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Volvo XC Coupe Concept Looking Ready for Summit County, Colorado 3

Volvo XC Coupe Concept Looking Ready for Summit County, Colorado!

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There are a few must-have items when traveling up from Denver to the main ski resorts of Colorado: – 4wd or lockable AWD – ground clearance encouraged – huge surplus of power for high-grade passing needs – great road-holding and high-speed stability — especially on the descent. The XC Coupe looks ready for all that and more. Time for afternoon cookies at Beaver Creek! The XC will look right at home in the resort’s famous enclosed valet parking… snow or shine. Live Reveal Official Images Galleries      

CarRevsDaily

KIA GT4 STINGER Concept — Track Thrills — RWD Layout — 315HP Turbo — Lightweight Aero Shell

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This KIA GT4 Stinger Concept headline took many tries to get right! Here are the key details: – Superlightweight and low proportions – Rear-drive, 315-horsepower turbo 2.0-liter – Sleek shape with black-frame glasshouse and very sexy nose – Concept. – Subaru BR-Z dynamics we all want – But far more speed: 115 extra horsepower versus 2.0-liter atmospheric boxer in BR-Z I like the styling from most angles, and think it will be extremely cool in black. THe rear end seems a bit too streamlined for my tastes, but does have a big hatchback cargo area versus the BRZ’s tiny, tiny …

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Toyota Pacific Design CALTY teams 1978 and 2014 GIF

Toyota CALTY Design Teams – Then with 1978 Celica and Now with 2014 FT1 Concept

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I was going to add these charming images from Toyota to the FT1 article from earlier today – but decided to feature this talented team in a stand-alone article.   The below image shows the CALTY team with one of their first full projects, the hugely-successful 1978 Celica. This Celica eventually became the Celica Supra, and then the Supra we all know and love.   The Celica was a surprise global hit outside its core US market, providing Toyota the platform to affordable high-performance sports cars. The 2000GT, for all its brilliant alloy panels and optional automatic gearbox – was …

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Surprise! Drop-Dead Sexy Toyota Supercar Playable in GT6 and Previewing SUPRA 5

Surprise! Drop-Dead Sexy Toyota FT-1 Supra Joins Greatest Car Show on Earth

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When any Toyota bumps the Porsche 911 Targa down a notch in my cue, you know it must be something amazing.   The new Supra. This concept is tagged the FT-1, and billed as the ultimate two-seat racing coupe. The FT1 is simply breathtaking. Wow. All those renderings look like absolute childs play compared with the final vision from Toyota.     Huge swooping panels almost recall the TVR Tuscan in their flowing symmetry. A ducktail forms part of a thin top trunk outline in a gorgeous way that also helps aero. An active spoiler is featured as well. The …

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2015 Z06 – Official Debut in 40 Super High Resolution Images + Tech Specs: 8-sp Manual or Optional Auto

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Holy NAIAS, Batman – look at the production 2015 Corvette Z06! Last week, we highlighted a number of details from the Gran Turismo 6 Corvette concept that seemed to show the way forward for the Z06.       The best part for me was that the GT6 concept sat in the PlayStation section of CES, with barely a second glance given to it by passers-by. The GT6 concept now appears to have been a “work in progress” — because the real-life Z06 is far more hardcore in almost every way. One fantasy element has made it to the Z06 …

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Cadillac ATS 2.0T Looks Beautiful in Latest Night Photos in Bonn, Germany

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There is news rumbling about the future of the Cadillac ATS – and all signs point to huge, twin-turbo power and perhaps even a coupe shell. The name so far is as expected: ATS Coupe. Other rumors? New Caddy crest emblem – without the wreath. This will be one seriously fast machine with 400-plus horsepower. Rear-drive and manual transmission seem like the initial configuration preference for the V series Cadillac, but AWD and a snappy new auto could be in the cards as well. Worth noting is that the ATS is a bit smaller and nimbler than the new RC …

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2014 Q60 IPL Convertible

2014 Infiniti Q60 IPL Coupe and Cabrio – Specs, Pricing and Trim Details

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The hotshot executive sport coupe market is always fun: the Lexus RC F and BMW M4 are already stars of the Detroit show – months and months ahead of their arrival to buyers. The Lexus RC F in production form this week in Detroit ups the ante quite a bit. So what’s missing?   Well, the Cadillac ATS Coupe – which is coming tomorrow – has room under than hood for some huge power, as well as a rear-drive platform that is already very performance-focused.   What else? The Infiniti Q60 IPL is absolutely worth considering when in the $40,000-plus …

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Standaufnahme Farbe: Plasmarot

Audi Sport Quattro – Design Analysis – Deconstructed Headlight Styles

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Audi’s latest concepts might feel familiar, but actually bring a slew of new ideas to maintain sales momentum as the firm enters more new segments than ever. New shapes of crossovers and hybrids are critical to maintain momentum for the company, which achieved a best-ever 1,455,123 units sold globally in calendar 2013. Also impressive: Audi is active in 100-plus countries – which is about double the footprint of most luxury brands. While many tout the success of Lexus and other luxury new-comers, Audi is really the comeback king. There were years in the late 1980s when Audi of America could …

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Audi Allroad Shooting Brake Concept – Previewing Both 2015 A4 and Q2 e-tron?

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This off-road hybrid concept is a promising step from Audi, and likely a bold preview of the 2015 A4’s styling updates. This two-door crossover shape could also wear a variety of other badges: Q2 e-tron seems like the most accurate. The official name of this NAIAS Detroit concept from Audi is the Allroad Shooting Brake. The powertrain and interior are the most innovative aspects of this new Audi Allroad style, with the full details from Audi below ahead of the car’s debut tomorrow in Detroit. Exterior     Interior Crossover in a compact package: The Audi allroad shooting brake show …

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Audi RS5 Taming U.S. Racetracks with New Colors and Black Ops from $70k

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The Audi RS5 is a truly astounding car. With so much atmospheric power from this racing V8 and the Audi’s class-best dynamics in the wet: the RS5 even seems like a supercoupe that could be driven hard in bad weather. Not something most summer-tired supercars would attempt. Dan Neil noted some traction issues when reviewing the twin-turbo RS7 last month in his Wall Street Journal column – which might be related to RS7’s big-boost layout versus the RS5’s naturally-aspirated engine. For the time being, the Lexus RC F and BMW M4 appear to keep their rear-drive layouts. But AWD is …

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Tahoe Police concept

140MPH+ Chevy Tahoe PPV Coming as 2015 Model With Optional 4×4 and Far Better Cabin

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The funny thing about the Chevy Tahoe police cruiser’s tenure on the market is that it only recently started to offer four-wheel-drive to these LEO customers. Fuel economy and high-speed pace were the initial reasons – with even the 2012 5.3-liter Tahoe PPVs able to hit 139 mph. Four-wheel-drive is a mandatory feature this time of year in many places. Example? My hometown typically runs Tahoe PPV models and Crown Victoria Fords – but during the recent blizzard, switched to their personal 4×4’s to keep the peace. And keep the grip on snow and ice. Rear-drive Tahoe’s are very stable, …

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Boom! Lexus RC F Goes Supersonic in 41 Images – LEDs, Interior, Air Scoops, Active Aero…

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The hottest Lexus since the LFA has just landed in America: the RC F coupe takes all the race-ready V8 power and rear-drive performance from the previous IS F, and absolutely cranks the knob off. We’re preparing an article on the Lexus RC F’s styling versus its two key rivals: the BMW M4 and Audi RS5. In doing so, we’ve gathered a number of additional screenshots from Lexus’s B-roll video in order to show the coolest unseen parts of the RC F: the sports coupe’s brand-new LED lighting, hood venting, and active rear spoiler! This car looks intense from almost …

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Lexus RC F GIF

Boom! Lexus RC F Goes Supersonic in 41 Images – LEDs, Interior, Air Scoops, Active Aero…

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The hottest Lexus since the LFA has just landed in America: the RC F coupe takes all the race-ready V8 power and rear-drive performance from the previous IS F, and absolutely cranks the knob off. We’re preparing an article on the Lexus RC F’s styling versus its two key rivals: the BMW M4 and Audi RS5. In doing so, we’ve gathered a number of additional screenshots from Lexus’s B-roll video in order to show the coolest unseen parts of the RC F: the sports coupe’s brand-new LED lighting, hood venting, and active rear spoiler! This car looks intense from almost …

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2015 Volvo XC90 Closely Previewed by New XC Coupe Concept for Detroit 10

2015 Volvo XC90 Closely Previewed by New XC Coupe Concept for Detroit

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Volvo is on a roll. After winning the ‘most improved style direction’ award here at CarRevsDaily last month for the Frankfurt VCC two-door, the Swedish team’s new style looks even closer to reality on the latest XC concept. The redesigned Volvo XC90 is so important to the future well-being of Sweden’s auto industry: it is hard to overstate how much is riding on the shoulders of this summer’s newest seven-seat crossover. The XC90 is currently a fantastic truck with good dynamics, a great ride, and everything from four-cylinder diesels to the smooth Yamaha V8 engine. The XC Coupe is obviously …

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Audi Q3 Looking Classy + Packing Standard 200HP Turbo for U.S. Sales From August 2014

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The Audi Q3 looks so much better in the flesh than it did in Audi’s teaser sketches from last month – what a relief! While the car does show a bit less aggression in its proportions versus the long-hood Q7, there is enough family similarity for the Q3 to rub shoulders with BMW and Mercedes-Benz SUVs costing much, much more. The Q3 is part of a broad new 2015 Audi A3 family of models coming to the U.S. in the next six to eight months: — A3 four-door sedan — S3 four-door sedan — A3 Cabriolet — 2015 A3 e-tron …

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2014 Rolls-Royce Ghost V-Spec Adds Power + Dark Glamour to SWB and LWB 4-Doors 3

2014 Rolls-Royce Ghost V-Spec Adds Power + Dark Glamour to SWB and LWB 4-Doors

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There almost are no words to properly convey the quality and luxury of every single detail in the 2014 Rolls-Royce model lineup versus normal cars. Speed and handling during my Wraith press drive in November was very, very impressive – this platform has fantastic poise, but enough movement and sway when being pushed hard to remind you about the speedometer. Wraith’s fun-to-flog nature is important because Many of the fastback’s sportier elements are introduced for the first time on Ghost V-Spec cars.   I am smiling at my desk as I type. While many fast cars make it seem “easy” …

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CarRevsDaily

BMW 328d and 328i Wagons Back in U.S. for 2014 – Buyers Guide

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Fast wagons are cooler than ever in 2014. Even a lowly Jetta Sportwagen on dark steel winter wheels can cause a double-take. They are rare, and achieve a low-roof profile that all the sportiest SUVs envy. Even better? Sweeping on-ramps and highway curves can be confidently driven fast, on throttle, with family and kids in the back. Try the same thing in many SUVs, and there will be much more body roll and potential life partner jabs to ribs. Slow down!     But the low, low center of gravity is like a gift that keeps on giving with the …

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CarRevsDaily

Honda Jade and Concept M from Shanghai 2013 Likely No-Shows in Detroit

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The media side of the global auto industry is getting confusing. Any business needs to create structure in their marketing. Marketing, in this sense, is everything from concept cars to TV ads to post-sale warranty/service needs. This is often handled by region, especially for the semi-autonomous groups in the American market – the most valuable in terms of sales by a huge margin. But this segmentation strategy does not always work in a new age of digital media. Not only are international auto magazines available instantly via iPad editions, but they are far more affordable that way as well. Not …

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Low-Volume Specials – Buick Regal Country Tourer Could Be Yours… At A Price

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When a long-term product plan from GM was released a few years ago by a disgruntled employee to a German newspaper, the revelations about what exactly lay ahead for Opel were quickly silenced. Luckily, it was not the Guardian who received the documents. The one thing I recall before all the news … went away … was the Country Tourer name for a potential Vectra replacement wagon.   An all-road-style option for families who not only need AWD, but need some extra ground clearance and gravel resistance on the lower panels as well. These are not some kind of “country” …

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MY2015 GLA45 AMG

Production-Spec 2015 GLA45 AMG Looking Gorgeous Without Concept Stickers

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When it rains, it pours! And when it pours, rear-drive sports cars must crawl along the highway at anything above 70 or 80 mph. Sure, you can go fast in the rain in your high-power, rear-drive machine — but any wheel slip can become a serious problem. That is the key reason the new generations of AMG Mercedes-Benz models will be optimized for rear-drive hoon-ability, but standard 4Matic AWD for high-speed, all-weather confidence. The GLA45 is the perfect example of this new breed of sub-Macan-Turbo sporting models from BMW, Audi and Mercedes-Benz. The X1 M Sport xDrive35i is about as …

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Passat Sport CarRevsDaily

Passat Sport New-for-2014 with Black Roof, Turbo and 19-in Luxor Wheels From $27k

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The 2014 Passat Sport is news to me: where did this very affordable and chic black optics pack come from! A surprise and delight, to be sure, from Volkswagen ahead of the big show next week. The 2014 Passat Sport is a trim line between SE and SEL, with manual or automatic boxes available to suit your preference. The Sport is offered with the strong 1.8-liter Volkswagen turbo that has seen action mostly in high-powered models not imported to the States. Luckily, the new turbo will roll out across the full VW USA line-up in the coming years. Boost is …

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CarRevsDaily

2014 Porsche 911 Racers Compared: 991 RSR vs 991 GT3 Cup vs 997 GT3 R

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The latest 2014 Porsche 911 RSR looks quite different from its most recent relatives in the 911 racing side of the Porsche family tree. This roundup shows three of the most hardcore 911 racers that will contest the 2014 seasons across various series around the world. Yes, the rules from all these racing groups will be very different in how much enhancement is allowed: from the road-car side of the spectrum in the 991 GT3 Cup, all the way to the pure prototype RSR model. The RSR is a seriously hardcore racing machine that will howl its boxer six bellow …

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Corvette GT6 markup

2014 Corvette C7.R and Z06 – Stingray Gran Turismo Concept Offers Best Clues Yet

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The Corvette C7.R and the new Z06 will make their debuts together next week at the first press conference of the first press day in Detroit. 2014 C7.R Monterey Rollout – (Pebble Beach, August 2013) Chevy is in just about the finest pre-show condition it has been in years: the model lines are almost all fresh or forthcoming, and the new arrivals to Chevy dealers in calendar year 2014 mean this Detroit show needs to do its job. Forecast calls for massive press blitz for all the latest new models from General Motors: – 2015 Suburban/Yukon/Escalade – 2015 Silverado and …

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2014 Camaro Z/28

2014 Camaro Z/28 Engineering Upgrades and Specs Detailed

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If the old BMW adage was “one bratwurst, three lengths…” — the new Camaro is selling Nurburgring stamina by the pound like ground chuck. As the aero animation above shows, this was a global project on a huge, long-term scale. Aero studies like these are mesmerizing to behold – but are only the beginning of the Z/28 Camaro story. The Z/28 is a really stunning piece of machinery. It follows all paths toward achieving its 7:37.447 lap time – in the rain – in October 2013.   Italian Trofeo R tires are a Camaro first, as are Brembo carbon brakes …

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2014 Silverado 1500 LT An All-Star Truck for All Seasons - Mega Galleries36

2014 Silverado 1500 LT An All-Star Truck for All Seasons – 120+ High-Res Photos

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The Chevy Silverado is my new favorite pickup truck. Even while firmly on the bench of the truck battles between Ford and Chevy – I always quietly considered myself a Ford guy. Yes, even when the F-150 was saddled with the most anemic V8 engines in the world. It just felt more like me. A new F-150 comes out next week in Detroit, so the battle is about to get serious. But I am a huge Chevy Silverado fan after spending a week in this big sweetie. This 1500 LT Double Cab V6 might seem like a wimpy specification on …

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RM Auctions Paris 2014 - 1953 Gordini 24S GIF1

HD Video – 1953 Gordini 24S Blasts Around Its Favorite Tracks Before RM Auctions Paris Sale

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 This car defies logic. On one hand, it looks adorable and cute. So narrow and low, with the blue bodywork peeled back around the exhaust manifold and the straight-cut pipes. Watch the below… The Gordini starts to howl at about the half-way mark of this video preview. Kudos to its bold driver, who is not shy with the loud pedal. Firing up the 24S takes a prod onto an organ-stop switch – included as the fuel cutoff for racing. This very car won the Tour de France (a car race at the time…) and also traded paint with Porsche and …

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strada alloy 5300GT header gifw

Iconic Classic Supercars: 1965 Bizzarrini Strada Alloy 5300GT One of Most Influential Cars, Ever

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Ever the tornado of creativity and speed, Ferrari was quite volatile in the early 1960s. For every race they won, it seems like a failed buyout from Ford and the epic ‘palace revolution’resulted in a big brain drain for Maranello. Competing hot-shot engineers would form nearly a dozen competing supercar marques, including Lamborghini, De Tomaso, Iso, ATS, ASA and Bizzarrini. Each led by a mastermind engineer, stylist, machinist or visionary, only Lamborghini’s brand was strong enough to make it to the 1970s and beyond. The Ferrari exodus left all these talented men with huge ideas, but less of a real …

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2014 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk

Mea Culpa: 2014 Jeep Cherokee Not "Fug Nasty" – Looks Great in Trailhawk Trim

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The Jeep Cherokee’s styling hit me like a kick from a horse when first glimpsed earlier this year.   I took to Twitter to say some less-than-encouraging things about its new appearance. Luckily, using Twitter is like throwing effort into a well – hopefully no one noticed… I’m actually very relieved to report four things about the 2014 Cherokee: – Optional 271-horsepower V6 engine with nine-speed auto and available 4WD promises a fun and powerful truck – Nose looks good on highways and in real life, LEDs visually widen car. The red trailhawk tow hooks are awesome. – The profile …

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Daimler Running Big Trucks in Tr4 via 2014 Freightliner Argosy (Villain) vs Western Star (Hero)

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Big trucks, be nice! If there was ever a bad-guy in the truck world, it is a cab-over semi truck with a maniacal driver just inches behind the front bumper. The Cab-Over style seems absurd from basic aero principles, but does offer big benefits in such tight turning radii. But Transformers 4 comes out in just a few months, on 6.27.14. Did they miss the coolest new Daimler truck? The Freightliner Revolution is the best looking of the bunch, in my opinion. In addition, Transformers 4 shows a slow progression by Michael Bay and Co. toward reclaiming the original styles …

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CarRevsDaily

Transformers 4 Truck Called Hound is Oshkosh Defense M1157 A1P2

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The GMC TopKick had a really good run with the Transformers franchise, surviving through the end of the third movie on the strength of Ironhide’s close friendship with our hero. But General Motors quietly exited the C4500 – C8500 truck classes altogether in 2009. Most of the larger trucks were absolutely ancient. Imagine a Frito-Lay extra-long delivery truck, and you’ve got it. The TopKick was a strong option for the films: huge, versatile with a dump-truck rear end, and looked great. Ironhide outlived the Hummer H2 BayWatch car and Jazz, the oft-mocked Pontiac Solstice character with a somewhat racist accent. …

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Concept Flashback - 2011 Citroen Tubik Brings Delightful Shapes of 1930's Tub Vans 5

Concept Flashback – 2011 Citroen Tubik Brings Delightful Shapes of 1930's Tub Vans

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There are numerous elements of the 2011 Citroen Tubik concept that are inspiring. The nose itself is very chic, and sets the tone for the Tub’s wild, semi-spherical curving panels. White gloss effect acrylic forms the entire nose and tail of the machine, but the central section is a floating layer of stainless steel. The idea has aero principles, recalls Apple’s best product designs, and is a fresh take on the corrugated steel panels of the original Type H vans from the 1930s. The interior, like many French concepts, completely drops the ball. It is far too space-age, with silly …

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Concept Flashback - 2011 Citroen Tubik Brings Delightful Shapes of 1930's Tub Vans 5

Concept Flashback – 2011 Citroen Tubik Brings Delightful Shapes of 1930's Tub Vans

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There are numerous elements of the 2011 Citroen Tubik concept that are inspiring. The nose itself is very chic, and sets the tone for the Tub’s wild, semi-spherical curving panels. White gloss effect acrylic forms the entire nose and tail of the machine, but the central section is a floating layer of stainless steel. The idea has aero principles, recalls Apple’s best product designs, and is a fresh take on the corrugated steel panels of the original Type H vans from the 1930s. The interior, like many French concepts, completely drops the ball. It is far too space-age, with silly …

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2015 VW Golf TSI 3dr Joins TDI and GTI in Brooklyn en Route to Detroit Show 20

2015 VW Golf TSI 3dr Joins TDI and GTI in Brooklyn en Route to Detroit Show

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This is the first real-life photo set of the 2015 Golf from Volkswagen, which appears in these official images as both a three-door and a five-door. A two-door in the American market is new versus the 2014 Golf line-up. The interior also shows a nice range of trim choices. No time frame on the production 2015 Golf’s arrival, but by May of 2014 to American VW showrooms seems likely. 2015 North American Volkswagen GTI 2015 North American Volkswagen Golf

CarRevsDaily

Future VW SuperBeetle Options May Finally Entice More Dudes

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A fifth and sixth Beetle featured on CarRevsDaily today? The 2012 SEMA SuperBeetle Concept, and the 2013 Beetle R Concept. 2012 SEMA – VWVortex.com SuperBeetle Concept 2013 Beetle R Concept A seventh Beetle featured on CarRevsDaily? Yes, the seventh is an extremely tough Dude Beetle, if there ever was one:the ABT Sportsline. 2011-2014 Volkswagen Beetle by ABT Sportsline – Exterior Upgrades —  ABT BEETLE: FRONT SPOILER —  ABT BEETLE: HEADLIGHT COVERS —  ABT BEETLE: REAR SKIRT SET —  ABT BEETLE: LICENCE PLATE INSERT —  ABT BEETLE: TAIL LIGHT COVERS —  ABT BEETLE: VALVE CAPS —  ABT BEETLE: SUSPENSION SPRINGS   …

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2014 VW Beetle Turbo, TDI and Cabrio – Buyers Guide and Photo Galleries

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It’s VW Saturday here at CarRevsDaily! After sharing my first car stories in the previous VW ads article, I’m almost back on board with the 2014 Beetle. Three engines are available, and a fourth with the tuned power of the 2014 GSR. 2014 Beetle Coupe – Exteriors 2014 Beetle Coupe – Fender Edition 2014 Beetle Cabrio – Exteriors 2014 Beetle Cabrio – Interiors

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2015 VW e-Golf a Snooze, But its EV Tech Also Powers Very Cute e-Up Lite and EcoMotion Van

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The Volkswagen e-Golf, e-Up! and Up Lite will join the Detroit auto show festivities, with the Golf BEV debuting its all-new battery and powertrains in 2015 production form. Featured in the cover image is the Frankfurt e-Co-Motion van concept. The newest is the Up! Lite, which appears to bring some of the cool tech and style of the XL1 exotic prototype. I called it the e-Up! Lite before by mistake, the up!Lite appears to be a PHEV of some kind. The 2015 VW e-Golf is a fully electric vehicle, evolving and refining some of the components previewed under the Blue-e-motion concept …

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Visual-Humor-and-Lavish-Color-Saved-the-VW-Beetle-in-America-28898

How Plucky Visual Humor and Lavish Color Saved the VW Beetle in America (100+ Images)

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I’ve been really hard on VW lately, and passed up an opportunity to test drive the 2014 Beetle GSR this summer – which I strongly regret! A few background items: — My first car was a 1975 SuperBeetle, which was the final and best evolution of the design with a curved windshield, hand-crank sunroof, L-Jetronic Fuel Injection and a new MacPherson strut front suspension design. I drove Walter, as he was named before joining our garage, throughout high school until year 2000, and for much of college until 2005. I miss him on winter days like this. — Silverado out …

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2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport SE

2014 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport from $19,470! Interior Updates, Galleries and Models

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Mitsubishi’s biggest seller brings a number of updates for 2014 to increase refinement, style and interior technology.   2014 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport – New or Updated Features —  Audio system head unit (ES model) —  Engine balancer shaft (all models) —  Newly designed steering wheel with audio controls (all models) —  Improved sound insulation (all models) —  HD Radio (SE model) —  6.1-in. touchscreen display audio system with rearview camera (SE model) —  MMCS navigation system with 7-in. high definition touch panel, voice command, 3D mapping, point-of-interest information, real-time traffic and Mapcare (with SE Touring Package) —  Black leather seating …

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CarRevsDaily

Audi LeMans R18: Laser Light = Smoke and Mirrors? 2014 e-tron quattro Actually Hiding Big Changes in Back

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Guess who really likes winning Le Mans? Everyone! Every single person who has ever competed there cherishes a single win with the passion of an Oscar winner. But guess who has really, really developed a taste for winning Le Mans, after more than a decade as the front-runner? The serious gentlemen over at Audi Motorsport. Is this an odd introduction for an article about new laser lighting shown at CES this week? The new “laser” lighting joins a long list of other Audi names for its headlights, including Matrix and Swarm. AUTO LIGHTING TECH – 2014 and Beyond But why …

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2014 CLS45 AMG

Race Start Video: 2014 CLA45 AMG Shows Impressive Launch Drama + 4.5s to 60mph

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Mercedes-Benz is evolving its marketing and product positioning drastically. Executive rumblings from a few years ago indicated the brand was making serious changes to lower its perceived demographic – but it all just seemed like lip service at the time. Well, the arrival of the CLA-Class surely confirms that they were very serious. Serious… about getting playful. The CLA is launching in the American market as the front-drive CLA250 and the all-wheel-drive CLA45 AMG. Both run a highly advanced new platform, engine, transmission and electronic architecture. What perhaps previously took 0.002 milliseconds to transfer info from rear ABS sensors on …

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Lincoln Black Label: Modern Heritage

2014 Lincoln MKZ 3.7 AWD Shows Very Handsome Kamm Tail

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This is less of an article as a galleries post. You can take in the latest Lincoln MKZ images for yourself. I enjoy its looks, especially versus any other Lincoln. The single LED bar is really good in real life – but looks bad in these photos. The tail spoiler is appealing. But the nose is not pleasant. Exterior Gallery – 2014 Lincoln MKZ Black Label and MKZ Hybrid Interior Gallery – 2014 Lincoln MKZ Black Label and MKZ Hybrid The car shares steering wheel and dash with Fords; making the MKZ less than enticing, despite new-looking seats.  

CarRevsDaily

New Supercar or Vintage Racecar: The Case for Recreations + Quiz: Which is the Fake?

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Here is the case for exotic, hand-crafted replica vintage racecars: They Exist. They did not hit the walls, or churn tires through bodywork, or reek of urine. They start the first time, and can be titled and driven on the roads. At Motor Classic & Competition in Westchester County, New York — the all-time best hero racecars come back to life, rumble onto 2014 streets, and perhaps even find a home in your garage. Most race-winning examples of anything need to be treasured and preserved; maintained and respected. To put it in plain language: the GT40s in this article are …

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2013 GLK350 4MATIC

GLK250 Diesel Joins GLK350 from $37,000 – Buyers Guide to AMG Sport trims

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The Mercedes-Benz GLK350 is a cool little truck. The really great thing about this package versus other crossovers is how agile and fun it is to toss around. The low proportions and general handling excellence really shame the Acura RDX and even the Range Rover Evoque. The GLK makes no apologies for its macho lines, and really looks exclusive on city streets. The GLK is rear-drive as standard, making this one of the most balanced in its segment for fast drivers. That segment is growing fast, with the GLA250 also joining the U.S. price books for 2014, and the BMW …

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CarRevsDaily

Update1 – Teaser Images Only – KIA GT4 Stinger Coupe to Pack 315HP Turbo

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Update1: This article has been updated to remove some amateur renderings of the rear-drive coupe ahead of its show debut today. The real thing looks AMAZING! Kia is building buzz around the debut of its first RWD performance coupe with a new teaser image and an official name: the GT4 Stinger. That is an aggressive badge, and one that leaves room for this car to compete with the Ford Mustang or Subaru BRZ at one end, or perhaps even the BMW M6 on the top end. The Stinger GT4 is more likely to hit the market with a $32,000 price …

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CarRevsDaily

Update1 – Teaser Images Only – KIA GT4 Stinger Coupe to Pack 315HP Turbo

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Update1: This article has been updated to remove some amateur renderings of the rear-drive coupe ahead of its show debut today. The real thing looks AMAZING! Kia is building buzz around the debut of its first RWD performance coupe with a new teaser image and an official name: the GT4 Stinger. That is an aggressive badge, and one that leaves room for this car to compete with the Ford Mustang or Subaru BRZ at one end, or perhaps even the BMW M6 on the top end. The Stinger GT4 is more likely to hit the market with a $32,000 price …

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Caterham Coming to America! 620R to be sold by Superformance (Without An Engine

Caterham Coming to America! 620R to be sold by Superformance (Without An Engine…)

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Caterham just announced a U.S. distribution deal for its track-only car line via Irvine-based Superformance. Superformance is best known for its amazing Le Mans GT40 re-creations and other exotic sports cars, so the Caterham deal seems like a good fit to add some lightweight track racers to its customer brochures. The sales of rolling Seven 480 and 620R models will not include an engine, but Superformance retailers or their teams are likely to complete most assemblies for customers after the car is sold and titled. How great would a small-block Chevy V8 be in this tiny machine!  A Shelby Cobra …

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Voracious 12C Spider Demand Propels McLaren to Add 5 New Dealerships

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Updates for the 2014 McLaren 12C Spider include a wider variety of Special Ops customization choices, a new Android operating system for infotainment, and dealerships a bit closer to home. McLaren is hot on the heels of Ferrari in the battle to monetize their racing pedigree with high-dollar sports car purchases. This track battle is much less about lap times – and more about huge cash flow. McLaren recently announced the addition of five more official retailers, taking the total to 20 dealers across Canada and the U.S. by mid 2014. This is still much less than Ferrari’s 49 total …

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Color Visualizer for the 2015 GMC Yukon Denali - Summit White 4

Color Visualizer for the 2015 GMC Yukon Denali – Summit White and Onyx Black

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This really goes into the “be careful what you wish for” files. While preparing a roundup of the latest 2015 GMC Yukon photos, I discovered a wonderful visualizer at GMC.com. But one or two photos of the color choices is not my style.  And not GMC’s either! These need to be spread into multiple articles due to file size. Here’s the first, Summit White.  Looking very dapper.  

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HD Videos – Blizzard Testing a 4×2 Pickup Truck! 2014 Chevrolet Silverado LT All Star Edition

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Testing a truck during a Chicago blizzard on New Year’s Day seems about right: Chevy Silverado pickups will face some of the hardest living conditions of any new vehicle sold. They will get filthy, they will be a little less shiny than this new All Star Edition LT Double Cab 1500 V6 – but the Chevy truck core has always been extreme durability in harsh conditions. Today certainly qualifies! After about 10 inches of snow so far in Lake in the Hills outside Chicago, even walking up my driveway is a challenge – let alone reversing out in a 2WD …

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HD Videos – Blizzard Testing a 4×2 Pickup Truck! 2014 Chevrolet Silverado LT All Star Edition

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Testing a truck during a Chicago blizzard on New Year’s Day seems about right: Chevy Silverado pickups will face some of the hardest living conditions of any new vehicle sold. They will get filthy, they will be a little less shiny than this new All Star Edition LT Double Cab 1500 V6 – but the Chevy truck core has always been extreme durability in harsh conditions. Today certainly qualifies! After about 10 inches of snow so far in Lake in the Hills outside Chicago, even walking up my driveway is a challenge – let alone reversing out in a 2WD …

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Update1 – MINI Takes DAKAR Three-Peat with All4 Countryman Squad

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Update 1 June 17, 2014 Okay, so this race was in January 2014. Which makes this is bit of a late update. But here is the short version: MINI dominated the 2014 Dakar Rally, winning its third title in three years. I’d be willing to wager that when the MINI crossover was born and christened a few years ago, it thought the Countryman name meant things like hiking, biking, rafting or just being near the woods. But now: Countryman has become “What Country Are We In?” via the long-range Dakar rally in South America starting January 5th, 2014. This is …

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Update1 – KAMAZ 4911 Dominates 2014 DAKAR Rally For 12th Truck Class Win

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So you like the Ford Raptor and that feeling of being unstoppable on any terrain? Try the Kamaz-4911 on for size: – 17.2-liter, mid-mounted TD V8 engine – 730 horsepower @ 2500 rpm – 1991 pound-feet of torque @ 1300 rpm – Maximum Speed – 102.5 MPH Trust me, I had to check those numbers thrice myself. A 17-liter V8 is cool, but only the start of the fun for this multi-purpose truck platform. Initially designed with six and eight-wheel options and variants, the Kamaz 4911 basically runs the engine from a tank, but in a (relatively) lightweight racing chassis. …

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Best of Awards – 2013 Cadillac Elmiraj – Most Provocative Concept

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What else to say about the Elmiraj? It speaks for itself.   In my opinion, the real achievement of the Elmiraj is how faithfully its wild design is brought to the road. Anything can be rendered on CAD-CAM screens, but rarely does the finished product surpass the original idea. In this case, Cadillac has aced the test. Full house. Even if this exact car does not appear, the techniques on the interior, and especially the exterior style, surely sees the road right now as the stunning Cadillac CTS4.   Interior Gallery – Cadillac Elmiraj Concept Exterior Gallery – Cadillac Elmiraj …

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180MPH? Custom Wagons – BBM 330d Touring and BMW M135i by Tuningwerk

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The M135i two-door will soon be coming to America as the 228i and 235i, but this body style is really the epitome of fast wagon stance. A power jump is only half the results achieved here by both fast wagons from the local speed shops: Tuningwerk and BBM. The BBM 330d Touring shows what can be done with careful ECU boost enhancement – but this car also wears a one-off reflective matte red exterior that is very unique. BMW M135i by Tuningwerk BMW 330d Touring by BBM  

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New Maxima 4DSC Heading to Detroit as GT-R-Style Concept Sports Sedan

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Exciting news from Nissan today: the announcement of a new Concept Sports Sedan for the Detroit NAIAS from mid-January. The teaser concept is widely believed to be the next Maxima. The dark red/auburn colored image is the only official teaser from the Nissan – all others are speculative renders exclusive to CarRevsDaily.com Nissan has avoided a nameplate for the concept car, but this shape is likely to be in stores by Summer 2014 – perhaps even with a NISMO model alongside at launch. Nissan does reference the recent IDx and IDx NISMO concepts in this teaser release – which shows …

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2014 Infiniti Q50S

2014 Infiniti Q50S Fantastic in Real Life + Very Fast: 4.9s to 60mph for RWD or AWD Hybrids

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Perhaps it was just me: but the Infiniti Q50’s design was not a real favorite since it debuted earlier this year. There seemed to be too much light swirling and photo magic to even see what the car really looked like. I am thrilled to report that this Q50’s style really works in the real world: a low nose and that cat’s-eye of LED lighting in the corner of the lamps is quite fresh, looks expensive, and shows class. Other elements of the Q50 Sport Hybrid’s breauty really come to light in the latest real-life photos of the car, taken …

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2014 Honda Civic Si Coupe

2014 Civic Si Coupe – First Night Sighting: Great-Looking LEDs

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Spotted my first white 2014 Honda Civic Si Coupe on the road tonight near Chicago, and it looked really confident and sporty. While we sliced and diced in traffic, it was almost as if the Civic knew the horrible things I have written (and printed) about the Honda Civic … in the past. Ahh!    While Honda and I do not always agree, we have a few important things in common. Honda also loves my fair Sweet Home Chicago, with the night-time visualizer on Honda.com showing the world-famous Wacker Drive on that rare, blissfully-traffic-free time of night. The 360-degree visualizer …

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Auto Landmark: Chicago Motor Club – Vacant Art Deco Highrise

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  How sad is this title? 17 stories of glory, with car elevators and a full drive-up garage system, on prime real estate of Wacker Drive in Chicago?     Last we checked, 68 South Water Street was owned by a consortium of flustered real estate investors. Hotel conversion plans have backfired, and there are rumblings that the building … may not be inhabitable. Too bad. Look at this penthouse sun room. Vacant for the last 30 years, at least. Built over 80 years ago, bringing this masterclass in Art Deco architecture up to code seems to be prohibitively expensive …

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2014 Toyota Venza Limited Is Like An Allroad Avalon Limousine

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For shoppers with back-seat room and all-weather traction top-of-mind, the Toyota Venza is a compelling luxury sedan alternative. With dimensions that make this much like an ‘all-road’ Avalon, the Venza is able to maintain a truly hushed cabin for five. Roominess in back is even better than the Avalon, courtesy of extra recline angle in the back seat and a higher seat base. Overall access is far easier in a car like the Venza, which is unique in delivering an ultra-low floor and step-in height versus many other crossovers. The huge doors make ingress much easier than even the longer …

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Best of Awards – Luxury Wheels – Kahn Design RS600, RS and Cosworth Alloys

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Wheels are the only aftermarket upgrade that can improve a car’s style, handling, and resale value in one fell swoop.   The reasons for upgrading are therefore clear: a much cooler and more unique appearance for any car, at any price. New wheels will almost always look amazing, especially in a +1 or +2 jump in diameter. Here are a few quick facts to consider about new wheels: — OEM wheels are significantly stronger than most aftermarket products – in terms of long-term pothole resistance as well as the paint finish, etc. — Much slimmer tire sizes, especially on luxury …

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G-Class Widebody Options by GSC Look Ready For Terminator 5

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As if the G-Class needed any more curb appeal. This is an amazing truck – capable of far more than its most-photographed duties: grocery shopping in Brentwood. German Special Customs agrees – and has a variety of wide-body conversions of the G-Class in their fleet. Yes, taste is subjective —  but all are sure to scare just about anyone out of the fast lane in front of you. Gold – Mercedes-Benz G-Class by GSC Silver – Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG by GSC Red – Mercedes-Benz G-Class by GSC  

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2015 Audi A8 Looks Same, But Adds FWD Hybrid and TDI Flavors

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An early debut of the 2015 A8 would seem to jeopardize sales of the current 2014 A8 and S8 – but the changes are mostly tech and powertrain-based. A very evolutionary styling A8 makeover on the 2015 models will go unnoticed by most observers, keeping the 2014 cars relevant. Here are the image galleries of the 2015 Audi A8 TDI, TFSI, Hybrid and W12 LWB models. See if you can tell them apart!  (Hint: it is not easy, but the grilles and tailpipes are the best clues.) 2015 Audi A8 – LEDetails 2015 Audi A8L W12 2015 Audi A8 Hybrid …

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Iconic Classic – 1925/34 Rolls-Royce Phantom I – Round Door Aero Coupe

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This Phantom Series I Rolls-Royce V12 rumbled out the factory doors in 1925, but did not add these gorgeous stream-liner panels until its coachwork was complete in 1934. There is much to learn from this Jonkheere Aerodynamique Coupe – even today. The grille treatment is remarkably swept-back, but maintains the classic proportions very artfully. It is very hard to imagine these designs being fabricated by hand, but that was the only way to achieve results like this in the early 1930s. CAD-CAM has come a long way since the Round Door Coupe – but very few of this car’s contemporaries …

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Best of Awards – Zero to Hero in the 2014 Chevrolet Impala

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The 2014 Impala looks amazing in the flesh and on the streets. One might even say it is… “really, really, really ridiculously good-looking.” Even its base trims are very cool and dark up front, with a really solid appearance that is unique and very attractive. Yes, on a Chevy Impala!   The 2014 Impala comes in three engine options, from the eAssist 2.4-liter up to the 3.6-liter V6 that should be a must for anyone reading this. The headlights are even quite interesting, which is special at this price point. HID bi-xenons are optional, with LEDs ringing the main beams …

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Most Popular Articles Ranked – Honda Vezel Hybrid vs New Unimog vs Lykan HyperSport in Photo Finish

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A quick status update on CarRevsDaily’s launch so far, from November 1 through yesterday. Traffic Stats: — 481,000 pageviews — 91,000 Visits Content Stats: — Articles published: 235 — Media/Image Items Total: 9,781 — Photos per post average: 41.6 It is nearly impossible to know in advance which articles will be the most popular. I would not have come close t accurately knowing which topics are most popular — without website analytics. So here it is!  A mini ranker of CarRevsDaily.com’s most popular content, so far…: # Results 1 – 20 of 749  – DATE RANGE 11-01-2013 – 12-26-2013 # …

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Nissan NV Spy vs Spy

Best of Awards – Spy Van – Nissan NV Cargo Van – 2500 HD High Roof in Super Black

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Imagine two identical Nissan NV Cargo work vans.   One is white, with normal windows that show a hard-working, bearded and husky guy in a tan Carthartt jacket. If we had X-ray vision, we might see a cargo area loaded with miter saws, ladders, plywood, and other tools of his trade. The other Nissan NV is black. This one has a high roof, a 5.6-liter V8 engine, and a dark tint to the front windows. Two clean-shaven and physically fit young men pilot this van, with two more guys working in the back. With X-ray vision, inside the black van …

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Hero Racecars - 1970 Alfa-Romeo Tipo 33-4 TASMAN 15

Racing Evolution 1968-1970 – Alfa Romeo T33 Mugello, T33/2 LeMans + T33/4 Tasman

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This is part two of the Alfa Romeo endurance racer showcase. These long-tail machinesdirectly evolved from the original Tipo 33 Periscopo and Stradale prototypes – but made huge changes. Far less glass lowers the center of mass, while aerodynamic ground effects became a critical part of racing. This put an end to the smooth flowing surfaces of the curvy 1967 T33 Stradale and its siblings. The Tipo 33 series diverged in 1969 in anticipation of rule changes in the 1970s that would prefer an open cockpit layout. Yes, for trivia buffs, Le Mans has alternated between open and closed cars …

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Hero Racecars – 1967-1969 Alfa Romeo Tipo 33 Stradale

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Okay, the Tipo 33 Stradale is not quite a street-legal supercar: this is a racing prototype that competed in some of the fiercest LeMans racing battles ever seen. Among its six-plus variants in body style, length, and mechanical package: the Tipo 33 was considered to be among the top three contenders for the late-60’s golden age of endurance racing. Ultimately: the Tipo 33 proved slower than Ford and Porsche, but ahead of McLaren, Ferrari, and the numerous other LMP1 teams. Was the Tipo 33 not a race-winner? Does being spanked by Ford every year it competed mean it is a …

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Watch Sharks From Your 50th-Floor Balcony Pool – Porsche Design Tower Miami

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There are hundreds of exquisite elements of this fantasy high-rise from Porsche Design, including its marquee feature: car elevators that bring residents up to their floor in the car. Car elevators are actually nothing new – but this system of laser-guided wheel holders ensures everything is safe before heading upwards to your floor. Upon arrival at your unit, the system will know to put the car in nose-first or tail-first. It is deposited onto the floor on the in-unit garages, and completes the lift. Quick Specs: Porsche Design Tower Miami. Total height: 650 feet (198 metres) Total diameter: 131 feet …

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Exclusive Scion xB and xD Roof-Chop Renderings –> Gangster Look

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Here is the fruit of a few hours in PhotoChop. Would such small windows ever offer enough outward vision? Perhaps – with camera assistance and active safety systems. CarRevsDaily.com – Exclusive – Chopped Roof CarRevsDaily.com – Exclusive – Chopped Roof BONUS: this one did not turn out very well, but shows a speculative preview of Kia’s upcoming 2+2 sports car via a chopped and re-imagined Forte Koup. The concept is set to debut at Detroit in January, and promises genuine driver thrills.

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2014 Kia Forte Koup Spooling Up! New Turbo Power for Slinky 2-Door

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The bright red Kia Forte Koup is new for 2014 – and just started arriving in dealers this week. What is so new about this Forte? Well, it now brings all the latest style and tech from its Forte5 and Forte sedan siblings – just in a far cooler profile. Along with its standard LED accents up front, the $2,000 turbo SX trim option brings LED lights for the lower fogs and brake lights as well. The opening price for the Forte Koup is $18,600 with a six-speed manual and the base 2.4-liter engine making 173 horsepower. From $20,600, the …

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TITAN

2014 Nissan Titan Packs Standard 5.6L V8 for $29,000 in Big FU to F150

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6.8-seconds to 60MPH, 317 horsepower, chain-driven DOHC… Everyone loves a bargain, and Nissan’s 2014 Titan pricing is still $5,000 under the F-150 at all EcoBoost Fords. Will it get muddy and carry the dogs? The PRO-4X definitely looks like it is having fun ‘muddin’ out there in Beaumont, Texas. Reviewing the specs and photos – I have to say I am almost giddy with delight. Did you know the 2014 Titan was so powerful? I assumed at least one level of V6 engine was in the lineup. Nope – this is the same Q45-derived, IndyCar-powering, Smooth and Huge engine from …

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Hyundai Veloster R-Spec New for 2014 with Nurburgring Chassis Tech

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Hyundai just announced its new Veloster Turbo R-Spec for 2014, which will become the most affordable Veloster Turbo model with prices just above $22,000. The turbocharged engine’s output stays at 201 horsepower, but the steering, suspension and handling are all much firmer and more precise. This previews the next wave of hardcore, “N Spec” Hyundai models in the future. The N, by the way, is for Nordschleife. Great news for sports car shoppers on a budget, as the Veloster is still a trendy and innovative shape on the roads. More color helps liven the package, but the best news will …

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Hyundai Veloster R-Spec New for 2014 with Nurburgring Chassis Tech

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Hyundai just announced its new Veloster Turbo R-Spec for 2014, which will become the most affordable Veloster Turbo model with prices just above $22,000. The turbocharged engine’s output stays at 201 horsepower, but the steering, suspension and handling are all much firmer and more precise. This previews the next wave of hardcore, “N Spec” Hyundai models in the future. The N, by the way, is for Nordschleife. Great news for sports car shoppers on a budget, as the Veloster is still a trendy and innovative shape on the roads. More color helps liven the package, but the best news will …

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Shock! Toyota Corolla Looking Pretty Good – But Where Is The Power?

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  That is not nice, but the Corolla S has never before looked this confident. Will it look good in a few years? Who knows. But I’ll be thrilled to never suffer the previous Corolla S model’s hideous body kit. Onto the good news: the new Corolla brings better style, standard LED lighting,and a bit more knee room in back than before. No, it is not huge suddenly – something seems wrong with Toyota’s measurements. The Corolla claims better legroom in back versus the Dart, but the Dart packs 10 extra inches of rear hip room. Something perhaps not realistic …

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Update1 – 2014 Dodge Dart is Low and Wide + Engines Eager for Better HP Via Tuning – SCAT Pack Concept Shows How

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Update1: A pretty glaring fact error in this article, but kindly pointed out by a loyal reader. The error surrounds the Tigershark engines versus the MultiAir engines – only the smallest 1.4-liter is a turbocharged unit. The larger 2.0-liter and 2.4-liter Tigershark engines are naturally aspirated – meaning any horsepower gains will be more than just an ECU re-flash away. Even so, a cold-air intake and a less-restrictive exhaust setup are sure to liberate an extra 15 ponies each – along with this engine’s true shriek! Orig Published Dec 23, 2013 @ 13:04 The Dodge Dart GT is the sportiest …

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2014 Challenger Shaker Header Graphic

2014 Challenger SHAKER Lets Hemi V8 Rumble, Snort and Howl

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The 2014 Challenger is only lightly refreshed versus its Charger sedan sibling, but even so: this big bruiser is not going quietly into the dark night. As the first rear-drive premium coupe made by Dodge in more than three decades, the Challenger has all the right stuff to burn rubber and have fun. The latest 300-horsepower V6 is a welcome addition to this big machine’s base configuration, while the SXT models will even offer a 100th Anniversary Edition with unique crimson paints and detailing. The real rubber-cooker is the R/T package and its 5.7-liter HEMI V8 with 375 horsepower and …

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2014 4Runner Offers Third Row and Very Cool SR5 and Limited Styles 45

2014 4Runner Offers Third Row + Very Cool SR5 and Limited Styles

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The 2014 4Runner is all-new from Toyota, bringing a comprehensive restyle outside and a tech overhaul inside. The best parts of the 4Runner package remain: hardy suspension and locking diff options, off-road prowess that goes beyond electronic settings, and of course that roll-down back glass. In place of the old tailgate bench is a new slide-out parcel floor that can hold serious weight. Most critically: a third row of seating is a $1,400 option – and money well spent. It folds out of the way when not needed, but will come in handy eventually. The crimson Trail Premium 4Runner’s photos …

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2014 4Runner Offers Third Row and Very Cool SR5 and Limited Styles 45

2014 4Runner Offers Third Row + Very Cool SR5 and Limited Styles

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The 2014 4Runner is all-new from Toyota, bringing a comprehensive restyle outside and a tech overhaul inside. The best parts of the 4Runner package remain: hardy suspension and locking diff options, off-road prowess that goes beyond electronic settings, and of course that roll-down back glass. In place of the old tailgate bench is a new slide-out parcel floor that can hold serious weight. Most critically: a third row of seating is a $1,400 option – and money well spent. It folds out of the way when not needed, but will come in handy eventually. The crimson Trail Premium 4Runner’s photos …

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Financial Windfall? Dow 16,000 Car Shopping? Porsche 911 Carrera C4S

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What a year! As the world turns, 2013 has been a doozy on almost all counts. In any other market, bonuses doled out in early January would be modest at best. Typical golden handcuffs of some kind… like future equity, etc. But not this year. Not with a stock market more bullish than — cue the announcer voice-over and drumroll — Your Very Own, ChicagoBULLS! So in this year, hopefully your numbers are moving in the right direction. 2014 is set to be a major global comeback period, with big bets already placed. Who are we betting in? The last …

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New Kia Soul LED Coolness Hookah Bar 32

New Kia Soul Scores on LED Coolness – A Hookah Bar on Wheels!

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The 2014 Kia Soul is hugely revised for 2014, with helpful updates throughout to enhance comfort and style. Many people do not understand these boxy compacts. Allow me to illustrate the ideal target market: teens whose nights out might include much more “cruising around” than actual destinations. For these aimless but high-mile young drivers: an upright seating position, thumping audio, and fresh style are the key buying metrics. Pace? Not really mandatory. A multi-hose hookah pipe might be a popular option, if offered, however… or would have been with my pals back in the day. With pricing from just $15,000, …

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2014

Car Shopping: 2014.5 Toyota Camry SE Updates Styling With Dark Rotor Wheels

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The 2014.5 Camry is subtly revised versus the 2014 models, with largely tech upgrades and enhanced features and packages across the line.   As the long-running sales champ, the Camry is not quite a “stop and stare” type of car to see on the street. This continues for 2014.5 for all the LE and XLE trims from about $23,000 and up.   The SE model is by far the best-looking of the bunch, with a far better style all around. Most notably – up front, where the SE Camry uses a new grille style, lower air dam with central painted …

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Scion vs Scion

A Tale of Two Scions: Why Is Factory Scion FR-S So Lame?

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This is a tough opinion to voice, but one that might resonate with some readers who share this frustration. Here are the key points: — The Scion FR-S arguably looks better than the Subaru BRZ inside and out. — Even more, it is almost shockingly gorgeous with a 3D Carbon body kit and some aftermarket wheels — Scion is a bit cheaper, far easier to find and buy (and service) than the Subaru — But where are all the factory mods the Scion supposedly “stands for” ? — A purchase and re-badge would be my plan due to lack of …

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2014-Scion-iQ-Glams-Up

2014 Scion iQ Glams Up With Two-Tone Styles. But Base Looks Best

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The Scion iQ is still not a frequent sight in urban centers, two years since its arrival for American buyers. Why is this? For the new year, all iQ’s bring toughscreen controls for the center console. Overall, the iQ at $15,000 new is still a very ingenious package versus the much pricier, worse-driving and far less fashionable Smart Fortwo. The key difference for the iQ is width: this is as wide as any normal Corolla on the roads – which does wonders for driver confidence even on the U.S. highways. The 2014 iQ gets a tasty new grey paint finish …

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Peugeot 208 T16 and 205 T16 Group B 49

Group B Forever! Peugeot 208 T16 and 205 T16 in 108 Photos

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What a premise for a world-beating rally car: your LeMans-winning prototypes are gathering dust, while the motorsport engineers see all their hard work tossed aside. Powertrain? An Audi-beating, red-glowing turbocharger, and all the right stuff to put the power down. Wheelbase? Chopped nearly in half versus the endurance HDI FAP cars. Enjoy this showcase of the Pikes Peak-conquerer: The Peugeot T16, then and now.   2013 208 T16 – Prototype Spec 2013 208 T16 – Pikes Peak 2013 208 T16 – GT 1985 205 T16 Images credits for 1985 205 T16 c/o AllRacingCars.com Awesome site, with a great collection of …

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Concept Flashback – 2012 Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo

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The Panamera Sport Turismo Concept is still quite miraculous, even more than a year since its initial debut. Widely believed to preview the 2014 Panamera facelift, the Sport Turismo has had an even larger impact on a different model altogether: the Macan. Much of the creamy and smooth surfacing, huge rear arch bulges, and the nose treatment all directly previewed the handsome new Macan S and Macan Turbo models. From the start of the Sport Turismo’s media tour, Porsche insisted that this model could appear as a new body style for the second-gen Panamera. It was hard to believe at …

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Rogue 2014 de Nissan

Best of Awards: 2014 Nissan Rogue Seats 7, Looks Cool, Gets There First

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The all-new Rogue is a huge hit so far: with seven seats and pricing from about $24,000 — this compact crossover nails a huge swath of buyer priorities. Its new LED lighting up front sets the tone, while the Nissan V-bar grille is just foreshadowing. Enjoy this early reveal of the Nissan Rogue in “Full-Throttle Action.” My favorite part? Seeing our pilot’s high-heel shoe mash the throttle to the floor before she uses an on-ramp to jump onto a train’s roof. All in a day’s work for the on-trend and stylish Rogue. This Nissan commercial seems to channel Sri Lankan …

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Update1 – LAMBO Rides Eye of the Storm: All-New HURACAN in 144 Photos, Specs, Colors

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It is official!  The Lamborghini Gallardo’s replacement debuted this morning with an all-new V10 engine, a 3.2-second sprint to 60 mph, and styling that closely replicates the Aventador.   Scissor doors are about the only missing element versus the V12-powered older brother of the Lamborghini range. The Huracan brings huge intake ductwork all over the body sides, promising aero excellence without the use of a large spoiler or other gimmicks. The Huracan’s styling outside is extremely clean and aerodynamically streamlined. In fact, this nose looks so low — it might be able to ace Sweden’s Elk test… by sliding under …

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Buyers Guide to Audi RS5 Cabriolet for 2014 12

Buyers Guide: 2014 Audi RS5 Cabrio Sets Phasers to SUN!

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Joining the R8 and the new RS7, the RS5 Cabriolet brings enough horsepower and visual aggression to break glass with just one stare. The metallic honeycomb grille is gigantic and looks capable of deflecting a whole family of birds at its 174 mph top speed. The atmospheric V-8 produces 450 horsepower via an optional sports exhaust and Black Optics package hiding the twin coffee-can oval exhaust outlets under the diffuser panel.These cans are so large that they define the lower rear graphic of the RS5, and look really incredible with the sharp bumper corners up top. Dark wheels bring standard …

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Buyers Guide to Audi RS5 Cabriolet for 2014 12

Buyers Guide: 2014 Audi RS5 Cabrio Sets Phasers to SUN!

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Joining the R8 and the new RS7, the RS5 Cabriolet brings enough horsepower and visual aggression to break glass with just one stare. The metallic honeycomb grille is gigantic and looks capable of deflecting a whole family of birds at its 174 mph top speed. The atmospheric V-8 produces 450 horsepower via an optional sports exhaust and Black Optics package hiding the twin coffee-can oval exhaust outlets under the diffuser panel.These cans are so large that they define the lower rear graphic of the RS5, and look really incredible with the sharp bumper corners up top. Dark wheels bring standard …

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2014 Fiat 500L

Phew! Latest Real-Life Photos Show a Much Cuter 2014 Fiat 500L

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The all-new 2014 Fiat 500L is exploring its new home in America! A cute couple guides us on this scenic photo shoot through seaport towns, cities, and the countryside. It is a relief to see the 500L looking cute – because that is a critical part of its selling proposition. Hip moms, cool dads, and bright colors are all in the 500L playbook. But even parents have a sense of style! And the first few sets of digital renderings really made the 500L look strange. Yes, it is still the same design – but now it is an adorable odd …

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Best of Awards – Coolest SUV Stance – Dodge Durango Rallye and Blacktop

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The new Durango is a completely different machine from the first two generations of large SUVs from Dodge. Where those rigs really drove like trucks, with graunchy diffs and a stiff ride, the new Durango feels just as butch – but now far more nimble and polite in town. There is no harshness whatsoever from the RWD or optional AWD setups, and this is still one of the only rear-drive-based, seven seat crossovers on the market. Yes, there is the Tahoe, but that really moves the trucks up a size (and garage) class too far, for some. Tow ratings and …

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The FIAT brand partners with Condé Nast for the limited-edition Fiat 500c GQ Edition

Best of Awards – Most Playful Sport Compact – Fiat 500C Abarth

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Hey, can you pop that top off? Ahh, being yelled at in Italiano. Is there anything sexier? Charming and sexy, a fast-talker who never breaks eye contact. If that seductress with the Abarth Scorpion tattoo does not prove it conclusively: this car is a little slice of Italy. Sweet and nice, but ready to give some kiss bites. And like most hot Italian romances, all this might happen in public! Whatever happens, the Abarth 500C is always packing a body by Speedo, and ready for a dip to cool off. Oops, you forgot your bathing suit? That’s okay.   2014 …

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2014 X5 with and without M Performance Parts

2014 BMW X5 – Before and After M Performance Upgrades

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The BMW X5 is hotter than ever before. In December 3rd’s WSJ, BMW even cites huge international X5 demand as one of the reasons BMW may lose the number one U.S. luxury sales rank to Mercedes-Benz for 2013. Fun fact: the BMW Spartanburg plant is the largest exporter of American-made cars. In the whole country. Beating all the U.S. brands!  (These are official BMW cargo ships, by the way, not grey-market exports.) It seems this America-focused truck is far hotter than BMW ever expected in even its most traditional markets. The draw of seven seats and the latest BMW  style …

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1961 MINI Drops 54 Years in 60 Seconds

Timelapse Video: 1961 MINI Drops 54 Years at Past/Future Dutch MINI Factory

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A charming, *exclusive* time-lapse of a 1961 model’s rebirth from MINI, just as the firm debuts its hottest 2014 JCW Concept and the all-new Hardtops are officially official. Long pre-amble: Short video. Enjoy this ’61 Mini’s rebirth. This 1961 Austin Seven was originally built in the Netherlands after Mini fever swept Britain and wider Europe by storm. Similar tides these days, as Mini has signed up to build cars again in the Netherlands starting in Summer 2014. While this is not a fully Mini plant, the Dutch crew is giving it all of their love. A team of – no …

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Best of 2013 Awards – Tail-Out, Balls-Out Supercar – $70,000 Lotus Exige S

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What a pivot for Lotus Cars in 2013. While still reeling from ownership changes and a variety of management re-alignments, Lotus Cars shines its green and gold flags through any fog. This is a racing company at its core, and the Exige S arrives to American buyers with all the power, prestige and class of true exotic cars. While sharing a vaguely familiar silhouette with the Elise and previous-gen Exige, the looks are very modern and fresh up close. All the race-ready Exige S styling elements really work together with its ultra-low, ultra-wide footprint.     Where the previous Exige …

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