exclusive SLR Stirling Moss rounds off the current SLR family and is limited to 75 units. It is priced at 750,000 euros. The SLR Roadster will cease to be manufactured at the end of May 2009 as planned, and production of the SLR Stirling Moss will commence in June 2009.

Three letters are all it takes to make car fans’ hearts beat faster: SLR. In the 1950s the Mercedes-Benz SLR 300 celebrated victory after victory. It won the Mille Miglia and the Targa Florio as well as the Tourist Trophy. It was driven by the stars of the time: Juan Manual Fangio and Karl Kling – and, first and foremost, by the British racing driver Stirling Moss. At ten hours, seven minutes and 48 seconds he still holds the Mille Miglia record.

This is why the modern-day version of the legendary SLR carries the additional words “Stirling Moss” in its name. As the new SLR Stirling Moss unites the character of the current SLR models with the fascination of the SLR of 1955. The core values of both the historical and the present-day SLR models include an exciting new design, innovative technology, high-class materials displaying perfect craftsmanship, and, above all: a unique driving experience for all the senses.

Whilst the 300 SLR earned its spurs on racing circuits the world over, the new member of the SLR family is not designed for the racetrack. Although it sets new standards in terms of technology, performance and excitement – just like its forebears – it is aimed at individuals who have exquisite requirements and nurture very special dreams.

Highly puristic concept without a roof or a windscreen

Remaining totally true to the specifications of the 300 SLR, the new Silver Arrow’s equipment is extremely sophisticated and yet at the same time decidedly spartan, doing without both a roof and side windows. There are just two wind deflectors a couple of centimetres in height to protect the driver and passenger from the airflow. Two air scoops integrated into the bodywork serve as roll-over bars. With this extreme concept the new SLR Stirling Moss is visually very different from all the other vehicles which belong to the elite sports car class.

Just like the legendary racing vehicles of yesteryear, the SLR Stirling Moss dazzles with its superlative performance. Accelerating from zero to 100 km/h in less than 3.5 seconds and with a top speed of 350 km/h this puristic high-performance sports car denotes completely new dimensions in open-top driving. And not just because of the impressive performance figures; every time drivers take to the wheel of the SLR Stirling Moss their senses are addressed with a previously unheard of intensity, conveying a driving experience in its purest and most sensual form. This automotive thoroughbred thus facilitates the kind of open-air feeling that is utterly unique for a road-going vehicle.

Exciting design reminiscent of the SLR racing cars

The SLR Stirling Moss, its entire bodywork made of fine lightweight carbon fibre, represents a stand-alone design concept. Whilst the Mercedes-Benz designers were working on the body of the new SLR Stirling Moss, they were fully aware every single moment that they were creating a vehicle with a top speed of 350 km/h. At the same time this supreme athlete is highly reminiscent of the SLR racing cars from the 1950s, whose design idiom still never fails to impress to this day.

The SLR Stirling Moss sports an exciting, pronounced arrow-shaped form and is characterised by an elongated bonnet and a compact, muscular rear. As there is no windscreen, the exterior and interior flow smoothly into one. The bonnet also stretches from its striking tip right down into the interior, giving the vehicle body a distinctly sleek air. Even when standing still, the sports car radiates such dynamism that the observer immediately falls under its spell.

Further eye-catching features include two air scoops behind the driver and passenger. They carry additional roll-over bars, also uniting the traditional and the modern. The wings are powerfully contoured. Black-painted ventilation “gills” sitting facet-like on the sides and on the bonnet also cite the legend. A thrilling interplay of light and shadow ensues through the expressive lines, underlining the dynamic overall impression. Exactly as they were on the shining historical example, the side skirts on the new SLR Stirling Moss are also very high. This prompted the designers’ decision in favour of folding swing-wing doors which open forwards.

The vehicle can be closed by two tonneau covers which are carried in the boot. When both tonneau covers and the doors are closed the SLR Stirling Moss resembles a sculpture.

In keeping with the puristic exterior of the vehicle, the interior is also reduced to the bare essentials. Surfaces penetrating each other in the instrument panel and doors make for an exciting atmosphere and resonate perfectionism. A mixture of high-class authentic materials such as carbon fibre, aluminium and fine-quality leather sets the style here. An aluminium plate carries the engraved signature of Stirling Moss and covers the area around the shift lever.

Innovative technology and polished aerodynamic concept

Developers working on the Stirling Moss were able to fall back on a wealth of experience gathered when producing the SLR Coupé and Roadster, in particular where the technical base was concerned, with its extravagant carbon-fibre design, high-performance suspension and throaty V8 engine. The common denominator uniting the Stirling Moss with the other members of the SLR family is the aerodynamic concept with a closed underbody and a diffuser in the rear bumper for maximum possible downforce at the rear axle – with one difference: the diffuser here is considerably larger than that on the coupé and roadster.

Thanks to the high-precision work carried out in the wind tunnel, the SLR Stirling Moss always generates sufficient downforce for extremely safe handling. But the driver can also manually operate the AIRBRAKE in order to increase the contact pressure further, during particularly sporty driving, for example. The AIRBRAKE is also raised during powerful braking at speeds above 120 km/h, so as to stabilise the vehicle even more in such situations, thus facilitating maximum possible deceleration.

Limited to 75 units – the SLR models’ crowning glory

The new SLR Stirling Moss is the kind of high-calibre speedster coveted by the sporting gentry and enthusiasts alike. At the same time it is a collector’s item which marks the pinnacle of an era and, for the foreseeable future, at least, the final curtain for the SLR. In May 2009 production of the SLR models will cease; only a total of 75 units of the Stirling Moss will be manufactured between June and December 2009, bearing chassis numbers from 1 to 75. Not only does this exclusive vehicle represent the conclusion of the current SLR family; it also serves as a very special thank you to the most loyal of SLR customers, for they are the only ones able to acquire a Stirling Moss.

It’s going to be a sad Christmas for a total of 46,000 employees affected. Though they will be paid for the whole month by means of state unemployment benefits, employees will not receive their full salaries.

This measure is being to avoid further losses as the company waits for a decision about the government loan package from the White House. Because of this, the completion of the Chevy Volt will be delayed as well. GM and Chevy hoped to have the Chevy Volt in the showrooms by 2010 but, due to this it’s not likely to make it.

To avoid bankruptcy, GM is hopeful for a $4 billion infusion from the U.S. Treasury, and a total of $8 billion to $9 billion. Chrysler is also hoping for $6 billion to $7 billion. This capital infusion is very important for Chrysler because by the year end it would reach critically low-cash reserve level of $2 billion to $2.5 billion. Though Chrysler is expected to get loans from the government, the most likely thing to happen after this is the company’s consolidation with GM.

Two Z4 models will debut in January, the Z4 sDrive30i and the Z4 sDrive35i. The former is equipped with 30-liter, inline-six engine that generates 255 HP. Its engine is matched with a six-speed manual transmission. The sDrive35i on the other hand has twin turochargers and direct injection that produces 300 HP. This is teamed up with an optional seven-speed double clutch transmission (DCT). With this transmission, the Z4 sDrive35i can go from zero to 60 in just 5 seconds.

Aside from excellent engine, the BMW Z4 comes with advanced interior features. It can be equipped with 80GB hard drive-based navigation system featuring the new generation of iDrive. The new iDrive controller is found at the center console and a big 8.8-inch widescreen monitor situated under the motorized door on the dash. 15GB of the 80GB hard drive can be used for storing digitally ripped off music.

Aside from these, some optional add-ons can be installed in the BMW Z4 – 14 speakers plus two subwoofers, hi-fi system that outputs 650 watts, aux-in jack, MP3-compatible CD-player that comes with standard digital audio options are just some of the add-ons that can be installed.

The 2009 Detroit Auto Show is definitely a car show to look forward to. The upcoming BMW Z4 models will definitely make the auto show become more interesting.

“I would like to thank the New England Motor Press for the Mustang award,” said John Felice, general marketing manager, Ford Lincoln Mercury. “This award is proof that Ford is providing products that people truly want and value. And those products will keep coming year after year.”

The said award was publicized at the 52nd Annual New England Auto Show in Boston that was held in the first week of December.

Maybe this award will boost the Ford Mustang’s reputation, consequently its sales. November was the worst sales months ever for this auto maker so, it is hoped that with this award, the Ford Mustang’s sales will go up.

As you know, the Ford Mustang is one of the most preferred vehicles by Americans because of its sport appearance – big grille, round headlights, side sculpting, and tri-bar taillights. The 2008 Ford Mustang is available not only as a convertible but also as a coupe. There are four trims available – V6 Deluxe, V6 Premium, GT Deluxe, and the GT Premium.

Kudos to Ford Mustang!

GM spent $750M for the development of its newest hybrid car, the Chevy Volt. Most of the money was spent on battery research which aims to regain the reputation of GM as a technology leader in the industry. But it will only be in 2016 that the Volt can generate a return on investment.

Fuel efficiency and hybrid vehicles are the main arguments made by GM in their bid to win a loan from the U.S. government recently. They have undertaken massive steps in the hopes of regaining its reputation as a technology leader which in turn will ensure their success.

There are also other benefits that may be derived from the Volt’s development. Advanced work on aerodynamics can be applied to other car models, the batteries and hybrid technology could be used in any number of platforms and the fuel-saving measures for the Volt’s combustion engine could be applied to existing cars of today. The company may also regain the public’s confidence since it suffered major setbacks on its reputation when they refused to innovate and discover and apply new technologies on their products.

The company is positive that return on this investment is foreseeable even though it will not be in the first production. More of the dividends will come from the considerable investment in the new battery and hybrid technology. In their presentation to the Congress, GM plans to invest $2 billion on hybrid and extensive series of vehicles from 2009 to 2012, of which $750M has been spent on the Volt project alone.

It will not be until 2011 that the Volt will be pushed for production but GM is pushing for the loan to be granted by the government so that it will be set in motion.

GM is resigned to the fact that a decade may pass before return on investment on this type of car can be felt but it is more important to maintain and keep afloat their business until the time comes when alternative fuel vehicles become widely known and patronized by the consumers.

It will not be until 2011 that the Volt will be pushed for production but GM is pushing for the loan to be granted by the government so that it will be set in motion.