'10 Unleashed: Man gets a custom Mustang Tattoo, and a custom 2010 Mustang GT

It's episode 5 of Ford's '10 Unleashed program, where Mustang enthusiats share their "Mustang experience" with the internet world. This is where you see the difference on how people express their passion about cars, and about the Mustang in particular. So, some does that with big shiny wheels, others do it with a loud custom exhaust, and for Daniel Velarde, it's all about tattooing!

24-year-old Daniel Velarde has been a long Mustang fanatic, and always dreamed of his custom 2010 Mustang GT. Also, Velarde wanted to show his love of the Mustang, by tattooing the Mustang horse on his body. The trick here, that his 2010 'Stang got the same tattoo job.

So why does he deserve all this? This was done due to his submitted essay, discribing his "Mustang experience". The chance for you to win is still avalible; just head to 2010mustang.com, and submit a '250 words or less' essay, and maybe you can be featured in the next episode of '10 Unleashed.

Watch '10 Unleashed, episode 5 - Mustang Body Ink in the embedded videos below. To watch previous episodes, click here and here.

Source : [2010mustang.com via m80im]

Welcome to Motor Gears 2.0 !

As we marked one year since the creation of this blog, it's actually time to refresh it with a new design. So here it is, in an all-new fashion. To be brutally honest, we are not truly experts in web-design; so, we chose a nice and simple Blogger template. As you can see, we now went for a white background design, which actaully makes reading somewhat easier than colored backgrounds. We would also like to note, that many new Motor Gears features are soon to come; just hang on.

Please help us by telling what you think of the new design in the comments section.

Others @ Frankfurt

After we featured the biggies from Frankfurt like Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Porsche, and Volkswagen, it's time to see what some other automakers showed at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show. Here goes:

- 2010 Alfa Romeo MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde 1.4 MultiAir: This is not the production MiTo GTA hot-hatch, but it's actually close. This Alfa Romeo MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde 1.4 MultiAir may look like any MiTo, but Alfa say this will set the foundation of small turbocharged compact hatchbacks. So, what this is MiTo good at? The Quadrifoglio Verde basically gives the MiTo a sporty outfit, which is a pack of 17" satin titanium-finished wheels, darkened headlights and mirrors, sporty interior with bucket seats, and Alfa's latest DNA suspension controls. On the technical side, the 1.4 MultiAir engine, which in essence, is a turbocharged 1.4L 4-cylinder engine, that makes 170 hp. Alfa Romeo showrooms will be recieving MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde editions soon.
- 2010 Aston Martin Rapide: It's finally, in its final production form - the 2010 Aston Martin Rapide. As Aston have promised, the 2010 Rapide looks like the concept we saw back in 2006. So, is still looks like a 4-door DB9, which is actually a good thing. This Rapide is not just a looker though; it's a full-on sports-sedan. Therefore, it packs a hand-built 470 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque 6.0L V12, and it has a 750 liters of luggage space when the seats are folded. While the driver has a 6-speed Touchtronic transmission tp play with, the rear-seats are offered with indiviual tv screens. In essence, this is a pure Aston supercar, that will easily handle a family roadtrip; just like that new Porsche Panamera. First deliveries of the Aston Martin Rapide will commence early in 2010 and will be available globally through Aston Martin's 125 dealership network.
- 2011 Bentley Mulsanne: It's the all-new Grand Bentley, or at least that's what we knew it. Among Bentley's exciting line-up, where does this Mulsanne fit? Well, for starters, the 2011 Bentley Mulsanne is the replacement for the beloved Arnage. What's more, Bentley say that this Mulsanne is a classic revival of the 1930 Bentley 8-Liter. Most notable design cue are the quad LED headlights that echo the classic 8-Liter, and the whole style showcases some Bentley heritage, with newly modern design. Same theory goes to the interior as well. Because, where the dashboard features the classic glossy wood, it also has a 14-speaker audio system, and other high-tech luxury equipment. Under that long hood, sits the grand-old 6¾L V8 engine, which was originally used in the 1968 Rolls Royce Phantom. However, with new modern twin-turbochargers, and a new ZF 8-speed automatic transmission, the Mulsanne gets 505 hp and 752 lb-ft of torque; and all that power is going to the rear-wheels only. The 2011 Bentley Mulsanne will hit showrooms in mid 2010, with prices start at around $300,000.
-2010 Brabus E V12: For anyone who haven't heard of Brabus, they are those crazy German tuning company, specialized for cranking-up Mercedes', and can tune-up a C-Class up to 730 hp! This time around, Brabus got their hands on the new E-Class, and look what they have done to it: full aerodynamic bodykit, with a rear-spoiler and Speed Spads rocker panel for the rear-wheels, matte-black paint on every exterior panel, lowered suspension, and oh, a twin-turbocharged 6.3L V12. Numbers don't get better than this - 800 hp and 1,047 lb-ft of torque; with an electronic torque-limiter, there's still 811 lb-ft of torque to play with. Acceleration too, is way beyond any production super sedan, and even hyper-cars! 60 mph comes in 3.7 seconds, 125 mph in just 9.9 seconds, and 186 mph comes at 23.9 seconds. Top speed? That's 230 mph! However, Brabus say that for tire safety reasons, it's better not to go any faster than 217 mph on public roads. So yes, Brabus are some crazy German auto-tuning company! It's probably you'll never see an E V12, simply because it will be limited to only 10 units, with pricing going for 498,000 Euros.
- 2009 Bugatti Galibier Concept: We saw the teasers, heard the rumors, and even got some speculation renders; but non prepare this: the highly-anticipated 4-door Bugatti Galibier Concept. Though it says that it's a concept, the production version is come very soon, with the same platform, and same engine. Key features to the design, are the chrome door and front-fender panels, and 8 exhaust pipes out back. Inside, it offers 4 seats, with total luxury, wood-inserted dashboard and center console, and a LCD navigation system. The platform features all-wheel-drive, specially developed ceramic brakes and a new suspension design enable the agile, always-sure handling of a saloon of this size. The engine originally comes from the legendary Veryon, so an 8.0L W16 engine; but, instead of turbocharging, the Galibier Concept gets a two stage supercharger. No officials numbers yet, but Bugatti said that this will be the fastest production 4-door sedan in the automotive world, with a top sped of 217 mph.
- 2011 Citroen DS3: Joining the retro compact superminis from the Mini Cooper, and Fiat 500, is this DS3. It channels some of the iconic cues of the '60s DS, and also offers a wide range of paint colors. DS3 is offered with diesel and petrol engines, but top-spec DS3 comes with a turbocharged 1.6L in-line 4-cylinder, with 150 hp. The new DS3 will go on sale in most European markets by early 2010.
- 2009 Citroen REVOLTe Concept: This is another Citroen that also aims on retro styling, and modern technology. This REVOLTe Concept is heavily inspired by the iconic 1979 Citroen 2CV, which is sort of the first real eco-friendly car. So coming to the exterior design, the whole shape is reminiscent to the 2CV, but in a very modern design (sort of like the new Dodge Challenger). Like the original 2CV, the REVOLTe Concept is being showcased as a pure enviromental compact-city car. So it's got a new plug-in hybrid drivetrain, which basically can be setup on normal hybrid-drive, or run in all-electric ZEV (Zero Emission Vehicle) mode. No info yet on whether the REVOLTe Concept comes to production, but we might see something close in the near future.
- 2011 Ferrari 458 Italia: This will be the replacement to thebeloved F430. It's got an all-new design, a new platform, a new engine, and a new transmission. Powered by a new direct-injection 4.5L V8, which produces 570 hp and 398 lb-ft, the 458 Italia will hit 60 mph in 3.4 seconds, and will go towards 202 mph. The new 458 is also supported with a new 7-speed dual-clutch F1 transmission. Ferrari F1 also got a new setup for the E-Diff, F1-Trac and ABS systems. Coming to your near-by Ferrari dealer in 2010, as 2011 model year.
- 2009 Fiat 695 Abarth Tributo Ferrari: This Fiat 500 may seem like a compact city car, but it's in fact a super hatchback. This Ferrari-inspired Fiat 500 Abarth gets Ferrari kit inside and out, like 4 exhaust pipes with Ferrari Scuderia strips, and a Ferrari F1-style racing seats with a paddle-shift transmission. Even power is uprated from the 500 Abarth; so now, the turbocharged 1.4L in-line 4-cylinder makes 180 hp. 60 mph should come in less than 7 seconds. For anyone who wants a cheap feel of a Ferrari, this 695 Abarth Tributo Ferrari will be in showrooms soon.
- 2011 Ford C-MAX: While this may look like somewhat near to the Ford iosis MAX Concept car unveiled at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show, it is in-fact, the production version and new Ford C-Max. This 7-seater minivan is actually based on a stretched wheel-base of the new Ford Focus. Although this C-Max offers hallmarks of comfort, space, and practicality, it still looks very sporty. In fact, the sporty-looks are supported with an all-new 1.6L in-line 4-cylinder EcoBoost engine. With turbocharging and direct-injection, Ford claim that this 1.6 will offer V6 power, with 4-cylinder economy. The Ford C-MAX will be launched in the second half of 2010, and will be the first C-Max to be sold worldwide.
- 2011 Hyundai ix35: While this ix35 is actually the replacement of the old Tucson, it's an entirly new vehicle. Compared to its predecessor, the new ix35 looks much more upscale inside-and-out. Hyundai are also trying to make some sort of trademark design; therefore, the ix35 looks like the Veracruz's smaller brother. Concerning powertrains, ix35 comes in a 166 hp 2.0L engine, or a turbocharged 1.6L in-line 4 with 170 hp. Standard equipment start with a 6-speed automatic transmission, Electronic Stability Program, Downhill Brake Control, and Hill-Start Assist Control. Hyundai revealed that the 2011 ix35 will be manufactured at Kia's Zilina plant in Slovakia. 2011 Hyundai ix35 will be available in dealerships beginning of 2010, with prices start at around $22,000.
- 2009 Hyundai ix-Metro Concept: Hyundai's new Global Design Team have created a concept study, which like all new concepts, is a showcase to enviromently-friendly compacts. Hyundai say that the ix-Metro offers all the practicality, robustness and versatility of a CUV in a stylishly sophisticated package. However, with a 1.0L 3-cylinder engine, this gets outstanding fuel-mileage, and yet the whole cars weighs 950 kilograms, so it can be nippy as well. To benefit most space out of this small comapct, the GDT have adopted a conventional 'suicide door' configuration. ix-Metro is just a concept study, and it's to be kept as a study; so, no production here.
- 2010 Kia Sorento: This is how Kia is tackling with modern 7-seater SUVs, the new 2010 Sorento. In the looks department, Kia has went for a simple conservative look for the Sorento. So there aren't any fens or bulges sticking out of the body, which is a good thing. Kia has also went great lengths into making this new Sorento into a much better cross-over than the out-going Sorento. So now, the new Sorento is actually based on the highly-priased Hyundai Veracruz. Getting to the powertrain, engines vary from 194 hp 2.4L 4-cylinder engine, to a high-output 3.5L V6 with 277 hp and 247 lb-ft of torque. The Sorento is already on sale in its home market, and Kia plans to sell 140,000 units from 2010.
- 2010 Lamborghini Reventon Roadster: It's a convertible Lamborghini Reventon. The Reventon coupe is considered as one of the most expensive and exclusive supercars. Well, the Reventon Roadster is even more expensive, and more exclusive. The Reventon Roadster keeps the same looks as the coupe variant, and which also keeps the same structural rigidity and all-wheel-drive system. Reventon Roadster is actually powered by a 670 hp 6.5L V12 out of the 2010 Lamborghini Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce. 60 mph comes up after 3.4 seconds, and top speed is 205 mph. Each Lamborghini Reventón Roadster will be sold for 1.1 Million Euro (without taxes), which less than 20 units will be made, and sold for "Lamborghini friends and collectors." Deliveries will begin October 2009.
- 2009 Lexus LF-Ch Concept: Lexus is trying to aim their new products to younger-aged buyers, to improve badge-image. So while this may be a concept for now, it will come to production plant in a few years. This Lexus LF-Ch Concept hatchback is a showcase, to what Lexus is planning to make a rival to the BMW 1-Series and Audi A3. The Lexus LF-Ch Concept features a full-on hybrid system, so that it can run on fully EV mode for some time. Despite being a hybrid, Lexus claim that the LF-Ch Concept has a sporty driving characteristics. To determine on whether the LF-Ch would go into production, Lexus is running online serveys, to see if people are having a good impression on this the new Lexus hatch.
- 2011 Maserati GranCabrio: The GranCabrio is the convertible GranTurismo. So it means that it shares the same looks as the GranTurismo, and also the same drive-train. The tractable roof is cloth, and will operate within few seconds. GranCabrio is a little heavier than GranTurismo, because Maserati had to had strengthen beams. However, GranCabrio is only offered with a 440 hp 4.7L V8, mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. GranCabrio will hit 60 mph in 4.9 seconds, and crack 184 mph. All that, plus, the beautiful Italian V8 exhaust note is directly channeled through the cabin. Maserati also claims that this is the largest 4-seater production convertible.
- 2009 Mazda MX-5 Superlight Concept: This is a concept study, that Mazda say will consider in the future if fans and customers are interested. This MX-5 Superlight Concept is a speedster MX-5 Miata. So no roof, no windshield, no driver aids; plus, a total curb weight of only 940 kilograms. The MX-5 Superlight Concept tries to import those old days of the '40s - '50s Formula-One cars, but with hints of newly modern MX-5 cues. Power comes from a 1.8L in-line 4-cylinder, with 126 hp. While that might not sound as much, this is just a pure racing automobile. So it may not be super fast, but it's certainly a fun job.
2011 McLaren MP4-12C: This is a moment we have all been waiting for; an all-new McLaren. However, even McLaren say, that this MP4-12C won't be as legandary as their 240 mph F1, and won't be even a successor. The MP4-12C is in fact, a daily-driver McLaren supercar. So McLaren are getting in the mix, with a modest-looking British supercar. The interior too, is very tpical with quite supercar material, like carbon-fiber on the door instruments, center console, and dashboard, with a navigation system. Power comes with a McLaren-built twin-turbocharged 3.8L V8, packing 600 hp and driven through the rear-wheels via a McLaren 7-speed Seamless Shift dual clutch transmission (SSG). The brakes and chassis on the MP4-12C have been designed with the McLaren Formula-One team, and even shares some parts with the Formula-One car. Nonetheless, to make this McLaren a drivable supercar, the new engine is consided the most fuel-efficient engine ever. As it produces 600 hp, and actually has the lowest CO2 emission among competitors. Competition comes from Ferrari 458 Italia and Lamborghini Gallardo LP 560-4.
- 2009 Mini Coupe Concept: While Mini say that this a concept, this Mini Coupe Concept is actually a production-capable car, and will see production next year. The Mini Coupe Concept is loosly based on a Mini Cooper hatchback, but in a new roof style, and the emulation of the rear-seats, to make this Coupe Concept a 2-seater. Power comes from a turbocharged 1.6L engine, making 211 hp, through a 6-speed manual and a front-wheel-drive chassis. The Mini Coupe is set to be a rival to the base Audi TT.
- 2011 Peugeot RCZ: When Peugeot showcased the 308 RC Z Concept back in 2007, it wasn't taken so seriously. However now, it's here, in-full production, and it doesn't seem altered from that concept we all liked. The new RCZ coupe lives-up strong as a coupe, as it features aggressive face, wide wheel-arches, and the famous bubble roof. Peugeot mostly used the word "passion" when designing this car from inside-and-out. Even the interior looks so supercar-like, as the feeling inside is tight and only has 2-seats. However, all these impressions are not so with the drivetrain. Peugeot say that while this looks wonderful, it shouldn't be spoiled with a dangerous engine or a hard-edge driving characteristics. So, the RCZ is actually powered by a turbocharged 1.6L engine, making 200 hp, and transferring power to an all-wheel-drive chassis. Therefore, it can be easily be driven like any car on the road, and yet look one of the most exclusive. RCZ should be in European markets in mid 2010.
- 2009 Renault Fluence ZE Concept: This is not is just any Renault Fluence. This Fluence may have the concept name for now, but it is expected that the new ZE Concept will follow the Fluence's range of petrol and diesel engines soon. So what is the ZE really? You guessed it; an all-electric drive version! Renault chose the Fluence platform, as it's their benchmark mid-size sedan. Therefore, it gets all the family business done, and yet features the electric moveability. For the electric-drive, Renault have used the commonly-used Lithium-ion battery-pack, which produces 95 hp and 166 lb-ft of torque. Driving-range is allowed for 100 miles, and recharging takes roughly 4 hours, but 80% of the battery is recharged within 20 minutes only. If Renault can really transfer this technology onto the real Fluennce, and with a resnoable price, we think it can be a hit.
- 2010 Rolls-Royce Ghost: The production version of the Rolls-Royce 200EX, here it is, in a new Ghost name. This "baby-Rolls" is set to be more afforable than a Phantom, but yet offer pure Rolls-Royce elegance. While it's still looks like a Rolls, the Ghost is in fact, based on the new BMW 7-Series. So the Ghost might be even sporty! Nevertheless, it's powered by a twin-turbocharged 6.6L V12, developing 563 hp and 575 lb-ft of torque. 0 to 60 mph comes in just 4.7 seconds with a top-speed electronically governed at 155 mph. The engine is mated to a 8-speed ZF automatic transmission. For those of you wondering, the Rolls-Royce Ghost manages an estimated fuel-economy of 17 mpg. Orders have already been taken, with prices range between 200,000 and 300,000 euros. Buyers will have a choice of 12 exterior colors, each of which can be contrasted by an available Silver Satin hood.

- 2010 Saab 9-5 Sedan: While this is an all-new Saab, it's in fact, the last Saab that will ever to come-out of General Motors, as Koenigsegg now has full control and ownership of Saab. The 9-5's exterior styling has been inspired by the Aero X concept car while the windshield and roof are reminiscent of the classic 900 model. Inside, Saab owners will feel right at home with the traditional, driver-focused cockpit that features an aircraft-inspired head-up information display. Beneath that body, lives GM's Epsilon II platform, that is shared with the Opel Insignia, and Buick LaCrosse, though the 9-5 actually has a longer wheel-base. Engines vary from diesel and petrol, though the 2010 9-5 is best with the new twin-turbocharged 2.8L V6 making 300 hp, mated to a 6-speed automatic and Haldex all-wheel drive system.

- 2010 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado: For all who live in the Middle East, know that there are two versions of the Toyota Land Cruiser; there's the original Land Cruiser, and the slightly-smaller Land Cruiser Prado. The Prado has remained since 2002 unchanged, so this 2010 is getting Toyota's latest make-up in design, and drive-trains. As usual, Toyota has gone for a massaging routine as opposed to brute force for the exterior. A reshaped front fascia and new tail-lights, make the Prado look very close to the Land Cruiser. This third-generation Toyota Prado will get Toyota's new engines. Base model should get a 2.7L 4-cylinder engine, and up-scale model will get a more powerful 4.0L V6. In the Middle East, the Pardo is already on sale, with prices going around 130,000 Saudi Riyals ($34,930 U.S.D).

That's all what Frankfurt has showed us. The Motor Show was great! We would like to appologize lastly for our somewhat late coverage; we had a lot of technical issues. Lastly, down below, is a full-on picture gallery of the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show, provided by NetCarShow.com

Volkswagen @ Frankfurt: 2009 E-Up Concept, 2009 L1 Concept, 2010 Golf R

- 2009 Volkswagen E-Up Concept: This compact city car concept from VW could actually be a production platform for the next-generation VW Beetle, and also, a some future compacts as well. So, what does it pack? VW say that the E-Up Concept follows VW's new "design DNA", which basically claim that VW could make an ultra-compact look appeling, and somewhat desirable. However, the E-Up Concept's main mission, is to deliver that "zero-emissions" technical showcase. E-Up Concept is powered by a continuously-variable electric motor, which drives the front-wheels, and packs 80 hp and 154 lb-ft of torque. Because E-Up is so small, and only weighs 1,085 kilograms, 60 mph comes up in 11.2 seconds, and will top-out at 83 mph. Nonetheless, as this is only a city compact with 154 lb-ft of torque, VW say that it can launch to 30 mph in a quick 3.5 seconds. Driving range is allowed for 75 mph. Recharging takes 5 hours in a 240-volt power-outlet, but 80% will be done recharging the battery within an hour. A production will up soon, but for now, this is what the Volkswagen Design Center have showcased in Frankfurt.




- 2009 Volkswagen L1 Concept: Hang on; yes, this is a real car, on a real platform. It's the L1 Concept, and while it may look very very weird, it's under that body what defines it. First off, that 'squeezy' body, which hides the rear-wheels and has somewhat in-line seat design, is actually fully-made of carbon-fiber, and therefore, it's ultra-light, weighing just 380 kilograms. Then there's the world-wonder drive-train; it's a full-on hybrid. Volkswagen say that when the L1 Concept comes out as a showroom car, it will crack as the world's most efficient hybrid! How? Well, the basic recipe for this is a 0.8L TDI turbo-diesel, and a battery-powered electric-motor, making a total power of 53 hp and roughly 100 lb-ft of torque. However, because both the diesel engine and electric motor are placed at the rear, and the electric-motor specially is located between the engine and the transmission, VW were able to fit their 7-speed DSG transmission, allowing for excessive fuel-economy numbers. Add that, plus a start-stop technology, the L1 Concept can crack a combined fuel-economy rating of 157 mpg! That easily makes it the most fuel-efficient hybrid, but it surely doesn't make it the fastest. When it comes in a production form in 2013, a 1.6L TDI engine will be offered as an option.



- 2010 Volkswagen Golf R: Bad news Golf GTI owners, the awaited R-Line edition of Golf is here. However, unlike the last generation Golf R, which had a bullet V6 engine, the new 2010 Golf R is actually based on the new Scirocco R; so, it comes with a 2.0L turbocharged engine, with 265 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. With VW's 7-Speed DSG transmission, the Golf R will sprint to 60 mph in just 5.5 seconds, and also, can achieve 21 mpg fuel-economy rating. All 2010 Golf R models are driven by VW's 4-Matic all-wheel drive system. Beneath the sheetmetall, Volkswagen's engineers upgraded the Golf's chassis with a lower suspension that features new dampers and springs, improved disc brakes all around measuring 345mm up front and 310mm at the back, plus a new electronic XDS differential. The cosmetic department gives out an extended body-kit, updated LED taillights, sporty 19-inch wheels, and dual center exhaust pipes. Inside, the hot Golf sports a set of front bucket seats, a three-spoke steering wheel with a flattened bottom featuring the 'R' logo, aluminum decorative trim around the center console, plus subtly restyled instrument dials special for the Golf R. . The Volkswagen Golf R can be ordered in Germany starting at the end of 2009, in 3-door and 5-door variants. So in essence, this is the closest rival to the Scirocco R, since they're basically the same thing.

Source: [Volkswagen]

Porsche @ Frankfurt: 2010 911 Sport Classic, 2010 911 Turbo, 911 GT3 RS, 2010 911 GT3 Cup

- 2010 Porsche 911 Sport Classic: This is yet another speical edition Porsche 911. However, Porshce is adament that this is the best special edition yet - a Sport Classic. The 911 Sport Classic pays a tribute to the beloved 1973 Carrera RS 2.7 with unique double-bubble roof, special Fuchs-style 19-inch wheels designed that echo the last 911SC, and a classic “ducktail” style spoiler. The 911 Sport Classic also spots more power out the exhaust system, so now this 911's 3.8L flat-6 packs 408 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque; allowing it to crack 60 mph within 4.6 seconds, and to top-out at 187 mph. It is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox and also features Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes, PASM sports suspension. Only 250 units will be made, with a price tag of 169,300 euros.

- 2010 Porsche 911 Turbo: Although very little differences has been made to the exterior and interior, but this 2010 Porsche 911 Turbo is a nearly a new car beneath compared to last year. A new engine, a new transmission, and a new setup to the Turbo's all-wheel-drive system. The 911 Turbo finally gets a direct-injection 3.8L flat-6 engine; with added two varuable turbocharges, it devilers 500 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. So 60 mph is finished in 3.4 seconds, and top speed is over 200 mph. The new transmission is Porsche's latest twin-clutch PDK 7-speed transmission. Porsche also tweaked the all-wheel-drive system for a new setup, that slipts the torque 40% to the front, and 60% to the rear, allowing the Turbo to go sideways. 911 Turbo gets improved fuel-economy by 18%, to make it 25 mpg combined. Prices start $132,800 and $143,800 respectively, with an on-sale date of November 2009 in Germany and January 2010 world-wide.

- 2010 Porsche 911 GT3 RS: The new 2010 Porsche 911 GT3 RS is here, and as always, it packs out more power, less weight, track-ready suspension and steering, and an increased asking-price from the standard 2010 Porsche 911 GT3. The main priority of the GT3 RS is to deliver the ultimate driving machine, with no "civilization" compromises. So, the GT3 RS comes with a new wider front and rear tracks as well as additional wheel arch covers increase the span across the nose. The larger and racy-like carbon-fiber rear-spoiler gives out even better downfroce from the GT3. Power upgrades come from a naturally-aspirated direct-injection 3.8L flat-6, that makes 450 hp, 20 hp more than the standard GT3. Launch to 60 mph takes less than 4 seconds, and top speed 195 mph. Of course, the Porshce engineers get comfortable around the GT3 RS, since they don't have to care about road-comfort, and focus more on track-balance. So Porshce managements like Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) system and the active engine mounts (Porsche Active Drivetrain Mounts - PADM) that can change their stiffness and damping effect to resist the movement of the drivetrain in the bodyshell are fitted to the GT3 RS as standard equipment. The new Porsche 911 GT3 RS is expected to go on sale in most European countries at the end of the year, with a price tag of $132,800, or exactly the same price as the 911 Turbo.

- 2010 Porsche 911 GT3 Cup: In essence, this 911 GT3 Cup is basically the race-car version of the 911 GT3 RS, which is also the racy-like 911. Unlike its other siblings, the GT3 Cup is not road-legal, and in fact, is meant to be shown for GT3-series teams. Porsche says that it is stronger, wider and faster than its predecessors. Like the GT3 RS, this GT3 Cup is 1.73-inch wider than the standard 911, and also features wider front wheel arches, and a racing carbon-fiber rear-spoiler. GT3 teams will also be happy, as the new GT3 Cup shares the same 3.8L direct-injection flat-6 engine from GT3 RS. Output is the same, at 450 hp at 8,500 rpm. The engine is mated to a sequential 6-speed manual transmission. The racing teams have to be quick when purchasing this GT3 Cup, as Porsche will be building limited production of it, and a price tag of at 149,850 Euros. So next season GT3 race is going to be more exciting, as this Porsche 911 GT3 Cup will be rivaling the Audi R8 LMS.

Source : [Porsche]

Mercedes-Benz @ Frankfurt: 2009 BlueZero E-Cell Plus Concept, 2009 S500 Plug-in Hybrid Concept, 2010 E-Class Estate, 2010 E63 AMG Estate, 2011 SLS AMG

- 2009 Mercedes-Benz BlueZero E-Cell Plus Concept: The near-series Mercedes-Benz BlueZero E-Cell Plus Concept electric car combines environment-friendly electric mobility in the city with unrestricted suitability for long-distance driving. This is made possible by the combination of the battery-electric drive with a combustion engine. The range extender gives the Mercedes-Benz BlueZero E-Cell Plus Concept a total range of up to about 300 miles, with 60 miles thereof solely under electric power and thus free of local emissions. This concept is both an example of clean technology and a preview of the styling for the next generation Mercedes'. For styling, this cuddly city car looks perfectly a Mercedes. It's no S-Class, but the all the traditional Mercedes styling queues are still there. A production of this concept might see life within next year.



- 2009 Mercedes-Benz S500 Plug-in Hybrid Concept: Although this might have a name of a concept, but this S500 Plug-in Hybrid does have a production sibling, the S400 BlueHYBRID. While the S400 BlueHYBRID was pretty much a conventinal hybrid, this S500 Plug-in Hybrid Concept as it showcases, a range-extender plug-in hybrid; so, it's fully runs on battery-powered electric motors for some distance, and needs be recharged with the combustion engine working. The drivetrain is made-up of a 60 hp hybrid module with a lithium-ion battery, plus a 3.5L petrol V6. Mercedes claim that this S500 Plug-in can run 18 miles solely on electric drive, and will achieve 73 mpg fuel-economy when the V6 is working. Unlike like any hybrid ever made, which all use CVT transmissions, Mercedes were able to fit their 7-speed 7G-TRONIC automatic, so it does 0 - 60 mph in just 5.4 seconds. When this comes to production, it is most likely to replace the S400 BlueHYBRID. Also, Mercedes will also offer this S500 Plug-in Hybrid with a 2.2L diesel engine to give more mileage.


- 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate: Mercedes warped-up the covers of the awaited Estate (wagon) version of the new-generation 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, which already has Sedan and Coupevariants. Measuring at 4.8 meters in length, 1.8 meter in width, and 1.4 meters in height is not only larger than the outgoing model, but also the largest estate car in the premium segment. Styling concerned, the E-Class Estate just looks like the new sedan, but with a hatch at the back, which make it resemble theConceptFASCINATION even more. Also like the new E-Class sedan, it boosts-up new Merc technology, such as NECK-PRO crash-responsive head restraints and a newly developed DIRECT CONTROL self-leveling suspension, which features the adaptive damping system, all come as standard equipment in the E-Class Estate. Ten engines range from 2.2L diesel, up to a 388 hp 5.4L V8 with 4-MATIC all-wheel-drive as an option. Sales just started.

- 2010 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG Estate: This is what Mercedes' tuning arm - AMG - have done to the latest E-Class Estate. It's basically their same conversion to what they did to the E63 AMG sedan. So, AMG adds an extended AMG body-kit all round with sharper LED lights on the front, edger side skirts, a faux black rear-diffuser at the back with four loud exhausts, and lastly, a hand-built 6.3L V8, producing 525 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque. Engine is now mated to an all-new AMG 7-speed dual-clutch Speedshift transmission with rev-matched shifts and RACE START function, which now can handle vicious burn-outs, and 0-60 mph time in 4.6 seconds and a top speed of an electronically-limited 155 mph. Lot of the latest handling characteristics and advanced technologies have been transferred to the E63 AMG Estate. So this benefits it with a new newly developed AMG RIDE Control suspension system with electronically controlled damping, and a 3-stage ESP Program taken from the C63 AMG, allowing the driver to choose between “ESP ON”, “ESP SPORT” and “ESP OFF”. AMG will be delivering the E63 AMG Estate with its sedan sibling.



- 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG: This is the latest supercar creation from Mercedes-Benz. However, unlike their last SLR, which was engineered by McLaren, this new SLS AMG is purly designed and engineered by Mercedes' in-house tuning company - AMG. The looks is somewhat retro to the 1960 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL; specially the Gullwing doors, and the sharp roof. It also catches some design cues of the 2010 Mercedes SL. Inside, the SLS AMG gets a besboquie supercar-like interior. Weighing in at around 1600 kilograms, the new SLS AMG is powered by a natrually-aspirated 6.3L AMG V8, which now produces 571 hp and 480 lb-ft of troque, which goes to the rear-wheels through an AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed automatic transmission. 60 mph happens in just 3.7 seconds, and electronically-limited top speed is 200 mph. However, because the hand-built 6.3L is actaully very refind, the SLS AMG achieves 21 mpg fuel-economy on combined roads. Handling claims is supported by a 50/50 weight disturbotion, and a 3-stage ESP program like all new AMGs. Sales will start in spring 2010, with prices in Germany start at 177,000 euros.

Source : [Mercedes-Benz]

BMW @ Frankfurt: 2009 Vision EfficientDynamics Concept, 2010 320d EfficientDynamics, 2010 ActiveHybrid 7, 2010 ActiveHybrid X6, 2011 X1

- 2009 BMW Vision EfficientDynamics Concept: This is a concept that BMW will probably never make, but it's a showcase of BMW's future. While it's made out of glass and other thin materials, the Vision EfficientDynamics Concept is set to be an extremely sporty enviromently-friendly automobile. BMW have fitted the EfficientDynamics with a plug-in hybrid system technology; so, it runs entirely electrical for a certain distance, and then the combustion engine comes in as a range-extender. The electric motor comes in the form of two battery-powered electric motors, which one is fitted to the front-axle, and the other goes to the rear-axle. The combustion-engine on the other hand, is a 1.5L turbo-diesel 3-cylinder. Total output is 356 hp and 590 lb-ft. With 0-60 mph comes in 4.8 seconds, and 155 mph top speed, the EfficientDynamics is as fast as a BMW M3, while it still offers 31 miles in electric-drive, and 63 mpg when the hybrid system continues, which is actually better than a Toyota Prius! We won't ever see a production of this beautiful M1-retro-looking EfficientDynamics, but BMW say that the technology could pass onto realistic Bimmers.



- 2010 BMW 320d EfficientDynamics: Now, this is a sort of realistic version of that Vision EfficientDynamics Concept. This 3-Series uses BMW's EfficientDynamics technology; with common-rail diesel engine, variable intake geometry, and an all-aluminium crankcase. That results of a 2.0L turbo-diesel engine that produces 163 hp with 265 lb-ft of torque. The engine is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission that drives power to the rear-wheels. While 0 to 60 mph comes in a somewhat respectable 8.2 seconds and a top speed of 140 mph, fuel-economy comes in at an outstanding 57 mpg. 320d EfficientDynamics will show in European dealers later this year.

- 2010 BMW ActiveHybrid 7: While we are not entirly impressed with the EfficientDynamics technology, the ActiveHybrid technology what got into our minds the most. BMW have decided to showcase this technology with their most luxurious 7-Series. This ActiveHybrid 7 uses a conventional hybrid-system, which contains a twin-turbocharged 4.4L V8, and two electric motors, with 3-phase nickel-metal hydride batteries, to make the 7-Series faster, yet more economical. For the ActiveHybrid 7, that makes a total output of 465 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque; allowing a 0 - 60 mph sprint in just 4.8 seconds, and 150 mph top speed. Not only is the ActiveHybrid 7 the fastest hybrid in its class, it's also one of the most economical, with combined average fuel-economy of 29 mpg. BMW claim that ActiveHybrid 7 improves about 15% - 20% on the fuel-economy and performance compared to its standard siblings. Also, the ActiveHybrid 7 is capable to go up to 37 mph on the electric-motor alone. Sales of the ActiveHybrid 7 will start end of 2009.



- 2010 BMW ActiveHybrid X6: BMW also fitted the same ActiveHybrid technology in their X6 Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV). Like the ActiveHybrid 7, the ActiveHybrid X6 uses a twin-turbocharged 4.4L V8, and the two electric motors, with 3-phase nickel-metal hydride batteries. In the ActiveHybrid X6, the total pack develops 480 hp and 575 lb-ft. 60 mph launch is finished in 5.5 seconds, and the ActiveHybrid X6 can reach 130 mph. Again, the ActiveHybrid X6 is among the fastest crossover hybrids, and very economical, with 25 mpg of combined fuel-economy rating. Dealers will be selling the ActiveHybrid X6 with its ActiveHybrid 7 sibling.



- 2011 BMW X1: Although it was a concept before, but this production BMW X1 is actually the replacement to the X3. In the design department, BMW designers have cleared-off some odd design-lines that was featured in the concept, to change this X1 to a cleaner and more settle style. Just like all BMW interiors, the X1 features stacks of leather on the seats, dashboard, and armrests. X1 also implements BMW's new iDrive 2.0. X1 will be offered in 6 engine options, vriating from a 143 hp 2.0L 4-cylinder turbo-diesel, up to a 258 hp 3.0L in-line 6-cylinder. No word on prices yet, but the X1 compact SUV will be in showrooms next year.

Lastly, BMW already unvieled their 5-Series GranTursimo for some time now, but it was available in BMW's stand anyways. Just want to make sure that everything is covered!

Source : [BMW]