Variance

Teaser: Infiniti Crossover Concept Infiniti recently released this brushstroke image which reprents represents the outline of the new Infiniti crossover concept that will lead to a production vehicle to be sold later in the year. The only confirmed piece of info is that it will be based on Infiniti's FM platform and hence will be RWD. It's almost a given that it will be powerwed by the VQ but what other engine(s) it will use (if any) is anyone's guess.

There are two more parts to the series. I added them to the first post.

Dude, it was pretty crystal clear that he was referring to the manufacturing origins of the specific vehicles not the entire corporations.

Spied: BMW Z9 BMW is testing new prototypes for a new convertible. Whether this is the new Z4 or the more upscale Z9 is a matter of intense conjecture at this point. We originally thought Z4, but closer inspection suggests that this could be BMW’s SL-fighter–the Z9. This prototype is clearly larger than today’s Z4, but that also supports earlier reports that the next-gen Z4 would be growing up a bit to make room for an entry-level Z2 roadster. The most noteworthy details on this prototype are the side windows–a glass-to-glass pillarless design reminiscent of the BMW 8-series and the Mercedes CL. Is that enough of a clue to prove this is the Z9? Quite possibly, especially when taking into account the slim, sleek convertible roof that appears to be a fake canvas top glued to a retractable hard roof that’s hidden beneath. Consider that the Z9 is aimed squarely at the tin-topped SL, and is reportedly similarly equipped, and the clues further point to this as the Z9. The Z9 program looks right on target to hit the market in 2010, as a front-engined, retractable hard-topped, high-performance alternative to Mercedes’ SL. Winding Road

Spied: 2008 Honda Jazz (Fit) Mule When an Auto Express reader spotted this Honda in a motorway ser­vice station, it stood out because of its scrappy taped-up wheelarches. On closer inspection, it was clear this was no ordinary Jazz, but a mule being used to test parts for the firm's next-generation supermini. After the success of the new UK designed and developed Civic, Honda's British arm is now playing a major role in the Jazz project. But the big news is that the car will be offered with a diesel engine for the first time. This spyshot shows how the five-door will be bigger all-round than at present. Sources in Japan have revealed that the fresh model will use the same basic chassis as its predecessor, retaining the groundbreaking central fuel tank. Auto Express

That's a good one.

GM May Gain Proton Power General Motors Corp. may bid for a stake in Proton, Malaysia's biggest automaker, which is seeking a strategic partner to help reverse its dwindling fortune, a report said Wednesday. Since late November, GM officials had met several times with the management and shareholders of the Malaysian carmaker and may make an offer as early as this month, the Business Times quoted an unnamed industry executive as saying. U.S.-based GM, the world's largest automaker, has proposed to take up a small stake at Proton's holding company as well as acquire a stake in Proton's manufacturing arm, the executive told the daily. GM's proposal includes helping Proton build a car for the American market in five years, he said. Business Week

GM aim: Show its softer side Global restructuring, cost cutting and a revamped product line are the forces driving General Motors Corp.'s turnaround bid. But another less tangible factor has grabbed the attention of the world's largest automaker: likability. Long viewed as stodgy and ultra-corporate, GM is making a concerted effort to show a more human and personal side of the world's largest automaker. "There's a feeling that GM is the big, insensitive colossus that needs to be kicked regularly," said Bob Lutz, GM's vice chairman for product development. Lutz, a former top Chrysler executive, said one factor that helped that automaker's comeback in the 1980s was its image as a scrappy underdog that Americans rallied behind. "The perceptual problem remains our greatest hurdle," he said of GM. With that in mind, GM used the stage of the North American International Auto Show to try to make the company more human and bring out some personality in its executives and remind people that it's a company made up of real people who care about cars and customers. The Detroit News

May as well post this here: The Detroit News: GM says Toyota has more clout in D.C.

[source: Nissan North America]

Nissan Announces Pricing on Revised 2007 350Z [Jan. 9, 07] NASHVILLE (Jan. 9, 2007) – Nissan North America, Inc. today announced the availability and pricing of the revised 2007 Nissan 350Z and Nissan 350Z Roadster. Both feature a number of enhancements – highlighted by a new, more powerful, next-generation 3.5-liter V6 engine and a new front end appearance. In addition, 350Z Coupe Touring and Grand Touring models receive standard Bluetooth Hands-Free Phone System with steering wheel-mounted controls. The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2007 Nissan 350Z increases only $250 from 2006 on all models except the 350Z Roadster Enthusiast model, which increases $500 and includes front seat-mounted side-impact supplemental air bags that are now standard on all Z Roadsters. The 2007 350Z went on sale at Nissan dealers nationwide on January 5, 2007. “The Nissan Z has built a tradition of exciting performance and outstanding value for 37 years now,” said Bill Bosley, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division. “This newest iteration, with its more powerful VQ-series V6, epitomizes the innovation and continuous improvement that has defined the Z’s success since its introduction in 1970.” The new engine, which features nearly 80% redesigned major parts (except bolt, O-rings and clips), is rated at 306 horsepower* and 268 lb-ft of torque with both the close-ratio 6-speed manual and 5-speed automatic transmissions. The engine is part of Nissan’s VQ-series that has been on Ward’s “10 Best Engines” list for 13 consecutive years. The Z’s hood has been redesigned to accommodate the new dual intake system and to reflect the 2007 models’ more aggressive and sporty personality. Other refinements for 2007 include three new exterior colors – Solar Orange, San Marino Blue and Carbon Silver – and Roadster models receive a new optional gray convertible top (replaces the previous blue convertible top; a black top remains as standard). All 350Zs continue to offer standard Nissan Advance Air Bag System with dual-stage front supplemental air bags, Zone Body construction with front and rear crushable zones and Active Head Restraints (except with Burnt Orange net seats). The Z has also earned NHTSA’s 5-star rating for side-impact crash test safety**. Pricing and Model Availability For 2007, the Nissan 350Z Coupe is available in four models – 350Z 6MT, 350Z Enthusiast, 350Z Touring and 350Z Grand Touring. Starting MSRP for the 350Z Coupe with a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission is $27,900. The Enthusiast Coupe adds cruise control, Traction Control System (TCS), Viscous Limited Slip Differential (VLSD), aluminum pedals and more, and is available in a 6-speed manual configuration starting at $29,600 or in a 5-speed automatic configuration starting at $30,600. The 2007 Nissan 350Z Coupe Touring model is available with a 6-speed manual starting at $32,700 and with a 5-speed automatic configuration starting at $33,200. Touring models add a 7-speaker Boseâ audio system, heated power leather seats and, with manual transmission, standard Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC). Nissan 350Z Coupe Grand Touring models start at $36,100 for the 6-speed manual configuration and $37,100 for the 5-speed automatic configuration, and add super-lightweight forged-alloy wheels, front and rear spoilers, Brembo brakes and VDC for both the manual and automatic transmissions. For 2007, the 350Z Roadster is offered in three models – Enthusiast, Touring and Grand Touring. The 2007 Nissan 350Z Roadster Enthusiast with a 6-speed manual configuration starts at $35,550, while the 5-speed automatic configuration starts at $36,550. Both feature power seats, a glass rear window with rear defroster and a rear wind deflector. The 350Z Roadster Touring trim adds a 7-speaker Boseâ audio system and heated leather seats and starts at $37,900 for the 6-speed manual configuration and $38,900 for the 5-speed automatic configuration. The 350Z Roadster Grand Touring model adds Brembo brakes and standard VDC for both the 6-speed manual configuration, which starts at $40,250, and the 5-speed automatic configuration, which starts at $41,250. “The enhancements to the legendary Z for 2007 are a case of taking a great car and great value and upping the standard considerably,” said Bosley. “Its new engine makes a dramatic difference, while the new hood adds a fresh appearance while keeping all the ‘Z-ness” that legions of dedicated Z buyers have come to love.”

In Depth: 2007 Nissan 350Z The 2007 Nissan 350Z, scheduled to go on sale in January 2007, offers a number of enhancements for the new model year, including the next generation of its award-winning VQ-series 3.5-liter V6 engine with 306 horsepower and 268 lb-ft of torque. Also added are three new exterior colors – Carbon Silver, San Marino Blue and Solar Orange. A Bluetooth® Hands-Free Phone System has been added to the Touring and Grand Touring Coupe models, and a gray Roadster soft top replaces the previous blue top (in addition to the available black soft top). For 2007, the 350Z is available in Coupe and Roadster body styles and in an array of models – four for the Coupe and three for the Roadster. Each provides sports car lovers high performance excitement and dynamic driving experience, with a style all its own. The 350Z Coupe and 350Z Roadster share a proud performance heritage, including a state-of-the-art platform, engine, suspension and braking systems. The heart and soul of the Nissan Z®, since the original 1970 model, is its engine. Every 350Z offers a new VQ35HR 3.5-liter V6 engine, which for 2007 produces 306 horsepower @ 6,800 RPM and 268 lb-ft of torque @ 4,800 RPM, with more than 90% of torque available between 2,000 and 7,000 RPM. The fourth-generation VQ-series V6, which has been named one of the "Ten Best Engines" by Ward’s Auto World magazine for 14 consecutive years, has been significantly revised for use in the 2007 350Z, with approximately 80% of major parts (except bolts, O-rings and clips) redesigned. The block features ladder frame construction for greater rigidity, crank journal and pin diameters have been increased and the block height has been increased by 8.4 millimeters to reduce piston side force. Also, the engine center has been lowered 15 millimeters. Other engine enhancements include variable exhaust cam timing (eCVTCS), a higher rev limit (increased to 7,500 rpm) and higher compression ratio (from 10.3:1 to 10.6:1), asymmetric piston skirts, twin knock sensors, improved coolant flow and new Iridium-tipped spark plugs. A new symmetric twin ram air intake system helps reduce airflow resistance and increases horsepower, by up to three horsepower, as more air enters the intake at speed. Along with a powerful engine, the Z® produces a powerful sports car sound to match – one without the low frequency booming or rumbling or high-pitched mechanical sounds that can grow tiresome on long trips. "With the new VQ35HR engine, we’re able to offer the true sports car enthusiast more power, a better sound, and an improved overall driving experience," said Bill Bosley, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division. "At the same time, we’ve kept the beautiful balance of the Z® in terms of unique style, comfort and value." Both a 6-speed close-ratio manual and a 5-speed automatic transmission are available. The manual transmission features close-ratio gearing from 1st to 5th speed ranges for high-performance driving and an overdrive 6th speed for long-legged highway fuel economy and reduced engine noise. The advanced automatic transmission design includes Downshift Rev Matching (DRM), which provides smooth downshifting by automatically blipping the throttle. The Z®’s FM (Front Mid-Ship) platform positions the engine behind the front axle, providing an optimized front-to-rear weight balance of 53/47. The FM platform, derived from racing technology, also places a strong emphasis on aerodynamics, especially on the control of airflow under the body. The Z®’s standard rack-and-pinion steering system features a vehicle speed-sensitive power assist, which provides comfortable steering effort at both low and high speeds. The system’s two orifice sets (compared with one set for traditional power steering systems) work together to generate the appropriate level of steering effort for nearly every driving condition. The orifice sets are controlled by a solenoid valve and electrical control units. The Z®’s suspension is a 4-wheel independent multilink design with extensive use of lightweight aluminum components and standard front and rear stabilizer bars. The 2007 350Z offers a power-assisted 4-wheel disc Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist. (BA) Brembo brakes, featuring four-piston front caliper pistons and two-piston rear calipers, larger brake pads and larger rotors are standard on the Coupe and Roadster Grand Touring models for even more superb stopping power. Traction Control System (TCS) and available Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) work in conjunction with the Z’s braking system. TCS uses the ABS wheel speed sensors to detect if the rear wheels are accelerating faster than the front wheels. If so, torque is reduced to the drive wheels by altering the fuel injector pulse and controlling the Electronic Throttle Control motor. Working hand-in-hand with the ABS and the TCS, VDC can reduce engine torque or apply individual brakes as necessary to help stabilize the car under severe cornering situations or adverse weather conditions. The Z® features standard 18-inch cast aluminum-alloy wheels, mounted with 225/45WR18 (front), 245/45WR18 (rear) Bridgestone® Potenza RE050A tires. RAYS super lightweight 5-spoke forged-alloy wheels, 18x9-inch front and 19x10-inch rear, are standard on 350Z Grand Touring models. The wheels are mounted with 245/40WR18 (front), 265/35WR19 (rear) Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tires. All 2007 Z®s also feature a standard Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS). 2007 350Z Coupe The 350Z Coupe takes its cues from the original 1970 Datsun 240Z – a front engine/rear-wheel drive configuration, two-seat interior, a powerful 6-cylinder engine and, like the original, features a true hatchback body. Design cues passed on from the first-generation Z® include the long nose and short deck styling, triangular cabin form and the lines extending from the arch-shaped roof to the hatchback opening. The front end’s sleek, aggressive design includes High Intensity Discharge (HID) bi-xenon (high and low beam xenon) headlights. As always, the Z® continues to offer a long wheelbase (104.3 inches), short overhangs, wide stance and a raised rear deck for enhanced aerodynamics. The coupe models’ coefficient of drag is 0.30 for the Base, Enthusiast and Touring models and 0.29 for the Grand Touring model – which include front and rear spoilers. The Roadster’s coefficient of drag is 0.34. The Z®’s strong, spine-like beltline is anchored with large, distinctive LED taillights for better visibility and quicker lighting times than conventional lights. Other standard Z® body elements include an aluminum hood, distinctive vertical door handles and heated outside mirrors. Along with the three new exterior colors for 2007 (Carbon Silver, San Marino Blue and Solar Orange), the Z® is available in Magnetic Black, Redline, Daytona Blue, Pikes Peak White and Silver Alloy. In 2006, the Z® Coupe interior received new cloth seat material, new meter styling, redesigned door panel styling, revised HVAC controls, new storage space including the addition of a cupholder on each door panel, a new storage net on the passenger side footwell and the addition of steering wheel switch lighting (except base model) – enhancements that continue for 2007. Other amenities include steering wheel audio controls (except base model), mp3-CD capability for the available Bose® audio system and available satellite radio with body-color antenna on Coupe models. Also available for 2007 is the Z®’s Nissan Navigation System, which offers intelligent search capabilities and split screen capability (allows viewing of map and intersection simultaneously). The Z®’s classic 3-bay gauge pod is similar to original 240Z design, while the specially shaped driver’s seat (different from passenger design) holds the body firmly in place during enthusiastic driving. The Z® Base and Enthusiast Coupes feature an 8-way manual driver’s seat/4-way manual passenger’s seat and black woven "carbon" seat cloth. Touring and Grand Touring Coupes and Roadsters come standard with 8-way power driver/4-way power passenger leather-appointed seats in a choice of three colors (Frost, Charcoal and Burnt Orange). The long list of standard equipment includes automatic temperature control, a lockable rear luggage box behind the passenger seat, center console with solid aluminum look, power windows with auto one-touch up and down, power door locks, aluminum pedals (except Base model) and HomeLink® Universal Transceiver (except base model). The Z® Coupe is available with a Bose® audio system with 6-disc CD changer and 7 speakers, heated seats and illuminated steering wheel audio controls. Another interior feature on the Z® Coupe is an integrated aluminum rear suspension strut tower brace. The functional brace is finished to match the rest of the rear compartment and carries a Z® logo, which is visible from outside the vehicle. In addition, the use of aluminum for the instrument finishers, door handles and other places enhances the high-quality look of the interior. 2007 350Z Roadster The 350Z Roadster was first introduced as a 2004 model and continues to be a great open-air sports car for top-down driving enthusiasts. The Z® Roadster features a power-operated soft top with glass rear window, which transforms from top-up to top-down in about 20 seconds. The 2007 350Z Roadster is offered in three models: Enthusiast, Touring and Grand Touring. The Grand Touring model, which comes equipped with Brembo brakes and Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) is available with either 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmissions. The Z® Roadster’s fully automatic soft top features a heated glass rear window, which helps provide clearer visibility in adverse weather conditions. And, unlike other convertibles in its class, the top stows compactly under a lightweight, powered tonneau cover, completely hiding the top when down. The three-lock, single latch system was created to give a more secure seal, while also making the opening and closing process easier. Activating the top is a simple process. To open, place the transmission in Park or Neutral (manual transmissions), release the latch (located directly above the middle windshield area), push the brake pedal and hold the button (located to the left of the steering column) and the top opens. Closing the top is also quick and convenient. Structural reinforcements were incorporated to strengthen the Z® Roadster unibody (versus the Z® Coupe), including a center floor V-shaped cross bar connecting the side sills and a front A-shaped cross bar reinforcing the front end. Additional reinforcement was added at the door openings and a triple-member was added to the seating area connecting the sides to the floor structure to provide enhanced rigidity. Also during the design phase of the Z® Roadster, engineers devoted countless hours conducting wind tunnel tests. These tests allowed the engineers to adjust the Roadster’s design to route air flow to help minimize interior noise and turbulence while maximizing downforce at highway speeds. A key component to reducing interior noise is a tempered glass wind deflector located between the seats, which directs wind out and over the cabin. Seatbelt fasteners were also added to help keep seatbelts from flapping in the wind. As a result, the Z® Roadster is among the leading competitors for low interior noise with the top down. Like the Z® Coupe, the Z® Roadster’s instrument panel features three gauge pods consisting of the drive computer, oil pressure gauge and voltmeter, as well as modern touches such as the enhanced, optional navigation system with 7.0-inch display. The driver’s seat of the Z® Roadster is tailored for performance. The base cushion is firm and long for additional support, while bolster cutouts under the thighs optimize pedal operation. The seatback is sculpted with large "wings," designed to help secure the driver during acceleration. The upper side bolster is sculpted in the middle for easy shifting and steering, while the lower side bolster is designed wider and deeper to keep the driver squarely behind the wheel. Also offered on the Z® Roadster are Burnt Orange ventilated leather-trimmed net seats (Touring and Grand Touring only). The net-style seats are made with a woven seat cloth center insert and feature an opening in the seatback so that the driver can feel a wind flow during top-down driving. A built-in seat heater is also available. A lockable luggage box capable of storing a briefcase is standard. There is also sufficient luggage space in the trunk even though the top is stored in the trunk area when down. The trunk has up to 4.1 cubic feet of useable room for storage. Safety Features The 2007 Nissan Z® utilizes Nissan’s "Zone Body" construction, providing front and rear "crushable" zones and a secure center occupant zone. The Z®’s body structure has been designed to create a high degree of structural and torsional rigidity. Key features include a double-panel floor, a double front bulkhead and large-section doorsills. In addition, roof rails and side panels are laser-welded for a strong, accurate fit. The rear strut tower brace is bolted and welded in place, allowing use of the hatchback body design without sacrificing rear body rigidity. Also, the Z® features standard dual-stage supplemental front air bags with seat belt sensors, and seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters. Supplemental front seat side-impact side air bags (standard on Roadster) and side-impact curtain air bags are optionally available on Coupe to further enhance side-impact protection (side-impact curtain air bags are not available on the Z® Roadster due to the lack of a fixed hardtop). Models and Options The 2007 350Z Coupe is available in four models – 350Z, Enthusiast, Touring and the Grand Touring. Standard features on all models include the 3.5-liter DOHC V6 engine, independent multi-link suspension with front and rear stabilizer bars, strut tower bar, power windows, 3-bay gauge cluster, bi-xenon headlights, dual front air bags and more. The Enthusiast model adds HomeLink® Universal Transceiver, cruise control, Traction Control System (TCS), Viscous Limited-Slip Differential (VLSD), aluminum pedals, illuminated steering wheel audio controls and auto dimming rearview mirror. The Touring model adds a Bose® audio system with 6-disc CD changer and 7 speakers, leather-appointed seats with 4-way power driver’s seat, heated seats and Bluetooth® Hands-Free Phone System. Manual transmission touring models add standard Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC). The ultimate Z® Coupe model is the Grand Touring model, offering front and rear spoilers, RAYS super lightweight 5-spoke forged aluminum-alloy wheels and Brembo brakes. Vehicle Dynamic Control is standard with both the Grand Touring’s transmissions. The 2007 350Z Roadster is offered in three well-equipped models – Enthusiast, Touring and Grand Touring. Standard 350Z Roadster Enthusiast features include power seats, power-operated soft top and tonneau, rear wind deflector, 18-inch cast aluminum-alloy wheels, bi-xenon headlights, automatic climate control, a choice of 5-speed automatic or 6-speed manual transmission, standard side-impact air bags and more. The 350Z Roadster Touring model features a 7-speaker Bose® audio system with 6-disc CD changer and leather-appointed seats. The 350Z Roadster Grand Touring model adds Brembo brakes and Vehicle Dynamic Control. Three options are available on the 2007 350Z Coupe and Roadster: a DVD-based navigation system (Touring and Grand Touring models only); satellite radio (Coupe Touring and Grand Touring models only, with choice of XM® or Sirius™ service), and side and curtain side-impact supplemental air bags (Coupe).

Preview: 2008 Infiniti G Coupe This sketch, released by Infiniti on January 10th, depicts what the ’08 G35 Coupe will look like (above left illustration). Compared with the previously released G35 Concept (above right photograph), the most striking aspect is the front fascia. The nose has been rounded and softened, compared with the almost angular face of the Concept G35. Whether the result of production or safety requirements (or perhaps aero development), this styling iteration lessens the initial visual impact of the car. To combat this, the grille becomes a more prominent feature, using the same Japanese katana (sword) chrome slats that were employed so effectively in the G35 sedan. Looking just beneath this, the twin lower air intakes on the concept car have morphed into a more conventional rectangular radiator opening flanked by two other intakes. These intakes appear ideally placed (and large enough) to feed cool air directly to the VQ35HR (if that is indeed the engine) for maximum effect. The catamaran styling of the hood and front fenders separate the Infiniti from its Nissan corporate brethren. The hood features curves and sharp creases which blend smoothly into a sweeping roofline. The L-shaped headlights appear to contain dual High Intensity Discharge (HID) arrays and side reflector strip. The sides are equally fascinating, with upper and lower accent lines which emphasize the sensuous curves and sweep of the bulged fender flares. The upper line sweeps slightly downward and across the conventional door handle of the car, making the wedge styling more apparent. Rocker panels are equally fascinating, with a sweep to emphasize the ‘coke-bottle’ styling from the powerful fender flares. The greenhouse of both the sketch and the concept G35C promise a sweeping, airy view from the cockpit, but it remains to be seen whether the B-pillar has been eliminated to make way for a frameless door. As expected, the twin camera “mirrors” of the concept car have been replaced with more conventional side mounted mirrors. Likewise, the 20” wheels on the concept car look to be replaced with more conventional 18 or 19” wheels to fill the wheel wells. Current G35 drivers will note the styling of the ten-spoke wheel in the sketch is a development of the unique Infiniti wheel theme. In summary, this 3/4 sketch of the ’08 G35 Coupe promises a dynamic, stunning experience. And this before the engine is even fired! Unique styling features are used to separate this Infiniti model from the upcoming Z car and indeed, from anything else in the world. Nissan Sport looks forward to viewing and driving the newest version of this high-end sport coupe and giving you the inside scoop! --David Muramoto, Senior Editor Nissan Sport Magazine

Lutz Likes the Tundra The new Toyota Tundra, the Japanese automaker's first entry into the full-size pickup market dominated by U.S. automakers, got a positive review from an interesting source Tuesday: General Motors Vice Chairman Bob Lutz, who heads the automakers' product development efforts. Lutz, meeting with reporters at the North American International Auto Show, said he was impressed with the new Tundra, which is on display at the show and is now hitting dealer showrooms, and that he has no doubt that Toyota (Charts) will meet its sales target of 200,000 of the vehicles a year. "I took a good look at it today," Lutz said. "I think it's a very, very, very well executed large truck. It's got good styling, great interior. It's a very nice truck." [...] But Lutz said that he believes the new Tundra poses more of a challenge to Japanese automaker Nissan (Charts), which introduced the Titan full-size pickup in December 2003, than it does to GM. CNN Money

Could you be a little less antagonistic?

MCE: 2008 BMW 5-Series All-round enhancement of the dynamic, innovative and sophisticated character of the BMW 5 Series, attractive modifications in design, enhanced style and value within the interior, best-of-class fuel economy in all model variants, trendsetting, future-oriented enhancement of comfort and safety features, enhancement of the model’s leading position in the segment: BMW 5 Series Saloon as the epitome of sheer driving pleasure in the Business Class, the BMW 5 Series Touring as a unique combination of dynamic performance and practical variability. World Car Fans

Laugh and grow fat!

Too bad I hate bar-style phones.

Don't force radical shift on crash tests The Detroit auto show is always a time to talk about vehicle safety and examine the improvements in cars and trucks. And no one does that better than the manufacturers. Of course, that doesn't stop many from chiming in with non-productive ideas, including federal administrators. Transportation Secretary Mary Peters did just that on Monday when she toured the North American International Auto Show here in Detroit. She said the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) would begin changing its New Car Assessment Program, which is the government's "star system" for rating vehicle safety. The Detroit News

Howes: China IS COMING and why Detroit should be worried If turnabout is fair play, the Motor City players pouring billions into the booming Chinese market should get set for metal from the Middle Kingdom. In an auto show press event more akin to diplomatic ceremony than industry unveiling, more a geopolitical statement than one of business strategy, China's Changfeng Group took the wraps off a few not-so-special SUVs Monday and issued a clear statement -- it wants to enter the U.S. market, preferably with an American partner. Yes, be it a $25,000 Liebao CS6 SUV or a Feibao CT5 pickup from Changfeng, a $10,000 sedan from Geely or a tiny car from Chrysler made by Chery, the Chinese are coming. The Detroit News

Reviews: 2007 Toyota Tundra Toyota really got serious with this one, and it shows. If you've previously discounted the Tundra because it wasn't big enough or had a toy engine, think again. If you've never considered one before, have a look. More good choices are great for consumers, and since this one has been born, bred and built in the USA, there's no reason to feel guilty about it. Edmunds Full Test --- In general, this is a big brawny half-ton truck that seems to be moving into three-quarter-ton truck territory. Toyota has proven time and again that they know how to build vehicles that American people want and will buy. From my first impression at the Chicago Auto Show last February where the Tundra was first revealed to the public, to our day long exposure to early production trucks that we could drive and knock around, I have to say that it looks like Toyota hit the target they were aiming for. A real trucker's truck that should make a significant dent in the huge American pickup truck market. Thumbs up to the new truck on the block. Family Car Road Test --- Is it as good, or better, than the class-leading Chevy Silverado? An early drive, without the chance to compare them side-by-side indicates that Toyota has been chasing the last Silverado (and the current Ford F-150 and Dodge Ram, which each have less than two more years of shelf-life). Finally, the Tundra is big enough to run in this pack. Toyota designers have gone out of their way to make the truck look even a bit bigger than its competition. The new V-8 is as smooth and powerful as the best of its competitors. The ride and handling is, for the most part, competitive. The interior falls short - perhaps the last thing over which you'd expect Toyota to stumble. It's a relief to find that Toyota is human, that it didn't perfectly pull off the threat of a serious, big truck for a segment that the Big Three still own. It will be an even greater relief to the Big Three. Motor Trend First Drive

I have to admit, as much as I like Infiniti, I've never been smitten with the QX56. Every other Infiniti has some degree of sleekness to it but this simply doesn't fit in. I'm hoping the next QX is more like a big FX styling-wise. Supposedly, this is the last time Infiniti is going to tweak a USDM Nissan and sell it as an Infiniti. The only Infiniti-like characteristics of the current QX that I've heard are good handling (for a full-size SUV) and a good powertrain. I don't dislike it but as was said, they can do better.

"4" is actually "4-D". You move the shift lever to the left for 4th gear and to the right for normal drive.

Those red CTS pics added above look more "real". I don't know...I think I was expecting something more muscular-looking having seen the teaser shots and the orange CTS pics. The DTS immediately came to mind looking at that front end which I guess it sort of should but at the same time it shouldn't. The DTS (compared to what the CTS should be) is a pretty "blah" car, IMO. "Blah" shouldn't be coming to mind looking at a sport sedan. Also, the stance looks weird and the rear has a stubby appearance to it. Barring any new and/or better pics, I think I'll have to downgrade my feelings on the styling to "B-/C+".

Those exterior pics look strange...like the car isn't real. Looks like they've taken the evolutionary route and cleaned up/refined some of the details of the 1st CTS. The interior looks like a cross between a previous-gen G35 and Acura TL. Much better than the old CTS' but not exactly a stunner. Overall, I give it a solid "B".