Hot off the heels of the leaked photos and details, Mercedes-Benz has officially revealed the two performance versions of the new 2011 CL Class.

The 2011 CL63 AMG and CL65 AMG both feature a more aggressive take on the new CL design, adding a new body kit, as well as the trademark AMG wheels. While the exterior is much more sports-oriented, the interior of the powerful CL models is pure luxury, boasting an impressive two-tone finish.

Most importantly with these new models are the changes made to the engines. As we suspected, the CL63 AMG swaps out its old naturally aspirated 6.2-liter V8 with a brand new twin-turbo 5.5-liter V8. The decrease in displacement is more than made up for by the increase in power, with the new unit developing 536 HP and 590 lb-ft of torque in standard form, and 563 HP and 664 lb-ft, when equipped with the AMG Performance Package. This means a 0 to 62 time of 4.4 seconds (4.3 when upgraded).

The CL65 AMG keeps the massive 6.0-liter twin-turbo V12, but also features an upgraded output of 621 HP and 738 lb-ft of torque. 0 to 62 in achieved in an even faster 4.2 seconds.

As with the regular 2011 CL Class, Mercedes-Benz has equipped the new performance models with every high tech safety feature it currently develops, in order to make sure that the driver is always protected and informed about his powerful coupe.

Expect both the 2011 CL63 and CL65 AMG models to be made available later this year.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

Post published on Rpmgo.com

2011 Mercedes-Benz CL63 AMG and CL65 AMG officially revealed

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG super sedan refresh has been revealed, boasting even more power than the 2010 model, and an improved interior.

Even though the outgoing model had more than enough power to go around, thanks to its 6.2-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine, for the 2011 model year, Mercedes-Benz and AMG engineers managed to squeeze out 11 more HP. This takes the total output to 525 HP, with 464 lb-ft of torque.

All this power is sent through the MCT SpeedShift seven-speed gearbox, allowing a 0 to 62 mph time of 4.5 seconds and a limited top speed of 155 mph. Power isn’t the only thing increased for the 2011 E63, as the new performance sedan is 12% more efficient than the outgoing edition.

While the exterior is largely unchanged, the interior of the super sedan has been restyled, and new options are now available. Artico leather now decorates the doors and dashboard, while the center console is treated to a piano black finish.

Expect the 2011 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG to appear later this year on the market.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

Post published on Rpmgo.com

2011 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG gets increased power, better interior

Audi of America has revealed new details about the next performance models that will be launched on the US shores.

The German company finally decided to put a launch date on the new Audi RS5 three-door coupe, which will be hitting the American market in 2012. Although a bit later than expected, we’re pretty sure fans will line up to get a taste of the car’s 4.2-liter V8, capable of a whopping 450 HP.

Until 2012 though, four-ring fans will have their hands busy, as the company has also detailed and priced the Audi R8 Spyder V10. The open-top supercar will be hitting dealerships in the following months, with a price starting at $161,000, without the $1,250 destination charge.

If you want to ride around like Iron Man’s Tony Stark, you’re going to have to shell out either the aforementioned $161,000, for the six-speed manual, or $170,000 for the R-tronic transmission. Both models still develop 525 HP from that massive 5.2-liter V10 engine.

So there you have it US customers, Audi still wants to satisfy your need for performance, but it won’t do it cheaply.

Source: Audi

Post published on Rpmgo.com

Audi RS5 gets 2012 US launch date, R8 Spyder priced at $161,000

After hearing last week about a hotter version of the future 2012 Ford Focus, the ST that will reportedly appear at the Paris Motor Show, new rumors have been revealed about the future Ford Focus RS hot hatch.

According to Autocar, the Blue Oval’s global performance division is looking into several technologies to power the next generation Focus RS.

Among them, it seems that the team will combine an upgraded version of the new EcoBoost 2.0-liter turbocharged and direct injected inline-four cylinder engine, located on and powering the front wheels, with an electric motor, sitting in the back and powering the rear wheels.

This setup would allow for a better handling, as the increased amount of power won’t be fed just to the front wheels, like in the current Focus RS. Also, depending on the capacity of the motor and the size of the batteries powering it, short burst of all-electric drive may be possible.

If the plan goes through, the next generation Ford Focus RS would definitely one-up the existing hot hatch, and will attract both the regular European customers, but also American fans that want both performance and increased efficiency.

Source: Autocar

Post published on Rpmgo.com

Next Ford Focus RS to combine EcoBoost with electric motor in an all-wheel drive system

Barely a few weeks have passed since the 2011 Volkswagen Jetta was revealed and the German company has already decided to showcase the customization potential its next generation sedan has.

As you can see above, the photo was taken by the guys from the VWvortex forum, and depicts a slightly customized 2011 Jetta at the Waterfest gathering.

A revised aerodynamic body kit was added, complete with a more aggressive front fascia, side skirts and a rear bumper. Tinted out windows, a dark decklid spoiler and a set of black wheels are in sharp contrast with the white paint job of the car.

No details were given, but you can expect almost all of these accessories to appear in the Volkswagen catalog as soon as the 2011 Jetta goes on sale this fall. For a price, you too will be able to get an extra bit of customization into the German sedan.

Source: VWVortex via Autoblog

Post published on Rpmgo.com

2011 Volkswagen Jetta gets customization treatment

It seems that more and more automakers are keen on reviving long forgotten models that still have a loyal fan base. After the rumors about a new Mazda RX-7 or the spiritual successor to the Celica, the Toyota FT-86, and seeing actual revivals like the Volkswagen Scirocco, Nissan is speculated to follow this trend.

According to the blokes from Autocar, Nissan is keen on reviving the 200SX coupe model, in order to rival all of the new three-door cars that are currently taking over entry-level market segments.

The new 200SX will boast a rear-wheel drive configuration, and will slot in below the current 370Z sportscar. No other details are known as of yet, not even what platform it will use, but we’re pretty sure Nissan will think long and hard before it will slap on the 200SX badge on a new car.

For those that don’t remember, the old model was in production for a long time, under quite a few names, including the iconic Silvia. It quickly gained a cult following, especially with drifting enthusiasts for its balanced rear-wheel drive platform.

Source: Autocar

Post published on Rpmgo.com

Nissan planning 200SX revival to compete with other fast coupes

A few weeks ago, the 2011 Volkswagen Jetta sedan was revealed, boasting an upgraded design, increased size, an all-new platform and the promise to take on other mid-size models on the tough US market.

Now, as a blow to those who want a bit more practicality, Volkswagen has revealed that the 2011 Jetta SportWagen version won’t use the new platform. Instead, it will continue to sport the Golf mk V underpinnings, meaning it will keep its exterior dimensions largely the same.

Volkswagen admitted that it will make some interior changes, as well as bring in a few styling cues from the 2011 Jetta sedan. Except that though, don’t expect any other changes in terms of engines or other such things.

The Jetta SportWagen will continue to be made in Germany, while the 2011 Jetta sedan will be brought in from VW’s Mexico plant.

Source: TheCarConnection

Post published on Rpmgo.com

2011 Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen won’t use 2011 Jetta sedan platform

It seems that two of Subaru‘s best selling models, the Outback and Legacy, are plagued with problems, at least the 2010 model year vehicles.

After being recalled for a leaky CVT gearbox hose and for a wiring issue on the dashboard, a more serious problem has been revealed by the NHTSA.

According to the federal body, specific 2010 and 2011 Subaru Outback and Legacy models have a mechanical flaw in the gearbox. It seems that the oil lubrication hole is not present, meaning that the gearbox isn’t properly lubricated. This eventually leads to the gears being smashed together, which can lead to a crash.

Around 800 models are affected, and Subaru has already let its dealer network know about the fixes for this problem. Sales have also been stopped, so that all models can be checked out.

Source: NHTSA via Autoblog

Post published on Rpmgo.com

Another recall and stop sale issued for 2010 Subaru Outback and Legacy models

It’s been an extra long time coming, but the Blue Oval finally decided to pull the curtain off its newest model: the 2011 Ford Explorer.

As you can see above and below, the new SUV is thoroughly overhauled, borrowing cues from the new Taurus, as well as the Flex or the Fusion. According to Ford, the next generation Explorer will offer “best-in-class fuel economy, improved driving dynamics and terrain management system – all wrapped in a modern, weight-saving design.”

In terms of engines, the new Explorer will be offered with a 3.5-liter V6 option, expected to output 290 HP with 255 lb-ft of torque, and be 20% more efficient. The new SUV can also be equipped with a 2.0-liter EcoBoost turbocharged inline-four cylinder unit, capable of 237 HP and 250 lb-ft of torque, while at the same time being 30% more efficient than the outgoing V6. These two engines will be mated with a six-speed automatic gearbox, which feeds power to all four wheels.

Safety plays an important role for the new Explorer, as it boasts a more rigid unibody structure, as well as an array of safety features, including the innovative inflatable seat belts Ford premiered at the beginning of the year. Stability systems like the Curve Control we saw a few weeks ago, as well as a terrain management system are also included.

The next generation SUV will come in three trim lines, Base, XLT and Limited, each boasting various equipment. Among them we have the SYNC infotainment system, with the Limited getting the new MyFord Touch iteration.

The 2011 Ford Explorer SUV will be premiered in the following week all over the USA, with production set to start later this year. Expect it to hit dealerships before the end of winter. Until then, hit the jump to check out the high res photo gallery.

Source: Ford

Post published on Rpmgo.com

2011 Ford Explorer finally revealed in first official photos