Reduced Sports Cars

You like sports cars? Who doesn’t? Here is a cool image gallery featuring some new 2009 sports cars models. The particulary of these cars are the size. By making them smaller / mini cars, they are lighter and consume less fuel. The Mini Ferrari is able to reach speeds of 300km/h! In the near future, these mini sports cars will be offered in 100% electric versions! I wanna get myself the mini porsche! Yeah!
Mini Sports Cats Pics GAllery ::
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Honda’s New Fuel Cell Sports Car

Honda surprised the motoring world today with the release of the radical and futuristic Honda FC Sport, a three-seat Hydrogen-powered design study that hints at the future of Honda sports cars to come. Using the Honda V Flow fuel cell setup already found in the Honda FCX Clarity, the FC Sport is the supercar to the FCX’s stately sedan.
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The Advanced Sports Car

* Toyota Hybrid X concept, a world premiere
* Three Concept Cars Honda at Tokyo Auto Salon 2007
* Mercedes-Benz Launches Concept Ocean Drive at NAIAS
* Toyota FT-HS Concept Unveiled at NAIAS
* NAIAS Debut: Acura Advanced Sports Car Concept
* Unveiling Mazda Ryuga Concept
* Ford Airstream Concept, New Crossover Revealed
* NAIAS Debut: Suzuki Flix Concept
* Honda Unveiles Accord Coupe Concept at NAIAS
* Honda FCX Concept Debut at 2006 LA Auto Show

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NAIAS Debut: Acura Advanced Sports Car Concept

Although modern in its appearance, the Advanced Sports Car Concept retains the subtle cues associated with its predecessor, the NSX. The concept's slim, LED headlights are pushed wide and designed to mimic the pop-up headlights found on the first generation NSX. Other styling hints include a modern take on wraparound rear taillights and the all black cockpit.

"Our intention was to design an exotic sports car that gracefully combines advanced technology and strong emotion," said Jon Ikeda, principal designer, Acura Design Center. "The technical, machined surfaces and keen-edge design are balanced with sweeping curves and dramatic lines, all of which results in the ultimate exotic sports car."

Top 13 Hottest Sports Cars of 2008

Speed and style are still the operative words for sports cars
, but they’re getting plusher and more luxurious, thanks in part to an aging consumer base.

Sales of sports cars in 2007 show that the rich are getting richer, and as the average age of sports-car buyers steadily creeps up, more models with added luxury and amenities are rolling into showrooms.

Click through for the list of ForbesAutos Top 13 Hottest Sports Cars
of 2008. We’re not going to lie, we’re a bit disappointed to not see the BMW M3 Coupe and Sedan, Mercedes C 63 AMG and the Lexus IS-F on the list.

Top 13 Hottest Sports Cars of 2008:

13. Aston Martin DBS
12. Audi R8
11. Audi TT
10. Bentley Continental GT Speed
9. Chevrolet Corvette
8. Dodge Viper SRT10
7. Ferrari 430 Scuderia
6. Lamborghini Reventon
5. Lotus Elise/Exige
4. Maserati GranTurismo

2008 Honda Accord Emphasizes Technology, Safety and Performance Within an Expressive and Spacious Design

2008 Honda Accord EX-L V-6 With 6-Speed Manual Transmission

08/21/2007 - TORRANCE, Calif. - Set to go on sale in mid-September, the all-new 2008 Honda Accord moves the world of mainstream transportation in a refined, dynamic and sophisticated direction with an expanded range of innovative technologies designed for more power, greater efficiency and enhanced safety across the entire lineup of sedans and coupes.

Completely redesigned for 2008 with increased dimensions for a more spacious interior, the sedan styling theme expresses a powerful presence with sharp and strong character lines. The coupe is further individualized with an aggressive stance and unique proportions that create a muscular, sporty demeanor.

"The all-new 2008 Honda Accord has become more advanced and refined with a new level of engineering sophistication," said John Mendel, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "As the Honda brand's flagship automobile, the Accord is designed to exceed expectations with premium technology, a more spacious interior and increased power, while retaining the fun-to-drive character and innovative feel that has always distinguished the Accord."

An available 3.5-liter i-VTEC V-6 engine produces 268-horsepower - the most ever for any Accord - while introducing a new generation of fuel-saving Variable Cylinder Management™ (VCM®) technology and achieving a Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (PZEV1) rating. The VCM system operates in six-cylinder mode for power and 4- and 3-cylinder modes for efficiency, resulting in an EPA city/highway fuel economy rating of 19/292 miles per gallon (Accord Sedan V-6).

Also new for the 2008 Honda Accord, an Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure enhances frontal collision compatibility with vehicles of different sizes and bumper heights. Additional safety equipment standard to all Accord models includes Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®), also known as Electronic Stability Control; side-curtain airbags; dual-chamber front side airbags with passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS), active front seat head restraints, anti-lock brakes and more.

The 2008 Honda Accord is available in sedan and coupe body styles with 2.4-liter 4-cylinder and 3.5-liter V-6 engine choices. Available transmissions include a 5-speed manual (standard with all 4-cylinder engines), a 5-speed automatic (standard on sedan V-6 models, available with all 4-cylinder engines and V-6-powered Accord Coupes,) and a 6-speed manual transmission (exclusive to the Accord Coupe EX-L V-6 6MT).

SPAL USA's "Rocket Ranger" Pickup Sets New Land Speed Record as World's Fastest Diesel Pickup Truck

SPAL USA's "Rocket Ranger" sets a new land speed record of 215.091 miles-per- hour, becoming the World's Fastest Diesel Pickup Truck during the Bonneville Salt Flats Speed Week. (PRNewsFoto/SPAL USA)

SPAL USA's "Rocket Ranger," driven by Hypermax Engineering's Max Lagod, has set a new land speed record and claimed the title of World's Fastest Diesel Pickup Truck during the Bonneville Salt Flats Speed Week, Aug. 11-17.

The "Rocket Ranger" achieved an average speed of 215.091 miles-per-hour -- nearly 2 miles-per-hour faster than the previous record of 213.583 miles-per- hour in the "C/Diesel Truck" class. SPAL's record is recognized by the Southern California Timing Association/Bonneville Nationals Inc. (SCTA/BNI).

In 2001, SPAL USA approached Ford with the "Rocket Ranger" concept. Ford was eager to offer support by providing a stock Ford Ranger pickup. Currently the "Rocket Ranger" is equipped with a Ford Powerstroke(R)/International 6.0- litre diesel engine equipped with Hypermax intercooled series turbochargers, injectors and Mach 7 performance module, dual SPAL USA 12" high-performance cooling fans and a ZF 6-speed transmission.

"The Bonneville Salt Flats is the ultimate proving ground to demonstrate the performance of our cooling fans and centrifugal blowers," said Heath Langenfeld, sales and market manager -- powersports, SPAL USA. "We are thrilled to achieve this prestigious record, not only for SPAL USA, but also for Hypermax."

Lagod, who has driven the "Rocket Ranger" for the past three years, started road racing in 1988, won the SCCA GT-1 class national championship in 1997 and 1998 and recorded several top five finishes in SCCA Trans-Am racing.

The "Rocket Ranger" qualified for the land speed record three times but had difficulty making the back up run. During the first back up run, a failed piston forced the team to change the truck's engine in Utah's 100-degree heat; an oil pump interfered with the second back up run.

"It came down to the 11th hour, but in the end the truck definitely had a record-breaking performance," said Lagod. "It was so exciting to beat the existing land speed record to become a member of Bonneville's 200 mile-per- hour club with the 'Rocket Ranger'."

2008 Infiniti EX35 Crossover SUV, 2008 Infiniti M Sedan Debut at Pebble Beach Concours Weekend

Infiniti EX35 Makes Global Debut at Pebble Beach. (PRNewsFoto/Nissan North America)

PEBBLE BEACH, Calif., Aug. 18 /PRNewswire/ -- The all-new 2008 Infiniti EX35, which goes on sale at Infiniti retailers nationwide in late December 2007, made its world production debut today on the lawns near the famed Pebble Beach Golf Course's 18th green. The Infiniti EX35, the latest addition to the Infiniti lineup, was driven onto a platform by Nissan Senior Vice President and Design Director Shiro Nakamura. Also shown for the first time was the new 2008 Infiniti M sport sedan, which features extensive exterior and interior enhancements, as well as the addition of a new all-wheel drive M45x model.

In related activities at the 57th annual Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, Infiniti is sponsoring a special exhibit, "The Infiniti Gallery of Design," a showcase of important designs from a variety of disciplines including architecture, jewelry, fashion, and home. Hearst Magazines is coordinating the exhibit, titled "Form Follows Emotion." Infiniti is also sponsor of the 2007 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance Media Center.

"Infiniti is pleased to have a major presence at this prestigious week- long festival of automotive heritage and luxury," said Mark Igo, vice president and general manager, Infiniti. "We can't think of a better venue to launch the all-new Infiniti EX35 and new 2008 Infiniti M than right here among some of the most exciting automotive designs in the world."

The 2008 Infiniti EX35

The all-new 2008 Infiniti EX35 offers an exceptional combination of seductive design, elegant interior and advanced technology systems - including the North American debut of the advanced Around View Monitor (AVM) system, which utilizes four small cameras to give the driver a "top-down view" of the outside of the vehicle while parking. The new EX35 also becomes the second Infiniti production vehicle, following the fall introduction of the 2008 Infiniti M, to offer the new Lane Departure Prevention (LDP) system, and the first to feature "Scratch Shield," a special "self-healing" clearcoat paint.

The EX35's sculpted elegance expresses a timeless appeal - sleek lines that portray speed, grace and finesse. Its layout combines the look and feel of a luxury coupe and an SUV's flexibility. Its sporty proportions include a long hood, short front and rear overhangs, rearward cabin and smooth coupe- like roofline arching over the windows to the C-pillars.

"The EX35 is the perfect fusion of a luxury coupe and a high-utility SUV," said Igo. "Its 'right-sized' packaging gives it excellent around town maneuverability, while the wide rear hatch and low load floor make it a versatile performer for everyday and weekend use."

Like all Infiniti vehicles, the EX35 is conceived to offer a reinvigorating and engaging interior environment, one that is both indulgent and inspiring. The driver-focused "wave-inspired" cabin layout features an Infiniti signature "double-wave" instrument panel, easy-to-read high-contrast gauges with white-and-violet illumination, hospitality lighting and Infiniti- signature analog clock.

EX35 also offers a number of advanced technologies, including available Bluetooth(R) Hands-Free Phone System, Infiniti Intelligent Key with Push Button Ignition, XM(R) Satellite Radio (XM(R) subscription required, sold separately), RearView Monitor (available separately or as part of the Around View Monitor system) and Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC).

Kia Sportage SUV now manufactured in Europe

Kia Motors will officially celebrate the start of full production of its popular Sportage compact SUV at the company´s ultra-modern Slovakia facility by holding the premiere of the 2008 model at the Frankfurt International Motor Show on 11 September.

Kia´s first-ever plant in Europe continues to be a burgeoning success as the Zilina operation has seamlessly added two new models - the cee´d Sporty Wagon and Sportage SUV- to its inventory, just a few months after making its very first cee´d hatchback cars last December. At the end of this year, the facility will add a fourth model to its repertoire, the Pro-cee´d three-door hatchback.

With a staff of 2,400 working two shifts, Zilina is already living up to its promise of becoming the most productive car manufacturing plant in Europe, aiming to build 100 cars per employee per year - when fully operational. The handsome Kia Sportage SUV is little changed on the outside, but 2008 models will feature exterior enhancements that include a re-styled front grille, black bezel headlamps, enlarged door mirrors, new-style alloy wheels, a broader range of paint finishes and body-colour bumpers for all models.

"Made in Europe, the new 2008 Kia Sportage retains all the popular attributes of the original model and now offers customers an even better drive in greater comfort and refinement," enthused Mr Jean-Charles Lievens, Senior Vice President Kia Motors Europe. "Since its launch in Europe during 2004, the Sportage has attracted more than 100,000 buyers and has played a key role, together with the larger Sorento SUV and smaller Picanto city car, in raising public awareness of the Kia brand across the broadest spread of European consumers."

Technical improvements introduced simultaneously with manufacturing the 2008 Sportage in Europe begin with the power steering, which is re-tuned to be a little more direct. Sixteen inch diameter wheels with 215/65 R16 tyres are standard, the suspension dampers are stiffer for improved on-road handling and body roll has been reduced.

Larger, 300 mm diameter front brakes now stop the Sportage in just 41.6 metres (from 100 kph), and place the Kia among the best-in-class. Inside, the 2008 Sportage has improved front seats with longer (by 40 mm) and wider (by 20 mm) cushions for greater support and comfort. The rear Seat cushion shape and firmness have been enhanced and the Seat lowered by 5 mm to increase headroom. Wind noise has been reduced by redesigning the door mirror housings and improving the seals around the electric sunroof.

Volvo V70 and S80 available with four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines

The Volvo Car Corporation is extending the engine range in the Volvo V70 and Volvo S80.

Both models will be available with four-cylinder engines later this year - either a 2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine with 145 hp or a 2-litre turbodiesel with 136 hp.

"More and more buyers focus on fuel economy and low CO2 emissions. It is highly important for us to give them more choices by making our competitive four-cylinder engines available in the new Volvo V70 and S80 models too. The 2-litre alternatives offer a very attractive combination of fuel economy and driving pleasure," says Lex Kerssemakers, Senior Vice President Brand, Business and Product Strategy at Volvo Cars.

The 2.0 petrol engine has 145 hp (107 kW) and 185 Nm of torque. It is a four-cylinder, normally aspirated unit - a modern, lightweight aluminium engine featuring four-valve technology and a modern fuel injection system. The engine offers the same efficient combustion technology and exhaust gas treatment as other Volvo engines, offering good fuel economy and minimises exhaust emissions.

Fuel consumption in the Volvo V70 is 8.3 l/100 km (EU combined, preliminary figure) and 8.1 l/100 km (EU combined, preliminary figure) in the S80.

Diesel with second-generation common rail

The 2.0D is a four-cylinder turbodiesel with 136 hp (100kW) and 320 Nm of torque. It delivers rapid throttle response and a well-balanced sensitivity to the accelerator to offer the driver good control and driving pleasure.

The engine has second-generation common rail technology - the same as in Volvo's larger diesel models. The cylinder head is made of aluminium.

Fuel consumption in the Volvo V70 is 6.0 l/100 km (EU combined, preliminary figure) and 5.9 l/100 km (EU combined, preliminary figure) in the S80.

A Diesel Particulate Filter is fitted as standard. The filter significantly reduces unburned soot particles in the emissions, thereby reducing the negative environmental impact. The system is cleaned (regenerated) automatically as the contents of the filter are burnt off at regular intervals.

Dodge Announces Pricing for All-new 2008 Caliber SRT4

Dodge announced pricing today for the latest addition to Chrysler's popular Street and Racing Technology (SRT) vehicle lineup - the all-new 2008 Dodge Caliber SRT4.

Boasting 285 horsepower, 265 lb.-ft. of torque and a 0-60 mph time in the low 6-second range, the all-new 2008 Dodge Caliber SRT4 is available for $22,995, which includes $560 for destination. The 2008 Dodge Caliber SRT4 once again delivers the SRT mission of benchmark performance at the lowest price.

"Like all of Chrysler's SRT vehicles, the all-new 2008 Dodge Caliber SRT4 delivers customers an unmatched performance/value equation," said Mike Accavitti, Director - Dodge Brand and SRT Marketing Communications, Chrysler. "With 285 horsepower, 265 lb.-ft. of tire-smoking torque, and numerous functional, race-inspired exterior and interior appointments, Dodge and SRT have once again boldly joined the sport-compact performance market in dominating fashion."

The all-new 2008 Dodge Caliber SRT4 showcases the renowned, five key aspects of any SRT vehicle: exterior styling that resonates with the brand image; race-inspired interiors; world-class ride and handling characteristics across a broad range; benchmark braking; and standout powertrain. The all-new 2008 Dodge Caliber SRT4 unquestionably delivers in all five areas.

Exterior styling includes an aggressive SRT stance, a front fascia with functional brake cooling ducts and a larger grille opening. The unique hood features a functional air scoop enhancing underhood cooling. A large integrated spoiler above the rear glass is tuned for smoother air flow and lift reduction. Available exterior colors are Brilliant Black, Sunburst Orange, Bright Silver and Inferno Red.

Inside, the all-new Caliber SRT4 boasts sport seating with deep, performance bolsters, an SRT race-inspired instrument design, and an optional Reconfigurable Display (RCD), with exclusive "performance pages" that provide lateral and longitudinal G-force, 1/8-mile and 1/4-mile acceleration time and speed, 0-60 mph time and braking distance.

Nissan All-New Second Generation X-Trail SUV

Nissan announced the release of the all-new X-Trail sport utility vehicle (SUV), which goes on sale today at Nissan dealers nationwide. The new X-Trail, the first full redesign of the vehicle since its introduction in 2000, is engineered to be a tough, versatile SUV that stimulates a driver's spirit of adventure. It will be marketed under the tagline "SHIFT_challenging spirit."

The original Nissan X-Trail was developed with the goal of providing customers with a versatile four-passenger, four-wheel drive vehicle at a two million yen price point. Since its launch, the popular X-Trail has been noted for its superior performance, functionality and authentic SUV experience. The all-new X-Trail promises to take the SUV experience to an even higher level, maintaining the original's tough, rugged design while adding elements that maximize owners' enjoyment of outdoor sports.

Nissan X-Trail's "toughness" is highlighted by its enhanced all-weather capability, provided by Nissan's latest electronically controlled four-wheel drive (4WD) system, the ALL MODE 4x4-i with yaw moment control. Also new for this generation Nissan X-Trail is Hill Descent Control (HDC) and Hill Start Assist (HSA). All three systems are designed to provide piece of mind for the driver through superior control and stability.

Additionally, Nissan X-Trail's hallmark high quality and outstanding utility have been enhanced with added convenience and storage features. Highlights of the restyled interior include the use of new water-repellant materials and a larger, washable two-deck luggage compartment.

A Strong Exterior Design
The all-new Nissan X-Trail retains the nameplate's signature styling cues, which are suggestive of the SUV's outstanding off-road capabilities. Extended wheel arches and an aggressive front bumper design give X-Trail a tough stance. The hood slopes to allow a clear view of the vehicle's corners and the three-dimensional headlights continue the strong look. The headlight markers enable drivers to identify the front corners of the vehicle, helping negotiate tight areas whether on an off-road trail or an urban street. Additionally, the A-pillars' obstruction angle has been reduced by 1.2 degrees in comparison to the previous generation X-Trail.

Nissan X-TRAIL's low waistline leads into the styled rear pillars with an "X" motial and also contributes to the good visibility and gives a feeling of roominess to the passenger and luggage areas. The finishing touches are provided by three-dimensional rear combination lamps and a high-mounted LED stop lamp. An integrated "Hyper Roof Rail" is optionally available, as are Bi-level xenon headlights and heated outside mirrors.

Dodge Announces Pricing for All-new 2008 Caliber SRT4

Dodge announced pricing today for the latest addition to Chrysler's popular Street and Racing Technology (SRT) vehicle lineup - the all-new 2008 Dodge Caliber SRT4.

Boasting 285 horsepower, 265 lb.-ft. of torque and a 0-60 mph time in the low 6-second range, the all-new 2008 Dodge Caliber SRT4 is available for $22,995, which includes $560 for destination. The 2008 Dodge Caliber SRT4 once again delivers the SRT mission of benchmark performance at the lowest price.

"Like all of Chrysler's SRT vehicles, the all-new 2008 Dodge Caliber SRT4 delivers customers an unmatched performance/value equation," said Mike Accavitti, Director - Dodge Brand and SRT Marketing Communications, Chrysler. "With 285 horsepower, 265 lb.-ft. of tire-smoking torque, and numerous functional, race-inspired exterior and interior appointments, Dodge and SRT have once again boldly joined the sport-compact performance market in dominating fashion."

The all-new 2008 Dodge Caliber SRT4 showcases the renowned, five key aspects of any SRT vehicle: exterior styling that resonates with the brand image; race-inspired interiors; world-class ride and handling characteristics across a broad range; benchmark braking; and standout powertrain. The all-new 2008 Dodge Caliber SRT4 unquestionably delivers in all five areas.

Exterior styling includes an aggressive SRT stance, a front fascia with functional brake cooling ducts and a larger grille opening. The unique hood features a functional air scoop enhancing underhood cooling. A large integrated spoiler above the rear glass is tuned for smoother air flow and lift reduction. Available exterior colors are Brilliant Black, Sunburst Orange, Bright Silver and Inferno Red.

Inside, the all-new Caliber SRT4 boasts sport seating with deep, performance bolsters, an SRT race-inspired instrument design, and an optional Reconfigurable Display (RCD), with exclusive "performance pages" that provide lateral and longitudinal G-force, 1/8-mile and 1/4-mile acceleration time and speed, 0-60 mph time and braking distance.

The Dodge Caliber SRT4's suspension is lowered 28mm in the front and 22mm in the rear, contributing to the unique SRT performance ride and handling characteristics. Chassis highlights include unique performance tuning, 19-inch cast-aluminum wheels and Goodyear three- or four-season performance tires.

Benchmark braking is delivered via four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes with 340 x 28mm vented front rotors and 302 x 10mm rear rotors, with twin-piston aluminum front calipers.

And finally, a whopping 285 horsepower and tire-smoking 265 lb.-ft. of torque is delivered courtesy of Chrysler's 2.4-liter DOHC I-4 Turbo World Engine. An electronically tuned Brake Lock Differential and Getrag DMT-6 six- speed transmission help put the power to the ground.

2008 Dodge Caliber SRT4 Pricing:

The 2008 Dodge Caliber SRT4 is well-equipped and has a U.S. MSRP of $22,995 (including $560 destination).
Posted by 5nizza at 7.03.PD 0 comments
Labels: 2008, Dodge, price

Further Audi A5 models now released

Two more leading edge Audi FSI and TDI engines join the all new A5 coupé range this week with additional refinements that boost output while at the same time maximising efficiency. The 2.7-litre TDI and 3.2-litre FSI units power the A5 2.7 TDI priced from £31,640 OTR, and the A5 3.2 FSI at £33,230 OTR. Both will reach their first UK customers in late October.

The 3.2-litre V6 FSI petrol is a development of the much praised unit powering A4, A6 and A8 models, its power increased in the A5 from 256PS to 265PS and its 330Nm torque peak delivered lower down the range at 3,000rpm, and across a wider band stretching to 5,000rpm. The A5 3.2 FSI takes a minimum of 6.6 seconds to reach 62mph from rest, can reach an electronically limited maximum speed of 155mph and yet is also capable of returning up to 31.7mpg.

The new 2.7-litre TDI with advanced common rail piezo injection and standard diesel particulate filter (DPF) enjoys a power hike from 180PS in the A4 and A6 to 190PS, and a 20Nm torque boost to 400Nm at 1,400rpm. It enables the A5 2.7 TDI to accelerate to 62mph in 7.6 seconds, to carry on to a top speed of 144mph and to cover up to 42.2mpg.

Both new versions are initially available exclusively with unique-in-class multitronic continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), and in conjunction with front-wheel-drive.

The most important new development to benefit the engines in their transition to the A5 can be found in the 3.2 FSI. In its latest application this advanced unit combines the many advantages of FSI direct petrol injection with a sophisticated new Audi valvelift system first seen in the new 2.8-litre FSI unit powering the A6 and the recently introduced A8 2.8 FSI – the luxury saloon with the lowest CO2 emissions in the UK market.

Alfa Romeo 147 Sport and Sport Q2 special edition in the UK

Alfa Romeo is releasing a limited number of stunning special edition Alfa 147 Sport and Sport Q2 models in the UK.

The new Alfa 147 Sport features a number of unique enhancements to the Alfa’s exterior styling. New 17-inch 5 spoke wheels add poise, while satin effect wing mirrors, a roof spoiler and chrome exhaust hint at the sporting prowess. The sport theme continues inside, with some subtle touches starting with exclusive Q2-type cloth used for the seats, aluminium pedals, sports dials, steering wheel-mounted audio controls and darkened roof lining.

The top-of-the-range Sport Q2 version has some unique features over the Sport specification; the most fundamental being the Q2 Limited Slip Differential. This addition to the Alfa 147’s already surefooted chassis is complemented by lowered sports suspension and unique Q2 17-inch alloy wheels. Inside, the higher specification machine adds black leather sports seats, dual zone climate control and stainless steel kick plates over the Sport specification. All 147 Sport models are available in Alfa Red, Stromboli Grey or Carbonio Black, colours which all accentuate the car’s distinctive styling.

By adding the Q2 system with its Torsen Limited Slip Differential which splits torque between the front drive wheels dynamically and constantly, according to driving conditions and the road surface it has given the Alfa 147 a sharper turn-in when cornering, adding to the car’s A-road prowess. The Q2 system also enhances traction, thus allowing the driver to enjoy the impressive 225 lb/ft of torque from the JTDM 16v engine with absolute confidence.

However, drivers will have to be quick to get their hands on one of these sharp-looking hatchbacks, with only 450 Alfa 147 Sport and 350 Alfa 147 Sport Q2 models available. The Alfa 147 Sport is available with either the 1.6 TS petrol engine or the 1.9 JTDM diesel unit. The Sport Q2 comes equipped with the 1.9 JTDM 16v unit, endowing the LSD-equipped car with a lusty 150bhp.

The Alfa 147 Sport is available in three or five door body styles. Available from £13,450, this model represents exceptional value for money in its class. The Alfa 147 Sport Q2 is available from £16,950 for the three door hatch and £17,450 for the five door version.

Ford Verve Concepts hints at small car future design vision

All eyes will be firmly focused on the Ford stand at next month’s Frankfurt Motor Show when the manufacturer of the UK’s best-loved small car takes the wraps off its vision for the future, - the Ford Verve Concept.

Ford Verve Concept hints at the new design direction for future compact cars and the company plans to closely gauge public reaction while their designers work behind the scenes creating Ford's next supermini generation.

The latest in a series of striking show stoppers, Ford Verve Concept follows in the footsteps of the Iosis and Iosis X, whose kinetic design philosophy inspired production models like the critically acclaimed new Mondeo and S-MAX.

Martin Smith, Executive Director of Design for Ford of Europe, explained: “Bold, even radical, Ford Verve Concept demonstrates the potential of Ford’s kinetic design philosophy to visualise a small car that is a chic and modern, and one that makes an individual statement for a sophisticated, fashion-aware generation.”

Bold and sporty, the front of the supermini is dominated by a large, inverted trapezoidal lower grille with the familiar Ford oval centred in the compact upper opening.

Particularly eye-catching in deep magenta with a unique tinted clear coat finish, Ford Verve Concept’s sleek lines, 18-inch alloys, panoramic glass roof and
B-pillarless structure give it an elegant, coupe-like look.

The visual splendour continues inside with a fresh and innovative approach to interior design that's been inspired by the latest mobile phones. Sensuous curves combine with clever technology to create a stylish but user-friendly environment.

Ford's Convers+ system, which allows quick and easy access to all driver-operated functions, is central to the ergonomically excellent design. A large colour screen displays all essential information while every surrounding button and switch has been crafted with the kind of minute attention typically associated with larger, upmarket vehicles.

2008 totally new Subaru Impreza

Subaru’s eagerly-awaited new Impreza goes on sale in September, offering all its traditional strengths of outstanding handling and active safety thanks to symmetrical all-wheel drive but in a new, more practical package.

And while performance fans will still be catered for early next year when the range-topping, turbocharged WRX STI arrives, the initial emphasis is on the new 1.5 and 2.0 litre models aimed at a much wider audience.

Both enjoy enhanced fuel economy and driveability thanks to improved ‘boxer’ engines which – having their cylinders horizontally-opposed – give the car a lower centre of gravity for improved grip, reduced body roll and more agile steering response.

By Chamari Senanayake

World’s fastest production car looks and feels even better than the James Bond vehicles. It can run four times the legal speed limit of most of the countries in the world and amazingly reach 100Km/h just in 2.5 seconds. Introduced as the best sports car in the world, Bugatti Veyron is the first production of the Bugatti company since it used to produce exotic French cars in the 1920’s and failed by the 1950’s and became part of the Volkswagen group. In a way, this could be the best revival for any badge, to introduce the fastest and the most powerful car on earth. Bugatti Veyron has a top speed limit of mid blowing 407 Km/h, which puts it ahead the fastest cars so far, like, Ferrari Enzo, Porche Carrera GT and Mercedes Mc Laren SLR Supercar.