autoMedia Auto News Blog : Coupes

LA Preview: 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

admin — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 03:19:00 GMT

Los Angeles kicks off the North American new-car auto show circuit on December 2nd when the LA Convention Center opens its doors to the media, ahead of the public days later that week. Among the unveilings being teased is an array of high-tech models from Mercedes-Benz, including the SLS AMG supercar, the fuel-sipping E350 BlueTec and the fuel-cell-powered F-Cell. Mercedes will also show its first hybrid SUV, the ML 450 Hybrid, and its SplitView dual-content viewing technology that allows the driver and passenger to see something different on the LCD screen. The model expected to insight the most salivation is the SLS AMG, the modern reinvention of the classic mid-1950s 300SL. This new version features a lightweight aluminum space-frame body with gullwing doors and a 563-horsepower dry-sump V8 engine. With its front-mid engine and dual-clutch seven-speed, the SLS AMG has a balance weight distribution and track-honed dynamics. See our highlights from the 2008 LA Auto Show ....(read more)

SEMA: Chevrolet Camaro Synergy Green Machine

admin — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 02:22:00 GMT

The halls and exterior space surrounding the Las Vegas Convention Center was awash in customized, high-performance machines last week at the Specialty Equipment Market Association ( SEMA ) show. Among the hundreds of project cars, the redesigned Camaro was well represented, with the 2010 Yenko Camaro , Lingenfelter Trans Am Concept , and twin-turbocharged Jay Leno Camaro all made their public debut. Among the many other show cars, the Camaro Synergy stood out as the ultimate green machine. Not, not some tree-huggin', hybrid, but literally green. While it may not have a celebrity name attached to it, this official Chevrolet project car showcases a striking new exterior color that will be available in the first half of 2010. Think of it as a counterpoint to the upcoming Plum Crazy Dodge Challenger . The Synergy also showcased a variety of add-on accessories being considered for market through the GM Performance Catalog and local dealerships. The makeover is handsome, with a ground effects kit, Cyber Grey hood stripes, high-wing rear spoiler, and 21-inch wheels with a black center. The car is further enhanced with aftermarket goodies that include a Peddars coil-over lowering kit and...(read more)

SEMA: 2010 Yenko Camaro Unveiled

admin — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 02:54:00 GMT

With the massive Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), there are performance vehicles of all stripes, but only one has the distinctive Yenko stripes. As previewed in the autoMedia blog , General Marketing Capital Incorporated ( GMCI ) showed a 2010 Yenko Camaro Prototype based on a Camaro SS . The Phase 1 Yenko boasts a supercharger to boost output to 600 horsepower, Tremec six-speed manual transmission, Hurst short-throw shifter, six-piston big brake package, and Magnaflow high-flow cat-back exhaust system. The appearance is given the full Yenko treatment with the essential, distinctive strips, emblems, and retro-styled 22-inch aluminum wheels. The interior features Yenko Super Car (sYc) embroidered headrests, Yenko/SC sill plates, Yenko/SC embroidered floor mats, and more. GMCI is exploring options for producing more Yenko project cars and product lines. It is also developing a Web site to support the business and nurture a Yenko community. The name Yenko is legendary in muscle car circles, with classic Yenko Camaros demanding 10-times the price as a traditional factory car at major auctions. It was Don Yenko who was responsible for creating the Yenko Stinger Corvair, Yenko...(read more)

SEMA: Lingenfelter Trans Am Concept

admin — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 02:50:00 GMT

Respected tuning house Lingenfelter Performance Engineering ( LPE ) unveiled a back-to-the-future muscle car with its T/A concept at the 2009 SEMA show . Certain to turn heads, the reborn Trans Am applies classic Pontiac cues to a 2010 Camaro , then cranks up the volume with abundant performance upgrades. The result is a clear example of what could have been, where it not for the auto industry crisis . Inspired by the 1969 original, the exterior makeover features a new front fascia with custom headlamps, grille, and turn signals. The car's fender has a functional side extractor scoop and the rear quarter has a leading edge wheel flair. The rear corners of the car have been extended nearly four inches and are finished with a wrapped down stand-up spoiler. Custom-created taillight housings complete the body work. The rolling stock is custom 20-inch honeycomb wheels wrapping in 275/40ZR20 front and 315/35ZR20 rear Nitto tires. Inside, the cockpit is dressed with bright blue woven vinyl seat inserts and metal turned instrument panel accents. As with any LPE project, there is serious underhood alchemy with the T/A concept. The engine is built around a custom Racing Head Service (RHS...(read more)

Quick Take Test Drive: 2010 Lexus IS 350 C F-Sport

Editor — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 00:03:00 GMT

Sometimes you get lucky. And sometimes you get really lucky. We’ve been looking forward to testing the new Lexus IS C retractable hardtop convertible for a long time. Aimed squarely at competitors such as the BMW 3 Series and Infiniti G37 retractable hardtops, the IS 250 C with a 204-hp V6 starts at $38,940, while the more powerful 306-hp IS 350 C starts at $44,390. Either model gets you a sophisticated looking 2-door coupe that transforms into an even-better looking open vehicle in just 20 seconds with the touch of a button. So about that lucky part — Well, we’d have been happy to test any IS C, but Lexus sweetened the deal with a very special IS 350 C, brimming with performance goodies from Lexus’ F-Sport catalog. And frankly, this transformed the car into the most exciting and well-balanced Lexus we have ever driven. Yes, even including the $58,000 416-hp, V8 IS F sedan. At first glance, our tester was a jaw-dropper. In Obsidian black, with a black leather interior, it was sleek and sophisticated. Sitting on its lowered suspension with massive charcoal 19-inch forged wheels, it was the epitome of badness. The IS had the performance goods to back up the looks. A beautiful stainless...(read more)

Eye Candy: 50th Anniversary Corvette Stingray Concept

admin — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 02:49:00 GMT

Chevrolet has treated us virtually to a revised version of the 50th Anniversary Corvette Stingray Concept that debuted at the 2009 Chicago Auto Show . The original concept was also widely seen in “ Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen ” – at least by the movie goers not distracted by Megan Fox. In that FX-laden film, the concept played a minor role as “Sideswipe” and was clearly more than meets the eye. (Learn about the production Chevrolet Camaro Transformers Edition .) The original concept was developed as an internal design challenge to combine classic Corvette cues with high-tech features, modern materials, and a striking new appearance. Clearly, the mission was accomplished. The concept features a clamshell hood, scissor-style doors, ergonomic seats, rear-view camera with night vision enhancement, and a high-performance hybrid drive. How much this concept will influence the seventh-generation remains to be seen. Latest rumors about the C7 suggest the car will be smaller than the C6 , benefitting performance and fuel economy. We hope to see the revised concept on the show circuit this season. See our Chicago auto show highlights , and read our Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport and Z06...(read more)

SEMA: Tuner-Ready Hyundai Genesis Coupe 2.0T R-Spec

admin — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 15:18:00 GMT

Hyundai flirted with the import performance crowd with the Tiburon , but the Korean-automaker is pink-slip serious about appealing to the aging “The Fast and Furious” crowd with its latest coupe. The new, rear-drive Genesis Coupe is a well-executed sporty car with impressive fit-and-finish and decidedly performance-driver bent. For those enthusiasts with a passion for customization and factory-besting performance, Hyundai is introducing the 210-horsepower Coupe 2.0T R-Spec at the Specialty Equipment Market Association ( SEMA ) Show this week. Consider this new edition as a blank slate for tuners. Priced at just $23,750, it gives enthusiasts an affordable head start on their wrench-turning adventures. The hardware is based on the Track model, with the track-tuned suspension, 19-inch wheels, Brembo brakes, and Torsen limited-slip differential. It also adds a set of front strut camber adjustment bolts to further enhance initial turn-in and handling response. R-Spec comes only with a manual transmission. While it has the performance goodies, the R-Spec eliminates “non-essential” features for both cost and, to a lesser degree, weight, including Bluetooth, automatic headlights, cruise control...(read more)

Revealed: NASCAR Nationwide Series Dodge Challenger

admin — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 14:43:00 GMT

Friday, Dodge Motorsports revealed its Dodge Challenger entry for next year’s NASCAR Nationwide Series. The new car will make its track debut with the July 2nd Daytona race and appear next at Michigan on August 14th. In total, the Challenger will be campaigned at four races in 2010, then compete with the full schedule in 2011. This Challenger is also part of an announcement that Dodge is expanding its partnership with Penske Racing. Next year, Penske will support two cars in the Nationwide Series and three teams in the Sprint Cup. The Challenger isn’t the only muscle coupe to move to the big track. Ford is making a similar move with the Mustang. (Read “ Unveiled: 2010 Ford NASCAR Mustang .”) General Motors will not make this a three-way competition by moving the Camaro to NASCAR. Read our Dodge Challenger review for our take on the street version. Expand your NASCAR knowledge with: NASCAR - Common Terms and Phrases Defined NASCAR Basics - Understanding NASCAR...(read more)

Legend Reborn: 2010 Yenko Camaro At SEMA Show

admin — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 02:47:00 GMT

As the fifth-generation 2010 Chevrolet Camaro recalls the classic 1967-1969 original, it is only natural that the most legendary Camaro return, as well. At the upcoming Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) next week, General Marketing Capital Incorporated (GMCI) will show a 2010 Yenko Camaro Prototype certain to bring an instant grin to any bowtie enthusiast. The prototype is based on a Camaro SS that has been upgraded to a “Phase 1” Yenko. Initial information shows the transformation includes a supercharger to boost output to 600 horsepower, Tremec six-speed manual transmission, Hurst short-throw shifter, six-piston big brake package, and Magnaflow high-flow cat-back exhaust system. The appearance is given the full Yenko treatment with the essential, distinctive strips, emblems, and retro-styled 22-inch aluminum wheels. The interior features Yenko Super Car (sYc) embroidered headrests, Yenko/SC sill plates, Yenko/SC embroidered floor mats, and more. Production will include Phase II and III offerings with greater power increases and more aggressive chassis upgrades. Today, original Yenko Camaros command head-spinning prices. Rest assured, this will not be an inexpensive package...(read more)

Modified 2010 Ford Mustangs Corralled at SEMA Show

admin — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 01:59:00 GMT

In just a few more days, the annual Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) will open its doors in Las Vegas, showcasing the latest aftermarket components and high-performance project cars. The event allows manufacturers to meet with wholesalers, establishing new business and continuing partnerships. For those in the media, it is a chance to learn about the latest chromed widgets, emerging product trends, and fuel our automotive fantasies. To that end, Ford will be celebrating the Mustang’s 45th anniversary with a diverse herd of modified Mustangs. (See our 2010 Ford Mustang review .) The Mustang is the most customized car in the $31.8 billion aftermarket industry. As proof, it is hard to find a stock Mustang outside a rental fleet. Daresay, the vast majority of pony cars are customized in some way. Ford even makes it easy with an online customizer , and an abundant catalog of cosmetic and go-fast goodies. In the aftermarket, there is a vast array of offerings from dedicated, talented companies. Some of the best examples will be on hand at the show, which in the past has drawn over 100,000 industry attendees. And a few bloggers. Ford Vehicle Personalization will display a carbon...(read more)

2010 Dodge Challenger - Plum Crazy Returns!

admin — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 02:56:00 GMT

A rolling nostalgia machine, the 2010 Dodge Challenger will be available in a classic Plum Crazy paint scheme. Plum Crazy was one of several vibrant colors available on the Challenger in the early 1970s that helped define the era, along with Banana, Go-Mango, and Sublime. The head-turning purple will be available on the Challenger R/T ($35,140) and SRT8 ($44,155) variants. On the Challenger R/T, the Plum Crazy Pearl Coat will be offered with a choice of matte black or new bright white dual-wide R/T body-side stripes. The purple package also includes “Challenger” script badges, polished-chrome heritage wheels, classic egg-crate grille with heritage “R/T” badge, body-color rear spoiler, functional hood scoop, and chromed fuel-filler door. The R/T features the Track Pak with a “pistol-grip” shifter, 3.92:1 differential, and throaty dual exhaust system. Underhood is a 5.7-liter, 376-horsepower Hemi V-8. The Plum Crazy SRT8 benefits from the comprehensive performance transformation that trim entails, including a 6.1-liter, 425-horsepower Hemi V-8 engine. The interior is highlighted with purple seat piping. Production of the Plum Crazy Challenger begins in November. Read our Dodge Challenger...(read more)

Sneak Peek: 2010 Steeda Q Series Mustang

admin — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 02:20:00 GMT

Legendary, Florida-based Ford tuner Steeda is best known for its quality Mustang transformations and aftermarket parts. The perennial centerpiece for its potent pony line has long been known as the Q, as in Q Ship, or to quote Lightning McQueen, “Quicker than quick.” Following tradition, the high-octane mechanical maestros have prepared a 2010 Steeda Q Series Mustangs, and the potent pony’s formal unveiling will be at the November Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas.

With hundreds of hours of computer-aided design (CAD) work completed, and extensive computer and wind tunnel analysis completed, as well as vigorous road coarse testing, Steeda is confident they have pushed the boundaries for its fabled Q Series.

Dario Orlando, the founder of Steeda Autosports, said, “In all of our Q Series of high-performance Mustangs, we never compromise or take shortcuts, our customers who demand maximum performance, bullet-proof reliability, and class-leading, race-honed styling wouldn’t have it any other way.”

Steeda is mum on details, but we know from past Q cars that their approach is thorough, with exterior and interior styling wrapped around serious powertrain and chassis upgrade. Given that the updated Mustang changed more in appearance than under the hood for 2010, it is safe to assume the previous round of power enhancements available last year will be offered, right up to (and possibly beyond) the 5.0-liter, 650-horsepower engine offered in the 2009 Q650.

No doubt, the production creation will be inspiring, and a good contender to face off against the 562-horsepower 2010 HPE550 Camaro from Hennessey Performance Engineering.

We’ll have to wait another month for the full scoop, but thought you’d appreciate a sneak peek now.

Read our 2010 Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro reviews.

What’s New for Chrysler in 2010?

admin — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 03:30:00 GMT

Not much in the way of new product. Remember, the company is rapidly reinventing itself, now that it has purged billions in so-called bad assets and almost 800 dealerships, leaving a leaner Chrysler Group to develop a revised product portfolio with its new corporate partner Fiat. (Read: "Like a Phoenix, New Chrysler Group LLC Rises.")

For the imminent future, there simply isn’t much happening. The products are largely in a holding pattern for another model year. However, if you look closely, there are numerous refinements that should make the vehicles more satisfying to own than before, though not the kind of breakthrough changes that are likely to spark showroom traffic. Below are the highlights of the Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep product updates for the 2010 model year.

We have already blogged on the notable update to Dodge Caliber’s interior. Most other vehicles that receive any update for the new model year are given a light touch. The one exception is the 2010 Dodge Ram heavy-duty pickups to be offered for the first time in a true crew-cab configuration, complimenting the regular and mega cab. All heavy-duty trucks are distinguished from their light-duty brethren by a unique grille, hood, and bumpers. Refinements throughout promise reduced noise, and the cabin boasts more storage locations. The Ram sees its various tow and capacity ratings increased, though these reflect more a change in how Dodge chooses to make its claims, more closely matching the competition, than representing engineering changes. The powerplants for the heavy-duty trucks include the venerable 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 and a 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel. Chassis cab 3500, 4500, and 5500 Rams will be available for 2011.

The Ram Power Wagon returns, with electric-locking front and rear differentials, electronic disconnecting sway bar, Bilstein shocks, 32-inch BF Goodrich off-road tires, underbody skid-plate protection, 4.56 axle ratio for hill climbing, and a custom-built Warn 12,000-lb. winch is accessible through the front bumper. The exterior has been enhanced with a new two-tone paint scheme and graphics package.

Fuel economy tweaks are made on several models, including the light-duty Ram, Dodge Nitro, and Jeep Liberty. These models now have a fuel cut off indicated by an “Eco” light activated during deceleration. Other vehicles, including Jeeps, have had this feature previously. The Nitro and Liberty have some detail updates to their various trims, such as materials updates and larger, standard floor mats.

The Jeep Wrangler receives a long list of minor updates that should add appeal to the legendary rock crawler. On all models fog lamps, tow hooks, compass, outside temperature readout, larger visors, fuel-saver indicator, and front dome lamp are standard. The Sunrider soft-top has been made easier to install. Other changes depend on the trim and options, with changes such as uplevel seating surfaces, new colors, new wheels, and the addition of Uconnect Phone added to the navigation system.

The 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee in its final year sees the model line simplified to the Laredo and Limited trims, dropping the Overland. An all-new, larger Grand Cherokee will be introduced for the 2011 model year based on the Mercedes-Benz ML platform.

The Chrysler Sebring convertible and sedan has a minor exterior freshening with a new hood and wheels. Inside, the cars receive a new instrument panel and active head restraints.

And the PT Cruiser lives on for another year, despite its planned discontinuation. There is a new Classic trim that bundles popular features in a value package.

Even the Chrysler 300 receives minor updates, with the 300C now claiming keyless entry/keyless go and rear park assist as standard. Side-curtain air bags are standard on all models. An all-new 300 is expected for the 2011 model year.

The Town & Country and Dodge Caravan minivans now have active head rests and rear obstacle detection on all models.

The Dodge Journey gains the “eco” feature also added to the Nitro, seeing highway fuel economy increase 1 mpg on the highway with the V-6 model. Active head restraints are standard on all trims, as well we four-wheel antilock disc brakes. Those models with a video entertainment system now have a larger, nine-inch screen.

The Dodge Challenger adds even more performance and excitement for 2010 with the Super Track Pack, includes 20-inch Goodyear Eagle F1 Super Car tires, front and rear Nivomat self-leveling shock-absorbers, a larger rear stabilizer bar, a 3.06 rear-axle ratio, performance brake linings, and enthusiast-desired “ESP-off” stability calibration. A less extreme nostalgia trip can be taken with the SE Rallye package featuring a dramatic stripe package alternative to the R/T Classic with dual hood and decklid stripes, chromed fuel filler door, 18-inch rallye wheels with all-season performance tires, body-color deck-lid spoiler, and Micro Carbon interior accents.

And finally, the Dodge Viper lives on despite Chrysler’s previous efforts to sell it off. There are four new paint colors and tan Nappa upholstery to mark the new year.

So, while the engineers learn Italian and put together the pieces for what will be the new Chrysler going forward, these enhancements will have to see consumers and dealers through. Again, while there is little drama, the vehicles are more appealing than before.

Sneak Peek: 2010 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am

admin — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 04:20:00 GMT

The Pontiac division is an unfortunate casualty of the General Motors restructuring, denying rear-drive enthusiasts the G8 sedan and a next-generation, production Firebird or GTO. Unless enterprising Poncho enthusiasts contract Trans Am Depot to build a modern Firebird from the new, retro-themed 2010 Chevrolet Camaro.

This Florida-based Firebird restoration shop will introduce a one-off "Phoenix T/A" Concept at the 2009 Trans Am Nationals, previewing a conversion the company will offer later in the year. Designer Kevin Morgan has created a look inspired by the 1977-1978 Trans Am, merging the “Bandit” look with the profile recreated from the first-generation Firebird. The posted illustrations bring an instant smile to our face, and we hope to see an variety of such Camaro Ams on the car show circuit next year.

The Trans Am Depot has said the kits will be available as an installed conversion only.

Order details, pricing, and delivery information have not been announced, though the package specifics have:

Exterior

1” - 1.5” lowering kit w/sway bar handling upgrade
Front: 20x9.5x120 CB-66.9 gold or silver machined face snowflake wheels.
Front: Pirelli PZero 275/45ZR20
Rear: 20x11.5x120 CB-66.9 gold or silver machined face snowflake wheels.
Rear: Pirelli PZero 305/35ZR20
Hood with shake scoop
Fender extractors
Exhaust conversion w/ splitter tips
Rear fascia clip w/tail lamp lenses and bulbs
Rear spoiler
T/A Graphic Package

Interior

Embroded head rest and console lid
Turned aluminum door panel
Turned aluminum dash inserts
Turned aluminum instrument cluster
Door panel badges
T/A SN badge and designation

If an enhanced Camaro with a proper Bowtie in the grille is more your flavor, check out the Transformers Special Edition and 562-hp 2010 HPE550 Camaro.

Build and Modify Your Own 2010 Ford Mustang

admin — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 01:10:00 GMT

Automaker Web sites often showcase the latest Flash-based bells and whistles, but Ford really out did itself with the “2010 Experience Customizer.”

In just a quick minute, or two if you’re detail oriented, a user can customize a Mustang with color, decals, body kit, wheels, spoilers, and all the usual trim bits. Where it truly stands out is with a gritty background that can be modified to show burnout marks, graffiti, and distant landscape. The finishing touch: just the right tire smoke.

The image can be sent to friends, or downloaded as a wallpaper. Should you be in the market for a Mustang, you can download a pdf detailing the modifications you made to the virtual pony car.

Very cool, and well worth the visit. Check out the car we made.

Could this be part of the reason Mustang has been selling strong against the Chevrolet Camaro and Dodge Challenger? (Read "Muscle Car Sales Shootout – Which is the Most Popular?")

If this gets you interested in buying a pony car, read our 2010 Ford Mustang review.