Variance

Ah, you know... http://www.worldcarfans.com/spyphotos.cfm/...orsche-panamera

I haven't the slightest idea. I'm all over the place with my next car thoughts: newer/older, import/domestic, RWD/FWD/AWD, sedan/coupe/convertible/SUV, I4/V6/V8... About the the only thing I'm certain of is that it won't be Korean (nothing a whole lot more appealing over comparable Japanese, German or American cars), a fullsize SUV or a pickup truck (no use for either).

2007 Camry Hybrid U.S. Production Begins October 12, 2006 – Georgetown, KY - Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky, Inc. (TMMK) celebrated the production launch of the Camry Hybrid today – Toyota's first hybrid vehicle produced in North America. The addition of hybrid production represents a $10 million investment at TMMK, which will build approximately 48,000 Camry Hybrid vehicles per year. TMMK was established in 1986 and is Toyota's largest plant in North America. It employs approximately 7,000 team members and currently builds the Camry, Avalon and Solara. The plant has the capacity to build 500,000 vehicles annually. Since its inception, TMMK has built about 6.7 million vehicles, and the plant's current investment is $5.4 billion. "We are proud, excited and honored to be Toyota's first plant in North America to build a hybrid vehicle," said Steve St. Angelo, President of TMMK. "It's a great tribute to the tremendous ability and skill level of all of our team members, who have been building the Camry, America's number one selling sedan." "America's hybrid leader now sells a Camry hybrid made in America," said Don Esmond, Toyota Motor Sales senior vice president, Automotive Operations. "Production at the new Kentucky plant marks an exciting chapter in Toyota's history and a monumental step toward our ongoing commitment to hybrid technology." The Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive System consists of gas and electric power sources that are complementary and produce a combined 187 horsepower. This system varies power between gas and electric, or both, as needed. The first-half of the system consists of a 2.4 liter four cylinder engine, assembled at TMMK's Power Train plant. The Atkinson-cycle engine generates 147 hp and is coupled to a continuously variable transmission. The second half of the Hybrid Synergy Drive equation consists of a small, high torque electric motor that produces 141 horsepower, an ultra-small inverter with a specially designed compact battery and a transaxle to provide the economy and seamless performance hybrid drivers seek. The Camry Hybrid joins a growing Toyota and Lexus hybrid lineup in the U.S., which currently includes the groundbreaking Toyota Prius, Lexus RX 400h luxury hybrid sport utility vehicle (SUV), Toyota Highlander Hybrid mid-size SUV, and the 2007 Lexus GS 450h hybrid luxury sedan. In 2007, Lexus will be adding the LS 600h to the hybrid lineup. Since Toyota began selling hybrid vehicles in North America in 2000, the company has sold approximately 420,000 hybrid vehicles here. In 1997, Toyota became a pioneer in the industry by launching the Prius, a mass-production hybrid vehicle with outstanding environmental performance. Toyota has positioned hybrid systems as a key technology for the twenty-first century and is taking measures to promote the widespread use of hybrid vehicles. Toyota (NYSE:TM) established operations in North America in 1957. By 2008, Toyota will have the annual capacity to build about 2 million cars and trucks in 14 plants across North America. There are more than 1,700 Toyota, Lexus and Scion dealerships in North America, which sell more than 2.5 million vehicles a year. Toyota directly employs nearly 40,000 people in North America. Toyota's investment in North America is valued at more than $17.6 billion, and annual purchasing from North American suppliers totals more than $29 billion. [source: Toyota Motor Company]

Sorry but the RAV4 isn't made up of about 15 conflicting design elements.

Subaru Forester Turbo Sport Soon to Arrive JDM Forester Cross Sports pictured above. According to someone in the know, we will be getting a Forester Sport (Cross Sports?) next month. It's a somewhat de-contented Forester XT, with the JDM Cross Sports grille and front bumper. It also gets VDC on automatic versions, and Anthracite black cloth seats. Colors are black, Urban Gray and WR Blue (WRX/STI blue). Read "Forester turbo Sport coming soon" @ Edmunds Straightline

M6 Convertible Price Released BMW said its highly anticipated, 500-horsepower 2007 M6 convertible will arrive in the United States this fall with a sticker price of $105,095, including shipping charges. The price includes an exclusive one-day M driver training course at the BMW Performance Center in Spartanburg, South Carolina. Read "Powerful: Details Emerge on 500 Horse BMW M6 Convertible" @ Edmunds

As a result of the strike, Goodyear may lay off 300 workers: http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20061011/bs_nm/...year_layoffs_dc

Be sure to try out the beverage cooler in the cupholder.

They're ya go. I think not.

2-for-1 Spied: Tesla Roadster and Lotus Esprit Lotus finally is working flat out on the replacement of the legendary Esprit, which gained world fame for its roles starring in two James Bond films. Internally known by the code name MSC, the new Esprit is now expected to debut in autumn 2008 for the 2009 model year. Improvised test mules have been around for quite some time, but now, the first complete prototype has hit the roads, which gives evidence that all crucial design features of the vehicle, such as the principal structural design and manufacturing technology, packaging and drivetrain supplier have all been irrevocably decided. [...] The Tesla Roadster is pretty much a restyled Lotus Elise, but has a 248 bhp electric motor that is powered from a Li-Ion battery pack behind the passengers and drives the rear wheel. A range of 400 km / 250mls is possible. Despite the weight added by the batteries and the added length (the wheel base has been stretched behind the cabin), a sprint time from rest to 100 km/h (60 mph) of around 4 seconds has been promised. The Tesla Roadster currently undergoes extensive prove-out on Norfolk roads in order to hone the chassis and handling to Lotus usual standards. The Tesla Roadster is not the first electric Elise, though. Already back in 1998, a similar, although less sophisticated and powerful zero-emission model was conceived and produced by Zytek in the UK. First deliveries are expected to take place in summer 2007. Upon close inspection, the prototype shown in our pictures reveals certain minor updates from official vehicles shown to the public previously, such as the auxiliary lights in the front grill. Also seen here for the first time is the Tesla with a fabric soft top. Read "SPY PHOTOS: Tesla Roadster and Lotus Esprit" @ World Car Fans

Now you can see it in all its glory: http://carscoop.blogspot.com/2006/10/2007-...t-pictures.html

Yes. Don't put too much stock into the future vehicle images in Japanese car mags; more often than not they aren't real/accurate.

Pricing: 2007 Nissan Sentra NASHVILLE, Tenn. (October 10, 2006) – Nissan today announced pricing on the all-new 2007 Sentra, which is on sale now at Nissan retailers nationwide. The starting Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the all-new Sentra, which receives a significant boost in interior space and an all-new 140-horsepower 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, is $14,750 for the Sentra 2.0 with 6-speed manual transmission. The new Sentra is available in four other models: Sentra 2.0 with CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) at $15,550; Sentra 2.0 S with 6-speed manual, priced at $15,650; Sentra 2.0 S with CVT, $16,450; and Sentra 2.0 SL with CVT, $18,400. A popularly equipped 2007 Sentra 2.0 S, priced at $16,450, is $50 less than a comparable 2006 Sentra 1.8 S with Special Edition Package ($16,500 MSRP). The new, roomy interior features an array of available comfort and convenience features, including a 60/40 split fold flat rear seats with a completely flat seat back angle for better utilization of the wide trunk pass-through opening; the Divide-N-Hide Trunk System, which creates a hidden trunk storage compartment; and an integrated overhead compact disc holder that holds up to eight CDs. The new Sentra also includes standard air conditioning, power door locks and windows, and six standard air bags. Along with more roominess and enhanced performance, the 2007 Sentra will be offered with the widest array of premium equipment ever – including leather-appointed seating, Intelligent Key keyless entry system, Bluetooth Hands-Free Phone System and premium Rockford Fosgate-powered audio system with 6-disc changer, 8-channel amplifier and 8 speakers. The dramatic exterior of the new Sentra addresses one of the major “unmet needs” of compact sedan buyers – style and emotion. In keeping with Nissan’s distinctive design language, the new Sentra features a sporty front end with Nissan signature headlights and grille. The profile includes a long wheelbase, short front and rear overhangs, crisp character lines and large door openings, while in the rear the high deck accentuates the roomy cabin and cargo area. Available packages for Sentra include Satellite Radio (XM or Sirius), Convenience and Convenience Plus Packages, Rockford Fosgate Audio Package, Sunroof Package, and an Alloy Wheels/ABS Package. Available factory-installed options include splash guards, front fog lamps, Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) and a rear decklid spoiler. Complete pricing and options are available on the attached sheet. [source: Nissan North America]

HUMMER in a Strong Sales Stride Worldwide DETROIT − HUMMER continued to gain momentum with sales in North America during the first nine months of 2006 up 53.5 percent from 2005. The popular midsize H3 can be credited with much of the gain. That model recorded an especially strong calendar year to date, with sales up 158 percent year-to-year. On a monthly basis, H3 deliveries in September rose 19 percent from one year ago, giving H3 its second highest sales month this calendar year, while the full-size H2 had its highest retail month of the year. The division is on track to sell its 200,000th vehicle this year. "As people have discovered the H3 for themselves we've seen sales continue to trend upward," explained Martin Walsh, HUMMER general manager. "We believe the vehicle's attractive starting price of $29,995, its easy maneuverability and fuel economy comparable to other midsize utilities, is bringing new customers to the brand." Walsh says the brand's sales gains are not unique to North America, and that he expects the growth to continue. In fact, since the H2 went on sale in 2002 the brand has experienced a 300-percent sales increase around the globe. Walsh noted that the plan is to expand the HUMMER portfolio with new models that maintain the brand's iconic design and superior off-road capabilities. 2006 Global Sales Through August of this year, HUMMER's total global sales grew by 62.6 percent. H3 comprised the majority of that volume, with a 177 percent sales jump compared to the first eight months of 2005. In Europe, where the H3 went on sale in the summer of 2005, that vehicle's sales were up more than 200 percent. And, in HUMMER markets within the Latin America, Africa and Middle East region, the brand saw an increase of more than 450 percent overall. HUMMER's reach into global markets will expand further with the addition of H3 production in Port Elizabeth, South Africa today. Until recently, the H3 was built only in General Motors' Shreveport, La. plant. South Africa-built H3's will be sold in that country and will also be exported to markets in Europe and the Middle East. Next year, the Port Elizabeth facility will begin shipping to Asia Pacific as well. Initially, the vehicles built in South Africa will be exclusively left-hand drive - but a right-hand drive version will be available next year. HUMMER vehicles are now sold in 33 countries with further global expansion on the horizon. [source: General Motors]

More pics: http://www.worldcarfans.com/spyphotos.cfm/...an-skyline-gt-r

<----Old friend in honor of Halloween's month. |-----New friend in honor of change for the sake of change. V

Delphi Tossing Unprofitable GM Contracts It's been a year since Delphi filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, and the supplier is still trying to find ways to return to profitability. One of the things it's identified as a way to get back into the black is ridding themselves of unprofitable contracts with General Motors. They have been quietly shifting some of these orders to outside firms. One example is the contract for GM full-sized pickup truck steering knuckles that recently went to EaglePicher Corp., which is no stranger to Chapter 11 itself. Delphi also dumped the contract to build catalytic converters for GM's new pickups, which still had three years on it, according to UAW Local 1866 president Skip Dziedzic, in Milwaukee. No firm has been identified in taking over that order yet. Read "Delphi dumping unprofitable contracts with GM" @ Autoblog

2007 Nissan 350Z Images I came across these pics courtesy of My350Z.com of the 2007 350Z. The only noticable exterior change from the 2006 model is the (focused on) new hood. It has been redesigned with a power bulge to accomodate the new VQ35HR engine, the same engine in the new G35. Cell phone images from another member: Nissan's blurb on the 2007 Z: 350Z Coupe and 350Z Roadster The 2007 Nissan 350Z is scheduled to go on sale in January 2007. The changes for the new model year will include new exterior colors, a new gray colored convertible top (Roadster models), Active Head Restraints and performance enhancements including a new VQ35HR engine. The 2007 350Z will again be available in Coupe and Roadster body styles and in an array of models –four for the Coupe, including a Grand Touring model, and three for the Roadster (including the Grand Touring automatic transmission version). More information on the 2007 Nissan 350Z will be available at a later date. [images found @ My350Z.com]

Shocker: The Jeep Compass' Stumbling Start As Chrysler dealers offer discounts on 2006 and existing 2007 models, they compete with the Compass, launched in July. The discounting may have slowed the Compass launch a little, although Chrysler says it is pleased so far. Early signs are that the Compass is off to a slower start than the Dodge Caliber. The average transaction price has dropped from $22,467 when the Compass was launched to $21,534 as of Sept. 24, according to the Power Information Network. In contrast, transaction prices for the Caliber have risen from $17,059 at launch in March to $18,276 as of Sept. 24. Read "Slow Start" @ Autoweek

Are we forgetting the HEMI engine with "fuel-saving Emm Dee Ess"? :AH-HA_wink:

Spied: 2008 Nissan GTR Oh dear God, yes. Read "Caught - 2008 Nissan Skyline!!" @ Winding Road *Update at post #12.

Strategic Vision Announces '06 Total Value Winners Hyundai leads over many brands, including Toyota. GM proves that Asian and European makers are not out of reach. BMW and MINI top all brands as Total Value leaders. These are a few of the results from Strategic Vision’s Total Value Index (TVI), which factors economic issues against the total new vehicle ownership experience. The San Diego-based research firm announced today the winners of its Total Value Awards, which reflect that true value is about much more than the cheapest deal. Reliability, a solid warranty, strong anticipated resale value, durability, and innovation are all part of the definition of “total value.” Segment Winner(s) - TVI Score Small Car: Honda Civic - 801 Small Multi-Function: Scion xB - 781 Medium Car: Kia Optima - 799 Medium Multi-Function: Mazda 6 Wagon - 767 Large Car: Hyundai Azera - 808 Near Luxury Car: BMW 3-Series Sedan - 807 Luxury Car: Lexus LS 430 - 780, Audi A8 Sedan - 779, Acura RL 779 Luxury Multi-Function: Audi A4/S4 Avant - 787 Small Specialty Under $25,000: Mini Cooper* - 794 Small Specialty Over $25,000: Chevrolet Corvette Coupe - 798 Mid-Specialty Car: Honda Accord Coupe* - 804 Convertibles Under $30,000: Mini Cooper Convertible - 813 Convertibles Over $30,000: Chevrolet Corvette Convertible - 789 Minivan: Kia Sedona - 758 Small SUV: Saturn VUE -758, Hyundai Tucson - 757 Medium SUV: Nissan Xterra - 735 Medium Crossover: Honda Pilot - 767 Large SUV: Nissan Armada - 724 Near Luxury SUV: Lexus RX 330/400H* - 771 Luxury SUV: Mercedes-Benz GL-Class - 782 Compact Pickup: Honda Ridgeline - 739 Full-Size Pickup: Nissan Titan - 707 Heavy Duty Pickup: Chevrolet Silverado 2500/3500 - 686 Read "The 2006 Total Value Winners" @ Strategic Vision

Germans to Join Together with Bluetec Here's where strength in numbers comes to the fore. Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen have joined forces and will begin equipping all their U.S.-slated diesel offerings with the Bluetec system. In doing so, they will set a standard for diesel offerings in the States, have a common, marketable brand and will have massive purchasing power over Bosch who creates most of the components necessary. Audi and VW have already signed on to the deal, with BMW's CEO, Norbert Reithofer and our favorite mustached-marketer, Dr. Z of DaimlerChrysler, expected to work the details out this week. A formal announcement of the automaker's intentions will likely be made in two weeks time. Read "Bluetec diesels to be used by (almost) all German automakers" @ Autoblog

Mitsubishi Plans to Provide Electric Car for U.S. According to an article in Automotive News, Mitsubishi's president, Osamu Masuko, made the announcement during the annual dealer's meeting held in the City of Sin. The lithium-ion powered vehicle will be made available in Japan first and will then find its way onto U.S. soil. The automaker has been toying with both electrics and hybrid in Japan, and intends to import both in the coming years. Although the electric-powered model may carry a bit more cache than the traditional hybrid route, we're curious as to what, if anything has materialized out of the Concept-CT that Mitsu debuted earlier this year at the NAIAS. The concept had a 1.1-liter engine, partnered with individual electric motors that fed power to each wheel and, hence, was transmission-less. More development of that concept, which would aid in the R and D of fuel-cell powertrains, may be more forward thinking. Read "BREAKING: Mitsubishi to sell electric vehicle in the U.S." @ Autoblog *Update at post #11.

DCX to Produce Their Own DSG *Above pictured is Volkswagen's DSG. DaimlerChrysler has recognized the benefits of the DSG over conventional, torque converter-equipped automatics and has decided to invest $560 million in a new assembly plant in Kokomo, Indiana to manufacturer their own version of the DSG. Partnering with Getrag, the automaker plans on creating 700,000 units annually, with production set to begin in 2009. The models that stand to benefit from the new transmission are primarily front-wheel drive vehicles, including the Avenger, Sebring and all manner of minivan. Additionally, the transmission will find an ideal partner with D.C.'s new Phoenix V6 engine, which will also make an appearance in 2010. Read "Chrysler developing dual-clutch tranny for FWD vehicles" @ Autoblog