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The Archerland tower defense
Description Game:
Use archers to defend your fort against Midieval invaders.(Visited 11 times, 1 visits today)
Thứ Năm, 6 tháng 12, 2012
The Last Stand 2
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The Last Stand 2
Description Game:
Try to find as many human survivors as possible whilst trying to fight off waves upon waves of evil lurking zombies. Be careful as the undead forces will come at all different speeds so its up to you and the other human survivors to fend them off.How to play Game:
Drive Your Way
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Drive Your Way
Description Game:
Drive new Hyundai model around the street and test the cars best abilities and performance in this game. Try to collect as many Hyundai marks as you can for best score. Avoid the dropping items and save your ability will allow you to finish all races. Use the arrow keys to drive and go left and right on the street. Good luck and have a lot of funs playing this game.How to play Game:
Chủ Nhật, 21 tháng 10, 2012
Balloon In A Wasteland
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Game description: You balloon has crashed and monsters are out to get you. Upgrade your weapons and build defenses.
Game controls: Use mouse to aim and shoot.1-8 to switch weapons.
Real Pool
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| pool games |
Real Pool
Description Game:
Play against the computer. Be the first to clear all the balls and be the winner of the game.(Visited 25 times, 1 visits today)
How to play Game:
MouseDesert Rifle 2
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| gun games |
Desert Rifle 2
Description Game:
Enroll for an elite marksman mission deep into enemy territory.(Visited 5 times, 1 visits today)
How to play Game:
Mouse - Aim / Shoot / Cover. 1-7 - Explode Mines. Spacebar - Sniper Mode. X - Fire Grenades. Q, E - Switch Weapons. R - Reload.
Batman Truck
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| batman games |
Batman Truck
Description Game:
Help Batman test his new Bat-Truck. Collect the bats in the air, for more score and to top up your boost.(Visited 10 times, 2 visits today)
How to play Game:
Arrow Keys: Drive.rn Spacebar: Boost.Thứ Bảy, 20 tháng 10, 2012
King of Dunk
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| basketball games
|
King of Dunk
Description Game:
Show the world that you can fly and dunk.(Visited 9 times, 1 visits today)
How to play Game:
Use mouse to interact.Bike Challenge
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| dirt bike games
|
Bike Challenge
Description Game:
From all the great adventures of your life, this can be one of the bests. It is all about speed and gears. Take your super bike and go racing in this game, improve your style on your way and collect the golden medals without crashing. Stay focus on your goal, drive safety and have fun!How to play Game:
Use the mouse to play4×4 Soccer
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| disney cars |
4×4 Soccer
Description Game:
What’s more exciting than soccer? 4×4 soccer! Pit your skills against the world’s greatest in this clever twist on the classic sports game, and drive your way to victory!(Visited 9 times, 1 visits today)
How to play Game:
Up arrow key - Accelerate Down arrow key - Decelerate/reverse Left/right arrow keys - turn left/rightHappy Ride Game
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Happy Ride Game
Description Game:
A new bike game, this time a devil is riding on it! Try to complete all levels but it won’t be easy.How to play Game:
Use your arrow keys to driveFree Murfy Maths
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| Cool math for kids |
Free Murfy Maths
Description Game:
Mathletes rule! Link up mathematical equations to reach your goal. Work quickly, using special power-ups for bonus points. Get past level 5 in Arcade Mode to unlock Blitz Mode…(Visited 11 times, 1 visits today)
How to play Game:
This game is played with mouse only.Thứ Tư, 12 tháng 9, 2012
Speed Escape 3
Game Info - Kyle invites you to
another challenge and again he has got easy and hard tricks to beat you!
If you're an expert with escaping, this will be an easy job!
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Hidden Objects House 4
Game Info - It's the time to use
your observing skills to discover the hidden objects in the house.Find
the hidden objects in short duration to get high score. Avoid clicking
wrongly,as otherwise you will lose 20 seconds in given time duration.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Sweetie Couple
Game Info - Dress her up that will make her look sweet with her hubby.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Overhead Kick Champion
Game Info - Judge the incoming ball perfectly and bicycle kick it over the defenders and past the goalkeeper to score.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Jersey Joyride
Game Info - Get the other farm animals to start a party!
Game controls - Use Arrow keys to control the car.
Game controls - Use Arrow keys to control the car.
Thứ Sáu, 7 tháng 9, 2012
Texan Beauty Dressup
Game Info - A dressup game for a lovely Texan' lady. Choose hats and dress for her.
Game controls - Use mouse to interact.
Game controls - Use mouse to interact.
Fairy 43
Game Info - Behind those jungle outfits she is actually a very affectionate fairy.
Game controls - Use mouse to interact.
Game controls - Use mouse to interact.
Sort My Tiles Triton and Ariel
Game Info - The father and daughter tandem under the sea.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Hotel Management
Game Info - Welcome to your brand new Hotel. manage it and maintain a good service to you guest clients.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Rock N Roll Queen
Game Info - Our Queen need to be dress and style.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Thứ Tư, 5 tháng 9, 2012
Gangsta Bean
Game Info - Move this beany hero through this game console worthy hit game and execute everything that moves.
Game controls - Arrow Keys - Move.
Spacebar - Shoot.
G - Grenade.
16 - Select Weapons.
Z, X, C, V - Assist.
Game controls - Arrow Keys - Move.
Spacebar - Shoot.
G - Grenade.
16 - Select Weapons.
Z, X, C, V - Assist.
Catscratch Spindango Fundulation
Game Info - After cheating to
win a dance videogame, Blik was singled out as the savior of an alien
race of slug people! They want him to destroy the mothership of their
rivals. To do so, He's gotta get by all the security systems and then
spin the dango!
Game controls - Arrow Keys corresponding to the traps to disable.
Dodge Security devices by hitting the arrow key opposite direction of the laser.
Game controls - Arrow Keys corresponding to the traps to disable.
Dodge Security devices by hitting the arrow key opposite direction of the laser.
Larissa
Game Info - Larissa is a girl
with her own style. She likes to always be the most elegant at school.
Dress her as she deserves to be dressed.
Game controls - Use mouse to interact.
Game controls - Use mouse to interact.
Girl Dressup Makeover 7
Game Info - Design a perfect look for this sweet girl, try on different types of hairstyles and clothes!
Game controls - Use mouse to interact.
Game controls - Use mouse to interact.
Pop Garden
Game Info - This garden looks sad and without any fantasy. Can you help the girl to make her garden beautiful?
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Thứ Ba, 4 tháng 9, 2012
Urban Jungle Rumble
Game Info - Fight the other cartoon characters and come out the winner. Unlock special moves.
Game controls - Up Arrow - Jump.
Down Arrow - Crouch.
Right Arrow - Move Forward.
Left Arrow - Retreat and Block.
C - High Attack.
Spacebar - low Attack.
Game controls - Up Arrow - Jump.
Down Arrow - Crouch.
Right Arrow - Move Forward.
Left Arrow - Retreat and Block.
C - High Attack.
Spacebar - low Attack.
Paladin - The Game
Game Info - Here it is! the PALADIN game!
Play as Auron and experience the action of the PALADIN series first hand in this fast paced sidescroller
-Completely customizable controls
-Unlockable cheats and special characters
-Animations and minimovies between each Act
-6 Bosses, 9 Acts
-Spells, Attack combos, a levelling system + MORE!!
THE GAME autosaves as you play, saving where you are, your potions, levels, etc, so feel free to leave and come back later
Game controls - You can customize the controls by going to Instructions and pressing Customize button on the bottom left.
The default controls are:
Left Click - Attack / Cast Spell (+ Shift)
Mouse Scroll - Scroll through spells
Q - Use Health Potion
1 to 7 - Quick Select Spells
AWSD - Movement
Shift - Spell Attack Mode
F - Kick / Fly Down
Spacebar - Jump / Fly Up
E - Use Aura Potion
Play as Auron and experience the action of the PALADIN series first hand in this fast paced sidescroller
-Completely customizable controls
-Unlockable cheats and special characters
-Animations and minimovies between each Act
-6 Bosses, 9 Acts
-Spells, Attack combos, a levelling system + MORE!!
THE GAME autosaves as you play, saving where you are, your potions, levels, etc, so feel free to leave and come back later
Game controls - You can customize the controls by going to Instructions and pressing Customize button on the bottom left.
The default controls are:
Left Click - Attack / Cast Spell (+ Shift)
Mouse Scroll - Scroll through spells
Q - Use Health Potion
1 to 7 - Quick Select Spells
AWSD - Movement
Shift - Spell Attack Mode
F - Kick / Fly Down
Spacebar - Jump / Fly Up
E - Use Aura Potion
Cute Hairstyle
Game Info - Create a beautifil hairstyle for our very young and cute customer.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Star Stylin 4
Game Info - Make this diva shine more than she' ll ever be.
Game controls - Use mouse to interact.
Game controls - Use mouse to interact.
Stripe Fashion
Game Info - Stripes are back in fashion and its not holding back.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Chủ Nhật, 2 tháng 9, 2012
Stylish Boy
Game Info - For Josh, clothing
and fashion is not only for women. He knows that a man who knows how to
dress wins lots of points with girls.
Game controls - Use mouse to interact.
Game controls - Use mouse to interact.
Romantic Dating Dress Up
Game Info - Help the girl and
the boy to get all dressed up for their fist romantic date. They like
each other very much and they want to make a good first impression.
That's why they both should look amazing and they need your help in
choosing the right clothes and accessories. Have fun!
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Lovely Fashion 12
Game Info - A really nice and pretty lady deserves a total makeover so dress her up and have fun!
Game controls - Mouse - To interact.
Game controls - Mouse - To interact.
D-Evo
Game Info - Play a duel using dinosaur cards and win every level.
Game controls - Use mouse to interact.
Game controls - Use mouse to interact.
Blue House Spring Dressup
Game Info - Help the girl get a fresh spring look!
Game controls - Use mouse to interact.
Game controls - Use mouse to interact.
Thứ Bảy, 1 tháng 9, 2012
13 Days in Hell
Game Info - Shoot the incoming minions of hell. Shoot them in the head to save bullets. Don't let them chop you!
Game controls - Mouse - Aim / Shoot.
1-5 / Mouse Wheel - Select Weapons.
R - Spacebar - Reload.
Game controls - Mouse - Aim / Shoot.
1-5 / Mouse Wheel - Select Weapons.
R - Spacebar - Reload.
Sonic RPG eps 7
Game Info - Here it comes! One more chapter of Sonic RPG! This one took me months to finish, but I hope it worths all this wait!
Nothing to say really, just thank you all guys to keep me motivated to make this series!
Game controls - This is an excellent multi-level RPG-style fighting game. It is really hard, but is very rewarding if you beat the opponent in each level - the game contains a movie that runs between the levels. Passwords are issued for each level so that you can skip them the next time you play if you wish.
Use mouse to interact.
Nothing to say really, just thank you all guys to keep me motivated to make this series!
Game controls - This is an excellent multi-level RPG-style fighting game. It is really hard, but is very rewarding if you beat the opponent in each level - the game contains a movie that runs between the levels. Passwords are issued for each level so that you can skip them the next time you play if you wish.
Use mouse to interact.
Stick Figure Badminton
Game Info - Now badminton even more fun. Play with stickman or with friend
Game controls - 1 Player Mode:
Mouse Control:
Mouse - Move / Swing.
Keyboard Control:
A,D / Left, Right Arrow Keys - Move.
W / Up Arrow Key - Jump.
S / Down Arrow Key - Swing.
2 Player Mode:
Player 1:
A,D - Move.
W - Jump.
S - Swing.
Player 2:
Left / Right Arrow Keys - Move.
Up Arrow Key - Jump.
Down Arrow Key - Swing.
Game controls - 1 Player Mode:
Mouse Control:
Mouse - Move / Swing.
Keyboard Control:
A,D / Left, Right Arrow Keys - Move.
W / Up Arrow Key - Jump.
S / Down Arrow Key - Swing.
2 Player Mode:
Player 1:
A,D - Move.
W - Jump.
S - Swing.
Player 2:
Left / Right Arrow Keys - Move.
Up Arrow Key - Jump.
Down Arrow Key - Swing.
Feudalism
Game Info - Feudalism is an strategy/RPG with open world, so you can go wherever you want and fight anyone.
You start with only one city where you can recruit soldiers, but the bigger city you capture, the better troops you gain.
There're 8 heroes to choose from (2 per each country). They prefer different weapons and combat styles and some time they'll become really great warriors, but if your hero will die, the game will be over. So you should always take care of your army too,and recruit better troops if they're available
Game controls - Instructions on how to play it is inside the game but you will use mouse for interaction.
You start with only one city where you can recruit soldiers, but the bigger city you capture, the better troops you gain.
There're 8 heroes to choose from (2 per each country). They prefer different weapons and combat styles and some time they'll become really great warriors, but if your hero will die, the game will be over. So you should always take care of your army too,and recruit better troops if they're available
Game controls - Instructions on how to play it is inside the game but you will use mouse for interaction.
GUNROX - Gang Wars
Chủ Nhật, 22 tháng 7, 2012
Go Home Ball
Game description: Place sticks and springs on the stage to guide the red ball to the goal in each level. Collect all of the stars along the way.
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Polly Pocket Mix-Up
Game description: Arrange the pieces correctly to figure out the image.
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Twilight Stars
Game description: Give our star Vampire and Werewolf a great makeover.
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Thứ Hai, 16 tháng 7, 2012
Parker at the Park
Game description: Show your beauty at the park.
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Brad Pitt
Game description: Even the worlds most good looking man needs a makeover.
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Boat House Gal
Game description: Live in a boat in style.
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Thứ Ba, 19 tháng 6, 2012
Cake Sichuan
Game description: Match all those tasty cakes.
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Animator v Animation Game: SE
Game description: Special Edition is an understatement. Play the hit game with gobs of new features.
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Gold Miner - Xploit Machine Edition 2009
Game description: A
simple small game to test on the accuracy to collect as many as gold in
the mine, as the time goes less. Enjoy the game in your free time.
Thanks
Game controls: Down arrow key to drop claw. Up arrow key to toss dynamite.
Game controls: Down arrow key to drop claw. Up arrow key to toss dynamite.
Chủ Nhật, 17 tháng 6, 2012
Key Trends for Spring 08
Game description: These top Key pieces are the best ones when choosing from fashion trends to add to your coming wardrobe for spring 2008.
Game controls: Use Mouse to interact.
Game controls: Use Mouse to interact.
Flip Prom Dresses
Game description: She needs your help in choosing a beautiful gown for the evening of her most awaited prom night.
Game controls: Use mouse to interact.
Game controls: Use mouse to interact.
Inés
Game description: Inés is very vain. She always goes to school well dressed. Today you have to choose her dresses.
Game controls: Use mouse to interact.
Game controls: Use mouse to interact.
Thứ Năm, 31 tháng 5, 2012
Cowboy Duel
Game description: Shoot your way through the ranks to
become the fastest cowboy in the west. Move your crosshair into the safe
area to start the countdown. After the signal, quickly line up with
your enemy and be the first to shoot!
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Cinderella Mix-Up
Game description: Disney Princess Cinderella Puzzle Game. Arrange the pieces correctly to figure out the image.
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Strategy Defense 3
Game description: The Strategy Defense series returns for another take on strategy and sending out soldiers.
Game controls: Use Mouse to interact.
Game controls: Use Mouse to interact.
State of Play - Baseball
Game description: It's the bottom of the ninth, can you win it from here? The best baseball game for the web is free to play here. Batter up!
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only. Move your mouse key to direct the aim of your swing. Click the Left mouse button to swing. Bottom of the Ninth mode: Click on your runners on the base to set them off on a run. Arcade Mode: Aim your shot to land in the centre of the target.
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only. Move your mouse key to direct the aim of your swing. Click the Left mouse button to swing. Bottom of the Ninth mode: Click on your runners on the base to set them off on a run. Arcade Mode: Aim your shot to land in the centre of the target.
Being Fashion Designer
Game description: The Latest Fashion Show is coming.
Come to design several pretty and stylish dresses for your model. Choose
faddish dress style, paint beautiful pattern and dress up the model.
Tonight you are the most excellent fashioin designer!
Game controls: This game can be played by mouse only.
Game controls: This game can be played by mouse only.
Alice Nail Salon Fun
Game description: Alice's mother is a professional
manicurist, and after many years of working in great salons, she has
finally opened a salon of her own. Alice is very passionate about the
manicure art too, so she loves to spend time helping her mother. But
sometimes they have lots of clients, and the two girls just can't handle
all the work on their own. A few days ago, they decided to hire another
person to help them. I was thinking about you to take the job, but
first you have to learn all the processes, in order to get a full
contract. But don't worry, Alice is going to teach you everything she
knows. From washing the hands, to cut the nail, polish them, pain them
in different styles and applying all kinds of treatments for the nails.
Take a look over this, and give it a try. Have fun!
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Thứ Bảy, 26 tháng 5, 2012
Hongkong Mahjong
Game description: Flowers Updated!! The only 3D Flash
Mahjong on the web. Mahjong is a Chinese game of skill, which involves
four players. Although the game play in general is similar in all of the
versions of mahjong, the game pieces and scoring, however, slightly
differ depending on the regional variations. Almost similar to gin
rummy, the object of mahjong is to build sets, as well as get the
highest point value. In order to do this, each player selects and
discards tiles (the game pieces, bearing different designs) until an
entire set of combinations has been made. There are still scoring
variations to be corrected for this HK edition.
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Great Beauty Fashion
Game description: Fashion is the important thing in my
life. I love to dress up and make over to show "I'm a great beauty".
Would you like to know my secret? Open my cosmetic case and wardrobe.
Beauties, let's enjoy the fashion!
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Toto's Pies
Game description: Have fun with Toto in his pie
delivery shop as you prepare the yummy treats for the hungry customers.
Toto's pies are the best, with lots of delicious ingredients!
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Dora - Strawberry World
Game description: Dora's adventure in the strawberry
world!help Dora to collects all strawberry and find the hidden golden
strawberry in every world!excelente!
Game controls: Arrow Keys - Move. Spacebar - Enter World.
Game controls: Arrow Keys - Move. Spacebar - Enter World.
dragon ball fighting 3
Game description: Pearl Battle 1.6 update in the world
martial arts of the General Assembly, adding more optional characters,
go and won the Conference championship in the world martial arts it!
Game controls: 1p: WASD keys to control movement and jumping,, JKLUIO key for the attack; 2p keyboard arrow keys to control movement jump, figure 1-6 for the attack.
Game controls: 1p: WASD keys to control movement and jumping,, JKLUIO key for the attack; 2p keyboard arrow keys to control movement jump, figure 1-6 for the attack.
Jewel Match 2
Game description: Let the little cares of life fade
away in this mesmerizing Match 3 wonderland. Line up dazzling jewels and
eliminate tiles across 150 levels of casual fun. As you progress,
you`ll collect coins to purchase unique powers. Use your new abilities
to break the chains that lock certain gems in place or send lightning
ripping through tiles. Build majestic castles and enjoy spellbinding
visuals in Jewel Match 2.
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
That Way
Game description: Physics puzzle, move shapes to get the smiley to the stars.
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Bratz Babyz: Mall Crawl
Game description: The goal is to find all your friends
and the puppy before you can exit! Collect baby bottles for additional
points. Running into Duane the bully will cause you to lose one of your
friends or a bottle! Don't let him catch you. Keep an eye out for good
toys (blue). They'll keep you and you'll earn more points and protect
you from Duane and broken toys (red).
Game controls: Arrow keys- To move. Up Arrow key- To use elevator. Space bar- To jump.
Game controls: Arrow keys- To move. Up Arrow key- To use elevator. Space bar- To jump.
Bleach Training II
Game description: This is the sequel to the cool and
awesome Bleach training series where you get to use different skills to
combat your enemies. Have fun training!
Game controls: WASD - Move. JKL - Attack. QU - Skills.
Game controls: WASD - Move. JKL - Attack. QU - Skills.
Thứ Sáu, 2 tháng 3, 2012
Honda CR-Z and Puyo (2007): first official pictures
Does this mean the CR-X is back?
Maybe. This CR-Z is still just a concept, but if public reaction is positive, and it should be, then we could see this car in production for the start of the next decade. Standing for ’Compact Renaissance Zero’ the CR-Z will be unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show on 24 October. It’s a hybrid, so that means one of Honda’s VTEC engines alongside the IMA technology. Apparently it’s also designed to be a performance car that has a minimal impact on the environment. Good marketing speak but the CR-Z does seem to hold some promise.
It looks a bit Mazda-esque…
There are indeed hints of the RX-8 around the nose, but the rest of the car pays homage to Honda’s CR-X. The short wheelbase and overhangs combine to make the car manoeuvrable, while the glass roof and bootlid mean lots of visibility. There are the usual concept car touches including LED lights, 19-inch wheels and translucent plastics with neon-blue backlighting. It builds on the Remix concept shown at LA last year, and the Small Hybrid Sports Concept that has been shown in two iterations at both Geneva and Frankfurt this year. Honda needs a car like this: fingers crossed.
Maybe. This CR-Z is still just a concept, but if public reaction is positive, and it should be, then we could see this car in production for the start of the next decade. Standing for ’Compact Renaissance Zero’ the CR-Z will be unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show on 24 October. It’s a hybrid, so that means one of Honda’s VTEC engines alongside the IMA technology. Apparently it’s also designed to be a performance car that has a minimal impact on the environment. Good marketing speak but the CR-Z does seem to hold some promise.
It looks a bit Mazda-esque…
There are indeed hints of the RX-8 around the nose, but the rest of the car pays homage to Honda’s CR-X. The short wheelbase and overhangs combine to make the car manoeuvrable, while the glass roof and bootlid mean lots of visibility. There are the usual concept car touches including LED lights, 19-inch wheels and translucent plastics with neon-blue backlighting. It builds on the Remix concept shown at LA last year, and the Small Hybrid Sports Concept that has been shown in two iterations at both Geneva and Frankfurt this year. Honda needs a car like this: fingers crossed.
Renault Grand Modus (2007): first official pictures
Renault Grand Modus: the lowdown
Let's not beat around the bush. The Renault Modus has not sold as well as its paymasters hoped. Hence this stretched version, designed to offer more space to broaden the appeal of this high-roof supermini cum mini-MPV. That's the backdrop to the Grand Modus, the stretched mini to partner the Grand versions of the Scenic and Espace. And Renault has repeated the formula here, with a 93mm longer wheelbase liberating more space for limbs and luggage.
It's another small cars games that's getting bigger!
You're right. Small cars are growing bigger and bigger. Where will it all end? Some will say that the Grand Modus, at 4034mm long, is hardly a small car any more. But you can't deny that it has a huge boot (at 410 litres, the biggest in class according to Renault) and there's useful extra space for passengers too. The three-body rear benchseat slides and tips forward, depending on your lugging needs. And if the Grand Modus is too big, you can stick with the normal Modus, also freshly spruced up and the same size as before at a more manageable 3873mm long.
Let's not beat around the bush. The Renault Modus has not sold as well as its paymasters hoped. Hence this stretched version, designed to offer more space to broaden the appeal of this high-roof supermini cum mini-MPV. That's the backdrop to the Grand Modus, the stretched mini to partner the Grand versions of the Scenic and Espace. And Renault has repeated the formula here, with a 93mm longer wheelbase liberating more space for limbs and luggage.
It's another small cars games that's getting bigger!
You're right. Small cars are growing bigger and bigger. Where will it all end? Some will say that the Grand Modus, at 4034mm long, is hardly a small car any more. But you can't deny that it has a huge boot (at 410 litres, the biggest in class according to Renault) and there's useful extra space for passengers too. The three-body rear benchseat slides and tips forward, depending on your lugging needs. And if the Grand Modus is too big, you can stick with the normal Modus, also freshly spruced up and the same size as before at a more manageable 3873mm long.
Lexus LF-Xh concept (2007): first official pictures
Lexus LF-Xh Concept: the lowdown
Lexus will show off its latest wares on home territory at this month's 40th Tokyo Motor Show - and the big news is a preview of the next-generation RX soft-roader. The LF-Xh is longer and wider than today's car, but a full 40mm lower - suggesting the Japanese are taking cars like the forthcoming half 4x4, half coupe BMW X6 very seriously. Naturally, the next RX will build upon today's RX400h hybrid. Its masters at Toyota know full well that the tide is turning against 4x4s, and petrol-electric powerpacks are one way to sidestep the prejudice. So the LF-Xh comes with the latest Lexus Hybrid Drive, a V6 backed up by electric motors.
What's it like inside?
Lexus hasn't said much about the interior yet, but we can immediately see that it's more sci-fi than the exterior, which looks very production ready. The centre console flows seamlessly from the dash into the transmission tunnel in a one-piece design with very few buttons peppering the design. Instead, most functions are incorporated into a couple of touch-screens. Notice, too, how Lexus has succumbed to the current trend for flat-bottomed wheels. They're everywhere from the VW Golf GTI to the Audi RS4 and Mercedes C63 AMG. When will we finally see the LF-A supercar given the green light by Lexus? It has confirmed the concept car will again be at Tokyo, but remains coy about its production readiness. CAR predicts that Toyota and Lexus will have a surprise or two up their sleeve, though - it's likely that one of their sports car concepts will be announced in the coming months.
Lexus will show off its latest wares on home territory at this month's 40th Tokyo Motor Show - and the big news is a preview of the next-generation RX soft-roader. The LF-Xh is longer and wider than today's car, but a full 40mm lower - suggesting the Japanese are taking cars like the forthcoming half 4x4, half coupe BMW X6 very seriously. Naturally, the next RX will build upon today's RX400h hybrid. Its masters at Toyota know full well that the tide is turning against 4x4s, and petrol-electric powerpacks are one way to sidestep the prejudice. So the LF-Xh comes with the latest Lexus Hybrid Drive, a V6 backed up by electric motors.
What's it like inside?
Lexus hasn't said much about the interior yet, but we can immediately see that it's more sci-fi than the exterior, which looks very production ready. The centre console flows seamlessly from the dash into the transmission tunnel in a one-piece design with very few buttons peppering the design. Instead, most functions are incorporated into a couple of touch-screens. Notice, too, how Lexus has succumbed to the current trend for flat-bottomed wheels. They're everywhere from the VW Golf GTI to the Audi RS4 and Mercedes C63 AMG. When will we finally see the LF-A supercar given the green light by Lexus? It has confirmed the concept car will again be at Tokyo, but remains coy about its production readiness. CAR predicts that Toyota and Lexus will have a surprise or two up their sleeve, though - it's likely that one of their sports car concepts will be announced in the coming months.
Toyota's Tokyo treats
Toyota Hi-CT Concept
It's that time again: the bi-annual Tokyo Motor Show kicks off on 24 October 2007, and we're being treated to a flood of teaser information from the Japanese manufacturers. The Japanese show always attracts some crazy cars, and it's built a reputation as one of the few shows where you see some properly out-there concept cars. Toyota won't disappoint this year... Just to whet your appetite, Toyota's theme this year is: Harmonious Drive – a New Tomorrow for People and the Planet. Hmm. Take the Hi-CT concept (above). It's an edgy urban vehicle, apparently, and is supermini sized at 3330mm long. Too mad for the road? Probably, but don't forget that boxy small cars like the Honda Element and Nissan Cube started life as motor show stoppers. The Hi-CT also packs in Toyota's latest plug-in hybrid know-how. The battery is slung under the floor, leaving the occupants sitting higher up for a better view out. And you get normal power points in the cabin, so your daughters can dry her hair on the way to the shops. Oh, and there's also a removable boot - the whole rear deck unhooks and can be used to store surfboards, bikes and other gear.
Toyota RiN Concept
The RiN is all about healthy living. That's why there's so much greenery and natural leaves in the publicity shot above, right? So there's a big emphasis on comfy seats that correct your posture, and the steering wheel reflects images to match your mood to soothe stressed drivers. Naturally, there's a humidifier and oxygen-level monitor to make sure you're breathing healthy air. Sound far flung? For sure. But don't forget that cabin filters and the pollen-cancelling devices would have sounded far-flung a few years back. Best bit about the RiN? Its styling is based on the tall-growing Yakusugi tree. Very natural. And the interior colour scheme is green and beige - to relax occupants. It even dips the headlights automatically if it detects other road users and pedestrians ahead. The RiN must be the most socially responsible car ever.
It's that time again: the bi-annual Tokyo Motor Show kicks off on 24 October 2007, and we're being treated to a flood of teaser information from the Japanese manufacturers. The Japanese show always attracts some crazy cars, and it's built a reputation as one of the few shows where you see some properly out-there concept cars. Toyota won't disappoint this year... Just to whet your appetite, Toyota's theme this year is: Harmonious Drive – a New Tomorrow for People and the Planet. Hmm. Take the Hi-CT concept (above). It's an edgy urban vehicle, apparently, and is supermini sized at 3330mm long. Too mad for the road? Probably, but don't forget that boxy small cars like the Honda Element and Nissan Cube started life as motor show stoppers. The Hi-CT also packs in Toyota's latest plug-in hybrid know-how. The battery is slung under the floor, leaving the occupants sitting higher up for a better view out. And you get normal power points in the cabin, so your daughters can dry her hair on the way to the shops. Oh, and there's also a removable boot - the whole rear deck unhooks and can be used to store surfboards, bikes and other gear.
Toyota RiN Concept
The RiN is all about healthy living. That's why there's so much greenery and natural leaves in the publicity shot above, right? So there's a big emphasis on comfy seats that correct your posture, and the steering wheel reflects images to match your mood to soothe stressed drivers. Naturally, there's a humidifier and oxygen-level monitor to make sure you're breathing healthy air. Sound far flung? For sure. But don't forget that cabin filters and the pollen-cancelling devices would have sounded far-flung a few years back. Best bit about the RiN? Its styling is based on the tall-growing Yakusugi tree. Very natural. And the interior colour scheme is green and beige - to relax occupants. It even dips the headlights automatically if it detects other road users and pedestrians ahead. The RiN must be the most socially responsible car ever.
Jaguar X-type refreshed for 2007
Jaguar X-type for 2008: the lowdown
Jaguar has finally given the X-type a facelift, but the 500 changes try their hardest to escape your attention. On paper at least. It's small wonder that we did a double take when we scooped the new X earlier this year; some said we'd just caught the current car on test, but it turns out we were right. Is it enough to improve the baby Jag's sales performance? Jaguar sold just 32,500 last year worldwide - compared with half a million 3-series models flogged by BMW. Or is it too little, too late? Click 'Next' to read the full story.
So what is new on the X-type?
The visual changes are, ahem, subtle to say the least. There's a new mesh grille with Jag's growler badge, revised bumpers front and rear, new sills, and the addition of the brand's chrome signature blade across the bootlid. Oh, and the door mirrors are new, now incorporating turn indicator repeaters and new paint colours are available. Of rather more importance are the mechanical changes. Click 'Next' to read all about them.
Jaguar has finally given the X-type a facelift, but the 500 changes try their hardest to escape your attention. On paper at least. It's small wonder that we did a double take when we scooped the new X earlier this year; some said we'd just caught the current car on test, but it turns out we were right. Is it enough to improve the baby Jag's sales performance? Jaguar sold just 32,500 last year worldwide - compared with half a million 3-series models flogged by BMW. Or is it too little, too late? Click 'Next' to read the full story.
So what is new on the X-type?
The visual changes are, ahem, subtle to say the least. There's a new mesh grille with Jag's growler badge, revised bumpers front and rear, new sills, and the addition of the brand's chrome signature blade across the bootlid. Oh, and the door mirrors are new, now incorporating turn indicator repeaters and new paint colours are available. Of rather more importance are the mechanical changes. Click 'Next' to read all about them.
HSV Maloo R8 (2007): first official pictures
What the hell is a Maloo?
A Ute. And if you’ve never been to Australia then you’ve missed out. Imagine a BMW 5-series-sized car with a huge pick-up style boot, but quite utilitarian and you’re nearly there. Utes are the Aussie answer to the American pick-up, and (like the Yanks) they have an affinity for high-performance versions. The latest is the new Maloo R8, which comes with big wheels and a bodykit. Oh, and a 6.0-litre Corvette engine…
So what exactly is the Maloo R8?
It’s essentially the Vauxhall VXR8 (which in turn starts life as a HSV ClubSport R8) with a tray. HSV’s Scott Grant calls it 'a two-door coupe with a bloody big boot!' Adding to the 'weekday workhorse, weekend warrior' marketing campaign of the VE Ute range, the Maloo offers a sheet-moulded custom rear tray, differentiating it from the regular Holden VE offerings, plus an automatic release hard-tonneau, rear parking sensors and an AP Racing 4-piston brake package.
A Ute. And if you’ve never been to Australia then you’ve missed out. Imagine a BMW 5-series-sized car with a huge pick-up style boot, but quite utilitarian and you’re nearly there. Utes are the Aussie answer to the American pick-up, and (like the Yanks) they have an affinity for high-performance versions. The latest is the new Maloo R8, which comes with big wheels and a bodykit. Oh, and a 6.0-litre Corvette engine…
So what exactly is the Maloo R8?
It’s essentially the Vauxhall VXR8 (which in turn starts life as a HSV ClubSport R8) with a tray. HSV’s Scott Grant calls it 'a two-door coupe with a bloody big boot!' Adding to the 'weekday workhorse, weekend warrior' marketing campaign of the VE Ute range, the Maloo offers a sheet-moulded custom rear tray, differentiating it from the regular Holden VE offerings, plus an automatic release hard-tonneau, rear parking sensors and an AP Racing 4-piston brake package.
Ford FPV Cobra GT (2007): first official pictures
A new Cobra?
Not quite. Ford Performance Vehicles (FPV) is Ford’s Aussie performance arm, the equivalent of HSV, and the Cobra GT is a special edition saloon and ute. And it’s not that Cobra you’re thinking of either. The Cobra is the namesake of the legendary XC Falcon Cobra coupe, which stormed Bathurst in 1977 with a now infamous 1-2 orchestrated finish. Three decades later, the FPV GT Cobra sports the same blue-stripes-on-white paint scheme with the Cobra logo emblazoned on the front guards and sewn into the standard leather upholstery.
So what’s special about the Cobra?
It’s more a special edition than anything else. There are a few tweaks to the engine so now the ‘Boss’ 5.4-litre V8 makes 405bhp and 398lb ft. The 405bhp is equivalent to 302kW, and Ford makes a great deal that 302 is also equivalent to that 1977 Cobra’s engine capacity in cubic inches. A six-speed manual and a limited-slip diff with a high-torque clutch are standard, while (possibly to the dismay of purists) a German-sourced ZF six-speed auto is optional. The saloon is yours for AU$65,110 (£28,921), while the ute will set you back AU$61,200 (£27,191).
Not quite. Ford Performance Vehicles (FPV) is Ford’s Aussie performance arm, the equivalent of HSV, and the Cobra GT is a special edition saloon and ute. And it’s not that Cobra you’re thinking of either. The Cobra is the namesake of the legendary XC Falcon Cobra coupe, which stormed Bathurst in 1977 with a now infamous 1-2 orchestrated finish. Three decades later, the FPV GT Cobra sports the same blue-stripes-on-white paint scheme with the Cobra logo emblazoned on the front guards and sewn into the standard leather upholstery.
So what’s special about the Cobra?
It’s more a special edition than anything else. There are a few tweaks to the engine so now the ‘Boss’ 5.4-litre V8 makes 405bhp and 398lb ft. The 405bhp is equivalent to 302kW, and Ford makes a great deal that 302 is also equivalent to that 1977 Cobra’s engine capacity in cubic inches. A six-speed manual and a limited-slip diff with a high-torque clutch are standard, while (possibly to the dismay of purists) a German-sourced ZF six-speed auto is optional. The saloon is yours for AU$65,110 (£28,921), while the ute will set you back AU$61,200 (£27,191).
Holden Sportwagon Concept (2007): first official pictures
Sportwagon? Another marketing gimmick?
Somewhat. The final string in Holden’s VE Commodore bow, the long-wheelbase VE estate – wearing the Sportwagon moniker for the first time – aims to change perceptions of the traditional family wagon. So it's out with gaudy cargo carriers and instead, the VE Sportwagon shows off a swooping Chrysler 300C-esque roofline for a sporty look. Holden's boss Chris Gubbey reckoned that ‘practic-al has become practic-cool’. Oh dear.
It does look good though…
It looks very smart, and with a V6-engined Commodore available for less than the equivalent of £18,000 Down Under, and knowing how big the VXR8 is, the Sportwagon will be very good value. Not that the concept was some poverty-spec model. Under the bonnet is a 6.0-litre Corvette engine, although it’s been sent on a 21st century crash diet. Released at a time when Australia’s large-car segment is declining, it’s tuned to run E85 bioethanol and boasts Active Fuel Management. Like Chrysler’s 300C, it shuts down cylinders under light loads to improve fuel economy.
Somewhat. The final string in Holden’s VE Commodore bow, the long-wheelbase VE estate – wearing the Sportwagon moniker for the first time – aims to change perceptions of the traditional family wagon. So it's out with gaudy cargo carriers and instead, the VE Sportwagon shows off a swooping Chrysler 300C-esque roofline for a sporty look. Holden's boss Chris Gubbey reckoned that ‘practic-al has become practic-cool’. Oh dear.
It does look good though…
It looks very smart, and with a V6-engined Commodore available for less than the equivalent of £18,000 Down Under, and knowing how big the VXR8 is, the Sportwagon will be very good value. Not that the concept was some poverty-spec model. Under the bonnet is a 6.0-litre Corvette engine, although it’s been sent on a 21st century crash diet. Released at a time when Australia’s large-car segment is declining, it’s tuned to run E85 bioethanol and boasts Active Fuel Management. Like Chrysler’s 300C, it shuts down cylinders under light loads to improve fuel economy.
Citroen C5 unveiled
Citroen C5: the new one
Very nice indeed. When we first got the pictures of this, the new Citroen C5, most in the CAR GAMES office were very impressed. And we’re still impressed. The previous-generation C5 was so forgettable that even we had trouble remembering what it looked like. Perhaps we'd tried to blot its bloated shape from our minds; it might have been a cashback bargain in the UK and it wafted with the best, but it never, ever looked anything less than dull. This car shouldn’t suffer the same fault, and we’ll find out if the car drives as good as it looks when we get behind the wheel in spring 2008. Highlights on the new C5 including a fixed-hub steering wheel, Hydractive 3 Plus suspension, and of course those looks.
It looks just like the C5 Airscape concept…
It does, and in fact the production C5, which we scooped earlier this month, and the concept are all but identical from the A-pillars forward, including those large, chromed double chevrons on the chin. And that C6-esque, gloriously concave rear window is a winner, a real design flourish. The side has a rising crease line (BMW, anyone?) and at the back there are large, prominent rear lights on both the saloon and estate. At 4780mm long, 1860mm wide and 1450mm tall, the new C5 saloon is bigger but lower than the current car. It should be roomier inside, as its wheelbase is stretched out by 70mm.
Very nice indeed. When we first got the pictures of this, the new Citroen C5, most in the CAR GAMES office were very impressed. And we’re still impressed. The previous-generation C5 was so forgettable that even we had trouble remembering what it looked like. Perhaps we'd tried to blot its bloated shape from our minds; it might have been a cashback bargain in the UK and it wafted with the best, but it never, ever looked anything less than dull. This car shouldn’t suffer the same fault, and we’ll find out if the car drives as good as it looks when we get behind the wheel in spring 2008. Highlights on the new C5 including a fixed-hub steering wheel, Hydractive 3 Plus suspension, and of course those looks.
It looks just like the C5 Airscape concept…
It does, and in fact the production C5, which we scooped earlier this month, and the concept are all but identical from the A-pillars forward, including those large, chromed double chevrons on the chin. And that C6-esque, gloriously concave rear window is a winner, a real design flourish. The side has a rising crease line (BMW, anyone?) and at the back there are large, prominent rear lights on both the saloon and estate. At 4780mm long, 1860mm wide and 1450mm tall, the new C5 saloon is bigger but lower than the current car. It should be roomier inside, as its wheelbase is stretched out by 70mm.
Audi Metroproject Quattro concept (2007): first official pictures
Audi A1: the lowdown
Welcome to the new Audi A1. Or as it is officially known, the Metroproject quattro. It's currently tagged as a design study, but we've already scooped the prototype out on the road. This concept car is being unveiled to the world at the Tokyo Motor Show next week, but the embargo has been broken by some enterprising souls abroad, so now we're bringing you all the details on the new A1 a week early.
Is this a new A2 then?
The concept is a three-door, four-seater, but - like the A2 - it isn’t some cheap city car, but rather a premium product with a hybrid powertrain. Expect a B-pillar to appear for production but hopefully those aluminium roof pillars will stay. The side profile shows a low, sporty car, and Audi is keen to push the sportiness of its brand. They were banging on about it at the launch of the new A4 and officials can't stop talking about 'driving pleasure'.
Welcome to the new Audi A1. Or as it is officially known, the Metroproject quattro. It's currently tagged as a design study, but we've already scooped the prototype out on the road. This concept car is being unveiled to the world at the Tokyo Motor Show next week, but the embargo has been broken by some enterprising souls abroad, so now we're bringing you all the details on the new A1 a week early.
Is this a new A2 then?
The concept is a three-door, four-seater, but - like the A2 - it isn’t some cheap city car, but rather a premium product with a hybrid powertrain. Expect a B-pillar to appear for production but hopefully those aluminium roof pillars will stay. The side profile shows a low, sporty car, and Audi is keen to push the sportiness of its brand. They were banging on about it at the launch of the new A4 and officials can't stop talking about 'driving pleasure'.
Thứ Tư, 29 tháng 2, 2012
Citroen DS4 (2011) first official pictures
Hot on the heels of the new Citroen C4 comes the new Citroen DS4, the second of the French car company’s 21st century DS models. Designed to take on sleek models like Alfa’s Giulietta and Vauxhall’s forthcoming three-door Astra, it mixes humdrum hatchback underpinnings with a more adventurous styling direction on the outside, and more luxurious materials on the inside.
So is the new Citroen DS4 a posh version of the Citroen C4?
Essentially, yes – think along the lines of how Citroen turned the mundane C3 into the much more exciting DS3. And although the DS4 sticks with five doors (the five-door C3 morphed into the three-door DS3) it does have unique styling. It is still recognisably C4-based, but there’s now a new nose, more curvaceous flanks, and hidden rear door handles. Citroen says the look combines ‘coupé style with 2+2 door practicality’, and because it’s designed to be stylish and attractive there’s a smaller boot too, down from the C4’s 408-litres to 370-litres. Expect lashings of chrome and leather inside.
There are a choice of five engines, two of which are diesel, and available in 108bhp and 158bhp guises. The three petrol engines are all based on the 1.6-litre turbo co-developed with BMW, and beyond the familiar 118bhp and 152bhp variants, there’s the same 197bhp unit that’s found in the Peugeot RCZ.
The new Citroen DS4 will be unveiled at the 2010 Paris motor show, and UK sales will start in 2011.
So is the new Citroen DS4 a posh version of the Citroen C4?
Essentially, yes – think along the lines of how Citroen turned the mundane C3 into the much more exciting DS3. And although the DS4 sticks with five doors (the five-door C3 morphed into the three-door DS3) it does have unique styling. It is still recognisably C4-based, but there’s now a new nose, more curvaceous flanks, and hidden rear door handles. Citroen says the look combines ‘coupé style with 2+2 door practicality’, and because it’s designed to be stylish and attractive there’s a smaller boot too, down from the C4’s 408-litres to 370-litres. Expect lashings of chrome and leather inside.
There are a choice of five engines, two of which are diesel, and available in 108bhp and 158bhp guises. The three petrol engines are all based on the 1.6-litre turbo co-developed with BMW, and beyond the familiar 118bhp and 152bhp variants, there’s the same 197bhp unit that’s found in the Peugeot RCZ.
The new Citroen DS4 will be unveiled at the 2010 Paris motor show, and UK sales will start in 2011.
Toyota Verso-S (2011) first official pictures
Toyota is returning to the mini-MPV sector with the new Verso-S, set to be unveiled at the upcoming 2010 Paris motor show. Think of it as successor to the old Yaris Verso, only now it's a lot better looking, with hints of the iQ city car games around the nose.
The new Toyota Verso-S looks small, is it?
Yes. The new Verso-S is based on the current Yaris, and Toyota claims it will be the shortest car in its class at just under four metres long. But Toyota, of course, is also promising that 'careful attention to detail and a practical, flexible interior design have maximised usable space, comfort and perceived quality.'
Engine details have yet to be announced, but expect the Verso-S to use the 1.0 and 1.33-litre engines from the Yaris. Toyota has yet to decide if the Verso-S will be offered in the UK with a diesel engine, although it has confirmed there are no plans for a hybrid version of the MPV.
The new Verso-S will be officially unveiled on 30 September at the Paris motor show, with UK sales expected to begin in early 2011.
The new Toyota Verso-S looks small, is it?
Yes. The new Verso-S is based on the current Yaris, and Toyota claims it will be the shortest car in its class at just under four metres long. But Toyota, of course, is also promising that 'careful attention to detail and a practical, flexible interior design have maximised usable space, comfort and perceived quality.'
Engine details have yet to be announced, but expect the Verso-S to use the 1.0 and 1.33-litre engines from the Yaris. Toyota has yet to decide if the Verso-S will be offered in the UK with a diesel engine, although it has confirmed there are no plans for a hybrid version of the MPV.
The new Verso-S will be officially unveiled on 30 September at the Paris motor show, with UK sales expected to begin in early 2011.
Mazda Shinari concept car (2010) first official pictures
Mazda's new design direction is embodied in the new Shinari concept car. Modeled to announce to the world the new styling language of future Mazda road cars, the Shinari ushers in a new look to replace the somewhat tortured Nagare mantra that has fizzled into a damp squib on the sides of the latest Mazda 5 midi-MPV.
The Shinari won't be shown at the 2010 Paris motor show (apparently it's being held back for a 2011 Geneva debut), yet this is a landmark concept for Mazda design, under the new leadership of chief design Ikuo Maeda.
He replaced Dutchman Laurens van den Acker 10 months ago as head of Mazda design; Brit Moray Callum held the post before that. Maeda, a life-long Mazda employee, told CAR that he'd been appointed for the long term, 'at least 10 years'. We'd argue that's welcome, as it's hard to shift a company's design look in just the three or four years of his predecessors' appointments.
So what's all this Mazda Shinari about?
It's a new four-door coupé, not dissimilar to a Merc CLS or Audi A7 Sportback, and it looks pretty imposing stretching to 4890mm long. It's a low-slung 1348mm high and 1970mm wide.
It embraces the Kodo design language, which translates as 'soul of motion'. Maeda's new design philosophy is all about dynamic emotion and he promises this look will start to influence production cars 'within two to three years'.
Will they build the Mazda Shinari?
Sadly this is very unlikely. It could however inform future versions of the Mazda 6 and the designers flashed up images of a future 2 supermini with Kodo styling flourishes.
Details to look out for include the newly tweaked grille, with inbuilt light tubes to emphasise the five-pointed radiator. This is plausible for production, Maeda told CAR.
And the twisted, tensioned surfaces are also destined for production cars. 'If there's one thing I want to emphasise, it's the new emotion you'll find on future Mazdas,' said Maeda.
So what's the Mazda Shinari like in the metal?
Rather like an Infiniti Essence, with shades of Maserati Granturismo and even Jag XJ. They've aimed for taut, muscular surfaces and have largely achieved that with tension in the sheetmetal, rippled by plunging and diverging character lines. The Shinari looks way bigger than its 4.8m length suggests.
Maeda-san says the shark nose is achievable and expect the shape and character of the lights front and rear to make it to production cars too (they're one of the design highlights). Problem is, we've seen so many conceptual ideas from Mazda of late - and so little action - that we're a wee bit sceptical. Nothing short of delivering on the promise of this new, more emotional Kodo design language will be enough to appease the memories of endless Nagare concepts and little showroom change.
But having spent the day with Maeda and believing his long-term mandate for change, we're confident reform is coming. He admits today's range is too stilted, too unemotional. This new Kodo mantra might just inject some spark back into Mazda.
The Shinari won't be shown at the 2010 Paris motor show (apparently it's being held back for a 2011 Geneva debut), yet this is a landmark concept for Mazda design, under the new leadership of chief design Ikuo Maeda.
He replaced Dutchman Laurens van den Acker 10 months ago as head of Mazda design; Brit Moray Callum held the post before that. Maeda, a life-long Mazda employee, told CAR that he'd been appointed for the long term, 'at least 10 years'. We'd argue that's welcome, as it's hard to shift a company's design look in just the three or four years of his predecessors' appointments.
So what's all this Mazda Shinari about?
It's a new four-door coupé, not dissimilar to a Merc CLS or Audi A7 Sportback, and it looks pretty imposing stretching to 4890mm long. It's a low-slung 1348mm high and 1970mm wide.
It embraces the Kodo design language, which translates as 'soul of motion'. Maeda's new design philosophy is all about dynamic emotion and he promises this look will start to influence production cars 'within two to three years'.
Will they build the Mazda Shinari?
Sadly this is very unlikely. It could however inform future versions of the Mazda 6 and the designers flashed up images of a future 2 supermini with Kodo styling flourishes.
Details to look out for include the newly tweaked grille, with inbuilt light tubes to emphasise the five-pointed radiator. This is plausible for production, Maeda told CAR.
And the twisted, tensioned surfaces are also destined for production cars. 'If there's one thing I want to emphasise, it's the new emotion you'll find on future Mazdas,' said Maeda.
So what's the Mazda Shinari like in the metal?
Rather like an Infiniti Essence, with shades of Maserati Granturismo and even Jag XJ. They've aimed for taut, muscular surfaces and have largely achieved that with tension in the sheetmetal, rippled by plunging and diverging character lines. The Shinari looks way bigger than its 4.8m length suggests.
Maeda-san says the shark nose is achievable and expect the shape and character of the lights front and rear to make it to production cars too (they're one of the design highlights). Problem is, we've seen so many conceptual ideas from Mazda of late - and so little action - that we're a wee bit sceptical. Nothing short of delivering on the promise of this new, more emotional Kodo design language will be enough to appease the memories of endless Nagare concepts and little showroom change.
But having spent the day with Maeda and believing his long-term mandate for change, we're confident reform is coming. He admits today's range is too stilted, too unemotional. This new Kodo mantra might just inject some spark back into Mazda.
Hyundai ix20 (2010) first official teaser sketch
Hyundai is the latest car manufacturer to join the mini-MPV party, with the upcoming ix20, and ahead of its preview at the Paris motor show at the end of this month, the Korean company has released this teaser sketch. Designed and developed at Hyundai’s European research and development centre in Rüsselsheim, Germany, the ix20 is essentially Hyundai’s version of sister firm Kia’s Venga.
Hyundai ix20? MPV or crossover?
Hyundai would have you believe it’s a little bit of both – the ‘ix’ moniker has been chosen to suggest its cross-over like capability. The Korean manufacturer says the ix20 is ‘a vehicle with the ability to simultaneously serve as a functional people-carrier while providing a dynamic, fun-to-drive experience’; the Venga has shown that it’s a capable and competent, if unexciting, small MPV.
The ix20 takes on some of the styling cues from the bigger ix35, and is the latest car to adopt the company’s ‘fluidic sculpture’ design language. Hopefully the ix20 will remain faithful to the sketch’s chunky styling without being toned down too much by the time it reaches production. Hyundai is keeping details of engines and pricing under wraps for now, however it’s likely to share the same 1.4 diesel and 1.1 and 1.4 petrols as the Venga.
The ix20 will debut on 30 September at the Paris motor show, and UK sales will start in November 2010. Hyundai will also showcase its new i10, with a revised 1.0-litre, sub-100g/km petrol engine, as well as the latest developments in its Blue Drive eco range.
Hyundai ix20? MPV or crossover?
Hyundai would have you believe it’s a little bit of both – the ‘ix’ moniker has been chosen to suggest its cross-over like capability. The Korean manufacturer says the ix20 is ‘a vehicle with the ability to simultaneously serve as a functional people-carrier while providing a dynamic, fun-to-drive experience’; the Venga has shown that it’s a capable and competent, if unexciting, small MPV.
The ix20 takes on some of the styling cues from the bigger ix35, and is the latest car to adopt the company’s ‘fluidic sculpture’ design language. Hopefully the ix20 will remain faithful to the sketch’s chunky styling without being toned down too much by the time it reaches production. Hyundai is keeping details of engines and pricing under wraps for now, however it’s likely to share the same 1.4 diesel and 1.1 and 1.4 petrols as the Venga.
The ix20 will debut on 30 September at the Paris motor show, and UK sales will start in November 2010. Hyundai will also showcase its new i10, with a revised 1.0-litre, sub-100g/km petrol engine, as well as the latest developments in its Blue Drive eco range.
Chevrolet Cruze hatchback concept (2010) first official pictures
These are the first pictures of the new Chevrolet Cruze hatchback, a concept car that will be unveiled at the 2010 Paris motor show. Think of it as a thinly veiled look at the new five-door version of the Cruze that will go on sale in 2011.
Is there really any demand for a Chevrolet Cruze hatchback?
Apparently so, and we all know the old addage that five doors are more popular than four in Europe. 'The total compact segment in Europe represents around 4.8 million units,' says president and managing director of Chevrolet Europe Wayne Brannon. 'Hatchbacks represent around 65% of that volume.'
As for the hatchback Cruze itself, come production time expect it to lose the LED lights and large alloys, and we do know that the boot capacity will be reduced from the saloon's 450-litres to around 400. Engines will likely be shared with the saloon, which means a petrol 1.6, or 1.8 or 2.0-litre diesels. Prices have yet to be confirmed, but the saloon is priced between £13k and £15k so expect something similar for the hatch when sales start in mid-2011.
>> Click 'Add your comment' below and let us know what you think of the Chevrolet Cruze hatchback concept
Is there really any demand for a Chevrolet Cruze hatchback?
Apparently so, and we all know the old addage that five doors are more popular than four in Europe. 'The total compact segment in Europe represents around 4.8 million units,' says president and managing director of Chevrolet Europe Wayne Brannon. 'Hatchbacks represent around 65% of that volume.'
As for the hatchback Cruze itself, come production time expect it to lose the LED lights and large alloys, and we do know that the boot capacity will be reduced from the saloon's 450-litres to around 400. Engines will likely be shared with the saloon, which means a petrol 1.6, or 1.8 or 2.0-litre diesels. Prices have yet to be confirmed, but the saloon is priced between £13k and £15k so expect something similar for the hatch when sales start in mid-2011.
>> Click 'Add your comment' below and let us know what you think of the Chevrolet Cruze hatchback concept
Bentley Continental GT (2011): first photos of the new Conti
Do not retune your computer monitor. This is the new, second-generation Bentley Continental GT unveiled today. It might look like a gently polished version of the familiar Conti silhouette that’s plagued football grounds and London’s swankier west end districts since 2003, but trust us: the new Bentley Continental GT is a properly new model.
For a start, every body panel and piece of glass in the Mk2 Conti is different. Dirk van Braeckel and his design team in Crewe have taken the familiar Continental design and sharpened it. This car is the same but different. There’s even a new 4.0-litre V8 engine added to the line-up, just in case you doubted change was afoot.
Come on! How different is the ‘new’ 2011 Continental?
You’ll spot the new Conti from the front most easily: those Mulsanne-inspired speccy-four-eyes headlamps are distinctive, the inner lamps powered by xenon on low beam and LED on high beam; the outer lenses are day running lights and illuminate entirely by diode. The Bentley grille now sits 40mm lower too.
Park an old and a new Continental alongside each other and you’ll be surprised by the diverging side profiles. Like the transition from Mk1 to Mk2 Audi TT, the glasshouse (or DLO, in designerspeak) is 26mm shallower, making for a more ‘slammed’ appearance on the new Continental GT arriving in early 2011.
The door handles are now on the side character line rather than breaking up the sheetmetal too. And see those door mirrors? They’re the same as on a Mulsanne, they are.
How will the new Bentley Conti GT drive?
Probably very like the last one, which is to say like the Orient Express on speed. The basic engineering architecture is carried over and the car has an identical wheelbase and overall length. However, there are numerous technical upgrades: the track is wider front and rear, new lighter steering knuckles are now hollow and the wheelarches have swollen to accommodate 20in rims as standard, though many will upgrade to newly available 21in wheels.
Drive is now diverted more to the rear with a standard 60:40 split in normal driving, juggled by a Torsen central diff. The ZF six-speed gearbox is claimed to halve shift times using tech pioneered on the Supersports, but ZF’s eight-speeder is coming according to chief engineer Ulrich Eichorn (and we’d point out that enables hybridisation as seen on BMWs and future Jaguar Land Rover products).
Most importantly, the new Conti GT makes greater use of lightweight aluminium throughout. The front wing is now a singleformed aluminium piece; the boot and bonnet are both made from aluminium too. Previously the bootlid and wings were steel – all helping to contribute to a 63kg weight saving.
For a start, every body panel and piece of glass in the Mk2 Conti is different. Dirk van Braeckel and his design team in Crewe have taken the familiar Continental design and sharpened it. This car is the same but different. There’s even a new 4.0-litre V8 engine added to the line-up, just in case you doubted change was afoot.
Come on! How different is the ‘new’ 2011 Continental?
You’ll spot the new Conti from the front most easily: those Mulsanne-inspired speccy-four-eyes headlamps are distinctive, the inner lamps powered by xenon on low beam and LED on high beam; the outer lenses are day running lights and illuminate entirely by diode. The Bentley grille now sits 40mm lower too.
Park an old and a new Continental alongside each other and you’ll be surprised by the diverging side profiles. Like the transition from Mk1 to Mk2 Audi TT, the glasshouse (or DLO, in designerspeak) is 26mm shallower, making for a more ‘slammed’ appearance on the new Continental GT arriving in early 2011.
The door handles are now on the side character line rather than breaking up the sheetmetal too. And see those door mirrors? They’re the same as on a Mulsanne, they are.
How will the new Bentley Conti GT drive?
Probably very like the last one, which is to say like the Orient Express on speed. The basic engineering architecture is carried over and the car has an identical wheelbase and overall length. However, there are numerous technical upgrades: the track is wider front and rear, new lighter steering knuckles are now hollow and the wheelarches have swollen to accommodate 20in rims as standard, though many will upgrade to newly available 21in wheels.
Drive is now diverted more to the rear with a standard 60:40 split in normal driving, juggled by a Torsen central diff. The ZF six-speed gearbox is claimed to halve shift times using tech pioneered on the Supersports, but ZF’s eight-speeder is coming according to chief engineer Ulrich Eichorn (and we’d point out that enables hybridisation as seen on BMWs and future Jaguar Land Rover products).
Most importantly, the new Conti GT makes greater use of lightweight aluminium throughout. The front wing is now a singleformed aluminium piece; the boot and bonnet are both made from aluminium too. Previously the bootlid and wings were steel – all helping to contribute to a 63kg weight saving.
Ariel Atom V8 (2010) first official pictures
This is the really rather mad Ariel Atom V8. That’s right, this tiny little track-biased car has an eight-cylinder engine driving its rear wheels. And it’s a 3.0-litre V8 that produces 500bhp at 10,600rpm, to give the new Ariel Atom V8 a Bugatti-beating 909bhp/tonne.
‘There are things that can be done in low volume production that the big manufacturers can’t, won’t or daren’t do,’ said Ariel boss Simon Saunders. ‘We make a virtue of our size, our skills and the unique qualities that hand built production can bring to our cars. The Atom V8 demonstrates this.’
Okay, let’s try and take the Ariel Atom V8 seriously – tell me about that 500bhpV8 engine.
Apparently supercharged Honda Civic Type R engines with 300bhp just aren’t powerful enough. And the original supercharged 2.4-litre V8 that Ariel planned to use in the Atom V8 wasn’t up to scratch either. So the production Ariel Atom V8 has a US-built 3.0-litre V8. In the marginally more docile ‘road trim’ it produces 475bhp at 10,500rpm, along with 268lb ft at 7750rpm. And in the madder ‘track’ trim there’s a full 500bhp at 10,600rpm, plus 284lb ft at the same 7750rpm.
Combine the Atom V8’s 550kg kerbweight with all that power and you get 909bhp/tonne, way more than the 644bhp/tonne achieved by the Bugatti Veyron Super Sports. The 500bhp version will apparently hit 62mph in under 2.3 seconds, and then carry on to crack a terrifying 200mph – the 475bhp version manages ‘just’ 175mph. And the acceleration, whatever speed you’re at, will be ridiculous, thanks in part to the power, but also because the paddleshift-equipped Sadev six-speed sequential gearbox can swap cogs in just 40 milliseconds.
Beyond that Ariel has uprated the ‘regular’ Atom’s inboard suspension with specific dampers and springs, complete with remote reservoirs and adjustment for high speed compression, low speed compression and rebound, plus a four-way spring stiffness adjuster, so you can fine tune the V8 to your track of choice. There’s also carbonfibre bodywork (including adjustable front and rear spoilers), extra structural bracing in the engine compartment, and the chassis is powder coated with a gold finish. And mercifully there’s adjustable traction control, and a launch control to help you achieve that sub-2.3 second 0-62mph time. A data logging system will let you prove your acceleration run times to your mates too, and the LCD screen can display the shift lights and current gear position.
Just 25 Atom V8s will ever be built, and 20 have already been sold, despite the car costing £124,850 plus VAT – call it £150k by the time customer cars arrive in early 2011.
‘There are things that can be done in low volume production that the big manufacturers can’t, won’t or daren’t do,’ said Ariel boss Simon Saunders. ‘We make a virtue of our size, our skills and the unique qualities that hand built production can bring to our cars. The Atom V8 demonstrates this.’
Okay, let’s try and take the Ariel Atom V8 seriously – tell me about that 500bhpV8 engine.
Apparently supercharged Honda Civic Type R engines with 300bhp just aren’t powerful enough. And the original supercharged 2.4-litre V8 that Ariel planned to use in the Atom V8 wasn’t up to scratch either. So the production Ariel Atom V8 has a US-built 3.0-litre V8. In the marginally more docile ‘road trim’ it produces 475bhp at 10,500rpm, along with 268lb ft at 7750rpm. And in the madder ‘track’ trim there’s a full 500bhp at 10,600rpm, plus 284lb ft at the same 7750rpm.
Combine the Atom V8’s 550kg kerbweight with all that power and you get 909bhp/tonne, way more than the 644bhp/tonne achieved by the Bugatti Veyron Super Sports. The 500bhp version will apparently hit 62mph in under 2.3 seconds, and then carry on to crack a terrifying 200mph – the 475bhp version manages ‘just’ 175mph. And the acceleration, whatever speed you’re at, will be ridiculous, thanks in part to the power, but also because the paddleshift-equipped Sadev six-speed sequential gearbox can swap cogs in just 40 milliseconds.
Beyond that Ariel has uprated the ‘regular’ Atom’s inboard suspension with specific dampers and springs, complete with remote reservoirs and adjustment for high speed compression, low speed compression and rebound, plus a four-way spring stiffness adjuster, so you can fine tune the V8 to your track of choice. There’s also carbonfibre bodywork (including adjustable front and rear spoilers), extra structural bracing in the engine compartment, and the chassis is powder coated with a gold finish. And mercifully there’s adjustable traction control, and a launch control to help you achieve that sub-2.3 second 0-62mph time. A data logging system will let you prove your acceleration run times to your mates too, and the LCD screen can display the shift lights and current gear position.
Just 25 Atom V8s will ever be built, and 20 have already been sold, despite the car costing £124,850 plus VAT – call it £150k by the time customer cars arrive in early 2011.
Smart E-Scooter concept (2010) first design sketches
These sketches are our first glimpse at the potential future of Smart. Called the E-Scooter, it's a concept that will be unveiled at the 2010 Paris motor show.
So is Smart abandoning cars like the Fortwo to just build Scooters?
No, not a bit of it – there are, in fact, more cars coming too as well. The recent Daimler alliance with Renault-Nissan will see the next Fortwo twinned with the third-gen Twingo (meaning the French city car goes rear-wheel drive), and the Forfour is set for a comeback as well.
But as well as expanding its range of cars, Smart is also looking at the other end of the market. And because a four-wheeled vehicle can’t get much smaller than the Fortwo, Smart has turned to two wheels.
We’ll see the E-Scooter in the metal at the Paris motor show, but in the meantime we hear the lithium-ion battery will give it a zero-emissions range of 62 miles. Smart is also promising ‘extra-ordinary safety features’ so expect the E-Scooter concept to have an airbag as well.
So is Smart abandoning cars like the Fortwo to just build Scooters?
No, not a bit of it – there are, in fact, more cars coming too as well. The recent Daimler alliance with Renault-Nissan will see the next Fortwo twinned with the third-gen Twingo (meaning the French city car goes rear-wheel drive), and the Forfour is set for a comeback as well.
But as well as expanding its range of cars, Smart is also looking at the other end of the market. And because a four-wheeled vehicle can’t get much smaller than the Fortwo, Smart has turned to two wheels.
We’ll see the E-Scooter in the metal at the Paris motor show, but in the meantime we hear the lithium-ion battery will give it a zero-emissions range of 62 miles. Smart is also promising ‘extra-ordinary safety features’ so expect the E-Scooter concept to have an airbag as well.
Chevrolet Captiva (2011) first official pictures
Chevrolet has facelifted the Captiva SUV and will show the car in public for the first time at the 2010 Paris motor show as one of four world debuts. It's a modest refresh, with a new front end design, cabin upgrades and new engines and transmissions.
The seven-seater SUV has been around since 2006 and is due a mid-life pick-me-up. Noteworthy details include a larger grille, newly recontoured bonnet, prism-style headlamps, fresh side air vents and indicator repeaters built into the door mirrors. Keep things in perspective; from the A-pillars back, it's business as usual – this is very much a new face grafted on the familiar Captiva shape.
Another boring facelift... what else is new?
Well, this is the way the industry works. Four years in, and a cosmetic enhancement is de rigueur. To stay competitive, such facelifts are crucial, if only so the adverts can scream 'new' when we all know otherwise. And besides, we've always rather liked the attractively styled and priced Captiva.
There is plenty new under the bonnet. Three new GM engines are available with manual or six-speed auto transmissions. Choose from a 2.4-litre petrol or a 2.2-litre diesel in two states of tune, mustering 161bhp or 182bhp; the petrol output falls squarely between the two diesels, at 169bhp. The Captiva comes with front- or four-wheel drive.
It's a Chevy. Loads of kit, presumably?
You bet. The Captiva is bursting with TLAs (that's three-letter acronyms to you and me). ESC, TCS, BAS – you name it, the electronic handling aids are all present and correct. Hills start assist, electric handbrakes, USB ports, Bluetooth, touch-screen nav, parking cameras... Plenty of boys toys are available.
The interior of the Captiva is also upgraded, with new seat fabrics, ice-blue back lighting and a more wraparound fascia to delineate between passenger and driver zones. Apparently. We'll know for sure once we see the car at the Paris motor show on 30 September 2010.
UK sales of the new 2011 facelifted Chevrolet Captiva start in spring 2011.
The seven-seater SUV has been around since 2006 and is due a mid-life pick-me-up. Noteworthy details include a larger grille, newly recontoured bonnet, prism-style headlamps, fresh side air vents and indicator repeaters built into the door mirrors. Keep things in perspective; from the A-pillars back, it's business as usual – this is very much a new face grafted on the familiar Captiva shape.
Another boring facelift... what else is new?
Well, this is the way the industry works. Four years in, and a cosmetic enhancement is de rigueur. To stay competitive, such facelifts are crucial, if only so the adverts can scream 'new' when we all know otherwise. And besides, we've always rather liked the attractively styled and priced Captiva.
There is plenty new under the bonnet. Three new GM engines are available with manual or six-speed auto transmissions. Choose from a 2.4-litre petrol or a 2.2-litre diesel in two states of tune, mustering 161bhp or 182bhp; the petrol output falls squarely between the two diesels, at 169bhp. The Captiva comes with front- or four-wheel drive.
It's a Chevy. Loads of kit, presumably?
You bet. The Captiva is bursting with TLAs (that's three-letter acronyms to you and me). ESC, TCS, BAS – you name it, the electronic handling aids are all present and correct. Hills start assist, electric handbrakes, USB ports, Bluetooth, touch-screen nav, parking cameras... Plenty of boys toys are available.
The interior of the Captiva is also upgraded, with new seat fabrics, ice-blue back lighting and a more wraparound fascia to delineate between passenger and driver zones. Apparently. We'll know for sure once we see the car at the Paris motor show on 30 September 2010.
UK sales of the new 2011 facelifted Chevrolet Captiva start in spring 2011.
Hyundai ix20 and facelifted i10 (2010) first photos
After the design sketches, now it's the real McCoy: the new Hyundai ix20 mini-MPV.
No surprises for guessing it's the Hyundai equivalent of the Kia Venga. Engineered and designed in Europe, the ix20 is the second car games– after the bigger ix35 crossover – to adopt the family's new 'fluidic sculpture' design look.
The ix20 will be on UK sale from November 2010. No word yet on the powertrains on offer, but we'd expect similar 1.1 and 1.4 petrols and 1.4 diesel as the similarly engineered Venga.
Anything else at Paris 2010?
You bet. Don't fall off your chair, but there's also a facelifted i10 city car on the Hyundai stand at the Paris motor show.
It'll have a visual pep-me-up and a new 1.0-litre petrol engine with CO2 emissions nudging just under the 100g/km barrier, at 99g/km. The facelifted i10 lands in 2011.
>> Stay tuned throughout September for all our Paris previews. And come back on Thursday 30 September for our live coverage direct from Paris
No surprises for guessing it's the Hyundai equivalent of the Kia Venga. Engineered and designed in Europe, the ix20 is the second car games– after the bigger ix35 crossover – to adopt the family's new 'fluidic sculpture' design look.
The ix20 will be on UK sale from November 2010. No word yet on the powertrains on offer, but we'd expect similar 1.1 and 1.4 petrols and 1.4 diesel as the similarly engineered Venga.
Anything else at Paris 2010?
You bet. Don't fall off your chair, but there's also a facelifted i10 city car on the Hyundai stand at the Paris motor show.
It'll have a visual pep-me-up and a new 1.0-litre petrol engine with CO2 emissions nudging just under the 100g/km barrier, at 99g/km. The facelifted i10 lands in 2011.
>> Stay tuned throughout September for all our Paris previews. And come back on Thursday 30 September for our live coverage direct from Paris
Thứ Ba, 28 tháng 2, 2012
Lexus LF-LC hybrid sports coupe unveiled at 2012 Detroit show
09 January 2012 20:00
After a series of leaks and early teasers, the wraps have finally come off the new Lexus LF-LC hybrid sports car concept here in Detroit.
It's a glamorous 2+2, showing how Toyota's Calty design studio in California imagines a new sports car for the brand. However, all the indications at the 2012 NAIAS show are that it's more an ideas car - and a hint of future styling trends - more than a model bound for a Lexus showroom near you.
Lexus LF-LC concept car: the lowdown
Lexus remains a curio brand: admired for its technical prowess, hybrid know-how and peerless customer service, but still lacking the magic sparkle in design and dynamics that make the German hegemony an attractive choice for many buyers.
The new LF-LC is an attempt to inject more character into its product line-up. Hence the choice of a 2+2 sports coupe with a never-ending bonnet for this concept car.
We just hope some of its classy details and sporting allure make it into production; too often we've seen Lexus tempt us with lush design concepts, only for the resulting production cars defaulting to the wrong side of sensible/dowdy (delete according to your preference).
Just check out that new Lexus grille!
Yes, that shark-nosed front end is by the far the most dramatic element of the Lexus LF-LC. It's a new take on the Lexus spindle grille and the designers talk up the 'engaging interplay of lines, shadows and corners'.
The mesh within the aluminium surround is designed to give the nose a three-dimensional quality.
There's plentiful playful use of glass in this car. Check out also the L-shaped - for Lexus, geddit? - day-running lights and a massive glass roof . On second thoughts, isn't that front lamp treatment a bit like the Nike swoosh?
Inside the cabin there's a BMW-esque concentration on the driver. Most functions are controlled by a pair of massive 12.3-inch touchscreens. If you're a Blackberry user, or just prefer buttons, you might not like this: a third touchscreen pops up from the dash for more complex instructions and further touchpads are set in each door to use windows, mirrors and seat adjustments. Perhaps they should also provide a finger-cleansing station.
Lexus top brass on the LF-LC
Karl Schlicht, general manager of product planning for Lexus in North America, said: 'We are in the middle of the biggest change in Lexus’s history, inspired by a new generation of distinctive design.
'The new GS embodies this with its sculpted spindle grille as our symbol of change. And now, the next chapter of Lexus evolves with this coupe design concept. With its striking looks, this concept hybrid 2+2 hints at the design cues that are coming in a wave of new Lexus models over the next two years.'
The Lexus LF-LC is front-engined and rear-wheel drive, and powered by a Lexus hybrid system. Kinda like a Ferrari 599 from Japan.
After a series of leaks and early teasers, the wraps have finally come off the new Lexus LF-LC hybrid sports car concept here in Detroit.
It's a glamorous 2+2, showing how Toyota's Calty design studio in California imagines a new sports car for the brand. However, all the indications at the 2012 NAIAS show are that it's more an ideas car - and a hint of future styling trends - more than a model bound for a Lexus showroom near you.
Lexus LF-LC concept car: the lowdown
Lexus remains a curio brand: admired for its technical prowess, hybrid know-how and peerless customer service, but still lacking the magic sparkle in design and dynamics that make the German hegemony an attractive choice for many buyers.
The new LF-LC is an attempt to inject more character into its product line-up. Hence the choice of a 2+2 sports coupe with a never-ending bonnet for this concept car.
We just hope some of its classy details and sporting allure make it into production; too often we've seen Lexus tempt us with lush design concepts, only for the resulting production cars defaulting to the wrong side of sensible/dowdy (delete according to your preference).
Just check out that new Lexus grille!
Yes, that shark-nosed front end is by the far the most dramatic element of the Lexus LF-LC. It's a new take on the Lexus spindle grille and the designers talk up the 'engaging interplay of lines, shadows and corners'.
The mesh within the aluminium surround is designed to give the nose a three-dimensional quality.
There's plentiful playful use of glass in this car. Check out also the L-shaped - for Lexus, geddit? - day-running lights and a massive glass roof . On second thoughts, isn't that front lamp treatment a bit like the Nike swoosh?
Inside the cabin there's a BMW-esque concentration on the driver. Most functions are controlled by a pair of massive 12.3-inch touchscreens. If you're a Blackberry user, or just prefer buttons, you might not like this: a third touchscreen pops up from the dash for more complex instructions and further touchpads are set in each door to use windows, mirrors and seat adjustments. Perhaps they should also provide a finger-cleansing station.
Lexus top brass on the LF-LC
Karl Schlicht, general manager of product planning for Lexus in North America, said: 'We are in the middle of the biggest change in Lexus’s history, inspired by a new generation of distinctive design.
'The new GS embodies this with its sculpted spindle grille as our symbol of change. And now, the next chapter of Lexus evolves with this coupe design concept. With its striking looks, this concept hybrid 2+2 hints at the design cues that are coming in a wave of new Lexus models over the next two years.'
The Lexus LF-LC is front-engined and rear-wheel drive, and powered by a Lexus hybrid system. Kinda like a Ferrari 599 from Japan.
Honda NSX concept unveiled at 2012 Detroit auto show
One of the biggest draws of the 2012 Detroit auto show is the new Honda NSX concept car. Developed in tandem by Honda's design studios in California and Japan, the new NSX is a svelte-looking supercar with an exciting purpose: it heralds Honda's new supercar.
After years of will-they, won't-they delays, concepts and U-turns, this time Honda is adamant - it really is replacing the original NSX. Even better news, the chief exec confirmed it would be here within three years.
The new NSX has big boots to fill: the 1980s original had a major impact on the supercar arena, bringing ease of use and less fearful road manners to the upper echelons of the sports car market. You could well argue that today's Audi R8 and Ferrari 458 Italia wouldn't be so biddable if the NSX hadn't existed.
New Honda NSX: the engineering story
The new NSX, 2012-style, will focus just as much on high-tech as the original. That name stood for New Sports Experimental and Honda is equipping its newcomer with a hybrid powertrain.
There's a slew of hybrid supercars coming in the next three years: McLaren, Ferrari, Porsche and Lamborghini, to name but four, are all preparing part-electrified sports cars. You can now add Honda to that list.
The new NSX sports Honda's first mid-engined application of its Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system, as previously seen in the more workaday Honda Prelude and Japanese-market Inspire.
That means the NSX will be four-wheel drive, although the exact workings of the petrol and electric motors on the production car remain to be seen. Honda will be forced to use one of its petrol engines from elsewhere in its global car range, which points to a 3.0 or 3.5-litre petrol engine equipped with direct injection to provide the motive power.
It is likely that the NSX will use the latest lithium-ion batteries; although the entire European hyrbid road car range sticks with nickel metal hydride batteries, Honda has just bought into a Japanese specialist in lithium ion technology.
So when can we buy the new Honda NSX?
That's the $64 million question here in Detroit. This is no longer a pie-in-the-sky concept. Honda has confirmed the NSX is now a live project, as the company tries to claw back its reputation for cutting-edge engineering and exciting sports cars after the death - in Europe at least - of the S2000, Type R models and standalone sports cars.
Takanobu Ito, president and CEO of Honda who led the development of Honda’s first NSX supercar, said: 'Like the first NSX, we will again express high performance through engineering efficiency. In this new era, even as we focus on the fun to drive spirit of the NSX, I think a supercar must respond positively to environmental responsibilities.'
In a surprise move, he also announced the new NSX would be developed and built in a new facility in Ohio, US.
He also told a packed Acura stand to expect to see NSXs racing. 'We will develop race and road specs for this car. You will see this car globally within three years.'
However, a UK official hinted that we might even see Euoprean models earlier than that.
Acura NSX becomes a Honda NSX
The NSX being rolled out at the 2012 North American International Auto Show is badged as an Acura, Honda's upmarket US wing.
Expect to see the NSX appear also at the 2012 Geneva motor show in March, where it will wear Europe and rest-of-the-world-spec Honda badging.
After years of will-they, won't-they delays, concepts and U-turns, this time Honda is adamant - it really is replacing the original NSX. Even better news, the chief exec confirmed it would be here within three years.
The new NSX has big boots to fill: the 1980s original had a major impact on the supercar arena, bringing ease of use and less fearful road manners to the upper echelons of the sports car market. You could well argue that today's Audi R8 and Ferrari 458 Italia wouldn't be so biddable if the NSX hadn't existed.
New Honda NSX: the engineering story
The new NSX, 2012-style, will focus just as much on high-tech as the original. That name stood for New Sports Experimental and Honda is equipping its newcomer with a hybrid powertrain.
There's a slew of hybrid supercars coming in the next three years: McLaren, Ferrari, Porsche and Lamborghini, to name but four, are all preparing part-electrified sports cars. You can now add Honda to that list.
The new NSX sports Honda's first mid-engined application of its Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system, as previously seen in the more workaday Honda Prelude and Japanese-market Inspire.
That means the NSX will be four-wheel drive, although the exact workings of the petrol and electric motors on the production car remain to be seen. Honda will be forced to use one of its petrol engines from elsewhere in its global car range, which points to a 3.0 or 3.5-litre petrol engine equipped with direct injection to provide the motive power.
It is likely that the NSX will use the latest lithium-ion batteries; although the entire European hyrbid road car range sticks with nickel metal hydride batteries, Honda has just bought into a Japanese specialist in lithium ion technology.
So when can we buy the new Honda NSX?
That's the $64 million question here in Detroit. This is no longer a pie-in-the-sky concept. Honda has confirmed the NSX is now a live project, as the company tries to claw back its reputation for cutting-edge engineering and exciting sports cars after the death - in Europe at least - of the S2000, Type R models and standalone sports cars.
Takanobu Ito, president and CEO of Honda who led the development of Honda’s first NSX supercar, said: 'Like the first NSX, we will again express high performance through engineering efficiency. In this new era, even as we focus on the fun to drive spirit of the NSX, I think a supercar must respond positively to environmental responsibilities.'
In a surprise move, he also announced the new NSX would be developed and built in a new facility in Ohio, US.
He also told a packed Acura stand to expect to see NSXs racing. 'We will develop race and road specs for this car. You will see this car globally within three years.'
However, a UK official hinted that we might even see Euoprean models earlier than that.
Acura NSX becomes a Honda NSX
The NSX being rolled out at the 2012 North American International Auto Show is badged as an Acura, Honda's upmarket US wing.
Expect to see the NSX appear also at the 2012 Geneva motor show in March, where it will wear Europe and rest-of-the-world-spec Honda badging.
Toyota Yaris Hybrid (2012) first official pictures
This is the new Toyota Yaris Hybrid, and although it’s been unveiled on the same day as the world’s motoring media descends upon Detroit for the 2012 North American International Auto Show, it's not there. Instead, the new Toyota Yaris Hybrid won’t actually appear until the Geneva show in early March 2012.
Presumably the Toyota Yaris Hybrid is even cleaner and greener than the pious Prius?
It is, but the Yaris Hybrid has yet to be through the full homologation cycle just yet, as Toyota attempts to drop those fuel economy and emissions figures as low as possible. Still, Toyota promises us that the Yaris Hybrid will deliver ‘segment-leading CO2 emissions’ and its current target is a paltry 80g/km. Honda’s Jazz emits 104g/km, while the cleanest versions of the Auris Hybrid and Prius manage 89g/km CO2.
Rather than using the same 1.8-litre petrol engine found in the Auris Hybrid and the Prius, the Yaris Hybrid is powered by a new 1.5-litre petrol engine. Mated to a more compact electric motor, inverter and battery pack, Toyota claims the Hybrid Synergy Drive system is 20% lighter than that used in the Auris – peak output from the powertrain is 99bhp. And with the fuel tank and battery located under the rear seat, boot space is identical to the conventional petrol and diesel Yarises. A CVT transmission is standard, and a more aerodynamically efficient bodykit rounds off the list of tweaks.
UK sales commence this summer, and prices are expected to start at less than £16,000.
>> Click 'Add your comment' below and let us know what you think of the new Tyota Yaris Hybrid
Presumably the Toyota Yaris Hybrid is even cleaner and greener than the pious Prius?
It is, but the Yaris Hybrid has yet to be through the full homologation cycle just yet, as Toyota attempts to drop those fuel economy and emissions figures as low as possible. Still, Toyota promises us that the Yaris Hybrid will deliver ‘segment-leading CO2 emissions’ and its current target is a paltry 80g/km. Honda’s Jazz emits 104g/km, while the cleanest versions of the Auris Hybrid and Prius manage 89g/km CO2.
Rather than using the same 1.8-litre petrol engine found in the Auris Hybrid and the Prius, the Yaris Hybrid is powered by a new 1.5-litre petrol engine. Mated to a more compact electric motor, inverter and battery pack, Toyota claims the Hybrid Synergy Drive system is 20% lighter than that used in the Auris – peak output from the powertrain is 99bhp. And with the fuel tank and battery located under the rear seat, boot space is identical to the conventional petrol and diesel Yarises. A CVT transmission is standard, and a more aerodynamically efficient bodykit rounds off the list of tweaks.
UK sales commence this summer, and prices are expected to start at less than £16,000.
>> Click 'Add your comment' below and let us know what you think of the new Tyota Yaris Hybrid
Smart For-Us concept unveiled at 2012 Detroit show
Smart made a splash with its world debut at the 2012 Detroit auto show: its For-Us concept car provides a vision of the Smart as an American icon, a pick-up.
The diminutive truck - just 3547mm long - is longer than a Fortwo, and is supposed to be based on the running gear of the next-gen Smart Forfour, aka the new Renault Twingo.
So if the For-Us doesn't look so much like a Smart any more, from the front at least, that's why. A new front-engined architecture is said to underpin this baby pick-up.
Smart For-Us: the lowdown
Calling it front-engined is a bit of a misnomer; the For-Us is electric, and the 55kW electric motor is claimed to provide decent acceleration.
Smart quotes a top speed of around 75mph; battery capacity is put at 17.6kWh. It's the same running gear you'll find in the Smart Fortwo ED coming in spring 2012.
This remains a two-seater, the loadbay where you'd find a petrol engine in the regular Fortwo given over to a flatbed.
This Smart concept car packs a pair of electric scooters in to the loadbay; they dock to the car, allowing the two-wheelers to be charged up and ready to use when you reach the part of the city that even a Smart can't reach.
After a long, long period of very little new-model activity, Smart is finally about to start a product offensive. While no pick-up truck is in train quite yet, the cooperation with Renault will soon produce a new Forfour and the Fortwo is in line for further development too.
If downsizing is as rife as it appears, it's a good time to offer more small cars gameshttp://www.carsgames.biz/.
The diminutive truck - just 3547mm long - is longer than a Fortwo, and is supposed to be based on the running gear of the next-gen Smart Forfour, aka the new Renault Twingo.
So if the For-Us doesn't look so much like a Smart any more, from the front at least, that's why. A new front-engined architecture is said to underpin this baby pick-up.
Smart For-Us: the lowdown
Calling it front-engined is a bit of a misnomer; the For-Us is electric, and the 55kW electric motor is claimed to provide decent acceleration.
Smart quotes a top speed of around 75mph; battery capacity is put at 17.6kWh. It's the same running gear you'll find in the Smart Fortwo ED coming in spring 2012.
This remains a two-seater, the loadbay where you'd find a petrol engine in the regular Fortwo given over to a flatbed.
This Smart concept car packs a pair of electric scooters in to the loadbay; they dock to the car, allowing the two-wheelers to be charged up and ready to use when you reach the part of the city that even a Smart can't reach.
After a long, long period of very little new-model activity, Smart is finally about to start a product offensive. While no pick-up truck is in train quite yet, the cooperation with Renault will soon produce a new Forfour and the Fortwo is in line for further development too.
If downsizing is as rife as it appears, it's a good time to offer more small cars gameshttp://www.carsgames.biz/.
Vauxhall Mokka (2012) first official pictures
This is the Vauxhall Mokka, a B-segment SUV that will be revealed at the 2012 Geneva motor show this March.
So the Vauxhall Mokka isn’t a move into the hotly contested hot drinks market?
Err, no. Instead it’s a Vauxhall (and Opel) version of the Buick Encore 4x4 that’s just been revealed at the 2012 North American International Auto Show. And before you scoff, the same architecture is destined for the next-gen Corsa too – it’s not just a British version of some antiquated Yank tank.
At 4.28 metres long, the Mokka is bigger than Nissan’s Juke but shorter than the Qashqai, and will take on everything from the aforementioned Nissans, to Mini’s Countryman and the Skoda Yeti.
There is a choice of three engines: a 113bhp 1.6-litre petrol; a turbocharged 1.4-litre petrol with 138bhp and 148lb ft; and a 128bhp/221lb ft 1.7-litre diesel. All are fitted with a stop/start system, the latter two can be mated to either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic, and while four-wheel drive is an option, all models come with hill descent control as standard.
What else?
A new bonnet, a revised grille and different bumpers differentiate the Mokka from its America sibling, but it doesn’t have the same stylish good looks as Vauxhall and Opel’s most recent European-focused offerings.
But it does boast swivelling headlights, a rear view camera, and Vauxhall’s new front camera system that enables the Mokka to be optioned with lane departure warning, forward collision alert and traffic sign recognition. Fold the seats and there’s up to 1372 litres of load space, and there’s also the latest version of Flex-Fix, a bicycle carrier that slides out of the rear bumper.
UK sales begin towards the end of 2012, and prices should start around £16k.
>> Click 'Add your comment' below and let us know what you think of the Vauxhall Mokka
So the Vauxhall Mokka isn’t a move into the hotly contested hot drinks market?
Err, no. Instead it’s a Vauxhall (and Opel) version of the Buick Encore 4x4 that’s just been revealed at the 2012 North American International Auto Show. And before you scoff, the same architecture is destined for the next-gen Corsa too – it’s not just a British version of some antiquated Yank tank.
At 4.28 metres long, the Mokka is bigger than Nissan’s Juke but shorter than the Qashqai, and will take on everything from the aforementioned Nissans, to Mini’s Countryman and the Skoda Yeti.
There is a choice of three engines: a 113bhp 1.6-litre petrol; a turbocharged 1.4-litre petrol with 138bhp and 148lb ft; and a 128bhp/221lb ft 1.7-litre diesel. All are fitted with a stop/start system, the latter two can be mated to either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic, and while four-wheel drive is an option, all models come with hill descent control as standard.
What else?
A new bonnet, a revised grille and different bumpers differentiate the Mokka from its America sibling, but it doesn’t have the same stylish good looks as Vauxhall and Opel’s most recent European-focused offerings.
But it does boast swivelling headlights, a rear view camera, and Vauxhall’s new front camera system that enables the Mokka to be optioned with lane departure warning, forward collision alert and traffic sign recognition. Fold the seats and there’s up to 1372 litres of load space, and there’s also the latest version of Flex-Fix, a bicycle carrier that slides out of the rear bumper.
UK sales begin towards the end of 2012, and prices should start around £16k.
>> Click 'Add your comment' below and let us know what you think of the Vauxhall Mokka
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