Selling 149,979 examples last year, the Chevrolet Equinox was the 4th best selling product in the entire 2010 General Motors vehicle portfolio. 28,281 vehicles in the first two months, General Motors has been required to aggressively step up production at the Ingersoll, Ontario plant the Chevrolet Equinox (and sister GMC Terrain) in order to meet consumer demand.

While the Equinox has been accepted as direct competition with the Honda CR-V, Ford Escape and Nissan Rogue, the current generation Chevrolet crossover vehicle is largely mismatching to those other vehicles in size. Longer in wheelbase than the other three crossover vehicles, the 2011 Equinox features 9.4 inches more length between the front and rear wheels than the Ford Escape. Outside of North America existed an ideal fit for the compact crossover category, General Motors is marketing a smaller crossover called the Chevrolet Captiva. After 5 years of international sales in Asia, Australia and Europe, the choice to introduce Americans to the Captiva is set for the 2012 model year for fleet use only.

Built on a shorter wheelbase version of the Theta platform already found on the Equinox, the 2012 Chevrolet Captiva Sport is the latest acknowledgement of how the crossover vehicle market is a multi-layered assault for all auto brands ( at least for fleet vehicle users). After rolling out the Equinox for the 2005 model year as the company’s first car-based utility vehicle, Chevrolet line-up has since added the larger Traverse with the Captiva Sport model pending for the smaller category. 7.7 inches less in total length and 4.9 inches shorter in wheelbase, the Chevrolet Captiva Sport is firmly positioned against the compact crossover utility segment. Some will note a former General Motors crossover vehicle meeting those exact exterior measurement. The Chevrolet Captiva Sport reintroduces the discontinued Saturn Vue. A similar front end to the Chevrolet Equinox given a scaled down look, the Captiva Sport is identified with a different roof pillar structure.

Not as small as the old Chevrolet Tracker, the Captiva Sport will comfortably transport five passengers. The interior engineering for the Captiva Sport sees the compact utility shedding a hardly noticeable loss of around one-half inch in front passenger headroom and legroom over the Equinox. Though it may be conceivable to believe all dimensions to be smaller on this junior crossover vehicle, the Chevrolet Captiva Sport will actually present more shoulder and hip room for both the front along with the rear passenger rows. Only major decreases of interior compartment dimensions for the Captiva Sport over the Equinox will preside in rear legroom and cargo space. The Chevrolet Captiva Sport will offer a maximum cargo volume of 56.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

Employing the same powerplants featured on the Equinox, the 2012 Chevrolet Captiva Sport will be sold with two gasoline direct-injected engines. Buyers can select either a 182 horsepower 2.4 liter four-cylinder engine or a 264 horsepower 3-liter V-6 power plant. As could be expected on crossover vehicles, an all-wheel drive option will be offered on the Captiva Sport alongside a fuel-saving front wheel drive. Fuel economy has not been evaluated yet for the United States market Captiva Sport for either engine. Using United Kingdom specifications (likely to differ for the United States model), the Chevrolet Captiva Sport equipped with the 2.4 liter engine possesses a curb weight just under 3,649 pounds. More than a 130 pounds less than the Equinox crossover is seems reasonable to expect a slight improvement over the Chevrolet Equinox.

To be sold in LS, LT or LTZ fleet trim, 2012 Chevrolet Captiva Sport models will include remote keyless entry, 6-speaker stereo system and 17-inch aluminum wheels. For safety, forward, front-side and curtain airbags protect passengers will be accompanied with accident avoidance technology such as anti-lock braking and StabilTrak. Leather trim, sunroof and rear view camera are among more lavish items available on the Captiva Sport that is likely to start selling for the early $20,000 range. No announcements have been made for whether the Captiva Sport will be added as a consumer vehicle for 2012 or in the future.

The 2012 Chevrolet Captiva Sport is based on a revised model introduced at the 2010 Paris Motor Show as part of General Motors vehicle presentation of non-United States bound products. While plans for the Captiva Sport coming to the US shows flexibility to bring their international vehicles to the newer world, the Chevrolet Orlando (coming to Canada but not the United States) and a 5-door version of the Chevrolet Cruze are yet to join the small crossover.

Information and photo source: General Motors

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Indulging the eccentric demands of deeper pocket motorists, the Lotus sports car company is spawning a revolutionary five-vehicle lineup by 2015. Consisting of four exotic cars of the typical two-door variety, a conspicuous addition to the resurgent British sports car organization is a four-door super saloon. The Lotus Eterne is the latest entrant to a new premium car category building four-door coupes. Attaching the Lotus badge to a four-door vehicle for the first time, the Eterne will perhaps receive the deepest intrigue.

Correspondence to styling guidelines within the new four-door coupe category works to deemphasize the rear passenger entrance. The 2015 Lotus Eterne’s streamlined door handles and a larger roof grasshouse are are subtle enough to initially go unnoticed Fashioning design cues first revealed on the 2+2 passenger Lotus Elite, the super saloon Eterne headlamps, front grille work and hood line are mirroring representation of the Grand Turismo-styled Elite. The rear deck lid appears wider on the Lotus Eterne than compared to the Elite with an unique lower diffuser and exhaust tip layout.

In true Lotus style, even the Eterne super saloon aspires to become a lightweight package. Weighing about 3,960 pounds, the use of composite materials keeps the Lotus Eterne about 300 pounds lighter than an Aston Martin Rapide and within par of a V-8 powered Porsche Panamera. An achievement to market an under 4,000 pound premium four-door, Lotus will miss out on the lightest car in category honours to the aluminum-bodied Audi’s A7 Sportback.

Under 4,000 pounds of total weight, expect this four-door coupe to fly thanks to V-8 power. Derived from a Toyota powerplant, the Lotus Eterne’s power potential will really shine by adding the optional KERS (Kinetic Energy Recovery System) integrating electric motors with an unique transmission. Delivering a maximum output of 612 horsepower when KERS works in companion with the 5-liter V-8, performance for the British super saloon is set for 4-second flat 0 to 60 mile per hour acceleration. With 531 foot-pounds of torque muscle meeting the road at either the rear or through available all-wheel drive, the Lotus Eterne will shoot over roads at a maximum speed of 196 miles per hour.

Lotus has made the statement that their future sports cars seek high-performance credentials while obtaining excellent occupant space and comfort. A tough task but obtained goal with their traditional two-door supercars, the Eterne represents an opportunity for Lotus’ interior designers to flex luxury and comfort interpretations for the future of the British brand. At the time that the advanced production model is being shown at the 2010 Paris Motor Show, little information was given out on the Eterne’s other than the fact the super saloon will have 4-passenger seating.

With a due date of spring 2015, the Lotus Eterne will be the crowning completion of the new generation of Lotus Cars.

Information and Photo Source: Lotus Cars via Newspress

Related posts:

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2. The New Lotus Family Part 1: Esprit Returns
3. The New Lotus Family Part 2: The Smart, Sexy Elan

Looking into the future, the next generation of Lotus cars indicates The Esprit, Elite, and Elan all sported names of the British sports car company’s past. Resurrecting the Lotus brand with legendary names is certain to spark enthusiasts attention (as appears to have already happened through the mass Paris Motor Show). However, Lotus Cars’ renewed focus also includes recognizing the current exotic auto company. Among the future Lotus offerings expected through the next 5 years, the Elise name is shown after 2015 with a new lease on life.

The first all-new Lotus sports car marketed after the auto brand’s acquisition by their current corporate parent Proton, the Lotus Elise made a statement that core values of Lotus have not been lost. Built in the tradition of the Colin Chapman’s Lotus Seven, the Elise became a super-lightweight pleasure vessel making the most of a small four-cylinder engine. Out in Europe since 1996, the tiny sub-five second ride did not enchant North America soil until the 2005 model year when the NHTSA (National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration) made a temporary exemption for the Elise. Receiving a well-earned redesign after what will be 13 years without a major change, the 2015 Lotus Elise projects that the high-speed small car’s adventure is just starting.

Weighing less than a current Chevrolet Aveo, the 2015 Lotus Elise gently taps the scale at 1,095 kilograms (approximately 2,409 pounds). Assembled with the continuous dedication to low-weight materials, Lotus’ smallest car embodies the most youthful look of the new sports vehicle lineup. Lotus has said to have retained elements of the current Elise design. Apparently, those cues are flooded with a deeper inspiration from Lotus’ styling look forward. Besides enhancing performance and good taste, the 2015 Lotus Elise grace is also more considerate to driver and passenger. Unlike the current version of this compact sports car where cabin ingress for moderately-proportioned individuals is similar to trying on a tight pair of jeans, the upcoming Elise features a more accommodating set of doors allowing for an easier entry and exit.

More so with the 2015 Elise, modern Lotus styling touches inside capture an aggressive look. The Lotus Elise’s colourful, bright interior features the simple charm of a club racer is added to the aesthetics of a two-seat cabin. The use of silver accents along the doors and around the center console, the appearance of a tubular reinforcements commonly found in racing car is created.

The entry-level of the future Lotus lineup, power is less robust than the Esprit. Serviced by a mid-mounted two liter, four-cylinder powerplant, nearly 316 horsepower and the Elise’s lightweight construction promises not to provide an entry-level performance experience. Acceleration times for the future Elise will fall from the current variant. Depending on whether the 2015 Lotus Elise owners elect for the 6-speed manual or the 7-speed dual clutch transmission, times are penciled to be about 4.3-4.5 seconds in a 0 to 62 miles per hour run. Top speeds just under 168 miles per hour rests at the upper performance echelon of this small Lotus.

Unlike the next-generation Lotus sports cars, the Elise will not be equipped with an optional KERS (Kinetic Energy Recovery System). Still potentially classified as a hybrid sports car (through my a mild hybrid), the Lotus Elise will employ an available stop/start system which shuts down the engine during idling conditions.

Another one of Lotus’ 2010 Paris Motor Show treats, the trick comes in waiting until Spring of 2015 when the first new Elises can be snatched at price equal to £35,000 (currently about $55,600).

Information and photo source: Lotus Car via Newspress UK

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The second-longest running name in the historic lineup of Lotus sports cars, one of company’s futuristic offerings plan to revive the Elan title. Spending a total of 19 years in production as the modestly budgeted sports car, the Lotus Elan nonetheless succeeded in delivering solid handling. Though never enjoying the glitzy movie star background that the top-end Esprit basked in, the Lotus Elan moment in the limelight was serving as Ms. Emma Peel’s (Diana Rigg) vehicle on the popular British television spy show The Avengers. Relating to a human symbol of beauty of that era, perception transferred also to admiration for the small Lotus sports car. The most recent adaptation of the Elan name aims to compliment the reputation for beauty and trademark Lotus handling while adding practicality.

Appearing smaller than the upcoming Lotus Esprit and Elite, the Elan sports car lines are precisely tailored for what Lotus Cars terms as “an athlete with a muscular physique”. Considerable flaring around the wheel fenders and defined side panels presents the Elan as a more aggressive package similar to the current model Elise. Estimated at a 2,850 pound total weight, the Lotus Elan is the 2nd lightest automobile inside the new British sports car line.

Coming standard as a two-seater, a choice will exist on whether you want to take two additional passengers for the ride. A 2+2 interior option will be available on the Lotus Elan bringing some practicality to the potential market. Chief Executive Officer of Group Lotus Dany Bahar explains that the Elan’s design seeks to be an everyday sports car. “The Elan will convert people to Lotus, I would challenge people not to become addicted to driving it. It will also go a long way towards dispelling the old misconceptions about this class, that in order to have high performance you must sacrifice usability – those days are gone.”

Presented initially as a front-engined roadster in 1962, the new Elan is guided by new age engineering entailing this recent incarnation of the small Lotus will elect for a rear mid-engined configuration. Behind the either a 2-seat or an optional 2+2 seat cabin, the Lotus Elan’s is propelled by a 450 PS (443-horsepower) 4 liter V-6 engine. Like many future Lotus offerings, the Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS) will be an available performance accessory on the upcoming Lotus Elan. The Elan will be exclusively rear-wheel drive with a 7-speed dual clutch transmission managing power between engine and the vehicle’s differential. Guaranteeing incredible performance, the Elan’s 0-62 mile per hour run takes only 3.5 seconds with top speed trailing past 192 miles per hour.

Closely mirroring the recently-introduced Lotus Evora, it seems unlikely the British sports car company will maintain a lineup bordering on such redundancy. Slated as a late 2013 entry, the Lotus Elan might replace the Evora as a more powerful but also more expensive offering. Price indications for the Elan is said to start at £75,000 (short of $119,000 U.S.).

Information and photo source: Lotus Cars

Related posts:

1. The New Lotus Family Part 3: Elise’s New Ladylike Beauty
2. The New Lotus Family Part 1: Esprit Returns
3. The New Lotus Family Part 4: Revved up Four-Door Eterne

Claiming the Paris Motor Show would be a “dawn of a new era” for the British sports car company, automotive enthusiasts are not entirely sure what to expect.

Readers of Automoblog.net have already been introduced to one example of Lotus’ future sports car direction. The Lotus Elite 2+2 coupe was unwrapped a week prior to the Paris show as a look at the not-so-distant advent of a new generation of exotic cars. However, as the exhibits prepared to open in France, few expected the Lotus Elite would be the vanguard for a rich five-car British sports car army. Leading off an extraordinary assortment of sports cars covering the high-performance gamut, all-new Lotus Esprit provides the exotic centerpiece in Paris.

The original Lotus Esprit has gone down in history as one of England’s most celebrated British-built exotic cars. The wedge-shaped profile played prominently in movies such as Pretty Woman and, of course, two James Bond movies. While Lotus will still not issue a submersible trim option including underwater depth charges, other impressive technology encapsulates the new Esprit.

Incorporating the weight-saving design becoming the new norm with Lotus this under 3,200 pound two-door, mid-engined supercar picks up from where the old Esprit left things back in 2004. Echoing that the Elite was presenting a considerable share of Lotus’ new styling DNA, the headlamp and front nose design are styled in a near identical manner. Intentional in every body line, some gentle curving is present along the upper and lower mid-section of the Esprit’s side profile. Riding up from the windshield, a glass roof is held in place by an arching roof frame. Paying stylistic tribute to the previous Esprit, the rear deck lid of the pre-production vehicle features the flat engine cover between the rear roof pillars. Upon introduction, the Lotus Esprit is being touted as many as 20 exterior colours available.

The Lotus Esprit’s two-seat interior has the infectious charm of a dedicated performance car. The only fully visible display inside are based within the driver’s instrument cluster. Controls on the steering wheel reinforces this Esprit is a driver-oriented vehicle. Operating with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, there is not even a conventional gear selector on the rear console.

With many people calling the Lotus sports car brand newly-energized, the same can be said about the sports car’s rear-wheel drivetrain. Available as an option, KERS (Kinetic Energy Recovery System) provides an electric power boost on top of the gasoline-fueled, supercharged 5 liter V-8 powerplant. Generating just short of 612 horsepower together, the Lotus Esprit is planned to deliver 0 to 62 times of 3.4 seconds as well as a top speed potential of 205 miles per hour.

Talking about the task of undertaking the Lotus Esprit, company’s Chief Executive Officer Dany Bahar remained mindful of the heritage. “One has to be very careful when taking on the challenge of reinventing such an iconic classic as the Esprit – everyone has an opinion. There’s a fine balance between acknowledging the greatness of the past whilst at the same time rapidly leaping forward to the future and ensuring that this car not only does the name Esprit justice but also the Lotus brand. I think we’ve managed to find the balance and in doing so created a new icon, a car people will find hard to resist.”

The impending flagship for Lotus, the new Esprit is targeted to enter the marketplace early 2013. When the exotic sports car makes its momentous return, Lotus has estimated the retail price at £110,000 (equal to about $174,000 U.S.).

Information and photo source: Lotus Car/ Newspress

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1. The New Lotus Family Part 2: The Smart, Sexy Elan
2. The New Lotus Family Part 3: Elise’s New Ladylike Beauty
3. The New Lotus Family Part 4: Revved up Four-Door Eterne

Back in 1980, Audi was a small luxury company needing to work hard to define itself against their German rivals. Conceived as the ultimate rally car of its day, the Audi Quattro (known also as the Ur-quattro) served as the vehicle the last surviving Auto Union brand’s choose to return the old four-ring badge to auto racing. Grabbing WRC (World Rally Championship) manufacturer titles in 1982 and 1984, the competition Audi Quattros accolades included the successes of French female rally car driver Michele Mouton. Driving a variant of the Audi Quattro, Mouton became the first woman not only to win a WRC event but a back-to-back winner of the Pikes Peak Hill Climb with the German-built fastback.

Through racing, Audi realized the novelty of all-wheel drive cars was their gateway to gaining an identity in becoming a higher volume premium car brand. Using the quattro name across their model lineup, the once-humble German auto brand is today the manufacturer of world beater vehicles. Paying tribute to the car that gave birth to Audi’s claim started 30 years ago, the quattro name and likeness returns in concept form.

A faithful recreation of the Audi Quattro’s fastback body profile, the 2010 show car prominently replicates the roof including massive quadratically-shaped C-pillar. While the rear end continues to feature the single bar taillight panel familiar to the 1980s Quattro fans, the front end is pure modern Audi. LED headlamps resembling the Audi R8 supercar accent the face of the quattro concept’s very unique front.

Also unlike the predecessor vehicle, the Audi quattro concept employs an use extensive usage of lightweight materials which in the 1980s which was nearly unheard of in such scope. Like many current Audis, aluminum shapes much of the quattro concept car. More unique to this show car, carbon fiber construction is used to create the rear hatch door and aerodynamic features such as the movable spoiler.

While the outer presentation of the Audi quattro concept is new, the mechanicals of this tribute car is a raid of the German brand’s parts bin. Built on a platform of the Audi RS 5, the wheelbase was significantly shortened by almost 6 inches while the roof height was dropped by 1.57 inches. Advancements over the RS 5 platform on the Audi quattro concept includes the addition of drilled carbon-fiber brake discs and an upgraded version of the all-wheel drive quattro drive. Fittingly finding the four-wheel drivetrain that made the original quattro famous, a superposition gear turns the wheels 10% faster than the drive shaft. The new technology found on the Audi quattro concept is said to adjust torque to through corners to prevent oversteer and understeer.

As the Audi RS 5 is a four-passenger vehicles, the decreased distance between the front and rear wheels shrinks the interior down to a two-seater cabin. Design touches inside the quattro concept are styled for a minimalist initial appearance. This is accomplished thanks to a 3-D visor-like control display giving the driver access to Audi’s MMI system. Through the MMI, the driver can chose to pilot the Audi quattro concept in either a everyday mode or racing mode harking back to the grand LCD instrument display.

Using weight-saving components on the exterior of the Audi quattro concept, pound-shaving considerations was also directed to the interior. Filigree bucket seats weigh less than 40 pounds a piece for what Audi says is a 40% weight reduction. Three or four-point safety harnesses can be fitted to these racing-style seats.

Powering the redesigned quattro all-wheel drive system on this concept vehicle is a 2.5 liter turbocharged five-cylinder engine (a modernized interpretation of the 1980s Audi Quattro engine). Making use of Audi’s FSI direct injection, 408 horsepower and 354 pounds-feet of torque awake this show car. Thanks to the extremely powerful five-cylinder engine and lightweight construction,only 3.9 seconds is needed to send the Audi quattro from 0 to 62 miles per hour.

A concept car, Audi is not expected to make any announcement in the near term on production for this quattro two-door fastback. However, it is stated in the press release that “the know-how and technologies of the quattro concept body will characterize Audi’s entire production model portfolio in the future”

Information and photo source: Audi

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Want a glimpse into an alternate universe where GM never killed off Saturn? Look no further than Opel – the GM-owned European company that has silently created some of the Buick, Chevy, and Saturn cars we see on the road today, here in the States. The current Buick Regal? Actually the Opel Insignia overseas. The Saturn Astra? Try Opel Astra. And the Saturn Aura? Opel Vectra C. Even our beloved Saturn Sky…you guessed it…you can still buy it across the pond as the Opel GT.

There’s nothing new about this practice – companies have been doing it for decades. What makes it interesting now is that ever since GM killed off Saturn, we can get a glimpse as to what the latest Saturns would look like, were Saturn still around.

Opec GTC Paris Concept

Take this sexy little Opel GTC Paris Concept for example, just revealed at the 2010 Paris Motor Show. Opel developed it to show “how Opel envisions the next logical step of a newly shaped line-up.” Muscular and sleek styling, but very doable in terms of being a concept car. They say it has a masculine “bulldog stance,” and is meant to be, as Opel puts it, “The achievable dream car.”

Inside, Opel used leather and microsuede in an interesting pattern for the seats, and a textured black instrument panel for a modern feel.

Under the hood, the GTC Paris is powered by a 2.0-liter gasoline-powered turbo engine producing a healthy 190 horsepower, and controlled by a standard six-speed manual transmission. A start/stop feature, similar to what you’re used to seeing in hybrids, cuts down on fuel consumption and emissions. The GTC Paris also features an adaptive suspension system to make sporty driving sporty, and conservative driving comfortable. Tech like this comes at a cost though, and I could see a lot of the features on the concept being dropped, were this ever to see fruition.

Opel Astra Sports Tourer

Maybe not quite as exciting as the GTC Paris above, but the Astra Sports Tourer is a wagon form based on the Astra hatchback (what we know as the Saturn Astra) – a smaller version of the Insignia (Buick Regal to us.) Normally, the Astra Sports Tourer wouldn’t have ever seen the light of day in the States, but the possibility is slowing increasing now that we’re getting used to sacrificing looks and “cool-factor” for utility.

Boasting an impressive amount of storage space (about 55 cubic ft) for such a small car, the Tourer is powered by your choice of nine engines (it would likely be three here in the States;) anything from a 95 horsepower fuel miser to a 180 motor, some of which powered by diesel. The same start/stop engine technique will be applied to one of the engines available – the 1.3-liter diesel.

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With the doors officially opening to the public of the Paris Motor Show this Sunday, some automakers have held off until the last minute to deal their ace design for the event. Intending to garner the acclaim of ‘saving the best for last’, Jaguar chose the Paris show’s first press day to unveil their radical electric performance car concept called the C-X75.

The C-X75 name understandably pays homage to the 75 years of the Jaguar brand, an accomplishment for which the British luxury brand has not been shy about advertising nor should be ashamed to pride. Jaguar has already produced limited edition XJ and XKR cars to commemorate their momentous anniversary, the C-X75 is the masterpiece to their celebration.

Since undergoing a takeover by India’s Tata Motors, Jaguar’s design studio has received the benefits of a revived motivation focused more a luxury car future. The Jaguar C-X75 concept continues on the path of styling reinvention moulded in advanced aluminum construction. A closed-cockpit design placing the cabin ahead of the powerplant, aerospace-inspired smooth contours are defeated only by side ducts and pronounced fender flaring. At 182.95 inches long and 79.52 inches wide, the C-X75 covers less of the road surface than the current Jaguar XK.

Though forward-thinking, some aspects of the Jaguar C-X75 are undeniably heritage-based touches. Firstly, the headlamp lens design screams the spirit of the C-Type and D-Type race cars while the same case can be made for the front fender flares. Hints to Jaguar’s XJ220 supercar are explicitly-telegraphed through the body lines of the C-X75 relating to the British company’s last great supercar.

As the interior casts a very luminescent entry thanks to the reflective surfaces and large windshield, the C-X75 is a clean, no nonsense design. The Jaguar C-X75′s steering wheel, instruments and pedals all place the driver in firm control of the vehicle. Speaking about firm, the two seats inside the C-X75 are fixed in position like a race car. High-resolution touch-screens provides the drive with all the interaction needed with the concept supercar which includes the center console-based Jaguar Co-Pilot display.

Employing an all-electric powertrain, four electric motors are divided to spin each tire and wheel providing all-wheel drive. Collected together, the series of electric motors moves this concept supercar with 778 horsepower. Impressive horsepower, the anatomy of an electric motor breeds prompt and consistent torque delivery. On the Jaguar C-X75, torque production backing the electric-powered supercar totals 1,180 foot-pounds.

Running off a lithium-ion battery pack, the Jaguar C-X75 achieves a distance of 68 miles before depletion. Realizing the distance on battery capacity provides a quite unusably short trip, Jaguar has conceived in a range extender making the C-X75 definitely not a conventional electric like the Tesla Roadster or Nissan Leaf. Pushing the maximum distance of the Jaguar C-X75 for up to 560 miles, the method for how this extra range is especially unique out-of-box thinking for a 21^st century automobile.

Also unlike the Chevrolet Volt plug-in hybrid design which uses a gasoline internal combustion engine supplying standard mechanical movement to a vehicle, Jaguar’s C-X75 converts the energy of gasoline into electricity to thereby replenish the battery pack. Similar to the working of modern diesel-electric locomotives, the Jaguar C-X75 supercar concept essentially remains an all-electric vehicle as two small gas-powered turbines generate 140 kilowatts. A 60 liter (15.85 gallon) fuel tank carries the gas for the range extender turbines. Doing the math, the total distance the Jaguar C-X75 estimated fuel economy translates to around 41.1 miles per gallon.

Amounting to less than 3,000 pounds, the small aluminum supercar and 778 horsepower has a date with some stellar on-track performance numbers. Accelerating from 0 to 62 miles per hour in 3.4 seconds and hustling through the quarter-mile in a shocking 10.3 seconds, the Jaguar C-X75′s electric propulsion goes on to push to a 205 miles per hour top speed.

Like every concept car brought to the reality of an auto show floor, we remain uncertain how much the Jaguar C-X75 is casting a light to the possible future of road-going vehicles.

Information and photo source: Jaguar Cars

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Through teaser photos, Lamborghini spoon-fed car lovers with appetizers of eye candy leaving us admittedly starving for what delectable creation awaited our motoring palette. Would the car be a by-the-numbers rethink for a Murcielago replacement or would be see a new paradigm in supercar development. At the 2010 Paris Motor Show, the Italian-based supercar producer released the main course, the Lamborghini Sesto Elemento concept car.

Sesto Elemento (translated into English meaning Sixth Element) advertises the property Lamborghini has based the entire design of this new concept supercar. The element carbon plays an important part in the identity of this new Italian super lightweight design theme. Notedly the main compound in carbon fiber reinforced polymers (defined popularly simply as carbon fiber), the sixth element is used to construct main aspects of this Lamborghini in a truly innovative fashion for phenomenal results. Assembling into a vehicle weighing just 2,202 pounds, this Italian design exercise combines with unmistakably pure high-performance supercar passion.

Built on a carbon fiber monocoque, the Lamborghini Sesto Elemento concept employs a manufacturing technique creating a forged composite. Produced through a single process, Forged Composite technology is being touted for the first time by Lamborghini in an automotive application. By forging the monocoque, the Sesto Elemento achieves a consistent structural integrity that exceeds strength of presently accepted carbon fiber manufacturing methods. For the Lamborghini Sesto Elemento, this foundation provides excellent rigidity for handling and crash protection.

The use of carbon fiber materials carries to the aesthetically relevant areas of the Lamborghini Sesto Elemento. Collecting into a style rich with Lamborghini DNA, the Sesto Elemento takes on stealth fighter-like integrating a multitude of polygons into the supercar’s structure. Triangular-shaped air openings, one-piece engine cover featuring ten holes and a center air deflector provide style, weight reduction along with aerodynamic stability. This mid-engined Lamborghini design is optimized for efficiency with air intakes, oil cooler placement and even Pyrosic ceramic-carbon tailpipes greatly reinforces the performance attitude. Riding on a suspension assembly utilizing a cross between carbon fiber and aluminum on the Sesto Elemento, Lamborghini has even engineered the five-spoke wheels to be produced through carbon fiber.

Painted with matte black clear coat, the Sesto Elemento body is given a special exterior treatment courtesy of nano-technology. After applying a patented coating over the carbon fiber body panels, a red shine saturates the surfaces of this super lightweight Lamborghini.

Speaking about playing the part of a high-performance car, Lamborghini opted to provide a relatively well-known powertrain to drive the exotic Sesto Elemento shape. Fitted longitudinally behind the passenger cabin, the company’s ten-cylinder, 5.2 liter powerplant produces the same 570 horsepower found in the Gallardo LP-570-4 Superleggera and most recent the Blancpain Edition. Sending power through an e.gear transmission as well as a permanently operating all-wheel drive, this concept version of Lamborghini’s future succeeds in painting a comparison to their current vehicles.

Possessing an overall weight less than a Toyota Yaris, the Lamborghini Sesto Elemento concept use of the 570 horsepower V-10 engine establishes an astonishing weight-to-power ratio of 1.75 kilograms (3.86 pounds) per horsepower. With little resistance, the all-wheel drive system of the Sesto Elemento is estimated to launch from 0 to 62 miles per hour in a lightning fast 2.5 seconds. So fast in acceleration, this concept Lamborghini rushes 0.3 seconds faster than a Murcielago LP670-4 SuperVeloce despite running a 100 horsepower down on the brand’s flagship. Benefiting with better performance efficiency, the ultralight shell of the Sesto Elemento is also promoted as supplying better fuel economy and reduced CO2 emissions.

A typical two-seat interior configuration for Lamborghini, the Sesto Elemento charts itself as a purely-geared high-speed machine. Finding the interior entirely racer-like functional, this concept car is not featuring any new infotainment technology. Observed as additional weight, electronic conveniences have all been stricken from the design of what Lamborghini calls “the minimalist approach”. Three buttons for the ignition, lights and reverse gear selector are presented on the center console. Though minimalist, the driver and passenger will find comfort in the hi-tech fabric seats. For the driver holding the ergonomically-correct steering wheel of the Lamborghini Sesto Elemento, the few distractions inside will place devotion to the quick-passing scenery outside.

For where this concept fits into the upcoming planning of the Italian supercar builder, Automobili Lamborghini’s President and CEO Stephan Winkelmann comments “The Lamborghini Sesto Elemento shows how the future of the super sports car can look – extreme lightweight engineering, combined with extreme performance results in extreme driving fun.”

Information and photo source: Automobili Lamborghini

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In the past number of months, primed fans of the legendary British sports car brand Lotus were awaiting a special vehicle announcement at the upcoming Paris Motor Show. Circling speculation, many believed the French event would play host to the return of the storied Esprit nameplate. Previewing this car before an official September 29^th first showing in Paris, Lotus instead revived the Elite name, attaching it to their upcoming 600-plus horsepower sports car.

First look at the Lotus Elite, this car pales in comparison to any product ever before created by the British-based sports car manufacturer. Assembled as a grand tourer coupe more than a pure sports car, the goal of the Lotus Elite is the fuse both performance and comfort of a 2+2 coupe in a single shape. CEO of Group Lotus Dany Bahar gladly publicizes the heavily inclusive supercar design saying “One could say it’s a car of perfect contradictions, it’s compact yet spacious, high performing yet low emitting, lightweight yet still reassuringly solid”.

Without anywhere near the ground effects ducting and holes found many supercars (including Lotus’ own Exise and Evora) the Lotus Elite appears marvelously chiseled in a calming beauty befitting the Lotus flower for which the brand draws inspiration. The nose and nose air dam loosely reflecting the Formula 1 car the Lotus Racing team has been wheeling in their 2010 return to the world open wheel series. A flat appearing center section of the hood gives the Lotus Elite a butter-smooth grace. Once attention is diverted off the front, the Elite features sharp-edged side bodywork complimented with a single Corvette-like air escape before each cabin entry door. The roof teardrops slightly as the rear window airflow gently sails onto a small rear deck lid.

A front mid-engined layout funneling power into the rear wheels, this Elite is the first production Lotus since the 1992 Excel to position its engine ahead of the cabin. Also reintroducing V-8 power to Lotus, the Elite’s 5-liter engine can be offered either by itself or as part of a Elite hybrid version. Employing KERS (Kinetic Energy Recovery System), the Lotus Elite also uses what is explained as a fully hybrid transmission. By this definition, the transmission could resemble the gearboxes used in General Motors’ Two-Mode hybrid offerings. This gearbox would feature electric motors within a continuously variable transmission supplying power at low speeds or varying gear ratios at highway speeds. The collective momentum of the Lotus Elite’s gasoline combined with KERS equates to 612 horsepower and 531 pounds feet of torque.

Projected to weigh over 3,600 pounds, the anxious grand tourer’s launch from 0 to 100 kilometers per hour (62 miles per hour) is estimated in the range of 3.5 to 3.7 seconds. Top speed of this Lotus Elite is predicted to be just under 200 miles per hour. Totaling together, the Elite is quite a performer considering the fact up to 4 passengers can ride inside this vehicle.

Performance car buyers will have a long wait before the Lotus Elite can adorn the driveways or garages of worthy homes. Lotus’ first street-going examples of the Elite grand tourers will be realized in real life until early 2014. When the Lotus Elite will be ready for production, expect to have possession of more than $180,000 U.S. before walking into one of their American dealerships. Looking on the bright side, the more than 3 year time span before the Elite’s impending release offers some of us determined but financially-challenged sports car enthusiasts a carrot (or in this case a Lotus) for personal aspirations.

The Lotus brand has weathered a long period of near lifelessness going back almost as far as the passing of company founder Colin Chapman in 1982. Invigorated with new life, the promise of the Lotus Elite brings forth a future in bloom.

Information and photo source: Lotus Cars

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The new Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradale will be the fastest, lightest and most powerful car in the Maserati range.

Sounds promising, doesn’t it? The Maserati GranTurismo range was never really meant to be a car you can take to the track and expect any sort of decent times. But it’s a fantastic car all-around, and that 4.7-liter V8 engine is downright superb, so the possibilities extend far past its touring roots, for those who something a bit more exciting.

Inspired by the Trofeo GranTurismo MC and the GT4 motorsport models, the MC Stradale takes the GT’s already excellent V8 and bumps the output up to 450 horsepower while keeping the same fuel economy as before. Sadly, Maserati isn’t releasing many details about the new car, but gives a lot of generalities: “The GranTurismo MC Stradale produces more aerodynamic down force without producing more aerodynamic drag,” for example, doesn’t really tell us much about what’s been done to it aside from what we see in the pictures. There’s an obvious (and significant) weight savings, but what they stripped out to get it? No idea, although I’m confident a decent amount of carbon fiber is being used to help with that diet. Maserati is also saying the car will break the 300km/h (186 mph) barrier – something fairly standard when we’re talking about Lamborghini and Ferrari, but a nice jump in speed when a grand touring car holds the number.

The Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradale will be officially unveiled at the 2010 Paris Motor Show. Expect more coverage on this car after that. Until then, check out a few images of the car below:

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As if the Porsche 911 needed another variant, Porsche just unveiled a new special edition of the insanely popular sports car – the 911 Speedster. And in paying homage to the ol’ 1956 356 Speedster, they’re only selling 356 of them.

To give Porsche credit, the 911 Speedster is quite different than the other 911s, which just kind of…blend together. The new one is 60 mm (almost 2.4 inches) lower to the ground, 44 mm (1.7 inches) wider, and and features a more raked windshield for better aerodynamics and a more aggressive stance. The 911 Speedster also features their 3.8-liter flat-six, which along with the new Carrera GTS, produces an impressive 408 horsepower – 23 more than the current 911 Carrera S. All that power gets transferred to the rear wheels through the seven-speed Porsche Doppelkuplingwillywonkahankenschnitzel (PDK) transmission.

So…does it fit the Porsche profile so far? Ugly as sin…check. Runs like a bat out of hell…check. Alright, keep on reading.

As you may suspect from any modern German car maker, the 911 Speedster is loaded with all the latest technology. Active Suspension System, Ceramic Composite Brakes, and an enhanced rollover protection system for the soft-top. It even includes as standard, most of the stuff you’ll have to choose as an option on any other 911. The interior is covered black leather with special “checkered flag” patterns and body-colored bolsters.

And speaking of body color, a new “Pure Blue” was created just for this car. Looks slightly different than the blues current available, so I suppose calling it a special color is OK. In addition to the new color, Porsche tinted the car’s front lights, gave it black rings around the headlights and windshield, and other black accents here and there to set it apart. They say you can get it in Carrera White too, but I’d say blue is your best bet on this one.

Porsche is going to show off the new car at the 2010 Paris Motor Show coming up, and they haven’t released any pricing quite yet. Given it’s a special edition Porsche with only 356 made, I’d say it’s worth the investment if you have the cash.

Check out more images and a video of the 911 Speedster below:

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As the 2010 Paris Motor Show nears its October 2nd opening, it seems automakers worldwide are bringing out their ‘A’ game to impress in this fashion-cautious city. Adding to the widespread schedule of world premieres, BMW has announced the unveiling of the Concept 6 Series Coupe.

The first larger scale conventional coupe BMW built since the 8-Series discontinuation in 1999, the BMW 6 Series attracted personal luxury car buyers in North America even with an over $75,000 price tag. However, since the 2006 introduction in the United States, the 6 Series image has grown stale in comparison to recently entered or updated premium coupes from other automakers. While slated as a concept car, this newest two-door coupe design is likely to be a faithful representation of the upcoming BMW 6 Series production car.

BMW will likely not be shy to admit the BMW Concept Gran Coupe is playing a leading role in carving the Concept 6 Series Coupe appearance. Featuring the fully LED headlamps on the front sandwiching the BMW kidney grille, the rear end lighting is composed in the same unique fashion first shown on the Gran Coupe. Even the pronounced lines are identical to the four-door coupe concept. Rumours within the automotive industry had long indicated a strong correlation between the next generation 6 Series and the soon to be produced Gran Coupe-inspired vehicle was expected.

The 2+2 sized interior design is kept relatively clean despite of fact considerable technology immerses the dashboard and center console. Multiple colouring of the Concept 6 Series cabin includes center console contours acting to circumference in the driver’s cockpit. Positioned on the top center of the BMW Concept 6 Series dash, a freestanding Control Display provides easy visibility of applications within the vehicle’s iDrive system.

Like the Gran Coupe concept shown earlier this year, BMW is maintaining a tight lip on engine choices of an upcoming 2+2 coupe with the BMW Concept 6 Series Coupe offering no further hints. While an eight-cylinder engine is a safe bet for the North American market, a future BMW 6 Series might include a stoutly-powered six-cylinder option for the United States (an engine previously reserved only for the European markets).

As the new BMW 6 Series is released, fans of the Bavarian car company will be eagerly awaiting the next-generation M6 model. For 2011, the V-10 powered BMW M6 model has been suspended acting to help fuel the anxiety European high-performance fans will feel as a new M6 is expected for the 2012 model year. Power expectations for a 2012 BMW M6 has been mentioned at 600 horsepower.

Also showing off the all-new BMW X3 and the world premiere of the 2011 M Sport Package on the 5 Series, the German company’s exhibit in Paris will also include an enhanced BMW ConnectedDrive. 

Information and photo source: BMW

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Content in the 1950s for asking buyers “See the USA in your Chevrolet” highlighted popularly through their jingle of the era, corporate attitudes focusing on new and developing world regions has prompted a more global outlook for the bow-tie brand. While Chevrolet has dabbled into Central and South America auto markets for several decades, the marketing of the American car brand overseas heated up in 2003 through the rebadging of Daewoo products in Asian territories. Six years ago, Chevrolet entered the European market as it expands itself as a global player. Maybe this should not be a shock that the Chevrolet brand desires greater recognition in Europe. After-all, the popular American car brand was founded by a Frenchman Louis Chevrolet in cooperation with GM founder William Durant.

Vying to be recognized as an international presence, Chevrolet realizes that the wants and needs of drivers in Europe countries is not simpatico with motorists in their grass root United States market. At the upcoming 2010 Paris Motor Show, three of the four new cars taking center stage in the Chevrolet exhibit are not even listed for sale in the United States.

 The first of these cars is the Chevrolet Orlando which was previously mentioned on automoblog.net as a non-United States release. A nifty-designed compact crossover vehicle boasting a potential three rows of seating, the Orlando was believed to be joining it’s platform-mate, the Chevrolet Cruze, before reports back in May kiboshed those plans. Though no specific reason was given for not adding the Orlando, Chevrolet is thought to be fostering concerns that stabilizing gas prices might negatively impact the small vehicle’s sales. Orlando non-inclusion within the United States market is made more interesting when the compact crossover will be released for the Canadian market.

 As one of two all-new production cars being unveiled in Paris is the Captiva. Featuring exterior styling which appears to mix the Chevrolet Equinox with the BMW X3, the Chevrolet Captiva wears notably a distinctive front end and unique roof. Adopted from a smaller wheelbase version of GM’s recent Theta platform, the Captiva is little more than a shrunken Equinox. Excluding the turbocharged-diesel engine choices, the Chevrolet Captiva gasoline powerplants are the same 2.4 liter I-4 and 3 liter V-6 found on the U.S. crossover vehicle.

 The final non-American release from Chevrolet premiering later this month is a five-door version of the Chevrolet Cruze. A sharp-looking execution of the new compact car, the Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback is created for the hatchback-happy European markets. According to the president and managing director of General Motors Europe Wayne Brannon, the hatchbacks account for 65% of the compact cars sold throughout Europe. As for why United States motorists will not find the Cruze Hatchback, GM may still be fearing the sigma this vehicle design had induced on American consumers. However, recent product releases from other automakers have shown that North American sentiment has warmed once again to hatchbacks.

Wishing that United States automotive enthusiasts will forget Paris, Chevrolet are now just starting to understand the small car market as evident in Europe. Having kept some of their more worthy accomplishments away from most of North America, will the new Cruze and upcoming Aveo be enough to communicate their commitment to compact.

Information and photo source: General Motors

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Riding on the same basic platform for the 12 calendar years in North America, the eagerly-awaited arrival of the global Ford Focus early next year. Touted for providing an upgrade to the econobox we currently associate with the Ford Focus, the next-generation car is showing at the 2010 Paris Motor Show that the 2012 model year compact doesn’t want to risk absorbing a fuddy-duddy image. The racy five-door Ford Focus ST pre-production car expressively states at least one effort that will allow this future commuter vehicle to be seen in a passionate light.

With Ford being no stranger to creating excitement in the automotive world with advanced powertrain and electronic conveniences, the soon to be new Ford Focus flagship ST version affirms the company’s fun-filled aspirations. Featuring a full array of aerodynamic add-ons to the already-termed kinetic design of the five-door hatchback, a lower front end, side skirts and a roof spoiler provide a ground-hugging look. A low-profile wheel and tire combination completes the sportier Focus’ exterior metamorphosis. Coated with a radiant orange colour, characterized as ‘Targerine Scream’, the Focus ST exterior is well-suited for an honourable appearance at any Hot Import Nights show.

Formulated on a Focus platform 25% stronger than the current North American sold vehicle, the mechanical foundation for this Ford pocket rocket is solid. Thanks to Ford’s EcoBoost technology, the Focus ST’s 2-liter engine musters up an impressive 250 horsepower. Lively power production moves through direct injection and a turbocharger to ultimately generate 95 horsepower more than the non-EcoBoost 2-liter powerplant to be offered on base 2012 Ford Focus models.

As the pre-production prototype premieres at the Paris Motor Show at the end of September, there is yet any firm details of the transmission specifications. Utilizing dual-clutch technology, the Ford PowerShift 6-speed automatic transmission seems like a best choice for all worlds with efficient gear shifts.

The Ford Focus ST’s interior presents the driver and even passengers with a rewarding sight. Initiated by two-tone colour bucket seats, an exciting center console includes entertainment and information technology like Ford’s SYNC system. It’s fair to assume as a the Focus ST is derived from the five-door hatchback that little to no cabin space will be lost in comparison to the base Ford Focus.

Ford new releases have not specifically mentioned the Focus ST for sale within the North American marketplace. However, the fact this Ford Focus ST edition was developed under the Ford’s Global Product Development strategy all but guarantees this top-performing Focus will be on United States roadways during the Focus ST’s release in 2012.

As the Ford Focus ST is being addressed as the compact car’s flagship model, we have yet to see any indications that Ford is pursuing a RS version of the new Focus.

Information and photo source: Ford Motor Company

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