News Archives - Dream of Driving

Spied: Jeep Wrangler JL Pickup

Posted on November 17, 2016 by Jared Eastman

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The classic maker of jeans, er,off-roader SUVs has been teasing the Wrangler Pickup for a while, and the fellows over at Road & Track have caught up with the CEO of Jeep, Mike Manley (close friend of Ron Swanson, I imagine), to ask him just when we can expect to see it. Turns out the skeletal rock-bomber takes a bit longer than anticipated to make (after all, they no longer come in a shipping crate for the U.S. Army) and we’ll be seeing it around mid-2018. This, of course, has made us at Burbbble sad, and while we may never see the Jeep Hurricane off the showroom floor, we were hoping to fill our stockings next year with spare tires and our trash cans with brand-new doors.

Granted, if you simply can’t wait, may we suggest the Jeep Comanche? It’s simply a Cherokee with the back cut off- same engine, less weight; usually you pay extra for that, eh, Porsche? While you can pick up a Comanche for around $5k or less, we’re speculating (with the Rubicon Unlimited at $38k and a Ford SuperCrew at $33k) that the Jeep Wrangler Pickup will be around $35k before options. And yes, you’ll have to pay for those doors before you throw them out.

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Update: 2017 Panoz Avezzano

Posted on November 14, 2016 by Jeff

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Panoz recently debuted a new model dubbed the Avezzano, its new sports car featuring a supercharged V8 engine and a next-generation chassis. Panoz showed off Prototype No. 1 at Petit Le Mans at Road Atlanta. The niche automaker told Burbbble the Avezzano is set to start production in summer 2017.

The prototype, currently being used to test fit and finish, the new body, and more, features an LSA V8 from the Cadillac CTS-V, but the production version will sport a 6.2-liter supercharged GM V8 making at least 560 bhp. Panoz says the new production chassis will be four times stiffer than the current chassis thanks to an updated design with carbon fiber center and A-pillar structures in addition to high-strength aluminum.

The Avezzano is based on a successful Panoz GT-class endurance race car that features a aluminum body similar to the Panoz AIV Roadster and the Esperante. Panoz estimates it will be able to build around 25 Avezzano models a year and says it could increase production if demand increases.

{gallery}Panoz Avezzano{/gallery}

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The Grand Tour Releases Official Trailer

Posted on October 7, 2016 by Jeff

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Amazon released the first official trailer for The Grand Tour, the highly-anticipated new show starring the ex-BBC Top Gear trio comprised of Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May.

The trailer gives us the latest glimpse of what we can expect from the new show. From the shown scenes, we can expect the same chemistry the old boys have given us with a new flavor. It seems to take on a style more akin to Top Gear’s old Ultimate Road Trip episodes, which were less about challenges and more about adventure and cars.

We see a fractured arm, exotic cars, insults, exotic locations, a mob, the big-three hypercars, a minor fire, and banter. It seems to be a version of older, less politically-correct Top Gear unleashed with a much bigger budget. Lots of cars, lots of immature humor, but all topped with a refreshing citrus twist. Of course, we should stop comparing the two shows because they both say they are non-competing, totally separate shows. (Really though, who isn’t comparing them?)

The new show premieres November 18 on Amazon Prime with a new episode available to stream each week for a total of 12 episodes for the first season. Two more seasons of The Grand Tour are guaranteed by Amazon, also with 12 episodes each. Check out the video below to see the action.

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Panoz Debuts the 2017 Avezzano

Posted on September 29, 2016 by Jeff

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It’s getting more and more difficult these days to get an authentic, basic sports car experience. The nanny state continuously make more regulation, and the public demands a cushion of luxury and technology. The Dodge Viper and TVR are dead (at least for the time being). But there is still one small automaker determined to bring us that wonderful experience.

Panoz, the plucky little American maker of “America’s most exclusive sports car” (due solely to budget, probably) announced a new model this week, the Panoz Avezzano, which will launch in 2017. Prototype No. 1 debuted at Petit Le Mans at Road Atlanta.

The Avezzano is based on a successful Panoz GT-class endurance race car that features a aluminum body similar to the Panoz AIV Roadster and the Esperante. Underneath will be a new generation of the Panoz’s high-strength aluminum-intensive chassis. Carbon fiber and other lightweight composites will also make up the Avezzano’s construction. It will be powered by a supercharged 6.2-liter “easy to maintain American V8” making at least 560 bhp.

Hooray for stubborn little automakers sticking to the basics to give us a raw sports car experience. I’m sure the build quality will be comparable to Porsche’s. And if you ever see one of these in the future, be sure to take a picture because there probably won’t be too many of these babies built.

{gallery}Panoz Avezzano{/gallery}

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The Grand Tour Premieres November 18

Posted on September 16, 2016 by Jeff

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The Grand Tour, the highly anticipated ‘motoring show’ starring former BBC Top Gear hosts Jeremy Clarkson, James May, and Richard Hammond, will air on Amazon Prime on Nov. 18, 2016.

According to Amazon Prime, a new show will premiere each Friday after the premiere on the subscription-based video streaming service. A total of 12 episodes will air in the first season, with 36 episodes guaranteed over a period of three years.

Watch the video below for a tease of what we can expect. Here’s a interview with The Grand Tour executive producer Andy Wilman talking more about the new show.

The teaser video show the trio getting into some shenanigans involving a Ferrari LaFerrari, Porsche 918 Spyder, McLaren P1, the desert, some open water, an Alfa Romeo 4C Spyder, an Aston Martin Vulcan, some dune buggies, and lots of 4K high definition.

If only Burbbble had been selected as a winner to be in the live audience for the show’s California taping…

We’ll wait and see how the BBC tweaks Top Gear (minus Chris Evans) in response.

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Liberty Media to Buy F1 for $8 Billion

Posted on September 8, 2016 by Jeff

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Liberty Media Corporation, an American media company, has agreed to purchase Formula One for $8 billion. If you don’t know what Formula One is or how much $8 billion is, you probably have strong opinions about Brad Keselowski and Tony Stewart.

Chase Carey will serve as the new Chairman of Formula One, succeeding Peter Brabeck-Letmathe, who will remain on Formula One’s board as a non-executive director. Troll-under-the-bridge Bernie Ecclestone will remain CEO of Formula One.

“We are excited to become part of Formula One,” Greg Maffei, Liberty Media president and CEO, said. “We think our long-term perspective and expertise with media and sports assets will allow us to be good stewards of Formula One and benefit fans, teams and our shareholders. We look forward to working closely with Chase Carey and Bernie Ecclestone to support the next phase of growth for this hugely popular global sport.”

“I would like to welcome Liberty Media and Chase Carey to Formula One and I look forward to working with them,” said the Dark Lord Ecclestone.

Liberty Media says it plans to develop F1 to its full potential. Whether that means they intend to bring back legendary racing or capitalize on branded leather t-shirts and $750 gear-lamps, only time will tell.

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And on the 14th year, the Supra rose again

Posted on September 8, 2016 by Jared Eastman

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The Supra has been cruising around the great mountain roads in the sky for far too long

Whether cruising down Mount Akina chased by a Panda Trueno or annoying suburban neighborhoods with 1,000hp versions (supplied by bolt-on parts, stickers and a large spoiler), the Supra has a place in most motorheads’ hearts as the car we can hope to obtain as Skylines are too hard to get. But regardless of its popularity, the Supra has been cruising around the great mountain roads in the sky for far too long. However, in typical nostalgia-inducing fashion, Toyota (In partnership with BMW) are bringing it back. There’s plenty of spy photos after the jump, but first let’s take a look at the slithering Supra’s history.

Based upon a Celica in 1978 (back when it wasn’t a cheerleader’s car), the 15 foot behemoth had a mere 123hp to propel it forward with an inline, 6 cylinder engine. It was always a collaboration car, either internally within Toyota themselves (Lexus parts in the A80), or sharing parts with other car makers like Lotus (in the Celica XX).

As time went on the Supra grew larger in both engine and body, some of that having to do with changing taxes in Japan, but also as the Supra fell away from it’s Celica roots and derivatives, turning into a model all its own. The A70 is the first example of this, taking the platform from the Corona and adding a larger, 200hp engine. This engine, the 7M-GE became the flagship for Toyota, as well as the turbo version that added 30 more horses.

TRD had a wonderful time tuning these cars in the Late 80s into the 90s, when Group B reigned supreme and led to many innovative changes. Thus, the A80 was born, the last model spanning from 93-2002. With all the advancements made on and off the track, Toyota managed to hit a 4.6 second 0-60 time in the turbocharged variant and sported a 320hp engine.

The Supra wouldn’t see the factory floor until 2016, a massive 14 years later

The Supra wouldn’t see the factory floor until 2016, a massive 14 years later (18 in the U.S. Market). But, with glimpses of this car finally coming to light, and a powertrain designed by Ze Germans, the hopes of spoiler-clad, Japanese muscle drifting around tight, mountain roads have risen again. It is said that BMW is making a similar model based on this collaboration, although only coming in a roadster version while the new Supra will be coupe only. Here’s to hoping it won’t go the way of the FRS, where the same model minus a badge was released for both Toyota and Subaru.

Thanks to Autoguide for the shots, we wish we were as popular as you guys.

You could go to Jalopnik, but while they have a better camera, they don’t have any skills in composition when it comes to capturing moving cars on traffic-filled roads.

{gallery}Supra Spy Photos{/gallery}

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Tesla: Part Deux

Posted on July 25, 2016 by Jeff

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Real life Iron Man/Bond Villain and Tesla CEO Elon Musk released a statement this week revealing the details of his “Master Plan: Part Deux” for Tesla.

The first part of Musk’s “Master Plan,” involved creating a low-volume car, which would necessarily be expensive; using that money to develop a medium volume car at a lower price; then using that money to create an affordable, high volume car; and finally, providing solar power.

Part Deux, Musk said, can be summed up as: create stunning solar roofs with seamlessly integrated battery storage, expand the electric vehicle product line to address all major segments, develop a self-driving capability that is 10 times safer than manual via massive fleet learning, and enable Tesla’s to make money for owners when they aren’t using it.

The first step of Part Deux involves Tesla’s potential acquisition of sister company SolarCity. Although the two have always been separate companies, Musk has been central to the success of both. Through an acquisition, SolarCity would provide solar panels for the roofs of homes, which would power both the home itself and charge the batteries in Tesla’s Powerwall concept. Pretty neat, if you like the idea of renewable, clean energy at no cost after initial investment.

Step two involves new models from Tesla, which would most likely be a compact SUV and a “new kind of pickup truck.” It isn’t clear what he means by “new kind,” but it could mean a pickup truck for people other than Bud Light drinkers, or it could simply mean the first-ever electric pickup. The latter would be delightfully torquey, a desirable truck characteristic, I’m told.

Developing a self-driving software that is 10 times as safe as a human driver is quite a feat. Though Tesla seems to be further along its way to achieving this goal than other automakers, it comes with the risk of inevitable casualties. But hey, it’s just a beta, right?

But when they get all the beta testing done, your Tesla will be making money for you! While you’re at work making money and doing business, your autonomous Tesla will be an Uber driver. That way all the poor people who can’t even afford an entry level Tesla can experience the thrill of electric car transport, while vomiting all over the back seat.

How many steps there are in Musk’s master plan, and what the end result will be are still unclear. Though it’s probably safe to assume it involves launching a successful car company on Mars.

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Speeduino – The Open-source EMS and You

Posted on June 20, 2016 by Jared Eastman

burbbble speeduino board

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In the world of DIY with our 3D printers, CNC machining and armchair engineers in Autodesk it would only make sense that someone would delve into the brains of whats sitting in our garage and tell themselves: “Why, yes, I could do better than all the engineers at [insert car company here]”. Of course, there’s a good chance you could. Afterall, when a vehicle leaves the floor its engine has to handle an amazing amount of variables: Octane rating, ambient temperatures, Mother Nature, Oxygen content, and normal wear and tear. One regulator of all these variables is your ECU/EMS (Engine Control Unit/ Engine Management System). The ECU is a computer inside of your car that monitors things like how rich the oxygen is or how explody your gasoline is and changes engine variables accordingly. But again, even the ECU has to be ready for a wide range of variables. While race cars have their engines tuned for every track with fuel use being measured down to the nanoliter, road engines have to be ready to run with that 76 octane you got at the empty turnpike in Tennessee.

Some companies, like APR, flash the current EMS/ECU with multiple options, so when you’re running high-octane on a track you can expect more performance as the engine is aware of what fuel you’re using. However, with a pricetag of around $500 this may not be an option for everyone, not to mention the lack of customization. Flashing the ECU still uses the stock computer, just with a different set of parameters while running it. Ultimately, except for R&D it costs APR little to program your ECU, but those savings aren’t extended to you. Other implementations include a piggy-back system that is plug and play from Megasquirt, for a mere $1,600 or a system that goes through your OBDII port, like Tactrix, but that isn’t as “open” as a software as one would hope.

This is an open-source, fully-customizable EMS that runs off the Arduino board, a mini-computer for a mere $40-70.

Which is what brings us to Speeduino. This is an open-source, fully-customizable EMS that runs off the Arduino board, a mini-computer for a mere $40-70. Imagine downloading different profiles from other dedicated enthusiasts of your car for elevation or other environmental changes, having track-day loadouts for those high-octane runs, and even settings for gas-sipping economy on long trips (or perhaps a rev limiter so the valet doesn’t pull a Ferris Bueller on you). Further, the information the ECU records is extensive, and with the Speeduino it’s all available to you. It turns your on-board computer from a black box to a glass house. Never again will you wonder what your spark advance and duty cycle are (or more applicable things to the layperson like coolant temperature).

Another interesting aspect of the Speeduino occurs when you overlay those recorded measurements onto a dashcam. Suddenly, you have the ability to analyze your runs. You can review how soon you turned and whether you could have squeezed a few extra RPMs when exiting the apex. Take this video for example, it’s like we’re playing a video game

While the project is still in its early stages, there’s no reason that this shouldn’t become common. There’s a time in the near future where tuning and modding a car won’t just come down to turning a wrench, but a few mouse clicks as well. If you have the time, gumption, know-how or curiosity, check out Speeduino for more information.

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Porsche Teases New Panamera

Posted on June 10, 2016 by Jeff

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Porsche release a video this week to tease the reveal of the next-generation Panamera luxury sedan. The video does not show the new Panamera at all, rather it builds anticipation for the reveal by recounting the revolutionary ideas that made Porsche what it is today, despite critics through history calling the ideas “madness.”

And that’s the main problem with the video, because there is nothing about a conventional luxury sedan with an unremarkable powertrain that could be considered “madness.”

Porsche has had revolutionary ideas in the past, ones that could still be considered today as extremely risky to say the least. It made a car with an air-cooled engine mounted at the back one of the most successful and best selling sports cars of all time. It was one of the first automakers to experiment with turbocharged engines for road cars. It made a hybrid-hypercar one of the most sought after vehicles on the market today.

But, that doesn’t mean everything Porsche does is extraordinary. This new Panamera will be nothing special. It will be a good car, no doubt. But, it will be forgotten in the annals of Porsche history, along with that stupid 2.0-liter turbo four Macan. Seriously, name an automaker that isn’t making a small, four-cylinder turbocharged crossover SUV.

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BMW Shows Off Every Hommage Vehicle

Posted on May 23, 2016 by Jeff

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Every so often, BMW remembers that it used to make cars meant for more than just a two-year lease in metropolitan markets. When that happens, BMW churns out a Hommage vehicle inspired by one of their classic hits.

This year’s flavors include the BMW 2002 Hommage and Motorrad R 5 Hommage, hommages to, you guessed it, the BMW 2002 and R 5.

Feeling extra special during its 100th anniversary, BMW brought out all of its previous Hommage vehicles at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este 2016. If you don’t know what that is, it’s just an annual fancy car show in Lake Como, Italy where the uber rich show of their priceless metal, get boozed up, and have exotic luxury automakers show one-off cars inspired in design by the cars they all drove there in.

Including the 2002 Hommage and the R 5 Hommage, the rest of the Hommage lineup includes the M1 Hommage from 2008, 3.0 CSL Hommage from 2015, Concept Ninety from 2013, 328 Hommage from 2011, Concept Coupé Milla Miglia from 2006, and MINI ACV 30 from 1997.

So if you like the idea of over-designed, one-off show cars that see the light of day for just a few hours over one weekend before being shut away in a warehouse for years, here’s a photo of every BMW Hommage vehicle in its natural habitat- the manicured lawn of some mansion in Italy. Enjoy!

{gallery}bmw-hommage{/gallery}

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Volvo 40.1 and 40.2 Concept Cars Go Back to the Future

Posted on May 20, 2016 by Cory

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The 1980s were a dark time. I’m not sure if automotive designers were too busy looking for acid (to wash their jeans with), but the vast majority of vehicles for sale in the 80s are not going to end up on many short lists for best looking cars of all time.

Maybe they fired all their designers, bought a protractor, and spent the rest of the money on seat belts and crash-test dummies

It can be difficult to imagine when looking at the new 40 concepts from Volvo, but the Swedish car company was not immune to the ugly-pandemic (much like the Uggdemic of the late 2000s). In fact, they had such a hard time shaking the uglies that they made crap looking cars well into the 1990’s. Maybe they fired all their designers, bought a protractor, and spent the rest of the money on seat belts and crash-test dummies. During this stretch of time Volvo had a reputation for making some of the safest, but most boring cars on the road.

Even though this stodgy stature was well deserved, Volvo’s current XC90 and 40 concepts are anything but humdrum. The 40 concepts are based on a new platform called CMA and while it doesn’t stand for Country Music Awards, I have about the same level of interest in Compact Modular Architecture. What is far more important to me is that the 40.1 and 40.2 concepts look fantastic.

The 1979 concept was called the Volvo Tundra and it is everything you could want from a late 70s design

The designs remind me of a time when Volvo concerned themselves less with torsional rigidity and more with sturdy style. In the late 70s, Volvo employed the now defunct Gruppo Bertone to design a hatchback. I couldn’t help but think about this car when looking at the new Volvo concepts. The 1979 concept was called the Volvo Tundra and it is everything you could want from a late 70s design. The Tundra featured pop-up headlights, full-width tail light bar, and futuristic lines. Even though this car never entered production under a Volvo badge (later becoming the Citroen BX) it displays a commitment to modern design which is evident in the new 40 concepts.

At this point, like all the other automotive sites out there, I should show you a gallery of the new CMA based Volvo 40 concepts. Instead, I’m going to show you a pretty lady in a gold bikini standing next to an even gold-er car. Enjoy.

{gallery}volvo-40-concepts{/gallery}

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MINI Reveals Cooper Seven

Posted on May 13, 2016 by Jeff

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This week, MINI unveiled the first special edition version of the new MINI Cooper called the MINI Seven, meant to underline the German car’s distinctive British character.

Available in both three and five door versions of Cooper, it is an “expression of premium characteristics and individual style.” The Seven name comes from the Austin Seven, launched in 1959, which was the first model nameplate of the classic Mini.

The key exterior features separating the Seven from plebeian MINIs are the Lapisluxury Blue (or an additional three colors), roof and exterior mirror caps in Melting Silver, 17-inch light alloy wheels in an exclusive MINI Seven Spoke two-tone design, MINI Seven door sill finishers, side badges with a MINI Seven logo, and hood stripes in Melting Silver with surrounds in Malt Brown optional. So in reality, it is indistinguishable from the normal car.

But wait, there’s more! The interior upholstery comes in Diamond Malt Brown with Piano Black interior surfaces, but customers will be able to option Malt Brown surfaces. A MINI Seven logo will be in the central instrument cluster.

All in all, BMW’s MINI played the part of a college-aged 328i owner who pulled off all the badges and swapped them for ones that say M3. We’ll see these on Craigslist in 14 years time outrageously asking $500 over what you would normally pay for them. We can’t wait!

{gallery}MINI Seven{/gallery}

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Top Gear Premieres May 29, Grand Tour in Autumn

Posted on May 12, 2016 by Jeff

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This week, we got news concerning the two most highly anticipated British motoring shows of 2016: the newly staffed Top Gear and the newly named Grand Tour.

Reborn, but not reinvented, Top Gear announced Wednesday it will premiere May 29 in the U.K., debuting May 30, a day later in the U.S. The first episode will have “a Ferrari F12tdf sliding, an Ariel Nomad jumping, a Dodge Viper and jet fighter racing, and a lead presenter puking.” Vomit and Vipers? Yes, please. See the latest trailer here.

Jeremy Clarkson also officially revealed via Twitter on Wednesday the name of his, Richard Hammond and James May’s new Amazon show, along with an expected release date.

Start the smoke. We have a name.

— Jeremy Clarkson (@JeremyClarkson) May 11, 2016

So, the Grand Tour (GT for short) will come from a tent, which we will put up in a different location every week. Your town?

— Jeremy Clarkson (@JeremyClarkson) May 11, 2016

The new show will be called the Grand Tour, expected Autumn 2016. Not much else was revealed about this new show, but Jeremy did say that the show would be coming from a tent, pitched in a different location each week. We all know how much Hammond loves tenting.

pic.twitter.com/pphwLmqKFt

— The Grand Tour (@thegrandtour) May 11, 2016

The good news is Hamayson’s new show shouldn’t be any less entertaining than when the trio was on the BBC. We’ll still get their chemistry, immaturity and tomfoolery. Plus, we’ll get a new version of their old show with a new set of hosts, who are exceptionally qualified to fill their predecessors’ shoes (they probably won’t, but they’ll come close) who will potentially be making another excellent show. I wonder if they’ll join the Drive Tribe?

Worst case, we will end up with one good motoring show; best case (and most likely), we’ll have two brand-new motoring shows devoted to the love of horsepower and the negligence of political correctness. We look forward to them both.

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BMW Wants You to Keep Your “Eyes on Gigi”

Posted on April 20, 2016 by Jeff

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BMW has a history of strange marketing campaigns featuring high-profile stars. Remember the mini-video series featuring Clive Owen and various BMWs of the era called The Hire?

Well, BMW’s latest video marketing campaign features American supermodel Gigi Hadid, who apparently is very popular and has many Instagrams on Twitter and countless followers on Facebook. She gets into one of five of BMW’s new M2s as they dance around in elaborate car choreography that dazzles the viewer with the performance capabilities of M’s new monster.

The 360-degree interactive video, ever so creepily called “Eyes on Gigi”, is part commercial, part mini-game. Basically, it’s the old game with the ball and the cups. Which cup is the ball under? Watch carefully… take a guess! Who knows. You’re getting pick-pocketed at this very moment anyway.

Also, the press release made a point of rubbing it in our faces that part of Gigi’s compensation for the campaign was six free months in an M2. Oh, boy. We can’t wait to see it on her Instagram.

Marc Forster is the video’s director who stooped this low from films such as James Bond – Quantum of Solace, Monster’s Ball and World War Z. (It may have not been that far of a jump, after all).

If you want to play the game for yourself, head on over to eyesongigi.com.

{gallery}BMW M2 Eyes on Gigi{/gallery}

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Aston Martin trades the open road for endless waves, Bond foils bad guys

Posted on April 13, 2016 by Jeff

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When he isn’t driving Aston Martins on the road, Mr. Bond, James Bond can usually be found travelling via the local waterways. Too bad Aston doesn’t make an elegantly styled water vessel. Or does it? Aston Martin designed a powerboat named the AM37 along with Quintessence Yachts, revealing it ahead of Milan Design Week.

Aston says the AM37 is “fusing the maritime and automotive worlds with the universal characteristics of style and elegance.” I can see the AM37 powerboat being featured in the next sans Daniel Craig James Bond movie, probably in a gunfight on Lake Como with James peppering bad guys with bullets while putting the moves on a pretty lady. They should have called it the AM007.

“It is true that a beautiful, simple shape is critical to a product’s success but it must also have drama, which is provided by surface language, proportions, and through the choice of exciting materials. The most important attribute for Aston Martin is the language of design and we have transferred this language into AM37. The new powerboat represents the ideal combination of luxurious and technical materials, generating a powerful yet understated finished product,” Marek Reichman, Aston Martin chief creative officer, said.

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Audi Extends A8L

Posted on April 12, 2016 by Jeff

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For a very special European customer, Audi has built a one-off version of its A8L, making it even longer, so dubbed the A8L Extended.

Now measuring an enormous 20.9 feet in length, the new A8L’s span accommodates six passengers in precise German luxury. To make sure it didn’t look like a hack-job by Dr. Frankenstein , Audi wasted invested a year of experts’ time to build the car and had to rework it from the A-pillar backwards in order to get the silhouette right.

Disappointingly, this particular one-off is powered by Audi’s 3.0-liter TFSI 6-cylinder engine. I mean, if you’re going to make a ridiculously long Audi, might as well have it with the W12, right? Maybe the customer had a sudden sense of pragmaticism and economy.

Audi claims it has already received many requests to build more, but didn’t say whether or not it would do it. But, at least Prom Queens now have something to strive for now that the Lincoln Town Car and Hummer H2 stretch limos are out of production. What could be next? If FCA wants to compete with VW Group, they probably need to put a Jeep Wrangler Super-Unlimited into production.

{gallery}A8L extended{/gallery}

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Aston Martin Reveals Manual V12 Vantage S

Posted on April 7, 2016 by Jeff

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Aston Martin said it will offer the V12 Vantage S with a 7-speed manual transmission for model year 2017, hailing it as the transmission of choice for enthusiasts who want the ultimate analog experience.

That’s the car with the company’s largest engine squeezed into its smallest car, now available with three pedals and a weird selector knob in the center console. The shift pattern has a dog-leg first gear, so those more fun gears are conveniently lined up. A driver selectable mode called AMSHIFT will automatically simulate a heel-toe downshift for those enthusiasts who are dedicated enough to get a manual transmission but don’t want to be bothered with learning how to properly use one.

“Broadening the scope of the V12 Vantage S with a manual transmission option is an indication of our desire to offer the keenest drivers a more analogue and immersive machine to enjoy. I’d like to take this opportunity to reiterate that the manual gearbox remains an integral part of our product plans and will do for many years to come,” Aston Martin CEO Dr. Andy Palmer said.

Both the 7-speed manual and Sportshift III automated manual will be offered alongside each other for the same price. Start pinching your pounds now.

{gallery}AM-V12Vantage-Manual{/gallery}

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Tesla Model 3 Orders Reach 276K

Posted on April 5, 2016 by Jeff

Tesla Model 3

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People are going bananas for the Model 3 as orders for Tesla Motors’ first mass market electric sedan reached 276,000 in the first 48 hours since its reveal, according to tweets from Elon Musk on Sunday.

Tesla started taking $1,000 order deposits on March 31, the day of the reveal and by Saturday night the figure had reached 276,000. That’s more than a quarter of a billion dollars worth of deposits. Mr. Musk estimated the average selling price of the 3 will be $42,000, meaning the company has already theoretically secured over $11 billion in sales, for those of you who are too lazy to open up your phone’s calculator. Big numbers.

And nobody had even taken one for a test drive that night yet.

Production of the Model 3 is slated to begin in 2017 with deliveries starting at the end of that year.

Musk specified details of Model 3 include its $35,000 base price, capability of supercharging, standard Autopilot, and range of at least 215 miles. It will seat five and come in both rear wheel drive and all wheel drive variants.

“You will not be able to buy a better car for $35,000,” Musk said. Good thing your 3 series is just a lease, right?

Image courtesy of Tesla Motors

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Volvo Loses Two Cylinders but Finds 27 Horsepower

Posted on April 5, 2016 by Jeff

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Volvo shines bright as a star when it makes over-engined sedans and wagons. Remember when they entered the 850 Estate in the British Touring Car Championship? Yeah, that’s why we adore the updated S60 Polestar and V60 Polestar.

Both cars feature a new 367-bhp version of Volvo’s award winning 2.0-liter four-cylinder Drive-E powertrain. If you recall, that’s the turbocharged and supercharged engine, though these Polestars boast a new turbocharger. They are also characterized by four-wheel drive and an eight-speed transmission.

Polestar’s chief operating officer, Niels Möller, describes them as “properly quick.” That’s a good description, very elaborate and full of information. In 2014, Volvo released less than 100 S60 and V60 Polestars, but Volvo says it will produce 1,500 S60 and V60 Polestars annually, upping the limit of these short-run.

So when are you going to race the V60 Polestar, Volvo?

{gallery}Polestar-S60-V60{/gallery}

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Mazda Will Host Classic Japanese Rally

Posted on March 30, 2016 by Jeff

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Mazda will collaborate with Japanese Nostalgic Car to host Touge California, an all-Japanese vintage car rally featuring 28 cars from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s snaking from San Diego to Irvine, April 2.

“Our heritage cars aren’t just museum pieces; they’re meant to be driven,” said Robert Davis, Mazda North American Operations senior vice president, U.S. Operations.. “This is a rare chance to see all of these beautiful vintage cars where they were meant to be—on the road.”Mazda will have 11 cars in the rally including several wicked rotaries.

Unfortunately, The rally won’t really feature any Japanese cars from the countries best era: the 1990s. MKIV Supra, Miata, SVX, NSX, FD RX-7, MR2 Turbo, R34 GT-R, 240SX, 300ZX, Celica GT-Four, 3000GT VR4. These are the most iconic cars to come out of the land of the Rising Sun. These are the cars that should be featured in a great Japanese-American rally. Just don’t slam them and add underglow LEDs and fat spoilers… actually yes. Do add those.

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Mazda Miata… Targa?

Posted on March 23, 2016 by Chris

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Change can be a difficult thing to deal with sometimes. Especially when involving something personally cherished. I nearly flipped my lid when someone added peppers to a batch of our family chili. So my gut reaction to these kinds of things are usually negative. “What were they thinking? How much is it going to weigh now? Why would they mess with the essence of the animal? What is a Miata if it isn’t a convertible, a Mazda Del Sol?” These are all gut reaction thoughts I had. After squeezing my novelty Stig stress figure (real thing) and counting back from ten I went back to look at the pictures again.

It truly is a handsome thing. The added lines with the roof up make it look rakish and with the top down the rear sails add drama. I would bet it has quite a lot of presence in person. As a substitute for a full hardtop convertible I genuinely like it. Saves a bunch of space and maybe even weight…maybe? As much as I like it I am not afraid to label this a gimmick. It is flashy for now, having the same kind of top that comes on a 911 Targa for way less, but I’ll take my chili without peppers thank you very much.

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VW Debuts 2017 Golf Alltrack for “Active” People

Posted on March 22, 2016 by Jeff

2017 Alltrack

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Volkswagen debuted the U.S. production version of the 2017 Golf Alltrack.

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Volkswagen debuted the U.S. production version of the 2017 Golf Alltrack on Monday.

What we have is a Golf Sportwagen with: 4MOTION all-wheel drive, body cladding, extra ground clearance, and an “Off-Road Mode” with hill descent control.

“We heard from dealers and customers that they wanted to see a Golf SportWagen with the all-terrain capability that comes from an all-wheel drive system,” said Joerg Sommer, vice president, product marketing and strategy of Volkswagen of America, Inc. “We are excited to introduce the Golf Alltrack to meet the active lifestyle needs of our customers.”

Yeah yeah Joerg, I can pop my kayak on the roof rack, but can I have it with a diesel?

The new Alltrack sits on VW’s versatile MQB platform powered by a sadly not-diesel 1.8-liter, four-cylinder engine with 170 bhp and 199 lb-ft of torque. The “active” customers VW intends to market these to can have their choice of a 6-speed DSG transmission or a 6-speed manual available at a later date.

Be glad the Golf Alltrack exists, because it is the fighting chance wagons need in the never-ending onslaught of vague, pseudo-practical crossover UVs.

Or is it just an AWD distraction VW needs so it can hide in the woods on the eve of its diesel scandal deadline? Come to think of it, since you don’t care about emissions, Volkswagen, can you bring us back some air-cooled fun?

2017 Alltrack — Image courtesy of Volkswagen

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Could Toyota Reveal the Prius ‘R’ at NYIAS?

Posted on March 17, 2016 by Jeff

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Toyota announced Tuesday that it would be adding a new “mechanical marvel” to the Prius lineup, to be introduced at the New York International Auto Show next week.

Toyota cryptically said that “the city that never sleeps is about to get a wake-up call.” Whatever that means.

Since Toyota has expanded the Prius lineup pretty extensively with the Prius C and Prius V along with the normal Prius, my guess is that this next Prius will be called the Prius R.

That’s right, Prius R. Why shouldn’t Toyota make a sporty, race-y “R” version to the Prius range? They popularized the hybrid car, and now nobody cares about it anymore. They’ve got to make something to compete with the hyper-hybrids like the LaFerrari, 918, and P1. Toyota even sent a seductively sleek teaser photo of the new car’s taillights.

So here is your first look at the enthusiast-oriented Prius. Mark my words.

Watch the reveal live.

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The Ten Best Cars from the Geneva International Motor Show 2016

Posted on March 12, 2016 by Jeff

Regera

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Were you not able to go to the 2016 Geneva Motor Show? Here are the highlight cars:

Koenigsegg Regera: Christian Von’s love-child of technology that one-ups every other hypercar. Famously designed without a traditional gearbox, this single speed monster is perfect for billionaire hipsters. You’ve probably never heard of it. You definitely won’t ever see one… because there are no billionaire hipsters.

Regera — Image courtesy of Top Gear

Porsche 911 R: Porsche’s manual version of the 911 GT3 RS, save the PDK gearbox and aero. A 500 bhp flat-six, a good ol’ manual box, and enthusiast oriented details. Sure to be a fun car. Even though The Clarkson says that gear knobs are for whiskey-swilling hill dwellers, this limited run 911 has apparently already sold out… must be a lot of hill dwellers out there.

911 R — Image courtesy of Top Gear

Bugatti Chiron: The almighty successor to the mighty Veyron. The reveal included lots of very large performance numbers like 1,500 bhp 1,600 Nm. Yet it is an old school approach to the hypercar in a day when everyone is looking to the future.

Chiron — Image courtesy of Bugatti

Aston Martin DB11: I’ll try to describe it without a reference to Bond, James Bond. An jaw-droppingly pretty design religiously following the rule-of-thirds. Powered by an all-new turbocharged AMG V12.

DB11 — Image courtesy of Aston Martin

Lamborghini Centenario: There’s some special anniversary happening at Lamborghini, so they felt the need to build a limited run Aventador with a body kit to sell to some sheikhs. That’s about all it is. Chris says it looks like a gaming mouse… but Chris is also an idiot. But in recent news Lamborghini has teamed up with Forza the video game series for their next release, so their may be some truth to it. To be sure, it’s probably better to leave the game mouse designs to BMW.

Centenario — Image courtesy of Lamborghini

Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport: If the Z06 is America’s equivalent of the 911 Turbo, then the Corvette Grand Sport is America’s GT3. Essentially it’s a Z06 minus the supercharger, but it retains the upgraded suspension and body kit. Another wonderful enthusiast-oriented sports car.

Corvette Grand Sport — Image courtesy of Chevrolet

Apollo Arrow: The company dropped the ugly Gumpert name in favor of something a little more sexy. Likewise, their car got a little sexier. Given its 1000hp and 740 lb ft of torque, the Arrow is certainly both beauty and beast.

Image courtesy of Apollo

Disco Volante Spyder: What may have already been the world’s most beautiful car based on the world’s most beautiful car just got more beautiful by losing its head. The Disco Volante Spyder is the ideal riviera-cruiser. It’s the kind of car that could make world peace a reality.

Disco Volante Spyder — Image courtesy of Touring

Spyker C8 Preliator: Spyker’s supercar boutique is back up and running with the C8’s new iteration: the Preliator. The new version is inspired by aviation evolution, dubbed by Spyker as a “road jet.” Certainly an apt description considering the mid-mounted turbocharged 525 bhp Audi V8.

C8 Preliator — Image Courtesy of Spyker

Pagani Huayra BC: Mr. Pagani’s mad mind is at it again, debuting a new monster. The “BC” represents the initials of Benny Caiola, from whom Horacio has drawn inspiration from over the years. Or it could stand for Ballistic Carriage, your choice. Its track-focused persona is highlighted by a new, automated manual transmission.

Huayra BC — Image courtesy of Car and Driver

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200mph Jaguar F-Type SVR to debut at Geneva

Posted on March 2, 2016 by Jeff

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Out of the SVR program at Jaguar Land Rover will come a new cat; a 200mph, hissing, spitting F-Type SVR. The car will debut at the Geneva Motor Show and go on sale in summer 2016.

“The new F-TYPE SVR is the first series production Jaguar to be developed by Special Vehicle Operations and benefits from everything we know about precision engineering, performance and design,” said John Edwards, managing director, Jaguar Land Rover SVO. Proving once again that there’s more than one way to skin a cat, Jaguar will offer the F-Type SVR in both coupe and convertible variants.

Jaguar says the F-Type SVR will retain day-to-day usability while exploiting the full potential of the sports car chassis. Making an already-maybe-too-loud car even louder with the help of a new titanium exhaust, the F-Type SVR will be the perfect grocery-getter for the type of person who demands the general public to pay them attention. This car will be sure to be bought by the type of business people who wear running shoes with their suit and talk too loudly on their Bluetooth headsets in a public setting.

Source: Jaguar Land Rover

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Ford Focus RS arrives this spring

Posted on March 1, 2016 by Jeff

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The anticipated all-wheel-drive, 350bhp Ford Focus RS is set to arrive at U.S. dealerships this spring. America’s savior in the wannabe-rally-boy war has already rolled off the production line in Saarlouis, Germany. All it’s missing is a Monster Energy sticker on the rear window and gold BBS wheels, and boy racers everywhere will swoon over it and its inevitable role in Ken Block’s next Gymkhana.

The new Focus RS will join the excellent Focus ST and the adored Fiesta ST as the pinnacle of Ford’s performance hatchbacks. It is powered by a tweaked version of Ford’s 2.3 liter EcoBoost engine, accelerating from 0 to 60 in a supercar-like 4.7 seconds. Ford even give the RS a torque vectoring system to improve handling, grip and cornering speed.

Ford is set to put two more performance models on sale this year: the new F-150 Raptor and the new GT. They will join the Focus RS, Focus ST, Fiesta ST, and Shelby GT350 and GT350R.

Source: Ford Motor Company

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FCA revises business plan: Diesel Wrangler and Alfa specialty cars on the horizon

Posted on February 29, 2016 by Jeff

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Fiat Chrysler Automobiles release a revised version of their 2014 business plan today. It began with a curious quote from Mark Twain: “The reports of my death have been greatly exaggerated.” Not sure exactly how that fits into the context of Fiat Chrysler changing their business plan, but I like it. You stay weird, FCA. The changes to their business plan are as follows:

In general, FCA noted how well received the Ferrari IPO was this October as well as how strong the Jeep brand was performing around the world, more than expected. But the automaker did admit to some fallbacks, especially in the Chinese market with the Maserati and Alfa Romeo brands.

Alfa Romeo and Maserati did not perform as well as expected in 2015. As such, FCA have taken a second look and re-assessed their plans for those brands. They will combine the brands’ dealerships in China, and reign in R&D. However, FCA is committed to the brands’ success. Alfa Romeo will launch a new utility vehicle in 2016 or 2017, and between 2017 and 2020 will launch a new full sized sedan, two new utility vehicles, two “specialty” vehicles, and a hatchback. These will add to their current line up of the 4C, 4C Spider, Giulia, Giulietta, and Mito. (I didn’t realize they were still making the Giulietta and Mito. Can’t find ‘em here in the U.S., so they’re as good as non-existent to me.)

The Jeep and Ram brands were in high demand in the 2015 year, and as such, FCA will introduce a new action plan to capitalize on the brands’ popularity. They also mentioned plans for a future Grand Wagoneer(!) and Wrangler Pickup(!) models.

FCA also emphasized their commitment to regulatory compliance with market emissions laws. “Mild hybrid” models were mentioned for Ram and Jeep, with a specific mention of a Wrangler hybrid. The Wrangler will also be getting a diesel engine.

Whatever the case may be, there is sure to be some interesting cars coming from FCA within the next few years, so we will have that to look forward to. Let’s hope that the “specialty” cars coming from Alfa Romeo are going to be affordable, fun, performance-oriented cars. Are you making us a new GTV, Sergio? Perhaps a new Spider? Whatever you make, just make it nutty and make it available in the U.S. I know I would buy that stuff.

Source: FCA

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Blue skies ahead: The new MINI Cooper convertible

Posted on February 28, 2016 by Jeff

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The new MINI Cooper convertible arrives this May, ready for summer sun exposure as what MINI calls “the only premium convertible in the small car segment,” because your leather trimmed MX-5 is a piece of crap. The new convertible will have five different engine variants, with a range-topping John Cooper Works Convertible.

The MINI Cooper convertible’s soft top is electrically powered for the first time and will be sure to break by the second owner of the car. But, is available with an integrated Union Jack graphic. In order to get the most out of open-top driving, MINI have even fitted the new Cooper convertible with a MINI Connected rain warning function, so you don’t get caught in the rain. But you will still be seen driving a MINI convertible by other humans, which might be slightly worse on your ego than getting a little wet. MINI also reinforced the body structure of the convertible and added roll-over protection to ensure sharp chassis feel for sporty driving while not compromising safety.

Source: BMW Group

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Volvo: Not all 4-cylinders have to be bad

Posted on January 15, 2016 by Jeff

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Volvo’s new T6 Drive-E engine was named one of Ward’s 10 Best Engines for 2016, the automaker announced in a release. Fear not, the inevitable take-over of the 4-cylinder engine won’t be all bad.

“The T6 Drive-E uses both supercharging and turbocharging, delivering a lively, compelling result,” said Michael Fleiss, vice president powertrain at Volvo Car Group. Editors on the panel praised the 2.0L 4-cylinder engine for delivering “refined output, power and composure of a high-feature 6-cylinder engine.” The engine produces 302bhp and 295lb-ft.

The T6 Drive-E engine can be found in Volvo’s new XC90 SUV and upcoming S90 sedan. If only Volvo would put this new engine in its absurdly beautiful Concept Coupe and Estate cars and put them into production. Please, Volvo?

Source: Volvo

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