Lexus GX460/Toyota Land Cruiser pricing announced (U.S/UK)

Lexus has released new pics of its second-generation GX460 SUV, which was launched at the Guangzhou motorshow in China earlier this week. The new model is the Asian and Middle Eastern version of the Toyota Land Cruiser V8 sold in European markets. The Land Cruiser V8 is offered alongside the GX in the U.S.

Featuring a standard 7 seat configuration, Lexus positions the new GX between the brand's LX570 premium luxury utility vehicle and unibody-based RX SUV.

The GX470's replacement is fitted with a new 4.6 litre V8 petrol engine producing 301bhp and 329 lb-ft of peak torque, coupled to a 6 speed automatic transmission with sequential shift.

It comes equipped with standard full-time four-wheel drive using an electronically controlled transfer case and a TORSEN torque-sensing centre differential that distributes power 40:60 under most driving conditions and changes the ratio as needed based on steering input and wheel slip. The new Lexus GX also offers a low gear range for off-road driving while the Japanese automaker claims that it retains the same 6,500-lb. towing capacity as the 263bhp GX470 offered.

An optional Crawl Control system is also offered to help improve off-road performance. It automatically modulates the throttle and brake, allowing the driver to concentrate on the steering. Hill-start Assist Control also features, as does a Downhill Assist Control system.

According to Lexus, the new GX460 returns an EPA-estimated 15mpg town, 20mpg motorway and 17mpg combined.

For the first time, the GX will be offered in two trim levels, with the base carrying an MSRP of $51,970 and the Premium model priced at $56,765. Delivery, processing and handling fee is an extra $875.

Standard features include 10 airbags, power folding flat third row seat, electrically adjustable/heated and cooled front seats w/ memory, 4.2” multi-information display w/ rear-view camera, auto-dimming rear-view mirror and door mirrors, electric sunroof, Bluetooth, 9 speaker audio system w/ iPod connectivity and XM Radio, rain and light sensors, flip-up rear window, active front headrests, 3-zone climate control, leather & wood steering wheel w/ audio controls, HomeLink, front fog lamps, low-profile roof-rails, side-steps, 18” alloy wheels and full-time four-wheel drive. Options include a Pre-Collision System, adaptive xenon headlamps, 17 speaker sound system, heated steering wheel and heated second-row seats.

The new GX will make its first public debut in North America at the Los Angeles motorshow in December with sales starting towards the end of the month.

A Lexus source confirmed there are no plans to bring the GX460 to the UK, due to the Land Cruiser V8’s presence in this market.

The Land Cruiser in the UK meanwhile is offered exclusively as a 5dr model powered by a revised 4-cylinder 3.0 litre D-4D diesel engine that pumps out 173bhp and is linked to a 5 speed automatic transmission. Combined fuel economy is around 35mpg with CO2 emissions rated at 214g/km. The LC slots into VED band K.

Customers can choose from three different equipment levels; LC3, LC4 and LC5, with seven seats being fitted as standard on LC4 & LC5 but on the entry-level model, third row of seats are optional.

The LC3 (£29,795/£30,495 for 7 seats) comes equipped with DAB radio, electric power steering, 4-spoke height & reach adjustable leather steering wheel w/ audio controls, 6 speakers & AUX input, electric mirrors w/ plastic casing, plastic door handles, side-steps, vanity mirrors w/ illumination and cover, trip-computer, velour upholstery, alarm & immobiliser, 7 airbags, 40/20/40 split/slide/fold 2nd row seats with folding 3rd row seats (7 seater only), 17” 6-spoke alloys, roof rails, front & rear fog lamps, 4 electric windows, climate control w/ clean air filter, cruise control, full-time 4WD w/ centre Differential lock, under-body mounted full-size spare wheel, Bluetooth and Smart Entry and Start system as standard.

Pick the LC4 (£40,395) and you also get 3-zone climate control, 6CD/DVD autochanger, body-coloured door handles & mirrors, power-folding door mirrors, laminated privacy glass - rear windows, powered folding 3rd row seats, leather upholstery, electrically adjustable heated front seats, 2nd row reclining seats, rear Differential lock, dusk-sensing xenon headlights w/ pop-up washers, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, rear parking monitor, Bluetooth, colour-coded front & rear parking sensors, 18” 5-spoke alloy wheels w/ locking wheel nuts, 17 speaker JBL premium audio package and a hard disc drive (HDD) satellite navigation system with a 10GB storage.

The range-topping LC5 (£44,795) adds to equation an Adaptive Variable Suspension with Active Height Control, electric sunroof, 3-spoke leather & wood steering wheel, centre console w/ wood-detail, Crawl Control, Multi-terrain Monitor, Steering Angle Display, Multi-terrain Select and a rear seat entertainment system for DVD playback and gaming.

On-the-road prices for the 2010 Toyota Land Cruiser range from £29,795 to £44,795 with first deliveries set to take place in early December.

Acura ZDX pricing announced (U.S)

The all-new Acura ZDX crossover goes on sale at Acura dealerships across the U.S on the 15th December with a base price of $45,495 plus a destination and handling charge of $810, making a grand total of $46,305.

The ZDX will be offered exclusively with a 3.7 litre VTEC V6 that produces 300bhp and 270 lb-ft of torque, and is mated to a 6 speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters, while Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system is also standard. According to Acura, the new ZDX achieves an EPA-rated fuel economy of 16mpg in the town and 23mpg on the motorway. Combined fuel economy will hover around 18mpg.

The 2010 ZDX will be available in three trim packages: the base ZDX, ZDX with Technology Package and the ZDX with Advance Package.

Priced at $46,305, the base model comes equipped with a panoramic glass roof - described as 'the worlds longest' according to Acura, hand-stitched leather dash, centre console and door panels and 4 electric windows as standard.

The ZDX with Technology Package that is priced at $50,805 (including destination and handling fees) gets a Navigation System with Voice Recognition, VGA display screen, multi-view rear camera, upgraded Acura/ELS Surround 415w audio system with a integrated 15GB media storage system, GPS-linked, solar-sensing dual-zone automatic climate control system and Keyless Access System.

The ZDX with Advance Package ($56,045 including destination and handling fees) adds a blind spot information system (BSI), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Collision Mitigating Braking System (CMBS), Integrated Dynamic System (IDS) active damper system, heated and ventilated front seats with Perforated Milano Premium Leather seats, premium brushed tricot headliner material and a leather-wrapped sport steering wheel.

Misc. Auto Shows: 9ff SPEED9

9ff Fahrzeugtechnik in Dortmund / Germany is proud to present the new 9ff Speed9. Beside ours already known "world record car" from our vehicle and refining manufacture, the 9ff GT9 (world's fastest street legal car, top speed 409 km/h, put up on the April, 10th, 2008 in Papenburg / Germany) we now introduce with the new 9ff Speed9 our second independent complete vehicle.

Besides, the new 9ff Speed9 stands completely in the tradition of the legendary Porsche 356 / 1500S Speedster (1955) and the later small series of the Porsche911 Speedster (1989) as well as Porsche 964 Speedster (1993). The new 9ff Speed9 interprets the typical design elements of the Speedster, shortened windscreen as well as an emphatically level vehicle silhouette in a quite new and independent manner. The 9ff Speed9 aerodynamics package, consisting of front apron, rear apron as well as beautifully designed sideskirts underlines the sporty optics of the 9ff Speed9 and optimizes the handling characteristics of this amazing car.

In combination with 9ff typical optimization of the engine technology and chassis technology proves an unforgettable driving experience.


The 9ff Speed9 Bi Turbo engine generates 650 HP / 478 kW and delivers his torque strong as an ox of 890 nm with 2.850 1/min. This is reached by the 9ff F650 VTG turbochargers, 100 cells sports catalytic converter as well as the 9ff stainless steel exhaust manifolds.

Other measures like the 9ff sports air fi lter, the 9ff ECU upgrade and the 9ff sports exhaust system „Speed9 edition" grow the engine on proud 650 HP and 890 nm of torque. The powerful engine will leave open no acceleration wishes and leads in combination with the chassis specially conceived for 9ff Speed9 to a unique driving experience.


The demanding chassis, consisting of adjustable stabilizers in front axle and rear axle, double springs and 4 aluminum spring plates, support sportily ambitious driving. Besides, one can count at any time on the 9ff brake system consists of 380 mm Compound brake discs in combination with the 6-pistons calipers and 9ff brake pads.

The cockpit fascinates by his exquisite and sporty atmosphere. Perfectly sports-car feeling by a dashboard completely upholstered with Alcantara and door interior trim which is lined with a noble combination of Alcantara and leather. Special 9ff Speed9 sports seats and the 9ff sports steering wheel, by choice of the gear variation „Tiptronic" of course with integrated Paddel-Shifts, are components of the interior design. Particularly in the area of the interior creation we realize with pleasure individual and specific customer wishes.


Our 9ff Speed9 is available as a complete vehicle, as well as a rebuilding order on the basis of a Porsche 997 Turbo. In any case, it is a completely unusual vehicle with a special charisma and persuasive road performance and handling characteristics.

Convince yourselves. On „Essen Motor show", Germany from the 28th of November, 2009 to the 6th of December, 2009 the latest product from the house 9ff is presented for the first time to a wide public.

You will fi nd us in the VDAT booth, exhibition hall 10, booth 304.
We are looking forward to see you!


** Porsche and Tiptronic are registered brands Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG

9ff Speed9 Bi-Turbo
• 650 HP / 478 kW, 890 Nm
• 9ff sport-exhaust system
• 100cell sport metal catalytic converter
• 9ff exhaust manifolds
• 9ff intercoolers
• 9ff 650 VTG Turbochargers
• Sport air fi lter
• 9ff ECU Upgrade

Exterior
• 9ff „Speed9" Design
• 9ff „Speed9 Aerodynamic" consists of:
• 9ff frontspoiler
• 9ff sideskirts
• 9ff rearspoiler

Interior
• complete 9ff Alcantara / Leather Interior design
• 9ff steering wheel (Paddle Shift with Tiptronic)
• 9ff Speed9 design seats
• Alcantara dash board
• Alcantara / Leather door trim
• 9ff „Speed9" roll cage
• 9ff design instruments with 400km/h display Wheels
• 9ff 19" center-lock wheels
• front 8,5" x 19" - 235/35-ZR 19
• rear 11,0 x 19" - 295/30-ZR 19

Gear Sox
• 6 shift Porsche PDK transmission or
• Tiptronic available

Brakes
• 2 FR Compound discs 380x32mm
• 2 FR 6-pistons callipers
• 1 special set braking pads
• 2 Rear Compound discs 380mm x 28mm Chassis
• adjustable PASH shock absorbers
• coil over springs with adaptors
• aluminium spring plates

Roof
• Softtop and
• Hardtop available
Source:9ff

THREE NORTH AMERICAN PREMIERES FOR BMW AT L.A. AUTO SHOW

Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey, November 25, 2009... The Los Angeles Auto Show will be the site of three North American vehicle debuts for BMW. The BMW ActiveHybrid X6, which combines the Sport Activity Coupe concept with full hybrid drive to create the world's most powerful hybrid passenger vehicle, and the all-new BMW ActiveHybrid 7, the first sport luxury sedan featuring BMW ActiveHybrid technology, will be on display. The BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car will also make its first public showing in the US as well.

The BMW ActiveHybrid X6, which will reach BMW Centers in December 2009, and the ActiveHybrid 7, which arrives in spring 2010, both capitalize on the options offered by combining an industry leading combustion engine with electric motors to create a powertrain with new levels of performance and efficiency. The BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car demonstrates BMW's EfficientDynamics engineering philosophy - that the pursuit of an enhanced, athletic driving experience while simultaneously lowering the consumption and emissions of each vehicle is attainable.


BMW ActiveHybrid X6
BMW ActiveHybrid technology offers a significant increase in driving dynamics and at the same time reduces fuel consumption by approximately 20 percent versus a comparable vehicle powered by a combustion engine alone. The result is even greater driving pleasure combined with enhanced fuel efficiency and CO2 management, ensuring that the BMW ActiveHybrid X6 is a genuine BMW within the hybrid market.

The drive system featured in the BMW ActiveHybrid X6 consists of a 400 hp twin-turbocharged, High Precision Direct Injection, V8 gasoline engine and two electric synchronous motors delivering 91 hp and 86 hp, respectively. Maximum system output is 480 hp, and peak torque reaches 575 lb-ft.

Precisely controlled interaction of the three power units optimizes the overall efficiency of the BMW ActiveHybrid X6 at all speeds, with acceleration from a standstill to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds. Top speed of the BMW ActiveHybrid X6 is limited electronically to 130 mph, with average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle improved by roughly 20%, and a CO2 emission rating of 231 grams per kilometer. EPA ratings will be available closer to the market introduction.

BMW's first hybrid model is able to run exclusively on electric power - and that is entirely free of CO2 - up to a speed of 37 mph (60 km/h), with the combustion engine being activated automatically whenever required. BMW's intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive system distributes the power between the front and rear axles.

The electric motors receive energy from a NiMH high-performance battery pack positioned beneath the floor of the luggage compartment. This battery pack also feeds electric power to the vehicle's on-board network. Luggage compartment capacity is therefore the same as on the original BMW X6. On brake application and/or on deceleration, kinetic energy is converted into electrical energy and is stored in the battery pack. To provide this function either one or both of the electric motors act as a generator, quickly feeding electric power generated back into the high-voltage battery.


BMW ActiveHybrid 7
Based on the newest BMW 7 Series, this unique car sets new standards for performance and efficiency in the premium luxury class. A symbiosis of an upgraded twin-turbo, High Precision Direct Injection, V8 engine with a 3-phase synchronous electric motor gives the BMW ActiveHybrid 7 a combined output of 455 hp and maximum torque of 515 lb-ft. Power is transmitted via an 8-speed automatic transmission with the electric motor positioned between the engine and the torque converter. This electric motor receives its supply of energy from a lithium-ion battery developed specifically for this automobile.

Precisely controlled interaction of both power sources serves to maximize the efficiency and dynamic performance of the BMW ActiveHybrid 7. The result is a unique driving experience that demonstrates the performance capabilities of modern hybrid technology. The BMW ActiveHybrid 7 accelerates to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds, making it the quickest hybrid in the world. At the same time, it delivers fuel economy approximately 15-17% better than the 750i. Official EPA ratings will be available closer to the US market launch.

BMW ActiveHybrid technology also provides new features that promote efficiency while preserving comfort. As an example, the BMW ActiveHybrid 7 is the first BMW with automatic transmission to feature Auto Start Stop to maximize efficiency by avoiding engine idling when stopped. Another advantage is that the climate control system remains fully operational when the vehicle is stopped and the engine is shut down. In this case, power is supplied directly through the 120-volt on-board network powered by the lithium-ion battery.

Special displays in the instrument cluster and the Central Display inform passengers of the operating status of the hybrid components. The ActiveHybrid 7 is distinguished from the 750i by aerodynamically-tuned 19-inch light-alloy Aero wheels, and model designations on the trunk lid, C-pillars, and on the door cutouts. The BMW ActiveHybrid 7 is also available in special Bluewater Metallic exterior paintwork.

Like existing BMW 7 Series models, BMW's first luxury sedan with ActiveHybrid technology will enter the market in two body variants. The BMW ActiveHybrid 7 L has a wheelbase increased by 5.5", all of which is devoted to the enhanced comfort of rear-seat passengers. Both models are equipped with a high level of standard equipment and a wide range of options is also are available, thus enabling the ActiveHybrid 7 to be tailored to each customer's individual tastes and requirements.


BMW Vision EfficientDynamics
The BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car demonstrates that the BMW EfficientDynamics objectives are fully compatible when applied to a sports car. Conceived as a 2+2-seater with plug-in full-hybrid technology, this unique car combines the performance of a BMW M vehicle with a standard of fuel efficiency and emission management that exceeds even the current levels achieved by the latest small cars. This outstanding result is made possible by the combination of BMW ActiveHybrid components with an extremely economical combustion engine, and outstanding aerodynamic qualities.

BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is the result of a "clean-sheet" development process to ensure that the correct achievements were made in the areas of efficiency, driving pleasure, technology, and emotional design. BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is the most comprehensive implementation of the EfficientDynamics philosophy seen so far. The powertrain provides a top speed limited electronically to 155 mph, with acceleration to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds. Average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle is 3.76 liters/100 kilometers, equal to 62.6 mpg, and the CO2 emission rating is 99 grams per kilometer. CO2 emission management is even more outstanding when driving in the all-electric mode after charging the battery from a plug-in source: Taking all emissions in the generation of electricity into account, as prescribed by the EU formula, the car's emission rating is just 50 grams per kilometer.

The power and performance are made possible by combining a fuel-efficient 3-cylinder turbodiesel engine with one electric motor on each axle. The intelligent combination of these units, together with precisely controlled energy management, simultaneously enhances the dynamic performance and the efficiency of the car. Overall system output is 356 horsepower, and peak torque is 590 lb-ft. The special arrangement of the two motors and diesel engine allows all-wheel drive when driving in all-electric mode. The result is minimum power loss and a harmonious transmission of the power available under all conditions.

In its design, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics for the first time conveys the dynamic look of a BMW sports car to a hybrid vehicle. Developed with decades of experience in Motorsport, the body of this unique sports car is a result of intelligent lightweight technology and aerodynamic efficiency. In the design of the interior, the focus was likewise on both the fascinating driving experience and, in particular, on transparent, hands-on technology and maximum reduction of weight.
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BRABUS Tuning for the Mercedes E 63 AMG

• World Debut at the ESSEN MOTOR SHOW 2009

• 555 hp / 408 kW, 320 km/h Top Speed and Exclusive Accessories

Even more power and exclusive accessories for the latest top-of-the-line E-Class model, the E 63 AMG: With BRABUS B63 S engine tuning, power output of both sedan and wagon jumps to 555 hp (547 bhp) / 408 kW and their top speed jumps to 320 km/h (200 mph). BRABUS (Brabus-Allee, D-46240 Bottrop, phone + 49 / (0) 2041 / 777-0, fax + 49 / (0) 2041 / 777 111, Internet www.brabus.com) also offers exclusive accessories such as sporty yet elegant aerodynamic-enhancement components, custom-tailored tire/wheel combinations up to 20 inches in diameter and custom interior options.


The fast-revving 6.3-liter V8 becomes even more powerful with the BRABUS B63 S performance kit. The conversion consists of two sport air filters, free-flow metal catalysts and newly programmed engine electronics. The tuning kit bumps power output of the engine from standard 525 hp (517 bhp) / 386 kW by 30 hp (30 bhp) / 22 kW. Simultaneously peak torque grows from 630 to 650 Nm (464 to 479 lb-ft) at 5,400 rpm. BRABUS recommends fully synthetic ARAL high-performance motor oil.
Equipped with the BRABUS B63 S kit, the sprint time from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph) is shortened to 4.3 seconds and in combination with the BRABUS V/max unit top speed jumps to up to 320 km/h (200 mph), depending on the speed rating of the selected tire/wheel combination.
To transfer the increased power to the road with as little slip as possible BRABUS offers a limited-slip differential with a locking rate of 40 percent for the E 63 AMG.


Minimizing aerodynamic lift is essential in a car as fast as this one. The BRABUS designers went into the wind tunnel to develop aerodynamic-enhancement components that are as stunning as they are effective. These components are manufactured from clear-coated carbon fiber. The production front apron of sedan and wagon can be upgraded with a spoiler lip. The aerodynamics of the sedan's rear can be further improved with a diffuser and a rear spoiler.
On the front axle BRABUS aluminum sport fenders with lateral air outlets improve venting of the wheel houses and add a decidedly sporty note to the car's appearance.
BRABUS also offers custom-tailored tire/wheel combinations for all E63 models. They are available with diameters of 18, 19 and 20 inches. The largest homologated version features Monoblock VI, E, Q or S wheels in size 9Jx20 on the front axle and in sizes 9.5Jx20 or 10.5Jx20 in back. They are fitted with Pirelli or YOKOHAMA high-performance tires in size 245/30 ZR 20 in front and up to size 295/25 ZR 20 on the rear axle.


Exclusive BRABUS-refined interiors are also available for the Mercedes E 63 AMG. The list of accessories ranges from stainless-steel scuff plates with illuminated BRABUS logo to a speedometer with 360-km/h (225-mph) dial. The company upholstery shop creates luxury interiors from a combination of especially soft yet durable BRABUS Mastik leather and Alcantara to each customer's exact specifications. The perfect complements are precious-wood and carbon-fiber inlays in any desired color and with various surface finishes.
All components are backed by the incomparable BRABUS Tuning Warranty® of three years, up to 100,000 kilometers / 62,000 miles (see BRABUS warranty conditions as of November 2006).
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Legendary Superlight R500 - for �19.50

CATERHAM, UNITED KINGDOM – November 26, 2009: The Caterham Superlight R500 may be small and lightweight, and on many a petrolheads’ wish list, but only now is it tiny enough to fit into a Christmas stocking.

Caterham Cars’ most rapid road-going vehicle has been recreated to scale complete with remote control and BBC Top Gear’s The Stig behind the wheel.

The miniature Caterham R500 celebrates the model’s star turn on BBC Top Gear last December.


The full size version demonstrated its blistering speed around the programme’s famous test track, recording one of the fastest ever laps, and scooping the show’s coveted Car of the Year award for 2008.

At 1:16 scale, with full function radio control, the model makes for an ideal gift for anyone over the age of 8 years.

Not only is the Caterham R500 available in two colours - the famous white and red stripe, plus the yellow and black combination - but both are on separate radio frequencies, allowing owners to race each other.

Exclusively sold from Marks & Spencer stores nationwide, the remote controlled Caterham R500 is priced £19.99.

Alternatively, contact Caterham Cars direct for the full size version, by calling 01883 333700 or by visiting www.caterham.co.uk.

GeigerCars.de GmbH - Ford GT Geiger HP 790

Red is supposed to be the standard colour of warning. US car specialists GeigerCars.de from Munich have turned this established wisdom on its head, presenting their hottest shot with eye-catching bright green paintwork. The Ford GT "Geiger HP 790" is the third star after the Dodge Challenger SRT-8 (569 HP) and the Corvette Z06 Bi-Turbo (890 HP).


Karl Geiger's latest creation lives up to its name: the super sports car's 5.4 litre V8 engine can reach a terrific 790 horsepower, an impressive 240 HP more than its series equivalent. The source of this explosion of power? Above all the replacement of the series-produced 2.3 litre with a more powerful 4.0 litre compressor which blasts the combustion chamber at over 1.25 bars. Larger throttle valves and a sports filter were also installed to supply the eight cylinders with even more fresh air. The engine and gear cooling systems had of course also to be adjusted to the new design as well as engine electrics.


Geiger HP 790 shoots to 100km/h in just 3.6 seconds, breaks the 200km/h mark 6 seconds later and reaches 300 kilometres an hour in only 22.8 seconds - all this to bloodcurdling roars from the two 110-millimetre sports exhaust tail pipes - an in house development. Thrust and air resistance don't balance until you hit 360km/h. The supercharged V8 reaches maximum power at 6320 rpm and its maximum torque - 863 Newton metres - at just 4600 revolutions.


No question that a ride like this is not for the beginner, but experienced drivers will find the specially developed coilover suspension a great asset. Its hydraulic shock absorbers have adjustable pressure and rebound damping which can be set to suit drivers' needs and preferences - and of course the terrain.


Low and wide: the classic Ford sports car proportions are taken even further with 60-millimetere lowering. The wheel housing can't high superb matt black alloy wheels outlined in the car colour, mounted in 9x20 inches at the front and an impressive 11x21 at the rear. 245/35R20 Dunlop SP Sport Maxx tyres on the front axle ensure precise transmission of wheel commands whilst the drive axle 325/30R21 tyres constantly fight for grip and traction - if only so they don't disappear in a cloud of blue smoke.
Full details, prices and delivery information are available from: www.geigercars.de
Source:GeigerCars