Japanese Extreme Cars

Japanese Extreme Cars

James Bond spy car

I have no delusions of being a superspy like James Bond. Sure, I have the swagger and the charm, and I look dashing in a tuxedo, but right now I don't have a car, let alone a car with machine guns and grill-mounted missiles to destroy my own personal villains.

James Bond spy car

I have no delusions of being a superspy like James Bond. Sure, I have the swagger and the charm, and I look dashing in a tuxedo, but right now I don't have a car, let alone a car with machine guns and grill-mounted missiles to destroy my own personal villains.

Nissan Murano Convertible

It seems like Nissan was serious about the version Convertible of Murano. Nissan Murano Convertible expected to launch at Los Angeles Auto Show this year. The engine of Nissan Murano Convertible should 3.5 liter V6 CVT and generate powere 265 Hp. Nissan Murano Convertible owns 2 doors and would available in 2 version which are front wheel drive (FWD) and all wheel drive (AWD). The price projection of Nissan Murano Convertible would about USD40,000.

Smart ForTwo

Mercedes-Benz Smart ForTwo that reported to come in Indonesia confirmed about to come in Indonesia and projected to sell in Jakarta and Bali on November 2010.
Smart ForTwo would come in three different types which are Smart Pure, Smart Passion and Smart Cabriolet. Smart ForTwo is a mini car with only providing 2 passengers and equipped with engine 1.0 liter that claimed as green car and safety.

Infiniti M35h 2011

The Infiniti M35h, will introduce world-first steering and braking technologies when it goes on sale in the USA and Europe in 2011. Like the drivetrain, which marries a charismatic V6 petrol engine with 50 kW (68 PS) electric motor built in to the 7-speed automatic transmission, simplicity was a key tenet in the development of the steering and brakes of the high performance luxury sedan.

Yet when the driver demands it the Infiniti M35h responds like a true high performance machine, offering the linear acceleration and unsullied rear-drive handling of a true Infiniti – complete with all the charisma of one of the great V6 petrol engines. Like the 7-speed Adaptive Shift Control (ASC) automatic transmission that blips the throttle on downchanges, the new braking and steering technologies are integral to the Infiniti M35h’s positioning as the hybrid to please the most demanding of drivers.

JaguarRSR XKR GT 2010

The new JaguarRSR racing car makes its European debut this week at the 2010 Autosport International at the NEC in Birmingham, UK. It is the first and only chance for the public to see the stunning new XKR GT in the metal before it heads back to the US to compete in the entire 2010 American Le Mans Series (ALMS) in North America.

GT racing legend Paul Gentilozzi is taking a break from a gruelling development programme to feature the XKR in the largest dedicated trade motorsport exhibition in Europe. The JaguarRSR XKR GT will be on display at the Jaguar stand alongside a production model XKR, XFR, and the fastest Jaguar ever – the Bonneville XFR prototype, which Paul drove to 225.675 mph on the Bonneville Salt Flats in 2008.

The RSR Jaguar XKR GT uses the standard Jaguar XKR lightweight aluminium monocoque together with additional steel reinforcements and safety structure developed by RSR. The 5.0-litre V-8 engine boasts 550 horsepower at 7000 rpm and a maximum speed of 180mph.

Jaguar XJL Supercharged Neiman Marcus Edition 2010

The Neiman Marcus XJL Supercharged is powered by a new third-generation 5-liter V-8 engine with an Eaton supercharger that delivers 470 horsepower and also features the Jaguar Sequential Shift™ six-speed ZF automatic transmission that adapts to its driver, with wheel-mounted shift paddles for sport, standard, and winter mode driving.

The all-new 2010 Jaguar XJL Supercharged Neiman Marcus Edition, comes in an exclusive Celestial Black metallic paint exterior and a custom butter-soft navy and ivory leather interior with Zebrano matte wood accents. The Neiman Marcus Edition XJL also has 20″ double-10 spoke polished alloy wheels, illuminated tread plates and trunk finisher as well as the nameplate on the custom interior Intaglio that reads: “Neiman Marcus 1 of 50.”

This is the third time a Jaguar has been selected as the featured vehicle in the Book. In 1968, the Jaguar XKE Grand Touring Coupe was featured, and most recently, the 1997 Jaguar XK8 Convertible. There will be only 50 Neiman Marcus Editions made, and Jaguar and Neiman Marcus expect them to sell out fast. For those not lucky enough to reserve one of these 50 Neiman Marcus Editions, the XJ arrives in showrooms nationwide in early 2010.

Jaguar XJ75 Platinum Concept 2010

Dominated by a striking white and black contrast theme that suggests precious platinum metal, the Jaguar XJ75 Platinum Concept is a high-performance 470-hp 2011 Jaguar XJL Supercharged equipped with new ground-hugging front, rear and side sills. Painted a lustrous Satin Matte Pearlescent White, exterior chrome elements have been revised to either a dark chrome or gloss black. Bespoke 22-inch wheels are black and use a brushed contrast finish.

The contrast theme continues with gloss pearlescent white air vents, veneers and diamond stitch suede inserts to the seats and headliner, all set against the backdrop of a full Jet Softgrain leather interior. Suede and leather accents are seen throughout the interior to further material enhancements.

Performance on the Jaguar XJ75 Platinum Concept is derived from its 5.0-litre Supercharged direct-injection V8 with 470 horsepower and 424 lb.-ft of torque. Entertainment is provided by a 1,200-watt Bowers & Wilkins surround sound system with 20 speakers powered through 15 channels and state-of-the-art sound processing technology.

Toyota and Mazda agree to share Hybrid technology

Consumers will find a bit of Toyota at Mazda dealerships by 2013. Mazda will become the second manufacturer, after Nissan, to borrow Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive technology as part of a licensing agreement aimed at leap-frogging hybrids into Mazda’s stable beyond the lonely Mazda Tribute SUV. The deal’s details have yet to be released but Toyota’s key hybrid drive components are expected to make the cross over to Mazda’s recently announced, next-generation, direct-injected Sky engines.

TMC and Mazda Agree to Hybrid System Technology License
Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) and Mazda Motor Corporation (Mazda) have reached an agreement on the supply under license of hybrid technology used in the Toyota Prius. Leveraging this agreement, Mazda plans to combine the hybrid system with its next-generation SKY* engine that is currently under development, and develop and manufacture a hybrid vehicle in Japan. Mazda is aiming to commence sales of a hybrid vehicle starting in Japan by 2013.

Positioning response to environmental issues as a management priority, TMC began sales of the Prius, the world’s first mass-production hybrid vehicle, in 1997. Since then, over 2.3 million TMC-produced hybrid vehicles have been delivered to customers in over 70 countries and regions. TMC recognizes the importance of benefiting the environment by encouraging the popularization of its eco-friendly technologies, which are represented by its hybrid systems. Accordingly, TMC has announced that it will consider requests from other companies to supply hybrid technology.

Based on its long-term vision for technology development, Sustainable Zoom-Zoom, Mazda aims to increase the average fuel economy of Mazda vehicles sold globally 30 percent by 2015, compared to its 2008 level. In order to offer all of its customers driving pleasure as well as outstanding eco-friendly and safety performance, Mazda is implementing a Building Block Strategy. Under this strategy, Mazda will enhance the core aspects of its vehicles - including engines, transmissions and weight reduction - and then progressively add electric devices such as idling stop, regenerative braking and hybrid systems.

Through this partnership, each company intends to offer technologies and products with outstanding environmental benefits to as many people as possible. Concept name for engines and transmissions that are intended for launch from 2011 onward.

Mercedes-Benz SL 63 AMG Black Saphir INDEN-Design 2010

The INDEN-Design Mercedes-Benz SL 63 AMG Black Saphir body kit has a value of 19.900 euro for additional 3,500 euros you can get a hood, for 800 euros the tail diffuser in carbon and for 999 euros a front Flap of PE in addition. The assembly of the body parts and the various adjustment work is separately calculated with 8,000 euros and the lacquer finish inclusive putty work with 7,500 euros.

A further important contribution to the exclusive optics and performance makes the multipart Black Saphire light alloy wheels (13,200 euros inclusive sport tires) in 20 inch. These were installed in the quantity 11×20 inch and 13×20 inch with 275/30 R20 and 325/25 R20 high speed tire of Dunlop.

The full package is completed with a back driving camera (900 euros), day driving lights (420 euros) and suitable Black Saphire high-grade steel exhaust embellishers (1,200 euros). When desired an increase in output on 560 HP and 670Nm can be accomplished with INDEN Design. As another extra INDEN Design worries also around the adornment of the interior.

Mitsubishi Eclipse 2011 Vehicle Overview

The 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse coupe, however, just can't keep up with the latest sport coupes and hot hatches. Pros, Avant-garde styling, one of the few convertibles in its price range, powerful V6 in GT, comfortable front seats, relatively roomy cargo area. Cons, Poor outward visibility with convertible, sluggish acceleration with GS models, torque steer with GT, small backseat, no telescoping wheel, lackluster interior quality.

The dearth of similarly priced convertibles makes the Eclipse Spyder worth a look. The base 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse gets a price reduction for 2011 and standard alloy wheels. Heated leather front seats and a power driver seat are now standard on the GS Sport. The GT can no longer be had with a manual transmission. All Eclipse coupes get a blacked-out roof.

Powertrains and Performance
Every 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse is front-wheel drive. GS models are powered by a 2.4-liter four-cylinder that produces 162 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque. The GS comes standard with a five-speed manual, while a four-speed automatic is optional on the GS and standard on the GS Sport. Estimated fuel economy with the automatic is 20 mpg city/28 mpg highway and 23 mpg combined.

The Eclipse GT gets a 3.6-liter V6 good for 265 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. A five-speed automatic is standard. This engine requires premium fuel and its estimated fuel economy is 16 mpg city/24 mpg highway and 19 mpg combined.

Safety
The 2011 Eclipse comes standard with four-wheel antilock brakes, stability control and front seat side airbags. The coupe features front side curtain airbags and the Spyder gets taller side airbags that cover occupants' heads. There are no rear head restraints. The Eclipse Spyder received the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's top rating of "Good" in both the frontal-offset and side crash tests.

Driving Impressions
For many drivers, the 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse's driving dynamics may be a bit of a disappointment. The GT's V6 produces plenty of power, but getting all those horses to the pavement can often result in a large dose of wheelspin and torque steer. In contrast to the V6, the four-cylinder struggles with the Eclipse's heavy curb weight -- acceleration with the smaller engine could best be described as anemic.

Another item of contention would be the large turning circle, which necessitates many more multiple-point turns than with other vehicles. Overall handling should satisfy most drivers, but those with an appetite for performance would likely find inspiration in any number of competing sport coupes or hatchbacks. The Spyder exhibits a little more chassis flex over bumps than we'd like, but it's not enough to spoil an otherwise enjoyable driving experience.

Honda CR-Z 2011 Review

A sporty hybrid? At first glance, the 2011 Honda CR-Z might seem a bit oxymoronic. After all, Americans expect their hybrid cars to be purely about fuel economy, with flowers, rainbows and unicorns coming out of the tailpipe. But Honda is hoping that people are ready for a car that not only gets very good fuel economy but also happens to be fun to drive -- a hybrid without the drive-induced narcolepsy, if you will.

Hard-core enthusiasts will likely be disappointed, but somebody just looking for a sporty two-door with good fuel economy will likely be pleased with the 2011 Honda CR-Z.

Pros, Nimble size and handling, quick steering, good fuel economy, sporty looks. Cons, Poor rearward visibility, most competitors have backseats, missing a few upscale features.

Honda Odyssey 2011 Vehicle Overview

The all-new 2011 Honda Odyssey looks poised to pick up from where its class-leading predecessor left off. The Honda Odyssey is completely redesigned for 2011.

The minivan isn't as popular as it once was, but it remains the quintessential form of transportation for families big and small. No other vehicle offers the type of versatility and space for kids and the copious amount of stuff that invariably comes along with them. The 2011 Honda Odyssey is a completely redesigned entry among this dwindling number of minivans, replacing a model that was widely considered to be the best in its class for a decade. In other words, it has some very big shoes to fill.

The 2011 Odyssey is an inch-plus shorter in height than before, but has gained an inch-plus in width, creating a slightly sleeker appearance aided by a wedge-shaped front fascia and unique "lightning-bolt" character line. Aside from being a design flourish, this character line also improves visibility for passengers in the third row of seats, who will also enjoy a greater amount of knee and shoulder room. Honda says three adults can sit back there, but we're thinking the middle spot's fold-down armrest will be utilized more frequently.

Minivans are renowned for setting themselves apart with never-before-seen features. Some, like the Odyssey's flip-and-fold third-row seat became an industry standard, while others, like the last Odyssey's middle-row Lazy Susan storage bin have been quickly forgotten. This time around, the Odyssey introduces a small refrigerated storage compartment beneath the center stack controls, a trash bag holder, second-row seats that shift laterally to make room for child seats and a wide-screen entertainment system with an HDMI input. The new Odyssey also improves upon previously introduced features, like a simplified process for lowering the third-row seat and an enlarged second-row removable middle seat.

Honda has not yet released full details about the 2011 Odyssey's powertrain, but we do know it will continue to only be available with front-wheel drive and a 3.5-liter V6. Honda's cylinder deactivation system is now standard on every Odyssey and fuel economy is estimated to be 19 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. This is a significant improvement versus the last Odyssey (especially those trims without cylinder deactivation) and better than the new Toyota Sienna's four- and six-cylinder engines.

More details about the 2011 Honda Odyssey will be coming soon, including available trims and equipment, as well as exact dimensions and specifications. Check back for a full review of how this new Odyssey stacks up against its minivan competitors before it hits dealerships in the fall.

Steinmetz Opel Astra 2010

The Steinmetz lowering has been matched to the FlexRide System and the Watt linkage fitted to the rear axle. The Steinmetz lowering by 30 mm has been specially developed for city traffic, but is also ideal for a quick blast around the North Loop of the Nurburgring.

The Steinmetz Opel Astra body kit includes a new front spoiler, a totally black front grille and a roof spoiler. Other exterior styling accents offered by the Steinmetz Opel Astra program include designer strips and stainless steel door handle plates.

Both alloy wheels run on tires size 235/35/R19 without any adaptation to the wheelarches on the Astra J by Steinmetz.. For the interior, finished to a high standard by Opel, Steinmetz has developed a gear display which shows the driver – in his color of choice – the gear currently selected. Foot mats with a stainless steel logo, and sill trims of polished stainless steel, complete the Steinmetz product range for the Astra J.

Steinmetz Opel Insignia Sports Tourer2009

The Steinmetz Opel Insignia Sports Tourer sports package includes a new front grille and spoiler that comply with pedestrian protection regulations, a roof spoiler and new tailpipe trims. The Insignia SportsTourer by Steinmetz sits on 20-inch alloy wheels with 245/35/R20 tires and features a lowering kit that takes the ride height down by 25 mm. The Steinmetz Opel Insignia Sports Tourer also comes with new tail pipes and a two-piece roof spoiler.

Opel Ampera 2010

Opel has announced Ampera as the name of its revolutionary extended-range electric car. The five-door, four-seat Opel Ampera will be revealed at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show (March 5-15).

“With the Ampera, Opel will be the first European automobile manufacturer to provide customers several hundred kilometers of non-stop electric driving,” said Alain Visser, GM Europe Chief Marketing Officer.

GM’s ground-breaking electric propulsion technology, called Voltec, operates differently from other advanced propulsion systems. For short trips up to 60 km, the Ampera will run only on lithium-ion battery power charged via a standard 230v outlet. For longer distances, the car will continue to drive on electricity that is generated by a small internal combustion engine.

The Ampera will be well-suited to the daily driving schedule of most European customers. For example, approximately 80 percent of German drivers travel less than 50 km daily.

Additional information on the Opel Ampera will be released March 3 at the Geneva Motor Show.