2014 Nissan 370Z Nismo

Earlier this year ,Nissan announced the 370Z Nismo Euro-Spec, and today at the 2013 Chicago Auto Show, the company announced the U.S. version of the same model. The 2014 model continues with the same V-6 engine, but it adds distinctive new exterior and interior accents, plus refined suspension.

When compared to a standard 370Z, the Nismo version is 6.2 inches longer and adds a more aggressive look. Exterior features include an extended front nose design and a fully integrated chin spoiler, while the interior gains sports seats, steering wheel with Alcantara wrap and much more.

For the 2014 model year, most changes are limited to the addition of a new dark gray on numerous parts of the body, plus a new Solid Red replacing the previous Magma Red.

The 2014 Nissan 370Z Nismo will go on sale this summer.

UPDATE 4/30/2013: Nissan has released 17 new images of the upcoming 2014 370Z Nismo, including a few of the previously unseen interior. You can see the images in the gallery.

UPDATE 7/26/2013: Nissan has revealed the base pricing for the 2014 370Z Nismo. It will come in at the same price it did in 2013: $43,020.

Hit the jump to read more about the 2014 Nissan 370Z Nismo.

Distinguishing the new 2014 370Z Nismo from the rest of the 370Z models will be pretty easy. The model receives an extended front nose design and a fully integrated chin spoiler. Nismo also adds new side sills, a unique rear bumper, plus a functional rear bumper that helps increase the downforce.

Customers can choose between four exterior colors: Pearl White, Magnetic Black, Gun Metallic and Solid Red - replacing the old Magma Red. Each color will be combined with contracting dark gray coloring on the front and rear fascias, lower side sills, side mirrors and Nismo rear spoiler.

2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee by Mopar

As it’s done each year before, Mopar will continue to accessorize the Jeep Grand Cherokee with a series of new items that will transform the SUV into an even more attractive vehicle.

The list of accessories range from $15 chrome valve-stem caps to $1,775 leather seats. There is also a choice of five different sets wheels, including: 20-inch chrome wheels; 18-inch steel winter wheels; 18-inch rugged-look wheels; and 10-spoke wheels in two colors (Silver and Dark Silver).

Mopar dresses up the exterior even further with available chrome side-view mirrors, exhaust tips and grille, a blacked-out hood decal, and new side steps in chrome or black. For those customers interested in racks and carriers, Mopar also offers a full line of roof racksto carry your bikes, canoes and luggage. If you can see yourself tossing a bike on top of the Grand Cherokee, you can also opt for a hitch-mounted bike carrier.

For customers interested in upgrading the technology in their Grand Cherokee, Mopar offers remote start, electric trailer braking, an Electronic Vehicle Tracking System (EVTS), a rear-view camera. Additionally, if you live in a cold area, you also know the added benefit of the optional battery and engine heaters that Mopar offers.

For off-roaders, Mopar offers to a set of tow hooks that allow a tow truck to hook up and drag the Grand Cherokee out of deep muck. Additionally, a set of Mopar heavy-duty rocker guards help protect the truck from flying debris and other dangerous objects you may run over.

Finally, for folks that use their Grand Cherokee for towing, Mopar offers up trailer wiring and towing balls designed just for the Jeep Grand Cherokee.

2014 Maserati Ghibli

The first rumors about a new Maserati sedan placed under the current Quattroporte appeared at the beginning of 2010, but after a couple of months of heating up the air waves, the new car fell by the wayside while everyone made room for the new Audis, Ferraris, and such. Now, with just two weeks before the car’s official debut in Shanghai, Maserati has dropped the first details on its latest addition to the lineup.

Based on the same platform as the new generation Quattroporte, the new Ghibli sedan features a sportier character when compared to its big brother. Also, unlike previous rumors, for the new Ghibli, Maserati will only use two V-6 engines, while the V-8 engine used in the Quattroporte won’t be used.

Maserati revealed nothing on the car’s price just yet, but considering the new Ghibli will play a significant role in Maserati’s growth plan to sell 50,000 cars per year, we expect the price to be kept somewhere in the $70k area.

UPDATE 04/21/2013: Maserati has unveiled more official details on the new Ghibli sedan at the 2013 Shanghai Motor Show. Unfortunately, no additional images were released yet.

UPDATE 06/05/13: A new batch of photos of the Maserati Ghibli has been released. This time, though, it comes with a new color option called "Blu Emozione". Check out the photos in gallery below!

UPDATE 07/24/13: Maserati unveiled a new promo video for the new Ghibli, which is described as "unique combination of style, performance, sports handling and comfort that is designed to make inspirational motoring an everyday experience."

UPDATE 07/26/13: Maserati unveiled a series of new high res images for its latest sedan: Ghibli. Check out the picture gallery to see them all.

Hit the jump to read more about the future Maserati Ghibili.

Exterior

The first official images reveal that the new Ghibli will adopt an exterior design similar to what we have seen in the Quattroporte. Maserati will combine the dynamic lines required by a sporty sedan with the specific elegance of the Italian models.

Up front, you will notice the same headlights and grille seen on the Quattroporte, while the rear appears to be slightly different. The exhaust system features oval end pipes and not trapezoidal as in the Quattroporte, while the trunk spoiler is a little bit more discrete in the Ghibli.

The Ghibli rides on a 2.99-meter (117.7-inch) wheelbase and it measures in at 4.97 meters (195.66 inches) in length. It comes standard with a set of 18-inch wheels, but you can opt for 19-, 20- or 21-inch wheels

2014 Corvette Stingray GT3 by Callaway

The 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray already has a lot of people from all over the world mesmerized. It’s the kind of once-in-a-lifetimesports car that can thrill anyone and if you’re a fan of GT3 racing, you might be in for a treat because the Corvette Stingray GT3 could will soon be on its way.

There’s still that issue of actually building the car, which is no small feat. But if there’s anybody up to that task, it’s the European distributor for expert Corvette tuning, Callaway.

The company is formally known as Callaway Competition of Germany and it’s going to put its considerable expertise to good use after receiving the green light from Chevrolet to build the Corvette Stingray GT3 race car.

Is this a sign of things to come from Chevy regarding the 2014 GT3 season?

It sure sounds like it because preparing a completely new racecar takes up some time and the timing of this announcement lends credence to the belief that we might actually see the racecar packed and ready for GT3 racing by the time the 2014 season comes around.

Before the car actually hits the track, Callaway is expected to send its design proposal to the FIA for homolgation. As soon as that hurdle’s cleared, then it’s all about the build and the time frame the German aftermarket company has to finish the job.

For now, all we have are Callaway’s renderings of the upcoming racecar, and we can say is that it’s looking mean with its super-low ride height, aggressive front and rear spoilers, the monstrous rear diffuser, and the side-exit exhaust. Stay tuned for more updates as Callaway heads toward building this Stingray racer.

The seventh-generation Corvette Stingray was unveiled at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show and it didn’t take long for aftermarket companies and racing outfits all over the world to take notice. With a completely revised exterior look, an updated interior and an all-new engine, the 2014 Corvette Stingray is now ready to take some names in the world of GT3 racing.

As far as the stock model is concerned, the 2014 Corvette Stingray features a 6.2-liter small-block V-8 engine that produces up to 460 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 465 pound-feet of torque at 4,600 rpm. It can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in under 4 seconds and up to an anticipated top speed of 180 to 190 mph. When equipped with the Z51 package and the performance exhaust, the Stingray sprints from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.8 seconds.

The Corvette Stingray can be all yours for just $51,995, a pretty affordable number relative to most of its European counterparts.

2014 Ford Mustang

The first Ford Mustang was unveiled on April 17, 1964 and 2014 will mark the model’s 50th anniversary. It was to be expected for the Mustang to offer the greatest features for this model year. Ford is offering new packages for both the interior and the exterior, new paint colors and for the interior new cleaner, easier-to-read instrument cluster graphics.

The crazy thing about the Mustang is that its first concept, the T-5 Prototype, was a two-seat roadster with a mid-mounted V-4 engine; imagine that... Things evolved during its development and the Mustang eventually morphed into the pony car we know with the choice of either a V-8 or six-cylinder engine. This tradition carried on through the years, with exception of a handful of years through the 1970s and 1980s when four-cylinder engines eventually made their way into the `Stang.

Since 1994, however, the Mustang regained its original offering of a six-cylinder — albeit a V-6 as opposed to an I-6 — and a V-8 engine. To sweeten the Mustang pot last year, the the 2013 Shelby GT500 became the most powerful Mustang ever built, thanks to its 662-horsepower V-8 engine.

Through its long life, the Mustang has been one of the best-selling models in America, but it has the new Chevrolet Camaro and the retro-styled Challenger beating down its door for muscle car supremacy.

Click past the jump to read more about the 2014 Ford Mustang.

Exterior

For the 2014 model year, the Mustang will continue to offer the same prominent grille that Ford added last year. It features a more powerful splitter and functional heat extractors on the hood to help move hot air out of the engine compartment. Also added for 2014 are two new exterior colors: Ruby Red and Oxford White. Two new package are also available for the Mustang V6 and GT: FP6 and FP8. The Mustang V6 has the FP6 package available and it adds in black-painted side mirrors and rear spoiler, body-color rear quarter window louvers and 18-inch black-painted aluminum-alloy wheels. The GT model’s FP8 package carries all of the same upgrades as the FP6, but its wheel are 19 inches.

Dimensions:

Wheelbase (in)	107.1
Length (in)	188.5
Height (in)	55.8
Width - Excluding Mirrors (in)	73.9
Width - Including Mirrors (in)	80.1
Front Track (in)	62.3
Rear Track (in)	62.9

Mustang V6 Exterior Features:

• Easy Fuel capless fuel filler
• HID headlamps
• Rear sequential LED turn signal lamps
• Rear-window defroster
• Side-view mirrors with integrated blind spot mirrors
• 17-inch Sparkle Silver-painted aluminum wheels with P225/60R17 all-season tires
• Black power sideview mirrors
• Stainless steel dual exhaust tips
• Vinyl top on convertible

Mustang V6 Premium Exterior Features:

• All V6 standard features, plus:
• 17-inch machined aluminum wheels with painted pockets
• Body-color power sideview mirrors

Mustang GT Exterior Features:

• All V6 standard features, plus:
• 18-inch Sparkle Silver-painted aluminum wheels
• with P235/50R18 W-rated tires
• Automatic headlamps
• Body-color power sideview mirrors
• Bright rolled dual exhaust tips
• Dark-chrome Pony badge located in grille
• Hood-vented heat extractors
• LED fog lamps
• Rear spoiler

2012 Ferrari 458 Spider Elegante by DMC

In the past few months, DMC has focused its attention on the Lamborghini Aventador, but sometimes enough is enough! Now the tuner changed its point of view and decided to update another Italian supercar: the Ferrari 458 Spider.

The new package is called 458 Spider "Elegante" and it includes both performance and aerodynamic updates. The base 458 Spider packs a 4.5-liter V-8 powerplant that delivers a total of 570 horsepower, but that wasn’t enough for DMC. The 458 Italia Elegante package includes a remapped ECU and a new stainless-steel exhaust system. these updates are enough to increase the prancing horse’s output to a healthy 608 horsepower.

Once the tuner finished its work under the hood, DMC focused its attention on the car’s aerodynamic features. For this, it installed a new front lip spoiler, a new hood, new side skirts and a blade wing on the backside. DMC also installed a series of new elements made in carbon fiber, including: side-view mirrors, front wings, rear diffuser and fog light covers.

More power and a new aerodynamic kit requires a new set of wheels. DMC opted for three-piece, forged-alloy wheels, sized 21 inches up front and 22 inches on the rear. These rollers are wrapped in Pirelli Sport Tires sized 255/30R21 up front and 335/25R22 for the rear. DMS further enhanced the already awesome handling of the 458 by adding in a set of sport springs.

Though DMC doesn’t offer any interior shots, it did mention that this package culminated with fine-Italian leather and carbon fiber inside the cabin. The interior is also upgradable through a series of smaller packages that DMC offers for the 458 Italia.

Cadillac cars 2014 Cadillac Escalade

The Cadillac Escalade is a legend in multiple segments: as a celebrity limousine, a wealthy outdoorsman’s shuttle and do-it-all hauler for large families. These core attributes continue for the new model year with detail revisions to the LED lights front and back and two new grille designs in the higher-dollar models.

The Cadillac’s exterior style and enhanced image is the main justification for its prices at the very top of the GM SUV line that also includes the Chevrolet Suburban and the GMC Yukon. The Escalade also has unique interior trims, much better noise/vibration/harshness ratings and top-level performance to match its flashy chrome exterior.

The Cadillac brings serious levels of style, luxury and power with a better drivetrain than its cheaper siblings, standard air suspension with electronically adjustable dampers and even magnetic ride control on the top Platinum model.

So the Escalade is a shortcut to get the most loaded truck possible. Making most options standard at the Cadillac’s $65,000 base price also ratchets up the competition to the seven-passenger Range Rover Sport, the Infiniti QX56 and the aging Lincoln Navigator.

Does the flagship Cadillac SUV still capture buyer wants and needs in the final years before its replacement in 2015?

Click past the jump for the full review of the 2014 Escalade and 2014 Escalade ESV with photo comparisons of the three available grille finishes.

Exterior

The Escalade ESV "extended" shares all styling with the normal model aside from a length stretch and rear doors that do not have a cutout for the wheel arch. The ESV is more imposing with less top-heaviness about the design and generally is priced only $2,500 more than the shorter Caddy.

The Escalade’s top two trims in both lengths (Premium and Platinum) have a new grille design that is sharper and more defined than the base model’s grille. The lower two trims stick with the bumper/grille combo with individual egg-crate grille that looks less current.

2013 Ferrari 458 Italia Spyder by Autodynamica

A little more than two months after gifting us with a sick program for the McLaren MP4-12C, the folks over at Autodynamica are back at it again. This time it’s delivering a new treat for a fellow exotic: the Ferrari 458 Italia Spyder.

Featuring a comprehensive program that includes a new aero kit from Vorsteiner to go with performance and suspension updates, Autodynamica really went to the well with its aftermarket work on the 458 Italia Spyder.

Obviously, the most distinctive part of the project is the Vorsteiner kit, which we’ll get into later. What really got our juices flowing, though, are the performance and suspension upgrades the aftermarket company did to the 458 Italia Spyder. First, it installed new Akrapovic high flow cats, a titanium valved exhaust, carbon-fiber exhaust tips and KW suspension springs. Also added in were 20- and 21-inch HRE S101 wheels on the on the front and rear, respectively, wrapped in Pirelli P Zero tires.

That’s not all, though. Autodynamica also gave the Ferrari supercar a new Evomsit Performance software upgrade, resulting in improved power figures to the tune of 609 horsepower, an improvement of almost 40 ponies from the standard model.

Torque numbers weren’t announced, but we expect it to be somewhere in the neighborhood of 460 pound-feet to go with an estimate 0-to-60 mph time of 3.2 seconds and a top speed of 204 mph.

Click past the jump to read about the Vorsteiner kit Autodynamica installed into the Ferrari 458 Italia Spyder.

Vorsteiner’s love for using carbon fiber is evident in this kit. That much can be identified with this front spoiler, which not only gives the 458 Spyder some added character but also improves the downforce, allowing the car to stick to the ground at high speeds.

Carbon-Fiber Pre-Preg Add-on Decklid Spoiler

A similar spoiler can be found on the rear and to no one’s surprise, it’s also made from carbon fiber. From an aerodynamic standpoint, the add-on deck-lid spoiler turns the supercar into a more aerodynamically efficient ride that also nets improved handling.

2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray C7 by Hennessey

When a new performance ride hits the market, like the 2014 Corvette Stingray, it is only a matter of time before Hennessey engineers get to cracking the code to drawing more horsepower from it. About a month after GM unveiled the all-new Corvette Stingray earlier this year, Hennessey let us in on the secret that it planned to tune the new sports car to upwards of 1,000 horsepower in several stages.

Today, just five months after making that bold announcement, Hennessey has outlined the details of its new HPE tuning programs for the Stingray. We are just a tad bit impressed, as Hennessey created four equally amazing kits for the Corvette that pushes it to between 600 and 1,000 ponies. So, if the stock 455-horsepower output just isn’t enough for you, you can rest assured that Hennessey has the right kit for you.

What’s great about Hennessey programs is that its engineers and designers never focus solely on muscle. They also turn their attention to updating the suspension, braking and aesthetics to help push the envelope of performance a little further.

UPDATE 07/16/2013: Hennessey has officially unveiled the HPE tuning kits for the 2014 Corvette Stingray. See the details after the jump

Click past the jump to read all the juicy details on the HPE kits for the new Corvette Stingray

Exterior

As standard, the only exterior modifications that Hennessey adds to the Corvette are badges for the body and a serial-number plaque on the engine cover. And that’s good for us, as the Stingray’s exterior is plenty sexy straight off of the factory line.

However, if you really want your new Corvette to stand out, Hennessey will be happy to oblige with a laundry list of optional add-on components. Hennessey will slap on various CarbonAero carbon-fiber body upgrades, including a front spoiler, a rear lip spoiler, a hood with a large central vent for additional cooling and reduced lift, and side sills for a more aggressive look — as if the Stingray really needs to look more aggressive...

2013 Volvo V60 "Pure Tension" Pavilion Concept

When its sitting idly by, the Volvo V60 isn’t exactly the type of car that titillates our senses. That’s not a knock on it; it’s just a prevailing thought in the industry.

But this particular V60 is different than pretty any other you’ve ever seen, or most likely, will ever see. Pop open the trunk and you’ll watch the magic happen.

The model is called the V60 "Pure Tension" Pavilion Concept, named aptly so because you can erect an actual pavilion just by opening its trunk. Confusing as that may sound, there’s some method to this head-scratcher of a concept.

Volvo Italy commissioned a contest called the Pure Volvo Pavilion Design Competition and this bad boy here, developed by Synthesis Design + Architecture, Buro Happold and Fabric Images, was chosen as the winner.

Using a standard V60, the winning crew installed a fully-functioning, energy-absorbing pavilion made from a flexible mesh structure that’s held in place by rods made from carbon fiber. Sounds pretty simple, right?

Well, there’s more. The aforementioned mesh structure is actually embedded with photovotaic cells that absorbs energy, natural and artificial, thus creating a unique setup wherein the pavilion itself can be used as an enormous charging station, and in some cases, as an actual pavilion that you can hold parties under.

Once you’re done with it, the whole contraption can be folded and stowed back inside the trunk of the V60, leaving little indication of the massive pavilion that was built into it.

It’s an odd setup, but one that shows the kind of innovation that makes the auto industry so special. If you want to learn more about the V60 "Pure Tension" Pavilion Concept, you can see it in Rome in a few month’s time make its debut.

Click past the jump to read about the Volvo V60 R-Design

The Volvo V60 R-Design is a unique trim from the Swedish automaker that proudly displays a few style changes from the standard V60. Chief among them is the new front fascia, complete with a redesigned nose, a Tech Matte Black grille with high-gloss black stripes, R-Design emblems and a silk metal diagonal.

Power comes with a choice of powertrain options, including a D2 diesel version that nets 115 horsepower and a 3.0-liter, six-cylinder T6 gas engine that produces 304 horsepower and 324 pound-feet of torque.

ford cars 2013 Ford Focus ST Mountune

It seems Europeans get all of the automotive fun, right? Well, Ford is about to reinforce that belief by unveiling the Mountune package for the already insane Focus ST.

This Mountune program does its power-boosting deeds by way of a handful of new components, including: a cast-allot inlet duct for easier breathing; high-flow sports air filter; larger intercooler for less heat soak on extended drives; and recalibration of the electronic systems. Buyers can opt to have the inlet duct and intercooler in silver or powder coated in black.

As it sits, the UK-spec Focus ST packs a mean wallop at 250 PS (246 horsepower) 360 Nm (265 pound-feet) of torque straight off the showroom floor, but Ford’s Mountune program jumps it to an incredible 275 PS (271 horsepower) and 400 Nm (295 pound-feet) of torque.

The power bump drops the Focus ST’s 0-to-100 km/h (62 mph) time from 6.5 to under 6 seconds. Additionally, the 31 to 62 mph acceleration time drops to just 4.9 seconds — a 0.8-second improvement.

The upgrade only takes about 90 minutes to install on the Focus ST and comes in at £1,225 ($1,852) for the silver components or £1,275 ($1,928) for the powder coated black components. This means a total investment of between £23,200 ($35,080) and £26,770 ($40,480), depending on the level of Focus ST and the Mountune kit chosen.

Unfortunately, there is no mention of this kit ever making it to the U.S. We can hope, right?

The 2013 VW GTI comes standard with a 220 PS (216-horsepower) 2.0-liter TSI engine that hooks up to a six-speed manual transmission. This is enough juice to sprint the GTI to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 6.5 seconds and up to a 153 mph top speed. The GTI comes in at a base price of £25,285, making it significantly more expensive than the Focus ST Mountune’s base level.

Spy Shots: Lexus IS F Coupe (AKA RC F) Hits Nurburgring

For the second time in consecutive days, our spy shooters managed to catch this Lexus performance coupe out and about. There is a little confusion as to whether this is a production version of the RC F

Regardless of its name, it is very clear by the images that Lexus test drivers were pushing this coupe hard, which is evident by the amount of body lean the sporty coupe shows in the corner. There are no new details reveled in these new spy shots, but they are confirmation that the model is nearing production and is undergoing some intense training.

The powerplant driving the IS F is still a relative mystery, but rumors are pointing toward the deletion of the 5.0-liter V-8. The likely replacement would be a twin-turbocharged V-6 engine with power reaching nearly 450 horsepower. This would put it right in line with its key competitor: the BMW M4.

Whether its named the RC F or IS F Coupe is up for argument, but what’s not up for debate is just how bad-ass this new coupe will be...

Click past the jump to see more spy shots.

Spy Shots

As the coupe entered the apex of the turn at Nϋrburgring, it leaned heavily to the right, a sign that the driver was pushing the car to its breaking point. You also get a clear look at the front end from this angle and we see the massive air intakes on the outer edges of the bumper and the staple spindle grille

2015 McLaren P1 XP2R

We know very few details on the new P1 XP2R version, but rumbling in the industry indicates that it will deliver more power than the current P1. This current P1uses a hybrid powertrain that combines a 3.8-liter twin-turbo V-8 engine with an electric motor for a total power figure of 903 horsepower and an estimated 1,100 pound-feet of torque.

If this prototype becomes a reality, you can bet that McLaren will build the X2PR in limited numbers. We’ll get back with more details on this special XP2R as soon as we have them. Stay tuned!

Click past the jump to read more about the McLaren P1.

Spy shots

We have very few details on this P1 XP2R prototype, but for sure it is no ordinary P1. The "XP2R" lettering on the side flanks are a clear indication that this may be something special.

To explain, the "XP" means you are looking at an experimental vehicle, "2" is likely an indication of a second prototype. The "R," however, remains a mystery to this point, but it could be an indication of a racing version.

Also, the prototype features a combination of silver and black, a color never seen on an official P1 before.

Competitors

Talking about competitors for the new P1 XP2R makes pretty much no sense, especially if you consider we have no details on the specification figures. But at least we know McLaren is not the only one considering a more powerful version for its supercar.

Rumors are also floating around that Ferrari plans to build an EvoXX version for its new LaFerrari supercar. Despite adamant denials from Ferrari, we are confident that this will become a reality.

The LaFerrari EvoXX will likely feature a more aggressive aerodynamic package and will be improved with an updated suspension and race-inspired brakes. We also expect some more power under the hood.

2014 Mercedes S63 AMG

When Mercedes works on a new generation for one of its models, you can rest assured that the AMG version to match will follow right behind it. As the new-generation S-Class made its world debut a few months ago, we all expected to see the AMG version dropped on the market too.

After many months of testing and a few teases, Mercedes released the first details on the new S63 AMG today. At first look, the new model seems better than ever: it gets a sweet AMG aerodynamic package, it is more powerful, it’s lighter and, for the first time, Mercedes will offer it with a 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system.

The new S63 AMG will make its world debut at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show and will be put on sale on the U.S. market in November.

Updated 07/17/2013: This review has been updated with the official details, images and specs.

Click past the jump to read more about the new Mercedes S63 AMG.

Exterior

The S63 AMG takes the new S-Class to a sporty level with the usual AMG design features we have seen on all the recently announced models.

Up front, the model is distinguished by a large, three-dimensional radiator grille and a new front apron with three large air dams, both painted in high-gloss black. There is also a new, three-dimensional front splitter in silver shadow that reduces lift and larger side air intakes that ensure optimal cooling for the engine.

On the side, you will notice new sill panels with three-dimensional inserts in silver shadow that provide a more aggressive look and brings the vehicle closer to the road.

On the rear, there is a new black diffuser insert with trim in silver shadow and a new AMG exhaust system with two chrome twin tailpipes. The S63 AMG is further distinguished by "V8 Biturbo" logo placed on the front fenders and the trunk lid.

Interior

Just like with the exterior, the interior of the new S63 AMG is all about combining sportiness with a luxury feeling. When compared to the previous model, the new S63 AMG received improved dimensions, control logic, ergonomic touches, ease of use, safety, appeal and aesthetics.

The first thing you will notice are the newly developed AMG sports seats wrapped in fine Nappa leather in AMG V8 design with lavish perforations and AMG badges in the front and rear seat backrests. The seats are offered with electric adjustment, Memory function and heating function.

The list of new features also includes a three-dimensional high-quality analog clock in IWC design and a new AMG sports steering wheel with a distinctively contoured rim, perforated leather in the grip area and aluminum shift paddles. The model is also offered with standard high-resolution TFT color display with two animated round dials and AMG-specific lettering and a speedometer with a 200 mph scale.

Drivetrain

Under the hood, Mercedes placed the usual AMG 5.5-liter V-8 biturbo engine, but it received some major improvements for the new generation. It now delivers a total of 577 horsepower and 664 pound-feet of torque - an increase of 49 horsepower over the previous generation.

For the first time, the new S63 AMG comes with 4MATIC all-wheel drive, which distributes 33 percent of the power to the front axle and 67 percent to the rear axle. This way the model delivers high-performance driving dynamics and incredible acceleration from a standing start.

The engine is mated to a seven-speed sports transmission with three driving modes: "C" (Controlled Efficiency), "S" (Sport) and "M" (Manual). In the "C" mode the ECO Start/Stop function is on and it shuts off the eight-cylinder engine when the car is at a standstill. In "S" and "M" modes, the S63 AMG’s exhaust flap open up, giving you a sweet growl, to go along with retarded timing for better response and more aggressive shifting.

Also, the new S63 AMG is the first model in its segment to offer a new lithium-ion battery - and the second Mercedes model after SLS AMG. This new battery makes the model about 44 pounds lighter than its predecessor and is relatively resilient in cold temperatures.

As a result, the new S63 AMG will sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.9 seconds and up to a top speed of 186 mph (electronically limited).

Engine	5.5-liter V-8
Output (horsepower @ RPM)	577 @ 5500
Max. torque (lb-ft @ RPM)	664 @ 2250 - 3750
0 to 60 mph	3.9 seconds
Top speed	186 mph (electronically limited)

Suspension and Brakes

Next to delivering more power, the new S63 AMG is about 220 pounds lighter than the model it replaces. Mercedes pulled this off by adding new AMG forged light-alloy wheels, a lightweight lithium-ion battery and a weight-optimized, AMG high-performance two-piece brake system.

The S63 AMG comes with an AMG ADAPTIVE sports suspension equipped with Adaptive Damping System ADS PLUS. This new suspension offers two different modes: "Comfort" and "Sport". The first one offers more steering assistance and ensures an improved comfort. In Sport mode, the driver feels stiff steering assistance and will enjoy better road feel.

As standard, the new S63 AMG is offered with AMG forged light-alloy wheels, sized 8.5-by-19 inches on the front and 9.5-by-19 inches on the rear. As an option, customers can also get AMG forged light-alloy wheels sized 8.5-by-20 inches on the front and 9.5-by-20 inches on the rear.

An AMG high-performance two-piece brake system comes standard and an AMG ceramic high-performance two-piece brake system is available as an option for the first time. It includes front brake discs with a diameter of 16.5 inches and gets bronze-painted brake calipers.

Prices

On the U.S. market the new S63 AMG is available starting November 2013. Prices is announced at a later date.

2014 Fiat 500L Living

Fiat has unveiled the seven-seat MPV version of its mini car with the official 500L Living name badge for the European market. This model is not yet on U.S. Fiat price lists, but it is expected in spring 2014 under the 500XL badge with a larger engine and optional automatic gearbox.

Much about the new 500L Living is directly derived from the successful 500L series, but a few key additions join the length stretch that puts two mini seats in the third row for the first time. The most notable are the multiple two-tone pastel plus white or black paint schemes and an in-dash espresso machine for fresh coffee.

The Lavazza coffee-maker promises individualized lattes, using a similar one-cup system best known from the Keurig K-cup series. The Fiat’s coffee maker reclaims some of Italy’s pride for inventing modern coffee practices… but then largely missing the boom in café culture epitomized by Starbuck’s global rise.

The expanding Fiat 500 line wants to avoid the same mistake of letting the premium city car segment Dodge Grand Caravans from just $20,000 and some base seven-seat crossovers from $25,000.

Fiat is betting these competitors cannot match its quirky flair, brand image and unique European styling.

Exterior

The 500L Living sucks the last of the charm from the Fiat 500 styling cues that also try to invigorate the 500L’s boxy, front-drive and tall-roof proportions.

Despite the Fiat Panda name being unique and highly approachable for small families, the 500 name is judged by Fiat as the best bet for re-launching the brand in the critical American market. It hopes the mini 500’s charms can lend the same magic as the MINI prefix does ahead of all the line extensions from the German competitor.

The 500L Living shares many front panels with the 500L and only deviates with much larger rear doors and a pronounced rear overhang. The overall nose graphic is slightly more refined with premium-inspired lower and middle grilles. The middle horizontal air slot now features a single body-colored piece inside versus the sportier technical treatments in the 500L and 500L Trekking.

The bumper shape is more rounded with fewer styling creases, but retains the odd staggered lamp design that puts a round headlight in the top corner of the grille and the indicator in a round bumper body outward of the main lamp.

The lights and overall proportions create a vehicle with the same quirkiness that sets the 500L apart on U.S. roads. It is not a sporty look by any means, but the large, low glasshouse and low floors are practical for a family-mover.

In profile and in the rear three-quarter angle, the rear of the 500L Living stops being cute and starts being a seriously nerdy wagon. The extended rear overhang that made room for mini back seats leaves the 500L Living with a narrow and high-roof appearance that lacks poise and premium-price appeal. Comparisons to the Ssanyong Rodius are not usually a vote of confidence in a car’s style.

Where the Fiat loses to the Mazda5 for swoopy low-van proportions, it wins on the cool paint finishes that dramatically enhance the car’s appeal.

The major options are for two-tone paintjobs that blend pastel yellows, easter-egg blues and bright reds with a black or white roof. There are 19 exterior colors available and 11 two-tone configurations. Paired with the tinted windows, the two-tones are about the only place the 500L Living’s exterior design seems to match its city-chic mission.

2014 Fiat 500L Living – (Italian Market) Exterior Features:

• 16-inch glossy grey alloy rims
• 16-inch black alloy rims
• 16-inch white alloy rims
• Optional 17-inch glossy grey alloy rims
• Optional 17-inch white diamond-finish alloy rims (not compatible with snow chains)
• Optional 17-inch black diamond-finish alloy rims (not compatible with snow chains)
• Metallic paint finish
• Metallic paint finish/two-tone white
• Metallic paint finish/two-tone black
• Optional pastel paint finish
• Optional pastel paint finish/two-tone white
• Optional pastel paint finish/two-tone black
• Pastel paint finish/two-tone white
• Pastel paint finish/two-tone black

2013 DDR Motorsport Miami GT Grand Prix Edition

DDR Motorsport has revealed the latest version of the Miami GT. The new model is called the Miami GT Grand Prix Edition and is the result of many hours of work and some deep cooperation between the teams from DDR Motorsport, Concavo Wheels, K-Sport, Stuttgart Auto Collision, Bill Ussery Collision Center and much more.

DDR Motorsport is built this model, using its own chassis and frame, combined with parts from other makers. There are two GT models, the GT4 using an Acura RSX or Toyota MR2 engine and the GT8 that uses an LS1 Corvette engine.

The Miami GT Grand Prix Edition is essentially an upgraded version of the GT4 or GT8 kit, but the upgrades that DDR equipped it with certainly help take this sports car to a whole new level of quickness and ability on the track.

2014 Mercedes S-Class AMG

When Mercedes works on a new generation for one of their models, we can all rest assured that the AMG version to match will follow right behind it. Such is the case with the next-generation S-Class, as the sedan variant was just revealed days ago.

Our spy photographers have caught the future S-Class AMG during a testing session at the Nürburgring racetrack, wearing the same light camouflage as the normal non-AMG cars. As you can see, when compared to the standard S-Class, the AMG version has received bigger air intakes, marked side sills and a new rear bumper with a covered up diffuser. This prototype is still missing the quad tailpipes; but don’t worry, they will undoubtedly show up on the production version S-Class AMG.

The future Mercedes S-Class AMG will be powered by an AMG twin turbo 5.5-liter V-8 engine that will deliver between 536 and 550 horsepower.

Expect to see the new generation Mercedes S-Class AMG launched sometime in 2013.

Updated 05/20/2013: Now that we have seen the official images of the new S-Class, is time to imagine what the AMG version will look like. Today, we have created a rendering for you that may help you imagine what the next S63 AMG may look like.

Updated 07/08/2013: What appears to be the first official images of the next S63 AMG sports sedan have surfaced online and they come with some great news. It looks like the next S-Class AMG model will be offered with an optional 4MATIC system that will increase the V-8’s output to a total of 585 horsepower.

2014 Bluebird DC50

Here at TopSpeed, we talked for the first time about "Bluebird" back in 2012 when we announced the 2012 GTL Formula E Racing Concept - a vehicle that looked more like the Batmobile than a race car designed for the FIA Formula E series.

While its first vehicle looked a little over the top, the one announced today sounds more promising. It is named the DC50 sports car and Bluebird will officially unveil it on September 28th, 2013 at the National Motor Museum, Beaulieu.

The new DC50 Sports Car is an electric car limited to only 50 units and will commemorate the 50th anniversary of Donald Campbell’s land and water speed records in 2014. According to the first details we have on the car, it will deliver about 360 horsepower and its acceleration figures will match the ones of a Porsche. It will deliver a driving range of about 200 miles on a single charge.

The model will be built as a two-door coupe with electrically operated scissor doors and wears a coat of Bluebird blue paint.

2014 Land Rover Range Rover Vogue by Mansory

Mansory has a long tradition of upgrading the Land Rover SUVs, and after a very successful kit offered for the third-generation Range Rover, the tuner decided to do the same with the recently launched fourth-generation. With this kit, Mansory focused on making the SUV more powerful, luxurious and sophisticated.

In order to obtain these results, Mansory started with some upgrades under the hood. The V-8 engine was upgraded with a new sports air filter and an optimized engine electronic system. As a result, the V-8 engine’s output jumps by 68 horsepower and 51 pound feet to 578 horsepower and 512 pound-feet of torque. Mansory is also testing a kit that pushes output to 650 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque in initial testing — a boost of 140 horsepower and 129 pound-feet of torque.

2013 McLaren MP4-12C Volcano Red by Ultimate Auto

There’s not enough superlative to describe the McLaren MP4-12C Spyder. Every so often, even we get a little lost for words when talking about a supercar of the 12C Spyder’s stature.

That, in a nutshell, has also been the go-to expression with Florida-based tuner Ultimate Auto.

It’s produced some really wicked programs in the past couple of months and the one for the 12C Spyder is about as impressive as it gets. The really cool thing about what Ultimate Auto did to the 12C Spyder is that it gave the supercar some custom enhancements you normally wouldn’t see other tuners even bother getting into.

Not only does it give the supercar a unique look, but it also makes it an undeniable stunner, something Ultimate Auto has prided itself on recently.

And lest we forget, this British rocket also comes with a 3.8-liter V-8 twin-turbo engine combined with a 7 Speed SSG dual-clutch transmission, allowing it to produce 616 horsepower and sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.1 seconds with a top speed of 204 mph.

Volcano Red!

About the only thing cooler than the name is the actual treatment done by Ultimate Auto to make it sparkle before our very eyes. The Volcano Red finish of the MP4-12C Spyder already makes the supercar pop out but once you add the 3M clear bra, it adds a new dimension to the look, essentially adding the touch of gloss while also protecting the paint at speeds in excess of 180 mph.

It’s Got A Radar Detector

Supercars are a magnet for radar detectors, so what better way to combat that than by having one inside the car. The Escort 9500ci radar detector / laser diffuser installed within the 12C Spyder ensures that this supercar can battle wits with law enforcement authorities, making it even harder to tame and catch it. Keep in mind, however, that radar detectors are illegal in two areas in the U.S.: Virginia and Washington, DC. In Canada, you can only use radar detectors in Alberta, British Columbia and Saskatchewan.

2014 Ford Mustang GT by Hertz and Penske Racing

When news broke that rental car agency Hertz was introducing a "Dream Car Program" program to give customers a chance to rent a supercar, we didn’t know that the company was also giving its famous fleet of airport rental cars another a pretty bad-ass ride to its Adrenaline Series of rental muscle and sports cars.

Together with Penske Racing, Hertz is introducing the special-edition Ford Mustang GT, appropriately dubbed as the Hertz Penske Mustang GT. Instantly recognizable, the special edition muscle car carries the familiar black and gold paint scheme while also featuring a slew of new components and even a performance upgrade to give customers a chance to experience the exhilaration of driving a hopped-up Mustang GT.

On top of the sexy two-tone color scheme of the body, the exterior of the muscle car also received a new front splitter from the Boss 302 and a rear valence from the Shelby GT500.

Inside, the cabin is what you’d come to expect from Penske Racing: Recaro racing seats, custom floor mats, special door sill plates and even the gauge pod from the Laguna Seca Mustang. Additionally, this rental racer also features all the goodies that came from Ford, including the touchscreen infotainment system, a GPS and a back-up camera.

Under the hood, the Mustang’s 5.0-liter V-8 engine received the full performance treatment with an optimized ECU, a new air intake and a four-tailpipe exhaust system. The engine is backed up by a set of 3.55 gears to help improve acceleration. No performance numbers were released, but we won’t be surprised if this Mustang packs close to 600 horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque, with an estimated 0-to-60 mph time of 4 seconds and a top speed of about 185 mph.

Keeping the modded Stang on the road is an upgraded suspension system — no details were given on what was upgraded — and a Brembo braking system.

All that is well and good but the best part about this special edition Mustang is that it will become part of Hertz’s newly established Adrenaline Collection and will be available to rent at "select U.S. airport locations."

2015 Porsche 911 GT2

Now that we have already seen the new-generation Porsche 911 Turbo, Porsche took out the hardcore version out for a testing session. A 911 GT2 prototype - also known as the "Widow maker" - was caught testing today on the Nürburgring test track.

As you can see, the prototype is almost undisguised and we can clearly see the wider wheel arches in the front and the much wider rear fenders with massive air intakes from the 911 Turbo. Nice attempt at hiding the GT2’s real air intakes, but we see through your sneaky disguise, Porsche. The GT2 will also get a center-mounted dual-exhaust system, which is inspired by the GT3 version, and a big fixed rear spoiler.

Under the hood, we expect to see Porsche install a turbocharged 3.8 liter six-cylinder engine that will deliver 560 to 570 horsepower to the rear wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. With this drivetrain in tow, we expect the GT2 to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 3 seconds and up to a top speed of about 200 mph, making it the fastest production 911 in its storied history.

2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The new generation Jeep Grand Cherokee was unveiled at the 2010 New York Auto Show, and for the 2014 model year it got even better thanks to the addition of a new diesel engine and a new eight-speed automatic transmission. There is also a new Grand Cherokee Summit version added to the lineup, plus a new array of advanced user-friendly technology features.

Thanks to the new diesel engine, the Grand Cherokee will deliver the best-in-class fuel economy and driving range. Next to the new diesel engine the 2014 Grand Cherokee will continue to be offered with the usual V-6 and V-8 engines, that transformed the SUV into a leader on the market.

Jeep also decided to make some improvements on the exterior look and added new bi-xenon headlamps with signature LED daytime running lamps, while for the interior the model was updated with premium amenities including Natura leather, exotic open-pore wood trim and new color offerings.