2007 Mitsubishi Shogun

At the heart of the revamp is a stylish grille and headlights, but new tail-lamps are also promised, plus larger windows.While the design is described as evolutionary, insiders say the car not only sits on an all-new platform, but gets a reworked 4WD system, too. Flagship models will offer a 250bhp 3.8-litre V6 engine from launch early next year.

2007 Honda CR-V Undisguised!

For the first time Honda has undisguised its 2007 CR-V. Numerous pre-production demo cars have been sighted in Vancouver and California. These photos show a production model left unattended while enginners were staying at a hotel. The 2007 CR-V will be sold in all 50 states.

The demo cars that were sighted in Vancouver had Califonian lincense plates but the CR-V will be built in Ohio, Maryville.

One thing that can be seen compared to the current model is the vehicle has shrunken in length.

2007 Nissan Almera Hatchback & Sedan

This is the replacement for the Nissan Almera, spied testing in Southern Spain. The car has already been released in Japan and the United States, but Nissan has yet to confirm when it will be coming to Europe. However, these images also show a saloon version of the car, which has yet to be released anywhere. In the USA, the Almera (known as Versa) uses a 1.8-litre 16-valve engine, producing 122bhp and 127lb ft of torque at 4800rpm. It comes with either a six-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic.Lotus has been linked to the European-spec model ever since one was spied at Hethel recently. But the tiny market for small saloons in Europe means that the booted version is likely to be US- and Japan-only.

Earlier prototype were testing in England and Germany with very minimal disguise so why heavly disguise it now?

2007 Holden Commodore, WM Stateman & Caprice Prices

Holden today released pricing for the all-new 2006 series of Holden Commodore, highlighting several significant reductions compared with equivalent models in the previous generation.Prices were also announced for the upcoming WM Statesman and Caprice, with Caprice moving under the $70,000-mark and the V8 flagship version priced at less than the previous V6 model.Holden released the information after briefing almost 300 Holden dealers at a national event in Queensland today. The VE and WM pricing schedule reflects the revised model lineup for the all-new Commodore and represents outstanding value in every model. They include the new Omega model and flagship V-Series models, plans for which were announced at Holden's VE reveal event on Sunday.Buyers are now able to purchase SS performance or Calais luxury for $6800 and $8400 less respectively than their VZ equivalents.The 2006 Holden Commodore series will be priced from a recommended retail price of $34,490 for Omega. This is a price increase of just $500 or 1.5 per cent while offering all the structural and technological advances of the new generation Commodores.Pricing for the new Berlina has been rolled back $3900 to a recommended retail price of $39,990 despite offering more prestige, technology and value.Holden also announced plans for a special model for private buyers, the Commodore V-Series, to be offered from September to celebrate the release of the fourth generation Commodore family.Holden's Executive Director of Sales, Marketing and Aftersales, Alan Batey, said Holden had designed a model structure which offered compelling choice at every level of purchase. Batey said the pricing left no doubt about Holden's intent in Australia. "Commodore has always represented exceptional value for money and Holden has added even more value with the all-new models," Mr Batey said."Almost 40 passenger car brands are competing for market share and we need to consider more competitors than ever before in setting our pricing structure."Our model lineup enables us to make SS and Calais more accessible to buyers, while allowing room for differentiation with the new V-Series variants."Commodore V-Series special modelMr Batey said the Commodore V-Series was Holden's gesture to celebrate the first all-new Commodore in nine years.He said Holden had defined the practice of regular special edition releases and Commodore V-Series was the best possible way to mark the company's biggest milestone for many years."Special edition models have long been a part of our plan. Commodore V-Series is designed for private buyers to celebrate the arrival of VE and recognise Commodore's compelling value," Mr Batey said."The Commodore V-Series will be on sale for the rest of this year and we expect there will be strong demand."Based on the Omega model, the Commodore V-Series includes air conditioning, 17-inch alloys, rear spoiler, body color mirrors and door handles. The Commodore V-Series is for sale to private buyers only. Fleet consultationMr Batey said Holden had already consulted widely with major fleet buyers and was confident its pricing would also exceed expectations for fleet and user-chooser markets."The consultation process has been extremely valuable," he said."We have put together a package which continues to represent strong value for fleets with specification level and key price points meeting the needs of diverse fleet policies."The pricing and model repositioning strategy will support long term value in these vehicles and ultimately maintain a strong residual value position over its competitors."Mr Batey said corporate buyers had shown particular interest in key safety features, including the standard provision of Electronic Stability Program (ESP®) and the availability of side impact and curtain airbags in all models."We have put in what is important to our biggest customers in each model," he said.The 2006 Holden Commodore range will go on sale across Australia in August 2006. The Commodore V-Series special model will go on sale in September. A full list of features for the WM Statesman and Caprice will be released closer to the start of sales in September 2006.

Pricing

New Car: 2007 Seat Leon Cupra

Exclusive and striking styling:

The new León Cupra is hitting the roads – a vehicle in which SEAT has implemented all of the knowledge gained during the current successful World Touring Car Championship season; the Spanish make is, in fact, one of the favourites for the WTCC constructors and drivers championship. For SEAT, whose goal is to create sporty cars with cutting-edge design and the latest technology, the arrival of the new León Cupra is not just a source of satisfaction and pride; it is also essential.The new Cupra is also a record-breaking car: it is the most powerful SEAT passenger car to date. With 240 hp, the new model sits at the top of SEAT’s sporty range. The León Cupra’s advanced engineering, allied to its agile chassis, looks set to create a stir in the increasingly competitive hot hatch market.

Winning looks:

One outstanding feature of the Cupra series has been its powerful and aggressive styling compared with the rest of the range. This is also the case for the new León Cupra. From the outside, the León Cupra demands attention. Its exclusive front bumper has larger air intakes than usual in order to enable sufficient airflow to cool the 240 hp engine, which purrs away under the chiselled bonnet. An outstanding feature at the rear of the car is the lower section’s black finish, which emulates the León WTCC’s diffusers. Another unique Cupra feature is the polished steel oval exhaust pipe. The word “CUPRA”, which appears below the rear logo, marks out the new model from other versions.

In profile, the Cupra’s most striking feature is its stunning, exclusively designed 7.5J x 18” wheels, as well as the ‘ébano’ black door mirrors. But to really appreciate the feeling of being in a true sports car, you actually need to step into the new Cupra. The ultra-sporty seats are the first feature which catches the eye. In fact, the Cupra’s seats are so focussed that they could genuinely be racing car seats. They surround the body and include an integrated head restraint. The second feature that sets the Cupra apart from other versions of the León is its black interior. The car’s pillars and roof are black instead of the usual cream-grey combination. The Cupra’s interior colour scheme perfectly sets off its key features: the striking leather perforated steering wheel against a red background, the gear stick, the white instrument panel and the sporty metal pedals. Each and every one of these parts bears the unmistakable Cupra logo. A racing car at heartNow let’s turn to the León Cupra’s key feature, the reason why customers will go for this model over any other: its spectacular 2.0 TFSI 240 hp engine.

This is the most powerful engine ever installed in a SEAT production car.With this engine, the León Cupra achieves performance worthy of a WTCC track car with a top speed of 247 km/h, or 153 mph. The Cupra accelerates from 0 to 100 in only 6.4 seconds. Furthermore, it covers the first 1000 metres in only 26.4 seconds. In terms of in-gear acceleration, the León Cupra goes from 80 km/h to 120 km/h in fifth gear in 6.4 seconds. In sixth gear, this takes 8.2 seconds.Even though the car’s performance is highly sporty, it is also capable of returning impressive fuel consumption, with an average of only 8.6 litres per 100 km (around 32.8 mpg). (Performances and consumption provisional).

A racing chassis:

In order to successfully transfer all of the engine’s power to the road, the suspension elements of the León’s proven and effective agile chassis have been adapted, while its weight has been reduced. The power steering system has also been modified in order to give the Cupra an even sharper feel compared with other Leóns. These changes provide the highest levels of driving precision, as expected from the most focussed and sporty model in the SEAT range. The Cupra’s high performance capabilities require brakes that are equally impressive - and the new model delivers, with a powerful system featuring striking red-painted callipers. The front ventilated discs are sized at 345x30 mm, which is larger than those used on the rest of the range. And if that was not enough, the Cupra can also be fitted with an even more capable Brembo brake system as an option. This four-piston system offers enhanced stopping performance and improved resistance to high temperatures.

Circuit sound:

Another León Cupra feature worked on by SEAT is the all-important soundtrack from the engine bay. New SEAT SOUND exhaust systems have been developed so that drivers can really experience the sporty nature of the Cupra. These systems boost the richness of the engine sound and the feeling of power at low revs, and can be experienced both outside and inside the car. The feeling of sporty acoustics and sheer engine power is accentuated when moving off from a standing start, performing low-speed manoeuvres, accelerating and braking at full speed and at low revs.

World leader:

The León Cupra, which could be called the road car version of the León WTCC, shows off the technological skills used in vehicle design, development and production by SEAT. It was created both at the SEAT Martorell site.

2007 Renault Laguna 3 Caught In Spain

The sharp-edged styling of the old model is expected to give way to a smarter, smoother shape. It will borrow heavily from the 2004 Fluence concept, and previews a new design direction for the French firm. As you can see, the brand's famous diamond logo will dominate the front of the car, set between flush-fitting headlamps. The low, rounded nose looks good, but has safety benefits, too. It has been created to comply with the latest Euro NCAP pedestrian impact tests as Renault aims to cement its reputation for building the safest vehicles.At the rear are distinctive light clusters and pronounced haunches, giving the model a sporty and aggressive stance. Inside, the popular hatch there will be high-grade plastics and soft touch finishes, as on the latest Clio. The heavily disguised family model was caught testing by reader Abigail Rogerson, who spotted the prototype at the Sierra Nevada ski resort in Spain.It will face tough competition when it arrives in the UK, going head-to-head with Ford's all-new Mondeo. The Laguna is expected to hit showrooms late next year, after making its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in autumn 2007.

2007 Peugeot 207 SW & Coupe-Cabriolet In Full Production Trim

These are some photographs showing us what Pugeot has installed for us in 2007. The first picture shows a what is believed to be a spy picture of the 207 SW. Car fans are saying that the picture is a computer generated image. We're not to sure but at least we have a faint idea of what the wagon could look like.

2007 Peugeot 207 Coupe-Cabriolet:

These were the first photos of the new 207 CC completely undisguised in full production trim. Spy photographers managed to get into the lion's den. This could replace the 206 CC later in 2007. Despite the car being all over the internet and in car magazines, Peugeot is currently undergoing hot-weather testing in Spain with the vehicle in very heavy disguise.

Korean Cow Girls

I thought that I'd just post this picture just for the fun of it. At least we get to see the Daewoo Winstorm and 2 Korean girls next to it.

New Car: 2007 Holden Commodore

Its here at long last. The first offical photos of the Holden Commodore. As you may know it will be called Chevrolet Omega over in Latin America and shares the same platform as the Chevrolet Camero and some more American cars. More information will be posted soon

2007 Chrysler Pacifica Pricing Announced (US)

New Pacifica models offer consumers $2,700 better value than predecessor at a lower Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP)

New 4.0-liter V-6 aluminum engine with 255 hp and 265 lb.-ft. of torque mated to a new six-speed automatic transmission results in an inspired driving experience
New standard safety equipment includes all-row, side-curtain air bags, Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with traction control and brake assist and available innovative new features including YES Essentials stain-resistant, odor-resistant and anti-static cloth seats and ParkView™ rear back-up camera

Chrysler Group today announced U.S. pricing for the new 2007 Chrysler Pacifica. With a new 4.0-liter aluminum V-6 engine mated to a new six-speed automatic transmission, more standard equipment, including all-row side-curtain air bags and Electronic Stability Program (ESP), and an average U.S. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of roughly $1,300 less than outgoing models, the new 2007 Chrysler Pacifica offers the best features of an SUV, minivan and passenger car all rolled into one safe and stylish vehicle.

The starting U.S. MSRP of the new 2007 Chrysler Pacifica is $24,890 (including a $730 destination fee). It will begin to arrive in dealerships this fall.

"The new 2007 Chrysler Pacifica offers consumers a $2,700 better value than its predecessor," said David Rooney, Director — Chrysler Brand Marketing. "We were able to lower the price on Pacifica models an average of $1,300 while adding an average of $1,400 in standard content across the lineup, and as high as $1,800 on select models, offering consumers an inspired driving experience and best-in-class safety at a price that makes sense."

Along with lower prices and added content, the pricing strategy for the 2007 Chrysler Pacifica will result in improved resale values and competitive monthly payments for Pacifica buyers.
"Offering consumers value for their dollar was a prime consideration in the development of the new Chrysler Pacifica," Rooney said. "With first-class interior experience, the flexibility for a variety of seating or cargo needs and the top government safety ratings, the 2007 Pacifica continues the Chrysler tradition of offering premium amenities without the premium price."
The Chrysler Pacifica is rated five stars for front and side impact and four stars (best of the vehicles tested in its class) for roll-over by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

2007 Chrysler Pacifica:

The Chrysler Pacifica offers exceptional value for an entry-level sports tourer with a U.S. MSRP starting at $24,890 (including a $730 destination fee). Standard equipment includes front-wheel drive, a 3.8-liter V-6 engine that produces 200 hp and 235 lb.-ft. of torque mated to a four-speed automatic transmission with Variable Line Pressure (VLP), standard all-row side-curtain air bags, ESP, 2+3 five-passenger seating, YES Essentials® stain resistant, odor resistant, anti-static cloth seats, air conditioning with dual-zone temperature control, driver's side inflatable knee blocker, multistage front air bags with Occupant Classification System, Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren (LATCH) child seat anchors, power eight-way driver seat and four-way front passenger seat, power locks, AM/FM/CD radio with Infinity® speakers, power windows with one-touch up, power heated fold-away mirrors, load leveling and height control, performance suspension, 17-inch steel wheels, 12-volt front and rear power outlets, 140-amp alternator, rear window defroster and wiper/washer, speed control, second-row 65/35 split fold-flat seats and 92.7 cu. ft. of cargo space.

The Chrysler Pacifica also is available with all-wheel drive. The U.S. MSRP is $27,930 (including a $730 destination charge). In addition to the standard features available on the front-wheel drive Pacifica, the all-wheel drive model is equipped with a standard 4.0-liter V-6 aluminum engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with VLP, Electronic Throttle Control (ETC), 160-amp alternator, all-speed traction control and 17.5-inch machine-finished aluminum wheels.

2007 Chrysler Pacifica Touring:

With a starting U.S. MSRP for the front-wheel drive model of $27,980 (including a $730 destination charge) and $30,630 (including a $730 destination charge) for the all-wheel drive model, the Chrysler Pacifica Touring comes standard with a 4.0-liter V-6 engine producing 255 hp and 265 lb.-ft. of torque mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with VLP. In addition to the standard features on the Chrysler Pacifica model, the Chrysler Pacifica Touring model adds 2+2+2 six-passenger seating, automatic temperature control with air filtering and dual-zone control, HomeLink universal transceiver, leather-wrapped steering wheel, power 10-way driver seat and four-way front passenger seat, rear courtesy reading lamps, sun visors with illuminated vanity mirrors, body-color door handles and vehicle information center. The Chrysler Pacifica Touring all-wheel drive model is equipped with standard leather seating.

2007 Chrysler Pacifica Limited:

For 2007, the Chrysler Pacifica Limited front-wheel drive model has a starting U.S. MSRP of $34,155 (including a $730 destination fee), and the all-wheel drive model has a starting U.S. MSRP of $36,205 (including a $730 destination fee). In addition to the standard equipment available on the Chrysler Pacifica Touring model, the Pacifica Limited adds heated front- and second-row seats, luxury leather-trimmed bucket seats, ParkSense® rear back-up system, AM/FM/CD/DVD video/DVD audio/MP3 radio, six-disc, in-dash CD/DVD changer, automatic headlamps, fog lamps, power-adjustable pedals with memory, power heated, foldaway, auto-dim mirrors, power liftgate, power moonroof, radio/driver seat/mirrors memory, rearview auto-dim mirror, 19-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels, wood and leather-wrapped shift knob, body-color fascias and bodyside body-color molding and premium Tire Pressure Monitoring system, which includes self-learning capability.
2007 Chrysler Pacifica Pricing:

Following is pricing for the new 2007 Chrysler Pacifica models. All prices include a $730 destination fee.

Chrysler Pacifica:

Pacifica front-wheel drive - $24,890
Pacifica all-wheel drive - $27,930

Chrysler Pacifica Touring:

Pacifica Touring front-wheel drive - $27,980
Pacifica Touring all-wheel drive - $30,630

Chrysler Pacifica Limited:

Pacifica Limited front-wheel drive - $34,155
Pacifica Limited all-wheel drive - $36,205

Chrysler Brand:

Driven by award-winning new models, the Chrysler brand has seen a dramatic increase in sales, market share and brand image, culminating in 2005 calendar year sales of 649,293 units — an all-time Chrysler brand yearly sales record. Since 1990, Chrysler brand sales have jumped 251 percent. No other American automotive brand has grown as much during the same time frame.
All Chrysler Pacifica models are built at DaimlerChrysler's Windsor Assembly Plant in Windsor, Ontario, Canada.

Fiat 500 caught out!

For the first time Fiat is testing their all-new city car, set to be called the 500. These are the first pictures of a genuine prototype caught in Turin. The 500 is said to closely resemble its concept, Trepiuno, however, the 500 will underpin the current Panda. The original 500 was produced in 1957 until 1975 and sold like hot cakes.

Under the hood, a 69bhp 1.2 & 1.4 litre 100bhp petrol engine will be used, alongside a 1.3 MultiJet diesel engine. All engines ae mated to a 6 speed manual but a Dualogic semi-automatic will be offered on the 1.2. Internal sources suggest the diesel is able to achieve over 65mpg combined with CO2 emissions of 110g/km.

A wide range of options and accessories will be available like metallic paint, alloy wheels, ESP, climate control, leather steering wheel, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, xenon headlamps, pamoramic glass sunroof - fixed or electric, external graphics, chrome door mirrors, air freshners etc.

The 500 will venture into showrooms later in 2007 with France & Italy expected to be the first markets to get the new city-car. Right hand drive sales will launch a year later.

2007 Lexus IS500

Its obvious that Lexus is already testing their powerful new IS500 as these photos show a prototype under black vynil. A few visable things is the front gapping mouth, golden painted alloys and 2 dual exhausts on each side. Underneath the hood is a 5.0 litre petrol engine V8 developing around 460bhp.

Concept Car: Mitsubishi Outlander (Europe)

MITSUBISHI MOTORS announces OUTLANDER-CONCEPT - Mitsubishi Motors will use the 2006 Paris Motor Show in September to launch its all-new European SUV, the Outlander. Due to go on-sale Spring 2007, the new mid-size 4x4 has been designed to bring new levels of comfort and drivability to an important and expanding sector of the market. 70 years of 4x4 technology.

Seventy years after its seminal PX33 4 wheel-drive torpedo, MMC will be able to demonstrate in Paris its expertise in this area through a coherent, up-to-the-minute and totally renewed SUV line-up, filling key sectors of the growing SUV market in Europe.

After the successful launch of its L200 sport-utility-truck earlier this year and prior to another most important introduction, Mitsubishi Motors will unveil “Outlander-Concept” in Paris.

Best selling compact SUVA derivative of the all-new Outlander launched in Japan in October 2005 and now the best selling compact SUV in Japan (20,041 sales October 2005 / May 2006). Outlander-Concept will preview the upcoming Euro-spec Outlander. To be launched in Europe during the first quarter of 2007, Outlander will allow Mitsubishi Motors to enter the fastest growing SUV segment (up 54% from 325,000 in 2001 to 500,000 in 2006 and with further 35% growth expected between 2006 and 2009), right in the heart of this sector.

Outlander-Concept will also preview in Europe an all-new global C-segment platform that MMC has engineered for world markets, plus advanced technology based on Mitsubishi Motors’ AWC (All Wheel Control) concept and proven through its motor sport activities. A new dimension legitimate by heritage, Outlander-Concept proposes a new dimension to an increasingly crowded and predictable segment through design, technology and features

Design:

With its Europe-only “Mount Fuji” grille, the 4.64 m long Outlander-Concept is a further showcase of Mitsubishi Motors’ strong visual identity, while its wide stance, muscular fenders and sharp lines leave no doubt about its dynamic abilities. Lean, Outlander-Concept brings drama without gratuitous effects, its kicked-up window line, piercing headlamps and 20” specific wheels giving the appearance of permanent motion. It will be presented in a sporty metallic red with silver accents (roof rails, side body strips, door handles, front skid-plate, grille surround).

Technology:

Neither an authentic off-roader like Pajero* nor a jacked-up station wagon, Outlander-Concept is a no-compromise solution for a different type of recreational vehicle. Using the in-built adaptability of MMC’s new global platform, it brings passenger car-like levels of active safety and driving pleasure, whilst its Mitsubishi “All Wheel Control” drive system allows a smooth progression off the beaten tracks, up to a “Lock 4WD” mode.

Outlander-Concept is powered by a derivative of the Volkswagen AG-supplied 1,968 cc, turbo-charged w/intercooler, DOHC, 16-valve, EU-4 compliant diesel engine fitted to the recent Grandis Di-D. Mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox, in Outlander-Concept it produces an estimated 140PS.

Features:

Flexible in essence, Outlander-Concept has been designed as a stylish living space, able to suit all requirements and with features to match, be it entertainment (650W 9-speaker Rockford Fosgate® premium audio system), seating (clever “Hide & Seat” 3rd row for 5+2 accommodation) or utility (split tailgate and auto-folding function for the 2nd row seats).

2007 BMW X5

It seems that all the X5 spy photos that we've seen lately have been coming out of Germany. Now, finally, we've caught a couple of X5 test utes here in the States, wearing appropriately South Carolina license plates.The second-generation BMW X5 moves up in size, performance, comfort, versatility and standing. And although the new South Carolina-built sport/utility vehicle (codenamed E70) isnt due on dealer lots until the end of 2006 as a 07 model, were able to give you a pretty good look right now.BMWs design team, headed by Dutchman Adrian van Hooydonk, combined contemporary styling with familiar themes from todays X5 to create a distinctive SUV thats instantly recognizable as a BMW. However, the new SUV is much less radical than the smaller X3 with which it shares much of its mechanical package.Longer, wider and taller than todays model, and with an extended rear overhang, the new X5 puts greater distance between itself and the X3, which should allow BMW to command higher prices.Inside, the X5 promises a 5-series-like interior. Five-passenger-seating is standard, but BMW will likely offer buyers two third-row seats as optional equipment.Conventional steel springs will be used on lower-end models, with air suspension reserved for upmarket versions, along with an automatic self-levelling feature to maintain ride height when towing. BMW will also offer active steering on the new X5Power comes from a wide range of inline six-cylinder and V8 engines, with several diesel units on tap for Europe. Among the gasoline engines is the recently upgraded 3.0-liter six. It will be joined from the outset by new 4.0- and 4.8-liter V8s.The new X5 uses a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic gearbox and BMWs xDrive four-wheel-drive system. As with the first-generation model, BMW has decided against any hardcore SUV systems such as separate transfer case, locking differentials and automatically decoupling stabilizers. BMW engineers argue that the added weight would be detrimental to efforts to once again establish the X5 the most agile SUV on the road.

1 photo showing the 2007 X5 undisguise in Germany
1 photo showing the test car in California and 1 more photo showing the interior

2008 Citroen C2/C3 Mini MPV

Bold new supermini-MPV carries styling cues such as the lights and grille which were first seen on the C-Airplay supermini concept and C-Buggy study .
Citroen's all-new C2 Plus is the French firm’s first entry into the highly competitive and fast growing supermini-MPV market.
Based on a stretched platform borrowed from sister company Peugeot’s 1007, the flexible people carrier is aimed at buyers who think the regular C2 is too small and the C4 too large. Styling for the C2 Plus's headlights and grille were first seen on the C-Buggy study (image).
Rivalling the upcoming Ford B-MAX, Vauxhall Meriva and Nissan Note, it is set to go on sale next year, and will be the first Citroen to adopt the company’s new nose – which was initially seen on the C-Airplay and C-Buggy concepts.
Our pictures in this week's issue are the result of exclusive inside information from our colleagues in France, and show how the rest of the newcomer looks. As well as the striking nose – with its large headlights and oversized bumpers – the C2 Plus gets some other neat details.
The see-through A-pillars not only look great, but aid visibility, too, while the chunky wheelarches and beefy rear pillars give the car a bold profile. At the back, distinctive lights extend to meet the roofline, while a split tailgate – similar to the C2 hatch – aids practicality.
Inside, the boxy shape means lots of headroom, while a sliding rear bench allows owners to maximise space. The seat also splits and folds flat, leaving a vast luggage area, which is enhanced by under-floor storage. Up front, the dashboard draws inspiration from the C-Airplay, with high-quality soft-touch materials, while the rest of the cabin makes greater use of bright colours for its trim and upholstery.
Under the bonnet, the Plus will feature engines from the current C2 line-up, including 1.4-litre petrol and diesel units. It will also make use of the new 115bhp 1.6-litre petrol engine co-developed with BMW. Most models will use a manual gearbox, but the C2 Plus may also have the firm’s all-new clutchless manual transmission, which replaces the unloved SensoDrive semi-auto.
With an official launch likely to take place at one of Europe’s major motor shows next year, UK buyers can expect to see the C2 Plus in showrooms towards the end of 2007, with a starting price of around £9,500.

The next Citroen C3 will have similar styling.

2007 Mercedes CL AMG

Although the 2007 Mercedes CL oofical pictures have been released Mercedes is already planning a more sportier, powerful model. Already undergoing high speed testing at the Nurburgring Racetrack expect the prices to be about £110,000. The new CL will be taking on the Bentley Continental GT. Heres an impression on how the car may look upon its release.

2007 Lancia Pangea

These very first spy photos shows a what seems to be a disguised Suzuki SX4 but no, its infact a Lancia Pangea which is a sibling of the Fiat Sedici and Suzuki SX4. Expect prices to be similar to the Fiat and Suzuki.

2008 Lotus Esprit

The British sports car maker Lotus – owned by Proton, Malaysia – is about to develop an all new mid-engined Lotus Esprit, due for launch in 2007.

These photos are showing the first test mule doing high speed testing at Nürburgring. It has wider fenders and a large rear wing. More important, however, is what will be underneath: the next Lotus Esprit gets a 32 valve 4.8 litre V8 engine from BMW delivering 367 HP and uses a newly developed extruded aluminium chassis and all independent suspension. The super car’s top speed is estimated to rate around 180 mph.
With US sales for this new Esprit receiving priority, Lotus will build between 1000 and 2000 units in the company’s home base Hethel in Great Britain.
The photos are showing a prototype mule plus one computer image of an artist’s impression of how the new Esprit could look like upon its release.

Road Test: Bentley Azure

Our first road test on this site.

It’s the world’s most expensive and exclusive convertible, and a car that’s as British as afternoon tea at London’s Ritz Hotel. The Bentley Azure has been in production at the factory in Crewe, Che­shire, since 1995. Now, there’s a new version that’s set to grace the globe’s trendiest resorts from August, when the first customers take delivery.A massive 875Nm of torque en­sures the car offers incredible acceleration, despite its 2,695kg weight Based on the latest Arnage, the Azure uses the same 6.75-litre twin-turbo V8 as the saloon and retains the unique Bentley character of effortless power. Revving to 4,500rpm, the cabrio has a seamless four-speed auto gearbox to drive the rear wheels. A massive 875Nm of torque en­sures the car offers incredible acceleration, despite its 2,695kg weight. From 0-60mph, it’s four-tenths of a second quicker than the outgoing Azure, recording the sprint in 5.9 seconds. However, Bentley’s engineers have also concentrated on body stiffness, which is crucial for a roofless car of such vast dimensions. As well as traditional strengthening in the sills, A-pillars and underbody, the Azure has two carbon fibre crossmembers linking the front and rear sub-frames. Bentley says this design is an industry first. The system provides an impressive level of rigidity, and there’s barely any scuttle shake or body twist. Compared with the previous version, torsional strength has increased by 300 per cent. And, crucially, this has refined the ride, as the Arnage R-sourced all-wishbone suspension offers a superbly cushioned driving experience. The classic floating Bentley ride is a constant, while the Sport button tightens the active dampers to reduce this vertical movement. While the latest Azure’s weight and dimensions – it’s 5,530mm long – make it far from agile, handling is safe and stability good. Body roll is controlled well, and the steering is acceptable. The driving experience is compromised slightly by a soft brake-pedal action, although the ride and refinement are now both highly impressive. That’s partly because of the hood. When it’s raised, wind noise is no greater than in the saloon. The head­lining is completely smooth and even includes a rear reading light – a first for an open-topped car. Constructed of triple-layer fabric, it is fully automated and operates very quietly at driving speeds up to 20mph. The cabin has the traditional dash from the Arnage, while beautiful hand-polished wood, sumptuous leather and thick carpets create a luxurious feel. However, due to the coupé-like windscreen angle, the Arnage’s lofty perch seats have been replaced by the Continental GT’s lower chairs. So, while there’s no reach adjustment on the steering wheel, the driving position is accommodating, and there’s plenty of rear legroom. The entire cabin exudes opulence from a bygone age, but you get few hi-tech toys, except a DVD sat-nav in the dashboard. Yet, as with all Bentleys, bespoke Azure buyers can choose from a huge range of colours, hood fabrics, woods and options. Costing an eye-watering £222,300 and with virtually limitless scope for personalisation, the Azure is set to grace the world’s top locations and remain the most exclusive car money can buy.

First Opinion:

With its bespoke craftsmanship and traditional opulence, the Azure is a Bentley in every sense. The styling and 6.75-litre V8 powerplant reflect that heritage, too. But don’t be fooled. The Crewe manufacturer’s engineers have done an excellent job of improving body stiffness. As a result, the ride and refinement on the new model are very impressive.

At A Glance:

The triple-layer fabric of the Azure’s roof ensures superb sound insulation. And, despite the hood’s impressive size, it folds neatly and quickly into a panel behind the back seats. It then lies flush with the bootlid.

The process takes about 14 seconds.

Engine: 6.75-litre V8, 450bhp0-60mph: 5.9 seconds.

Top speed: 168mph.

Price: £222,500.

2007 Aston Martin DBS

Aston Martin DBS - James Bond’s latest wheels for the road:

Aston Martin has recently unveiled the company’s latest movie star called DBS, as the famous secret agent 007’s next super car. It will be driven by Daniel Craig in the movie Casino Royale which will appear in the cinemas in November this year.
This new Aston Martin DBS continues the long-time association with the James Bond franchise from which an Aston Martin DB 5 made its first appearance in the Bond movie “Goldfinger” back in 1964. While Bond’s fictional vehicle will be unique for the movie, Casino Royale, Aston Martin is about to set up an additional small 300 unit production line of a DBS road version, pictured here during high speed testing at Nürburgring.
The DBS is based on an uprated version of the DB 9, has a wider track and lower ground clearance, bold scoops and air intakes in the front, and according to rumours the V12 engine’s performance was boosted from 450 bhp to over 500 bhp. It is expected to cost no less than £130.000.

Copyright: Automedia

New Car: 2007 Renault Modus

Renault has tweaked its Modus mini-MPV for 2007, with subtle styling changes and an upgraded interior.

On the outside, the indicator lenses are now clear, while the wing mirrors now feature integrated indicators. Inside, there is new upholstery throughout the range and higher-quality materials for the dash and centre console.

Seven new colours have also been added to the new range: Antique Green, Capsicum Red, Extreme Blue, Hologram Grey, Pacific Blue, Quartz and Tempest. The entry-level Modus Authentique also now gains body-coloured bumpers.

The 2007 Modus is on sale now, priced from £9,145.

New Car: 2007 BMW X3 Facelift

Offical photos of the 2007 BMW X3 Facelift have been revealed.

A few new things have been added and taken away or just moved around. Taller & wider lower grille just below the number plate and new air vents beside the new grille.

More news will be posted about the new X3 facelift soon.