As with all previous M5s since the introduction of the first generation model back in 1984, the most important highlight of the car is tucked away behind the double kidney grilles. This time, BMW’s M division opted for a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine that replaces the previous M5’s more exotic but less powerful, naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V10 with 507HP.
Starting with the North American model, the third-generation ML-Class will make its U.S. retail debut in September 2011 with two available models at launch, the ML350 4MATIC and the ML350 BlueTEC. More engines will be added down the road.
GM’s European subsidiary is confident about its new Astra GTC with Vauxhall going as far as to claim that it will “lay down the gauntlet to VW’s Scirocco and Renault’s Megane Coupe with a heady mix of dynamic excellence, dramatic design features and competitive pricing".
While the model seen in the official pictures is partially covered in the firm’s characteristic swirly camouflage, it’s clear that the production version has barely changed from the 2009 concept car. Pictured here in John Cooper Works (JCW) form, the top-end Coupé hangs on to the concept’s sportier aero package that includes modified front and rear bumpers, side skirts and extended wheel arches that leave room for larger alloy wheels. The Coupé is also the first MINI to get an active rear spoiler that extends automatically at 80 km/h (50 mph).
Yes, that is right; we are talking about a photo gallery of the booth professionals and ladies who made their presence felt in full force at the world’s largest annual Volkswagen Group meeting, which took place in Austria from June 1 to 4. Hop over the break to get a taste of what you missed at Lake Wörthersee in our photo set that includes more than 70 images.
For its debut, BMW chose to show the five-door hatchback model, but the range will eventually grow to include a three-door hatchback followed by the coupe, cabriolet and if the grapevine holds true, a longer and more spacious Gran Turismo version in the likes of the 3-Series GT we recently showed you in these spy shots.
The hotted-up convertible is based on the standard Golf GTI with power coming from the same 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivering 210-horsepower and 280 Nm (207-lbs/ft) of peak torque at 1.800 rpm.
Volkswagen says the open-air model’s performance matches that of the closed-top GTI with a 0-100km/h (62mph) sprint time of 7 seconds and a top speed of around 240km/h (149 mph).
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The range begins with the entry-level Touring model powered by a 173HP 2.4-liter four-banger matched to a six-speed automatic transmission, which is priced at $27,195 including a $750 destination fee. That brings the 200 Convertible in the same price range as Ford's 305HP Mustang Convertible V6, which starts at $27,495 (including destination and a $500 cash back).
Standard features on the Touring model include a cloth soft-top, leather-wrapped steering wheel with integrated controls for audio and speed control; leather-wrapped shifter knob; air conditioning; MP3 radio with six speakers; front and side air-bags, electronic stability control with brake assist and traction control; automatic headlamps with LED light pipe accents; LED taillamps; power windows and locks; remote keyless and 17-inch alloy wheels.
Next up is the 200 Limited that is powered by the 283HP-strong 3.6-liter Pentastar engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. It has a starting MSRP of $31,990 including a $750 destination fee.
On top of the standard features of the Touring, the Limited adds leather heated front seats; remote start; Media Center 730 touchscreen with 30 gigabyte HDD/CD/DVD/MP3 radio; Uconnect handsfree phone with Bluetooth; USB port for iPod/MP3 connectivity; electrochromatic rearview mirror; universal garage door opener; fog lamps; exterior chrome details and 18-inch alloy rims.
Following the launch of the Touring and Limited variants, Chrysler will further enhance the 200 Convertible's range with the addition of the 'S' model. Offered exclusively with a V6 engine, the 'S' will come with several unique styling features such as a special finish on the grille, dark headlamp surrounds, bespoke 18-inch "tuner-inspired" aluminum wheels, black leather seats with suede inserts and a Boston Acoustics speaker system. The Detroit automaker did not announce pricing details on the 200 Convertible S.
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The M600 is equipped an Adaptable Performance Control (APC), which adjusts the power output and tailors the boost curve, traction and throttle response, allowing the driver to select from three different modes with 450, 550 and 650bhp.
It's curb weight of 1,200kg [2,645 pounds] is 50 kg less than the original prototype, and gives the M600 an amazing power-to-weight ratio of 520bhp per tonnes. The company states that the M600 can accelerate from 0 to 120mph [193 km/h] in a ridiculous 8.9 seconds en route to an estimated top speed of 225 mph [362 km/h].
One of the most eye-catching features in the M600's cabin is the fighter-jet inspired 'Missile Switch' which activates (or deactivates) the Traction Control system.
The M600 is poised to go on sale before summer with pricing to be announced closer to the launch date.
Source: Noble via Jalopnik
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