Nissan Grand Livina in Malaysia

The Nissan Grand Livina must be one of the most anticipated new models in Malaysia, its introduction having been mentioned as far back as April this year. Back then, Edaran Tan Chong Motor (ETCM) revealed that they would launch an all-new MPV before the end of the year and when the new Nissan model was launched in Indonesia, it was obvious what the MPV would be. MTM as well as some other publications had also been given an opportunity to join the media preview in Bali in April and in contrast to ‘the old days’, we were told that we did not have to hold back our stories so long as we did not release them prior to the Indonesian launch.

So those who came to our website in April already found out about the Grand Livina and from the test-drive report provided, it was evident that this MPV was impressive. The launch of the model in Indonesia, which has one of the two plants in the world which makes the model (the other being in China), proved that the design was spot-on to consumer needs as a few thousand orders were received within the first two weeks of appearing in showrooms. According to Nissan Asia-Pacific, it is now the best-selling Nissan model in Indonesia with 12,500 units sold between April and November.

Finally, the Grand Livina has come to Malaysia, ETCM keeping its word that the model would be in the market ‘before the end of 2007’. This is the second country in Asean to launch the model and because there are advantages to assembling locally, ETCM required extra time for the CKD program (setting up of assembly equipment, localisation of certain parts, etc). The Grand Livina is assembled at the new plant in Serendah, outside Rawang in Selangor, which also assembles the Latio.

The Grand Livina has styling which breaks away from the usual MPV form in that it is sleeker. The frontal presentation follows that of the Murano with different grilles for the two versions. Size-wise, its 4420 mm length falls between that of the Toyota Avanza and Innova although it would be more in contention with the Avanza.

The Grand Livina was developed with a choice of three all-aluminium engines, all petrol. For Malaysia, the HR16DE and MR18DE units are offered, these having displacements of 1598 cc and 1798 cc, respectively. If they sound familiar, that’s because they are also found in the Latio. However, the HR16DE for the Grand Livina is slightly different from the unit in the Latio as it does not have Continuously Variable-valve Timing Control (CVTC). Apparently, Nissan makes a few variants of the engine and the Grand Livina gets a simpler variant which nevertheless has an electrically-operated throttle (drive-by-wire).

A point of note is the high position of the air intake, showing that Nissan engineers did a thorough study of market conditions and understood that in this region, flooded roads are not uncommon (and people do drive through them too!). As Carlos Ghosn, Nissan’s CEO, who ‘dropped in’ on today’s media preview (via a pre-recorded video message) said: “The Grand Livina is not a model that has been adapted from other Nissan models sold in the USA, Europe or Japan and has been specially developed to meet the specific needs of customers in Asean.”

While the HR16DE develops 77 kW/105 bhp at 5200 rpm and 150 Nm of torque at 4400 rpm, the MR18DE, which has CVTC) develops 93 kW/126 bhp and 174 Nm. A comparison of the bore and stroke dimensions will show that the smaller engine has a longer stroke which means it should deliver stronger torque while the short-stroke MR18DE is likely to be a more ‘rev-happy’ engine.

The Grand Livina 1.6L comes with a choice of a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed electronically-controlled automatic transmission while the Grand Livina 1.8 is available only with the automatic transmission.

Zoe Tan, who headed the product planning team for the Malaysian Grand Livina, emphasised that a key difference between the Grand Livina platform and that of its obvious rivals is that it uses a passenger car platform, the same one as found under the Latio. The suspension consists of independent MacPherson struts in front and a simple H-shaped torsion beam axle with stabilizer at the rear, very much like a passenger car. Ripple-control shocks absorbers, like those in the Latio, are claimed to enhance ride comfort. Ms Tan said the Grand Livina was developed with comfort in mind and this will be very obvious to those who travel in it.

There is not a great deal of technical difference between the two versions as both have the same wheels sizes (15 x 5JJ) and tyres sizes (185/65) as well as electric power steering. It’s commendable that ETCM has also made ABS +EBD and Brake Assist standard for both versions. This is important considering that the Grand Livina would often have many people on board and EBD, which distributes braking forces between front and rear optimally, is extremely valuable to ensuring stable and safe braking.

The cabin of the Grand Livina takes up to seven people on three rows of seats, something which seems to be important to many buyers these days. It has something to do with our culture of having extended families in the same household, hence the need for a vehicle which can take more people. In Indonesia, a 5-seater has also been launched recently with 2 rows of seats but when asked if this will be available in Malaysia, Ms Tan said that it’s still under study (“let us launch this variant first, see how the market likes it and then we can talk about the other variant later on,” was all she would say).

Having a female in charge of product planning has probably provided a different perspective to how the Grand Livina is appointed and it is appropriate considering this is targeted towards families. A light cream colour is used throughout, giving a sense of spaciousness and as with the Latio, the touchpoints are good. The seats have woven velour upholstery, a nice soft material, and if you like leather, ETCM offers it as an extra-cost option. The 1.8-litre version gets wood trim as standard while the other version has metallic trim.

There are a lot of useful storage spaces around the cabin and as many as 7 cupholders. One of the cupholders is positioned between the front seats where it gets cool air blown at it, a very clever way to keep the drink cold! The glove compartment is also very deep, able to take larger bottles of mineral water.

The ventilation system of the Grand Livina has been specially ‘tuned’ to ensure that the airflow reaches right to the rear. One of the vents in the centre section of the dashboard is aimed towards the ceiling so the cool air is ‘thrown’ further back, reaching the third row. The occupants in the second row also get enough cool air as there is a vent between the front seats.

If there is a need to carry lots of cargo, especially long items. Both rear backrests fold completely flat to provide a giant cargo volume. Additional space is also available in a hideaway tray below the boot floor which has made it necessary to hang the spare wheel on the outside.

Six colour choices are available, five of them metallic. Peninsula Malaysia prices (inclusive of insurance) are as follow: RM82,800 for the Grand Livina 1.6 with manual transmission; RM86,600 for the 1.6 with automatic transmission; and RM95,300 for the Grand Livina 1.8.

According to Dato’ Dr Ang Bon Beng, Executive Director of ETCM, even before today’s official launch, the company has received around 1,800 orders which means that the initial stock would have all been taken up. So if you did not order one earlier, you won’t get it for Christmas or the New Year and if you order one today, it is likely to be delivered only during January 2008.

Source : Motor Trader

2010 Nissan Silvia (240SX)

As brilliant as the new GT-R is, its premium price tag and limited availability means it will be out of reach of most sports car lovers for some time to come. Then there’s the 350Z but it too can be a bit expensive for younger fans. Sadly, Nissan’s affordable sports car, the Silvia (240SX), no longer exists. In fact, Nissan’s image of late has been skewed towards the SUV segment, but this may soon change with speculation there’s a Silvia replacement in the works.

According to latest reports, Nissan Chief Carlos Ghosn and the carmaker’s COO Toshiyuki Shiga have both hinted at the return of the Silvia in 2010.

This rendering, which turned up on RocketPunch, gives a possible styling direction for the new coupe, and draws some of its lines from Nissan’s own Foria concept car.

Whatever the final version looks like, we just hope it retains the punchy four-banger and RWD layout of its predecessors.

Nissan Finds "Happiness" With Special-Edition March Model

TOKYO — Nissan has rolled out three special-edition models to mark the 25th anniversary of its March model, including the March 25th Happiness. Two other models, the March Plus Safety and the March Kisekae, were also introduced.

Even though you might expect a car named "Happiness" to be covered in rainbows and polka dots, the model actually comes in a subdued Silky Beige exterior color. It is based on the March 12S and 14S Four models, Nissan said. To up the happiness quotient in the cabin, buyers get an "odor-absorbing" headliner and an automatic interior lighting system.

The March Plus Safety is equipped with side airbags for the front passengers, side curtain airbags and xenon headlights. The March Kisekae, which Nissan says is Japanese for "dress up," gets a choice of two seat covers: "Bubbly" and "Striped."

Nissan Intima

Predicting what motorists of tomorrow will want in their cars, and how they would like them to look and feel is a big challenge for the designers in car companies. They have to constantly monitor trends and even more difficult, understand things like cultural differences in the various countries since the cars they design will be sold worldwide.

The Intima concept, a larger car than the Teana, gives a glimpse of what Nissan designers think tomorrow’s sedan will be like and focuses on the interior which has the theme of ‘Modern Living Concept’. This theme for car interiors combines attractive design, hospitality, relaxation and high quality with high levels of functionality and advanced technology.

To date, the Modern Living Concept has been successfully featured in Nissan models such as the Teana and Latio; with the Intima concept, the theme moves into a new dimension with an interior that invites passengers into a stimulating world of artistic forms, materials and illumination.

The Intima, which will be displayed at the Tokyo Motorshow this week, is equipped with a number of safety systems based on Nissan's Safety Shield concept, including ‘Around View’ Monitor and Distance Control Assist System (DCAS). Needless to say, devices such as ABS and Traction Control will be standard, along with more advanced airbag systems.

The Intima, which could be the basis for a future high-end sedan model, is targeted towards consumers with a sophisticated, discerning eye for beauty - who enjoy spending time in refined elegance and comfort, whether traveling alone or with a partner.

"We designed the Intima as a car that expresses the interior attractiveness Nissan proposes in the Modern Living Concept," explained Product Chief Designer Kinichi Saito of the Product Design Department. "The inspiration came from imagining a situation where a person who has accumulated many life experiences and successes now wants to spend his or her own time - or time together as a couple - in an elegant environment."

For example, the instrument panel padding appears to "float" in between the woodgrain panels, the centre console incorporates a "wave pattern" and large door armrests and assist grips combine to give passengers a feeling of comfort and peace of mind.

Illumination is another significant element in orchestrating a sense of soothing relaxation for the Intima interior. Cabin illumination is provided by the indirect lighting incorporated in the instrument panel, centre console, door trim and ceiling, and the door assist grips feature a blue-green acrylic material that gives off a soft light.

The elegant mood is furthered by a lighted, convenient storage space for keeping a handbag or other small items, located on the inside of the front passenger's door.

The Intima also features a four-zone, intelligent air conditioning system that provides a comfortable atmosphere for all passengers by independently controlling the individual temperature of each seating position through the use of infrared sensors. This advanced air conditioning system also keeps the interior of the vehicle clean by adopting a natural grape seed polyphenol filter that neutralizes pollen and other allergens.

In addition, a cool storage compartment is located in the rear centre console to keep beverages or snacks at an enjoyable temperature.

Traditionally, the expression of relaxation in a vehicle's design focuses purely on function, such as in terms of seat comfort. The Intima goes a step beyond that tradition to incorporate art extensively into the interior, thus taking the sensation of relaxation to an even higher plane.

A clever idea is the front passenger's seat swivelling approximately 80 degrees to the outside as if to welcome and escort a passenger into the car. There’s ample legroom provided in both the front and rear seats for passenger comfort. There is a large glass roof which appears to flow continuously from the car's windscreen, enabling all passengers to enjoy a wide outward view, enhancing the feeling of a comfortable, relaxing drive.

The concept car’s exterior styling matches the interior's artistic image, with a design that combines sharp-edged lines and organic panel surfaces. "The balance of these two elements creates a refined mood based on the ideas of 'relaxation' and 'comfort,'" explained Mr Saito.

Rich elegance is conveyed though Intima's arching side character line, while the crystal-like appearance of the front and rear lamps, grille and wheels project an image of superior quality and refinement reminiscent of jewelry. The subdued luster of the chrome finish also contributes to the impression of refined quality imparted by all of the exterior embellishments.

"The Intima demonstrates that art and functionality are not mutually exclusive," said Mr Saito. "There is a strong role of visual attractiveness in creating a comfortable, relaxing interior that is often overlooked. The Intima, and Nissan's Modern Living Concept, are leading the way in the advancement of visually stimulating interior design."

For now, the powertrain remains conceptual but in line with Nissan’s concern for protection of the environment, it presently has a proposed environmentally-friendly V6 turbodiesel engine which is especially clean. Designed to be in harmony with the Intima's relaxing, high quality interior, the new-generation clean diesel is said to offer quiet operation, as well as enhanced fuel efficiency.

INTIMA DIMENSIONS
Overall Length: 4980 mm
Overall Width: 1840 mm
Overall Height: 1450 mm
Wheelbase: 2825 mm

V36 Nissan Skyline Coupe 370GT

370GT - VQ37VHR, 5-speed automatic only, 7 colors (Vibrant Red, Luna Mare Silver, Strafia Blue, White Pearl, Brilliant Silver, Super Black, Fountain Blue), UV Cut Glass, Xenon Headlights, Black Jacquard cloth/Neo Sofeel interior trim, Active AFS (Adaptive Front lighting System), VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control), Active Headrests (front seats), ‘Plasma Cluster Ion’ full-auto Air Conditioner, Skyline ‘Holographic Sound System’ (6 CD, Am/FM tuner, 6 speakers, MP3/WMA connectivity), 7 inch wide monitor, SRS Airbag System including front passenger/driver, curtain and side airbags, 18 inch wheel and tire package (225/50R18 front, 245/45R18 rear)

Pivo 2 concept turns heads and itself in Tokyo

Back in 2005, and more precisely, during the Tokyo Motor Show 2005, Nissan unveiled one of the most interesting concept cars of the entire event, the PIVO. To put it simply, Nissan came out with a round cute car with a cabin which was able to rotate on itself 360 degrees.

Anyway, due to the success of the first generation, Nissan will come out with a 2nd generation of this PIVO with several tweeks that you will discover in the Official Press release from Nissan here below !

TOKYO (Oct. 5, 2007)-Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., today unveiled the Pivo 2, an advanced electric concept car that will debut at the upcoming Tokyo Motor Show. Pivo 2 builds on the popularity of the first Pivo, shown at the 2005 Tokyo Motor Show. Powered by advanced Compact Lithium-ion Batteries and featuring a unique rotating cabin - meaning no reverse gear required - the first Pivo became a cult hit at shows from Beijing to Geneva.

Reasons to love Pivo 2:

* Electric power from Nissan's advanced Lithium-ion batteries
* A robotic agent to share every trip
* 'Revolutionary' technology with 360 degree turning cabin and 90 degree turning wheels


Pivo 2 takes the idea of an environmentally friendly electric urban commuter vehicle and delivers fun, functionality and a unique relationship between the car and driver. Pivo 2 is powered by advanced Compact Lithium-ion Batteries and employs 'by-wire' technologies for braking and steering.

Where the first Pivo, with its fully rotating cabin design, made reversing obsolete, the Pivo 2 takes that easy mobility concept to a new level. Each of the four wheels are powered by Nissan's advanced electric In-wheel 3D Motor and can turn through 90 degrees to allow Pivo 2 to drive sideways as well as forward.

Thanks to the highly innovative Robotic Agent, you are never alone in the Pivo 2. With conversations possible in Japanese and English, the Robotic Agent has been created to work with Pivo 2 to make every journey less stressful. It provides a unique interface through which to communicate with Pivo 2 on everything from basic vehicle functions through to the nearest available parking.

Pivo 2 will be on display at the Nissan Ginza Gallery in Tokyo, for an exclusive public sneak preview ahead of the Motor Show.

Source : Nihon Car

Nissan Qashqai

The Qashqai will be sold in Europe, the Middle East, and?under the name of Dualis?in the Japanese market.

Nissan Gets Official on Upcoming GT-R with Website

TOKYO, Japan, (September 26, 2007) -- Nissan today started the pre-launch activities in support of the all-new GT-R, the high performance sports car to be revealed at the Tokyo Motor Show on October 24th.

Central to the launch of GT-R, which will ultimately go on sale around the world, is a dedicated website that will provide all information on the car, including latest news, specifications and where to buy. The address for the website is www.gtrnissan.com and will be available in six languages: Japanese, English, Spanish, German, French and Italian.

With sales due to start in Japan in December, Nissan is today also confirming the final name of the car. Previous generations of this car were known as the Skyline GT-R; the new name for this car is simply "Nissan GT-R" in all global markets. Supporting substantial early customer interest in the Nissan GT-R, the company is today making available for customers in Japan some initial details including basic specifications, colors and practical information on placing pre-orders. Prices in Japan for the Nissan GT-R will start from around 7.8 million yen.

In support of the sale of the Nissan GT-R, the company also announced today the establishment of 160 Nissan High Performance Centers in Japan. These centers have been established to provide specialist sales and servicing support for customers of the Nissan GT-R.


Press release via Nissan

1000hp Nissan Skyline GT-R R33 Tuned by JUN Tested by Jeremy

HAMANN "Thunder"

The BMW 3-Series coupe comes with a whole array of series-produced engines. The most powerful series-made of these is the M3. When it rolls off the assembly line, it has a 4-litre engine, 420 hp and 400 Nm torque.

Featuring an impressive 574 Nm of torque at 6.100 U/min, it delivers a surge of power through a seven-speed manual SMG transmission resulting that most passengers are shocked groping for something to hang on to during acceleration.

The sprint takes 4,3 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h. Only upon reaching top speed of 335 km/h does this transmission begin to meet its limitation in compulsion to move forwards.

Peugeot's 207 SW

Peugeot has launched a 4x4-style version of its new 207 SW called the Outdoor.

The car has bolder exterior styling, an increased ride height, different alloy wheels and 4x4-style grey wheelarch and sill mouldings.

However, there's no real off-road ability, as the car is front-wheel drive only.

Powering the car is the choice of a 95bhp 1.4-litre or 120bhp 1.6-litre petrol engines, or one of two 1.6-litre diesel engines with either 90bhp or 110bhp.

The 207 SW Outdoor will go on sale in November, but exact specifications and prices are yet to be decided.

Source : autotrader

Nissan to Add Fuel-Efficiency Meters to all Future Models

Nissan Motor Co. announced today that it will phase in fuel-efficiency meters on all new models to promote awareness of more economical driving habits. The move is part of the company's overall efforts to launch a wide range of environmental technologies under its mid-term environmental action plan: Nissan Green Program 2010. This new feature will also be introduced on existing models to coincide with the timing of minor model changes.

Showing instant fuel-efficiency and average efficiency, the meters help make drivers more conscious of fuel-efficiency and the direct consequences that their driving styles have on a vehicles fuel-economy. In Nissan conducted in-house tests, the introduction of these meters lead to a fuel economy improvement of approximately 10%.

Until now, Nissan has offered navigation systems which show both instant and average fuel-efficiency. By placing these meters in the main instrument cluster, the company hopes to improve the effectiveness of these simple devices to raise driver awareness on eco-driving habits.

Under the Nissan Green Program 2010, the company added a new feature to its CARWINGS information service to support greener driving habits in January.

Source: Nissan

Twelve months of Qashqai

In the 12 months that have passed since it was unveiled, Nissan’s QASHQAI has enjoyed great success. Sales of the compact crossover began in March and, by the end of July, the total number of deliveries had reached 66,000 units across Europe, far beyond expectations. Indeed, to meet demand, Nissan has invested an extra 3.5m Euro to increase production of QASHQAI by 20 per cent at its factory in Sunderland, United Kingdom. A total of 850 QASHQAIs are now manufactured every day at the Sunderland plant, and on 4 September, the 100,000th QASHQAI was manufactured there.

Furthermore, to ensure that the Sunderland factory can meet demand for QASHQAI in Europe, it was recently announced that production of QASHQAI will be expanded to the Kyushu plant in Japan to satisfy demand for the model in Japan, where it is known as Dualis. Production will start in Japan early in 2008, with an annual output of 24,000 units per year. In Japan sales of Dualis have reached nearly 10,000 units since its launch in May.

In Europe, Nissan’s early customer research has highlighted some interesting trends. Simply speaking, QASHQAI is bought by younger people than the C-segment average, and by more women:

The typical buyer is 44 years old, three years younger than the C-segment average and six years younger than the Compact SUV average. Seven out of ten buyers are male, four per cent less than the C-segment and six per cent less than the C-SUV average.

Particularly encouraging is the statistic that one third of QASHQAI buyers fall into the 36-45 year bracket, against a 20 per cent average for the C-segment and 27 per cent for the C-SUV. Initial customer feedback shows that buyers like the QASHQAI for bringing something new to the market; for its strong, distinctive design which sits between a traditional hatchback style and a more robust, elevated SUV shape.

Nine out of ten QASHQAI buyers in Spain are first-time Nissan buyers and that trend is nearly repeated in Italy (84%) and UK (83%). QASHQAI buyers have consistently cited the premium quality interior and overall design as key factors in changing brands to Nissan. As anticipated, buyers of QASHQAI typically used to drive a compact hatchback, such as a Mégane or Focus, an entry-level family hatchback, such as a Laguna or Avensis, or an SUV, such as a RAV4 or Freelander.

In terms of the car, half of all QASHQAIs have been specified with the 1.5dCi diesel engine, with the 1.6-litre petrol engine as the next favoured choice with 22 per cent, closely followed by the 2.0-litre diesel at 20 per cent. And the mix of QASHQAIs equipped with the ALL MODE 4x4 system is 25 per cent.

Two-thirds of QASHQAIs ordered are in Acenta grade, the middle specification level, while the most popular option is the panoramic glass roof. Metallic black has proved to be the most popular colour, with 31 per cent of orders, followed by Blade Silver (26%) and Faded Denim (16%).

The QASHQAI was designed and developed in Europe following extensive research of local market buying patterns and a deep consumer analysis of unmet needs among car-buyers. Nissan Europe’s product planners identified an opportunity in the market to design and develop a vehicle which provided more dynamic design, without the perceived aggression of a compact SUV, yet maintained the elevated driving position which is popular, but not at the expense of driving enjoyment. The QASHQAI is that model.

The QASHQAI was designed at Nissan Design Europe, situated in Paddington, London, while technical development was undertaken at its technical centres in Cranfield, England, Barcelona, Spain and near Bonn, Germany.

Source: Nissan

New Porsche Cayenne GTS

Source: Porsche

With the new Cayenne GTS, Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG of Stuttgart, Germany, is reiterating the successful Cayenne series’ prominence in the sporty SUV segment. The model, which celebrates its world debut at the IAA in Frankfurt, features an enhanced 4.8-liter V8, has been lowered by 24 millimeters and has a specially developed chassis: it is the first Cayenne to feature the electronically controlled damping system, Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), with steel springs. This combination was previously reserved exclusively for Porsche sports cars. The 4.8-liter engine with direct gasoline fuel injection (DFI) in the Cayenne GTS yields 405bhp (298 kW) at 6,500 revolutions per minute – 20bhp more than in the Cayenne S. Maximum torque remains unchanged at 500Nm at 3,500 revolutions per minute.
This, the sportiest of Porsche SUVs, comes as standard with a six-speed manual gearbox and a shorter axle drive ratio than the Cayenne S (4.1:1 as opposed to 3.55:1). The Cayenne GTS can thus accelerate from zero to 100km/h in just 6.1 seconds, precisely 0.5 seconds quicker than the Cayenne S.

The Cayenne GTS is fitted with Porsche Traction Management (PTM) permanent all-wheel drive and the adaptive PASM chassis as standard. As well as optional air suspension, the Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC) active anti-roll system is available to enhance handling and ride comfort. Newly developed 12-way sports seats and a leather-Alcantara mix emphasize the sporty interior.

The new Cayenne GTS is instantly recognizable: the front and rear look the same as the Cayenne Turbo, and the striking 14mm wheel-arch enlargements offer plenty of space for the standard 21-inch alloy rims with 295/35 R21 tires. Two new colors have also been reserved exclusively for the GTS: GTS Red and Nordic Gold Metallic.

The new Cayenne model with Tiptronic S transmission has an average consumption of 13.9 liters/100 km in accordance with EU standards. Global dispatch will start in February 2008. In Germany it will cost 76,725 Euros including 19 percent VAT and country-specific requirements; the base price is 64,300 Euros. The base price for the USA (MSRP USA) is US $69,300.

Top Gear - Oversteer and Understeer (Video)

Shell stations going for new look

Source: theStarOnline

KUALA LUMPUR: Don't be surprised if you see regular Shell stations looking a bit different.

Shell is giving its stations a new look.

The change will be done in stages. All 250 outlets and the newly acquired ProJET retail stations will sport the new look by the end of the year.

Shell Malaysia Trading Sdn Bhd and Shell Timur Sdn Bhd managing director Datuk Mohzani Wahab said the latest design based on the Shell Retail Visual Identity concept “would help to keep our retail brand image modern and up to date.”

“The new design also improves the effectiveness of our communication with customers on the forecourt so that customers get what they need at the right points in their fuelling 'journey'.”

Shell is the world’s largest single brand fuels retail business with 46,000 retail stations in over 90 countries.

Drifting in Japan (Video)

Great drifting skills!

Unbelievable. I love it.

Silvia Drift

Drifting Skills

Drifting refers either to a driving technique utilizing a difference in slip angle between the front and rear tires of a car, or to a sport based on the technique. When the rear wheels are slipping at a greater angle than the front wheels, the car is drifting, or "power-sliding"? The rear end of the car appears to chase the front end around a turn; the driver utilizes both front tires and the rear tires to control the actual direction of the car. More throttle induces more rear wheel slip angle and the rear of the car wants to overtake the front. The goal is for the driver to achieve opposite lock and use the throttle to fine tune the car’s angle and direction.




How do you drift?


There are two ways to drift. First is through the rear wheel drive (also known as the clutching technique) while the other is through the front wheel drive. In the clutching technique, the driver pushes on the clutch and shifts his car into second gear when he approaches a turn. After revving the engine up to around 4,000-5,000 rpm and slightly turning away from the turn, the drifter cuts back towards it hard enough, while at the same time, he pops the clutch causing the rear wheels to spin. This will cause a loss of traction and the drift car begins to slide around the curve.

The hard part is having to hold the drift until the next turn. The drifter must keep the foot on the accelerator, while at the same time, he adjusts the car through the steering wheel so that the vehicle doesn’t spin out. Upon reaching the end of the turn and approaching the next turn which is in the opposite direction, he must cut the wheel towards the right direction. In some cases, if the previous drift was too slow and he starts to regain traction, he must pop the clutch again to get the wheels spinning.

The second technique is through the front wheel drive. This technique uses the side-breaks. When approaching a turn, the drifter pulls the side brake to cause traction loss. And the rest is pretty much the same as the clutching technique except that it’s much harder to take more than one turn with a front wheel drive.

Where do you drift?

Drifters would normally go to the mountains, also known as "Tohge"? to drift (having a small number of people around). Mountains are fit for drifting because they are relatively desolate and they have perfect groups of S-turns that can really challenge a drifter’s ability. Other places to drift are docks or just any isolated parking lot. And the most famous place to drift is the “circuit"? Drifting competitions are held in "circuits"? and drifters are judged on a specific group of turns on a 100 point scale.

What cars are used in drifting? Some common cars used for drifting are:

* AE86 Levin/Trueno - its rear wheel drive lay-out is fit for drifting and it’s relatively inexpensive
* Silvia S13 and S14 – it has a high horse power and free-revving engine making it excellent as a drifting car
* 180SX - lighter and has a better front/rear balance ratio
* FC3S RX-7 – not problematic
* Cefiro - has a powerful RB20DET engine and good handling characteristics
* Laurel - powered by the RB20DET
* Skyline GTS-T - has a rear wheel drive layout and boasts a 260hp engine

New Audi A3

Londoners may breathe slightly easier in the knowledge that a specially developed A3 1.9 TDI joins the Audi range this month with extensive revisions that ensure it will fall under the proposed 120g/km CO2 limit permitting exemption from the congestion charge. Available in three-door and five-door Sportback body styles, the new A3 1.9 TDI is priced from £16,660 OTR.

Following closely behind the swift yet sparing A3 1.4 TFSI that also opens for order this month, the even more acutely economy and efficiency-focused TDI model has been developed on the foundations of the existing A3 1.9 TDI. It benefits from a specially modified version of the already frugal 105PS diesel with new friction minimizing components and redeveloped ancillary units, combined with a manual gearbox with remapped, economy-biased ratios and an in-dash indicator informing the driver of the most effective gear change points for optimum economy.

Helped externally by tyres with reduced rolling resistance, and by additional modifications to further increase aerodynamic efficiency, the A3 1.9 TDI combines 62mpg-plus fuel economy with CO2 output of just 119g/km. Acceleration from rest to 62mph in the three-door model with five-speed manual transmission takes 11.4 seconds, and a top speed of 120mph is possible where conditions allow.

The measures taken to increase economy and minimise emissions in the A3 will also be employed in the creation of more efficient versions of other models in the Audi range in the near future.

These more environmentally considerate models will be engineered with the benefit of experience gained during the development of the pioneering, aluminium-bodied A2 compact hatchback of 1999, which offered 81g/km CO2 output and 94-plus mpg capability and is widely regarded as a car born well ahead of its time.

Improved availability

Although the very timely arrival of the new A3 1.9 TDI is likely to give a further boost to the popularity of the already sought-after premium compact hatchback, delivery lead times for UK customers will actually be shortened. A significant proportion of left-hand-drive A3 production has now been absorbed by the Audi production facility in Brussels, freeing up additional right-hand-drive A3 range capacity within the Bavarian Ingolstadt plant.

Source: Audi

Aston Martin DBS

Aston Martin has finally revealed official details of its fastest and sexiest model EVER – the DBS. The car was made famous by James Bond in last year’s Casino Royale, with the motoring world waiting on tenterhooks for the finished product.

The DBS is a race-bred road car based on the DB9 and Le Mans class-winning DBRS9.Using a tweaked version of the six-litre V12 engine from the flagship Vanquish, the DBS produces a titanic 510bhp and 420lb/ft of pulling power.Engineers have tuned the engine to give it a bit more oomph above 5,500rpm – making it the fastest accelerating Aston ever.The DBS rockets from 0-62mph (100kph) in 4.3 seconds and 0-100mph in 9.4 seconds before running out of steam at 191mph.

Weight has been cut by 120kg, by fitting lighter seats, lighter brakes and carbon fibre panels.The DBS’s handling should be more responsive than on the brilliant DB9, with an adaptive suspension varying the level of stiffness according to the road conditions. On the outside, the DBS – which rolls on sexy 20-inch wheels – has a sculpted, muscular bodykit reflecting the DBRS9 with more air intakes than on the DB9 to increase airflow into the engine.

Inside, the beautifully constructed interior is clothed with a swath of Alcantara, carbon fibre and leather. Luxury features include a 700watt sound system, sat-nav and a stainless-steel ignition fob, which is inserted into the centre console-mounted sapphire start button. Only 500 models will be made a year, with the DBS going on sale early next year with a price tag of around £160,000.

507bhp BMW M3

Proton Persona

CONFIRMED PRICES

(Price w/o insurance + insurance premium = OTR price)

Persona 1.6 Auto H-Line: RM54,186.50 + RM1,613.50 = RM55,800.00
Persona 1.6 Manual M-Line: RM48,342.50 + RM1,457.50 = RM49,800.00
Persona 1.6 Auto M-Line: RM51,264.50 + RM1,535.50 = RM52,800.00
Persona 1.6 Manual Base-Line: RM43,671.50 + RM1,327.50 = RM44,999.00*
Persona 1.6 Auto Base Line: RM46,593.50 + RM1,405.50 = RM47,999.00*
Persona 1.6 Manual Base-Line: RM44,095.50 + RM1,353.50 = RM45,449.00
Persona 1.6 Auto Base-Line: RM47,017.50 + RM1,431.50 = RM48,449.00

Note: Prices are for Peninsula Malaysia, private registration and metallic finish except the two Base-Line versions marked with *. Extended warranty and security etching on glass included. Interest rate for 7-year loan from Proton financing partners is 3.88% per annum.

Nissan shows safety technology

Some Nissan cars will soon come with a gas pedal that lifts to warn of possible collisions, while the cars will automatically stop if drivers take their foot off the accelerator in response to the warning.

The technology combines radar sensors and a computer system to assess a car's speed and the distance to a vehicle in front, Nissan Motor Co said. Cars with the new safety features will be available this year in Japan, and next year in the US.

Drink too much, and the little thingybob on the shift knob won't let you drive.

The idea was to make a car that judges dangers on its own, like a friendly animal, so machine and driver can work together, said Nissan senior manager Yousuke Akatsu.

"It is almost like riding a horse, the way the rider can have a dialogue with the horse," he said.

As soon as drivers lift their foot off the gas pedal, the brakes kick in automatically to bring the car to a stop, Akatsu said. The car will keep going if the driver continues to step on the gas pedal.

Nissan also showed an experimental system that measures alcohol levels in a driver's sweat from sensors in the gearshift. The system stops short of locking the ignition but issues a warning in an electronic voice.

I see you ....

Nissan said drunken driving caused 611 fatal accidents in Japan last year. That's half the number of a decade ago, but 10% of fatal accidents.

The car also recognises if a driver is drifting between lanes, and comes with a computerised camera that monitors blinking to check if a driver is drunk or drowsy.

Nissan officials said people probably wouldn't buy such an intrusive car, but the technology may have commercial uses such as in delivery trucks and taxi cabs.

More practical is the lane departure prevention technology, which swivels a car back into its lane if it swerves off. The lane technology is being offered later this year in the US on the Infiniti EX luxury model.

It's called the passenger seat alcohol odour sensor, the protruding bit.

Nissan also showed a dummy crash test to demonstrate bumper sensors that release a hinge to lift the engine hood slightly and soften the impact if a pedestrian is hit.

People hit by sporty models can be more hurt more seriously and easily, because the cars are lower to the ground and have lean designs with little space between the hood and engine. Raising the hood on impact helps absorb the shock and reduces the potential injury to a pedestrian.

The pop-up hood will be offered in Japan this year, Nissan said. Jaguar, owned by Ford Motor Co, and Honda Motor Co already offer the feature. - AP

Momo Drifting Steering Wheel

It’s was about time that MOMO offered drifting specialized steering wheel. If presently many drifter prefer SPARCO or may be even the OMP, now MOMO will be good option too. Comes with 35 cm in diameter and available in two colour (i.e orange or yellow).

The MOMO drifting steering wheel is covered in black leather, with orange leather accent stripes, orange anodized spokes and Black button head screws.

MOMO says that drifting drivers requested a dish that could offer a maximum oversteer control, so they put one, 90mm wide. The MOMO drifting steering wheel comes in two versions: a tuning model and a drifting model priced priced starts at £100.

Source : Momo.it

Full details - New Mitsubishi Lancer 2.0GT

Source: Malaysian Motor Trader News

August 08, 2007 02:22 PM Author: Chips

Having been away for many years after becoming a partner in the National Car Project, Mitsubishi Motors seems to be making up for lost time (and market share) in making its return to the Malaysian market. Being directly involved in marketing and distribution activities, Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) - a joint-venture between Mitsubishi Corporation and EON - has been executing aggressive strategies to capture a meaningful share of the market which is five times larger than when it withdrew some 20 years ago.

The Triton pick-up is one example of how aggressive the Japanese carmaker is. With an attractive price to complement its ‘radical’ design, it has beaten other established rivals to be the second most popular pick-up this year, after the Toyota Hilux.

Now comes the next salvo: a new generation of the Mitsubishi Lancer. MMM managed to persuade Mitsubishi Motors to allow it to launch the new model ahead of Japan and Singapore, making this the first country in Asia to get the all-new Lancer (the US market got it earlier in the year). It’s quite amazing considering the present market position of Mitsubishi (ie relatively small volumes) but it is also clear that extra effort is needed to draw customers. The company has no locally-assembled models so pricing is tricky but again, it has done yet another feat: the new Lancer 2.0GT which is imported CBU from Japan (not Thailand as many assumed) retails for RM115,980 with insurance. How MMM managed to get this price remains a secret but its Chairman, Datuk Syed Hisham Syed Wazir said it is a ‘strategic intent’ to take the brand further and to have a more significant presence, perhaps even becoming one of the top 5 players as it used to be before 1985.

The new Lancer’s style is a distinct departure from previous styling for the model. It was first shown in the Concept X prototype two years ago and was said to be the new design language. This is the second model after the latest Outlander to adopt the new design language that ‘conveys the performance-oriented essence of the brand’.

Where the past few generations have had rounded and ‘soft’ front ends, the grille, bumper and lower air intake of the new model are unified in a distinct form inspired by the air intakes on a fighter jet for a "shark nosed" effect. Although the all-new Lancer proportions draw some inspiration from European designs, the sharp and thin front headlamp design also conveys the feel of Japanese precision and technology.

The clean, creased surfaces sweep into the side profile with its high, wedged, belt-line. Prominently flared fenders recall the brand's Evo heritage, adding bold distinctiveness. The sculptured, "chopped off" tail (looks like it came from a certain Italian car) accentuates the car's sporty cabin shape. From a front three-quarter view, the rear overhang is visually shortened by a chiseled, tapering rear bumper side surface. The tail lamp clusters themselves are like ‘small works of techno art’, according to a designer, enclosing three circles with individual functions and simulated LED lighting, in keeping with trends.

Besides offering the top version, MMM has also fitted an original aerokit to it so it has sill and bumper extensions as well as a purpose-designed rear spoiler – as standard on all units.

As with the exterior, the new Lancer's interior has crisp surfaces and a lot of attention to detail. However, as with the previous generation, there is a notable lack of ‘fussiness’ with a minimum of switches and knobs. This contributes to a more spacious and airy feeling for the occupants, making journeys more relaxing. A black colour scheme gives a sporty ambience to the cabin, further emphasized by the substantially contoured seats which has Nappa leather upholstery.

Facing the driver is a sporty, dual-hood instrument panel inspired by classic European sportscars. Between the large speedometer and tachometer is a Multi-Information Display which tells the driver about coolant temperature, trip distances, remaining fuel, average speed, average fuel consumption and real-time consumption.

The 3-spoke steering wheel has buttons to operate the audio system and behind it are two large paddles which are made of magnesium. These are for changing ratios of the CVT and if preferred, you can also use the shift lever.

The equipment level is high though that should not be surprising as the GT version is the top one. Fully automatic air-conditioning is standard and the audio system gas a 6-CD changer as well as MP3 capability. For extra cargo space, the divided rear backrests can be folded down.

Under the bonnet is a bigger engine than the previous Lancer sold here. It is a brand new 2.0-litre DOHC 4-cylinder all-aluminium engine with MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve Timing Electronic Control) which is a continuously variable valve timing system. MIVEC operates both the intake and exhaust cam timing independently to provide four optimized engine-operating modes. Under most conditions, to ensure highest fuel efficiency, valve overlap is increased to reduce pumping losses. The exhaust valve opening timing is retarded for higher expansion ratio, enhancing fuel economy. When maximum power is demanded (high engine speed and load), intake valve closing timing is retarded to synchronize the intake air pulsations for larger air volume. Under low-speed/high load, MIVEC ensures optimal torque generation with the intake valve closing timing advanced to ensure sufficient air volume. At the same time, the exhaust valve opening timing is retarded to provide a higher expansion ratio and improved efficiency. At ide, valve overlap is eliminated to stabilize combustion.

To keep the engine weight down, there’s a plastic cam cover and intake manifold and double-layer stainless steel exhaust manifold. The exhaust manifold has a rear location which makes it faster for the catalytic converter to heat up and achieve optimum chemical reaction to cleanse the toxic exhaust gases. To reduce vibrations, the engine has a 4-point inertial axis system with cylindrical hydraulic engine mounts on the left and right sides. A lightweight, high-rigidity squeeze-cast aluminium bracket on the right side mount (engine side) helps reduce engine noise under acceleration. A lightweight, high-rigidity steel plate bracket on the left side mount (transmission side) helps reduce gear noise. A custom-tuned insulator was developed for the front and rear mounts to help control both idle vibration and acceleration shock.

The power output of the engine is 114 kW/155 ps at 6000 rpm with 199 Nm of torque peaking at 4250 rpm. With a kerb weight of 1,385 kgs and a specific power output of 77.5 ps per litre, that should mean impressive performance. Tuning of the engine focused on providing strong midrange torque for ease of overtaking on the highways as well as brisk acceleration at the lower end.

While the Lancer 2.0GT to be launched in Singapore this weekend will have only a 5-speed manual transmission, the one for Malaysia has only a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with a Sports mode that allows automatic and manual selection of ratios. In theory, a belt-driven CVT with two pulleys has ‘infinite’ gearing but six steps were selected for ease of use, sporty driving and flexible performance as well as to provide the driver with a better feel while driving. The CVT's ratio range is 2.349 to 0.394, with a 6.12 final drive, this spread far wider than many conventional 4-speed automatic transmissions and demonstrating the greater flexibility of the CVT. By smoothly adapting to changing vehicle speeds and allowing the engine speed to remain at its level of peak efficiency, fuel economy is better. Also, because a CVT does not "shift" gears in the conventional sense, faster and crisper "shifts" can be achieved.

By its nature, a CVT delivers a noticeably different driving feel so the engineers have used special control software to provide a ‘familiar’ driving experience. The software is called INVECS-III (3rd generation Intelligent & iNovative Vehicle Electronic Control System) and ‘personalizes’ the CVT shift strategy to match the acceleration and braking patterns of each driver. With a conventional automatic, when the driver presses on the accelerator, engine and vehicle speeds climb in unison, with perceptible rpm drops between gearshifts. The CVT, on the other hand, allows the engine to rev to its optimal-efficiency speed for a given throttle opening and vehicle load, adjusting the ratio to match the power demands. Also, since the CVT is designed to keep the engine running at an optimal speed over a wide range of vehicle speeds, pressing on the accelerator pedal will increase the car’s speed but won't necessarily change the engine sound - another trait that people often find unusual. However, after some time usig the CVT, drivers come to appreciate its seamless operation. The INVECS-III software even simulates the slight off-the line lurch that drivers feel and expect in a conventional automatic transmission vehicle. Without this programming, CVT response could be perceived as sluggish.

The independent MacPherson strut front suspension looks similar in layout to the previous Lancer's but is actually new in design. There is slightly longer suspension travel (10 mm) to reduce road shocks and a thick 21-mm diameter front stabilizer bar. Tuning of the suspension has also been biased towards sporty driving and this is clearly evident with the standard fitment of a stabilizer strut (you can see it over the engine bay in the picture) which increases roll rigidity to give better steering stability.

The Lancer's new trailing-arm type multi-link rear suspension is a major factor in providing ride and handling characteristics that go with the performance-oriented image. It provides individual location of each suspension element to ensure precise handling and better ride comfort. Contributing to handling stability are ball joint-type stabilizer links and a new hub unit bearing that provides higher camber and toe rigidity.

The new Lancer is said to give crisp, fluid steering response and part of this comes from a new rack and pinion steering system. The optimized steering column layout features joint friction-reduction parts that improve steering feel (reduced torque fluctuation) while support stiffness at the steering wheel end of the steering column has been increased, reducing steering wheel vibration. Dampers used on the intermediate shaft help reduce shimmy.

Many people were amazed to see MMM offering the large 18-inch alloy wheels as standard, along with 215/45R18 tyres. It’s certainly going to be a real ‘driver’s car’ and enthusiasts will be delighted but those tyres are not cheap either. The MMM people will be looking into this issue and probably talk to local tyremakers to see if they can produce the sizes.

For stopping power, the Lancer has front and rear disc brakes and the GT version has the same brake system and specs as the larger and heavier Outlander SUV (294 mm discs in front, dual calipers). Additionally, higher friction coefficient pads are claimed to improve performance while the single 10-inch brake vacuum booster, with a long-stroke master cylinder, improves boost power and brake feel. ABS is, of course, standard, along with EBD and Brake Assist.

A reassuringly solid feeling is promised, thanks to a body structure engineered with greater inherent strength than its predecessor. That is one reason the new platform can be used for a variety of model types, including the new Outlander SUV. It is built around Mitsubishi's next-generation Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE) design. The highly rigid structure makes extensive use of high-tensile steel, a material that was not used before. Furthermore, lessons learnt from reinforcing the structure of the previous Lancer Evo have also been applied to the new Lancer. Compared to the previous-generation, torsional rigidity has been increased by 56% and bending rigidity by up by 50%. Both these increases are said to exceed body stiffness measurements of even the current Lancer Evo. The lower body structure, where the suspension attaches to the car, contributes to higher rigidity than before.

Strut tower, side and lower braces enhance lateral rigidity for precise steering response, and lower control arm attachment points and steering knuckles have been strengthened. The combination of these enhancements, along with retuned lower control arm bushings, contribute to quicker steering response. As a result of these reinforcement measures, rigidity of the tyre ground contact area was improved by a significant 18% (comparing to the previous Lancer).

MMM should not face any difficulty selling the 400 units it has forecast for 2007 and they can get as many APs as needed even though the model comes from Japan. How long this super-duper price will last remains to be seen but it has not been called an ‘introductory price’ either. And if that isn’t enough, MMM is also offering a 5-year/100,000 km (whichever occurs first) factory warranty as well as 3 years/50,000 kms (whichever comes first) of free scheduled maintenance! Clearly, this pricing level is going to force rivals to review their own pricing strategies and that’s good for buyers.

Ferrari earns €32,000 per car

Ferrari’s financial results for 2006 were released this week, with profits up a significant 16.6% over its 2005 result. Each of Ferrari’s three main business divisions - road cars, competition cars and brand development - achieved positive results, bringing in €1,447 million in revenues. Final profits totalled €183 million, which equates to earnings of just over €32,000 for every one of the 5,671 Ferraris sold. Note that a bulk of Ferrari’s sales command a significant price hike over the recommended retail price due to their limited supply.

Unlike Porsche, which earns a significant portion of its income from its investment in Volkswagen Group, the bulk of Ferrari’s money comes from the sales of its cars. However, it does earn some revenues from its own brand development activities including licensing contracts and the expansion of its retail programme. There are now a total of 13 Ferrari Shops across the globe. It’s little surprise that Fiat, Ferrari’s parent company, wants to increase its 56% stake in the supercar brand to 85%.

2009 Nissan Skyline GT-R

The most eagerly anticipated new performance car of the century

The 2009 Nissan Skyline GT-R is a legend before it even enters production.

Born from a long line of Skyline GT-Rs dating back to 1969, this latest version — “R36″ to the hard-core — promises to pack more turbocharged power, more all-wheel-drive technology and more sheer speed than any Japanese car ever to come to America.

For six years the 2009 Nissan Skyline GT-R has been the subject of intense rumors and frenzied speculation. It has appeared in more spy photos than Area 51; and Skyline prototypes are as familiar a sight on the Nürburgring as pine trees and pavement.

Why? Because the Skyline GT-R R36 is expected to be the ne plus ultra of Japanese performance machinery; and after 30 years of waiting, it’s finally America’s turn to officially take part in all the fun.

The original Nissan Skyline GT-R might have hit the street in 1969, but it wasn’t until 1990 that the GT-R legend would be solidified. That was the year the Skyline GT-R was introduced to an utterly stunned Japanese market. It was the first of three twin-turbocharged, all-wheel-drive and all-wheel-steering Skylines (R32, R33 and R34) and it’s the generation upon which the Skyline GT-R legend rests.

Though the R34 left production after the 2003 model year, it was so beloved that Nissan’s Nismo division actually bought 20 used Skyline GT-R R34 V-Spec models during 2005 and completely rebuilt them into what is currently considered the greatest GT-R of them all — the $170,000, 500-horsepower Skyline GT-R Z-Tune.

Although Nissan never imported the Skyline GT-R to the United States, the supercar still found its way into America’s automotive consciousness. In fact, buying one in the U.S. became relatively easy. By the dawn of the 21st century, several hundred had been imported.

So prominent had the Nissan Skyline GT-R become that in 2003’s 2 Fast 2 Furious, the film’s hero drove and raced one through the streets of Miami. And the actor Paul Walker, who played the role, bought his own and modified it.

America’s GT-R At the 2001 Tokyo Motor Show, Nissan showed the GT-R Concept as the prospective successor to the R34. By early 2005, modified G35 coupes with Infiniti badges, oversize wheels and tires, big rear wings, hood scoops and bodywork protrusions big enough to hide exotic exhaust systems in back or intercoolers up front were spied at the Nürburgring.

These weren’t just tuner cars, but full-fledged prototypes of the next GT-R.

Then in the 2005 Tokyo Motor Show, another GT-R showcar appeared called the GT-R Proto; and the new, innovative shape of the next GT-R was apparent. Obviously based on Nissan’s FM-code front midengine chassis, this GT-R would apparently use a turbocharged version of the VQ V6 with a seven-speed transmission and all-wheel drive.

And at the 2006 New York Auto Show, Nissan’s CEO Carlos Ghosn announced that, yes finally, the new Skyline GT-R R36 would be sold in the United States and it would be sold worldwide exclusively through Nissan, and not Infiniti. And apparently without the Skyline name.

That’s right, it’ll officially be called the Nissan GT-R. Yeah, right, just like the 2007 Mazda Miata is the MX-5.

Almost ready to rock
Since then, more prototypes of the 2009 Nissan Skyline GT-R with sheet metal nearly identical to the GT-R Proto have been often seen at the Nürburgring and in America’s Southwest, usually in the company of at least one Porsche 911 Turbo. It’s that 480-horsepower, all-wheel-drive Porsche that Nissan is obviously using as its performance benchmark for this car.

But when the new production GT-R R36 goes on sale after its debut at the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show in October, we don’t expect it to carry a price tag near that Porsche’s $122,000 chit. Instead the 2009 Nissan Skyline GT-R is expected to run somewhere around $70,000, making it a contender to take the title of best value supercar from the Chevrolet Corvette Z06.

No wonder it’s the most eagerly anticipated car in a generation. And to feed that anticipation, we’ll be updating this page with new information, photos and anything else related to the 2009 Nissan Skyline GT-R R36 until the official unveiling at the 2007 Tokyo Auto Show.

Driving the 2008 BMW M3 Coupe

Eight angry cylinders define BMW’s latest performance icon

Marbella, Spain—Finally, after much anticipation during the past year, we are able to climb aboard the latest, if not the most famous, performance car in the BMW model lineup, the M3.

Turn on the ignition and the M3 wakes up with a purr. Stomp on the throttle and the silky-smooth V-8 comes alive with a roar. The BMW 4.0-liter engine is capable of pumping out an impressive 414 bhp at 8300 rpm and 295 lb.-ft. of torque at 3900 rpm. And according to the folks from Munich, the car can rocket from 0 to 62 mph in 4.8 seconds.

Through southern Spain’s fantastic winding mountain roads, the new M3 feels right at home. On open stretches of straightaway, the car is fast. But instead of a sudden rush of speed as you put the pedal to the metal, the BMW builds momentum smoothly and quickly. It is not until about 4000 rpm that the V-8 really begins to sound out its power through the intake and exhaust.

Around the high-speed sweepers and tight twisties, the M3’s exceptional chassis balance and power really shine. The car is sure-footed and confidence-inspiring, despite slippery conditions during our drive due to sandy conditions on the road. However, if the BMW does lose traction at the rear, it does so in such a progressive manner that there’s plenty of time to correct without much effort.

The new M3 appears the most menacing from the front. The bulge on the hood flanked by two air vents and the blacked-out carbon-fiber roof give the car an aggressive stance. In profile and around the rear, the car appears softer and more laid-back, except for the quad exhaust tips that hint at the vehicle’s performance capabilities.

Nissan GT-R Spy Video

Another great Nissan GT-R Video that you can find in Metacafe. The quality is quite good, there is possibility that this video is release by Nissan as part of their promotion strategy.
The Nissan GT-R is scheduled to be officially released in October at the Tokyo Motor Show.

The shot was made in Nurburgring area.

For video click here

Ferrari 430 Scuderia

These are the first photos of the new Ferrari 430 Scuderia, which you will be able to see in person at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show in September 2007, unveiled by none other than Michael Schumacher.

The new Ferrari 430 Scuderia joins it’s siblings the F430 coupé and the F430 Spider, and has a weight-to-power ratio of just 2.45 kg per hp thanks to a low dry weight of just 1250 kg – 100 kg less than the F430.

Sitting in the engine bay is a 4.3 liter naturally aspirated V8 making 510 horsepower at 8,500rpm - a horsepower to displacement ratio of more than 100 horses per liter. This engine is mated to an F1 Superfast gearbox which shifts in 50 milliseconds.

The new model is a special series based on the F430 and is aimed specifically at Ferrari’s most passionate and sports-driving oriented clients. It uses an E-Diff electronic differential and F1-Trac traction and stability control combined in a single integrated system, tuned for a sporty drive naturally, one that is deserving of being in a Ferrari.

997 Porsche 911 GT2

First details of Porsche’s new 911 GT2 has been revealed. It’s 3.6 liter twin VGT turbocharged boxer engine will be putting out 530 horsepower at 6,500rpm and 685Nm of torque between 2,200rpm to 4,500rpm, compared to the 911 Turbo’s 480hp at at 6,000rpm and 620Nm of torque between 1,950rpm to 5,000rpm.

So that’s more torque, more power, yet two less wheels to drive them through as the GT2 has always been a rear wheel drive monster. You can expect some serious rubber burning with this one. 0 to 100km/h takes 3.6 seconds - 0.1 seconds faster than the 911 Turbo Tiptronic S.

Though not officially unveiled by Porsche yet, I’m already waiting to see what RUF can do to this car.

Spyshots: Mitsubishi Lancer EVO X On The Street

BMW 120d Motorsport

This is a BMW 120d Motorsport modified with a BMW customer racing kit entered by Schubert Motors in the 24 Hours Nurburgring race. Now it doesn’t have the new twin turbodiesel inline-4 that the BMW 123d coupe has, however the racing kit gives it even more power than the 123d has in stock form - we’re talking about 245hp at 4,200rpm with a 5,000rpm redline as well as a collosal 450Nm of torque at 3,000rpm.

Brakes have been upgraded to 6-piston brakes at the front and 4-piston calipers at the rear. The car weighs 1,135kg including drive, which is very little to pull around considering it has 450Nm of torque driven through only two driven rear wheels. We’re talking about ridiculous amounts of wheelspin here.